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The waves were high, crashing over the side of the ship as men hurried to pull in the sails. Rain soaked them to the bone. The ship bobbed like a toy in the storm. It seemed this venture was to be a journey fraught with danger. Kaeya grunted as a wave drove him into the railing. He shook it off, jumping to his feet. The captain was barking orders as men rushed to drag the sails in. Kaeya grabbed a wildly flailing rope from a boy who had no business being on deck in a storm like this. The lad was green as could be, new to the ship and weaker than a kitten.
“Get below deck before you get blown off the bloody ship!” Kaeya shouted over the rain. The boy, Bennett, had no choice but to accept the order. His hands were already raw, and he was soaked to the bone. It was better to be out of the way. Kaeya was just thankful the boy was reasonable. Some had far too much pride for his taste…
The wet rope slid in his hands, prompting Kaeya to wrap it round his shoulder in a bid for a better grip. The sails fought them hard. The wind howled, the sky a bruise – purple, black, blue – and lightning cracked in blinding streaks. Thunder rumbled through their bones. The gods were laughing at them, Kaeya was certain. They were fools to sail at this time of year, he’d said as much when the captain said they’d be setting sail for one more trip. But the pay was too good. And Kaeya learned early that money was always more important than human lives.
Why then, was Kaeya on the ship?
For the same reason any of them were. Good pay and a need for excitement. One didn’t choose a life at sea without knowing the risks. The ocean was a fickle mistress and Kaeya had no qualms with finding his death in her bosom. Still, he wasn’t willing to give up that easily. So, he fought the sails alongside his crewmates. A navigator’s life might normally be spent over maps but tonight he was just as much a member of the crew as anyone. If they were going to survive well, all hands on deck.
The merchants traveling with them had other ideas. They hovered between the deck and the belly of the ship, floundering with fear to stare up at the sky as if the gods might heed their prayers if they looked upon their faces. Kaeya knew better. The gods had no love for them, they’d sooner spit in their eyes than stop this storm. He resolved to pay them no mind…or would have, had it not been for a fair, redheaded omega stepping forward in just his under dress and corset.
“Fuckin’ hell-“ One of the hands shouted, waving at Kaeya, “Get him off the deck! If he dies, we don’t get a penny!”
The most precious cargo on the ship… A noble omega. They’d been offered a pretty penny to get him across the sea. His white dress was quickly plastered to his skin, the pink of his corset stood out as the white dress turned translucent. His hair stuck to his skin, the long strands looked like rivulets of blood against his pale flesh. Despite the crewmen’s fear, the omega looked surprisingly sure footed on the rolling deck.
Before he could find a moment to go to the redhead’s aid, one of the riggings snapped off in the wind, sending several men falling to the deck. Kaeya watched as the omega rushed up, grabbing one of the men to haul him to his feet with ease. The redhead threw himself into helping, grabbing a rope and throwing his weight into it.
“Forget it! It’s all hands on deck! If the omega wants to help, let him, he won’t get across the sea if we all die here!” Kaeya shouted back. He had no time to shoo off an abled body person. A child was a liability…this omega had working hands and steady feet. Let him test his luck.
The rain beat down on them, heavy drops cold as ice pounded against their skin. The deck was slick with salt and rain, waves crashed over the railings as they were tossed around. Kaeya watched as the men’s feet were ripped out from under them and still, they tried to fight the sail down. The mizzen sail was finally pulled down, but Kaeya and a number of the crew couldn’t make any progress with the main sail. Just when he thought the aid of more hands would save them further struggle…a crack echoed through the air.
“The foremast!” Shouts rose over the wind.
All heads tipped back, blinking rain from their lashes to see the foremast had cracked. Ropes and rigging snapped, whipping through the air. Kaeya dropped the rope, falling to the deck just as a beam swung about. Several men were flung right over the side of the ship. In this weather, there would be no aid…
A wave crashed over the deck, nearly sweeping Kaeya off the ship. He felt disoriented. He raised a hand to his head, finding a smear of red. Something struck his head when the wave crashed over the ship…
“Get up! You’ll go overboard if you don’t get up !” A stern yet sweet voice scolded him. Softer hands than should be possible gripped his arms, hauling him to his feet. The little redheaded omega was holding him up. Kaeya blinked, finding his footing.
“I’m fine, I’m fine…the mast…” With the loss of men, the others were having an even tougher time with the sails. If they didn’t get them down…they’d surely lose both masts. They’d be dead in the water, “We’ve got to get those sails down now.” He stressed, squeezing the redhead’s slim arms.
He was rewarded with a nod. Together they pushed against the wind until they joined the others on the ropes. There was more desperation now. Even the merchants finally gave up their prayers to lend a hand to the sailors. Even the bloody captain was on the deck, hauling ropes and tying rigging down. Kaeya wanted to shove the bastard overboard. They should’ve had the sails down before the storm started…they should have tried to prepare-
It seemed like the gods truly wanted to see them dead this day. As another wave caught them, spinning them into a worse wind, the ropes holding the broken bit of foremast gave up their fight. The men further up the rope abandoned their posts to dodge the splintered wood…leaving the rest to flounder. Kaeya tried to call them back, but it was too late. A gust of wind pulled the rope taunt. Kaeya had no choice but to give up the rope, his hands torn bloody by the thing. The rope whipped across the deck like a live eel, men dodging desperately. But the crimson haired omega wasn’t fast enough, not when he was bogged down by a drenched dress. Kaeya watched in horror as the rope caught the omega about the waist, taking him overboard. He knew he shouldn’t bother. There was no rescue in a storm like this…
But the look on the redhead’s face as he went over… Kaeya let out a growl. He ran for the edge, ignoring the shouts of the crew for his reckless action. Kaeya didn’t believe the gods cared for prayers. Still, as he pushed off the railing – hands overhead to cut the water, he sent a prayer to those laughing bastards in the heavens. Let him survive this, for no other reason than he would make his death Hades’ problem…
Salt stung his eyes as he forced them open, looking for a flash of white and crimson. He saw nothing on the first dive. Breaking the rolling surface, he took a breath and dove back down. Kaeya didn’t look at the ship, there was no point, they would be left behind even if the crew wished to save them. His second dive yielded results. Red and white, the omega was getting pushed under by the violent waves. Kaeya dove a third time, fighting the current. He reached out, snagging the omega by the waist and forcing him to the surface.
“Hey, hey! Wake up…” He shouted into the omega’s ear, treading the water with only a single arm. The omega’s head lulled against his shoulder; a weak cough left him. But that was enough for Kaeya to smile, “You better not die…not after all this.”
Kaeya did his best to swim them towards a piece of floating wood. Something that broke off the ship… He pushed the omega half onto it, taking a chance to catch his breath. His head was still spinning, the bloodied cut stung from the salt water. Kaeya ripped off his bandana, tying their hands together with the drenched black fabric.
“Just gonna rest…don’t let me drown…” Kaeya put his head down on the broken plank, holding the omega tight as the waves drove them further and further from the ship that grew smaller against the storm clouds. He turned his head away, unwilling to watch. They wouldn’t die at sea…he refused.
