Archive of Our Own

A few hundred years ago, when a red stone fell from the sky, chaos ensued. There were stories of people suddenly gaining abilities, genders manifesting- and the power the Nobles once coveted returned to the rightful hands of the Emperor. Stories of heroes rose across time, their names lost but their echoes lingered.

It was the era of the awakened.

An era of change.

Now, a few hundred years later, abilities weren't as common… but the second genders lingered. Those who had awakened an ability were no different than a mage with magic or a priest with divine power- but the traits of a second gender had spread to all. The peace that had been earned nearly slipped away from conflict and discrimination. It was a couple hundred years after the stone fell that the current Emperor of the time took a stand.

“In order to preserve the peace that my ancestors fought so hard for, I declare stricter regulations on the coupling of those who are blessed with another gender.”

It took time, but after debates a new tradition was added to the Orr Empire:

The Mating Run.

Gone were the times alphas and omegas would be used as bartering chips or shuttled off as if they were cattle for nefarious reasons. The few loopholes families had painstakingly found were quickly sealed. Only those who had found their other half or suffered from an accident beforehand were exempt from the ritual, but with better care and knowing the signs accidents happened few and far in between. For everyone else, from the moment they turned twenty to the moment they turned thirty they were required to run. Those who found their mate would no longer have to run, and those who surpassed the age limit could choose whether they wanted to participate or not.

When Yuder presented as an omega it’d been a couple years since his grandfather passed away. He hadn't known what happened to him- for Yuder, one moment he was chopping wood and the next he was falling to his knees in intense pain. He doesn't know how long he was out there for, but only after everything subsided and he made his way to the village did Yuder learn he'd presented as an omega. 

News spread fast that a male had awakened as an omega, something that was becoming rarer and rarer as time passed and with that news came attention. The first time an alpha tried their luck, Yuder used his ability to quickly subdue them and ensure they wouldn't even think about asking again. 

It didn't stop others in the rural mountainside from making their attempts, and they all met the same fate; being buried to their necks in the ground and left to be found by the villagers. 

This was a pattern that lasted until his twentieth birthday.

“It's time you head to the capital.” The elderly lady that ran the general store told Yuder one day when he purchased some eggs, “You have to participate in the Mating Run. I know the young men and women out here haven't been to your taste, but I have full confidence you'll find an alpha that'll take good care of you.”

“I understand… But I don't need to be taken care of. I'm fine on my own.” 

Yuder recalled his grandfather explaining something similar should he ‘present’ so even though he knew he would be fine, Yuder also knew he was required to go.

The topic had lingered in the back of his mind as spring came and went, and when summer had just begun to awaken from her long rest, the announcement for the annual run came in the form of a piece of paper on the town board. Yuder had looked at it once and knew it was time to go.

That very night, Yuder silently packed his bags and left for the capital with the silent promise toward no one to return once the run was over. No matter what happened, he didn't plan on being claimed by some random alpha… but that soon became the least of his problems.

When Yuder finally arrived at the capital he quickly found himself overwhelmed by the size and number of people present. The air was thick with all sorts of suffocating scents, people easily pushed past each other as they went down the street and no one possessed the concept of personal space. Because of this chaos, Yuder nearly missed the registration window. It was only due to another's kindness that he'd been allowed in after they closed for the day to fill out his form.

“Thank you, we'll get this processed. You get to keep this and make sure to follow the instructions on it for the run. It has the time, location and rules in addition to some advice and tips.”

Yuder used the week of rest to study that sheet and thoroughly prepare; and now, one week later, he stood with the other omegas near the entrance of the nearby forest just outside of the capital. 

The admission process had been simple; verify his identity, have them check his clothing and bag and from there get injected with a dose of pheromone inducer.

The invasion of his private space had been difficult- the needle slipping in under his worn collar to administer the dose was even worse. His mating gland ached from the irritation, the inducer making it impossible to mask or hide his scent. For someone who was used to covering up and only detecting his own scent when washing or being physical it was unsettling.

The whole situation for Yuder was unsettling. Even though he wore his usual dark cloak, black clothing and a small bag only carrying the essentials he felt exposed and vulnerable to everyone around him. He'd hoped he would blend in and wait for the run to start unnoticed, but already he had a few alphas try to approach and talk him into arranging something during the run.

Each time Yuder answered by delivering a punch to the face. 

It wasn't against the rules to react to unwanted advances, but it was against the rules to try and make an advance before the run even began. Thankfully after the fourth alpha that dared try most kept their distance from him.

‘Good. Perhaps then they'll realize it would be best to stay away from me.’

