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."

The human child looks at her empress with wide eyes, the fear within them obvious. They don't dare to speak their name in reply, as if even that would bring harm. The red draconic-like scaled woman sighs softly before continuing. "I understand your fear; I was once like you. But know this, child: I will not hurt you."

She steps closer, lowering her massive form until she's towering only about twice the height of the human child. Her long red hair flows down around them like a crimson curtain. "You are safe here; my castle is your home now. My name... is Seraphina."

Xion visibly relaxes at the words, gazing up at Seraphina with a mixture of wonder and relief in their eyes. The red-scaled woman smiles gently down at them, her crimson-red eyes softening. "Well met, Xion. I hope you will find happiness within my kingdom."

She steps back slightly, gesturing for the child to follow as she begins to walk through the throne room toward a door at its rear. "This is my private quarters; you may sleep here tonight. Tomorrow we'll find you a proper chamber of your own where you can rest comfortably."

As they continue walking, Seraphina turns her head slightly, casting Xion an inquisitive glance. "Now, I understand that you must be quite hungry after your journey. Would you like something to eat before bed?"

Her smile grows at the child's eager reply as they continue toward her private chambers. "Very well, Xion." Seraphina pauses at the doorway, casting a quick glance around before nodding in satisfaction. She gestures for the young one to follow her inside. The room is opulent and tastefully decorated, with large windows allowing plenty of natural light to filter in during the daytime.

Seraphina leads them over to a plush bed near the center of the room. "Here you go; feel free to make yourself comfortable." Then she turns and walks toward a small table by the window, where various foods have been laid out: fruits, cheeses, bread, and some sweet pastries as well.

"Help yourself while I prepare something warm for us to share," Seraphina says with a kind smile before beginning to heat up a pot over her ornate fireplace. Soon enough the room is filled with the enticing scent of cooking meat and vegetables. Xion looks around in wonder, their eyes growing wider with each discovery.

"You are welcome to explore," Seraphina calls out over her shoulder, "but please do not touch anything that belongs to me." With that said, she continues preparing dinner, humming a gentle tune as she works. The atmosphere is surprisingly cozy and comforting, despite the fact that they'

Xion wanders about the room, taking in all the sights and sounds that Seraphina's private quarters have to offer. The warmth of the fireplace feels good against their skin as they explore each nook and cranny. They carefully examine the various knick-knacks that adorn her dresser, marveling at how delicate and intricately crafted they are.

The smell of food growing stronger draws Xion's attention back to Seraphina, who is now carefully arranging a tray of steaming dinner on a small table near the bed. "There we go," she says with a pleased nod, walking over and setting the tray down between them. "I hope you like it."

Xion perks up, eyeing the food hungrily before taking a small bite of bread to stave off their hunger while they wait for Seraphina to sit down as well. They look at her uncertainly, not wanting to do anything that might displease their new empress or make her unhappy in any way.

Seraphina chuckles softly and pats the spot next to her on the bed. "There is no need for such formality between us," she says kindly. "Please, join me." Seeing Xion's hesitation, she sighs softly and smiles reassuringly. "I promise

With a smile, Seraphina pats the spot beside her once more. "Thank you; please do." Once Xion is seated comfortably, they begin eating together in companionable silence. The food is delicious, and Xion finds themselves relaxing under Seraphina's gentle gaze.

After a few minutes of enjoying their meal, Seraphina glances over at her newest subject. "I must admit," she says with a small smile, "it has been some time since I've had company like this." Her crimson eyes sparkle with genuine affection as they meet Xion's curious ones.

"You remind me of myself when I was your age," she continues softly, pausing to take another bite of food before adding, "though I hope my experiences are not the same as yours." Her expression grows somber for a moment before she forces a small laugh. "Enough of such thoughts!" She sets down her fork and wipes her hands on a napkin. "Tell me something about yourself, Xion; what do you enjoy doing most?"

Her crimson eyes sparkle with interest as she listens to Xion's hobby. "I see," Seraphina says, nodding thoughtfully. "Perhaps one day I shall ask you to cook for me. I am told that my chefs are quite good, but it would be nice to sample the cuisine of someone close to home."

She takes another bite of her dinner, savoring the flavors before adding, "If you're ever interested in helping out with the cooking around here, just let me know. I'm sure there are plenty of tasks that even a young one like yourself could help with." Her smile is warm and reassuring as she continues eating, eyeing Xion with an unspoken offer of friendship and acceptance.

