FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Long ago in an ancient land, a kingdom of great power was built. It was a testament to the determination and strength of its people, but as it aged with time as all things do, it deteriorated. On its three hundredth anniversary, what remained of the once great nation lay a ruined capitol, the last of the marble cities as the country's borders shrank further and further. Soldiers were ill-equipped and poorly trained, and even more poorly disciplined. Many deserted to pledge their allegiance with more powerful, more promising lands. The once pristine city of Coloi, now a filthy hovel of pestilence and poverty, sat beneath the crumbling castle of King Ivan. He was a harsh ruler, greedy and unjust. At every turn he sought to find a way to gain land, money, and power. His wife, the queen, had died long ago, leaving him with four daughters, three of which turned out to be no better than he. They were snobbish, heartless, callous wenches with nothing in their hearts but marrying into a wealthy family and escaping the wretched land they were born into.

At every possible opportunity, the King sought a possible marital tie he could push one of his daughters into in hopes of somehow gaining a foothold somewhere else, perhaps siphon off some of the gold and jewels he hungered for so much. Time and time again the girls were refused due to their uncouth behavior and horrifying, almost whimsical sense of fashion, all but one, the youngest. She was rejected solely because she was just too young to enter into wedlock. Princes of every land they visited complimented the child on her manners and how readily she apologized for her horrible sisters and father.

Because of her dramatic departure from the family business, gold mining, she was considered the black sheep and utterly spat upon. Her sisters reduced her to servitude and delighted in ordering her about. Most of the time she refused initially, but reluctantly agreed (out of fear in younger years) after a hail of threats; promised to be flogged, starved, put in the dungeon, thrown out on the street, dropped into the rat-infested sewers where the plague ran rampant, and even fed to the dragon rumored to live in the mountains to the north. It was of course only a legend, but until she reached the age of twelve, she knew no better.

When she finally came of age to be a candidate for marriage, the older three conspired to introduce her as their personal servant when meeting new suitors, hushing her and driving her away before she could correct them. They would not give her the chance to succeed where they had failed so many times. By now, she had begun to stand up for herself more, fighting back but not fierce enough to be respected by anyone in her family. Yes, the servants and guards treated her well, but only to the extent of reserving the cat calls until she was too far away to rebuff their advances. Debauchery and crime was a constant problem, one she would be glad to see go if she could ever find a way out of this horrid place. Fate had other plans for her.

It was on one of the many trips the girls were sent on, hoping to find some suitor that would take at least one of them. The small caravan had barely left the rotting city before the beginnings of a snowstorm surrounded the carriage housing the four princesses. The dry, splintering wood creaked and groaned as the wind tore at it savagely, ice and snow plastering against it while the three elder sisters remained as comfortable as their meager remnants of a kingdom could provide for them. The youngest one, as usual, was forced to sit on the floor of the coach with no cushion to protect her delicate form from the punishment brought on by the rough road. The older girls drank, ate the only fresh fruit that could still grow on their land, and gossiped of things not suited for royalty to discuss. Their somewhat pleasant trip was brought to a sudden halt as a tree fell across their path. It was a small tree, but just large enough to give the carriage trouble. Not a single moment after the convoy came to a stop, the oldest of the girls growled and smashed her fist on the wooden boards between her and the driver.

"What has gotten into your head to have us stop!?"

"I'm sorry m'lady, but the road is blocked. The men are clearing it now. It should not take too long." The tone of his voice carried with it obvious sounds of fear. He did not want to anger the ladies in the carriage. They tended to have rather short and powerful tempers. The second oldest sister chimed in, her voice possessing a somewhat weasely quality to it.

"It had better not! We're expected in the Grand Hall of Bradsdun by sun down tomorrow and we will not be late! If we arrive even so much as one minute after the sun sets, I will personally see to it you are thrown in the dungeon!"

The driver gulped loudly and nodded, urging the guards to hurry. They dismounted from their horses, the lot looking rather scraggly, and began trying to push the fallen timber out of the way. As they did, one of the guards noticed the tree's trunk was not splintered or rotten like one might expect on a fallen tree, but cut rather clean. It was sabotage! The tree had been felled intentionally! He called out to his comrades upon piecing the puzzle together, trying to reach for his sword but was simply too slow. A flurry of snow and several flashes of steel left all the guards unarmed, clutching their hands in pain as a group of bandits surrounded them all. They were easy prey being so poorly trained. The leader smirked and glared at them through his one good eye.

"I see we've got us some travelers! Royalty no doubt from that scum farm to the south... take what all they got, you two, come with me. We're gonna have ourselves a peek in the coach." The men to his immediate right and left grinned, showing discolored, rotting teeth as they approached the door, throwing it open to reveal the four women, three of them utterly terrified and flustered. The youngest lady simply sat on the floor, staring out at their assailants, frowning deeply. She remained quiet, but her eyes told the robbers what was on her mind and they found it amusing. Her sisters on the other hand did not keep such calm composure.

"How dare you attack us! Our father will have you hanged for this!"

"Oh put a cork in it you twat! Your father tried ta have me hanged once before! The rope snapped and I fell to the ground, so they burned out one of my eyes and threw me in the dungeon, threatened ta burn out the other one if I tried to escape. And here I am. I owe yer daddy an eye. Shall I cut one of yours out and give it to him?"

The three women gasped dramatically, perhaps overly so, while their sister remained quiet, her eyes fastened on the band's leader.

"You tried to steal my mother's necklace." That caught the man's attention, turning to glare at her with his yellow, vein-filled eye.

"Aye, I did. And if I'm not mistaken it was you who ratted me out. Ya know, come ta think of it... I think you owe me an eye!" He drew his dagger and moved to strike, aiming for her face hoping to scare her, but she did not flinch, not even in the slightest. The man growled quietly having failed to frighten her, but his grumble turned to soft, mad laughter.

"You've got nerve I'll give ye that... and unlike the three toads here, I'd say you got the looks of the family." He turned her jaw roughly to view her visage, the girl fighting back by pushing away with her chin, refusing to let him touch her.

"Get your hands off me you lowlife."

He snickered and eyed her neck, spotting the very necklace he tried to steal so long ago.

"Well, well, well. It looks like I'll be havin' that after all!" He reached for the jeweled trinket but she fought back, pushing his hand away, fire burning in her eyes. She would not let him near it.

"Over my dead body." As she fought, the two henchmen laughed their own squealing, dissonant cackles.

"Why don't we just take the whole package with us boss, we could share her around the camp! I bet she'd scream real good."

The idea drifted into the one-eyed man, his lips pulling into a wicked grin.

"I think your right boys... might be able ta get some payback for her little tattle tale mouth!" The young woman narrowed her eyes and practically hissed at the men.

"Touch me and you will wish you were dead." Unfortunately, her sisters thought it was a fabulous idea as well. They could be rid of the little upstart once and for all. Ingrid, the oldest, planted her high-healed foot firmly on her back and shoved, pushing the youngest of the four out of the carriage into the snow. She then leaned forward, showing her hideously blemished face to all out in the cold after the cowardly ejection.

"Take her and leave us be! Consider it payment for letting us pass!"

The bandit nodded and bowed his head lightly.

"It's a deal, now be off with ya!" He waved his hand dismissively, casting them aside. The other bandits, having confiscated only a measly haul from the guards, pushed the tree out of their path and the convoy was sent on its way again. The abandoned princess slowly lifted her face from the cold snow, shivering in the frigid wind as her heart lifted into her throat, watching the crowd of men surround her. A number of primitive sounding grunts and laughs rose from the group as she searched frantically for a way out of this predicament. The royalty card was all she had left. No amount of self-defense training she could have received in the castle would have helped her here.

"My father will have you all hunted down like dogs for this... Stay back! I'm warning you!" More laughter came from all around.

"Daddy's not here to save you sweetheart, you're all ours now, and payback is gonna be so sweet. Just look at this cute little face, why it's almost too perfect. What do you think men!? Should we make her look a bit more common by givin' her a nice scar right across her adorable little mug!?" He drew his blade again, preparing to make the decision himself when a great shadow swooped down from high above and flattened the man into the snow. A cry of pain rose from the bandit as his legs snapped under the weight of some immense creature. Shouts of disdain rose from the men and they all moved in to attack, but the beast launched itself at them, slashing with razor sharp claws, biting with fangs that could pierce even the hardest of armor. Screams of pain filled the air as blood stained the white ground until the monster rose to its full height, slowly returning to the band's leader, whimpering as he tried to back away. Each step the beast took felt like a piece of the sky had fallen, impact tremors racing through the earth. Huge ruts were dug in the hard, frozen dirt as it crept closer, the claws on its toes slicing through the ice in the soil like a cleaver through a melon.

"No! Stay back! Don't hurt me! Holy spirits protect me from this demon!" The very instant he cried out the last word of his plea, a deep, booming voice split through the wind, resonating clear as a church bell on a summer day.

"I am no demon!" There was an animalistic quality to the beast's voice, a growl passing through the air with his words. The man cowered before the creature, unable to move his mangled legs.

"I beg of you! Don't kill me! I've not wronged you!" Fear had gripped the foolish bandit, trembling before his attacker. The great monster knelt over the broken man, breathing cloud after cloud of steamy breath into his face.

"Beg all you like, your gods will not save you. Burn for your sins! Your sins against your fellow man! Against the earth that gives you life! Against the very spirits you beg for mercy!" A deep inhale came as the beasts chest expanded with a great breath, and with one powerful exhale, a cloud of flame consumed the man. His shrieks of terror and agony echoed over the trees before his killer stood back at his full height, turning its attention to the woman lying shivering in the snow. Fear had taken her, rendering her immobile, frozen in place as the beast drew closer to her. All she could muster was the strength to bluff once more.

"Stay back or you will suffer a fate far worse than those you've slain!" The creature paused, not out of fear, but utterly puzzled by her sudden tenacity.

"And I assume a half frozen woman with no weapon will deal out such a fate?" Her face contorted into an angry expression, sick of being mocked.

"I am Princess Angela Benoval! Daughter of King Ivan!" But before she could finish her hardly impressive rant, the beast cut her off with its deep, commanding voice.

"I know who you are, human. Know this. I fear no man," it drew closer as he spoke, finally kneeling before the woman, still towering over her. She expected it to open its mighty jaws and simply snap her up, but instead, she was suddenly wrapped in a warm, luxuriously soft blanket, "and you have no reason to fear me. I will not harm you."

The princess blinked, feeling the thick fabric surrounding her, looking up into a pair of brilliant green eyes, shining like emeralds in the fading winter light.

"But... but you killed all of those men..."

The creature nodded and turned to look at the now lifeless, smoldering form of the man that had been set ablaze.

"Yes, I am well aware of what I have done. I will have much to do to atone for my actions here today, but I felt it necessary."

"Why? Why should it ever be necessary to bring about such brutal death to any man?" The monstrous figure's gaze returned to her.

"Why else but to come to the aid of a damsel in distress? These men intended on raping you, on making you a slave of their own carnal desires. They had to be stopped. I regret taking their lives, but the sins they have committed are vast in scope. I feared the only way to prevent them from any further atrocities was to deny them the chance." It was cold, objective logic the beast used, but it was sound. The princess nodded softly and pulled the blanket about her tighter.

"Well, I thank you kind beast for your aid but now I have a long walk ahead of me to return home. I will tell my father of your deeds and your kindness." Though trying to present an air of gracious gratitude, it was difficult for her to mask her timid mood while facing the tall stranger. Once again, the creature stood to his full height, at least nine feet tall, pulling the princess to her feet as her long, black hair blew in the wind.

"I cannot let you travel alone. Even so, if I were to accompany you back to your kingdom, I fear you would not survive the journey. The sun is setting and when night falls, you will freeze to death in this unforgiving land. The only choice I am afraid you have is to come with me to my home until it is safe to travel."

The young woman stood defiantly, her blue eyes locking with the beast's emerald facets.

