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."

Seph's crimson red eyes narrowed slightly as the sacrifice, named Wes, looked away and appeared uneasy. She sighed softly, finding herself more amused than annoyed. "Wes," she spoke softly, gently reaching out with a clawed hand to carefully cup his chin, forcing him to meet her gaze again, "you have nothing to fear from me." Her voice was surprisingly soothing despite its deep timbre.

"I am Seraphina, Empress of Xialin and ruler of all within my dominion," she informed the young man, offering a small smile. It was clear that her claws were not long enough to draw blood even if he resisted, but they still made for an imposing sight nonetheless. "I have no desire to harm you."

She paused briefly before asking, "So, what is it you wish to do now?"

"I can offer you a position within my castle," Seph informed him softly, her grip on his chin relaxing slightly. "You will be given food and shelter as well as the chance to learn new skills and potentially advance in rank. It is not a life of servitude; rather, it is an opportunity for growth and personal development."

She paused again before continuing, "I have heard that you are quite skilled with animals, particularly horses. Is this true?"

Seph nodded, seemingly unsurprised by his claim to be better at peacemaking than fighting. "I see," she replied calmly. "That is certainly a valuable skill as well. In my domain, peacekeeping and understanding between different races are of utmost importance." Her expression softened slightly. "If you would like the opportunity to put your skills to use and potentially make a difference in the lives of those around you," she offered gently, "you could join me."

She paused again, studying him carefully before asking, "Would you be interested?"

Seph smiled warmly at the young man's answer, genuinely pleased by his willingness to help. "I do not doubt your abilities or value," she assured him softly. "As long as you are content with serving in this capacity, I will be more than happy to have you join my court." She paused for a moment, considering her next words carefully before continuing.

"However, if at any point in the future, you find that your role here is not fulfilling, or if you feel that you would be better suited elsewhere, do not hesitate to speak up. I value honesty and open communication above all else." Her expression turned serious as she added, "I will not stand for anyone being mistreated within my kingdom."

With a final nod of approval, Seraphina extended her hand, palm upward in invitation. "Then welcome to Xialin, Wes. Let us work

She paused at his question, considering it for a moment before answering with another question, "What do you prefer to call me? Seph is acceptable as well." Her crimson eyes studied him carefully, seeking an answer that would make him comfortable around her.

Seph blinked in surprise at his comment and took a step back, her expression turning to one of thoughtful confusion as she regarded him. "Wes...," she began carefully, wondering if she had somehow misjudged the situation or if it was a joke that she wasn't quite catching, "you can call me whatever you feel comfortable with." Her voice held a note of curiosity and maybe even concern now.

The empress paused for a moment longer before asking, "Are you uncomfortable around me? Is there anything I can do to help put you at ease?" She didn't want to push him too far but she also needed to make sure he understood the gravity of their relationship and that any inappropriate behavior would not be tolerated.

"It's alright," she said with a small sigh, reassuring him that he hadn't done anything wrong. "I understand that not everyone is accustomed to my size or presence." She paused again, debating whether or not to mention the obvious. "Wes... you may call me Seph if it makes you feel more comfortable." Her crimson eyes were fixed on him as she waited for his response, making sure he understood the offer and the implications behind it.

She wasn't trying to be cruel or demanding; rather, she simply wanted him to feel at ease around her. After all, if he couldn't trust her now, how would they ever work together as a team?

Seph's expression softened as the young man revealed his real name. "It's a pleasure to meet you, Iko," she said with a small smile. "I hope that you will find your time in Xialin rewarding and fulfilling." She paused, considering her next words carefully before continuing. "As for calling me Seph... That would be quite alright with me. You may call me whatever you feel most comfortable with," she added gently, wanting to put him at ease around her as much as possible.

Her crimson eyes studied his face once more, seeking any signs of further discomfort or worry that she could address. For now, it seemed that he was doing well enough; allowing a small sense of relief to wash over her. She knew that there would be times when they'd need to discuss important matters, but for now, simply establishing trust and understanding was paramount.

