Beauty is in the eye of the Dragon
After whole fiasco in bathing quarters, Dr Cortex had been avoiding the Sorceress Steph for least 2 days and kept to himself in his room, even tho did ran into each other it was swiftly avoided with blushing face doctor, but he cant keep avoiding her forever.
Steph even tho was avoiding the doctor at the time too, she wasn't mad at him more embarrassed thought best give some time for Doctor as seem he was one trying avoid her but she have speak to him soon. By second day She was actually starting to miss his company, was he scared of her?...maybe he didn't like her company, that thought put a drop in her stomach brought many of her anxiety's.
Meanwhile she kept herself busy with own things make sure all was set up and start on repairs with reconstruction to the archway that the doctor fell out from the ruins... it was being supervised by masonry TikiMen of 'Molton Crater' from the 'Forgotten Realm', they knew their stones from pebbles get job done with there craftsmanship skills fix up the old archway ruins.
She had return to her quarters after checking maintenance of ruins, she changed from business robes into something simpler on, button down Vest and simple cotton shorts she headed outside onto her patio garden... stepping into sunlight to stretch her arms up and out, it was good time let some pent up frustrations in some Arcane Practice.
She walked out to open area of space, she breathed in slowly and place her arms up configure her fingers into a sign build up her energy, whispers under her breath something not understood in English and began her practice.
From Above where the poor Doctor was roomed in, He been on his small Balcony having time rest on a chair sunbathing topless just in his leisure lab pants on, he recently had lab gear returned clean and fixed.
He had gotten himself to relax on balcony last few days to avoid going around not run into the sorceress, how embarrassing was after that bathroom incident...but today he not going think on it...just Relax. Even it was rather boring not be able chat someone of his intellectual standards, He try chat with one those Blue Thief creatures... didn't last long the shrill voice of those things irritated him he just order drink brought back his room. He sip on his glass of juice he gotten from a servant, time to catch up on tan and nap.
All was relaxing till Flash of Light, something hurdles past his balcony and hit wall Above him as something shattered into pieces makes him jump from his chair with a yelp... was that ice went flying by?.
Cortex shrank in his chair wondering were they under attack?.. another flash of light happen past his balcony rail catch his attention, he stood up but halted stepping on something he bent down pick it up in his hand... was a chunk of ice?... ice in the desert?. Cortex brought hand up stroke his beard as a reaction him thinking, Curious He walked over to his balcony to peek over the edge of flashing lights now coming more illuminated in the surrounding area.
Below the doctors balcony in private garden was Show, Snow on the ground, Ice pillars floating in the air, ice crystals over the ground and in middle of it all was Dragonness Sorceress preforming Arcane Spells of ice magic what doctor could see...Certainly a sight to behold.
Cortex has seen Magic preformed by Uka uka, Aku aku, Some Residents wumpa island natives... course Ripto from waving that scepter of his.
He lean a arm on the balcony to watched the show... certainly be great moment see what she was capable of she was to work for him,.. he mean work 'with' him of course.
Back to steph she was concentrating forming a snow bolder, giving it arms & legs... she nodded she let object float there look like a snow golem she carved ruins into snow golem head, place palm on it to activate.
She let the golem come down to the ground as it stood there for moment, she steps back to watch the results... the golem moved a arm and then a leg to walk forward... just started to walk in a circle, she nods having result she wanted, a wave of her hand over to golem as it melts away into a puddle.
She smiles delighted see Golem spell was working well with her ice element, she proceed on try next spells. Before she did her next spell she glance over to a ice crystal see reflections around her... ice had lot uses, one of them was use glass and mirrors see behind you. She saw in section of crystal above behind her on the balcony that the Doctor was watching, had he been watching the whole time?...was he also topless?
She grins to herself on what she try next, she give her onlooker a show.
From Balcony Dr Cortex was intently watching now, taking notes in his head the fact she can create her own Minions...that could help boost productivity in his work.
Cortex lean on more over the small balcony resting his chin on his hand, small smile he watched. What a mysterious creature he stumble onto to... no... Woman, no matter species difference Lady was Enchanting, he noted Details her features from green eyes to her way she day convince him to shop with her, that happy hip wiggling. He hums a giggle, as fluttering feeling came up from his stomach again, his heart raced, his eyes dropped sleepy manner smiling softly... he lean up clutch a hand on his chest, Was this feeling.. was it... Naaahhh.
Cortex shook his head dismissing the thought, he need keep cool and calculated head he had enough last few days of not being control of his Feelings, he watched on.
Steph had changed her stance, bowing low her arms out she looked ready to fight... she aim her arms at ice pillars floating in air and they started to melt down from there forms. Her eyes glowed with surging Magic building up as glowing aura around her formed. Melted ice started form around her in water droplets in the air she started to... Dance.
She twist her form back & forth with own tune music she only heard in rhythmic belly dance and her arms move like snakes... swaying her arms around as water built up like flowing stream at her feet, droplets of water gather together into forming ball of water then to unravel into a serpent of water started coil around her in the air.
Cortex was taking in the site, her dancing and water forming into serpent was ...beautiful act, certainly rival water show, watching her dance, like a charmed snake he started go into a trance of awe not stop watching.
Steph swayed low & bent down before making finish touch,she started to lean back on her tail to balance, begin for the show stopper let loose spring muscles in her tail to spring her up into the air. Letting Burst of Energy as the water serpent form into ball of water as it turn into ice and bursts into flutter of snow... field of the area had falling snow around turn into mini winter wonderland. Steph dropped to the padding of Snow Ground, Grinning as she turned to look up at the balcony above to a Gawking mouth gaped Dr Cortex looking Amazed.
He noticed her looking back at him after being stunned by that show, Like the Grown man he was ...went ducking low behind balcony like a School boy caught peeping, his hair went hanged low.
She chortles to herself, maybe she did little to much but she like showing off, she called up to doctor "Doctor!.. I Request You Come Down in 20 minutes to my lounge quarters so we can talk? hmm... we need to chat" she smiles up to him she couldn't help laugh out how he was acting up there.
