June: *walking through the Sanctuary* - This place looks almost like deserted !* she murmured to herself* I've got to find some decent hut to live, since Andromeda's island is destroyed...

Milo: *leaning against a pillar* A nicely done work, wasn't it? *walks towards the startled June* So, what do we have here? A wandering little bronze saint? The female grounds are on the east, girl

June: *June's thankful that her mask is hiding her mixed expression of terror and scorning* So it's you ! And you have a nerve to address me ? After what you've done !

Milo: *smirks* A 'nerve' to address you? Forgetting your manners, girl? You are talking to a Gold Saint.... *leans closer and whispers to her ear* ... and you know what this particular Gold Saint is capable off.... don't push your luck...

June: *going pale under her mask* Yeah, I know better than anyone what a Gold Saint you make ! Gold Saints are supposed to be brave and to protect innocents ! While all you've done is showing off your strength upon those who weren't strong enough to fight back ! Brave indeed !

Milo: *laughs* You are feisty! Fool, but feisty still.... And Gold Saints are here to do Athena's bidding, girl. All Saints are, including yourself. Protecting the innocents have nothing to do with this. We are meant to follow Athena's orders. And to punish those that don't *smirks sensually* Of course, usually, I get to do all the punishment, I am good at that.

June: I see ! So the fact that our Athena is also a Goddess of justice is of no importance for you ? That she cares deeply for innocents ? Aren't you ashamed of yourself ? Have you no remorse ? You're able to sleep peacefully at nights ?

Milo: Sleep peacefully? My, no, if I can avoid it! Night was not made to sleep, girl, not when there are so many other things to do. And you seem to be forgetting one thing, apart from your manners... Athena is also a Goddess of War... and since when War has to do with Justice?

June: Why am I not surprised to hear that ! You haven't a slightest little of nobility every Gold Saint should have, and luckily some do have ! You're where you are just thanks to the sheer strength you're able to produce. If Athena was here, I'm sure you'd be surprised at what she might say for your behavior !

Milo: *smirks sensuously* And what would that be? That I am a licentious and violent man? I already know that. And believe me, it wasn't my strength what made me the Scorpio Gold Saint... but you wouldn't understand what it takes. You are nothing but a whimpering bronze saint....

June: You're now talking like some vegetable vendor woman !I'm proud to be what I am ! If gaining your level of cosmo would mean losing my humanity like you have lost it, I'd rather never consider it ! Besides, you might be surprised with what a 'mere' bronze saint may achieve !

Milo: Oh, I know what a bronze saint can achieve, I fought 'them', remember? But a bronze saint that is still grieving over something she cannot change will never be like them.... *thinking out loud*... No one can be like them.....

June: *looking at Milo quizzically, mouthing a question, then deciding against it* So what. I'll die the way I am, fighting for what I believe and love. As long as I stay truthful to myself, I know I won't die in vain !

Milo: *looks at her, slightly surprised, then laughs* You are a dreamer.... living a child's dream... a Saint doesn't have to be truthful to himself... all a Saint is asked to do is follow Athena. And yes, die if that is what she asks for.... what we truly are, our beliefs... *pushes a rebellious lock away from his face and looks at the sky* .... they stop mattering once the killings start *smiles at june* I just hope you are able to keep dreaming, even if it's being delusionary. Naive Saints are always needed in Sanctuary... it makes us think that we are not that bad....

June: How can you say that ? Even in the bloodthirstiest war we can preserve our dignity and act honorably and responsibly ! We always have a choice, although after we've taken the wrong one, most of us start coming up with million excuses for why the wrong path had been chosen over the right one ! It's just the way how the weak people are, I guess *said June casting a glance at Milo*

Milo: A dreamer, I said it before... so keep on thinking that you have a word on your fate, Chameleon, if that makes you happy. I will keep on enjoying life as I please to, taking what I please to and doing what I please to. Saints don't have power over their fates. Our fates belong to Athena. *grins* And I guess it's not that bad, after all I will get to die for a skirt....

June: So that's what you say to yourself when you look at the mirror ? That you had no say over your actions because that's what your fate had intended for you ? How nice ! I guess that's why you're so comfy with yourself when you should be reddening in shame !

Milo: *smirks* Oh, but I never redden! *gets closer and touches June's mask* But I do wonder if you, female saints, do...

June: *steps backward against the pillar and says in low voice, almost a whisper * What do you think you're doing ?

Milo: *places his hands on the pillar, his arms at the sides of June's head, trapping her* I am not doing a thing.... *purrs in her ear* don't tell me that you are scared of a saint that has no say on his actions?

June: *feeling week in her knees, but managing at least to straighten her voice* I'm not afraid of the likes of you ! I already know that you could only perform some malice ! But I'm warning you...*she couldn't think of what warning to say*

Milo: *runs his index over the edge of the mask* The dreamer has no more dreams left to tell?.... you know, I've always found masks such a drag... I could have showed you how a Saint without fate kisses... but I guess... *licks her neck slowly*... that there are other places to kiss beside your lips *bites her neck then moves away from her, smirking*

June: *turning crimson and glaring at Milo's lips almost without a breath. Then she turns her back on him, starting to leave* Milo, this is not funny at all.. *she whispers*

Milo: *places his hand on her shoulder and forces her to turn around and face him* I am not trying to be funny, June... *he smiles at her puzzled look* Yes, I do know your name, Chameleon.... the only survivor from Andromeda Island... the island I destroyed... Yet even when I took everything from you, you are still able to dream and tell me off... *stares at her blank mask, frowning* How?

