Coiling Diplomacy
"Log entry one hundred and sixty-four—April seventeenth, twenty-four eighty-eight, as of the Sol calendar." I took in a deep breath as I took a long look out the glass window of the transport I was riding on. The dazzling city lights passed by me in beautiful rays of color as the shuttle dashed through the capital city. The dense jungle that hung over all the expanding civilization around gave a mystical twist to the view, like something I would have read of in a book as a child, and the massive stone structures and pyramids stood proudly above all the rest, a stark contrast to the far more advanced and sophisticated architecture of metal and glass. Between the large structures, countless buildings, streets, installations, and parks covered the landscape, all of them with their own colorful glows as their lights illuminated the dark nature that wrapped around every bit of land it could.
I looked away from the glass, sighing as the small screen of the device on my lap looked back at me. A few scattered files were opened, but one stood on the top layer above all the rest. I looked at my orders in silence as I shook my head, and I continued my report. "I've spent over two years here on Nathorix, home world of the Satharin. The sights of Techal still seem to catch me in awe, the alien city sights never growing old despite the time I've spent here." A small smile crept onto my lips as I recalled some of the experiences I've had the opportunity to experience here as I spoke. Slowly, the smile faded as the document before me tore at my thoughts.
"The people, even since we first encountered one another, have always proven to be great allies for us. Our joint research programs have put us at a point thought impossible for years, and finally we have been able to touch the heavens… and yet, we have both been dragged into a situation far beyond what we could imagine." My eyes slowly began to read through the reports in a disturbing silence. Headlines of the conflict filled my retinas, the rising death tolls, and the expanse of the front line. It sent a shiver down my spine, the thought of a conflict being able to grow to a galactic scale. "The war between the Nakari and the Tyranni has been growing at an alarming rate. The two empires are some of the strongest in the known galaxy, and as far as we can tell, it won't be long before it could reach our very own borders."
I felt the shuttle rumble slightly as it began to slow down; it wouldn't be long until it landed. "I've been sent to have an audience with Empress Akana, the ruler of the Kingdom of Techal, and hopefully, I can convince her to support humanity in forming a pact between our two civilizations." I glanced out the window, and as I did, the sight of the ancient palace was standing tall before me. The small transport shuttle was hovering in the air as the repulsor jets adjusted, and slowly, it touched down. The landing was soft, almost unnoticeable, and I quickly stood up and took in a deep breath, quickly wiping myself down and triple checking that my uniform was up to par.
"We're here, sir." Called out the intercom of the ship, and I walked up to the door as I held my tablet in my shaking hands. I have had countless meetings with the Empress, and yet here I am, quivering as if I am meeting her for the first time all over again. "I'm ready." I finally said, and suddenly, right as I gave the word, a gust of pressurized air blasted from the seals of the vessel. I felt my heart pound as, slowly, the door began to open, and the outer ramp, which was flush with the hull of the shuttle, began to open slowly. Light from the outside began to pour in as the ramp descended, and slowly I could see the entourage waiting for me. Two heavily armored Satharian guards stood tall, their staffs planted firmly in the ground, and their heads bowed in respect as they saw me walk down and onto the landing pad.
The Satharians were always fascinating to me, as well as humanity as a whole. They shared many similar traits to creatures native to earth, like snakes, and many on first contact would recall ancient legends of creatures like the naga in comparison. While above the waist their bodies were similar to that of humans, nearly every other feature was like a serpent. Their heads, their long winding bodies, even the hood which could pop out from their necks which only some seemed to have. It was strange for a lot of people, suddenly being face to face with other intelligent life that seemed so similar to creatures that we were taught to fear for ages, but eventually, that fact seemed to fade slowly as we learned to work together… for most.
The guards themselves stood a good head or two above my own, their imposing height a feature that I still have trouble getting used to. From head to tail their metallic suits protected their entire body, hiding their scales from the outside world. The suits were built into layers, one tight against their body and muscles, made of a gel and silicon layer to absorb any impacts from blunt objects and to dispense thermal attacks. Covering the bodysuit was the main layer of armor. A series of small metallic scales, reminicate of that which covered their natural bodies. It was built of an exceptional alloy able to shrug off small arms with ease, and thanks to the underlayer, most of the force from impacts would do little to the wearer. Finally, an invisible energy shield protected them from energy and plasma-based attacks, a full three layers of protection, making these warriors a fearsome foe for anyone.
The striking blue and black colors of their armor, trimmed with gold, made it clear of their status. The royal guard were an exceptional few, each hand-picked by those that came before them. As they leaned up from their bow, I could see their metal helmets and masks which concealed their faces. Red slits served as goggles, glowing in a dim light and no doubt feeding them any information that was needed in the moment. I bowed down in return, and as I stood back up straight the two turned and began to move down the long pathway off of the landing platform. I followed closely behind, and slowly together I was escorted into the temple as I heard my shuttle from behind begin to simmer down, the engines calming as the craft was set to a deep slumber until it would be needed once more.
I've been through this routine countless times now, and yet, I still caught myself looking up and around at the awe inspiring structure of the temple. The ancient structure has been around for what is said to be thousands of years, and is the single largest creation on this entire world. It was a massive pyramid made of stone, and over the years has been expanded and updated while still retaining as much of the original material as possible. Ancient carvings and statues lined the walls and halls, and large decorated banners and tapestry displaying the Satharian history hung proudly from high above.
We continued down the long hall towards the inner reaches of the temple, and after nearly ten minutes of being safely escorted through empty halls, we finally reached the luxurious inner sanctum. Just as we reached the large gate to the threshold, the guards stopped, and they both turned around. They planted their staffs firmly into the stone, a loud echo sounding out through the room, and I took a deep breath as a silence was all that was heard following the final dying breath of the echoing clang. Before me, and the last obstacle before the throne room, was a massive gate. On it were the depictions of past dynasties, wars, and leaders, all etched in glorious gold on white stone. My eyes looked up to it in a strange appreciation of the fine craftsmanship, and it was then that it slowly began to slide open.
Bright golden light poured in from the heavy gate as it split open, and the sound of grinding stone was heard as I was practically blinded. Slowly, my eyes adjusted to the brighter interior of the heart of the temple, and I saw the glory of the throne. A fine black carpet lined the floor in a path down the long and spacious interior. Artificial light poured in from overhead, embedded into the ceiling, and it reflected off the blue, white, and golden banners and flags that hung overhead. I could see what must have been a dozen more of the Guard lined down the aisle, all standing tall as they tilted their spearheads inwards, creating a form of an arch. Already down most of the hall, however, was the one they honored, the one they stood guard for day and night, the one they pledged their very lives for.
Akana, Empress of the Satharian, the sole ruler of The Kingdom of Techal. She was unmistakable, and even one who had never known of another species would be able to tell that she was royalty. Her scales were white along her sides and back, yet heavily contrasted by a striking black belly. The pattern followed the length of her body from neck down, but her head and face were white with a black hood. Her scales seemed to pop more, too, their shapes almost seeming like flower petals, and thanks to her unique and popping pattern of colors, her feminine form was accented quite nicely.
To further display her regal nature, golden implants lined her body, put in a few years ago following an intensive surgery. Some replaced the scales of her belly and continued up her body in a V-like pattern, all the way to her neck. Others were around her hood, giving a mystical pop thanks to the diamond shapes that extended from the scaly appendage. However, most striking of all was the inner hood of the Empress and her striking eyes, the two horns that sat inline atop her head shared the same enchanting color. They were all an awe-inspiring blue, glimmering against the light in a gorgeous shimmer. A beautiful pink provided a shocking contrast, one that pulled in its viewers in stunning captivity. Even the iris of her eyes shared this wonderful view, and those very same eyes locked with mine as she gave me her stunning, warm smile.