Yuder puffed his chest out and stood a little taller. He made it clear he was not a docile omega and wouldn't submit to anybody. This ordeal had helped one of his problems, but no amount of punches could stop the plethora of scents from overwhelming him. It made Yuder agitated, nauseous and he wondered if being closer to other omegas would help.

When he was about halfway towards the waiting area the thought disappeared. A faint breeze had picked up, and for a moment all of the other smells disappeared- and in its place left one soothing scent he could barely identify.

‘Mint?’

The breeze left as quickly as it came. Yuder looked around to see if he could find the source, but he didn't see anything that would've given off such a smell. That brief reprieve reminded him of the plants around his home, the way the mint bushes would mix with the fresh breeze… the soft crispness of that scent helped ease the anxiety of the unknown from his shoulders as he finally made it to where the other omegas were waiting.

“I heard that the Crown Prince, Kishiar la Orr, is running again.”

“No way, really?!”

“Yes! A friend of a friend of my cousin’s nephew said the Emperor made sure of it.”

“Isn't this his ninth run though? Plus if he was here wouldn't we have seen him by now?”

“Does that matter? No omega has caught his eye during any of the runs, even if they presented themselves at his feet. I'll be the first to change that. As for not seeing him he probably has to remain hidden until it starts or else no omega would even leave the starting line.”

“Oh great idea, I think I'll wait around here and see if I can get a glimpse of him instead of taking the head start…”

The excited whispers took Yuder's attention off of the scent, but considering the context not important most of the information went in one ear and out the other. Yuder didn't know who this Crown Prince person was nor did he care, but what he did grasp is that a lot of the omega runners were excited about this alpha. If a majority of omegas laid in wait and tried to get with this one alpha it could make things more difficult for him. 

The whispers around him halted when the announcer stepped onto the podium. The man waited for the voices to die down, then held a magic tool close to his mouth and spoke, “Welcome everyone to the annual Imperial Mating Run! If this is your first time here, welcome. If this isn't, then we hope that this year you'll find the one meant for you…”

Yuder did his best to listen, but the more the announcer talked the more it became clear what he said wasn't any new information. They went over the rules, the boundaries and reiterated that certain acts would still be punishable under law if someone was taken by force- alpha or omega, it didn't matter. 

After that, the man told the omegas to line up for their ten minute head start. 

Yuder didn't have to move, his bored gaze drifted toward the line of trees that stood nearby. There was no actual line to wait behind or cross; this was just the outskirts, and when permission was given they could go into the woods for this stupid run. 

Thankfully Yuder didn't have to wait long, the announcer shouting that their ten minute headstart had begun. As he'd overhead quite a few of the omegas present didn't make a move, but he wasn't going to remain idle to see if they eventually would.

He was going to find the perfect place to claim as his territory and make any alpha regret approaching if they dared.

Determined Yuder easily slipped through the thicket that separated woods from the grassy plain before he went to the sky. Leaves seemed to bow and give way, branches moved and sunlight kissed the top of his head as he broke through the canopy above him and stepped towards the sky.

Briefly, the tension of everything left him. 

Up here, the air was fresh. Gone was the musk and dense scent of alphas and omegas all in one place. Gone was the uncomfortable warmth of people standing close and the loud noise of pointless chatter. 

Up here, he could breathe. 

Unconsciously a faint smile pulled at the corners of his lips, his eyes revealing the beautiful violet hidden within as the sun seemed to bless him, but all of it disappeared just as quickly as it came. Onyx eyes expertly scanned the land below, and when he saw a clearing off in the distance with a river nearby he immediately made his way there.

When he got close, Yuder left the soothing embrace of the sky and landed in the gentle arms of an old oak tree- all the while making sure he landed on the outer edge of the clearing away from the direction of the starting line.

“...this will be a good spot.” Yuder muttered to himself after assessing the area from a more natural perspective. 

Here he could watch the clearing for alphas and respond as needed. When a faint wind picked up he found himself to be downwind, which was all the better. He almost found it regretful that it wasn't windier, and while he was tempted to use his abilities Yuder also knew he needed to conserve his energy. Having little to no wind wasn't a detriment, and right now if someone sensed him he would be able to sense the other in return.

So after finding the perfect branch to serve as his temporary home higher up the old tree Yuder set himself up for success. He made sure he was hidden from view, his cloak wrapped around him so it wouldn't grab attention and kept his small bag close to his chest. 

After a couple of minutes he relaxed and leaned against the trunk, used his ability to drink some water and nibbled on some dry meat he'd brought with him as he looked out at the open field.

If things went well then tonight he could venture down to the river and see about catching any game while collecting some water…

‘Outside of those pesky alphas this isn't so bad. A week of this will be easy.’ 

After all, this was no different than the lifestyle he lived back home.