June: *her shoulders started to tremble under his touch, voice shaking because of the limp in her throat* Easy... because I have nothing left, nowhere to go, no one to turn to, nothing more dear to me to lose. Only my life..*and she lowered her head* which I never valued much, anyway...

Milo: *startled at her confession, he places his right hand on her should once again, while lifting her chin with his left one* You should. You survived Andromeda's Island for a reason. Maybe it's Athena, maybe it's not... *he grins* maybe you survived just to tell off a cocky Gold Saint. But the point is that you are alive. And for the sake of those that fell, you must live... For my sake, you must live... even a cocky gold saint needs to find redemption for his acts.

June: * she looked at him, her eyes glowing with astonishment that he couldn't see. Why was he telling her that ? Was he possibly serious ?* Milo... *she whispered once again*... I don't see how could my living or not give you any redemption... I am not important, my life is not important, for the strength that I can offer for Athena's cause is almost insignificant. But you... Think of all the good deeds you could achieve if you put your might in the right way...*and she dreamingly looked at him once again*

Milo: *chuckles* Are you trying to make a decent man out of me, Chameleon? It's too late for that... I do not own my fate, remember? *looks at her, frowning slightly* But I do own my past. And Andromeda Island and its ghosts are in it. I just like to think that, as long as you live, I am redeemed from my actions against them. You are very important, June, at least to me. *he shakes his head* Maybe there is something of a dreamer in me too...

June: * silent tears started to flow under the edge of her mask, while she shook her head, still not believing what she heard* It's cruel of you to mock me that way, Milo ! *She paused a little, gazing at his smirking eyes, than suddenly added* It'll be better for both of us that we avoid each others' paths. Or else... *she didn't finish and turned to leave once again*

Milo: *grabs her shoulder once again, while placing an arm around her waist* Or else what? Will you, a weak, dead, bronze saint, try to kill...... *he stopped when seeing the tears at the edge of her mask, narrowing his eyes. He let go of her shoulder and brushed the tears away with his deadly fingers. For a second, he thought about taking off her mask, but then moved his hand away* I was not... mocking you. But if you want to avoid me... *he moved his arm away from her waist, freeing her* you have the right to do so.

June: *The sensation his hands aroused on her body , was so overwhelming that she almost painfully flinched when he broke the contact. His arms holding her, felt so good, but wasn't he the man whom she was supposed to hate? How could she possibly yearn for his attention, his touch, this way ? She muttered * I have.. ? * and leaned against the pillar, gazing at him in a plea that stayed invisible under her mask.

Milo: *he looks at her, tempted to answer that question for her and hold her again. But something inside of him stops him. After all, she is his redemption, and he knows that his instincts rarely help the redemption factor* Yes, you do.... you can choose to avoid me... or... *he stops, unwilling to place the words in her mouth, unwilling to influence her anymore than what he had already done*

June: *still leaned against the pillar she releases a barely audible sigh of slight disappointment* Or what, Milo ? *she pauses looking at his lips, waiting for an answer they aren't about to pronounce.* Just as I thought....*she murmurs more to herself bitterly and starts to leave past him*

Milo: *with his back to her, he mutters the words in a deep, husky tone* ...or you can stay... and redeem me
June: *stops dead in her tracks, frozen at those words, her chest being filled with some indescribable sensation, very close to fear. The fear of herself. She doesn't know what to answer him, or what to do. * I don't think I know how to, Milo... *she finally whispers, not daring to turn around and face him*

Milo: *he walks towards June, stopping some steps behind her, without making her turn. He places his hands on her shoulders and slides them to her own hands, lacing his fingers with hers* You don't?

June: *at the sensation of his touch she shivered. His skin on her own, felt so warm, so soothing, so exciting... She knew she should be stopping him, parting from him, but just couldn't. She felt just like a mesmerized pray, terrified by the hawks flying above her, not being able to mutter a single word. She felt her knees getting weak again and she lost her balance, stumbling*

Milo: *he placed his arm around her waist to stop her from falling, closing his free hand around her shoulder to straightened her up, her back now resting against his chest* You should be careful *he purred in her ear, while his hand moved from her shoulder to her blonde mane* I already told you how important you are for me, I don't want you to get hurt just because you lost your balance...

June: *She turned around to finally face him, suddenly ashamed of her weakness before this man* It would take a little more than loosing a balance to hurt me. *she said lowly, in a defying tone*

Milo: *he stopped stroking her hair, though he didn't remove his arm from her waist* I know... *he whispered seriously* You survived Andromeda Island even when I destroyed everything else that was connected to it... But still... *he leaned closer, his lips brushing the lips of her mask as he talked* I cannot but wonder what 'little more' will it take...

June:*her breathing raced, feeling him this close to her. Closer than she ever let any man be.* What are you doing ? *her voice came out incoherently, while she unconsciously lifted her hand and placed it on the arm that was holding her waist*

Milo: *he smiled faintly when feeling her touch on his arm, his free hand traveling to her back, deadly claws sliding up and down gently over her spine* I am only seeking my redemption... *he moved so his lips where now on her earlobe, brushing her skin as he talked instead of her mask* ...but what about you? What do you want, Chameleon June?