Fine silks formed the base of her clothing. They hung around her waist, forming a skirt that clung to her feminine form. More of the material was around her ample chest, the fabric squeezing against her hefty breasts, and her midriff exposed to the open air. The fabrics consisted of the same royal colors that hung above and around, even carefully sewn with the same golden designs. Furthermore, beautiful jewelry hung from her neck, a singular small yet masterfully crafted piece of a jet black crystal shaped like an arrow head, trimmed in gold and attached to the black chain, which sat nicely just above her bosom.
I immediately bowed as deep as I could, and she waved a hand dismissively as she gave a light chuckle. "Oh please, Francis, enough with the pleasantries. I told you long ago we were far past such things." Her voice was light and angelic, buttery smooth, and every word was enunciated perfectly. It was impressive, especially considering she did me the courtesy of speaking English, despite the fact I knew how to speak in her own tongue… although not nearly as well. As I stood up, she was now standing tall and proud right before me. Only a few feet of distance separated us, and I could clearly see the regal fabrics around her form.
A small smile crept to the corners of my lips as I heard her comment, and I nodded as I spoke. "Of course, your Grace." I said politely. She chuckled at my response as she shook her head. "Always minding your manners, aren't you…" She extended her hand out before me, and I carefully held her fingers, lowering myself as I placed a small kiss upon her knuckles, an act of submission that was customary to do before any meetings were held with the royalty of this civilization. She let out a small hum as she retracted her hand, and she slowly turned as she began to make her way down the hall and towards the throne.
"I must say I was quite surprised to hear that your people had already requested another meeting. If I recall, we met just a few days ago, did we not?" I nodded as I looked away for a moment, my mind already dreading to give her the news I had to bear. "We did, your Grace, but… well, my superiors insisted that it's an urgent matter…" She paused and turned slightly towards me, the choice of words stealing her attention, and I saw her eyes squint as she analyzed me. She stared in silence, but after a short moment more, continued her way down the aisle. It didn't take long for us to reach it, but we passed the large and long throne and instead went around, heading into a chamber on the right, which housed a spacious area with a large table in the center made for talks just like this.
I stayed silent as I came in behind her, and already her advisor, a few guards, and even one of the generals of her forces all stood at the table, standing tall and bowing as she came in. She rose a hand to dismiss them, and they all sat in their coils around the desk as she took her seat at the head of the table. I sat diagonal to her, sitting on my knees on the large cushions that served as chairs for them, and I took a deep breath as I pulled out my device and quickly began to type in a few prompts. "Before I begin, I would just like to express my gratitude on behalf of all of humanity for taking the time to meet with me on such short notice."
The Advisor wore similar garments as Empress Akana, however not as revealing. A fine poncho-like piece of clothing hung from his shoulders, covering most of his torso, and on his arms were silver rings that complemented his yellow scales, which were accented with a deep orange diamond pattern lining his body. The General wore a well-tailored suit, one that felt much more in line with the very one I wore at the moment. It was stitched in the light blue fabric of their banners and shared the mixed colors of their kingdom as well, and on his chest was a series of small medals and ribbons. On his shoulders were three golden diagonal lines per side, representing his rank. While the suit covered his torso and arms, his head and tail were still exposed, revealing a smokey gray color of his scales with a deep red underside and a rather imposing set of green eyes.
All eyes in the room were now on me, and I felt the cold stone of the table strike my skin as I tried my best to stay calm and collected. "I would like to get it out of the way before we begin. This meeting isn't one I had ever hoped to be in the middle of, much less be the one to start…" The eyes of the small group slightly opened at hearing these words, and Akana leaned in slightly in cautious curiosity. I continued on before they could begin to press me with questions.
"As you all well know, the war outside of our systems had been growing at an alarming rate. The Nakari and Tyranni have been ripping each other apart, spreading their conflict mindlessly, and have even been caught looting and raiding entire worlds…" The seriousness of the matter began to set in as a tense air filled the room, and I noticed the General shift slightly at the mention of the conflict. "At the rate the war is going, it won't be ending any time soon. It's already been nearly two years since it first began, and it has only grown in both scale and severity… which brings us all here now and to the purpose of this meeting." My eyes looked down to the device in my hands, the small screen just barely illuminating my features.
"The Sol Republic has sent me to you all today to offer a proposal. Due to the spreading conflict and the rising threat to both of our nations, I have come to you today in hopes of our two forces joining together to form the first military alliance for our civilizations." I paused as the main subject of this entire meeting was dropped, and I looked around the table as I watched the reactions of the group. The advisor was noticeably displeased, his eyes growing thin as he eyed me with what almost looked like disgust. The General seemed uneasy, untrusting, and he seemed to try to scan me for any signs of deceit as well. I think we both noticed ourselves inspecting one another as we looked away, and finally, I looked to Empress Akana herself.
She was staring at me, her smile now faded, and she sat in complete silence. I saw her advisor lean in to whisper something into her ear, and she waved them away once they were done. "Mr. Newmont…" The advisor said as he continued to stare me down. "What you're proposing is… well… you of all people should know of our thoughts on such matters." I nodded as I thought about the history I'd learned of the Satharian. Ever since their empire had reached an era of peace following a devastating war upon their planet, the standing royal family had instated a new strict code, one that pushed the demilitarization of their empire and pushed to focus on a more isolationist mindset.
The first years of contact with them were challenging, to say the least; however, due to the circumstances of first contact with alien life, it made them at least somewhat more open-minded. The talks took place over a series of many years; they were slow, and most went nowhere at all. However, after over a decade of attempted negotiations and careful diplomacy, we had managed to talk them into the first of our deals. We started with a cultural exchange, the establishments of embassies on both home worlds, and the sharing of one anothers history.
"I know your thoughts on this are all likely negative, but I implore you to not just toss this aside." I tried to reassure the Satharians as I went on to elaborate. "We have been watching the war closely… we've been using every connection we have in the galactic committee, sending out vessels to investigate and learn what we can… and from what we have seen, it looks that this conflict could soon reach the borders of our territory within the next few years if it continues at this rate." At the comment, I saw the General shift uncomfortably at the sound of such a situation befalling them, and even the eyes of Empress Akana seemed to dilate ever so slightly.
"We are different, in nearly every way, but despite that, in the past we have been able to push these differences aside and every time it has bettered both of our species. Together, we have gained an incredible advancement in our technological knowledge. We have been able to bring about some of the best advancements in the history of both our species in nearly every aspect… but if we stand by and do nothing, if we just watch as we are annihilated or enslaved one by one… it will all be for nothing." The Advisor shook his head in disagreement. "While it is no question that our treaties have paid off, what you are asking for… it's a new matter entirely! We have remained a neutral state for over two generations! We have lost no more lives to senseless conflict and have avoided taking more as well! It was written and scribed as clear as the night sky, we will no-"
Silence filled the room as he was cut off mid-sentence by a raised hand of Empress Akana, and he looked to her in shock. His brow furrowed as he sat back in submission, and slowly she lowered her hand as she gently placed it on her lap. "Enough. While I understand your concerns, Leodaline, Francis here… I apologize, Mr. Newmont here shouldn't be so quickly dismissed. He is right, is he not? Our combined minds, Human and Satharin, have done much for each other. If the threat they speak of is real, then I believe we should hear his proposal." The Advisor seemed infuriated at the thought, and he looked at me with a tinge of frustration as a small hiss escaped his list. "But your Grace! It has been one of our standing pillars for over two hundred years!"
"Silence your tongue!" Yelled the general, a controlled rage boiling in him at hearing someone disrespect the Empress with such an unprompted complaint. The Advisor shrunk as he was addressed, and the General looked to Empress Akana. His hood was open and flared, but as the Empress shook her head he slowly leaned back into his coils as he quickly calmed himself. He glared at the Advisor, the vibrant colored Satharian shrinking at the gaze, and both returned to silence. Empress Akana looked back to me and gave a polite nod. "I apologize, Mr. Newmont. Please don't hold it against Leodaline. Continue your offer for me."
