FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Aleksey pulled his cloak tighter around his body and muttered. The dragonborn paused to look up the road ahead. Rain dripped off his cloak and muzzle as he stared into the dark ahead. He was certain that there was a town ahead, but he didn't know how far. Felt like he'd been walking for hours. Really and honestly, he should have stopped some time ago. "I swear that there had been a town closer by." His companion, a mechanical creature he'd named V.2, looked up at him curiously. Quiet clicks and ticking sounding from the hyena-like beast. "We didn't get lost, did we? I never get lost or turned around..."

Flicking his arm out, he looked at his wrist. A smooth gem in his gauntlet simmered for a second. Then an ornate arrow appeared within the depths and turned. "No, I'm still heading the right way." Another look, "Road is heading East-Northeast, should be..." Then the arrow began to shift as he stood there. Slowly swinging one way, then sharply the other. "Curious. Magical field coming through or maybe a heavy metallic deposit interfering with it?"

"Are we lost?"

"No," Aleksey answered the unknown voice, "just confused about where we are."

"Well, then maybe I can help we get unconfused. Where are you looking to go?"

"Forstford, I hear they have a rather sizable library there." He scanned back and forth along the road, checking his wrist now and then.

A beat of silence, "Don't know Forstford, but I can take you to the Smithy. It's the nearest city." Smithy? He hadn't heard of anywhere named Smithy before, Aleksey started to absently reach into his cloak for one of his maps, heedless of the rain that drummed on his oiled cloak. "Or you can stand in the middle of the road and fumble around. Go ahead while I just wait here. Not like it's raining or anything."

Realization made him jump and turn around, finding himself face-to-snout with a rather large oxen. Beyond that, a wagon with a hooded figure perched upon the seat. A lantern hung near them, casting their body into shadow and lighting up the road ahead. "Really, I don't mind sitting here in the rain all night long while you fumble about. I love being wet while a man fumbles around. It's my favorite pass time."

"Ah, apologies, I was rather caught up and didn't hear you approach."

The figure chuckled, "Didn't hear me, but you began to answer my questions. So answer this one, do you want a ride to Smithy or do you wish to keep wandering?"

"I would love a ride," he admitted.

A hand gestured, "You can sit up here, your creature can hop up back." Then the figure slid over on the bench.

Aleksey breathed a sigh of relief and pointed with a whistle. V.2 clicked and padded around the wagon, leaping into the back with ease. Leaving Aleksey to clamber up onto the seat. He had to pause partway up to adjust the large two-handed sword slung off his back. "Much appreciated, and again. Apologies for not noticing you right away. I've been told that I tend to get wrapped up in my own thoughts."

The bench shifted as he settled down. A touch pulled his hood back a little, revealing the dragonborn's coppery scales, scarred cheek, and an eye patch. "More than that I would guess. Scoot."

"Pardon?" he started as the driver stood up and began to move around him.

"I'm guessing you can't see through that patch there. So scoot." She thumped his side with a wooden pole, making Aleksey slide over. "Better, now I can look over at you, and you can look at me." Her voice took on a playful tone, "Though I think you might get the better end of that deal. Hup!"

The lantern swayed as the oxen lurched forward and began to pull the wagon. In the swinging light, he caught sight of rich blue scales and hints of white hair plastered to her face. As she looked back at him, she got sight of his own copper scales and coarse black hair plastered to his face. Thick white furred eyebrows bounced as she looked at him, whiskers twisting some, "Though not too bad of a deal. You're kinda cute in that rugged way."

Aleksey chuckled, "Cute? I have not been called that in some years, Madam..." he trailed off, realizing he hasn't asked her named yet. "Ah, how rude of me. I am Aleksey Stannes, researcher of the occult and lost lore, and monster slayer." He reached a gloved hand out towards her.

She immediately took it, "I had wondered if you were going to wait for me to introduce myself first. Vayla Durrad, merchant. And that one?" She thumbed over her shoulder towards the rear of the wagon.

Aleksey turned and spotted V.2 watching with unblinking eyes. "Ah, that is V.2, Version Two. A mechanical companion of my own design. Rather handy for defense."

Her head tilted just so and she hummed, "So monster slayer. Explains the sword you nearly tripped over climbing up. Also the clockwork beastie. Have seen a few of them around, but he is rather cute too." A snort from the oxen, "Oh it's my turn to be rude, how could I forget the mighty Peko." The ox snorted and flicked ears back in the rain. "The whole reason I am still going home in the dark, because somebody decided it was time to take a rest on the way back!" She stretched out and gave the ox's backside a gentle tap with her boot. Which prompted a snort and flick from its tail.

"Well, I am most thankful then. You said the next town was... Smithy? What Smith?"

Vayla settled into the seat, "The Smithy, center of this whole place." Aleksey frowned and started to reach for his maps again. Though a heavy drop of rain on his nose reminded him what parchment and ink did in the rain. "Let me guess though. Walking along a road you've traveled before, something seems odd, but you push on?"

He nodded, "Yes, then it began to rain. Which was strange, because it didn't look like rain all day long. Clear skies far as I could see and nothing foretold of rain."

She breathed out a little noise, "Makes sense then. You're not from around here.” Vayla reached into a pocket and fished around. A moment later, she pulled out a strange looking key and held it aloft. “Hold on, this will be weird for you."

He started to ask what she meant before seeing a flash from the key. A pulse, as lightning crackled in the distance. The air trembled and for a beat, he felt as if the world were falling apart. Then road ahead ended, just ended. He'd thought they were coming up on a hill, but in reality, it was just a break. He scanned one way then the other. Far as he could see, the world just seemed to stop existing. It was as if they were simply on an island floating in nothingness. Nothingness which the ox and cart simply rolled out into.

Empty space stretched out before them. The forest a floating chunk of space behind them. Not an island, more a bubble, a gate? Something that warped space as they rolled further from it. Leaving behind the forest, and with it, the rain. So that was good at least. He twisted in alarm and watched as the forest drifted away. Another one of the floating bubbles was ahead of them, clearly their destination. At least he had to hope so. Aleksey leaned over and saw the trail continued under them. Dirt, yet not entirely regular ground. It sparkled under hooves and wheels. Flaring with each motion like a burst of stardust. His gaze drifted past the road and he felt his gut drop out. There was nothing under them. Just a vast void of starry dark. Neither Vayla nor ox seemed phased, but Aleksey could feel a rather decisive clench as the cart angled towards the new sphere. A distorted, bulging view of a large city, fields, and more bloomed towards them.

Only to land with the smooth sound of hooves and wheels on cobble.

"I have never in my days..." he started, looking around then back to where they'd come from. Up in the distance, lightning rumbled and he could just make out the shape of the rainy forest they'd been in. Then around at the area about them. Moonlit farmland spread out around them. Which drew his attention skyward. Clouds obscured a crescent that glowed bright enough to give some light to travel by. "You said I'm not from around here. Where is here? What was that?"

Vayla pushed her hood back and shook her head. For the first time, Aleksey got a good look at her. Deep blue scales glittered in the moonlight. Rather savage eyebrows of white fur rolled and lifted with a playful gait to them. Her hair a neatly kept mass of white chased with black. "Where broadly? The Labyrinth. It's a," she paused, clearly searching for the word, "place between places. All roads lead to and through here… sort of.” She waved a hand, “I'm no scholar, so I don't know the details. Just that if you know the right paths to take, which doors to open, and have the right key,” she wiggled the key before pocketing it, “you can end up many places. Which is what I do," she thumbed over her shoulder, "I go out, make deals, and stock my shop with any goods I think people might need. More mundane supplies get delivered by other people." She took a breath and let him absorb that, "As for where specifically," she gestured to a city rising up ahead of them, "The Smithy, or the Hub, depending on who you ask. The first city here, or so people say. I don't know. The legends are fascinating, but in a ‘give me a cider and meal then expound’ way."

