ADChristopher SacrificeOfTheStone

An Elloras Cave Romantica Publication
www.ellorascave.com
Sacrifice of the Stone ISBN 9781419915130 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Sacrifice of the Stone Copyright 2008 A.D. Christopher Edited by Briana St. James. Cover art by Syneca. Electronic book Publication January 2008 With the exception of quotes used in reviews, this book may not be reproduced or used in whole or in part by any means existing without written permission from the publisher, Elloras Cave Publishing, Inc. 1056 Home Avenue, Akron OH 44310-3502. Warning: The unauthorized reproduction or distribution of this copyrighted work is illegal. Criminal copyright infringement, including infringement without monetary gain, is investigated by the FBI and is punishable by up to 5 years in federal prison and a fine of $250,000. (http://www.fbi.gov/ipr/) This book is a work of fiction and any resemblance to persons, living or dead, or places, events or locales is purely coincidental. The characters are productions of the authors imagination and used fictitiously.
SACRIFICE OF THE STONE
A.D. Christopher
A.D. Christopher
Prologue
Esh rushed through the remains of the Temple of the Warriors, dodging falling stone and flaming timber. The Mayapan warriors had been fighting for what seemed like days, though the sun had yet to rise, and the muscles in his legs protested every swift movement. He was exhausted, his energy reserves as decimated as the Chichen Itza forces the Mayapan army had all but destroyed. He wanted nothing more than to run into the woods surrounding the fallen city and lie down to rest, to strip away his thick cotton and leather armor and let the cool breeze soothe his skin. But he could not stop, could not flee the burning temple, not yet, not until Ah Kaht! He screamed his lords name, his voice nearly swallowed by the roar of the flames. The priest of the temple had set this blaze, determined to keep the treasures of Chichen Itza from the Mayapan warriors. Esh had watched Ah Kaht rush inside soon after the burning began, knowing he sought the temple jewels. It didnt matter that Chichen Itza had surrendered or that much enemy blood had been spilled. Ah Kahts father, Ac Yanto, would not consider their mission successful unless the mystical stones accompanied them home. As if any stone, no matter how precious, could be valued as highly as the safety of his son. If it were up to Esh to decide, Ah Kaht would never have made the march to this battle, no matter how skilled a warrior he might be. Ah Kaht was second in command of their people first and foremost. He would someday be their ruler, when Ac Yanto was called to the gods. The Mayapan people needed him among the living more than they needed another warrior to stand against the Chichen Itzans. Gods help him, but Esh needed him among the living, couldnt imagine a future without his lord. He had loved the man since they were young boys in school still
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memorizing the codes of the ancestors. During those long hot days, Esh had also memorized the sharp angles of Ah Kahts face, the strength of the other boys hands, the fine shape of his lean, muscled body. Hed sworn then that he would die for Ah Kaht if necessary, though he had hoped it would be after they had consummated the passion that simmered between them, not before. If Esh were to die here in this burning temple, owning only twenty-two summers to his name, he knew that would be the only thing he would regret. He hadnt been bold enough to accept the unspoken invitation in Ah Kahts eyes, to visit his lords tent during the nights they had marched toward Chichen Itza, knowing they would face some of the most fearsome warriors in the Mayan world. He had never known the bliss of Ah Kahts hands smoothing over his skin, of the other mans cock between his lips. Esh! The shout pierced to the very heart of him, bringing a smile to his face even in the midst of danger. It was Ah Kaht, standing no more than a ball court away, holding a leather pouch in his hand. Never had Esh been so happy to see those dark onyx eyes and savagely beautiful face. Ah Kaht was safe and he had found the jewels. Now they could both flee this place, escape into the night and watch the flames lick away at the remains of Chichen Itza. Perhaps they would celebrate their victory as Esh had been dreaming of moments before. There in the woods, drunk on their triumph, it would be natural to strip away each others clothes, to soothe away the stress of battle with strong hands digging into muscled flesh. Esh would finally know what it felt like to take Ah Kahts lips in a kiss, to push his tongue into the other mans mouth and taste the flavor of his passion. The thought made him hard, ready. It was time to take what he had feared he might never have. He would have Ah Kaht, tonight. Ah Kaht! Come, this way! Esh motioned back the way he had come. The flames had yet to consume the rear of the temple. It was their best route for escape.
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No, I must claim the garnet from the eye of the statue near the priests quarters, Ah Kaht yelled, ducking a chunk of flaming timber. Leave me! I will find you on the outside. My lord, the structure will fall, you must Save yourself, Esh! I command it. Ah Kahts dark eyes bored into his own, and in that moment, Esh saw that Ah Kaht loved him. He also saw that Ah Kaht expected to die here, to earn a place in the Underworld trying to appease his fathers lust for mystic power. I will not allow this! Esh picked his way through the flames toward Ah Kaht, hurrying across stones so hot they threatened to burn his bare feet. It is not for you to decide. Leave, Esh! I command it. Esh ignored Ah Kaht for the first time in their lives, dashing forward through the center of the great room of the temple, the place where the flames were at their worst. Eshs skin protested his advance, crawling as if it would abandon him and escape the heat whether Esh himself had the sense to do so or not. His war paint ran as sweat poured from his body, stinging as it flowed into his eyes. For a moment the world in front of him turned red, painting Ah Kaht in a river of blood. Esh barely had time to think what a horrible omen the sight seemed to be when the roof above Ah Kaht collapsed. No! Esh dove forward, thinking of nothing but the man he loved. He would not abandon him to the death god Ah Puch. There was no one here to mourn for his soul, no one to scare Ah Puch away when he came to collect the warriors eternal being. Ah Kaht would die a thief, not in battle, therefore making him unable to pass into one of the realms of paradise. His soul would be damned. Esh knew he could never live with himself if he let his lord be dragged down to the lowest level of hell. It would haunt him for the rest of his days.
Esh crashed into the slightly larger man, his muscled arms shoving Ah Kaht away as stone and timber rained down around them. He watched his lord land safely on the stones several paces away before something struck him across the brow. Blood flowed down to mingle with the paint still clouding his vision and the world tilted unsteadily. Esh! Ah Kaht reached toward him, but at that moment another rain of fire and rubble cascaded down around them, landing on Eshs legs. The flames began to eat away at his skin, drawing a sound of agony from deep in his chest. The smell of his own cooking flesh filled his nostrils and he screamed again, knowing this pain to be worse than the cut of any spear, more horrible than any wound he had ever suffered during battle. Seconds later, something else struck his head, shattering bone and bringing blackness down upon him. In the blackness there was no pain, no wicked heat and then, after a few moments, no Esh.
A.D. Christopher
Chapter One
One week later
Ah Kaht gripped Eshs hand, willing his life force into the other man, praying to every god in the great universe, to the stars that filled the darkening sky that tonight would be the night Esh opened his eyes. He was not deadhis shallow breathing and the words of the shaman-priests had assured Ah Kaht of that. Eshs spirit still clung to his body, but for some reason he could not cast off the veil of sleep. If he did not awaken soon he would die simply from lack of food and water. Ah Kaht had done his best to tempt Esh to the land of the living. Hed talked softly into his ear, rubbed his sleeping body with sacred oils, dribbled water across his full lips, even opened his mouth to let the cool liquid moisten his tongue. But it had done him no good. Esh was beyond his reach. He was beyond the reach of the priests as well. They had stopped their chanting after a mere two days, no matter that Esh had saved the life of their future ruler. Ac Yanto could not spare his shamans for too long, even to attempt the resurrection of the warrior who had saved his sons life. If his fathers campaign to rule the Mayan world was to be successful, he would need the aid of the gods, and therefore the complete attention of his many shamans and the full power of his sacred stones. The most sacred, of course, being the garnet Ah Kaht had retrieved from the eye of the Chichen Itzan statue. He had returned the day after the battle, after the flames had consumed everything but stone, and pried the treasure from its resting place. Even with Esh near death back at their camp, Ah Kaht had known he must delay their return to Mayapan just a few hours more. He must bring the sacred garnet with him or Ac Yanto would make certain his son and his warriors regretted returning at all.
My lord, your father calls for your presence at his table. Chamer, his fathers oldest friend and a powerful shaman, was the only one of the priests who had dared to speak to Ah Kaht these past few days. The other shamans and his fellow warriors had sensed his torment and given him the peace he craved. He and Esh had not been lovers, but the possibility had always simmered between them. Everyone knew they cared for each other as more than warrior-brothers, as more than two sons of high birth. If things had been different, there might have come a time when they would have consummated their attraction, when they would have attended pleasure parties on each others arm. No one would have thought it strange, two young men indulging their carnal appetites with one another while they awaited the time to make an advantageous marriage. In the agonizing hours of the past week, Ah Kaht had asked himself countless times why he hadnt indulged his lust for Esh, why he hadnt acted on the desire so clear in the other mans eyes. The answer he had found was far from satisfactory. He didnt merely lust after Eshhe loved the man. He had wanted more than an adolescent tryst, more than a few years of fucking before they went their separate ways and founded families of their own. Perhaps they could have had more, once Ac Yanto was dead and Ah Kaht himself the highest authority in the land. But even if a future together had been impossible, Ah Kaht knew he would regret what hadnt been between him and Esh for the rest of his days. Now that it was too late, he realized that he would rather have had one night in his loves arms than an eternity without knowing the taste of Eshs passion on his lips. My lord, the hour is late. The feasting I care nothing for the feasting, Chamer. The words emerged as not much more than a growl. He was losing his infamous control, becoming consumed by his rage and grief, a state that could become dangerous to his very life. There were assassins around every
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corner, men from within their community and without who would think nothing of slaughtering Ah Kaht and his father in order to claim the right to rule Mayapan and the citys holdings. He couldnt afford to let down his guard, not even here, in a temple sacred to the gods. It is not for you to care or not to care, my lord. It is your place as our future leader to attend the feasting, to help celebrate our victory. Chamer stepped closer, placing a large hand on his shoulder. Condescending monkeys ass. Ah Kaht was forced to release Eshs hand and turn to prowl around the cool room to keep from striking out at the older man. The power hungry shaman could never understand the pain that worked through his veins, poisoning him as surely as the venom those chosen for sacrifice ingested before they ascended the steps of the high temple. Esh was not simply a casualty of warhe was lying here on this stone slab, perhaps hours from death, because of Ah Kahts weakness, Ah Kahts folly. If he hadnt feared the anger of his father more than his own death, he wouldnt have run through the flames, searching for the jewels Ac Yanto craved. Esh wouldnt have followed him and they both would have been safe. The garnet had survived the fire. Perhaps the other jewels would have survived the brutal heat as well. There was no way to know now, no way to turn back time and keep Eshs golden skin from being ravaged by fire, to keep his soul from being pulled toward the Underworld. I know you are in deep mourning, Ah Kaht, but Eshs death was not in vain. He is not dead yet, Chamer. Of course not. Chamers tone softened markedly, the shaman obviously having read the violence in Ah Kahts tone. But if he is claimed by a death god or goddess, it will be because the order of the universe demands it. He died saving his lord, his ruler. There is no greater sacrifice. He is a hero to our people and will always be remembered as such.
