PIRATES parts 12-17

Disclaimer: characters belong to Anne Rice, don't want to infringe on anyone's copyright and so on
Warning: this spec contains m/m situations, so don't read if you don't like slash
this has no historical background, everything about french-spanish wars was made up by me (perhaps there really was one, I have no idea)

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part 12
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Some hours later as the sun was just about to set, Louis woke. For a moment he did not know what had woken him, but then he heard a sound, a low, pained moan.
When he opened his eyes he found Lestat unconscious, his skin covered with sweat, thrashing around in fever.
"Lestat?" Louis asked, frightened by Lestat's state. But the only answer was another moan, and when Lestat's eyes finally opened they were glazed and he seemed to have problems to remember his surroundings.
Finally his eyes focused on Louis's face. He smiled when he recognized his lover through the haze of his memories.
"Louis!" he whispered hoarsely. His throat was dry and burnt, and his lips were cracked.
"Shh, don't speak, Lestat, you're ill. You have a fever."
Louis used the sleeve of his shirt to wipe the sweat from Lestat's face.
"Don't move, I'll get Khayman. I'm sure he knows what to do."
Lestat closed his eyes; he sighed when he felt Louis's soft lips brush his cheek.
Then he fell asleep again, dreaming of a burning castle -- no, not just some castle, his castle, the de Lioncourt castle, he realized, and on the highest tower Louis was standing, surrounded by fire, calling his name in fear.
He tried to run to him, to help him, but he could not move, and when he looked around he found himself chained with David standing next him, laughing at him.
"Louis!" he moaned, desperately trying to reach for him. "Louis! Louis, no!"

"Shh, Lestat, I'm with you," a soft voice whispered into his ear. He gasped and opened his eyes.
Louis was sitting next to him, holding a bowl of water in his hands into which Khayman gave some drops of a blue liquid.
"You have to drink this, do you hear me? It will help to decrease the fever!"
Louis gently slipped an arm behind his back and helped him to sit up. Then he raised the bowl to Lestat's lips, watching as he swallowed thirstily.
When he was finished Louis made him lean back down again; he laid down next to him and cooled his forehead with a wet cloth.

Smiling at this affectionate display of care Khayman left the room. Louis was obviously able to handle this fever on his own; the medicine he had poured into the water would help Lestat to fight the fever. Too bad that he couldn't remember clearly anymore if it had to be 10 or 15 drops -- he had decided on 15 drops, after all Lestat was rather strong and would manage some more drops. Not that he was that ill... a little fever, caused by the wound on his chest, nothing to worry about. He had seen this a hundred times before, a little fever, sweat, nightmares -- one or two days and he would have gotten over it. Only a faint scar would remain, and even in that respect he was lucky. He could just picture them, Louis's slender fingers caressing the scar, looking into Lestat's eyes with utter admiration and cooing words of love... ah, his captain was always so very fortunate. Wait, hadn't he himself once been just as lucky in his youth?
He scratched his head.
Yes, he remembered, there had been a slender, ravenhaired youth, sharing his bed, whispering 'I love you, Khayman', only that he had had chocolate-brown eyes, and his name had been... Marco? Or... Phillipe? No, Marco, he decided. When he thought of Phillipe he saw blue eyes... hmm, what had happened to all his past lovers? Especially Marco, he remembered that they had been quite happy.
Ah well, he then thought. It did no longer matter, too many years had passed. Although he still had the memory of some of those nights with Marco...
The corners of his mouth turned up into a grin, and he began to whistle ' What shall we do with the drunken sailor' as he took the last steps to the deck.
He crossed the deck, and just when he was singing 'early in the morning' he saw the ship which was only some more minutes away.

Louis lay contently next to Lestat; he had been very worried about him in the beginning, but then Khayman had told him that Lestat would recover soon and that there was absolutely no danger, he felt relieved; he wasn't sure if he could have handled another tragedy. But now it finally looked as if everything would be all right again. He and Lestat being together, being able to love each other, as completely as in that first night on the same bed they were lying on now. If only it hadn't been for what had happened a day later on that bed...
He sighed softly, desperately trying not to think about that now.
Lestat made a soft sound, something between a breath and a whimper and moved a little, turning to Louis who pressed a gentle kiss to his cheek and then leaned over him to tug at the cushion, making it more comfortable for his feverish lover.

Suddenly he heard loud sounds and an enraged voice yelling; the sounds got louder as the source seemed to come down the stairs.
Then the door burst open and Louis felt himself being ripped off of Lestat and pressed hard against the wall. Burning blue eyes were glaring into his; he was held in a merciless grip by strong hands and was shaken roughly. Words were hissed into his ear, but he didn't understand. This situation was so terrifying familiar -- he began to sob under the impact of his memories. David pressing him into the bed, hissing those horrible words -- his wrists tied to the bed, David ripping his clothes off...
"No," he moaned as he was overwhelmed by his emotions. He was again lying on the bed, bound and naked, totally helpless; he heard his own sobs as David touched him everywhere, and then the absolute humiliation of surrendering to him, of stopping to resist him as David offered him Lestat's life...
"Whore!" a voice shrieked... was it that stranger, or was it David? David who had called him a whore, unworthy of Lestat's love, telling him that he deserved what he was going to do to him -- he had resisted him at first, but finally accepted that it was the truth, that he was indeed right -- he did not deserve Lestat's love... and then suddenly the pain of being impaled, torn apart inside as David so cruelly possessed him...
"No -- no, please!" he begged in despair, trying to fight but being once again overpowered.
"Please don't hurt me, please, not again!" he whimpered, hating himself for his weakness.
Finally he felt the hands loosening their grip on him, and he slid down the wall to the ground where he stayed, trembling violently, the tears running down his face.
"Louis?"
When he heard that beloved voice calling his name in shock he looked up. He saw that man being held back by Khayman who was angrily arguing with him; Lestat staring at them without comprehension.
Slowly Louis stood up and went warily to Lestat, but that stranger and Khayman were too caught up in their argument to notice him.
Then he was in Lestat's arms, pressing his face against his chest, starting to sob again as Lestat who felt still dizzy with fever tried to calm him
"How can you let a Pointe du Lac near him?" Louis heard the stranger ask in rage.
He bit on his lip to stop his sobs. Why did everybody hate him? It wasn't his fault that his uncle was such an evil person...
Then he felt Lestat stiffen in surprise when he finally recognized that man.
"Marius?" Lestat asked in confusion. "What are you doing here?"

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part 13
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Marius and Khayman stopped their argument when they heard Lestat's voice. They turned around and looked at him, Marius frowning when he noticed the obvious gentleness and protection with which he embraced Louis.
"What are doing, Marius? Why do you frighten Louis?"
Marius opened his mouth but was cut off by a determined Khayman.
"You need to sleep, Lestat. And Louis needs some rest as well. So you," he glared at Marius, "will follow me outside to talk there! Understand? Good!"
He yanked at Marius's red cape and left him no other choice but to follow him if he wanted to keep his cape whole.