---
Diluc was not afraid of dying. The sea swallowed him up when he went over the side of the ship, flooding his nose and burning his eyes. His dress turned to a lead weight even if it was only his shift and corset. It’s not that he wanted to die. He fought against the water, clawed his way to the surface for a desperate gasp of air only to be swallowed once more by a cresting wave. He hadn’t wanted to be on this ship. It had not been by his own desire. He was doing his duty as a noble omega, but that didn’t mean he was happy about it. The dress tangling around his legs only served to remind him of all the things he missed before his father’s death – before he presented, even. A time when he was allowed – allowed, what funny phrasing – to wear trousers. At least then he’d be able to swim… His vision grew hazy, his breath was running out. Just when he was sure there would be no help, an arm wrapped around his waist. It was the last thing he felt before he fainted.
The next time he awoke, his eyes were glued shut with sand.
The sun was blazing overhead. The sand was already warm, the lapping waves refreshingly cool against his bare legs. He coughed, tongue feeling swollen with salt. Brushing sand from his face, Diluc sat up. It was a vast difference from the storm grey sky he’d seen before…you’d never believe there was such a storm. The sky stretched a brilliant blue overhead, not a cloud to be seen. His attention was caught by a weight around his wrist.
The man who saved him-
The navigator, if Diluc remembered correctly. He couldn’t remember the man’s name, but he had seen him around the ship. The man was unconscious, their hands haphazardly tied together. Diluc stared for a long moment, wondering if the man was alive. He was startled and relieved when, as he went to check the man’s breathing with a finger beneath his nose, the older man coughed. He watched as the man wretched, hacking up sea water. Diluc patted his back.
He looked out at the sea behind them, noting there was not a single ship in sight. Almost drowning had been awful. Somehow this was worse. Alone with an alpha on an unknown island, no ship in sight. His heart thundered in his ears. In a burst of hysteria, Diluc scrambled to remove the tie holding them together. He scrambled back, putting distance between them until he could finally breathe. When he’d walked out onto the deck in the middle of the storm in nothing but a shift and a simple corset, it had seemed practical. Anything more would have ensured his death. But now he was alone on an island with an alpha. Even if this man did nothing to him, the rumors-
He fought down the tears pricking his eyes. He couldn’t afford to cry, couldn’t afford to appear weak. The man was regaining consciousness. There were more important things than his reputation. The navigator had a bleeding head wound; he was also Diluc’s best chance of survival… So, he hugged his knees, smoothed out his dress as best he could, and settled to watch over his savior. It was the least he could do for the man who attempted to save him.
When Kaeya awoke, it was to a burning throat. Bile and salt water were a horrible mix… He winced at the bright light; the sun was blazing down as if the storm had never been. There was…solid land under his hands, a sandy beach. It took a moment for his eye to adjust, finally settling on the omega who was watching him wearily from a few feet away. Kaeya looked from him to the dense vegetation of the island, back to the omega and then out to sea. An island in an unknown part of the sea with no ships in sight during the off season for sailing…
“We seem to be in a tough spot…” His voice was rough, throat parched and tongue tight, “Are you injured?”
“No…” A soft reply, sweet despite the scratchiness of a sore throat, “Your head is bleeding, are you alright?”
Kaeya raised a hand to his forehead at the omega’s words. Sure enough, he was bleeding, albeit sluggishly. He was certain it must only be a flesh wound but still…any form of open wound was dangerous in a situation like this.
“I think so…” He brushed the sand from his face, pushing his hair back. The strands clung to his forehead where the blood turned tacky. His clothes were stiff with salt but nothing he wasn’t used to. After a moment, he stood, shaking sand from his shirt, “We can’t stay here. If you’re well enough to walk then we need to head for the trees… The sun alone will kill us, and we need water. Considering how green this island is, I’d say there is a good chance we’ll find fresh water.”
“I’m fine to walk…but should we not stay on the beach where a ship can see us? I can wait here and flag down any ships that come.” Diluc offered. He did not want to be alone with the alpha, nor did he want to miss a chance at rescue.
“If you can’t already see a ship then none are coming. You’d see it long before it saw us…and that’s assuming it even came close enough to know we were here.” Kaeya’s tone was bland as he stared at the omega with a put-upon expression, “Our best chance of survival is shade and water. If you want to stay here and bake in the sun, be my guest.” Kaeya didn’t wait for a response, heading for the tree line without looking back.
Diluc stared at the man. How dare…this man was treating him like an idiot. Still, the idea of dying on this beach seemed an awful one. He swallowed, feeling how dry and scratchy his throat was. He needed water…he could be angry later. He didn’t want to listen to this alpha, but he didn’t have a choice. If the man thought he could find water, then Diluc would follow him. Only for now. Later, once they had the necessities, he would make sure this man never spoke to him like that again. He would not be talked down to by a boorish alpha. He may be an omega…but his father did not raise him to capitulate to alphas.
The trees are dense. He hadn’t been wearing his sword, they’d been in the middle of a storm, a blade was a hazard in such conditions. He felt naked without it. Still, he made do, breaking off branches as they went, he did his best to clear his way for the quiet omega. The redhead was even less prepared than he was. At least Kaeya had shoes.
“We’ll just head straight…if we’re lucky, we’ll find a river or lake of some kind. With this much foliage, I’m almost certain there must be water.” Kaeya spoke softly, pausing to hold a leaf frond out of the omega’s way.
“There are birds overhead, I’m certain you are right but are you positive heading straight in without exploring the beach is the best option?” Diluc questioned, holding his skirt up as he stepped over a tree root.
Kaeya wanted to roll his eyes. Of course he was being questioned…
“You’re free to go explore on your own if you like.” Kaeya shrugged, forging on ahead, “But I’ve been on ships that stopped by islands like this before. The water – fresh water – is usually found at the center of the island. It’s not going to be near the beach, it’ll be brackish at best. If you want proper drinking water, you’ve got to find the center of the island.” Kaeya explained.
“I’m not trying to question you. You needn’t speak to me like I’m an idiot. I just wanted some insight.” Diluc huffed, quickening his pace to march past Kaeya as the trees opened up.
Before Kaeya could stop him, Diluc stepped right off a small ledge, tumbling down an embankment with a squeak. Kaeya stood on the bank, taking in the situation.
“Well, look at that…you found water~” Sure enough, the omega was sitting in a shallow riverbed.
Diluc was covered in mud, could feel it seeping into his shift. He let out a plaintive growl. This wasn’t even drinkable water. It was too shallow and stagnant. He said as much, glaring up at the smirking alpha.
“This might not be, but that’s probably because of those fallen logs there… Further up though…” Kaeya offered a hand down to the redhead, pointing to where the riverbed cut through the trees. Diluc could see that there was indeed debris blocking it, and beyond that, there was slightly more water. It wasn’t a lot but, once Diluc was out of the muck, they followed it deeper into the forest. Along the bank, the trees were less dense. Just as Kaeya promised, the water was getting deeper until, finally, the path opened up to a swollen lake. Another river connection could be seen, as well as a small cascade of water down a rocky cliff that seemed to feed the lake. It couldn’t quite be called a waterfall but it was beautiful.
