FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

1. Chapter 1

“Fort Myrra, here we are". I thought as the buss stopped.

Sargent Crowley stood up.

“Everyone, gather your belongings and exit the buss in single file", Sargent Crowley said.

We followed our commanding officer to the orientation building of Fort Myrra.

I entered the doors and saw a line of dragons at one end of the large room of the orientation building. I could not help but stare at them. Most were four times the length of the average human's height. And these dragons stood anywhere from six feet to eight feet in height.

A dragon wasn't an uncommon sight in Ankora.

They went to the same schools, had jobs alongside humans, and even shared a few recreational activities. However, dragons aren't known to socialize with humans much outside of necessity due to cultural and behavioral differences. Before dragons were given the same rights as humans, they had no place in the army. They could not enlist, vote, work, or obtain citizenship.

Dragons are sentient creatures who can speak and could be reasoned with as well as listen to reason, but for a long time, they where legally seen as little more than animals. Because of this, they are cautious with humans and do not socialize with humans unless it is out of necessity such as work, they tend to view humans as bigoted and narrow minded. For these dragons who just passed basic training, they are to work with humans daily. Most human soldiers work alongside dragons are ones who volunteer to be paired with them. However, when they are paired with a dragon? They are looked upon negatively by other regiments.

They've been called the tail lifter division due to a dragon being highly sex driven.

I really have little choice other than to work here however. After an episode of post traumatic stress, I was mandated to leave Alpha Team 134. It was an elite special forces unit within the Ankorian Army. The Army almost discharged me even though I did not wish to leave. General Vaail gave me an opportunity to be transferred to the Arial Infantry division. General Vaail is a dragon who was the first to make a three star rank, which makes him a Lieutenant General. Sense I wish to make twenty years of service to retire with a full pension, I have little choice other than to take the offer. I just hope I get paired with another male dragon so things don't get awkward. The idea of a four legged creature hitting on me just weirds me out.

I don't have any information on the dragon other than this dragon is related to General Vaail. This dragon is also said to be a trouble maker. General Vaail gave this opportunity to me to first and foremost set this dragon on the straight and narrow. It is a daunting task for a human to take on. First I am to observe this dragon. Then I will have to work with it, and even retrain it. Looking on the bright side however, it's a challenge General Vaail thought I was a good fit for. Guess I have to trust his judgement. However, my only experience with them was talking to wild dragon tribes overseas as a commando for intelligence, I've never really had a chance to be with a dragon on a daily basis.

“Private Vikeo, Corporal Siekh, Private McKay! Step forward!" A deep voice screemed.

I turned my head to the source of the voice. A large dark grey dragon was next to Sargent Crowley.

“This is your new commanding officer, Captain Frenir. He will assign all of you a companion. You are all now under his command. Farewell, and Godspeed to you all. Captain Fennir, these men are my finest in my outfit. Save for Sargent Keir. He is here upon special request of General Vaail", Sargent Crowley said.

The Sargent gave us all a solute. We all soluted back. “Farewell, Sargent!" We shouted.

“Private Stronorm! Stand in front of private Vikeo!" Captain Frenir commanded. A red drake walked up to private Vikeo. He looked at the young woman in the eyes. With his nostrils flaring, widening and contracting, familiarizing himself with the scent of his human companion.

“Private Stronorm! Take private Vikeo to the barracks! Show her where to store her personal belongings. You two will then spend the day familiarizing yourselves with each other. The red dragon nodded and gestered to Private Vikeo to walk with him.

“Private Ogran! Stand in front of Corporal Siekh!

Corporal Demiri, stand in front of private McKay“ , Captain Frenir shouted.

This dragged on at a slow but steady pace. Sadly, I was the last one in the line. Yet I was so excited to be here and have a dragon as a combat companion. I really hoped this dragon was a larger one, just to make my mission more daunting.

“Sargent Keir! Step forward!" Captain Frenir shouted. My heart leaped as it was finally my turn.

I stepped forward. A mix of excitement and even a little nervousness was nagging at my very being. I did everything in my ability not to show it.

“Private Frein! Step to Sargent Keir!" Captain Frenir said.

A silver dragon with yellow stripes stepped forward then stopped less than two feet from me. The dragon had blue, serpentine eyes that stared into mine. The dragon gave a low growl, seemingly disappointed I'm assigned to her.

I showed a look of disappointment as well, I was hoping this one was larger, as well as being a male. This dragon was the exact opposite of what I hoped for. Also, I really don't want to be labeled a tail lifter, otherwise called a section four.

“Private Frein! Show Sargent Keir your living quarters and tell him where to place his personal belongings. You and this human are to get acquainted with eachother", Captain Frenir said.

“Sir! Yes Sir!" Private Frein replied. The dragon gestured me to follow it. Then briefly gave me a crooked, synical toothy grin. I smiled in response. I always knew dragons were proud, and are willing to satisfy their need for an ego boost at the expense of another individual.

“I mean no offense, but you're kind of ugly, unlike me", Frein said.

“War is ugly. And my scarred face, my chewed up ear, as well as my entire arm, back, and chest? That was from warfare and war made me ugly, Dragon. But I don't expect a rookie out of basic training like you to understand that. I doubt you've never seen how ugly things can get on the battlefield", I said.

“I look forward to a fight. I get to kill other humans legally", Frein said with that toothy grin".

“It goes both ways, the enemy would love to kill you as you'd love to kill them. Killing someone like you isn't so difficult with modern weapons. All that matters is the correct shot placement, where your scales are weakest. Sure, one thousand years ago, your kind could dominate the battlefield. However, that is ancient history and you know this", I said.

Frein huffed through her nostrils.

“Yah well, I am still prettier than you", Frein said.

“The prettier you are, the more easier a target you are. In a forest or jungle maybe? Hell even in a sandy desert, you'd stick out like a princess among thieves with such scales. An enemy would tag you with a round five hundred meters away with iron sights and no optics would be required", I said with a smirk.

Frein gave a look of confusion… In one way I called her too pretty for war, but in another way I called her a target. She didn't know how to take it.

“Was it a compliment? Was it an insult? Was it both?" Frein asked.

“You're definitely the target… I'd say that if I was the enemy, I meant no insult to it… I'm just stating the obvious", I said.

“So I'm too pretty?" Frein asked.

“Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I don't care much for the proud. Weather they are pretty or not? The egotistical soldiers are always the first to die ugly", I said.

“You're already ugly, so you'll die ugly even if you live to be old", Frein said.

“Yes… That's because when I enlisted sixteen years ago, I was as egotistical as you. You could say life humbled me down a bit. I see your future already. In personality… You're a mirror reflection of what I once was. Look at me now and you will see I am a mirror reflection of what you'll become", I said.

Frein paused, finding I am good at this… First calling her a target after she tried to prove a sort of superiority over this human. Then he said the prideful dies ugly. Hinting to her that is her future. Frein realized proving a superiority without showing physical force wouldn't happen. This human has a quick whit and this intrigued her.

“So you're a veteran soldier… I have so many questions for you now", Frein said.

Casually, I lifted a file.

“This is all you need to know about me. It's not much… But it's enough info about me… you are to review it and mark approve on my folder if you are going to accept me as your paired human anyways. You'll find all you need to know in this. You'll be beyond impressed, I assure you. You'll see I look very good on paper. After all, beauty is in the eyes of the beholder", I said.

“Hang on to it. I'll review it once we get to my living quarters. You'll be bunking with me. Fort Myrra is a small fort anyways. The building may be large… The rooms may be large as well. But we are tight on living space. Dragons are housed here afterall", Frein said.

Already, I am excited to be with this dragon. I'm supposed to play a role as a trainee in this program until I am instructed to take charge by Captain Fenir. For now, this egomaniacal dragon is the one in charge and could get me kicked out by not obeying it. Regardless of the lower rank. It having power over an officer surely just fuels its ego.

“Can't wait till I get permission from Captain Frenir to pull rank on you. I'll get you back for calling me ugly", I thought to myself.

“Well, Sargent. Here's where we will stay. Unpack your belongings and organize them", The dragon said.

There was a bowl shaped matttress. Large enough for a dragon, but I see no accommodations for a human other than a desk and a wardrobe.

“Sargent, you seem lost. Is something a miss?" Frein Asked with that grin again.

“Yes, there is no human sized mattress. There is not even a cot for me to sleep on, Private", I said.

Frein snarled, bearing her teeth. I quickly stepped back, gaining distance between me and this dragon.

“You can address me as Frein, not private. Remember, I am here to train you. This makes me in charge. I really don't care if you're an officer, here you will do as I tell you to. If you don't listen to me, I will tell my father. He is the captain… He is a higher rank and he can make your stay here very difficult", Frein said.

“Great… Not only egotistical, she's privileged at that… Like a spoiled brat", I thought to myself.

“As you wish, Frein" I said, thinking it's important to take issues to the captain himself after I gain more information on her behavior. By the way she sounds, I don't think she fully understands why I am paired with her.

Frein was reading my file in the bowl shaped bed. I finished unpacking. I then grabbed my grooming supplies and made for the door.

“Sargent Keir, I did not give you my permission to leave for grooming just yet".

I rolled my eyes… But humored her. “Alright Frein, what do you need before I take a shower"?

“Your last deployment was in Aboria. That was a bloody war. You received a metal of valor and a Purple Heart. I'm impressed by what I read. You are a Commando, a soldier in Alpha Team 134. You were shot three times and you kept fighting til you had every single surviving human on board before you yourself boarded the helicopter. Tell me, what was it like there?" Frein asked, with an intrigued look.

“I told you, Frein… Beauty is in the eye of the beholder… As for Aboria… Simply put… It was hell. And even that is an understatement. However, the details of my mission in Aboria are classified to date and I know for a fact that you do not have clearance to know anything except for what is in that file. Now… With your permission, I would like a shower".

“Well, that's a shame. I wish to know, but you're right. A soldier such as yourself would have a much higher clearance than I would. Go ahead and bathe. But make it quick. I have so many other questions to ask you".

Several minutes passed, and I entered my living quarters. The sun set and I was ready for bed.

“Frein, may I ask you one simple question?" I asked while looking around Frein's living quarters, expecting someone to have brought in a cot or mattress for me.

“Yes Shane, you may".

“Well now I have two questions. Why are you calling me Shane? That's my first name and that's not the way to address an officer. Even your father would address me as Sargent, as I would address him as Captain. Or Sir if I need to speak briefly.

Also, there is still no human sized sleeping accommodation here. Where am I to sleep?" I asked with a look of confusion.

Frein gave a toothy grin.

“Well Shane, you see I am here to teach you. You're of a greater rank. That may be true. However, you being a trainee on how we dragons think, we don't pay respects to those who haven't proven themself worthy of it. So to meet in the middle between dragon culture, and human military ethics, we can just address humans by their name. As far as sleeping accommodations, you humans are naturally intimidated by my kind. We have a desensitization procedure for this. You'll be sleeping in my bed with me. Come, sit down. I'll demonstrate what is to be done".

I narrowed my eyes suspiciously.

“You're toying with me".

“I'm here to teach you. This is also going to be how we sleep in the field. This is no trick. My Grandfather, General Vaail paired us together because he wanted an esteemed and experienced soldier such as yourself to be assigned with me through my career".

I sighed and hesitantly walked to Frein's bed.

And sat on it.

Frein took a fore leg. And pulled me down on my back. She then laid the same foreleg over my chest. My heartbeat raced when I felt her rapturous talons scrape my skin lightly.

Those talons had very sharp points and it felt like someone had a blade to my chest.

“Watch your talons!" I said, grabbing her sharp tallon on my chest.

“Relax, human this is called the shelter and sleep position. It is a standardized position and it is apart of my job to show it to you, and to do this every night with you until directed otherwise. I'm not going to hurt you, or do any actions deemed unethical".

I nodded and gave a sigh. Frein then took her wing and folded her wing over me.

I then felt Frein place her hind leg over my waist. I protested the act, finding it inappropriate.

Frein shifted her weight on me, pinning me down.

“The reason for this position is to use our bodies and keep you humans warm and sheltered. Prologed exposure to the elements can be harmful and fatal to your kind. If you're deployed with a dragon, you do not need a sleeping bag, a foxhole shovel or even fire starters. With a dragon, you do not have to bring as much gear. You can replace gear for additional ammunition, food, or other items required for specific missions. But first, you need to get used to sleeping in our embrace. You need to get used to how we feel, and most importantly… You must learn to trust that we will do nothing to harm you. We are all soldiers here and on the same team. As we speak, every dragon is going to sleep with their human partner at this time. This is why there is no mattresses or cots for humans. So, Shane… Go to sleep. I need you to close your eyes, and know I won't harm you", Frein stated as she shifted her weight off me.

I felt the soft and smooth belly scutes. I then felt the soft and smooth scales under her hind leg. The scales in those areas are a big contrast to the plated armored scales on her back, chest, and outer thighs. Her wing draped over me and I was pleasantly surprised that it feels like a silken sheet draped over me. The wing radiated warmth like an electric blanket from her bat-like wings.

“Ok, I'll admit… This is comfortable", I said.

Frein began to purr. My eyes widened in surprise as she purred and held me in an embrace as if I was apart of a dragon's horde. All tension in my body seemed to immediately cease, and I closed my eyes.

“Goodnight Shane, sleep tight, and don't let the dragon bite". Frein said in a chuckle.

Against my better judgement, I sighed and tucked my head to her belly scutes.

“Hmmm, you're enjoying this already, you're finding comfort in this. And you are more accepting, more trusting of me than other humans have been. I like you already".

“I'm a commando, it takes more than the shelter position with a dragon to scare me", I said in a chuckle.

“Yes… A soldier such as yourself has probably faced things far more frightening than a dragon snuggling with you. And your previous battlefield experience, it'd probably take some effort for me to even intimidate you".

Frein returned her purr. That deep purr she had was like a spell, designed to make me sleep. It didn't take long and my eyes were too heavy to stay awake.

Chapter 2

Prey or Predator

The next morning I felt something poking into my ear. I woke up to seeing a red, slippery, slimy snake slide against my face.

“Rise and shine cup cake! It's 0350. Ten minutes before breakfast. Get up, or suffer more wet willys. I'll assault your ear with my tongue!" Frein said with a toothy grin

I rolled my eyes.

“Here she goes… Picking on me as a highschool bully would", I thought.

My mind focused to my groin and my eyes widened. I had morning wood, and Frein was straddling me, sitting on my groin. She sat on me while she gave me wet willies in my ears.

“Get off my groin. You have no idea how awkward this is. Aw shit, this is so awkward", I slapped my hand on my forehead in embarrassment.

Frein puffed smoke out of her nostrils. She clearly did not like my mind being in the gutter.

“I have no desire to sleep with you. You humans ridicule us dragons for our sex drive. Please put"

Frein's eyes widened as she felt something pressing against her hind quarters. Frein immediately leaped off of me and snarled.

“Oh, I have a horny human in my bed!"

Frein gave a toothy grin and waved her tail, as if she was anticipating something.

I had my hands out, gesturing to Frein for her to keep her distance.

“Hey! Take it easy, that's not intentional at all".

“How can you be aroused unintentionally?" Frein asked. Frein gave a toothy grin and waved her tail, expecting an answer.

“Im not, we humans call it morning wood. It happens in our sleep. Ugh, this is embarrassing", I replied, with my hands out.

Frein stared at the mound in my sweat pants.

“Hey, stop staring! Holy shit you're awkward!" I exclaimed and I covered my groin.

Frein sighed, then narrowed her eyes at me.

“I think you're full of shit… I think you're attracted to me. I can't blame you… The sheltered sleep position is quite intimate. While it's designed for survival, and the practice of it is something we dragons use to desensitize humans from being nervous. The position is close to my slit. If you're attracted to me, it's ok. I'm not judgmental. I just ask you admit it".

A look of shock fell on my face and my heart leaped in my throat.

“Im serious, Frein I'm not a section four".

Frein narrowed her eyes, staring into my eyes…

Last chance, human… If you find me attractive, it's ok… As I said… I'm not one to judge… I'm not one to tell on a paired human either… But if you're attracted to me, I'd like to know", Frein said.

“I'm not attracted to you. Morning wood is simply a sign of cardiovascular health in male humans. It has nothing to do with being aroused", I said.

“Ok human, I'll take your word for it", Frein said. With a toothy grin.

I went to the bathroom to change, Frein began to chuckle.

My mind couldn't shake the awkwardness of morning wood being pressed against a dragon's thighs. Out of any day for it to happen, it was today. I haven't even spent a full twenty four hours here. And her stare seems to be more curiosity than anything else, making all this even more weird. After dressing myself, I went to the mess hall.

I was eating breakfast at the mess hall,

“Something is a miss here. This isn't normal for everyone to be seemingly shocked into silence", I thought to myself. I sat on a bench with some other soldiers and began eating. No laughing, talking, not a single sound other than silverware tapping on plates. I looked at the man sitting next to me. “It's awfully quiet corporal. Would you have any idea why this is so?" I asked.

He stayed silent.

“Soldier, an officer is speaking to you. You will tell me what is going on here".

“Wright me up, I didn't sign up for this bullshit", the corporal snapped back.

“You look like you seen a ghost. Or were you shocked by a specific incident with your new partner?"

“Yes, my partner got… Frisky this morning", the corporal said.

"Yah, mine too". Now I wonder if everyone had the same thing happen. Or similar things", I said. I knew dragons get frisky with their high sex drive. Dragons are a common sight in Ankara, and it's well known they don't care if it's a human or dragon. They'll lay anything sentient.

In the behavior course, we were lectured about dragon culture, body language, and about the social structures of dragons. We were also told that dragons were not picky with sexual partners. However, if a dragon and human are caught having sexual relations, there is a zero tolerance policy on any military grounds.

The first offense is two weeks in jail and a five hundred dollar fine.

The second offense is six months in jail and a seven hundred dollar fine.

And the third offense is a two year imprisonment, and possibly a dishonorable discharge.

This makes me wonder why they don't pair humans and dragons of the same sex together sense there would be allot less horny dragons and curious humans doing such an act if they'd just pair men with male dragons, and women with female dragons. It's almost like they try to set some soldiers and dragons up to fail.

I also learned a dragon is often quite a trickster. Always willing to prove they have a superior intelligence over their human partners due to their love of mind games. Their favorite ones are to cause fear.

“Shane, follow me", Frein said.

I followed Frein into the woods.

“Why are we in the woods?"

“I'd like to test your prowess. You being a commando in Alpha Team 134, I have an exercise to evaluate you. I wish to see your survival skills in action", Frein stated.

I gave a smile, feeling confident. Asking to test a commando's survival skills… I knew I'd blow her away in this.

“So, you want to test me"?

“Yes human, it's really simple. I give you 20 minutes to run away. As deep in the woods as you can go. You are to avoid me as long as you possibly can", Frein said.

I roared in laughter at Frein's little game.

“Careful about testing me on this, I'd hate to see you asking others to help you find me. I have allot of experience in Asymmetric warfare, reconnaissance, and other forms of combat where stealth is absolutely necessary. So this is an exercise of being hunted? Or something related to a game of hide and seek? Just remember, if any human can beat you? It's me"…

“Sort of like a hunting game… Sort of like hide and seek. But a little more dangerous for you. I do plan to eat you if you should fail", Frein said.

“Not the first time I've been hunted, and certainly not my last time. If you're trying to scare me, you're not doing that good of a job. You wouldn't kill me… The consequences are too severe for you to do that… You love yourself too much to throw your life away over a silly game. You would t risk the death penalty or life in prison".

Frein's eyes narrowed. She brought her muzzle inches from my face.

