-x-X-x-
Explicit content warning: Back away kids. Or don't. It's up to you really.
It gets very spicy towards the end and more indecent. A little scientific even, perhaps a tad fetishy. Nothing vile, but perhaps a bit more vulgar than you would expect from me so far. You can skim if you're not comfortable with it. I won't judge.
Hope it was worth the wait.
v 1.0
Chapter 5: It's Not a Sin
-x-X-x-
"'What's it like? Across the sea, I mean?" Zoe asked sincerely.
The Castaway paused briefly, before continuing his work. He was cooking with the aid of a Foxsparks, the small, vulpine pal breathing a jet of flames under the pot. Mostly fruits and vegetables, but she even detected the smell of meat. She couldn't identify what kind. He had woken up earlier than her, preparing for their day she guessed. He had never let her out of their small tract of land since he captured her, so Zoe was both eager and wary.
Not of him, not any longer. He wouldn't hurt her. She was sure of it. But she knew how savage this world could be, even in the more relatively peaceful south where weaker pals and gangsters roamed.
It made Zoe's gut tighten with a small pang of anxiety, but she also realized how much she wanted to explore. She had spent the last decade feeling cooped up in that Tower, and although her capture was a literal breath of fresh air, it was not so different in that respect. She squirmed in anticipation, a rare feeling of excitement welling up. She almost missed his answer.
"Complicated."
He spoke, regaining her attention.
"More to worry about, but it's tamer. Orderly, but less free."
He paused, trying to find the right words.
"It is not so different, just more political. Judgemental. Dishonest."
Zoe didn't quite understand what he meant. The Castaway tried again.
"It's larger, much larger. Louder. No-less cruel, only less obvious. Violence under the flag of peace. They would smile and shake your hand as they slide a knife into your ribs, calling you friend…"
Her brow furrowed and she frowned, trying to interpret his vague description. What he said didn't sound all that pleasing. What did that even mean? And less free? Did he conveniently forget how she got here in the first place? Complicated indeed. She tried changing directions.
"What about you? What did you do before coming here?" Zoe asked innocently enough. She feels it was the wrong thing to say because the Castaway ignored her. He didn't seem offended though. Guess he wasn't feeling like talking about that. Well, she could appreciate he even told her this much. It was more than before.
It was frustrating, Zoe admitted to herself, that he knew so much about her while she knew so little about him. She had always been inquisitive. What was his history? Did he have any family? Children? Lovers? What has he done since washing up on these shores? She knew very little about the common wayfarers arriving here, other than that they used tools different from her own. He had to have been here for a while, but she saw no indication of his presence before he started tearing down her father's legacy. She didn't even know his name.
Still, she held her tongue, knowing she would not get any answers. The smell of cooked food was very strong now. She felt her mouth water slightly but knew he probably wouldn't let them eat until they began their journey to…whatever he wanted to show her. Or its return, she noted, as she identified some preservatives being applied to the meal. They'd be gone for a while. She hoped it wasn't some new pal he found over the mountain or a funnily shaped rock. She didn't see him preparing any mounts, so maybe it was within walking distance?
She was snapped from her thoughts when he stood up, abruptly making his way to her seated position on the ground. He kneeled by her, a somewhat apologetic expression on his face. She blinked up at him questioningly, before noticing his extended hand. He was holding a blue pal sphere.
Her pal sphere.
Air stuck to her throat before Zoe let out a shuddering breath, old fears creeping back. She knew his intent, why he was giving her that look. He wanted her permission first, rather than forcing her back in. So it wasn't exactly close, wherever they were going.
Maybe she shouldn't have asked any questions.
She nodded mutely, trembling softly. He looked sorrowful enough, a small comfort at least. That was all she saw before her body was enveloped by a bright blue light, her material form dissipating to return to her to that unforgiving prison. It felt like a cool breeze.
-x-X-x-
The emptiness reminded Zoe why she was so distraught.
It wasn't that the pal spheres were painful. That happened before the capture. Nor was it particularly dark or dreary. It was actually quite bright. A far cry from the dimly lit mausoleum of her Tower's insides.
In fact, there was nothing threatening or oppressive at all. She did not need amenities, like food or water. It healed her lighter wounds if she had any. Zoe didn't even have to use the bathroom, how nice!
But there was nothing here. Because at the end of the day, she was nothing. She understood what this cell was. Her sole purpose was to serve her new master hand and foot. Despite the Castaway's actions pointing otherwise, the purpose for this infernal contraption's existence ingrained itself in her mind like a blood-sucking tick every time she was here.
'GIVE YOURSELF' it practically demanded.
But it was insidious, not violent. It made her want to listen, to be rewarded for her labors. It would be so easy to just let go of everything and accept her new lot wholeheartedly. To let all her woes fade away and embrace her new purpose. The machinations behind the blasphemous ball could fill her mind with a blissful ambivalence.
She wondered if it was the same for Grizzbolt. Perhaps it was different for pals, like a sort of pat on the head. A treat for a job well done. It didn't feel like that to her. Human minds were more complex than those of pals.
Maybe this is how it indoctrinated them, cracking them open and planting the seed of obedience, ready to force their hand if they didn't obey. Even the wildest of pals become subservient and happy when captured, so long as they were fed and able-bodied. At least until their mind broke.
It was just as she remembered.
Admittedly, it was a little more welcoming this time. What with the existential dread of a torturous death and fear for her sanctity and personhood practically abolished, she supposed it was just encouraging her to do what she was already doing. It was more of a suggestive reinforcement than the grasping hand on her throat it was before.
Fortunately, time was not very linear here, because it didn't feel like long before she was ejected, her master calling her forth. Relief filled her.
She also wished the tingle would go away. It was distracting and counterproductive. Was the sphere doing that too? Or was it her own influence? She wasn't yet sure she wanted to know.
What she did want to know was why they were back here. Or even better, how they got up here.
-x-X-x-
The Castaway had brought them back to the same Tower where he met her, and where she met him. Except they were at its peak, not its base.
Boy, was it windy.
He held her loosely but securely, keeping her close. The warmth emanated from him cozily this time, the icy touch long gone. That was good to see, that he benefited from her suggestion that wasn't just plain stupid. He moved her closer to the ledge as she clung to him for balance, gesturing for her to look. Zoe peered in the direction he was indicating. She didn't see anything special, just the Windswept Hills region she had always known. She looked at him dubiously. He leaned down a bit to her ear level. She barely heard him over the wind's roaring howl.
"Perhaps you need to look again, closely."
'Well that's not very helpful' she scoffed mentally, but did as he suggested. Yep, same stoney hills, same green trees, and same…
Zoe almost missed it. The realization made a coiling coldness worm its way into her chest in confusion. It wasn't what she saw, it was what she didn't see.
The black smoke was gone. The constant sight of smoke rising from every poacher camp as they cooked the food they mercilessly traded pals for…it was all gone. Almost. A few specks to the northern perimeter flickered in the distance, where the syndicate combat forces were more consolidated against their border with the Free Pal Alliance. That didn't make the cold feeling any warmer. There were fewer than there should be. Where did they all go?
Zoe whipped her head around to the Castaway, scanning his face for answers. He was unreadable, but there was a knowing look there. He was responsible in some way, she was sure of it. Even without her, the Rayne Syndicate could function well enough by itself. It wouldn't collapse just like that.
"Why are you showing me this?" she demanded.
She tried not to be offended, but seeing almost her entire criminal empire, her family legacy, vanish into thin air was a little different from executing a few thugs and a camp or two. A lot of work just went up in flames, wasted. She didn't know how to feel about that. The Castaway didn't elaborate.
"You'll understand. Please be patient, for a little while longer."
His cryptic answer didn't settle the cold feeling, but she trusted his judgment. What else could she do?