Neither wasted any time. The sight of the water instantly reminded them of their thirst. Kaeya dropped to his knees, instantly scooping water into his mouth with noisy slurps. Diluc wrinkled his nose, instead he knelt gracefully. He rinsed his hands free of mud, waiting for the water to clear before carefully scooping some between his palms. It was cold and clear. Decorum was quickly forgotten as the sweet water soothed his throat.
Kaeya used the water to rinse his face, rocking back on his heels to look around. The lake was small but clearly deep given how cold it was. The edge was shallow, but he could see the dark center where it must sink underground. As he watched the water, he caught the glimmer of scales. Fish.
“We might just be lucky…I see some fish in the lake.” Kaeya felt around his boot. They really were lucky. His dagger was still tucked there, meaning they could make a crude fishing spear.
“We don’t have fire, surely you aren’t suggesting we eat raw fish?” Diluc raised a brow.
“I know how to make a fire, we aren’t all little rich kiddies who can’t survive alone.” Kaeya snapped back, growing tired of the questioning.
“Well, pardon me if I don’t trust everything a single arrogant alpha says. For all I know, you are an over-confident brute liable to get us killed by infection or raw fish. ” Diluc’s tone was cold, but his face was flushed with anger. There was something amusing about the prim and proper speech when the omega had such fire blazing in his eyes.
“I have a name you know. And for that matter, I didn’t have to jump in to save you, prissy little omega. ” Kaeya growled, “We’re stuck here together and, unlike you, I have lived off the land. You may not trust a random alpha but you might want to consider trusting someone who actually has life experience you don’t.”
Diluc looked away. The man had saved his life and yet he’d continued to question every single thing the man did. He couldn’t help it though… They were trapped here, Diluc was wary of this man. Just because the navigator treated him well now didn’t mean it was safe.
Omegas were never safe…
“I’m sorry…” Diluc mumbled, “What is your name? I am Diluc Ragnvindr.” He took the chance to introduce himself. Perhaps having each other’s names would soothe the contention. This man wouldn’t be a nameless alpha then.
“I’m Kaeya…Kaeya Alberich.” Kaeya huffed, “Look…you don’t have to trust me, but we do need to work together. If you don’t want to die here, well, you’re just going to have to work with me.” Kaeya rubbed a hand through his hair, “I still have my boot dagger. I can make a spear for fishing. We need a fire…We’re going to need shelter too, but food is the most important right now.”
“I…I can do a bit of gathering?” Diluc finally looked up at the man. Kaeya…an interesting name for an interesting man. Diluc wanted to ask why this man would dive into a stormy sea to save a random omega. It was hard to imagine anyone would do that, knowing that there would be no immediate rescue… “I know a bit of botany.” More than a bit, it was a part of his strict training. Flowers and fruits, the important omega knowledge his tutors forced down his throat. Along with embroidery, singing, painting, piano and violin, and anything else they thought would get him married. So at odds with the teaching of his puphood… When his lessons included riding and sword fighting.
“That would be greatly appreciated…if our luck keeps up, maybe you’ll find some oranges.” Kaeya agreed, “And, if you see any large fronds…go ahead and gather those, bits and bobs for kindling as well. I’ll gather some wood while I look for a good stick to act as a spear. The weather is good now but it’s the stormy season, we don’t want to get caught in the rain.”
While it was warm now, the rains would be cold…and the constant back and forth would surely make them ill.
“I’ll see what I can do…” Diluc agreed, standing from the bank.
---
If Kaeya was gauging the sun correctly, several hours passed before they reconvened on the shore. Kaeya set them up on a semi flat area near the lake. It wasn’t perfect but for a single night it would do. He whistled low, taking in Diluc’s haul. He could admit to himself that perhaps he was underestimating the omega. He thought Diluc was the prim and pampered type… But from the nicks on his hands to the amount of work he’d put in, Kaeya could tell he’d been wrong.
“That’s a hell of a haul…” Kaeya looked through the items Diluc gathers, “Pomelos…well, at least we won’t have to worry about scurvy.” Kaeya held up one of the large citrus fruits. Ships didn’t often carry them; the fruits were large so less of them could be brought but sometimes that was all you could get. Kaeya was just thankful there was citrus of any kind. He’d eat a lime whole if it kept the scurvy away…
“You got fish…” Diluc could admit he was surprised. When the man said he would, Diluc wanted to roll his eyes. It seemed like such an alpha thing. ‘Be the provider’ nonsense. He hadn’t expected the man to actually return with several fish tied together on a vine.
“Said I would~” Kaeya grinned, “Cleaned and gutted. Now we just need to get a fire going.” It didn’t take long. Good kindling and some dry sticks and Kaeya put his muscles to work until finally a fire caught.
Just as dusk was turning the sky purple and pink, they were able to sit down to a small dinner of roasted fish and fruits. Diluc couldn’t say it was the best dish he ever had but there was something rewarding about eating it after a difficult day. The fish was fresh despite lacking seasoning. It was a far cry from the herbs and butter he was used to. Still, he ate two entire fish.
“Not the best but we won’t starve here.” Kaeya said. The silence had stretched on as they ate, “I can use the sea water to make some salt. Who knows, perhaps you’ll find some herbs.” He offered the omega a smile.
“You can use the fruits as well…the juice or even roasting the flesh can create new flavors.” His father’s maid, Adelinde, used lemons to season the fish…perhaps the citrus they found could act as a substitute.
“I’ll keep that in mind~ Do you know how to cook soups? If we find any root vegetables or mushrooms that could be a good way to eat them…” Kaeya asked, curious.
“I can cook a bit…I can’t promise they will be very good though.” Diluc grew up with maids, cooking was considered only tangentially necessary.
Kaeya nodded, stoking the fire. The sun set quickly, darkness consuming the island. And before long, the chill would set in. The sea was always cold, even in the heat of summer there was a chill that blew in from the deep sea. In the stormy season, that cold was always worse…usually accompanied by wind driven rains. He’d had his fill of storms. He looked up at the sky, seeing the stars that were beginning to light up. The small slice wasn’t enough to get a proper read on their location.
“Do all navigators know how to read the stars?” Diluc found himself asking, curious.
“Yes, but not all read them well.” Kaeya answered with a grin, looking back at the omega.
“I see…” The conversation lulled again, “I’m sorry…I admit I don’t know much about ships.” Diluc looked into the fire. Ever since he presented, he felt unsure of his place in the world…
“Ships are something you learn when there is a need. Otherwise I doubt most people know much about ship life… But if it’s not too forward, why did you commission that ship? At this time of year, sea travel is dangerous – which I’m sure many told you…” Kaeya had been curious from the moment the captain said they’d be sailing for Fontaine. While it wasn’t quite the off season, a trip that far was ill-advised.