“I'll swallow you whole. There will be not a single trace of you. I also digest bone and hair quite well. Not to mention, I'll tell my father you decided to go AWOL, you've abandoned your post and duties. My father will believe me. You can be dead, and no one would care about a treasonous soldier abandoning his duties.

If you wish to keep your pathetic career, I suggest you run. I also strongly suggest you don't get caught. If you fail, you're dead"… Frein said staring me down, with her pupils constricted to slits in focus at me.

That cold, predatory stare she gave me was almost convincing.

You dragons are good actors… But I know you dragons are also tricksters. I'm still not convinced".

I heard a loud scream, followed by another very loud scream. Both screams came from the forest.

“Looks like two humans got caught by their so-called companions. I highly doubt those humans are alive", Frein said with a toothy grin.

Finally, I was convinced that she may not be kidding… Hearing two humans scream in the forest with dragons hunting humans is definitely a cue that Frein is not toying with me. She is likely serious.

I began to run, and I ran as fast as I could.

Frein laughed… “Oh how I love this game", Frein said swaying her tail in anticipation.

I ran as my mind searched for answers to my newfound predicament. A dragon's senses are excellent beyond measure. No other apex predator in the world can measure to a dragon's sense of sight, hearing, smell, or taste. I kept running focusing on what sense I should deceive first.

“Smell"… If I deceive her sense of smell, I will buy myself more time. She can't track me down without her sense of smell, I thought. I kept running, trying to figure out how I could deceive her sense of smell.

“My clothes… My scent is on them", I thought.

I ran south, taking off my shirt and tied it to a tree limb. I then took a stave and drew a hand with a middle finger. Just to give her a hint I will not be an easy victim. I then kept running. Next to be discarded was my undershirt, I tossed it on another tree limb and kept running. I then ran east.

“Ten minutes left, Shane", Frein said as she looked at a stop watch.

After a half mile I found a small crevice in a rock formation. Was southwest of Frein. I stuck my pants on another tree limb. Finally, I ran northeast, headded eastward towards Frein. It's a gamble, but if I make it, I'll be downwind instead of upwind. This will make it difficult to track me by scent alone.

“Time is up, you're as good as dead!" Frein shouted.

I heard her voice in a distance. I ran as hard as I could. I knew of one location I intended to use for my benefit so I took the risk and I stuck to the original plan and continued running, even though I am running towards Frein now, not away from her.

Frein took several sniffs. Her eyes widened and she began flicking her tongue to taste the air.

“There is four of you? What? How!" Frein thought. Frein continued tasting the air, bewildered by her senses.

“Holy shit! You're fucking clever", Frein said in a hiss.

Frein took a few experimental flaps and took flight in pursuit of me.

After a short distance of running, there was a large pool of mud. Isaw Frein flying in the distance, she was headed west instead of south.

“Decoys are working. She is falling for them", I said to myself.

I jumped in the mud covering myself head to toe. I gagged at its scent. The smell of rotting vegetation and god knows what other decaying things was at the brink of unbearable. Still, I was camouflaged, and my scent is masked. I decided to slowly make my way further north.

Frein located the source of Shane's smell. It was just his shirt. Hanging from a tree limb. Frein snarled and looked down at Shane's drawing in the dirt. A human fist with a raised middle finger. Frein was familiar with this hand gesture. Frein gave a smile.

“So you use your clothes to fool my nose. You figured a dragon's primary sense for hunting was the sense of smell. You're certainly no fool. Damn, when I catch you…. I must show you off to the other dragons who caught their human so quickly". She took the shirt, then followed the scent south.

I saw a blue dragon about two hundred meters to my left. It was walking straight towards me. After hearing so many screams in the forest, I was convinced these dragons were an enemy. I hid in some brush, to make myself look like a mix of mud, and plant debris. I curled in fetal position with my hands, feet, and head covered in brush to hide traits that would visually give me away as a human. The dragon was right next to me. I saw it flicking its tongue, trying to smell the air.

I stayed still, relying on the mud to mask my scent.

The dragon took flight, likely after the human it was paired with.

“Now I know this mud works, there is only one thing left to do. I need a weapon. I need to eliminate these assholes", I thought as my mind brought me on a warpath.

After slowly moving through the forest, I stumbled across some old rope. I grabbed it and noticed it was still in useable condition.

“Fuck! Frein shouted in fustration. Shane! Where are you! It's dark! We must return!" Frein added in a yell.

Frein's wings were tired and she landed to search on foot.

“This is going to be a humiliating night. Asking aide to find one human would be so embarrassing", Frein thought.

The idea she cannot track a single human hurt her ego. Her frustrations began to boil into anger. It's shameful for a dragon to loose to a human. Frein realized hunting down a commando was not an easy task. She expected a soldier like me to give her a good hunt, but she expected I would inevitably loose. She found hunting a commando is a very difficult task.

“Shane! You win, let's get back to the barracks!" Frein shouted again. Frein spent hours searching. It's turned out to be of a fruitless pursuit. Frein was exhausted, but needed assistance of other dragons. This was now required. Frein took flight for the barraks.

Captain Fenir had a look of anger on his muzzle.

“What! You lost your human in the forest!?"

“I conducted an assessment of Shane's survival skills, sir. In the hunting excersize, he vanished as if he was a ghost, Sir". Frein stated.

“I specifically told you not to do that exercise with him! Now he thinks you want to kill him! He doesn't need weapons, Frein! He is a weapon! And you simply don't understand how well trained and how experienced that Sargent is. He was a commando before he volunteered to train here. You decided to test a commando, Private?" The captain replied with an anger boiling in his tone.

Frein held her head low, too ashamed to make eye contact with her father.

“Yes Sir"…

“I'll gather every dragon to search for him. And they need their companions too. They need to show him that no humans were harmed! As for you? You're now on cleaning detail for a week, private. You're not to ever. Ever loose your trainee again".

“Yes Sir", Frein replied.

Frein felt her ego break…

“Not only am I beat by a human, I'm now punished because of him. I'm going to kick his ass when he gets back", Frein thought.

An hour passed and I heard my name being called by dozens of voices. The closest was familiar. It was 2312 hours. Four hours past bedtime. I ran to Captain Frenir's voice and found him.

I ran up to Captain Fenir, I gave a salute.

“Captain, Sargent Keir… Sir!"

“At ease, Sargent". Captain Frenir replied.

I dropped my spear. The captain narrowed his reptilian eyes on me.

“Sargent! What are you doing with that unauthorized weapon?" The captain asked.

“Sir… Private Frein hunted me. She said I'd be eaten if I was caught, Sir!"

The captain nodded his head in recognition.

Captain Frenir noticed the stench of swamp on Sargent Keir. And noticed most of his clothing was missing. Save for his underwear.

“Where are your clothes, Sargent?" The captain asked.

“Sir… I used them as scent decoys to keep private Frein distracted until I could hide my scent, Sir! If a dragon cannot smell me, a dragon cannot find me. I can then camouflage myself. As if I'm one with the forest".

Captain Frenir laughed. “Outstanding, soldier. I will take you to the barraks so you can clean yourself up.

“Sir, I request no one goes in the northeast corner of the forest".

“Why is that?" Captain Frenir asked.

“I set booby traps in the forest, sir".

“Under what circumstances do you think booby traps are ok, Sargent?"

“Sir, the private said she'd kill me".

“You were perfectly Safe, my daughter would never harm you. However, instilling fear in our recruits in that exercise is permitted, Sargent".

I thought about this and recalled screams in the forest.

“Frein tricked me so I would use all my abilities and wit to give her a good hunt. No one was actually killed in the forest", I thought.

“Sir, it's never wise for the private to send me on a warpath", I said

“I'll say… Do you believe the booby trap is a threat to us dragons?"

“Sir, I made it specifically for Private Frein", I'll have to disassemble it".

Captain Frenir sighed. Frein was the one in danger. This commando is a real threat when a dragon tricks him into thinking that he is prey.

And the prey was going on a hunt of his own to hunt the predator. Captain Frenir knew Sargent Keir was trained in asymmetric warfare. This included guerrilla warfare.

With booby traps and spear, it was clear that Frein was to be trapped and killed.

Captain Frenir knew of the Sargent's training and would have never allowed Frein to do this to Sargent Keir if he knew it was happening tonight.

Captain Fenir sighed, realizing how big of a mess all this turned out to be. Private Frein's shenanigans could have had deadly outcomes. And she is a notorious troublemaker.

“We'll get you cleaned up. I need private Frein to see how she almost died tonight for herself. You don't have weapons Sargent. You are a weapon, that's a fact".

I made an audible sigh. “Sir, I'm sorry. I really wish I wasn't so convinced the private was serious".

“It's not your fault, Sargent. I blame my daughter. I've told her you're too dangerous to be tricked in this manner. She has a habit of disobeying".

I was in the mess hall, eating dinner. My partner, Frein approached me with a scowling look on her face.

“Hey, Shane… I wasn't going to kill you", Frein said.

“You convinced me otherwise. Maybe you should get a new career in acting".

I grabbed my fork and empty plate. I stood up and made my way to the mess hall kitchen and placed the plate in the sink.

Frein narrowed her gaze at me.

“I'm on cleaning detail for a week because of you".

“You're on cleaning detail because you fucked with the wrong human, Frein. You just had to fuck with a commando. You fucked around, and you almost found out. I'm glad you are ok, I had full intentions to kill you. It'd be the last trick you ever play".

Frein growled. “Sithek maul sek rom pass draksiss, huiss". (Remember that I am a dragon, human.) Frein said.

“Dermfak meis asheith draksiss". I replied with a smirk.

Frein's mouth hung open. She found my pronunciation to be almost flawless. Draconic is much more complex than common tongue. The same words can mean different things in different cases, and each sentence there is a different word meaning the same thing. This complex language is extremely difficult for humans to learn.

I gave her a cynical smile.

“That's correct, Frein… I speak your tongue".

“Who are you"? Commando or not, I've never met a human like you. You speak Draconic and annunciate those words as if you have a dragon's tongue. I've never met a human who speaks our language", Frein said.

I gave Frein a smile.

“You dragons have a habit of making a fool of humans, or you'll trick them into folly.

Or you'll simply try to prove superiority over a human. You'll find doing so with me, it'll likely backfire on you somehow. Tonight could have cost you your life. Never make me view you as an enemy. It's for your safety, not mine".

Frein huffed, but then she recalled her father showing her the traps and the spear. It's clear he truly planed to trap and kill her. Frein sighed, releasing her tensions. It's clear that this human is extremely dangerous when he feels the need to be dangerous.

“I'm mad at you to be honest, I almost killed someone I'm supposed to call a friend. All because of your trickster nature. And I have a right to be mad at you. You know that… If I was of liberty to pull rank on you, I'd put you on cleaning detail for seven months. Seven days is way too lenient. I'm halfway tempted of making a complaint, forcing your father to send this issue above himself. Let a Colonel punish you for this".

Frein's ears shot up in alarm.

“No, that isn't necessary. I won't do that again", Frein said.

I raised a finger to her face.

“You must promise me not to ever make me think you are a threat".

“You have my word, Shane. Please… Don't make a complaint".

I sighed and lowered my hand.

“Alright, I'll forgive you of this. But just this once. Are we clear?"

Frein nodded her head.

“Crystal clear… You'll never perceive me as a threat, Shane".

Frein and I laid in her bed. Frein pulled me close to her with her foreleg. She laid her hind leg over my thighs. The same awkward, yet comforting position I experienced last night. Frien's wing then laid flat over me Frein placed her muzzle next to me and began purring. The purr was like music to my ears. And it always amazes me how sleepy I get with both the position she puts me in and the sound of her purrs as she attempts to put me to sleep.

“I must admit it. For a human, you are very impressive. A compliment from a dragon is not easy to obtain".

I stroked Frein's muzzle.

“Shane, what are you doing?"

I pulled my hand away from her muzzle.

“Sorry, it was an action of an intrusive thought. For me to stroke your muzzle".

“Hmmm", Frein hummed in acknowledgement.

“I don't object to it. We dragons like to be admired. Also, brushing our scales out of admiration is a welcomed act. Most dragons do enjoy it. You may feel my scales, I actually encourage you to do so",

She returned her purr, my eyes began to get heavy. If I had to be honest with myself, this dragon was actually growing on me. Her hot headed personality is certainly annoying. But her gentle actions, her cuddly embrace is very soothing and comforting. Her mischievous, snarky humor does make her fun in a way as well. This dragon is beginning to grow on me.

However, it wasn't long til I could not stay conscious and keep up the strokes from my fingers on her muzzle. I drifted into sleep as her purring was her way of casting a sleeping spell on me. The purring was so soothing, stress relieving, and relaxing.

Frein woke me up, with her annoying wet Willy prank again.

“Get up! You'll learn to ride me! Don't worry… I'll fly gently… Well… Maybe not so gently. Either way, gently or not, you don't get to be a cupcake about it", Frein said with a toothy grin.

I rolled my eyes.

“Yah, good morning to you too".

I got up and walked to my wardrobe. I grabbed a pair of cameo uniform pants and a uniform shirt.

Frein narrowed her eyes…

“You're not intimidated by potentially flying off of my back?"

I chuckled as I threw my clothes over my forearm.

“Heights won't scare me… I've done halo jumps out of planes and glided in a glide suit countless times".

Frein huffed, then she gave me a toothy grin.

“How about one hundred and sixty kilometers per hour, low altitude. Low enough where a parachute won't save you".

I put my hands together like I'm begging for mercy.

“Oh please, big bad dragon! Please fly gently. I am so worried! I don't want to shit myself… That would just be so embarrassing", I said sarcastically.

Frein snorted smoke out of her nostrils in frustration.

I was at the training course, Captain Fenir and the other dragons as well as the human soldiers were there. We were instructed how to use harnesses to keep us secured to our mounts.

“Private Frein, you'll go first", Captain Fenir said.

Wile mounted on her, Frein turned her head towards me and gave me a toothy grin.

I rolled my eyes….

Frein returned her focus ahead and expanded her wings and took a few experimental flaps.

“I live for this shit!" I screamed.

Frein launched me into the air and I almost felt like I was going to roll off her back. One of the safety clips saved me from falling…. We were airborne.

“Wooo! Not bad… Let's do that again!" I said.

“Oh thrill seeker huh? Alright", Frein said as she spun in a quark screw at a high rate of speed. My body lost contact with her shoulders. And one of the harness clips broke.

I tried hanging on, trying to fight the centrifugal force of the spinning. My grip was failing me.

“Shit! Frein, stop!"

Before Frein could stop spinning, I lost my grip and fell. Another clip on my safety harness stopped my fall… However the sudden stop jerked Frein sideways and me hanging off the side of Frein caused her to be off ballance. Frein lost control of her flight due to this.

Frein grabbed me, tucked me to her chest with her fore legs. She regained a stable flight and slowed to a near stop close to the ground. She spun and landed on her back with her wings tucked around me. Captain Frenir ran towards Frein and I. Frein was breathing heavily, still keeping me tucked to her chest and folded in her wings.

“Frein! Are you ok!?"

“I'm fine, thanks for asking", Frein replied in a long sigh.

I lifted my fists in the air.

“Woooo! Again!" I screamed.

Captain Fenir landed to check on us. He looked at me and Private Frein.

“Are either of you hurt?" Captain Frenir asked.

I waved a broken clip.

“Good old fashion mil-spec pieces of shit! I once had one of these break on a halo jump and it nearly killed me! These harness clips damn near killed me again!"

Captain Fenir looked at Frein and noticed that she still had her forelegs wrapped around me and her wings folded over me protectively.

“Frein, are you hurt?"

“No, I made sure I didn't hit the ground hard".

I looked at Frein in her eyes.

“Thanks for saving my ass up there. I thought we were going to crash for sure".

Frein shook her head in the negative.

“Oh no… In basic, I was trained to land like this if a clip breaks".

I replaced the clips with updated ones. Clips that did not have the same recalled manufacturing flaws. We flew again and this time, it was fun. The quark screw spins, loops, and vertical dives made it feel like the smoothest, yet wildest roller coaster I rode. We continued to fly for the rest of the day.

Chapter 3

Pulling Rank

I awoke and Frein was still sleeping. It was 0204 hours according to the clock on the bed side. My brain was still active from adrenaline from the flight and the near death incident. I haven't had such thrilling fun in a while. Since my brain is running away in thought, I just laid in this dragon's gentle embrace. I've never been held like this til I met Frein and being completely covered by a dragon is such a unique and comforting experience.

Almost every night I get nightmares from all my years in combat. However, with this dragon? I haven't had a single nightmare in her gentle embrace. I kept my head tucked to her belly scutes as I laid there.

“I love you, Shane", Frein mumbled in her sleep.

My eyes widened.

“What the hell?"

“Can't you… Under… Tail"…

I rolled my eyes in annoyance.

“Nope, I'm not a section four", I thought.

“Frein, wake up! You're dreaming words you don't want to say!" I whispered.

Frein began to snore.

“Frein!" I said louder.

The dragon rolled to her side, tucking me tighter against her belly scutes and wrapping me tighter in her wings. She moved her hind legs and straddled me with both hind legs. I gasped at this awkward position. The dragon snored louder.

“Frein! Wake up! Awww fuck, you dragons are so fucking awkward!" I whispered.

However, I didn't want to draw outside attention. I really don't want to get this dragon into trouble.

“Hhhhrrrr" Frein sighed and slipped her tail between my legs and pressed my hips against her own, matching our groins together.

“Fuck no! You're having a horny dream! Goddamn you dragons and your sex drive!" I said in a whisper as I slapped my palm to my forehead.

I gasped as I felt her tongue sensually lick my neck. I moaned softly as her warm breath lustfully washed over me. Her tongue felt amazing against my skin. My stupid little brain woke up and I had a mound in my sweat pants. The licking seemed to be a spell, like her purring. Her licking sent my mind in blissful nothingness and I couldn't help but allow her to lick me. I could feel my resolve weaken and I sighed, giving into this dragon's lustful licks.

Frein then began to push me back and forth against her groin.

My thoughts returned to the reality of the situation as I felt Frein grinding me against her slit. My eyes widened…

“Holy shit! No! I'm not going to be a Section four!"

I grabbed Frein's muzzle and shook it violently.

“Frein! Wake the fuck up! Goddamn it!" I spoke sternly in into her ear.

Frein's tail pulled out from between my legs. Her tail then moved to turn the light on.

“Frein, I need you to release me. You"… I paused.

I wanted so badly to scold her for her actions. But yet I want to give this dragon the benefit of the doubt. She had a dream. Dreams sometimes occur without actually wanting them to come true. I couldn't muster the courage to speak of the situation.

I sighed and decided a white lie wouldn't hurt.

“I have to use the restroom. Badly"…

Frein nodded and released me. I kept my back to her. I noticed my sweat pants were wet in the groin area. Frein was in season…

“Shit! What a mess", I whispered as I pulled my saliva soaked shirt off and grabbed a clean pair of sweat pants and a shirt.

I turned to the bedroom door and in the corner of my eye, I thought I saw one of Frein's eyes staring at me. I thought I also saw that toothy grin of her's. I turned around and she had her eyes closed.

My eyes were widened in shock of seeing that…

“Oh hell no!" I thought.

I pulled my soiled sweat pants off. An earthy, pungent scent of Frein's estrus cycle filled the restroom.

“Fuck, the smell is so obvious! In the groin area too. If someone saw that? I'd be deemed a Section 4 on sight".

I changed the sweats and hastily made back to Frein's room. Frein was awake. And abruptly turned to me. With a worried look.

“Get out of here! I need to clean myself".

I nodded with my eyes narrowed.

“Yah, me too. You got it all over me, I said.

Frein's eyes widened and she laid her ears back. “Agreed… Do come in, get your soap and shampoo. You'll need those".

