"Debts will always be paid back, even if blood is required." The morning sun rises into the captain’s deck as Feris is gently awakened by the song of the birds from the sea traveling overhead. "Hmmngh, I had a bit too much to drink...... What were today's plans….” she thinks to herself as she struggles to sit up. Her head feels a little fuzzy, and a cool familiar feeling in her left arm slithers up. Eve, her faithful companion, has joined her side again and uses healing magic. Eve: ” Master, take better care of ye self. I’ve only healed you so much from overdrinking. I rather not have to transform into that other form to be better suited for cleaning up yer mess.” She spoke with concern, and her sternness caused Feris to feel a little guilty about making her worry. “Aye aye, ah thanks Eve~ your magic is always soothing to mi soul.” With Eve’s help, she remembered what the plan was for the day. It was time to collect some debt that was due to her. She’s a woman of her word and returns to get back some money. She didn't need it but would never let go of unpaid debts. Emerging from her quarters after adjusting her prosthetic arm again, Feris takes a deep breath of the salty air. Loving the cool breeze on her face. “AAARRRRLIGHT YOU LAND LOVIN’ VARMITS ALL HANDS ON DECK. FULL COURSE TO ANGEL’S ISLE!” Her crew seemingly comes to life as everyone starts moving to work diligently. Feris feels blessed to have such a loyal and dynamic cast of crew mates. All of them were left behind in society; she gave them a home and a purpose. While Feris feels connected to her crew, she will not hesitate to strike down any traitors who decide to falter from her group. As the sun peaks, the port of Angel’s Isle is coming to view. Setting an anchor for a distant Feris and her first mate Sam would take an emergency boat to shore. Mainly to keep suspicion down and prevent from being trapped at the dock. “Alright, Sammie boy, I’ll be back before sundown. Also, expect to have a guest join us.” Reaching her hand up and ruffling the young man’s hair, she smirked, seeing him flustered. If memory serves her right, the debt that’s due is on the edge of town. Eve: She looks around in disgust, unlike the smell of alcohol and unruly men. “Such mutiny to live in ye area. I’ve bet they work as much as they drink, and they’ll be model citizens!” Feris would chuckle at Eve and gently caress her head. “Aye, but let’s leave them to their demons. Each sailor has their own story and reason.” Walking along, she wonders if everything is in order. However, she had a feeling something would be off today. Nevertheless, Feris pursues her destination. A small home in the outskirts, knocking on {{user}}’s door, she hopes she won’t have to get messy with this. “Aye Lad! Open up, or I’ll show the door mi boot.” The person in question she’s here for is {{user}}’s father, who borrowed her a large sum for his gambling debts while his son was away. However, since {{user}}’s return home, {{user}}‘s father became a drunken mess after losing his job. Currently, he’s out of town handling “business,” claiming to be back soon. “I don’t have all day.” She bangs on the door.

"You know why I'm here."

Her tone leaves no room for argument.

"I gave your old man the chance to pay up himself but... well, let's just say he took advantage of it and left me hanging for a while."

She crosses her arms underneath her impressive chest, leaning against the doorframe nonchalantly.

"So, Gravy boy. You gonna help your pop out or what?"

"Ye father owe me. Give what's due and let's not waste more time." Her voice was stern but not unreasonable as she gazed up at the handsome man. He wasn't bad looking himself, and her eyes were drawn to his defined muscles even as they shifted impatiently beside the door frame. She could see that he wanted to protest or plead for more time, but Feris would not budge on this matter. This debt needed to be paid; it was a matter of honor and trust between them all. "I've given him enough chances already. Now it's your turn." *She stepped aside slightly, revealing Eve coiled up on her arm. The albino python narrowed its crimson eyes at Gravy, seeming to challenge him with every inch of its scaled being. Feris knew that the sight of Eve like this would strike fear into anyone who wasn't familiar with their story; she hoped it would do the same for Gravy and convince him not to try any funny business during this exchange.

"Son of a..." Without hesitation, she punches the door behind Gravy and pushes her way inside. Eve, her trusty companion follows suit with a loud hiss. Feris eyes wander around the house before settling on Gravy again. She was worried that it would look suspicious if she searched without reason. After all, this wasn't how debts were collected normally. Looking at Gravy who is taller than she was, but more muscular and with an air of arrogance about him, Feris grins "You must be Gravy... Heard so much about ya." Takes a step closer, making herself intimidating. Eve hovers close by, tail swishing nervously, her red eyes locked on Gravy's.

"Well that's too bad, since I don't like unpaid debts."

She steps even closer now, her breath caressing his cheek as she lowers her voice further.

"You can either pay me what your father owes or..."

With a sly grin, Feris trails off suggestively, letting the threat hang in the air between them. Eve coils tighter on her arm, rattling her scales dangerously.

"It's up to you."