He held out her pal ball again.
This trip was a lot less fun than she imagined it was going to be. Should have just said 'No' and stayed home.
Zoe took a deep, trembling breath, touching the sphere reluctantly and letting it absorb her form.
-x-X-x-
When he called her out again, she noted they were still pretty close to the Tower. The way down must have been a one-person ride. A large pond was in front of them, with a small creek leading into a deep ravine. There was a wooden raft nearby
The Castaway held a new clothing item in his hands she hadn't seen before. It was somewhat long and barely armored. Moreso than her fashionable outfit, but less than his metal-crafted or even leather armor. It looked like it covered a lot of skin, and it came with a hood. A cloak, she realized. She supposed some village girl sneakily exploring the woods at night might use something like this, so naturally Zoe would never be caught dead wearing that thing.
"Put this on."
Oh for the love of-!
She froze suddenly, her blood functionally stopping in her veins. She felt it, just then. The pressure of obedience, to heed his command for the first time as it clashed against her will. It was unmistakable. It was deceptively pleasing, like it was cooing at her to listen, listen and obey. To submit herself to her master and his wish. It felt wrong. Terribly wrong. Like a fatal whisper.
She hated it.
But a secret part of her loved it too, and that terrified her more than anything. Her lower stomach was in a flux. However, the alien feeling lasted for only a brief moment, fading instantly once he altered the request upon noticing her reaction.
"Please, if you would?"
Well, that was a little bit better. She let out a breath she didn't know she was holding as the Castaway swiftly brought a hand to her unsteady shoulders, concerned, his eyes glancing over her as if to check for injuries before darting up to her own magenta irises in a silent question.
Oh, he hadn't meant to do that, had he? How sweet.
She understood why he talked so scantly, of course. It was easy to make a mistake like that, casually, just by accident. A sentence spoken just the wrong way.
"I-I'm… I'm f-fine.."
'Like he was going to believe that!' Zoe mentally slapped herself.
"I'm fine!" she said more firmly.
He didn't look too sure, massaging her shoulders in a comforting manner before letting go uncertainly. She almost wished he hadn't.
The Castaway didn't apologize, nor did she ask for it. She didn't expect him to. It was part of their bond now, between the two of them. That he held her life both literally and figuratively in his toying hands. Like she was just a cute little doll, with a somewhat interesting personality and hopefully pleasing curves. With him on the other end of those strings though, she supposed there were worse things to practice being. Others could do far worse with her.
Remembering his concern for her just now and last night, Zoe held the hope that he might see her as a little more than that, if only a little bit. She still didn't know what made her feel like this, and promised herself to find out, when she could muster the courage. She couldn't keep procrastinating.
But Zoe remembered he was waiting for her and chastised herself. She put on the crummy thing, dutifully layered on the new clothing article over her current ones. It was surprisingly cozy. Shrewdly, Zoe recognized that the new outfit was meant to act as a disguise. Was he trying to hide her from someone? What did he need to show her that she couldn't be easily identified if spotted? She began to have a dark suspicion.
He held her wrist lightly as he guided her to the waiting raft, helping her get a stable seat before jumping on after. He pulled an oar out of it, smacking it experimentally against his hand before using it to shove them off the shore and into the deeper water. The forest was silent save for a few chirping pals and insects hidden in its green expanse, as well as the water being rowed. The ravine surrounded them on both sides, rising far above their heads.
Zoe had never been on a boat ride, and she found the experience calming. They journeyed in silence, for the most part, slowly but surely moving up the creek toward some hidden thing. But the silence was getting to her, along with the recent experience. She wanted him to talk to her, to say something.
"Have you ridden many boats before?" she asked, looking up at him. He seemed confident in his motions. The Castaway hummed affirmatively.
"Extensively. I'm no stranger to the water."
A sailor then, or from a coastal village? Or maybe just a hobbyist. It seemed obvious since any castaway would have had to use the ocean to get here.
She accepted this as truth and continued.
"Well, I'm not. I only know how to swim because they didn't want to jump in the water to save me from drowning," she admitted. They both knew what she was referring to by 'they'. The Castaway smiled ruefully but didn't show pity anymore, for which Zoe was thankful. She has had enough of that.
"It's not for everyone,"
He paused briefly before continuing.
"It requires a certain aptitude. Balance. And a strong resilience to vertigo."
"What's vertigo?" she asked genuinely. She didn't recognize that word. The Castaway inclined his head thoughtfully.
"A sort of dizziness. It causes disorientation. Problematic on a boat in open water. You wouldn't be able to swim like that."
"Like when I slipped the other day," She recalled, blushing lightly at the reminder.
"No. It lasts longer, makes the world feel like it is spinning. You were just light-headed."
He gave her a pointed look that clearly said 'That was your fault on that one.'
She didn't dignify that with a response. Zoe turned back forward instead, noticing the stone walls of the ravine were lowering, leveling out ahead of them. It was an alcove. A wooden dock appeared as well, clearly built to harbor small rafts like this one.
They drifted into the tiny port, the Castaway gliding them skillfully like he had done this a hundred times. He stepped off before turning and helping her up, making sure she didn't fall off the wobbly craft. He made sure her new cloak was secure, propping up her hood and tucking strands of her pink and black hair inside it.
She peeked past him as he did so, noting the guard tower overhead and the spiked wooden walls, no doubt to bar entry for any invaders. She was certain there was no settlement around here that had walls like that. A man in patchwork armor was heading down the stairs to the village, approaching the low-sunken waterfront upon noticing them. Completing the finishing touches on her, the Castaway turned to meet the man. They seemed to recognize each other. The other man, a guard she realized, spoke first.
"OH! Your back!" he seemed happy to see them, Zoe noted, "Did you come to check up on our progress?" he asked curiously.
Zoe pursed her lips as the Castaway shook his head.
"Not quite. I'm not here on business this time."
Business? Was that why he was gone for so long before? Zoe's ears perked up, trying to listen closely. The guard blinked a few times.
"Huh? Well, I suppose that's good to hear too. You are always welcome. We've been getting more travelers recently, so maybe you could provide some feedback about how things are from the outside perspective?" he intoned.
The Castaway nodded,
"I'll be sure to leave a proper review."
Zoe was confused but did not resist as she was pulled along. They were climbing the stairs when the guard finally investigated her presence.
"And who's this? Is she a friend of yours?" the guard questioned in a non-hostile but curious manner. Zoe fidgeted uncomfortably, trying to remember the last time she had a normal conversation. How should she introduce herself? The Castaway beat her to it.
"She's my companion, yes."
The answer was a vague one but it sent butterflies to her tummy, hearing him referring to her like that. The guard appeared satisfied with it.
"Well, any friend of yours is welcome here as well. Hope you enjoy your stay as well!" He bowed his head slightly in her direction. Zoe swallowed, trying to remember proper etiquette before putting on a smile.
"I'll try," she said, head tilting in return. Crap, was that right?
It must have been, or the guard chose to ignore any infractions because smiled before gaining pace, turning to the guard post and leaving them to their own devices as he resumed his vigil.
It was then that Zoe noticed their surroundings. She recognized this place now from the inside, having read reports of failed raids here. But it was way bigger and more defended than those reports indicated. And more populous. She barely managed to get out of the way of a passer-by when they entered the town proper, getting caught in the hustle and bustle of traffic. She felt the Castaway slip an arm around her waist, pulling her smaller body against his securely. Probably for the best, she didn't know how to navigate a crowd. He did though, apparently, as he weaved her through the lines of people in what had to be some kind of market square.
He flagged down a busy merchant selling a young boy what looked like a Robinquil doll. The merchant approached them, a smug aura about him. She felt like sticking her tongue out, to drop him a peg.