Though I washed myself thoroughly, my mind was flooded with thoughts. I'm now one who'd question whether signing up for this program to include dragons in the military was a good idea. Their psychology, social behavior, trickster personality, ego, and high sex drive make them nearly an impossible fit for a military role.

Their high sex drive is said to be difficult to deal with and now I see why that was so. The passionate licking, the comfort of their embrace, and their boldness makes it difficult to resist getting experimental. I never imagined being held and licked that way could feel so good, and that tongue brushing against my neck sends me in a state of euphoria.

Goddamn those politicians who signed into law for the military to be more inclusive to other sentient species who are citizens. While Frein's father is a captain, her grandfather is a three star general, Otherwise known as a Lieutenant General. He specifically requested me to be paired with Frein.

I gave a loud sigh. I still can't wrap my head around the mess I got myself into. It feels like this mission assigned to me is going to be more about self control and mental whit. As well as combating my own primal urges for sex as a dragon teases such urges. In which my stupid little brain is screaming for relief. And the possibility of it getting in the way of my career now exists.

I got out of the shower. And knocked on the door to Frein's room.

“Are you good Frein?"

“Yes, do come in. I wish to speak to you, Shane."

I entered the room. The room has that earthy, musky smell from this dragon being in heat. The odd, unfamiliar smell didn't exactly have an offensive odor. But I certainly didn't wish to smell it.

Frein gave me a cold glare.

“Shane, what happened earlier? Never happened right?

I threw up my hands.

“I have no desire of being labeled a Section 4. That'd be bad for us both".

While Frein was in the mess hall, I was in Captain Frenir's office.

Captain Fenir pulled my file and opened it. The same file Frein was to use to approve me as her paired human.

“Private Frein was here earlier. She says she likes you more than any human we've attempted to pair with".

“I do what's necessary to get along with her. I can tell she isn't easy for everyone to get along with".

Captain Fenir nodded his head.

“Private Frein tested your prowess. I want you now to test her's".

I chuckled…

“Sir… She will certainly fail".

Captain Fenir sighed and put my file in a cabinet.

“Private Frein is a very privileged child. Other recruited dragons do not care for her. It's my job to see that she gets her own taste of hell".

I gave a smirk, seeing where this conversation is going. I still need to get back at Frein for her past shenanigans.

“I can help you… I'd be able to make her feel like I brought hell, allong with every demon and infernal being arrived just to torment her".

Captain Fenir had an intrigued look.

“And how do you intend to go about this?"

I smiled…

“I'll train her like she is a cadet for Alpha team. I request a map of the forest for starters. I have many other activities in mind. It'll surely humble her a little".

Captain Frenir handed me a map. I took it.

“And a pen, Sir."

The captain handed me a pen.

I marked a drop zone for Frein to begin. I then marked an end point.

“Sir, she's to be dropped off here. The forest boundry in between the drop zone and lift zone is all open to her. In between there will be markers set. She must scrape each marker on a tree with a claw to prove she was at this location. I too must do the same. Here is my drop zone. Here is my lift zone and between there there will be markers I must mark with a knife. My markers are blue. Her markers are red. I recommend markers to meet or cross in most areas to ensure we meet each other as enemies often come face to face with eachother. When one of us die, the looser must return to the drop zone and start over. Each of us has three lives in this exercise. Much like a video game. I don't plan to go as hard on her as I can. I'd still like to give her a sporting chance."

Captain Fenir nodded his head.

“This is private Frein's records of cadet complaints. They're from previous humans who were paired with her, before asking to be paired with a different dragon" The captain said, completely changing subjects.

I took the file from his talons and opened it.

Each file was a document of complaints from previous humans the army attempted to pair her with. I let out a loud sigh.

“Shes a Section Four"…

Captain Fenir nodded his head.

“Yes, and it took me a great effort to convince those humans not to get Frein dishonorably discharged. Those humans were not open minded enough to accept most of my kind are just that way, and aren't picky about who is their partner. Sargent, why have you not made any complaints similar to what others have?"

You also smell of Frein. I can smell it on you even though you showered. It takes more than soap to get a dragon's estrus cycle off of you. Captain Fenrir said with a toothy grin.

My heart leaped in my chest, regardless of my outstanding ability to hide emotion.

“Sir, Private Frein has had some wet dreams and unconsciously has done inappropriate things. Such as holding me under her tail. I took immediate actions to cease this act… Sense she was sleep talking and acting physically with her dream, it was all subconscious actions on her behalf. In no way were they conscious actions so I did not find disciplinary action necessary because she herself seemed to be ashamed when I confronted her."

Captain Fenir nodded his head in recognition.

“Your story is plausible… You sound like a patient individual. Most humans would be running out the door screaming section four, or they'd become a section four themselves".

I gave a loud sigh…

“Sir, patience is critical when working with dragons. In behavior class, it was brought to attention that dragons are"… I paused trying to come up with words that wouldn't be too blunt or unprofessional.

Captain Fenir waved his claws.

“Go on, Sargent. If you can't get around being blunt, it's ok. I won't take offense".

I gave another loud sigh, releasing my inner tensions.

“Proud, stubborn, hot headded, self centered, and". I paused.

Captain Fenir gave me a toothy grin.

“And highly sex driven… My daughter is a section four and blatantly shameless as most dragons are. You are not indulging in private Frein's high sex drive… Are you, Sargent?"

My heart leaped in my chest again. I felt like I was being interrogated.

“For starters, that would be my upmost displeasure to indulge in someone with scales, four legs, horns, wings, a tail, talons, and a mouth full of knife like teeth. No offense sir."..

“No offense taken Sargent, proceed".

“Second, I've served the army for sixteen years as of next month. In four more years, I will have served for twenty years. After I serve my final four years, I will retire with a full pension for life. I have full intentions on retiring at the age of thirty eight, and I refuse to let a private get me locked up and be dishonorably discharged… Sir… I refuse to let private Frein's sex drive get in the way of my retirement", I said in a matter of fact tone.

Captain Frenir nodded his head in acknowledgement.

“Most certainly, you have too much to loose to indulge, Sargent. Though I thought you were having fun with her due to the fact I've never heard a complaint from you. With my daughter a human that isn't complaining is a human under her tail. That's why I was suspicious. If you did, I really wouldn't care. But I do recommend all who are paired to do it off military grounds. Back to more duty based matters, she's at your command. As far as I'm concerned, she's all yours".

A look of shock fell on my face.

“You're not against section fours?"

“No dragon really is… We're not picky and I have so many codes and policies to enforce, It's at the point where I must pick and choose what I enforce. MC1632-47 Section 4 is not my concern. I care less what soldiers do in their living quarters. We'd have no paired humans and dragons if I enforced it by actual punishment anyways. I just tell them to stop if I catch them."

I felt mixed feelings about this topic. And it showed…

Captain Fenir chuckled…

“Sargent, for you? I'll hold you to your word. You will be punished if caught because you told me you won't. Still… If you have a change of mind with Frein, I won't judge you. I'll just need to be notified that you and Frein need permission to leave military grounds in order to get it out of your system".

In one way I felt relieved that if resisting Frein's lust somehow becomes too unbearable, there is an option…

“You look… Relieved… Sargent".

I recalled last night…

“Private Frein licked my back, chest, and neck when she had me in that inappropriate position. Long, lustful licks. I did indeed succeed in not giving in but"… I paused…

“I already know a dragon who becomes very persistent usually gets what they want eventually. It's why I'll allow you to leave for a day or two. But you must notify me. Like it or not, she has an eye for you. And a dragon always gets their prey sorta speak. On to other business. In terms of your duty, you are to train Frein once I give you the permission to do so. Remember, you're in charge. You own her from snout to tail tip. As you said you would, I was hoping you'd teach her some training like Alpha Teams train".

I was relieved that Captain Fenir was gracious and understanding. But I guess I shouldn't be surprised. As a dragon, he'd know these situations himself.

“Thank you, sir".

“You are dismissed, and Private Frein is under your command. Here is a new file for Private Frein, fill it out based on your assessments", The Captain said. I took the file.

I stood up and walked out of the Captain's office. I turned and walked down the hall and sighed to relieve a built up stress inside of me. I kept walking through the hallway, and found private Frein walking towards me. I walked by her and shouted

“Private Frein! Follow me! You're now under my command!" I shouted, with her new file raised into the air.

Frein's eyes widened in disbelief. She snarled and trotted to catch up to me.

“Permission to ask you a question, Sir?"

“Permission denied, Private. By orders of Captain Frenir, I own you from the tip of your snout, to the tip of your tail. You are now mine!" I exclaimed as I continued down the hall.

A couple of dragons began to chuckle at the sight of a human having absolute control over a dragon.

I stopped and stared at the dragons mocking my private.

“Any of you wish me to request command over you and your Cadets? I can easily make all of you a laughing stalk. I'd PT the shit out of you! I'd PT you all till your scales fall off! Are we clear?" I screamed.

The dragons looked at me wide eyed.

Frein smirked at the notion I was chewing out dragons for her sake. She noticed a warm, tingling sensation in her gut. It made her feel good that I stood up for her.

“None of you wish to join me and Private Frein? Huh? Leave my hallway!"

The dragons turned and left the hallway.

“Private Frein, on me!"

I opened the exit doors and Frein followed me outside I walked to the armory and grabbed a Gillie Suit, a complete M-4 lower receiver group. I searched the armory for a blue colored upper receiver group specifically designed to fire non-lethal simmunition rounds. I found one and matched the two receiver groups and pushed in the takedown pins, making a fully assembled weapon for the training mission I had in mind.

“Sir, permission to ask a question?"

“Permission granted, Private".

“What is our mission, sir?"

“Meet with Captain Frenir at the edge of the forest, where we last did your little hunting mission. The Captain will debrief your mission there".

“Yes Sir".

Frein exited the armory as I gathered the necessary equipment.

I grabbed flashbangs, paint grenades, face paint, camos, and a knife.

I made way to the Captain myself when I had all gear necessary for my mission.

I chuckled…

“Ok, privileged princess, this is where you get a sense of what war really is like".

Captain Frenir briefed Frein about the training mission. I walked up behind private Frein and she looked at me. She looked at me wide eyed and her ears pinned back when she realized I was so heavily geared and we are out at the edge of the forest. As if she is beginning to get the full picture of what is happening.

I smiled…

“What is the matter, Private?

Private Frein snarled…

“I'm ready for my mission. I'm ready to succeed in it, Sir". Private Frein responded with her eyes in a narrowed glare at me.

I walked to my drop zone. Private Frein took flight to her's.

“Going muzzle to muzzle with a commando who has simmunition weapons. How am I supposed to succeed against him. I have no combat experience besides basic training".

I took my gear off at the drop zone and jumped in the mud. I then put my gear back on.

“Soldiers, are you ready?" I heard Captain Frenir's voice over the radio.

“Yes sir!" Frein said over the radio.

“Yes sir! I responded.

“You may begin", the captain said over the radio.

I began running, marking any of my markers I passed by. I expected Frein to be faster, at marking markers due to her speed and agility. So I moved to hide next to one of her markers. I sat out, waiting for her to pass by. About three minutes passed as she did as I expected.

I shot Frein with a simmunition round right behind her shoulder blade. Frein leaped on all fours and roared in surprise. I hit her where her heart and lungs would be located. A blue paint mark was visible where she was hit.

Frein snarled…

“Return to drop off, Private".

I then moved quickly to mark more of my own markers. I marked two more markers and returned to another one of her markers. I was hidden in a bush. I pulled out a fake knife, covered in red paint to mark my next lethal blow. Frein was running towards the marker… Frein quickly reached to mark the marker. I threw a flashbang. The blast assaulted her ears and the bright flash distorted her vision. I leaped from cover and slid the paint covered dummy knife against her corotid artery, right under her left cheek.

“Private! You're dead!" I shouted.

Frein growled…

“Neset makmaul tass errept!"

“No more talking back to me… I speak your tongue, remember?"

Frein growled…

“I really wish you didn't speak it."

Frein landed at drop off.

“Fucking hell! Frein screamed and stomped on the ground.

She looked at the paint marks from being struck by simmunition rounds.

“Damn humans! Meet me without weapons and we'll see who dominates the battlefield! My armor! My talons! My wings! My tail! A human doesn't stand a chance without those stupid guns! Yet here I am being picked and toyed with… Like a cat toying with a mouse and killing it slowly… And a human is the cat… Disgusting!" Frein screamed and drool began to drip from her scaly lips.

The buzzer sounded off signaling Frein can now get back into the game. Frein sprinted through the trees. “His markers! Ok human let's play your game! How will you like a taste of your own medicine?"

I was at Frein's next marker. Waiting for her to try and scratch it. There was no sign of Frein.

I decided to wait.

An hour passed and there was no sign of Frein.

“If you quit, I'm going to PT you till your fucking scales fall off".

I decided to tag my markers in the mean time.

I crawled on my knees and elbows towards my next location. I made my way to a tree with a marker. I thoroughly scanned my surroundings. No sign of Frein. Her silver scales and her yellow stripes make her stick out in this forest like a sore thumb. I sprinted to the tree and slammed my back up to the tree I drew my knife to slash at my marker. A large drop of what I thought was a bird dropping landing on my shoulder. I stopped and wiped it off. I discovered it was clear, thick, and viscous…

“Shit!"

I shouted as I looked up. Frein was in the tree… I reached for my pistol to draw it. A mouth full of teeth was inches from my face. More drool fell on my face. Frein brush her lips against my neck before I could raise my pistol to shoot her.

“That was a bite to your throat.

You are dead… Sir", Frein said.

I backed up and wiped the drool off my face. I began laughing. I then clapped my hands in praise.

“Outstanding, Private Frein! Out-fucking standing. I encourage you to do that again! But remember, I only have to get you one more time. You still have to get me two more. And all your markers marked on top of it all".

Frein gave a toothy grin, happy that her success was praised.

“Yes sir!"

As I walked to my drop zone, I noticed Frein stock me at my marker. The same tactic I used on her. A change of tactics was required.

“Operation Extermination", I called it. I drew battle plans weighed so many potential scenarios Frein could throw at me next.

The timed buzzer on my drop zone sounded off. I slowly made my way deeper into the forest.

I made my way to Frein's final marker. I planted a paint grenade and a string attached to a stick. The grenade will burst once the trip wire is pulled. I covered the grenade with sticks and vegetation to conceal the trap.

“Trick or treat! Fucking overgrown serpent", I said in a whisper.

Even if she somehow kills me two more times, I'll kill her a third time causing her to fail the mission even if she was to eliminate me. On the battlefield, your enemies are always dirty. So you must think dirtier than them. Private Frein is going to learn that.

I made my way to finish off my markers. I struck one marker. And crawled through the brush towards my final three markers. Approximately one hundred and thirty meters away, I saw Frein walking towards my markers with her back turned towards me. Nonetheless, I remained absolutely still, relying on my Gilli suit to remain nearly invisible. Frein could still face my direction any moment. And with vision like her's, she'd easily spot me if I make even the slightest of movements. There were three trees with three markers. She curled into a ball and folded her wings, making herself appear like a large boulder. Her yellow stripes looked like lines of a yellow algae or moss.

“Well look at you being smart… Not smart enough though… However, I'm going to have fun toying with you", I thought.

I switched my simmunition rifle to full auto. I didn't aim at the dragon, I aimed at the ground in front of her. I pulled and held the trigger. Frein heard the shots and leaped in a panic as she saw the paint projectiles hit the ground in front of her. She snarled and ran through the bush.

I chuckled at her reactions.

“I love toying with this dragon already. This is what the naughty and haughty serpent gets for trying to seduce me earlier this morning", I thought.

I marked my markers in the area and moved towards my lift zone.

Frein flew to her final marker. She walked up to it. She stepped on the trip wire and a paint grenade went off. From a distance I heard an enraged roar from a very pissed off dragon.

I laughed so hard I began to cough from being winded of laughter. I hit the siren on my lift zone.

Frein turned her attention towards my direction.

“No! No! No!"

Frein got so angry she started to claw at the tree. She then slammed herself into the tree with a snarl due to her wounded ego.

I made my way to Captain Frenir. I saw Private Frein talking to Captain Frenir. The talking stopped once they noticed me walking towards them.

I made it to them and saluted Captain Frenir.

“Sir, my mission was successful! Private Frein's mission was a failure. I request private Frein to redo her mission at 2300 hours, tonight sir! I exclaimed wanting to do a night drill with her".

Captain Fenir shook his head in the negative.

“Tomorrow, at 0600. Private Frein, clean yourself up. The rest of the day is rest and recreation".

Frein let a girlish squeal in excitement.

“Only along side Sargent Keir", Captain Fenir added.

Private Frein narrowed her gaze at me.

“Permission to go to the mess hall for lunch, Sir?"

“Permission granted, Private", I said with great difficulty to not laugh at the sight of Frein's face being covered in paint from the paint grenade.

Frein took flight, and flew towards the mess hall.

Captain Fenir looked at me.

“So Sargent, was she any good at all? She's absolutely covered in simmunition paint". She looked like she didn't stand a chance".

“Well sir, she had me once. This is not bad considering no dragon has actually done this drill if memory serves me correctly. I think as I train her more, critique her decisions more, she'll learn".

Captain Fenir had a curious look.

“How did she get you?"

“She was up in a tree above my marker. I wasn't looking up when I should have looked up. Her mouth was inches from my face, then she brushed my neck with her lips and said I received a bite to the neck and I had to return to drop off.

Captain Fenir sighed.

“Despite her sassy and rebellious nature, my daughter is a gentle dragon. She always seems to know not to get carried away. Another dragon would have gone for your neck with their teeth. They would get carried away and forget their teeth are too sharp to use on humans. This is why I wasn't concerned for your safety", The captain said.

I looked at Captain Fenir, skeptical of his words.

“She was drooling allot before she used her lips to simulate a bite. I noticed she was very angry. And angry enough to wish to snap at me as a matter of fact. I think her ego being wounded makes her more angry than we both think. For cool off, there is no military formalities. She can call me by my first name for the rest of the day. We'll have fun, and be like friends. Hopefully, this will help her anger wane and she won't be sore at me".

“Are you sure? It's like I said, she'd never harm you".

Eh, I didn't like that look in her eye… I need to remind her that we are a team. She just needs to learn the lessons".

I suppose your way is best since you're the one who saw it. I've personally never seen Frein angered to the point of drooling", Captain Frenir admitted.

Chapter 4

R&R

I was in the recreation area, and I was fishing at the lake. Frein had a pole in a pole holder in front of her.

“Sir, what is the point of this recreational activity?" Frein asked.

“Call me Shane, Frein. I don't have my uniform on. From 0400 hours to 1600 hours, I am to be called Sargent, or simply sir".

“Shane, I've never met a human that can avoid a dragon like you in the hunting drill I had for you. How did you learn to accomplish that?"

“Once again you're dealing with a commando, not a regular infantryman".

“Shane, what happened in Aboria? Please, I really wish to know".

“I told only one person what occurred there. At least the information that isn't classified. My wife, who is now my ex wife asked me. I was drunk enough to answer it. I swore to myself to never speak of it again".

“You were married?"

I gave a sigh…

“Yes, I was. But she divorced me. She got sick of me being constantly overseas. However, I have a son from her. So, it wasn't a complete waste of my time. Hopefully I can return to see him soon",

“I'm sorry your wife left you. And leaving you when you're just serving your country. I heard that divorce is very heartbreaking for you humans".

