10. Coming home

"When will you be done with your dream? Is there anything else going to happen now apart from wrecking my ass?"

"Baby, how can you say that? This is an important part of the story!"

"For whom?" Wang Yi Bo exclaimed incredulously.

"Don't you see how intense our relationship is now because of the amount of sex we have?" Xiao Zhan defended himself.

"At least I know how intensely my ass is hurting every morning..." Wang Yi Bo grumbled.

"Oh, come on, you like how we do it. That reminds me, we haven't used your collar for a while..."

"Don't even think about it!"

***

"Ah... yes... do that again... ah..." Wang Yi Bo's hoarse voice echoed through the dimly lit room. His sweat-dappled body glistened in the soft glow of a few flickering candles as he lay sprawled on the bed, his face twisted in ecstatic bliss. His lustful moans reverberated in every corner of Xiao Zhan's cabin, growing louder with each passing moment as his sensitive nipples rubbed against the sheets, coaxing wave after wave of pleasure through his veins. The erotic sounds of Wang Yi Bo's cries thrilled the man kneeling behind him, whose hands gripped the younger's slender waist, leaving red scratches on his delicate skin. The man's thick and enormous shaft relentlessly pounded into the dripping tightness with each powerful thrust.

Wang Yi Bo felt his legs trembling, the electric sensations spiralling down his spine, causing him to curl his toes in ecstasy. The friction between them was almost unbearable, pushing him to the edge.

"Turn around, princess. I want to see you when you come. Let me see your lewd face," Xiao Zhan whispered into Wang Yi Bo's ear, his voice a low, husky rumble. His hips continued their relentless pace, never pausing for a moment.

Suddenly, Wang Yi Bo felt the aching emptiness as Xiao Zhan withdrew, only to be flipped onto his back and filled once more, the throbbing shaft driving into him with a satisfied groan. Strong hands spread his legs wide, and his own neglected arousal bobbed between their slick bodies. The obscene sound of their entwined flesh meeting only heightened their desire, making his insides clench deliciously around his lover.

Xiao Zhan's grip on him tightened, and the rhythm of his thrusts grew more urgent and frantic. His handsome features were contorted in raw sensual ecstasy, deep moans mingling with those of the man beneath him. Sweat dripped from his exerted frame, his body tense with pleasure.

Seeing the man above him, a definition of masculinity, Wang Yi Bo's heart skipped a beat. He was over-stimulated, consumed with a greedy need, knowing this man was his alone. Possessively, he wrapped his arms around Xiao Zhan's broad shoulders, his nails tracing fiery paths across his lover's skin, adding fresh marks to the already existing ones.

"Oh god! Don't stop!" Wang Yi Bo cried out, pulling his lover down to claim his mouth in a heated kiss. Their lips met in a messy exchange of passion, muffled curses, and whispered praises blending into the fervent rhythm of their lovemaking, propelling them both toward an explosive release.

As the waves of ecstasy subsided, they collapsed onto the rumpled sheets, bodies still entwined, exhausted yet satisfied. Xiao Zhan's chest rose and fell violently as he struggled to catch his breath, his gaze softening as it settled on his princess, who was still riding the lingering aftermath of pleasure.

"Princess, morning sex truly is the best... I could get used to waking up like this," Xiao Zhan murmured, a cheeky smile lighting up his face. Wang Yi Bo turned his head, meeting his lover's eyes with a lazy grin. "For once, I agree with you," he replied with a playful smirk.

Wang Yi Bo, you will regret these words...

**What happened earlier that morning... (though it's pretty obvious)**

The morning light had barely begun to filter through the small windows of the Captain's cabin when Xiao Zhan woke up, an insistent urge thrumming through him to jump on someone. He glanced down at the beautiful figure sleeping peacefully beside him, Wang Yi Bo's knee resting intimately against his stiffened manhood. It seemed that the innocent touch throughout the night had ignited a certain... interest within him. Switching his gaze from his eager erection to his slumbering princess, Xiao Zhan came to a decision. Wang Yibo had enjoyed enough sleep, and it was time to awaken him to take responsibility. And so, the sleeping rabbit was devoured with an insatiable hunger, until the sun climbed high into the sky... day after blissful day.

***

During their journey to the pirates' safe hideout - a small, inconspicuous-looking island with the beautiful name **Chóngxīn Kāishǐ** (meaning "New Beginning") - Xiao Zhan and Wang Yi Bo spent a lot of time together exploring their relationship, much to the suffering of the whole crew, especially Kuko.

Besides their indecent, socially questionable activities, Xiao Zhan took the time to tell Wang Yi Bo the sad story of his past, explaining why he became a pirate and what made him the man he was today. He recounted the harrowing details of his abduction, the confinement on a large ship, the loss of his mother, and how he was ultimately saved from human traffickers by his mentor, Wang Han, the former captain of the ship. Wang Han retired due to his age and handed the ship and its responsibilities over to his foster son, Xiao Zhan. Wang Han was the founder of their group and, together with Xiao Zhan, formed it into the solid family they were today.