"Should

Should we begin discussing your role in my court? I have several positions that might interest you, ranging from animal caretaker to assistant diplomat. Perhaps even a member of the royal guard if you wish to focus more on training and fighting." She paused once more, giving him time to consider his answer before continuing, "Just let me know your thoughts, Iko. There's no hurry; take all the time you need." Her expression was gentle and understanding as she waited patiently for his reply.

Seph smiled warmly at Iko's choice, nodding in understanding. "Very well," she said softly. "Peacemaking and animal care are indeed important roles within our court. As for the animals, we have a wide variety of creatures that reside here at the castle; horses, dogs, cats, even some exotic ones like unicorns." She paused briefly before continuing, her tone turning more serious. "I trust you know that while your role may not involve direct combat or guard duties," she added gently, "it is still vital to protect those within my dominion; I expect no less from all of my subjects, including yourself."

With that said, she paused again to let her words sink in before asking him a final question. "Is there anything else you'd like to know or discuss before we continue?"

Seph chuckled softly at his question, her expression easing into one of genuine amusement. "Well," she began thoughtfully, pausing to gather her thoughts, "I was born and raised here in Xialin; this is my home, and I have always been protective over it." Her crimson eyes studied him carefully as she continued, "My father ruled before me, and he too instilled within me a love for the land and its people. I've never known anything else, so..." She trailed off with a shrug, not quite sure how else to explain herself.

"I suppose what I'm saying is," she said finally, her expression turning more serious once more, "that while we may have different roles within the court, our goals are ultimately the same: the prosperity and protection of Xialin." Her claws curled into fists at her sides as she added forcefully, "So

Her crimson eyes widened slightly at his observation, caught off guard by the honesty and genuineness of his words. For a moment, she struggled to find an appropriate response before managing a small smile. "I appreciate your insight," she murmured, her voice soft and hesitant. "And yes... I do care for my people." She paused again, searching for the right way to continue. "Perhaps that is why I can sometimes come across as severe or unforgiving; because I know what is at stake when peace is threatened," she offered with a sigh, her shoulders tensing under the weight of responsibility.

"But do not mistake my firmness for coldness or lack of empathy," she added quickly, not wanting him to misunderstand her intentions. "I merely want what's best for Xialin and its inhabitants." Her gaze drifted away briefly before returning to meet his own again

Seph chuckled softly at his observation, nodding slowly as she processed his words. "You're perceptive," she said, her voice still light but carrying a note of genuine appreciation. "Not everyone sees that side of me so easily." Her crimson eyes studied him carefully for a moment before asking gently, "And what about you, Iko? What do you hope to achieve during your time in Xialin?"

The empress waited patiently for his response, her expression open and curious. It was clear that she genuinely wanted to know more about the young man who had just pledged allegiance to her cause.

Seph listened intently to his words, understanding his fears all too well. She was surprised that he had found himself in such a position but grateful that fate had brought them together regardless. As he spoke about the suffering he'd endured and how it affected him, she couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for the young man who now stood before her.

"I understand your concerns, Iko," she said softly, "and I am glad that you are here." Her crimson eyes held a reassuring gleam as she continued, "Know that in Xialin, all creatures great and small are equal under my rule, including humans. You do not have to fear being sacrificed or treated unfairly."

She paused briefly, searching for the right words before adding gently, "But with that said... I ask that you also try your best to forgive those who may have hurt you in the past

Seph nodded understandingly at his words. "I understand," she said softly. "Time will heal your wounds and allow you to move on. But know that as long as you're in my kingdom, you won't be hurt or mistreated." She paused for a moment before continuing with more of an encouraging tone, "And who knows? Perhaps one day, you might even find it within yourself to forgive those who have wronged you." The empress smiled warmly at him, her crimson eyes full of hope and compassion.