"Louis? Are you okay?" Lestat asked sleepily.
"I'm sorry!" Louis whispered in despair. "I'm sorry that I'm such a weak, disgusting coward --"
"Non, Louis, stop that! Marius had no right to treat you that way! He was disgusting, doing that to you!"
"But he was right!" Louis sobbed, "They were both right! I don't deserve you, I don't deserve your love!"
"Louis!" Lestat sat up, but the dizziness returned instantly and he fell back.
Louis gasped with concern, he tried to wipe his tears away but Lestat took hold of his arms and forced him to look into his eyes.
"Louis, why do you keep thinking that what David did to you makes you less desirable to me? I told you that I love you, no matter what happened or will happen! Don't you believe me? Do you believe David more than me? You didn't do anything, Louis, you were forced, it wasn't your fault! And Marius, he knows nothing about this, he doesn't know that I love you, that you are my lover!"
Then his expression changed as a thought hit him.
"You -- you do still want to be my lover, don't you?"
Louis looked at him in surprise and finally couldn't suppress a gentle smile.
"Yes," he said softly, "I want that very much."
"Then it looks like we both want the same," Lestat told him.
He pressed Louis back onto the bed and rested his head on Louis's shoulder, his arms wrapped around his chest.
"Now, sleep," he murmured affectionately. Louis sighed. He watched Lestat taking deep breaths, feeling his damp blond curls agaist his cheek -- there was nothing but love in his heart for this man who tried to protect him even though he was ill.
"I love you," he whispered.
"Love you too, beautiful," he heard his lover softly sigh.
Louis smiled and closed his eyes, feeling infinitely grateful and contented.

Marius was seething with indignation as he followed Khayman up the stairs. It was only out of respect for the old pirate that he tried to control his anger. Even when he was still a youth every sailor had known and feared the name 'Khayman', every spaniard had trembled with fear when his name was spoken. Now he was old and no longer the feared pirate, but he still deserved his respect. So Marius remained silent until they reached the deck.
There Khayman whirled around and hissed: "Are you crazy? Do you want to kill the child? Isn't it enough what your precious lover already did to him?"
"Which child? Do you mean that rotten Pointe du Lac? Ah, that devil is barely a child. And what has David to do with it? You tell me that there was a mutiny, that David is dead, that Lestat is wounded and that some Pointe du Lac is in his cabin. Now Khayman, what do you think this should tell me?"
"Oh Marius! Why can't you simply listen to me? I wanted to explain it to you, but no, you had to rush to our 'Brat Prince' and make everything even more complicated!"
"I didn't --"
"Yes, you did! Now listten to me! It was David who started the mutiny! Yes, your lover David!"
Marius was shocked. "No, that's impossible! Why should he do that?"
"Because Santino paid him?" Khayman answered sarcastically.
"But --" Marius was stunned.
Khayman went on, satisfied with the impact of his words.
"Not only did he start a mutiny; what is far worse is that he also raped Louis!"
"Who's Louis?"
"Louis de Pointe du Lac. You already met him, you remember? The pretty blackhaired one you yanked of his lover, slammed into the wall and nearly frightened to death? Ah well, perhaps I should start at the beginning. We boarded a spanish vessel, the 'Isabella', killed the captain when we found out that there was no gold and kept the only precious thing, the governor's nephew -- Louis. For ransom, you know," he added.
Marius nodded, urging him onwards.
"Well, Lestat found him quite attractive, so he had him sleep in his cabin. I don't know what happened that night, but the next morning he kissed him on deck and called him his lover. Then David started his betrayal, overtaking the ship, capturing Lestat, chaining the loyal pirates in the hold and -- raping Louis."
"But -- he couldn't simply hold Lestat captive, the law says --"
"Yes, and that's why he's dead now!"
Idiot, Khayman thought. Then he continued with his report.
"They fought, Lestat won, David was punished. The usual, you know, flogging, the plank, sharks... ah, you've seen it before. Anyway, just as Lestat had succeeded in calming the poor Louis you came in and --"
"Yes, alright, Khayman,, I know what I did! I'm sorry, okay? But didn't you say Lestat was wounded?"
Khayman shrugged.
"A little fever, will be much better tomorrow. Now you'll keep your hands off the little one, understand? 'Cause I really like him -- he reminds me of someone..."
Khayman frowned, trying to remember the name.
"Marco... or... Phillipe?"
"Marco!" Marius groaned.
Khayman watched him in suspicion. "Why should you know?"
"Because he's my uncle!" Marius sighed. Idiot, he thought. It's always the same.
"However! So, you leave Louis alone!" Khayman said sternly.
"He's really sweet, you know..." he then laughed. "He was to become a priest; Lestat was the first to ever kiss him! Can you imagine that?" Both were grinning broadly.
"Such a lucky bastard, our brat!" Marius sighed.
"Oh yeah!" Khayman agreed with all his heart.
They were silent for a while, both lost in their own thoughts.
"So, what do we do now?" Marius asked.
"Let them sleep," Khayman answered. "Both need it badly, and it will take us the night to reach the island. We will wake them then."
Marius agreed; they went to Khayman's cabin where they talked again about the events in greater detail.

Meanwhile the sun had set and it had become dark and cold. But there were still stars shining brightly, and the steersmen of both ships knew the course to the pirate's island by heart. They sailed through the night, black waves parting before their bows. The moon travelled across the sky; shifts changed and after three bottles of rum Khayman and Marius fell asleep.

When the rays of the rising sun hit the ship they were anchoring in the natural harbour of the island.
Lestat yawned, he slowly opened his eyes and found his face covered by silky black hair. During the night they seemed to have changed positions, now Louis was nestled against Lestat with his head on his chest. Lestat freed his eyes from the ebony strands, then turned Louis's face up and kissed him awake.
Louis stretched and again relaxed against Lestat.
"Morning, beautiful one," Lestat smiled.
"Morning yourself," Louis answered goodhumoured. "How do you feel today?"
"Hmm, let's see!" Lestat sat up slowly, but this time the dizziness did not return.
"As you see, I'm much better. So, what's for breakfast?"
Louis had to laugh. "Am I your cabin boy now?"
Lestat feigned consideration. "Well, let me think... yes!"
Louis shook his head, smiling. "Alright, Lestat, I'll ask the cook for breakfast."
Still laughing he rose, only to be held back by two strong arms.
"Hey, I thought you wanted breakfast!" he admonished.
"Yes, but that can wait some more minutes," Lestat replied. "At the moment all I want is for you to come back to bed."
Louis obeyed; he returned into Lestat's arms and snuggled up to him.
Then they heard somebody knock at the door.