Aleksey nodded slowly and rubbed his chin. He followed her lead and pushed his hood back, revealing copper scales and a rough, wild mane of coarse, black hair. His amber, almost golden, eye glittered as he ran fingers over his chin. "Curious. I have heard stories of other planes. Of course I'd heard and seen demi-planes, but those were created by wizards or godlings. Something like this though." He trailed off then looked over at Vayla, "A merchant you say, and you trust lost looking strangers to accompany you?"

Something probed his side, drawing his focus down. Metal glinted in the moonlight, the tip of a short blade against his side. "Trust with caution." She smiled, "I tend to have a good read on people though, and you haven't given me a reason to not trust yet. Rest assured though, I'd have skewered your kidneys before you could unclip that sword of yours."

"I do not doubt that," he could feel the hum of magic through the tip of that weapon. "Rest assured, I endeavor not to be stabbed most days." He let his hands rest on his knees and looked around curiously. They’d went through fields, crossed a bridge, and were approaching a rather impressive gate. He began to scan the area, looking for any guards on post.

"You’d be surprised how low many fail even that low bar. Though you said you're a monster slayer, not a merchant slayer." She flicked the weapon under her cloak, "Hooo!" Vayla called and waved her hand. Shadows shifted beside the large gate. "Vayla Durrad returning with goods for my store, and one Lost who is mighty confused about where they are."

A deep chuckle from the darkness, "Peko wander into a field of flowers for snacks again?" Followed by something shifting and the grinding of gears. "Opening the Gate for one wagon!"

"Gate opening for One Wagon!" came the affirmative from the other side of the gate as the door swung open. Vayla snapped a little salute to the unseen guard and urged Peko with a click of her tongue. Aleksey tried his best to look utterly harmless as the gate swung open just enough to let the cart rumble through. Starting to swing shut the moment their rear cleared the opening.

Beyond the gate looked like almost any town he'd seen before. Cobble streets, buildings competing for spaces. People going about their business despite the night hours. Though curiously, and most intriguing, was the lights that hung at every street corner. Either affixed to buildings or standing on their own. Magically glowing lamps let out a soft light that illuminated the streets below. Vayla gestured as Peko navigated the streets, "Up on the hill is the Citadel. Keepers are there, if you're looking for a library, you can head there in the morning. My place is this way. Not at the docks, thankfully, but not hillward either." She breathed a little sigh, "Maybe one day."

He nodded and looked around. Vayla was already distracted, looking around and muttering, "It's too late for some stalls to be open," Vayla mused, "shame because that one is one of my favorites." She gestured towards a stall off to the side with a sign he couldn't quite make out. "Wonderful buns, get many of my breakfasts there come morning. Ah!" She let out a sharp whistle, "Entrée!" A figure down the street perked up and swung around. A raven trilled and waved back, "Got anything left I could buy? Don't wanna hit up a tavern, least not before I dry out and warm up!" She flapped the edge of her cloak and splattered water, "Was pouring down on one of the paths."

Entrée chortled, "Got some left, Yes yes. Good pie, meat, fish, hearty vegetables, gravy, taters on top. Dessert made fresh buns too, might have some left." He turned and began to dig through his stall, "End of day, give good price for friend Vayla."

She barked a laugh, "Good price for Friend, yes, you're just hoping I get you first access to the new spices!" without even looking, she reached back and slapped her hand on a crate.

"Caaah! Wounded, wounded me! Two pie for Vayla and friend, yes?" The raven cawed and placed a hand on their chest, staggering about for a step or two.

"Two would be nice. Found this Lost One wandering about the road."

As she reached for her coin pouch, Aleksey was that much faster. "Ah, allow me. You helped me when I was confused, not lost, and gave me a ride into town. Only proper I repay with a meal. How much for a vegetable and the lady's choice?"

Entrée looked at Vayla, who shrugged, "Ah, she never turn down free meal. Five silver, not-lost." Aleksey gladly pulled out the money and handed it over, taking the bundle from the raven. His nose twitched, sharp senses picking up some very good scents from the pack.

Vayla waved at Entrée as he hopped off. "He and his partners are saving up for an actual place. Good people, amazing cooks. Can't wait to see what they do when they've got more room to work." She nodded up ahead, "My store and home are right up the road. Since you were kind enough to buy the food, at least allow me to offer you somewhere warm and dry to eat it." She flashed a smile towards him and Aleksey felt a stirring he stamped down.

"Ah, least I could do after you found me wandering. Though, it does make me wonder. There's a strange emphasis when you said Lost."

She waved a hand, "Bit of slang. Lost is someone who isn't from the Labyrinth, or is new here. Cause you know, maze and corridors and all that. Anyway, hold these." She tossed him the leads and leapt off the moving cart. Peko grumbled as she strode past him, already swinging the cart around. Aleksey fumbled with the reins and watched as Vayla opened a stable door. Waiting as the ox moved and strained. Muscles bulging under his fur as he began to back the cart into the building with practiced ease. Aleksey felt a little useless, but held onto the reins as the cart rolled back into its spot. As soon as the ox stopped, he pulled on the hand brake before hopping down.

"And home, thank you, Peko." Vayla was unhooking the harness as Aleksey came around.

"Ah, do you need help brushing it down or," he trailed off as the ox took a step forward and shook out its large frame. As it rolled and shook, it's body seemed to grow smaller and shift. In a couple seconds, a large turtle humanoid was stretching his back out and patting his arms.

The druid chuckled, "No, but I do appreciate the offer," he drawled in a rather lazy tone. "Sorry I wasn’t much for conversation on the trip. Perhaps next time we meet, yes? I'll see you next month, Vayla. Need to get home." As he turned, his form rippled again, this time shifting into that of a giant owl. Wings beating at the night sky as they took off.

Vayla bumped Aleksey with her hip, "Another reason I wasn't too afraid. Now, close the door would you?" She took off her cloak and hung it on a peg, leaving Aleksey to do the same before pulling the large doors shut. "Old stable someone didn't need. I managed to talk them into renting the space out to me, and set up a shop here." Out came that strange short blade. A flick of her wrist and it snapped out into a full sized spear. Vayla winked at him and set it in a stand, as well as a couple other blades tucked into her belt. "This way," she lead the way with lantern and food.

Aleksey could see the remnants of the old stables here and there. Stalls for animals had been turned into sections for goods. Shelves thrown together from spare wood and old crates lined the walls. The wagon set off to one side, clearly meant to serve as storage. Vayla made her way to a ladder and quickly clambered up, threatening to leave Aleksey in the dark. He motioned to V.2 to stay and followed behind.

The loft had been converted into a small apartment for her. Low walls dividing the 'rooms' into spaces, aided by curtains. By the time he'd climbed up, she was in front of a stove and working to light it. "Allow me," he stepped forward and tapped a finger to the wood she was stacking inside. A spark and the piece lit up, "I know enough magic to be trouble. Though I am studying more."

"Thank you, and seems like everyone that studies old legends and lore ends up dipping into magic. Must be some trend there." She sighed as she took a large pot and went to a barrel, filling it with water. "Don't have a bath here. If you'd want to change out or your wet clothes, you can, but if you want a warm bath? Have to wait till morning. Or," she heaved the pot onto the stove with a grunt, "you can wait till this warms up and wipe down. Which I will be doing cause I feel grungy."