Cortex slowly peeked up his head he nodded, he was caught.
Steph Gave Doctor a Nod before she walked back inside to her quarter chuckling to herself.
In background as she left, Dr Cortex went slapped himself in the head how he been acting like self-conscious teenager... how undignified.
In the 20 mins steph had set up a midday tea set again... time pull doctor from his seclusion and talk, he couldn't keep avoiding and needed start discussing what been happening and how they going to work with each other, she made sure she wore something simpler, navy v neck jump suit make herself look professional she could.
She sighs waited taking a seat on her lounge... she rubbed the temple of her head thinking back to that bathing room indecent, she didn't explain to doctor about separate bathrooms... so honest mistake from her part, so time to just get pass this and able reform doctors trust get back was a innocent mistake.
Cortex was brought to Royal quarters by blue thief and it dashed away soon as they were there at the doorway, he had brought his gift he bought those days back at the market, hopefully use it as a leverage be back in her good books.
Cortex mind wondered if he was he brought here to be tolled the deal was off?... he been avoiding her as possible embarrassing incident hope let this die out.
Cortex sighs rolls his eyes why was he panicking so, He had face this now and make sure he apologize proper... it seems what he did best was groveling & apologizing to Uka uka, he took breath in build his courage up & marched in, followed the hall down into lounge was.
He came to doorway lounge he peered in, saw her sitting on lounge waiting for him, he swallowed hard and Suddenly become rather nervous to walk in.
Did she hate him, did she want to scowl him? that thought came crashing down in his own chest there with dread... why he have sudden irrational fear thought she would hate him... why would he care someone hate him.
He took few steps be infront the doorway.
Steph perked up seeing doctor standing in the doorway looking nervous at her, she patted the seat next her for him come in "Doctor, please come in... i wanted to speak with you" she smiles to him glad he came, speaking soft warm tone to him.
Cortex felt relief she didn't act spiteful towards him, her welcoming smile and soft gaze actually made him make those Butterfly's flutter again in his stomach, he took slow steps into the room, came around to the seat of the lounge where he sat down made himself comfortable.
Cortex making sure he took breath in before he spoke, bring back up his confidence "I like make most sincere apology from Other Day... it was mistake i assure you."
Steph spoke up "its fine doc... these things happen i know and You already apologize" she slunk her shoulders back try loosen up, she lifted her leg up cross them. " besides... think that pretty good way the brake the ice between us now seeing other each naked... so let just laugh at funny situation, ok."
Steph try give a chuckle bring better mood back between them.
To Cortex it felt a huge Weight come sliding off his shoulders... she wasn't mad at him or here to scowled him being a pervert or peeping tom. The Doctor's mood really boosted back up to know this... he was ready for all manners of curses, lightning to strike him or least fireball come fly at his head to dodge.
Cortex chuckles under his breath... it did seem rather funny moment now able relax think on it. Tho the image of her in her birthday suit was still pictured there in his mind and certainly did not help with having 'morning wood' last couple days from it.
Steph as she lean over tap the doctor on shoulder "Even say least gave me chance see what humans look like under those clothes... very handsome physique you have doc." she gives him a wink flirting a compliment. "i mean were adults here, so nothing be embarrassed about.''
Cortex ego doubled boost that compliment even it was cheeky one made him blush.
He gave hum of a giggle. "Well i do try keep up on exercise around the lab keep myself in shape... the islands are good for swimming, so do get out time to time" that running from bears, hordes of fleshing eating bugs and dodging island booby traps as well his own castle was a death trap marathon...doctor had become more agile over years since living on island even he did like do much physical work.
With that boost of confidence back in, his devilish charm also came back "i might i say... you as are very beautiful yourself" saying with a sly smirk.
Steph she felt her cheeks come to flush hearing such compliment back from hi, feel her inner girl squeal in delight but oh no... she saw his comeback flirt there and not going let doctor win "you think im beautiful?" she smirks at him.
Cortex stalled in his track hope that would knock her off her pedestal to shy out, but it wasn't working and she reflected his compliment back... his cheeks warmed up "Well yes... your are fine Looking specimen of your species."
He cleared his throat bring out the big guns, he brought the gift he got onto to table to present it to her win this banter, the gift wrapped up in paper
"I bought this for my 'lady of good fortune' " using his suave tone try impress her.
As Steph ears perked up seeing the gift, he got her a gift?... is all that argument with Mr Moneybags other day was all about, she took the gift and unwrapped it.
The gift was star decorated scented candle, she looked at him with a side glance wondering what he was thinking buying her a gift in first place... brought it up to her nose to take whiff of a smell from it as was a scented candle, smiles warmly to the scent "hmm Vanilla."
What a wonderful thing he gave her... tho did he really pay 100 gems for a candle, maybe she should tell him they go for 5 gems at others stalls and he was ripped off by Mr Moneybags, but best not bring Doctor mood down from the nice gift. She smiles warmly back to the doctor. "Thank you Doctor Cortex, How sweet of you think of me."
Cortex started to melt with his emotions there, his hair did droop down in joy from her warm smile, guess she likes the gift, He notice she took moment be respectful use his title name again with such a mix of emotions pride and joy of her saying his name... he started also not mind the nickname too.
Cortex went pour himself some tea he feel his throat come dry from this. he cleared his throat "Your welcome." he went sip at his tea.. today tea was a Earl Grey.
She smiles place the candle to her side on the seat next to her "It be nice to use later when bathing" she smirked up at him. "didn't think you were romantic type"
Cortex he nearly spat his tea hearing her say that "What .. no no just gift gesture of respect... that's all!" He was caught off guard.
He pondered to those words, he would not admit to any feelings of affection, romantic thoughts...even love?. No.. it was not something he thought have on the table as the life of a evil scientist... he trys convince himself.
" hmhmhm whatever you say Doc " she see's him try play it off the idea as a romantic suggestion.
She reached around behind her, pulls up small box she had hidden behind lounge she bought from wizard stall same day... guess they had same idea.
"If we are giving gifts around and not even Winter solstice festival time... here!... this is for you doctor." she presents the small Box to the Doctor. "thought a man with a great beard and mustache could use this."