June: *she trembled at his touch, wishing it would never stop. But she pondered over his question. Really, what was that she wanted ? Was it this man ? It couldn't be, it couldn't possibly be ! But the feeling he was arousing in her told her better. She buried her face onto his chest, suddenly feeling ashamed. But she wouldn't let him go.* I don't know, Milo.. I'm not recognizing myself, anymore... What is happening to me? *she whispered, lifting her mask's stiff eyes to meet the fiery violet ones.*

Milo: *he looked at her, frowning slightly. She was so innocent and confused, that it was somehow touching. Maybe, after all, she really was his redemption. Maybe, in all her dreams and hopes, he could learn to dream again, or at least remember what it was like* I think you already have the answer for that question, June... *he said sternly, his index brushing the outline of her face, where the mask ended and skin was finally revealed*

June: *her eyes widened. "No, it's impossible !" she said to herself, her eyes filling with tears.* No, it can't be that !* she shouted, fear, anger and desire engulfing her, when she slammed her small fist against Milo's chest in one desperate movement.* It can't be...*she whispered again, brokenly, burring her mask's face against the place on his chest her hand had hit* I can't be that weak...

Milo: *he stroke her hair for some minutes, staying silent to give her the chance to calm down. He knew he was missing the chance of taking advantage of her vulnerability, but preferred to wait. After all, he had ways to make her return to that state if he wished to* What does this have to do with weakness? You are not weak... *he lifted her chin, forcing her to meet his eyes*... you are alive.You deserve to live... not turn into a dead, angry thing... you don't deserve that fate...

June: *lost in those piercing eyes, she found herself unconsciously clinging onto his chest* Tell me, Milo, what does this have to do with, then ? If not weakness, then how would you call it ? And tell me, how can I avoid the fate that is meant to be, if, by your own words, I have no say over it?

Milo: *he began playing with a strand of her golden hair, and then whispered almost hoarsely* Do not avoid it.... *tentatively, he reached for her mask, and lifted it slightly...*

June: *she didn't expect that coming. She didn't even realized what had happened. All she felt was the sudden breeze of fresh air gently stroking her cheeks, drying her tears away . And then she saw her own eyes, reflecting in those mesmerizing ones. A shade of brown that was melting in the violet haze. And then she gasped.*

Milo: *He stared at her delicate features, mesmerized by their softness, so different to her mask. Gently, he ran his index over her cheek and lips. He didn't let her gasp for long. Before he could even think about his actions, or the reasons behind them, he kissed her instinctively, his lips merely brushing hers, to give her the chance to pull away, if that was her wish*

June: *The touch of his lips on hers was so delicate, so tender, sending shivers down her spine. Unaware of her actions, she lifted her hand and caressed the outline of his cheek. Then, realizing what she had just done, she numbly gazed into his eyes, afraid of what might be waiting for her in them.*

Milo: See? *he whispered, placing one of his hands over June's, keeping it over his cheek* Sometimes accepting fate can't be that bad...

June: *smiling shyly at his words, her long lashes hiding from his eyes the deep hazel gaze that longingly rested on his lips* Even if it is nothing but an euphemism for surrender ? *she asked, biting her lower lip in anticipation, hesitantly bringing her mouth closer to his.* Are you aware of what you have done by taking off my mask? You just doomed both of us... for I will have to kill you...*she breathed against his lips in a whisper*...unless you kill me first...

Milo: *he half-smiled, his right hand traveling down her spine while the left one got hold of her chin to keep her lips close to his* But... If I am not mistaken... there is always... choice number two....

June:*lifting her dreaming gaze to meet his eyes* You are not mistaken...The thing is that that choice maybe brings more doom... than the first one...

Milo: *he leaned closer, glad that she dared to meet his gaze* Doom is something Saints are used to dealing with... besides, I prefer facing doom than having to kill you... *his lips found hers, setting a trail of kisses over her cheek and finally on her neck* but the decision... *he added while nibbling her earlobe* is on your hands

June: *she was completely lost , savouring the sweet sensation his kisses aroused on her skin. A skin that no man before him touched. When she felt his teeth on her earlobe, she moaned incoherently, with her eyes half closed and pressed her body increasingly harder onto his chest* That is not an easy decision to make for me..* she whispered almost hoarsely against his neck*

Milo: *he chuckled, tightening his embrace while his free hand travelled to the nape of her neck, closing around her hair and pulling hard enough to see her face but gently enough not to hurt her* I can always help you out to make your mind... * he added before kissing her lips once again, replacing the prior gentleness with pure passion, deepening the kiss until his tongue found hers*

June: *her eyes moistened as she felt him, his tongue seemed to be everywhere at once, stroking the roof of her mouth, caressing her own tongue, rimming the inside of her lips... Her knees felt weak, and she sagged, feeling like she was going to sink to the floor and keep on sinking, down, down to the canter of eternity...*

Milo: *he placed both arms around her when noticing her sagging, leading her against one of the pillars without breaking the kiss* Still undecided? *he asked breathlessly before kissing her again, one of his hands caressing her sides while the other returned to its place at the nape of her neck*

June:*"This isn't right, this isn't right..." some inner voice tried to reach her consciousness, but to no avail. She was only aware of the heat all over her body, of his lips that forcefully clamed hers, their mouths opening with a gasp, their tongues seeking, finding, stroking, caressing... She let her hands wander up and down his back, stopping just short of his bottom Her body rubbed up against his as she tipped her head back, moaning with desire against his lips.*

Milo: *he kissed her lips, her face, sinking on her neck while his hands roamed over her sides, caressing her stomach and the underside of her breasts, while avoiding their softness* I guess... you already decided... * he let out hoarsely, staring at her sore, trembling lips as mesmerized*