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part 14
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Louis froze; selfconsciously he tried to cover himself with the blanket as the door opened and showed Khayman and Marius.
Khayman coughed. "Ahem, I -- we -- do you feel better, Lestat?"
Lestat nodded slowly, wondering what those two really wanted.
Khayman smiled, but gave it up quickly. "We -- no, he -- umm..." He nudged Marius with his ellbow.
"Oh yes, I -- I -- I came to apologize!" Marius said uneasy. Somehow this statement only served to increase the throbbing in his head. Maybe the last bottle of rum had really been too much... but on the other hand Khayman looked as relaxed as if he just came from a holiday on a carribean island...
Khayman nudged him again. "Wha--? Oh, hehe, alright, I'm very sorry, Louis, that I simply judged you without knowing anything about the events on this ship..."
Louis tried to smile, but he was still a little frightened by Marius... after all, it had been just the other night that that pirate had slammed him into the wall...
Lestat sighed. "Would you two terribly mind if we had this conversation outside... after we dressed?"
"Oh, no, no, of course..." Marius said quickly. He left the cabin together with Khayman who smiled reassuringly at Louis.

"See, Louis? It's alright, Marius just apologized... nomally he is a very friendly man."
"Yes, I believe you, but still... " Louis shook his head. How should he explain it? Explain to the one man who had always tried to protect him that he was sick of it, felt digusted of his weakness. He was no little child who couldn't care for itself, he was a grown man, and he hated this helplessness into which Marius's attack had sent him back once again.
He sat up and raked his hand through his hair.
"Louis? What is troubling you?" Lestat asked. He could see that Louis felt unsure, but he couldn't think of a cause for this.
"Nothing, really, Lestat. It's just that I'd like to speak alone with Marius... if you don't mind?"
Lestat frowned. "But why, Louis?"
"Don't you think I'm capable of talking to him myself?" Louis answered, feeling a little irritated. Couldn't Lestat understand that he needed to do this?
"Please, Lestat, you must understand this! It's not that I don't trust you, it's just... I need to do something... on my own! I -- I felt so helpless yesterday, and I'm afraid that if I don't overcome this now I'll always be vulnerable and... and depending! Please Lestat, I don't mean to hurt you..."
"It's okay, Louis!" Lestat sighed. "I understand what you want to say, but don't forget that you don't have to face this alone. Whenever you need me, I'll be there to help you!"
Louis smiled. "I know!" he whispered, and then gently kissed Lestat. "I love you, and I want to be with you forever!"
"Now how have I earned this?" Lestat asked softly, deeply touched by the absolutely sincere declaration of love and trust.
Louis hugged him and rested his chin on his shoulder. "How can you say this?" he asked affectionately. "You are Lestat, the 'Brat Prince', the most feared pirate... do you know that you were the hero of my childhood?" He smiled into the surprised blue eyes. "Yes, it's true, maybe not childhood -- when did you become a pirate? Five years ago? Seven? But somehow it seems as if there had always been one of the peasants telling a new adventure of the Pirate Lestat. Everybody admires you, do you know that? What you did for those people -- you and your pirates are the only ones who dared to rebel against... oh!" he interrupted himself as he realized something. "You rebelled against my uncle, right? But those stories... nobody ever mentioned the name of my uncle... "
"That's probably because Santino paid those monks," Lestat remarked. "They should keep everything away from you so that your uncle could later mold you to his wishes."
Louis looked distressed. "Somehow it seems as if everything I believed in was wrong, my entire conception of life..." he sighed. "But those thoughts are no use," he then went on, "I wanted to tell you something... that I have always adored you, that you were my hero... the fearless pirate, shining blue eyes, golden mane, standing at the bow of his ship, fighting for the oppressed -- strong, beautiful, invincible... a great lover..." he purred.
"Louis!" Lestat feigned shock. "The monks told you that?"
Louis laughed softly. "No, not the monks, the peasants... some of the stories were fantastic... oh, I've always wondered if my favorite one was true, the one with you defeating the 'Queen of the Damned', Akasha."
"Of course it's true!" Lestat said. "And what for an adventure that was, the peasants didn't exaggerate! She had been the most powerful pirate, but she didn't fight against Santino, as we do, she also tried to conquer the innocent ones, the oppressed French we try to defend! But I defeated her!" he said proudly.
"Of course!" Louis added, smiling. "But you had help, there were also the other pirates, weren't they? Marius, and... what was her name? Ma..."
"Maharet," Lestat completed. "Yes, they helped, but still, without me it would have been impossible!"
"Hmm, one day you have to tell me those stories yourself." Hero worship and adoration, he thought, was exactly was Lestat seemed to need. And he was very willing to give it, after all it was true, Lestat had really been his hero, and at close range he was even more beautiful than it was said. He closed his eyes and sighed contently as Lestat hugged him tighter. Finally Louis reluctantly stood up and looked around the room.
"I'm sorry, Lestat, but I think I need again something to wear."
"Help yourself, my clothes are in that wardrobe over there."
Louis opened it and searched around, thinking that Lestat had a rather large collection of clothes. Finally he found clothes which appealed to him, and he laid them onto the bed.
Lestat looked at him with disbelief.
"Now you don't want to tell me that you want to wear these old, dusty, black clothes?"
"But there's nothing wrong with black," Louis protested. "Everybody in the monastery wore black!" Lestat sighed. He took the clothes and put them back into the wardrobe, continuing to talk. "But you're no longer in a monastery, Louis!" he pointed out. "You are on my ship now, and you don't need to wear those... simple clothes." He finally made his choice and brought Louis a pile of clothes. "You are so beautiful, mon cher. For you it should be only silk and velvet and lace..."
Louis shook his head but nevertheless began to dress. When he was finished Lestat looked at him in admiration, the dark velvet underscored Louis's soft, pale skin and his beautiful eyes were almost perfectly matched by the green silk.
"See? Now this is definitely more suiting!"
Louis selfconsciously ran a hand over the gold-embroidered vest. All this splendor made him feel insecure... but if it pleased Lestat he would happily wear it.
Then he went to the door. "Don't worry, I'll be alright, Lestat," he told him.
"I know," Lestat simply said. Louis smiled at him, grateful for the trust in his strength.

