A New Day Brings The Sun Pt 7

Rodessa: *Sing song tone* Oooo~ Someone got scolded~! What did you do~?

Huxian: *Shifty eyes* Noooooothing….I told you….I just had to deal with a pest problem and I was...a little too enthusiastic about it and maaaaaay have possibly made a hollow spirit. Not that she had all that much inside to burn out aaaaanyway...so maybe she already partly was one….or maybe I was in a hurry and not as careful as I should have…..then again I wasn’t trying too hard anyway...After all I wanted to get back to you…..did you know burned skin smells odd?...but I wanted to make sure I was a good fluff and be there at your side when you woke up...and then I got hungry for BBQ and here we are.

*The girl’s eye twitched. There was a brief moment of silence before she burst out in hysterics, clutching her sides*

Rodessa: Hue… That was in bad… Taste!!! Ahahahahahah Ah ha ah aha!!!! Seriously, you Shishkabobed ‘er! Gods, fluffy! You’re down right evil! Villain! Ahahahahah aha ahhahaha ha ahaaha! You could have just- ahahaha! A-and then you- pffahahahahaha! I can’t! My sides, my sides hurt! I can’t breathe I can’t breathe -hahaha hah ahahaaha!!!!

*Huxian sat back in the leather seat, face slightly pink as he shook his head, even though a grin teased at his mouth, unable to stop his own amusement rising under his bashfulness*

Huxian: Hmph...go ahead and laugh it up all you want, Ro. But...I made a promise when I...let you in.

*His hands clenched tightly on the steering wheel, eyes narrowing at the mere memory of Rodessa’s suffering, a hint of his wilder nature slipping into his tone*

Huxian: I promised that if anyone ever tried to do you harm, even by the smallest amount, I would repay the debt tenfold. You’re mine, Roza. Anyone...be they mundane, mystic or even godly...if they do harm to anyone who belongs to me, they will be punished. And they will suffer.

Rodessa: Pft. How yandere of you.

*The girl rested her hand on his thigh, giving it a squeeze. From the corner of his eye, he could see it, a sweet smile, content on her lips, her expression radiant, as if he had promised her the world and beyond. It never left her expression, even as sleep began to take a hold and her eyes closed, drifting into slumber. Her hand on his leg felt warm, and seemed to reach to his very heart, wrapping it in that same warmth. It was just as he had told Thanatos - she was the tether that kept him grounded, that helped him to care for the world once more. And he knew he would do anything never to let that go again*

Huxian: I try, my love. If it keeps you safe, I’ll do anything.

*His expression softened at his love’s contented expression. Unable to help himself, he stole a kiss from her lips before focusing his attention to the road once more.

The journey was far smoother and, thus, seemed far shorter without the undertone of worry that had thrummed in his veins on the way to the restaurant and he soon found himself smoothly pulling into the Hotel’s parking lot. Rodessa didn’t even stir as he turned off the ignition, and Huxian didn’t have the heart to wake her, especially as she burned a lot of energy with the various forms of healing administered to her after the poisoning. Instead he slipped from the driver's seat, opened the passenger door and gathered the girl into his arms, the faint scent of peach reaching his nose as he tucked her head under his chin and carried her back towards the hotel, tossing the car keys in the direction of a waiting valet as he passed. With sure steps so as not to wake the sleeping beauty in his arms, Huxian carried her up the stairs and into the hotel lobby.

Unfortunately, the change in volume thanks to other guests and the staff disturbed Rodessa a little, stirring in his arms, her eyes fluttering a little, only for her to relax a little more as the scent of who held her reached her nose. Despite being safe in Huxian’s arms, he wasn’t sleeping through the racket and reluctantly opened her eyes, blinking a few times before the scene fully registered before her.

People were staring - both staff and guests, some subtly and some entirely obviously, but all as if Huxian had entered the room carrying a newly wed bride - which meant they were likewise staring at her as said ‘bride’.*

Rodessa: *Panic Blush* Huh? Hue…! P-put me down! W-what… why didn't you wake me!?! Put me down. Right now… Right now!!!!