The Doctor looked at her hearing she had gift for him?.. actual gift!.. no this got be some practical joke she was pulling on him, he place his teacup on the table he took up the box eyeing it, giving it a turn over examining it... just looked to be a wooden lock box.
Cortex shook the box next to his ear to hear something rattle inside... he unlatch the hook lock opening it slowly, wincing his eyes closed for something pop out or to explode in his face, but nothing happen... he peaked under a bushy eyebrow looking at contents inside, it was small Brush & Comb kit?
Steph smiles gleefully excited she leans over points to what was inside his gift for him. "This is a wizards beard grooming kit, all the items are modified with enchantments to groom that handsome beard and mustache of yours into any form you desire... long, short, maybe goatee without have effort of trimming or over shaving so not ruin those charming looks of yours Doc." she winks to him
Cortex looked up at her then back staring at the contents in the box he listen to her what she gave him... this was a actual genuine gift.
Cortex had been givens gifts in the past... but all were practical jokes on him, some exploding, some filled with slime, Cream pies or glitter... even just empty box, this was probably first actual nice thing was given to him. Well nina did give him a gift return of 5$ back in a xmas box after stealing 50$ from his wallet but didn't really count as a gift.
Steph waited for the doctor to respond, but his face rather expressionless she leans in to whisper to him "Not that its meant be romantic, just gift of respect" she smiles hoping he liked it giving same excuse he said.
Cortex felt something deep within him make thump, was that his heart... feel his heart take deep thumps of warmth, feeling of happiness actually there... also tears as that inner cry baby child of his came up with wash of raw emotions.
Steph watched see doctor started to cry? she saw tears start to leak from from his eyes and he bit his lip.
She looked around like if someone watching, wondering it it was a bad gift? did she upset him with a awful item he didn't want, She didn't expect this of outcome from the gift. She lean over patted the doctor on the back, This was second time she seem have comfort him "hey hey now why the tears...is it the gift?... i can get it exchange for something else to your liking?" she panic she had upset the doctor now.
Cortex couldn't help himself, try able focus back into reality what was happening to him, he put effort into recover from his episode of tears wiping a thumb over his eyelids wipe away the waterworks... that all needed to do was bring up his 'cry baby' side in front of her... how embarrassing, he put up better composure himself there with the tears gone.
Cortex looked up to her comforting him with panic look on her face, was she that worried she made him upset? he couldn't help chuckle at that panic look... she was so dear, which gave him genuine smile.
"I have not been given actual proper gift for... long time" he pull himself together put box to his side.
Steph was relief to hear that, her ears perked up hear it was ok she rested her hand on his back, she feel warmth her cheeks there he was smiling happy."im glad you like it doc" He must had alot more going on his head that trigger him to tears, but glad she give little bit happiness to him.
His mood changed to better form he felt a spark of... well not sure what the feeling was...gratitude think it was called? not something he often had in felt towards much people.
Cortex in a better mood he gave coy smile, he took her hand that was patting him on back and took up to his lips again give another a kiss on it. "i honestly never been given a gift so enchanted, tho person given gift is far more enchanting" smirking to her that suave manner came back to him.
Steph had froze, her white scale cheeks going pink again...this again from him and was getting to her badly... the warmth went went down to her loins this time she squirmed in her seat.
Cortex gave quiet snicker to himself a 'checkmate' he got her again... so adorable he thought to himself, he would have to that more often to her, he had such Ego boost from it.
Steph broke from her shy nature took her hand back from him. "Cheeky" she said under her breath to him taking her teacup and pouring herself some tea.
Cortex could only grin and chuckle again...was this going be there thing in partnership, he quiet enjoyed it and enjoyed her company more then he thought.
Steph took her teacup to sip at, squinting her eyes at the doctor rather peeved she let this human get to her.. again!.
She shook her head in dismay to loose in this banter of flirts with the doctor... maybe was bad idea to do this, was starting to make her be bottled up in emotions and aroused, making connection with the doctor now...maybe more her feelings were become genuine towards him then she thought. He did make her smile alot since he came here. Warmth in her chest thinking it she looked over to him, maybe she did start have caring feelings for him too.
"hmm think if be best we get back to things of business, now we past all the personal awkwardness between us..." she spoke up from sipping her tea "best get other things off board if im assisting... like... will be others i have interact, cohorts or say minions of rank? what earth population like and how would accommodate my time?".
Cortex he placed teacup on the table, guess was proper to explain the details now of his plan...he took breath in as he knew he have try explain every detail in to this Dragoness of what expect come to earth.
The Doctor did a speech his years and work on animal intelligence, bio weaponry and his end goal... Earth population consisting humans as dominate sentient species but anthro animals were becoming more establish into society's even its rare, spoke about the characters he work with and explain about Uka Uka...grim expression took Doctor face about the mask WitchDoctor.
When Doctor Spoke about this Witch Doctor as Head Honcho most operations at times even tho the doctor the main villain.. uka uka was top bad guy, this Troubled steph have another sorcerer even he was mask... idea sometime would be good to get rid of rival Magic user.
The Doctor explain the Wumpa islands were chaotic mess of magical phenomenons, The Odd layout environments of islands, mutants now occupied own civilization on main islands such as Wumpa Town, Native tribes of skull island...so on so on.
Steph sat there listening...lot time doctor seem trail off his own ego explaining his brilliants in this plan, but typical energy from him. She smirks how please of himself was of this...her thoughts drifted to other things kept bothering about earth populations consisting only humans... that be troubling fact but she had idea could help.
Ounce Cortex finished explaining, steph took moment to speak her turn to answer. "its lot to take in... but i'll see what i can do, but first is deal with this WitchDoctor Uka Uka..hmm .. sounds like his a problem of a character" not liking something Dark Creature be around her... "could we get rid of Uka Uka?"
Cortex nearly jumped out the chair hearing that... i mean would be fantastic no longer be under the non existent thumb of that Evil Mask, but thought still scared him if his wraith on Cortex to conspire the idea if Uka Uka Found out " i...i dont think he be problem at this moment, prefer to keep on his good side for now."
