Fic: À Cheval (Dex/Sheppard, NC-17)
Title: À Cheval
Author: kimberlite
Pairing: Ronon/Sheppard
Rating: NC-17
Word count: ~4,325
Disclaimer: SGA is so not mine, I'm just having fun.
Recipient: for bakarini who wanted: Ronon/Sheppard (plz); H/C, angst (with a happy ending), fluff, crack, etc... the list goes on - I'm pretty easy to please.
Thanks: to my faithful beta, who will be named later.
Feedback: Yes, please.
Summary: Sheppard and Ronon aren't that good at talking about their feelings.
*
"Welcome, honored friends."
Sheppard smiled and returned the ceremonial gesture, then stepped to the side to let Teyla handle the rest of the greeting.
"It is good to see you again, Arna," Teyla said, clasping hands with the leader and smiling warmly at the people gathered behind her.
"We are pleased you accepted our invitation to join the Festival. You are truly heroes to our people, as well as friends," Arna said graciously.
John kept half an ear on the conversation but let his mind wander, enjoying the gorgeous weather and the chance to unwind among trusted allies. McKay was clearly relishing the attention, which he did deserve for saving them all. Ronon looked relaxed, but John knew he was alert for the slightest hint of danger. Teyla was radiant. Even if her pregnant belly looked huge and uncomfortable to John, she moved with energy and grace.
As they walked, John listened to Arna explaining some of the intricacies of their nomadic social structure and the Festival that bought different bands together to contract marriages and take part in various competitions. They moved through a sea of large, hexagonal tents, their neutral colors highlighted by bright flags blowing in the breeze. The people were friendly and polite, greeting them without intruding. John paid more attention as they neared a dusty field where horse-like creatures were being ridden in a raucous game.
"This is where we play challope," Arna said. "Each team consists of four pairs of riders. They use mallets to move the ball across the field and into the goal while the other team tries to take the ball from them and defend the goal. It is a game of skill and teamwork that dates back to the earliest days of our people."
Ronon spoke for the first time. "It is a warrior's contest. My people have something similar, only with teams of one rider and the ball is rounder."
"You've played before?" John asked, fascinated that Ronon would so easily volunteer information about his past.
"Yeah."
"Cool." Okay, so Ronon was clamming up again but John understood the desire not to share too much. He loved riding and was itching to play. "Earth has a game called polo."
Arna led them into a tent near the field. With the side canvas rolled up, they were shaded but able to see the events. "Please make yourselves comfortable. You are welcome to relax here or explore the Festival. There are refreshments but if you need anything else, please do not hesitate to ask."
Teyla smiled and moved to a pile of brightly colored pillows. "Thank you for your hospitality, Arna. I will stay here and watch the games for now. We have much to discuss."
John took a step forward, instinctively wanting to help Teyla but she settled into the pillows next to Arna without trouble.
Rodney dropped his backpack by Teyla, huffing quietly as he lowered himself to the ground. "I'm with Teyla. I have a ton of journals to catch up on."
"You mean tear apart," John corrected.
"Of course," Rodney replied gleefully.
Ronon rolled his eyes and shifted his focus to the field.
Watching the riders, John felt the excitement of a challenge. He drifted closer to Ronon, imagining them as a pair, cantering in sync.
Teyla looked at John and Ronon and smiled indulgently. "They are as eager as children."
"Their interest is much appreciated. Devnar, perhaps you and Rackar could show Sheppard and Ronon the corral," Arna suggested.
"That would be great," John said, practically bouncing on his toes.
Rodney looked up from his tablet, pinning John with a warning glare. "Don't even think it."
"What?" John raised his hands and smiled innocently. "Just promoting friendly relations with our allies."
Rodney sighed. "Just don't get hurt."
"I'll watch out for him," Ronon said.
"Fabulous."
*****
Ronon scratched behind the equona's ears and let her rub her head against his chest. "Aren't you a pretty one?" he murmured to her.
"Well, it didn't take you long to make a friend," Sheppard teased, petting the creature's velvety nose.
Ronon shrugged. "I like animals."
Devnar tightened the girth on the saddle, sized up the men and lengthened the second set of stirrups. "I take it that you have both ridden before."
Ronon nodded, remembering both the freedom of summers on his grandparents' farm and the discipline of the service. "But never with another rider."
"Yeah, same here," Sheppard offered.
"It is both similar and not," Devnar said. "The saddle is curved to provide some separation of the riders but in truth, the riders must act as one, communicating to the equona by rein and leg. The mallets are held one to the right and one to the left, never both on the same side."
"Okay," Sheppard said, looking over the saddle, "that works."
"Mount and you can give it a try," Devnar said.
Ronon offered Sheppard a leg up, easily tossing him in front. He got his foot into the stirrup and swung up, settling closely behind. He wrapped his right arm around John's waist. "I'll take the left side."
"Okay." John used his left hand to hold the reins and took the mallet Devnar offered in his right. "You ready, Chewie?"
Ronon grinned, glad to see Sheppard relaxing and having fun. "Sure thing, Han."
Devnar and Rackar mounted their equona and walked from the corral to an empty clearing. Ronon and Sheppard followed, watching as they broke into a trot and then cantered in a wide circle.
Ronon tightened his arm, pleased when Sheppard read his signal and nudged their equona into a trot. Devnar and Rackar hadn't posted at the trot so they sat as well. Halfway around the circle, Ronon tightened his legs and the equona began to canter. The rolling motion was more comfortable, especially since it pushed their bodies together, letting them move as one.