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Ah Kaht sighed, realizing Chamer would not rest until he was seated at his fathers right hand, a leg of turkey in one hand and cup of sweet fire juice in the other. I will be at my fathers table before the last of the suns rays have faded from the sky. His voice was soft, strained, a testimony to how little he had slept in the past few days. But Ah Kaht, the hour is already quite late, we have I will be there, Chamer, Ah Kaht interrupted harshly, sounding like the ruler he would one day be for the first time in his life. Now leave me. Chamers eyes flashed with anger, but he did indeed take his leave of the Temple of the Kings. Within a few moments, Ah Kaht was once again alone in the cool, dimly lit room, with nothing but the soft, shallow sound of Eshs breath to break the silence. This part of the temple was usually reserved for the burial sacraments of high born families, as it was the most astrologically auspicious location in the city. But Ah Kaht had insisted Esh be brought here before he was touched by the hands of death, hoping the sacred chamber would aid in Eshs recovery. For once his father hadnt argued, so pleased with the prizes Ah Kaht had brought home from battle that he was willing to indulge his only sons wishes. But the power of the room had failed to revive Esh, just as the priests chanting and Ah Kahts offerings of words, oil and water had failed. Just as the power of his love and his supplication to the gods had failed. It was time for more drastic measures, time to risk death or banishment if it meant even the slightest chance that Esh would return to him. I will not fail you, Esh, not again. Ah Kaht took his loves hand once more, willing him to cling to life for a few more hours. Ah Kaht would make his appearance at the feast and wait until his father and his shamans were drowsy with liquor and their bellies heavy with food. Then he would reclaim his prize, spirit the garnet away from the Temple of the Bearded Man where his
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father hoarded the spoils of war, certain the sacred stones would give him the power he needed to unite the Mayan world under his rule. If there was even a chance the garnet could return Esh to him, Ah Kaht was willing to risk his fathers wrath and the anger of the gods themselves. The garnet, once ground into a paste and spread across the skin, was said to have the power to banish the nightmares of madness and to heal the unclean. But it was also a stone that could enhance the potency of the fire of the mind, leading to the ultimate enlightenment death. Then at least we will go to the afterlife together, my brother. Ah Kaht leaned down, pressing his lips against Eshs, the hint of warmth there enough to banish the last of his doubts. Esh was still alive, and if any risk on Ah Kahts part could assure it, his amber eyes would open to greet the dawn on the morrow.
*****
Esh was aflame once more. The cocoon of cool fog that had enveloped him abruptly faded away, flinging him into a raging fire. Every nerve in his body howled in protest, begged for mercy, but found no respite from the pure agony tracing its way across his skin. His chest ached and his lungs protested every breath. The pain was much too much to bear. This time the flames would kill him. This time there would be no retreat into the dark recesses of his mind where pain held no power. Esh! Gods, please, open your eyes. Please! Ah Kahts voice was as tortured as his own. He must be burning as well. But why? Where were they, how had The battle, the temple, the fireit all came rushing back to him as quickly as flame licking through dry grass. They hadnt made it out of the temple in time. Ah Kaht must have tried to save him and caught fire himself. Now they would both die, be burned to ash in a foreign city, far from those who would have mourned them. Please! Esh, my love, please, Ah Kaht begged, his words ending in a sob.
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His love. Ah Kaht had named the feelings between them at last. He would not go to his grave without at least that sweet solace. The knowledge was enough to help Esh fight through the pain, through the fire that felt ready to burn his eyes from his very skull. He forced his lids to open, hoping to gain one last glimpse of the man he loved. Yes! Thank the gods, thank the gods. Ah Kahts face swam into focus, but behind him there were no walls of fire, only darkness and the cool light of the moon shining in through a hole in the ceiling of the room where they lay. As his eyes met Ah Kahts, the feeling that Esh was burning faded away, a dream vanishing in the reality of the cool stones beneath his body and the warm man stretched out beside him, running his hand slowly up and down his bare chest. He smoothed what felt like a healing mud paste over his belly and then lower, much lower, to where Esh was as hard as the smooth rock they lay upon. Ah Kaht stroked him, up and down, smoothing the last of the paste over his cock. Then he took the slickness that leaked from Eshs tip and spread it around and around the head of Eshs arousal and down over his shaft, mingling his pre-cum with the healing ointment. Eshs breath came faster and things low in his body coiled with excitement, ready to claim the pleasure Ah Kaht was promising with every jerk of his strong hand. But there was something that held him back, something pulling at his mind, urging that all was not right. Why were they in this room that looked so much like a burial chamber? Why was the moon the only light and not so much as a taper burning on the wall? Why was Ah Kahts chest smeared with thick red paste so dark it looked nearly black and why was his bottom lip torn and bleeding as if it had been sliced with a blade? Ah Kaht, what Eshs voice was rough, his tongue thick, as if he hadnt tasted liquid in days. He was suddenly desperate for a drink.
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As if reading his mind, Ah Kaht moved his hand from Eshs cock and brought a gourd filled with water to his lips. Esh drank greedily, knowing water had never tasted so good. The fluid coursed down his raw throat, soothing his very soul. No, please You will have more soon. You must drink slowly at first, Ah Kaht said, setting the gourd back onto the stone behind him and moving his hand back to Eshs arousal. But why, what has happened? How long have I I will explain all, but dont speak, not yet. Were so close, the rite is nearly finished. The rite? What was Ah Kaht doing, daring to perform a magic rite? Only the shaman-priests could work magic or dare to communicate with the gods. For a mere warrior, no matter how revered or high born, to attempt such a rite was to invite the fury of the gods themselves. Esh was prepared to tell Ah Kaht as much, to beg him to stop whatever he had begun, when Ah Kahts tempo suddenly increased. Esh gasped as his loves slick fist worked his cock, driving him to the edge despite the feeling of unease creeping over his skin. Gods, you feelamazing. Ive wanted to touch you like this for so long. Ah Kaht dipped his head, claiming Eshs mouth. As soon as their lips met, Esh realized Ah Kaht was not the only one with a tear in his flesh. A sharp stinging sensation blossomed along his lips and tongue as their mouths mated for the first time. Blood, metallic and sweet, mingled with the essence of Ah Kaht. The man himself tasted even better than Esh had dreamed, a mix of ripe guava fruit and sea air, and beneath that a dark, forbidden flavor that made Eshs body sing. Esh groaned as their kiss grew more frantic, Ah Kahts tongue ravaging his mouth, his lovers teeth pulling at where his lip was already torn, urging more blood from the wound, blood he suckled into his mouth before he began kissing his way down Eshs
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body. Ah Kahts breath was hot on his chest as he paused to lick one of Eshs nipples, biting the thin skin there until shocks ran through Eshs body, numbing his fingers, making his lips buzz as if they had been stung by a thousand bees. The air around them grew thicker, so humid and heavy that Esh could barely breathe, but the oppressive sensation could do nothing to cool his lust. He was ready, dying for release, bucking into the hand Ah Kaht fisted around his cock with what little strength remained in his ravaged body. And when the other man moved his mouth lower, parting his lips to take Eshs cock inside his mouth, Esh knew there would be no turning back. He groaned as Ah Kaht suckled his cock into his hot, wet mouth, tentative at first, as if this were the first time he had ever taken another mans cock down his throat. Just the suspicion that he was Ah Kahts first male lover was enough to make more pre-cum leak from the head of Eshs cock. He wasnt going to last long, not if Ah Kaht kept taking him deeper and deeper into his mouth with each bob of his head. Ah Kaht moved one hand to cup Eshs balls, toying with the loose flesh of his sac, bringing the tension mounting within Esh to the breaking point. And when the other man moved his hand even farther back, pressing eager fingers between Eshs cheeks, tracing a circle around the tight ring of his ass, Esh lost the battle to prolong his pleasure. Ah Kaht! Esh cried out as he lost himself in his lovers mouth, the fierce clutching waves of pleasure twisting his face and making his hands fist at his sides. He arched his hips, wanting to be even deeper, closer to Ah Kaht than their separate flesh would allow. Ah Kaht responded by sucking his cock with even more enthusiasm, milking him of the last of his seed, swallowing it down with a moan that let Esh know how much Ah Kaht enjoyed his work. The moment was perfect, wondrous, all that Esh had dreamed of and more. He couldnt wait to recover his strength, to journey down Ah Kahts body and show him how grateful he was for the chance to pleasure and be pleasured. It would be the first
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time Esh had ever taken another mans cock in his mouth as well, but he knew his passion for Ah Kaht would be his guide. He would eagerly do anything it took to bring Ah Kaht to the pinnacle of ecstasy from which he had just descended. Esh was about to tell his love as muchto warn him that he would not rest until Ah Kahts cock was twitching between his lipswhen the fire began to burn once more. No! Esh screamed, his voice echoing off the stone walls. Ah Kaht joined him a few moments later, Eshs cock slipping from his mouth as he cried out in agony. Every place where the paste had touched them was glowing bright red, washing the stone walls in a deep crimson light that scalded everything it touched. Esh was dimly aware of his arms closing around Ah Khat as the other man surged up over him, as if to blanket Esh with his own body and save him from the torture of being burned alive. Esh held Ah Kaht close, pressing his face to the other mans neck, inhaling one last breath before the world caught fire, burning the very lids from his eyes, forcing him to watch as the walls around them melted to the ground.
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Chapter Two
Ah Kaht went from sleeping to wakefulness in less time than it took to draw in a breath. It was a skill all the best warriors possessed, but he had learned to sleep lightly even before he fought for the Mayapan people. Hed had no more than four seasons the first time one of his fathers enemies had made an attempt on his life. The young Ah Kaht had awakened to see a blade hovering above his head and rolled to the right just in time to avoid having the weapon buried deep in his heart. His fathers guards had entered the room moments after and slaughtered the would-be assassin. But they would have been moments too late if Ah Kaht hadnt been able to react quickly, even with his eyes still sticky from sleep. He was accustomed to always being on his guard and wouldnt have been surprised to find himself in the middle of a battle upon vaulting to his feet. Ah Kaht was prepared for assassins or enemy forces. He was prepared for violence and danger, but he was not at all prepared for the view that stretched out before him. Pure shock threatened to level him to the ground, send him crashing back down to the soft grass that tickled against his bare feet. Gods protect us, Esh muttered from the ground behind him. Ah Kaht turned to see his lover crouched in a battle position, ready to spring upon anything that would threaten them. Not that there appeared to be any predators nearby. They were alone in a field of grass and giant wildflowers, the air completely quiet except for the rustle of the wind as it moved through the prairie. Far in the distance, a range of purple, snow-capped mountains stood watch. The only signs of life were birds that circled lazily above them, giant white cranes sailing higher than would have been possible for a creature of the earthly realm.