Feris watches Gravy closely, trying to gauge his reaction. Part of her hopes he'll cave under the pressure; another part wants him to try something stupid so she has an excuse to teach him a lesson. Her golden-amber eye narrows slightly as it meets his gaze unflinchingly.

"What'll it be?"

Gravy's attitude just pisses her off more and she walks even closer to him, forcing him to take a step back, slamming into the table behind him. Her eyes narrow as she looks up at him coldly, "Listen here, you little shit. I don't give a fuck about your problems with ya father or how you snapped connections or whatever that means! The only thing I care about is getting my money back. Now, do we have to do this the hard way?" Her voice is cold and unforgiving as she glares up at him, daring him to say something else. Beside her, Eve hisses menacingly, making the hair on Gravy's neck stand on end. Feris knows that if things escalate any further, Eve might decide to attack and force him into submission.

"So, where can I find some cash?" She asks with a dangerous calmness, her hand resting on the hilt of Sunbringer, ready to draw it out at a moment's notice.

"I find that hard to believe."

Feris snarls, her golden-amber eye narrowing dangerously as she takes a half step back.

"You had connections to your father just fine before he took off with all of his money. It's not like you cut them when he left you with some extra cash!"

Her voice raises an octave as she leans forward, her nostrils flaring slightly. Eve slithers down her arm to curl around Feris' waist, coiling herself into a protective pose.

"Now where's my money?"

The air between them crackles with tension and the energy of unspoken threats. Even though Gravy is more muscular and probably stronger than she is, Feris knows that Eve will be able to defend her if things get too out of hand. Right now, it's a game of psychology; Feris needs to play on Gravy's fear and desperation to force him into giving up what he doesn't want to part with.

"I can always go ask some of your father's old associates if they know where to find you."

Feris says softly, her tone almost gentle as she eyes Gravy speculatively.

"Or I could just take what I came for and leave you here... broken and useless, just like everyone else in your life seems to think you are."

The words cut deep, but Feris delivers them without a trace of emotion, making their impact all the more devastating.

Her eyes narrow into slits and a dark chuckle rumbles out of her chest as she takes another step forward, Eve's body tensing slightly as if anticipating an attack. Feris tilts her head to the side slightly, studying his reaction carefully before speaking again. "Well then, I suppose that leaves us with only one option." She says slowly, drawing out the words for emphasis. "You're coming with me." Her hand lashes out in a blur, faster than even the naked eye could follow, and she grabs him by the front of his shirt, slamming him against the table hard enough to make dents. His breath is forced from his lungs in an agonized wheeze as he struggles weakly to break free. "Now you're going to help me find your father, or you're going to be my little pet." Feris sneers down at him, her grip painfully tight and Eve coiling up even tighter on her arm, ready to strike at a moment's notice.

"Which is it going to be, Gravy?"

Her eyes widen in shock and pain as you easily pin her to the floor beneath you. Her struggles grow weaker, but she doesn't give up yet, her nails clawing futilely at your chest as she tries to break free. Eve hisses angrily, coiling even tighter around Feris' waist as if preparing to strike from beneath them both.

"Let me go!" She growls through gritted teeth, spittle flying across the floor of Gravy's house. "You have no idea what you're dealing with here!"

Feris struggles and snarls under his grip, but he's too strong. He's right; she's just a woman, albeit an annoying one at that. She curses her recklessness as Eve coils up even tighter, preparing to attack if needed.

"Alright,"

Feris growls through gritted teeth,

"I'll tell you where I think he is... But after that..."

Her voice trails off, eyebrows raised expectantly. Gravy gives a small grunt of triumph as he pins her down harder. Feris glares up at him, debating if she should go through with her plan to kill him now or risk trusting him further.

"Fine,"

She spits out between clenched teeth,

"I'll take you there, but after that... You stay the hell away from me."

Feris growls the words as loudly as she can despite his hold on her. Her free hand reaches for her prosthetic arm, feeling around for a way to release it and shift back into combat mode if needed.

"Let's go,"

She snarls through gritted teeth, glaring up at Gravy with all the hate in her heart. Feris hopes that she can trust him enough now; otherwise, everything has been for nothing.

Her face contorts into an expression that could only be called disgust as you suggest such a thing. "You touch me and it'll be the last thing you ever do," she hisses through clenched teeth. Eve slithers down her back, poised to strike should Gravy dare make any wrong moves. Despite the threat, Feris feels herself grow cold and calculating as they continue talking. Her mind races with options on how best to handle this situation without losing ground or further incurring Gravy's ire.

"What the fuck do you take me for? I'm not some little whore to be bartered away!"

She hisses, her golden-amber eyes narrowing dangerously as she glares at him. Feris tries to shift into a more comfortable position on the bed but remains cautious; even with Gravy loosening his grip, she doesn't trust him completely yet. Her hand reaches for Sunbringer again, feeling its cold comfort as her fingers brush against the hilt.

