Chapter 4
The Thirteen Patriots

Part 2

---

Nicky's POV
December 18th

Thank God, Dad Alex is finally awake. Sergei and I hurry upstairs as soon as Summer gives us the news. We wait with our sisters in the bedroom while Dad Alex showers. No one has given him the bad news yet. As the oldest it's Sergei's responsibility.

After ten minutes he comes down the steps wearing his black velour robe.

"Daddy! We missed you!" the triplets yell and run over to hug him. He kneels hugging them back and distributing kisses.

"How have you girls been? Has Daddy Fox and your nannies been taking good care of you?"

"Bad men have Daddy Fox!" They blurt out in stereo.

We all groan.

"What?" He looks over at us. "Does someone want to tell me what's going on? Where's Walter?"

"Dad, I think it would be better if we talked in private," Sergei says nervously.

"Hope, Faith, please take your sisters to the kitchen." Dad Alex's voice is low and filled with worry.

They collect kisses from him before they leave. Kaylie, Alek, and Angelique are in the village visiting Yori and Lev.

"Okay, boys, start talking."

I stand next to Sergei as he gives Dad the bad news. "They were abducted along with our brothers from Area 51 the day they arrived. The base commander General Foss believes it was an inside job. The military has since uncovered information of an organize plot led by Major James Conan—"

"The air force test pilot?" Dad asks.

"Yeah. Major Conan leads a secret group known as the Thirteen Patriots. They have been planning an attack against our family for years. Dad Walter taking Dad Fox with him to Area 51 presented them with the perfect opportunity." Sergei's eyes tear up and he snivels, "D-Dad, I'm afraid they might have killed Dad Walter."

Our dad quickly strides over and pulls Sergei's larger body into a hug. "Serg, I'm sure he's all right. They'd be foolish to kill such an important hostage. Have you and Nicky been dealing with this all alone these past three weeks?"

"G-general Kline has been helping us. Rory, Kazuo, and Gabriel have been helping to protect our family."

I walk over and wrap my arms around our dad, too. I've missed him so much. He kisses me and pulls me against his side. He's so strong and smells really good. I feel better knowing that he's going be in charge now. Sergei is resting his head on Dad's other shoulder as I whisper, "Father Nikolai is also helping to search for them."

He looks at me silently. "I'm going to get dressed, boys, then we can go downstairs together to speak with General Kline."

I sigh; I wish my biological dads got along.

***

When we stroll into the conference room, it's filled with our Dad Walter's Generals and top cabinet officials. Dad Alex walks over and takes the seat at the head of the table that Sergei has been using in Dad Walter's absence.

"Excuse me, Prince Alex, but shouldn't you be upstairs resting?" General Macky asks, snuffing out his cigar in the ashtray.

"No. In King Walter's absence I'm the next in charge. Do you have a problem with that, General?" Dad Alex glares at him, then at each of the men around the table.

"You're hardly qualified—" Secretary Stuart states.

"Why? Because I'm not a sorcerer? Since when has our country started to restrict anyone except sorcerers from holding high positions in our government?"

"That's not true. We have four clairvoyants in the cabinet," Secretary Stuart says, looking nervously around for support before continuing. "Immortals have other duties. You shouldn't have to concern yourselves with the problems of running the government. Especially when you have a bun in the oven."

Our dad stands and walks over Secretary Stuart and yanks him out of his chair. "Consider yourself out of a job." Dad pushes him toward the door.

"You can't do this to me!"

"Yes, I can. If you don't leave I'll have you thrown out."

Everyone watches as the Secretary leaves the room in a huff. "Does anyone else want to join the former Secretary?" he asks.

"Prince Alex, it's not that I don't have the utmost respect for you, but as an immortal you'll never be able to defend yourself against mind-control or attack," General Macky says.

Dad Alex lifts a perfectly shaped eyebrow and smiles menacingly. "General, just as you would never be able to defend yourself against me, if I ever decide to kill you."

"You're only an immortal...you could never get close enough to kill me—"

"I'm pregnant...once I start lactating you'll never even see me coming. Now do you wish to join Secretary Stuart?"

The General startles, then laughs and pounds the table. "No, Your Highness, I'll happily follow your commands. I know when I'm out matched."

General Kline has been sitting quietly throughout the confrontation. "Welcome, Prince Alex. I'll echo General Macky. It will be a pleasure to serve under your command until we can get King Walter back."

"Thank you, Generals. Shall we get down to business?" Our dad takes the seat at the head of the table again, while Sergei and I take seats against the wall.

General Kline clicks on the monitor and an image appears on the screen. It is of the inside of a reproduction center with hundreds of growth cylinders. "We've finally determined why they abducted Prince Fox and possibly your immortal sons. This is the Greater Valley reproduction clinic outside of San Francisco. Since cloning has temporarily been suspended, this clinic hasn't been used in three years, so no one was aware that all of its equipment had been stolen. It contained close to seven hundred growth cylinders along with all of the medical equipment for maintaining the cylinders—"

Our dad pales and looks ill. "Shit! Are you saying that this group has abducted Fox and my sons in order to procreate female children with them?"

I've never seen my dad more distressed. I'm worried he might faint. "Dad, I'm sure they won't hurt them. They only need their semen—" I just figure they'd have my brothers and dad jerk off into a jar, like we've seen in our sex education classes on reproduction.

"No, Nicky, they don't only need semen! An immortal and sorcerer must bond first and the only way they can do that is through sex!" he growls, pounding his fist on the table.

"Dad, at least Gawain will be safe. He's still too young," Sergei says softly.

"Thanks, Serg, but I'm still worried about Hunter, River, and Fox. If these men have touched them I'll kill them with my bare hands!" He turns back to the men assembled around the conference table. "Continue with your report, General."