Marius and Khayman were on deck, talking to the steersman. When Khayman saw Louis coming up the stairs he again nudged Marius and pushed him in Louis's direction. Marius sighed wearily, he found that Khayman enjoyed it far too much to see him pay for his earlier mistake. But he was right, if he had been really as wrong in his judgement as Khayman's story made assume, an apology was the least one could demand from him. So he went to Louis who hesitantly approached him. Marius was surprised, those clothes he wore... they were perfect for him. Louis looked absolutely stunning, last night he hadn't realized this. He had simply placed him as another pretty face, but now discovered that he was not simply pretty but breathtakingly beautiful! The clothes he wore underlined this, they made him seem like a vision from an old book, the beautiful youth a fairy-queen would abduct into her kingdom -- and then he realized that exactly this had happened to Louis, only that it had been a pirate and not a fairy.
"You're looking beautiful, Louis!" he said without remembering to have consciously thought about it.
Louis blushed; he again began to pull at his clothes. "These are Lestat's, I think he overdid it a little."
"No, Louis, they look really good!" Marius quickly assured.
Louis smiled shyly, "Thank you," he said softly.
"Louis, I want to apologize for my rude behaviour yesterday," Marius began. "I knew nothing about the events on this ship, and I knew nothing about you. I should have waited until I knew the entire story, but... I made a mistake. And I'm very sorry!"
Louis nodded, he seemed lost in thought. "He was your lover, wasn't he?" he asked suddenly.
"David? Yes." Marius seemed surprised. "I'm sorry, Louis. I never thought... I didn't know that he would... that he was..."
Louis closed his eyes as the painful memories again threatened to resurface. "It's okay, Marius," he whispered. "It wasn't your fault. It was nobody's fault but David's, and he paid for it. How should you know that he was a spy of Santino?"
Marius felt miserable. He still couldn't fully believe that his David, his beloved, sweet David had betrayed him. He had only used his love, playing with him and his emotions to pursue his plans -- and David had not only hurt
himself but also violated this beautiful, delicate being... Marius shook his head. And now he himself had hurt Louis, too. He felt deeply ashamed of the mistake he had made, but he knew that apologies wouldn't change anything.
Then he had an idea.
"The island!" he said. Louis looked at him without understanding.
"I once discovered a little island," Marius explained. "It's a real paradise, warm, uninhabitet, beaches... I even built a small house there. You could live there if you want, you and Lestat, for a little holiday..."

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part 15
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"That's very kind of you, Marius, but I don't know..." Louis answered hesitantly. As alluring as the idea was...
"Then let's ask Lestat if it's him you're worried about," Marius smiled.
Louis sighed. "Do you really think he could give up -- this?" He gestured helplessly, encompassing the whole ship. "I don't want him to leave everything he has worked for so hard only because of me!"
"But it won't be for long, Louis," Marius objected. "It's only a little holiday, perhaps two weeks... the crew will be happy about some rest as well."
"If Lestat agrees..."
"I'm sure he does. Let's ask him, all right?"
Louis nodded and allowed Marius to lead him back to the cabin.

There Lestat was still lying on the bed, only that he was dressed now. When they entered the room he jumped up, but that sudden movement made his head reel once again and he staggered. Louis quickly ran to his side and slid an arm around his back, supporting him. Lestat had to laugh when he saw the worried look on Louis's face; he raised a hand and gently caressed his cheek.
"I'm all right, Louis, believe me! Now don't burden your pretty head with unnecessary worries, mon cher!"
"Lestat!" Louis groaned in enervation.
Lestat simply shrugged. "But it's the truth!" he said innocently. "You have a very, very pretty head..." his voice was soft, intimate, and Louis felt himself shudder as Lestat slowly bent his head and captured his lips. He involuntary pressed himself harder against Lestat, yielding to him when a tongue ran over his lips and demanded entrance... not able to stiffle a soft moan at Lestat's taste...
Then Marius uneasily cleared his throat and Louis yanked his head back, deeply embarrassed. He had completely forgotten about him... blushing and flustered he stared at his feet.
Lestat watched him with an affectionate smile; it still both surprised and delighted him how sensitive and full of innocent emotions his lover was.
He exchanged an amused glance with Marius as he wrapped an arm around Louis's waist, holding him close.
Some strands had fallen into Louis's face and Lestat gently tucked them back behind his ears. Again he reveled in the silky texture of Louis's hair, it was so fine and soft, falling down in light waves due to the damp air.
The sudden touch had startled Louis, and he looked up into Lestat's face, still embarrassed. But the blond pirate only smiled at him, loving and reassuring in his gentleness.
"I hope you apologized, Marius?" he then asked. "If I didn't know you, I would have to challenge you for hurting him!"
"It's okay, Lestat," Louis said softly. "We talked about it, and he apologized."
Lestat looked at Marius who nodded with a slight smile. "Yes, I am very sorry about those things I said. I talked with him, and I think he is far too good for you!"
"Oh, thank you my friend! It's good to a have a friend like you!" Lestat pouted. Louis gently nudged him.
"Hey!" Lestat gave him a mock glare.
"He offered us his island," Louis said.
"Yes, I think both you and your crew could use some rest... what do you say Lestat? Do you accept? It's a small island I discovered some years ago, I built a little house there, but apart from that the island is untouched. It would be only you and Louis..."
Lestat thought about it. "What do you think, Louis?" he then asked. "Would you feel comfortable there, with only me around? I could understand it if you want to be alone..."
"I wouldn't feel comfortable without you!" Louis answered with a sweet smile.
"So you both agree?" Marius asked in relief. Although he knew that he could never make up for his earlier behavior or for the things his lover had done to those two, it nevertheless relieved him to give them at least a time of peace on his island.
Lestat looked at Louis who nodded, making him smile and said "All right, Marius, we agree."
"You know what that means Louis, don't you?" he then began to laugh. "We'll have to shop for you! You haven't got anyhing to wear -- not that that would trouble me..."
Louis blushed and Marius groaned. "You are the --" he began, only to be interrupted by Lestat.
"Damnedest creature, I know. Really Marius, this gets old!"
Marius sighed wearily and decided not to pursue this topic any longer. "So you two want to buy new clothes? I know a good tailor here on the island, you two could look through his shop while I refill the supplies. Is that okay with you two?"
Lestat and Louis both agreed with his suggestion, and they left the ship and entered the small town.

Three hours later Lestat and Louis left the tailor's shop again, heavily loaded with packets and bags. Louis was exhausted, he hadn't thought that shopping with Lestat would be so stressing. He had the feeling that Lestat had forced him to try on all clothes the tailor had available and had at least bought half of it, if not more!
Lestat on the contrary seemed even more lively than before, as soon as they had reached the shop he had rushed at the clothes and started to pick out dresses for Louis, and now he was in high spirits.
"Ah, Louis," he purred, "I can't wait to see you in all that smooth, black silk... hmm, to imagine you lying on our bed, wearing nothing but that... and even that not for very long..."
Louis blushed and Lestat laughed, hugging him affectionately.