June: *using the moment he broke the kiss to try to regain her breath and steady herself. The persistent inner voice called for her again: "Stop this while you still can !" This time, his lips weren't on hers, and this time she heard the voice. Her trembling lips ached for his touch while the inner battle she felt within herself filled her eyes with tears. She cast one last desperate look on his eyes and, breaking free from his embrace, ran around the corner of the nearest hut and disappeared from his view.*

Milo: *'it's her choice'. That was the first thing his mind told him. 'She wants this as much as you do', was the second one. And he knew his mind was right. He had seen his own longing reflected on the last look she had cast him. So he went after her* June... open the door *he said once he had reached the hut * Dammit, at least talk to me! *he cursed lowly* If you want me to leave, that's fine, but I want to hear it from your lips. *so he sat next to the door and waited*

June: *she heard him and set on the bed facing the door, perplexed by the conflicting emotions that were raging inside of her - happiness, fear, anger, desire.... She was left to the mercy of the raging waves that could both crash her and bring her up to the surface. But he was right, running away was not the solution.* They're opened, Milo *she said hoarsely, not recognizing her own voice anymore...*

Milo: *he stood up, taking a deep breath. He knew what would happen if he opened the door, as much as he knew he had taken things too far as to stop. What bothered him the most was that he did -not- want to stop. He wanted to take her. He wanted to be redeemed. He wanted her. So he opened the door and the hell with the consequences*

June: *she looked at him silently as he entered, closing the hut's small door behind him. Light was dim and entered this, more than a meager place through the single small window, situated near the ceiling. She didn't let the sound as she, with her eyes wide open, watched him approaching her in the same silent manner...*
Milo: *he walked to her side, stretching his arm towards her, tentatively. He stopped himself, frowning slightly. She was not hers to take. She was not the one offering herself. So it would be unfair of him to take her. So he stretched his arm once again, offering her his hand and staring pleadingly into his hazel eyes* June...?

June: She lifted her eyes, meeting his. The violet gaze fiery and mighty, the hazel one scared but longing. She shivered, like out of cold, remembering the warmth of his embrace that could sweep this coldness in a second. She stretched her small trembling hand and touched the one he was offering to her... * Milo...*she whispered, looking at him straight in the eyes*

Milo: *he smiled, closing his hand around hers, rubbing his thumb over her fingers softly* I was afraid you were going to leave me out there... *he said, stepping closer to her while finally daring to touch her cheek once again* Thank you... * he added in a whisper, kissing her deep and slow, sucking delicately at her lower lip.

June: *she surrendered again to the familiar warmth, a sigh of relief escaping her lips* Oh Milo, I told you I was weak *she whispered against his lips, enjoying the sensation of his hands that were roaming over her body* I never felt like this in my whole life... I wouldn't...No, I couldn't leave you...

Milo: I am glad... *he said hoarsely, enjoying the feeling of her body close to his, of the softness of her breasts under his hands, of her warmth driving him insane*... because I don't want you to leave... * his lips found hers after saying that, as he lead her near the bed. Her eyes flung open when feeling the furniture against her legs. He stopped kissing her to look into her eyes, one of his hands closing around the edge of her shirt, as if asking for permission.*

June: *she looked at his eyes, fire in them frightening and warming her at the same time. But she was oblivious to all the messages her mind was sending to her brain and to all sensations that weren't his touch. She was only aware of her trembling lips that were aching for his kiss, and of the heat. The heat that was going to devour her alive. And she just closed her eyes..*

Milo: *he couldn't but feel touched by her trust. But that did not stop his desire, nor stopped him from making her sit on the bed as he knelt before her. Before she tried to open her eyes, he placed one of his hands over them, while the other began to lift her shirt slowly, his lips kissing every inch of revealed skin. He smirked when the shirt was over her breasts, unbuttoning her bra with practiced ease and leaving her hand from her face to hold her close, looking into her eyes from her bosom*

June: *Her breathing increased in a crazed pace, her eyes riveted to his . She shivered when her breasts' sensitive skin met the cold air and shivered once again when her eyes met his blurred gaze that drifted from her blossoming tips.* Milo...* she gasped, suddenly frightened, having no idea of what was awaiting her. She knew that he wouldn't hurt her, but still... Ashamed, hiding her eyes under her long lashes so he couldn't read the fear in them, she leaned closer to him and snuggled up to his chest seeking comfort of his warmth...*

Milo: Have you any idea of how beautiful you are? *he purred in her ear, getting rid of his own shirt to feel her breasts against his chest, her warm skin against his. He thought he saw fear flicker in her eyes, but dismissed it. After all, he knew she wanted it as badly as he did, he knew she needed him to accept what had happened in Andromeda Island, as much as he needed her to stop blaming himself for killing an innocent and loyal man* June, beautiful June* he whispered before kissing her once again, his arms pulling her on his lap, hands fondling her buttocks and thighs, placing her legs around his waist... *

June: *she was almost unable to breathe now, conflicting emotions and sensations raging through her mind, suffocating her. She no longer felt the warmth, cold grasps of the fear, sorrow of the past engulfing her once again. She shrieked when she was almost left without the breath, flaring her Cosmo to release herself from the nightmare's claws. The sudden outburst of energy separated her from the Scorpio Saint, catching him out of guard, sending him flying. And she was going to surrender herself to this man ? How could she ever forgive him his crimes ? "No, no way ! Even if I could forgive him for taking off my mask, I mustn't forgive him Andromeda !" Her gaze darkened as she screamed : *Chameleon Tongue Lash!*, the whip forming in her hand*.