Once Yuder finished his piece of jerky he settled in the nestle of leaves with the intent to rest his eyes. He'd hoped it would be what his body needed to help alleviate the side effects of the pheromone inducer but before he could even try Yuder picked up the scent of mint once more. It was the same trace he’d detected at the start line, but this time instead of fading it became stronger-

-and within that stronger scent he could sense the alpha pheromones within.

To his irritation, what he’d sensed earlier that he found so soothing was from an alpha of all things.

‘Curse these scent inducerers.’ 

With the breeze practically dead Yuder knew if he could smell the alpha, then that alpha could smell him. If he's known that an alpha would be coming all the way out when it hadn't even been an hour then he would've considered using his wind to be worth it.

But it was too late for such thoughts.

Now, he had to prepare.

Moonless eyes narrowed, the faint violet within flickered like stars each time a little ray of sun fell on his face. Like a panther he laid low, his attention not leaving the clearing for a single second, not even to blink. One of the reasons he took to the sky was to ensure he didn't leave a trail. It wasn't foolproof since someone with a similar ability could follow if they took to the sky but the chances of that were minimal.

With what little time passed having an alpha randomly wander this far was impossible, so somehow they'd locked onto his scent. 

It was inevitable there would be a confrontation, but Yuder was already making plans on what he would do should this alpha make an advance.

There was no better deterrent than the smell of a fight.

If he couldn't do that, then at minimum he would knock the alpha out and find a new spot to camp.

Just as Yuder had finished making his plans the sound of rustling leaves pulled his attention towards the opposite side of the clearing. The bushes across shook- a sign of someone boldly approaching. They didn't even attempt to mask their presence; either they were bold or stupid- maybe both. 

Yuder remained crouched up high, his body close to laying flat on the branch but not completely. He blended in with the dark bark, his gaze unblinking and body poised to leap into a fight.

However, when the alpha walked into the clearing Yuder froze, his hostility and guard temporarily dropping at what was revealed to him.

Thick hair glistened gold in sunlight, their shine just like the stars on the bottom of the riverbed that would captivate him on a hot summer day. Eyes redder than the berries that would stain his skin slowly skimmed the clearing, the relaxed sharpness within making Yuder unconsciously shiver. As his gaze traveled down he noticed just how tall and muscular this alpha appeared to be, his stance and poise radiated the demand to be seen. This man was larger than any alpha he'd ever met. Perhaps he was unique, or maybe alphas in the capital were just built different.

Whatever the case, the previous plans Yuder made temporarily vanished as one thought filled his mind:

‘Compatible.’

His instincts were screaming. It practically begged him to reveal himself and entice this unknown alpha into becoming his mate, but Yuder was never one to fully succumb to his instinct. Having always fought against it he felt even more determined to resist. 

Instead of jumping down and making himself known as his inner omega begged Yuder remained completely still, his eyes narrowing as he watched the alpha slowly approach the very tree he hid in. His heart hammered in his chest, the sound so loud he feared that alone would give him away. His eyes stung from not blinking, but he feared if he looked away for even a single second that he would be caught-

Then, right as the alpha stood at the base of the tree, those red eyes slowly made their way up and made direct contact with his own.

In a panic, Yuder reacted.

Leaving his bag behind, Yuder immediately pounced with the intent to knock the alpha to the ground, however the other seemed to anticipate this and leapt back just in time to avoid the attack.

Yuder's heart froze at the failed attack, his mind kicking into overdrive as he quickly jumped back to ensure there was distance between them. On the outside, he appeared to radiate a cold calm- but his eyes revealed the chaos and fear that consumed him on the inside.

Things weren't going to plan.

Not one bit.

Seeing that the alpha made no move, Yuder did the same, his entire body tense and wound up to react to any sign that the alpha would disregard any part of the rules and charge towards him.

Thankfully it seemed the captivating man before him would follow etiquette. 

“Hello.” 

The man flashed him a charming smile, placed a hand over his heart and bowed, “My name is Kishiar la Orr.”

La Orr?

Wasn't that the name of royalty or something?

Before Yuder could reflect on why that name sounded familiar Kishiar moved up from his bow just enough for those red eyes to capture his own eye once more, “...and I wish to take you as my mate.”

The rest of the introduction made whatever thoughts that'd been in Yuder’s mind prior vanish. Deep down his inner omega preened excitedly, and that just irritated him even more. 

Lacking the grace and elegance shown to him Yuder did the bare minimum of nodding his head in acknowledgement and answered the bold declaration, “Yuder. I reject your offer.” 

A laugh smoother and thicker than honey rang out in the clearing as Kishiar fully straightened out of the bow, “I had a feeling you would. Which is why I propose a challenge.”