Huxian: *Snort* ... As my lady wishes…

Huxian [Inner thought]: Pft! Awwww, how cute…So innocent.

*Despite the urge to tease her, he did as asked, gently setting her feet back to the ground, though he didn’t dare let her go. Her legs shook with the mere effort of standing, never mind walking*

Huxian [Inner thought]: Gods, she looks like that deer from the film...what was it, Bambi?

*Watching her stubborn display, Huxian couldn’t help but let out a chuckle, even as he tilted his head, watching her with gentle, protective eyes in case he needed to save her, especially since she had stubbornly tried to stand without his aid. As she stumbled once again, he reached out to steady her, only for it to feel almost like he was touching smoke. Surprised, he paused as her form wavered like an illusion before scattering in a violent gust of wind and peach blossoms. When both Huxian and the watchers could look again without being blinded by air or petals, in the place of the young woman was a small child with lupine ears and fluffy tail laying on the ground in a pile of said woman’s clothing.

More than that was a tall man who had appeared from somewhere and gently cradled the child in his arms. As he stood, he turned to face Huxian, his voice soothing as he spoke*

Man: Fear not, the effects are only temporary. This state is proof the ‘drink’ is working. It will wear off by the morning.

Huxian: My apologies, Sir, but why didn't you explain this to us earlier?

Man: Well… You and I both know she wouldn't have taken it otherwise, now don't we?

*Thinking of his stubborn love, Huxian couldn’t help but snort in agreement*

Huxian: True enough. She’s stubborn that way.

*The corner of the man’s lips kicked up ever so slightly at the comment, but otherwise gave no response. Instead, he snapped his fingers and Rodessa’s jewelry was resized to fit her current child body. Once he was certain that it was fitting her, he carefully handed her to the younger man. With a nod of his head, the man left through the Hotel doors and disappeared from sight.

Waving off the crowd of watchers with afew harsh looks to send gawkers scurrying, Huxian carefully wrapped the girl in the bundle of fabric and ventured back to the room to settle the girl down until she woke once more.

Soon enough, the girl came too. And not long after she realised that the sudden perspective change and extra appendages meant that she was no longer an adult. She frowned, glaring at her stubby fingers - or at least tried to. It seemed her child form could reach ‘pout’ and refused to become anything more threatening, much to her annoyance. Quickly, she looked around for Huxian, soon finding him on the balcony, phone in hand, though she couldn’t make out who he was calling. When he walked back inside, he was faced with pouting child, ears folded back, tail curled around her body, attempting to glare up at him from where she clutched onto a pillow, which looked less like she was white knuckle gripping it and more like a puppy trying to play tug of war.*

Rodessa: *Angry Pout*…..

Huxian [Inner thought]: *Clutching Chest* Awww...Gods, this girls too adorable... I can’t handle it.

Huxian:  *Sweet Tone and Smile* What’s wrong, Angel?

Rodessa: *Puffs Up Cheeks* HUMPH!

Huxian: *Quiet Chuckle* Now what has my lady all upset?

Rodessa: *Mumble*…-erves gone…

Huxian: Beg pardon?

Rodessa: *Angry* MY CURVES ARE GONE!!!!

Huxian: ….Huh… wha-?

Huxian [Inner thought]: That’s why shes pouting?!!!!

Rodessa: *GLARE* Grrrrr!

Huxian: Pft…. Ahahaha ahahaha ah ha ah aha hahahahaha!!!!!

Rodessa: *Ears Pinned Back* DON'T LAUGH AT ME!!!!

*Furious, the Rodessa threw the pillow at Huxian, which bounced harmlessly off him, though he still half dropped onto the bed, laughing hysterically. Even with her adult mind still intact, her tantrums were just as silly and adorable as they were when she really was a child. Still, he at least made a token effort not to injure her pride further, pushing back laughs into a grin which stubbornly refused to leave his face as he climbed onto the bed and pulled her close, even when her tiny hands shoved his chest. It seemed that her physical strength matched her current build (thankfully, otherwise she might have shoved him off the bed all together). As it was, he took advantage of it to tug her closer to him and wrap his arms around her*

Huxin: Oh dear... what are we going to do with you.