I was a bit shaken myself from the outburst of the General as well, but I nodded in respect to the Empress. "It's okay, your Grace, I understand his feelings. We know that this won't be an easy decision for you to make; the thought of war is a dark and unpleasant one, but it is still something one must consider in order to stand ready." I glanced back down at my notes before continuing. "In our history, we have experienced countless conflicts, as you well know. However, in some of the later periods, sometimes, the presence of a strong force was all it took to avoid major conflict entirely. It is a terrifying and delicate balance, and the tension it can cause does persist… but if the worst comes to pass, it will still be there to support you in the darkest hours."
Akana nodded slowly as she listened, and I felt a tinge of relief as I felt like I was getting through to her. The General also seemed to ponder more on the thought; however, Leodaline continued to be completely dissatisfied with the thought. "While your kind has significantly lowered your military output and funding, humanity has followed our old practices and has continued to prepare and to advance. Terra itself, even at this very moment, is being consistently reinforced with defense platforms and shipyards in preparation for the coming conflict. Furthermore, we have expanded our production to nearby planets in our solar system as well, and if you are to accept this proposal, we would be willing to not only share some of our advancements with you, we will even send in our Third Fleet to help guard your borders while we send in crews to help expand your own military infrastructure."
The General seemed interested, the thought of the frowned upon positions in the military perhaps being seen in a more positive light no doubt flashing in his mind. I went to my device and quickly pulled up a digital contract. I grabbed a plug and put it into the tablet, and I sent the written proposition to the screens that sat flat by every seat on the table. Akana silently began to read through the paperwork, as did the rest, and the Advisor seemed to scan it for absolutely anything he could object to. I watched in silence as they went through the rather long form, and I decided to interrupt. "I understand that this won't be a light decision for you, and so I have thankfully been given the opportunity to give you time to consider this. My superiors said that they would prefer an answer by the end of the month, however, they have behooved me to stress urgency. The faster a decision is made, the faster help can begin to arrive."
Empress Akana nodded slowly as she heard the offer of time, and she looked to me with her warm gaze. She slowly nodded, and she looked to her advisors wordlessly for a moment. I anxiously waited for her to say something, anything, but Leodaline spoke first. "None of this will stand… it says here that your forces would be housed within our very cities, among our people! Savage warriors among the good and innocent populace!" The General eyed him with a tinge of disdain, the cruel name given to soldiers as a common title among the Satharin. I felt a tinge of frustration at his comment, and I tried to explain how illogical it all was. "Leodaline, where else would you have us house the ones here to protect you? The other regions of your world are harsh, and it would be an avoidable and unnecessary cost to put them there instead."
The advisor scoffed, waving a hand dismissively. "That isn't our concern. If you truly wish to help, then what is a few more dollars? The day I see your filthy savages walking through these streets is-" "Enough!" Akanas' voice echoed in the room, firm and powerful, and she glared at Leodaline as her hood flared. He shrunk from the booming voice, the command sending a wave of submission through the chamber, and she was quick to speak in protest to her Advisor's actions. "You may save your comments for your own mind. This is my kingdom; you are my subject, so I would expect you not to talk here at my table as if you were one of my blood. There will be a time later on where we may all rejoin and readdress any issues found, but for now, I am closing these talks here." Her eyes narrowed as she eyed him down as she addressed him, but her gaze softened as she turned back to me.
The two others at the table began to stand and leave, but I saw the Advisor give me a hateful glance before he turned to slither away. Just as I stood up as well, I heard Akana address me. "Francis, I would like for you to stay with me." She said, and I froze in surprise. "O-Of course, your Grace…" I muttered, and I watched her as she rose from her coils. Her long tail began to sprawl out over the room as she stretched, and she looked to me with a smile. "I will say Francis, after all this time… I expected your people to have something like this brought to me far sooner… and yet… I still feel a tinge of surprise." I nodded as she relaxed, letting a bit of her true self out.
In my years spent here I had spent nearly every meeting with Empress Akana. At first, I was nothing but a terrified and nervous young ambassador, but one time she had begun to request I stay with her through the day. She described it as part of our cultural exchange, and she had wished to learn more of humans first hand. While we seldom left the Temple, we had spent meals and afternoons together, sharing stories of our history and telling old legends from our past. She kept her regal demeanor for a long time, but slowly, she began to let it fade in more private settings, and thankfully, even after this, it seemed we were still on good terms.
"I will be honest, your Grace… I do believe that… for as troublesome as it may be for your people… this is something you should consider. We've made great strides with some of our newest vessels in the fleet, and if you let us support you, then we could potentially help save hundreds of millions if the worst comes to pass." She raised a hand to silence me before bringing the hand to her brow, closing her eyes and shaking her head. "Please Francis… enough politics for one night. I told you I would think on it, and I will." I nodded as my head bent down." I apologize, your Grace…"
She sighed as she began to turn, and she waved for me to follow her as she slowly moved out of the room. I stayed close as she turned through the doorway, the others now gone and back to their duties, and I looked around the throne room as she took a moment to look at the empty seat. I followed her gaze, wondering what those astral eyes were thinking, but she moved on soon after. On the other side of the throne lay a doorway, this one feeding into a hallway that had a guard standing tall. He eyed me as I approached with the Empress, and he nodded. He stood aside as we entered, and she continued to lead me deeper into the temple. The hallway felt claustrophobic beside her, the long, thick white coils of her winding body slithering beside me. We passed a few other halls and doors as I followed, but finally, we came to her destination.
The stone door slid open as she approached, and it opened to a large and spacious room. Inside, a veil of steam lingered in the room, and gentle orange lights illuminated the chamber. A series of warmed slabs laid around the room, heated stones for basking in for Akana and any guests, and on the far side of the room was a large and spacious, yet shallow, pool of water. A few small series of spouts laid on the walls, pouring more fresh water into the pool. The Royal Sauna was a place that breathed a soothing air around it, but it was one I had not entered. I stood in the doorway, trying to consider if I should wait outside for her, but she turned and eyed me as I waited. "Come inside, Francis. I have yet to dismiss you."
I looked down, my eyes glued to the entrance as I felt like I was standing on a cliff's edge, but I finally stepped forward into the humid room. I wasn't sure what to do, and I wasn't sure why she had taken me here, so I stood by the door with my hands together, awkwardly waiting. "Your Grace…" Before I could even speak, she interrupted. "Please, not here. You know my name." I nodded slowly but hesitated to continue. "A-Akana… I will be honest I'm not really sure why you have brought me here..." She shrugged as she came towards the water, looking down at it in silence. "I could use the company… Everyone here in the Temple is either attempting to whisper their own wants and wills into my ears or are too worried to upset me…"
She glanced back at me as a soft smile crept to her scaled lips. "You aren't much different in that last regard… but you have always been pleasant to talk to in the private hours we have shared. The insight and experiences… the exotic nature of your kind… it's fascinating to hear and refreshing as well." I nodded as I heard her begin to explain herself, and I kept silent as she went on. She chuckled to herself as she listened to the slowly waving water, and her hands slowly brushed her sides. "You are the first person that has been able to hold a conversation with me… a real one… one with no direction, no motive… just talk, between two parties… enjoying their time and company."
I tried not to stare as I saw her hands sink into the hem of her waistband, and her fingers slowly undid the knot which held it together as she tossed the piece of attire aside. I looked down, my cheeks flushing red despite no real sight being seen except for more of her long, scaly backside. Her hands then moved to the straps that covered her breasts, and she reached into the folds of the fabric as she slowly undid them. She let them fall around her as her chest was freed, but hidden from my direct gaze. Still, the knowledge of her in such a state caused me to grow flustered, and I could hear the water move as she slowly moved into the hot pool.