They slowly walked back to the ship where several sailors were busy carrying supplies to the hold, while others scrubbed the deck or mended sails. Marius was arguing with the cook , they were able to hear several words like "...not edible...poisonous...would even burn water!..." and finally saw him pouring the content of a pot onto the cook. Then he walked angrily to the gangway where he stopped in front of Lestat and Louis, staring incredulous at the heap of packets they carried.
"Oh Lestat," he sighed with resignation, "don't tell me you bought everything inside that shop?"
"No, only half of it!" Louis answered dryly.
Lestat shrugged. "You needed clothes, now you have them. So what's the problem?"
Louis and Marius exchanged a knowing look, Marius secretly happy that fate had spared him the dreadful experience of shopping with Lestat until now.
"Oh, and Marius, what did you do with my cook?" Lestat asked curiously. Not that he cared about him -- he had been forced to eat his food for over a month and wouldn't feel very sad should something happen to him...
"'Hah!" Marius said, feeling his rage return. "That's no cook, he isn't able to cook a single meal without burning it or using too much salt! I can't understand how you could hire him! Not even a dog would eat the... things he produces in his kitchen!"
"So you --"
"Poured the salt water he calls a soup onto him!" Marius said, deeply satisfied.
Lestat began to laugh. "Oh, that's good, Marius! You don't know how many times I thought about doing exactly that!"
"But what do we eat now?" Louis asked with concern. "Please don't tell me that you want to cook!"
Marius's eyes widened at that thought, especially when he noticed Lestat's mischievous smile.
"What a great idea, Louis!" Lestat said. "I once heard a recipe from a... oh, I think it was Maharet. It involved shark, and seaweed, and --"
Marius gulped. "Ah, I think you have more important matters at hand," he pointed out. "I'll send you one of my cooks, I have two, so one can stay on your ship. You don't want to feed Louis with seaweed, do you?"
Louis looked in alarm at Lestat who eyed him thoughtfully.
"Lestat!" Louis warned. "If you even think of it you can forget about the silk!"
"Aww, Louis," Lestat sulked.
"I mean it!" Louis confirmed, causing Lestat to sigh in exasperation.
"All right, then send me your cook," Lestat pouted.
Louis closed his eyes, incredibly relieved that he would be spared the seaweed, and then lifted the packets up again. They carried the clothes into their cabin where they fell exhausted onto the bed, only to be woken later by a sailor who brought them the dinner Marius's cook had produced -- and this time both were very content with the meal.

An hour later Marius came on board and steered the ship himself to the island. It was located in an area which was known for it's dangerous reefs and was therefore avoided by most vessels.
They reached the island late in the evening; the sun was already very low and colored the ocean with spots of gold dancing on the waves.
After some sailors brought the supplies into the small house Marius bid them warmly farewell, telling them that he would return for them in two weeks. Then he took Lestat to the side and tried to talk him into patience with Louis. Lestat listened amusedly.
"Do you really think that bad of me?" he finally asked. "I love him, I would never hurt him."
Marius was surprised. "I think that was the first time I ever heard you say these words. And -- I actually believe you!"
Lestat smiled. "We will be okay, Marius. Louis is stronger than you think... he'll have time to heal here, and we'll both be together. What more could I want?"
"Oh, the Pirate Lestat I once knew would want a lot more..." Marius teased.
Lestat shook his head, still smiling. "Oh, I still want that. But not against Louis's will!"
Marius hugged him, then released him and entered the ship again.
Lestat and Louis stood together on the beach and watched as the sails which now glew red with the setting sun caught the wind. Lestat embraced Louis, feeling him lean against his chest as they looked at the ship sailing out onto the sea, leaving them alone on the island.

******
part 16
******

A week had passed, and Lestat and Louis were still living on the little island. Their life in the lush paradise of the south sea had developed a relaxed, lazy routine which gave them the time to learn to know each other better and helped Louis to slowly overcome his painful memories.

They would usually be woken at sunrise by the loud twittering of the parrots sleeping in the surrounding trees. Before they got up they spent another half hour simply lying in each others arms, sometimes talking, sometimes only enjoying each other's presence. But sooner or later Lestat would end this by slipping out of the bed and preparing the breakfast, since he found it hard to suppress the desire Louis's naked body caused. Nevertheless he had sworn himself that he wouldn't rush anything, tender kisses were the limit for him. Although it was hard to restrain himself from going further, and after an entire week of rapidly increasing desire for Louis, he even tried to avoid kissing him, fearing that he would lose control.

Louis on the other hand felt neglected. In the beginning he had been very grateful for Lestat's tenderness and reserve, it had helped him very much to deal with the events on the ship. The few times he had had a nightmare Lestat had woken him and calmed him until the panic in his eyes had vanished and he was able to fall into a more peaceful sleep. But there hadn't been any nightmares the last few nights, and Louis felt good again, wanting more from Lestat than the occasional kiss.
And even this was denied to him now...

No, he decided, he couldn't let this continue. A mischievous grin spread across his face as he noticed that Lestat was still asleep. Not only asleep, but also dreaming -- dreaming of something which made him slowly shift on the bed, very sensual, like a big cat -- Louis giggled when he felt somethinng hot and hard rubbed against his thigh. He decided to show Lestat not to underestimate him.
He slipped under the covers, placing one hand on Lestat's hip to keep him from moving, running the fingertips of his other hand lightly over Lestat's hardened length. Gratified by the instant moan he increased his caresses, rubbing harder, feeling Lestat moving his hips up in response.
He hesitated one brief moment, then threw all his reservations away and slowly licked at the tip. He was astounded; he had thought he would feel like a sinner, or be disgusted by his actions, but -- this felt right! He, pleasuring his lover... and he found that he was even enjoying it. It tasted... of Lestat! That scent which was so purely unique him as a taste, burning on his tongue...
He opened his mouth and took more of Lestat inside, gently sucking at him and sliding his tongue over the hot flesh until he felt Lestat buck up and tasted a salty liquid spilling into his mouth. He swallowed, thinking that he should definitely feel ashamed, on the other hand being intensely pleased that he had satisfied his lover. He released Lestat and crawled out from under the sheets. When he met Lestat's questioning and utterly surprised look he snickered and purred "I wanted to please you. Tell me, did I... please you?"
"Oh yeah!" Lestat sighed and pulled him down. He captured Louis's lips in a passionate kiss, his tongue ruthlessly plundering the wet heat, savoring the erotic taste of himself in his lover's mouth. This time it was Louis who rubbed himself against Lestat's thigh; showing his lover that he was very aroused by his actions and wanted more from him.
"Please, Lestat," Louis gasped softly when he was again able to speak, "please make love to me again!"
"Louis, I'd love to! But... are you sure?"
"Yes, Lestat, yes! Please! I... I need you! I want to feel you again... inside me!"
Lestat looked at him.
"Please Lestat, don't deny me this! It was so wonderful, that first time on the ship... I don't want -- him to destroy everything that was between us!"
"Oh Louis!" Lestat sighed. He was totally captured by the absolute honesty, the vulnerability on the face before him.
"I need you, Lestat, please!" Louis whispered, and Lestat took his face into his hands, caressing his cheeks as he gazed lovingly into those bright green eyes.
"Hush, Louis, it's okay. Let me show you how much I love you..."
He kissed Louis, very gently, caressing the warmth inside of Louis's mouth with his tongue, losing himself in his taste, the utter sweetness of having Louis's body once again in his arms...
Louis moaned as he felt the familiar intrusion into his mouth, that wet and velvety presence... there was only Lestat once more, his taste, his scent, his skin, warmth, touch...
Slowly he sank back onto the bed, Lestat on top of him, his weight pressing him into the mattress.
With closed eyes Louis caressed the sides of Lestat's face, then let his hands roam over his shoulders and back. He felt the muscles flex under his fingertips as Lestat began to slowly move down his body, covering his chest with kisses.