Vayla headed to where the bed was and opened a wardrobe. Aleksey moved to one of the other spots and stood behind the curtain. Keenly aware that he was pretty much out in the open as he started to strip down to his bare scales. "I can sympathize on the feeling grungy part. I had been afoot for some days. Grabbing what bathing I could in streams, cleaning myself up with magic when I couldn't stand the chill any more. Ah, I do long for a good soak in a warm bath."

He didn't notice Vayla as she rounded the wall. She, on the other hand, took a moment to give him a good once over. Muscles under the scales, his scars, and curiously, that shaggy mane of his. "You know, I don't see many dragonborn of your type that has hair." His back stiffened just a little. "Is it a family trait or something? For us Lun, it supposedly comes from the Wind and Water dragons we hail from. Again, lore and stories I never really listened to."

By the time he pulled on a new shirt and turned, she was already across the room. Putting the food out on a table, "Drink? I've got some wine, cider, and a questionable Dwarven ale."

"Cider sounds wonderful." He joined her at the table, "And no, far as I know I'm the only one in my family with," he tugged at his hair. Gaze darted at the pies, trying to figure out which was which.

Vayla nudged one with delicately cut marks on top, "Vegetable. Entrée claims the marks represent vegetables used in it. Their pastry fish look much better." Sure enough, the little dough fish baked and looked like they were swimming. She settled down across from him and tilted her head. "So, tell me if I'm being rude, but," she gestured at him, "cursed?"

He started, "How did you know?"

She smiled, "You just told me. Also I'd seen people with a curse before. There's always this... weight about them. Just in the way they carry themselves, unusual markings or the like."

"Ah yes," he brushed a hand at his hair lightly. "Lycanthropic curse. Werewolf. Wasn't bitten, but..." he trailed off a moment. "My family were merchants as well. I researched odd finds for them, and one of those items was cursed." He flashed a sad smile, "Left before anything could happen, been looking for a cure since." He distracted himself with the pie before his thoughts could turn too dark. Crust cracked to reveal a lovely stew inside. He scooped it up and bit in. Flavor and texture rolled across his senses with a force that almost made him cry. It had been so long since he'd had a good meal. "By the Lady, these are wonderful!"

She flashed a smile, "You'll have to let Entrée know. They puff up so cutely when someone praises their food. So you're out and about looking for a cure?" He nodded. "I might be able to get you in touch with the Keepers. They're the people that run this town. Adventuring type group, researchers, magicians, nobles, kinda everything rolled into one. Hear they've got a big library. I'm sure a researcher and monster slayer would perk their interests."

Aleksey paused, "I... If you could, I would be forever grateful."

Vayla waved it off, "Always happy to help out where I can. Being a merchant isn't all about cutting deals and selling goods."

"So what about you? I have never seen a dragonborn quite like yourself. What brings you to the Smithy?"

Her long tail curled loosely around her waist. "I'm a merchant, a traveler. Clan trades through here now and then. One day, I decided to hop off the ship and make myself a name here. Had enough gold to my name to get this place, a cart, and some stock. Met Peko a while back, paid him to help me find some more interesting goodies. Upgraded to a wagon, and well," she waved a hand with a grin, "that's where you met me."

They fell into an easy, comfortable silence for a moment. Eating their pies, bread, and sipping drink. Aleksey felt like she was looking him over, examining him for something. Though each time he'd look, her gaze would be sliding off somewhere else.

"So," he started after a moment, "you grew up on a ship?" Her ears perked and she looked at him, "What was that like?"

Thus began them exchanging stories. Vayla talking a bout traveling the seas and rivers. Weaving in and out of the Labyrinth. Learning how to free dive. All sorts of strange and fun adventures. Which she happily narrated with exaggerated hand motions and grand gestures.

When she grew tired of talking, she'd prompt him with questions. Always guiding them around tender topics. Seeming to know when and how to ask to coax more information. It wasn't long before he was talking about his family. How he found his love for research, then started schooling for magic. Getting cursed. Then how he had started learning other arts. Which lead to him creating V.1 and using it to protect himself and others.

"Others?" she mused. That made him pause and look down at his cider, a clear sign she'd learned quickly enough. "Ah, for another day," she gave an exaggerated yawn and stretched. "I believe the water might have had long enough to warm. Couple torches too long." Torches, as he'd learned, was a measure of time here in Smithy, hearkening back to its adventuring roots. She mused and looked into the pot, "Enough to clean up with though."

Aleksey blinked, realizing that he was getting tired too. "Ah yes. I should probably go find an inn."

He started to stand, "You can stay here tonight, there's plenty of room." Vayla stated calmly as she removed her shirt and started to unwind her chest wraps.

"Ah," he said sharply, feeling his cheeks warm. Aleksey turned a blind eye, "My most eager thanks. Though I would hate to impose."

Vayla glanced back with a half smile, he was adorable right now. "Oh, it's not an imposition. I'm offering with glee."

A thought occurred, "But you only have the one bed…"

"I know. A large one at that. Plenty of room for two."

"I do have a bedroll I can make use of."

"You are more than welcome to share my bed with me." That made him snap his head back around. Just in time to see her shedding her breeches. Tail coiling just so that it exposed her nether to him.

His cheeks flushed warmer, thinking back to her stories. Ah of course, she grew up on a ship with her entire clan. Siblings, cousins, older and younger kin. Makes sense she would be comfortable undressing around men. "I would have to apologize. I tend to toss and turn and snore at…"

Hands cupped his cheeks and turned him to face her. Vayla leaned in until her nose nearly touched his. "You find me attractive."

The tone was hardly a question, but he had to answer. "Very much so. You are one of the most beau…"

Fingers tapped his nose to silence him, a gesture she was fond of. "You are not committed to anyone?" Words failed him as he shook his head. "You wish to share my bed?" He nodded slowly, heart starting to hammer. Muscles shivering as he felt urges starting to rise. "Then you're more than welcome to. I find you attractive and I want this as well. Hells below, I'd been sending you signs all night, but you're such an adorable idiot, I've got to spell it out. Either that or simply shove you down and mount you myself."

"But," his mouth was dry as he huffed, nostrils flaring and bringing him her scent. Exotic, sweet, feminine, and aroused. He felt the cursed beast within him stirring. "I must remind you, I am cursed. A werewolf. If I were to lose control…"

Fingers tapped his nose again. "I can handle myself." She stood up and planted her hands on her hips with a smirk, "You stink. Use the water, clean up, and get into my bed." Her tail swayed, brushing his cheek with the fine fur there as she walked towards the ladder. "I have something I need to get."

"Wh-what is that?" he stammered, lurching to his feet and stumbling towards the pot.

Vayla called as she climbed the ladder, "I believe I have a bear muzzle down here.” The ladder creaked as she climbed down, “And I know I have magical rope.”

He hesitated a moment, started to say something. Then he thought better of it and undressed. Heart starting to hammer nervously as he took the cloth and wiped himself down with the warm water. Fingers ran through his coarse hair, twisting just so as he muttered under his breath. Wetting it down wouldn’t do much more than make it smell worse. “Aleksey?” He didn’t want to soap it up and then have to try to clean that out. Not with the limited water he had here. “Aleksey.” Using magic could help, but it would only do so much.

Fingers thumped off his muzzle, “ Aleksey!” He snapped back to the world about him and looked up. Vayla was standing in front of him, a slight smirk on her face, hand on her hip, and completely naked. “Copper for your thoughts? You looked very intense there.”

It was very hard not to stare at her bare breasts. He focused on her face and the playful smile and twitch to her whiskers. Those eyebrows of hers animated in a way that made him smile. “Ah, I was wondering on how I should clean this mess.” He tugged at his mane.

“Hmm,” she reached forward to run her fingers through his hair as well. Leaning in close enough that his nose nearly touched her breasts. Lick them, wrap your maw around them and ravage them with attention! “What do you do to this hair? I’ve felt bristle brooms softer than this.” His nose twitched as it brought him her scent. Fresh, exotic, and so very inviting.