"I will do no such thing! I thank you for your assistance and your concern, but I must return to my kingdom!"

"To do what my dear princess? Try to rescue it from its disease and corruption? I am afraid you currently lack the powers required to make the changes so very badly needed to save your city and its land. You must come with me or you will die."

"I am more resilient than I look and with this blanket you have provided me, I can make the trek easily enough!"

"No, you cannot. You have no choice. If you wish to live long enough to see your city returned to its former glory, then you must come with me!" By now, the creature was becoming quite anxious. The snow, wind, and failing light made it difficult to make out any distinct features beyond a great, dark silhouette adorned with two curved, spiraling horns. After a lifetime of being pushed around, the princess was not about to be ordered about by an animal of the wild. She stomped her foot in the snow and stood her ground.

"I am going home! If you want to carry me off to whatever desolate keep you call a home, then you will just have to kidnap me!" She turned to take her leave, not expecting her rescuer to do anything so bold. A throaty growl of annoyance rose up from the beast and it reached out with both arms, grasping the woman and pressing her close to the creature's form.

"So be it!" And with that, two massive wings spread and flapped hard, propelling them both into the air. A shriek of surprise and terror echoed through the cold winter air as the princess experienced her first flight. The beast did not frighten her as much as falling back to earth, but this fear did not stop her irrational squirming in the beast's grasp.

"Put me down! I command it! I'm a princess!"

"Yes, you are, but I am not your subject! You will accompany me to my home where you will wait until it is clear enough to return to your castle!" The flight itself was rather short, ending with the great winged thing landing among the rocks high in the mountains. It navigated the craggy slopes until reaching a cave of smooth stone, slipping inside and moving deeper. It was warmer in the cave than out in the blizzard, but still quite chilly. The princess noticed the temperature difference, but was more surprised by the odd conundrum before her.

She felt along the beast's form, finding smooth scales that were somehow both durable, protecting against injury and yet surprisingly soft at the same time. She had handled snakes before, feeling how the individual scales worked like plates in a suit of armor, slipping across one another to accommodate the serpent's movement, but this was something far more sophisticated. Each scale flexed like leather while somehow retaining its strength to repel attack, and what was more bizarre was this beast was actually warm to the touch.

It was reptilian, and it was warm.

Angela processed all of this information, trying to arrive at the most logical explanation until she reached the only possibility. This beast had to be the creature from the legend. That was impossible though, it was only a myth! It couldn't possibly be real! When she finally worked up the courage to inquire, she looked up, tugging lightly on what felt like clothing it was wearing.

"You're... you're the dragon aren't you? The dragon from the stories." To hear her speak, it was as though she were simultaneously terrified and infatuated with the notion. The beast continued to walk down the narrow corridor, climbing down various small drops as if maneuvering over a great staircase.

"I am a dragon, yes. The one from the legend, no. But it would be a fair guess to say it is probably based on me."

Angela shivered softly, not from cold but in fear. She knew the tales all too well.

"You plan to devour me don't you?"

A deep, quiet chuckle rose from above, resonating in the dragon's chest. The sound was almost soothing.

"No, I have no plans to make a meal out of you. As I said earlier, you have no reason to fear me. You have my word, when conditions are favorable for traveling, I will take you back to your castle." In spite of the sound of sincerity in his voice, the princess was still rather worried, not sure if she could trust this beast of legend or not. For the time, she had no choice but to do so. As they climbed lower and lower, the air grew steadily warmer until it was downright balmy. When they reached the other end of the cave, it opened up into a vast forest, lush and green, free of the cold, harsh winter from the other side of the mountain. Angela gasped quietly seeing the fertile, natural beauty of the land, stunned as she drank it all in.

"How is this possible? There is a blizzard blowing on the other side!" Incredulity claimed her mind as she gazed at the sight before her, amusing her companion. The dragon, whom she could see more clearly now in what felt like the summer sun, chuckled and set her down in the velvety soft grass.

"Magic, my child. This valley is enchanted. I am not fond of the cold so I made this place an eternal summer. I make my home here. Come. It is not much further now." He took a few steps forward as Angela stood in utter shock of the untainted landscape. As he walked, her eyes were drawn to his form, now much clearer without the wind and ice clouding her vision. He was a rich blue over much of his body save a mild grey along his chest and belly. The membrane of his wings shared that muted tone as did the two frills on either side of his head. The spiraling curves of his horns were a deep black and as he turned back to ensure she was following him, she could examine his features. There was no horrible, nasty disfigurement as portrayed by the minstrels and artists she had heard so much from. He had a youthfulness and strength about him that seemed almost ruggedly handsome, at least for a dragon. He chuckled and turned around completely, walking back to the human woman just over half his height, extending a large, clawed hand.

"Please, come. My home is much more comfortable than sleeping in the grass... though... that does have a charm to it as well."

Absentmindedly, she took his hand and nodded, following him down the gentle hill.

"Thank you for your generosity... I... I don't even know your name." Were she not so distracted, she might have felt as though he were taking her away to some secluded place to take advantage of her. Thankfully, he was proving to be more of a gentleman than many human men she had met in her lifetime. Her comment struck the blue fellow with an odd sense and with that, the dragon froze, wheeling around, his tail almost cracking like a whip.

"How rude of me! Where are my manners! I didn't even introduce myself!" He bowed his head out of respect, lifting it once more as he spoke, revealing his identity, "I am Smokescale Aquatos, it is a pleasure to welcome you to my home your majesty. I hope you enjoy your brief stay." With his name given, he lifted her hand, placing an ever so delicate kiss on the back of her palm, eliciting a blush from the young lady.

"A pleasure Mr. Aquatos."

"Please, call me Smokey. You've no need to be so formal towards me."

She nodded and giggled quietly at the chivalrous dragon in his red vest and tan trousers, not having noticed his garb back in the blasting ice and snow of the blizzard.

"Very well, Smokey. How long will you hold me here."

"Until tomorrow, if the blizzard has passed and the pass is still clear."

"And if it is not?"

"Then we wait until it is."

"And how long must I wait if the pass is blocked?" Her question seemed to hang in the air as the blue dragon paused and turned to look back at the young princess.

"If the pass fills with snow, then there may be nothing we can do until the spring thaw." He sounded apologetic concerning the conditions of the mountain pass. It was not his intention of trapping her here, but keeping her alive so that she could return. Angela nodded softly and they continued their walk.

"I see... well, so long as you remain your chivalrous self and do not try to make a meal of me, I don't suppose it would be too awful a stay."

"Indeed. I do believe the present company would make the next few months quite bearable."

A new blush formed on her cheeks as he complimented her again. The rest of the trip to his home was made silently. That home was actually another cave, this one furnished with simple, hand crafted pieces; a table with chairs, a couch, cabinets, counters, a large bed to handle his rather large frame, and several bookcases filled with all manner of things other than books.

"I know it isn't exactly worthy of royalty, but it is quite comfortable. You can sleep on the bed while I either take the couch, or the pleasantly soft grass outside."

The light outside dipped lower and lower until the night fell. A simple meal was made to cater to the princess's simple tastes before she curled up in the strange sheets. Smokey opted for the grass just outside the cave so he could look up at the stars. Sleep would soon find him quickly as he fumbled over the memories of the day's events. He would have much to do indeed if he were to atone for his attack. Still, he lay awake for the moment, not yet attempting to drift off as he let his mind wander.

Angela on the other hand had a horror of a time trying to sleep. The bed simply was far too alien to her. If she were to spend days, weeks, or even months on it, she might grow accustomed to it, but as it was, she would find no sleep on that home-made mattress. After half an hour's worth of tossing and turning, the young woman rose, letting her feet slip to the smooth, cold stone below. She was beautiful, a slender woman puberty had left well balanced. True she did not possess any overwhelmingly pronounced features, but that did not prevent a gentle, pure grace that dominated her figure. Even in a simple, make-shift nightgown, it was difficult to see her as anything but a vision of loveliness. Quietly, she stepped out of the cave, spotting her dragon savior and approached him as silently as she could. He was not yet asleep, staring up at the glorious, star-lit sky. Before she drew near enough to be seen, a soft sigh emanated from Smokey as a grin crossed his muzzle.

"Was the mattress not to your liking, highness?"

Angela blinked and froze, suppressing a yelp.

"It's not that... I just... need some time to get used to it."

He nodded a little.

"It can feel strange at first. If you like, it's plenty comfortable out here in the grass." The mere thought of it seemed insulting to part of her, but the other part, the part that was in control most of the time, found the idea novel and intriguing. Never before had she slept outside, or even on the ground. Needless to say, she agreed. Without a second thought, she sat down and tilted back until she lay facing up at the stars, each one twinkling like a diamond.

"This is a first for me..." The smile on her face could be heard through her words.

"Spent every night in a princess's bed eh?" He grinned softly to the young lady, not meaning to infer that she had been spoiled but that she simply had not the opportunity to try anything else. A quiet laugh of irony came from the girl.

"A princess's bed indeed. Yours is by far more comfortable than any mattress I've ever been allowed to sleep on."

The dragon's brow furrowed and he turned onto his side, raising his head to look at the human only a few feet away.

"You mean to tell me your city has degraded to a point where the only person worth pampering is not even allowed a comfortable bed to sleep in?"

"I'm afraid not. Part of me doesn't even want to go back. Some say the kingdom cannot be saved, that it isn't even worth saving. All who had the power to help have already left. I'm afraid it's just a matter of time anymore... but... I still hold onto the little hope I have left."

Smokey nodded listening to Angela's description of the situation. He knew all too well what was happening in the city, and pitied the girl for having been born there. A comfortable silence prevailed over the forest around them, broken only by the chirping of crickets. The princess inhaled the clean, pure air and sighed, letting her eyes drift shut.

"It's so wonderful here. I wish home was like this."

"One day, majesty, one day it will be. How, I do not know, but I am certain that it will happen."

"Not within my lifetime I fear."

"One never knows what the future will hold." His voice brought with it a soothing calm to the lady's weary body. She paused and nodded, letting the dragon's kind words feed the hope she had been nurturing within her soul ever since she knew what hope was. Listening to his voice had an almost hypnotic effect, making her drowsy until finally, the young woman fell asleep. A soft breeze blew across the grass, causing Angela to shudder lightly. Instinctually, the human shifted and gradually made her way to the dragon's side, pressing against him lightly for warmth. Smokey chuckled quietly and rolled onto his side, draping a wing and an arm about the girl, keeping her warm for the duration of the night. A soft purr of muted elation passed through his chest, soothing Angela even further until he passed into the land of dreams alongside her. Feeling the purr rumbling away nearby, the human immediately relaxed, a light smile spreading across her lips. She felt safe, content; for the first time in her life, she was happy.

---

Night faded and the shadows of darkness melted away like a ghost as the sun poked its fingers of light through the trees, shining cheerfully down on the young princess. She stirred and yawned softly, sitting up and blinking as she looked around. The dragon that had watched over her in the night was gone. Her examination of the grass revealed a large impression wrapped around the one her own form made. He had physically protected her in the night. No wonder she had been so comfortable. The question now was where had he gone?

She stood and stretched her arms, drinking in the beautiful scenery before walking back into the cave.

"Smokey? Are you in here?" What she found was what she had left behind the night before, an empty cave. She frowned softly and walked back outside, scanning the area before striking out towards what appeared to be a body of water. First a bath, then she would hunt for her reptilian savior. It was a short trip to the small lake and again she paused to savor the uncorrupted landscape, silently wishing she could stay forever. A quick glance around the area ensured that she was alone and safe to undress. The gown slipped off her smooth figure with ease, revealing the young, unspoiled figure of a virgin not quiet yet into her twenties. Angela gradually slipped into the cool, clean waters, marveling at how clear it was. The moat surrounding the castle back home was nothing like this, nor any of the other bodies of water surrounding the town. They were all murky, putrid, and riddled with disease from decades of unsanitary use. If anyone wanted clean water to bathe in or drink, they would have to wait until the rain came and filled the rain barrels. This on the other hand was a treasure unto itself.