Steph didn't like answer of that... Uka Uka sounded like worse threat then a bandicoot hero, i mean dark entities always have own agenda using people and getting rid of minions ounce there goals are settle and done. Uka sounds to be a daemon more then a witch doctor mask " Alright.. problem for later to defuse on.. then i guess next is if my dragon appearance going be a problem among humans?"
Cortex lifted a eyebrow thinking " i dont think so.. weirder characters have appeared on wumpa islands... maybe might take my co-workers get used to"
Steph spoke up more promptly "i more talking bout whole population of humans? would i need a human disguise" she notion more towards this.
Cortex pondered he took moment to stroke his beard and nodded "The human population are brash and often are Xenophobic but would help if was a way to disguise you... i could always whip hologram."
Steph place her hand up to excuse him any further from that "not needed thank you, my alterations and illusions skills are leveled to there best so i can make easy method transformation spell... but it would require...something from you help change my form to human."
Cortex eyebrow arching at this question " What kind of something from me." not liking where this was going.
Steph slide off her seat to the side she walked around table as doctor watch with curiosity, she beckoned to the doctor to follow her with a hand gesture "i'll show you instead." she snickers proceeded leave the room.
Cortex wondered what she was up to...was there going be trick after all that sentimental moment.
He placed his cup back on table, scoots off his side of the lounge and follows, getting to corner peak around he saw her waiting for him by another door, he walked around to hallway closing the distance he came up to her by the closed door she was standing in front of.
Steph she smiles down at him "we're about enter my private study, so please doctor. don't touch anything while in there even it looks enticing... could be cursed item so we don't want bad things to happen" she proceed to unlock the door, open up she stepped in and doctor followed behind.
"This is where i make my magic happen... hehe, kinda like my own Laboratory of Arcane Arts." she presents her room of Arcane collection and Magical ware.
Cortex certainly did miss his laboratory, did fascinated him her study...felt like he stepped into some sort of 'Harry Potter' book...Shelves of items such as jars of weird items pickled, grimoires of Books, few Test tubes and vials of potions, instead of candles there are just floating balls of light in air, even a actual cauldron on one side of the room, few chests for storage, a Desk and chaise Loveseat couch in the room too for resting on.
Cortex look around room, like office style laboratory but to cortex scientific mind about magic is just mumbo jumbo...from his perspective.
Steph turn to him she heard what his said in his head 'mumbo jumbo'... how insulting "Magic is not mumbo jumbo doctor! " she said sternly to him.
Cortex froze up... there that mind reading again... it unnerved him there "I didn't mean to... I just.." he shrugs making a point. "im a Scientist."
"Doctor ...I understand there Earth science and there this realms science... may not make sense to you what happens here, Magic has it own Scientific terminology too or say 'Science of Magic' as a Magic Crafter... cant make fire magic without ionization of atoms so able create a fireball first." she ranted there make her point view of her study to Scientist hope made more sense to him.
It caught Cortex attention talking about it like scientific term as 'Science of Magic', guess it makes sense the realms difference of knowledge from Earth Science, he see how passionate she was about the subject and invoke some pride from her, Cortex couldn't help think Admiring see this side of the Sorceress.
Steph calm herself before she started to ramble on trying explain Arcane Arts to Man of Earth Science, just focus back what original going to show the doctor... she presents him her Loveseat couch For him sit down on to wait.
"Please Doctor, make yourself Comfortable while i get item to show you" she went over to a cupboard to unbox special necklace choker with a blue gem.
Cortex took moment to sit down on fine chaise style lounge, he crossed his arms and waited.
"Alright doctor this some my best work alteration spells craftsmanship, my little gem here can help with keep memory of transformations... so... i require some blood from you make it possible change into human form"
Cortex Scooted back hearing the word 'blood' again... whats with blood needed for everything magic...he knew DNA needed Make hybrids mutants or clones... but why him?! "um isn't there a better method then... blood?" The Doctor raised his bushy eyebrows up in worry.
Steph gave a sly smile at him " i mean yes... technically... i can use other inner fluids can work. But not saliva, im... bit grossed by saliva...and there's also. " she paused not wanting say out load but... cum could work but felt very inappropriate ask for that. "lets just go with blood it has better direct DNA... all need is just pin prick, that's all"
Cortex was hesitant be part of this experiment of hers but suppose if was get her working for him, sacrifice's must be made.
He removed a glove from one of his hands " fine!.. but do it quick!" he present his hand out but winced.
She did not waste the time get that blood from him, she made a fine little ice needle to make a quick prick at his finger with a 'OUCH' from the doctor. She took his bleeding finger pressed it onto blue gem, it glowed for short moment and finished fast. " All done, human DNA is registered in the gems memory, now that wasn't so bad hmm"
She walked back to cupboard placed the necklace back into box safely away. She turned to now Doctor Cortex making fuss over his finger pricked wound, she chuckles he acted so dramatic For little pin prick, she came down sit next to him taking his hand into her clawed ones.
Cortex didn't have time to respond as his hand taken from him into hers, his cheeks came pink of this sudden tender holding hands moment... what was she doing?
Steph smiles to him "Aw don't be so dramatic. i'll heal your little booboo" she mocked him, Cortex gave back a sour look at her for mocking him.
Before cortex could protest, she started use some healing magic her clawed hands glowed white light, his finger stopped throbbing and she let go of his hand as he pulled his hand back, he checked over his hand... no markings there and he quickly slipped his glove back on.
Steph shook her head "Oh come on, don't tell me your not impressed?"
Actually Dr Cortex didn't want admit to anything but he was, she able make certain problems solved fast with using her magic... healing wounds be good factor have "what kinda magic do you use... i mean what would help me in my endeavors?"
Steph gave a prideful grin hoping he asked something of her skills "well.. im open to many style Arcane arts, elemental magic ice and water, bit fire. illusions, alterations, voodooism, Conjuration..."
Cortex kinda nodded along, he wasn't sure half what she said but seem she knew her stuff.