Hearing the story left Wang Yi Bo with a painful feeling in his chest. He couldn't imagine the horrors Xiao Zhan must have gone through as a small child, and he was grateful that someone had taken care of him. Wang Yi Bo's own past wasn't particularly happy, but at least he had the chance to say goodbye to his parents, and his decision to leave his old life was voluntary.

Despite the sad memories, Xiao Zhan proved to be an excellent storyteller. His incredible stories and crazy anecdotes helped Wang Yi Bo adjust to his new life. He didn't tell anyone, but shortly after the attack, Wang Yi Bo made a decision. Following several heart-to-heart talks with Xiao Zhan, during which he managed to overcome his guilt and feelings of betrayal toward his government, Wang Yi Bo decided not to go back. It wasn't easy for him to accept, but the government he had always admired no longer existed in his eyes - being raised by them or not. The men he thought of as brothers had been using other human beings for their own benefit in one of the cruelest ways imaginable.

The more Wang Yi Bo thought about it, the fewer reasons he had to leave Xiao Zhan and his crew. Additionally, the feelings growing inside his heart for this wild man of the sea refused to go away, so he accepted them wholeheartedly. This acceptance helped him decide what he truly wanted.

On one quiet night aboard the ship, he took Xiao Zhan by the hand, leading him toward the railing as they gazed out at the wavy ocean. Before confessing his decision, he wanted to confide in him about his own past, the haunting experience of losing his family, and his life at the Company. He wanted Xiao Zhan to understand who he really was. And, perhaps more importantly, he wanted to explain his wish to stay with him. Xiao Zhan's heart leapt with joy. That night, they embraced each other on a deeper level of bond.

Wang Yi Bo even managed to reach some sort of truce with Xue Yang - or at least something resembling it. For now, let's say no blood was shed. Xue Yang had a hard time accepting that he owed Wang Yi Bo his life. But as time passed, he begrudgingly acknowledged Wang Yi Bo's sincerity. However, not a single day went by without the two of them, like squabbling kittens, going at each other's throats verbally. This was something the crew excitedly anticipated every day. Xiao Zhan and his navigator, Xiao XingChen, could only facepalm and shake their heads at this behaviour.

If they are happy.... So what? Happy wife, happy life🤷🏻‍♀️

They finally arrived at the island after more than a week at sea. Wang Yi Bo grew increasingly excited to see his pirate's home. As he caught sight of the lush greens of the vibrant nature surrounding the island, the crystal-clear waters, and the endless white shores, he felt a thrill of anticipation to explore these new places.

The atmosphere aboard the ship changed as soon as the island came into view. A palpable sense of relief washed over everyone as they prepared to reach their safe haven. The thought of reuniting with loved ones and enjoying a well-deserved break lifted their spirits. The long, strenuous weeks at sea had taken a toll on everyone, but most of all, the rescued women and children needed a place to settle down and heal from the tortures they had endured.

Xiao Zhan decided to grant everyone shore leave for a few days before they would meet to discuss the next steps. For this, Xiao Zhan and Jiang Cheng, his most trusted brother, would need to meet with the head of their spies. After helping their protégés disembark and ensuring they were in good hands, all crew members were dismissed.

From the moment their ship docked at the quay, Xiao Zhan wore a satisfied smile. Homecoming was always special, but this time felt particularly poignant. As the ship rounded the island and entered a hidden cove, his heart raced with excitement.

Once the crew had left, Xiao Zhan and Wang Yi Bo were the last ones standing on the quay. Kuko perched quietly on her king's shoulder, pointedly ignoring her rival.

The pirate turned to Wang Yi Bo, wrapped an arm around his waist, and pulled him in a certain direction without waiting for a response. "Princess, before we go home, let's meet a few very nice friends of mine. I'm sure you'll love them, and they'll be happy to meet you!" Kuko squinted at the unnecessary body contact.

Wang Yi Bo was too surprised to react and only nodded, his eyes wide with astonishment as he took in the surroundings. The island resembled a small, well-kept town. Houses, taverns, stores, and workshops lined the cobblestone streets. It was lively, loud, and bustling with people, who greeted them with curiosity as they passed by. Beyond the main road, which wound through the entire area, stood many smaller buildings, all in good repair and well cared for.

"How many people live here? Did you build all this from scratch?" Wang Yi Bo couldn't help but feel a surge of admiration for his pirate, who now showed him around with a chest proudly swollen. Kuko rolled her eyes in exasperation.

"We have a few hundred people living here permanently. Some of those we saved want to return to their old homes, so they only stay here temporarily. And yes, over the years, we built all this ourselves."