Aleksey worked his tongue around his suddenly dry mouth, “Soap.” She leaned back to look at him with an unreadable expression. “I’ve got a big bar of it in my bag. I just…”

“Soap? Lye soap? Common, everyday soap that you scrub your body down with?” He nodded and she let out an exasperated noise, “Heavens above, save me from those who can’t care for their lovely hair.” Her tone bordered on playful and aggravated. Though her eyes glittered with affection as she tapped his cheek again. “That’s for later though. You’ve cleaned up enough and not too bad on the eyes.” her gaze happily darted down his body. Aleksey knew he was fit enough. Far from the strongest guy out there, though he also knew that he was fairly lean. Partially due to living out in the wilds and partially due to his chosen diet. Her hand drifted down between his legs, gently petting his sheath and the tip poking out. “Part of the curse?”

He gasped as her fingers delicately teased the sheath, “Y-yes, happened after my first full moon.” She breathed out a curious noise and leaned in. The air about her electric. Her presence tingled across his senses as her soft form tucked against him. Exploring him, playing with his sheath then down to his pendulous sac. Similar jet black fur about his purse and hinting around his sheath.

She turned her head and breathed out, “Bed.”

As simple and short as the word was, spoken with all the force of a summer breeze. He practically sprang to his feet. She laughed, the sound like chimes in the wind, as he bounded to her bed and lay back on it. “Good boy!” she called as she followed after him. “What a good, obedient boy. Now,” she picked up some rope she’d set by the bedside and whispered to it, “Wrists and ankles, the corners.” The rope twisted, split, and slithered along the bed. Aleksey took that as a command as well and spread himself on the bedding. Watching curiously as the ropes snaked up. Coiling about the bed frame then his limbs. He tested and pulled. The ropes stretched ever so slightly, but held. Surprisingly comfortable, didn’t dig into his flesh at all.

“Very good,” she purred as she climbed onto the bed. He found his breath catching as her hands brushed his thigh. Up his belly. Her legs framing his as she slid atop him. Body so warm, so soft, yet so firm in ways that he hadn’t thought of in a long while. “Is it your first time?” He shook his head and swallowed, mouth feeling dry. “Okay, but your first time with,” she held up a metal cage with leather straps. He nodded and she leaned forward, “Then tell me if you are uncomfortable.” He started to say something, but she tapped his nose, “Worrying about my safety doesn’t count.” Mouth closed and he watched as she slid the muzzle into place. “It’s a bit large,” she mused as she leaned forward and did the straps. “I’m assuming you grow larger when you change?” It was really hard to focus. Especially as her rear tucked and pushed against his sheath. Somehow, he managed to nod, eyes rolling as his sheath twitched. Cock pressing out against her body. She smiled and shifted. Pressing her mound to his sheath and grinding slowly as she checked the fit. “That should be good. Anything pinching or pulling?”

Aleksey licked his lips, “N-no, it feels fine.” He looked over her and let out a low groan. Shapely, those deep blue scales glistening in the lamplight. Curves in places he’d never knew he wanted until he saw her. That long, fine hair of hers, silvery tinged with black at the edges and tips. It ran from her head, down her spine, to the very tip of her tail. Adding to each swish and sway. Breasts heaved as she leaned back and began to rub against him. That irresistible scent of hers invading his sharper senses as he arched. “Gods above, you’re beautiful.”

Vayla laughed and tossed her hair, “I bet you say that to all the women who have you tied down and are straddling you.” Though her cheeks flushed as she turned her head and looked down. “Oh,” came the purr as her hips rolled back and forth. Pressing his cock against his belly and spreading her slick excitement across him. Her scent tickling at his nose and making him groan.

Fingers traced over his cock. Tracing the arrow-like tip, down the ridged belly, and to his sheath. “Do love ridges,” her words trilled with her purrs. His head was swimming, breath coming in short gasps. Aleksey felt a tingle racing up and down his body as she turned and curled her tail up. His gaze dropped to her haunches as she curled her tail up to expose her slit to him. A low, animalistic growl sounded from the dragonborn as he arched. Ropes tightening about his limbs. Fingers, rough from handling countless goods and crates, yet somehow delicate and wonderfully soft, lifted his length. “How long has it been, if you don’t mind me asking?”

His head was swimming. Each panted breath brought him her scent. Every time she moved, it was like liking against his body. “Years,” he droned, heart pounding in his head. “A…” he licked his lips again, “tiefling. Started to change midway through, but held it back.” His head began to pound, vision hazing at the edges. Oh he could feel it again, that surging of power from the curse. Roiling, fighting against his will.

“Well,” Vayla mused as she turned around, “firstly, we call them stygians here.” His entire focus zeroed in on her as she straddled his hips. That lovely, luscious, thick tail of hers curling and coiling in ways he found hypnotic. She lifted her hips and reached down, “Secondly,” lining his cock up with her entrance with a smile, “don’t worry about holding back.” Her voice rolled with a musical purr as she winked at him. Teasing his tip up and down her pussy lips, parting her folds oh so slowly.

Before the thought of a protest could form, she sat down on him with a moan. Body wrapping around his cock and engulfing him in that welcoming warmth. Aleksey’s body jerked and he gasped, eye rolling. Vayla purred in delight and lifted, rolling her hips and tail. Letting it sway over his chest before smacking as she sat down again. The impact of her body off his lap enough to make the bed rock and jostle under them. Delightful insides rolling around his cock. Welcoming him into her treasure cove with a gentle squeeze.

She looked over her shoulder with a coy smile and lifted up. Letting him see his glistening length as he pulled out. Breath coming in soft pants as his ridges flared and rippled against her insides. “Love those ridges…” she moaned and brought her hands to rest on his knees. Hips rolling, lifting, then dropping with another bed-shaking impact. That wonderfully thick tail swinging down then cracking off his chest with a thwack that shook him to the core. Driving the breath from his lungs as he arched and pushed into her body with eager energy.

He could feel it crawling about him. That bestial side that broke out each full moon. He could, if needed, call it out when times got tough. Though it had also broken away from him when he was overly stressed. Now it he could feel it snarling and drooling in the back of his mind. One thought rolled over his senses with a wolfish snark.

Breed.

Aleksey huffed and clenched his jaws, trying to hold back. Push his will against the cursed instincts that rallied through his senses. He could feel the beast snarling and chomping. Trying to push against him, drive past him and overwhelm. Muscles quivered, bones creaked, and his body heaved against the rope.

THWACK!

The impact of the tail off his chest brought him around. Vayla glanced over her shoulder, hair framing her face just so. He could see the playful glint in her eye as she panted at him. “Let it go.”

Three little words. Spoken in a husky, moaning pant that sent shivers through his being. He could feel the breath of the beast as it surged past him. Drooling as it lunged towards Vayla with lustful intent. Raw, transformative power surged through him and made him arch with a gasp.

Muscles rippled, bulging against skin and scale. His body bulged as bones cracked and ground. Fur erupted from the space between scales across parts of his body. Patchy almost, then flowing until it formed a smooth carpet of copper scales and jet black fur. The bed creaked under him, ropes shifted and strained as his body grew larger, longer. The bed, which had been built for a dragonborn, was now too small for him. Feet dangled off the end, wrists cracked against wood, and his head met the headboard with a rather solid thud. His face, somewhere between a dragon's and a wolf's maw, filled the muzzle as he snarled.