Steph rambling on about her magic skills like a resume till stopped take a breath in moment "there are times i Conduct more unusual experiments which be determine next league my skills go leveling up to..."
Cortex nodded but his attention started to drift away his own thoughts.
Steph been rambling on her skills she notice he started to look fazed out "and space cows love flying in spaceships" She spoke last part see doctor was paying attention but he wasn't just nodded to her he really didn't hear half last parts she was explaining. "Well That's it... so are you impressed?"
Doctor Cortex took moment for him to look back at her he nodded realized she had finished " Oh..Oh yes Very good".
"Uh huh" She raised eyebrows at him she crossed her arms looking anoyed. "im glad to hear it... even you likely not listening word i said of 'Space Cows in SpaceShips'... you were obviously not listening last parts". she squinted at him but suppose he wouldn't be interested what she did and disheartened her she placed pouted look on her snout and her ear folded back on her.
The Doctor shrugs, yeah he try to listen but lot of it he started loose attention too as he didn't understand most parts what she was talking about. he could see made this bad he try to recover. "You expect me to understand all your Work but it'll take time for me Understand how your 'Magic of science' Works in time. but you did say something on working unusual experiments?".
Steph look at him less pouty she lift her head up and took a short snort from nostrils. "More to next things, i hope acquire my own lab room in over your lair. there are things that are illegal here in the realms...i need to unethically experiment on".
Cortex took interested at that, unethical experiment was his thing after all...he brought his hand up stroke his beard to think. " that's possible... plenty of Lab rooms since Brio and Tropy not in the picture... their labs are empty."
Steph relaxed her posture back into chair no longer annoyed with the doctor "glad to hear it...i assume comes with accommodation, i can work in between certain days but weekends i have be home here for... my own things". She watched him stroke his beard, she bit her lip rather interested how he poses himself there thinking... her thoughts came to say 'i would love stroke that beard too' her thoughts took bit of hot turn there him doing that habit.
Cortex all nodded it was fine "i have no qualms with that." ...his eyes wondered around the room he notice on desk far side her study a little octopus toy there? odd little thing be there out of place in a magic study... maybe something for voodoo?
Steph picked up on his thoughts, she straighten up off she look over what he was looking at, she gave a sigh, maybe best time say something about her other reasons to be home on weekends "No its not for voodooism... its Gift for my 'Son' when i see him in few days."
Cortex turned his head fast back look at her in surprise, annoyed again this mind reading but did she say 'son'... as in a kid!? she had a Kid! " You never said you were married." Cortex feel guilt and bit disappointment deep down if it was true.
She squinted annoyed at the Doctor. " im not... im just single mom that's all, that a problem?"
Part of Cortex felt relieved hear word 'single mom', but he shook his head "No No.. nothing of it..didn't mean make sound bad."
Steph was bit stand offish of this subject but took breath in to calm down, bound be spoken on if they are to be partners in work place... this was something important to her. "Yes... so why i ask weekends off to be at home, my Son is only 5 years old and needs keep to school for the Week, i don't get see him till weekends when his not in class... my mother.. his grandmother, she looks after him on the week and weekends i get him." she spoke softly on the this. "His the apple of my eye" she used his quote said about his niece nina.
Cortex felt ping on Only soft spot of his heart, like nina to him was precious, nothing wrong of her being a Single Mother... explain all that tenderness she displays, Nina Could use the mother Figure around, so could work out more for him.
Cortex Nodded "i see, well it doesn't change a thing to this deal... i still need your skills" Cortex thought of something next to say. " so the dad is...?"
He was halted in his words felt rather Dark Energy build up in the room there next to him from Dragoness, she was Emitting a dark aurora from her made him shrank back into his seat.
Steph spoke dark but calm manner there "Dad is not the picture and its non of your business... so drop the question." her manner calmed down as shadows of the room fade away.
Cortex noted that was seem be a Very touchy subject, not to ask anything about that...he nodded.
Steph felt embarrassed Showing that ugly angry side of her... The doctor was just curious but not something she going share of that personal manner.
"I think that concludes what needed done for today Doctor." She Smiles to a idea bring her mood back and Doctors "But please doctor do come back to join me for Dinner tonight... i'll a open bottle of my specials to celebrate, give you the contract to you tonight get all settled, we should celebrate our Success for our future together." she placed her hands down next to doctor.
Cortex glad she relaxed... rather scary to tick off a sorceress, best keep her in a better mood. Hearing dinner and a bottle did sound really enticing, he relax his composure as tension room faded too " hmm that does sound nice" A dinner?...sounds like she was asking him to a date?, his ego inflated & he play this to his advantage.
Cortex devilish grin came across his face ounce again he took her hand again in his, leans in kiss it polity before she could snatch it away. "Then its a date then hmm" hopefully he put her back into that playful manner of hers, He might as well give it a go as was fun for him to.
Steph pulls her hand away, her cheeks flashing red now she see doctor got her flustered on purpose. " its not a date... its a mutual, respectful, social dine in good company". she try explain as sensible she could while still being flustered.
Cortex was amused now of her acting so flustered and in denial what it was "Are you sure?...its sounds like your asking me on a date!" Doctor coyly smiles. "i dont know what it means here when a lady ask a man to dinner... but on earth it usually means a date with romantic intentions" his ego only inflate so much, very flattered she asked him. When was last time he had this much fun putting someone in flabbergasted state.
Steph swallowed hard Lump in her throat there what he said... "no no no its not meant as.. romantic..i was just being... nice!" She feel the heat rising to her head her scales seem change from white to pink trying keep it professional but failing as her emotions showed.
Cortex could only do so much to try not to laugh how he made this Dragoness so flustered...maybe best to leave her be her own thoughts and not push it any further or he might awake that angry side again. "hmhmhmhmm if you say so, as a gentleman i accept your invention my lady." he gave that devilish smile he knew would make her all stammer
"Yes i'll go relax for evening till Dinner ...thank you again for the gift, i shall use it tonight make myself presentable for her lady" Cortex had such smirk smacked across his face in glee, he Got up from his seat he strut out the room to leave, he catching onto this game & certainly liked winning it.