"Your Highness, we're currently checking with the trucking companies. Even with their sorcerer abilities, they'd still need several large trucks to haul the equipment from the lab," General Kline says.

"I want to be kept appraised of all developments, General. Now if you'll excuse me, I need to attend to my daughters. This must have been hard on them." My dad stands and everyone around the conference table stands out of respect.

We follow him back upstairs in the elevator. "Serg, did anyone do anything for your sisters and your sixteenth birthday?" Dad asks.

"We haven't been in much of a mood for celebrating. Especially since it was Hunter's sixteenth birthday, too," Sergei sighs.

"I'll have Jacques prepare a special meal. It's not everyday you turn sixteen." He smiles. "Don't worry, guys, we'll find them, then we'll celebrate Hunter's belated birthday."

Sergei tries to return the smile. "I hope so...I even miss Mani."

***

Major James Conan's POV
December 22nd

I have Prince Arman returned to his brothers' cell. Prince Fox is just beginning his cycle and I don't want the little boy in the way while his mother and father conceive their next child. The Royal couple has been extremely careful about having sex with their son sharing their cell. They've only done it four times to ward off the Prince's withdrawal pains, but only after the child was soundly sleeping. Oh yeah, I've watched them.

I stand outside their cell and watch the King pace, while Prince Fox sits on their cot. His arms are folded across his lap, covering an erection. I heard that immortals get incredibly horny during their cycle. Being this close to him is making me horny.

"Go ahead," I say.

"I'm not impregnating him with you standing there watching."

"Fine. I'll be down the tunnel. Call me when you're done." I head off down the tunnel keeping a mental eye on them.

The King kneels in front of the Prince. "Fox, I'm sorry. I don't want to do this to you—"

Prince Fox smiles sadly. "Walter, we have no choice. I'd rather have it be you than one of those bastards. Let's just get it over with."

"No. I want to make love to you slowly." He touches his lover's belly. "This child will be created out of love like all of our other children."

Prince Fox's eyes mist over as he wraps his long arms around the King's neck and pulls him into a hug. "This is why I love you so much, Walter. You always bring a ray of light into my life." He tilts his head and kisses the King.

King Walter proceeds to kiss him back with relish as he slowly undresses him. Then he removes his own clothes. They spend the next two hours exploring each other's bodies. Kissing, sucking, nipping. They have me hard and wanton watching them. I feel envious of our King. Why should he be the only one allowed to love Prince Fox?

"Oh God, Walter, now! I'm ready for you!"

I watch in utter fascination as the King's cock enters the immortal's bellybutton. The two figures on the cot become utterly still, except for their heavy breathing. No humping and no thrusting. The King cries out suddenly as his body shudders in orgasm. He collapses on top of his lover before rolling on his side.

Prince Fox's eyes are closed. His hand moves down to his belly and smears the come covering it from his own orgasm. "Do you think we'll have a girl this time?" he whispers.

"Fox, I'll love either a girl or boy. However, I do hope Alex gives me a son. More so because he really wants to have a boy this time."

The Prince chuckles, "Well, at least Alex ought to be happy at this latest development." He turns so he's lying with his head resting on the King's shoulder. He moans, "God, if he has multiples again, I know he's going to expect to me to help nurse them."

I decide at this instant that Prince Fox will carry my baby, too. I'll have him brought to me tomorrow evening.

***

Nicky's POV
December 22nd

Dad comes out of Doctor Pendrell's office tucking in his T-shirt. I'm waiting to walk back with him to our apartment, along with three of his personal bodyguards. Once he starts lactating again, he won't need to depend on them for his security.

"Dad, boy or girl?"

He puts his arm over my shoulder as we walk. "It's still too early to tell, Nicky."

"Twins, triplets, or more?"

Dad chuckles, "Don't start, brat. If I'm lucky only one this time."

Instead of taking the public transport car back to our section of the palace, we stroll through the shopping district. Normal humans manage most of these establishments. He stops in front of a cart selling stained glass, crystals, and prisms.

"Your sisters would love these, don't you think? Maybe the cardinals for Kira and the humming birds for Nadia."

I nod. My twin sisters love birds. "How about the butterflies for Morgan?"

Dad smiles, "Yes—"

"Can I help you, Your Highness?" the salesman asks.

"Yeah, I'd like these three stained glass window art, six of the different shape prism paperweights, and two pairs of those crystal earrings."

"Would you like boxes for them?"

"Yes, please and gift wrap."

We continue shopping until our bodyguards and ourselves are loaded down with packages. I wonder at Dad's calm demeanor as he pauses outside a shop that sells sex toys. Why isn't he worrying about my dads and brothers?

"Wait here, Nicky. I want to pick up a special gift for your Dad Fox and Dad Walter. The windows are mirrored so I can't see inside; I keep checking my watch every five minutes. It's a full half-hour before he strolls out caring two more large shopping bags.

"I think this is enough for today. I think I'll come back tomorrow with Sergei."

"Dad, they might not be home for Christmas—"

"Nicky, Christmas is your Dad Walter's favorite holiday. If we do find them in time, I want to be able to give him and your brothers a normal family Christmas."

"What's your favorite holiday, Dad?" I ask as we continue walking in the direction of our home.

"If you promise not to tell your Dad Fox, I'll tell you."

"I promise."

"Halloween."

"Halloween? But Dad, you hardly ever want to dress up. It drives Dad Fox nuts."

"I know, but I love seeing how much fun he has. I love anything that makes him happy." Dad shrugs sadly. "C'mon, let's get these presents home. You can help me wrap some of them."