"This is amazing!"

"Aww, my princess, I'm delighted I could impress you. Maybe you'll consider me good husband material after seeing this and tasting my goods?" Xiao Zhan exclaimed suggestively, making Kuko gasp in indignation.

"You really know how to ruin a moment."

"Don't say that. I know you love my..."

Wang Yi Bo slapped a hand over the pirate's mouth, his cheeks flushing with colour. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed a group of bystanders listening intently to their conversation.

"One more word, and you'll regret it!"

Xiao Zhan smirked mischievously and playfully licked Wang Yi Bo's fingers.

Squealing, Wang Yi Bo yanked his hand back and glared at the laughing pirate.

"Come on, my princess, don't be mad. I promise to make it up to you later at my - no, our home."

"Make it up to me? Knowing you, it'll be more like giving yourself a reward..."

"Aye, stop sulking, princess. We're here. Come on. This is my favourite place to relax and enjoy some nice hours with friends. Wait until you meet the owner; she's a lovely person. You'll love it!" Xiao Zhan praised as he opened the door to a tavern with the intriguing name "The Rusty Cutlass."

In the exact moment Xiao Zhan opened the door and encouragingly pushed his princess inside, a metallic object whizzed across the room, missing Wang Yi Bo's nose by mere inches and crashing into the bar counter with a deafening clang. The sound reverberated through the small tavern, silencing the lively chatter. A resolute-looking woman with fiercely glowing eyes, long hair tied up, and tattoo-covered arms had hurled a cutlass into the bar with alarming precision. The entire counter shuddered under the impact, sending mugs and jugs down to the floor, where they shattered into countless fragments.

The three, obviously drunk, men who had been bellowing around the bar immediately stood up straight, more or less, and listened to the woman's scolding as if they were unruly schoolchildren. The other tavern patrons watched the unfolding drama with entertained grins.

Wang Yi Bo paled and instinctively took a step back, his mind racing with visions of his life flashing before his eyes. The impulse to flee was overwhelming, but he collided with Xiao Zhan, who stood unfazed behind him, like an immovable wall. To be honest, Wang Yi Bo nearly peed his pants.

Xiao Zhan nudged him further into what felt like the lion's den. Kuko, catching sight of Wang Yi Bo's distress, snickered at her rival's apparent torment.

As they made their way to the bar, where the fierce woman continued her tirade, Wang Yi Bo cast a frantic glance around the room. He spotted Manu in a corner, diligently counting cash at her betting counter, seemingly oblivious to the spectacle.

"Lovely, isn't it? I told you, you'd like it!" Xiao Zhan said cheerfully, wrapping an arm around Wang Yi Bo's waist and gesturing toward the intimidating woman at the bar.

"That's Cindy, the wonderful owner of 'The Rusty Cutlass.' Aptly named, don't you think?"

"Yes, yes... lovely... really lovely..." Wang Yi Bo nodded quickly, inwardly deciding that his chances of survival would be best served by staying silent and not offending the formidable cutlass-wielding lady.

'I AM TOO YOUNG TO DIE YET!'

"Told you so! Cindy, my sweet, how are you today? Let me introduce you to my princess! I found her by the sea, waiting for her shining knight in armor!"

Cindy halted her reprimanding and fixed her gaze on them, a smirk playing on her lips. "Then the princess certainly didn't wait for you, you foul mouth! Let me have a look at you, you unfaithful brat! Where have you been hiding?"

Without waiting for a response, she swept them both into a bone-crushing embrace. Wang Yi Bo, eyes watering, swore he heard the sound of bones cracking.

"Awww, my sweet, you know how..."

"CINDY!!! WHAT THE HELL HAPPENED HERE AGAIN?!"

A commanding voice cut through the tavern's noise as another woman appeared at the entrance. She stood with her hands on her hips, glaring through one sharp eye at the gathered crowd. Her other eye was obscured by a black eyepatch, lending her an even more intimidating presence. Tall and imposing, she wore her long dark braids tied back with a red scarf, while several rings dangled from her ears. A belt bristling with weapons and daggers rested on her hips.

"Oh, hello Reira! How are you?" Xiao Zhan called out in his usual cheerful tone, seemingly unfazed by the angry woman.

"Cindy! That's the sixth counter this month!" Reira shouted, her voice a mix of frustration and exasperation. "We talked about this! No weapons between the drinks...or inside the guests..."

She ignored Xiao Zhan, instead throwing her hands up in despair as she surveyed the wrecked bar. Cindy merely shrugged, offering an unapologetic smile while the men at the counter cowered under her gaze.