"Come here, take a seat if you would like. If you wouldn't mind, I would like to talk freely with you." I slowly looked up, and I felt a tinge of relief as the blue waters of the pool thankfully masked most of her bodily features. She was poking out of the water by just her shoulders, and she leaned against the edge of the pool as she looked at me with eager eyes. I walked to the edge of the pool, and I took a seat on the ground beside her. "Well, your Gra-" I stopped myself. "Apologies… Akana, what would you want to talk about?" It always felt strange to call her by just her name with no title, but I tried to pay it no mind.
She hummed for a moment as she thought, and her arms slowly came up and crossed over each other as she rested them on the edge, her cleavage more clearly coming into view, and I did my best not to look. "I must say, for all I've learned about your history, I've been curious about other aspects of Humans." I nodded as I heard the comment. "I suppose that's fair, but we have talked a bit about all the different cultures if I remember right…" Her smile was warm as she placed her chin onto her hands. "I was more talking about the sort of escapes, holidays, that sort of thing." My eyes widened a bit. "Oh! I can't believe I've never even thought to bring it up!"
I felt like an idiot, all this time here, all the talks, and holidays is one I've neglected. To be fair, most of the time, we would discuss history or more basic day-to-day experiences one could expect, as well as religion, cultures, people, and more… but still! "Well, if I had to talk about anything, I would have to say that Christmas is by far one of the largest holidays we have. It's celebrated all over by a rather significant portion of humanity." She tilted her head in curiosity, her eyes giving a hint of familiarity. "Christmas…? It sounds almost like that one story you told me…" She muttered, and I nodded as I smiled. "Sharp as ever, it is often held by followers of the Christian faith, although sometimes even others celebrate it as well. It has changed over the years it has been around, but overall has shared the same purpose."
She looked at me, leaning forward as she seemed intrigued. "And what makes this time so special?" She said softly. "It's a time of caring, of family, of giving and receiving, a time of love. On the morning of Christmas day, families and friends gather and come together. They share gifts that they get for one another, even for nothing in return. Food is made and shared with everyone around, and games are played as well." Her eyes grew as she listened, and a pleasant hiss escaped her. "That sounds quite wonderful." She muttered, and slowly, she began to rise from the water. I felt my mouth go dry as slowly she rose, and she finally rested her bare chest before me on the ledge and atop her hands as she leaned in closer towards me.
"I-It was always something I enjoyed." I muttered, my face burning. "My family would always make a snowman in our front yard as dinner would be prepared…" Confusion now filled her features as she tried to picture what I said. "Snow… It's that powder from the cold, yes? The one that falls from the sky like rain?" I nodded. "And you use it to make a… snowman?" I chuckled softly, my gaze slowly forgetting her bare body as I began to get lost in our talk. "We would roll the snow up and collect it in large balls. We would stack it up, usually three, largest on the bottom, smallest on top. From there, add some decoration, maybe a hat, and then you would have a nice fellow to stand in your yard."
She didn't seem like she understood it, and she shook her head. "I couldn't think of a single reason why anyone would willingly suffer in the cold, much less mess with it like that…" I couldn't help but let out a small laugh at the comment. I could understand her aversion to the cold, and I noticed her look away. At first, I thought my story had caused her to lose interest, but as she looked off to nothing, I couldn't help but feel like it was something else. She looked tense, her eyes worried, and I felt a tinge of worry in my heart as I looked at her. "Is… everything alright, Akana? You seem… troubled…" Her eyes darted to me as they widened ever so slightly. Her warm smile was gone now, and she let out a soft sigh.
"I apologize…" She muttered for a moment before shaking her head. "I've been doing what I can to distract myself, the weight of my crown has been taxing as of late." I nodded, immediately understanding her shift in emotion. "I couldn't even begin to imagine what that must be like… half the time I forget where I've placed my coffee in the office…" I said lightly in reply, causing her smile to return as a soft chuckle escaped her. Those colorful eyes wandered over me, simply staring in a short moment of silence. As she looked, I felt all the suppressed perverted thoughts soon begin to flood my mind once more, and I shifted on the floor as I tried to think of a way to keep our talk going, but she beat me to it.
"Tell me Francis, and please, be honest. As an outsider to my people, do you think I have done well in my duties?" My eyes widened in surprise at such a loaded question, and I felt my muscles tense as I heard her. I thought hard, trying to think of what to say, and I took in a deep breath before I tried to explain my thoughts, praying I don't upset her. "It's a difficult question…" I began, noticing her eyes narrow slightly. "I have only been with your people for a few years now, but from the view of an outsider… well, even as a different species as a whole… I think you would be surprised to hear what people on Earth think of this place."
Her head cocked slightly to the side as she listened intently to my every word. "Humans are rather vocal and… perhaps a bit brash compared to your own kind. Most speak their minds, often without putting much thought as to the consequences, but it gives us the chance to truly see the real thoughts of people around us. It is part of what makes it so hard to get along, yet it is also the gift that has helped us learn from one another." She rose one of her hands, her arm slipping out from under her chest and her elbow planting on the stone floor as she looked a little impatient. "I don't see how this applies to me…" She said, an almost annoyed tone hidden in her voice.
I simply went on, hoping she wouldn't grow upset from not having her comment immediately addressed. "I say all of this because, from what I heard from when I was home, and from what I see looking online… people are often amazed by your kingdom. The thought of being in a state of peace for so long… It's unheard of for humanity. Not to mention the impressive cybernetics your scientists have been developing! Overall, the people of humanity look to your achievements with wonder and awe, and while yes, there are hardships, there are problems, and perfection is still unachievable as ever, what you have done speaks volumes for your capabilities." She looked at me, her body slowly easing, but a glimmer of dissatisfaction was in her features as she looked deep into my eyes. "But what do you think?"
I felt my heart thump a little stronger, and I felt my breath quicken slightly. "I… I think you've shown yourself to be a great leader… but…" Her head immediately tilted as she heard the 'but,' and she eyed me intensely. "I… will admit I am not exactly one for… such uhm… structures of government…" I muttered my words, feeling a tinge of fear as I spoke my truth. "You don't agree with my Empire?" She said plainly, with almost no emotion in her voice as she spoke. I looked away, my heart skipping a beat. "You did ask me to tell you the truth…" I muttered, and she nodded. "You're right. I did."
I felt an incredible awkwardness loom over our talk, hiding in the veil of pressure that consumed me. I felt like I had to say more to explain myself, so I tried to. "Maybe it's just from how I was raised, but the thought of a monarchy is just so… strange. There hasn't been something like that in our civilization in ages, and from our experience, they often… came with many problems." For a moment, I swear I noticed something. A small quick motion on her face as her stone cold expression finally cracked. And to my shock, I could have sworn it was a smile. "So, because your kind lacked the promise to lead properly, you assume it is the kingdom at fault?"
I hesitated, and I gave her comment some thought. "Well, there's a lot of factors at play when talking about an entire nation, but to me, the real problem was the people would often and eventually become neglected. Their needs, their wants, their voices, all slowly fading from the… the ears of the uhm…" Her smile returned, now no longer hiding. "The Royalty?" I looked at her wordlessly and slowly nodded. "And tell me, Francis, do you think I have the same problem?" It felt like I was walking around shattered glass, every word I've said carrying the potential to shatter years of careful diplomacy and the building of our strange relationship.
"In some regards… I think it could be something to stay mindful of…" Her eyes narrowed, and slowly she sat up as the glistening body was put on full unrestricted display. She kept a proud posture, a sense of irony flashing in my mind at how she held herself. I saw her then slowly ease, and she looked up and took a deep breath. As she exhaled, her smile was as warm as ever as her eyes stared right back into mine. I didn't know if I should go on, keep saying more, but as if she heard my thoughts she began to speak once more. "Thank you, Francis…" She said softly in a low mumble. I looked at her, confused, and replied. "For what? I- I don't understand."