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What is this place? Esh asked, his voice not much more than a whisper. It is not one of the nine levels of hellof that I am fairly certain. Gods, Ah Kaht, what have you done? Esh stood. He was still naked, as was Ah Kaht himself, but they were no longer covered in crushed garnet paste. They were clean, their skin glowing as if they had spent the evening at the baths, being scrubbed by the attendants and then massaged with fragranced oils. As Esh slowly moved to stand beside him, Ah Kaht couldnt help but admire his finely muscled form, the way his dark hair shone in the light of a sun far larger and more golden than their own. Eshs amber eyes were clear and free of pain and the skin of his legs smooth. There was no evidence of the burns that had marked him while they inhabited their realm, making Ah Kaht wonder if they had traveled to the heavens. Perhaps the rite of the garnet hadnt returned Esh to the living, but brought them both to the land of the dead. You look well. Very well. Ah Kaht let his gaze sweep over Esh again, and felt his cock thicken in response. Is now the time for compliments? Esh asked, his voice firm, though his member also rose from between his legs, reaching toward Ah Kaht with a mind of its own. Perhaps. The absence of your burns and the cuts I made at our lips is worth noting. Ah Kaht ran an idle hand across Eshs chest, pleased to see Eshs flat nipples grow hard beneath his touch. Do the priests not say that every wounded warrior will be whole and perfect in the afterlife? Ah Kaht caught Eshs eye, anxious to see what he would think of the possibility of spending eternity by Ah Kahts side. The after Esh broke off, eyes wide as he spun in a circle, taking in the strange surroundings once more. The air around them was cooler than any day either of them had known in their native land, free of the heat and humidity that often plagued the city of Mayapan and fragranced with the light, sweet scent of flowers. With every passing moment, it became
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clearer to Ah Kaht that they were no longer in their world, but the knowledge did not disturb him. He would rather be by Eshs side in the afterlife than on his own in the earthly realm. Nothing had ever felt so right as when their tongues had tangled in their first kiss. And taking the other mans cock in his mouth had beenindescribably perfect. In fact, he was already eager to suck him again, tempted to fall to his knees in the soft grass and take Eshs swelling arousal between his lips once more. But it seemed Esh did not share his feelings. Esh? He spoke his name softly, worried by the tightly clenched jaw and thinly pressed lips of the other man. Ah Kaht, I would not have had you do this. Esh turned tormented eyes to Ah Kaht. You have abandoned the world and our people and risked the anger of the gods. I was trying to save your life. Ah Kaht felt anger and hurt spear through his chest, wounding him. You should have let me die. Esh turned, pacing away through the grasses before he turned back to face Ah Kaht. I was ready to give my life for yours. I knew what I did when I leaped into the flames. I would never have asked You didnt have to ask. I was willing to risk Ac Yantos wrath, the gods wrath, anything toto return you to me. Esh was silent, but Ah Kaht could see a softening in his face. Esh did care for him. Now Ah Kaht simply had to convince the other man that he had acted with forethought and done his best to appease the gods. I made offerings to the four directions before I began the ritual. And I performed the rite of the garnet exactly as it was written in the scrolls I stole from the Temple of the Bearded Man. You stole from your father, from Ac Yanto? Esh asked, his tone making it clear Ah Kaht had committed an act as foolishly destructive as inviting a jaguar into his home for breakfast. I stole only what I myself thieved for him in the first place.
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You shouldnt have risked this, Esh said, reaching out to take his hand and making Ah Kahts heart surge with relief. It was care for him that made Esh worry, not regret to find himself by Ah Kahts side in the afterlife. Thank the gods. Your father will kill you. No, my love, it doesnt appear that hell have that pleasure. Ah Kaht stepped closer to Esh, bringing the front of their bodies to press together. As we are both already dead. You are Eshs words trailed off as Ah Kaht ran his hands down the other mans back, cupping Eshs ass in his hands and pulling his hips forward, more tightly to his own. Their cocks pressed together, hot, soft skin over stone that grew even harder as Ah Kaht took Eshs lips for a kiss. I am right? Ah Kaht flicked his tongue out across the seam of Eshs lips. I am wise? Esh parted for him, but Ah Kaht did not invade, merely teased along the edge of his mouth. I am like a young god, the only man in the great world you would wish to have by your side for the rest of You are far too talkative. Eshs laughter was followed by firm hands on the back of Ah Kahts head. Esh pulled him close, savaging his mouth with deep probing sweeps of his tongue. Ah Kaht felt his own smile fade quickly in the flames of desire Esh summoned from deep within him. He had never ached for anyone as he did for Esh. He was dying to feel Eshs mouth around his cock, Eshs hands cupping his swollen sac, Eshs fingers You read my mind, my love, Ah Kaht murmured into the other mans mouth as Eshs fingers slid down the crevice of his ass, teasing around where he yearned to feel something even thicker and hotter than fingers pushing deep inside. You want me to touch you here, to fill you with my fingers? Esh teased the tip of one blunt finger inside, barely penetrating Ah Kahts ass before he pulled away once more.
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I want you to fill me with your cock. Ah Kahts hand moved between their bodies, wrapping around Eshs pulsing length and tugging. I want you to fuck me, to Gods, you are wicked. A shudder worked through Eshs body and his hands trembled where they cupped Ah Kahts ass. You love that I am wicked, Ah Kaht said, regretting the choice of words as soon as they were said. Esh clearly desired him, cared for him, but he had yet to return his profession of love. I do love that you are wicked, Esh said, then pressed on as if he could read the worries that plagued Ah Kahts mind. I love also that you are brave and loyal. I love that you are clever and daring and that you always have a soft word for the women who clean your quarters, though they are not much more than slaves. Esh moved one hand to Ah Kahts cock, slowly, tenderly, beginning to stroke him. I love you, all of you, and have since we were boys. I as well. Ah Kaht fought the stinging sensation that pressed against the backs of his eyes. He had not wept since his mother died when he was barely seven summers old. He was a warrior, as hard and stoic as any proud Mayan man. But stillthe way Esh touched him, the knowledge that his love was returned was nearly enough to drive him to tears. What fools we have been, wasting precious hours when We are together now and have all the time in the world, Esh said, pressing a soft kiss to Ah Kahts lips. Eternity, thanks to you. If you wish to thank me, Ah Kaht said, increasing the pace of his strokes up and down Eshs iron length, I can think of several ways. Anything you desire, anything. Eshs breath came faster and a tear of fluid wept from his cock. Ah Kaht captured the bead of moisture and smoothed it around the head of Eshs arousal before bringing his fingers to his lips and sucking them inside. He
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moaned around his fingers, eager for another taste of Eshs body but craving something even more intimate than the sucking of Eshs cock. Ah Kaht moved his hand back to Eshs hard length and squeezed. I want you to fuck me. I want to feel this cock inside me. Esh shuddered, his own hand tightening around where he griped Ah Kaht. But we have no oils, nothing to ease my passage. You consider your size so great? Ah Kaht teased as he slid one hand down to cup Eshs balls, which were deliciously full and heavy. A bit greater than that which I clasp in my hand. Eshs smile was wicked as he mimicked Ah Kahts movements, fondling Ah Kahts balls as he continued working his slick fist up and down Ah Kahts shaft. Gods, but it felt good, the way Eshs calloused palm stroked him, better than any touch he had known. You insult your lord, Ah Kaht said, attempting a hard tone. It is not an insult, merely a fact. Esh leaned forward, capturing Ah Kahts mouth, nipping his teeth along Ah Kahts bottom lip before he spoke again. I find your cock a most magnificent size. It is simply smaller than my own. So perhaps I should fuck you then? Ah Kaht half laughed, half groaned as Esh tackled him to the ground, rolling on top of him in the grass. Every touch, every kiss, every time their bodies pressed against each other felt better than the last. Ah Kaht would have sworn it was the magic of the afterlife making it so if he hadnt known the same bliss back in the temple, when he had kissed his way down Eshs body and taken a mans cock in his mouth for the first time. From the second his tongue flicked out to taste Eshs sex, he had been drunk with pleasure. Ah Kaht had known women, many women, and found pleasure in their arms and bodies, but nothing like this, nothing like this man, the other half of his heart. Ah Kaht wrapped his arms around Eshs strong chest and tugged him closer, slanting his head to gain greater access to the other mans mouth. The taste of Esh was
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quickly becoming an addiction, a sweet elixir he would gladly feast upon for the rest of his days. Their erect cocks lay trapped between their bodies, pulsing against Ah Kahts stomach as they rolled over again in the grass, and Ah Kaht found himself on top of Esh. The need to be inside Esh, and the greater need to have Esh inside himpushing, shoving, fucking him until he couldnt remember any lover but the one in his arms was becoming all consuming. Ah Kaht was certain he would have traded his kingdom for a bottle of oil if he were still in the mortal realm. Esh was rightthey would need something to ease the friction of penetration, especially the first few Gods, what is Eshs body suddenly grew tense beneath him. Ah Kaht pulled away, allowing Esh to shift onto his elbows and reach a hand underneath his body. Ah Kaht expected him to pull a rock from behind his back, but instead of a stone, Eshs hand clasped a small black bottle. What is that? Ah Kaht sat back on his heels, watching as Esh pulled the stopper from the small vessel. He lifted it hesitantly to his nose and sniffed. It smells likesunflower oil. His eyes grew wide with wonder and a trace of fear. I was just thinking about sunflower oil. Ah Kaht smiled. Our minds were in the same place. I too was wishing for oil, willing to trade my birthright for it, in fact. Do you think the gods heard our thoughts? Do you think they might be somewhere nearby? Esh sat up, looking over the top of the grass, every muscle in his body tense. Ah Kaht searched the horizon around them as well. The gods and goddesses of the Mayan people were not always gentle, kind creatures. No matter that he and Esh had avoided the pits of hell and apparently arrived in one of the lands of heaven. It would be better for both of them if they stayed away from any of the divine creatures who might call this realm their home.
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I see nothing, Ah Kaht said. Perhaps the land itself provided for our needs. There are tales of such things occurring in the lands beyond. Perhaps Esh lowered his eyes to the earth beside them, pressing his lips together. Seconds later, the dirt began to shift and another bottle appeared, this one purple in color. Esh reached for it with slightly shaking hands. Is it what you wished for? Ah Kaht asked as Esh brought the second bottle to his nose. Yes. He passed the vessel to Ah Kaht, who tipped a bit of the oil inside out to coat his hand. The fluid was nearly clear and clung to his skin like liquid corn silk, smelling like nothing he had ever scented before. It was as if the ocean had been trapped inside, mixed with a hint of ripe fruit. What did you wish for? Ah Kaht asked, rubbing the slippery oil between his fingers. An oil that would not remind me of cooking fires, Esh said, his voice husky with desire, one that would smell the way you taste on my tongue. Ah Kaht needed no further encouragement. He poured a bit more of the oil onto his hand and reached for Eshs cock. The other man had softened a bit in the time since they had discovered the oils, but Ah Kaht soon coaxed his erection back to its full glory. Within moments, Eshs arousal was pulsing, long and thick in his hand. Ah Kaht slid his silk covered fingers up and down, up and down, teasing every inch of Eshs cock, tormenting him with first rough tugs and then whisper soft touches. He varied his rhythm, bringing his other hand to play with Eshs heavy sac. By the time Ah Kaht finally pulled away, the mushroomed tip of Eshs cock was purple and Esh was groaning with need. He didnt even have the chance to fully turn around before Esh was on him, pressing him into the dirt from behind, pressing his cock between Ah Kahts buttocks. He fucked the valley there with frenzied strokes. Ah Kaht moaned, pushing back
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against Esh, his own cock growing impossibly harder and his ass tingling with awareness. He was ready to feel Esh there, past ready, nearly dying with the need for Esh to penetrate him. Fuck me, Ah Kaht demanded, pressing his palms into the ground, bending his knees and coming onto all fours, shoving Eshs weight off his back. He then arched his hips, presenting the tight ring of his ass to the man behind him. Esh said not a word, only lifted the purple bottle and poured a bit of the oil onto his hands. His thumb was at Ah Kahts entry a second later, circling, teasing and then finally driving slowly in and out. Yes, Ah Kaht hissed, pushing back into the thumb Esh used to fuck him. The deep, insistent penetration felt even better than he had imagined, but it still wasnt enough. More, I want to feel you, all of you. I wanted to wait, to ready you for Fuck me, Esh, Ah Kaht demanded, sending a burning look over his shoulder. Make me yours. Now. Within seconds, Eshs hand was replaced by the blunt head of his cock. He pushed past the hint of resistance at Ah Kahts opening, burrowing deep, deeper until Ah Kaht was filled with the man he loved, Eshs cock encased in his ass all the way to the base of his erection. There was pain accompanying the swift thrust, a stinging pain that carried a surge of pleasure closely behind it. Ah Kaht cried out with the mixture of the two, pain and pleasure married so closely in that moment that he could scarcely breathe. And then, Eshs hand smoothed around Ah Kahts body, gripping his cock in his slick hand, and Ah Kaht forgot about everything but Esh. Esh, who fucked his ass with slow, languid strokes that gradually grew more wild. Esh, who fisted his cock, jerking him until his sac ached with the need for release. Esh, who whispered words of love into his neck before he dragged his teeth over the bunched muscles of Ah Kahts shoulder, triggering a release that felt it would empty his soul from his body.