***

River's POV
December 23rd

The Major took Arman back to our dads this morning. He said if all goes well, we should be back home by New Years Day. My brothers and I didn't even realize, until he told us, that tomorrow is Christmas Eve.

There is a noise outside our cell and suddenly the door opens and Dad Fox rushes in, carrying Arman. They're a beautiful sight.

"DAD!" Gawain shouts, rushing to him and throwing his arms around Dad's waist.

Dad Fox hugs him with his free arm. "Boys, we need to leave now!"

"How did you find us? Where's Dad Walter?"

"Mani showed me where you were. Your dad is extracting his pound of flesh."

"How did you get away?" I ask as we make our way through the dark tunnels while holding each other's hands.

"Thank your baby brother. He used his powers to break the anti-power cuff off your dad's ankle," Dad Fox whispers.

"Wow! Mani did that? Thanks, Mani," Gawain says.

"Sh, we're going to have to be quiet. Dad Walter is shielding us from detection, but that won't prevent them from finding us, if they hear us."

We stay close to the tunnel wall as we slowly make our way over uneven ground. There are old tracks running down the tunnel, probably used to move ore at one time. "Dad, do you know where we're going?"

"Yes. Dad Walter says a couple miles up, is an elevator that goes to the surface. We're going to wait there for him."

I jump at the sound of an explosion and screaming. It seems to echo down the tunnels.

***

Major James Conan's POV

I discover first hand why Walter Skinner was made King. I've never encountered another sorcerer more powerful. We were damn lucky to subdue him the first time back on the ship...I'm sure there'd never be a second chance. He's already slaughtered eight of my men.

I try to get to where we're holding his sons, but they're already gone. I can't, for the life of me, figure out how he was able to remove the anti-power cuff. The cavern I've retreated to with Doctor Blair contains all six hundred and fifty growth cylinders.

"Major Conan, Doctor Blair, you didn't really think you could hide from me?" The King stalks toward us. His attention is diverted briefly to the growth cylinders. "Were you successful, Doctor?"

"Yes. There's a small female embryo growing inside each of those containers."

"You shouldn't have done this to him. Fox will feel personally responsible for each of the little girls—"

I knew I chose correctly. The Prince will see that they're protected and given everything they'll need until they're old enough to marry. "Then our mission has been accomplished," I say.

"I should destroy all of these cylinders, Fox would never know."

"You won't. You're too good a man to destroy the human life growing within these growth cylinders."

The King frowns. "You're right, but I'm not above killing the two of you."

I clutch at my throat as it is crushed under tremendous pressure. The room appears awash in an amber color as I sink to my knees—

***

Nicky's POV
December 23rd

My Father Nikolai arrived from Russia this morning. He and Dad spent the morning talking. I wish I knew what they were discussing. My father seemed quite distressed. I cannot recall ever seeing him so disheveled and sad.

I'm in the kitchen helping to bake Christmas cookies. My spirit isn't really in it. Dad wanted us older kids to help keep our younger sisters minds off our missing dads and brothers.

"Alina, would you like to put some sprinkles on your cookie?" Hope asks.

"Yes. I'm making this one for Gawain. He'll like it better if it has lots of colors."

Dad Alex and Father Nikolai rush into the kitchen.

"Kids, they've been found! Dad Walter contacted the nearest clairvoyant with their location and General Kline is sending a helicopter to pick them up," Dad Alex says, smiling.

"Are they okay?" Sergei asks.

"Serg, General Kline says they're all in perfect health."

"But are River, Hunter, and Dad Fox okay?" Sergei stresses.

I realize what he's asking, while trying not to alarm our sisters.

"Your brothers are fine. They weren't touched by their captors—"

"What about Dad Fox?" I ask before Sergei can.

Dad Alex frowns and confesses, "I don't know. The General was only relaying what Dad Walter told the clairvoyant. We won't know until I can talk directly to Dad Walter or Dad Fox."

The next seven hours are the longest in my life. I pace around the entertainment room with my sisters and brother. Jacques threw us out of the kitchen, so he could concentrate on preparing a welcome home dinner.

Hope lights the Christmas tree, while Angélique and Faith light the candles around the room. They then dim the overhead lights and turn on the stereo to play some Christmas carols.

"Cheer up everyone," Hope admonishes. "They've been found, they're coming home."

"Hope, I can't cheer up until I know Dad Fox is really okay," Sergei says.

"Me neither," I say.

Dad Alex strolls into the room with his leather jacket on. "Their helicopter is going to land in twenty minutes. Who wants to wait by the landing pad with me?"

"I do!" We all cry out at once, then race out of the room to get our winter jackets.

"Meet me by the north elevator!" Dad Alex shouts after us.

***

River's POV

I look out the window of the helicopter toward the lights of the Crystal Palace. I can see our home at the top of the massive center tower. Home. Lights are on in several of the windows...I wonder who's still up. I try to find my window as the helicopter circles the palace. I want to soak in a hot bath. Then I want to eat one of Jacques' gourmet meals and finally go to sleep in my nice soft bed.

"What are you thinking about, River?" Hunter asks.

"About how nice it will be to sink up to my neck in a hot bubble bath with a cold beer."

Arman perks up, grinning. "I want cold chocolate milk!"

Dad Walter chuckles. "You can have as much chocolate milk as you can drink." He kisses the top of Arman's head as he holds the boy on his lap.

I glance over at Dad Fox to see if he would protest. But he's still staring sadly out the window lost in thought. I dread what might have happened to him, while my brothers and I were left untouched. Dad Walter hasn't stopped touching him since we escaped. He always has a protective hand someplace on him. Right now he has an arm draped over Dad Fox's shoulders. In a way, I'm envious of their closeness. I wish I had someone who'll love and care for me as deeply.