Steph was left sitting there on her coach of her study just stunned, she slapped her self in the head wondering how did she let him turn all that back onto her...that cheeky, conniving smarmy Nerd!
Steph pouted on her chair, this human was driving her bonkers, more she want admit to it but she growing like him more then what she intended. Her thoughts started be irrational as try not think on the Doctor but her mind sure stuck on that human.
She lift hand up where he kissed it early she rubbed her knuckles, she giggled under her breath smiles softly "maybe i am starting to like him more then i thought, this certainly going lead into something more if we keep doing this..." she was growing feeling for this human also didn't help way he made it so charming with his attitude made her hot. To many days here alone, Desperate for attention then just being leader and a mom... she wanted feel like a attractive female again, the doctor certainly steered up feelings challenging her wits and awaken arousing tension, she wondered if doctor felt the same?
She let deep sigh out let feelings go.
She got up she went to her desk to start crafting the contract to seal the deal...her eyes drifted to small octopus toy she was to going give to her son 'zaran' when she sees him again next time. She also have go and chat with her mother do bit of research on humans while in Magic Crafters.
She worked through evening make sure the contract Prices are precise and clean with agreements to both parties.
She lean back in her chair stretch he back as she yawned and swirled in her chair around in to look back at the box she had that enchanted choker in, she brought hand up onto her cheek she tapping a finger thinking, then smirks to a idea. "Maybe i can still win this game tonight against the Doctor." having Grand fun idea maybe tonight let loose and just two adults have fun.
"Maybe this good time test out that new human transformation spell"
Later that evening, ounce night settled in with purple haze of the night, Doctor Cortex made himself up rather extra nice tonight, he was humming to himself looking into his mirror using the new enchanted beard comb, was easy to handle ounce read the instructions... groom himself to a nice 'van dyke' mustache beard combo "Cortex you are a handsome devil."
Smirking to himself in mirror straighten up his silk outfit and took breath in to relaxed...things seem be going good, he actually felt happy, even very merrily manner, who knows what tonight may happen... maybe he should try push things bit more with this sorceress, he not going be fooled by all that teasing and flirts she been doing...seem be obvious she taken a liking to him even she kept denying it.
He was ready, he confidently strolled out of his door room.
Cortex was escorted out onto garden patio by little thief like before dashed away, Outdoor table was set up to be with already dinner there on a covered serving tray... no dragon sorceress yet be seen.
Cortex walked over around the table check out what was served, he arched eyebrow curious what was served and lifted up covered of the tray... hmm something with Beef Roast and vegetables?. Cortex waved a hand over the dish to get a better whiff of the scent, smiling softly feel his stomach gurgle hungry, Scent on Tender beef roast in a Red Wine Sauce...he would enjoy dinner tonight.
Cortex did not hear footsteps come up behind him, suddenly a hand taps him on the shoulder, which made the doctor jump drooping the tray lid with a CLANG! and him yelping.
He turn around... Only to be surprised to see a another human!.
A Dark Blonde Human Woman in a V neck black dress. she wore a neck choker held blue crystal "Well don't you look handsome tonight Doctor?... like the new beard n mustache look" she smiles at him.
Cortex was taken aback, where did this lady come from...let alone where had she been his whole life she was gorgeous!. "ah... who... are you?.. ah.. mam?" he stuttered, was taken aback but she came up to him close... very close near body to body contact she tapped a finger onto his chest.
"Whats matter doctor...Don't you recognize me? hmm" she playfully taunted him.
He felt hot under his cloth he went tugged a finger to loosen his neck collar "i assure you madam i don't think we meet before..." he could not help smile silly liking the attention as orange blushed on his face she started to playfully drag her finger up under his chin, gave doctor shiver up his back this lady was forward.
The human lady started to chuckle she stepped back from the doctor seeing his reaction."Oh doc... your that easily fooled?" she made motioning with her hands like she was to cast a spell."a second guess who i am." she gave playful smirk to him.
Dr Cortex was now confused and titillated but he took moment to listen to the voice of hers he relaxed his Body back as gears clicked in his head who he was speaking to "... Steph?"
"In the human flesh my Good Doctor." she revealed was herself.
Steph No longer looking like her Dragoness self but in a human form "i look pretty neat as a human don't you think doc?.. tho no tail" she turned around feel a hand on her butt "that's a shame but.. i can wear shoes now!" she lifted up a leg to show the slip on shoes she was wearing... she acted like kid with new thing to show off.
She smiles back at the doctor wanting his reaction " Do you approve?...well i think it all said with that blush on your cheek that says a yes!." she giggles to herself just having fun teasing him again.
Cortex he honestly could not stop staring... different appearance but familiar to her personalty, her human form had some same features from hair style and deep dragon eyes but so much more... appealing... not she wasn't before as a Dragoness... it more comfortable of her in this human form.
Cortex relaxed himself & straighten up his suit."You have no idea..." he whispers under his breath.
Steph walks over to him give playful tap on the nose "Don't be like that... come on lets enjoy dinner before it goes cold, i have the contract all written up so have it when you like & you can sign it in any day before we send you home... in case details need change."
She walks around him to head to side of the table take her seat... before she could get to her chair out, the doctor had came rushing over to her side he pulled her chair out like a gentlemen, she gave him courteous nod & she thanked him he was acting so polite, after he tucked in her chair he went take his own seat.
Steph she bit her lip stop smile come on she could see doctor couldn't stop taking glances back at her, did this human form trigger some instincts from him. Guess seem same way if was other way around if doctor was to turn into a dragon with all handsome features of horns, wings and a tail... actually not bad idea somewhere down the line to ask he like participate in her experiments... but later.
She spoke over to the doctor " bon appetit, hope you don't mind tenderloin beef with vegetables, also bottle of my secret stash of night-berry wine" she picked up the bottle on the table. She Uncorked it and pour into glasses on the table for them both. "i should warn you, night-berry wine has magical properties...so each taste of every sip from this will change flavor"
Cortex gave curious look at the wine glass she had given him never heard of Night-Berrys, hopefully not going to poison him but he took the glass, he looked up from under a bushy eyebrow and lift glass up to his lip to sip... first taste was like red wine that he liked back on earth when he could afford to spoil himself.