"That dragon is the richest being in the world, a paradise like this all to himself." Those were her last words before she dove under the surface, partaking in a sport she rarely could enjoy, swimming out into the middle of the lake before breaking the surface again. She basked in the warm sun and the cool waters, believing she had not been saved by Smokescale, but died and gone to heaven. A good hour passed before she decided it was time to return to shore. As she turned and began to swim back, a noise caught her attention, a noise unlike anything she had heard before. It came from the far side of the lake, not too far from the edge of the water. In a different situation, she might have made for her clothing to dress before exploring, but something spurred her to go right at that moment, as if she would miss whatever it was she was hearing. With a measure of trepidation, Angela turned back and began to cross the lake, reaching the distant shore in no time. As she emerged from the waters, she moved to cover herself with her hands but remembered that she was alone save for the beast that had brought her here and let her inhibitions melt away. Quietly, the nude woman stepped into the light woods, peeking out from behind a tree to find an unusual circle of pebbles on the ground, creating an area not too much smaller than the town square from home, in the middle stood a pedestal with a tear-shaped jewel of green fastened in place. Her eyes locked with the crystal as it shone brilliantly in the sun, too brilliantly to be reflecting just sunlight. It was actually glowing, radiating a soft green aura about it. The princess stared at it as if hypnotized until the noise from before caught her attention once again, much closer and easier to discern. It was a belch, a massive, unbridled belch. She turned slowly in the direction it came from to see a fox sitting on its haunches in front of a great blue beast, looking suspiciously like Smokescale save for the rather bulbous swell in its middle. The beast's voice drifted across the clearing and reached her ears, making her furrow her brow in confusion.

"Alright my friend, it's your turn. In you go." With that, the dragon reached forward over his swollen gut, gripping the fox gently and began pushing it into his maw, swallowing firmly until he slurped up the little creature's tail like a furry noodle. Once more, the belch rose from the dragon, now sporting an even larger stomach before Angela's eyes widened, watching his middle shift and squirm. She fought back the irrationality flooding her mind and simply blurted out what words would come.

"You... you ate it whole!" Part of her was horrified, but her more rational side considered this to be quite natural, after all, he had not tried to eat her, perhaps she was too large, or perhaps he liked humans too much to make a meal of them. The dragon glanced up and blinked, not startled because he had been caught eating, but that his guest was standing before him completely nude.

"I... yes... I did... what happened to your gown? Are you alright?" He sounded a bit flustered himself, likely because of the state the princess was in. Reminded that she was nude, she yelped in shock and moved to cover herself, blushing furiously.

"I left it on the other side of the lake when I went to take a bath."

Smokey chuckled softly and grinned.

"And you wanted to stroll around for a bit without having to deal with your clothes?" Funny how quickly he could return to a confident air. The woman's blush deepened, horribly embarrassed. She wanted to scold him for making fun of her, but the truth of the matter was he was right.

"I suppose so... I heard a noise and came to investigate."

"A noise?"

She nodded and crouched, hugging her knees to her chest to help hide her nude form.

"Yes, your belching. I did not mean to interrupt your feeding... but... why did you eat that fox whole? Doesn't it hurt? Didn't it struggle and try to claw its way out?" Curiosity had gotten the better of her, in spite of the fact that it was now perfectly clear that if he wanted to, Smokey could snap her up at any time. Still, he sat there, offering no threat, chuckling and patting his round gut before standing to walk over to the still wet girl.

"No, the creatures here are quite used to this by now. And I swallowed him whole because he doesn't much care for pain and ripping him up like a villain would hurt quite a bit."

All of this puzzled the princess quite thoroughly.

"They're used to it? So... you've eaten them before?"

He nodded with a chuckle, sitting down in front of her.

"Yes, many times. Some of them have found my stomach to be quite comfortable."

"But, how is that possible? Do you let them out?" Fear was gone from her eyes, leaving only perplexed desire to comprehend. The dragon smiled softly, realizing she was unfamiliar with the magic that governed this little area.

"In a manner of speaking. Watch closely." He allowed her a good look at his belly before it began to shrink, the movement slowly halting as it reduced in size. Within moments, he was once more the trim, toned beast she had met yesterday.

"But, they're gone! You digested them!"

Smokey chuckled and nodded to the girl.

"Yes, but look..." He pointed across to the crystal standing on the pedestal. It pulsed once, its light growing as the sphere of its aura expanded, reaching the ground in short order. In seconds, three figures of light formed and stepped out of the sphere, taking solid forms in the shape of a wolf, a small deer, and the fox Angela had watched slip down Smokey's throat. She was awestruck. They all appeared to be unharmed and wandered off, save for the fox. He barked quietly and trotted back over to the pair, curious about this hairless individual, sniffing at her, investigating.

"They're alright! B... but how!?" She giggled at the fox as he sniffed away at her, climbing up in her lap and curling up there, nosing against her chest as he continued exploring her form.

"Magic, my child. This circle represents an area in which death has no meaning. Any creature that passes away within its boundaries is restored to perfect health, provided a new body should the old one be far too damaged to repair. After the animals all learned how this place worked, they began coming here to hunt or feed. The wolves still hunt like they would normally but their prey leads them here so the final blow can be made in the safety of this place." He was a dragon, why would it then be so strange to believe that he knew things of a mystical nature?

She nodded softly, trying to wrap her mind around it all, petting the fox's head as he climbed up her front, trying to lick her face. She giggled quietly as he nipped softly at her nose, his tail swishing about on the grass below.

"Hehe, I think your friend here likes me." Her giggles brought a smile to the dragon's muzzle. "There is no doubt of that. I think he expects you to eat him as well."

She looked up, her eyes wide at the concept.

"Oh no! I couldn't possibly! He's too big! I'd surely split my jaw in half! And if by some chance I did manage to force him down without breaking my jaw, I'd most certainly pop!"

The dragon laughed softly and leaned forward, kissing her forehead.

"That is because you are not educated in the ways of doing so. For now though, since he seems so eager to fill your stomach..." The blue dragon reached out, touching the fox on the nose as a faint light spread out across his fur, fading from sight once it passed his neck. Instantly, the furred creature began to shrink, growing smaller and smaller in the girl's lap until he was no bigger than a canary. Surprised by the dragon's skill and worried she might hurt the poor creature, she cupped her hands around him, holding him aloft.

"He's so small!" She marveled at the feat performed before her eyes, amazed at so mighty a display of power. Smokey nodded and lightly ran one of his claws across the tiny fox's back.

"Yes he is, probably the right size for you to try and fit him in now." He was not going to let this pass until the princess had tried it at least once. She looked up at the blue fellow, her eyes huge at his suggestion.

"You want me to eat him!?"

"Why not? He's eager to please, and after all, a princess needs her breakfast."

She whimpered and looked down at the little fox in her hands, mulling over the implications of such a deed. It would be rather easy with him now so small, but could she go through with it? Would it not be evil? Hunters regularly brought animals back for people to feast on. Cattle and fowl were raised to feed the people, so why not? With a bit of a gulp, Angela's lips parted and she held her hands to her mouth. With the opportunity presenting itself, the fox scurried across her palms right into her jaws, wriggling and pushing past her slick, moist tongue to the back of her throat. The taste of a living creature was something she had never experienced before, and what caught her by surprise more than the rather pronounced flavor was the fact that she liked it!

She closed her eyes and mmm'ed around the pigmy vulpine, pushing him completely into her mouth to lick him over and over, moving her hands to cover herself again. Seconds passed until the fox managed to shove his head into her gullet, making her gag for a moment, a look of discomfort passing over her face until she forced a swallow, a reflex action. A bulge could be seen in her throat as half of the little fox slipped in. She squirmed in place as she tried to breathe around the beast in her neck, pushing hard with another swallow and another and another until it was gone from her mouth and safely past the entrance to her lungs. She panted for breath and sat in utter shock, feeling the wriggling fox drop lower and lower into her chest, then land in her stomach.

"Heavens above forgive me... what have I done?" Smokey laughed and pulled the girl to him, hugging her against his chest.

"You've just eaten breakfast, that's all. I'm sure he's enjoying himself in there."

"I can still feel him moving... it feels so strange."

"The more you do it, the more you end up liking it. Was his taste to your satisfaction?"

Angela paused as she processed the question, finally looking up at her companion.

"Actually, yes. He tasted really good. Better than I thought raw fox would."

The dragon laughed again and kissed her forehead.

"I'm glad you think so, now look over there," Once again, the crystal's aura expanded outward until it touched the ground, a vulpine figure forming before the orange and white animal padded out of the green light, casually heading off into the woods, "I'm sure he'll keep you fed until we get you back to your home. Shall we go get you clothed or would you like to go au natural until we reach the cave?"

Angela blushed furiously once more and covered herself up again.

"I should think I'd like to get dressed! What would my father think if he knew I was sitting completely nude in a dragon's lap?"

"He would probably think you were to be my lunch, but that would only prove how closed minded he is. I don't see why you would want to cover yourself up, at least here. You are a beautiful young lady and you are in no danger of being harmed or robbed of your virginity." That was very true. There were no others around that might judge her for enjoying the feel of the wind over her unclothed form, and despite her discomfort with being nude in front of the dragon, she agreed, pressing her front against his.

"I don't know the way back to the cave. Would you... please..."

"Carry you? Of course my dear." His powerful arms wrapped about the tender, fragile form, lifting her off the ground and back to the cave that served as his home. Clothes were gathered but not adorned. The princess was enjoying the freedom of nudity far too much to be constrained once more, and for some reason, she felt no shame or ill feelings by revealing herself before the dragon. Once her things were collected, the trip back to the exit was made, Angela pressed against the dragon's chest the whole while. The climb back up the 'stairs' was made with great ease and as they drew closer, the chill from the winter outside began to seep into both. Smokey continued to climb, reaching the top of the cave once more and stood there, staring at what lay before them. Angela instantly became trapped in a tug-of-war of emotion. The entrance had become iced over in the blizzard. The exit was now impassable, at least for a human.

"I... I guess I'm trapped here with you." She was conflicted over the matter. Remaining with the beast might be an enjoyable experience, but she felt as though she were abandoning her people. She tried to comfort herself with the idea that it was not permanent, just until the ice melted. The blue dragon looked down at the girl in his arms, sensing her ambivalence, then back at the wall of ice and snow before them.

"I might be able to burn through it. It will take some time but I can have you home before sunset." Before he could finish speaking, a hand was raised, the tips of the lady's fingers pressing softly against his lips.

"No, don't. You might cause more snow to collapse in on us." It was an excuse really. Part of her knew she had to return, but her heart was screaming for her to forget about those who had abandoned her and stay with the kind, gentle beast who had come to her aid when she most needed it, "How long would it take for this to thaw on its own?"

The dragon examined the ice carefully and judged by what time of year it was.

"I'm afraid this wouldn't melt on its own until the spring thaw, at least three months away. I can't have you separated from your family for that long. I need to get you through this and back to your home. It's the right thing to do."

She sulked in his arms, looking into his chest as she spoke, her voice dripping with malice.

"I don't care about them. They push me out of the way so they can have things for themselves, no matter what it is. They kicked me out of that coach to appease the bandits, they call me their servant... they're not my family. I hate them!"

The dragon's eyes softened and he tightened his arms about her gently.

"But what about your country, highness? You said you wished to help the people... you can't do that while hiding in my cave."

She closed her eyes, fighting back the tears that inevitably came.

"I know... but no one cares if I'm gone or not. It's so hard to push yourself to go back somewhere you know you're not wanted..." She pressed her face to his chest, finding comfort there. The woman's plight plucked at the strings of the dragon's heart. Smokey sighed and kissed Angela's forehead ever so softly, sitting down with her in his lap.