What Vayla noticed most was how his cock grew larger. She gasped as the length, which had been a rather comfortable size swelled larger and dug deeper into her. Yet she found herself excited by the newness of it. The strangeness of having a werebeast below her, heaving upwards. Looking back, she could see that wild look in Aleksey's eye, but tempered by the softness she'd seen earlier. Her hips lifted and fell back again, seating herself fully on him. Grinding her lap into his groin as she moaned.

Not realizing that this was a mistake now that his body was more canine.

Ah she knew well about a male's knot. How it grew once he was close and many would try to manhandle her with it. That was a fast way for them to earn a black eye or crooked nose. Still, she had expected to tease Aleksey some more with it. Working herself up and down until his knot was large enough she could seat herself on it. Now that he was fully within the lustful grasps of his lycan curse? Well, that knot ballooned in size with a speed she wasn't ready for.

Her mouth fell open with a gasp and a huff. Shuddering as her entrance, made to trap and hold a knot, was suddenly home to one that was thicker than expected. Pulsing against her insides, triggering nerves and pleasure spots just as it was meant to. His ridges swelling, throbbing against her inner walls, responding to each rock of their hips to stroke her just so. Even with all that, her fingers dropped to her pearl and began to drum quickly. Voice rising slowly in her pleasure. Watching how her own stomach twitched as his spire grew within her. Shoulders hunched as she panted, huffed, and kept riding her partner. Barely even able to move her hips. Yet still bouncing him and making the bed creak with each impact of her hips.

Aleksey was first to peak. Arching as he howled into the muzzle. Teeth gnashing against the unyielding metal. Rope and wood creaking under him. She watched as his balls leapt and pulled tight. Heaving as he unloaded his cursed seed into her. Vayla bit her lip and moaned, drumming her clit faster. Tail swaying behind her wildly. Only a beat later before she threw her head back. Threatening to shake the rafters with her own call of delight. Pleasure cursing up and down her spine, hair on end as her body shuddered around him.

Bodies moved and rolled steadily as they rode out their shared pleasures. Bliss tingling through her body and sending shivers. Aleksey, a wild beast, grunting under her as his hips hunched. Flooding her body with his eager seed.

Some minutes passed before she arched and fell back into the larger male's chest with a huff. She looked up and back at him, still panting, a smile on her lips. "Was it good for you?" He let out a low growl, but his tail thumped off the bedding. Reaching up, she let her fingers touch his cheek, "Are you aware in there? Are you In control?" It took a moment before he nodded and leaned into her hand. Doing his best to lick her palm as his tail waved faster. "Good, so if I remove the ropes, are you ready to cuddle up?" Another nod, lick, and thumping of tail off the bed.

Fingers snapped, "Release." The ropes freed his limbs and snaked back to the bedside. Aleksey moved the moment he was free. Transformed body rolling over, arm draped around her body, and tail wagging as he spooned up behind her. Vayla breathed out a sigh and pushed against him. All too aware of the still-throbbing length stuck firmly within her. That's going to ache come morning. She'd deal with it then. For now? She had a good, quick tryst, after a long day. Yawning, she ran her fingers over his arm and leaned back with a huff. "Good boy." Which earned a renewed thumping of the tail.

---

When Vayla woke, the morning light was already streaming through the windows and into her loft. She hummed quietly and stretched out. Immediately realizing a few things. First off, she had been cleaned up. A basin with some water and a cloth sat on the bedside table. Secondly, she had been gently tucked into bed. Blankets covering her and tucked about her shoulders. Third, she was alone in her bed. Which would have drawn a disappointed sigh from her if not for the last thing.

She could smell tea brewing and heard movement in the store below her.

"Well I don't know, could you look around for some..." Aleksey peered into the crate, "sundries? I swear I saw these somewhere over there." At which point V.2 clicked and ambled into the shelves to see if he could find generic goods.

The ladder creaked as Vayla climbed down, a wearing only a loose tunic. Ears perked curiously as she saw Aleksey, hair damp and scales glittering, peering into a crate. One clearly marked as Brushes and Combs. "Someone is getting an early start," she mused as she walked towards the male and reached out to feel his hair.

Aleksey jerked and shot to his feet as he spun around. "Ah, I wasn't stealing anything. Merely keeping myself busy and maybe being of some use." Now that it was morning and he was a bit more refreshed, he took a moment to examine Vayla more. He was rather tall, even for a dragonborn, standing head and shoulders above most. She could very nearly rest her chin on his nose. Which made her seem all the more lovely as she looked at him with an unreadable, to him, expression. "I also took a couple liberties and procured breakfast." He motioned at a cloth bundle, "As well as fixing some tea, since I saw you had some loose leaves and these fascinating disks. I hope you don't mind, will pay if it was stock."

Vayla wandered over to the pot and checked. The leaves seemed to be properly rinsed and brewed. When she poured herself a cup, it was fragrant and warm. Checking the cloth, she found some meat buns waiting, still steaming gently. "You had mentioned that they were your favorite." He breathed out as he turned his attention back to the crate. "Thought I should repay you for..." he cleared his throat, "Guiding me to the city and allowing me the pleasure of your company overnight. The baker said those were your favorites when I asked."

"They are," she mused and smiled to herself. "So, let me get this straight." Vayla let her elbows rest on the counter as she leaned forward. Casually pulling a bun apart to eat. "You woke up early, cleaned me up, tucked me into bed, went and bathed yourself, including cleaning your hair. Then you found my favorite breakfast item I'd only mentioned in passing, brewed tea, and then began to sort merchandise using my own organization methods?" She glanced around, a couple crates were already empty. She could see the stock in their proper spots as well. "All while trying to not wake me?" He rubbed his hair and started trying to answer, but stalled out into just making noises. "Did you get breakfast at least?"

"Ah yes, I had a rather lovely porridge. The charming woman at the bathhouse pointed me towards it. Though she did give me an odd look when I inquired about how to care for my hair." He combed his fingers though his hair again. "She did provide some rather interesting products and instructions."

A nod as Aleksey took a breath, seeming gearing up to continue. "Porridge? Not interested in the meat buns? Are you in need of a little coin?"

Aleksey paused in playing with his shaggy mane, "Ah, no I have coin. Should be enough for some weeks. Until I find more about the curse or find some employ." There was a pause, "I don't eat meat too often as of late." A slight smile, "Digestion issues."

Vayla was good at reading people, and she knew a lie when she heard one. Least most of the time. That attempt at an easy-going smile was not doing him any favors. Aleksey might as well have been grabbing her horns and screaming it in her face. "When you say meat, do you mean beef?"

His head tilted ever so slightly, "Red meat. So beef, lamb, never been a fan of horse, and I avoid pork as well."

"Fish?"

"Ah, I do love a good fish. Poultry I avoid mostly as well, but can be talked into at times."

He was trying hard to keep his tone light and conversational, but she could feel there was something else there. Just not something he seemed fine with talking about. Though she could make a wager on why he likely avoided certain things. Which, if she were right, only raised her opinion of him.

"You're in luck then." He gave her a look as she picked at her food. "This is the Smithy, a trading hub. You do know what's great about trading hubs, don't you?"

He tilted his head back and thought. "The wide range of goods to purchase as well as transport?"

"And the melding of cultures." Her tail swayed and pointed a nondescript direction, "There's some nagas a few streets over that make these lovely, spicy vegetable dishes. I love their lamb dishes, but I've heard wonderful things about their other meals. Then there's these fox people, a little strange, lots of tails, but they have these grain and fish dishes. Also this," she made a face and waved her hands in a stirring motion, "kinda slimy, sticky fermented bean thing. They said it's wonderful for breakfast. I wouldn't know, I hadn't been brave enough to try it yet."

He let out curious, growling, "Hrmm. Should like to try it at some point myself. I do rather enjoy tasting what others like. Plain porridge and grains can get a little dull." He chuckled a little to himself. "So why a store, why here?"