"Follow us," Devnar said.
They practiced changing gaits and directions and controlling the ball, slowly building up to moving like they would during a match. Ronon loved the connection he felt with Sheppard and their ability to communicate with their equona.
"This is so cool," Sheppard said breathlessly after they came to a stop next to Devnar and Rackar.
"You are sure you have never ridden together?" Rackar asked with a grin.
"Never," Ronon confirmed.
"Then you are a natural pair," Devnar said enthusiastically. "Come, we will see if we can find some more players."
*****
John and Ronon cantered their horse down the field, jockeying for position to control Devnar's pass. They turned sharply, leaning together to balance the quick change in direction. There was one pair to beat before the goal. Ronon hit the ball diagonally in front of their horse, away from the defenders, and John picked it up, smacking the ball into the goal.
Cheers erupted from the onlookers and their team. John whooped and raised his mallet in acknowledgement. He was high on adrenaline and aroused by the feel of Ronon, strong and solid at his back, enveloping him. Despite the fact that Ronon's cock was as hard as his, this was dangerous territory, and he needed to tread carefully.
The pair they had scored against brushed by them, and the man in front hissed, "Lucky shot, basknens."
Ronon tensed and bristled, but John smiled and nodded. "No doubt beginner's luck." He turned their horse and headed over to the sideline, letting the ill feeling distract him from his dilemma with Ronon.
"Good play," Devnar praised, bumping his fist against John's upper arm.
"Thanks." John returned the gesture. "Your pass set it up perfectly. I don't want to spoil the fun, but I think it's time for the two of us to take a break."
"Of course," said Rackar. "Return your mount to the corral and the handlers will take care of her."
"Thank you, it's been great."
At the corral, two men approached them, taking their mallets and holding the horse. Ronon dismounted first and then tugged John off, casually allowing John to slide down his body. "Now that was more fun than golf."
John caught his breath at Ronon's touch. "Yeah." This wasn't the first hint John had gotten from Ronon that a deeper relationship would be welcome but somehow he had never been able to cross the line and Ronon had never pushed.
Ronon moved around John, stroked the horse's neck and whispered something in her ear. "I'm thirsty."
John patted her rump then turned to walk toward the tent. "Me too."
When they entered, Teyla came over to greet them. "I see you had fun."
"Indeed." Ronon grinned.
Arna offered them cups of water. "We are pleased that you enjoyed yourselves."
"Thank you very much," John said.
Teyla took Ronon's arm. "Would you walk with Arna and me? I'd like to explore the market."
Ronon gave her a look but then nodded. "Sure."
John watched them leave, then sprawled next to Rodney and adjusted his pants. "I'm so screwed."
Rodney looked up from his tablet. "Are you finally going to give in and admit to Ronon that you're attracted to him?"
Raising his eyebrows, John said, "I didn't think you'd noticed."
"Not the issue here," Rodney pointed out.
"I don't want to mess with our team dynamic. It could make things awkward if Ronon said no, or hell, if he said yes. I don't want to make him have to hide because of my rules," John countered.
"You're over-thinking," Rodney said. "Teyla thinks it would be good for both of you."
"She's talked about us?" John asked with surprise.
"Well, probably just to me," Rodney said. "She's seen you two together and wants you to be happy. Just like I do."
"It's not going to make you uncomfortable?" John looked at Rodney and gestured between them. "Not going to change us?"
"Really, John, it's okay," Rodney reassured. "I'm your best friend, but that doesn't mean I want to have sex with you. If you think Ronon can make you happy, you should go for it."
John flushed, then nodded slowly. "Thanks, buddy, I'll think about it."
*****
Ronon licked his fingers and settled back from the low table to watch the dancers. The food had been excellent and plentiful, and the excitement of the feasters contagious. At first it had seemed like an ordinary buffet, but after the children had been herded to sleep, stronger alcoholic drinks and sweet weed had begun to circulate, the music had changed, becoming more sensual and primal, and the focus of the evening had become obvious.
Ronon smiled to himself at the look of discomfort and fascination on McKay's face as he watched the flirting around him. Teyla seemed to understand the need to form matches during the short time the bands were together. She was soaking up the music and laughing with Arna and other friends who stopped by to greet her. Sheppard looked alert and carefully neutral.
Reading Sheppard was sometimes incredibly easy, but when it was personal, Ronon kept hitting a wall. He admitted that it had taken a while to realize that he was ready to move on from the past, and that Sheppard was where his interest lay. Still, he had been hinting enough recently that Sheppard should have picked up on it. They had had moments, like today on the equona, when Ronon felt they'd made a connection, that they wanted the same thing. And yet, Sheppard seemed unable to address their feelings. It was driving him a little crazy.
"I'm going to stretch my legs for a bit, does anyone want anything while I'm up?" Sheppard asked the team.
"You can get me more of that blue dessert," McKay said, waving his hand in the general direction of the food tables.
"Got it." Sheppard stood, turning to Ronon. "And you?"
Ronon moved his eyes slowly from Sheppard's waist up to his face, and grinned slightly. "I'm good."
Sheppard licked his lips and nodded quickly. "Okay."
Ronon watched Sheppard move around the perimeter of the large tent, reassuring himself that everything was safe. That care and competence, signs of a true commander, were exciting. It also didn't hurt that the light from the torches danced along Sheppard's skin enticingly. Ronon took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart.
Sheppard picked up McKay's dessert and was heading back when a man with long black hair intercepted him. Ronon recognized him as the one who'd cursed at them on the field. He stood up, tensing when he saw Sheppard start to move away only to be stopped by the man's hand on his arm.