I lean forward and touch his knee. "Dad? Are you okay?"

Dad Fox turns to face me. "Hmm? Oh, I'm fine. I'm just wondering if I'll be awake long enough to celebrate Christmas with everyone."

My heart stops. "Dad, you're not—"

"Pregnant. Yes, I am."

"Dad, whose?" I ask anxiously.

Dad Walter interrupts, "It's my baby."

"Thank God," Hunter sighs.

I sigh with relief. I figure my dads couldn't make it through Dad Fox's cycle being locked in a small cell together.

A puzzled look crosses Gawain's face, he says, "Whose else would it be? Dad Alex wasn't with us."

Dad Fox sighs and hugs him. "Gawain, we'll be home just in time for Christmas. Are you excited?"

"Oh yes. I hope our tree is still alive."

"I'm sure your sisters watered it while we were gone." A smile suddenly lights up Dad Fox's face as he stares out the window as the helicopter descends towards the landing pad. "Look, Gawain! There's your sisters, brothers, and Dad Alex."

I look too, and swallow as I see Tsar Nikolai waiting with them. I'd almost forgotten about my fiancée. The helicopter touches down and we wait for the rotors to slow before disembarking.

Tsar Nikolai rushes over and sweeps me up into a hug. I'm stunned at first. I've never literally been swept off my feet before, but he is seven inches taller than me. I glance over at my dads. My sisters and brothers are surrounding them. Dad Alex is kissing Dad Walter then he moves over to Dad Fox. My attention is drawn back to the man squeezing the life out of me.

"My Lord, River, I've never been so worried in my life! I do not intend to ever let you out of my sight again! So I suggest you tell your dads about us getting married." He whispers the last part.

"I already told Dad Fox, and he told Dad Walter. Besides I'm sure they'd know something was up by now." I quark an eyebrow. "Do you want to set me back down on my feet, Tsar Nikolai?"

"Not really, moi love," he says lowering me back down. "I would like it if you started calling me Nikolai."

My family is staring at us as we walk over to them, holding hands.

Nicky is the one who finally breaks the silence. "River, what's up?"

"Your father and I are engaged to be married. We would have announced it sooner only—" I motion toward the helicopter. "I was indisposed."

"You're really marrying Tsar Nikolai?" Hope asks surprised.

"Yes."

The Tsar places his arm around my waist, pulling me closer. As my siblings grill me.

"Do you love him?" Angélique asks.

"How long have you been dating?" Aleksandra asks.

"When's the wedding?" Nadia asks.

"Are our dads okay with this?" Faith questions.

Dad Fox comes to our rescue. "Yes, I'm okay with it. River and I talked about him marrying Tsar Nikolai. Now do you all mind if we take this inside?"

"Yeah, guys, can't you see our dads and brothers are tired?" Sergei says.

Sergei and Summer are holding Dad Fox's hands while Kaylie, Angélique, Alek, and the twins are staying close to Dad Walter who's holding Arman. Dad Alex has his arms around Gawain's and Hunter's shoulders as the triplets go from group to group chattering excitedly.

"Good suggestion, Serg," Dad Walter says, leading the way back to the palace. "I really need to spend sometime in private with Dad Alex and Dad Fox."

"Why? You've already knocked 'em both up," Hunter quips. He receives a swift swat on his butt from Dad Alex who stops suddenly.

"Fox, you're pregnant with Walter's baby! Are you okay?" Dad Alex asks deeply concerned.

"I'm fine, Alex."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, it's Walter's baby—"

Dad Alex is grinning from ear-to-ear. "So it looks like we're having our babies about the same time after all. We can help each other with the nursing and the diaper changing."

"Stop gloating, ratboy. As if you'll only be having one baby," Dad Fox grumbles.

"You'd better be nice to me, lover. Our kids told me what you were planning to do to me while I was sleeping."

Dad Fox sighs, "I think I'll be moving downstairs with Frohike, Hans, and Gabriel for the next three or so weeks."

"You're not going anywhere!" Dad Walter and Dad Alex both growl.

Alex walks over and kisses Dad Fox. "I love you. I promise I won't do anything to you while you're sleeping."

Dad Fox rests his forehead against Dad Alex's and murmurs, "You really have me believing that you're serious, but I know you, Alex."

Tsar Nikolai chuckles. His arm around my waist is making me hot. I can't remember the last time that being around some guy made me horny.

"I think we should set a date, River," he says as we wait with my family for the elevators.

"How about May 1st?" I say.

"How about December 26?" Tsar Nikolai replies.

"That's in less than three days."

"Beautiful and smart," he teases. "I'm not leaving here without you, River. Getting married now is better than five months from now when I've overstayed my welcome with your dads."

"I-I—" I really can't think of a reason not to marry him in three days, except that I'm extremely scared. "Okay. We'll get married in three days."

"Nikolai, I'd like to talk to you in private," Dad Fox says as the elevator doors open and most of our family steps inside.

My soon to be husband smiles at him. "Of course, Fox. Why don't we wait for the next elevator? We can talk in my apartment."

"Dad, we're coming with you," Sergei says protectively with Nicky at his side.

"I need to talk to Tsar Nikolai alone, Sergei. Go upstairs with your Dad Walter, he's missed you boys."

"Oh fine. C'mon, Nicky." Sergei drags his feet to the elevator.

"River, please go with them and keep them out of trouble," Dad Fox says.

I hate leaving my dad alone with Tsar Nikolai. "Okay, I hope you won't be long." Before I can join my family in the elevator, the Tsar's hand tightens on my wrist, stopping me. He bends down and kisses me soundly, until my knees feel like rubber.