"Ah, I just got tired of living on a ship. It was nice traveling, when it wasn't dangerous. Now though? I get to set my own schedule, within reason. I know where I'll be sleeping each night, and it's not a forsaken hammock or bunk that sways to and fro every second of every day."

He glanced towards the large doors, "Ah, I had wondered if I should open the store. Though I don't know your prices. So wouldn't dare even try guessing."

Vayla clicked her tongue, "I tend to take a day or two after a supply run. My customers know that, and they're fine with it. Regular things get delivered. If I take a special trip? It's a few days, then a day or two to sort and just relax."

Another of his growling, "Hrm," as he nodded. Then a slow, questioning, "So do you often..." he trailed off as he tried to find the words.

"Have wild sex with someone whom I've only known a few hours? No. Hells. I can count on one hand the people I'd been interested in within the last five years and have fingers left over. Take away the ones I have gotten physical with? Well, you can guess there."

"Ah." He looked into a crate and moved somethings around.

She poured some of the tea, "So why you?" He looked at her, "It's written all over your body. Several reasons, but to keep it simple. We talked, you're about as easy to read as a book, you were polite, and by the heavens, you are oblivious in the most adorable ways." She did wonder how long it'd take him to notice she only wore a tunic. Maybe if she turned to the side some, let him see a bit of her breast? "Though I do have some more questions." She might just have to pull the tunic up and flash him again.

Nope, he was still busy with sorting brushes. "Please, ask away. I am a willing book."

Anyone else, and it might have sounded petulant. "What is different about your curse than usual? I mean," she thought a second, "What does it give you, and why would you want to get right of it. Beyond wanting to keep others safe from... bite? Claws?"

Aleksey breathed out a little noise. Lips and cheeks fluttering as he thought. He walked around the counter and sat on the other stool she had, leaning against the counter with a soft hum. "There are benefits. Better sense of smell for one. I can shrug off many injuries, with certain restrictions." He reached up to tap the eye patch. "Some things won't heal. I can't regrow something it seems. Not that I'd wish to test further. During the full moon, there's little hopes of me keeping control. Which is why I made," he glanced towards the mechanical hyena, who was pushing a crate down an aisle. "If I change in other times, I can maintain control, but it's a bit...foggy. Hazy."

He caught her smile and cleared his throat. Cheeks flushing somewhat, "Which does include last night."

Vayla leaned in and purred, "I'll have to call you a good boy more often."

Aleksey stiffened, his tail thumping a little off the stool before stilling. "Ah yes, quite." He cleared his throat quickly as Vayla leaned back with a playful smirk. "The main reasons to seek a cure would be to protect others. Including any children I might have."

"Children? Have you thought of having them?" she hummed the question and tilted her head. Testing how observant he was by drawing her tunic a little higher, revealing some thigh.

"Ah yes. No, I don't have any currently, but if I were to have them in the future, they might end up cursed. I would most certainly not wish to subject any children I have with this curse. Though curious, never thought of how many. Would depend on my partner and if I feel I could properly care and provide."

Ears perked, "Well then, we should get you cured as soon as possible."

"Yes! The faster I'm cured the better."

She smiled, Oh he is a dumb animal, in the best way. I might be able to expose myself fully on the counter, and he'd be more worried about the tea. At least until I pointed it out to him. "So what's dangerous about the change? As in, how does it transmit?"

He perked, "Ah yes, now my research has turned up some results for that. It seems that the bite is the most dangerous part. Though everyone has a natural resistance to the curse. Well," he paused a second and reached for a tea cup. "the most dangerous part is the claws and mauling, but if you survive, the bite does seem to be what transmits the curse." He took a sip, realized the cup was empty, and poured himself some tea. Glanced at Vayla's cup, and topped her up when she nudged the cup at him. "However, my particular brand comes from…"

Vayla tilted her head and sipped her tea. Fingers slid along her thigh and up, pushing the tunic higher. She kept an eye on Aleksey and made interested noises. Taking in what he was saying even as her fingers slid along her labia. She saw his nose twitch as she rubbed slowly. Smiling to herself as she let out noises of curiosity. Just oh so casually petting herself. Feeling that excitement building up slowly as she thought back to the night before.

"So," she breathed as he paused for another sip of drink, "what you're saying is the dangerous part is the bite, losing control, and the chances of children inheriting the curse. Am I right?"

He paused and hummed slowly, "To summarize, yes. Though I can't understate the danger of the…"

Aleksey froze as she lifted her fingers and ran them over his nose. Fingers coated with her growing excitement. His nostrils flared as he took a shockingly deep sniff, that golden amber eye of his almost glowing as it lit up. She leaned forward, "And you believe you can control it? Provided it's not full moon, of course." He nodded, lips parting with a breathy pant. She took advantage to slide her fingers down and over his tongue. "Good," the words trembled under her purring. "It's early, too early for the Keepers to be up and about. Which means we have a couple torches to kill before we can head up the hill and see about getting you in to see them."

Fingers slid along his cheek and around. Getting a good grip in his, coarse but a little softer, mane. She pulled him in. Aleksey gasped as she pulled his head up. She took full advantage of his open mouth, tongue invading his mouth and wrapping around his tongue to contain it. He grunted, then moaned as lips touched and locked. Her broader muzzle entrapping his as she breathed into his mouth. Sharing in a moan as their tongues began to wrestle and fight. Though she had the advantage of surprise. Only for a moment though as she broke the kiss with a smirk. Leaving him panting, staring up at her with a look of pure adulation.

It was an odd thing to see the physical reaction from him. Sure, the tent growing within his breeches was exciting. Watching his hair bristle and body begin to shudder as his beast within began to fight against his willpower. Vayla purred, "Now, we can do many things, but I know what I would like, if you are willing." A smile crossed her lips as she tilted her head.

"H-how could I rrrresist?" he growled, fur starting to sprout along his muzzle.

"Good," she lifted the muzzle and held it in front of him. "Muzzle?" It was a question, but he practically dove forward. Shoving his nose into the cage. Surprising, but she played it off, fastening it around his head as he panted, nostrils flaring as he breathed in her scent. "Good boy, very good boy." Nails scrubbed his head with scratches. "Now, undress and upstairs." A tug undid the ties and she pulled the tunic off as she stood up. Reveling in the way Aleksey stared at her with adoration as she walked to the ladder. He stood and began to fumble with his own clothing. Fighting with himself to remove his clothing before he tore it off.

She made it upstairs before he thundered across the shop floor. Snarling like some great beast. Vayla felt a shudder of thrill race through her as she hurried to the bed. Practically feeling him as he surged up the ladder and raced after her. Vayla made it to the foot of the bed before he intercepted her. Slamming into her, not in a savage way, but more an excited, he couldn't stop way. Thighs crashed off the footboard as she spilled over the mattress, tail flying up. He let out a low growl and shoved his muzzle under her tail.

A gasp as his tongue lashed at her bare folds. Hot breath puffing against her bare slit and washing over her thighs. Then he was on top of her, hands grabbing at her body roughly as he growled and snarled over her. Drooling through the cage of the muzzle as he hunched over her.

"Stop."

The beast froze over her, one hand on her hips and the other planted between her shoulder blades. She looked back and saw the intelligence, dulled by the bestial side, looking at her. "Hands here," she moved one hand to her hips, "mind the claws." He grunted, but moved both hands to her hips, tail waving behind himself. She arched, letting her tail sway up. Fur brushing his cheek playfully. He was almost trembling as she looked back. Arching her hips oh so slowly as she leaned back towards him. Body rolling, nudging his peeking tip between her folds. A slow nudge nested his tip between her lips. Drawing a soft huff from her and a whine from him. "Go."