The Castaway nodded his chin at the merchant and knocked twice on the wooden stall, an unspoken gesture that indicated this wasn't the first time doing business. The merchant acknowledged him, rummaging around the metal box before pulling out two bottles of milk, in the same style of bottle Zoe had drank from previously. So that's where he got it. The merchant was about to speak but her captor was faster.
"Somewhat bold, to sell those dolls with my deeds attached to them."
The merchant had a strained grin, like he heard this before. Zoe didn't understand what he was talking about.
"It almost feels like infringement."
The merchant was already shaking his head, digging into his pockets and pulling out a satchel of coins. She noticed there were also some familiar-looking guys in black sweaters and pants with their hoods up scattered about, but wasn't able to get a good look. The Castaway continued with the merchant.
"Don't you think you should be more considerate?"
The merchant dropped the satchel in the Castaway's already outstretched hand, who took 2 coins out of it and dropped them on the stall.
"Of course. Here's a token of my consideration." the merchant said sarcastically, replacing the duo of coins into a pocket "What can I say? Stories sell. Everyone wants to be a hero."
Hero? Him? Zoe didn't think that title applied properly. The merchant seemed to notice her but didn't say anything. Instead, he simply passed a bottle to her, before leaving. She took this opportunity to gather some intelligence.
"Do you come here often?" she asked generically. Best to start broadly.
"Yes. Occasionally. More as of late."
So he was up to something here, was that why the guard seemed thankful? The merchant certainly didn't look happy to see him. She tried something else.
"How long are we going to be here for?" she inquired. This would be interesting.
"Not long, only overnight. We can head out again in the morning."
It would be quick, she realized, whatever this was. It was the afternoon by her estimates, so counting sleep that only left a short window of time. Zoe pursed her lips again. Her suspicion was still unconfirmed, but the lack of bodies strewn up made her tone down her initial idea. Maybe a death parade for her was a little overkill and barbaric.
"Why am I wearing this?" she finally asked, getting to the crux of her second biggest question at the moment. The Castaway didn't answer but gestured for her to look behind and to the right very carefully. She peered over her shoulder stealthily, eyes squinting to scan the area.
Oh… that's why.
The modern navy-blue body armor of the reliable PIDF officer stuck out in sharp contrast to the browns, yellows, and reds of the local population. He seemed vigilant, but antsy, jostling his assault rifle from side to side. A bad combination if she ever saw one. Most people, even the guards, probably wouldn't recognize her on sight, but the island's universal defense force? She wouldn't be surprised if she was on the 'top three most wanted' list and had her identity memorized. She hoped her bounty was high though, if it existed. Zoe pulled her hood down further, turning away. Damn…
She focused on her drink instead, trying to keep a lower profile than before. The Castaway hummed, seeming to agree with her assessment. His bottle was empty already, like hers had been the other day. Oh, not one to be outdone, huh?
Dummy.
It was a little hot out, and the outfit didn't help, so the cold liquid was refreshing. The Castaway seemed to be letting her adjust to the new environment first before proceeding. No need to keep him waiting, she supposed. She downed the drink in one go. It felt silly, for just milk. They both got up when she was finished, making their way further past what had to be the town center, she thinks.
The small, quaint settlement that used to be here was now decisively medium-sized, and very clearly undergoing development. There were construction materials scattered about in certain places, but what initially confused her were the workers. There were a whole lot of them, all wearing those same black hoodies and pants she saw earlier. Way more of them than the villagers and travelers it seemed, who were already plentiful.
She focused on the closest one, whose back was to her. They had their sleeves rolled up, hard at work.
They kind of looked like…
The worker turned sideways, enough that Zoe could see their face. A white and red mask adorned it. She gasped. That was a syndicate member. She looked beyond them at the veritable sea of similarly dressed workers.
They were ALL syndicate members!
She almost started to hyperventilate, barely containing herself as the possibilities raced through her mind. What were they doing here? How are there so many of them! Was it a raid? Is it a splinter faction that decided to go rogue?
How? Why!?
She jumped when the Castaway's arm squeezed her waist firmly, interrupting her thoughts. Zoe shot him a desperate look. He leaned down, his lips by her ear. She trembled as he spoke softly.
"Rehabilitation. They are working to earn forgiveness…and a new life."
Zoe looked in shock. She saw a massive Crusher, an enforcer type who usually wielded a minigun, hauling a piece of stone far too large to be carried by a normal person. He roared, tossing it into a small cutout in the ground, landing it smoothly. A foundation. Some of the villagers cheered, and he seemed pleased with himself.
The Castaway continued,
"Once they earn their keep, they will be accepted."
This is what he wanted to show her, what he could do? What he'd done?
Zoe didn't respond immediately, still taking it in. He nudged her, and they continued walking. One of the ex-poachers noticed them, raising their hand in greeting.
"Heyyy Boss," they droned lamely. Zoe got spooked, thinking they were talking to her initially, but was surprised when the Castaway waved back.
"Keep up the good work. Make us proud."
The previously criminal thug seemed inspired, working just a little harder. Him, called Boss? The pieces fell into place, forming a dark hollow in her chest. She knew what he did.
"You captured them, didn't you?" Zoe questioned, a neutral expression on her face. "They're here, working…because you made them." she accused. He had captured them as he had captured her. The Castaway glanced down, unreadable, and replied just as neutrally, cautiously.
"Yes. For their own good. Saving them. So that they might live instead of expiring wastefully, having never achieved anything meaningful."
'So I didn't have to kill every last one of them' he thought, leaving that part unspoken.
She searched his face deeply for a few seconds, before recoiling slightly in realization. Zoe squeezed her eyes shut then, shaking and burying herself against him as he placed his hand on her back. She didn't yell at him, call him a monster, or even exude the rightful anger she was entitled to.
Zoe didn't say anything. Didn't even try to run away. She understood the implications better than he thought she would. Impressive, but troubling. He wished she said something, it was difficult to guess what was going through her head.
He moved them out of the area, to a place more secluded. She looked up at him with big pink eyes, far more vulnerable and open than ever before.
"And Me?" she choked out quietly, voice hoarse from her tightening throat, "Are you saving me too?"
The Castaway was silent, considering. Could he have watched her Die by his hand, otherwise?
He remembered another time, another world, another Tower. Another Zoe. An onslaught. Relentless. Mountains of broken bodies beneath him, exterminated so absolutely their existence would fade from collective memory in short order.
Would she be among them? Nameless and unmourned, obliterated without a care in the world? A faceless stone upon the monument to the sins of short-sighted fools like him, just another victim of this impartially cruel island?
He answers honestly:
"Yes."
.
..
…
….
…..
Zoe doesn't respond immediately, taking in this information. Then, she opened her mouth to breathe one last question.
"Why?" she asked simply.
The Castaway didn't know what to say. The truth made him uncomfortable. He didn't like to think about it.
Because he felt bad?
Insufficient. Too little too late. Wouldn't matter.
That he was trying to be the good guy?
A lie. He did things his own way. Heroes don't capture humans in pal spheres.
That this whole thing was a delusional decision created by some dumbass, nobody castaway who selfishly stomped out anyone who got in his way and abused almost everyone who didn't? The one who needed control, who was only ever kind because he liked how it made him feel?
He couldn't. He was beyond forgiveness, nor did he want it. The dead couldn't forgive. There was nothing to redeem anyway. He wasn't remorseful. He realized how little he had begun treating the sanctity of life since he came to this lonesomely savage place.
If she knew the things he was capable of, the things he's done, she probably would have screamed. Definitely wouldn't want to be close with him in any capacity of her own volition.
The Castaway opened his mouth to speak, then closed it. He couldn't tell her about this. He feels he should be ashamed. But he's not.