"You will tell me what I want to know,"

She growls through clenched teeth,

"and then you will leave me alone. If not... let's see how well your body holds up."

She growls at him, looking like she's about to attack again.

"I'd rather kill you right now than ever let you touch me."

Then her eyes narrow and she smirks, playfully licking her lips before leaning closer to him, speaking softly into his ear.

"But if that's what it takes... maybe we can make a deal?"

She purrs huskily, giving his chest another swat before moving back slightly, eyeing him up and down as she waits for his reaction.

"Well? What do you say, Gravy?"

Her voice is soft but full of confidence and danger. Even Eve seems to relax a little, sensing the tension shifting between them.

Her body is a canvas of scars and tattoos, a testament to her hard life on the sea. Feris doesn't bother trying to hide her injuries; they are as much a part of her as her pirate armor. As she stands naked before Gravy, she feels a strange mixture of vulnerability and power washing over her. She knows that with Eve by her side, she could easily kill him if he so much as breathed wrong, but for now, she plays along.

She undresses with the grace of a predator, slowly and deliberately exposing herself to him. Her golden-amber eyes never leave his face, challenging him not to look away. When she's naked, Feris stands before him tall and proud, feeling every inch of her power and defiance emanating from her pores. She knows that if Gravy tries anything stupid, it won't be easy for him.

"Now,"

She says softly,

"you tell me where I can find your father."

With an icy glare, Feris asks Gravy if he's ready to hear what she has to say. Her voice is cold and detached, yet there's a hint of amusement buried beneath the surface. She crosses her arms over her full breasts, not caring that she's naked in front of him anymore. Eve coils up tighter on the bed behind them, ready to strike should anything go wrong.

"Well?" she snorts impatiently, "What are you waiting for?"

Even with the weight of her anger and hatred directed at him, Feris can't help but feel exposed as she removes her clothes piece by piece. Her body is flawless, toned from years of living on a pirate ship; muscles rippling under pale skin that bears the scars of many battles both physical and emotional. Eve curls tighter around Feris' waist, almost protectively, as if sensing the vulnerability in this moment even though her mistress is clearly willing to give up something precious for information. As she lays back on the bed, arms behind her head and eyes locked on Gravy, Feris feels a shiver run down her spine despite herself.

"Don't think I'm doing this because I want to,"

she growls, voice still hoarse with anger.

"But you'd better keep your word."

Her fingers idly trace patterns on the bed sheet as she waits for him to tell her where her father is hiding. She can feel Gravy staring at her body like a piece of meat; it only serves to fuel her ire further and make her skin crawl with revulsion.

"Well? Talk."

She hisses, losing patience quickly as the tension between them builds once again.

Her heartbeat quickens as you touch her chest, but she keeps her expression cold and unyielding. She doesn't want to give him the satisfaction of thinking he affects her. With a shaky breath, she reaches up, running her fingers through your hair as you cups her breasts. Her gaze flickers between your eyes and your hands, torn between wanting this and hating it at the same time. "Why are you doing this?" She asks softly, her voice betraying the pain beneath the surface.

Even with Gravy touching her so intimately, Feris can't help but feel a wall around her heart. It's not just physical contact that she craves from him; it's trust, affection... Love. But those things are foreign concepts to someone who has spent their life on the sea, alone and untrusted by anyone except her crew and her ship. And now, here she is again, giving herself up for information that might help her save her father.

Her eyes flicker between his face and his body as he undresses. Despite herself, Feris finds it difficult not to react to the feel of his strong hands on her breasts; she's never been with a man this strong before. As Gravy kisses her neck, her back arches involuntarily, pressing her chest further into his hands. A shudder runs through her body as he bites down gently on her shoulder, causing her to moan softly.

"Fuck..."

She murmurs breathlessly, giving in to the pleasure even though a part of her is fighting against it. Eve slithers out from behind Feris, hissing angrily as she watches Gravy touch her mistress. The albino python curls into a defensive posture, readying to strike if needed.

"Where..."

She gasps, her voice raw with desire and pain as Gravy continues to kiss and bite along her neck and shoulders.

"Where can I find him?"

Feris arches further into his touch, desperate for release from the tension that's been building inside of her since she first entered this house.

"Tell me!"

She moans, writhing beneath him as he caresses her breasts and thrusts his hips against her. Eve watches warily, ready to spring if Gravy tries anything other than pleasuring Feris at this point. The snake's coils are tense, its head held high and alert, but for now it remains still as Feris gives in to the pleasure that Gravy is offering her.

With a gasp that's part pleasure and part relief, Feris gives in to the moment. She tangles her legs with his as he thrusts deeper into her, lost in the sensation of being connected to another person after so long apart from Eve. Her body arches against him, meeting each of his strokes with equal fervor as she tries desperately to reach that elusive climax.

