into the bath with Athelstan

[thewidewideworld]

{From here}

Sinric gets up slowly, stretching all of his finely toned dancer's body. He's not doing it on purpose, to excite or tease. It's just the way he is, almost careless in his sensuality.

He offers Athelstan a hand and a kiss before leading him to the bathroom.

Comments

[athelstanthescribe]

Athelstan comes slowly to his peak, but he does get there, crying out more loudly than he ever has before.

[thewidewideworld]

And Sinric is patient, willing to hold the illusion for as long as Athelstan needs, as long as it takes.

When his peak comes, Sinric holds him and holds him tight, knowing how powerful and shattering it will be. He leans against the edge of the bath, arms around Athelstan for support. As long as he needs, as long as it takes.

[athelstanthescribe]

Athelstan shakes and tremors in his arms, enough to make waves in the bath water, almost sobbing as it passes through him again and again.

[thewidewideworld]

Sinric holds him close, stroking his hair and whispering soft words of care and calm in his own voice again. "Beloved. Let it happen, let it roll over you. You're safe. You're loved. I have you."

[athelstanthescribe]

"Thank you", he whispers, and it's for all of it. "Thank you."

[thewidewideworld]

Sinric hushes him softly and kisses Athelstan's forehead, still holding and rocking him gently.

When Athelstan has strength enough to stand, Sinric will help him back to the bed but only when Athelstan is ready. No doubt this will have taken quite a toll on Athelstan and has in it's own way been draining for Sinric too.

[athelstanthescribe]

It takes a while, but eventually he does start to move weakly.

"The water is going cold..."

[thewidewideworld]

Sinric nods and helps him out of the water, towelling him down with care. He keeps his arms supportively around Athelstan, turning back the covers so they can snuggle in comfort and warmth.

He kisses Athelstan's brow, stroking his hair and holding him close. "Beloved Athelstan."

[athelstanthescribe]

"My Sinric." He moves close to his arms. "You are a wonder-worker."

[thewidewideworld]

Sinric holds him tight and shakes his head with a half smile, unwilling to take praise. "No, just fortunate to have help to offer you."

[athelstanthescribe]

"How did you learn to mimic so well?"

[thewidewideworld]

He shrugs softly, "All sound is music in its own way, even the music of someone's voice." His own voice is a little rough, his throat sore from pitching it so far below his natural frequency.

And Ragnar has given Sinric more than enough opportunities to learn his sounds.

[athelstanthescribe]

Athelstan reaches up a hand to stroke his throat softly, with fingertips only.

"You have done yourself harm."

[thewidewideworld]

It's Athelstan and the touch is gentle, that keeps it from being a touch that might open old wounds. "I've overreached myself, that's all. Some tea and a day of quiet and I will have my voice again. It is nothing and given gladly for you."

[athelstanthescribe]

"Then I will see you have them." He rests his head on Sinric's shoulder. "Given as gladly for you."

[thewidewideworld]

Sinric smiles and kisses the top of Athelstan's head, pulling the blankets around them. "You need not worry about that. Just rest and be at peace."

[athelstanthescribe]

"You have brought me peace", Athelstan murmurs, already half-asleep. "At least for... for a while."

[thewidewideworld]

Sinric smiles and nuzzles Athelstan's hair, pleased with himself for what he's give Athelstan tonight. He sings softly, easing Athelstan into a much deserved rest.

[athelstanthescribe]

Athelstan drifts off only a few moments later, with Sinric's song in his ears.