"How about this... you stay here with me until this thing melts. I'll come back and check it once a week to see if any progress as been made. By the time it's open, if you've lost all hope in saving your country, then I will let you stay with me."

She nodded and clung to the dragon tightly, burying her face in his scaly hide again. It was all the answer he needed, wrapping her clothing about her to keep her warm as he made the trip back down the stone stairs to his valley. When they once more emerged into the warmth of the sunlight, Angela looked out from his grasp, surveying the land before her.

"It really is lovely here... I can't imagine a more beautiful place to live."

Smokey agreed, stroking her cheek.

"I strove my hardest to keep it as pristine as it is. Now then, will you be going about naked the whole time you're here, or shall I make you some new clothes?" That was an interesting question. He obviously knew how to sew since he wore a vest and pants himself, but Angela did not want to slip back into those grubby, horrible things she had been forced to wear by her father and sisters. A wicked smile crossed her face as she looked up at him.

"I know you like seeing me in the nude... so, if I am to go in the buff, then so must you," She sounded as though giving a command that must be followed. A hearty chuckle rose up from the dragon's throat and he nodded, setting his companion down before slipping out of his own attire, vest and pants removed from his well muscled form. A bright blush filled Angela's cheeks as soon as she caught sight of the dragon's groin, never having seen a male's nether-region before. She averted her gaze, lifting her eyes to his and grinned, "Much better wouldn't you say?"

"Much, your majesty. What else would my princess have me do?"

She narrowed her eyes a bit and put her hands on her shapely hips before answering.

"You will call me Angela. All of this 'your highness' and 'majesty' simply has to go. I've never much cared for those formalities, at least around those who know how to show a lady proper respect." It felt good finally being able to act in such a manner, as though she could be the princess she was born to be here in the untamed wilderness where she had no subjects to rule. The dragon nodded and bowed his head.

"As you wish m'lady, Angela it is." He scooped the young lady up in his arms and carried her back to his cave, the trip bringing with it shade from high above in the form of clouds, dark clouds that threatened to rip open and pour down the rains upon the pair. Luckily, they reached the shelter of Smokey's cave just as the downpour began. Lightning crackled across the sky and thunder rolled as they watched from the warm, dry cave.

"Well, what shall we do now, my dear dragon? Would you happen to have any books to read?"

He shook his head in the negative.

"I'm afraid not, at least not here. I keep them in another place, another cave, and I'm afraid if I tried to retrieve one in this weather it would do it more harm than good."

The woman nodded and sighed, already beginning to feel bored. Smokescale took note of her mood as it began to grow apathetic and spoke up once more.

"Though, I do know a number of stories I could tell you without needing to read them from a book. Would you care to listen?"

The young woman looked up at the dragon and she nodded, a brilliant smile lighting up her face.

"I would love to."

"Then let us get comfortable." He picked her up once more, moving her with great ease, and set her down gently on the bed, letting her sit up against the headboard and the pillows as he sat upright in front of her. As soon as she was settled in, he began, reciting a tale of old, a story of dragons and knights and great battles. As he wove the web of fiction together, he noticed her interest fading and quickly shifted his focus from epic war to forbidden love. Instantly, she grew far more intrigued.

It was a story of a man sent to slay a dragon accused of kidnapping and eating a child from a nearby village. When the man found the dragon's lair, he did not see a beast gnawing on bones, but a creature nursing a sick boy back to health. He had been an outcast and not cared for until after he had been taken. The dragon had been watching him for weeks, seen how he had been treated and how his illness had progressed. Without thought, the beast leapt between the boy and the knight, lifting a hand to guard her face, crying out for mercy for the boy's sake, and the knight stayed his hand. Against his better judgment, he trusted the dragoness and allowed her to continue to cure the sick boy.

Days passed as he sat, watching the two interact, how they seemed so much like mother and child, his perception of the facts changing. After three long weeks of careful nurturing, the boy had grown strong enough to return and he asked her to go with him. At first she refused but with the conviction of the knight behind her, she agreed. The village was easily swayed after seeing what the dragoness had done. She taught her curing methods to the others and the village prospered. The knight threw down his sword and left his place in the king's guard to live in peace, having fallen in love with the dragon. And so the three lived together as a family, wanting for nothing but the happiness their meeting had brought. But that would be short lived. The king would not stand for desertion, and so would begin the next chapter of the dragon's story.

By the time he finished, the sun had gone down, the cave now lit by a few, flickering candles as the rains continued to fall. Angela was quite comfortable by now, pressed up against Smokey's side once more.

"That was a wonderful story, Smokey. Tell me the rest tomorrow?"

He smiled and ran his claws lightly through her hair, enjoying her smooth skin.

"The story is too long to tell in only two days, but I will continue tomorrow and what I do not finish then, I will tell the day after that. Now rest my dear. You have had an interesting day."

She nodded and yawned softly, shifting until her head lay against the blue serpent's abdomen, listening to the various noises his body made.

"You said those animals liked it in your belly..."

He nodded, still caressing her cheek.

"Yes, it would be safe to assume they do."

"Why is that do you think?"

He lifted his chin in thought, pondering the question for a moment.

"I suppose it's because it's warm and dark... and they're surrounded by something soft, and they know they won't be harmed." His answer made the human think for a moment before she looked up at him.

"Do you suppose... I... might like it in there?"

"It's possible. You found sleeping in the grass to be nice, and many of the animals around here sleep in the grass as well."

She bit her lower lip, considering the possibility of sleeping in a dragon's belly. They weren't in the ring though. She would end up passing away, never to return.

"But since we're not in the field over there, I guess it would be out of the question."

"Now I wouldn't say that. I could keep you alive inside me if you really wanted to try it right now. Then, when you are ready, I could return to the resurrection circle and release you."

Angela looked up into the dragon's eyes, wanting to agree whole heartedly and dive right in, but part of her still felt it would be dangerous. Still, this wild, adventurous side of hers that had recently emerged would not be denied.

"Please, may I try it?"

Smokey smiled softly and nodded, leaning down to kiss the girl's forehead ever so lightly.

"Now how could I say no to you? Of course you may. Would you like to try head first, or feet first?" He offered her an interesting choice, one she had not considered, but with a shrug, she made the decision.

"Head first I suppose. Whichever would be easier on us both."

The dragon nodded and licked her cheek ever so daintily.

"You are certain you wish to try this?"

For a moment, she seemed hesitant, but her braver side urged her on and she nodded.

"Yes, I'm certain. Devour me, make a meal of me."

Smokescale chuckled and nosed her cheek softly once more before parting his lips, ever so carefully enveloping her head in the warm, moist cavern of his maw, darkness surrounding her as his wet tongue slathered her cheeks with saliva, tasting her. A soft purr rumbled up from the back of his throat, seeming to echo in his mouth as he slid down her form ever so slowly, passing her shoulders as her head bumped against the back of his throat. A firm swallow tugged her in, making her inhale sharply. She was surprised there was no foul odor filling her nostrils. The dragon's breath was surprisingly clean.

He closed his eyes and reveled in his guest's flavor, drawing away as much of it as he could by probing her flesh with his smooth tongue. She cooed softly as her chest became the target of his fondling, making her shift in her seat lightly. Each nipple hardened atop the supple orb of flesh it adorned, offering forth evidence that she was enjoying this so far.

Another hearty gulp dragged those tender lumps into his throat, pushing her head down towards his stomach. A visible bulge formed in his neck as she sank in, her breath quickening as the gravity of what was happening weighed down upon her. And still she trusted him. He had not lied to her yet, what would he gain by lying to her about keeping her alive? She had seen the magic at work and knew she would be restored. Letting her die served no purpose but to remove one potential meal.

The small human, just over half as tall as the dragon devouring her, shuddered at the thought of being completely encased in her new friend's body, and a strange sort of excitement filled her. He paused, sniffing lightly at the air as her arousal suddenly became apparent. He grinned a little and expedited his devouring, reaching her hips in short order as her head pressed tight into his chest, the sound of his great heart thumping away in her ears, offering a soothing rhythm. He would see to it she would never forget her first time, and neither would he.

Once she was positioned where he desired her to be, his tongue slipped up between her silky thighs, caressing over the smooth nethers he found there. A gasp of surprise and delight rose from within his gullet, her legs spreading instinctively as her toes began to curl. He smiled around his meal and continued to pay her groin loving attention. Squirms came from within as he savored her 'true' taste, drinking away the moisture that collected at the corners of her lips, daring to probe a little deeper, spreading the folds of her most secret place. A deep moan rose from within his chest as he lapped away, tilting his head back as he let the sweet ooze pour into his mouth.

After several moments, he decided enough was enough and swallowed once more, guiding her legs between his lips as her head emerged into the dark, warm pouch below. As her feet disappeared into his maw, she began to curl up inside, forced that way by the constraining flesh that now surrounded her. One final gulp saw her sealed away completely in the dragon's belly, now bloated out to contain her. A mighty belch shook the walls surrounding her as she settled into his stomach, stretching it nicely. Her hands caressed the slick chamber, feeling over what would be her bed for the night. Surprisingly, she could breathe with ease. There was no staleness to the air around her, not even after several pants. He truly was keeping her alive. She could even feel his hands pressing in softly against her naked form, curled up under his scales.

"Are you alright Angela? Are you scared? Should I let you out right now?"

Her movements offered no evidence of fear, but inquisitiveness. She was curious about how this was possible.

"I'm fine. Not scared in the least. What was that you were doing to me earlier? Between my legs..."

The dragon blushed furiously and hugged his round tummy affectionately.

"I... I suppose I should not have done that, I'm sorry. It will not happen again princess."

She grumbled softly and pushed out firmly with one of her feet.

"I said call me Angela. I'm not a princess while I'm in your stomach." She had a point. While in there, she was in no position to give orders or command respect. All she was, was food, "And for your information, it felt rather nice. I would greatly appreciate it if you did that again sometime."

Smokey's lips pulled into a broad smile and he chuckled.

"You are most welcome my dear, and I would be delighted to lick you over the next time you climbed down my throat, or if you were simply wanting a little pleasure."

She had heard of carnal desires, but had little experience with them. All she had felt over her groin before today was her own fingers and that did usually bring a few waves of temporary relief from the wretched truth of her existence in the castle. This dragon however, he seemed to know so much more than those who had attempted to educate her. She hungered for more teachings from him, and they would certainly have the time for her to learn, but that would come on another day. She yawned softly, stretching a bit before curling up in her draconic friend's belly to sleep.

"Teach me more about the pleasure you were giving me. It was wonderful."

Smokey blushed softly but nodded, answering her request.

"I will, when the time is right. If you don't mind my asking, how old are you?"

Through a series of mildly agitated mumbles, the princess answered, barely audible through the dragon's flesh.

"Seventeen, almost eighteen. I was to celebrate my birthday in two weeks, but they never do anything special for me on my birthday."

He frowned and caressed his tightly stretched middle, his heartbeat lulling her to sleep.

"Then I will have to change that. Rest well my dear. You are safe inside me." His words fell on deaf ears, the princess already neck deep in the world of her dreams. He purred softly and turned onto his side, coiling up about his great stomach, nosing it softly before drifting off as well. She had made a marvelous meal, and he was not about to miss the chance of having her again at some later time.

---

When the sun rose the next morning, the dragon kept his word, much to Angela's delight. The whole experience had her now quite fond of the idea of being devoured, and perhaps even learning how to devour another herself. With the ample time the two had to spend together, Smokey took it upon himself to try and help her nurture the ability. As each day passed, she practiced with the same fox companion as before, the dragon shrinking him less and less, gradually building the princess's tolerance for size until she had managed to take the vulpine whole. The first time she succeeded, there was a brief moment where she was afraid she would choke, but managed through it just fine. The resulting swell in her middle made her giddy as she ran her fingers over the squirming mass like she had so many times before, but with each larger meal, the satisfaction grew, as did the sensations that came with it. She was not about to stop there, oh no. She had plans of her own.