“Well…” Diluc hesitated, but he supposed it couldn’t hurt to tell the man about himself. After all, there was little else to do than talk… “I was traveling to meet my fiancé. We were supposed to be getting married soon but now…” He trailed off, shrugging.
“I’m sure he’s waiting for you.” Kaeya attempted to comfort, looking sympathetic.
“Yes…” Diluc looked away. He didn’t want to admit he knew nothing about the man he was to marry. His father arranged it all before his death. A negotiation just to keep their family’s land…and now it may all be for nothing if they couldn’t get off this damned island. Diluc did his best to ignore the part of him that knew it wouldn’t matter. He was on an island with a lone alpha. They would claim he was ruined no matter what he or this alpha said. The lands would go to someone else, and he would end up a spinster with little in the way of options… “I’m tired, I think I would like to rest.”
Before Kaeya could even come up with a response, Diluc moved around the other side of the fire and laid down, curling in on himself with his back to Kaeya.
“Good night…” Kaeya whispered to the omega’s back. He stayed up for several more hours, keeping watch until exhaustion finally caught up to him.
---
The first few days played out much the same. Kaeya would fish, Diluc would forage, and they would meet in the middle during meals. They found coconuts which Kaeya was able to break open and use for bowls which he immediately used to make salt. Diluc found more fruits that they could eat, even some bananas which Kaeya was certainly grateful for. Kaeya fashioned Diluc a sharpened stick in case he needed to defend himself. Diluc on the other hand was able to make them some rope by twining together vines. He was quite good with his hands. They set aside time in the morning, when it was cooler, to explore the island.
Which is what led to their current argument.
“We should set up closer to the shore! How else will we get rescued?” Diluc argued, hands on his hips.
“We should set up near our water source. There is an excellent spot not far from here that’s closer to the fruit trees anyway.” Kaeya explained, tempted to roll his eyes, “I told you, the ships that come by may not be friendly. What do you think will happen if we get spotted by pirates?”
The argument kept spiraling and Kaeya was quickly becoming fed up.
“You’re talking about a slim chance of pirates when there is a much higher chance of a…I don’t know, a navy ship or something!” Diluc threw his hands up angrily. Kaeya seemed determined to just live on this island.
The man took to island life so naturally, Diluc almost believed he was born on it. Kaeya gave Diluc his shirt on the third day, completely unconcerned with going topless. Diluc couldn’t really complain about that. It allowed him to do away with his corset – though he kept it safe just in case. The man was strong, stronger than Diluc expected of a navigator. He’d imagined a man who worked mostly in the cabin but Kaeya’s shoulders and the scars on his body told a different story. Diluc could admit he looked over the alpha. Kaeya was perhaps a handful of years older than Diluc, not significant but enough that he felt more…just more. Perhaps it was the tattoos the man proudly displayed – a compass on his chest and the pavo ocellus constellation carved into his back with black ink.
“Look love, you don’t know a single fucking thing.” Kaeya finally snapped, “The only ships you’re gonna see for the next three months will be pirate ships. It’s the off season, no proper ship in their right mind will be out here. I know you want to run off to your husband but you’re gonna have to wait like a good little omega for sailing season.” He growled the words, stepping closer to Diluc. He didn’t usually try to throw his weight around, but Diluc was beginning to get under his skin. He couldn’t help throwing in an extra shot… “You’ll get home soon and I’m sure your husband will love you good~”
“ You pompous alpha! ” Diluc snarled back, offended. He thought they’d gotten past such insults…clearly not. “I’m not missing a husband, I have responsibilities!” Diluc shouted, fingers curling to dig nails into his palm, “I am going to lose everything if I can’t get off this thrice damned island. Everything! ”
Kaeya blinked, stepping back at the omega’s rage. He could admit he hadn’t been expecting such a thing. Diluc normally seemed so level headed… Though Kaeya could admit he’d overstepped with his comments.
“You’ll get home, it’ll just take time.” Kaeya responded, meeting Diluc’s fire filled eyes.
“You don’t know anything. ” Diluc was so tired of being spoken to like he was stupid. He may not have Kaeya’s life experience, but it was clear that Kaeya didn’t understand Diluc’s position, “I am an unmarried omega, and an orphan at that. Omegas cannot inherit an estate…if I do not marry the person my father chose then I will lose everything. I will have no claim to my family home, no claim to a single thing…and I will be left to die on the streets or give myself to whatever desperate alpha thinks they can get me with pup just to ensure I don’t starve! So, excuse me if I am a bit desperate to get off this island, Kaeya. ”
Kaeya felt something in his chest twist…and then he hardened himself against it. While he could sympathize, he would not change his mind. Getting found by pirates meant they were as good as dead. Even if they weren’t murdered…well, he knew what they would do to a pretty omega like Diluc.
“I understand…but your desires do not trump our safety. If you want to sit out on the beach in hopes of flagging down some imaginary ship, go ahead. I’ll be building a shelter where it is safe. ” Kaeya finally answered, shaking his head, “I will gladly take up for you when we are rescued, swearing that nothing happened, and you were a demure, perfect omega. But until then, we need to be smart, not desperate. If I could get you off this island just by wishing it, I would but you know that isn’t possible.” With that, Kaeya walked away, heading to the area he felt would be best for a shelter.
That argument was several days prior. There had been little conversation since – nothing more than the bare minimum was said between them. It bothered Kaeya even if he didn’t show it. In response, he threw himself into work. The shelter was coming together nicely. They had a roof of woven fronds attached to tree limbs that he bent to their needs. He used the trees already there to act as supports for walls built from fallen logs lashed together with vines. He used mud to fill in the gaps, further covering that with more leaves on each side in hopes of keeping it solid even in the rain. If a truly terrible storm came through it wouldn’t do much but it was better than nothing… He also took the chance to explore further into the island without Diluc.
When they explored together, the issue of Diluc’s lack of shoes made extended distance difficult. It wasn’t something Kaeya held against the omega but without him, Kaeya was able to range further. Eventually…he made it to the other side of the island. He’d noted over the course of their adventures that the island had an incline, sure enough, he came to a cliff edge that jutted out over the ocean. He marked the trail with his initials on trees. This would be an excellent spot to map the stars and figure out where they were. When he peered over the edge, he noted that the beach seemed to cut inward. Curious, he found a way down towards the beaches where he was confronted with a massive sea cave. While the formation itself was natural, carved over years by the crashing waves, there were obvious signs of human involvement. Most noticeably, there was a path made from nailed together planks that led deeper into the cave. Kaeya wasn’t a fool. Quick inspection showed that this was an area to dock a boat. There were crates of goods – jewels, fabrics, rare books. All obviously stolen. Kaeya had a feeling from the moment they got here that this had the markings of a pirate hideaway.