Milo: *He allowed the whip to close around his wrist, his eyes flaring with a mix of anger and lust* What the fuck do you think you are doing? *he let out, closing his hand around the whip and pulling, making her fall forward. Before she could stand up, he was behind her, his right claw closing tightly around her wrists and keeping her hands on her back, while he grabbed her hair with his left one lifting her body from the floor* I am a Gold Saint* he growled matter of factly, angered beyond belief, but also excited at the control he had over her now that he was securing her movements* What are you trying to prove, June?* he added in a lower tone, conscious of the fact that they were half-naked, conscious of the feeling of her buttocks against his crotch*

June: *her heart was bashing in her chest, anger, fear and desire setting her whole being on fire.This was futile and she knew it from the starter, the more she was now unable to move the single part of her limbs. But feeling his lower body tightly pressed on her buttocks, his warm breath on her neck, rose the familiar overwhelming feeling in her, but also a desperate resolution - to provoke him, to defy him, to test him, to see into the face of death , not knowing if she was to survive the image * That's right, Milo.... I told you you'd have to kill me*she whispered through the clenched teeth* If you don't, I surely will kill you ...

Milo: *he smirked, tightening his grip around her wrists* I don't see how you could kill me.... * he growled, his left hand leaving her hair and snaking its way around her waist, caressing her flat stomach for some seconds before squeezing her breasts. The grin in his face widened when hearing her moan* Besides... I doubt that's what you want to do with me* his hand began to move lower, playing with the waist of her pants.

June: Let go of me, and I'll show you ! *she more moaned than said, tipping her head back to rest it on his shoulder. She tried to shift her body as to escape his hand that was starting to enter under her pants waist, caressing her lower stomach and getting dangerously close, but all she did was to press her back even more harder onto his crotch. And the source of what she felt there was unmistakable, even for the non experienced one, like she was.

Milo: *He couldn't stop moaning slightly when she pressed herself harder against him, forcing him to use all of his self-control to stop himself from tearing their clothing and taking her despite her complains* An enemy would never release you just because you asked him nicely *he managed to say, his hand brushing the inside of her thighs, disappearing under her pants as he pressed his fingers lightly over her panties* But I am not your enemy *he whispered. And then he released her. *

June: *The blood ran up to her face and she blushed fiercely when she felt his hand on her intimacy sending shivers down her spine. She hasn't even registered that she was free now. She just jerked at the sensation, turning around and raising her free hand to slap him. But he easily caught her wrist and pulled her strongly toward him, making her body slam onto his. She shivered, feeling numb and lost* No ? Then how would you call this, Milo ? *she muttered, her eyes once again filling with tears, the tears of conflicting emotions and helplessness.*

Milo: *he narrowed his eyes, turquoise fire going ablaze as he held her tighter* I was not the one to open the door, June, so you tell me *he said those words hoarser than he meant to, but did not try to apologize. If the girl couldn't see that he wasn't playing with her, then she was blind and foolish, if she could... Either ways, he was determined to have his way. Not for lust, even when he felt that, not for desire, even when he wanted her. For whatever lane fate had prepared for him. So, because of fate, because she was the one to live, and he the one to betray and need redemption, he would have her. It was meant to be*

June: *She lifted her damped eyes to meet his fiery ones, but she found herself once again unable to withstand his gaze. She lowered her head, as her long lashes hid her tears* You're right...*she whispered lowly, barely for him to hear*...for I thought that I have to despise you...and kill you... But now, I realize that the one I hate and despise is no one else but myself...because I can't bring myself to hate you, Milo... If all you seek is your redemption, doubt not, you're already redeemed by mere seeking it. So please don't soil yourself anymore by toying with me . You've shown me that you're the strong one, while I'm the one worth only despising.You have nothing to seek with the likes of me !

Milo: *he frowned, surprised by her reaction* This is not a matter of strength, June... *he whispered, releasing her. He couldn't but think how silly they looked, half-naked, panting and sitting on the floor in silence* And you are not worth despising. Don't you ever think that *once again, his voice sounded too stern, and he cursed lowly when seeing her flinch* And maybe, if you want to, you can trust me for now and believe that I am not playing with you. I just... *he stroke her cheek lightly, kissing her forehead before whispering in her ear* want to show you how wonderful you are...

June: *his lips felt so comforting, so warm, but she couldn't rely on her senses anymore. Her senses were the ones that brought her in this situation, in the first place. So she smiled bitterly *I know just how wonderful I am...especially...* she wanted to add something more, but his gaze, riveted to her face, sliding down from her eyes to caress her lips, started to get to her again, making her to lose her thought, lose her determination. She was forgetting about everything but how warm she felt in his embrace. She shivered, shivered when feeling her readiness to surrender once again to that raging flame in front of her. She looked at Milo almost pleadingly*.. Milo, I know you don't have a single feeling for me...And I'm not sure about how I feel either... But could it be this is all about lust ?

Milo: *he moved closer to her, until mere inches were dividing them.
Yet he didn't grab her. He leaned closer, containing his urge to pull her against him and take her, and merely brushed her breasts with feather-like fingers, smirking lightly at her reaction* Lust, desire, passion, who cares? You have what I need.... and I have what you want... you can't fight imaginary enemies, June. This is not a matter of weaknesses, this is a mater of daring. So will you dare to take what you want?