She chuckled and slowly began to slither out of the water, and as she moved, I quickly rose to my feet and began to stumble back. I nearly slipped and fell as I did, moving like a buffoon, but she hardly seemed to care as her coils began to slither free from the steaming waters. "For doing what no one ever will. For telling me the truth, the reality, with no lies hidden behind it." She moved to where her clothes were left and picked them up, carrying them to the wall and setting them down before grabbing a towel. I looked away as I anxiously stood there, and she continued explaining as she dried herself.
"My whole life, even before my Father had passed, I was constantly told whispers and lies. Everyone around me wants to have me by their side, pushing me for support of their own selfish agendas. Anything I do is constantly blabbered about for months on months before anything is actually done. It is… exhausting." She let the towel hang over her shoulders as she looked back at me. "But you, you are the anomaly. This strange creature who has come from the stars, something out of legend, with hair atop their strange head and limbs instead of a tail… You, an alien, are the only thing that has ever had the decency to tell me the honest truth."
She slowly dropped the towel and began to put the wrappings back on, and as I heard the fabric being tied, I looked back. As I did, I swear I could have caught a sly grin, but as I looked again, it seemed I had been mistaken. "You have always been very strange company for me Francis. Everything you do is something… almost unexpected…" I felt a tinge of worry at the comment; perhaps her impression of me was far less favorable than I thought. "It's been wonderful… You are wonderful, and I am glad that you were sent to join our worlds in the chaos of politics." She slowly put back on the rest of her attire, and I felt a strange warmth bubble inside me at her compliment.
I don't think I had ever heard her describe anyone in such a way, much less me. It felt… strange… good even… and I felt a smile tug at my lips. "I-" She rose a hand before I could speak, and she shook her head slowly. "Nothing more needs to be said, Francis… I have come to my conclusion when it comes to the matter of today's meeting. Come, and I will recall the others, and we will finish this at once." She moved past me, her coils slithering just inches from my body, and I watched her eyes stay glued to me as she moved past my frozen body. I felt my cheeks deepen in a red blush, and I felt my heart thump. I tried to ignore the thought as I nodded, and following her command, I stayed close beside her as we left.
It was about thirty minutes later I found myself back in the room. I was once more kneeling down beside the table, and the General from before had finally arrived. Leodaline sat across from me once more, arms crossed and eyes glaring, but a small smirk was on his face. I slowly looked to Empress Akana as she looked around at us, and finally, she tapped the screen beside her as the entire room came to life, all the monitors once again coming online. "While I do appreciate the time your planet has given us to come to our decision, I have come to the realization that there is only one answer I can give you." I saw Leodaline's grin grow, and he looked down for a moment to the screen before glaring back to me.
"This offer your planet has made is very generous indeed, however, it could potentially cause a hard struggle upon the traditions and viewpoints of our people. We have had only select groups truly get to interact with humans, the higher royalty and researchers, but the common Satharin has yet to even talk to one…" As I heard her words, I felt a tinge of despair, and my eyes grew as worry beat in my heart. "With this in mind, I cannot, in good faith, simply subject my world to a military occupation of your own armies and navy…"
At this point, I was certain the words were coming, but just hearing them put out into reality hit me like a truck. I felt my muscles tense as it felt a tad harder to breathe, and the devastating blow set deep into my heart. I slowly looked around, seeing the General lowering his head, wearing a remorseful look. Leodaline, however, smiled wide in victory, his hands together in glee as he set them on the table. He slowly closed the document on his screen as he eyed me down and spoke with spite thick upon his voice. "It was always going to be this way, Mr. Newmont. You barbarians and your ways may fight those useless wars all you wish, but we will stay out of them." I could nearly feel his suppressed laugh. "I do apologize for wasting your time, I'll make sure the guards escort you at once~"
I glared back at him, no longer caring about hiding my mind at the table, but suddenly, a white hand was raised, and I froze. I looked to Akana, as did the others, and she looked back at me, and only me. Her smile was small, and her eyes looked deeply into mine. She slowly looked to the others around as well and spoke once more. "Instead of just tossing in your forces and resources into such a sensitive environment, I would like to propose an expansion to this offer. You will hold back your fleets for the first three years of this agreement. No troops shall enter our system, nor shall any military vessels enter it either." As she began, my eyes widened, a kindle of hope sparked, and I listened intently as I watched Leodaline look in absolute shock.
"During this time, I command that if this deal is to happen, we open our borders to another for travel. We finally allow our citizens to communicate and then to meet, face to face. It is long past the time for humanity and Satharin to come together. We can discuss the details of this in a later meeting, but before any military forces are to be stationed here I would like first for our two people to be living on one another's worlds, so that we may truly learn from each other and begin to ease our minds into the culture of another species." I was stunned at first when I heard her, but I quickly began to write down her comments and demands in my notes. My heart raced at what I was hearing, and I even saw the General looked surprised at the coming of events
Leodaline stammered- too shocked at what he heard, and I could feel the rage boil inside him as his hood flared open. "Y-You couldn't possibly be meaning this Your Grace! That is insanity, the humans are savages built on savage ways! They even teach their children how to operate all sorts of weapons, and you dare suggest to… to mix our kinds together? To live with some kind of disgusting beast like this one here… it's abhorrent!" Akana looked to Leodaline as he went on, but at his last comment, I saw something from her I had never seen before. I saw rage boil in her eyes. She stood tall, her hood flared, and before the General could even interrupt, she shot out a finger and called out in a booming voice. "How dare you address your Empress with such negligence! Is this what your short-sighted mind has succumbed to, seeing our allies as nothing more than savages?!"
His eyes darted to me, fear inside of them as he shook, and he leaned back and shrunk in his coils. "Y-Your Grace! I-I may have been too eager with my words but I swear-" She rose her her fingers and snapped, and she spat out her words as the Guards moved in, their staffs crackling to life as electricity spat from the sharp ends. "Too eager? You insult my guest, you speak out of turn, not once, not twice, but THREE times in my presence, and you even dare argue like a child at a meeting of galactic importance!" She clenched her fists, and as she breathed heavily, she looked down. She looked almost surprised by her own outburst, and she shrunk back to her old posture as Leodaline panicked.
"Y-Your Grace, you must understand that I am here to help you see what must be done! I've been at your side since the time of your father! Please! Another chance!" She shook her head and made a dismissive wave. "Get him out of here… He has had enough chances…" His eyes filled with despair and then… rage. "Y-You can't! I was rightfully chosen for this position by your father! This is beyond disgraceful!" His words were thick with rage and frustration as the guards grabbed him, and he struggled as he tried to squirm. "You throw away our own tradition and dreams like nothing! You are not worthy of that crown! You will disgrace everything that has been built!"
I watched the General look at him in disgust, and suddenly one of the guards smashed the chest of Leoadoline with the butt of his staff. He let out a grunt, and the broken advisor hissed. I was silent as he was dragged out, and when he was finally gone, I was completely frozen. There was an eerie silence in the room, and I slowly looked back to Akana. She stood at the table still, her eyes closed, and she shook her head before opening her bright gaze. I took in a deep breath, as did she, and she softly spoke. "I apologize… I should have done that long ago…" I looked to the other, and he finally uttered a few words.
"It was the right call, Your Grace…" She nodded in response. "Perhaps you are right, Hozenak…" They both looked at me, and I was stuck in place under their combined gaze after the chaos of the past few minutes. Akana slowly shook her head and went right back to the task at hand. "Now I know that this alone will take months more of discussion and bickering, but I hope we can finally begin to let our two people truly combine. I hope that by the time your forces arrive, my people will have had the chance to see humanity in a warmer light, and from there, our pact can truly be set in stone. I will help provide whatever resources are needed for this to happen, and I'll allow construction of factories and stations to begin immediately, but my demand must happen if any form of alliance is to be officially made."
I nodded as I heard the conclusion to her offer, and I knew she was right. This wasn't exactly a small thing she was proposing; in fact, it was no doubt going to be a massive logistical nightmare to do, but I truly believed it was a step in the right direction. I let a cautious smile finally show, a tinge of fear still bubbling inside me from before, and I spoke up. "It sounds like a fantastic decision, Your Grace. It may take a few days, but once you have put together a written list for your new compromise I will send it to my superiors at once. I have no doubt that there will be mixed feelings, but I do truly believe that it will be accepted." She nodded slowly, and I let out a heavy sigh.