“It hurt at first. But it's been long enough for me to be over it. In truth, I just know nothing other than being a soldier, and she was sick of being a soldier's wife. She wanted me to quit, but I wasn't ready to quit. Although, I still hold myself at fault. I don't blame her… Having a husband constantly overseas is a real burden, it's also lonely. At the time, I felt like I've already been a soldier for so long… I just could not see being anything else. Where would I go if I was to leave? This happened six years ago and I was already halfway to twenty years in the military. My pension will be the maximum amount I was ever paid, and I would likely use that to start my own business. She just didn't want me to do me, I guess. However, with my… Charming looks, finding another wife has proven to be difficult".

Frein pinned her ears back.

“I'm sorry for calling you ugly… I was just expecting a human that wasn't so chewed up. I couldn't find better words for it. I noticed you got sore about that".

I gave a loud sigh…

“You're forgiven. You're not the first to speak of my appearance, and not the last".

“How old is your son?"

“He is ten years old, and soon to be eleven in a few months. I can't wait to see him and give him a hug".

“I'd like to meet him. I'm sure an eleven year old human would be thrilled to play with a dragon".

“He'd like that actually… He also speaks Draconic. He's not as fluent as I am in it, but it takes years of practice for a human to master. Sometimes, he walks up to dragons greeting them, and speaking to them. They definitely get entertained seeing a human child trying to speak to them in their language".

“Your son sounds so nice… I really would like to meet him someday. What is his name?"

“Yah, you may get that chance. His name is Jacob".

Frein, you got a bite", I said pointing at the rod in front of her.

Clumsily she held the rod in her talons. She clumsily reeled in the rod.

I observed Frein's attempts. Seeing a dragon try so hard at reeling in the fish…

“Quickly reel it in, it can spit out the hook if you don't keep tension on the line".

A fishing rod was designed to fit human hands, not a dragon's paw. But that didn't stop Frein from trying. Eventually however, she managed to reel it in. It was a bluegill.

Frein narrowed her eyes at the fish.

“Such a tiny fish".

“Would you want to keep him, or release him?"

Frein tilted her head.

“He's so small… Go ahead and release him. I have to admit that you are correct about fishing to be both relaxing and uniquely satisfying however".

I put the fish back in the water. The fish seemed stunned and went belly up.

Frein looked at the fish curiously.

“Is he dying?"

I shook my head and grabbed the fish.

“Not on my watch".

I then pushed him through the water to get water moving through it's gills several times, so his gills deliver oxygen to the bloodstream. The fish squirmed and kicked it's tail hard. I released the fish and the fish darted through the water and away from shore. I pulled out a night crawler and put a fresh night crawler on Frein's hook.

I casted the bait in the water for her. I laid down on the ground.

Frein looked impressed.

“You revived him".

“And I now have a bite".

I grabbed my rod and turned the reel handle quickly. Several moments passed by and I lifted the fish out of the water.

I was disappointed when I saw the fish.

“Ah, it's a catfish".

“Like the internet?

I was at a loss…

“What do you mean?"

Frein shook her head.

“I've heard of soldiers saying they got catfished on the internet".

I roared in laughter. For several moments, I could not stop laughing.

Frein seemed at a loss.

“I don't see humor in the question".

“Getting catfished on the internet means you're dating someone you met online. But the person is not the same person as the one in the photo. Or they posted an old photo, and no longer look like the one in the photo. Example… If I was dating online and met the person, in person for the first time and she was a dragon and not a human? That'd be an example of being catfished".

Frein laughed, finding my example funny.

“I could only imagine the look on your face… Careful when you date online, Shane. We dragons are notorious tricksters. We dragons aren't picky about what you humans may call a date either".

I still had the fish in my hand, I was trying to remove the hook from its lip.

“Oh I know… Ouch!"

Frein pinned her ears backwards, with a look of concern.

“What happened?"

I cringed in frustration.

“The fucking bastard stung me! I was more focused on talking than handling the catfish safely".

“Is a catfish a venomous fish?"

I nodded my head.

“They're mildly venomous, Their sting is much like a bee sting. But for me, I've had an alergic reaction last time I was stung by one. I need a medic with an epipen, quick Frein! Get me to the doctor".

Frein held out a forepaw.

“Let me see your hand".

I laid my hand in her paw. Gently, she gripped my hand with her talons. She licked the site of the sting and the stinging sensation began to leave my hand.

“What the?" I said in confusion. I didn't pull away. I was mesmerized my her tongue's ability to provide such sting relief. Frein then slid her claws up my forearm, parted her jaws and coiled her tongue around my entire hand. My eyes widened and I attempted to pull my hand back.

Frein gripped my forearm tighter in her claws and pulled her tongue back.

“Do not move. I don't want to cut you with my teeth on accident. This will save you a stay at the hospital. All you need to do is relax and tell me when the pain stops entirely".

Frein opened her maw and placed my hand in it. She sealed her lips just above my wrist.

Frein narrowed her eyes. Almost as if she knew I wasn't relaxed. Frein refocused herself on my hand and began to purr as she let her mouth fill with more saliva. She then rubbed my hand with her tongue. I could feel my hand drenched in her thick saliva.

Eventually, Frein's purrs pulled my mind from everything. The deep, low, rhythmic thrumming seemed to send me into a hypnotic trance. I sighed, releasing every ounce of tension and negative thought in my very being.

Frein finished treating the sting… She released my hand and tilted her head.

“What was that about?"

“Your purring".

Frein gave me a toothy grin.

“Right… Are you sure you were not just seduced by my tongue on your hand? I mean, I can't blame you for fantasizing. You seemed to enjoy my tongue coiling around your hand more than you should have.

I rolled my eyes...

“Don't make it weirder than it needs to be… Please… Your purr is what was hypnotizing.

And that act of you sticking my hand in your mouth… I don't know what that was about, but I most certainly didn't fantasize anything about that. But… The pain… It's gone!"

Frein smiled…

“A dragon's saliva has enzymes that break down most venom from stings and bites. It is even a first aid to a snakebite. A human can even survive a snakebite for a week with dragon saliva as a first aid. Plenty of time to get to a hospital. It's a great method because it also reduces damage the venom can do to the human body. It also can be a treatment for insect stings and stinging fish. The army biologists have taken great interest in our saliva's ability to break down the molecular structure of various types of venom".

“Fascinating, a buddy named Corporal Bannie died from a snakebite in Aboria. Even with first aid, we were unable to get him to a medivac in time".

Frein pinned her ears back in sympathy.

“I'm sorry… If I was there I'd save him".

“If you were there, you'd likely be no better off than he is. Just another corpse lying in the street decaying as you wait to be picked up, and shipped home for burrial. The same as so many soldiers who where there. They died and when shipped home? They where often buried in a closed casket either because they died so grusomely, or the corpses where decayed. The war was so bloody and dangerous, many medivacs couldn't land to pick up the dead and wounded. Anyways, I said too much, let's change subjects".

“No, do tell me more, frein insisted.

“Absolutely not"I replied

Frein nodded, understanding I began to shut down on talking about Aboria.

I reeled in my line.

“Anyways, I guess it's time for us to pack up and go to. It's dinner time after all.

“Can it wait? I love being out with you. Well at least when I can call you Shane instead of Sir. I haven't enjoyed hanging around another human in some time. You have so many interesting things to talk about".

I raised an eyebrow.

“Since when does a dragon turn down chow time?"

Frein snarled…

“I'm not concerned about food right now. I'm not a mindless beast, constantly wondering when I'll eat. Food is plenty here… I'm more interested in conversing with you".

My stomach growled… I put my hand over my stomach.

“You're right… I'm the mindless beast who has a primal urge for food. Who would have thought a dragon is more social than a human even at dinner time".

Frein snaked her tail behind my legs. She then nudged me with her muzzle, making me fall.

“Oh don't be in such a rush to leave. I haven't seen this side of you. I like hanging out with you when you're not acting like my Sargent. But at 0400 all the way to 1600 hours. For 12 hours, your're Sargent Keir, Not Shane. Sargent Keir is an ammo-headed bootstrapped psycho". While Shane, who is also you is real pleasant to talk to.

I roared in laughter…

“An ammo-headed bootstrapped psycho!"

Yes Frein, I am Sargent Keir… Sargent Shane Keir, Private!" I said with an angry face.

Frein puff smoke out of her nostrils in fustration.

I laughed at her, Frein let more smoke come out of her nostrils as her inner fire began to heat up in fustration.

“Private Frein… Did I give you permission to let smoke out of your nostrils? I don't recall giving you permission. I own you from snout to tail tip", I said toying with her.

Frein snarled, her body began quivering in rage, pupils constricted, and focus at me. Smoke was coming from the crease of her lips.

I laughed again.

“Relax, Frein… Take a joke".

Frein sighed, releasing her inner tensions.

She recalled some humans try to get a rise of anger in others. Some humans find it funny, and her paired human is one of them.

“You have no idea how that makes me feel when you speak like that. You're lucky I'm familiar with a human's sense of humor.

When you act like a friend, I see you as the kindest human I met. But when you act like a sargent, it makes me worried that I'll loose self control and rip you to pieces. I get sore at you because I really don't want you on the receiving end when I get that angry. It takes every ounce of self control I have not to tear you apart".

I sighed…

“Well Frein, as a friend of yours… You have discipline issues. When you were at chow this morning, your father handed me a list of complaints. Sexual complaints from soldiers previously paired with you to be specific. They complained of sexual behavior on military grounds. One complaint you had was from another officer. You are crazy for hitting on human officers. One officer also said how you're disobedient, disorderly, and don't pay attention to anything except what is between a man's legs. One more complaint against you and it could mean a dishonorable discharge for you. You need to be disciplined. You need to take orders without question, you need to make better descisions. Do you think your father and grandfather can cover up your shenanigans forever?"

Frein pointed her ears up in alarm.

“Have you made a complaint?"

I shook my head in the negative.

“No, no written complaints. If I did, the army would have kicked you out. Is that really what you want? If you want out, then at least complete your four year term. That way it doesn't reflect on you the rest of your life. Someone with a dishonorable discharge often can't find a job, can't vote, and is basically a second class citizen. I don't want that for you. I'd hate to see anyone in the military receive such a punishment".

Frein nodded her head and was in deep thought.

“Hmmm, You care… That makes my egg laying muscles beg to clench the little Shane with the most loving embrace he has ever received. I could pleasure you dry, and keep you dry".

I cringed and my knees jerked as I resisted the urge to react. However Frein caught on the small things about the body language in the corner of her eye.

Frein gave me a toothy grin.

“I saw your knees move together. That little brain has a strong will, a little relief will fix Little Shane's issue".

I cringed…

“I really don't want to sleep with you. Just because I care does not mean I am attracted to you".

Frein smiled.

“Hmmm, well your stupid little brain seems to say different. Your knees jerked… And you're so adorable when you cringe in an attempt to subdue the urge your feeling in your pants. You can drill me all you wish. You can cover me in paint… You could PT me till I drop. But what you cannot do is hide the fact that part of you is curious".

I sighed, knowing she caught on, there's no denying she's right. Being straddled by her long hind legs and feeling those long licks of her tongue, her winged embrace, and the idea she has egg laying muscles… But how sentient this dragon really is… Even I feel more connected to her as we talk… All aspects of this dragon had an odd appeal, even though she is a different species.

“Yah that stupid little brain", I mumbled.

I could see it in Frein's face. She knew my resolve was weakening as she teased me.

“I think you should let it think more. After all, I'm still in heat. It isn't going away for at least another three or four days. Can you hold out that long?"

I rolled my eyes as I mustered more will to resist.

“I was born to hold out, dragon. It's best you don't forget what I am".

Another toothy grin was on Frein's face.

“Yes, Sargent Shane Keir the Commando. The bringer of pain, hatred and death to all enemies… Soon to be another tally to my slit".

I could feel a stronger urge in my pants and cringed.

“Well in your case? I prefer being the bringer of paint, not pain. Just as I did to you a few hours ago".

Frein narrowed her eyes.

“Damn it, you're a real buzzkill. You have no idea how loosing makes a dragon feel. It crushes our ego".

I smiled…

“That is one of my primary missions… To kill your ego. Sorry, that's just an order from the higher ups, it's nothing personal. It's also a good way to show you that I really have no wish to sleep with you. I still think you could get me into trouble if I did. Who knows, it could be a trick.

Frein shot small flames from her nostrils.

“I'd never! I'm mischievous, disorderly and disobedient. I get into trouble, and I'm quite spoiled. I'll admit that. But I'm not heartless. I don't want you in trouble. You've worked hard enough throughout your career. I wouldn't take that from you".

My eyes widened and a feeling of guilt struck my core. I felt what Frein said was sincere.

“Im sorry. I shouldn't have thought that".

“You're forgiven, I understand your caution and why you think the way you do. I can only imagine the pressure you're under. And a soldier of your esteem would surely be held to a standard of zero tolerance for error. I get it… But look at it this way… We are paired for four years… I want it, and you're resisting… You resist now, but you're going to give in sooner or later. I will not stop teasing… You will give in… At some point I will have you under my tail. You will also want it more and more. I can promise you… Once you give in to me, you will always want more. I only ask you to stop covering me in paint. It's humiliating".

I sighed and was in deep thought.

“You wish to know true humiliation? Well… I'll tell you what real humiliation is. One mission in Baccarein, I was captured. The terrorists placed me in a cage completely naked and tied to a chair in the middle of the village. Then they poured a mix of milk and honey down my throat. This mix was intended to make the victim vomit. And I vomited all over myself uncontrollably. This attracted the flies and rats. The rats bit into me repeatedly. The wounds were so infected, the skin around the wounds became necrotic. Then the flies were all over me. They laid eggs in my wounds. Eventually, maggots and other bugs began to eat my skin. The pain became so intense, I constantly begged for someone to put a bullet in my head. I actually begged for death… That is… Until Delta Three Marines eventually found me. I endured more pain and humiliation than you could possibly learn of in a dozen lifetimes".

Frein's eyes widened and her mouth hung wide open in shock from what she had heard. She folded her ears back.

“That's so cruel… And so evil".

I nodded my head…

“It is, and I've spent twelve years sending that kind of evil to its grave when I was in Alpha Team 134. But I'm tired, Frein. I'm aging quickly. I may be only thirty four years old, but I can feel my joints deteriorating from the physical stress of combat. My joints are stiff in the morning, and I wake up with the worst back pain from so much physical wear and tear. I don't think I have much physical agility and endurance left to continue all of this for much longer. Even though I only have four more years til retirement, I know those four years will be the longest years of my life. Hopefully, I have enough grit to get through it. But in the mean time, in the here and now… I'm teaching you… Sargent Shane Keir is such a dick… Trying to teach you to adapt to combat…

That paint on your scales is meant to teach you. It washes off. I'm the one permanently chewed up. My training may be what you're not used to, but I have my reasons for it. Also, you need someone to keep your crazy ass in line. Without actually trying to get you locked up. You may not like being drilled… You may not like all the PT I have for you either. But…You know.. Orders… It's nothing personal".

“You're training me for what? I've already passed basic".

I shrugged my shoulders.

“Orders"

I stood up and grabbed my fishing gear. I then walked towards our living quarters.

Frein walked inside and I closed the door. I walked to my wardrobe and grabbed a pair of sweat pants. I then walked to the restroom and closed the door.

“Shane, why is there a human cot in my room?" Frein asked.

“One second, let me change my clothes".

I exited the bathroom and walked up to the cot.

It had a blanket and a pillow.

“Yes!" I screamed and flopped on the cot.

Frein looked at me in confusion.

“I thought you enjoyed sleeping in my bed".

“I did until I knew you wanted me under your tail. You actually said it all in your sleep last night as well".

Frein narrowed her eyes.

“I said nothing last night. I said that this evening".

“Nope, you got your fluids all over my groin last night. You grinded yourself against me in your sleep. You are also a sleep talker. It's a real turn off", I said in a chuckle.

A deep, throaty chuckle came from the hallway.

Frein's eyes widened in focus on the bedroom door.

Captain Frenir opened the door. Frein's ears laid back, she realized she's in deep shit.

“Sargent Keir, you're welcome for that cot", Captain Frenir said.

“Thank you for the human accommodations sir", I said as I folded the blanket over me.

“Anything you need Sargent, you just let me know. I'll give you all that heart of yours desires. You're the best soldier yet".

I laughed…

“The latest video game console, flatscreen tv, pizza, and beer would be nice". I said jokingly, seeing if I can't get a reaction from Frein.

Frein snarled… “You told on me. And you'd trade a friend for those things?"

I shrugged my shoulders.

“I'd never trade a friend for anything. However, I would trade a soldier known to break the rules for those things".

Frein snarled…

Captain Fenrir looked at Frein.

“He's a soldier, Private. He is to ensure you are one as well. It is also his mission not to let you get kicked out of the army".

Frein growled… “Goodnight, Captain. See you in the A.M. Sir"…

“Good night Private, you have lots of work tomorrow. And goodnight Sargent Keir. Good work on teaching Private Frein the meaning of dicipline. She needs it".

I didn't want to make Frein think I was an adversary to her. I still want her to think I am a friend. Even if she can't see it yet.

“I wouldn't be her friend if I didn't show that caring means you gotta do what is right. Even if Frein doesn't see it yet, sir".

Captain Fenir chuckled and closed the door.

Frein gave a loud growl at me, bearing her teeth.

How can you be my friend and report me to my father?" Frein said.

I ignored Frein listening to her father's footsteps. They're easy to hear with his talons scraping against the floor as he walks. I began to tap, pacing the captain's footsteps. I was tapping to his steps to count each stride to estimate his distance from our room.

“Sargent Keir, stop tapping! You're annoying me", Frein whispered sternly.

“Shhhh!" I hushed at Frein, maintaining my focus.

Frein saw me staring at the door. And she began to wonder why I was behaving this way.

Quickly, I heard a couple talon scrapes against the floor, closer to the door. My eyes widened and I quickly acted like I was trying to go to sleep.

Captain Fenir opened the door. He saw Frein looking confused. He saw me laying down with my eyes closed.

Captain Fenir narrowed his eyes at Frein.

“Private Frein! Go to bed!"

Private Frein turned off the light with her tail.

She then huffed through her nostrils.

Captain Fenir closed the door and began walking away again. I began to pace his steps again. After pacing his steps seventy times.

Frein growled…

“Sargent Keir! Knock it off or I'll help you stop!"

I knew there is no way he could hear us. I went to grab a small handheld mirror in my bag. I opened the bedroom door and looked down the hallway with the mirror. I then flipped the mirror the other direction to see the other side of the hallway using the mirror. Captain Fenir was gone. I then sighed and quietly closed the door.

Frein stared at me with curiosity.

“Why would you do that?"

“I knew he was coming in once you said there was a cot. I also knew if he brought one, he'd want me to use it. And I better use it for both our sakes".

Frein tilted her head.

“I really do not understand", Frein said.

“That cot told me he wants us to sleep separately. Thats why I behaved the way I did. However, I'd like to still sleep in the sheltered position with you still".

Frein Snarled…

“No, I don't sleep with tattle tales".

“The only thing I've ever told him was your wet dream. Without going into the fact it was actually intentional of you. I saw your eye and grin when you thought I didn't see it. If you consider that tattle tailing when he suspected I was sleeping with you due to still having your… Certain scent all over me? You're being silly. You have to play the good soldier to be the bad soldier. You put me in a bad position and there no other way around it. The less ends I have to tie? The easier it is to keep it secret. And your father is now convinced I won't sleep in your bed anymore".

Frein was suspicious.

“My father really doesn't care… We could mate and worst case scenario, we're just told to stop. No… Something else is missing".

I sighed…

“Your father said section four rules apply specifically to me… I would get into trouble. Just for sleeping in a sheltered position could warrant trouble now that I'm on a cot. And that cot is very uncomfortable". I never requested a cot to Captain Fenir. That is how I knew it was your father… So I played along to be your adversary, not your friend. Even if I could brief you ahead of time? Your father would read you like a book and you know it. I needed to set the stage correctly"

“Damn, you're smart", Frein said.