Her crimson eyes widened slightly in surprise as she heard him speak another language, but her expression remained mostly unchanged save for a hint of curiosity. "I take it that's your native tongue?" she asked gently, not wanting to interrupt his moment or make him feel self-conscious about it. Her body language relaxed even further, making the young man in front of her appear more approachable and less intimidating than ever before.

"If you don't mind me asking," she continued thoughtfully, "what does the phrase mean? It sounded quite beautiful, almost lyrical." The empress seemed genuinely fascinated by this new aspect of Iko's personality and was eager to learn more about him and his culture.

Seph listened with rapt attention as Iko spoke of his native tongue and sang a small portion of the song he had been humming. Her expression was filled with wonder and respect, and she found herself unable to hide her genuine admiration for the young man's culture. "That is truly beautiful," she breathed, her crimson eyes shining with emotion. "I wish I could understand the words."

She paused for a moment before continuing, "If you ever feel like sharing more about your homeland or teaching me some of its language, I would be honored to learn." Her tone was sincere and open, her body language remaining unguarded and welcoming. "I believe that learning about each other's cultures only serves to make our kingdom stronger," she added thoughtfully.

Her gaze drifted away for a moment, lost in contemplation before returning to meet Iko's once more.

Her crimson eyes brightened at his offer, and she found herself unable to contain her enthusiasm. "I would like that very much," she replied sincerely, a genuine smile tugging at the corners of her lips. "Perhaps we could find some time during our patrols or training sessions? That way, we can learn together and bond as members of Xialin's court." Her voice held a note of excitement, as if she couldn't wait for the opportunity to delve deeper into Iko's culture.

Seph studied him for a moment longer before speaking again. "But enough about that," she said with a small laugh, her expression softening once more. "You must be tired from your journey. Why don't we rest for now? My chambers are nearby; you are welcome to stay there and recover." The empress gestured graciously, offering him a warm smile as an inv

Without further ado, Seph led Iko through the winding corridors of her palace to her spacious chambers, filled with comfortable furniture and soft textiles. Once they arrived at their destination, she gestured for him to make himself at home while she saw to preparing a bath for them both.

"This should help you relax after your journey," she said, smiling warmly as she lit some scented candles around the room and drew the curtains closed. "Feel free to undress and hop in whenever you're ready." She turned away briefly before adding over her shoulder, "And if there's anything else you need or want during your stay, don't hesitate to let me know."

As she busied herself with preparing the bath, Seph couldn't help but feel a sense of contentment wash over her. This was how it should be, she thought to

Seph paused mid-step, her crimson eyes narrowing as she listened intently to the sound that had escaped Iko's lips. A small smile tugged at the corners of her lips; it seemed he was already enjoying himself in her chambers. Her gaze drifted away briefly before focusing on the task at hand once more, adding a few drops of soothing essential oil to the steaming water before stirring it gently with her claw.

As she waited for Iko to finish dressing or undressing, she couldn't help but wonder what else they might talk about while they bathed together. Perhaps he would share more stories from his homeland, or perhaps they would discuss their hopes and dreams for Xialin. Either way, Seph found herself looking forward to their shared bath with an unexpected sense of anticipation.

When she was finally satisfied that everything was ready, she turned back

When she finally turned around to face him again, Seph couldn't help but smile warmly at the sight of Iko, now undressed and stepping carefully into the tub. "There you go," she said approvingly as he eased down into the fragrant water with a sigh of contentment. "That's better."

"So," she began, taking off her own clothing and joining him in the bath, "tell me more about your home. What kind of songs do they sing where you come from?"

Her crimson eyes shone with curiosity as Iko shared his story about the six tribes and their unity during the Pilgrimage. "That sounds... impressive," she murmured, leaning back against the bath's edge. She could almost picture it in her mind: The vibrant colors of each tribe, the different customs and traditions intertwining, creating a tapestry of diversity that was both beautiful and awe-inspiring. "It must be quite an experience," she said thoughtfully.