General Hozenak nodded as the negotiations reached their climax for today, and he gave me a respectful nod. "I should thank you, Mr. Newmont. I have long thought that such an opportunity would never come to pass." A small smile grew on the seasoned serpent's lips, and he got up, and so did the rest of us. I walked to the door as did he, and he motioned for me to come to his side. I looked up to him, seeing the dark red and black of his scales, and he bowed. I felt surprised, not expecting such a gesture from someone such as him, and as he stood back up he spoke happily. "It's been too long for Satharins such as I… We're seen as outcasts, strangers, freaks for what we do. Others don't understand the necessity of our existence, but you have given me hope today… hope that all the men and women who join our ranks will no longer be treated like monsters… thank you."
He moved out of the door slowly, and as he left us, I looked back to the Empress. I saw her smiling widely as she stood across the room, and I smiled back. "You scared me, Your Grace…" I said with a small hint of amusement, and she let out a small chuckle. "I was simply trying to make my proposition as clear as possible." She said, mocking innocence as she slowly came to my side. "And I told you not to call me that." I looked away, slightly embarrassed, and blushed as she came rather close. She eyed me for a moment, and she looked to the screens and looked at the time. Her smile grew ever so slightly, and she looked back to me. "In all honesty, there is more I would like to discuss, however, it is something I would like to be kept between us for now. I know it's late, so we can talk somewhere more comfortable."
I nodded as she made her offer, and she was definitely right about it being late. I had arrived just after the sun set around four in the afternoon, and by now, it had to have been at least ten at night. I followed her as she once again escorted me through the halls, and now I could see the lights of the temple slowly dimming as the staff began to retreat to their quarters. The Gaurds of course still stood tall, but other than them, it felt rather empty. Once again, she brought me back to the corridors from before, however, this time we moved deeper, even past the Sauna, and eventually came to a singular door. It was one of the deepest rooms in the temple, and as I tried to imagine what could be in it I saw two Guards eye me with surprise. They looked to Akana confused, their emotionless visors tilting slightly, but her small nod was all it took for them to step aside.
The door slid open, and my eyes widened at the sight before me. I saw luxurious light blue fabrics covering the walls, lush green vines creeping from carefully placed pots and holes. They curled and coiled around the beautiful silk drapes, and on the floor, a soft black fabric covered the cold stone floor. I saw warm, simulated candlelight flicker from lamps covered in the foliage on the walls, and in the center of the room was the centerpiece of it all. A massive, circular mattress sat in the center, lined with blue, white, black, and gold sheets. Around the entire edge was a series of pillows, cushiony and soft, and piled in the middle of the open space was a black blanket carefully folded in the center. I could hardly believe what I was seeing, and Akana simply slithered inside her personal bedroom as she glanced back at me with that damned grin, her eyes telling me a thousand unspoken words.
I slowly walked in, my motions slow and every step cautious and filled with hesitation. I felt like I was walking into a literal minefield, and I watched her go to the side of her bed as she slowly coiled under herself and sat beside her bed. She motioned for me to sit down beside her, and she waited patiently. I looked to the edge of the bed, my mind telling me countless different thoughts, but I shook all of them away and simply listened. I sat down, looking to her, and she looked back. The warm light of the room flickered around her, and I saw her hood slowly flare open as the shimmer of the lanterns accented her form. The white, black, and golden scales seemed to shine more now, and those astral blues and pinks that melded together and shimmered in that beautiful contrast danced in her eyes and inner hood.
"I want to give you another offer, Francis…" She said in a hushed voice, filled with warm emotion. She slowly looked down at me, and I watched her hand reach out as she slowly touched my thigh. "You have long been an ally… a window of humanity… a friend…" She said softly, her hand slowly squeezing my thigh as I felt a tingle shoot up my spine. "For this treaty… our kind will finally get the chance to join with yours, properly." Her eyes slowly raised back up to meet my gaze, and I felt my muscles tense as I shuddered in my own skin. Her touch was so gentle, her scales so smooth, it was unbelievable. "I want to show you how devoted I am to accomplishing this, Francis… Together, you and I, we could be the first ones. Human and Satharin. Together…"
I looked down to her hand for a moment; seeing it so close to my inner thigh, I could hardly breathe. "A-Akana. Are you really suggesting that…" Her smile grew, and she nodded. Slowly, her coils shifted as another hand was placed on my chest, and she slowly pushed me down into the pillows as I watched her move atop me. "Yes… I have been alone my whole life. Countless have been offered, countless have tried, but none of them have ever seemed right… until you." By now, I was on my back, eyes wide, and she was what felt like inches from me, looming over me as I felt her cool tail begin to touch my ankle. "Everything about you has constantly had me thinking, wondering, dreaming…"
Her hand slid from my chest up to my neck, and she cupped my cheek and held me gently as she let out a soft sigh. "So warm… It's intoxicating…" I shivered in delight from her cold touch, and I slowly took in a deep breath. "A-Akana, I am flattered, really I am but…" Her smile ever so slightly faded as she heard my 'but', and she slowly leaned back. "You… You are amazing, and I am honored you see me in such a way, but… T-This would change… everything." Her worry seemed to soften as she heard my comment of concern, and she shook her head. "So what? I am the Empress of this kingdom, one that expands the stars. Why shouldn't I be able to join with the one I long for? The one I would take as my mate?"
I froze at the word, my mind barely able to process what she just called me. Mate… I tried to say something, anything, and I saw her slowly lean in towards me. Before I could utter another word, I felt cold lips press against mine. The smooth scales gracefully pressed into my soft flesh, and I tensed for a moment before melting into her embrace. I felt her tail begin to coil around my legs, squeezing them together as she squeezed me. Her arms wrapped around my back, her chest pressing into mine, and I felt all the tension, all the stress, everything… slowly fade away.
She slowly backed away, and as I felt those cool lips leave me, I immediately wanted to have them back. I only just realized her body was coiling around me, and I looked down to see her body slowly wrapping up more of my body. Her muscles were immense, squeezing me, massaging every inch of my body. It was heavenly, and I felt myself ease into her touch as she slowly dragged me to the center of her bed. "If anything, my dear Francis, we will be the example that shows just how compatible we are. Together, we will bring a new age for both of our kind."
I slowly shifted as she held me in her long serpentine body, and as I squirmed, I felt those strong muscles shift around me as well until they slowly squeezed me. She shuddered and let out a soft moan, the sound filling my ears like an angel's choir. "I don't think I will ever need a basking rock again with you… I could stay wrapped around you like this forever…" She chuckled, and her eyes slowly looked down my form. I noticed her gaze, and I could feel her coils sliding around as she slowly loosened herself around me. She leaned up, practically sitting on my crotch, and she placed her hands on my chest and sunk her fingers into my shirt.
"Akana…" I muttered, barely able to talk as I felt my heart pound heavy with desire. "I… I would be honored to be your mate…" I saw her eyes glimmer at the words, and she nodded. "Then, my precious Francis…" I felt her fingers slowly grip tighter, and I felt the fabric of my shirt slowly begin to slide up. "I want to make you mine, mark you as my lover, and forever form our bond~ Tonight, until the sun rises, and until the moon shines once more~ We will become one~" She slid my shirt off with ease, and I felt the tip of her tail begin to tug at my trousers below in the mass of her coils.
As the pants were ripped away, I immediately felt a chilling rush shoot up my spine. It sent a shivering tingle up my body, the cool touch of her scales now completely enveloping me, but she seemed to adore it all the more as she squeezed my body tight. She slowly leaned back down, only now she brought her chest near me as she looked down mischievously. "I helped you, now, help me~" I looked to the wrappings around her chest and paused, glancing up to her eyes only to see her nod. Slowly, my hands reached up, and I gently placed them around her covered chest. My digits dug into the folds and layers of fabric, and I reached behind her as slowly I undid it.