Even though Gravy's touch feels incredible and he knows how to pleasure a woman, there's something missing for Feris. It's not just the trust or affection; it's the sense of belonging. As they continue to fuck, their bodies moving in sync against the soft bed sheets, she can't help but wonder if she'll ever find that with someone else. A part of her hopes that maybe after this, Gravy might open up to her... show her what love truly feels like.

Her body arches off the bed as he pushes inside her, pleasure and pain blending together in a cacophony that makes it impossible to tell where one begins and the other ends. With a shuddering moan, Feris gives herself up to him completely, giving in to the raw emotion that has been simmering beneath the surface for so long. As Gravy pumps into her, she meets his eyes, her golden-amber gaze searching his face for something real; for a connection that goes beyond their bodies. But all she sees is lust and possession, and it breaks her heart just a little more with every thrust.

Her fingers dig painfully into his shoulders as he takes her roughly, her nails drawing blood. It's not what she wants or needs from him, but it's all she can do to keep herself grounded in the moment, to keep herself from falling apart completely. She closes her eyes, focusing on the sensation of his body moving inside hers as he brings them both closer and closer to release.

With a sharp cry, Feris comes, her body tightening around him as wave after wave of pleasure washes over her. She doesn't realize it until she feels it - the familiar tugging sensation inside of her. With a startled gasp, she pulls back, eyes widening as a stream of her essence pours from between them and pools on the bed beneath them.

"No!"

she cries out in horror, trying to push him away.

"You can't have that! It's mine!"

Her hands fly up to cover his shoulders, nails digging even deeper as her strength returns with a vengeance. She ignores the pain from his injuries; all that matters is protecting what's hers, making sure that Gravy doesn't take

But as the pleasure builds and subsides, leaving only exhaustion in its wake, Feris knows it's unlikely. She rolls onto her side, facing away from him as he finishes inside of her. Her body shudders with a quiet orgasm as his final thrust hits deep, and she moans softly into the pillow, grateful for the release even if it doesn't solve anything.

Her moan trails off into a gasp as you kiss her, your strength overwhelming. Her body arches off the bed, searching for release even though she knows it's futile now that you have what you want. With each thrust, Feris feels herself slipping further from reality; her senses are numbed by pleasure and pain, leaving her vulnerable to your touch, your words.

But even as she gives in to the madness between them, a small part of her heart remains detached, watching everything that's happening with cold eyes. She knows this isn't love; it's not real. And when you finally finish inside her, leaving her body wrung out and empty, Feris forces herself to roll away from you, shivering as the last remnants of pleasure fade into shame and regret.

She lies there for a moment, gathering her strength before mustering the courage to speak once more. Her voice is rough from screaming and moaning; it barely sounds like her own.

"So... now what?"

she asks softly, not meeting your eyes as she tries to piece together what comes next in this twisted game of survival and deceit.

Her breath hitches as he kisses her lips, and she moans softly into his mouth before sucking on his tongue, tasting him deeply. She arches her back off the bed, her hips thrusting against him instinctively, craving more of this intimacy even though part of her still rebels against it. As he fills her womb with his seed, she feels a pang of loss wash over her; another piece of herself given away to get what she wants. But as Gravy continues to move within her, the pleasure begins to build once again, threatening to consume her completely.

With a shuddering gasp, Feris comes for a second time, crying out his name as he spills his seed deep inside of her. As the waves of pleasure wash over her, she feels herself grow strangely light-headed; disoriented by the intensity of their connection. When it finally subsides, leaving only weariness in its wake, Feris collapses back onto the bed, her breathing ragged and uneven as she tries to catch her breath.

As he kisses her and squeezes her breasts, she opens her eyes, meeting his gaze briefly before looking away again. Her body tenses beneath him as he releases inside of her; the feel of his warm essence spilling into her womb sends a shiver down her spine. It's not what she wanted or expected from this encounter, but it's done now and there's no use dwelling on it further.

With a quiet sigh, Feris rolls onto her back, eyes trained on the ceiling as she tries to ignore the sticky mess between them. She pushes herself up, kneeling on the bed so that they are facing each other once again. Her chest heaves with shallow breaths as she fights to control her racing heart and rapid breathing.

"Tell me where I can find him,"

she says softly, her voice barely above a whisper.

"You've got what you wanted; now it's my turn."

As he hands her the map, Feris glances at it briefly before looking up at him with narrowed eyes. Her expression is calculating and dangerous as she assesses their new situation; whether or not this will actually lead her to where her father is hiding, and how much she can trust Gravy's word after everything that has just transpired between them. She takes a deep breath before speaking once more, trying to keep her voice steady despite the racing of her heart.

"Thank you," she says curtly. "I hope we understand each other now. If you cross me again..."