Louis was overwhelmed by his emotions. He loved this blond rogue so much... he buried his hands in his hair, arching his back with closed eyes as Lestat's wandering hands and tongue urged soft cries and moans from him until he was shuddering with pleasure and desire.
"Lestat!" he whispered breathlessly, "I want you!"
Lestat smiled and brushed his lips against Louis's, then parted his legs, carefully preparing his lover.
"You know that I love you, Louis," he said tenderly. "I would never intentionally hurt you!"
Louis only smiled at him, his pure and heartfelt emotions so visible on his face that Lestat sighed and kissed him again.
"I want to make love to you so gently and sweetly that you'll never doubt the depth of my love for you!" he cooed into Louis's ear, causing his ravenhaired lover to raise a hand and caress the side of his face.
"I'll never doubt," Louis said softly. He wrapped his arms around Lestat's neck and pressed his lips to his jaw.
"Please -- show me..." he murmured and Lestat gladly obeyed, slowly joining their bodies until he felt Louis shudder at the exquisiteness of the feelings that washed through him.
"Shh...," Lestat whispered, "gentle. Gentle and sweet..."
Louis moaned softly, his lashes fluttering as he squirmed to get closer to Lestat.
"Hush," Lestat once again soothed; he bent down to seal his lips in a tender kiss.
Then he began to slowly move his hips against Louis, falling into a sensually lazy rhythm, the only sound in the room their fast breathing and the soft moans Louis couldn't prevent coming from his lips.
He opened his mouth, Lestat's name escaping him in a long sigh as he arched his back. Lestat made an answering sound, pushing himself even deeper into his beloved.
"Ah, mon Louis," he groaned, dropping his head to bury his face in the ebony strands.

Louis's hands were gripping the sheets; Lestat gently loosened his fingers and interwove them with his hand. Then he continued with his motions, hearing Louis utter unintelligible sounds of pleasure which grew louder as the intense feelings gathered inside him until every fibre in his body tightened and he reached his climax, feeling himself consumed by an exploding, searing heat.
He dropped down onto Louis, dimly aware of his lover's soft cry and the sudden warmth on his stomach.
He was out of breath, his chest heaving with the urge for air, rubbing against Louis's soft, sweaty skin. He wrapped his arms around him, cradling his head against his chest as he was suddenly overcome by his emotions, with the need to protect this miraculous creature and give him everything he ever desired.
"Louis, mon Louis!" he whispered, choking to get the words out before tears got in the way. "I love you so much, I couldn't stand losing you! You are my life, Louis, my world!"
Louis froze, he opened his mouth but no word came out. Instead a tear slowly made its way down his face. As he realized this, he turned his face away in horror, afraid to hurt Lestat with it. Angry with himself he raised a hand to brush the tear away, but Lestat took his wrist and gently touched his lips to his cheek, kissing the tear away.
"Why are you crying, beloved?" he asked softly. He turned Louis's face towards him, smiling into the green eyes. Louis's lips were trembling, he blinked to keep the tears at bay but eventually, with a desperate sob, crushed himself against Lestat.
"Louis!" Lestat exclaimed in worry. "What is it, chéri? Did -- did I hurt you? I'm sorry, I didn't want --"
"No!" Louis finally sobbed. "It's not your fault, never!"
He tightened his grip around Lestat, pressing his face into his shoulder.
"You are so wonderful!" he then whispered. "I -- nobody seemed to care about me after the death of my parents. And I always felt so lonely... but then you came, and -- and -- you love me!" he said with wonder in his voice. "And I love you, too!" he added softly.
Lestat smiled. "I'll always love you, my beautiful one! And we'll always be together... I promise!"
Louis laughed, a sweet sound which filled Lestat with pure happiness. "A pirate's promise..."
"Yes!" Lestat nodded, feeling mischievous again. "Don't you know that pirates are the most honourable men on Earth?"
"Of course, everybody knows that..."
"Don't you believe me, Louis?"
"I always believe you!" Louis said fondly, he reached up to run his hand through Lestat's hair and kissed him, still smiling. Then he sighed and settled once again into Lestat's arms.
"Oh no, you are not going back to sleep!" the pirate said sternly.
"Hmm... why not?" Louis yawned.
"Because I want to go swimming now!"
Lestat was grinning as he jumped out of bed and swept Louis up into his arms, then carried his struggling lover down to the beach.

******
part 17
******

"No... Lestat! Lestat, let me down!" Louis laughed, squirming to free himself from Lestat's arms.
"Oh no, my precious one... you'll take a bath now!"
"Lestat! Don't you dare to think of dropping me!"
"You forget that I'm the Pirate Lestat and that you are still my prisoner, mon cher!"
Lestat had reached the water, he waded into it and then let Louis fall.

With a loud splash Louis plunged into the water and resurfaced coughing and cursing.
His black hair was dripping, seaweed was entangled in some strands at which he yanked furiously, continuing to curse the seaweed, Lestat and pirates in general.
Lestat grinned wickedly and took the plant away.
"Seaweed, after all... you know, there are many usages for it. You can eat it, but... I could also tie you up with it and make love right here in the water -- what do you think, Louis?"
Louis spluttered and recommended a better place to put the seaweed in.
"Louis, Louis!" Lestat shook his head, laughing. "This really isn't the language of one raised in a monastery!"
Louis glared at him, but then relented.
"Yes, you're right," he said in a deceptively meek voice. "I'm sorry! Please... your first suggestion, it sounded rather -- tempting!"
Lestat looked at him in surprise, suspicious at his lover's sudden change of mood, but then decided to blame it on his charm, charisma and undeniable sex appeal.
"You really don't deserve this, Louis, but --" He bent down to embrace his wet lover when suddenly Louis yanked at his wrist, causing him to lose balance and dive head first into the water. He thrashed wildly, until he finally figured out where top and bottom was and managed to break the surface, finding a retreating, giggling Louis on his way back to the beach.
"Louis!" he yelled. "I will have my revenge!"
Louis turned around and blew him a kiss. "First you have to catch me!"
He was laughing happily and started to sprint back to the house while Lestat slowly waded through the water.
"I'll get you, Pointe du Lac!" he shouted again. "No matter where you go, I'll follow you!"
"Oh, I hope so!"
Louis was smiling at him as he waited at a tree in front of the house.
Lestat approached him warily.
"Does this mean you surrender?" he asked, glaring menacingly at his still naked lover.
"No..." Louis said slowly, swallowing as he felt Lestat's eyes wander over his body, felt the hungry glare consume him.
"I -- I want a truce..."
Lestat came nearer; Louis's breathing increased as he admired his lover's body with wide eyes. The wet, bronzed skin was glistening in the sun, his eyes a smoky, passionate violet -- Louis gasped when he suddenly felt Lestat's skin against his, arms encircling him, moist lips touching his as a tongue slowly made his way into his mouth...
He closed his eyes, leaning back against the tree as Lestat's tongue once again explored his mouth, delving deep inside, bringing the now-so-familiar taste of his beloved to him.
It was a feeling almost unreal, the sun shining onto his face, Lestat's arms draped around his waist, this kiss... suddenly he was filled with the deep, warm knowledge that this was perfection.