"I won't hurt your father, River," he whispers against my lips.

I swallow as I look into his eyes. I nod my acceptance, since my voice seems to have left me. Nikolai lets me go and I stagger into the elevator. I should have waited for the next car this one is too crowded.

Sergei pushes the button to Frohike's floor then he turns to Dad Walter. "Dad, Nicky and I need to pick up something from Uncle Melvin."

"Couldn't it wait until tomorrow? It's been over three weeks since we've seen each other."

"It really can't wait. We won't be long," he says as the doors slides open on Frohike's floor and they step out. I step out with them.

"River, where do you think you're going?" Nicky asks.

I smirk. "Dad Fox is paying me a buck an hour to baby-sit you two."

"You're so funny—Not," I say.

"Okay, River, just don't get in our way. I don't trust your fiancée with Dad Fox," Sergei says.

"What do you intend to do?" I ask.

Nicky answers for him. "My Father Nikolai would be able to detect and block us from spying on them, but he'd never be able to detect Uncle Melvin."

"And you want to use me to spy on them," Frohike says, strolling down the hallway. He has two little toddlers following him. I no longer remember all of Hans, Frohike's and Gabriel's children's names.

"If that's okay, Uncle Melvin," Sergei says.

"You know how much I love spying on your dads." He smirks then hugs me. "River, welcome home!"

"Thanks, Melvin."

"C'mon, boys, let's get comfortable in the kitchen."

Hans is in the kitchen when we walk in. He's feeding their youngest child pureed carrots. The two little girls with Melvin run over to him and climb up on his lap. "River, it's really good seeing that you're okay. How's your dads and brothers?"

"They're fine, Hans. Dad Fox is pregnant again with Dad Walter's baby." My attention drifts to where Frohike is projecting a three-dimensional image of my dad and Tsar Nikolai on the tabletop. Only the most powerful clairvoyants possess that ability.

I walk over to them and stare down at the tiny images. Nikolai is bringing my dad a glass of water.

"Okay, Fox, what do you want to talk about?" Nikolai asks.

"River. I don't want to see him hurt."

"You may not believe this, Fox, but I love River and have no intention of ever hurting him."

I smile at the same time I feel guilty for listening to their conversation.

"You've said the same thing about Alex."

"I never hurt Alexei—"

"You raped him when he was at his most vulnerable."

"Fox, I never raped him. If I didn't have sex with him when I did, Nicolas would never have been conceived."

My brother Nicky gasps.

"That's your problem, Slava, you don't know right from wrong. Are you still trafficking in slaves?"

"I don't believe that's any of your business. Now you wanted to talk about River and me. Say your bit or get out," Tsar Nikolai says coldly.

"Fine." Dad Fox stands and places himself in front of the Tsar. "I want you to promise me that you'll be extremely gentle with him on your wedding night—he's still a virgin."

I blush as Frohike and my brothers look at me.

"Fox, you don't realize how thrilled I am, knowing I'll be River's first and only lover. I want more than anything in the world to give him pleasure. It means more to me than my own gratification."

"Melvin, please stop spying—" I say.

The images vanish. "Sorry, River, I didn't realize they'd be talking about you. So you're marrying the Tsar?"

"Yes. Just promise me, you won't spy on Nikolai and me on our wedding night. I'm nervous enough as it is."

"I promise, River, and congratulations. I predict you'll be very happy with Tsar Nikolai."

"Thanks, Melvin."

"Let's go home...I want to talk to Dad Alex," Nicky says, looking like he's close to tears.

"Nicky, what happened between your Father Nikolai and Dad Alex was a long time ago—people change."

"River, doesn't it bother you that the man you're about to marry, my father, raped our dads?"

"Yes. But don't you see, Nicky? If he's married to me, he'll never have a reason to harm our dads or immortal brothers."

"What about you? It would hurt our dads more knowing that you sacrificed yourself for them," Sergei says as we wait by the elevator.

"Guys, it's my life." I smile at them. "Don't worry about me. If I made a mistake you can always tell me, I told you so, after I come home with my tail between my legs."

***

River's POV
December 24

Dad Alex is glaring at me angrily. I've never seen him so mad. His green eyes are nearly black.

"How can you do this to us?" Dad Alex yells. "You know what that bastard did to Fox and me! But you're still willing to share his bed and have his brats! I thought I raised you better than that! Of all the selfish, pig-headed things you could have done this tops the cake!"

I shrink under his assault. I'm at a lost for what to say.

"Alex, it's his life," Dad Fox says calmly.

Dad Alex turns his anger on him. "Fox, you out of all people cannot be happy with this! How can you support our son marrying that bastard?"

"Because it is his decision to make! Alex, I angry when you chose Slava's bed over mine! But it was your decision and I had to live with it or lose you forever—"

"You could have put your foot down with me. I would never have chosen Slava over you—"

Dad Fox jumps to his feet. "Bullshit, Alex! You were bonded to him. It would have only been a matter of time before you snuck off to be with him. I gave you your freedom—give River's his. Let him make his own mistakes."

"Fox, I can't. I don't him to make the same mistake I made—"

"Dad, please...it's my choice."

"River, don't do this. Reconsider—"

"Dad, I'm sorry. I hope you'll still be able to love me?" I say softly. Tears glistening on my lashes.

For the first time, in a long time, Dad Alex has tears in his eyes. He walks over and hugs me against his chest as he cries. "I'll kill that bastard if he hurts you. I'll rip his fucking heart out." I can feel his hot tears against my neck.

"Dad, I love you. Please, don't worry about me."

"This is so hard for me, River." He hugs me harder.

"Dad, I would like you to be my best man."

"Maybe you should ask Dad Fox or Dad Walter—"

I shake my head. "No, I want you."