Rodessa: *Teary Eyes*What CAN we do when I’m like this…. *Pout* and I waited so long…to have an older body... now I’m tiny again. We can’t even fool around like this…

Huxian: *Uncomfortable* Eh…. Don't say ‘fool around’….. It makes me feel like I'm doing something immoral. Especially considering you’re only wearing my shirt… Though that oversized look is kinda-

Rodessa: Say it fluffy and I’ll rip your dick off.

Huxian: *Snicker* Oooo, scary words! But not very effective with you-

Rodessa: *Growl* Don't say it!

Huxian: -Looking oh so very-

Rodessa: I swear to gods, fluff, I’m not playin’ with you!

Huxian: -Very cute!

*Roaring with rage, the girl shoved Huxian from the bed, though it didn’t seem to affect him much (Hell the bastard seemed to let her, dammit!), especially considering his laughter still rang through the air. Growling, she pounced on him, tiny fingers clenched into fists as she beat his chest as hard as she could, which only seemed to entice more hysterics rather than yelps of pain.

It was only when a knock resounded from the door that the very much (not cute!) ‘adult’ decided to let him go. Picking himself and the heavily pouting girl from the floor, he carefully sat Rodessa back on the bed before answering his ‘saving’ interruption.

A young man holding a wooden chest waited at the other side. Giving him a tip, Huxian took the box with thanks before locking the door behind the retreating figure before he returned to where he had left Rodessa. As he placed the box at the foot of the bed and opened it, he could see Rodessa had once again grabbed another pillow, hugging it to her body as she lay on the quilt, glaring up at him.*

Huxian: Still mad at me?

Rodessa: *Glaring daggers* Does a duck fart under water?

Huxian: *Grin* What a way to say yes.

Rodessa: Humph!!!

Huxian: *Playful sigh* Come now, don't be mad, don’t be mad. I even got you some cute clothes.

*He gave the girl a quick kiss on the cheek before encouraging her to have a look at what was brought in the box and try on what was inside. What they both found...the clothing seemed near victorian in nature. So much so that when Huxian helped fasten a bonnet on her she looked more like a living doll.

Utterly unimpressed, the girl flopped on the bed, making it difficult for Huxian to change her into anything more modern, even through his gifts. It seemed she was trying to make a statement - ‘Treat me like a child, then you have to deal with one’. The mere thought of such a juvenile revenge made him snicker - and promptly catch her foot when the peeved  girl attempted to kick him. Glaring harder, she changed targets and kicked the chest from the bed instead. He could only shake his head*

Huxian [Inner Thoughts]: No use. She’ll keep acting like this unless I can give her better incentive. Very well.

*Snapping his fingers, the spilled contents of the box floated neatly inside the now righted chest, arranging themselves as the box moved to the wardrobe. Sitting at the foot of the bed, he reached over, brushing the bonnet from her head as he stroked his hand over her hair.*

Huxian: *Soft smile* Tell me of your troubles, my lady. I’m certain that your temporarily small stature isn’t the only cause. Talk to me?

Rodessa: *Dejected* I hate this body. I hate that we look like we’re different ages…. I’m gonna look like your ‘charge’ rather than your girl- you fiancee…

Huxian: Hm…When you actually were that age, I do distinctly recall a certain someone proudly proclaiming to be my mate despite all that.

Rodessa: Do you also remember I used to age myself up for you to take me seriously…?

*The girl rolled over, burying her face in the plush cotton of the pillow*

Huxian: *Mischievous smile* I always took you seriously. I just had to love you differently, to suit your age. Like I'm going to have to do for now.

Rodessa: AND THAT'S THE PROBLEM!!! I'm a grown ass woman and I know things now! I know, I'm older and yet I'm trapped looking like this…

*Eyes gentle, Huxian shook his head, carefully prying the pillow away from the girl and drawing her back to him once again so she sat in his lap before lowering his head to her ear*

Huxian: *Low Whisper* Look at me.