June: *she nodded and looked him in the eyes, losing herself in the violet haze.* So you know what I want, even when I don't ? I guess I'll have to trust you on that... *she lifted a finger and traced an imaginary path over his chest and whispered*...for there's no other way to find out... But... What if it turns out that you have been wrong ?

Milo: *he supported his weight on his right arm as he made her rest her back on the floor by leaning over her, his free hand moving from her cheek, to her lips, and then down her neck and sides to rest at the waist of her pants* I am rarely wrong * he let out hoarsely, his eyes locking on hers. Yet he didn't do anything else, even when her lips were so close to his and his instincts were telling him to tear the clothes his fingers were impatiently brushing. He had no doubts about what he wanted to do. The final call was on June's hands * So, Chameleon June, won't you take what you want?

June: *she unconsciously raised her hand to caress his cheek, then traced his lips with a feathery touch. Her gaze became dull as resignation hit her, and she shivered.* I though I already gave you my answer to that question. *she whispered hoarsely* ...but if it wasn't clear enough... * and she brushed her lips against his, barely touching them*...I can always repeat my answer.

Milo: *he smirked before biting her lip teasingly* You can repeat that kind of answer as many times as you want, I'll definitely won't complain* he whispered huskily. Not needing further encouragement, his left hand made its way under her pants, his fingers running over the edges of her panties while he kissed her deeply, forbidding her moans to escape from the limits of their mouths*

June: *She frowned at the bold touch of his hands, but at that moment, she'd do anything but break that delicious kiss that was leaving her breathless. She was giving in, responding to his touch, and strangely, felt no remorse, no more hesitations over her acts. Yes, he was right, that's what she wanted - to be held in his arms, to be devoured by his fire, to be loved by him. Loved ? No, this wasn't love, he didn't love her. But she paid no heed... as long as he was holding her like that...*

Milo: *he broke the kiss slowly, savouring her lips. He gazed into her eyes through half-closed eyelids, pleased by their dreamy look* You are beautiful *he cooed in her ear, meaning it * Trust me * he added before she started arguing, silencing her with a quick kiss. But even if her lips were delicious, he wanted to taste more of her, and soon he moved slightly lower to kiss her breasts, his lips closing around her nipples while his hands fumbled with her pants

June: * that extent of overwhelming sensations she never felt before. They were suffocating her, leaving her numb. She wasn't sure anymore if this was happening to her, or to some other person that seemed to wear her body. She savoured the gentle touch of his lips, of his tongue on her nipples, the caress of his silky hair that fell free over her naked skin. And she let out a cry, arching her body toward him...* Milo...please ! *she gasped, not even knowing what she was pleading for*

Milo: *his lips locked with hers once again, devouring, sense leaving him completely as desire and passion took control. Even when his voice was getting too ragged to say it, his whole body was echoing June's plea over and over again, until all he could notice was the searing sensation of her breasts against his chest, of his crotch pressed against her warmth* Damn...* he growled, tired of struggling with her pants with no results. Soon, his nails had turned to claws, shredding the thin fabric so he could easily tear it and pull it aside, while his kisses turned gentler, slower, opposing his fiery urge*

June: *her eyes snapped open with fear, as she realized what he'd just done. But she also realized it was too late to back out now, when she laid completely naked beneath him. Not that she wanted to back out, really. But the fear, that damn fear wouldn't go away, no matter how hard she tried to suppress it. "I wonder if he has any idea how afraid does he make me feel... I mustn't let him see my fear, my cowardice... No, luckily, he doesn't care enough as to notice" she thought to herself,
now clinging on to him and kissing him back almost desperately, seeking an oblivion with her eyes firmly shut.*

Milo: *he kissed her fiercely before straddling her waist and straightening his back, his hands teasing her nipples sensuously. Whenever she moaned, he felt his whole body going ablaze, the sensation of the rough fabric of his trousers against his throbbing manhood turning painfully magnified. Lowering himself over June once again, he returned to kiss and suckle at her breasts while struggling with his own clothes, until he finally got rid of his trousers and stayed on his boxers, groaning of pleasure now that the thin fabric was the only thing that separated his member from her entrance*

June: *she was completely lost in the fire his every touch, every kiss, evoked within her very core. She was scared and overwhelmed at the same time by the swelling firmness that was pressing itself between her legs. . Her hands, that her reason no longer controlled, were gently roaming over his back's smooth skin, stopping short on his boxers' band, pulling it unconsciously . He was pressing her harder and harder with his body, so she was soon fighting for air. But she never tried to break the kiss, nor tried to loosen his embrace...*

Milo: *he finally kicked his boxers out of the way, placing his legs between hers while his hands moved down her sides to finally close around her waist. He kissed her long and slow, savouring her taste and enjoying the sounds of her demanding moans and the touch of her urging hands* Tell me... if you want me to stop... *he managed to whisper in her ear in a last attempt to keep his senses ruling over his instincts, relenting to his own fire after voicing those words he doubted he would be able to obey. His member was already teasing her moist entrance, and with a last kiss on her
forehead, he pushed in*