Dad Alex takes a deep breath. "For you, River, only for you."

I rest my chin on Dad Alex's shoulder and look over his shoulder at Dad Fox. Dad Fox will more than likely miss my wedding. Today and Christmas may be the last time I see him again for months. I still don't know what happened to him over the past four weeks while those maniacs held us captive.

***

Nicky's POV
December 24

"No way, Father, I'm not doing it!" I say firmly, trying to stand up to him. I'm mad after finding out that I was a product of rape.

My Father calmly pours himself a drink. "Nicolas, don't speak to me in that tone of voice. You're my only son and I expect you to stand up for me."

"The only reason I'm your son is because you raped Dad Alex! How could you do such a thing?"

"That's not how it happened. Alexei promised he'd bear my child first. When I impregnated him wasn't capable of making his own decisions—"

"Then you should have waited? Dammit you raped him!"

"No. I. Did. Not!" he punctuates each word. "You will speak to me with respect! You will not use foul language in my presence! Understand, Nicolas?"

I feel lightheaded under my dad's penetrating stare. "Yes," I say weakly.

"Alexei was already pregnant with your sister. I wanted him to be carrying my child, too." Father Nikolai touches my cheek. "I'm not sorry for my decision. You wouldn't be here if I had waited."

"It doesn't feel right—"

"It's in the past, son. Let's focus on the future." Father Nikolai hands me a small box. "This is the ring I had made for River. I want you to hold onto it until the wedding."

"Yes, Father," I sigh. Someday I'll find the strength to stand up to him.

***

River's POV
December 26

My hand trembles as Nikolai slips the ring on my finger. In the last two days I've come to think of him as Nikolai, no longer Tsar Nikolai. We're both dressed in black tuxedos surrounded by our family and friends. I smile nervously at Dad Alex. He's my best man. My brother Nicky is Nikolai's best man. I only half hear the minister's words as I slip the ring on Nikolai's finger. My only regret is that Dad Fox wasn't able to stay awake long enough to attend my wedding and I won't be able to say goodbye to him when I leave for Russia with my new husband.

I look into Nikolai's midnight eyes as he leans down and kisses me. "I can't believe you're mine, River."

I touch his face and look deeper into his eyes. "And you're mine now too, Nikolai, remember that, I won't tolerate you looking at another man."

"Are you going to be this bossy—"

I kiss him, taking his breath away. I release all my pent-up passions in that kiss as I push my tongue past his lips caressing the inside of his mouth. When I end it, he's putty in my hands and I tell him seriously. "I can give you all the love you've ever dreamed of, Nikolai. But if you ever betray our marriage vows then I'll leave you. You won't get a second chance. Commitment and respect is all that I ask from you. And don't worry, Husband, I have no intention of bossing you around."

"River, moi love, how can I possibly think of another man when I have you?"

Dad Alex clears his throat and shakes Tsar Slava's hand. "Nikolai, take good care of my son." He then turns to me and hugs and kisses me. "River, if you ever need anything call me immediately."

Dad Walter steps forward and hugs me. "River, we expect you to visit us often."

I smile at him. "Dad, don't worry, you'll not going to get rid of me that easily. I'll be moving back home during my pregnancies."

"Your dads and I will always be here for you, son." He kisses my cheek then turns to my husband and shakes his hand. "Tsar Nikolai, congratulations."

"King Walter, thank you for hosting our wedding."

"It was my pleasure."

I take his hand and lead him through our guests to the banquet hall. "Nikolai, I hope you're hungry, my dads' Chef and his assistants prepared a feast for us," I say as we stand outside to greet our guests as they enter.

"River, I'm hungry, but not for food."

Nikolai's hand caresses my butt. I shudder, grabbing his hand and holding it still as I glare at him. "Do you mind? We're in public," I whisper.

"We're married, moi love. Look at your dads. They aren't bashful about displaying their love in public."

I look across the banquet hall where Dad Walter is at the buffet table feeding Dad Alex a shrimp. His hand is in my Dad Alex's back pocket.

"They've had lots of practice...this is new for me."

"Then maybe we should start practicing. Come dance with me, River."

He leads me out onto the dance floor then pulls me against his chest. I look up at him as we sway to the music. His hard bulge presses against my lower belly. It feels massive. Am I going to find the courage to allow him to penetrate me?

"May we cut in?" Rory MacIver asks, stealing me away from Nikolai, leaving Shinji to dance with him.

"How are you holding up, Lad?"

"Fine, Rory. I'm a bit nervous."

"It's understandable. Not only have you gotten married, but you'll be moving away from your family and friends."

"I hope I'm not making a mistake."

"You'll be fine. Shin and I will come and visit you once you're settled in at the Winter Palace. Shin wants to see where his Uncle spent a year of his life."

Rory spins me and pulls me back in his arms. I can't help laughing. He's really a good dancer. "Nikolai told me he had Mr. Izumi's old studio fixed up for my use. He says it still has some of his unfinished works. Maybe Shinji can find something to remember his Uncle by." Masataka Izumi taught me how to paint. It was a sad day when he passed away. He was only sixty-five. Mr. Izumi was out walking along the cliffs when the soil gave way and he fell into the ocean. It had been raining for several days and the ocean was rough. So it was days before his body was found.

"Rory, you're hogging River," Gabriel Hunter says, pulling me gently away from Rory as the band plays a slow song. I glance over at Nikolai. He's dancing with Ari Summer.

"You're looking beautiful, River. The Tsar is one lucky man."

"Thank you, Gabriel. Where are Hans and Melvin?"

"They're feeding our kids in the far corner."

"I glance over to where he indicates and see over a dozen children from age one to sixteen.