*A faint blush formed on her cheeks as she gazed up into his eyes. He took her tiny hand in his, raising it his lips and kissed it. Eyes locked onto hers, he winked, before his form began to change in front of her eyes. His body became younger, his form shorter until finally, rather than an adult was instead a boy in his mid teens. His hair was shorter, his eyes carrying a more youthful glow. Meeting her eyes once more, he smiled before resting his head on hers*

Huxian: Better? We’re both kids now.

*Rodessa leaned up, rubbed her nose against his.*

Rodessa: Does that mean I have to love you differently?

Huxian: Love me however you wish. ‘Love me, and fluff me, and snuggle with me for ever and ever’.

Rodessa: Stupid… don't use my words agent me.

Huxian: Of course my lady.

[END]

A New Day Brings The Sun Pt 6

Rodessa: Hue, where are you taking me?

Huxian: What, were you scared that the wicked fox might spirit away the princess to dangerous lands?

Rodessa: *Weak chuckle* Idiot.

Huxian: *Smile* It’s a place where I can be the one to prepare your meal - another one of my businesses. It's far more modest than the hotel, but the food is sourced locally and I can guarantee it’s excellence.

*A short while later, the two drove into a rural town, where a seemingly hidden restaurant was located.  Soft music played as Huxian carried the limp girl to their table. Her nose sniffed at the air*

Rodessa: *Salivating* BBQ?

Huxian: Indeed. They’ll bring out the sides as we eat, but mainly I’ll be doing the cooking. I hope my lovely bride will satisfied with this?

Rodessa: *Weak Chuckle* Yes, dear husband, more than satisfied.

Huxian: Then it is only right that I do my best to exceed your expectations. After all, it is only fitting that, should I feed you, it should surpass even that of the hotel’s food. As such, my lady, it will be my honour to serve you your greatest meal.

*Gently, Huxian lowered Rodessa into the Plush, yet firm leather seats, which seemed to support her still feeble form. Subtly, he observed her as she settled, taking note of her still pale face and limp limbs. While he had been timely in administering the antidote, it would still take some time for her to fully recover. The best way was for her to rest and regain her strength and food would certainly aid that. Even so, seeing the shadow that seemed to hang over her, it was difficult to forget just how close he was to losing her. However, he didn’t want to ajitate her with his fear, so made sure to keep a brave face*

Huxian: *Forced smile* Hungry for anything in particular, my love?

Rodessa: *Tired* I’m starving, but I don’t think I can stomach something too heavy.

Huxian: *Thoughtful, tapping chin* Hm...Then more fish than meat, I’m afraid. No rice, but soup dishes?

*Plan in mind, Huxian called over one of the waiters and ordered their side dishes while he lit the gabele sid grill. Nodding in acknowledgement, the waiter then left to bring what was asked for.

Meanwhile, sighing, the girl eased back into the seat, closing her eyes. The soft jazz permeating the air lifted her spirits as she relaxed, muffling out the rest of the world. Even with her eyes closed, however, she could faintly feel the gaze of another, looking at her. Without even lifting a lid, she spoke softly*

Rodessa: *Genly* Hue, I’m fine. Stop looking at me like that.

Huxian: ...Am I not allowed to worry?

Rodessa: No, I never said that. Just stop looking at me like I’m about to abandon my cute little fox at the riverside… *Soft chuckle* I’m just tired. I’m fine.

Huxian: *Weak laugh* You know, when ever you say ‘I’m fine’, I seem to worry more.

Voice: Then the lady should try this.

*At the sound of a tiny clink of glass, Rodessa pried open her eyes. A man, presumably the owner of the new voice and who’s clothing suggested ‘bartender’, stood at the table. Carefully, she examined him, a little suspicious. Though the disguise was certainly a good one, she was almost certain she knew who both this person and the voice belonged to*

Rodessa: ...Uncle?

Huxian: My Lord? What are-

Thanatos: *Tenderly* Hi, sweetie. Long time no see. Drink up, it will help.

Rodessa: What is it?

Thanatos: It’s just one of my cocktails. I call it ‘The Rabbit’s Peach Pill’.

Huxian [Inner thought]: *Knowing eyes* Ah. I see. Even if only for a short time, she was knocking at his door…No wonder.

Thanatos; It's good, so take a sip and make sure to drink all of it. It's rare that I make a drink for anyone.