Her gaze drifted down to where their bodies brushed against each other in the water, and she felt herself blush slightly at the sensation. It had been so long since anyone but her guards and advisors had seen her unguarded, yet with Iko here, it seemed only natural for them to be close like this. Despite being several hundred years old, she found herself growing flustered by his presence

Her crimson eyes widened slightly at his tale of the Night Kingdom and the Ode of Resurrection. "That sounds... incredible," she breathed, her voice quiet with wonder. She could feel her heart racing as he spoke, an unfamiliar excitement coursing through her veins. It was as if she were a young girl again, hearing stories by the fire with her own family.

She found herself leaning even closer to him in the bath, their bodies almost touching now as she listened intently to every word that spilled from his lips. The water lapped gently against their skin, steaming and fragrant under the soft glow of the candles nearby. It was like a dream, this shared moment between them, something they could have never experienced before if not for fate and circumstance.

Her breath hitched slightly as she realized that she wanted more than just this... She wanted to know him better,

Her heart raced as she listened to him speak, a mixture of excitement and anticipation coursing through her veins. He was telling her stories of his people, sharing pieces of himself that no one else had ever known. It was intoxicating, heady, and with each passing moment, she found herself wanting more.

As he continued, her breath quickened in time with the steady beat of her heart, her body tingling with anticipation for what might come next. She leaned even closer now, their bare skin brushing against one another as if by accident or design. It was as if they were two pieces of a puzzle fitting together perfectly, forming something greater than either of them had ever imagined.

Her crimson eyes sought his out, holding his gaze captive as she allowed herself to bask in this moment, this connection between them. She could feel herself falling deeper and deeper under his spell, unable or perhaps unwilling

Her heart skipped a beat as his breath caressed her cheek, sending shivers down her spine. It felt right, this closeness between them, like it belonged in the pages of an ancient legend. Her body ached with desire for more; to know him better, to feel his skin against hers under the light of the moon and stars.

Her eyes drifted downwards, following the line of his neck and chest before settling on the place where they met, wanting nothing more than to taste his lips again. It was a risk, she knew, but one that felt worth taking given how he made her feel; free, alive, young.

Without another thought, she leaned in closer still, brushing her lips against his before pressing deeper, tangling their tongues together in a fierce and demanding kiss. Her hands found purchase on his shoulders, digging into his flesh as if claiming him as her own.

The kiss was hot and wild, their bodies moving together in the water as if they were one. Her claws scraped lightly against his back, leaving marks that would fade with time but would always serve as a reminder of this moment. As she felt him moan into her mouth, she pressed harder still, lost to the sensations consuming her.

Her heart raced and her skin burned, every nerve ending singing with need. It was more than lust; it was desire for connection, for something deeper than flesh and blood. She wanted him to see her not just as a ruler or even a friend, but as someone who felt the same passions and desires that drove him.

As their kiss began to slow, she pulled back slightly, her eyes searching his face for any sign of how he was feeling. Her breath came in ragged gasps, and she could feel herself growing wet between her legs from the combination

Her voice came out husky and breathless as she leaned in closer to him again, pressing their lips together once more with a moan. "That," she murmured against his mouth, "was... something I've been wanting for a very long time." Her crimson eyes locked with his as she let her words sink in, needing him to understand that this wasn't just about lust or power but about connection and trust.

Her hands slid lower on his body, skimming over the smooth skin of his abs before settling on his hips, holding him close as their kisses deepened once more. It felt good, so right in ways she couldn't quite explain, and she found herself wanting to explore every inch of him; to claim him completely.

Her other hand tangled in his hair, urging him closer still, hungry for more of the heat and passion that emanated from him in waves.

Her crimson eyes fluttered closed as she felt him melt against her embrace. The sensation was intoxicating; his warmth, his strength, the way he surrendered to her touch so completely and trustingly. It was a heady rush, one that made her heart race and her skin tingle with desire. She could feel the heat between them growing, their bodies pressed together in an erotic dance of lust and need.