Now he had proof… But he couldn’t tell Diluc, he didn’t want to scare the other, not yet anyway… At the same time though, some of these items could be extremely useful…especially when he found a crate of weapons and tools…
He couldn’t make a decision to take them on his own. He would have to tell Diluc, regardless of his concerns. He had much to think over…
As he left the cave, his vision wavered. Kaeya leaned against the stone, holding a hand to his head. A headache throbbed behind his temples. Kaeya knew the cut on his forehead was infected. The wound had turned sticky, a slight odor coming from it even as he tried to wash it with lake water. He’d been keeping it quiet from Diluc. Shaking his head to clear his vision, Kaeya trudged on, determined to keep up the façade of being fine. He didn’t want to worry the other…
When he reached camp, he found the omega tending the fire, roasting the remaining fish from their breakfast. Kaeya hesitated for a moment just outside of their camp. The awkward tension that usually surrounded them wasn’t there yet, Diluc hadn’t noticed him… As much as he wanted to tell the truth, the moment just didn’t feel right. Instead, Kaeya settled in for another quiet night of the same fruit and fish. He could tell Diluc later. It was selfish of him, but he didn’t want this to be another thing to argue about, he didn’t want this to cause more fear and uncertainty. He just wanted a little more peace…
When night fell, Kaeya went to bed first. That was a rare thing, usually Diluc was the one who curled into a ball with his back to the alpha not long after dinner. Diluc had noticed the sailor barely even touched his food. Something felt off. Despite their arguments, Diluc didn’t hate the sailor…he could even admit he enjoyed his company. The man was a smooth talker, always full of amusing quips. Prior to the silent treatment Diluc was giving him, Kaeya would share such fascinating tales of adventure on the high seas. He wasn’t sure every story was true, but the way Kaeya told them left Diluc breathless with excitement.
The argument was weighing on Diluc but the longer it went on, the harder it became to break the tension. That was Diluc’s excuse for watching Kaeya so closely… So closely that he saw the sheen of fever sweat in the firelight. Concerned, Diluc quietly moved closer to the alpha. If he was wrong, then the embarrassment would sting but at least he’d have an answer. Kaeya didn’t even twitch. Diluc came to sit right next to him, gently placing a hand on the alpha’s shoulder.
He was burning up.
Kaeya was shivering despite the sweat pouring off him. Diluc could smell the turn in Kaeya’s scent now that he was so close, the sour scent of illness… It couldn’t possibly be a cold, not this long after… At least it didn’t sound like one. Kaeya hadn’t been sneezing or coughing. He’d seemed fine- Except for the head wound. The one left open, only cleaned out with lake water. It was hidden behind the filthy bandana Kaeya kept on him. He used it for almost anything and then wrapped it back around his head… Diluc leaned over Kaeya, pulling the fabric away from Kaeya’s forehead. It clung, causing Kaeya to grimace. Diluc froze, watching the alpha’s face for a long moment before continuing to peel it back. He was horrified by what he saw. An oozing, puss filled, gash right along the sailor’s hairline. The smell was awful. Diluc clenched his teeth. How had he not noticed? He should have insisted Kaeya clean it properly, he should have checked it himself… This man was injured and still dove into the sea to save him and now they were stuck on this blasted island and Kaeya could die because of an infection-
Diluc cut off his thoughts, tears burning in his eyes. There was no time to wallow in misery. He needed to help Kaeya, he had to do something. The man had made them several bowls from the coconuts they collected. It became a way of mixing things, of eating like real people. And it also meant Diluc could boil water. That’s where he started. He collected water from the flowing river rather than the lake itself. Omegas were expected to care for pups, that included handling injuries and tending to their bedside… Thankfully, that meant Diluc had a bit of knowledge. On top of his special interest – medicine. He once thought to be a doctor, even after he presented there was a dream of being the first omega doctor… But after his father’s death, those dreams went out the window. He had to be a good mate.
Doctors were busy, omegas were expected to nurse their pups back to health and so Diluc took his knowledge and furthered it with books on child ailments. Luckily, infected cuts featured prominently. Diluc set to work, ripping the sleeves off Kaeya’s shirt. He was thankful it was a simple, loose shirt. There were no cuffs or buttons to deal with and the fabric was thin enough for him to tear with ease. He boiled the bandages in one coconut while the other he had a bit of salt. It took some time, dumping the water for the bandages, then boiling them again until he was certain they were as clean as he could get them. Then he added a portion of the bandages to the salted water. He needed to clean the pus out…
Diluc carefully carried the steaming water to Kaeya’s side. All through this, the man hardly even moved. It was concerning… He knelt, taking the rag into his hands. The water burned his fingers, turning his pale skin bright red. That was a good thing, it would help clean the cut. Diluc took a breath, taking the sopping, hot cloth and pressing it firmly against the cut. That got a reaction.
Kaeya tried to pull away, still unconscious but fighting against the pain. Diluc leaned his weight into the alpha with a snarl. That earned him a growl. Putting aside his pride, Diluc gave a plaintive whine, hoping to calm the other. It seemed to work. A shiver went through Kaeya’s body before he finally stopped trying to roll away. Diluc let out a breath, wiping away the pus as gently as he could. He repeated the process several times until it was as clean as it could get for the night. The clean, unsalted, bandages were still damp, but it was the best he could do for now. He took a few strips, wrapping Kaeya’s head as best he could. The rest he left to dry. In the morning, he would replace it with a nice dry bandage. The bandages he used to clean the wound were returned to the fire to boil clean.
Diluc looked through the plants he gathered over the last few days. Scented fern…he found some a few days ago. His books mentioned it could be used as a fever reducer. The fever was the symptom he found most concerning. It meant the infection was now damaging Kaeya’s entire body. He would have to act quickly to treat it. So, he set himself to work until the first light of dawn, making medicines and checking on Kaeya throughout the night. He used moss soaked in the cool lake water under Kaeya’s armpits, he coaxed Kaeya to drink the fern infusion by sitting behind the man, lifting his head up until he could ease the liquid into his mouth.
“Don’t die on me…” Diluc whispered, hovering over the unconscious man. He needed sleep…but the fear of waking to a cold body overwhelmed him. He could still remember the icy feel of his father’s hand- Diluc forced the thought aside. He wouldn’t allow Kaeya to die like this. The man was on this island because of him. He couldn’t let him die…not when he hadn’t repaid the man. Diluc curled into Kaeya’s side, placing his head on the man’s chest to listen to the thud of his heart. The reassuring beat lulled him to sleep. Just a few hours…
---
It was three days later that Kaeya woke up. He was entirely unprepared for the omega that collapsed against him, sobs wracking his frame. He barely had time to choke out a question. It was only after several bowls of water that Kaeya learned the full story. He’d been asleep for three days, battling fever and infection as Diluc tended to him. The omega looked utterly exhausted. There were deep bruises under ruby eyes; and yet his relief was palpable. Kaeya was almost flustered by the way the omega fussed over him, offering water, fruit, even asking if he needed help to the bathroom! Kaeya, on legs shaky as a newborn fawns, was determined not to need that much help. But that trip wore him out as much as a long hike would.
“You need more rest…” Diluc scolded gently.
“You as well…” Kaeya whispered; throat still rough.
There was a standoff, a moment of staring silently…and then Kaeya opened his arms and the omega fell against him with a pleased purr. He could tell the omega had been by his bedside, Kaeya was practically coated in his scent. That didn’t bother him. In fact, if he were honest, it was actually comforting.