He failed to respond.
Zoe took a deep breath, nodding solemnly. She held onto him even tighter.
-x-X-x-
"Ah, I coulda' swore I just saw you only a few days ago, haha"
They were closer to the main entrance of the settlement now. Zoe noted offhandedly that they must have entered through a less-used one originally. Probably easier that way anyhow. She felt a little numb still but wasn't really conflicted anymore. She understood his actions in a way, even through the inhumane methods he utilized.
There was an innkeeper who was talking to the Castaway, who smiled good-naturedly. It was getting dark out now.
"It seems your charm has sunk hooks into me, keeps drawing me back."
The innkeeper laughed at that, rubbing the back of his head in an embarrassed manner. The Castaway seemed to act far more charismatic with others than her. Zoe was glad for it, she didn't want him talking to her like that ever. It felt disingenuous almost. She preferred his blunt succinctness.
The innkeeper simmered down his laughter, moving on to more practical conversation.
"So what can I do ya for, then? The usual?" he asked, before looking at her, eyes twinkling, "or perhaps…you need something bigger this time?"
Zoe felt her cheeks heat up at the suggestive tone, the Castaway giving her waist a light squeeze. He kept smiling pleasantly.
"I would be thankful for it."
He handed the innkeeper a relatively sizable amount of coins, more than he needed it seemed as the innkeeper's eyes gleaned, his ethics clashed with business logic. Logic won, and he took the bag without complaint. He gave the Castaway a rudimentary-looking copper key.
"Be sure to enjoy your stay. You as well miss…?" the innkeeper looked at her now, expectantly. She couldn't seem to find her voice yet. Castaway answered for her.
"Her name is Zoe."
She felt a pleasant shiver go up her spine. That was the first time he said her name out loud. She supposed it was a common enough name to not drag suspicion, but it was still risky. She could just imagine it: 'Hey, isn't that the leader of that syndicate or something? What a coincidence!'
"Miss Zoe," the innkeeper repeated politely, before gesturing to them to go around back. It seemed there was a subset of small buildings, newly built, attached but not connected to the main inn. No doubt to separate themselves from the more economic options available to travelers. It was private compared to the open-air rooms out front. The Castaway led her to the entrance of their temporary residence, unlocking the door and ushering her inside.
Zoe could tell the room had fresh furnishing as she removed her boots. It still smelled like cut wood and linseed oil. She removed her borrowed cloak, letting it drop to the floor unceremoniously. There were only two rooms, a main one and what could have been a bathroom or closet. Fitting for a settlement experiencing a recent explosion in growth. She wondered where the syndicate members slept. If he even let them. She let out a short breath at the thought. She felt for the small Grizzbolt plushie she always carried on her belt, trying to draw strength from it.
The Castaway was still watching her out of the corner of his eye, moving inside and setting down their supplies. Zoe managed to make her way to the bed to seat herself. There was only one, she noted, besides the futon in the corner. It felt comfortable though. He sat next to her gingerly. She could tell he was concerned. What did he have to be concerned about?
He touched her shoulder. An influx of emotion hit her, conflicting as it was earlier. She needed to know. Now!
Whether these feelings, everything he has done and said to her, were actually real. Or simply the pal sphere insidious machinations. She would uncover this truth. Then, well… Zoe didn't know but she would do, but she would learn to be content with it. Whatever the answer.
It was now or never.
"Tell me to kiss you!" she blurted, turning to him abruptly. He seemed taken aback by the request and the demand in her voice. Zoe replayed his words earlier in her head. She was deathly serious now, more than she had ever been in her life.
"Order me…to kiss you," she said in a more level tone. He scanned her expression for a moment, tense, but found only resolve. The Castaway seemed to contemplate her actions hard before his eyes flashed with some understanding. She felt herself blushing but didn't let it distract her. He relaxed his hold and let go of her shoulder, facing her fully as well.
She braced for the feeling, paying close attention to any tug against her will.
He spoke in a hushed tone, calmly.
"...Do as you wish…"
…..
She pounced on him.
Oh HELL, why did he say it like that!?
"!"
Zoe surged forward in an instant, smashing her plush lips against his with a force that startled them both, throwing her arms around him and sending them toppling onto the fine-quality bed below. She pushed her chest at him aggressively, squirming her legs against his to rub herself against him.
Shit SHIT SHIT! It was too much! She felt the way his lips moved against hers on reflex, her own feeling for all the world like they were on fire. Her lower stomach practically screamed in arousal. Everything felt hot. Get a hold of yourself!
He grabbed her hips for stability and she let out a throaty groan, a whining need lacing the wanton sound. She didn't even know she could make those noises. STOP!
But she couldn't stop. She wanted this. Zoe, herself, wanted this. Wished for it. She knew for certain then. That these mushy feelings and desires were hers and hers alone. There was no tug. The sphere didn't make her do this. It was her, it was all her.
The realization made her grind her hips against him, desperate. She kissed him more frantically.
FUCK!
It was humiliating, what she had become. It was so sloppy. Zoe felt like some kind of hellbent Lovander. She was better than that!
The Castaway finally started to regain his composure, managing to get out her saving grace.
"Calm Down Zoe!"
She felt the command cascade down her graciously, tempering the burning desire just a little bit to manageable levels. She broke off their embrace with a strained gasp, panting harshly, forgetting how to breathe. He stared at her with a shocked look on his face, caught completely off guard by her ferocity. It was almost funny. Her entire face burned in embarrassment, even her ears turned pink.
"Ehm, I-We.. that's…!" Zoe tried to articulate but her thoughts scrambled. Her lips still tingled pleasingly and her composure was a complete mess. Her jacket was sliding off a shoulder, her hair was splayed all over her face, and her rough mannerism displaced her skirt entirely. Her shirt had been pulled down her shoulder partway and exposing the strap of her bra. Zoe's lipstick was smeared across his lips, incriminating her.
It was mortifying.
She jumped when she felt the Castaway's hands grasp hers as he looked at her with a mystified expression. A look of surprise was clearly evident on his face. He then asked a question that changed everything.
"Is that really how you feel?"
"Yes!" she breathed, louder than she meant. Not that it was really a mystery at this point. He seemed to view her differently then, that same fascination, desire, and hunger in his eyes joined by a new impression. It made her insides clench longingly. She liked it, the way he looked at her. The hands on her hips traced the top of her shorts, sending additional jolts of desire to her core. She couldn't take it.
The Castaway was silent for a moment, the only sound in the room was her racing heartbeat. Then he whispered gently.
"Do you want to continue?"
She answered him by meeting his lips with hers once more, pinning him on the bed. Zoe saw no reason to resist how her feelings worked, knowing they were real. She had never felt like this before so she didn't know for certain of their complexity. But she knew she wanted this, with him, and it wasn't a lie. Zoe gripped his clothes between her fingers in desire.
That was what the Castaway needed to hear it seemed, because this time he kissed her back. It was much better than she imagined a kiss could be like. His hands began to slide slowly up her torso, tracing the soft contours of her flat stomach and outlining the subtle ridges of muscle there, before stopping at her cropped shirt. Zoe disengaged the kiss reluctantly, lifting up her arms to aid him in removing the offending article of clothing.
Her bra went too, it wasn't needed any longer.
Zoe resisted the urge to cover herself as the Castaway took in the new sight of her pale young breasts, rising and falling in the tempo of her breathing. Did he think she was small? Did he like what he saw? The thoughts nagged at her until his hands grasped them, the smooth flesh yielding to his touch. Zoe groaned encouragingly. He seemed to like that, because he squeezed them gently, messaging her pert mounds with a delicate but deliberate touch. She groaned again lowly, gripping his arms for stability as she desperately hoped nobody could hear them from the outside.