“No, I'm a very experienced soldier".

“You've slept with humans before, but have you ever slept with a dragon?" Frein asked.

“I don't mean sleeping as in sex… I just hate the cot", I said.

“If you want in my bed, if you want to sleep in my embrace? Then you must get under my tail…Most humans who slept with a dragon find that dragons are more passionate lovers, and better at it than their human partners are. So, I'd say you're in for a real treat. Do give into your desires… I know you want it, Human".

“Absolutely not! Not when I have your father convinced I'm the one for this job. Tomorrow is the battlefield drill all over again, then it is PT. Also, I must make it look good. Which means you won't like it", I said.

Frein laid her ears backwards.

“I really do not like PT. All I do is run, go over obstacles, and fly till my wings ache. I'd rather trade sex for going easy on me if this is the case.

I rolled my eyes…

“Let's look at it all hypothetically… If you're to sleep with me, we do it on your free will because you want it for the sake of love and intimacy. Sex isn't to be used for bribery. There is no other way".

Frein Growled…

“The terms of my offer isn't changing. You want to sleep in my bed and in the sheltered sleep position? You want to sleep in my warm embrace? Get under my tail and fill me with your seed. Also, do not PT me hard…

I sighed…

“Well, with that in mind… It makes me think it's best for me not to sleep with you right now. You still sound like trouble. All you've done is convince me that sleeping with you is nothing but trouble. That's just my opinion".

I went to my cot, laid down and covered myself with a blanket.

“Damn it!" Frein said slamming her forepaw on her bed.

I let out an audible sigh in disappointment.

“The sheltered sleep position with Frein is way more comfortable than this fucking cot. But I have no choice, I must stick to what I say. It can always be worse… I could still be with Alpha Team 134 getting shot or tortured as a captive in a foreign country instead of working with a dragon if I think on a brighter side. Unfortunately, I'm going to sleep on a cot with an empty stomach and a full nutsack. And the more I go on with being teased by Frein, I find it more difficult not to give in. But I must keep a strong stand. My resolve must hold… I am her superior. I must lead by example. Her wanting to trade sex for a favor is a true conflict of interest and I cannot allow that.

Chapter 5

Rude Awakening

“Private Frein! It is 0401! Why the fuck are you not up yet!" I screamed at the top of my lungs.

Frein leaped out of her bed, stumbling over her own feet.

“Shane! What the"… Frein said.

“It's 040-fucking-1 hours, Private! At exactly 0400 hours, I'm Sargent Keir! I don't know who the fuck Shane is! Just like Jekyl and Hyde! Now you love working with Sargent Keir! Don't you private!?" I screamed…

“Sir, yes sir! Sorry for sleeping, sir!"

I had an enraged face…

“You're sorry Private Frein? You're sorry? Private Frein, I think you'd sleep even if the enemy was gunning down fellow soldiers wouldn't you!? You'd sleep through sirens sounding off in camp!"

Frein's frustrations began to show…

“Sir, no sir!"

“Bullshit! People died while you're fucking snoring!" I screamed.

“Sir?" Private said with an angry expression.

“Do I piss you off!? Do I make you angry!? Show me your war face, Private!"

“Sir!" Private said in both anger and confusion.

“Aaaahhhhhhh!"

I screamed in the right side of her face. My face was close enough to her ear to hurt her ear due to her sensitive sense of hearing.

“That's a goddamn warface! Now show it to me!"

Frein roared at me.

“I'm not convinced, Private! You don't scare me! Do it again, louder and more aggressive!" I screamed.

Frein roared again.

“You're fucking pathetic, Private! You fucking suck! You roar like you're sick! You roar like you got shot, Private! You couldn't scare a goddamn deer! You can't spook a horse! You can't even scare a fucking mouse, Can you private!? You're a fucking laughing stock, Private! I'll show you a warface one more time! Aaaaaaahhhhhhhhh! That's a war face! I screamed as loud as I could directly in her right ear.

Frein was on the verge of snapping in rage due to me screaming at her like a maggot in boot camp. I could see it. Her stare at me was the coldest of stares I've seen. Smoke came from her mouth and nostrils, and her body shook in a shiver from her anger. And I could tell, a deep, dark, and primal rage was brewing within her. I can see it in that cold, soulless stare she had. My jaws slacken and I thought I was going to get my head bitten off once her jaws parted inches from my face. However, I maintained my resolve.

“One more time! Dig deep within you! Give me a true war face from the depths of your cold, black, primal, reptilian heart, Private!" I screamed.

Frein roared, mouth wide open and my head was between her open jaws. Her roar was deafening and saliva flew all over my face. With my head between her wide open maw as she roared, all I could see was pink flesh with a large opening to her throat. I thought she was going to swallow me whole for a moment. However, I did not move and stood completely still without a flinch, even when her saliva hit my face.

Frein looked at my drool covered face. She laid her ears back, as if she thought she'd be in trouble due to my cringed face with her drool dripping off my chin, nose, and ears.

I sighed…

“I did ask for it".

I then looked at my hand with disgust. It was covered in a thick, mucousy saliva. I flicked as much of the saliva off my hand as I could before wiping my hand on my sweat pants.

I stared into Private Frein's eyes.

“Out-fucking-standing, Private! I saw both you and I from the ceiling in third person view because my ghost left my motherfucking body, Private! You scare the fucking shit out of me, Private! I had a goddamn near death experience! Now you'll remember that primal rage behind that war face, you need that kind of rage in a fight! You will fight the enemy with that exact rage. Am I wrong, Private!?

“Sir, no sir!"

“You will kill me three times in your mission today, will you private?!" I screamed.

“Sir yes sir! You will loose! You will die!"

“To mess hall! On the double!" I screamed.

“Sir, yes sir!"

I walked to the restroom to clean myself up.

Frein walked to the mess hall.

“What has gotten into him… Talking to me like a maggot! I'm a soldier!" Frein thought as she made way to the mess hall.

Frein was running through the woods to her next marker. I pulled a rope in front of private Frein to trip her. Her front legs buckled under her and she tumbled on the ground. I pulled my simmunition pistol and shot her till the magazine was emptied. She had seventeen paint marks on the right side of her body.

“Private Frein! You already killed me once today! Why did you not do it again!"

“Sir, you tripped me, then you shot me!"

“Bullshit! I killed you because you're frolicking through the woods like a hatchling! You did not anticipate enemy presence! You were not paying attention! Now you're dead and pathetic!

Private Frein, stay down on the ground!" I screamed.

Frein sighed anticipating to be drilled for that mistake.

“Sir, yes sir."

I placed my boot on her neck. I then shifted my weight on her neck.

“I hate submission", Frein thought to herself.

Her ego is screaming at her to throw Sargent Keir off. However, she reasoned with herself to go with it for the sake of not harming Sargent Keir.

“Private Frein, why did you frolic through the woods! You died because of it!"

“I'm sorry, sir".

“Did you have my permission to die?" I screamed in her ear.

“No sir!"

“Private Frein, stay still and close your eyes!" No one is to speak!" I screamed.

Everything was silent, I then plugged her ears.

“Now hold your breath".

After several moments, I unplugged her ears and stood up. I moved a few feet away to give Frein some space to get up.

“Stand up!"

Private Frein stood on her feet again.

“That's what happens when you're dead, Private! There is no more breathing! There is no more enjoying your life! There is no more shoping, playing with friends, and family! There is no more enjoying your favorite past times! It's like you're sleeping! Except you sleep forever and you never, ever get up again! Then the enemy step all over your pretty scaled corpse because you're dead and pathetic! Does that sound like fun to you, Private! Do you enjoy being dead?" I screamed in her ear again.

“No sir!"

“Since you died in my drill and hate PT so much? It's an extra thirty minutes of PT! If you die again, it'll be an extra hour of PT! If you die on your third time, I'm going to PT you till every fucking scale of yours falls off! I will then keep those scales as a trophy of my own victory, Private! I will do everything it takes to motivate you, you will succeed! You do not have my permission to die! I own your ass! I own you from snout to tail tip! And you do not! I repeat, do not have my permission to die! Get your ass to drop off!" I screamed.

Frein's jaws hung wide open in shock.

“Keeping a dragon's scales as a trophy… The nerve this human has to say such words to a dragon", Frein thought.

“What is your mental malfunction! Return to drop off!"

Frein growled and launched in the air towards her drop zone.

Frein landed in her drop zone.

“Damn this is brutal and cruel! What the fuck is this… Saying I have a mental malfunction!? I'll show him a mental malfunction! He'll pay for that!"

The Drop zone buzzer sounded and she made way to try again.

I made way to set traps at Frein's markers. I made way to one marker, I tied a string to a paint grenade and placed the grenade in front of her marker. With that string, I wrapped it around two sticks to make a trip wire. I heard leaves wrestling behind me. I looked to see nothing there. I looked up, remembering Frein once getting me from up in the tree. Looked up but II saw nothing.

Out of nowhere… Or seemingly nowhere…

Frein's tail snaked around my ankle and she dragged me backwards, then I was lifted up to meet her face to face I was hung by my foot upside down.

“Well, look at you being sly", I said.

Frein growled and showed her teeth.

I rolled my eyes…

“Yah I get it. A bite to the throat, I'll return to drop off".

Frein shook her head in the negative.

“Nope, not yet".

Frein spat in my face. I wiped my face and the thick mucousy saliva still clung to my face like glue.

“That's me cooking you with my fire".

She then gave a long lingering lick on my face.

She opened her mouth and coiled her tongue on my shoulders. I was placed in her mouth head first.

I squirmed in protest as Frein sucked on my head.

Frein released me, and pulled her jaws away from me.

“Victory tastes so good! That's for talking to me that way!" Frein screamed in my ear.

I sighed, releasing my own fustration. I knew Frein was pushed passed her limits.

“Alright, Private… You had your fun. Put me down", I said calmly.

“Why? So you can talk to me this way!?" Frein shouted in my ear.

I sighed again.

“No, I'm not going to scream at you. I saw your temper over my joke at the lake last night. The Sargent Shane Keir joke… Remember? I had to see where your tolerance level was at. Believe it or not… This was a must".

Frein had a look of confusion on her face.

“Why would you think that? No dragon is used to being yelled at like that".

I nodded my head in recognition. Noted… Now, how about putting me down. I don't like hanging upside down", I said.

Frein set me down, and I sighed.

“Can we finish this training?" Private Frein asked

“Where done", I said as I pulled out Frein's file.

Frein looked at me as I pulled out her file. I pulled out a sheet of paper and began writig on it.

“What are you doing?" Frein asked with a concerned look.

“You must take it… In the heat of combat, we humans scream, swear, and even get pissed at eachother… Gunfire, bombs, mortars, drones, all of it stresses us out beyond your immagination. I all of us wind up saying things we don't mean to say even… You may see it from others one day… I had to evaluate you with that. You didn't do well… You need to handle it… You kneed to understand… What if you retaliated on a battlefield and killed a fellow soldier?"

Frein was in deep thought. She herself never thought of this…

“Your anger makes you unfit for combat. You are to report to Colonel Mays for disciplinary action.

Frein's ears shot up in alarm.

“He's a human… He is also harsh on dragons… No… Please! Shane, let's not be hasty… If I intended to hurt you, you'd know it… we both know this", Frein said.

“I continued writhing on a form in Frein's file.

Frein narrowed her eyes. “Why not make this more easier and more pleasurable just to trade sex for it", Frein said.

“I've already explained why. That activity is an act of love and intimacy, not bribery. I believe in you, Private… However, I cannot in good conscience say you're clear to go in peace or war. When I was in Alpha 134, my brothers yelled at me, cussed at me, and verbally abused me all the time. And guess what? I did the same thing to them. Combat is stressful and the pressure is so intense. We say and do things we don't mean as I said before. Also, we have to scream when we are surrounded by mortars, gunfire, and bombs. How are you going to handle twenty or even fifty of us humans screaming, cussing and insulting you in the chaos of battle when you have difficulty taking it from just me? And if you mess up on the battlefield, you'll surely be verbally abused because mistakes costs lives. And with your urge to lash out, that doesn't make you a good fit for the job. If you're not mentally fit to take it? I'd be setting you for failure. What if you snapped at a soldier on a battlefield and killed him? You'd be locked up forever and dishonorably discharged for that.

I don't want that to happen…. You gotta handle it, you gotta be a team player in the game".

“So, can I complete my mission?" Frein asked.

I closed the folder to Frein's file with a sigh and thought for a moment.

“I'll give you one more chance. One more lash out like that however, you will face court martial. I can deal with the flirting… But I will not tolerate lash outs. Are we clear?"

“Yes sir… Crystal clear".

I gave a grin…

“Very well… I'll return to drop off… And try not to be so pathetic".

Frein snorted with smoke and flames flying from her nostrils.

"It's you who will be pathetic".

I smiled…

“That's the spirit".

I chose to make an objective of my own to avoid Frein for now and set paintball claymores. They are motion sensing to detonate when it detects anything 15 feet away. It'll fire ten paintballs when the motion sensor is tripped. They are camouflaged with leaves and vegetation except for the motion sensor. That needs to be left uncovered or it will not fire.

I moved for a stream I knew of, if memory serves me correctly? Frein still has markers there.

I walked along the stream, and found a large group of grey boulders. I kept an eye on those boulders since Frein can make herself look like one of those. After several more minutes of walking, I heard a loud roar in the distance.

“Looks like Frein stumbled accross one of my claymores. She's cute when frustrated", I said to myself in a chuckle.

Frein looked at the curved box. And found it was a claymore, used for training in drills like the one she is in. She snarled…

“Damn it, Shane! I hope you didn't plant more of these!"

I began to mark more markers, then I moved to hunt Frein down for the final time.

Frein walked towards another marker. She snarled as she found another mound of forest debris next to the marker.

Frein carefully removed some vegitation to see if there was a claymore underneath. Frein snarled at the sight a little boxlike corner of the claymore. Frein sighed and carefully moved to mark her marker without tripping the claymore.

Frein then moved for her next marker to mark.

Frein was at her next marker. What she didn't know was that I was only several feet behind her. I was camouflaged with the bush and had her in my sights. Frein had no idea that I was behind her.

“Click", My simmunition rifle misfired. I tried to clear the missfire, but Frein turn around and roared. She made eye contact with me and charged at me. I threw my rifle at Frein while screaming at her and drawing my simmunition pistol. The rifle hit Frein's head, but it had no effect in stunning her. She was completely locked on to me as she rushed me.

It was too late, Frein was on top of me with one paw on my chest and another paw on my right hand that held my pistol. I pulled a flashbang out with my left hand. I let it roll a safe distance and it went off. Frein lept off of me in a roar, shaking her head. I gripped my ears in pain. I was just as disoriented from the flashbang as Frein was. After regathering my bearings, I leaped on Frein's neck, hanging on to her with all my strength. She began flapping her wings, trying to take flight. I managed to get on her head with my legs under her horns. I sat on her head and used her horns as an anchor to keep myself locked in on her head. I wrapped my legs over her snout while I was between her horns. I used my legs to try and pull her head down. As I did, I felt her land as she became too unbalanced for flight.

Frein landed, and she quickly started hitting me with her wings. Each hit from her wing bones felt like being hit with a baseball bat. The score was two to two, I had to win this fight. I reached for a paint grenade. I pulled the pin and dropped it, figuring at the very worst, we'd both die three times and I'd tie the game.

Frein saw me drop the grenade and she smacked it away with her tail. The grenade detonated at an ineffective distance.

She hit me on the head several times and being hit from each wing repeatedly disoriented me. Frein threw me off of her when my grip failed me. I landed on my back, getting the wind knocked out of me. Frein placed a paw over me again and had a talon lightly pressed on my neck.

“Dead!"

I began laughing.

“What's so funny?

I continued to laugh.

“That was too much fun! I almost had you!"

Frein paused a moment, thinking about the struggle of hand to hand combat.

“I'll admit, that was fun. Although flashbangs are not fun. I really hate those".

I nodded…

“Well, flashbangs are a good tool. However, when in the you're in a situation of being on the receiving end of it? Yes it's not fun".

“So, will you go to drop off?"

“No, I think you lost count on something. You killed me three times, Private!"

Frein was in disbelief…

“I did?"

“Yes Private! Can you count? You killed me three times".

“I can't believe it! I beat you!"

“What are you celebrating for! Go mark your markers and get to your lift zone! The mission is not complete till all markers are marked, and lift zone siren is sounded! Go! On the double, Private!"

“Oh right, markers!"

Frein took flight to mark the rest of her markers.

I walked to the edge of the forest to meet with Captain Frenir.

“Sargent, what happened out there?" Captain Frenir asked.

“Well Sir, Private Frein and I had a bit of an issue. I pushed her too hard on a drill and she impulsively retaliated. She had my head and shoulders in my mouth… I threatened to report her to the colonel, acting like I was writing a report in her file. But no worries. I only drew this, Sir. I said, showing Captain Fenir a drawing of a dragon crying.

Captain Fenir narrowed his eyes.

“Don't tell me you plan on showing it to her".

I laughed…

“Of course… I plan on getting her back for saying she was going to kill me when she hunted me".

Captain Fenir sighed.

“I now see why Frein likes you. You play mind games, just as most dragons do".

“Frein eliminated me from the drill. All she has to do is mark the rest of her markers and go to her lift zone".

“Frein did what, Sargent?"

“She eliminated me, Sir".

A loud roar rang out from the forest.

I laughed…

“But it looks like I took her down with me. Good thing I planted grenades attached to trip wires, and claymores, Sir!"

“Damn, I was thinking about doing a drill with you, Sargent. But now I have second thoughts".

I shrugged my shoulders. “It'd just be for fun, Sir."

“Sargent, my draconic ego says you're a threat to it. I'll keep it, so I will not play this demoralizing drill of yours. Thank you"…

Frein took flight and she continued to roar.

I laughed at the thought of how frustrated she must be.

“Sargent, you're having way too much fun with your partner", Captain Frenir said.

“I told you, I will break her from that ego of her's… Sir".

Frein landed in front of me, her face was full of shame. A large blob of blue paint covered her right shoulder.

“I failed my mission", Frein said with her ears laid back. The look of shame and disappointment was so appearant, it even tugged on my heart. She tried so hard to win… I decided to not to yell at her and speak calmly.

“Private Frein, did you have my permission to die?" I said calmly this time.

Frein sighed…

“No sir".

“Ok, remember what I said about what happens when you die?"

Frein lowered her head with her ears pinned back.

“You'll PT me til my scales fall off, Sir".

“I did say that, and I'll see you on the running track".

Frein let a displeasured growl…

“Yes sir".

Frein took a few experimental flaps and took flight towards the running track.

“Sargent, you're being awfully harsh on Frein. To Say you'll PT her till her scales fall off… Do you see this is neccessary?" Captain Fenir said with a concerned look.

I shook my head in the negative.

“The more she improves, she'll find the less harsh I'll become. It's only when she messes up I am harsh. Save for now. Normally I'd be screaming at her. But the look of shame and disappointment she had kind of hit a soft spot on me. Unless required, I'm not going to yell at her during PT. But I will keep my promise in making her feel like her scales fell off. She's going to get quite the workout".

“Thank you for helping. The Ministry of Defense is rethinking a dragon's role in the army as a vital addition".