Over the course of the couple of weeks that had passed, the pair found themselves back in a position similar to the night of her first swallowing. Most nights however the two simply lay curled up in each other's arms. Neither could deny how marvelous it felt having someone to hold onto in the night, but by the same token, neither would admit the deeper meaning behind it, why it felt so natural. They both avoided the topic politely but in the back of their minds, they both knew they would have to face it one day.

It had been two weeks almost exactly since the day of Angela's arrival in this mystical place and very quickly she had adjusted to the new lifestyle. It was a carefree, simple life spent almost constantly with her dragon companion, not that she minded in the slightest. There were times when they parted company but for no more than an hour or two. In that time, Angela found a book, heavy and leather-bound, hidden under their now shared bed. Without thinking too much about it, she opened it and flipped through a few of the pages, discovering the subject matter to be quite intriguing. Part of her knew it was impolite to look through another's things, but something told her the dragon would not mind.

When the princess's birthday came, Smokescale made good on his word to make a fuss over her. It embarrassed her horribly but the brilliant flush in her cheeks did not in any way diminish how much she enjoyed his efforts. The cave had been lined with small, glowing orbs no bigger than the woman's fist, offering a dim, blue-green light to set the mood. As she walked in, she bathed in the soft light as her host made his presence known, stepping out from behind her wearing a formal robe of thick, dark material. Underneath he wore a white tunic, providing a powerful contrast. It reminded her of the formal wear many members of royalty or servants in a powerful house. From behind him, he revealed his gift, a cloth bundle trussed with a great red ribbon. Angela eyed the package curiously, looking between it and her rather tall acquaintance.

"Is that for me?"

He chuckled softly and nodded, holding it out for her to take.

"Yes, of course it is. It's your birthday after all. Go on! Open it! I want to see you try it on!"

With a bit of a confused glance, she took the gift and untied the ribbon, unfolding the white fabric that held her present inside. A neatly folded garment lay before her and as soon as she lifted it up to let the folding fall away, stretching the entire piece out, she gasped seeing exactly what it was. He had gone through the trouble of procuring a lovely dress for her. Smokescale needed to insist no more as she held it to her, inhaling the scent of the cloth before quickly slipping it on, giggling like a little girl about to give a little boy a peck on the cheek.

It was a simple yet elegant garment that somehow fit perfectly, as if it had been tailored for her. A swift twirl sent the skirt whirling aloft, dropping back down about her legs as she danced around the room for a second or two, marveling at how easily she could move in her new dress. The dragon watched on with a smile on his face, taking the greatest of pleasure in seeing her delight, chuckling quietly as she danced about the room. As soon as her eyes fell on the formally attired beast, she rushed forward, wrapping her arms about his waist and pressing a cheek against his chest, hugging him as firmly as she could.

"Thank you! This is the most wonderful present I have ever been given!"

A soft purr rumbled away in the dragon's throat as he wrapped his arms lightly about the smaller human, smiling as she graced him with her affection.

"I'm glad you enjoy it so much. I only wish I could have done more, perhaps provided a more elegant dress. A princess does deserve fine clothing after all."

She chuckled and grinned up at him, winking coyly.

"Only when she chooses to not wander around in the nude. Now, there is indeed something more you could do for me."

Smokey tilted his head slightly and blinked curiously at the woman.

"There is? What pray-tell would that be my dear?"

She leaned up, whispering softly hoping she was near enough his ear for him to hear her words.

"You could make good on your word to teach me about the carnal arts." A blush filled her cheeks as she spoke, still unable to prevent any feelings of embarrassment. The blue dragon chuckled and stroked her back ever so softly.

"I suppose you are of age now aren't you?"

"Technically, by the laws of my kingdom, my father chooses when a woman or girl is 'of age'... usually just to satisfy his own libido. I've seen how he looks at girls younger than me."

"Well we'll just make this our little secret then. I would rather not risk him sending his soldiers here, even if they are poorly trained. I'd prefer to keep this place untouched."

Angela nodded and pressed her cheek against his chest softly.

"I would never dream of betraying your little haven. It's precious in a world like this."

Smokey bowed his head, giving Angela's crown a soft kiss as he began to waltz her slowly about the room, making his way towards the bed.

"All the trouble I went through so you would have something nice to wear, and you're so eager to get right back out of it again." He chuckled, teasing her lightly as he began to slip out of his own robes. Angela's blush deepened and she pressed her face against the dragon's chest, hiding her embarrassment. She relaxed in his embrace, letting the beat of his heart and the rumbling of his purr sooth her as it had in days past. She felt as though she could stay there for eternity, pressed against her dear friend and listen to the sounds of his body. Unfortunately, this small pleasure ended all too soon in favor of something more on topic. Carefully, Smokey lay the girl down on her back, slipping over her to lie on his side, looking down at the human. One of his hands slipped to her shoulders, tugging lightly on the fabric covering her until her smooth skin was exposed.

"Don't dragons usually rip a girl's clothes off when they want to do something like this?"

Smokey laughed softly in her ear, nibbling on it ever so lightly.

"If I did that, I would have to mend your dress or simply bring another." He grinned.

"True."

The dragon continued to slowly undress her, careful not to make even a single rip in the lovely garment. The very act of disrobing her was stimulating in of itself. The feel of his touch as he slipped Angela free of her confining clothes made her skin tingle, her pulse quicken, and her breath grow shallow. Once she was completely stripped, he followed suit, baring his scales like always, tracing a finger up her tummy.

"Many think there isn't much to this, nothing more than the mechanics of it. What they don't realize is that there is another part; an emotional, some might say spiritual, side to it. The missing component is deep, pure, unyielding love. When two are truly in love, the experience is even greater than simple propagation. The two share a part of themselves with one another, joining in a most intimate way. Now... there are many... techniques... but I think for you, we should start simple, give you an appreciation for the softer form before we dare venture into anything more... exotic." His mere touch made the princess hold her breath and tremble ever so softly.

She had imagined time and again how her first time might be, but never in any of her wildest fantasies had she pictured anything like this, or even so romantic. It was like a dream come true. She had feared being forced into bed with an uncouth, grotesque man with bad teeth and a smell that would turn her stomach. She dreaded it. But this, this was as if a shard of heaven had come down and melted across her skin. With a quake in her voice, she spoke, not daring to make any gesture or motion that would tell her draconic savior no.

"You know better than I... just... please... be gentle."

He nodded and leaned forward, gently pressing his lips to hers. Their first kiss. She cooed softly at the tender sensation, the intimate contact sent a soft shiver up her spine, stealing her strength away. In an all too brief moment, the kiss ended and the dragon pulled her closer, pressing her naked, vulnerable form against his smooth, almost soft hide. It was a peculiar texture. Individual scales could be felt, but they were so fine, so tiny that with every movement, every breath, every action that caused his skin to shift and stretch in different directions, it all felt like one silky surface. How could something so delicate be so difficult to penetrate with a blade or arrow? It was a glorious conundrum she resigned herself to never being able to solve, another mystery that only made her grow more attached to the dragon. His hand on her back only served to bring further sensation of reality to what was about to happen.

Angela could feel his arousal below. Her first reaction was one of revulsion, but she was familiar with the mechanics and knew what it was for, relaxing once again as soon as she took a deep breath. A smooth, tapered head came to brush over her tender region and she inhaled sharply, moisture already beginning to collect about her petals. It was happening and nothing she could do would stop it; she didn't want to stop it. She wanted to feel him inside and out.

"I promise my darling. I could never harm you." Those were his last words. Smokey pressed his lips to hers once again, this time letting them linger longer than a simple ephemeral moment as his growing length began to ease its way in, parting her nethers with a slow, mild pace. The sudden invasion below brought with it an almost electric pulse of erotic ecstasy, leaving Angela speechless and breathless. Her body tensed softly against the dragon's, not fighting it, but molding to his form, pressing against him tightly, aching to feel more. He did not disappoint.

With the same care and longing, he slipped the whole of that great smooth trespasser within his lover's warm, velvety confines. With a discrete thrust of his hips, their thighs meeting and remaining mashed together, he managed to roll her onto her back once again, moving atop her as his errant hand found her chest, giving one of the lovely mounds of flesh adorning her figure a loving squeeze, soft yet powerful, holding and massaging her bosom as the passionate kiss held strong. A slow pant came through the princess's nostrils, fighting for breath in the exhilarating event. She was lost to the world of orgasmic bliss, and climax had yet to even be approached.

The blue dragon pulled his hips away, lifting them off the woman. A great emptiness came as his shaft began to retreat, Angela's previously stretched passage suddenly reducing back to its previous shape. True, there was a hint of pain trying to accommodate the dragon, but that added all the more reality to it. The princess would not wake up the next morning questioning whether this had been nothing more than a flight of fancy. She would be sore, and oh what a wonderful ache it would be. As soon as only the tip remained trapped in her tightly pulsing flesh, the dragon plunged it all back in with one firm, fluid stroke. Angela ripped her lips away from his to gasp loudly feeling the sudden bulging inside her.

She could not think of anything but the fire within her and how it could only be extinguished by her dragon. And he intended to do so soon enough. A rolling of his thighs saw another movement pass through her, every hair on her body standing on end, her tender nipples standing erect under his palms, and this was only the beginning. Smokey's hips shifted to the side, then the other side, resulting in his length pressing more firmly on one portion of her tunnel, stimulating a whole new set of sensors, then another, then another, the speed linking it all together like waves on a sandy beach leaving moist impressions of what had been covered, lingering just long enough to be covered again by another frothing assault.

A deep growl began to build low in the dragon's throat as zeal took over, his desire controlling him. He would take her and make her his, no matter what the future held. Even if she were to return to her own kingdom, he would still hold claim over her, and she would adore him for it. Friction brought with it heat and fluid, making the cave reek with the smell of intimate contact. The growl grew, the volume rising as the final moment drew near. Nails raked across the beast's scaly back. Claws teased over flesh. Lips danced and bit at one another. Chests heaved. Moans echoed. Every inch of the two lovers' shared bodies was alive with the electric power of love-making. Then it all came to a head and exploded in a mass of sheer, unbridled, undeniable orgasmic outburst. Angela cried out at the top of her lungs, the sound echoing throughout the cave and into the woods beyond while Smokey threw his head back, grinding his hips against his mate's until coitus was reached, a powerful roar of blissful rutting drowning out the female's scream. The fire hissed and smoked as the extinguishing release flooded forth, leaving only a delicious, smoldering heat. The princess lay limp and helpless under the far more powerful dragon, her eyes shut tight as her glistening body seethed forth with the joyous afterglow. She would never forget such a wondrous experience and neither would her lover.

The two remained as they were, panting, holding one another, not daring to let that firm pillar slip free into the cold air, as they looked into each others eyes, knowing what words should come but could not find their way to the surface. It was an unspoken truth between them both. Smokey tightened his arms about the girl, wrapping her up in his protective wings and mashed the end of his muzzle into her hair, inhaling her scent once more and reveling in it. No more words would come that night. The two simply drifted off to sleep in each others embrace, and peace came swiftly, a deep purr soothing them both into the land of dreams.

---

Beautiful images passed between the dragon and human as they slept, their dreams bringing only happiness to the two, until the dawn came. As the sun poured in over the forest from the mountains above, Smokey woke and reluctantly pulled himself away from the tender embrace of his dear lover, leaving a single red rose in his place as he left to go procure his morning meal. Angela woke to find the bed lacking her lover's form as was her nethers. The rose brought a smile to her face and the sudden ache below made her grimace slightly. Gently, she cupped a hand over her sore groin and closed her eyes, remembering what had happened last night. She would be tender for a while, but it had been worth it, and it would be again. It was a good ache, and she pressed softly on her sensitive region to elicit a stronger sensation, wincing softly and giggling a bit from it. If she had to hurt, that was the best way to make it happen. She rose from the bed and wobbled a bit on her feet, forced to alter how she walked slightly for a few moments. The book she had discovered before returned to her hands and she scanned over its pages once again. She had a surprise in store for her lover, one she would certainly enjoy. Surely he would find it amusing at the very least.