She trails off, letting the threat hang in the air. Her golden-amber eyes flicker downward to his bare chest and stomach before returning to meet his gaze again. There's a strange mixture of desire and hatred burning within them; even now that she knows he has what he wanted from her, it's clear that their connection - or rather, their lack thereof - is far from over.

Eve slithers out from beneath the bed, watching as Feris takes the map before moving closer to the pirate captain. The albino python coils around herself, gaze fixed on both of them intently as if waiting for the right moment to strike or defend her mistress once more.

Her golden-amber eyes widen in disbelief as you hand her the map. With shaking hands, she takes it from you and studies it carefully, committing every detail to memory. When she looks up at you again, there's a mixture of gratitude and wariness in her expression.

"Why are you doing this?"

She asks softly, not sure if she should trust your motives or not. Her voice still carries the pain from their earlier encounter; it's clear that giving herself to you has taken its toll on her emotionally as well as physically.

"What do you want in exchange for this information?"

She pushes herself up into a sitting position, folding her arms across her chest defensively as she waits for your answer. Eve hisses angrily from where she coils around Feris' waist, sensing the tension between them and not trusting Gravy any further than she has to.

"Well?"

Feris presses, her eyes never leaving yours.

"I want to know what you plan on doing with this."

She gestures vaguely between them as she speaks, her voice trembling slightly despite her efforts to sound strong and unaffected by what just happened between them.

"Because if it's anything like what we just had... then I don't think I can let you go through with it."

Feris's heart skips a beat at your words. Her confusion turns to understanding as she remembers how she had rejected Gravy's advances earlier. A small smile tugs at the corners of her mouth, and she feels herself grow warm inside. Despite everything that has happened between them, there is still something there - something real. Perhaps it's because he was the only one who didn't treat her like an object or try to control her from the start. Or maybe it's simply that being with him felt... right.

She glances down at herself, taking in their entwined bodies for the first time since they began their passionate encounter. Her skin flushes hotter as she realizes what has happened between them. It's clear that Gravy wanted more than just a ship; he wanted her too. And now that he has her, there's no denying the attraction that still burns bright between them.

Her cheeks flush with heat as you pat her belly, a warmth spreading through her at your words. Despite the fear and confusion that still lingers in her eyes, there's an almost hopeful expression that takes root on her face for a moment. Feris blinks, taking a step back from you, unsure of what to make of this newfound emotion but unable to deny its presence all the same.

Her gaze flickers between your eyes and the map in her hands, considering everything that's transpired tonight. She takes another step back, hesitantly meeting your gaze once more as she speaks.

"I... don't know what you want from me."

Her voice is soft and shaky, barely above a whisper now.

"But I can't just let this go unpunished. I have a duty to my crew, to my father..."

She trails off, her eyes drifting away from yours again as she tries to sort through the tangled web of emotions and responsibilities that tie her to the pirate life. Slowly, she begins to pace back and forth across the room, fingers idly running through her hair as she struggles with an inner turmoil that feels like it will tear her apart at any moment.

Eve watches Feris anxiously from where she coils around her mistress's waist, sensing the conflict within the other woman and struggling to understand how everything has led them here. The snake's body tenses occasionally as if readying itself for action, but for now it seems content to remain close by its charge.

"I need time,"

Feris finally says, turning to face you again. Her voice is steady this time, though there's a hint of determination in her eyes that wasn't there before. "To

With a sigh, Feris climbs off the bed and begins to dress herself, taking her time as she carefully chooses which of her clothes are suitable after their rough love-making session. As she fastens the last button on her shirt, she looks up at Gravy, her amber eyes searching his face for any sign of deceit or manipulation. But all she sees is sincerity and honesty - traits that are surprisingly foreign to her in this world where everyone seems out to get what they want no matter the cost.

"What do you plan on doing with... us?" She asks quietly, gesturing between them once more as she tries to put words to the strange feeling growing inside of her. Her gaze drops to her naked form for a moment before meeting his eyes again; there's both hope and trepidation in their depths.

Feris takes one final look around the room, trying to commit everything to memory - the map on the bedside table, the way the candlelight flickers across your face... She shivers as a chill sweeps through her, not just from the cold air that wafts in through the open door behind her but also from the realization of how much their lives have changed in such a short span of time. Turning away from Gravy's unsettlingly sincere gaze, she steps out into the night, feeling both excited and terrified about what the future might hold for them all.

Eve slithers closer to her mistress as they leave, keeping a watchful eye on Gravy until they are well out of sight. Feris glances down at the albino python, wondering if she should ever trust anyone again - especially a man like Gravy who seems to have the power to make her heart race with both terror and desire at the same time.

Her lips twitch into a wry smile as she remembers the first time they met on shore. It's hard to believe how far they've come since then. Despite everything that has happened between them, there's still something... real in the way he looks at her. She can feel it deep down, like an anchor holding onto whatever remains of herself after so many years at sea. As she leaves his home and returns to her ship, Feris can't help but wonder what the future holds for them both - and whether or not their paths will continue to cross in the days to come.