That was the first night they cuddled together.
It wasn’t the last.
As Kaeya regained his strength, the tension that existed after the argument seemed to melt away. Diluc tended to him with such kindness that Kaeya could hardly think to keep anything from him. The first thing he revealed, once they were no longer exhausted, was the cave.
“This island is probably frequented by pirates… I left everything untouched, I thought it should be your choice whether we use the items there or leave it be. It looked like it had been a while since they visited but, well…there is no guarantee that they won’t eventually return. If we don’t touch it, they aren’t likely to come inland. If we do, well…” Kaeya trailed off. He watched Diluc process the information, mulling it over. He knew he talked down to the other quite a bit but that was his own ignorance. He knew Diluc was smart. There was no reason other than his own pigheadedness to belittle the omega. He was truly embarrassed by his prior words…
“I believe that, for now, we aren’t in desperate need of anything… While It would be nice to have more fabric and whatever else they have stored there, it’s not an immediate need. We shouldn’t risk ourselves recklessly. You were right about that before. If anything does become a pressing need though, it will be good to know that it exists. For now, we should leave and if our situation becomes worse then at least we have a risky backup.” Diluc finally said, looking at Kaeya intently to see if the alpha would disagree or even contradict him.
“I agree…there is no reason to take unnecessary risks.” Kaeya agreed with a smile. Diluc returned it, relieved their thoughts were aligned.
Things seemed more peaceful now. There was understanding, negotiation…they were able to talk without the walls of alpha and omega. They had not slept apart from each other since Kaeya awoke. Kaeya tried not to show how it touched him as Diluc began to make a nest for them. They did not have much but, using the items available, Diluc tried to make their sleeping space more comfortable. He even took to combing the beach for items. Before Kaeya realized it, there were shells and sea glass decorating the shelter. The best haul the omega brought in was the tattered remains of a sail and rope. Kaeya was even able to use the broken mast to shore up the thatched roof. The canvas of the sail was turned into a part of the nest. Kaeya was impressed by Diluc’s thought to craft a crude needle from carefully sharpened wood. He allowed Diluc to guide him as he whittled the wood until it was usable. Threads were made from foliage. They worked together far better now that they felt comfortable.
And they talked more.
“My father left instructions for my marriage in his will. I never even knew I was engaged. I was to marry a noble from Fontaine, one Marquis Eroch. Through him, my father’s properties would stay within our direct line… If I do not make it to Fontaine by the deadline, then I will lose everything that once belonged to my family – all because I am an omega.” Diluc sighed one night as they sat by the fire, “I don’t even know the man. And yet I am expected to marry and birth his pups with no worry to my own desires."
"And what is it you desire?" Kaeya asked, curious.
"Hah...don’t laugh but…I wanted to be a doctor. Even after I presented, I had this dream of being the first omega doctor in Mondstadt…” Diluc looked away, a bit sheepish after admitting his dream.
“Why would I laugh?” Kaeya asked honestly, “That’s a very noble dream…” He looked up towards the stars, “Where I was born…I think we would have been happy to have any doctor, omega or otherwise. We had bigger things to worry about than designations. Where to get your next meal, where you’d find work… It wasn’t until I got to a point where I didn’t have to worry about food or housing that I noticed the difference. Now I own a small house, I work on the ships…and everyone asks when I’ll find a nice omega to settle down with.” Kaeya laughed softly, shaking his head, “If they knew the gutters I crawled up from, they wouldn’t even think of marrying their precious omega children to me.” He grinned at Diluc.
“I think you sell yourself short. You’ve mentioned it isn’t easy to become a navigator. That means you’ve worked hard to have the security you have now…a small house is still a home; work is still work. I think any omega would be happy to have someone willing to do their best.” Diluc smiled back, leaning closer subconsciously, “And I suppose it doesn’t hurt that you’re attractive.” The teasing was new, done in small bursts and accompanied with a bright blush.
“Well…I think any alpha who only sees you as a pupping farm is a fool. You’re as smart as you are beautiful…” Kaeya leaned in, his voice lowering, “And according to the crew, you’ve got beauty in spades.” He teased back, though that teasing was beginning to become more like flirting…
“And according to you?” Diluc asked, eyes flicking to meet Kaeya’s and then away, “You say what the crew thought but what about you…”
Kaeya must be a fool. Surely, he was. This omega wasn’t meant for him. He was meant for nobility, a manor, somewhere beautiful with all the finest things. He deserved silks and satins, feathered beds, and the finest foods. He deserved things Kaeya would never be able to provide…and yet here he was imagining things he had no right to. He wished he had rum to blame the thoughts on, but they’d drank through that early on. So, he could only blame a burst of insanity as he tucked an errant strand of crimson hair behind Diluc’s ear.
“I don’t know much about beauty…but I do think I’ve seen quite a few sunsets out at sea, and you put all of them to shame.” That was flirting. There was no excuse at this point. He was a fool. Diluc leaned into his hand and Kaeya for a moment was filled with the desire to kiss the other.
He couldn’t.
“Let’s get some sleep…” Kaeya turned away, making himself busy with snuffing out the fire.
Diluc sat for a moment, staring at the navigator’s back. He wanted to scold himself. How could he go leaning in, staring at the man’s lips like that- Their companionship was tentative. Kaeya was a complete gentleman; no longer did he make crude comments out of frustration. They were getting along so well, Diluc forgot himself. He had a life to get back to, he couldn’t be throwing himself to this alpha… No matter how much he thought about throwing it all away. There was something in Kaeya’s words, the idea of living a life outside of the nobility where he may be able to use his skills to help people that made him almost want to throw everything away. What a reckless thing to consider.
When they returned to the nest, sleeping back-to-back as they usually did, Diluc could hardly stand the overwhelming desire to roll over and curl into Kaeya. He barely slept that night.
Kaeya was no better.
As the weeks went by, the desires only grew. Kaeya was a paced, angry thing that could hardly look at Diluc without the desire to rip that thin shift off him. It was early in the morning that Kaeya realized the root of his obsession. He woke to find Diluc missing from the nest. Without thinking, Kaeya growled deep, following the scent like a beast hunting prey. He found Diluc at the lake…bathing in the early morning light. He was naked as he stood there, water cascading down his skin. For the first time, Kaeya saw every inch of the beauty he was trapped on this island with. Diluc was like a porcelain statue carved in reverence of the gods. Because there was no explanation for the perfect curve of his hips, the tumble of his hair, the lines of his legs- Kaeya’s fingers dug into his palms with enough force to draw blood.
Rut.
It was a startling realization.
He counted the days over and over, how long since they landed here…35 days. Give or take a day or two… He would have been home by now. His rut would have been handled alone, not in the presence of an omega…
Kaeya ripped himself away from the scene of Diluc bathing in the lake. With a single thought in mind, he practically ran all the way to the cave on the other end of the island. When he looked through the pirate’s stash, he’d seen good rope. He wished it was chains. They agreed not to take from the cave unless the situation became dire. Kaeya felt this fit that narrative. It didn’t take long to find what he wanted, hoisting the heavy coil over his shoulder. He hauled it back with a single-minded determination.