His heartbeat increased as he allowed himself to get lost in this feeling of love, protection and tenderness, the warmth that surrounded his body and left only space for thoughts of joy and happiness.
"I love you," he murmured as their kiss finally ended, hearing Lestat's gentle laughter in response.
"So do I, my beautiful one!" Lestat assured. He caressed Louis's cheek with the back of his hand, sighing when Louis took that hand and placed soft kisses on it.
"Lestat?"
"Mmmh?"
"What about breakfast?"
Louis smiled at his lover and gently bit into a finger.
"I'm hungry..." Still looking into Lestat's eyes from beneath lowered lashes, he took that finger into his mouth and began to slowly suck on it.
"Ah... Louis, you wanton!" Lestat moaned. It was incredible -- the feelings Louis was able to arouse in him! Just one look of those smoldering emerald eyes and he was burning with desire for this beautiful man, one happy smile of his tempting mouth turned his world into a garden of paradise, and one single tear was enough for the undescribable and fierce urge to protect this young and trusting creature from every harm, to shelter him against everything the world could set in his way.

"Now, what about your revenge, M. Le Pirate?" Louis asked as he released Lestat's finger.
"Don't tempt me, beautiful one..."
Louis felt a wave of arousal run down his spine; with a sudden daring move he pressed himself into his lover's body.
"But I want to tempt you," he murmured. Emphasizing his intention, he began to nibble on Lestat's earlobe, surprising himself with the boldness of his explorations.
"Louis..." Lestat groaned.
"Yes?" Louis flicked his tongue into Lestat's ear.
"Aah... I... I wanted to make breakfast!"
"I'm not stopping you..." Louis closed his eyes as he moved his mouth down, licking abandonedly at Lestat's neck.
Lestat swallowed. He wasn't sure if anything on earth would be worth ending this, but on the other hand -- he knew something which would make this even better. So he reluctantly moved Louis away, pressing a loving kiss to Louis's pouting lips.
"Go back to the beach, Louis, I'll soon return with breakfast."
Louis sighed, disappointed at Lestat's resistance to his experiment at seduction.

Nevertheless he went back to the beach, stopping when he felt the wetness of gentle waves touching his feet. He looked down in fascination, watching the crystal-clear water rush onto the sand, moved by a slight breeze. The sun sparkled on the water, reflexes glistening in the gentle, swaying motion of water flowing back and coming forth once again. A feeling of peace overcame him, quiet joy as he realized how lucky he was. To know that Lestat, the man he loved more than anything else on this world, loved him just as fiercely and tenderly -- he smiled involuntarily as he remembered Lestat's gentleness with him. It still astounded him that he was able to bring out this sweet, affectionate side of the widely feared pirate, after all this was the man who had not only destroyed the fleet of the evil queen Akasha but was also responsible for the death of many of his uncle's officers. Still, this pirate loved him, and Louis knew that he would never be able to betray that love and trust.

"You are beautiful when you smile," a voice whispered softly into his ear.
"Flatterer," Louis said gently. Turning around he found Lestat standing in front of him with a basket in his hands. A blanket was spread out on the sand and they laid down on it, Louis resting his head on Lestat's shoulder. It felt so natural to be so close to Lestat, to feel the warmth emanating from his body... Louis closed his eyes and sighed happily as Lestat began to stroke his neck, his sigh soon transformed into a low purr by the soft touch of his lover's lips against his cheek. Then Lestat's lips moved onwards, searching, claiming Louis's mouth with his tongue as he found it. With his arms wrapped around Louis's slender body, he pulled him close, delighted to hear him moan into the kiss. He pressed him down and moved on top of him as he continued to deeply explore his mouth, then slowly retreated, teasing Louis's tongue into following him back into his own mouth. He gently suckled on his tongue, relishing his essence -- Louis tasted so good!
"Mmm," he moaned as the lack of air finally forced their lips apart, "you do!"
"I -- I do what?" Louis gasped, still dazed by that kiss.
"You do taste as good as you smell..." Lestat purred; he gazed lovingly down into the emerald eyes of his lover and kissed him again when finally realization began to dawn in them.
"And it took you so long to figure that out?"
"Yes, and I'm still not sure..."
"Maybe another series of tests?" Louis suggested with a smile.
Lestat willingly obeyed, immersing his entire being into this task which left them both breathless.
"I changed my mind," Lestat whispered. "You taste even better than you smell... I think I'm addicted!"

"Is that so?"
Louis's eyes were gleaming with joy, love and a little mischief. Very gently he trailed his fingers down Lestat's chest, marvelling at the silky texture over the clearly defined, hard muscles. He closed his eyes and sighed blissfully as he nestled into his lover's arms, his chin resting on his shoulder as he continued to run the palms of his hands over Lestat's chest. It was a caress as much as an exploration, a slow reaquaintance with the youthful, perfect body of the pirate. When Lestat questioningly took hold of his face to look at him he blushed a little but still continued his stroking. He did not know why he was embarrassed, after all they had already done much more than simply caressing -- but then he suddenly knew why.
He was afraid.
He felt vulnerable to have Lestat know the depths of his feelings, of his love and desire for him, because this meant that he was dropping his shields, leaving himself open to be hurt.