"I think Hans has finally decided to take a rest for the next six years," Gabriel chuckles.

"God, I'm scared to death about having even one baby. My dad's were in so much pain each time."

"When the time comes, River, I'm sure you'll be just as brave as your dads."

"I'm not sure I'll ever be that brave."

Nikolai shows up at our side as the music ends. "Agent Hunter, how have you been?"

"Good." He smiles. "Tsar Nikolai, congratulations," he says, shaking Nikolai's hand then turns to me. "River, take care of yourself and stop by and visit us next time you're at the Palace."

I watch Gabriel head over to his family. I glance around the crowded hall, and sadly realizing all the friends I'll be leaving behind. Did I make a mistake?

"Are you hungry?" Nikolai asks.

"Yes, and thirsty." We wander over to the buffet table. My Russian sisters...no I can't call them that any longer, not when I'm married to their father. I can't even call Nicky my brother any longer either. It just wouldn't seem right. Nikolai's daughters are chatting while picking at the vegetable tray. They look at me and giggle.

"River, are you nervous about fulfilling your marriage duties tonight?" Anatasja asks lightly, sucking suggestively on a celery stick. All the Czarinas giggle, making me blush.

Oh great, they're all picturing me with their dad's dick up my butt. How embarrassing is that? It suddenly feels very hot in here.

"Girls, please stop, you're upsetting River," Nikolai says firmly.

"Sorry, Father. We'll be good." Anatasja winks at me and kisses her father on the cheek. She and her sisters finish filling their plates, then go to join my sisters at one of the tables.

"It's going to be okay, River. We'll take it slow."

"Promise?"

"Yes, I promise."

The rest of the evening passes quickly—too quickly. Before I know it I'm in the elevator with Nikolai heading up to his—our apartment. He takes my hand and walks me down the hallway to his bedroom. It all seems like one strange dream as Nikolai closes the door then goes to sit on the bed.

"Moi River, undress for me."

I lick my lips anxiously, looking for a way out. "Why don't you undress for me?" I ask, stalling.

Nikolai levels me a long calculating look before standing and slowly stripping out of his tuxedo. He tosses the articles of clothing over a chair. I watch with apprehension as each item is removed. Okay, I'm even more distressed as he peels off his silk boxers and I see how large he is. I've painted nudes before and none of the men came close to the Tsar in size. My own six-inch dick seems embarrassingly small by comparison.

"River, I'm not going to hurt you," he says, walking slowly across the room to stand in front of me. He places his hands on my shoulders, then caress up and down my arms. "You're trembling."

"You're huge—"

"Maybe this is too soon...you're too tense. I keep forgetting that you're a virgin. We'll need to spend some time preparing you to handle my size." Nikolai smiles gently and uses his powers to remove my clothing. He takes my hand. "Come, moi beautiful lover, let's share a shower."

I go with him reluctantly. My stomach is doing flips...I think I might become physically ill. Everything seems surreal. The tile under my feet is cool. I glance into the mirror over the sinks. Is that frightened, naked man staring back really me?

"Do you see how beautiful you are?" he whispers huskily in my ear as his nails scrape over my nipples.

I tear my eyes away from my image. "I feel so strange."

He smiles at me then turns on the water in the shower. "It will pass, River."

The shower is a nice size, plenty of room for two men. The water revives me a little. Nikolai uses his hands to smooth shower gel over my body as he explores every inch of me. He kneels in front of me and takes my penis into his mouth. A moan escapes my lips as blood rushes to my dick, expanding it. "Oh God." It feels so good. I tense as his hands grab my buttocks and his fingers strokes up and down my crease. I feel a slight pressure against my anus—then it is withdrawn.

Nikolai sucks my penis harder. It's more stimulation than I can handle. My fingers lace through his hair and I am coming. When I come back to myself I realize that his thick finger is inside me. I still have my fingers woven in his hair as he slowly fucks me with his finger. It feels weird but not unpleasant. He touches something inside me that shoots pleasure from my toes up to the tip of my nose.

"Ooohh."

"Hmm, like that?" He grins up at me.

I nod, my voice failing me.

"River, I'm going to insert a small butt-plug into you. It will hurt a little at first." He holds up his hand and an object magically appears in it. The object is tapered at the top with its thickest part about two inches in circumference and it has a knobbed end. A slick coating of lubricant covers it.

I swallow as he withdraws his finger and replaces it with the plug. It hurt more than a little as it spreads open my anus. My muscles closed around the smaller part holding it inside. The burning vanishes as my body becomes accustom to the intruder.

"How does that feel?"

"Weird."

"It doesn't hurt?"

"It did...but not now."

"I'll replace it with a larger one in a few hours. Then I'll give you an enema and insert an even larger plug. By tomorrow you should be ready to perform you duties as my mate." Nikolai stands and pulls me into a hug. "Let's go to bed, moi little rabbit, I want to hold you in my arms."

I grab a towel to dry myself, but Nikolai takes it from me.

"Let me do that for you."

He dries me so tenderly. It's hard to imagine that he's the same man who did such awful things to my dads.

"Get into bed, moi love. I'll join you shortly."

I walk out of the bedroom and over to the bed. The plug rubs against something inside me, sending a jolt of delight through me. I pause and sigh, placing a hand just above my groin. God, that felt good. I pull the blankets down then go in search of my underwear and pajamas. Most of my belongings were packed up and sent to Russia yesterday. Our servants were supposed to have moved my clothes down to Nikolai's room this afternoon.

"River, what are you doing?"

I look up from the dresser drawer. "I'm looking for my pajamas—"

Nikolai's laughter startles me. "You are too cute, moi rabbit. In our bed there will be no need for pajamas."