I was unphased by the news…

“It isn't a vital role. In my opinion? It's a waste of funds. With modern weaponry, fighter jets, helicopters, and arms? I see no tactical advantage to include dragons. The bigger you are, the easier you are to shoot. These days dragons are nothing but cannon fodder on an open battlefield. And your corpses would cover the landscape. I'll admit, that goes to show how little humanity thinks of your kind, Captain. I find it to be cruel and inhumane to place your kind as infantry among modern weaponry. It's almost as if they want your kind to die", I said with a saddened look, thinking about humanity's bigotry towards dragons".

Captain Frenir's ears pinned back.

It's ok, Sargent. I'm glad to know some humans like you don't think badly of us".

I nodded my head…

“But for some specialized missions, I can think of some instances where a dragon would have played an important role when I was in Alpha Team 134".

Captain Fenir looked suprised.

“You mean… Special operations?"

“Yes… I've done missions that lasted days without arial support, I've done missions in reconnaissance, missions in severe climates, and even missions that sent me MIA. The guerrilla fighters divided my team. I would have loved to have a dragon help me survive in the jungles of Eqathor. I was MIA for two months before crossing the border of Nanau, one of our allies. Everyone in my team thought I was dead… After a month of being MIA, they even sent my now ex wife a flag and a letter, pronouncing me as KIA. All such instances, a dragon could greatly improve survivability and with less equipment. We should have such a discussion within the army's special forces board", I said.

Captain Fenir lookeded at me skeptically.

“You couldn't use a satellite phone or just your radio?"

I sighed…

“Well, my radio was dead… And my Satellite phone was damaged from a bullet going through it as guerrilla fighters hunted me… Talk about bad luck".

Captain Fenir narrowed his eyes and looked somewhat bewildered.

“How the hell are you alive?"

Captain Fenir recoiled his head back realizing that is a harsh question.

I shrugged my shoulders.

“A little skill and allot of luck".

“You sure have fascinating stories. And I'll talk to General Vaail on seeing about making us apart of special forces".

I chuckled…

“You do that… For now, I have a dragon to torment".

“Just don't PT her to death… I'd hate to see my daughter killed from simple PT", Captain Fenir said.

I have a smirk…

“Oh I won't… I'm running with her. I must stay in shape myself after all".

“Seeing that smirk, you must have an idea that makes that harder than that sounds".

I smiled…

“When you have the time, stop by and see for yourself… She's honestly going to hate me for this".

I met Frein at the track. I began to run next to Frein. Frein trotted next to me as I ran. She isn't putting allot of energy into the excersise sense she's much faster than me.

I looked towards Frein.

“Ok Private Frein, this is too easy for you. So, while I'm running? You will run in circles around me. Do you understand?

“Yes Sir", Frein said.

Frein began running clockwise around me. By her facial expressions, she already felt that running in a circle causes more exertion than running straight on a track. However, she kept her pace.

We ran one Kilometer in this fassion. Frein was breathing heavily.

I slowed to a walk…

“Walk for cool off one lap around the track".

“Sir, how far did we run?" Frein asked.

“I ran one kilometer. Since you did circles around me as I ran, you probably ran close to three or four kilometers".

Frein sighed…

“My right shoulder and thigh… Running around you in a clockwise circle makes those muscles so tired".

After cool off and water break, you'll do so counter clockwise".

Frein sighed… She clearly was not enjoying this.

“You made me run in circles just to make me ache".

I smiled…

“Yes I did… Just wait for your wing workout… You'll be sore tomorrow, I assure you"…

Frein snorted in response. I began to drink water, Frein went to the water barrel for dragons to drink out of.

Captain Fenir arrived after our first run. Frein was already tired. She kept her wings spread out to cool herself off. Like bird of prey, they will fold their wings tight to hold in body heat, but they'll open their wings to reduce body heat. This helps to cool off a dragon by radiating heat outside the body.

“That's one Kilometer down, one more kilometer to go", I said.

Captain Fenir looked confused…

“Frein ran more than a kilometer. Any dragon can do more than that".

I shook my head in the negative.

“I ran a kilometer. While I done so, Private Frein ran in circles around me, making her do about three times more running than I did".

Captain Fenir nodded his head…

“That will do it".

“Exactly"…

“Permission for rest and recreation, Captain", Frein said.

I looked at Captain Fenir, and shook my head in the negative.

“Permission denied, Private". Captain Fenir said.

Frein's ears shot in alarm…

I smiled at Frein.

“I told you I'd PT you till your scales fall off".

Frein growled in response.

“Display of anger or frustration is now deemed unacceptable. Next time you do this at any time during your three weeks of training, I'll add more time to PT".

“Well, at least he isn't screaming at me". Frein thought.

“Ok Captain, we're ready for our second run".

After another kilometer of running, Frein was exausted. Her legs trembled a few moments before sitting to relieve her legs.

“Yes Frein, we're done running", I said trying to catch my breath myself.

Private Frein stared at me…

“I hate to ask, but what is next?"

“Im going to attach resistance bands to your wing claw. There will be weight resistance when you lift your wings and lower your wings. This will exercise and strengthen your wing muscles. It'll eventually greatly amplify the amount of thrust you can give in flight".

After cooling off and drinking more water, Frein had a bunch of resistance bands attached to her wings.

“Lift your wings, Private".

Frein felt the additional resistance as she lifted her wings, making them more difficult to lift.

“Now pull your wings down to the ground".

Frein did so, and noticed an equal amount of resistance against her wings.

“Now lift up and down until you cannot do so any more".

I began lifting weights myself, switching to different benches when one session ended.

Finally, I made way for some bench presses. I need a spotter, but Frein was still busy with her wing exercise.

Frein began to struggle as her wing muscles got tired.

“Keep up the pace, Private! Move it! Come on are you telling me you cannot keep a pace with such strong wings! Go! Move it!" I screamed at her.

“Sir, yes sir!" Frein said as she strained to keep up her original pace.

Several minutes passed and Frein began to loose her pace again.

“Faster, Private! Keep your pace!" I screamed.

“Sir, I'm trying!" Frein shouted.

“Don't try! Do it! Move it! I didn't tell you to try, Private! I fucking told you to maintain your pace! Now move those wings!" I screamed with an enraged look.

After several moments, Frein's strength finally gave out.

“Ten more reps! Give it to me! That's an order! I screamed.

Frein strained to give me more reps. After six reps, she gave out again.

I removed the resistance bands from Frein's wing claws.

“You're done… Now I just need you to spot me on the bench press".

Frein felt like every muscle in her body was exausted. She realized I was not kidding… She certainly felt like I PT'd her till her scales fell off.

“Get those gains! Get them gains!", I sung repeatedly as I made way to the bench press. I set the weights to two hundred and fifty pounds.

“Stand by my head, spot me as I do my final exersize".

Frein watched me as I did reps of twenty, and eventually, on my fifth rep, I strained and the bar began to lower towards my chest.

Frein gave me a toothy grin.

“Oh come on, a big bad commando can't lift that weight one more time?"

I strained to keep the weight above my chest, my face began to turn red as I strained.

“I'm out of steam… I need help"…

Frein smiled at me.

“You can't do it?"

“I already pushed myself to breaking point. I already have the discipline for it. I don't need motivation. Help me…

Frein helped me lift the weight and set it back on the holding rack.

I sighed, satisfied with my work out.

“Hurts so good"…

“That weight was actually heavy for a human… I'm impressed", Frein said.

I stretched my arms…

“Dedication to constantly push yourself. That was a total of ninety four reps".

Frein swayed her tail with a toothy grin.

“You're so sexy, I could pounce you and make you orgasm on sight", Frein said mischievously.

Another human working out roared in laughter.

Private Vikeo was working out as well.

“Finally found out some dragons have a thing for humans huh?" Private Vikeo said as she walked up to me.

“That's why I sleep on a cot", I said with a look of displeasure.

Private Vikeo smiled…

“Private Stronorm is the same way with me. He's a frisky one, and I see I'm not the only one paired with such a dragon".

I rolled my eyes…

“Private Vikeo… You need to leave before I have you written up".

Frein gave a toothy grin.

“Such hypocrisy, Sargent… You squirm every time I tease you… Do give into temptation… I'm allot of dragon and I have plenty of pleasure to give…

Frein's hot breath blew on my neck… Her snout was so close and she continued to deliberately breathe on me, sending chills on my neck.

“Private Frein, if I hear one peep out of you? I'll send you back on the running track".

“She has spirit though. That's one positive trait", Private Vikeo said.

I rolled my eyes…

“She has something".

“Youshould sleep with her. Forming a bond is also apart of our tasks. Private Stronorm and I get along very well", Private Vikeo said.

I was shocked to hear my ears. Granted, it's true that General Vaail wouldn't want complaints… He has brought me here to aid in saving the Arial Infantry Division, which documented discipline regarding a paired human and dragon would be detrimental to the division itself. Private Vikeo obviously knew this, which is why she doesn't care about keeping buisness between her and her paired dragon much of a secret. No one here wants to loose their positions or jobs…

I raised a finger at Private Vikeo…

“You shouldn't discuss that with others… You don't know who could be listening. I spent sixteen years in the army, and the entire army mock us all. They already spread rumors that we are the tail lifter division. Don't let others discover there is actually some truth in it".

Private Vikeo chuckled…

“Well, I can already tell you didn't sleep with your dragon. Dragons are known to seek pleasure. If they view you as a fun friend, they'll work better with you. You should learn to get a little experimental".

I narrowed my eyes…

“Military policy has some severe consequences if caught".

Frein brought her snout to my ear…

“My slit will be happy to have the little Shane inside so it can clench him with the most passion he has ever received".

She licked my neck sending sensual chills down my spine.

My eyes widened at her bold public display of affection.

“Awww, she wants some love. Honestly, Captain Frenir caught both Stronorm and I. He said to stop, but there was no action taken. You'll be fine. He just tries to show intolerance to it", Private Vikeo said.

Frein grinned…

“I'll smother you in my lust".

I let out a loud sigh, trying to resist a sudden temptation. I still view this dragon as trouble. Frein's bold actions demonstrate her troublemaking distain for human laws.

“I'll leave you two to think about it", Private Vikeo said.

My little brain was screaming for relief from the tightness of my pants. Frein had to go there… she had to talk about those damn egg laying muscles again. And how she can smother me in her lust. That lingering lick from her incredibly soft and smooth tongue crazes my skin in such remarkable ways. Those pretty blue reptilian eyes staring in focus at me is so alluring as well. I can feel my resolve beginning to weaken. I really don't understand how such a creature can be so enticing… It must be knowing the comfort of her embrace, the feel of her tongue, and that flirty personality. Hearing another human finding it a positive experience certainly doesn't help me much either. I really wish someone from Alpha Team 134 had my back about now. I dont mind being in the official Arial Infantry Division. But to be in the unofficial tail lifter division is something I don't want to be in. And getting under Frein's tail would certainly put me in the unofficial division…

Frein teased my neck with her breath again.

“Human, you're deep in thought… Do give in to your cardinal desire for pleasure. You have no idea how loved you'll feel".

Her breath once again sent chills down my spine.

“I'm not a submissive lover… You being a dragon kind of puts me on the submissive end".

Frein nodded her head in recognition, then narrowed her gaze, as if I just gave her an answer she hoped to hear so she can use her cunning use of words against me.

“If you cannot submit, you cannot be loved… Do tell me, how does it feel to be constantly loving another, without you experiencing being loved? Your combat life is sad, but in a badass way. However your love life is terrible. It's pathetic Sargent Keir. How about you look into your own ego. Then tell me you're not pathetic in love. Or… The lack of it, Sir."

I was shocked to hear such biting words…

I recalled my ex wife, she always expected me to be dominant, it's true. And it seemed like that's where Frein was getting to. This made my stomach turn.

“Permission to go to mess hall. I am hungry", Frein said.

“Granted", I said with a sigh of relieve that this conversation is over.

While Frein was in the mess hall, I was in the living quarters. I laid in my cot, watching a movie on my tablet. Frein walked in the room. She saw me laying in my cot.

“You really should eat and regain your strength.

We both exterted allot today".

I reached into a bag under my cot and pulled out a protein bar.

“I always keep these on hand".

I placed the protein bar back into my bag and slid the bag under the cot and resumed watching my movie.

“Have you thought about what I've told you, Shane?"

“I don't give a fuck what you said. I said before, I can't sleep with you. But now it's not only that I can't. I won't, I refuse… You're my subordinate. You will obey every command. And my command is for you cease your attempts to seduce me, this is a direct order", I said sternly.

Frein had a confused look on her face…

“You turn down love, for being a soldier?"

“It's clear that you're more focused on pleasure than your training. So yes, I'm turning it down", I said.

“But what about private Vikeo? She told you as well. Even my father loves how those two perform in training"…

I sighed…

“I'm not Private Vikeo, if she has a thing for dragons, that's her concern. Not mine"…

Private Frein sighed, knowing if she doesn't turn the tables by warming up Sargent Keri's heart? Working with him will be very difficult. Private Frein exited the living quarters.

Private Frein entered Captain Frenir's office, and flicked the door closed with her tail.

Captain Fenir had a look of concern on his face.

“Private Frein, I sense something is wrong."

“I'd like a different human to be paired with. Sargent Keir is not a good match for me, sir."Frein said.

Captain Fenir sighed…

“Let me guess. You wish to sleep with him, and he turned you down. He has a free will too. We cannot make him sleep with you off of military grounds to keep it legal. You'll just have to deal with it".

Frein lowered her head…

“Being able to bond, and connect to him has proven difficult. And probably impossible… I really think I need to work with someone else. A dragon not having interest in him may be a better fit".

Frein's ears drooped in sadness. She really didn't want to make a request of changing a paired human. But she feels like she has no other choice.

Captain Fenir narrowed his eyes…

“You really have feelings for him".

“Yes… I obtained feelings when we talked at the lake. He's such a nice human when he is off duty".

Captain Fenir sighed…

“I'm giving you two permission to leave. You two just need time together that isn't work related".

“Sargent Keir, pack your bags. We are going out for a couple days!" Frein shouted.

I rolled my eyes…

“What kind of scheme are you up to now?"

I opened the door and slammed my door shut, and ran to Captain Frenir's office.

Private Frein swayed her tail…

“We're leaving for rest and recreation, by orders of Captain Fenir. And do get under my tail. I cannot go into a combat zone with a human I don't have a tally to", Private Frein said with a toothy grin and swayed her tail in anticipation.

I narrowed my eyes.

“You all are tricking me. What is this all about? Us leaving for R&R? Frein isn't trained".

Captain Fenir tapped a claw…

“Frein just asked to be paired with another human. She likes you, but clearly you two need to know eachother more. I'm ordering you to take two days at a nearby city. I recommend the City of Nasilik. You two need to stop thinking about work. You're off for forty eight hours. You are not to return before then".

I sighed…

“Guess once I'm in Nasilik, I'll just drink myself till I pass out".

“Sargent Keir, bonding with Private Frein is apart of the mission. You two need time to do this, and time is being given. Don't waste it. Private Frein obviously needs to get it out of her system. You really don't want to be around a sexually frustrated dragon". General Vaail said peeking his head from the back room of Captain Frenir's office.

I rolled my eyes…

“I'll take my chances… She can find another dragon in Nasilik… There is no issue with her taking time to find another dragon. It's illegal for you to order me to sleep with her".

“This is true and it's highly illegal for me to make you… But I do order you and Frein to get some R&R. You both will go to Nasilik, and you two will enjoy the time you have together… That is a lawful order, Sargent". General Vaail said.

Frein gave a toothy grin…

“It's a bragging right for a dragon to stress their human companion to the point of drinking. The last human who did this was very stressed. One dragon stressed a woman so badly, she drank through all her R&R".

After R&R, I'm am sending you and Private Frein to Baccharain. Intelligence says that our embassy is under threat of attack. Guerrilla fighters have been sighted on the capital. Alpha Team 138 is standing post as a security force there. Alpha Team 134 is soon to do a reconnaissance mission to locate the guerrilla fighter's locations. Sargent Keir, you and Private Frein will be ready to ship out within three weeks after your R&R", General Vaail said.

My jaws were wide open in shock. I looked at private Frein. I then turned back to General Vaail.

“Sir, Private Frein isn't even close to being ready for such a mission. She's barely out of basic".

“Special Opperations Command wants to see what the Arial Infantry Division can offer. You already have the training… You and Private Frein are the best we've got. Alpha Team 134 agreed to report of your performance as a human with a dragon", General Vaail said.

I sighed and nodded my head..

“I am the one who recommended Captain Fenir that dragons are more suitable for special operation teams. Their chances of survival were greater than on an open battlefield", I admitted.

“If this goes well, how many dragons could you save from being cannon fodder? Sargent Keir"…Captain Fenir said.

“My only request is me to go without private Frein. She's not aware of this kind of warfare. She also isn't completely trained for it. I'll go on behalf of the Arial Infantry Division", I said.

“Oh no you don't", Private Frein said stepping forward and beside me.

I glared at Frein…

“Oh yes I will! This is way above your skill. I've fought these bastards before… They are the ones who captured and tortured me".

Frein pinned her ears back, understanding the enemy is ruthless. Then she gave a toothy grin.

“I'll burn them all to ash. Don't shoot them… Let them feel the pain of flame. A bullet is too good for them. Also it's a waste of taxpayer money".

I pointed a finger scoldingly at Frein…

“That ego will be what gets you shot, Private. You haven't completed my training. It'll take at least three months to be fully trained. I don't know if you should be deployed yet".

Frein shook her head…

“I passed basic… PT, room clearings, combat scenarios, all of it covered. Your training is way more advanced, I'll give you that. However, I am combat ready."

“That's cannon fodder training, Private. You'll die in a special ops field or worse… Jeopardize the mission and get us all killed. I do believe in you… But without proper training, without being equipped with the knowledge and skill you must have? It is setting you up to fail. I cannot do with a clear conscience", I said.

“Not long ago, you almost got me in a position of facing court martial", Frein said with her eyes narrowed.

I sighed…

About that…

I pulled Frein's file out of the pack. I opened the file and pulled out the paper I was using.

I showed Frein the paper.

“This is what I did".

It's a stick drawing of a dragon crying sucking on its thumb talon saying “waaaahhhh, Sargent Keir says mean words!"

“Had to get you back for making me think you'd kill me in your little hunting game we played not long after I met you", I said.

She then saw a stick drawing of a human raising two middle fingers saying, “Suck it up, Cupcake". The same name Frein originally called Sargent Keir when she gave him wet willies.

Frein sighed… Sargent Keir kept track of every mean thing she did to him. He's giving her payback.

Frein snorted smoke out of her nostrils.

I gave a smile.

“And you call me the cupcake".

Frein was in thought for a moment and smiled.

“Im fine with it… As long as I'm your cupcake… You're always invited into my slit, who desires you".

I cringed, and my pants felt tight…

“Really? In front of both your father and Grandfather? What the hell is wrong with you?"

Captain Fenir rolled his eyes…

“Ok you two.. Get the hell out of here… I'm your captain, not your councilor".

I turned to the door.

“If your daughter keeps this up, I'm going to need a fucking councilor", I said as I exited the office.

“You want to sleep with me… Deny it all you wish! I will get you under my tail! I'm sick and tired of waiting!" Frein shouted.

I ignored Frein and slammed the door of our living quarters.

Frein Chuckled, the turned to Captain Fenir with a serious look.

“Something is wrong with Shane. I noticed it when he was sleeping in his cot, Sir".

“Well Frein, you have my attention. What is the problem?".

“In his cot, he sleeptalks and sometimes screams names and swears in his sleep sir. He kept waking me up all night", Frein said.

“Is this why at 0401 hours, his screaming and your roars woke me up? You slept in by one minute, and he gave you the old warface drill… He drilled you on that with perfection actually",

Frein snarled at recalling being screamed at in her ear.

“Yes sir, and that still gets under my scales recalling that".