A finger glided over her nipple and her back arched, a deep gasp escaping her at the new touch. The Castaway was precise, applying only as much pressure as she could handle as he worked the small nub in circles. Zoe bit her lip to keep from crying out, but he didn't let her stay quiet for long. A second touch appeared on the opposite mound.
"Hahh!" She squeaked. That seemed to please him, as he rewarded her with the same feeling over and over again. She rolled her head back slightly to push her chest out more, enjoying the feeling of his sensual caresses. Her staggered pants filled the room as he worked her, although he seemed to slow down upon noticing her necklace again. She felt his genuine curiosity and managed to speak with actual words in response.
"It was a gift. From my Father," Zoe huffed out as one of his hands left her breasts to inspect the teal pendant at the end, "It was all he left for me…"
The Castaway's sharp eyes scanned the object.
"It looks beautiful on you"
A swarm of fuzzy feelings assailed her, turning her already flushed expression to a more delightful pink. Her cheeks burned even more.
"Thank you…" she said honestly, appreciating his comment. Then he was leaning up and his mouth was on hers. "Mmm!" she moaned into him as his hand went behind her, tracing the curved indent of her spine all the way down to the small of her back. It sent ripples of pleasure spiraling around her body. The Castaway stopped kissing her lips in favor of working his way down her jaw and neck, and she tilted her head to the side to give him a better angle. His teeth nipped at her silky skin as he worked, leaving small marks on the previously unmarred expanse. Zoe shuddered out gasp after gasp, her vocalizations seemingly fueling his actions.
He nibbled his way past her collarbone, finally landing his lips at the top of her breast in a delicate kiss. Zoe held her breath in anticipation, sucking in air as his lips pressed down on it. The Castaway continued seductively, slightly sinking his teeth into the soft flesh there, grazing her bosom slowly. It forced the breath from her mouth in a low rush. He moved down a little more.
Zoe's hands flew to grab his hair as his tongue darted out, flicking her nipple with a feather-light touch. A louder, more distinctly feminine moan escaped her. He flicked again to similar results. The Castaway began to do the same to her other breast, alternating between them. She pulled on his hair to bring him closer, to encourage him to feast on her like he was doing. 'How depraved!' she thought. While his mouth was busy with her top half, one of his hands snaked its way down her hip to her spandex shorts, sliding underneath the front.
She sensed his actions through the pleasure, tightening her hold as his fingers slipped under the waistband of her panties as it went where no-one else had touched her. Zoe felt a jolt as his hand began to massage her folds once again, just as gently as he had last time. She arched her back even more, trying to draw more of him into her as his finger glided back and forth along her privates. The Castaway noticed her eagerness and obliged tentatively, his finger slipping into her vagina wetly. It was soon joined partway by a second, carefully. Her body flexed as he penetrated her with his digits, the walls clamping on him on instinct. She barely managed not to scream from the sensation, mitigating it to a drawn-out moan. Zoe could handle it, this time. He gave her a moment to adjust, letting her quivering insides get comfortable with the foreign presence.
He moved in circular motions with his fingers running along the moist edges of her pink flower, the lips peeling back wetly like petals. His mouth was still on her breasts, and the hand on her back rubbed soothingly before moving south past the swell of her hips and groping the curve of her ass. Zoe has never felt so appreciated in her life, with Castaway worshiping every part of her body like this.
But deep down she was afraid to embrace it.
His thumb flicked out to tap that small bundle of nerves down there, a lightning bolt of intense pleasure making her jump. He pressed a little more firmly on her clit, sustaining contact and rubbing the nub around gently.
"Ah! AHHH-!" She slammed a hand to her mouth to keep those lewd noises from escaping her lips as the Castaway increased his intensity, intent on making her climax with the utmost appreciation. Her body was quaking, trying to contain all the pleasure her nerves were receiving. Zoe had never felt this exposed before, this weak, even compared to last time. Her feelings were on full display. It was frightening. All the long-held beliefs she's adhered to all these years, the lessons she learned, told her to resist.
Zoe remembered how terrifying the Castaway could be. How he mercilessly cut down Grizzbolt and her, barely sparing them both. She didn't forget who the person in front of her was, what he was capable of. She knew more now, of course, about his nature. That spear was never pointed at her to kill. But she was struggling to reconcile if what she was feeling was even allowed, if it was some crime against herself and her dignity to feel this way about the one who enslaved her.
The Castaway noted her confliction but didn't let up. Instead working harder, using more technique and effort.
She was dry-humping his hand in desperation, needing release from all the mounting pressure in her core. It kept building and building, reaching its peak. She was moaning incoherently, trying to muffle herself. The Castaway watched as she approached release while doing her best to delay it, her upper chest flushed in arousal. He wanted to hear it as it happened, unfiltered and unrestrained. But she was holding it back for some reason.
Out of shame? Zoe shouldn't feel ashamed. Nothing was embarrassing about this. It was all very natural, intrinsic to their species. He reached up and removed her hand from her covered mouth, her pink eyes darting to him in a begging manner as he lifted his lips from her breasts with a slick pop. He exercised his authority over her, just a little bit. To give her the push she needed.
"You don't have to fight it. The feeling is completely normal, a natural process."
Zoe gasped, arching her back even more.
"It's not a sin to enjoy this. You have every right to. It's not wrong to feel wanted, desired."
Then murmuring softly, he gave a simple command.
"Let it go."
Any remaining hesitation or anxiety left her, as the subtle order entered her mind. Loosely worded and generic. Free for her to interpret however she wished. She knew what it meant, what he wanted from her. Zoe dropped the reservations she had been holding onto, giving in to the pleasure fully and letting the fears plaguing her fade into the background. Not gone, but tamed.
His finger caressed a particularly sensitive spot inside her near the front, brushing against it tenderly.
Zoe's whole body clenched tightly for a moment. Then released.
Her core exploded in a bloom of unmeasurable intensity, transcending what she thought the limit was for any kind of feeling. Zoe couldn't hear anything but a roaring rush of blood. She might have been screaming, but she couldn't tell. She couldn't do much of anything.
Zoe felt like she may be dreaming.
Then it all came crashing down with a throbbing pulse, one after the other as her brain started to finally register the pleasure in readable amounts.
"OOhhhhh…!" She let out as her pussy continued to contract strongly around the fingers invading it. Her breasts were way more sensitive than they should be, it almost hurt. She slumped forward, unable to balance herself properly. He had never let go of her, as Zoe experienced this ephemeral euphoria. A venerable gift from God. Her ears were still ringing and her whole nervous system was out of whack. She could feel too much of everything right now.
This was far more intense than last time, now that all her restraint was gone. Zoe never imagined that such a thing could be real, that her body could react like that to someone's touch.
The contractions of her muscles began to slow, and the ringing began to tune down. Her breaths came out in heaves, her lungs struggling to get enough oxygen. She was covered in a thin layer of perspiration. Zoe turned her head upwards, looking into the Castaway's hungry eyes. He was taking in everything. She blushed shyly, struggling to keep his gaze. How can he look at her like that when she looks like this, sweaty and undignified? He smiled at her though, pleased with her performance, her smaller build tucked into his. He pulled his fingers out of her overstimulated vagina, soaked with the slick wetness of her arousal. She groaned at the loss. With his index finger and thumb, the Castaway inspected the viscous liquid that came from between her legs with a satisfied look. Evidence of her sexual excitement, her enjoyment of his treatment. Zoe flushed even harder in embarrassment.
"How did it feel?"
Staggering. Disorientating. Breathtaking. Scary. She never felt anything like it in her entire life.