A challenge.

Something about those words sent a thrill through Yuder, the faint tremor making Kishiar's irritatingly bright smile widen.

Yuder glared, but instead of immediately declining and making his move to either attack or flee he pried for more information, “What kind of challenge?”

Kishiar motioned to the side, the smooth movement of his hand almost distracting Yuder from the heavy weight of his answer, “It's simple. You run, I follow. If I catch you, we become mates. If you escape, then I'll stop pursuing you until next year. If you decline the challenge I'll ask you again tomorrow until the run is over.”

Yuder's glare narrowed. Next year? Was this alpha saying if he failed to catch him this year he would try again next year? What about the year after? Yuder had nine more he was forced to do after this one- would this alpha really pursue him? Not to mention the blatant declaration of issuing the challenge again the next day if he rejected. If someone rejected the other had to give them a day before asking again, would this man, Kishiar la Orr, really wait around to give his declaration each and every day?

With how easy he found him, Yuder felt it would be more logical to take the challenge than deal with this distracting alpha for the rest of the run. 

“What's the time limit?”

“However long it takes, I either catch you or lose track of you.” Kishiar grinned, “Abilities can be used, just not above the treeline.” 

The rule of abilities was confirmation that Kishiar most likely followed him through the air, but the easy way he proposed this challenge and his nonchalant attitude made irritation flare through him, “Do you think this is just some game? That I'm weak and need all the assistance I can get?”

Did he see Yuder as an omega who couldn't evade him without his ability, that he was an easy catch? His demeanor gave little to nothing away, the smile and leisure attitude making it difficult for Yuder to tell what Kishiar wanted out of this. 

“Not at all, I'm extremely serious about this, but just in case I'll make my intention clear.” Kishiar took a step forward, which made Yuder take a step back, “I want to make you my mate. My equal. And I expect from someone my equal to put up as much of a challenge as I'll give.” 

‘Ah-’

Yuder faltered while his inner omega practically purred. His mind felt like a battleground- his rational side wanted to stay away, but his instinctual side yearned for this alpha. 

Here was an alpha that declared a challenge, one that demanded not submission but performance. Most omegas used their fragile demeanor to lure alphas in, but Yuder had always been a fighter- someone who didn't hesitate to beat up anyone who looked down or underestimated him or step up to a situation that would intimidate most.

So to have an alpha express a challenge on equal footing?

It made Yuder hesitate instead of outright rejecting the offer.

As if he wasn't already conflicted enough, like a shark sensing blood in water Kishiar pushed further, “I will say being my mate won't be easy, but I will ensure you are left not wanting. You will have your freedom, I only ask you to stay by my side in return.” 

He had to make a decision.

Yuder fully intended to beat Kishiar in this run, but he also had to think and be realistic of what would happen if he lost. Could he see himself being this man's omega? Could he see himself living whatever life this alpha had to offer?

Yuder remained silent a little longer before he threw out one last comment to try and deter Kishair from pursuing him.

“I won't be treated as something to be hidden away.”

“Of course not, if anything I want to show the world how lucky I would be.” 

There was no hesitation. Not a single second had been wasted- no falter, no debate, nothing. Before Yuder could try and throw out any other comment Kishiar closed it off with a single question:

“So, will you accept my challenge and grant me the honor of pursuing you?”

Silence lingered between them. A faint breeze blew in and mixed their scents in a way that heightened the tension between them. Yuder's cape fluttered gently, his hair caressed reassuringly by the breeze that cooled him down enough to think.

The alpha across from him silently waited, his blond locks fluttered with the breeze, the white button up barely moving due to how snug it was on his skin. Yuder could see the way the muscles in his arms moved to the faintest shift, the rolled up sleeves hiding the rest from view but left the silhouette to dream.

‘He is attractive, loathe as I am to admit it…’ Yuder didn't find anyone alluring, but the alpha before him was quickly showing him that wasn't the case.

Then he thought back to the question he asked himself earlier: Could he see himself living whatever life this alpha had to offer?

…Surprisingly, he could.

Kishiar's scent was soothing. He didn't push or look down on him. He acknowledged his strengths and went about approaching him the proper way. Even now he maintained distance and didn't push. 

Yuder only knew the man's name and what he saw before him, but he'd overheard for days now how people were excited about the adventure that came after. 

For once, both his rational and instinctual side agreed that experiencing it with Kishiar wouldn't be a bad thing- of course, one side being much more enthusiastic than the other.

That was if he even lost in the first place, which Yuder was determined to do his best and give this alpha the challenge of his life. 

If he wanted him, then he had to beat him first.

“Fine.” 