As Ronon drew closer, he could hear the man telling Sheppard that he was desirable, that he could make him a tempting offer. Ronon felt a stab of anger cut through him. He came up next to Sheppard and glared at the man. "He's already taken." Ronon kissed Sheppard soundly, claiming him.
The man narrowed his eyes and strode off in a huff.
"I'm sorry." Ronon steered Sheppard to their cushions, keeping his hand on the small of Sheppard's back.
"It's okay," Sheppard said, sounding flustered. "We're good."
"Is everything all right?" Teyla asked gently.
"Sure. Here's your cake, Rodney."
McKay took the plate. "Thanks."
Ronon settled next to Sheppard, trying to hold back the rush of possessiveness. Sheppard had melted into his kiss. Ronon wanted to drag him away from the feast and finally break through whatever barrier was keeping them from joining. But he knew that forcing the issue wouldn't work.
Sheppard was clearly uncomfortable. McKay elbowed him then kept looking between him and Ronon. When a woman brought the team new mugs, they all drank.
Not long after, Teyla yawned. "It is time for me to go to sleep."
"I'll walk with you back to the tent," McKay offered, giving Sheppard another nudge. "You guys can stay if you want."
Ronon watched as Sheppard wrestled inwardly but then stood up. "It's late. Ronon, you coming?"
"Yeah, I'm with you."
*****
John woke up wanting to puke. He opened his eyes and promptly closed them, trying to shut out the disorienting sight of the ground moving quickly beneath him. He stayed still, assessing. He was face down over a cantering horse. His hands were bound behind his back and he was gagged. Whoever was in the saddle behind him had one hand resting against his hip, stabilizing him.
His stomach tightened. Desperate not to throw up, he struggled to raise his head. Hands dragged him upright and he twisted into the saddle, breathing deeply until his stomach settled.
The arms around him kept John from turning to see who had abducted him, but the hands holding the reins were definitely male.
"You are a great prize," the man said into John's ear. "I am going to enjoy you."
John identified the voice as that of the man who'd propositioned him last night. He struggled ineffectually. Still groggy and uncoordinated, he decided to bide his time. Soon after, a cluster of tents came into view. John knew this was the camp of a different band but he didn't recognize the flags.
They slowed as they approached a tent. An older woman was working outside it and she looked up as they rode in. The man stopped the horse and dismounted, tying it to a post before hauling John from the saddle. He was pushed inside and to his knees.
The woman followed them, whispering furiously, "What have you done, Garan?"
"I want him," Garan stated. "You will prepare him."
The woman's lips thinned, but she nodded silently.
Garan undid John's hands and held the knife to his throat. "Strip."
John awkwardly took off his t-shirt and boxers. He didn't like where this was heading but for the moment he'd have to go along with it.
Garan gave the woman the knife and then shackled John's hands in front of him with silver chains. He pushed John onto a pallet on the ground and then attached a thick strip of leather from the chains to the tent frame. Brushing his finger along John's throat, Garan said, "I can't see you until after the challenge is won, my prize. But I eagerly await our reunion." He turned to the woman. "Get to work."
After Garan left, John watched the old woman. She was tsk-ing to herself as she moved slowly around the tent. When she stood facing him, he tried to talk around the gag. She held up her hand and said, "You are from Atlantis."
John met her eyes and nodded.
"You did not come with Garan willingly."
John shook his head vehemently.
"I am sorry." She moved closer to John and started applying kohl around his eyes. "I am Ethna. I have cared for Garan since he was a baby. He is as dear to me as my own child but he acts on what he wants before thinking of the consequences.
"Our people have the tradition of bride stealing. Your champion will have a chance to come after you and fight to steal you back. Whoever wins the fight claims you and then you are off limits to anyone else."
Ethna put silver bands around John's biceps and ankles. Then she brought him a wooden cup of water, pulling the gag free and encouraging him to drink.
John tried to talk but he just croaked. He accepted the water and drank, then tried again. "I'm not a bride."
"No," Ethna agreed. "You are a haldarn, a warrior brother."
John didn't know what to say to that. Hoping to appeal to her love for the child she'd raised, John asked, "Please release me so Garan won't get in more trouble."
Ethna looked defeated. "Tradition must be observed or I fear Garan will not let it go. I am sorry."
*****
Ronon woke to bright sunlight and the sounds of a bustling camp. He hadn't drunk enough last night to sleep into mid-morning. Looking around the tent, he saw that Teyla and McKay were still sleeping but Sheppard was gone, although his boots and firearms were still there. Ronon felt his stomach sink as he saw the boot tracks that weren't theirs. They'd been drugged and someone had taken Sheppard.
Ronon stuck his head out of the tent and asked a passing child to get Arna. Then he woke Teyla and McKay, explaining the situation as he dressed.
Arna arrived quickly, paling when she saw the stone marker on the pallet. "I know who has taken Sheppard...and why."
Teyla went to stand by her side. "Then please tell us."
"One of our oldest traditions is bride stealing. Today it is more for show, after the couple agrees to be paired, so it is not dangerous."
"What?" McKay gasped, outrage clear in his voice.
Arna flinched at his tone but continued. "Garan, the man who spoke with Sheppard before Ronon kissed him last night, has taken Sheppard as a warrior brother. I assume Sheppard is unwilling, but the only way to return him is to send a challenger."
"Of all the barbaric -"
"Be quiet, McKay," Ronon said sternly. "I'll go."