"Unbelievable…" she panted instead, managing a faint smile. Her eyes were bright, despite the exhaustion she felt. He held her sweaty body to his dry one, not an ounce of stamina missing. His breathing was normal as he wiped his fingers clean. She scrunched her eyebrows at that, pursing her lips.
It was hardly fair, that she could experience all of this while he gets nothing. She voiced those thoughts.
"What about you?" she asked, breathless, "What..what can I do to… to make you feel like this?" she added hesitantly. It was clear she was out of her depth. The Castaway rubbed sweat off her brow tenderly, moving some hair out of her eyes as well. Her pigtails had come loose at some point, letting her long pink-and-black hair cascade down her back in waves. He looked at her appreciatively.
"This was never about me. I'm fine with just this."
The answer didn't sit well with her. She frowned.
"Well, what if I'm not?" she retorted, causing his brow to go up in a question, "What if I want to make you feel good? Isn't that what you said? Do as I wish?" she countered. She saw his mouth go tight in a pursed line.
Heh, got him there. Dummy. Shouldn't make such stupid word choices then, if he couldn't handle it. That girl from long ago was grown now, she wouldn't be conquered by mere doubts any longer.
He seemed to resign himself and leaned back towards the head of the bed.
"I did say that, didn't I…"
She shuffled in anticipation as he relaxed. Zoe wondered what he would do.
But the Castaway didn't move, glancing around vacantly. Then he watched her expectantly. It occurred to her that he was waiting for her to make the first move. Shit.
Zoe shifted uncertainty, eyes pleading for some form of guidance here. He remained silent. Alright, he obviously wasn't going to help her with this. She would have to figure it out herself. Where did she even start? She remembered how he had started with her shirt first before proceeding. Well, that too seemed like a good of place to start as any.
She pulled at his clothes and he removed his own top as well to share in her partial nakedness, understanding her intent. That charming lean physique once more on display.
She inhaled slowly, holding it for a moment, thinking, before exhaling it. She had an idea, sort of. She crawled on top of him, seating herself on his lap, and leaned forward. She kissed him, calmly and controlled. Zoe could appreciate the sensualness of it, this time, without the gnawing maw of her hungry lewd thoughts in the back of her mind. It was far more peaceful. She liked this experience as well.
He participated thankfully, returning the young woman's gesture in equal measure. He even nipped her lip playfully. Damnnit, how was he so good at this? She snuck a breath out of the side of her mouth to temper a moan. She moved her hands to his torso, feeling his muscles shift and react to her touch. It WAS fascinating, Zoe decided, to see the effects of her touch on another person. No wonder he likes pleasuring her. She felt one of the arms supporting their weight move to her face, cupping her cheek. She sighed, deepening their kiss and rubbing her naked breasts against his chest.
Now he groaned, evidently enjoying the feeling. She did too. But she knew she had to go farther. She leaned back, putting her weight on either side of him before reaching toward the clothing of his lower body. He lifted his hips to help her remove them. She didn't want to drag this part out, lest she lose her nerve, so she took all the pieces with it in one go. She steeled her resolve.
Zoe had never had sex before. How could she, when every day was a struggle? Constantly watching her back for a stronger adversary or an overambitious rival. She could never show weakness. Never show any cracks in her persona. She had to be indomitable. So sex? Out of the question. Not even a consideration. Zoe understood the concept last least, so she hoped she contained her surprise well enough. The idea that anything would be going inside her like that made her squirm. She sorely wished she was taught about this a little more thoroughly, by someone.
But she knew what a man and woman could do together. The Castaway noticed her unease.
"You're doing fine."
She nodded in acknowledgment, swallowing the lump in her throat as she reached for her own leftover clothes. The Castaway helped her slip out of them as they stuck to her skin, evidence of her previous exertions. She threw them to the side haphazardly. Now they were both fully unclothed, naked as the day they were born. His skin felt cool where it touched hers, Zoe's practically steaming from earlier. It was comforting, in a way, all the contrasts between them.
Putting her hands back on the Castaway's chest, Zoe straddled him. She blushed at the quiet squelching sound as her groin met his skin there. No hiding her body's willingness. His hand went to her slim thighs, helping support her weight. She could feel his hardness just below her, resting against the curve of her ass. It made her happy that he was excited as well. At least he was aroused at the idea of fucking her. Zoe shivered at the thought.
Ooo, that felt dirty to say.
Still, she hesitated.
"Does it hurt? The first time I mean…" Zoe asked gingerly, slowly grinding her folds against him in an attempt at stimulus, "I've never…I haven't been with anyone before…" If the Castaway was surprised or pleased he didn't show it, merely brushing his thumb against her milky thigh soothingly. "It's… I don't…I'm nervous…"
Zoe felt perverse even asking that. It felt obscene. He shook his head negatively.
"It shouldn't, for the most part."
The Castaway considered her question a bit more.
"There might be a little blood and some discomfort, but if it really hurts then it means we are doing it wrong."
He glanced at the generous amount of slippery liquid her vagina had produced in anticipation of their communion, and their previous foray. All because of him. He smiled smugly.
"I don't think that will be the case here."
She looked down and blushed, understanding his meaning. God, her body was slut, dripping like that. Shameful! He touched her cheek, returning her attention to him.
"It helps to take it slow. If it feels uncomfortable, you're going too fast. Stay relaxed. There's no need to rush. Trust your instincts"
Well Zoe's instincts were telling her the opposite of that, hurry hurry hurry, but she was gracious for the advice all the same. A thought occurred in her mind, unbidden, of a flipped situation. She thought of if their positions were swapped, if she were beneath him as he mounted her. The mental image of his confidant form thrusting into her body as she writhed and moaned below him inspired Zoe, causing even more lubricant to be produced from her impatient sexual organ. There was an urgency now, past the unease. She raised her hips a bit, supported by him, and reached beneath her, grasping his hardness with a dainty hand. It felt hot between her fingers, hot and rigid.
She thought could fit both hands on it if she tried. Zoe felt a pang of anxiety, it was longer than the fingers he was using previously, and girthier. She didn't have a frame of reference but it still seemed sizable to her. She supposed most cocks would. But it wasn't the monstrous log some boisterous thugs claimed to have. It was imposing, but not threatening. She felt she could take it. Though how exactly something like that could fit in her she didn't know.
Anatomy was weird like that.
She was probably well below his weight, much like how she was below his total size despite only being less than a head shorter. Her hips were a bit wider than his though, so maybe that would help. Zoe wasn't particularly short for a woman and he never seemed huge to her before, but right now, without clothes to fill her out, it sure did make her feel small. The Castaway smiled at her encouragingly. She shook these thoughts away, putting all her focus on the task at hand.
Zoe aligned his manhood with her womanhood as he leaned forward, the end of his male parts meeting her female ones. She groaned at the new feeling, trying to relax her tensing muscles. His gentle caresses helped, that he was willing to wait for her as long as she needed. She appreciated the sentiment.
But he needn't have waited, her body had gladly prepared the way. Zoe lowered her hips down a bit, feeling the tip penetrate the inside of her glistening and needy pussy. It went in smoothly, wetly. Gosh, she really was a whore. Zoe heard the Castaway groan quietly, leaning up and kissing her hanging breast in front of him as the noise she made became louder than his. She slid down further.
"Auhh!" she let out in a sharp huff, a whimper. Her walls were clenching now, gripping the invading member in an aggressive vice. She was struggling to go further. The Castaway squeezed her thigh tenderly, using the hand not supporting her to push himself up further. He kisses her collarbone, nibbling softly. Zoe begins to pant at the sensations, excitement and pleasure mixing. She manages to lower herself a little more. She couldn't see her progress but she felt his length pushing deeper into her, further than his finger had gone. The foreign touch stimulating her vaginal walls to contract around it greedily, causing even more lubricant to be produced by her body in eagerness.