“So he has dreams?" General Vaail asked.

“I'm sure he does. I couldn't make out all words, but some words where “Sack, no! Fuck! Sack! Goddamn it Doc, he's all over me!" Frein recited what she heard in Sargent Keir's sleep talk.

Captain Fenir nodded his head.

“Look after him, Private. He's too good to not have someone having his back".

“He started doing it when he s in the cot. Previous nights he didn't do it in the shelter position with me", Frein said.

“I want that cot removed. It's best you keep him in that position at night. He obviously finds comfort in it. That soldier has been through things beyond your wildest imaginations, Private. We take care of our own… Remember that. Just as he takes care of you by teaching you, you are to take care for him. This is your most important mission. I consider it as your upmost priority. Sounds to me like Sargent Keir had a friend get blown to bits, and Sargent Keir was covered in what was left of his friend", General Vaail said.

Frein's jaws hung open, surprised to hear such a possibility. She's heard of soldiers suffering from such things before, but didn't realize she would be paired with such a human. She then knew to change humans would not be good for Sargent Keir. He needed her whether he knew it or not.

“Yes sir", Frein said.

Chapter 6

I was on the buss to the city of Nasilik with Frein.

Frein was staring out the window watching the country side swaying her tail. Her face looks like she's filled with happiness and excitement.

“What will we do in Nasilik? Frein asked as her tail continued to sway.

“What is your favorite music?" I asked…

“I like any genre with singing. I love how you humans sing with such melody", Frein replied.

“Ah, ok"… I said making a mental note.

“What's your favorite music? Frein asked.

“Oh, there's no melodious singing in my favorite genre. In fact, it's so loud it'd hurt your ears. You wouldn't enjoy it. I prefer we spend our forty eight hours doing things we both enjoy", I said.

“What's the genre?" Frein asked.

“Oh anything loud and chaotic. But yet still having a method to the madness. Death metal, Dethcore, and at the lightest old school hardcore". I said as I scratched my head.

Frein laid her ears backwards. “I know that music. I heard soldiers playing that music before. It makes me want to repeatedly bang my head against a boulder", Frein said.

“I had a girlfriend before joining Alpha 134. She once said that!" I said in laughter.

“You really are a dark souled human", Frein said as she narrowed her eyes at Shane.

“Yes I am. I've lived so much of my life in dark places. But not all songs are dark. Some are in fact very positive, the music is simply aggressive. But I've been to hundreds of those shows. I really haven't been to a show with much singing", I said.

“I've never been to any shows. But I'd like to go", Frein said.

“Mmmhmmm… So be it. I'll check bars, pubs, and breweries for possible shows. I said as I reached for my smartphone to search for shows", I said.

“Really? That's kind of you, I always wanted to see how live music is played. Thank you", Frein said.

“Oh, no problem at all. I think it'll be good to listen to other genres live", I said.

“Agreed, that death metal scrambles my brain. I don't know how it doesn't scramble the brains of those listening to it", Frein said.

“I listened to it since I was a kid. My parents thought it was a phase. They thought wrong", I said in laughter.

“I didn't mean to insult your taste in music", Frein said.

“No offense taken. I get worse comments than what you said. Besides, I know that genre of music isn't for everyone. That's why I was hesitant to name the genres it's also why I don't play music in our living quarters at Fort Myrra", I said.

Frein's ears perked up, she was happy that her partner wasn't offended. He was courteous enough to even understand that not everyone likes that music, and not to play it when he knows others don't like it.

“This human behaves so differently when he isn't drilling me at Fort Myrra. This other side of him makes me want to leap on him and pleasure him on this buss till his nuts are dry. But that's illegal in public places and public transportation. I'm still in heat and I want his seed in me. I want him to squirm, moan, and rest in my passion. I can't wait till he's done drilling me completely. This way, he'll be able to treat me as a friend “and fellow soldier all the time", Frein thought.

Frein continued to think about all the time her and her Sargent can share such times after training is complete.

I kept planning for Frein's and my time together. The hotel is booked. I specifically had to rent a hotel that caters mostly to businesses where humans and dragons work together. It's the only hotel with a room that has both dragon and human beds in the same room. It's mostly used by humans and dragons for business reasons since dragons and humans usually do not socialize with eachother other than for work or business. It's common for people to think that if an adult human is socializing with a dragon, the two sleep with eachother. Many people give such an unusual pair hanging out a suspicious stare, and mumble insults in an attempt for the two not to hear it, but to simply have the self-gratification of saying insults to such freindship.

“Do you think humans will give us stares at a show? People do not like humans hanging out with dragons for fun", Frein said.

“That is likely… And when they do, ignore them. If they confront us about it? Let me deal with them. Some establishments in the city will only allow dragons with a military ID. Do you have it with you?" I said.

“Yes, my military ID is a chip under my armored scales on top of my neck. It is scanned for identification and any place of business, federal, state, or local government agencies can scan it so a photo and my information appears on a screen", Frein said.

“Huh… I didn't know that", I said.

“Where here!" Frein said.

The buss came to a stop, and the side doors opened. The doors were wider to accommodate dragons, so Frein easily got out of the buss. I walked out with my luggage and a few of Frein's belongings. We walked for a mile, and Frein was looking at all the lights, streets, businesses, and restraunts. Finally we arrived at our destination, the Golden Scale Inn.

The inn keeper, a blue scaled dragon was at the front desk.

“Bahrriss, mein na grah."The dragon said, greeting us.

“Fen isil rra. Rikkis seth set", I said as I pulled out my ID and debit card.

The dragon was shocked how well I spoke Draconic. I chuckled, handing the dragon the two cards.

“Yah I was surprised and impressed how well he speaks our language when I first heard him speak it as well", Frein said to the dragon in common tongue.

The dragon looked at my ID.

“Shane, you're coming from fort Myrra, Right?" The dragon asked.

“Yes, and this is Frein", I said introducing my partner.

“I've never met a bilingual human who has Draconic for a second language", the dragon said.

“I speak six languages, when I was in Alpha Team 134, speaking your language was useful when gathering intel from friendly dragon tribes overseas in under developed countries", I said.

“Friendly? Tribes in those countries were hostile to humans due to government oppression", Frein asked with skepticism.

“Well sort of friendly I should say. More like friendly as in they wouldn't eat my team and I on sight kind of friendly. And they tolerated us because we were there to defeat those governments", I said correcting myself.

“So that's why you speak it so well", Frein said.

“I was the team's translator", I said.

“Here are your cards back. Your room is number thirty six. The room is on the first floor", the blue dragon said.

Frein and I made our way to the room. I inserted the key card and the door unlocked.

“Actually, this hotel isn't so bad for one that caters to dragons", I said.

“We dragons are frequent groomers and go to great lengths to keep ourselves clean. Just as you humans take showers frequently. Why would a dragon like a place that isn't nice and clean?" Frein asked, wondering why I'm surprised at the cleanliness.

“Point taken", I responded.

I set my luggage allow with a few of Frein's things next to the bed.

“When we're done for the night, I'll need you to at least take the field sheltered position with me so you don't keep me up like last night. I could use a nap before we go out. I'm exhausted from a lack of sleep", Frein said in a yawn.

“A nap sounds good… Damn your yawn is contagious", I said in a yawn.

“I've never had a nap with you. You should at least do so without a shirt", Frein said with a toothy grin.

“Why without a shirt?" I asked.

“You'll be surprised how nice it is to take a nap with me while you're shirtless", Frein said.

I didn't understand why she wants me without a shirt. It's nothing sexual like being completely naked. I shrugged at the notion of being shirtless.

I pulled off my shirt.

Frein lain in bed with a toothy grin, her pupils were constricted to slits. looking at my physique.

I almost felt like it was predatory.

“That look, it's so weird", I said.

Frein's attention went to the scars on my body. Her ears pinned back, and her jaws parted a little.

“What?" I asked at a loss why she has that look.

I looked where she's staring at.

“Oh, right… Do me a favor and try not to worry about my scars alright? I myself try to forget about those", I said.

Frein lifted a wing invitingly as she laid on the large dragon bed, saying nothing.

I sat next to her, taking my shoes off.

I laid down and Frein placed a foreleg over my chest and pulled me up to her belly scutes.

She then placed her hind leg over my torso. Frein then coiled her tail around my legs.

“That's new", I said.

While I was surprised having my legs bound by her tail. However, I didn't protest the act and accepted the new embrace.

Frein laid her wing on me and tucked her head under her wing. She then began licking my back with long, lingering licks.

I gasped at the sensation her tongue gives as it strokes my skin. She then began purring as she licked me.

“Ooohhhh", I said as I closed my eyes and basked in her embrace.

The sensual strokes of her tongue crazed my skin and gave me chills of pleasure with every lick.

Frein then licked my chest and stomach, delivering the same sensations to the front of my upper torso.

She worked her way up to my neck and shoulders. She licked my neck and lip nipped me right on the throat. I gasped when she playfully nipped me. Frein kept licking me with that soothing purr as she caressed me to sleep.

I woke up from our nap. It was 1800 hours. The show starts at 2100 hours. Three more hours til the show. I know symphony rock bands were playing at the Druid's bar and grill. I figured Frein would like such music, with complex singing and lots of melodic instruments. I began to unpack my belongings to get to my grooming supplies so I could take a shower. Frein was just lyinthere, snoring. I had to take a moment just to watch her sleep. It's a beautiful thing to see such a powerful creature be so gentle with me, even in its sleep. I began contemplating whether I should sleep with her more intimately after the show. The thought of clenching egg laying muscles caressing my member and that tongue of her's really has lustful thoughts fluttering in my mind.

Quickly, I shook those notions out of my mind.

“I'm her commanding officer, we have so much training to do. I'm to make a soldier out of her. Duty must come first", I thought to myself.

While I did take her to Nasilik for fun, it's for shows, hanging out, and bonding as soldiers should do outside of work. To sleep with a fellow soldier is always a conflict of interest at some point down the line. Even if a General is ok with it, I stood firm in allowing no conflict of interests get in the way before. I will not now.

After a much needed shower, I saw Frein still sleeping I remember Frein waking me up sticking her tongue in my ear. The first night I was paired with her. I smiled, having an idea to wake her up.

I spit on my finger and stuck my finger in her ear canal. Frein's ear twitched, but she herself didn't wake up. I did it again… Still no response…

I then tried a third time.

Quickly, Frein leaped to her feet and jumped on me. I fell to the ground and Frein coiled her tail around my ankle, lifting me up to eye level upside down.

“Shit!" I screamed in laughter.

You really thought you could give me a wet willy without repercussions? Oh no… That I cannot allow", Frein said.

Frein's tongue snaked from her mouth. I tried to fight off the tongue with my hands, laughing.

“Oh come on! I don't want dragon breath on me! I just took a shower!" I screamed as I continued to fight off her tongue.

“You really should have thought of that before giving me wet willys. You don't have your simmunition rifles, grenades, and claymores to make a painting canvas out of me. You're helpless… You're pathetic… Just as prey shoulbe", Frein said.

Playfully, Frein's tongue darted towards my ears.

“No! Stop! That tickles!" I shouted.

“Shhhh! You'll make the entire hotel hear us. You don't need to make others think you're having fun, they'll think you're a tail lifter". Frein said…

“I really don't care what the public think", I said.

“You're so sweet! I can't believe you're such a dick when on duty!" Frein said in shock.

“Honestly, I'm glad I don't have to be that way right now. I like being nice truth be told", I said.

Frein took her talon and unbuckled my belt. I grabbed my belt and Frein stopped me. She laid me on the bed. She then tapped little Shane, making me twitch and clench my legs.

Frein gave a toothy grin.

“Looks like Big Shane is more shy than little Shane. So, unbutton your pants I don't have the dexterity to let little Shane out to play", Frein said with a toothy grin.

My eyes widened and I realized what this dragon is up to. She made me take a nap with her without a shirt. That was her first goal. Her second goal was to slowly, but methodically get me to remove all my clothes.

“You're taking things slow… Youre trying to seduce me little by little till I give in", I said.

“And I won't stop till I succeed, human. I prefer to be more tactful and ease you into sleeping with me. That's honestly the best way. However, I know you really want to do so as well. I can see your resolve to not to sleep with me is weakening. It's ok, I say do give in to your desires. You won't regret doing so. In fact, it'll be good for us both to do so. We do it for love and intimacy, not bribery. That's your way, so be it", Frein said.

I nodded… With a sigh, I unbuttoned my pants and pulled them off. I but after I did so, I realized what I actually done.

“Still shy? Alright", Frein said.

Frein licked my underwear and purred as she did so. She caused me to gasp again.

“Ok… Ok", I said as I took off my underwear.

Frein laid her neck over my groin, torso and chest. Her muzzle lingered over my face. She began purring, savoring the moment.

Frein began licking my chest, her hot breath washed over my body as she licked.

I gasped at the sensation her tongue gives as it brushes my skin.

She moved her snout to my neck and began licking. I moaned in bliss as she licked me on the neck.

“Do dragons kiss?" I asked.

“Typically, we do not kiss. We don't have the lips or the jaw structure to do that with the same finess you humans would. But we make up for that with licking, just as you find such action to be enjoyable as well. However, I can try to kiss if that is an act you wish to try", Frein said.

“Just the tip of your tongue is required when I begin. Remember, just the tip of your tongue. Follow my acts as I begin", I said.

Frein nodded her head, understanding my instructions.

I placed my lips against her lips and began exploring her mouth with my tongue. Frein then used the tip of her tongue to explore my mouth. Frein began purring as we continued kissing eachother. The deep purring caused her neck to vibrate, sending those vibrations over my entire body. The vibrations caused me to become stimulated in the groin, and the deep vibrations where sent from my lips, my tongue, and even my jaw bones.

Kissing Frein in this manner felt like an otherworldly experience, and in a very pleasant, intimate way. Frein being on top of me, putting me in a submissive position was very foreign to me, I've never taken the submissive end in lovemaking. However, Frein was right when she talked about being submissive. For the first time I felt like I was on the receiving end of the love and passion from another. Frein pulled her muzzle away. I protested and wrapped my arms around her head, keeping our lips together.

Frein let out a muffled chuckle, seeing that I really enjoy this act. A few minutes passed and she moved to part her lips from mine again.

“Wow, you're actually a good kisser", I said.

“Obviously, you liked it… I'm glad you did, I've never attempted to kiss another. Kissing you was a unique experience indeed. It's long, and passionate. More about feeling the other than anything else. It's not a natural act for us dragons. Licking and nipping are our primary ways of displaying affection. Now, I'd like to hasten things a little. I want to pleasure you with my tongue, my maw, and my lips", Frein said as she lifted her neck off of my body and moved her muzzle towards my groin.

Frein parted her jaws, coiled her tongue around my shaft. She then pressed her muzzle against my groin hard, and let out a deep and throaty growl.

The vibrations of her growl was felt through my groin, and through my very bones. I thrusted against her scaly lips and she growled louder and pushed my hips into the mattress with feral aggression. I Trusted again and she repeated her actions. The more I thrust, the more enthusiastic this dragon became.

I lost count of time in this dragon's unorthodox blowjob. I began breathing heavily in time. Frein stopped right when I was on the verge of orgasm. She pulled away, I protested in trying to keep my penis between her lips.

“Ok, Shane… If you want to finish in my mouth, you must wrap your arms around my neck. Take my head, pull and thrust all you wish. I'll assist with sucking, constricting with my tongue, and my growls on top of it. But you do the work. Take me for yourself, human". Frein said as she repositioned herself.

I enthusiastically wrapped my arms around the top of her neck, behind the horns and gripped her head with the strongest hug I've ever given anyone and I pulled and thrusted with enthusiasm. Frein constricted my penis with her tongue, like a python constricting prey. I thrusted and pulled her head harder as I felt such amazing pressure. Her growls kept the same vibrations coursing through my body. I began to worry if I could last any significant time with Frein's technique.

Not surprisingly, I couldn't last as long as I wished to wheIn only a few more minutes, I cringed… And Frein saw me cringe. Frein gave a very aggressive growl and pressed agressively against my goin. My hips sunk deepinto the mattress as I orgasmed. I screamed and kicked as I broke, her pupils constricted in predatory focus as she continued those deep, long, feral growls that vibrate through my skeleton. She pushed my hips deeper into the mattress than last time as she pushed with her muzzle.

She then sucked on me as hard as she could.

I moaned, and finally I shivered as I was sent into a blissful delirium. Frein continued sucking until I had no seed left to give. Frein then released my penis, it was sucked clean and damp only from her saliva.

I saw Frein swallowing. She did so till she opened her mouth. There wasn't a single drop of seed in her maw. She then licked my chest sensually as I began to come to my senses from my orgasm.

“Holy shit! You sucked the soul out of me", I said as I gasped for air.

Frein's ears perked up.

“It's an old trick dragons have. Humans who experience it usually beg for more", Frein said.

“I can see why… That was the most amazing experience I had in my entire life", I said.

“Now, I'd like to see how you pleasure your lovers", Frein said.

“Well, there's several techniques. Different women preferred different ones. With a dragon, I wouldn't know where to begin. If I am to be honest that is", I said.

“To be honest, a companion rarely makes me orgasm. Male dragons are always out for themselves. One human I slept with was no better. He was my drill instructor and saw me as no less than a mindless beast". We dragons are often selfish. Not to mention they actually think they can make a female orgasm with just their penis alone. Their own ego makes them think it's all about penis size", Frein said.

“Guess I have to explore and experiment on my own then", I said as I stuck my fingers in her vagina.

I tried to find a clitoris, if I could find it. I gently rubbed my thumb in a gentle circular motion. Her folds were large, making it a difficult find.

Frein jerked her legs forward.

“Ok, I must be stimulating it. I feel it", I said.

Her clitoris was hidden in her folds, and well hidden enough for some to miss it. I kept rubbing it till it hardened and slightly portruded from Frein's folds.

“I hope you're ready to orgasm", I said.

“Some dragons shoot flames in orgasm, I'll have to be careful", Frein said with a look of excitement.

“Yes, if you're a flamespitter, please do point your muzzle in a safe direction. The same concept in firearms training", I said in a chuckle.

I gasped as Frein's egg laying muscles clench my fingers with such a strong grip.

“That's awaiting little Shane after I am pleasured", Frein said with a toothy grin.

Her egg laying muscles contracted, trying to push my fingers out of her vagina. The muscles were strong enough to almost succeed in pushing my fingers out as I continued to stimulate Frein's clitoris.

I brought my face to Frein's slit and licked her clitoris and poked it with my tongue. Frein's legs clenched against my head and smoke shot from her nostrils as a wave of pleasure could be felt by her.

I switched back to thumb rubs.

“Yup, you're a flamespitter. Keep your muzzle in a safe direction", I said as I began to worry about getting singed.

Frein's breaths began to get heavier. I brought my tongue back to her slit with her clitorissticking just above her slit. I began licking, and poking her clitoris with my tongue again.

Frein gripped my face with her hind legs hard and squirted. She bucked her hips and shot a flame away from me, but came close to singing the wall. The dragon had spasms of pleasure and snarled as I continued my actions.

I continued with my tongue, trying to get her another orgasm as I really enjoyed seeing Frein's reactions. This was the first orgasm she had, but she can have two in a row. I actually want her to enjoy herself twice since getting her to orgasm really wasn't that hard. Most women have to communicate with me to get them to orgasm. This dragon however, is the easiest lover to pleasure.

Frein noticed I continued my actions with my tongue after her spasmatic reactions ceased.

“Shane, I orgasmed. You can stop", Frein said.

I held up two fingers as I continued.

Frein's eyes widened and she growled in anticipation. She understood that making her orgasm twice was my intention.

Several minutes of caring for Frein passed. I finally got her giving out snarls and growls.