Softly and swiftly Angela moved down the gentle hill leading up to the cave, darting between trees as she approached the lake. A quick leap into the water saw her well on her way across. The swim would help mask her scent temporarily, making it easier to sneak up on the dragon. A brief moment to let the water fall away from her skin on the other side and she crept closer to the field housing the pedestal. Stealthily, she peered out from the bushes, spotting the blue dragon finishing a meal, his middle already shrinking back down to normal. He was completely unaware of the girl's approach, even when she managed to slip around behind him, still concealed by the brush. It was difficult to keep from giggling, but she remained silent, crawling out from the woods until she was just a couple of feet away, ready to strike. This would be a difficult job, but she was certain she was up to it. She had been practicing and had grown confident enough to manage it.

After locating a small twig, rigid enough to serve her purpose, she stepped on it carefully, wanting only to make the quietest of snaps. The desired effect was granted and a muffled crack rang out, reaching the dragon's ears. He furrowed his brow and moved to turn around as the princess knelt, her legs ready to recoil and launch herself at the beast. As soon as his head was completely turned around, she shouted and lunged forward, the look on Smokey's face changing instantly to one of shock and surprise, even more so when darkness clouded his vision. She had managed to stuff his head into her mouth!

"Angela! What are you doing!?" To be honest, he already knew what she intended to do, sure that she was not going to be able to handle such a bulky meal, but she pressed on. A wince crossed her face as she felt his horns, curved back thankfully, pass into her throat as she worked down over his neck towards his shoulders. Her jaw began to ache as she started stretching about his scaled frame. She would not let him out do her. The dragon had made a meal of her on more than one occasion, it was time she repaid the favor. With a moan of exertion, she forced her mouth to open wider, managing to finally inch her way about his shoulders as he squirmed and shifted about, not to get away, but to try to make his passing easier for her.

He knew the determination that burned within her, that she would not stop until she had succeeded at anything she put her mind to, so he tried to help. His wings pulled tight against his back as her lips began to slip down over them, her tongue lashing at his chest. Never before had she tasted anything so delicious, not even the fox that was now nosing at her tummy, wondering why he wasn't going to curl up inside. The pain in her jaws grew as she worked about her lover, gradually working down to his middle, holding back a gag every now and again. It was proving more difficult than she had originally hoped, but the practice was paying off. Smokey's head bulged out her neck as it slipped down past her chest, eventually to her stomach, gurgling to be filled. With that much ground covered, she was eager to get on with the rest of it.

Grunt after grunt surrounded the dragon encased in warm, moist flesh, steadily gliding deeper inward. The next big obstacle had come finally. Angela shut her eyes tight and forced her mouth to stretch wider still, her lips not yet feeling discomfort as they displayed their elasticity. A strong gulp tugged his hips in, sealing them away in the warmth of her gullet as she gave his groin a firm lick, actually able to still taste her own release coating his length. The thought made her chuckle, the noise muffled by her lover's sizable form. The human's belly, already swollen, distended even further as she felt him wriggle under the affection, proving to only slip his smooth hide in even more. His thighs brought with it a great deal of relief on the woman's jaw, but not enough, not yet. Quickly, in a rapid succession of swallows, she passed his knees, then his ankles, and with a firm gulp, his feet vanished past her lips, leaving only the last foot or so of his tail which was slurped up like a thick noodle, and then he was gone. The dragon was nothing more than a vast swell in the girl's stomach. She gasped for air and panted, resting heavily on the great dome under her as Smokey shifted about inside, sending waves of peculiar sensations through her body. A mighty belch rang out across the field a she finally relaxed atop her trophy of a gut, chuckling and hugging the dragon through her skin as best she could.

"Wow! I actually did it!" she giggled, "I actually managed to fit you in! I didn't think I could do it!"

Smokey was just as surprised as she was, trying to wrap his mind about how she was able to pull this off.

"Yes... I see that... but... how!?"

She grinned and rubbed over what she thought was his head.

"I've been a bad little girl. I found your book, the one that was under the bed... your journal. I've been reading the parts about how you practiced stretching your jaw and tried it myself."

The dragon narrowed his eyes a little and growled softly in amusement.

"Why you little rat! Well there's one thing you missed only reading those parts!"

"Yeah? What's that?"

"The fact that when you swallow someone whole, they can tickle you from inside!" And with that, he attacked, knowing just where to tease. Angela's eyes went wide and she began laughing uncontrollably, squirming atop the massive gut she now sported, rolling this way and that, trying desperately to get away but unable to.

"Stop! Too much! I'm gonna get the hi-" and with that, her whole body convulsed, struck by a nasty case of the hiccups. The dragon inside laughed and stopped, jostled about by the powerful jarring.

"Serves you right! Gobbling me up without asking! Meany!" He was obviously enjoying himself, and the sensation of being stuffed so full she couldn't move left Angela in a state of undeniable bliss. She had never felt so good before, which was puzzling since she always felt ill after eating too much before she changed her diet to suit the dragon's forest. There was no doubt in her mind that she would be doing this again during her stay here.

For several hours, the princess lay there, cradling her bloated stomach as her body did what only came natural, gradually shrinking about the great meal until finally she could move again. Her middle remained quite bloated however, making her appear to be heavily pregnant, ready to give birth. In a blaze of energy and magic, the dragon reappeared before her near the pedestal, chuckling and smiling as he strolled over to his plump lover. The two curled up together and proceeded to stroke the remnants of her gorging. It would be gone by the next morning he assured her.

When the next day finally came, the princess experienced more change than just a simple return to her original trim shape. Smokey woke to see his lover's form altered slightly, a pair of dark horns protruding from her lovely hair, matching the shade of her locks. Two little frills formed on her cheeks along her jaw line up to her ears. Her nails had become pointed and hard forming sharp yet somewhat tiny claws. A new appendage was wrapped about her waist and the dragon's, a graceful, blue scaled tail that easily reached beyond her feet. Her eyes, still a lovely blue hue, were now slits, sharp and powerful, denoting that all her senses were greatly enhanced. But the most amazing change of all was her new wings, one pair of smallish, blue and grey wings protruding from her back. They looked far too small to keep her aloft for any reasonable length of time but after a few practice flaps, the princess found she could lift herself off the ground albeit only a short distance. Her companion resolved to teach her how to fly, even if it would be a limited flight. It was an amazing transformation, one that both relished greatly, more so than they thought they might. Still, it carried with it certain problems, problems that would be addressed in due time.

Lessons were given to teach the lady about her new form so that she might make better use of it while sharing the company of her dragon. He passed his knowledge on without hesitation, having developed a bond with the princess where both trusted one another implicitly. In so short a time, they had grown so very close. Unfortunately, while happy times they were, short-lived they happened to be as well.

It could not last forever. Both knew this all too well.

---

Several weeks passed and the snow outside the valley began to recede, opening the only means of escape and entry once more. Unfortunately, this meant the princess's time with her dragon had finally come to an end. Smokey knew she enjoyed staying there, and was more than willing to accommodate her for as long as she chose to remain, but she knew deep down that her father, though not the most loving man, would still make some sort of attempt to locate her. After all, she was another daughter he could potentially marry off in hopes of gaining land and money. Angela refused to put the dragon's haven at risk like that. She wanted it to remain a secret even if it meant she could never return.

"I know how my father thinks. He won't rest until he finds me, dead or alive. All I am to him is a gateway to a larger kingdom. I've even overheard him plotting with my sisters to kill their husbands once married. He is a horrid man and I will not let him touch this place."

"I could seal the entry so no one could find us."

"As much as I would love to stay here with you forever, I have to do something, I can't let my sisters get away with what they have planned." Her concern for the lives of others touched Smokey and he hugged her to him firmly, kissing her forehead with the same tenderness he always showed her.

"I understand... but, before you go, I would like to give you something else." He produced two necklaces, both possessing identical jewels of such pristine clarity, "If we both wear one, we can see what the other is feeling just by looking at the color." He slipped his on, then gently strung hers about her neck. Instantly, both gems lost the glassy transparency and turned a deep sapphire, signifying their sorrow at parting company. The two embraced one another firmly and basked in the shared warmth, until finally, reluctantly, they pulled apart.

Angela stepped a few paces backwards, standing in the dirt road she had been saved from months earlier, her eyes welling up with tears before she turned and ran, her small wings opening and lifting her into the air. For what seemed like an eternity, the dragon watched her glide off down the road, landing every now and again to regain momentum and lift back into the air until she had gained enough speed to remain aloft for a lengthy trip. His heart ached and the stone hanging from his neck remained a deep blue, matching the scales on either side of the grey running down his neck and chest. She was gone, perhaps for good, and his life would feel empty now that she had left. Sadly, he turned and slipped back into the rock cavern that led to his protected sanctuary, his secret still safe.

As the princess flew down the road, gliding only a few feet above the ground, her tears slowly dried as she closed up inside, attempting to prevent emotion from overcoming her or even showing on her face. If she was to make her wretched family believe her story, she needed to lock away her heart and only allow her feelings to surface when she was alone. Several hours passed as she traveled the long road down the mountain towards town. Once she was close enough to walk, she landed and concentrated hard, all of her draconian features disappearing into her form as she had practiced, knowing this day would come. When she once again appeared totally human, wearing the lovely yet simple dress Smokescale had given her, she stepped out of the brush towards the decrepit town surrounding the once gleaming castle that was her home.

Her father and sisters were all shocked to see her alive and unharmed. As it turned out, they had sent search parties out to locate her, but being such blundering fools, the soldiers failed to find even the bodies of the men who had threatened to kill her or her subsequent 'kidnapping' and returned with a story that she had been killed purely so they would not have to go out again. She could have stayed with him, forever... and now, her opportunity was gone. But she did not let her broken heart show through. She remained stolid, glaring at her oldest sister before heading to her room and locking herself in to cry.

Later that night, much to her surprise, the king commanded a feast in her honor, returning from the dead back to her family. The thought turned her stomach but she played along, pretending to have been alone for the long months, somehow having escaped the bandits during an internal fight that mounted shortly after her siblings ran. The food was surprisingly decent, but she missed the meals she had while living with her dragon. Never again would she know the joy of a truly full belly.

"So, how did my dear little sister survive out there all by her lonesome self for so long? Surely you would have frozen to death or been killed by the bandits." Ingrid's voice was dripping with sarcasm, absolutely infuriated by Angela's return, but she hid it well, plotting and scheming already at how to get the little brat out of her hair forever.

"It was difficult, but I managed."

"And I see you aren't scarred at all, at least from what we can see. I suppose the dragon that's rumored to live in those hills was not in the mood for a child like you." She laughed a haughty little cackle, a few other members of the court trying to mask their own snickers. Angela fought hard not to smile. In fact, Smokey did indeed have a taste for princess. Quickly, she thought up a retort and smirked defiantly.

"No, but he might have a taste for you. Why don't you go on out there and see how long you last?"

Ingrid sneered and changed the subject, deciding to ignore the impudent youth for the rest of the evening. Angela was thankful for that.

The feast ended and as the princess walked down the hall towards her chambers, she was stopped by her father. He actually hugged her, the first true sign of affection he had ever bestowed upon her. In that instant, she began to think perhaps it would not be as bad as it had been before. Perhaps the thought of his daughter having been killed because of the hatred of the other three had wounded his heart. She melted into his arms and sighed quietly.

"My poor child. I cannot come to forgive myself for having left you out there. I should have sent the men back out and searched for you again. I am so sorry."

"It would not have done any good... I was hidden where no one could find me most of the time."

He nodded softly and released her, looking into her eyes. He still was not the most handsome man, but at least he was finally showing kindness.

"Come, speak with me in my chambers. We have much to discuss."