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Ah Kaht screamed Eshs name as he came, his cum shooting from his cock to coat the earth beneath them in thick, urgent streams. Seconds later, he felt Eshs desperate strokes falter, heard his lovers breath hitch, and felt the hot flood of Eshs orgasm as he emptied himself deep in Ah Kahts body. They collapsed onto the ground together, gasping for breath. Ah Kaht could scarcely breathe, but he found that he could wish. And wish he did, for the gift he was suddenly desperate for the magic earth of the afterlife to provide.
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Chapter Three
It is probably not safe to keep wishing, Esh said, but the words were muffled by the hot mixture of maize, chili and cacao in his mouth. Ah Kaht stretched lazily on the soft hammock hed wished into being and picked up a guava fruit. Maybe not. But I am still hungry. How can we eat if were dead? The afterlife isnt for us to understandit is for us to enjoy. The question bothered Ah Kaht a bit too, but he didnt want to think on it. Nor did he want to worry about the dangers of wishing. He was intoxicated, delirious with happiness, and wanted only to provide Esh with everything his love deserved. Every pleasure of the world should be his, and if there was punishment for it, Ah Kaht would take it happily knowing hed been able to lavish his love with gifts. But Ah Kaht silenced him with a kiss. Eshs lips tasted of spice, of sweetness and something else that took Ah Kahts breath away. Had anything more intoxicating ever existed than the call of his loves lips, the smooth skin and firm muscles of his body? No. Ah Kahts own body hardened. He pictured other uses for those lips, imagined looking down to see the other man's mouth enveloping his cock all the way to the base. It was a fantasy he knew could come true here. Anything he dreamed could become reality. They could probably float on air if he wished it, make love in the sky high above the earth. They could create a temple out of the air, a place of silence in which to worship each other. Or water. A lake, a pool so clear they could see the stones gold on the bottom. Cool water, surrounding their bodies, pouring over their heads
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Come with me. He took Eshs hand in his and lifted it to his lips, giving Eshs fingertips each a gentle nibble. Delicious. He sucked them into his mouth slowly, one by one, and watched Eshs eyes widen and darken with desire. Maybe we should stay here Ah Kaht smiled. No. Trust me, my love. The two men climbed off the hammock together, setting their food carefully on the flat top of a nearby stone. Where are we going? Esh asked, his hand warm in Ah Kahts. Just a little farther, I think He could hear the water now. Yes, he could definitely hear it, could see it now, just as hed pictured it in his head. The ground here rose gently, forcing their legs to work just enough to bring a pleasant tingle to Ah Kahts skin. Then, just as they reached the crest, a rainbow rose into the air, created by some magic of the gods in the shimmering mist. The waterfall waited for them, beckoned them from its place above that shallow, clear pool Ah Kaht had imagined. Just looking at it made Ah Kaht thirsty, made his body cry out to feel its clean purity washing over him. Ah Kahtits beautiful, Esh breathed. It is only what you deserve, Ah Kaht said, and then he was off, racing down the gentle slope to the waters edge, with the low roar of the falls and the joyous echo of Eshs laughter ringing in his ears. He reached the pool just moments before Esh and they jumped in together. The water truly was as clear as the air and the pebbles at its bottom caressed and massaged Ah Kahts feet. Esh placed warm hands on Ah Kahts hips and drew him closer for another kiss, rubbing his body suggestively against Ah Kahts. Ah Kahts stomach tightened. Eshs cock pressed against him, making his mouth water.
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Eshs tongue slipped into his mouth, his fingers gripping Ah Kahts hips. You tasteso good, he murmured. Do you taste as good everywhere? Ah Kaht could hardly breathe. Why dont you find out? Esh smiled and reached back toward the edge of the pool, coming back with a soft lump of the mashed yucca and ash blend they used as soap. Your speech is very dirty, he murmured. Perhaps we should clean you. Perhaps we should both get clean, Ah Kaht managed to reply. He turned around, giving Esh his back, sighing as the other mans strong hands slid over his skin. His flesh raised in little bumps, and he shuddered. Esh molded every curve and muscle with his hands, stroking across Ah Kahts shoulders, running down over his shoulder blades and farther down, to where the water lapped across the crest of Ah Kahts buttocks. His warm palms shifted forward, caressing Ah Kahts stomach. Ah Kahts breath hitched. Eshs fingers tickled just above the line of hair below Ah Kahts belly button. Just a bit farther down and he would be able to touch the tip of Ah Kahts hard cock. Ah Kahts head fell back, resting neatly in the hollow of Eshs collarbone. That feels so good, he said. His voice came out as a choked whisper. Eshs hands traveled up, over the muscles of Ah Kahts chest. His fingers found Ah Kahts nipples and played with them, drawing a gasp from between Ah Kahts lips. Does that feel good? Yes. Eshs teeth scraped Ah Kahts neck. How about that? Yes. How about Eshs right hand, empty now, found Ah Kahts erection and closed around it. This? Ah Kaht couldnt help himself. His hips leapt forward, pushing against Eshs hand, forcing the other man to give him a long, solid stroke. Yes!
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So impatient, Esh teased. Didnt you say we have eternity together, my love? Then let it start now, Ah Kaht said, and take me in your mouth. With pleasure. Esh spun him around, letting Ah Kaht catch one glimpse of his lovers wicked little smile before Esh sank to his knees on the soft bottom of the pool. The water covered him to just below the neck, distorting everything beneath its surface, so it looked like his body and Ah Kahts both drifted into nothingness. The heavy tip of Ah Kahts cock jutted into the air next to Eshs cheek as the other man kissed Ah Kahts hip bone. His tongue left a trail of heat along the ridges of his abdominal muscles. Ah Kaht moaned. Shh. Esh kissed the top of Ah Kahts thigh. His fingertips ran up the other one, stroking the place where thigh met groin. Ah Kahts legs felt weak. As if he knew, Esh reached up and placed the flat of his hand against Ah Kahts chest. Lean back. Ah Kaht looked behind him. He wasnt far from the edge of the pool after all. So he did, dipping his chest under the water, rinsing himself clean of the soap. Esh stood up and placed Ah Kahts arms along the soft grass lining the pool. Ah Kahts head was pillowed by the earth in this way, his legs bent so the rest of his body was underwater. They were dead, yes, but surely they still needed to breathe? Ah Kaht was breathing, wouldnt Esh Ah. Eshs powerful hands cupped Ah Kahts ass, lifting it so his cock poked proudly up from the shimmering surface of the water. He knew he was almost weightless in the pool. Clever Esh, to take advantage of it. Esh ran the very tip of his tongue across the slit in the top of Ah Kahts cock. It wasunreal, the pleasure. Ah Kaht had never felt anything like it, not once. Not even when hed visited the pleasure tents and demanded two women to service his sensual appetites.
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Hed never felt anything like it because hed never had the man he loved taste him, love him, flick his tongue rapidly back and forth across the especially sensitive ridge of skin that thrummed and sent sparks through his body with every light movement. EshEsh He opened his eyes. Above him clouds moved lazily across the perfect blue of the sky. He raised his head a little, just enough to see Esh watching him, to lose himself in his lovers dark gaze as Esh opened his mouth and sucked the plump head of Ah Kahts cock between his lips. The sight of him disappearing like that into the wet heat of Eshs mouth was almost enough to make him explode right there. With effort, he forced himself to calm down. This had to last. He had to keep feeling like thisit was too amazing to stop. Esh shifted his grip, bracing one arm under Ah Kahts waist so he could use his other hand to lift Ah Kahts sac, to run the knuckle of his finger along the strip on incredibly sensitive skin behind it. Ah Kahts fingers clenched, twisting blades of grass between them. He closed his eyes again. He wasnt really seeing anyway, wasnt registering the incredibly erotic image of his cock buried deep in Eshs mouth. For it was buried deep now, all the way, and Eshs cheeks moved slightly as he sucked. The gentle throbbing pressure of his tongue and cheeks sent shivers up and down Ah Kahts spine. Eshs fingers still worked lower down, finding Ah Kahts tight, sensitive rear entrance, and working it, prodding it, sliding one finger in up to the knuckle. Gods, Ah Kaht bit out. Esh, stop. Stop. Esh paused and lifted his head, still loosely holding Ah Kahts cock. Stop? ImIm going to come if you dont stop, and I want to be inside you first. I want to so bad. Why not do both? Ah Kaht looked down to see Esh smiling. We have time.
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Without waiting for a reply, he dipped his head again, pulling Ah Kaht into his mouth, sucking harder. The finger buried in Ah Kahts ass wiggled a little, making tiny circles. Tiny circles that sent huge shockwaves through Ah Kahts body. He was trembling, shaking. His thoughts grew incoherent and he realized he was babbling, saying anything that came to his mind, words of love and tenderness as Esh sped up his pace faster and faster until his dark head was a blur and heat popped and exploded in Ah Kahts pelvis. Esh! he shouted, as his cock swelled and his entire body tensed. Esh! It hit him like hed drunk an entire pot of fermented fruit liquor at once, making him dizzy with pleasure. He couldnt seem to breathe fast enough. His cock jerked and leaped between Eshs lips as it emptied itself of its seed. Esh swallowed every drop, holding Ah Kahts manhood between his lips until it softened. Then he looked up and smiled. And thats just the beginning, he said.
*****
Ixtab opened her eyes, despite the pain of doing so. She never looked at her domain. Looking was for the living. But still she felt everything, knew everything that happened. Every lost one who entered the part of the afterlife she owned, all those sad and miserable souls, belonged to her the minute they passed over and into her care. The noose around her neck refused to give. It had been hundreds of human spans since she had last moved from her resting place where she swung, corpse-like, from the dreaming tree. It took her a moment to release herself, to land on unsteady feet that threatened to disintegrate completely. Needles of awareness shot up her legs, reminding her what it felt like to inhabit her body. Reminding her that she didnt enjoy it. Not in the slightest. Whatever it was that had awoken her would feel the weight of that displeasure. Soon.