"What about in the morning? I can't walk around nude—what would the servants say?"

"Your dressing gown is hanging next to mine in the bathroom. Now come to bed."

He tucks me under the covers then climbs in beside me, pulling me into his arms. He kisses me while playing with the plug in my ass, twisting it, until my penis is erect again and dripping precum. Ignoring his own need, Nikolai jerks me off, bringing me to another orgasm. I fall into a sated sleep with my head resting on his shoulder.

I wake some time later and roll onto my back. Gasping as the plug pushes further into me. It feels much larger than it did earlier.

Nikolai turns on his side and his arm drapes over my chest. "I switched the smaller plug with a larger one while you were sleeping." The voice of his new lover rumbled deeply. "Can you feel how much deeper it is inside of you?"

"Yes...it feels so good." I am surprised how much I enjoy the penetration. Maybe being fucked won't be that bad.

"You're an immortal, River. Immortals are sexual creatures. I'm surprised you've been able to resist the urges of your body this long—"

"I haven't been an immortal that long. It's only been a little over a month, and for three of those weeks, I was locked in a cell with my brothers. Besides I won't complete the change until I develop my womb."

His hand caresses my belly. "And you will give me lots of children."

"Yes. And you will honor our marriage contract by allowing me to return to my dads while I'm pregnant."

"River, I will honor our contract. I don't want what happened between Alexei and me to happen to us." He kisses my forehead. "Now go to sleep."

***

It feels weird to move around our apartment with the large plug in my butt. This morning Nikolai gave me an enema and replaced the three-inch plug with one that was five inches in circumference and eight inches deep. It hurt like a bitch at first, now it's a gentle throbbing. I'm actually starting to anticipate being fucked by him.

I smooth a hand over the soft velvet robe as I gaze out at the snow. The room is lit brightly with sunshine.

A servant wheels a cart into the dining room. Nikolai follows him into the room. "I had the chef make your favorite breakfast for us."

"How did you know?" I ask, looking at the plates with grits covered in honey and butter, eggs over easy, hickory smoked bacon, toast, and large cinnamon rolls. I'm so hungry, and not just for breakfast.

"King Walter told me. I never had grits before," Nikolai says, sitting down at the table.

I sit carefully in the chair next to his. The plug is pushed deeper inside me and I move on the chair until I'm comfortable. He smiles at my squirming.

"Coffee, moi love?"

"Yes, thank you."

"I'm going to miss them so much," I say, placing a cinnamon bun on my plate.

"We'll come back often so you can visit them."

"I'd like that."

We spend breakfast talking about Russia and St. Petersburg. I'm anxious to see my new home. I want to visit the village where my mother was born. I nibble on the last piece of bacon.

"I think you're ready for me," Nikolai says suddenly, setting his napkin down.

I feel a flutter of excitement in my belly. "I think you're right."

"Come. Let's return to our bed."

We get back to our room he takes the robe from me. Then proceeds to kiss the breath from my body. His hand grasps the knob of the plug, which he pulls out then pushes back in. He slowly works it in and out of my body. I'm moaning with pleasure as he nips and sucks on my nipple. I want him so bad.

"Moi love, I'm going to teach you so many things," he murmurs, removing the plug completely and lowering me down on the bed. He climbs between my thighs.

"Place your legs on my shoulders."

I chew on my lower lip as I comply. I watch him intently as he positions his large cockhead against my small opening. The pain is intense as he pushes inside. He's much bigger than the plug. I have tears streaming down my cheeks as he continues to push into me. "Oh God, stop, it hurts."

"Relax, little rabbit, it will pass once you adjust to my size."

He doesn't stop until he's fully seated in my ass. I'm breathing through my mouth as my fingers clutch the bedcovers. He waits for my breathing to slow and the pain to subside on my face, before pulling out then thrusting back in. It still burns, but the sensation of fullness couple with him rubbing against the pleasure spot in my ass has me pushing up to meet his thrusts.

Nikolai leans over me and licks the tears from my face. "You're so beautiful this way." His hand wraps around my erection and he jerks me off in time with his thrusts.

Nikolai comes before me and the sensation of his come shooting into my bowels is more then I can handle and I follow him over the precipice. He lays next to me and pulls me into his arms. "That was remarkable, River. We'll have to see that you're kept loose and ready for me for a while. Once you're used to being fucked by me, then we'll allow you to tighten up again."

"So I'm going to have to wear the butt-plug for a while?"

"I don't think it will be for that long. You're an immortal. I expect your body will be welcoming my cock inside it in no time."

From how horny I've felt since Nikolai first touched me, I have no doubt that he's right.

***

River's POV
December 28

I sit on the bed and gazing fondly at my Dad Fox. I want to keep this memory a long time, because it will be months before I see him again.

"River, are you ready to go?" Dad Walter asks. He's escorting me downstairs where my husband is waiting to take me to the airport.

I lean down and kiss Dad Fox on the lips then stand. Dad Alex is waiting by the bedroom door. He hugs me when I walk up to him.

"River, take care of yourself. Call us if you need anything."

"Thanks, Dad. Are you going to come to the Czarina's wedding in May?" I ask, hoping he's changed his mind.

"Maybe. I'm not promising anything."

I smile. At least he didn't say no this time. "Bye." I kiss him quickly.

Dad Walter places his hand on my back and guides me out the door. I glance sadly one last time at Dad Alex as he walks over to the bed.

"It seems unreal that I'm married and leaving home," I say.

"You'll be fine, son." Dad Walter takes my hand as we walk to the elevator.

We step inside and ride it down to my new life.

***

End of chapter 4: The Thirteen Patriots

Continued in chapter 5: Valentine's Day

January 1, 2018