Yuder didn't move as the wind answered his call and made sure his small bag was secured and hidden on the branch he'd been perched on before Kishiar arrived. If he did lose Kishiar in the chase then he would sneak back and pick it up, but having it on his person could hinder his movements. If he wasn't able to come back for it, then at least the loss was minimal.

With his belongings secured, Yuder, having not looked away once, settled his attention back on Kishiar. His face masked the way his heart raced yet the quiver of his eyes betrayed just how much anticipation he felt, “I agree to you challenge, Kishiar la Orr.”

Kishiar closed his eyes, and when they opened those fiery orbs held a heat that sparked the kindling within his abdomen. Gone was the casual smile, his expression shifting to one of determination and something else he couldn't identify, “I'll give you a five second start. Then I'll come after you.” 

Yuder didn't wait. Immediately he turned around and sacrificed security for speed. The wind under his foot formed a platform for him to quickly push off and cross the clearing at an inhuman speed.

“One”

The voice echoed loudly, making Yuder's breath falter, but he didn't look back.

“Two”

Out of the clearing and into the dense forest Yuder jumped from branch to branch. On one tree he quickly rubbed his scent on it and broke a branch before backtracking and continuing in the opposite direction.

‘Three’

Yuder could no longer hear him so he silently counted to himself, his speed increasing as adrenaline surged through him.

‘Four’

He jumped down from the tree and instead of crossing the river jumped into it, the cold water helping shock his system and bring much needed clarity to his mind.

‘Five’

Yuder got out of the river as easily as it had been going in. He used his ability to remain dry and prevent leaving a visible trail, but even with this much distance he didn't stop for a moment.

The countdown had ended, and Kishiar was coming after him. 

Yuder denied that the pressure welling within him was excitement, that the reason he felt more alive now than any other time was due to the aspect of being hunted rather than the thrill of being chased.

It took half a minute for him to sense mint nearby, and only a few seconds afterward to change direction to avoid the alpha lying in wait ahead. 

It was impressive he'd managed to gain ground so quickly, but Yuder refused to run straight into him. Kishiar seemed to almost anticipate this since he could hear the alpha coming up close behind him. Once more Yuder changed direction just enough to get a quick glance, but what he saw made his knees nearly give out right then and there.

Those red eyes, once charming, now held a dark hunger. The smile worn was more raw than the composed elegance presented in the clearing, the white shirt showing signs of pushing through foliage. He looked wild, and Yuder, for the first time, felt the urge to submit. His inner omega begged for this alpha, that it had to be him and no one else.

No one else could ignite his blood in such a way. No one else could give the proper thrill and challenge.

Yuder had to swallow and force himself to push on, but his scent revealed just how thrilled he was. Mint answered back, the scent heady and only added fuel to the heat burning within.

Kishiar, having gained the high ground during their chase, jumped down and lunged, his hand nearly grabbing his shoulder- but Yuder easily slipped through an opening and began to backtrack. The branches between and ahead served as both obstacles and protection. One moment Kishiar would angle himself for an attack only for Yuder to maneuver his way out of his grasp. There was no denying that he was wet at this point, the smell of slick only spurring Kishiar on.

The moment felt like forever and an instant all at once. Time was a concept unknown, for only the two of them existed in that very moment. Even if he wanted to, Yuder couldn't have kept track, his mind and body moving on pure instinct as he gave the one his inner omega had chosen to be his mate the run of his life.

As the sun began to change hue, the outcome of the run had come to fruition.

“Ah-”

Yuder thought the branch had been stable enough to land on, but when he tried it felt as if it'd been pulled out from under him. There was no time to correct himself or try to get out of the way.

And that was enough for Kishiar to catch him.

Yuder didn't even have time to land on the ground. His back was pushed against the tree behind him, his front flush with Kishiar's chest as lips came crashing against his own in a searing kiss.

With adrenaline coursing through him and the thrill of the chase still in every fiber of his being Yuder did his best to slip away, only for his wrists to be gripped and held above him under one hand, the other an iron grip on his waist as Kishiar pressed further against him. A second later, a tongue easily slipped inside his mouth and began to consume him in his entirety.

He’d been caught… and now, Kishiar was going to take what he was promised.

Small noises left Yuder, their sounds muffled and consumed as Kishiar threw elegance in the wind and let go of his waist long enough to rip off the shirt Yuder wore. The desire was too great where pulling back wasn't an option. The desperation behind the act made Yuder keen, the rational part of his mind that remained cringed at the sounds he was making, but it only seemed to spur Kishiar on more.

Yuder’s vision nearly faded to black by the time Kishiar finally broke the kiss. The two gasped for shared air, the space between their lips close enough where a strand of saliva connecting the two lingered.