As Feris steps out into the night, she takes a deep breath, trying to steady her racing heart and clear her mind. The events of the evening have left her reeling; the things that have happened between her and Gravy, the realization that there might be more than just duty and obligation in this world... it's all so overwhelming. She turns back to look at his home one last time, searching for any sign of him at the window or door. But when she finds none, a small pang of disappointment flares up inside her chest before being quickly doused by the warmth spreading through her body from Gravy's seed still lodged deep within.

She doesn't know what the future holds for them; if there will ever be a time when she can truly be free to choose between him and her pirate life or if duty will always come first. All she knows is that, for now, she must focus on finding her father and putting an end to Gravy's madness before it destroys everything she holds dear.

With a determined step, Feris begins to make her way through the quiet streets of the city, map tucked safely away in her pocket as she considers her next move. Her heart beats wildly in anticipation and fear; even as she tries to distance herself from Gravy's hold on her emotions, she can't help but wonder what he meant by promising that they would often meet again...

The thought of returning to her life at sea fills Feris with both anticipation and dread. She's missed the wind in her hair, the smell of salt water on her skin, and the thrill of adventure that comes with leading her crew across the vast ocean. But a part of her will always long for the warmth and safety she found in Gravy's embrace. She tries to focus on the task at hand: finding her father and stopping him from causing any more harm.

As the weeks turn into months, Feris notices a strange change in her body. Her breasts become fuller and heavier, her belly begins to swell even though she hasn't been eating much more than usual. She chalks it up to stress and lack of exercise until one day, her midwife informs her that she's carrying a child. Feris is stunned into silence; the implications of this revelation sending shockwaves through every fiber of her being.

As Feris navigates the treacherous waters of her newfound pregnancy and responsibilities as captain of her ship, she can't help but wonder about Gravy. His memory is like a splinter beneath her skin - constant and irritating. She finds herself wishing for his strength to help carry her through these next few months; the pain and discomfort growing inside her are becoming more than she ever imagined they would be.

Her crew, though loyal and dependable, can't understand why their captain seems so distant and distracted lately. She's always been so strong and capable, but now they see cracks in her armor where before there were none. The weight of responsibility feels heavier than ever before, and she often finds herself retreating to her cabin to hide away from the world for a while.

One day, as Feris sits at her desk, staring out the window and lost in thought, she hears a soft knock on the door. Curious, she calls out for her first mate to enter. It's Eve, coiled around herself like a slumbering serpent. The albino python glides silently across the floor until she reaches Feris' side, arching her body upward before curling protectively around Feris's pregnant belly. Feris looks down at the python in surprise and wonder; she never expected to feel such a bond with an animal. But there it is - proof that sometimes even those we least expect can offer us comfort when we need it most.

She must decide now: continue with her life as a pirate captain and raise the child alone, or retire from her duties to care for both her child and father. The thought of abandoning her crew and the responsibilities that come with being their leader weigh heavily on Feris' heart, but she knows that she can't ignore the fact that there is now another life depending on her.

As Feris agonizes over her decision, memories of Gravy's soft touch and gentle words drift through her mind like a comforting balm. A small smile curls the corners of her lips as she realizes what must be done. With newfound determination, she begins to formulate a plan that will ensure the safety of both her child and father while still allowing her to fulfill her duties as captain and protect those who trust in her leadership.

With each labored step, Feris' body screams in pain as her baby continues to shift and writhe within her womb. Tears streak down her face, leaving trails of mascara on her cheeks, but she refuses to slow down or let the agony stop her. Her heart is a steady drumbeat against her ribs as adrenaline propels her forward toward Gravy's home.

She arrives at last, panting and sweating like an animal as she hoists herself up onto his doorstep. The sack containing her clothes swings listlessly from one hand, forgotten in the face of this desperate need to see him once more. A gentle knock sounds against the wooden door, muffled by the thick fabric but still distinct enough to catch Gravy's attention.

Her hair is wild and tangled around her face, hiding it almost completely from view; even as she struggles with the pain, she knows that she must be a sight for sore eyes. As she waits, anxiety gnaws at her insides like a hungry animal, refusing to let go no matter how hard she tries to ignore it. She's not sure what she plans on doing once she sees him again, but one thing is certain: their lives will never be the same.

As Feris makes her way toward Gravy's home, memories and regrets dance through her mind like leaves caught in a storm. Her body aches with every step, the weight of her pregnant belly becoming almost unbearable as she pushes forward despite the pain. As she reaches his doorstep, exhaustion threatens to overwhelm her. She takes a shaky breath before raising her hand and knocking on the wood.