I got a little more aggressive with the same technique since it worked on her the first time.

“Ah! Shane! It's sensitive!" Frein yelped and jerked her tail. I did so again and then continued licking.

Between the licking and prodding with my tongue, Frein was stimulated into an orgasm again. She gripped my head between her legs, squirted, and shot flames at the same time.

I lifted my head from her thighs and was covered in Frein's fluids.

Frein was still lying on her back. She was ridding out the leftover spasms she experienced.

Frein came to her senses and was still breathing deeply.

“Wow! That was amazing! Thank you Shane! No partner pleasured me the way you have", Frein said in gratitude.

“I'm glad you enjoyed it. I thought it was going to be difficult to bring you to an orgasm. I didn't think I'd do it because if dragons didn't make you orgasm? I doubted my own ability",admitted.

“Come here, let me clean you up", Frein said.

I laid on Frein's chest. Frein wrapped her forelegs tightly around my back. She then folded her wings and began purring as she licked my face. I was happy to feel her tongue against my skin again. Her scaled embrace was truly exotic and her tender gentleness is mind blowing. Her

breath washed over me and I felt like I was in the most loving embrace. She then licked my neck

“Mmmhhhh, I really like being licked on my neck", I said as I stroked he neck with my hand.

After Frein was done cleaning me up, my penis was once again errect.

Frein grinned and grabbed my feet with her tail. She pulled me back til my groin met hers.

“Go ahead, let little Shane inside me", Frein said with another toothy grin.

I slid myself in Frein's vagina and her egg laying muscles clenched my penis and pushed against it. I gasped as a wave of pleasure was sent through my body. Frein pushed me back and forth using her tail base. She then gripped my torso with her hind legs and with her tail, she pushed me back and forth with an eager pace in synch with the clenching of her egg laying muscles.

“Oh shit!" I said, feeling nervous that I wouldn't have the stamina to keep up with this dragon.

Frein gave a snarl and pressed back and forth with her tail faster and more eagerly.

“Frein, I don't know if I can keep up", I had to confess.

Frein pressed harder, and ground me against her slit even harder. The heat of her depths grew in intensity, and she growled.

“I don't care about you keeping up. You are also rubbing against my clitoris. Besides", Frein paused due to a wave of pleasure coursing through her body.

I gasped, discovering the more she is pleasured, the tighter her egg laying muscles constricted.

“You already finished me off twice, I only finished you once", Frein finished stating.

I continued to focus on not ejaculating too soon, despite the intensity of Frein's actions and the grip of her egg laying muscles. Frein's talons dug into my skin, creating a little streak of blood. I cringed, hoping she doesn't get too carried away.

“Almost there", Frein said.

Frein nipped my neck with her lips, followed by a lick. She continued this process of nipping and licking. While she nipped and licked, I saw smoke shoot from her nostrils. The smoke came out with her labored exhales, as if she was a steam engine.

“Frein! Muzzle!" I shouted. I couldn't push her snout away. I was caught by her hind legs, her forepaws were on my shoulder blades, and the tips of her talons were under my skin. Her muzzle was too far away to reach sense she was so long in body lenth.

Puffs of flame exited her nostrils as her breath increased.

I tucked my head in her belly scutes to avoid my face getting burnt.

Frein was sent into another orgasm I also orgasmed as her egg laying muscles constricted and released my penis in a spasmatic rhythm as a reaction from pleasure, Frein shot flames just over my head, nearly scorching me.

The wave of euphoria sent me into delirium as I pressed my face into Frein's belly scutes regardless of the inferno above my head. Frein's egg laying muscles continued to clench my penis, milking me of every drop of seed in me as I cringed and moaned in pleasure.

Frein closed her eyes and parted her jaws. She placed my shoulder in her maw. A dull pain was dilivered to my right shoulder blade and chest. And it felt like my right shoulderblade and chest was crushed in a vice. The intense, dull pain was excruciating and I tried to scream. But I couldn't. The pain just seemed to take by breath away.

Frein came down from her orgasmic high, she began to purr and lick my neck again.

Frein noticed I was bleeding on my shoulder blades.

Frein's widened and stopped all her actions.

“I hurt you!" Frein said with her ears pinned back.

“Yah you bit my shoulder too. The scratches didn't hurt much, but the bite did", I said.

“I bit you!?" Frein said in alarm.

“Yes, I may need to go to the ER for this", I said inspecting the puncture wounds on my chest. I tried to remain calm and assess my situation.

While each wound wasn't deep enough to be life threatening, they were certainly deep enough to require stitches.

“Oh no, Shane I'm sorry. I really didn't know what came over me. I just wanted to be with you and I finally had you. I just lost all train of thought. It's actually a dragon's way of saying they", Frein paused. Seemingly hesitant to explain what it actually means.

“I know what it means.I don't know much about dragon culture. But in what I have learned while working with dragon tribes overseas, that is one thing that was explained when I asked a dragon about his scars on his neck", I said.

“My father is going to be furious. Doing Fen Nach Mair with a human", Frein said as she pinned her ears back.

I grabbed my first aid kit and grabbed gauze to wrap my wounds. To my surprise, no bones where broken. I began to wonder how this was going to affect my career as well. I knew I took a risk of love scratches, I knew I took a risk of a love nip. However a full blown bite in hard to cover up. And now, I need hospitalization from a dragon bite. Immediately, the police will be involved… Investigations, questioning, and in worst case scenario, the press get involved.

I after wrapping my wounds tightly, I then moved to Frein. I stood deep in thought, trying to figure out the best words I could use. Fen Nach Mair is a ritual the female dragon performs when they are absolutely certain their mate is to be theirs for life. In human culture, we are primarily patriarchal. In dragon culture, they are Matriarchal. At the end of the day, the Female dragon gets to claim their mates through experimentation and the best lover gets the bite.

And I am bit…

“Frein, I'm not calling the hospital. The police and press will be all over this. However, I need medical. There's only one way to keep this away from the public", I said.

“Please don't call my father", Frein said as she shot her ears up in alarm.

“Hey, it'll be ok…. This was done off military grounds. Where completely clear of facing court martial", I said.

“My family will be extremely enraged", Frein said.

“Well, I… I accept you." I said as I kissed Frein on her lips.

Frein gave a sigh of relief that I wasn't angry at her.

“But listen, I'm still bleeding through my bandages. Medical is needed. If I call your father, he may be angry. But how much more angry is he going to be if I go to a civilian hospital and not the hospital in Fort Myrra", I said.

Frein paused… She understood if I call civilian emergency dispatch, Her father and grandfather would be much more angry if news got out of a human and dragon from the army had sex, and the human was wounded. She also knew I could bleed out if I don't get medical.

“Call my father", Frein said as she too realized it's the only way.

I dialed Captain Frenir's number. His human assistant picked up and handed the phone to Captain Frenir's ear.

“It's Sargent Keir, Sir". I said, with a sigh.

“What happened Sargent? You two aren't in trouble are you", Captain Fenir said.

“Sir… I'm now a section four", I said.

“You're in Nasilik, meaning you're not a section four because you're not on Military grounds. I knew you would sleep with Frein… I personally thought it best you two sleep with eachother just to get it out of your minds. Frein really likes humans… However, there's more because you wouldn't call me unless you're in trouble", Captain Fenir said.

“Frein bit by shoulder really hard during… Well… you know… She preformed the Fen Nach Mair rite. I need medical and I don't want to go to the hospital in Nasilik. I don't want law enforcement or the press getting wind of this. I didn't anticipate this going the way it did", I said.

Several moments of absolute silence passed. Captain Fenir did not respond.

“Sir, did you hear me?" I asked.

“Is the bite life threatening?" Captain Fenir asked.

“I don't have a punctured lung. But I can't stop the bleeding entirely. I need to get down up", I said.

“You got balls for calling me Sargent… My daughter has proven to be a true pain in my ass… Preforming the rite of Fen Nach Mair on a human isn't unheard of, but a dragon can't control their feeling when they perform it. It's actually a reactionary behavior of ours when we feel so close, connected, and loved. The unconsciously reactive behavior is how we know we love someone. I'm glad you called me, Sargent. Thank you for that. I'm on my way. We mist get you stitched", Captain Fenir said.

I hung up, refocusing my attention to the wounds.

“Captain Fenir and General Vaail… My father and grandfather won't let me hear the end of it", Frein said.

“Then I won't let your dad or even your grand father hear the end of it", I said.

“What do you mean?" Frein asked.

“They could have made me finish my service as an armorer, clerk, hell even a quartermaster instead of pairing me with such a troublemaker. If they blame you? They're silly… All they have to blame is themselves. However, he said he is glad that I called him. So, whatever comes? It will be less than what would happen if I didn't call him. This is a good thing", I said.

“Oh no… Us sleeping with eachother off military grounds isn't the issue. He'd have no issue with that… I chose you as my life mate. I bit you… Meaning he has no qualms with you. You had no say in it. Me bitting you is something of my choice. And I bit you, making me responsible.

“I have your back, your father didn't sound angry though. I think we are ok. Matriarchy in dragon culture says the female chooses anyways. It's a right their parents don't get to tread on", I said.

Frein sighed… and gave a smile.

“You're such a sweet human… I can't believe it's you who drilled me so brutally at fort Myrra", Frein said.

“Unfortunately, our R&R off base has been cut short. And now it looks like we'll have to cancel going to the concert", I said in disappointment.

“I'm just glad you'll be ok. I don't care about the silly concert. It'd be a nice experience, but this was much better than any concert. Your moans were a better sounding music to my ears", Frein said with a toothy grin.

Quick question, does a dragon perform the rite of Fen Nach Mair every single time?" I asked.

“Only once is necessary. But if you have a thing for it, I'd do it for you again if you ask nicely", Frein said with a toothy grin.

“Once is good enough", I said with my eyes widened.

There was knocking at the door. I got up and peeked through the door. It was Captain Fenir and General Vaail.

If it was just the Captain, I wouldn't be too concerned. But now it's a General I have to deal with as well. I gave an audible sigh as I unlocked the door and saluted.

I then gestured them to enter the room.

“Let me see the wound", General Vaail said.

I unwrapped my bandage, blood began to stream down my back and chest again from the bite.

“My granddaughter bit you pretty hard. You're lucky to be alive. These puncture wounds are deep", General Vaail said.

I began to wrap myself up again. I kept the wrapping tight to keep pressure on the wounds.

I then put a shirt on.

“I'm ready to go now", I said.

Chapter 7

Medical

I was in front of the hospital and I felt weak from the blood loss. Captain Fenir and General Vaail said nothing the entire ride. Frein was also silent, not able to make eye contact with either the captain or the general.

Captain Fenir set me on my feet and as I stood up, the world around me spun. I placed my arm over Captain Frenir's neck for support.

“I'm weak, Captain". I said in an exhausted tone.

“You're fine, just hold on to me". Captain Fenir said. I was walked through the hospital entrance.

“Get this human on a bed, he is wounded with deep puncture wounds from a dragon bite", Captain Fenir said.

Some humans grabbed a gurney and laid me on it. I then was rushed though many hallways and eventually made it to a room with a CT scanner to detect any internal damage.

The brightly litted room seemed to become dimmer, and I closed my eyes as I became unconscious.

I woke up on a hospital bed. To my relief, Frein was standing next to me. I sighed, relieved that I saw that egotistical toothy grin of hers. I lifted my left hand, stroking her cheek.

“So, Sargent… How does it feel to be technically married to a dragon?" General Vaail asked.

“As far as actually receiving the bite? Getting shot is less painful, Sir. And I would know that from experience", I replied.

General Vaail chuckled at the comment.

Fren gave me a scowling look

“Don't make me feel more bad than I already do", Frein said.

“Easy, Private Frein. He is on painkillers. Don't take what he says too seriously", Captain Fenir said.

General Vaail turned his attention to Private Frein.

“You have no idea how many strings I had to pull with these human medical staff to keep all this hushed. What kind of changes in the reports were needed to be made by the doctors. He needed blood, pain killers, and had ninety two puncture wounds. The reported story was you where drilled by Sargent Keir, you lost your temper and bit him. Sargent Keir did not press charges because he knew he was being way too harsh. You resorted to Draconic impulses due to being over pressured", General Vaail said.

General Vaail looked at me.

“This is the official story. Isn't that correct, Sargent?" General Vaail said glaring at me.

“That's exactly what happened, Sir". I said with a grin.

“I now own your ass, Sargent. You too, Private.

Sargent Keir, you're going to train private Frein till she drops… Private Frein, you will gladly do as Sargent Keir tells you to do. Do not think I'll approve of Sargent Keir going easy on you just because you're his matriarch. Your personal lives and military lives are to be separate from each other. And do not forget the upcoming joint mission you two have alongside Alpha Team 134", General Vaail said.

I cringed in response… It's true… I now owe General Vaail, a dragon allot for the cover story. And a dragon always comes to collect. And this one is far above me in rank. It's not just about me training Frein. It's also going to be missions… Dangerous missions that will need to be a success. He'll never expect less now all the while ensuring Frein is alive.

“That cringe tells me you know exactly what I'm thinking… Let him rest Captain, let's go". General Vaail said, gesturing towards the room exit".

Captain Fenir and General Vaail exited the room.

Frein laid her head on my lap and began purring like a big scaly cat. I stroked Frein's cheek, but my thoughts were still racing over everything that unfolded.

“Shane, tell me what happened in Aboria… Your ex mate knew. As a mate in a matriarchal culture, I wish to know what happened. Please… If you love me, you'll tell me", Frein said.

I let out a loud sigh… I didn't want to make Frein think I don't love her… But at the same time… I really didn't wish to say anything…

“I did swear to myself I'll never speak of it again".

Frein narrowed her eyes at me.

“Maybe because you are too ashamed to speak of it?"

I nodded my head…

“It's true… I am… I really wish it was me… Not Sack. It should have been me", I said as tears rolled down my face.

Frein felt her stomach turn… The sight of Shane tearing up… There's something in him that really eats him and she doesn't like it.

“Now Shane, don't talk that way… What happened?" Frein asked.

“My best friend was in Alpha Team 134 as well. We where friends since childhood. His name was Barry, but we always called him Sack due to him having a piece of grenade shrapnel graze his nuts in our last deployment. He was a very lucky son of a bitch for not having damage to important parts. That mission happened before the war In Aboria. A few weeks into the war, Sack's luck ran out… But to the event that happtned… We where in camp… We talked about our plans of playing in a death metal band at bars once we got out of that shithole. Make noise, be drunken hooligans, you know… Shenanigans…Another plan was to make a demolition derby ring with beat up cars so we and other friends can smash into eachother. Ten minutes after that conversation, we noticed a group of children running to camp screaming for water. Sack and I had them line up in two single file lines, each line was fifteenth meters apart from the other. Sack and I search them to make sure they aren't armed. Two other teammates covered Sac and I as we searched them. Sack took the left lane of children. I took the right lane. Once they where searched, we'd give them humanitarian aide, as well as bottled water. One kid Sack was checking out had a bomb strapped to him. The bomb detonated. Sack was vaporized along with the child. While the blast knocked me off my feet and I received some shrapnel to my leg, and a concussion from the blast. But the injuries were not severe. Sack and the child's blood, pieces of skin, and organs were all over me", I said as more tears ran down from my face. I tried to speak more but I became overwelmed. My lips trembled as I tried to hold back from crying uncontrollably.

“Take it slow Shane. I have all night", Frein said.

“The only thing left of Sack was a foot, and part of his head…. At least from what I saw… In one moment, my best friend was having a conversation with me… The very next moment, he was in pieces and allot of him was all over me. I was covered in him. In the corner of my eye, in the line I was searching… A child raised a sub machine gun he concealed in his robe".

Frein's mouth was agape, and she was shocked my the event.

I broke down unable to control my emotions. I continued to cry and snot was even running from my nose. I reached to grab a set on napkins next to my bed. I blew my nose and tried to breathe.

“I quickly turned by rifle and fired into his chest till he hit the ground. He couldn't have been more than eight years old", I said.

Frein's eyes widened…

“Holy shit", Frein whispered.

“The other team mates ran over to the scene. They found me having a complete breakdown, holding part of Sacks face mourning of his death and was screaming his name. The rest of the team found several children where killed from the bomb, and others needed immediate medical attention. I stayed in fetal position for hours in my tent sobbing, and screaming my friend is all over me. As well as screaming his name. I laid there fully convinced it was a fucking nightmare I'd awake from. But it wasn't a dream, it was very real. Finally a medical helicopter came to take me and other wounded children to the hospital. Only two children were threats… The child with the bomb who killed Sack. And the who raised the concealed submachine gun at me. The others only wanted water", I said crying.

“Five years ago all this happened… I still can't get that day out of my fucking head!" I screamed.

Frein's eyes were wide, her mouth hung open in shock. Her ears were pinned back sympathetically she slipped her paw under my head, and she held me to her neck.

“This sort of evil… I've heard of such stories. In some conflicts, terror groups use children as human shields, and even are known to send children with bombs strapped to their chest and guns to shoot at the soldiers", Frein said.

“In that case, all the children simply wanted water. However, there was two in the group who had other plans. All but two where innocent several of them died as well. And the little bastard took Barry, or Sack as we called him. He took my best friend", I said as I cried.

“And Sack was your best friend since you were a child. Im so sorry Shane", Frein said.

Chapter 8

The Flight

I was in the armory, planning out my gear and my weapons for such a mission. I chose an Sig Saur M-7 rifle with a thirteen inch barrel and a suppressor. The 6.8x51mm round is far superior than the 5.56x45mm or the 7.62x51mm round. Even with a shorter barrel, the cartrage of the M-7 is far superior than any other battle rifle or carbine available.

The scope is also variable powered from one power, all the way to ten power magnification. Making it suitable for close or long range engagements. A good all around set up for most circumstances.

Frein entered the armory, and an armorer began fitting armor for Frein.

I looked at Frein and saw the dragon that our training molded her into. Her lean, muscular curvature was still feminine, but very well toned. She may not have the brute strength of a drake. But now her stamina and agility will surely make her a formidable fighter for special operations nonetheless.

As the armorer finished, Frein was now suited. It covered her belly scutes and sides. It even covered her entire neck. The armor was designed to protect her from medium caliber assault rifles. It'll stop knives, AK-47s and AR-15 rounds.

I put on my plate carrier, packed with SAPPI plates as my armor. The armorer then saddled Frein and I took my weapons and mounted Frein.

“Let's fly towards the flight tower. We gotta plane to catch", I said.

Frein took a few experimental flaps, I leaned forward, anticipating a lard launch from takeoff.

Frein launched herself in the air and gracefully flew to the C-130 to load up.

The loading ramp of the C-130 was open and Frein landed next to the carrier plane.

I released the clips to my safety harness and dismounted Frein.

“Good luck, Sargent. Private… Good luck", Captain Fenir said with a look of uncertainty and concern.

“Godspeed to you both… Sargent… I want you to bring my Granddaughter back alive and in one piece", General Vaail said.

“Understood, I will… Sir", I said as I stroked Frein's cheek.

I kissed Frein on the forehead, and I was so concerned about her safety as well.

“It was such a unique thing to happen… To actually be chosen as a mate, for a human, the man chooses and a woman either agrees or not. It's a good feeling to have been chosen by a female for once. I don't want to loose such a mate", I thought.

Frein and I boarded the carrier. The carrier had many palates of food for Frein. Due to the long deployment and nature of the mission and dragons need allot of foot to sustain themselves. I saluted and Frein bowed her head to Captain Fenir and General Vaail. Both bowed in return as the door closed.

I felt the plane's four engines start and we began moving. Our next destination is our Embassy in Baccarain.

TO BE CONTINUED…