As I tried to untie the wrappings, she lowered her chest, practically smothering me in the grace of her breasts. I tried to scoot back, but the pillow under me stopped the attempt. I took in deep breaths as finally I felt the fabric come loose, and the wrappings slowly fell down atop my face. I could hear her chuckle as I reached up, and when I brushed the silky fabric off me, my eyes went wide. I saw the black scales of her chest hovering just above me, the golden areola and tits shining in the warm light of the room, and if I wasn't burning pink before I knew I was now. I saw one of her hands rise to cup her breast, and she chuckled as she slowly leaned back up, her other hand now slowly gliding down to the skirt-like attire around her perfect waist.
"Care to do the honors? Or should I just let you lay back and enjoy you all to myself~?" She asked, and I watched her slowly bring her most sacred area right to my chest. I hesitated but slowly moved. I reached around her waist, feeling my heart thump, and I slowly undid the skirt and pulled it off. As I did, her delicate flower was revealed at last. The black and golden striped pattern of her belly changed just at her waistline, changing to a more compact single line down the rest of her body. Right where the pattern split was her entrance, a slit in the scales, and her fingers reached down and slowly spread it. Soft pink walls were inside, moist juices seeping from the awaiting hole, and I let out a deep breath I only just realized I had been holding.
My eyes slowly looked up her body, admiring every curve and change of color from her immense form. The wide hips which seemed to ever so slightly sway, her toned midriff, the heavy breasts now free hanging above me, and that enchanting face… Every aspect of her was so much to take in, and in this new light, this new moment, I appreciated it more than ever before. As our eyes met again she let out a soft chuckle, and she slowly lowered her torso back against mine as I felt her wet juices begin to be smothered against my crotch. I felt a tingle of delight shoot up my spine, but my hands laid at my sides as I was still too shocked to move.
"You can touch me you know…" She said with an amused tone, and I stammered in embarrassment as she teased. She shook her head as I tried to think of what to say, my years of training and experience of talking failing me all at once, and I watched her grab my hand with her own as she guided my grip to her thigh. My eyes widened as she placed my hand there, and as she let go I slowly rubbed her curve. Her scales were amazing to touch, a slight chill was upon them, and the smooth bumps provided an exotic and amazing texture. Most of all, feeling the muscles and body of her with my own hand was just overwhelming, and I couldn't help but want to feel more.
I slowly rubbed her hip, going up and down what would be her thigh, and slowly she grabbed my other hand as our fingers locked together in a gentle hold. "I hope you are enjoying my body as much as I am yours~ You're so much softer than I imagined, and so warm too." She slowly leaned down, and I watched as her tits pressed into my chest. The heavy orbs squished against me, her hefty chest pinning me down as she laid atop, and once again our faces were met with inches of space between. "A-Akana…" I whispered, my words soft and quiet, only for the two of us to ever hear. "Do you… think we are going to… y'know…" My cheeks burned as I tried to ask, and I saw her smirk grow as I felt her coils shift and slide around my lower body, my legs being moved and my hips being raised in the mass of her entrapping tail.
"Be compatible?" She said, finishing my sentence. I nodded slowly, feeling a new warmth swell down in my nethers. I could feel her slick juices slowly dripping around my crotch, the erotic fluid already beginning to mark me for what was to come. "We would be the first… although, from what I can guess, we both have the parts, no? Even if we weren't particularly… intended to… it won't stop me from trying~" I could see a hunger in her eyes, the desire she held for me burning bright in those magnificent eyes as she slowly grabbed my shoulders. I could feel her entrance slowly grind near my member, and I instinctively squirmed as I felt myself grow rock hard under her coiled body.
She was all that was around me, she was all that I saw, in this moment of desire, bliss, and love, she was everything. She leaned down to me, and as her lips once more claimed mine, I moaned, all as I felt her finally begin to envelope me within her folds. My eyes flashed wide open as I suddenly felt her entire body tense. Her tail squeezed me for a moment with muscles that could crush stone. I let out a grunt- but then, as her body eased, I felt complete bliss. She had only barely taken me in, barely more than my tip buried inside of her insanely tight walls, yet it was already enough for both of us to cringe in delight. She pushed into me more passionately as we kissed, her face covering my eyes as I felt her tongue prod my lips.
I didn't resist. I didn't fight. I didn't even think. I simply let myself dive into the moment, with nothing but my heart now to guide me. I felt her tongue enter my mouth, dancing with my own, and as we kissed passionately she slowly began to take more of my cock into her aching walls. I could feel her fluids coat and smother my crotch, eagerly lubricating me for the moment, all as the quivering muscles took me in deeper and deeper. I could hardly believe how good it felt, how mind numbing the sensation was, and it seemed just as great for her. With even the slightest movement of my body I could feel her entire body tense and squirm, and I felt her hands begin to explore my own form as she squeezed and hugged me desperately to herself.
Finally she broke the kiss, saliva dripping from her open mouth as she panted frantically, and she moaned loudly as finally our hips met. I let out a deep moan of pleasure, both of my hands grabbing the back of her waist and giving her a squeeze, and I watched her smile widely as she kept herself in place. We both took a moment to catch our breaths, all of it so intense that it seemed to fry both of our brains. My eyes fluttered as I looked around with a weak gaze, and I finally sighed. "You feel… amazing…"
She chuckled and nodded at my comment. "I can say the same for you. It's so different than what I had imagined, so strange to what my kind is… used to… but even yet- it feels better than I could have ever imagined~ Like a pillar of warmth buried deep into my womb~" I took my turn to laugh at her comment, and she joined in too, both of us soon sighing as she looked deeply into my eyes. "I can't say I ever imagined this would happen…" I mumbled, a warm smile on my face as I felt her brush my hair. "For as smart as you are, Francis, you are also incredibly dense." She replied, her smile turning playful as I looked at her confused. "What do you mean dense?" I said, perhaps even a little defensively.
She chuckled once more as she began to slowly move her hips, causing me to let out a moan as I felt myself adjust deep inside her, those slick walls tugging around me. "Please~ How many times have I brought you to share meals with me? How many times have I had to drop hints? Even today, I stripped myself bare for you and still nothing… I was getting to the point where I was just going to strip you down and drag you to my bed if you still didn't get the hint by tonight~" I looked away embarrassed, the memories of the mentioned moments flashing to my mind, and never before had I felt like such a complete idiot.
"I… I mean… In my defense I never even dreamed I would have even had a shot at you…" I muttered pathetically, but she only responded with a shaking head as she slowly planted a small kiss on my lips. "You're too adorable, Francis~" With her compliment given, her hands slowly grabbed my shoulders and she pushed against me. Her torso rose above me, and she began to ride me slowly. Every movement of her hips was indescribable. I could feel the long tail of her body shift and move all around me, the tight walls clenching and sliding around my length, and her muscles gripping me with a tight, possessive nature.
I began to slowly try and thrust up into her as she slowly began to quicken the pace, and as small, pleasant hisses and moans began to escape her I felt the urge only grow stronger. I let my hands rest on her hips as she continued to move up and down my length, and I felt my own muscles tense in delight as we both grew more desperate for more. Her mouth slowly opened as she began to breathe heavily, and I could feel the claws of her hands dig into my skin ever so slightly. I winced slightly from the sharp sensation, but ignored it as my body was too busy feeling overwhelmed by her own form.
Every movement she made was slow, filled with methodical thought and careful intention. It was as if every twitch, and squeeze, and every thrust of her hips was planned to bring us closer and closer together than before. It wasn't just passion behind her, it wasn't just love, or obsession, but love. I let my head sink into the pillow as I let out a deep breath, feeling a deep tingle in my body slowly crawl up my spine. My nerves shivered as I felt myself throb expectantly, and I let out a soft groan as I slowly rubbed her side.