*****
John lay on the pallet, twitching and unable to get comfortable. He had been chained here for several hours, plenty of time to not find a way to escape, and to silently freak out over Garan and that Ronon would be the logical one to fight for him. He'd been too scared to talk with Ronon about a relationship and now, one way or another, he was going to have to deal with it.
Ethna had fed him a light lunch but now he was feeling hot and squirmy and over-sensitized. He also really needed to go to the bathroom. "Ethna, can you take me outside to pee?"
She got a container and brought it over, holding it for him. "I can not let you leave the tent until it is time for the challenge."
"Thanks," he said sarcastically. Embarrassed but desperate, John relieved himself. She left and John was horrified when the breeze moving through the tent caressed his naked body and he got hard. She returned with the empty bowl and he gritted out, feeling betrayed, "You drugged me."
She swept her gaze over his body and nodded approvingly. "It is necessary that the prize accept the victor, whoever it is."
*****
Ronon had been riding the equona for over an hour when he saw the camp. He followed Arna's directions and headed for the cluster of tents flying a red and gold banner. He'd begun the journey full of rage that Garan had touched Sheppard. As the distance sped by, he'd thought of the rules of the challenge, that he'd get to fight for Sheppard and claim him before returning with him. This certainly wasn't the way he'd wanted to get through to Sheppard, and he wasn't sure if it would make or break them. He forced any thought of failure from his mind. He was here to win.
*****
John heard a commotion outside that could only be Ronon. He tried to ignore the heat racing through his body, focusing instead on standing up.
"It is time," Ethna said. "Kneel."
"What?" John was confused and not thinking all that clearly so when she pushed on his shoulder he went down onto his hands and knees.
"It is necessary to prepare the prize before the claiming."
John gasped when he saw her oiling a large stone phallus. Her hand rested on the small of his back and she slowly pushed the dildo inside him. He was so sensitive that he couldn't help whimpering as he was spread and filled. Unconsciously, he pushed onto it, tightening as it withdrew.
Ethna cut John free from the tent, still keeping the knife ready, and used the leather like a leash to lead him outside into a clearing. He could see Garan and Ronon on either side of a circle of onlookers. He was tied to a large pole with his hands over his head, the winner's prize.
*****
Ronon watched as Sheppard, naked and aroused, was brought out and tied to a post. He growled, anger sharpening his resolve. The judge called them into the center and tied their left hands together with a short strip of leather. They fought hard, grunting, punching, rolling on the ground. Ronon could feel Garan weakening and increased his attack. "Yield."
"Never." Garan took a knife out of his boot and slashed at Ronon.
"You have no honor," Ronon snarled, head-butting him. Ronon took the knife from Garan's loosened grip and cut the leather binding them together. While Garan struggled to his knees, still shaking his head, Ronon cut John free and whistled for his equona. He got John into the saddle and mounted behind him. He took off his leather necklace with a green stone bead and put it on John. "He's mine," Ronon declared loudly. Garan looked like he wanted to follow them. Ronon glared sharply. "If you ever touch him again, I'll kill you."
Ronon wrapped his arms around Sheppard and turned the equona, spurring her into a canter even though they were among tents and people. After they'd navigated the camp and were on the path back, Ronon leaned close to Sheppard's ear and asked, "Are you all right?"
"He didn't hurt me." Sheppard leaned his head against Ronon. "But she drugged me so I'd accept the victor. And I really, really want to do that."
Gritting his teeth, Ronon tried to maintain control. The rolling gait of the equona was pressing them together, creating a maddening friction. That and the adrenaline from the fight had made him hard. He wanted to claim Sheppard, needed to for the challenge but he didn't want him drugged. "I can't force you."
Sheppard laughed harshly. "You're not. Please, I need you. Now."
"I don't want to hurt you," Ronon said desperately.
"I'm already slick."
Ronon's nostrils flared, picking up the scent of Sheppard's need. "Okay." Consequences be damned, he couldn't resist.
Sheppard's hands were still shackled by the metal chains but Ronon gave him the reins, confident that the well-trained equona would follow the path home. Ronon opened his pants and nudged his cock against Sheppard. As he sank in, they groaned in unison. Ronon moved his hands to Sheppard's hips, letting the motion of the equona help them fuck.
"Oh god, Ronon, that's it," Sheppard moaned, tightening around Ronon's cock. "More. Touch me."
Ronon responded to Sheppard's pleas, reaching around to fist his cock. When Sheppard cried out, Ronon bit his bare shoulder and climaxed.
After, Ronon held Sheppard close, stroking him as they calmed. He had no idea what to say, not wanting to break the connection they'd forged. Eventually Ronon realized that Sheppard was resting more heavily against his chest, breath deepening in sleep. Kissing the messy hair, Ronon whispered, "Mine."
*****
The door chimed and John pulled on a t-shirt before answering it. Ronon stood in the doorway. John felt his heartbeat quicken and he tried to breathe normally.
"Want to run?"
"Yeah, but come in first," John said, stepping back and letting the door close behind them. "I'm sorry I've been avoiding you. I'm not all that comfortable expressing my...feelings." John cringed at how lame he sounded.
"It's okay, Sheppard."
There was silence for a time and John knew he had to do something or they were going to drift apart. "Hey, this is yours." John took the necklace Ronon had used to claim him off his desk and returned it to Ronon.
"I'd like you to keep it."
John went still, reading the implied question, then nodded. "Put it on me."
Ronon tied it and kissed John's neck.
John turned and kissed Ronon's lips, breathless when they pulled back. He looked into Ronon's eyes and saw hope and happiness. Running could wait.