Rodessa: *Weak laugh* Sure.

*The girl looked at the amber coloured drink. It did smell good...Careful not to spill anything thanks to her weakened body, Rodessa took the glass and a sip. It tasted as good as it smelled, and felt good as it slipped down her throat. As she drank, it seemed to be effecting her somehow, washing away the remnants of the poison. Her limbs no longer felt like lead and the colour began to return to her cheeks, though she still felt a little fatigued. Even so, the more she drank, the healthier she became.

At a nearby table, two of the other guests were watching unabashedly*

Older female: Good, she looks a lot better.

Thanatos: She should. I went through a lot of trouble just to obtain the elixir.

Younger Female: I’m glad. We can't have her dying again, now can we?

Rodessa: Mother? Venus? What are you-?

Venus: Oh, nothing. We were just checking on a pup who’s thread was about to snap.

Parame: We would have been here earlier, but I had to reweave your thead as fast as possible. It’s stable for now, but your going to be lethargic until its completely fixed.

*Just how close Rodessa had been to death seemed to make what little colour Huxian had fade from his face. However, he swallowed, keeping his expression steady*

Huxian: ...And how long will that be?

Venuse: *Giggle* How long is a piece of string?

Huxian: ...I see.

Parame: May I ask you to postpone her training until I’m done with my work?

Huxian:  *Nod* Of course. I hadn't planned on her returning until she was one hundred percent.

Venus: Just think of it as an extended honeymoon.

Rodessa: *Shock* H-honeymoon!!!???

Venus: Pft! Gods, she’s cute… No wonder you’ve been teasing her so much lately.

*Resting his hand on his cheek, Huxian, merely offering the goddess a vaguely amused look, began to place the meat and fish on the griddle*

SFX: Hissssk!!!! Sizzle

Huxian: I know. Her reactions are my both my joy and entertainment.

*Though Rodessa stuck out her tongue at him in retaliation, it merely had the group laughing softly, knowing that there was no real offense taken by the girl. In the end, both thankful for what they had done and wanting to catch up anyway, the two ended up inviting the god and goddesses to join them at their table for food, Huxian assuring them he was happy to pay for their portions as well. Even if he could never say just how much the situation had actually scared him before, he knew the deities would know without words and take the food offerings for what they were.

The meal was a relaxed affair, full of lighthearted talk and banter along with the good food that Huxian served to them. Still not fully recovered, Rodessa didn’t eat too much, but she did eat what she could take and seemed just that little bit more energised with the light food in her stomach.

Eventually, however, the deities had to once more return to their duties. After extracting some promises to take care of themselves - they didn’t want any repeat close calls as they might not catch it in time next time - the god and goddesses took their leave, though Huxian and Rodessa remained longer, at least allowing what Rodessa had eaten to settle so it wouldn’t upset her stomach. As Huxian was clearing up the grill, his phone interrupted him. Shooting an apologetic look with a ‘one minute’ gesture, Huxian moved to a quieter part of the restaurant to take the call. It didn’t take too long before Huxian returned once again, paying off their bill before they finally left the building, Huxian offering his arm to Rodessa to aid her in case of lingering weakness as they began to make their way back to the hotel for the evening. As they walked, pace slow, mindful of the girl’s condition, Rodessa couldn’t help but glance over at him curiously a few times before finally speaking up*

Rodessa: Hue, what was that call abo-

Huxian: Nothing for you to worry about, love. It’s just work.

Rodessa: *Pout* ...If you say so…

*A little annoyed by the evasion - did he not trust her or something? - Rodessa turned away from him. Sighing, Huxian gently took her chin, drawing her face back towards him once more*

Huxian: Don’t pout, angel. It ruins your pretty face.

Rodessa: *Agitated* Then tell me what's going on! You’re not supposed to keep secrets from your wife, now are you? After all, I'm not a child, Hue. I can handle the bitter truth.

Huxian: *Expression softening, gentle smile* Ah, true... Sometimes I forget you’re not a child anymore… Still, you’re not exactly an adult either. You should remember that too. But, if you must know, little miss nosie…I was rescheduling your next test. And that, my lady, is all I am willing to tell you for now. Happy?