"A-Akana…" I muttered, feeling her body twitch and shiver as she continued to grow faster. Her eyes were half-closed as she let out a long, pleasured hiss, and slowly her gaze looked back down to me as her head tilted. "I-I… T-Think I'm close…" I mumbled with a struggle, and I could feel my legs squirm uncontrollably as I let out a more desperate moan. She leaned back down to me once more, her hand going behind my head as she held us together in the dimly lit room. "Please Francis~ Release~ Mark me and I shall mark you~ Let us bond, and truly become one~" Hearing her soft words, her desperate plea, was more than enough confirmation then I could ever need.
I felt my hips buck as I grunted, and my hands squeezed her tightly as my fingers dug into the soft scales of her sides. I groaned loudly as I felt my cock throb eagerly, and as I felt a surge rush through my nethers, I moaned her name. "A-Akana~!" Just as I did, I could feel my climax hit, and in that moment of bliss her walls eagerly milked me as I began to pump my seed deep inside of her. She pushed my head to her own, and she silenced my words with one last kiss of passion. As our lips touched, I felt her walls grip and tug at my member. I could feel load after load of my cum be pulled into her womb, and I let out small whimpers and moans as she refused to let me go or even breath.
My entire mind, no, my entire body was numb. I could feel nothing but her touch, her love, her desire. In that moment I felt a connection grow like nothing I have ever held before. I knew that no matter what may happen now, I would gladly stay by her side till the very end. My hips slowly went numb as I felt my spent member grow soft inside of her still aching walls, and finally she broke the kiss with a wide smile. I took in deep, desperate breaths in an attempt to calm myself. I let my body go completely limp in her hold, and as I tried to move I felt her tail squeeze me tight. "Don't worry, just relax, there's no need to move~" She whispered, her voice soft and sweet.
"So much… I can feel your warmth all inside me, coating my insides, lingering deep~" She slowly grabbed her chest as she began to fondle herself before me, and I looked at her with tired eyes as a weak smile was on my lips. "You truly are a perfect mate, Francis~." I nodded slowly as I continued to take in deep breaths, but as her body shifted I felt her slowly begin to push my now softened member back inside. I groaned loudly as I squirmed, the stimulation driving me insane, and I gripped her tightly as my eyes went wide. "W-Wait… A-Again? A-Already?" I muttered, almost desperately as she chuckled.
"Of course again, we are just getting started after all~" I looked into her eyes with confusion and a tinge of worry, and I watched as she leaned down and whispered into my ears. 'Us Satharin are capable of mating for a whole twenty four hour period~ Not a single break in between~" I felt my heart skip a beat just at the mere thought, and as she leaned back away I realized I may have gotten in a bit over my head. I took in a deep breath as she slowly began to slide me back deep inside her entrance… it was going to be a very… very long night…
"Log Entry one hundred and sixty-five, April Twentieth, twenty-four eighty-eight, as of the Sol calendar." I stretched as I sat on the side of our bed, my muscles still sore and sapped of energy from a few nights ago. I slowly placed a hand on the large thick tail that hugged my waist, and I smiled as I slid it up Akana's long body. "I recently was sent to Techal in order to seek an audience with Empress Akana regarding the hopeful formation of a new treaty. Much to my relief, we found ourselves an accord after some talking and compromise. The details have been written, and the papers have been sent. As I speak, talks are being held back on Earth in regards, but from what I have seen it seems likely that the terms will be accepted."
As she rose from her sleep, I felt her body slowly begin to slide and shift around me, and a small hiss escaped her. I looked back at her with a smile, and she came and hugged me from behind. I could feel her cool chest press into my back as she placed a small kiss on my neck, and I chuckled as she began to gently nuzzle me. "Thanks to Empress Akana, by the end of the month hopefully actions will begin to be taken to fortify her world, and even more excitingly, soon lucky individuals from both our species will begin to be selected to be the very first to come and live on our different planets together." I felt her hand wrap around me and squeeze my chest, and I felt her rest her head on my shoulder as she watched what I was doing.
"The Satharin are truly an amazing people. They are intelligent, gentle, and have such an amazing culture. I always knew I was lucky to be sent here, to be the link for two entire species that were separated from the vast sea of the stars-" I felt her nudge me with her head as she broke my train of thought, and she spoke softly, with a small hint of playful annoyance. "Francis, can't you do this later? Come back to bed… It's so cold without you…" I shook my head with a grin, suppressing a laugh, and I looked back. "I need to make this report Akana, just give me a second." She sighed and went back to leaning on me as I looked back to the screen.
I thought for a moment, and I tried to return to my thoughts. "It seems impossible to me still, that two people, from entirely different worlds are able to come together. Not only has Empress Akana seen past such obstacles, she has also shown just how compatible our two people can be…" I felt her slide her hand down my arm, and she grabbed my own hand in hers as she hummed a beautiful tune into my ear. I looked back at her warmly, and I saw her return the look as her eyes seemed like lures, trying to drag me away.
"With her support, and under our protection, I'm certain that we will continue to advance for the better. Even if the worst does come to pass, at the very least we will be standing side by side to ensure we stand firm against whatever may come to face us." I looked down, and finally I pressed the red button to end my report. I put the tablet down on the floor as I turned to look to Akana, and immediately she leaned in and kissed me. I melted into her touch, and she backed away with a satisfied sigh.
She cupped my cheek, holding me in her smooth hands, and she looked at me and inspected my body. I noticed her look to my neck and I saw a slight tinge of worry cross her features. "I'm telling you I'm fine." I said warmly, her looking at me unconvinced. "It was just one little bite, and you were enjoying yourself! It barely even hurt." She blushed, those white cheeks growing ever so slightly pink. I slowly wrapped my arms around her as I rolled atop her, and I pushed her down onto the bed as we chuckled. "You know we're gonna have to leave eventually right? You still have a whole kingdom to run after all and I need to go back to the embassy eventually…"
She shook her head, and she waved her hand. "We'll get there when the time comes… For now, I think we can spare a few more minutes… or hours…" She gave me a mischievous look as I stayed atop her, and I could feel the tip of her tail slither up my leg. "It's exciting like this, you on top of me…" Slowly I felt as she squirmed under me, and I already knew exactly what she was planning. "O-Oh no Akana please, I'm still recovering from yesterday!" I said, truthfully trying to avoid her advance as politely as possible.
"Are you trying to tell your Empress no?~" Her voice was thick with sarcasm, but I couldn't help but feel the need to submit to the playful comment. I gave a defeated sigh, and I slowly straddled her waist as I looked down to my beautiful lover from the stars. "I suppose I can at least try…" I said smirking, and slowly, her long tail pulled the blanket back over us~
~ Fin ~
- Authors Notes -
I'm back! And not dead! I do apologize for the long absence, life has been chaotic and ruined a lot of plans, but I am finally writing once more! This is hopefully the start of a series of one-shots/short stories, all placed within the same universe that a friend of mine and I have begun to make. First and foremost, I would like to say that without the help of a great person called Booper02, this story would not have been possible. He helped me tremendously with world building and plotting, and I cannot thank him enough. Furthermore, Type-2 Chimera, another author on this site, helped as well with editing. If you enjoyed this story, im sure you'll love his as well, so check him out!
I am going to start writing again now that Im back in the saddle, and for those of you that know me from The Sixth Specimen, don't worry! I have already started on the sequel and have completed some parts of it. I plan to start uploading it here within the next few months, as well as some more one shots if I can manage it. Please please please! Let me know how you guys like this new setting we have put together! I had a blast making it, and I already have a few ideas for some more saucy stories to expand this slowly building world.
As always, thank you all for your support, and to my old viewers, thank you so much for staying by my side and having the patience to wait all this time for me. Y'all mean the world to me, and I look forward to writing for you all some more!
This is your Narrator, signing off.