Author: kimberlite
Pairing: Ronon/Sheppard
Rating: NC-17
Word count: ~4,325
Disclaimer: SGA is so not mine, I'm just having fun.
Recipient: for bakarini who wanted: Ronon/Sheppard (plz); H/C, angst (with a happy ending), fluff, crack, etc... the list goes on - I'm pretty easy to please.
Thanks: to my faithful beta, who will be named later.
Feedback: Yes, please.
Summary: Sheppard and Ronon aren't that good at talking about their feelings.
*
"Welcome, honored friends."
Sheppard smiled and returned the ceremonial gesture, then stepped to the side to let Teyla handle the rest of the greeting.
"It is good to see you again, Arna," Teyla said, clasping hands with the leader and smiling warmly at the people gathered behind her.
"We are pleased you accepted our invitation to join the Festival. You are truly heroes to our people, as well as friends," Arna said graciously.
John kept half an ear on the conversation but let his mind wander, enjoying the gorgeous weather and the chance to unwind among trusted allies. McKay was clearly relishing the attention, which he did deserve for saving them all. Ronon looked relaxed, but John knew he was alert for the slightest hint of danger. Teyla was radiant. Even if her pregnant belly looked huge and uncomfortable to John, she moved with energy and grace.
As they walked, John listened to Arna explaining some of the intricacies of their nomadic social structure and the Festival that bought different bands together to contract marriages and take part in various competitions. They moved through a sea of large, hexagonal tents, their neutral colors highlighted by bright flags blowing in the breeze. The people were friendly and polite, greeting them without intruding. John paid more attention as they neared a dusty field where horse-like creatures were being ridden in a raucous game.
"This is where we play challope," Arna said. "Each team consists of four pairs of riders. They use mallets to move the ball across the field and into the goal while the other team tries to take the ball from them and defend the goal. It is a game of skill and teamwork that dates back to the earliest days of our people."
Ronon spoke for the first time. "It is a warrior's contest. My people have something similar, only with teams of one rider and the ball is rounder."
"You've played before?" John asked, fascinated that Ronon would so easily volunteer information about his past.
"Yeah."
"Cool." Okay, so Ronon was clamming up again but John understood the desire not to share too much. He loved riding and was itching to play. "Earth has a game called polo."
Arna led them into a tent near the field. With the side canvas rolled up, they were shaded but able to see the events. "Please make yourselves comfortable. You are welcome to relax here or explore the Festival. There are refreshments but if you need anything else, please do not hesitate to ask."
Teyla smiled and moved to a pile of brightly colored pillows. "Thank you for your hospitality, Arna. I will stay here and watch the games for now. We have much to discuss."
John took a step forward, instinctively wanting to help Teyla but she settled into the pillows next to Arna without trouble.
Rodney dropped his backpack by Teyla, huffing quietly as he lowered himself to the ground. "I'm with Teyla. I have a ton of journals to catch up on."
"You mean tear apart," John corrected.
"Of course," Rodney replied gleefully.
Ronon rolled his eyes and shifted his focus to the field.
Watching the riders, John felt the excitement of a challenge. He drifted closer to Ronon, imagining them as a pair, cantering in sync.
Teyla looked at John and Ronon and smiled indulgently. "They are as eager as children."
"Their interest is much appreciated. Devnar, perhaps you and Rackar could show Sheppard and Ronon the corral," Arna suggested.
"That would be great," John said, practically bouncing on his toes.
Rodney looked up from his tablet, pinning John with a warning glare. "Don't even think it."
"What?" John raised his hands and smiled innocently. "Just promoting friendly relations with our allies."
Rodney sighed. "Just don't get hurt."
"I'll watch out for him," Ronon said.
"Fabulous."
*****
Ronon scratched behind the equona's ears and let her rub her head against his chest. "Aren't you a pretty one?" he murmured to her.
"Well, it didn't take you long to make a friend," Sheppard teased, petting the creature's velvety nose.
Ronon shrugged. "I like animals."
Devnar tightened the girth on the saddle, sized up the men and lengthened the second set of stirrups. "I take it that you have both ridden before."
Ronon nodded, remembering both the freedom of summers on his grandparents' farm and the discipline of the service. "But never with another rider."
"Yeah, same here," Sheppard offered.
"It is both similar and not," Devnar said. "The saddle is curved to provide some separation of the riders but in truth, the riders must act as one, communicating to the equona by rein and leg. The mallets are held one to the right and one to the left, never both on the same side."
"Okay," Sheppard said, looking over the saddle, "that works."
"Mount and you can give it a try," Devnar said.
Ronon offered Sheppard a leg up, easily tossing him in front. He got his foot into the stirrup and swung up, settling closely behind. He wrapped his right arm around John's waist. "I'll take the left side."
"Okay." John used his left hand to hold the reins and took the mallet Devnar offered in his right. "You ready, Chewie?"
Ronon grinned, glad to see Sheppard relaxing and having fun. "Sure thing, Han."
Devnar and Rackar mounted their equona and walked from the corral to an empty clearing. Ronon and Sheppard followed, watching as they broke into a trot and then cantered in a wide circle.
Ronon tightened his arm, pleased when Sheppard read his signal and nudged their equona into a trot. Devnar and Rackar hadn't posted at the trot so they sat as well. Halfway around the circle, Ronon tightened his legs and the equona began to canter. The rolling motion was more comfortable, especially since it pushed their bodies together, letting them move as one.
"Follow us," Devnar said.