Rodessa: *Coy* …Maybe…

*Rodessa tossed her hair, still pretending to be mad, though her partner could tell it was only a facade. Smile kicking up the corner of his lips, Huxian pecked the girl’s cheek as he escorted her back to the car where Thanatos was waiting for them*

Thanatos: There is one last thing I wished to give you you, little one, before I return. Please, take this.

*With a snap of his fingers, the girl’s accessories changed, replaced with a jew set of jewelry, which Rodessa quickly began to look at. Taking a little pity on her as she tried to see in the reflection of the car, Huxian created a mirror for her to look into, her fingers trailing over the gifts*

Rodessa: So pretty!

Thanatos: I’m glad you like them. However, this is only a lone, a precaution, so don't take it off, no matter what. Understood?

Rodessa: Yes sir.

Thanatos: Good. Oh, and you.

Huxian: Me, sir?

*The god turned to the young man with a stirn expression on his face, voice serious*

Thanatos: I know what it was she did. Likewise I’m aware of the wrath she invoked from you. Now, I am by no means condoning her appalling actions, especially to those under your protection and my eye. However, there was nothing left. I am left with nothing more than the hollow spirit. A useless shell. I can’t even send it on into the cycle of rebirth. This time I shall let it pass. However, do this again, and you will be punished.

*Though there was tension in his eyes at the warning, there was no regret in his eyes at the fate of Rodessa’s would-be assassin. Even so, he lowered his head in acknowledgement to the god, accepting of the scolding.

Huxian: When it comes to those I care for, I am willing to perform any sacrilegious act in order to protect them. The people below the Mountain discovered that once, when a celestial spirit became a demon lord. Likewise, my wrath was known when the last person I cared for met her fate. If only by reputation, that one should have known never to untether a monster by striking out at the one who holds the threads that bind them to their calm. However...it was never my intention to step into your territory, my lord. In the future, I’ll endeavor that, should anyone be suicidal enough to try such an act again, I’ll be sure to gain your approval first.

Thanatos: *Raised brow* Make sure it doesn’t come to that.

*With that, the god disappeared. With Thanatos gone, Huxian opened the car door and  helped the girl into her seat before getting in himself. Chuckling softly, Rodessa snuggled up to him, slow grin stretching on her lips*

Rodessa: *Sing song tone* Oooo~ Someone got scolded~! What did you do~?

Huxian: *Shifty eyes* Noooooothing….I told you….I just had to deal with a pest problem and I was...a little too enthusiastic about it and maaaaaay have possibly made a hollow spirit. Not that she had all that much inside to burn out aaaaanyway...so maybe she already partly was one….or maybe I was in a hurry and not as careful as I should have…..then again I wasn’t trying too hard anyway...After all I wanted to get back to you…..did you know burned skin smells odd?...but I wanted to make sure I was a good fluff and be there at your side when you woke up...and then I got hungry for BBQ and here we are.

*The girl’s eye twitched. There was a brief moment of silence before she burst out in hysterics, clutching her sides*

Rodessa: Hue… That was in bad… Taste!!! Ahahahahahah Ah ha ah aha!!!! Seriously, you Shishkabobed ‘er! Gods, fluffy! You’re down right evil! Villain! Ahahahahah aha ahhahaha ha ahaaha! You could have just- ahahaha! A-and then you- pffahahahahaha! I can’t! My sides, my sides hurt! I can’t breathe I can’t breathe -hahaha hah ahahaaha!!!!

*Huxian sat back in the leather seat, face slightly pink as he shook his head, even though a grin teased at his mouth, unable to stop his own amusement rising under his bashfulness*

Huxian: Hmph...go ahead and laugh it up all you want, Ro. But...I made a promise when I...let you in.

*His hands clenched tightly on the steering wheel, eyes narrowing at the mere memory of Rodessa’s suffering, a hint of his wilder nature slipping into his tone*

Huxian: I promised that if anyone ever tried to do you harm, even by the smallest amount, I would repay the debt tenfold. You’re mine, Roza. Anyone...be they mundane, mystic or even godly...if they do harm to anyone who belongs to me, they will be punished. And they will suffer.