"Mmm taste rather like vintage malbec" he commented.
She giggles watching " go on.. try again.." waves her hand for him give another sip.
Cortex he was amused but he did what she asked and sip again...it tasted like.. coke cola now?. His mind was boggled by the change of taste, he ended up taking another sip again and now was...whisky malt. "how?.. i mean.. that's extraordinary!. Your full of tricks like Mary Poppins."
Steph giggles again at his amused child expressions tasting it, she took up her own glass to sip. "hmmm strawberry milkshake...i don't know who this mary poppins you speak of ...well not my trick it was made by quake of a 'Alchemist' in 'Avalar'... they try make cure for the common cold but ended up making this stuff, put him up in high ranks genius alchemist among the wizard community."
Cortex amused by the backstory... a Alchemist?, guess same way brio making cocktails in his bar stage of his life, he chuckled chummily.
"ok ok... lets get onto dinner before goes cold and nasty" she removed tray help herself into dinner.
The two started Dine together, making little chit chats as if like a actual date.
Steph explain to doctor of her position becoming leader of the den, good way break silence in between meals, winning a competition every 10 years come new leader of the den, she been her for her 5th year in the den, most thieves den run by elderly thieves from three guilds- thief, merchant and assassin guild. She told small parts tales of her life, her years going through 'wizards peak' school even, she grew up in Library with her mother and brother... and nearly destroying the library as a dragon youngling climbing the shelves, tipping over shelves like a domino's much to dismay of her mother and elders of 'High Caves' where she grew up, gave good chuckle at the table.
Cortex was whole hearty to his own exchange of his tales about his accomplishments in things he invented, even spoke some odd adventures he had from space travel, racing against alien to time traveling... even jumps to other dimensions having team up with idiot bandicoot whelp, boost of ego to try impress her.
Steph admit she was having nice time sit and chat with someone down on intellectual level, doctor was even listening to her this time, She did mention "space cows" again in moment her chit chat made doctor give her funny look, The two burst into laughter, she explain space cows actually real in her world as doctor only stifle laughter to silly idea of it existing.. not mention even space sheep too.
Moment after long laugh the two came silent, they both stared each other having a Good Moment between them.
Cortex for ounce was feeling peaceful, happy and well this other growing feeling he had come over him seeing her across the table smiling at him, he felt a warmth deep down enjoying another person company that did not annoy him too much... was this... no cant be...he would not say it out loud...is this...love?
Cortex felt warmth on his cold heart, if any these these feelings were true, did she feel same way back?.
Steph broke silence she remember something to ask him. "You still haven't figured out that riddle i gave you yet hmm?"
Cortex rolls his eyes but kept smile plastered on his face, this was something he did thought on but figure it was not important but guess she would still want him play along "i did... but hmm...im not one part take in riddles its not my thing, but i suppose i'll play...hmm... gold?"
Steph sip at her glass "Nope.." her lip curled up cheeky smile.
Cortex pondering there he try again. "hmm" he tapped his lip playing along, he may thought idea what was " hmm space cows?" said as a joke, he acted silly there taking sip from his own glass.
She chuckles "Noo... your not good at this are you."
Cortex smirks he leans on the table "well i guess WHAT it could be... but nahhh" he scoffs it off playing with her...he looks away but kept his side eye at her.
Steph leans on table get in close "come on... its pretty easy... try me"
Cortex tapped his lip questioning it he looked back at her "Well don't suppose well.. couldn't be... hmm love?" he answered cocky attitude was oozing from him.
Steph cheeks flushed hearing him say 'love' "well close enough doc.. it was 'friendship'"
Cortex raised eyebrow at her... was she just toying with him, he leans over to her giving snide smile as he spoke "please... people at our ages are not looking for best friends." he question her on this.
Steph "Well i still have friends even at my age doc... but i suppose i know your talking about" she give him coy look, leans closer sipping at her glass lookin at him.
Cortex try reel this in "and what is that im talking about?" he flirted there wriggled his eyebrows indicating at that.
"Doc..." Steph gives him eyebrow lift what he was doing there but it did make her blush solemnly.
The Doctor gave hum of a chuckle to himself making her blush... even in this human form she was still cute. He sipped at his glass of this night-berry wine, he felt bit buzz from it... guess was some alcohol in it he thought.
There was a pause between them, as cortex spoke first "admit it... you been flirting, teasing me whole time...im not a fool and i been fooled to many times to see when im being fooled around... you.. like me " he said with a cocky attitude.
Steph was pulled back by his attitude change there but guess all teases, flirts was obvious on feelings there were to come forward "Yes.. i Like you" she squinted at him. " i'll admit it you have been a charming unexpected distraction here for me and its refreshing have your company and been enjoying so much... happy?" she admit truth to him.
Cortex "hmhmhm yes..." liking to win, he softly rested his gaze... it was a confession non the less made swirl giddy happiness in him deep down to hear her say it.
Steph she smiles back at him shaking her head, she was having feelings for him she still try keep reserved, she tapped her choker necklace crystal made her form change back to her Dragoness self.
Sheh leans close to him over the table "Do you like me... even as myself doc? all scales and horns" she said test him if not just human form she took on making him delusional.
Cortex sat back and stroked his beard there giving her a devilish smile "You are still cute when you blush scales to horns all." Doctor don't know if was drink he been sipping to give him shot of liquid courage be this open... maybe he was drunk.
Dragoness turned pink from ears to her snout... did he just call her.. cute? she bit her lip her ears pressed to her head "Fresh!" she said under her breath.
She took moment let it sink in what he said she smiles with coy look "i like you to doc.. but when you say you like me.. do like like me as a friend? or like like me as in more?" she places her claw hand on his, rubbed her thumb over his knuckles.
Her finger rubbing on his knuckles sent shiver down his back and a warmth rise up... it was so tantalizing. "Well.. i like... like like you as in more?" he spoke suave manner back at her, what ever was happening it started stock a fire in him.