“Kaeya?” He was startled by Diluc’s voice when he returned to camp, so focused on the task he’d hardly noticed the other. Or was he simply so used to Diluc’s scent that he didn’t notice… “Where did you find that rope?”
“The cave.” Kaeya answered shortly, gathering his water flask. He would need enough give in the rope to drink water but not enough to escape…
“I thought we agreed to only do that if it was dire? Kaeya we don’t need rope…” Diluc was clearly concerned, coming closer.
“Stay away!” Kaeya growled, backing up. Guilt ate at him when he saw the hurt look in Diluc’s eyes, “This is a dire situation…I am in rut.” He looked away, “I am a danger to you, it’s better that you stay away until it settles. For your protection, I will bind myself to a tree near the camp. As long as I have some fruit and water, I’ll be fine.” He explained, bundling fruit into one of the leaf woven baskets Diluc made.
“Rut- Kaeya that’s serious… But that doesn’t explain the rope…” Even as Diluc spoke, following Kaeya at a distance through the camp, he realized what the man intended, “Are you really going to tie yourself to a tree ?” Diluc asked incredulously.
“Yes. It’s the best way to ensure you’re safe.” Kaeya found a good, strong tree that had a line of sight to the camp. He would know Diluc was safe but would be unable to reach him. It might drive him mad, but it was better than being too far to see him… Or perhaps that was the rut talking.
Diluc didn’t have any words to refute Kaeya. It was the right thing…to protect his virtue, to ensure he wasn’t compromised… But it felt so ridiculous that Diluc wanted to argue it. But he couldn’t. Not when he remembered he was supposed to have a fiancé waiting for him. A fiancé who may turn him away despite the drastic measures taken by this kind alpha.
He watched, flushing bright red, as Kaeya dropped his pants. The rope was coiled around the tree. He would be able to move his hands but not reach the ties. The more he tugged, the tighter the ropes got. He allowed one hand to have enough distance to reach water, food, and his cock. The other he asked Diluc to tie as tight as he could. Diluc followed the direction with trembling fingers, ignoring the heat that rushed through him when Kaeya breathed in his scent. Kaeya’s cock was hard and heavy. Diluc’s only experience with alpha cocks were the flaccid pictures in his anatomy books…they paled in comparison.
When Kaeya was set up, Diluc was forced to return to camp. It was difficult to ignore the way Kaeya’s pheromones made him feel. His stomach cramped. A need he never paid attention to before was building inside him…a hunger…
The next morning dawned gray, rain drizzling down on them. It wasn’t one of the worst storms they’d seen but it was enough to make going out pointless. Diluc used the canvas from the sail he’d found to cover the roof of the shelter, stopping water from dripping down. Diluc sat in camp, arms wrapped around his knees. He stared at Kaeya for a long while. Water dripped down tan skin. He had tattoos, scars, strong muscles…muscles that Diluc knew were strong as steel but warm beneath his fingertips… He wondered what Kaeya’s cock would feel like. It wasn’t a proper thought. His tutors would be horrified…even his father would be shocked. But his tutors weren’t here, and his father was dead. There was no one to shame him for his thoughts, no one to criticize his desires. There was nothing but himself and this strong, kind, powerful alpha.
The rain stopped…and then came the humidity. A heavy weight filled the space between them. Kaeya didn’t move to touch himself even though Diluc could tell he wanted to. They stared at each other; eyes locked. Kaeya’s eyepatch had been left aside after the infection. There was no need for it, the scar on his eye didn’t frighten Diluc. The golden eye that used to be hidden only made Kaeya more handsome. There was so much for Diluc to lose. His future was tenuous at best, if he crossed the line drawn in the sand – there would be no going back. He would be utterly reliant on this man even if they were rescued…
Diluc stood.
There was no real choice. To marry a man he never met to inherit wealth he wouldn’t be allowed to use sounded so silly when they didn’t know if they would survive to the next week. And if they were rescued, well, he would find his own way. His father would want him to be happy. Marrying a stranger would not make him happy…but life on this island, life with this alpha just might. So, he walked, slowly, step after step, holding that heated gaze…
“I told you to stay away.” Kaeya’s voice is a whispered growl.
“I know.” Diluc answered simply.
There was a beat of silence. A moment to take it all back. A moment to walk away. And then Kaeya let out a sound somewhere between agony and desperation.
“You don’t want me.” He spoke in a pleading tone, begging Diluc to understand something he never would, “I am not a good man, I have nothing to offer you. No title, no land, no wealth. I own a small house; I work on the high seas where I very well may die…”
“You speak so low of yourself still…” Diluc shook his head, “I am an omega with no name, an orphan, my family are all gone and with it the wealth, the land, the titles are all lost to me. I can bring you nothing but myself, my body, my soul. I have had every choice ripped from me…let me take this choice. I have nothing but if you accept me…I will give you all of myself. To have and to hold, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health…no matter what we face, I will stand by you. If you are at sea, I will come with you, if your house is small – I will make it a home. We will make do with whatever we have, as long as we are together. Isn’t that enough?”
And there was an edge of uncertainty, a shyness, an innocent request that had Kaeya fighting against the ropes.
“I will give you anything in the world… I am not the right man, I am not a man you should want…but if you do then I will spend all my days striving to be worthy of you, mate. ” A growled, desperate promise as Kaeya fought the ropes binding him.
Diluc took a breath. Mates. That is what they would be after this.
For better or for worse.
He hiked his skirt up, straddling Kaeya’s lap before uncertainty could settle in. His hands cupped Kaeya’s face, meeting his gaze with determination. There was no time for more words. No time for questions. He knew his answer to an unasked question. He pressed his lips to Kaeya’s. It was not a deep kiss, but it was firm and warm. The taste of rain and the heavy scent of Kaeya’s pheromones filled him with a hunger only Kaeya could satisfy. It took all this strength to pull away from the kiss, fingers finding the knots binding Kaeya’s hands. He barely loosened them before Kaeya was all but tearing the rope, strong hands grabbing Diluc. Kaeya’s hands were hot with the rut-induced fever. One of those hands found his thigh, pushing his dress further up as it sought the curve of his ass. The other wound into knotted crimson hair, tugging Diluc down into a proper kiss.
This one felt like being devoured. Open mouthed, tongues brushing, teeth scraping, all the hunger that filled them was poured into that kiss. Diluc was unwilling to let his inexperience get in the way of enjoying himself. He gave into his instincts, doing his best to keep up with the kiss and giving just as much as Kaeya. Back and forth like the tides, push and pull…
With a rip, Diluc’s shift was stripped from his body. Any concerns for the loss of clothing were distant as Kaeya’s hands explored his flesh. Heat spread through him, a fire coaxed into being with every touch, every lick, every slide of flesh. Sweat and rain mixed on their skin, gluing them together even as they seemed ready to crawl inside each other’s skin. Kaeya’s hands massaged and groped Diluc’s ass. He spread them just to slide his cock between Diluc’s cheeks, coating himself in the omega’s copious slick. Kaeya’s touch was not gentle – it was reverent, filled with a fervor and a need that Diluc couldn’t understand yet felt just the same.