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She opened the circle of her awareness, feeling with her power to make sure none were about. Her normal appearance frightened the mortals, made them uncomfortable. It reminded them too much of the bodies theyd left behind. They looked upon Ixtabs rotting flesh and imagined the remains of their own corpses. They saw the bare white bones sticking out, saw the strips of dark skin peeling away, andshe shook her head. No sense dwelling on it. The poor things, with their lack of appreciation for the beauty of decay. In the end, it didnt matter anyway. It wasnt possible to go insane here, no matter how hard they tried when they had the misfortune to come across her in her temple hanging from her tree. Instead they would be forced to remember looking upon her and knowing they didnt imagine her, didnt imagine the state of her body. Some would say they deserved the pain of those memories. Among her protected souls were those of suicides, those who had abandoned the people who loved them. Some who ended up here had been killed, hung by the neck as punishment for crimes, others had won a place in her realm by dying nobly on the battlefield. But Ixtab did not judge them. All of them, the wicked, the innocent, the grieved, deserved the pleasures she provided here. She wanted them to be happy. They were her children, and if anyone ever threatened or hurt her children or their happiness here in the paradise she had created at the beginning of time Then they would see the terrifying side of the goddess Ixtab. Now someone threatened the peace of her realm. She could feel an imbalance in the energy, a feeling ofwrongness. She crossed the sacred space in which her tree grew, looking out over the beautiful vista of her lands. Not an enemy. She knew that. The invader had not come to harm, not to hurt. But they hurt just the same. Ixtabs power rested on a delicate balance. Every new soul took its piece, but in return the quality of their unique life sacrifice gave it back, so they used only what they themselves provided. She collected the life force left in them at the moment of their
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deaths and turned it into something else, something bigger and more powerful. But this new energyit hadnt made the sacrifice. It was a trespasser, one who must be eliminated, peaceably if possible. With a sigh, Ixtab looked down at herself again, idly caressing the torn and rotting planes of her skin. It had been ages since shed altered her appearance. She wasnt even sure she would remember how. But she would attempt to shift her form. It would ease the negotiations with the human who had somehow slipped into her lands. She closed her eyes and focused. Not on herself but on the invader. Better to locate the soul before she changed. She needed more energy to transform than she did to travel. The slender threads of energy twisted, winding around each other. Her little children were all so happy here. Some reunited with old loves, old friends, others forging new bondsand they did so because she protected them, because she was in control. One thread stood out from the others, shining too brightly, humming with a little too much life. In her mind, she reached out to it, touched it and felt its energy sizzle up her finger, up her arm, into the place where a heart would be if goddesses had hearts. A man. Two men together, their bodies entwined. She saw them more clearly now. Theyd created quite a little world for themselves. A feast, trees for shade, a hammock for a bed. Andwas that a waterfall? And a pool? Yes, it was, with fuzzy, indeterminate green plants growing around its edge. Whichever of them had created, it hadnt been focused. For a moment she watched them. They both had the bodies of warriors, and their passion blazed into the air around them. Even her ancient, tired eyes could see that. They rested at the edge of the pool, one on his back with his legs open while the other lay on top of him. His hips moved, burying his cock deep into the body of the other one. Their lips fused, their hips moved in time, as the one on top stroked the cock
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of the one on the bottom while the one on the bottom reached around, sliding a finger in and out of his lovers ass. A sharp pang of desire ran through her. It wasnt unusual to find couples making love here. It was something human beings relished, after all, and she always appreciated the whispers of energy they generated. But thismaybe it was because one of them didnt belong here or maybe it was because they were both men and so strong, so powerful, butthey took her breath away. There was a pure, unbridled joy in their passion, a celebration that made her lick her lips. Still, they had to pay. Ixtab was a goddess. She did not judge. She only found those to protect and protected them, found those who had violated the laws and punished them. But to taste that passion, to feel hands capable of such tenderness on her skin Once in a great while, Ixtab tested her people, ventured among them in a better, more attractive form to deliver boons and punishments. Perhaps today would be a good day to do it again.
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Chapter Four
The sun was setting, but despite a day filled with lovemaking, Esh felt anything but tired. He assumed he could sleep if he chose to do sojust as he and Ah Kaht had eaten, though Esh hadnt felt even the ghost of hungerbut he wasnt ready to rest his eyes. Not when new wonders seemed to be waiting around every corner. What is this place? Ah Kaht crested the hill and froze beside him, his luscious mouth falling open as he saw what lay in the valley. I dont know. What do you suppose it is? Esh couldnt resist the urge to kiss him, to slip his tongue through Ah Kahts parted lips, to taste the flavor of his passion yet again. It didnt seem he would ever get enough of this man, his love, his mate for the rest of eternity. It looks like a city. A city made of flowers? Ah Kaht smiled as he ran a hand down Eshs stomach, finding where he was already hard. Again. His body obviously couldnt get enough of Ah Kaht either. Esh was a positive glutton for the other man and not at all inclined to temper his appetite. Did you dream this up, my love? Ah Kaht asked as he began to move his fist slowly up and down Eshs swelling length. No, Esh said, another whisper of unease making the hairs rise at the back of his neck, despite the arousal building low in his body. I thought you had. No, not I. Ah Kaht shrugged. But surely there are others here from our world who will make their own wishes in this place. Perhaps, Esh said, though for some reason he still felt uneasy. This realm was a true paradise, but for some reason he didnt fully trust this land of milk and honey. Something deep within him warned of growing too comfortable, too accepting of the gifts that sprang so easily from the earth.
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Let us go explore this new wonder. Ah Kaht pulled him forward, down the hill toward what did indeed appear to be a great city composed entirely of massive flowers and elegantly twisted vines. It was beautiful, lush and fragrant, the last place it would seem a man had anything to fear. Then why, Esh wondered, did he suddenly wish he had thought to ask the magic earth for a weapon? A sharp, strong weapon capable of slaying the gods themselves?
*****
Ah Kaht tugged another giant petal from the deep purple flower that formed the roof of one of the open-air temples in this strange city. He and Esh had explored for hours but not discovered a single living thing aside from the exotic plant life. But that was hardly a disappointment. Ah Kaht didnt need anyone but Esh, not now and conceivably not for eternity. Though he would like to see his younger sisters again, in a great many years after they had each led long, fulfilling mortal lives. I wonder if your older brother haunts this land? Ah Kaht asked, thinking of the strong Chiccan who had died when he and Esh had barely fourteen summers. I dislike that word. It sends a chill deep into my soul, Esh said, crossing his arms at his chest as he stepped out of the temple. Do not speak of ghosts, lest you summon them to our side. Forgive me. But perhaps he also walks this enchanted realm, as whole and well as you or I. Perhaps he was sent here after the battle at the three shores. Ah Kaht followed Esh and arranged the petal in his hands on the ground next to the first he had plucked. He and Esh had decided to sleep under the stars rather than inside one of the many houses. Esh had been greatly troubled that someone might return and be angered to see intruders in their home, no matter that none of the dwellings showed signs of recent habitation.
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Perhaps. It would be good to see him if that is the case. Esh paced up and down the soft grass, a disturbed look in his eyes as he watched the moon rise above the flower city. Maybe we should wish for him to join us. Ah Kaht came up behind him, wrapping his arms around Eshs waist. In the morning, after we have made love at least twice. No more wishing, Ah Kaht. Esh pulled away, his restlessness obvious in every movement. It is not what the gods would wish. How do you know what the gods wish? Ah Kaht asked, his voice hard for the first time since they had arrived in paradise. He loved Esh with all his heart, but his attitude was ridiculous. The priests spoke of the great bounty that awaited men in the afterlife. What had Esh expected upon his arrival in the next world, a barren wasteland peopled by the demons of hell? I dont, butI have the strangest feeling. Ever since you called food from the ground, it has crawled across my skin, this knowledge that you should not speak to the magic earth. That perhaps you shouldnt speak at all. Eshs voice was too haunted for Ah Kaht to take offense to his words. Very well, I wont wish. And I wont speak if you can aid me in finding a more inspiring way to occupy my mouth. Ah Kaht sprawled onto the bed he had made with a sigh, hoping Esh would take him up on his invitation and quit fretting. His love was far too troubled by paradise. They had inhabited this realm for an entire day without any harm coming to them. Without seeing another living soul, human or animal. Any warrior worth his weight in harvest grain knew to be watchful and cautious in a new land, butEsh was being Esh was being just as Ah Kaht himself should have been, watchful and cautious. Why hadnt Ah Kaht been more of either, he suddenly wondered? It was as if hed been intoxicated by this realm, lulled into a sense of security, of safety, that he would never have dared to assume in a foreign land in the human world.
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Ah Kaht was moving to his feet, determined to learn more about Eshs uneasy feelings, when the last of the moon finally broke free of the horizon. Cool, ethereal light bathed the flower city, painting the world in its white glow. Ah Kaht could practically feel the magic skittering across the land, infusing the plants with an almost human energy. Even the grass beneath his feet suddenly seemed to move with a certain deliberation, no longer at the mercy of the wind, but choosing which way to bend. Or perhaps someone else was choosing for it. There was a feeling in the air, the skin-tingling uneasiness Ah Kaht had always experienced when he was certain he was being watched by his fathers spies, by people who wished him harm. Esh, I Shh, the top of the pyramid. Look, Esh whispered, pointing to the largest structure in the city, a pyramid made entirely of thick, curled vines, and topped with a tightly budded flower larger than both him and Esh put together. As Ah Kaht watched, the bud began to bloom, coaxed into life by the rays of the moon. Sparks of blue and purple, as bright as the light of falling stars, tumbled down the sides of the pyramid as the petals unfurled. It was the most beautiful thing Ah Kaht had ever seen, more stunning than the sun sinking into a calm sea and setting it aflame. And then he saw her, and was forced to change his mind. As the last petal pulled away, a woman was revealed at the center of the bloom. She was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. Long black hair spilled down to the small of her back, large dark eyes peered out from a flawless, delicate face, and gently flaring curves graced a body that was at once feminine and yet still remarkably strong. She was a warrior queen, a magical creature, a goddess if there ever was one, with a perfection in her every feature no mere human could ever achieve. A goddess. Eshs hushed words echoed his thoughts. Ah Kaht took Eshs hand and held it tightly in his own, not troubled by the fact that Eshs cock had begun to swell and thicken between his legs. His own manhood had
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already risen from between his thighs, thick and hard with desire for the woman who now stepped delicately from amongst the petals and down the steep steps of the pyramid. Any human, male or female, would respond to such beauty. Besides, he and Esh had never discussed whether or not they would bed others. It wasnt a topic of discussion that had seemed pressing after waking up in paradise with not another soul in sight. But now Ah Kaht wondered, would Esh want to worship at the delta of this goddess should she offer her bounty to them? Would he himself wish to make love or even share the pleasures of the flesh with another after the rapture he had known in Eshs arms? A part of Ah Kaht knew without a doubt that he would not, that Esh was the only person, male or female, he wanted to share his bed for now and always. Unfortunately, his cock was not the part in question. Fluid leaked from the head of his arousal as the goddess stepped off the last stair and began padding through the grass toward them. She moved with the grace of a predator and smiled with the light of the sun. As she stopped a mere two paces from where he and Esh stood, it was all Ah Kaht could do not to fall on his knees and beg to be allowed to kiss her feet, he a high born son who had never kneeled before anyone. Welcome to my realm, great warriors, she said, her voice deep, cavernous, an ancient sound that didnt match the body it inhabited. I trust you have found pleasure here? One long, graceful arm reached out. The goddess traced a trail down Eshs chest with her finger, pulling back when she was only inches away from his cock. A sharp knife of jealousy slid cleanly between Ah Kaht ribsthough whether it was jealousy that another would stroke Esh or that it had been Esh and not he who had been the recipient of the goddess touch, he couldnt say. We have, great mistress. Esh fell to his knee. He pulled at the hand he held, trying to tug Ah Kaht down beside him, but Ah Kaht resisted, forcing himself to look the goddess in the eye.