They practiced changing gaits and directions and controlling the ball, slowly building up to moving like they would during a match. Ronon loved the connection he felt with Sheppard and their ability to communicate with their equona.
"This is so cool," Sheppard said breathlessly after they came to a stop next to Devnar and Rackar.
"You are sure you have never ridden together?" Rackar asked with a grin.
"Never," Ronon confirmed.
"Then you are a natural pair," Devnar said enthusiastically. "Come, we will see if we can find some more players."
*****
John and Ronon cantered their horse down the field, jockeying for position to control Devnar's pass. They turned sharply, leaning together to balance the quick change in direction. There was one pair to beat before the goal. Ronon hit the ball diagonally in front of their horse, away from the defenders, and John picked it up, smacking the ball into the goal.
Cheers erupted from the onlookers and their team. John whooped and raised his mallet in acknowledgement. He was high on adrenaline and aroused by the feel of Ronon, strong and solid at his back, enveloping him. Despite the fact that Ronon's cock was as hard as his, this was dangerous territory, and he needed to tread carefully.
The pair they had scored against brushed by them, and the man in front hissed, "Lucky shot, basknens."
Ronon tensed and bristled, but John smiled and nodded. "No doubt beginner's luck." He turned their horse and headed over to the sideline, letting the ill feeling distract him from his dilemma with Ronon.
"Good play," Devnar praised, bumping his fist against John's upper arm.
"Thanks." John returned the gesture. "Your pass set it up perfectly. I don't want to spoil the fun, but I think it's time for the two of us to take a break."
"Of course," said Rackar. "Return your mount to the corral and the handlers will take care of her."
"Thank you, it's been great."
At the corral, two men approached them, taking their mallets and holding the horse. Ronon dismounted first and then tugged John off, casually allowing John to slide down his body. "Now that was more fun than golf."
John caught his breath at Ronon's touch. "Yeah." This wasn't the first hint John had gotten from Ronon that a deeper relationship would be welcome but somehow he had never been able to cross the line and Ronon had never pushed.
Ronon moved around John, stroked the horse's neck and whispered something in her ear. "I'm thirsty."
John patted her rump then turned to walk toward the tent. "Me too."
When they entered, Teyla came over to greet them. "I see you had fun."
"Indeed." Ronon grinned.
Arna offered them cups of water. "We are pleased that you enjoyed yourselves."
"Thank you very much," John said.
Teyla took Ronon's arm. "Would you walk with Arna and me? I'd like to explore the market."
Ronon gave her a look but then nodded. "Sure."
John watched them leave, then sprawled next to Rodney and adjusted his pants. "I'm so screwed."
Rodney looked up from his tablet. "Are you finally going to give in and admit to Ronon that you're attracted to him?"
Raising his eyebrows, John said, "I didn't think you'd noticed."
"Not the issue here," Rodney pointed out.
"I don't want to mess with our team dynamic. It could make things awkward if Ronon said no, or hell, if he said yes. I don't want to make him have to hide because of my rules," John countered.
"You're over-thinking," Rodney said. "Teyla thinks it would be good for both of you."
"She's talked about us?" John asked with surprise.
"Well, probably just to me," Rodney said. "She's seen you two together and wants you to be happy. Just like I do."
"It's not going to make you uncomfortable?" John looked at Rodney and gestured between them. "Not going to change us?"
"Really, John, it's okay," Rodney reassured. "I'm your best friend, but that doesn't mean I want to have sex with you. If you think Ronon can make you happy, you should go for it."
John flushed, then nodded slowly. "Thanks, buddy, I'll think about it."
*****
Ronon licked his fingers and settled back from the low table to watch the dancers. The food had been excellent and plentiful, and the excitement of the feasters contagious. At first it had seemed like an ordinary buffet, but after the children had been herded to sleep, stronger alcoholic drinks and sweet weed had begun to circulate, the music had changed, becoming more sensual and primal, and the focus of the evening had become obvious.
Ronon smiled to himself at the look of discomfort and fascination on McKay's face as he watched the flirting around him. Teyla seemed to understand the need to form matches during the short time the bands were together. She was soaking up the music and laughing with Arna and other friends who stopped by to greet her. Sheppard looked alert and carefully neutral.
Reading Sheppard was sometimes incredibly easy, but when it was personal, Ronon kept hitting a wall. He admitted that it had taken a while to realize that he was ready to move on from the past, and that Sheppard was where his interest lay. Still, he had been hinting enough recently that Sheppard should have picked up on it. They had had moments, like today on the equona, when Ronon felt they'd made a connection, that they wanted the same thing. And yet, Sheppard seemed unable to address their feelings. It was driving him a little crazy.
"I'm going to stretch my legs for a bit, does anyone want anything while I'm up?" Sheppard asked the team.
"You can get me more of that blue dessert," McKay said, waving his hand in the general direction of the food tables.
"Got it." Sheppard stood, turning to Ronon. "And you?"
Ronon moved his eyes slowly from Sheppard's waist up to his face, and grinned slightly. "I'm good."
Sheppard licked his lips and nodded quickly. "Okay."
Ronon watched Sheppard move around the perimeter of the large tent, reassuring himself that everything was safe. That care and competence, signs of a true commander, were exciting. It also didn't hurt that the light from the torches danced along Sheppard's skin enticingly. Ronon took a deep breath, trying to calm his racing heart.
Sheppard picked up McKay's dessert and was heading back when a man with long black hair intercepted him. Ronon recognized him as the one who'd cursed at them on the field. He stood up, tensing when he saw Sheppard start to move away only to be stopped by the man's hand on his arm.