“I caught you.” Kishiar's voice was rough. Gone was the elegant smoothness, and in its place was a low rumble, one that had Yuder melting within his grasp.

“You caught me.” He agreed, then did his best to tug his pinned wrists out of the alpha’s grasp, “So let go. I don't intend to let the alpha who chased me take me while I can't do anything in return.”

It wasn't said to be seductive. For Yuder, it was the truth. If he was to be taken as a mate he refused to be pinned and left helpless, but the way the alphas breath hitched and the grip at his waist tightened it was clear the other interpreted it differently.

Immediately Kishiar let go, his free hand moving to the back of Yuder's neck as he pulled him in for another kiss, this one messier and more desperate than the one before. With his hands free Yuder reached out and fisted at the button up shirt, his grip faltering when he felt hands grab at the hem of his pants. In return, he ripped the shirt open, his hands quickly finding their way onto smooth, chiseled skin.

Kishiar groaned into the kiss, the sound making Yuder even wetter as he began to register that the man who presented himself as a proper alpha was easily losing his composure because of him. 

Just as he was affected, so was the other.

Slick gushed out of Yuder as he fumbled to completely pull off the shirt hanging off of him. Only when that white barrier was gone did he feel victorious, his hands eagerly feeling what he couldn't see, his body still pinned to the rough bark behind him and mouth devoured.

The moment moved in a way that required little thought. By the time Yuder regained a semblance of coherent thought he found himself gasping for breath, clinging onto Kishiar and that he was completely exposed. His legs were wrapped around Kishiar's waist, the alpha's cock free from his pants and rested against his own weeping erection. 

“You're so beautiful.”

Yuder looked up and away from the filthy scene to see those red eyes staring straight at him. One of the hands on his hips moved down below, and feeling a finger slip inside Yuder jolted. Kishiar's other hand rubbed soothing circles against his hip as he continued, “I never knew how lost I was until I first saw you. Now, I can't imagine ever living life the way I did before I met you.”

Yuder's heart quivered, a small noise leaving him as he felt another finger slip inside him, his head falling forward so their foreheads were pressed against one another, “You just met me. How can you say such things so easily?”

Kishiar let out a husky laugh, his fingers moving and prodding as if he were trying to find something, "I've had a week to reflect. We met before, I just looked different.” Yuder wanted to ask where, but before he could Kishiar's fingers brushed against something inside him, and with it an overwhelming pressure surged through him. It punched the air out of his lungs, made him throw his head back against the firm trunk behind him as a breathless cry was pushed out with the air that'd been knocked out of him.

“I couldn't stop thinking about you.” Kishiar confessed as if this were prayer, his head tilted so bruised lips brushed against the shell of his ear before trailing down to the collar on his neck, “It was to the point my brother forced me to take time off since I could no longer pay attention to my duties.”

Yuder couldn't speak. He felt Kishiar's fingers hit that spot again and again, the only sound coming from him being punched out by those two fingers- three now that he felt another slip inside.

“I kept thinking about what I would do on this day. For the first time, I was excited to run.” Kishiar moved his way back up, his lips brushing against Yuder's ear once more as he pushed a fourth finger in, “It's taking everything within me to prepare you so this doesn't hurt.”

At that, Yuder finally gathered himself enough to speak through the cries and gasps for air that were continuously being forced out of him, “Then don't.”

Those dark red eyes somehow darkened even further, “You don't know what you're asking.”

Yuder reached down and took the weapon that would be spearing him into his hand, “I do.” He challenged, not looking away once. His body still trembled, his pale skin flushed with arousal, his cock leaking against his abdomen but not once did those black eyes falter.

Then, with his other hand Yuder reached back and took his collar off, the worn leather falling to the ground below, “You caught me. Now act like it.” 

That had been enough. The fingers inside of him quickly withdrew, and Kishiar did exactly as he was told. He removed Yuder's hand, the two interlacing and found their place pressed against the tree. Even with one hand taken Kishiar easily held him up, his body only moving back just enough to line up that monstrous cock to his gaping entrance. Yuder watched on with a mixture of desire and embarrassment, but all thoughts left him when Kishiar pushed inside.

“Ngh- ah!”

Yuder's eyes widened, the bitten off moan escaping as his head fell forward, his entire body tense at the intrusion down below. He could barely breathe, short gasps forced their way in and out as he felt Kishiar slowly roll his hips, his cock slipping in a little further each time he pushed forward.

“Ugh… ah…”

Yuder used his free hand to grip at the tree trunk behind him, the discomfort of the bark digging into his back long forgotten from the sensation of Kishiar piercing him down below. His entire body shook, and were it not for Kishair and the tree behind him he would've easily fallen to the ground.