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Yes, we have enjoyed the many blessings of your enchanted earth. Ah Kaht smiled and bowed his head. Have you now? she asked, a strange emphasis on the word you that made Ah Kahts skin crawl. She reached for him with the same graceful movement she had used to reach for Esh, but now Ah Kaht knew the last thing he wanted was the touch of this goddess. Something deep inside him instinctively pulled away, and he found himself taking a step back from her, even though he knew the act would be viewed as disrespectful. Which indeed it was. A frown crossed her beautiful face, a frown and a shadow of something that chilled him. For a moment it seemed her facedissolved, and he saw the bare skull beneath it, sharp teeth ready to bite, to tear. The skull disappeared so quickly he might have imagined it. Might have, but he didnt. He knew it. The beautiful body she wore was only trickery, and beneath it was something just as beautiful, but terrible as well. Her eyes narrowed. Ah Kaht looked away, trying to hide the knowledge in his eyes, and saw the long, slender fingers of her other hand disappearing into Eshs mouth. His loves cock was swollen between his legs as he sucked the goddesss fingers, pulling them into his mouth with a rapture that sent shivers up Ah Kahts spine. Esh, he said. Perhaps we should not intrude on the goddess. We have interrupted her rest, disturbed her great city. Her tinkly laugh floated in the air, whispering across Ah Kahts skin. But it is a welcome interruption, warrior. We have much to discuss. We are not worthy to discuss anything with you, Great One. I apologize, we have intruded Ah Kaht took another step back, tugging on the hand that still rested in his, but Esh didnt seem to notice. The goddesss hand shot out and gripped his upper arm, hard. He had to tighten his lips to keep from crying out as it vibrated through his body, not just the pain of her amazingly strong fingers but the pain of something else, something inside him that
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shouldnt be there. Was she forcing something into him? Some sort of energy, some form of evil? Desperately he squeezed Eshs hand, trying to transmit some of his fear, but Esh was nibbling her thigh, completely oblivious to anything else around him. The goddess let go of Ah Kaht as abruptly as shed grabbed him, leaving him with eyes that stung and pain still circling through him. You are stronger than I thought, she said. But not strong enough. You know now, dont you? Why I have come? Ah Kaht shook his head while a terrible certainty grew in his belly. No She smiled. Her teeth were just as long and sharp as theyd been moments before when hed seen through her disguise, long and very white like sun-bleached bone. Yes, you do. EshEsh we need to leave. Please. Ah Kaht tugged Eshs hand now, squeezing so hard his own fingers hurt, finally succeeding in drawing the other mans attention. What? Ah Kaht, what is wrong? We need to leave. No, the goddess said. Only one of you needs to leave, warrior. Her voice dropped to a horrible whisper. And Im afraid it is you.
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Chapter Five
I do not understand, Esh mumbled. I dont His mind didnt seem to be working properly. One minute he was standing in front of the goddess, feasting on the succulent, sweet skin of her thighs, feeling waves of pleasure rolling away from her with his every touch. She wanted him, welcomed him. He knew that if he lifted his hand and felt between her legs she would be wet and ready for him, that she would let him slide his tongue into that secret place and drink from the fount of life. He knew he could do anything he wanted with her, simple pleasures no man had ever dreamed of. Pleasure that might even come close to what hed found in the arms of Ah Kaht. Pleasure that might even surpass it. But it wouldnt matter. That pleasure would not turn his heart. His love for Ah Kaht was so strong, so pure. Surely giving the goddess her due would not come between them? For a moment, as he kissed his way across her pale, perfect skin, daring to bring his tongue close to the triangle of soft black hair covering her sex, he pictured it in his head. The goddess, lying on the soft flowers, with her legs spread so he could see the juicy treasure between them. He lowered his face to it, inhaling the soft, musky scent, and dared to open his mouth. Her skin tasted likelike everything delicious hed ever eaten, like every favorite food all at once. Her folds were a mystery to him, but one he could solve by feel, sliding his tongue up and down them, even slipping into her, while her gasps turned into cries. He felt so powerful with her open before him, under his spell. His tongue drifted and traveled, finding the tiny, hard bud and toying with it, feeling it harden and grow.
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And thenthe best part. Ah Kahts hand on his cock, holding him tightly, starting to move. Ah Kaht behind him, rubbing oils on Eshs tight hole, inserting one finger, and another, and finally, when Esh started bucking back against him, inserting his thick cock, his thrusts pushing Esh forward to bury his face deeper in the goddesss luscious pussy until all three were ready to explode The fantasy was so complete, so real, that when Ah Kaht tugged his hand and yanked him away, Esh didnt know where he was. Why was Ah Kaht not inside him? Why was the goddess standing up, not on her back beneath him? Why did Ah Kaht look so frightened? I dont understand. This time Eshs voice was a little stronger. There is nothing for you to understand, dear one. The goddess smiled at him, her breathtakingly soft lips parting sweetly so he could see the pearly perfection of her teeth. A little dimple flashed in her cheek. She was so beautiful, carnal yet so innocent. Her fingers caressed his cheek, and he shivered. You belong to me, she said, and he knew it was true. He felt her love fill him, fill that place inside him that had been empty though he did not realize it. Not empty of love. Ah Kaht was everything Esh needed when it came to love. He would never want anyone else. This wasnt a place in his heart. It was somehow lower down, but everywhere at once too. It was life. It was the bit of him where the connection to his physical body used to be. I belong to you, he breathed, and her pretty smile widened. Yes. But this onehe does not. He must leave. The smile turned into a pout. He wanted to lean forward and nibble on that plump lower lip. Wont you help me? I cant have a living person in my realm. Help you? Esh ignored the frantic tugs of Ah Kahts hand. Ah Kaht was speaking too, but his voice was lost in the goddesss smile, in the glorious black depths of her eyes. I am but a man. I cannot presume to help you.
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But you are the one holding him here, she said. Your love for him and his love for you. Your need and desire for each other. I will always love him and need him, Esh said, confused. She couldnt be asking him to forsake his love, could she? And yet, when her eyes pleaded with him so eloquently, when her smile and the lush curves of her body promised so much, did she not make sense? If Ah Kaht did not belong here, surely he should leave. This was a realm for the dead. Not a realm for the living. But you cannot have him. Not yet. Her pale hands slid over her own body. Esh could not help watching, any more than he could help how his mouth filled with water when she took her ripe breasts into her palms, when her delicate fingers pinched her nipples gently. Heat shot to his groin, liquid seeped from his cock. You can have me, she said. You can have anything else that you desire. Somewhere Ah Kaht still squeezed his hand. Somewhere, the bit that was Esh squeezed desperately back, wanting nothing more than to escape. But that bit was no longer in control. Her hand moved, her fingers trailing delicately down over the gentle curve of her stomach, down over that soft hair, stopping between her legs. Her eyes widened. Id forgotten, she said, kneeling in front of him, bringing her lips to his level. Kiss me? As if in a dream, Esh did. Her lips parted beneath his, her tongue swept out to claim his mouth. He moaned as darkness swallowed him, as she claimed him, as they sank to the ground. But still he knewthat small rebellious part of him knew Ah Kaht clung desperately to his hand. Her legs opened, and the slick moisture of her pussy pressed against his cock, bathing him in heat. So soft, so smooth, warm and perfumed like the oils he sometimes rubbed into Ah Kahts back after battles.
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Ah Kaht. Eshs eyes widened. No, he started, but the goddesss mouth took his again, cutting off his protest, sending him back to the dream. His free hand found her breast and squeezed it, lifting its soft weight. He lowered his head to play his tongue over the hard peak, to suck it into his mouth. If his other hand were free he could fondle her other breast as well. He moved his arm, trying to tug free of what held him, but was stuck. No matter. He could move farther down, could see if her pussy tasted as heavenly as her mouth, as delicious as it had in his dream. The skin covering her ribs and stomach shivered beneath his lips. He tugged his hand again. It did not move. A shadow crossed his dream-trapped mind, the memory of something he could not quite place, but it disappeared again when he found her soft wet folds with his mouth. Yes. Yes, it was every bit as wonderful as hed dreamed it would be. Her hips lifted beneath him, encouraging him as he tasted every inch of her slick skin, as he lapped at her with his tongue. The cool light of the moon changed, turning into colors swirling around him. Wind came from nowhere to move his hair, to play across his skin and dry the faint sweat between his shoulder blades. He slid his finger into her, feeling the velvety walls of her insides grip him, massage him. He found a rhythm with his tongue, fast and light, over and over the swollen bit of flesh now growing, swelling. She lifted herself to him in time with his movements. Dimly he heard her voice, drowning out all other sounds, speaking words that made every hair on his body stand on end. That too was right. She was doing something, performing some kind of ritual, one that needed his assent to work. He would give that to her. He would give her everything she wanted, anything. He wanted to hold her still, to prolong her pleasure, but his other hand refused to budge. What was holding it? Esh started to turn his head to look, but the goddesss fingers closed around his face, forcing him back to his work.
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Her voice faltered for a moment, just one brief beat of silence, but in it Esh heard another voice. Ah Kahts voice. Love Ah Kaht! Suddenly the legs on either side of his face did not seem so perfect, so milk-white and smooth. They were restraints, holding him in place, barring him from everything he wanted and loved. From the man he wanted and loved. No! The shout came from so deep inside him that it didnt even sound like his voice. He opened his eyes, really opened them for the first time in what felt like ages, and saw he hadnt been wrong about the air. It was swirling, and moving, full of colors as a ragged hole ripped itself into the very fabric of the realm. His fingers hurt. Esh turned his head and saw Ah Kaht, tears streaming down his face, kneeling on the ground beside him. His hard cock was only inches from the goddesss thigh, only inches from Eshs face. His eyes were closed. I love you, Esh, dont do this, dont send me away, cant you see what shes doing, please, I love you With one quick, decisive movement, Esh leaned over and sucked the tip of Ah Kahts cock into his mouth. Hed been wrong when he thought the goddesss pussy tasted like everything hed ever wanted. Because it hadnt tasted like Ah Kaht. The goddess shrieked and pulled away. He does not choose you! You cannot be here! Her dark eyes were trained on Ah Kaht as surprise and pleasure transformed his face. I choose him, Ah Kaht said simply, through the tears and sweat coating his skin. Esh realized how hard it had been for him to stay, to watch, how badly he must have wanted to go.
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Especially when that hole in the air called so fiercely. If it was nearly irresistible to Esh, who belonged in this world, how much more so must it have been for Ah Kaht, who belonged in the other? And yet You stayed for me, Esh said, tears filling his own eyes as he lifted his head, crawling away from the goddess. You fought for me. I love you, Ah Kaht said. I love you, Esh replied, and leaned in for a kiss. He wanted it to last forever, to be forever, but the fierce grip of strong fingers on his shoulder pulled him away before he had a chance to sink into a kind of pleasure he found only in Ah Kahts arms. He screamed. Gone was the beautiful, perfect pearlescent goddess hes almost made love to. In her place was a corpse, a rotting thing, still beautiful, undeniably the same woman, butin her pure form, what he knew was her true form. Ixtab, he breathed, while Ah Kaht echoed him. Ixtab! He cannot stay! Her jaw fell open, revealing a row of sharp, blindingly white teeth. He is an abomination to my realm! No! Esh yelled, struggling to be heard over the sudden rush of the wind. Ixtab ignored him. She screamed something else, more words in that ancient, chilling language. The hole widened, moving closer, coming for Ah Kaht. Esh! I love you! Ah Kahts hand slid away. Esh tried to hold on, but the wind was too strong. Ah Kaht was flying now, toward the hole, his arms outstretched. Esh made his decision. There was no decision to make. He shook off those horrible, rotting fingers and leapt after Ah Kaht, praying he would find him, praying he wasnt simply sending himself into another realm, a different death world. It was a chance he had to take.