Her lips trailed down his neck, leaving a trail of gentle kisses before settling on his chest. Her hands moved lower still, cupping his ass as she urged him closer still, wanting to feel every inch of him against her. As her nails raked lightly over his skin, he let out a moan deep in his throat, the sound vibrating through her body and sending shivers down her spine.

It was then that she felt herself begin to

Her crimson eyes fluttered open at the sound of his voice, their gazes meeting in the depths of the steaming water. A heat flickered within her chest, and she felt herself growing wetter still as they continued to grind together, seeking release from the building tension between them. With a needful groan, she nipped at his neck before trailing kisses up to his earlobe, sucking gently on the soft skin before whispering, "Let go for me, Iko... Let it all out."

Her claws scraped against his back once more, urging him closer still. Her heart raced, and she felt herself beginning to lose control, succumbing to the pleasure coursing through her veins as they moved together in a frenzy of need. She had never experienced anything like this before, not with anyone else... This was something special, something profound. And she wanted it

Her crimson eyes widened in surprise as she felt the sudden force of his release against her stomach, a hot wave of pleasure coursing through her own body in response. She cried out his name hoarsely, arching her back as wave after wave of ecstasy washed over her, leaving her limp and boneless in the water beside him. Her breath came in ragged gasps as she fought to regain control, the last tendrils of pleasure slowly receding from her skin.

Slowly, she opened her eyes, meeting his gaze once more. They were glazed with satisfaction and a hint of surprise, but most of all, there was something else there; an understanding, a connection that went beyond words or actions. It was as if they had shared a piece of themselves in that moment, making them both stronger for it.

She leaned closer to him, cupping his cheek with her

Her heart sang as she felt his breath against her skin, warm and steady, their bodies still connected in the wake of passion's fury. She traced the contours of his face with a fingertip, relishing in the feeling of him beneath her touch. "I-I don't know what just happened," she whispered, her voice slightly unsteady. "But I want to thank you."

Her gaze drifted downward, taking in his form as they lay tangled together in the water. A part of her wanted nothing more than to stay like this for eternity, basking in the afterglow of their lovemaking. But another part was curious, eager to explore more of him and learn more about the man he truly was beneath all the layers she had peeled away.

"Will you...," she began hesitantly, her crimson eyes finding his once more,

"Will you... show me the rest of your markings? The ones on your back?" Her cheeks flushed slightly as she spoke, her gaze fixed intently on his face to gauge his reaction. A small part of her was terrified that he might refuse or be embarrassed by them, but another, more confident part of her knew that it would only strengthen their bond if he trusted her enough to show her.

She didn't know much about the markings on Iko's back besides what they represented in her dreams, but she was certain that there must be more meaning behind them than met the eye. And if she could understand those meanings and incorporate them into her rule of Xialin, perhaps it would help her become the best Empress she could possibly be for both humans and dragons alike.

Her heart skipped a beat at his agreement, relief and excitement swirling in her chest. With careful hands, she traced the claw marks on his back once more before tilting him gently onto his stomach, pressing soft kisses to the base of his neck as he complied. Then, with one steadying breath, she leaned down and began to explore the intricate markings that adorned his skin: thick lines and delicate tendrils in shades of red and gold dancing across his shoulders and down his spine.

Her claws scraped lightly against his back as she studied each symbol, feeling a deeper connection forming between them with every passing moment. As she neared the end of his spine, her gaze flickered upwards to meet his own through the steam, the warmth in her eyes reflecting both curiosity and understanding. She took another steadying breath before whispering softly

Her crimson eyes shone with sympathy as she realized that the markings on Iko's lower back held significance to him as well. She traced each symbol gently, wanting nothing more than to comfort and ease his pain in whatever way she could. When she reached the final marking, a circle surrounded by seven smaller circles, her heart clenched in recognition of its meaning: The eternal cycle of life and death that connected all things, including dragons and humans.