This was mating.
Not the frilly, flowery language of his tutors. This was not a ‘bedding.’ This was primal, this was raw…and when Kaeya shoved Diluc down on his cock, Diluc howled. Nails dug into skin, drawing rivulets of blood. Kaeya guided Diluc up and down his cock, the omega’s thighs trembling as he rode the alpha. Diluc was by no means weak, he took everything Kaeya gave, head tossed back as Kaeya licked a hot stripe up his throat. Their scents were thick, heavy in the air. They did not stifle their sounds, growls and moans echoing through the trees. Diluc drew blood, Kaeya dug bruises into pale skin. Every thrust had whines and pleas for more falling from Diluc’s lips in delirious babbling. And when Kaeya’s knot began to swell, stretching Diluc’s rim all the more, Diluc was practically slamming himself onto it, determined to feel Kaeya locked inside of him. There was almost a destructive nature to their fucking. Kaeya’s cock was massive, enough to bulge Diluc’s stomach, his knot was thick and heavy, a tantalizing treat and a threat all in one.
“Take me, sunshine~ Claim your alpha…” Kaeya cooed, teeth tantalizingly close to Diluc’s mating gland. Diluc rose onto his knees, nails digging into Kaeya’s broad shoulder. He dropped himself onto Kaeya’s knot, vision whiting out as it forced its way into him. Kaeya thrust up, grinding his knot even deeper as Diluc came between them, hole milking Kaeya for all he was worth as he spilled inside the omega. He bit harshly into Diluc’s throat, tasting blood, feeling the pleasure that seared the air between them…
The world fell silent.
The tides shifted, the air grew light, Diluc felt like he could breathe for the first time in years even as he gasped. He trembled in Kaeya’s arms, feeling the alpha’s cum fill his belly in seemingly endless spurts. Kaeya licked the blood from his lips, guiding Diluc’s head to his shoulder. All was beautiful. All was right. The bond settled into place, sealing their fate. Kaeya was his. He was Kaeya’s.
For better or for worse.
He wasn’t sure why his mind latched onto those words, perhaps it was their current situation. Perhaps it was a sixth sense – a notion that something remained unfinished. Diluc didn’t know. It should scare him. How little they knew of each other beyond this island… And yet he never felt safer than in this moment.
Diluc closed his eyes…and let his worries fade.
---
They grew reckless.
Kaeya knew they had.
Through his rut, he took Diluc in every position imaginable. And after it, they found ways to make the nest all the more inviting. They took fabrics of silk and satin to make clothes and blankets and bedding. Before they knew it, their shelter was becoming a proper home with walls and utensils… Perhaps if it had just been the rope they took, nothing would have changed. But Kaeya learned young that life at sea was never predictable.
When the raiders came, it was while Kaeya was exploring more of the island, checking traps set for critters. He spotted the boat moored near the cave. He knew he’d made a horrible mistake. He heard Diluc’s scream as he rushed towards the camp. Slowing his pace, he creeped through the brush until he saw what happened.
Pirates.
Several of them… They’d captured Diluc, binding the struggling omega in ropes. They were speaking amongst themselves, one noticing the mark on Diluc’s throat.
“I don’t think he’s alone. That’s a fresh bite…” One man looked around the trees suspiciously.
“If he’s got an alpha then that’s all the more reason to get him back to the ship. No one would be stupid enough to fight us there and if he is, well…we’ll kill him then.” Another snapped back, gesturing for the raiding party to leave.
Kaeya caught Diluc’s frantic eyes, raising a finger to his lips. Diluc looked away, not wanting to give away Kaeya’s location. The alpha crept after them, silent as he moved. He regretted not taking his dagger that morning…but there was no time to fetch it. He would have to bide his time. He would not let them take his mate.
Down to the cave, where the long boats were tied, where the crew was going through their looted goods. The captain of the ship, with pomp and importance turned when the crew appeared. Kaeya plastered himself to the rocks, listening intently.
“What a gorgeous omega you are~ You’ll fetch a pretty penny at the brothels…” The man laughed cruelly. Diluc spit in the man’s face, earning a growl. The captain struck Diluc hard, sending his brave mate to the ground. Diluc snarled up at the captain. His precious mate was so strong…
“He’s got an alpha round here somewhere…” One of the pirates warned.
A warning that came too late.
Kaeya launched from the shadows, tackling the captain. They growled, two alphas locked in a struggle. But Kaeya was stronger. He was more vicious. He was a beast that Diluc had never seen before. Diluc watched, mute with shock as Kaeya lifted a rock, smashing it down on the captain’s head.
Again.
Again.
Again.
Again.
When Kaeya stood, the rock was dripping with the smashed remains of brains and skull, the captain was not even twitching, head a bloodstain on the stone floor. The man turned on the other pirates, all of them backing away just at the overwhelming weight of his pheromones.
In the struggle, Kaeya’s eyepatch had been lost, leaving that cruel mismatched gaze to level at every man there. Diluc crawled forward on his knees, cooing to soothe his alpha. The show of strength did not frighten him. This was the alpha he chose. A man who would do anything for him…
“Alberich?” They both froze as someone spoke Kaeya’s name, “Kaeya ‘Golden-eye’ Alberich?”
“Who’s asking…” Kaeya was stiff, on edge. His fingers found purchase in Diluc’s hair, holding him to his side as he stared at the other pirates, ready to fight if he had to. Diluc was confused. Why would these pirates know his mate…
“There aren’t many who forgot the first mate of the Bloody Baron! When word spread that he left after a fight with the captain… Many captains went on the hunt for ya, they all wanted ya for their crews…” Another pirate answered, shock and awe coloring his tone.
“I don’t live that life anymore… I left piracy behind me. I’m just a navigator for regular ships now.” Kaeya looked down at his mate, then down at the dead captain, “We are stranded here from a storm…it seems you’re down a captain.”
“If it’s passage to safe harbor you need…” Another pirate, one who couldn’t take his eyes off the bloody remains of the captain, “We’d be honored to have you on our ship…we could use a good navigator actually, ours took ill on the journey – he didn’t make it.”
Diluc looked up at Kaeya, allowing the man to help him to his feet. There was a question in Kaeya’s eyes. One Diluc wasn’t sure he had the answer to. Not truly. It would be Kaeya’s choice what they would do. The scent of blood, the horrible death he just witnessed, the strange life that may await them…
“With you, I will go anywhere.” Diluc answered the unspoken question, “To have and to hold, for better or for worse, in sickness and in health…no matter what we face, I will stand by you. If you are at sea, I will come with you, if your house is small – I will make it a home. We will make do with whatever we have, as long as we are together. Wherever the tides carry us, you are my mate, that is enough. ”
Through the ever changing tides of life, as long as they had each other, it didn’t matter where they went. Kaeya pulled Diluc into a kiss. They would leave the island…whatever came next, they would face it as one.