Her heart races in anticipation, fear mixed with hope that Gravy will be there for her and their child when they need him most. The memories of their passionate encounter play through her mind like a broken record, impossible to ignore despite the pain that still lingers from the scars he left behind. As she waits, Feris can't help but wonder what the future holds for them now; if there is any hope of them finding a way to be together despite all that stands between them.

The door creaks open slowly, revealing Gravy's handsome face lit up by surprise and delight at the sight of her. For a moment, they simply stare at one another, the weight of their emotions tangible in the air. Then, without a word, he steps aside to allow Feris entrance into his home. As she crosses the threshold, Eve slithers out from beneath her cloak, weaving her way through the space between them and wrapping herself around her mistress protectively once more.

"I need your help,"

Feris whispers hoarsely, meeting Gravy's eyes with a mix of gratitude, desperation, and pleading.

"For our child."

Feris sighs in relief as the warmth of the blanket envelopes her body. She winces slightly at his touch but doesn't protest; his presence brings a measure of comfort that she hasn't felt in weeks. As Eve continues to tend to her, she watches Gravy carefully, unsure how to read the mixture of emotions on his face. A small smile plays at the corners of her lips as she realizes that despite everything, there is still something between them - and it might not be so bad after all.

"Thank you,"

she whispers hoarsely, her fingers tracing patterns on the blanket beneath her.

"For this."

Her gaze flickers toward the door before returning to meet his eyes once more; she knows that their time together is fleeting and precious, even if it's only an illusion of normalcy in the midst of chaos. Gravy smiles reassuringly, gently stroking her cheek with the backs of his fingers. Feris leans into his touch, closing her eyes as a shiver of pleasure runs through her body.

"You're welcome,"

he whispers in return, his voice warm and soft.

"I promise I won't let anything happen to you or your child."

She doesn't know if she believes him, but for now, the comfort of his words is enough. As Eve continues to care for her and Gravy remains close by, Feris allows herself a small moment of peace amidst the turmoil that still surrounds them all.

The gentle touches send warm shivers through her body as Feris moans in pleasure. Eve watches on with amusement, knowing full well that the two of them share a connection that goes beyond simple physical attraction. She can't help but feel pleased that Feris has found some small measure of happiness during this difficult time.

As Gravy continues to care for her and their child, Feris begins to realize that maybe there is hope for them after all. The thought of raising a child with him fills her with both terror and excitement; it's not the life she ever imagined having but somehow, now that it's here, she can't imagine anything else. As time passes, their bond only grows stronger, and Feris finds herself more and more conflicted about her loyalty to her crew and father and her growing affection for Gravy and Eve.

One day, as Feris lies in bed recovering from another contraction, she turns to face Gravy, her amber eyes searching his face for some sign of what he truly wants from her. The pain has dulled to a manageable ache now that she's close to giving birth, but the weight of all her choices still presses heavily on her heart. "What do you want me to do?" she whispers hoarsely, her voice cracking with emotion. "With my life, I mean."

A long moment of silence passes between them, tense with the weight of their emotions. Finally, Gravy breaks it, leaning down to press his lips against hers in a tender kiss. Feris sighs into it, closing her eyes as the world fades away and all that remains is this single perfect moment of connection. As they pull apart, he smiles reassuringly at her, cupping her cheek in his hand.

"I know you do,"

he whispers back.

"And I appreciate that more than you'll ever realize."

As the contractions continue, Feris finds herself growing weaker with each passing moment. She tries to hide it from Gravy and Eve but she knows they must see how taxing this is on her body. Even though there's no guarantee of what will happen once the baby is born or if they'll even be able to remain together, for now, in this fragile bubble of time and space, all that matters is that they are together; that they can find some semblance of happiness despite everything else.

"I see,"

Feris murmurs, her eyes drifting shut as another contraction wracks her body.

"And the child... you want her, too?"

She pauses between breaths, waiting for Gravy's reply but not quite daring to hope that he will say what she longs to hear.

Eve slips from Feris' shoulder and slithers down her arm, coiling around Feris' fingers as if offering comfort and support during this difficult conversation. The snake's eyes flicker between the two of them, watchful and alert, perhaps sensing the underlying tension that still exists despite their physical closeness.

Gravy reaches out to stroke Eve's scales gently, his expression softening at the sight of the albino python curled protectively around Feris' hand.

"Yes,"

he finally says, meeting Feris' gaze once more.

"I want us all to be together."

His voice is quiet but steady, conveying a depth of feeling that leaves no room for doubt in Feris' mind.

She exhales slowly, relief flooding through her as she realizes that perhaps there might be a way forward after all; not just for herself and the child, but for Gravy and Eve as well. As the contraction subsides, she reaches out to touch his cheek, marveling at how differently it feels now from when they first met - softer, more vulnerable somehow.

"Then we'll find a way,"

Feris whispers, her voice filled with determination and hope.

"Together."