Were-Aleksey thrust with enough force to bounce her off the bed again. Vayla grunted, body spreading wide around his cock, as she was thrown forward. He groaned over her and hunched. Hands staying on her hips as his body began to thump off hers. Each impact transferred through her body and into the bed. Wood frame began to rock and creak as she reached back. Voice lifting in eager pants and sharp calls. Which only encouraged him more. Thrusts coming faster, harder, sheathing mashing against her body and balls clapping off her hips.

Vayla reached back and grabbed a handful of his hair. Pulling the, now larger, male down as she pushed her body back into his. "Good boy, like... That!" she gasped each word in time with his thrusts. Rewarding him with a clench and squeeze. Her tail wrapping around his body and pulling him closer.

Oh, oh they were going to have so much fun together.

---

Aleksey breathed out a sigh as he walked into the shop, “Vayla? I’m back.” He let his bag slide down into his hand, barely catching it. Scales glittered and hair was matted to his head. Not from the rain, though that was coming down rather hard. No, he’d stopped by the bathhouse to get the road grime off him. Aleksey took a moment to hang up his adventuring gear, slot his sword into the stand, and shrug off a coat.

“Welcome back!” her voice called from the loft. “Tea is on the steep if you want some.”

“Oh that sounds lovely, I feel like I’ve been chilled to the bone.” He shuffled towards the counter where she kept the tea. Groaning as he reached for the stool. About ready to just sit down, lean against the wall, and take a well earned rest.

“Don’t sit in that one.” He looked around, but Vayla was still up in the loft. Aleksey looked at the stool, wondering if there was something wrong with it. Had it been glued? Painted?

The ladder creaked and he looked towards Vayla as she climbed down. Before he could ask, “I don’t know why you always pick that stool. Or hells below, always go for the furthest left chair on a table.” She planted her hands on her hips and looked him over. Which gave him a chance to look at her as well. She was as lovely as he remembered. Those deep, lovely blue scales of hers, the animated eyebrows, and that way she looked at him.

“I like to lean against the wall or leave my…”

She tapped his nose to silence him. “My dear, my love, you are missing your right eye. If you sit in that stool, I am on your literal blindside. Now scoot.” He moved to the other stool. “Thank you, now.” She sat down with a flourish, “How was your trip?”

“Very good,” he breathed, “Snutri and I found what we needed and they managed to cast the spell to remove my curse.” He leaned back with a smile, “I am no longer cursed with lycanthropy.”

A smile flashed over her lips, “That is wonderful. How do you feel?”

“Strangely cold. There’s a part of me that was...me for most of my life, and it’s just not there.” He gave a slow stretch and groaned. “Hurried to get back here as quick as we could. Been walking since last night.”

She chuckled, “I bet Snutri loved that.”

He laughed, “Oh, they had me carry them a few hours. Just draped across my shoulders.” A low sigh and roll of his shoulders. “Dropped them off at the keep. Grabbed a quick meal and a bath. Then came right here.”

“Nice to know I rank below a meal and bath.” Vayla leaned in and bumped her nose against his with a smile. “Go to bed. You look like you’re about to drop. It’s a few more torches until dark. I’ll wake you for a meal. Then you can tell me more and I can ride you until your hips are ready to break.” She blew on her tea and sipped it. Aleksey felt his cheeks flush. “Go, rest, my lovely Stumbles.” He leaned in for a kiss. Which she happily met with her own.

As he stood up, she rose to her feet as well and walked towards the door. “Beloved?” Vayla paused and looked over her shoulder at his question. “Where are you going?”

Her tail swayed, “Oh, I said I was going to wake you for a meal. I never said you were going to sleep without bedding me first. You have been gone several weeks, after all.” Her tail swayed and hips bumped. Clothing already falling to the wayside as she made her way to the bedroom.

A shiver raced up his spine. Excitement, but also a touch of fear. She’d told him she’d earned the nickname Bedmasher, but never how. Though it hadn’t taken him long to figure out. He just hoped he could survive without his lycanthropic healing.

Vayla waited for him in the bed. A single candle at the beside illuminating her, glittering off bare scales as she stretched out on their bed. A smile on her face, a rumble on her lips, and her fingers sliding along her fields. Opening them for him before she arched and rolled, breathing out a moan that was sweeter than all the heavens. Aleksey’s nose twitched out of instinct, but he couldn’t smell her as he had mere weeks before. A pang of loss rolled through him, but he was quickly distracted by another gasp.

Somehow he made it out of his clothes and into bed. Vayla’s legs spread to welcome him in. Coppery scales gliding against her deeper blue. She breathed out an, “Aleksey,” that could melt any man. Arm draping loosely around his shoulder. Her other lifted to cup his sheath and play with him. “Oh how I’ve missed you.”

He panted, jaws opening wide, “Not a night has passed that I haven’t…”

A lick silenced him, “Show me.”

“I’ll probably fall asleep soon…”

Legs wrapped around his body and squeezed. Her playful purring took on a harder note. “I don’t care.” Vayla’s cheeks flushed in the growing dark as she felt a need roll up her body. She’d stopped taking her herbs some weeks ago and could feel that desire rolling through her. Maybe it was time, maybe it wasn’t, but she was going to take every chance she could with her dumb beast. “I said show me,” she leaned up and gave his throat a playful bite and growl. “Now.”

That was all the encouragement he needed. As was her face as he plunged into the lovely woman below him. Her scent, her warmth, the way her head rolled back with mouth agape. Her back arching, breasts free to press to him, legs digging into his back, nails scraping shoulder and arm, and her voice. The the heavens, her voice! The celestials could not have sounded sweeter, “RUT ME YOU DUMB ANIMAL!”

---

Much to his word, Aleksey had fallen asleep fairly quickly. It was dark when he woke, a warm weight pressing down on him. He recalled that he’d been on top earlier. Gazing lovingly into Vayla as he lay claim to her again. Her powerful legs wrapped around his body, not allowing him to pull out. Chanting his name and calling out her pleasure in a voice that sent shivers through him even as it shook the building. Now, in the dark, he could see the shape of her as she lay on top of him. Covers a messy tangle about them. Her fingers gently petting his form, head on his chest, and the warmth of her pressed snug against his sheath.

To make matters worse, or better, her hips were moving in the slowest, most careful of rolls. Thighs framed his form, muscles shifting with a smoothness he couldn’t believe. She was slowly, methodically, coaxing his lance back to the joust. Readying him for action. His manhood eased from his sheath, parting her lips. Feeling the leavings of their last romp still clinging to her. She breathed out the softest of moans, but kept her motions slow. Not wanting to wake him.

At least until his hands moved to caress her sides.

“You’re awake.” Her voice was so soft, barely even a whisper.

“Mhmm,” he breathed and turned his head. Nuzzling into her lovely, glorious hair.

“Are you rested?” she ran the very tips of her carefully cared for and painted nails up his sides.

He shivered and arched, “More sleep would be better.” Legs shifted slowly. Her tail slid over his thighs and curled as he moved under her.

“Hungry?” Her tail curled, arched, then dropped to the bed with a thud. She was moving as well, matching his shift. Legs slid against his and hooked ever so lightly. More weight sliding against his plump sheath and pushing down.

“Food can wait.”

Her teeth flashed in the dark, “Amazing how you can pick up some hints, but not others.” She arched and sat up above him. Their natural sight letting him pick out the faint details of her even in the pitch dark. Nostrils flared as he breathed in her scent. Watching the glitter of her eyes as she peered down at him.

