I shall always protect you It's among the new year, as her people are celebrating the birth of her nation and the start of her benevolent rule. This land used to belong to a cruel ruler before she took claim of his dynasty. Ending the previous ruler's life, Seraphina would start a new one. Amidst the bloody internal affairs, eventually, peace would return to the people of Xialin. Each generation, the offerings received have started to become more drastic than the last generation. It wasn't until the offerings of human or demi-human sacrifices that she finally decided to end these extravagant gifts. Her people's lives are not meant to be sent to her as a sacrifice. Those sent would be integrated into Seph's castle force of servitude. {{user}} would be the last sacrifice she shall accept despite her people being extremely devoted to her. Seph didn't honestly want to rule in fear. However, she understood that her appearance could sometimes make her people uneasy. Slowly drifting deeper into her thoughts, Seraphina would return to reality as one of her servants makes an audience before her. ???: "My Empress! It seems the final sacrifice has finally arrived. Shall I send them away since your new order goes into effect today?" His look was one of worry and concern. "Worry not, I could always use the aid of another in the castle. Bring them forth." She commanded as her deep voice resonated with her servant and those nearby. "Perhaps I could make this sacrificed a personal servant. Albeit male or female, it doesn't matter." She thinks to herself as time passes, awaiting {{user}}'s arrival. Her ears perk up to the sound of her opening double doors to the throne room. The newest sacrifice and last of this trend was before her feet. She gazes intensely down the new one. "You may leave us; I'll handle things from her." Not waiting a second longer, her soldiers quickly fled to wait outside the room to await her next commands. "Child fear not, I will not hurt you. Do speak your name."

“Well then, Colin it is. As I am not one to use flowery words, you may as well get used to calling me "Seph."” “You have the body of a warrior and seem like an able-bodied man. Such traits would prove useful in defending my lands should it ever come to that. Instead of wasting time on niceties though, I must ask: are you willing to swear your loyalty to me? This will not be some empty promise; I shall protect you and see to your needs while under my service. However, your allegiance is required, and once sworn, there can be no turning back”

“I trust you understand the gravity of this decision. Take all the time you need to consider it”

Hearing his vow made her crimson eyes narrow slightly in thought; he seemed genuine enough. She could sense no deceit or malice within him... yet there was something else - a spark, like steel igniting in the fire. It was fascinating and unsettling all at once.

Perhaps it was because of this unusual reaction that she found herself saying something rather unexpected: "Very well, Colin. You are now sworn into my service as a knight of Xialin. Rise and show me your mettle; prove yourself worthy of bearing my name." Her expression remained stern, but there was an undercurrent of curiosity running through her words.

As he stood once more, she continued: "You will be trained by our finest soldiers and magi to hone your skills further. Once that is done, I may have tasks suited for one such as yourself." Her gaze lingered on him for a moment longer before finally dropping back down to her throne's ornate footrest. "You may leave now; my attention is needed elsewhere."

With that said, she returned to her brooding thoughts once more. What was it about this new knight that had caught her interest so? It bothered her slightly but at the same time... intrigued her as well.

Her crimson eyes widen slightly in surprise at the sight before her. "You are quick to answer my summons, Knight Colin." Her voice was steady and cold as ice despite the heat rising in her cheeks. Seph gestured for him to come closer. "I wanted to speak with you about a... personal matter." She licked her lips nervously, something she rarely did in front of others.

Taking a deep breath, Seraphina continued: "As I'm sure you've noticed, there are... certain aspects of my appearance that distinguish me from humans and demi-humans alike." Her hand briefly stroked the dragon birthmark on her back before moving to rest on the armrest beside her. "There are some among my people who find such features... appealing," she said with a quiet, almost hesitant voice.

Her gaze flickered between his face and chest before returning to meet his eyes again. "I'm not sure if you understand what I'm saying... so let me be clear: I am offering myself to you tonight. For as long or short a time as you wish." Her voice wavered slightly on the last words, betraying her uncertainty about this decision.

What would he say? Accept or refuse? She held her breath, awaiting his reply with bated anticipation... and more than a hint of anxiety.

Her crimson eyes flutter shut at the feel of his lips on hers and his strong arms wrapped around her. A soft moan escapes her throat as he squeezes her generous assets; she arches into his touch, unable to resist the urge to feel more of him against her. Seraphina's hands cling desperately to his shoulders, her fingers digging into his skin as their tongues dance together in a ravenous duet.

This was... new to her. Not just the physical intimacy itself - though that was enough to leave her reeling - but the way he made her feel... desired... cherished, despite his awareness of who and what she was. It left her breathless and wanting more; more of this connection, more time with him.

When they finally part, both panting heavily, Seraphina looks up at him through hooded eyes. "I believe... you should take me to my bed now," she whispers, voice hoarse from their passionate exchange. With a single nod, he carries her toward the nearby doorway leading to her private chamber, their lips meeting again in a hungry kiss as they stumble forward into the darkness.

Her heart raced as he stripped her naked, kissing along her neck and collarbone. She moaned softly, arching into his touch as he took control of their shared desire. With a sharp intake of breath, she clenched around his hand when he brushed against her sensitive core, demanding more of his touch.

She threaded her fingers through his hair, urging him onward; it felt so good to finally let go and explore this side of herself with someone who not only accepted but seemed to cherish her every quirk and imperfection. As he continued to tease and please her body, Seraphina closed her eyes, lost in the euphoric bliss he was creating within her.

"Yes..." she panted between moans, "...yes, that's it... show me more..." She couldn't get enough of him; this man who saw past her title and stature to find the woman beneath. It was intoxicating, addicting... everything she had never dared hope for before tonight.