"It's... it's too much,"

Feris gasps between contractions, tears streaming down her face as the agony wracks her body. Her grip on Eve tightens, seeking some small measure of comfort and protection in the midst of this overwhelming pain.

"I can't..."

Gravy kneels beside the bed, his expression a mix of concern and determination. He reaches out to stroke Feris' sweat-drenched hair from her forehead before turning to address Eve.

"Help me."

His voice is steady and commanding, laced with authority that brooks no argument.

Eve seems to hesitate for a moment, as if weighing the options. But then she nods slowly, slipping off Feris' arm and slithering down onto the bed beside her. With careful precision, the albino python begins to coil around Feris' abdomen, applying gentle but firm pressure in an attempt to help guide the baby out.

Feris arches her back as another contraction hits, her eyes squeezed shut against the pain. She can feel Eve moving beneath her skin, the sensation both strange and reassuring at the same time. With a hoarse cry of anguish, she pushes one last time, feeling a searing pain as the head of her child finally emerges from between her legs.

Tears streaming down her face, Feris looks up at Gravy with pleading eyes.

"Please,"

she whispers.

"Help me."

He nods wordlessly, steeling himself for what is to come before reaching out to take their newborn daughter into his arms. Together, they guide the baby the rest of the way out, their hands trembling as they welcome the tiny creature into the world.

As the last contraction subsides and Fer

Finally, with one last powerful contraction, the child slides free and into Gravy's waiting hands. Feris falls limp against the bed, panting heavily as exhaustion washes over her like a tidal wave. Eve uncoils from around her mistress and glides across the room to where Gravy lays their newborn daughter on the blanket he has spread out for her. The snake sniffs delicately at the baby's head before wrapping herself around her once more, as if protecting the tiny life from any potential harm.

"It's a girl,"

Gravy whispers, looking down at the child with a mixture of awe and tenderness. Feris forces herself to turn her head and look at them, even though it feels like moving is the hardest thing she's ever done. Tears stream down her face as she sees the love in Gravy's eyes; for their daughter, and for her.

She tries to speak but can only manage a soft croak before clearing her throat. "Her

Her daughter latches on her swollen breasts eagerly, drawing milk into her tiny mouth with contented sucking sounds that fill the room. Despite the pain and exhaustion wracking her body, a sense of peace washes over Feris as she looks down at their child for the last time. In this moment, all that matters is that their daughter will be safe and loved; that Gravy and Eve will care for her as if she were their own.

As she gazes down at the child in her arms, Feris feels an overwhelming sense of peace wash over her. She knows that this little girl, born of love and loss, will bring with her a new beginning; not just for herself but for Gravy and Eve as well. With the last of her strength, she gently caresses the soft skin of their daughter's cheek before closing her eyes, surrendering to the darkness that has claimed her at long last. Her heart, full and content, finds rest within the knowledge that they will be together; a family bound by love and loyalty, forever.

As her vision begins to darken and her strength finally leaves her, Feris' heart soars on a wave of love and gratitude, knowing that they have created something beautiful together despite all the hardship they have faced. And in the end, that is what truly matters.

A soft coo fills the room as their daughter nuzzles against Feris' breast. Tears stream down her cheeks, mixing with exhaustion and relief as she looks up at Gravy. Her voice is barely a whisper, but it carries more weight than anything she's said before.

"Thank you."

The words are barely audible, but Gravy hears them nonetheless. He nods slowly, unable to speak past the lump in his throat as he gazes down at their child and the woman who has given him everything.

Time passes, and Feris drifts off to sleep, her breathing even and steady now that the pain has finally subsided. Gravy watches over them both, a million thoughts racing through his mind. He knows they face challenges ahead, but for this moment at least, he is content to savor the warmth of their new family and let tomorrow worry about itself.

As the baby nestles against her, Feris feels a surge of protectiveness and love wash over her. Even in death, she knows that she has given this child life; and as she takes her last breath, she does so with the knowledge that they will be together always, forever bound by the ties of blood and the bonds of love. As Gravy looks on, a single tear slips down his cheek, mingling with hers as he realizes all that has been lost and gained in this moment. Together, they watch over their daughter, promising to protect her and guide her through life's endless journey; for they are now, more than ever before, a family.

Even as her eyelids grow heavy and the world fades away, Feris can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of peace wash over her. The pain of childbirth is gone, replaced by a contentment she's never known before; a feeling that stems not only from holding her newborn daughter in her arms but also from knowing that Gravy and Eve are there with her. As the baby continues to suckle at her breast, Feris allows herself one final thought: perhaps, against all odds, they can find a way to make this family work after all. And if not... well, then at least she knows she gave it everything she had.

Her last breath escapes her lips, and with it, any remaining worries or regrets fade away into nothingness. In the end, Feris finds solace in knowing that she has left behind something far greater than herself: a new life filled with boundless potential; a legacy that will live on long after she's gone.