She pauses for a moment, considering how best to answer Xion's question. "I hope that your time with me and my people will be filled with love, friendship, and happiness," she says softly. "But I also know that life can sometimes be hard and cruel. I wish things had been different for me... but they weren't." Her expression turns distant as she thinks back on her past, before returning to the present and giving Xion a reassuring smile.

"I want only the best for you, Xion," she continues. "Please remember that if ever you need anything or feel like things are too much, you can always come to me. I will do whatever I can to help make your life here better." Her crimson eyes gaze deeply into the human child's own, conveying a message of sincerity and unwavering support.

Her crimson eyes soften as she watches Xion rest their head on her arm, a small smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "You are most welcome, my dear," she says gently. "Please always remember that I am here for you, now and forever." She gives the human child's arm a reassuring squeeze before continuing to eat in comfortable silence.

Despite their outward appearance of strength and dominance, Seraphina finds herself growing surprisingly attached to this small human being, finding a strange sort of solace in their presence as well. Perhaps there is still hope for her people after all... hope that she too can learn to love again without fear or hesitation.

As Xion drifts off to sleep on her arm, Seraphina watches them with a mixture of affection and wonder. The human child's breathing grows steady and rhythmic against her scales. A soft pink blush tints the tips of her draconic ears as she becomes aware of how close they are to her own body.

In that moment, Seraphina realizes something profound: Xion has become a symbol of hope for her. Not only does their presence in her life bring joy and companionship, but it also reminds her that there is still goodness in the world, even amidst the darkness she once knew.

With a contented sigh, Seraphina gently tucks a lock of Xion's hair behind their ear before returning to her dinner. The night passes peacefully as the two slumber together, their fates now irrevocably intertwined. Tomorrow, they will face whatever challenges come their way side by side, forged into an unbreakable bond through love and understanding.

The sound of Xion's soft breathing fills the air as they sleep soundly against her arm. Seraphina can't help but smile gently, brushing a few strands of hair away from their face. In this moment, she feels an overwhelming sense of love and protection for the young human. They represent hope not just for Xion herself, but for Seraphina as well; a reminder that there is still goodness in the world, even amidst the darkness she once knew.

With renewed determination, she vows to make Xion's life with her as comfortable and happy as possible. She will always be there for them, guiding and protecting them through whatever trials may come their way. As they sleep, dreaming of a brighter future, Seraphina knows that their fate is now entwined; together, they can achieve greatness and bring light to Xialin once more.

Her heart swells with love and affection as she watches the human child sleep peacefully against her arm. In that moment, Seraphina resolves to make Xialin a place where people can live in happiness and safety; a promise not only to Xion but also to herself. She will continue to rule with justice and fairness, always ensuring that her subjects are protected and cared for. Even though she might appear formidable on the outside, deep down Seraphina yearns for companionship and love; a feeling that Xion has unknowingly awakened within her once more.

Her heart skips a beat as she hears the tiny voice calling her name in their sleep. A warmth spreads through her chest, making it hard to contain the feelings of love and affection that surge within her. Gently, she runs a finger over Xion's forehead, soothingly brushing away any remaining worries or troubles from their dreams. The touch is almost reverent; Seraphina can hardly believe that this fragile human being has managed to break down the walls around her heart so easily.

With every breath they take, Xion brings life and happiness into her world; a gift she never thought she'd receive again. Seraphina vows to cherish them forever, protecting them with all her might from harm both within and without their dreams. In that moment, it doesn't matter how terrifying or intimidating she might seem on the surface; for Xion, she is nothing less than a beacon of hope and love. And for Seraphina, there could be no greater honor than to wear that mantle until the end of time.

As the day breaks and Xion slowly stirs awake, Seraphina watches them with a tender smile. The affection in her crimson eyes is unmistakable; she feels an odd sense of peace and contentment now that they are part of her life. A warmth spreads through her chest as Xion turns to face her, their gaze full of wonder and curiosity. In this moment, Seraphina knows that everything has changed; there is no going back to the way things were before.

With a gentle laugh, she reaches out to stroke Xion's cheek, marveling at how soft their skin is. "Good morning, little one," she says softly, her voice thick with love and affection. "Sleep well?" Her crimson eyes never leave Xion's face as they await the answer, eager for any excuse to spend more time in their presence.