Reira sighed heavily and turned her attention to the newcomers. "Xiao Zhan, I'm doing fine, except for dealing with that," she pointed a thumb at Cindy, who responded with a rude gesture, "and this," she gestured at the destroyed bar. Her expression softened as she noticed Wang Yi Bo peeking out from behind Xiao Zhan, wide-eyed and tense. "But it's nice to see you in one piece after so long. Let's catch up with some drinks and... wait a second, who's that cutie?"

Her demeanour shifted abruptly as she spotted Wang Yi Bo, who was trying his best to remain inconspicuous behind his captain. He felt her gaze like a spotlight and wished he could vanish into thin air.

Xiao Zhan chuckled and pulled Wang Yi Bo forward. "My princess, Wang Yi Bo. He's a former soldier of the Company. I saved him from the brink of death, and he fell for me right away. Now he's thanking me with his everlasting love and devotion... ouch!"

Wang Yi Bo, flustered despite his fear, kicked Xiao Zhan's shin, muttering under his breath, "Everlasting love my ass, you didn't leave me an option!"

Reira raised an eyebrow, amused by their interaction. "So... a former soldier." She took a few deliberate steps toward Wang Yi Bo, her one-eyed stare intense and calculating. "You know, I'm happy that Xiao Zhan is happy. He deserves it. But if you hurt him, I'll hunt you down and make it look like an accident. Understood?"

Her words were sweetly spoken, yet they sent a chill down Wang Yi Bo's spine. He nodded, his mouth dry, convinced that she meant every word. He'd faced danger before, but something about these women told him they were not to be trifled with.

"Now, now, Reira," Xiao Zhan interjected, a playful note in his voice, "he's already proven himself. Ask Xue Yang if you don't believe me. Wang Yi Bo saved his life, though Xue might prefer eating rotten fish than admitting it."

Manu, having finished tallying her coins, chimed in from the background. "He's right. Wang Yi Bo's good people. Now, about those drinks, Cindy..."

As Manu placed her order, Reira's expression softened slightly. She looked between Wang Yi Bo and Xiao Zhan thoughtfully before sighing and letting the matter drop, at least for the moment. She patted Xiao Zhan on the shoulder as she walked past, leaning in to whisper in his ear.

"I'll trust you on this, for now. But we really need to talk as soon as you have time. Bring Jiang Cheng and Song Lan. And not a word to your... partner. We don't know him yet, please understand that."

Xiao Zhan nodded, his expression turning serious. "No worries, Reira, I understand. Rest assured, I won't do anything reckless."

"Good. We'll meet at our usual place. Take care." With a final, meaningful glance at Wang Yi Bo, she moved behind the bar, where Cindy was still arguing about the embedded cutlass.

Xiao Zhan watched her go, then turned back to Wang Yi Bo, noting his still-pale complexion. With a gentle touch, he cupped Wang Yi Bo's face in his hands, his thumbs softly caressing his cheeks. His gaze was warm and affectionate. "I think you need a break. We'll come back for a drink another time. Let's go home."

Grateful for the reprieve, Wang Yi Bo accepted Xiao Zhan's offered hand and followed him out of the tavern, his heart slowly returning to its normal rhythm.

***

Xiao Zhan's home was cosy and completely different from what Wang Yi Bo had expected. The small house was filled with warm colours, mismatched furniture that somehow fit together, and an array of curiosities from his many travels. The walls were lined with shelves holding various artifacts and trinkets, each with a story Wang Yi Bo was sure he'd love to hear - eventually.

But the ever-horny Captain didn't give him much time to look around. Xiao Zhan practically dragged him straight to the bedroom, shooing an offended Kuko into the living area before slamming the door shut. So much for giving his princess a break...

Before Wang Yi Bo fully grasped what was happening, he found himself pressed naked onto the soft sheets of the bed with startling speed. Thinking was clearly overrated for the next few hours as Xiao Zhan set about making his princess feel thoroughly at home. *cough*

**Later that Evening**

As dusk settled, Xiao Zhan prepared to leave for the meeting with Reira. Wang Yi Bo, still basking in the glow of their earlier activities, wanted to join him. However, Xiao Zhan gently but firmly refused, explaining that the meeting was private. Despite his attempts to reassure him, Wang Yi Bo sulked, a pout on his lips as he leaned against the doorframe.

"The only reason I'm not completely mad," Wang Yi Bo muttered, "is because of you-know-what."

Xiao Zhan chuckled, pulling him in for a soft kiss. "I promise we'll visit Wang Han tomorrow. He'll want to see you."

Wang Yi Bo's expression softened slightly, though he was still not entirely appeased. The promise of visiting Wang Han was enough to hold his patience.

With a final affectionate squeeze, Xiao Zhan left the house. As Wang Yi Bo stepped into the living area, he was met with Kuko, perched on a large branch that served as her favourite resting spot. She regarded him with a menacing, piercing gaze.

"Don't even think of anything stupid, you flying rat."