June: *her whole body tensed as his sudden invasion saturated her senses with searing pain. She shrieked, but before the shriek could escape her mouth, she muffled it by biting hard at her lower lip, bloodstaining it in process. She wouldn't let him hear her whine now. But she couldn't stop her tears from filling her eyes, nor could make her tensed muscles relax as to withstand the pain more easily. As he slowly pushed himself further between tightly puckered sides of her entrance, tearing them apart, she helplessly clenched her teeth, her tears now spilling all over her cheeks. With one
last fierce thrust, he riveted her underneath him by hammering his long shaft till its end. Unable to move, breathe nor withstand the pain anymore, she clung on to him, hugging him desperately, burring her face against his neck.* Please stop ! Milo... I... I beg you ! *she cried incoherently, although well aware it was way too late for that option.*

Milo: *he held her tighter against him, enjoying the waves of sensations that kept hitting his mind, destroying everything except the hunger for pleasure. The necessity of giving in to that core of heat that burned between June's legs. Tightening his grip on her hips, he began to move her, slowly teaching her to follow his rhythm despite of her whimpers and cries. The world had turned sensuous and erotic for him, and he reacted to that feeling by ramming in and out of her with that same sensuality, enjoying each slow motion, each contraction of her muscles around his shaft. Yet he wanted more. He had to have more. Soon, the hunger was too overwhelming as to care about sensuality and he quickened his pace, his turquoise eyes fixing on June's teary orbs. His mouth moved to her cheeks, kissing her tears away, drinking into her bloody lips, odd actions compared to the ruthlessness in which he was entreating her, to the merciless way in which he kept driving her to her limits*

June: *she was feeling his every move, his every thrust, as a sharp blade that inflicted her even more pain. However, his obvious bliss, his moans and his warm kisses, touched her in a strange way, making her give the last trace of strength she had left to please him, to follow his frenzied pace, to meet his body with hers at every of his strokes. She felt her sore body going numb, but she gripped her legs around his waist anyway, closing around him, pressing him even deeper into her,
writhing at the same rhythm as his.*

Milo: *he couldn't but moan in pleasure and delight when feeling her response, her touch sending him deeper and deeper into a world of fire in which he wanted to melt in* June... lovely... June... * he groaned hoarsely, his hands leaving her waist to roam over her body, teasing her breasts roughly, stroking her blonde mane while his lips were unable to utter words and only moans and groans of passion were able to escape the confinement of his mouth. He knew what he had been seeking was getting closer and closer, and that only made him thrust even more desperately into her, trying to savour the way each spark of pleasure found home around his shaft and spread throughout his body. He cupped her face with his hands, kissing her fiercely, wishing to show June how grateful he was by giving her his last moans of passion, by losing himself completely in her. To reach redemption in her arms.*

June: *she sighed almost with relief when his lips clamed hers in a fierce kiss. She responded desperately and forcefully by herself, savouring the sweet sensation of his hands that gently caressed her face, as opposing, redeeming for the the sharp pain his manhood was inflicting upon her. And that kind of oblivion was more than welcomed, as aching in her body never seemed to stop, only deadened by the numbness in her limbs. However, in spite of the condition she was in, she could still clearly feel his member getting even hotter and bigger inside of her, raging in its merciless race to reach its climax. She closed her fingers in Milo's long mane squeezing hard in anticipation, shivering at the loud groans that were now escaping his throat, only to be muffled by her kisses.* Oh Milo...*she moaned against his lips, never breaking the kiss*

Milo: *he felt the pleasure swelling in him, wishing he could tell June the way she was making him feel, but all words failed him and the only sound that escaped his lips was a strangled groan that lost itself in June's own lips. The world turned suddenly bright and searing, his whole self exploding deep within her, spending himself inside of her. The overwhelming sensations of his orgasm made his arms go weak, his body resting over June's. With half-closed eyes, he allowed himself to enjoy every spasm, every last shiver that washed over his body, every last wave of pleasure, until all he could feel was her warmth body under his and the wondrous sensation of finally being redeemed*

June: * she moaned with pleasure when feeling the tinkling warmth his juices were spreading inside of her, embalming her irritated interior, caressing the soreness away. Her muscles squeezed rhythmically around his shaft, following its last spasms, helping it release the very last drop of the fluid that had such a balmy effect on her. Her body finally relaxed and she felt no more pain, but no more strength to move either. As she closed her eyes, exhausted, flashes of what just happened rolled over again, invading her mind. She caught herself invoking these images of Milo's muscular body glowing in sweat, of his broad chest that heaved with strength beneath her, of his beautiful violet eyes that were setting her whole being on fire... *Gods, am I lost... * she murmured to herself, then lifted her trembling hand to caress Milo's mane with a feathery touch, gently removing strands soaked with sweat from his face.*

Milo: *he smiled at her touch, allowing her to pet him in content submission, while his eyes drowned in her presence, in the languid golden woman that had forgiven his sins and now held him as if he were a lost child, yet looked at him as the man he truly was* Thank you, June... * he finally whispered, tracing the contours of her face with her index before leaning closer to brush her lips with his in a gentle kiss. When he moved away though, he wasn't smiling anymore, but remained thoughtful, his eyes locking on hers with sudden determination* And I am also sorry. I know this will sound lame, but I did not want to hurt you. I should have been more careful... * he began, kissing her shoulder lightly while one of his arms snaked its way around her waist, his hand caressing her back gently, wishing that would mellow her pain*