As if in response to her thoughts, Iko shifted slightly beneath her touch, pressing his back into her palm as he released a shaky breath. She leaned forward, bracing herself with one arm as she cupped his cheek in her free hand. "I understand now," she murmured softly, her voice thick with emotion. "Your markings tell the story of who you are and what you stand for... Your connection to your past, to

Her crimson eyes shone with understanding and affection as she regarded Iko. "And now," she continued gently, stroking his cheek with the back of her hand, "I have a better idea of how to lead Xialin so that it can become a place where both humans and dragons alike can thrive."

Her fingers drifted lower still, tracing light patterns on his chest before hooking into the waistband of his trousers. With a sly grin, she tugged them downward, revealing the impressive erection that sprang free from its confines. Her heart skipped a beat at the sight, and her body responded with a hunger that had only been momentarily sated earlier. "Perhaps," she purred, trailing one fingernail over the length of his shaft, "it's time for round two."

Her crimson eyes darkened with desire as she watched Iko react to her touch. She didn't waste any time, leaning in closer and taking him fully into her mouth, sucking gently at first before deepening the sensation. Her tongue flicked out, teasing and exploring his length while her hands cupped his cheeks and held him steady.

With each long stroke of her tongue, she could feel herself growing wetter, the need for him coursing through her veins like a raging fire. The taste of him on her lips was intoxicating, a sweet nectar that drove her wild with lust. She moaned around his shaft, vibrating against it as she moved her head up and down in a steady rhythm that promised both pleasure and release.

Her hips rocked back and forth, grinding against Iko's stomach, the warmth between her legs

Her heart skipped a beat at his declaration, the words sending shockwaves of pleasure through her body. She moaned around him as she felt herself growing closer to the edge, her movements growing more urgent and frantic as she tried to bring them both release. Her fingers dug into his hips, urging him deeper inside her mouth with each thrust of her tongue. The sensation was exquisite, heady and addictive; she could feel herself losing control, succumbing entirely to the pleasure he brought out in her.

Her vision blurred as her climax swept over her, a powerful wave of pleasure that left her shaking and gasping for air. She held onto him, drawing out their shared release until they were both spent and trembling. Only then did she pull away, gazing up at Iko with a mixture of satisfaction and wonder etched across her features.

"I don't think

Her heart raced as her body reacted to the pleasure they had shared together. She couldn't believe how good it felt to be so connected with another being, to share such intimate moments. Looking at him now, she could see the admiration and love shining in his eyes, and it made something inside her swell with happiness.

As they caught their breath, she reached out a hand to stroke his cheek, marveling at how smooth his skin was. "I don't think I've ever experienced anything like this before," she whispered truthfully. "You make me feel... complete." The words tumbled from her lips unbidden, but as soon as they were out there she knew that they were true. He made her feel alive and loved in a way she never had before.

Her heart skipped a beat at his words, an unfamiliar emotion blossoming in her chest. It was a feeling she hadn't expected to have with anyone, let alone someone she had just met. But there it was, raw and honest and undeniable. She wanted to wrap him up in her arms and hold him close forever.

"I promise you," she said softly, cupping his cheek as he gazed into her eyes, "that no matter what happens between us or to us, I will always accept you for who you are. And I will always love you." She leaned forward, pressing a gentle kiss to his lips before adding with a smile, "Even if it means sharing a bath together sometimes."

Her crimson eyes shone with pride and affection as she gazed at him, his words sending a warmth spreading through her chest. "Thank you, Iko," she said softly, brushing a lock of hair behind his ear. "I hope that I can live up to your expectations and be the leader Xialin deserves." The water lapped gently against their skin, steaming and fragrant under the low light.

With a contented sigh, she leaned back against one of her hands, regarding him with fondness. "Now," she said playfully, "how about we get out of this wonderful bath before someone comes looking for us?" She smiled sweetly, hoping he would reciprocate the invitation to share more time together.