“I am not completely oblivious, I do recognize patterns.” He let his fingers dance along her sides. Across the thicker scales of her front. Up to her breasts as she lifted her arms overhead and moaned. Maw falling open as he cupped her breasts and let his thumbs toy with her nipples. “I know when you hunger, and I feel the same, Beloved. It has been many nights without more than a hand and memory for company.”

Teeth flashed in another smile, “Oh I bet Snutri would have loved to help. Or at least watch.”

Vayla curled her tail just so, hips hooking with expert precision. With an ease that astonished him, she lifted his cock with her own body and slid herself down on it. Jaws parting with a breathy, pleased gasp. He arched into her and growled on his own. A noise she matched with her own hungry snarl, hunching over him, slamming her hands into his chest.

The bed creaked and groaned as she began to ride him. Bodies clapping as she set the pace. Aleksey doing all he could to keep up with her. Hands flew along her body, over thighs and around her hips. Diving between legs to play with her. Massaging her pearl, squeezing her tail, scratching in the way he knew she loved. She leaned over him, one hand on his chest, the other on the headboard. “Good boy,” she moaned. Claws digging into the wood as the entire bed began to shake. Ropes creaking as they stretched and shuddered under the impact of her body on his.

Aleksey didn’t have as heightened of senses now. He couldn’t have noticed the change in her scent. That subtle shift that said she was off her herbs. Though even if he knew, it wouldn’t have stopped him. He would have still lifted his legs, planting his feet, and thrust up into his love with just as much abandon. She knew, she planned, and she was firmly committing to her choices. At his unspoken agreement, she dug in that much harder. Moaning over him like some animal as her body clapped off his. Each bounce met with a thrust from him. The crack of scales off scales driving a grunting pant from her.

Hips drove down, feeling his growing knot slide into her. Hands grabbed and pushed, clinging to the other. She pulled to test, he thrust to keep her close. Insides shuddered in a too familiar way. Maws met in heated embrace, whatever bellow being silenced by eager tongues. Bodies quaked and shivered with delight. Driving so close and tight to each other. Ridged length lodged so deep. Knot holding them close together. Another release. Volcanic eruption contained within the turmoil of her waters. She shivered and he arched. Panting into each other’s embrace. Holding tight as they rode out their shared moment.

A breath.

A pant.

“We are not getting any sleep tonight, are we?”

A breathy laugh. “Giving in already?”

His answer was a firm challenge. One she rose to, and would handily win. Not that he minded in the least. For even losing to her meant he had the grandest prize.

---

Some months passed. Vayla used what connections she had to get Aleksey in to see the Keepers. The Librarian and staff helped him find a cure. He helped her out around the store, at least when the Keepers weren't calling on his knowledge and skills for tasks. Though they weren't the only ones making use of his abilities either.

"Again, I cannot thank you enough for stopping to get us." Aleksey perched on the wagon and leaned forward. "Would have taken hours more to walk back home otherwise." Home, there was a concept that was stills strange to the adventurer. His entire adult life had been spent traveling and avoiding people. Now, here he was living in a major city.

Peko grumbled and swayed his head from side to side. The druid in his ox form and dragging a cart along. Aleksey glanced at the loaded wagon and found himself wondering again. Strange that Vayla wasn't out with their friend. Though Peko had mentioned she was busy with some work. Not terribly unusual, if he had to guess. She sometimes sent him out on errands. His gaze lifted as they wound through the city. It'd only be a moment more before he was back at the shop.

“ ALEKSEY STANNES WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN?" The words literally blasted down the street. Something sparking off cobblestone and cutting into he side of the cart. An unseen force rocked the wagon and made him grab onto the seat out of fear. Up ahead, Vayla stood in the middle of the street, hands on her hips and a very stern look on her face.

Peko let out a grunt that could have been an 'uh oh' as he looked over his shoulder. "Beloved, I can only offer my most humble and sincere apologies." Aleksey hopped off the wagon and walked towards Vayla.

She stopped him with a finger right to his sternum, "A month? An entire MONTH?! When I asked how long this task would take, you said two weeks, three at most. You've been gone A MONTH! Actually no, it's been Five Weeks!" She jabbed his chest with the last two words, driving him back a step.

"Ah," he held his hands up and tried to look as innocent as he could, "Four and a half, but…"

That earned him a jab with two fingers.

Aleksey yelped and stumbled back a step, "I do have a good explanation, Beloved. A most wonderful reason for my prolonged absence."

She crossed her arms and looked down her muzzle at him, "Well then, you had best explain yourself. Five weeks and not a message, not a sending, not even a letter."

He felt true fear roll up his spine. That jet mane of his bristling as he cleared his throat, "I was on a very important mission for the Keepers. I was with..." he started to look for his traveling companion, but the kobold was already off the wagon and running for the high streets. Coward, Aleksey thought to himself. "There was a void artifact they wanted me to look at and catalog. In exchange, I... We would get something." Vayla stepped back and crossed her arms. Whiskers twitching and her animated eyebrows arching in a way that said he won some leeway. "Do you recall that store you showed me? The one Hillward? Good floor plan, solid frame, has the lovely apartments above?"

"Yes," she started slowly, "I showed it to you when I took you on a tour of the city. Said it was on my list of places I wanted to move to. In fact, it was the top of the list, but also occupied and out of my price range."

Aleksey flashed a smile, "Well, it turned out the owner had a little issue he needed help with, and was wanting to retire anyway. So I made an arrangement with the Keepers. This task, as well as some further work as a researcher, and the occasional emergency help in the field. They would apply my stipend to buying the building. For us." Movement caught his attention. People stepping out of the shop with a wagon in tow. A wagon loaded with supplies and furniture. "Who are they?"

"Movers." Vayla leaned forward, "I know," and planted a kiss on his nose. "I just wanted you to sweat for not even sending me a letter."

He blinked, stunned, "You... Know? Movers?"

She laughed and stepped in close, rubbing her muzzle against his, "Oh I knew you were keeping some secret from me. I didn't know what it was, until Amban showed up with some paperwork for me to sign. Last week. Which is when I also found out you were alive and on the way home."

"Ah, yes. I had asked them to tell you I was fine and on the way home…"

Vayla stepped toward and drew him into a kiss. Her low purr shaking her jaws against his as he leaned into it. Hand sliding around his love's front, drawing her into an embrace.

Only to still at the feel of something unusual. Vayla broke the kiss with a smile and took his hand. Guiding it along her belly, pressing his fingers just so to let him feel the shape of eggs within her.

"Ah, when..." His mind blanked, all knowledge of how his own people's reproduction worked.

She laughed, "A week ago, with some gnoll, smelled like strawberries.” She gave his chest a swat, “When do you think, my Lovely Fool. Nearly six weeks. I refused to lay until you got home." Her hand ran over his, “Should be any day now.”

He blinked, "Which means…"

"Yes. After you were cured."

"So they…"

"Will be ordinary and healthy. Which reminds me," she breathed out a huff, "I need to get off my feet. You," she patted his chest, "are going to have a bath, fetch dinner, and tell me about your adventures. Then, once you've had a rest." She leaned in to purr into his ear, "We're breaking out your muzzle again."

His cheeks colored, "But I'm not cursed."

"Oh, it's not for my safety."

There was something to her tone that sent a thrill up his spine. Vayla smirked and turned, offering him her hand. Which he gladly took as they began to walk, "Oh, and we need to discuss marriage. My mother would flay you alive for making me gravid without a vow."

"Ah, then it is most fortunate I had decided to make a small detour through Nidavellir.”

"Oh did you now? Another surprise for me?" she leaned into him with a smile that warmed him through. "Wonder what it could be. Certainly had nothing to do with you sneakily checking my finger, could it?" Her tail looped over his as his arm curled around the small of her back.

"You noticed?"

"No. You just told me."