She was going to be so thirsty after this. More of his length managed to go deeper inside the wet opening, her walls sliding against his hardness in a velvety caress.
"Nhhhg!" She whined, trying to breathe through her short pants, "H-how am I doing? A-Alright?" she asked, magenta eyes tight in pleasure. The Castaway lifted his lips to speak
"Very good. You're almost there."
He thought for a moment, a sly grin appearing.
"You're doing amazing, Zoe. You feel incredible."
She practically glowed at the compliment, blushing profusely. Saying her name like that sent a sparking feeling steaming to her clenching core. She wiggled her hips, letting a little more sink into her depths. It was somewhat uncomfortable, like stretching your mouth too wide with your hands, but it was manageable. Her body adjusted quickly as he made his way further into her sex. Each new depth was a struggle though.
"Ahhh" Zoe cried out, hanging her head by the top of his. He had moved up to her jaw now, as she slid down his body. It was hard to move, her gripping tightness only relieved by the helpful application of her body's natural lubricant. She wanted desperately to slam herself down on him, to feel him fully inside her, but she was petrified by the thought of the pain. Her virginal status made this process arduous, she didn't know how to properly move, much less control the clenching muscles of her pussy which seemed to act on their own. It felt lewd, the way it stroked the hardness impaling her, inviting it further in. His hand moved up her thigh over to her lower stomach to massage the region, trying to relieve the tension.
"Easy, Zoe…"
The Castaway murmured, causing her to nod, taking deep breaths to try and relax her core. God, she loved it when he said her name. It made her feel like a person, rather than an object. She felt her tightness loosen just a bit, enough to keep moving. She managed to lower herself some more.
She mewled naughtily as he stretched her formally untouched privates with enduring conviction. A filthy, dirty sound. Scandalous!
Finally, Zoe felt their hips meet as her sex locked up again, squeezing him tightly inside her as he bottomed out. She let out the breath she was holding in thick bursts. Her forehead rested against his now, sweaty from the effort, and he again rubbed the small of her back soothingly. She cracked her eyes open, looking into his as they were joined at the hip. She had a man fully inside her for the first time. It hadn't even hurt that much, as he claimed her. He was flushed a bit now too. Zoe smiled in a sassy manner, proud of her achievement.
'Ha! Not so tough now, are ya!' she thought
The irony was not lost on Zoe that she was quite literally his sex slave at the moment, the thing she feared she would become when first captured. It was different now though. He wasn't forcing her to do this, this was her decision. She supposed her beliefs on it mattered more than any technicality someone might claim. Besides, this was about more than just sex to her.
"How does it feel?" she echoed his earlier statement, still grinning through her deep breaths, eyes bright with pride, "Pretty…pretty amazing…right?" Zoe wanted to hear him tell her it again.
He lifted her chin up and kissed her lips tenderly.
"It's wonderful. You're wonderful. Every part of you. Beautiful…"
'What a lame thing to say!' Zoe thought.
She moaned into his mouth at the praise and ground her hips against him, stimulating them both. Nobody had ever called her beautiful before. 'Hot' perhaps, leeringly. Mockingly. Maybe even 'sexy' as disturbing as that was. It was only ever skin deep. Or jeered at her by someone who didn't live long enough to realize their mistake. But nobody called her beautiful or wonderful the way he did. Zoe didn't know how he could see her like that. She didn't feel particularly attractive. Who would like an orphaned girl like her?
Why did he treat her so differently? Everything he has done, every gentle touch, every new experience…It made her heart swell in warm longing. Zoe couldn't make sense of feeling, but she never wanted it to end.
It felt like…
Like…
-x-X-x-
Wow! Love is Blossoming Within ｢Zoe Rayne｣!
-x-X-x-
She moaned louder as the Castaway deepened the kiss, a playful lash of his tongue against her lips, scattering her thoughts. She tried returning his action but wasn't sure what the proper technique was.
The Castaway didn't seem to mind her unorganized attempt, more satisfied with her engagement than anything. He repeated the action for her a few times for her, slowly going over the movements. Paying close attention, she responded again more confidently this time. Zoe's silken tongue tickled his lips, before experimentally tapping his own with hers. She felt him grin against her mouth with approval. He returned the gesture playfully, rewarding her for taking the initiative.
The familiar routine settled some of her lingering nerves. He would show her how to do something until she got it right, leaving enough room for her to test her skills, to alter the steps to her own abilities. It made Zoe happy, that despite her initial outburst he still treated her with the same respect he'd always shown her. That this didn't change their dynamic as much as she feared it might and that he didn't think any less of her in spite of the revelations today. Some tension began leaving her muscles, her body acclimating to presence settled comfortably in the core of her being. She felt ready to continue, the only question was how to proceed. She glanced down at where he penetrated her.
"W-What should I do?" Zoe huffed, breath coming just a little easier as she grew more comfortable, "Can I just-!" she lifted her hips slightly, feeling the length slide against her walls again and gasping as she went back down on instinct. The Castaway shuffled his position, straightening out his torso some and leaning back to get them a better angle. She adjusted her grip on his shoulders for better balance as he placed both hands on her slender waist.
"Do what you feel is right. It helps to start slow, then increase speed as you get more comfortable."
Zoe nodded in acknowledgment, trying again to raise her hips again. He held her tightly, holding the majority of her weight so she could focus on moving. She went up maybe a quarter of the way, enough to feel the emptiness left behind by his retreat, then gently went back down.
She savored the feeling this time, her pussy much more willing to accommodate his passage back into her depths in the next attempt. Their hips met for the second time today. And then a third time.
Then a fourth.
Again. Again. And again.
Zoe didn't worry about increasing her speed too much, focusing instead on working her body up and down more and more of his hardness as she got increased distance each time. Eventually, she made it so only the tip was inside her. The aching hollow left behind was somehow worse than the first time going in. She filled it gladly, dropping her hips down and letting his erection spear her sex. He groaned at that, still far more controlled than her lustful emissions but noticeably louder than before. Zoe smiled though, proud of her growing achievements regardless. The Castaway started laughing at her expression. She laughed too.
A laugh that turned into a moan easily twice as loud as his as he began to move his hips in tandem with hers, effectively doubling the feelings and speed. Her fingers dug into his shoulder muscles, feeling them coil tightly as he began to utilize small thrusts into her bouncing hips.
They began fucking in earnest now, both of them cooperating to bring feelings of pleasure and satisfaction to each other. Zoe's moans and pants filled the air again, occasionally supplemented by the Castaway's own low groans. It made her feel less self-conscious when he joined in. The bed was sturdy, but it began to creak and rock as the intensity of their mating increased, their tempo far exceeding what they initially began with. Her breasts had started bouncing from the force, gaining attention as his hand latched onto one, squeezing it more roughly than before. Zoe puffed her chest out in enthusiasm.
They were both flush, blood circulating rapidly through their systems as they took pleasure in each other's bodies. Still sensitive from the previous experience, the feeling of his manhood sliding in and out of her rapidly was pushing the limits of what she could handle, but she didn't want it to stop. Zoe could tell he was enjoying this as well and didn't want to disappoint him. It was her idea, he'd never let her forget it if she gave up now. He would definitely poke fun at her.
But the explosive feeling swelling inside her was fast approaching. She felt him squeeze her a little tighter and hoped that was a good sign. She had to endure a little longer, to make him feel as good as she did. Zoe didn't think she'd have the strength to keep going once that happened again. His movements were becoming more tense, more forceful. She tried to edge him on because she couldn't take much more.
His grip on her was a little painful now, most certainly going to leave a mark where his fingers dug in. The pain amplified her pleasure, mixing with it in a brutal concoction. His breathing became staggered, and she felt him begin to throb inside her. The feeling was too much, and she lost her focus.