Without a second thought, she nodded and walked with him to the relatively lavish bedroom, taking a seat in one of the chairs gathered around the fireplace. Tea was served and the king sipped his cup while staring into the flames.

"This whole incident has given me a great deal of time to think. About the state of our failing kingdom, of our dying people, our rotting land. But the more I thought about it all, the more I realized that did not matter if I did not have my precious child with me. I know I have been a terrible father, never even tucking you into bed once or comforting you through your nightmares. Can you ever forgive me for being so cold?"

Angela sank into her own chair, the warm, soft fabric enveloping her, reminding her of another warm, soft place she used to curl up to sleep.

"I have had time to think as well. The kingdom and the people do command a great deal of your time and requires your attention almost constantly. I can understand why you were so distant. And now that I have returned, perhaps we can remove that distance..." She wanted to be close to her father, and hearing what seemed to be a change of heart gave her hope for the future.

"I'm so glad you feel that way. It wasn't until after I was told you had been killed that I realized just how much I treasured your presence. I wish for us to be close, very close."

"As do I father."

"You are my last hope, my dear Angela," he stood and moved closer to the fireplace, resting an arm on the mantelpiece, "I fear your sisters are too far gone to make an effective attempt at rebuilding our once great kingdom. They have lost their path, but you... you are so much like your mother, so giving, so ready to help the people. You even have her beauty and grace. That is something your sisters lack and can never take away from you."

Angela blushed hearing her father speak in such a manner. It was all so fast, his sudden affection and praise. Warnings normally would have gone off in her mind telling her to get out but she dared to give him the benefit of the doubt.

"Thank you father, I... I don't know what to say."

"I think you could bring this kingdom back, heal the land and its people. I saw that in your mother before she died and I see it in you. When you are queen, you will be great and just. I see that now. But I fear there is much that stands between you and what should be yours. Your three sisters. I have thought long and hard about this, trying to solve the puzzle until tonight, it finally came to me," he moved from the fireplace to stand in front of her, crouching so they were at eye level, "There is only one way to ensure that your seat on the throne is not contested and that your children will reign without question."

Angela's eyes sparkled softly hearing him speak, so willing to hand over the kingdom to her and not to the three awful siblings outside.

"Please father, tell me. Whatever it is, I must know."

His eyes locked with hers and he took her hands in his.

"You must marry me, become my queen. Only then will your seat at my side be guaranteed."

The princess froze instantly, her eyes widening. She searched his face for some hint of fallacy, that it was nothing more than a cruel joke. The warnings that she should have heeded before became infinitely louder as he gripped her hands tighter.

"What do you say Angela? Be my bride and save your future kingdom," his voice suddenly changed from that of a man hopeful of the future to someone prepared to dole out harsh punishment, intimidation driving the point home, "or be cast down into the servants' quarters for the rest of your life."

Horror gripped her mind as she realized exactly what he was doing. He had no intention of granting her power and rule over the land, to heal it or to ruin it. He wanted his wife back and she was the nearest thing to it. He did not care if she was his own flesh and blood, he only wanted to satisfy his lust and obviously, her sisters could not do the job. She pulled her hands away and pushed back against the back of her chair.

"I... I can't! You're my father!"

He took her hands again, more firmly than before.

"That does not matter! With me as your husband no one will contest your right to the throne! Not even your sisters! You could have them banished if you wish!"

Angela pushed her way out of the chair and backed away from the aging man.

"No! It's wrong! I'm your daughter! I can't marry you!" She ran to the door and fumbled with the latch, finding it was locked. The king growled quietly and raced after her, pinning her to the door from behind, hissing in her ears.

"You will be mine, or you will be removed from his house for all time. I can have you sent back to the woods if you like, let you fend for yourself. Or you can share my bed with me, who better than to have you than your own father? No fear of common blood intermingling with the noble."

Her heart sank as she felt a familiar formation pressing against her from behind, her eyes shutting tight as she screamed in her mind to wake up from this nightmare. The jewel around her neck changed from blue to a pure black, her unadulterated terror seething forth. When she could not stand it any longer, she reached deep inside herself and summoned forth the strength her dragon had given her and shoved her father away, slashing at his face, three red trails of blood trickling lightly down his cheek. A hand clapped over his cheek as her claws suddenly retracted from sight, hoping he would not attempt to guess how she had done that. With a stout kick, she broke the latch, swinging the door open wildly before running with all the speed she could muster towards her room.

The king bellowed in anger as she escaped from his room, summoning the guards to chase her down and arrest her. It took her little time at all to reach her room, locking the door behind her, clutching the stone hanging around her neck, wishing aloud for her dragon to rescue her.

"I need you Smokey! Save me! Please! Save me!" It was nothing more than a whisper. She shrieked in terror as the guards began to ram the door, attempting to break their way in. Thankfully, their skill or lack thereof left them using an inefficient method. Angela scanned the room for some means of escape, running to the vast windows in hopes that she could somehow flee through them, but the sheer drop outside left her hesitant. Her wings were still relatively untested, at least for something like this. She would not be able to control the descent and end up injured, or worse. Just as she decided death would be better than this and reached to push the window open, the doors exploded into splinters as the guards finally broke through, pouring into the room to surround her, holding out spear and sword alike.

"You've nowhere to run Angela... consider my offer or face my wrath." Her father had regained his composure, a cloth over his cheek soaking up the blood from her scratch. Before she could even spit her answer in his face, the glass behind her shattered into a million shards, the deafening roar of a dragon filling the room. The beast landed and gripped the princess, claiming her as his, roaring one more time to stave off the troops and the king before flapping hard, pushing them both out of the window and into the air. A terrified scream filled the air as the princess was dragged away, not because she feared the dragon, but that she could not see where they were going. The king bellowed in anger once more, barking orders to take the beast down before he could get away. As Angela was carried off, she could hear commands to organize a search party to hunt them both down. They wouldn't be safe so long as the king sought her. But that was not her primary concern at the moment. She was once more back in the arms of her dragon who held her firmly against his powerful chest. The princess melted into his grasp and sighed softly, never feeling safer than that very moment.

The flight soothed Angela's nerves, letting her weary mind forget about the family that had betrayed her. Before the moon could set, they had returned to the valley and the cave hidden within. Despite his insisting that she stay in bed, she would not let go of him, clinging to the dragon firmly, so he simply rocked her until she was calm enough to speak, having been in tears the whole way back to their cave. Eventually, she managed to explain the whole story to him, inciting a rage unlike anything he had ever felt before. It took all Angela's strength and pleading to convince him not to go on a murderous killing spree. He agreed reluctantly and continued to sooth and rock her, his fevered mind formulating a way to make those responsible for trying to harm her pay for this.

Eventually, she cried herself to sleep in the dragon's arms and the rest of the night passed without incident. When morning came, Smokey had left her in the bed, standing outside surveying his valley. Without bothering to dress again, she moved to his side and leaned against him, sighing quietly in an attempt to forget what had happened the night before.

"The mornings here are so beautiful," as she spoke, the dragon nodded and wrapped an arm about his lover, remaining silent for the moment, "Thank you for saving me... but... how did you find me so fast? How did you get down to the castle so quickly?"

"I had been listening to what was going on around you and I figured something was going to happen, so I decided to sneak into town and keep an eye on things. When I heard you calling out for me, I came and got you."

"But... how did you... is your hearing that good?"

He chuckled and shook his head, running a claw softly over her crystal, no longer blue or black, but a soft pink, denoting that she was comfortable, but her mind was still conflicted.

"I didn't tell you the whole truth. I wanted to keep in touch with you. These stones can carry voices between one another. I didn't have enough time to allow for you to hear me, but it carried your voice quite well. I'm sorry for not telling you before."

Angela just closed her eyes and hugged him tight, pressing her cheek against his chest.

"I'm glad you did it. Otherwise, I might be dead right now."

"No, don't even think of anything like that. But I do have a question for you."

She looked up, her blue, cat-like eyes meeting his.

"Oh?"

He nodded.

"I leave the choice to you. Shall I seal the entrance to the valley so we can live here, together, for the rest of our lives?" He gazed into her eyes just as her father had, but his possessed no ill will, no malice or evil intentions. She could see all he sought was her happiness, regardless of what it meant for him. It was a tempting idea, but Angela knew better. Her mind was already picking apart how it could all be taken from them.

"It wouldn't matter how you sealed it. My father... before he became king... he used to hunt all the time. He is a great tracker and he knows how incompetent his men are. He'll track us down himself. He'll have the entry opened up again and then destroy this place just like he and his fathers before him have destroyed our kingdom. I'm so sorry. If there was a way I could stop it, I would do it in a heartbeat."

Smokey cradled the woman in his arms, Angela almost in tears once again.

"That is all I needed to know. Come with me my dear." He began to walk, releasing her so she could walk on her own. In moments, she was back against his side and he chuckled softly, returning his arm around her. He was quite comfortable with her so close after all. A short walk up the hill past the cave revealed another opening in the rock face. It was deeper, leading down into the mountainside until the stone grew cold to the touch, then inexplicably, grew warmer again. Smokey navigated a few twists and turns until they reached a massive cavern the contents of which gave Angela pause, taking her breath away; a vast horde of gold, jewels, and other precious objects.

"Smokey! You never told me you had all of this!"

"I know, I don't tell many. I find it... distracts many from who I am, instead developing interest in what I possess. I have a reason for showing this to you. It isn't like we need any of this to live here by ourselves."

"Then why? Why do you have all of this?"

"It was handed down through my family, with each passing generation it grew until it reached me. I have been keeping it secret. All the squandering your family has been guilty of, my family has made up for, waiting for the time when it could be put to good use."

"This is the fortune my family has wasted!?"

He nodded softly.

"A good majority of it is indeed."

"With this, we could heal the kingdom! Buy back the lands that were sold just to feed egos and sick desires! My people would be saved!"

"As I said, there is a reason behind revealing this. I need your help, and if all goes as it should, then your wish to restore your kingdom will be within your power."

---

Half a day passed as the king and his men scoured the countryside, his highness putting his only mildly rusty tracking skills to good use. As the sun began to set, they came across a broken figure in tattered rags lying in the road. When one of the guards examined the figure, he found a small pair of wings, immediately thinking this was some bastard child of a dragon and human but upon closer inspection, rolling the woman over, he found the princess's face. She moaned and curled up on the ground, a thin trail of blood oozing from the corner of her mouth. Her eyes fluttered softly as she came around, revealing a pair of blue slits instead of round pupils. Instantly, a look of terror crossed her face as she woke, seeming delirious. She screamed and fought, trying to push away.

"Stay back! No! Don't hurt me please!"

The king dismounted and shoved the puzzled soldier out of the way, cradling his altered daughter.

"Dear god, what has happened!? What did that monster do to you!?"

She began sobbing noisily, leaning against the man who regrettably was her father.

"The dragon... he... he forced me to..." Her words came out between chokes until she could not bring herself to say it. The king saw his opportunity to come off as a hero and sent his men to find the beast.

"Track him down and bring me his head! He will not get away with this!"

Angela cried louder and harder as the king lifted her to her feet, noticing an almost invisible swell in her middle and he gasped, pressing a hand over her slightly bulging tummy. He gasped and glowered.

"He didn't!"

She nodded and lowered her head.

"It's why he did this to me... turned me into this... this... thing! So he could breed with me!"

"Shhh... just relax, you're safe. We will take you home and have a doctor and a priest come and make this all right again. You will not be his breeding vessel. I promise I will have him slain before the sun rises again."

"No! He's too powerful! He'll devour them whole! Seal the cave while you can!"

The king sighed and nodded, giving his men the command. With a feeble attempt, rocks were shoved down over the entrance to the magical valley, sealing it in a rather shoddy manner.

With the job done, the hunting party returned to the castle where Angela was given a large, warm, soft bed. After all, the future queen couldn't be kept in common surroundings. The king still saw hope for his plan and left the princess to recuperate. Once alone, she stood and crept to the door, pressing a frilled ear to it, listening for anyone who might be outside. When she was sure it was safe, she slipped a hand to her tummy, patting the light swell ever so softly.