June: *she hesitated to answer anything, remaining silent for the moment, simply enjoying in his attention, his caresses and soft kisses. She couldn't lie to him, telling him he hadn't hurt her, but she didn't want to make a big deal out of it, either. So she brought her lips closer to his neck, biting it teasingly, then setting a trail of gentle kisses on the spots she's just bitten, savouring the salty scent of his skin.* Milo... I'm a little tired...*she finally whispered, deciding to change the subject* ...and I would like to rest at some place more comfortable...* she added, while casting a longing look towards the bed* ...but I'm afraid I'll need your help to stand up, because I'm not sure if my legs are going to support me.* she smiled nervously as her eyes met his piercing gaze. "Gods, he is so beautiful..." she thought, unable to resist an urge to place another feathery kiss on his lips, before mouthing a silent "please".*

Milo: *he grinned, sliding one arm under June's legs and standing up, wrapping his other arm around her shoulders to support her* I wonder if anyone ever said no to you, my lady * he joked, before laying her gently on the bed. He stretched by her side, just looking at her. The first time he had seen her, escaping Andromeda's island at her sensei's orders, all he had seen was a girl that would grow to hate him. Yet now all he could see was a woman whose tired wise eyes hid so many secrets. She had not made him change his views on life, yet she had certainly made him doubt. Fate was still inexorable for him, but now that he was losing himself in her eyes, he allowed himself to pretend there was a way out of it. Before he could do something to stop himself, he leaned closer and kissed her forehead softly, blushing slightly when noticing what he was doing. Had the girl touched him so? Had he needed to feel her so much as to let her affect him so? * Comfortable?* he finally asked, for the first time not knowing what to say*

June: *she gave him a gentle smile, before snuggling closer to him, melting in the soothing warmth of his body.* I thought you said you never reddened* she murmured mischievously, before placing a gentle kiss on his cheek.* And yes, I'm very comfortable.*she added lowly, pondering over her words, realizing their meaning had nothing to do with the fact that she was now laying in the bed, instead on the cold floor. But it had all to do with Milo..."It's because of him, because of his arms that are now holding me, of his warmth that is shielding me, making me feel safe..." She frowned a little, while following the trail of her thoughts. "What am I going to do... I mustn't allow myself to sink deeper in this than I already am. Especially when he and I certainly don't feel the same about what happened between us" *and she stiffened unconsciously, disturbed by her thoughts*

Milo: *he held her closer, pulling the sheets over them before stroking her cheek lightly. He feared he had done or said something wrong to make hear react in such a way, or maybe he had caused her more pain than what he thought. He looked over her shoulder to the half-closed window, from which the eerie crimson of dusk flowed to the inside of the small hut* Do you want me to leave? *he asked lowly, too proud as to ask her if he could stay in a direct way, and fearing what she would answer if he asked her if anything was wrong*

June: *she lifted her eyes painfully, to meet his gaze. This was what she expected, he was looking for an excuse to leave her. Not that she was going to stop him, she was too proud to do that. Her eyes darkened with sorrow, but she wasn't the slightest upset with him. "You're the only one to blame, June" she thought to herself. "You're a damn fool and you got what you deserved" she continued. "You played with fire and you got burned, it's as simple as that..." She forced a faint smile on her lips* Do you want to leave, Milo ? *she asked in a resigned voice*

Milo: *he noticed the sorrow in her eyes, unable to guess what it meant. It was time to take a stand on something he had been avoiding ever since he saw her again after he had destroyed Andromeda Island. He knew that sole action of violence had linked them together, he as the assassin and her as the survivor. He had known only her had the power to redeem him, while he was the only one that could make her see that she was no weakling. The reasons that had made him want her and had made her give in went beyond lust, beyond a night-stand. But could she see that?. He wished he could tell her 'only if you want me to', he wished he could say ' no, I don't '. He wanted to please her, to let her pet him as she had done before. To submit. But now things were out of his hands and in hers. ''I'll do as you say '' was the closest thing to the truth he managed to say, unable to stop himself from caressing her back lightly under the sheets, unable to move his burning eyes away from hers*

June: *she shook her head slightly, a little taken aback by his hesitation. Then she buried her face against his chest, enjoying in what she thought was the last time she could feel him this close to her.* Why can't you answer me straight, Milo ? You'll just lead me astray if you aren't honest with me. *she then lifted her head to brush his lips with hers again* The last thing I wanted was to burden you, *she whispered* ... but it seems that's exactly what I've done. Don't you see that I can't ask you to stay with me, if it's not what you too wanted ?*she added finally, lifting her hand to gently push aside the strands that were disobediently falling over his face*

Milo: *he chuckled lightly, catching her hand by the wrist to kiss it* I thought it was pretty obvious that leaving was not in my plans* he said, lifting her chin to meet her eyes* I want to stay, if you'll have me. Is that straight enough, June, or should I express myself differently? I was always better at actions than at words* he added with an impish smile, caressing her sides*

June: *she blushed deeply, his words still resonating in her ears. When their meaning finally reached her, she just smiled, silently wrapping her arms around his neck, pressing her soft flesh tighter against his chest.* Thank you, Milo...* she whispered against his lips, enjoying in the tinkling sensation his arms were evoking in her body. But she was too tired to react to it properly. So she just closed her eyes, resting her head against his shoulder*

Milo: *he rested his right hand on her hip, while he caressed her cheek lightly with his left, before placing it over her back in a protective gesture that made him wonder how deep their link ran. 'Beyond lust', he thought, smiling widely before closing his eyes, enjoying the feeling of her warm body resting so close to his, sensing no fear towards him from her, as if she knew that he was not a threat to her* Thanks to you * he whispered, forbidding his mind to think of what may come and just focussing on the present, on the woman that rested in his arms, on the fact that for the first
time in a long time, he felt free of guilt. Redeemed*

*end of part one*