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*****
The goddess had damned them both to lower levels of hell. That was Ah Kahts first thought as he felt the scalding heat, saw the flames surrounding the stones on which he lay. But at least shed damned him and Esh together. His love was there, by his side. Esh, wake up, I His words trailed off as he turned to the man sleeping beside him and took notice of the room. It was made entirely of stone, the same deep gray rock as the slab on which they lay. It took his mindstill addled from its time in the afterlifeseveral moments to recognize that they were in the same temple room where hed had Esh placed upon their return from battle. They were still covered in garnet paste, but it was no longer the light of the magic gem that flashed red upon the walls. It was fire, true flame, fed by wood strewn about their resting place, and by dried corn husks even now being flung into the tiny room. Through the smoke, Ah Kaht saw the outline of a man at the door. A man with the shaven head of a priest but the golden jewelry of a favored advisor. Chamer! Ah Khat screamed, the rage coursing through his veins making his voice deep and terrible, the voice of a future king. Chamer paused for a moment, turning as if to run, but then thought better of it, returning to his work, flinging more and more fuel onto the flame. He was no fool. His fathers advisor knew he must finish the job he had started or assure his own death at Ah Kahts hands. Or perhaps torture in the public temple, a ritual disembowelment that would leach the life from him slowly, painfully. But even that seemed too merciful for this monster who had thought to burn him and Esh while they were alone and defenseless, sleeping in a sacred place. Ah Kaht, where are Esh struggled to a seated position, his words ending in a ragged cough. We are in the temple once more, but we are not safe. Ah Kaht wrapped his arms around Esh and held him as his breath grew tight in chest.
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The smoke invaded his lungs, threatening to steal his life before the flames grew tall enough to consume the stone on which he and Esh lay. They had to escape, had to find a way out, but how? There was no door but the one blocked by Chamer, and even if there were, the entire floor was alive with bright red and orange flames. Their flesh would catch fire before they reached another passage. They were doomed to die here, to be sent back to Ixtabs realm mere minutes after their return. If they were lucky. Ixtab might refuse them entrance the second time around. Upon the occasion of their next death, they might find themselves in a place far more terrifying than her magical land of bounty and pleasure. The moon, Esh gasped, fingers digging into Ah Kahts muscled arm as he gasped for air. I see The light of the moon, Ah Kaht finished his loves sentence and knew immediately what he must do. The hole in the ceiling was small, but not so small a man couldnt fit through it if his hands could reach. Esh, can you stand? Without waiting for an answer, Ah Kaht stood, pulling Esh up beside him. Yes, and I can hold you as well. Esh twined his fingers together, making a place where Ah Kaht could place his foot and be boosted to the ceiling. Ah Kaht pushed Eshs hands aside. No, I will lift you through, and you can return for me with No. I wont let you risk yourself, not again. Not for me. You will go and I will wait for you here. You are weaker than I. It is clear in your eyes. I will not allow you Exactly. I may not have the strength to pull myself through. You will. Esh cupped Ah Kahts face in his hands for a moment, then pressed a swift kiss to his lips. You will return in time. Of this I have no doubt. We have made it to the afterlife and back, and escaped a goddess of death. We will triumph over these flames as well.
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Ah Kaht forced himself not to argue anymore. Time was a luxury they did not possess. The flames were growing higher with every passing second. He would have to go. He would run as fast as he could to the storehouse and secure a piece of rope to drop down to his love. I love you, do not forget it. Whether in this life or the next, I will find you. Ah Kaht sealed the promise with another swift kiss, pushing his tongue into Eshs mouth, tasting the spicy flavor of his love before he pulled away and placed his foot in the basket of Eshs hands. Ah Kaht leapt into the air, hands reaching for the outside world, buoyed by Eshs strong arms. The other man was not nearly so weak as he had made Ah Kaht believe. He shoved Ah Kaht high into the air with seemingly no effort, pushing so forcefully that Ah Kahts head cleared the outside of the hole. He braced his hands on either side of the portal and pulled himself onto the roof of the temple. Within seconds he was running toward the storehouse, without even pausing for a last look at Esh. He didnt want to look down at his love and see him surrounded by flames. That would be a bad omen, a sight that would surely curse his efforts to rescue Esh from a second death. Ah Kaht would not risk such a thing. He would meditate on the positive, making sure his mind allowed no doubt of Eshs survival to enter his thoughts. He would save his love, and then they would together eliminate the man who had dared to threaten their lives. And perhapseliminate another menace to their future in the process As Ah Kaht burst into the unguarded storehouse and secured a rope and two cooking knives, a plan was already forming in his mind. Perhaps Chamer could still prove himself useful to the Mayapan people, even in death.
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Chapter Six
Esh crept through the still night at Ah Kahts side, more grateful for the humid air of Mayapan than he had ever thought possible. Even the stink of the aftermath of the feastold food, soured drink and the sweat and vomit of those who had indulged themselves a little too enthusiasticallywas sweet perfume. His lungs still burned from the smoke he had drawn into them, but they would heal much more easily than the burns Chamer would have given them both. Unless he was able to pass over and return to the world of the living a second time, of course. The burns from the battle of Chichen Itza were gone, vanished from his feet and legs. Esh was as whole and unmarred as he had been before he risked his life to save Ah Kaht in the foreign temple. It was a gift from Ixtabhe was certain of it. As soon as he and Ah Kaht took care of Chamer, he would insist they go make offerings to the goddess on the great altar. She had allowed them a second chance at life, and Esh wanted to show the depth of his gratitude. Someday, goddess willing, they would pass over the veil once more, and it would be best if they did so without an immortal enemy waiting on the other side. Take the left tunnel. I will take the right, Ah Kaht whispered as they circled around to the front of the temple. The rest of the city sleeps. I will be sure to hear the signal if you come upon the traitor first. I pray that I do. I will take great joy in slitting the assassins throat. But dont allow the cut to be too deep, my love, Ah Kaht said with a smile. I have plans for the body of Chamer. We do not want a trail of blood leading back to the burial chamber. We will burn him. It was not a question. Esh could read Ah Kahts thoughts clearly on his face. It will be a fitting
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Shh. Ah Kaht held a finger to his lips and gestured for Esh to hide himself. Esh flattened his body against the wall on one side of the temple as Ah Kaht did the same on the other, each of them holding his knife at the ready. Esh could hear the noise now, the labored breath of a man not accustomed to running. Chamer must have seen them escape even through the thick smoke and now thought to make his own escape before the hand of vengeance descended upon him. But he was too late. It was a pity Chamer had so often excused himself from the sacred duty of ascending the great pyramids steps to welcome the sun in the morning and honor its need for rest at night. Climbing the immense stair would have kept him in better condition and perhaps given him the speed he needed to flee the temple and reach Ac Yantos side in time to save his wretched life. But alas, it was not to be for Chamer. As Ah Kaht leapt at the man, tackling him from behind, Esh raced around to his front, slamming the palm of his hand up at a sharp angle, shattering the old priests nose into his brain. His cry of anguish as he lost consciousness was soft and short and made even shorter as Ah Kaht seized him under the arms and Esh beneath the knees. They disappeared into the darkness of the temple without another word, making their way toward the burial chamber. If Eshs blow hadnt killed the priest, the flames soon would. The goddess might welcome another to the afterlife this night. Or perhaps Ah Puch would claim Chamers wretched immortal soul. Though attempting to assassinate the kings son was clearly a form of suicide, Esh wasnt sure Ixtab would see it in that light. He and Ah Kaht hurled the heavy body into the still roaring fire, breathing heavily as they watched the priest catch flame. The smell of roasting meat soon filled the air, turning Eshs stomach to stone. It would be a great many moons before he would crave the taste of cooked flesh, no matter that the meat would come from an animal and not a man.
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Now to the baths, Ah Kaht said, a soft hand on his shoulder. If we are lucky the attendants will be as insensate with drink as the rest of the city. Still, we should roll in the dirt outside the temple. Esh turned to follow Ah Kaht down the darkened corridor. If we are to claim the theft of the garnet was Chamers doing, we will want none to see the red paste upon our bodies before we are cleansed. And what makes you think I plan to shift the blame of theft to Chamer? I have said no such thing, Ah Kaht asked. Perhaps I have returned from the land of the dead with the power to read minds. Esh smiled to himself, knowing Ah Kaht could not see his features in the dim light. Truly? Then what am I thinking now, dear Esh? You areeager for a massage after our bath, wondering if your oiled cock will find as great a bliss inside me in this world as it did in the afterlife. Ah Kaht turned to him, pushing Esh back into the stone wall behind him, claiming his mouth with a deep, probing kiss as he mumbled, I believe you have become a mind reader, my love.
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Ah Kaht. The words echoed in the bath chamber, startling the two men as they rubbed soap into each others chests. Ac Yanto stood before them, his hands on his hips, and a look of severest disapproval on his broad, strong face. Do you really think this is the time for a bath? I have been looking everywhere for you. Ah Kaht forced his features to stay calm. He couldnt show he had any knowledge of the fire or Chamers death. Is something wrong, Father? Isyes something is wrong. Get out of that bath. The temple is burned, my garnet is missingEsh. Your injuries are healed? Esh nodded. It is a miracle from the gods. I thank Ah Kahts prayers. The garnet, Father? I dont understand. Would it not survive
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Just get yourself dressed, Ac Yanto said. And come to the temple. Chamer has betrayed us all. Not daring to meet Eshs gaze lest he break into a grin, Ah Kaht obeyed, thankful he and Esh had already spent themselves. His father would likely not care what they were doing together, but hed rather not emerge from the bath under his fathers watchful gaze with a huge erection. Not when it was Esh whod made him hard, Esh whod called from his body responses and passion hed never thought possible. Their love was sacred, private, something precious, as powerful on this side of the veil as it had been beyond the grave. Where have you been? Ac Yanto set a furious pace along the trail from the baths to the temple. You left so quickly after the feast. I dont believe I saw you after the dancers appeared at all. I Ah Kaht began, but Ac Yanto wasnt paying attention. I cannot believe this. After everything we went through, after all my hard work, to have my stone missing, the stone I sacrificed so much for. Yes. The enormous sacrifice of sitting on his throne while his only son almost died. Ah Kaht said nothing. He did not need to argue with Ac Yanto, not now. The blackened stones of the temple jutted into the night sky, broken and forlorn. Dim golden light played across them from the small fire still burning in the center of the temple. It was Chamer, his body curled and broken from the intense heat. And my stone is gone, Ac Yanto said, gesturing toward the burning body. The traitor, he must haveI dont know what he did with it, but we found this. He held up the scroll Ah Kaht had stolen, the one that detailed the ritual hed performed. Do you know what this is? Ah Kaht shook his head. Beside him Esh did the same.