As Ronon drew closer, he could hear the man telling Sheppard that he was desirable, that he could make him a tempting offer. Ronon felt a stab of anger cut through him. He came up next to Sheppard and glared at the man. "He's already taken." Ronon kissed Sheppard soundly, claiming him.
The man narrowed his eyes and strode off in a huff.
"I'm sorry." Ronon steered Sheppard to their cushions, keeping his hand on the small of Sheppard's back.
"It's okay," Sheppard said, sounding flustered. "We're good."
"Is everything all right?" Teyla asked gently.
"Sure. Here's your cake, Rodney."
McKay took the plate. "Thanks."
Ronon settled next to Sheppard, trying to hold back the rush of possessiveness. Sheppard had melted into his kiss. Ronon wanted to drag him away from the feast and finally break through whatever barrier was keeping them from joining. But he knew that forcing the issue wouldn't work.
Sheppard was clearly uncomfortable. McKay elbowed him then kept looking between him and Ronon. When a woman brought the team new mugs, they all drank.
Not long after, Teyla yawned. "It is time for me to go to sleep."
"I'll walk with you back to the tent," McKay offered, giving Sheppard another nudge. "You guys can stay if you want."
Ronon watched as Sheppard wrestled inwardly but then stood up. "It's late. Ronon, you coming?"
"Yeah, I'm with you."
*****
John woke up wanting to puke. He opened his eyes and promptly closed them, trying to shut out the disorienting sight of the ground moving quickly beneath him. He stayed still, assessing. He was face down over a cantering horse. His hands were bound behind his back and he was gagged. Whoever was in the saddle behind him had one hand resting against his hip, stabilizing him.
His stomach tightened. Desperate not to throw up, he struggled to raise his head. Hands dragged him upright and he twisted into the saddle, breathing deeply until his stomach settled.
The arms around him kept John from turning to see who had abducted him, but the hands holding the reins were definitely male.
"You are a great prize," the man said into John's ear. "I am going to enjoy you."
John identified the voice as that of the man who'd propositioned him last night. He struggled ineffectually. Still groggy and uncoordinated, he decided to bide his time. Soon after, a cluster of tents came into view. John knew this was the camp of a different band but he didn't recognize the flags.
They slowed as they approached a tent. An older woman was working outside it and she looked up as they rode in. The man stopped the horse and dismounted, tying it to a post before hauling John from the saddle. He was pushed inside and to his knees.
The woman followed them, whispering furiously, "What have you done, Garan?"
"I want him," Garan stated. "You will prepare him."
The woman's lips thinned, but she nodded silently.
Garan undid John's hands and held the knife to his throat. "Strip."
John awkwardly took off his t-shirt and boxers. He didn't like where this was heading but for the moment he'd have to go along with it.
Garan gave the woman the knife and then shackled John's hands in front of him with silver chains. He pushed John onto a pallet on the ground and then attached a thick strip of leather from the chains to the tent frame. Brushing his finger along John's throat, Garan said, "I can't see you until after the challenge is won, my prize. But I eagerly await our reunion." He turned to the woman. "Get to work."
After Garan left, John watched the old woman. She was tsk-ing to herself as she moved slowly around the tent. When she stood facing him, he tried to talk around the gag. She held up her hand and said, "You are from Atlantis."
John met her eyes and nodded.
"You did not come with Garan willingly."
John shook his head vehemently.
"I am sorry." She moved closer to John and started applying kohl around his eyes. "I am Ethna. I have cared for Garan since he was a baby. He is as dear to me as my own child but he acts on what he wants before thinking of the consequences.
"Our people have the tradition of bride stealing. Your champion will have a chance to come after you and fight to steal you back. Whoever wins the fight claims you and then you are off limits to anyone else."
Ethna put silver bands around John's biceps and ankles. Then she brought him a wooden cup of water, pulling the gag free and encouraging him to drink.
John tried to talk but he just croaked. He accepted the water and drank, then tried again. "I'm not a bride."
"No," Ethna agreed. "You are a haldarn, a warrior brother."
John didn't know what to say to that. Hoping to appeal to her love for the child she'd raised, John asked, "Please release me so Garan won't get in more trouble."
Ethna looked defeated. "Tradition must be observed or I fear Garan will not let it go. I am sorry."
*****
Ronon woke to bright sunlight and the sounds of a bustling camp. He hadn't drunk enough last night to sleep into mid-morning. Looking around the tent, he saw that Teyla and McKay were still sleeping but Sheppard was gone, although his boots and firearms were still there. Ronon felt his stomach sink as he saw the boot tracks that weren't theirs. They'd been drugged and someone had taken Sheppard.
Ronon stuck his head out of the tent and asked a passing child to get Arna. Then he woke Teyla and McKay, explaining the situation as he dressed.
Arna arrived quickly, paling when she saw the stone marker on the pallet. "I know who has taken Sheppard...and why."
Teyla went to stand by her side. "Then please tell us."
"One of our oldest traditions is bride stealing. Today it is more for show, after the couple agrees to be paired, so it is not dangerous."
"What?" McKay gasped, outrage clear in his voice.
Arna flinched at his tone but continued. "Garan, the man who spoke with Sheppard before Ronon kissed him last night, has taken Sheppard as a warrior brother. I assume Sheppard is unwilling, but the only way to return him is to send a challenger."
"Of all the barbaric -"
"Be quiet, McKay," Ronon said sternly. "I'll go."