"So far so good... just have to wait until nightfall."

The sun set in short order and when all had gone to bed, she crept out of her room, past the snoozing guards. Silently, Angela made her way through the halls to the first of her sister's rooms, the youngest of the three, slipping in and locking the door before stumbling to the bed, moaning, holding her middle. Vanessa snored loudly until she woke to the sound of her little sister's groans.

"Huh? What the hell do you want!? Get out!"

"Please! You have to help me! Something's happening inside me! I don't know what's going on! You're the only one I can trust!"

The older princess rolled her eyes and grumbled.

"Get on the bed, lay back, and shut up."

Angela did so and panted, holding the sides of her tummy as it suddenly began to swell outward, movement becoming visible under her skin. Her moans grew louder as Vanessa's eyes welled up, stepping back as if afraid simply touching her would result in a similar 'infection.'

"Oh god! Help me! What's happening in there!?" She spread her legs as her belly continued to expand, stretching further and further outward, past what would be considered normal for a pregnancy. The older sister stood staring at the vast dome and her sister's groin in horror, not sure what to do or say. All she could do was stare, leaning in closer as something began to happen around the young woman's groin.

"What the hell is that? Some kinda paras- " With that, a blue arm shot out of the princess's nethers, grasping Vanessa's jaw, muffling her scream as it pulled her towards the warm, soaking depths of her sister's passage. She screamed and fought, her noises nothing more than a few quiet, muffled cries as her head disappeared from sight, her neck and shoulders passing easily enough, though it did make Angela moan all the more. She shuddered and grunted, letting the beast inside her do his work, dragging her sister's chest and torso in followed by her hips, then her thighs, then her knees and calves, and within seconds, she was gone from sight, Angela's belly distended out even further. A few strange gulping noises came from under her skin followed by a mighty belch that made her whole body tremble. Angela giggled and gave the massive swell a firm pat.

"How was the first course?"

"Delicious actually, I expected something more distasteful. Shall we go on to the second?"

The princess nodded, grinning as she felt Vanessa's struggles deep in the dragon's belly while encased in her own. She stood, finding it difficult to do so with all the added weight but somehow managed to work her way out the door and towards the second sister's room. The process was repeated in a similar manner only the greater bulge visible from the start, causing Tania to break into a panic. Without even laying or sitting down, the same blue arm reached out from Angela's moist lips and gripped the older woman's leg, dragging her into the princess's womanhood. This time, there was no muffling her screams until her head disappeared into the hot, wet depths of her sister's birth canal. The same gulping noises came as did another powerful burp, another princess now tucked away where she belonged.

"Hehe, that's number two... lord this feels good... not just pushing people in there, but the fact that they're finally getting what they deserve!"

Smokey chuckled and hiccupped softly.

"And we're still not done yet. Shall I stay in here for the next phase or would you care to let me out?"

"I think I'll hang on to you for now. I don't suppose you could shrink the three of you down a little to make it a bit easier to walk do you?"

"Sure, but not too much, otherwise it will damage these two before I'm ready to."

The princess's middle reduced in girth visibly, the weight remaining but her bulk shrinking somewhat to make it more manageable. Up next on the menu was Ingrid, and Angela had special plans for her. Carefully, she waddled all the way to the oldest sister's room and slipped in, locking the door and beginning the whole act all over again.

"Oh god! Ingrid! Help me! Something's happening!"

The cruel, manipulative woman woke with a start and narrowed her eyes, smirking a bit.

"Serves you right! That's what you get for insulting me in public!" She walked over and gave the firm, squirming belly a pat, "Father will have no choice but to throw you back to that monster you let squirt in between your thighs! You'll pay for sleeping around now!"

Angela moaned and hugged her wriggling gut, panting softly.

"It's so big! I can't take it!" Slowly, she began to relax, her breath returning as Ingrid continued to antagonize her sister, finally seeming normal again, "It... it doesn't hurt anymore... but... but..."

"But what? It decided to stay in there and mark you as a slut for the rest of your life?"

The younger princess shook her head, looking confused.

"No... I'm just so... hungry..." Her slitted eyes turned to her older sibling and her tongue snaked out, lapping at her lips. Ingrid understood the look and the licking, rolling her eyes.

"Right, and you think you can take me do you? Try me, I'll have the guards in here faster than you can say 'abomination!' I dare you! Just try and eat m-!" Before she could finish her monologue, Angela took advantage of the opening and stuffed her sister's head into her mouth, dragging her tongue over the woman's face before swallowing firmly, dragging her shoulders in as her head pushed down the dragon-woman's throat. She had no interest in savoring her meal, simply wanting her revenge.

Another powerful gulp tugged Ingrid's unimpressive bust into her maw, and subsequently into her gullet, making swift work of her sister. Within moments, Angela had made her way to the disgustingly uncouth sibling's hips, shoving hard on her legs to stuff them in. Several rolling swallows pulled the woman's thighs and knees in, her form already bloating out Angela's middle even further, deposited into her churning, gurgling stomach, still alive and sure to survive for at least the night. With a greedy shove over the woman's feet, Ingrid was gone, forced to curl up in her little sister's belly atop the dragon containing her other two siblings. Yet another belch came, but this time, it was Angela that loosed it into the room. She licked her lips and grinned, stroking her massively shifting belly.

"Let me out of here you little whore! I'll get you for this!"

"I don't think so. I've been wanting to do this for a long time now... and Vanessa and Tania aren't too far off. You know that dragon that dragged me off? He's right under you and he made lunch out of our sisters. Goodbye Ingrid, it was a pleasure eating you." She belched again and rest her now incredibly heavy belly on the floor, seated and leaning against the foot of the bed, "Ooo, are you ready for the main course my love?"

Smokey grinned and nodded under her skin.

"I most certainly am! Can you move?"

"Sort of, it should be enough to get us there." She stood again, dragging her enormous stomach out into the hall, enjoying the squirming of all three of her sisters, finally getting what they deserved, ready to pay back one more person, her father. It took half an hour to work her way to the king's chamber and once she was in, she locked the door. The king woke to see his daughter standing over him, her hands on a massively bloated, wriggling bulge attached to her. He sat up quickly and blinked.

"Dear god! I'll get the priest!"

"No! No, you don't have to. It's okay."

"No it's not okay! Look at you! That monster has done something horrible do you!"

"Daddy... it's okay..." her voice was soft, soothing, somehow convincing him to wait just a little while longer, "I thought about your offer while I was out there... If you would be willing to forgive me... I would be willing to consider it."

His attention suddenly shifted, a smile crossing his face.

"Oh is that so? Well of course I can forgive you sweetheart... I wouldn't be much of a father if I didn't."

"You don't mind the fact that... you won't be my first?"

He shook his head softly.

"That wasn't your fault, that was a ruthless demon. We will have his abomination of a child removed from your womb in short order."

"Before you do anything like that, would you at least like to sample what will be yours?" Her voice was dripping with sensuality, sounding almost as though she needed stimulation. He grinned, his lecherous nature taking command.

"I don't see why not." It was a good start. He was acting just as expected. The swollen girl nodded and managed to somehow slip the vast orb of her stomach onto the bed, laying atop it, legs spread.

"Promise me you'll be gentle?"

He nodded and slipped out of his robe, already powerfully aroused. Something about seeing her so heavily pregnant seemed to enhance his desire. Unfortunately, before he could satisfy his needs, the same blue arm lurched out from between her passage, gripping the man's laughable member, the dragon's head pushing forth to be seen, growling loudly, his eyes almost on fire they shined so brightly.

"You diseased pervert! Willing to claim anyone just to have a night of pleasure, even if it's your own daughter! I'll see to it you never touch her flower so long as you live! And I assure you, that will not be a very long while!" A deep growl mingled with the dragon's words, striking his victim with an untold level of fear. The king yelped in surprise as the painfully firm grasp held him away from his goal.

"You! I'll have your head demon! And you!" He lifted his furious gaze to his bloated daughter, "You're working with him!"

Angela nodded, moaning softly.

"I am! I hate you and my sisters! You see the hands and faces in my belly? That's them! All three of them! He devoured Vanessa and Tania. I ate Ingrid! And now, he's going to eat you! You all will never see the light of day again, for what you have done to me and what you have done to my kingdom, my people! Smokey! Finish him!" By her command, the dragon grinned broadly.

"At once my queen!" His jaws opened wide and he yanked hard on the king's groin, pulling him to his knees, shoving his head into the dragon's waiting mouth. He screamed as his face mashed against Smokey's tongue, forced deep into the beast's throat in short order. With the wriggling royal ass in his mouth, he sealed his lips about the human and suckled, purring around him as inch after inch gradually slipped into the dragon's form. A hefty lump formed in his neck, pushing down into the princess's body as her sisters had before.

Gulp after mighty gulp worked her father's chest into the dragon's, his screams joining those of Vanessa and Tania as Smokey tilted his head back, now halfway finished with his last meal. His highness's hips disappeared into the dragon's maw, his legs kicking furiously as Angela moaned, shuddering, her body stretching further and further than it was ever meant to. The dragon continued with the rolling gulps, his neck craning and pushing out in time with his swallowing, snapping up the king's form until his feet slipped from view. Smokey licked his lips and belched noisily, his available hand stroking the massive, squirming bulge hidden away in his lover's body. She panted and went limp atop the vast, gurgling dome.

"Oooo Smokey... is it done?"

He nodded softly, giving the swell under him a loving lick as he pulled his other arm back into the warmth of her passage.

"It's finished. By morning, they'll all be gone, unless you'd like me to hold onto them for you."

"No, they shouldn't be given a reprieve. They've done enough damage."

He nodded once more and kissed her smooth skin lovingly, nuzzling down between her thighs.

"Shall I climb out or no?" His answer came as a powerful rippling around his neck working to drag his head back into her womb.

"I'll let you out when I'm ready. Get comfy dearest, you showed me something I'm going to enjoy even more than slurping you up every now and again."

The beast chuckled and relaxed, letting the powerful musculature surrounding him drag him completely into her belly once more. He curled up again, patting his firm, screaming belly and hiccupped, letting the motion surrounding him lull him to sleep. Angela sighed happily, enjoying the oh-so full tummy under her, remembering back to Smokey's explanation of the plan. She was hesitant at first not sure her nethers could handle the stress, but considering their frequent love-making sessions, he was confident she would perform fabulously.

---

Several hours later, the sun rose and Angela's belly had reduced greatly in size, though it was still quite plump, a full grown dragon curled up in her womb. She rolled onto her back and managed to slip to her feet, dressing in a robe before walking out into the hall, immediately taking command of the palace. Word was spread that the king and his three daughters fled in cowardice when the dragon returned in search of her, but through her own abilities, she managed to sooth the savage beast (at least that was what she told them) and contained him within her and announced that any soldier who dared to defy her would join him. Her threat was not at all hollow; in fact, she enjoyed making an example of one or two of the men.

Roughly a week passed with Angela still carrying her draconic lover in the secure confines of her womb, just long enough to have herself crowned as queen. Shortly after she officially began her reign, Smokescale emerged from her warmth and the two were wed that afternoon. The dragon's horde was moved from the valley to the palace and with the renewed wealth, Angela and her husband rebuilt the kingdom.

The dragon's books, containing knowledge of magic and other wisdoms, were quickly collected and brought to the city where they were used to educate the eager and heal the sick. Though it took months to be completely eradicated, a grateful kingdom praised their new king and queen for the miracle of curing the plague that had hounded them for so long. The long, steady process of rebuilding the once great kingdom began and the two ruled happily, spending the rest of their days enjoying one another's company and the company of their children. Within ten swift years, the city of Coloi had returned to its former glory and beyond, the shining center of the grand country once more considered the utopia it was so long ago and so it would remain under the rule of the Aquatos family.