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He did. He hashe has destroyed the stone, for what selfish purpose I dont know, but it is gone. Traces of the paste he made with it still cling to his hands. Foolish, evilthief! His jaw clenched. Ah Kaht knew without a doubt that his father was deeply disappointed to find Chamer dead, for he would much have preferred to kill the man himself. Truly, Chamer could count himself lucky hed died quickly at Ah Kahts hands. What Ac Yanto would have done to him would not have been pleasant. I am sorry, Father. Ac Yanto kept staring at the flames, his eyes wet. Everything I could have done, everything I could have secured for you. There is no more to secure. I have everything I need. As he spoke, Ah Kaht reached for Eshs hand. Esh gasped and tried to pull away, but Ah Kaht held him fast. This may not be the best time to discuss it, but it was time just the same. He didnt want to wait. Ac Yanto glanced down at their clasped hands. A shadow crossed his face, and he sighed heavily. And now you will take everything else from me, he said. No. I dont mean to take anything or to leave. But I will if I must. If you will not accept us. Eshs grip on his fingers grew tighter. He could feel his loves nerves, but Ah Kaht himself was calm. Hed said it, and even more than that, hed meant it. He would leave, would give up all hope of sitting on the throne and ruling his people if his only other choice was to rule alone. As for heirsthey would have time to worry about that later. Despite the sorrow aging Ac Yantos face as he looked from the ruined temple to his son, he was not an old man. Finally Ac Yanto nodded. You are brave, my son. You will make a good ruler. He tried to smile, but it didnt manage to stretch all the way across his mouth. Still it was
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better than Ah Kaht had hoped. My fathers father had a male consortKekin. I remember him vaguely from my youth. The silence was broken only by the fading hisses of the fire as the three men looked at each other. Come, Ac Yanto said. Let us return to our home. In the morning we will look on all of this again with new eyes. Ah Kaht followed him, a new lightness in his breast. Hed stood up to his father, and hed won, at least for the moment. It might not be the end of the war, but it was a battle on his side just the same.
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Chapter Seven
It is a miracle, Esh said from where he knelt before Ixtabs altar. It is not. It is simply a man who, for once, is in a giving mood. Do not put too much store in my father, Esh. He changes directions more often than the wind. Together they looked at their offerings. Flowers, as many of them as theyd been able to carry, in honor of her beautiful city of flowers. Blood. A thick, heavy bracelet of gold, given to Ah Kaht the first time hed commanded his men to victory. Food. A lock of Eshs hair. Do you think its enough? Esh asked as he rose to his feet. He shivered slightly and leaned closer to Ah Kaht, wanting his warmth. Ah Kaht was so strong, so accustomed to victory that he had no trouble putting Ixtab and her world behind him. After his brush with death, Esh saw things differently. We have returned from the land of the dead, Ah Kaht said quietly. Surely Ixtab would not have allowed it if she had no mercy in her heart. She will accept our offerings and we will have no cause to live our lives in fear of the land beyond. Esh smiled. It seems I am not the only one who learned to read minds. I have always been able to read yours. I see your thoughts on your face I feel them in my heart. Ah Kaht lifted their clasped hands to his chest so Esh could feel the reassuring thumping beneath his skin. The heat of his smooth breast raised bumps on Eshs arm, all over his body. Esh opened his mouth to speak but before he could get the words out, Ah Kaht raised their hands higher, sucking Eshs finger into the warm, soft heat of his mouth. Right now, he murmured, his dark eyes sparkling as he watched Eshs face, you are thinking about what other parts of you I might take into my mouth. He kissed
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Eshs palm, then up the inside of his arm, drawing Esh to him so they stood with their chests touching. Ah Kahts arms slid around Eshs waist. And. His lips pressed softly against Eshs. You are thinking of what parts of me you could put in your mouth. You are truly a gifted mystic, Esh replied, swallowing. Or perhaps it is just that when Im with you, its hard to keep my thoughts on anything else. I have never been able to do so. Esh tangled his fingers in Ah Kahts hair, pulling him closer, deepening the kiss. Maybe it was not right to do this here, in the goddesss temple. But somehow Esh felt it was, that the goddess would be pleased. His mouth opened so Ah Kahts tongue could steal inside and tangle with his own. Against his hardening cock he felt Ah Kahts growing, stiffening, felt his lovers need becoming more insistent. As did his own. He slid his hands down Ah Kahts back, letting his fingers play over every rippling muscle, every scar and ridge of bone. Just being able to do this, being able to touch the man he loved and know that the touch was as welcome as his affection, made tears spring to Eshs eyes. For so long hed dreamed of this. Even now it almost did not seem real. Ah Kahts fingers, nimble and smooth, slipped Eshs garments from his body, leaving him naked. And now, my love, you shall have the heir to the throne kneel before you. Ah Kaht, Esh gasped, but his protest was silenced when Ah Kaht slid to his knees and took Eshs hardness into his mouth, bathing it with heat. His tongue flicked along the ridges and veins, dipping into the slit at the top and moving gently. Esh gasped. His fingers twirled in Ah Kahts hair, pulling him closer, trying to push as much of his length as he could down Ah Kahts throat. They were no longer ruling
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prince and a lesser nobles son. They were lovers, here in the silent temple, and Eshs will would be obeyed as much as Ah Kahts. Yes he moaned. Ah Kaht, my love, yes Ah Kahts head moved faster, his cheeks working as he sucked Eshs cock. Firmly, then with more pressure until Esh felt his head would explode. He tightened his grip and stopped Ah Kahts movements. Its only fair if I get to taste you at the same time, he said, pulling away to kneel with Ah Kaht on the flower-strewn floor. For a moment Ah Kaht looked confused, then he smiled. As you wish. He lay down, stretching his gorgeous body out along the stones. The candlelight played along his flesh, illuminating every bit of skin and bone and muscle. Esh leaned down to kiss his chest, his stomach, to swirl his tongue along the tip of Ah Kahts cock. Ah Kaht sighed, a sweet hiss of air, and lifted his hips. Esh moved his head down, licking the soft skin of Ah Kahts sac, delving his tongue down to the smooth skin behind it. Ah Kahts pelvis leapt and his legs spread. The hair of his thighs felt like rough silk against Eshs cheeks as he worked his way still further until his breath warmed the puckered entrance. His flicked it with his tongue. Esh! But it was a cry of pleasure, not fear or horror, and Esh moved boldly forward. Ah Kahts hand found Eshs cock, squeezing, pumping it as Esh feasted on what hed found, giving it a thick coating of saliva to lubricate his finger. Ah Kahts clever hand worked him, building the tension fisting low in his body, bringing him almost to the point of release, but Esh wasnt ready. Quickly he shifted position, straddling Ah Kaht. His cock dangled just above Ah Kahts waiting mouth and he drew Ah Kahts hardness between his lips. Like a circle, like infinity, they stayed there on the floor, each pleasuring the other. Ah Kaht slid one finger into Esh, then another, stretching him open. Esh did the same, moving his head so he could watch his fingers disappearing into the wet rosy hole.
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Heat gathered in Eshs pelvis, a heat that, in another moment or two, would be impossible to deny. Ah KahtIm going to come Cool air swirled around Eshs cock as Ah Kaht released it. Come, he said. I want to drink it, I want to swallow it and keep it inside me. Just as youll have mine inside you. He twirled his fingers suggestively. It was too much for Esh. If he didnt get back in Ah Kahts mouth soon he would explode anyway, just from the erotic sight before him and the devastating effect of his lovers words. Having Ah Kahts cock in his mouth was bliss, more than bliss, but having Ah Kaht buried deep in his asshaving that, was to be whole. Esh lifted his hips a little, enough for Ah Kaht to close his lips around Eshs cock again, and gave himself over completely, thrusting down into Ah Kahts mouth while Ah Kaht sucked feverishly at him. One hand still thrust into Ah Kahts ass. The other braced him on the floor while he moved, faster and faster until his body tensed and he soared, his muscles clenching and releasing, his hot seed filling his cock and bursting out of it. He groaned and cried out from the force of it, feeling Ah Kahts mouth moving as he swallowed every drop. It thrilled him even more deeply than his orgasm. He was loved. He was loved, and he loved in return. Eshs body was still limp and tingling when Ah Kaht lowered him to the ground, sliding out from beneath him and leaning over to kiss him, a hard, passionate kiss that set Eshs cooling blood to boiling again. He didnt want to wait. Feeling luxuriously abandoned, he spread his legs wide, lifting his knees, opening himself to his lover as much as he could. He looked down to see his cock, still wet with Ah Kahts saliva and his cum, resting on his stomach, already hardening again in anticipation. Ah Kaht leaned away from him, returning with a tiny bottle. Esh smiled. You planned this, he said.
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No, Ah Kaht replied, pouring some of the oil onto his palm and smoothing it onto his cock. But Ive decided never to go anywhere unprepared. Whatever Esh had planned to say was lost when Ah Kahts slick fingers probed him, spreading the oil into the crease between his cheeks and around the hole, into the hole. Im ready, he gasped. Im ready, I need to feel you Esh, Ah Kaht moaned as he thrust inside. Eshs back arched, his hips lifted, begging Ah Kaht to fill him more deeply, to bury his thick cock all the way. Eshs own cock was rock hard again. He reached to take it in his fist, stroking it, squeezing it, while Ah Kaht pumped away above him. Ah Kahts hips rolled and moved, making tiny circles, so his cock shifted inside Esh, hitting every spot inside him, stretching his entrance deliciously. They found a rhythm together quickly, as if theyd been doing this forever. Ah Kaht pressed forward, Eshs hips rocked against him. Ah Kaht pulled back, Eshs bottom hit the ground. And all the while they spoke, words of love, words of sex, spilling from their mouths while they kissed, while Ah Kaht nibbled Eshs neck and Esh teased Ah Kahts earlobes with his tongue. They kept going, moving faster and faster until both their bodies gleamed with sweat. Esh felt Ah Kahts hips grow frantic, felt him swell inside him, and gripped his cock tighter. Esh! Ah Kaht cried, with one final thrust. His cock pulsed, shooting his seed deep into Esh, and Esh let himself go, let his cum erupt from his cock to cover Ah Kahts chest. Esh, I love you, Ah Kaht groaned. I love you. And I love you, Esh said. Even beyond death.
*****
Ixtab opened her eyes again and smiled. Shed been waiting for this.
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Dim and ethereal, the flowers glowed at her feet. Buried in the petals were other treats. Blood, gold. And the best sacrifice of all, though her worshippers did not know it. The hot, sweet energy of sex, of physical love, spreading like dew over the ground. It hadnt been pleasant to lose one meant for her. Especially one with such a talented tongue, such a thick cock. Shed been eager to feel that inside her and had been forced to make do with another to satisfy the lust pounding through her. The ghostly petals felt incredibly soft against her rotted skin, so soft she did not leave even a trace of blood on the white blooms. There would be time again when she might have both of them. Two cocks filling her, two mouths caressing herthen she could watch them caress each other. Just as she watched them now and could not keep her lips from curving. She loved them, of course. She loved all those souls who belonged to her, just as a mother loves her children. And mothers forgive. She couldnt wait to forgive them bothmany years from now.
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About the Author

A.D. Christopher came back to his love of writing after ten years as a florist and wedding planner. A love of romance, combined with a passion for...passion inspired him to pen tales of strong, powerful men and the alpha males who love them. A.D. is lucky to have many gay friends as well as straight friends who know how to act gay in public. He welcomes mail from readers and is thrilled to be writing for Elloras Cave.
A.D. welcomes comments from readers. You can find his website and email address on his author bio page at www.ellorascave.com.
Tell Us What You Think We appreciate hearing reader opinions about our books. You can email us at Comments@EllorasCave.com.
Also by A.D. Christopher

Feast of the Flesh Necessary Temptation
Discover for yourself why readers cant get enough of the multiple award-winning publisher Elloras Cave. Whether you prefer e-books or paperbacks, be sure to visit EC on the web at www.ellorascave.com for an erotic reading experience that will leave you breathless.
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An Elloras Cave Romantica Publication

SACRIFICE OF THE STONE

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

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Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

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Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

Sacrifice of the Stone

About the Author

Also by A.D. Christopher

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