"Ah, love," Lestat sighed as Louis's hand brushed a quickly hardening nipple.
Louis almost gasped. Yes, Lestat loved him, he knew this without doubt, and he had already confessed his own love for him, but still he was scared.
After all, he was not used to this, the only ones he had ever loved dying to leave him in the cold if efficient care of the priests. He had never again felt anything this bright, this pure -- but he knew that this was good. This was how it was meant to be, perfect, and he wouldn't let an old and illogic fear get in the way.
"You are beautiful!" he whispered, still shy yet desperate to show his feelings to his lover.
"So strong..." he once again rubbed his fingers against Lestat's chest, running them through the fine golden hair, "muscles like steel..." slowly he bent his head to press his mouth in a reverant kiss to Lestat's pectorals, then his tongue darted out to lap at his sweat soaked skin, lavishly licking his erect nipples, "you smell of the sea, of wind and freedom..." he buried his face in Lestat's blond hair, deeply inhaling his scent and then, finally, brought his mouth to Lestat's lips for a deep, passionate kiss, taking the lead this time as he almost agressively pushed his tongue into the moist warmth of his lover's mouth, swirling it around to taste him.
"... and you taste -- definitely male, strong and powerful, intoxicating... and yet so sweet..."
He was almost moaning the last words, so heavily aroused by his exploration or rather seduction of his lover that he almost came when he heard a low, feral growl emit from Lestat's throat.
Suddenly he found himself spun down onto his back, a large, strong and without doubt aroused body pressing down onto him as teeth bit into his neck.
He cried out in surprise, then he felt lips circling his sore skin, sucking almost brutally to mark him until he was so lightheaded that he thought he was floating.
Another passionate growl brought him back to reality.
"You are mine, Louis!"
Lestat's chest was heaving with desire, his hot and swollen arousal pressed into Louis's thigh.
"I don't know what made fortune love me so much, but you are mine!"
"Yes! I'm yours!" Louis moaned, writhing shamelessly under him as his body seemed to be ruled by desire.
"Take what is yours, then!" he begged, arching up to increase the friction on his own straining erection.
Lestat swallowed and bit on his lip, shaking his head as he softly purred a no.
When Louis's eyes opened to reveal two impassioned, smoldering orbs of liquid green fire he set on his most teasing grin, silently willing his heated body to obey him as he moved away from his lover.
"Ah... no..." Louis moaned softly, sounding almost pathetic in his need and want.
"Louis, Louis," Lestat shook his head, making a teasing, disapproving sound, "we'll have to work on your patience."
"Please, Lestat..." Louis begged, barely able to form coherent words.
"Shh, Louis. You'll like this..." Lestat soothed. "In fact, this is something I wanted to do for some time... you're so delicious, my love! I just have to try this..."
Lestat opened a small jar and gently poured some honey onto Louis's chest. Then he bent down to lick it off, both moaning with the pleasure of this incredibly sensual touch.
Lestat was delighted by the way this tasted, the sweetness of the honey mingled with the arousing, salty taste of his lover exciting him all the more. He finished to lick the sticky substance from his lover, giving his nipples some last few licks and bites until he felt Louis's body arch up in pleasure, then he once again took the jar.
This time he dipped his fingers inside and applied the golden mass to Louis's erect organ. Louis had barely time to moan at this sudden contact when Lestat took him fully into his mouth, sucking on him until he felt him shudder at the brink of orgasm. Quickly he released him and raised his hand to wet his fingers but found Louis reaching for his wrist and bringing it to his mouth, carefully cleaning and moistening Lestat's fingers with his own tongue.
"Please," he moaned again when the fingers were gone, and this time Lestat finally fulfilled his wish, parting his legs and pushing first one, then the second finger into him, waiting until Louis was sufficiently relaxed. Then he grabbed his hips and, in one slow and smooth movement, slid fully into his lover's hot body. Louis cried out, Lestat's name erupting from his throat again and again as he felt this incredible man filling him with each thrust, making love not only to his body but also to his soul.
Louis had been so aroused by Lestat's earlier actions that he knew he wouldn't be able to endure this sweet torture for long, and as he finally opened his eyes and saw the larger frame of Lestat plunging into him, the heat and desire evident on the face of the man he loved most on this world, it was his undoing.
Crying out and arching up he climaxed, feeling Lestat come inside of him as all his muscles convulsed.

"Louis!"
Louis moaned and stretched as he heard a voice softly call his name. He felt so good... warm, satisfied, very relaxed...
"Louis!"
This time the voice seemed more urgent, and so he finally opened his eyes. He found himself cradled in Lestat's arms, worried blue eyes peering into his as a hand gently shook his shoulders.
"Mmm... what's wrong with you, Lestat, I'm tired," he said sleepily. "Just ten more minutes... I thought this was a holiday."
He closed his eyes again, but then he felt Lestat first stiffen, then break into laughter so hard it was shaking both of them.
"Oh Louis, Louis!" he gasped, "you scared me! But..." he continued in a calmer voice, although he was still grinning, "you'll definitely be good for my ego!"
"If your ego would grow any more, you'd have to buy a second ship to store it in!" Louis said decidedly, feeling a little angry at being the subject of a joke he did not understand.
"That might be true, mon cher, but that is partly your fault!" Lestat smiled. "Try to remember, what did we do here on the beach?"
Louis sat up and looked around, tucking a strand of hair back behind his ear in annoyance when realization finally hit him.
"I... we..." He swallowed.
"Yes, oh bright one," Lestat applauded, "we had the best sex of my entire life!"
Louis went red. "You mean I passed out?"
Lestat nodded and affectionately slid an arm around his waist, pulling him close once again.
"And I must say, I'm truly flattered, cheri."
He took Louis's mouth again, pressing his tongue inside until Louis finally yielded and relaxed against him, then he leaned back down onto the blanket with Louis's weight in his arms.
"Oh, Lestat," Louis eventually sighed. His eyes were very gentle, adoration and love shining from them as he rested his head on Lestat's chest, over his steadily beating heart.
"Will... will it always be like this? So... perfect?"
Lestat closed his eyes, thinking a moment before he answered.
"I don't know, Louis," he said truthfully, "I can't promise you this. You know that my life is dangerous, that I have many enemies who want my death and who will now also pursue you, because they know that this is what will hurt me the most. It is very possible that the time ahead of us will be filled with dangerous, even lethal challenges, and that it will be very hard for us. But one thing I can promise you, Louis, that I'll always give my best to protect you. I love you, Louis, and this will never change. No matter watever dangers are to come, I will never lose this love, because you are a part of myself and I can no longer exist without you. And although I know that the path I have chosen is right, the fight against your uncle, I now have something to live for after that. Yes, I still have to save our people from him, Louis, but I know that one day we'll be able to live without his tyranny, and then, my love, there will be only the two of us. I'll never betray your trust in me... je t'aime," he whispered.
"Je t'aime aussi, mon amoureux, je t'aime aussi," Louis whispered back, tears running down his cheeks. He pressed closer to Lestat and together they watched as the low standing sun came out behind a white cloud. The bright yellow light fell onto the little island and slowly dissolved the morning mist on the water.
Louis smiled and closed his eyes, once again filled with peace. He knew that they couldn't control the future, and that there would be many trials for them, but he also knew that Lestat would be always by his side. And as long as he had that love, he was contented.

THE END

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