*****
John lay on the pallet, twitching and unable to get comfortable. He had been chained here for several hours, plenty of time to not find a way to escape, and to silently freak out over Garan and that Ronon would be the logical one to fight for him. He'd been too scared to talk with Ronon about a relationship and now, one way or another, he was going to have to deal with it.
Ethna had fed him a light lunch but now he was feeling hot and squirmy and over-sensitized. He also really needed to go to the bathroom. "Ethna, can you take me outside to pee?"
She got a container and brought it over, holding it for him. "I can not let you leave the tent until it is time for the challenge."
"Thanks," he said sarcastically. Embarrassed but desperate, John relieved himself. She left and John was horrified when the breeze moving through the tent caressed his naked body and he got hard. She returned with the empty bowl and he gritted out, feeling betrayed, "You drugged me."
She swept her gaze over his body and nodded approvingly. "It is necessary that the prize accept the victor, whoever it is."
*****
Ronon had been riding the equona for over an hour when he saw the camp. He followed Arna's directions and headed for the cluster of tents flying a red and gold banner. He'd begun the journey full of rage that Garan had touched Sheppard. As the distance sped by, he'd thought of the rules of the challenge, that he'd get to fight for Sheppard and claim him before returning with him. This certainly wasn't the way he'd wanted to get through to Sheppard, and he wasn't sure if it would make or break them. He forced any thought of failure from his mind. He was here to win.
*****
John heard a commotion outside that could only be Ronon. He tried to ignore the heat racing through his body, focusing instead on standing up.
"It is time," Ethna said. "Kneel."
"What?" John was confused and not thinking all that clearly so when she pushed on his shoulder he went down onto his hands and knees.
"It is necessary to prepare the prize before the claiming."
John gasped when he saw her oiling a large stone phallus. Her hand rested on the small of his back and she slowly pushed the dildo inside him. He was so sensitive that he couldn't help whimpering as he was spread and filled. Unconsciously, he pushed onto it, tightening as it withdrew.
Ethna cut John free from the tent, still keeping the knife ready, and used the leather like a leash to lead him outside into a clearing. He could see Garan and Ronon on either side of a circle of onlookers. He was tied to a large pole with his hands over his head, the winner's prize.
*****
Ronon watched as Sheppard, naked and aroused, was brought out and tied to a post. He growled, anger sharpening his resolve. The judge called them into the center and tied their left hands together with a short strip of leather. They fought hard, grunting, punching, rolling on the ground. Ronon could feel Garan weakening and increased his attack. "Yield."
"Never." Garan took a knife out of his boot and slashed at Ronon.
"You have no honor," Ronon snarled, head-butting him. Ronon took the knife from Garan's loosened grip and cut the leather binding them together. While Garan struggled to his knees, still shaking his head, Ronon cut John free and whistled for his equona. He got John into the saddle and mounted behind him. He took off his leather necklace with a green stone bead and put it on John. "He's mine," Ronon declared loudly. Garan looked like he wanted to follow them. Ronon glared sharply. "If you ever touch him again, I'll kill you."
Ronon wrapped his arms around Sheppard and turned the equona, spurring her into a canter even though they were among tents and people. After they'd navigated the camp and were on the path back, Ronon leaned close to Sheppard's ear and asked, "Are you all right?"
"He didn't hurt me." Sheppard leaned his head against Ronon. "But she drugged me so I'd accept the victor. And I really, really want to do that."
Gritting his teeth, Ronon tried to maintain control. The rolling gait of the equona was pressing them together, creating a maddening friction. That and the adrenaline from the fight had made him hard. He wanted to claim Sheppard, needed to for the challenge but he didn't want him drugged. "I can't force you."
Sheppard laughed harshly. "You're not. Please, I need you. Now."
"I don't want to hurt you," Ronon said desperately.
"I'm already slick."
Ronon's nostrils flared, picking up the scent of Sheppard's need. "Okay." Consequences be damned, he couldn't resist.
Sheppard's hands were still shackled by the metal chains but Ronon gave him the reins, confident that the well-trained equona would follow the path home. Ronon opened his pants and nudged his cock against Sheppard. As he sank in, they groaned in unison. Ronon moved his hands to Sheppard's hips, letting the motion of the equona help them fuck.
"Oh god, Ronon, that's it," Sheppard moaned, tightening around Ronon's cock. "More. Touch me."
Ronon responded to Sheppard's pleas, reaching around to fist his cock. When Sheppard cried out, Ronon bit his bare shoulder and climaxed.
After, Ronon held Sheppard close, stroking him as they calmed. He had no idea what to say, not wanting to break the connection they'd forged. Eventually Ronon realized that Sheppard was resting more heavily against his chest, breath deepening in sleep. Kissing the messy hair, Ronon whispered, "Mine."
*****
The door chimed and John pulled on a t-shirt before answering it. Ronon stood in the doorway. John felt his heartbeat quicken and he tried to breathe normally.
"Want to run?"
"Yeah, but come in first," John said, stepping back and letting the door close behind them. "I'm sorry I've been avoiding you. I'm not all that comfortable expressing my...feelings." John cringed at how lame he sounded.
"It's okay, Sheppard."
There was silence for a time and John knew he had to do something or they were going to drift apart. "Hey, this is yours." John took the necklace Ronon had used to claim him off his desk and returned it to Ronon.
"I'd like you to keep it."
John went still, reading the implied question, then nodded. "Put it on me."
Ronon tied it and kissed John's neck.
John turned and kissed Ronon's lips, breathless when they pulled back. He looked into Ronon's eyes and saw hope and happiness. Running could wait.