Kishiar didn't seem to be in much better condition. With the collar removed he immediately tucked his face against Yuder's neck, his mouth sucking and nipping at everywhere he could as he worked his way inside. 

Yuder could feel it when the head of Kishair’s cock hit something deep within him. He couldn't tell if the alpha was completely inside or not, so when he reached down and felt the other wasn't Yuder couldn't help but let out a breath in disbelief.

“Don't stop.” The words left him without a second thought, and when he felt Kishiar tense up Yuder moved his hips in an attempt to take even more of the alpha inside, “If you're going to take me then take me completely.”

“Yuder.” Kishiar almost sounded pained, the hand on his hip held on tight as if that single grip were a lifeline, “I don't want this to hurt-”

“It won't.” He didn't know what made him so certain, but Yuder shakily reached out with the hand that'd been grasping at the trunk to wrap around broad shoulders, “So just push in already. If you're going to claim me then do it right.”

Kishiar groaned as a shiver coursed through him, and feeling that the alpha was just as overwhelmed as himself pleased Yuder deep down.

Then, he felt it.

His alpha had listened, and with a hard thrust he felt Kishiar bottom out and push beyond something inside of him. 

Yuder's vision went white. He couldn't think, couldn't process anything. It felt as if his mind and body were gone, his consciousness lost in pure light. When he could finally begin to breathe again and when his vision returned he found a mess between the two of them. White fluid coated their abdomens, his own cock twitching and weeping as a little more dribbled out and descended into the small pool beneath it.

There was no time to ask what that was, to breathe or anything since Kishiar nearly pulled all the way out just to push back in again. The overstimulation made Yuder cling onto Kishiar, his mind unable to filter and prevent the embarrassing noises that left him.

Then, like before, Kishiar began to lose himself. 

“You're so perfect.” Kishiar whispered breathlessly, the loud slap of their skin echoing out between them, “Yuder, my beautiful mate…”

Yuder couldn't say anything. All he could do was hold on for dear life, his only response being the cries each thrust pulled out from the depths within. He nuzzled against his alpha’s mating gland, his marking fangs already aching to sink down and claim this man as his. He could feel the remnants of heat pooling together under his skin, the feeling heating up in anticipation for the bite and what would come after.

Then, he felt something begin to catch. It left him confused at first, but for a brief moment he recalled some of the information he'd memorized before coming here.

‘Knot… he's going to knot me.’

A shiver ran through Yuder at the thought, and the growing knot only continued to grow in size. 

He was close, they both were. Unable to hold back, Yuder took the initiative. 

He opened his mouth and bit Kishiar's mating gland hard. 

The moan Kishiar released would be forever etched into memory- the way his hips jolted forward as firm arms tightened around him added to the ecstasy of receiving his knot and taking his bite at the same time. Yuder's cry was muffled against Kishiar's shoulder, his body clamping down to milk his alpha of everything he had as he climaxed. Ropes of cum joined the mess he'd previously made and decorated their stomachs, Yuder's own cock twitching and throbbing to his heartbeat.

When Yuder finally pulled back he saw the bloody mark left behind, and before he slipped into the throes of heat the last thing Yuder saw was red eyes full of desire and yearning.

When Yuder finally came back, he found himself resting on a bed of grass near a river. He should've been cold, but the warm body pressed up behind him kept the frigid temperature at bay. 

His entire body was sore, but not in a bad way. In fact, never had he felt so relaxed. Memories of the events that led up to this point came back slowly, and Yuder found himself both accepting of the situation but also embarrassed by his behavior.

He didn't even understand half of what had happened, but everything felt so natural in that moment that he just followed instinct. But now that instinct was sleeping away after sharing a heat together, what would happen next?

Perhaps he unknowingly tensed or whispered his worry, but right after that thought a quiet chuckle brushed past his ear as the arms around him tightened, “There's no need to worry about anything.” Kishiar reassured while kissing the top of his head, “We have plenty of time to talk and figure things out from here.”

…that's right. They did, didn't they? 

Yuder looked at the brook nearby, then to the trees that gently swayed in the breeze on the other side. He didn't know what life would entail now, but even though it was terrifying Yuder felt as long as he had his mate, then everything would be okay.

With that, he closed his eyes and fully trusted himself to the alpha that had claimed him.

Bonus:

Kishiar la Orr sighed as he watched the final omega leave the registration hall, his veiled eyes briefly revealing the dull disinterest he felt inside.

Yet again, no one resonated with him. 

His brother, every year, had allowed Kishiar to infiltrate and secretly be one of the registrars for the mating run. For his first year Kishiar had done it to make a point that he shouldn't run, but his brother was adamant they needed to set an example by following their own laws. The clause that royalty be excluded didn't have to be listened to, therefore he wanted him to be the link between them and the people and run.