She tilted her head to side she looks at him raising eyebrow "oh so you do huh?." Her state emotions seem turn soft but looked at him serious manner instead playing this teenage crush act they were doing.
"Doctor.. on serious note here, you like me on level you want start dating me?" she wanted Confirm he was serious with this. " because i don't want be toyed around like i'm just someone else's plaything...i been Hurt in past before, so gotta know if you want take next step in this as i am going be put Emotional Trust in you here." she place both her claw hands over his "cause i really truly am starting to like you more then just a Allie."
Cortex caught on this discussion turn more down serious level... Dating! taking next step!, She actually said it.
He swallowed hard that question, was interesting not beat around bush just say it straight forward to him, he took moment to think. tho even so much difference there between them and this whole thing could just destroy whole deal and blow up in his face like another fail... or should take that chance.
Steph waited for him to answer tho he taking long time in silence as maybe it was too much of her asking this, she letting her emotions get better of her & wanted fill that lonely void part of her wanting company, she broke her hand away from his she leans back in her chair.
"im sorry this was too much ask fast there." she feel something swelled up inside of her, lot raw emotions started bubble up she got up from her chair she turn to go take walk back to her chambers... she was defiantly trying hold back some tears.
As she got halfway back towards doorway she got her claw hand tugged pulled back being held, she looks back see Doctor held her hand looking rather panicked and flushed, he was holding onto right claw hand he looked desperate at her he mutter a quick " Yes" .
The Dragoness look back at him her ears perked up hearing him " what?"
Doctor Cortex had frantically got up from his seat when she broke away from him... guess he drifted off in thought too long make it look like doubt, something inside didn't doubt what was wanted, got up from his chair seeing her walk away and made sure what he said was heard grabbing her claw hand "Yes... i like to."
Taking Cortex to sum up such courage to say this, thought notice see tears he looked up at her face.. was she crying? guess dragons were more emotional creatures then he thought.. she acted so prideful around him hard see this vulnerable creature now in front of him, guess something in common with humans was on a emotional level.
"are you.. ok?" sounded weird coming from him saying caring words to someone.
Dragoness bit her lip looked away use her other hand to wipe away tears, how could she let him see her cry... that was embarrassing to feel now. "im fine..." she turned her head look back now wiped of her tears.
She looked down his hand still holding onto hers she feel blush onto her cheeks there she raised eyebrow to him she took moment hold his hand back make sure he didn't get away... felt so nice be comforted.
Cortex notice holding her hand so long, he cleared his thought try change moment " well dinner was really grand, i can't wait to see whats for dessert?" not used to such ' sentimental' moments.
Steph change in expression she tilted her head down... all the evening focusing make sure dinner was cooked and preparing herself to impress the doctor with new human form, she forgot dessert.
She was planning nice chocolate mouse but guess she have make it another time but she came to a bold idea to change how evening to end.
"Well dessert... its pretty good" she started act coy.
"oh what is it?" he was intrigued,he change in behavior was noticeable what she was playing here now.
She smiles she leans over be closer to his height, taking hand under his chin to lift it up so her lips meet his into tender kiss.
it caught him off guard her kiss, but he didn't hesitant he lean back in and kiss her back.
The two kissed tenderly for moment till broke from each other.
Steph feel herself want to do some happy dragon wiggles her tail behind her flicked around happy "I'll Be honest.. i actually forgot dessert tonight i was so busy working dinner and other things...hehe" She gave the doctor a cheeky smile "tho... 'You' could be my dessert if you like to stay with me for tonight Doctor Cortex?" a promiscuous hint in her tone she spoke to him "Bunk in bed with me tonight, got plenty of room in SuperKing size bed" she winks to him.
It Took Cortex to register what she said "oh... Ooohhh!.. you mean sex!" he said it "is that possible... i mean with being..." he wasn't sure if ask questions all started run through his mind if was possible difference species... he couldn't get his head straight started feel more flustered as he thought on it.
"Doctor?... i think we just got go with flow and deal what happens when it happens, were both responsible adults... i think we can handle it and be sure nothing uncomfortable happens." she reassures him if something happens it wont be turned into bad situation and keep it on comfortable level with them both "so are wanting to stay with me tonight..?"
Before she say next word Cortex had lean up his toes to reach for another kiss his own, able pull her down to him kiss her properly, passionately... she was surprised by the bold move but guess it meant a big yes his part.. Awkward height difference but made it work, moment two able just enjoy there company in a kiss.
She broke from his kiss, boi did that it make her hot-blooded right there.
She went take her hand back from him she tapped a finger on her choker crystal to change her Dragon form back into human form, Cortex curious what she was doing.
"Well Doctor, might be me being bold to ask but maybe You should take moment in my quarters to take a full examination of this human body of mine, check that everything looks ok and works right?" she playfully started act as in role play scene, see he play along to giving a wink.
Took the Doctor moment to get what she going for here, feel his whole body heat up excited hear it... she wanted to do a sexy role-play with him and he will certainly he play along. Cortex took his hand up to stroke finger across his mustache "hmm i guess i should check all this new body of yours, give ya full check-up... a Dr Cortex special" wriggling his eyebrows in jest. He let a growl escape from his lips this was such a turn on for him, he took his hand around her waist to pull her into him. boy did it felt good to finally able touch her like this...Few days doctor could not get her out his head, playing like a torture game for him on his mind. Just be able have all of it finally be open of his horny side was relieving but starved for attention.
Made her blush hard she kinda wanted to run when she heard him growl there, but very arousing. Happy he wanted to take this step into Making Whoopee's tonight.
"Right this way Doctor..." she points hand to door of her boudoir chambers, she took his hand and slide out his grasp to guide him over to the door.
He had click to his heels was ready for this, he was getting lucky tonight. Steph unlatched the door lock opening the door, she pulled him into a kiss wrapping her arms around his neck make sure he wasn't getting away and pull him inside her bedroom.
oh what fun is there tonight?.
Stay Tune for chapter 4, It takes two to Make a Little Magic.