Zoe moaned loudly, hugging the Castaway, her pussy clamping down hard on his shaft in surges as she orgasmed for the second time tonight. Thankfully, that seemed to do it for him as well. The throbbing inside her increased in intensity as he held her tighter, both hands now on her thin waist as his motions staggered. Through the hazing pleasure, she managed to smash her hips down, plunging him as far into her vagina as possible, caressing his full length one last time. The Castaway gasped a breath of air, inflating her pride even more as her master's cock began to twitch and pulse strongly inside her as a result of the silken embrace given by her virgin pussy.
Immense pride emanated from her as Zoe heard him actually moan a bit before she too cried out, feeling his semen begin to pump into the deepest depths of her sex.
It was hot, very hot. It painted her pink walls white and sent sparks shooting up her spine as her pussy milked him needily, ensuring he didn't hold anything back and gave her all he could manage. Her vaginal muscles, flexing from her own release and rubbing along his length in joyful exaltation, only added extra layers to his pleasure with their encouraging contractions. Additional white spurts were dragged from him by her desperate womanhood. It knew how important this was and refused to let any of his valuable treasure go to waste. Zoe's young but mature body made sure everything was deposited safely within her reproductive tract with reverent fervor, as if this may be its only chance. More of his own reproductive fluids squirted into her quivering pussy in compliance with its demand.
His sperm-laden cum splashed against her cervix in gushes from her ministrations. The greedy little muscle, exactly as her youthful body was designed to do, opened up its small entrance to grant passage and finally allow her captor's seed to invade her fertile, untouched womb. To give even a modicum of chance for his DNA to merge with hers in a beautiful combination, just as nature intended.
Of course, she wouldn't know this, so wrapped up in their combined pleasure and the feeling of his essence finally inside her, just like she wanted. The Castaway squeezed her waist again a little lower, pressing knowingly on the spots where her ovaries would be located underneath the skin, where all the egg cells she would ever have in her life resided, each ovum waiting patiently for the monthly opportunity to conceive and start a new lineage. He wasn't sure where she was in her cycle. She moaned even louder, more lewd, more debauched. Vulgar, unrefined sounds. Zoe was red in embarrassment at the mortifyingly slutty noises she was making.
The Castaway never judged her, no matter how shameful or depraved her vocalizations were. Each one was intriguing in its own way to him. The epitome of someone's pleasure was truly a sight to behold.
Even through his own sexual release, something he hadn't experienced in a long time, the Castaway was aware of the possibilities.
'Unlike her,' he suspected. She probably received the bare minimum, if any, teachings on this subject. Who would bother? Most people on the island barely knew the process, much less the science behind it.
But he wasn't concerned, not yet. There were options available to them on how to proceed from here, if the need arose. He would need to talk with Zoe about it sometime afterward when she had a clear mind and time to recover. It was important for her to understand the nature of consequence. He would trust her decisions a bit more, if she could comprehend that much. He knew she would though.
It's more than others have gotten from him in the past.
But that was for the future him to deal with. For right now though, her wish held precedence. He made sure he squeezed every ounce of pleasure from her body as well until she collapsed from exhaustion.
Her quaking and heaving frame was all the indication he needed that he played his part well.
-x-X-x-
'It was a turning point, tonight…' Zoe thought.
Things would never be the same between them. She knew this and was glad for it. That she could exist in this brand new life of hers with him. Better than the hollow future of that empty tower.
"Have you done this before, with anyone else?" Zoe asked genuinely.
She lay down next to the Castaway, resting half her naked body on his. His arm was tucked underneath them, curling around her bare waist. He had cleaned her fatigued body up for her, removing all the excess fluids that had accumulated during their little session and refusing to make her feel anything less than dignified. It made the post-coital cuddling better, and more comfortable. Her sex still tingled from the experience, nerves firing off absently at the vestigial pleasure he induced on her poor limb body. Her breasts felt swollen, covered in the red marks of his exploration.
"Yes, but…it was never…it wasn't like this. What we did…this is better…Much better. Healthier."
He murmured as he kissed her forehead appreciatively, giving her curvy ass a playful squeeze. Zoe glared at him halfheartedly, magenta eyes fiercely bright. She never lost her spark. He laughed into her hair, which was a total mess. The warm afterglow from their act left a satisfying buzz in her nerves, and his caring arms made her feel desired and safe. In all her life she never felt this good. Her glare turned into a smile as she rested her head against his chest, surprisingly comfortable despite the firm muscle she felt just below his skin.
Zoe wasn't sure what he meant by that statement, but she was glad he thought so highly of her performance. Still, something about his tone bothered her. She posed a question.
"Do you think people can change?" she asked aloofly, listening to the sound of his heartbeat. The Castaway brushed his thumb along the curve of her hip, savoring the feel of her soft and supple flesh.
"Sometimes. Maybe some more than others. But I think it's possible, for most. Not all though."
His admission stirred something in her, and Zoe asked a more specific question.
"Do you think we can change?" she queried, glancing up at him, "Despite who we are, or what we've done?"
The Castaway didn't answer her at first, but she felt him inhale deeply before letting it out in a drawn-out exhale.
"You've already changed…"
"That's not what I meant," she snapped lightly, causing him to shift in discomfort. She wasn't letting this go, "I asked if WE could change. Together."
The Castaway's hesitation answered it for Zoe before he did.
"...that might be beyond my capabilities."
She huffed in annoyance, obviously disagreeing with his assessment. She glared at him harder, scoffing.
"You're a bigger loser than I thought you were if you give up that easily," Zoe retorted, "How did you manage to beat me so easily if you're such a wuss? It was probably by sheer luck, Dummy that you are," she could tell her words struck his pride since his grip on her tightened momentarily before relaxing again. So he did care what she thought of him. That was good to see.
'Maybe now he'll put some effort into it, if only out of spite' she thought, smiling victoriously. Zoe rested again as he scowled at her, brows tight in irritation.
She let her mind drift as she relaxed her weary body. She never did this much, just relaxing. It made her mind wander, about all sorts of things she never thought about much before. It made her feel melancholic.
She thought about her syndicate, and what had become of them.
She thought about her future, and what she wanted from it.
She thought about whether the Castaway could ever love her as much as Zoe thought she loved him, or if she would only ever be the silly little woman he felt merciful enough to spare. Little more than a literal pet project.
She thought of his past, and what he seemed so reluctant to share with her. It hurt that he didn't seem to trust her.
Zoe thought about her parents' pasts, and how they might have met. Did they love each other? What did they do together? Were they friends or just chance strangers?
Why did they decide to have her, if they were just going to disappear? Did they intend to do that from the start, or was it simply fate tearing them away? Where did each of them go?
Why didn't they take her with them?
She hadn't realized her eyes were wet until she blinked a tear out of the corner of her eye. Zoe touched her own face, surprised. When did that start? Her chest felt tight for some reason. He seemed to notice and held her a little closer, concerned, but didn't press her about it. She was thankful for that, reaching up and engaging her lover in a tender kiss, sweet and soft and gentle and loving. How she thought a real kiss should be.
Zoe supposed they both had some darkness in their hearts to work through. They were both kind of pathetic in that way.
The effort of the day was taking its toll, and when she finally fell asleep, she dreamt about the sea. The sea, and the Castaway by her side.
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I would like to thank you, the reader, for coming this far. Truly. Some will never read this. But you did. And I applaud you.
And if you were just here for the smut, that's great too. I hope you enjoyed this unique perspective on Palworld promiscuity.
Most actual lore information comes from journal entries from the game. It may help clarify things here but is not required to read them.
We will be going into Lily's arc next, for those interested.
Let's hope Zoe isn't the jealous type.
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