But that didn't mean he had to be an active participant. At most he had to go through the process everyone else did then wait out the event. Due to this though he'd had frequent problems of being located by his scent and found himself being hunted by the omegas instead. 

They would cry, beg and even present themselves, but the most Kishiar would do is cover them up and express his disinterest, all the while recommending them to run and find someone who they were truly compatible with.

Some would approach with the fantasy of being involved with a royal, others most likely bribed by the declined nobles to try and find footing once more. None of it ever worked. 

‘It seems I will be an inactive participant again.’ Kishiar thought to himself. He didn't particularly care if he ever found anyone, he was just thankful that after next year he wouldn't have to participate in these runs ever again. 

After standing up and allowing himself a nice stretch he sent the other registrars home while volunteering to handle the cleanup, only for a rapid knock to echo throughout the hall shortly after. He assumed one of them had possibly forgotten something, but when he opened the door Kishiar was surprised to find someone he'd never seen before.

There, standing on the steps, was a young man. He seemed to be out of breath, pale cheeks flushed as if he'd been rushing around and eyes shaking ever so slightly from panic and overstimulation. His black hair framed his face like a blooming flower, his lips moist and red in a way that demanded his attention.

“I-I need to register.” 

The voice that came out was silkier than any siren, the lull and pull making Kishiar delay in response. Only after gathering himself did he give this captivating beauty an apologetic smile, “I'm sorry, but registration for this year's run is already closed. You're about ten minutes late.” 

It was mean, but he wanted to see this man's reaction- and it was worth it. Seeing those speckled eyes widen in shock and shoulders briefly fall painted an alluring image that had Kishiar already opening the door to him, “However I can make an exception. Come in.”

Relief washed over the young man, and when he rushed in Kishiar closed the door and led him over to the makeshift desk he'd yet to take down. It didn't take any effort to grab a form, ink and pen, the items pulled over by his ability as he gently set them in front of the mysterious and alluring stranger.

Kishiar felt the urge to ask questions, to learn about this fairy that had appeared before him in fading sun, but he remained quiet instead and gathered what he could as he watched the young man fill out the form.

‘His grip is shaky, but he knows how to read and write.’ Kishiar thought to himself, his veiled eyes landing on the worn collar on his neck, ‘he's also an omega. Based on his clothing and state of dress he's traveled from outside of the capital for this.’

Some people chose to participate in the run before the mandated age of twenty, but seeing the firm build and only whispers of baby fat remaining he was most likely registering because of the mandate.

Kishiar wasn't someone who usually remained silent and observed like this- he was always one to involve himself in some way, whether it be a laugh, comment or anything to weasel his way into a conversation to get information. Here though, he found himself not wanting to break the silence, the moment feeling like cracked glass in his hand.

As the omega filled out the paper he began to notice other things too- like the faint smell of fruit coming off of him. Even if he did his best to mask it, having run around in a panic would've naturally had anyone's scent revealed through their sweat.

And for the first time, Kishiar found himself captivated by someone's smell. It reminded him of the times when he was young and running around, hiding within ripened fruit trees or sneaking into the kitchen to claim an overly ripe peach before they could be cut into a dessert. It was intoxicating, and he had to resist leaning forward to try and get more than the whisper before him.

Then, finally his gaze went onto that pale neck, the young man unconsciously tilting his head to the side as he wrote. The black strands slipped away as if they were beckoning him to the mating gland protected beneath worn leather. Would the faint perspiration lingering on his skin taste of salt or be just as sweet as his scent? Kishiar found himself almost salivating at the thought of taking that gland into his mouth to tease out that sweet, sweet ambrosia before biting down and forever claiming it for himself.

His own mating gland shivered at the thought of such an act being returned.

“...done.” The omega set down the pen and slid the form across the table towards him.

Kishiar took it with a smile, “Thank you, we'll get this processed. You get to keep this and make sure to follow the instructions on it for the run. It has the time, location and rules in addition to some advice and tips.” He pulled another sheet from nearby, his inner alpha smug at the way those pooless eyes watched as the paper flew from its spot across the room right into the young man’s hands.

Instead of telling him where the exit was like he'd done with hundreds of others over the years for the first time Kishiar stood and led the omega towards the door. He sent the other off with a wave, and didn't look away until that broad yet lean frame became enveloped by the chaos of the evening crowd. 

Once he was out of sight Kishiar's smile changed. His eyes took on a sharper, more competitive feel as he grinned, his hand shaking ever so slightly on the door handle.

He had found his omega, and knowing the other would put up a fight Kishiar was very much looking forward to the thrill of hunting him down and claiming him as his mate.