Rodessa: Pft. How yandere of you.

*The girl rested her hand on his thigh, giving it a squeeze. From the corner of his eye, he could see it, a sweet smile, content on her lips, her expression radiant, as if he had promised her the world and beyond. It never left her expression, even as sleep began to take a hold and her eyes closed, drifting into slumber. Her hand on his leg felt warm, and seemed to reach to his very heart, wrapping it in that same warmth. It was just as he had told Thanatos - she was the tether that kept him grounded, that helped him to care for the world once more. And he knew he would do anything never to let that go again*

Huxian: I try, my love. If it keeps you safe, I’ll do anything.

[END]

A New Day Brings The Sun Pt 5

Rodessa: I think we should contact the troops-

Huxian: Thinking of other men when you should be focused on me...I must say, I’m a little jealous.

Rodessa: Wait, not that, not-

Huxian: That’s three times you’ve mentioned them today.

*Huxian spun the girl around, pressing his hands on either side of the marbled rail, staring down at the now trapped girl*

Huxian: *Low, husky voice, dominant tone* Roza, when were alone like this, I’m your priority. Nothing and no one else, understood?

*The girl shivered with excitement, running a finger though the buttoned down shirt*

Rodessa: ‘Territorial little thing, aren’t you?’

Huxian: *Smirk* Oh? What’s this, throwing my words back at me, huh? Cheeky thing. Though...not entirely untrue. Come on then, let’s get back inside.

*Leading the girl back into the warmth of their room, Huxian guided Rodessa to the array of fruit flavoured desserts that awaited them, enjoying the various flavours and types offered as they slipped into light conversation. Eventually they finnished their meal and, after stacking the plates for the servents to collect, the two headed back towards the room - only for Rodessa to pause, her eyes drifting towards the bathroom thoughtfully. Huxian, noting her hesitation, glanced to her, only to find, not nerves, but rather a glint to her eyes that made his mouth dry, anticipation running through his veins. Her lips curling into a coy smile, she gestured for her partner to follow, hips swaying as she made her way to the bathroom with a surprising amount of grace despite the alcohol in her system. Still, with that look and the scent he picked up from her, there was no way he was about to refuse whatever plan she had in mind. Grinning, because for all of her earlier protests of innocence, Rodessa herself had interesting plans in their trysts, Huxian quickly followed.

The plan, as it turned out, involved the large bathtub which, likely thanks to the help, certainly had an ambiance that neither were about to pass up. The bath itself was certainly big enough for the two of them to enjoy together while still covering them in scented bubbles. With additional help of the liquid courage that Rodessa had already drank, the coy smile never left her lips as she disrobed in front of him and moved to do the same to him with whispered promises that made him shudder. With no more encouragement needed, Huxian swept the girl into his arms and lowered them both into the heated waters.

They made a token effort to clean each other, though this quickly devolved into massages thanks to the slickness of the water and oils that lined the nearby shelves, along with gentle teasing and heavy flirting. The water was near cold when the two finally retreated to their room for the night, though it was some time before either of them fell asleep.

Eventually, as all things, night came to an end, though perhaps a little early for some tastes, when Rodessa stirred in Huxian’s arms, rousing the fox lord from slumber. Sleepilly, Huxian ran his fingers through Rodessa’s hair, humming slightly as he noticed her waking*

Huxian: Morning, angel.

Rodessa: Mornin’

*Stifling a chuckle at his love’s grogginess, he stretched his form out, his hands brushing over her rear ‘accidentally’, causing her to raise her eyebrow as she raised her head to meet his gaze*

Rodessa: Excuse you?

Huxian: *Soft sigh* Hm~? Is something wrong, Miss?

Rodessa: Those hands of yours? It's not even six and you’re-

*Her voice jumped to a squeak as Huxian flipped their positions, leaning most of his body weight against her with a lazy smile*

Huxian: ...And I’m...?

Rodessa: *Moving Hips* So, last night wasn’t enough for you, ha?

*Smile widening even as a pur rubbled in his throat, Huxian responded in kind, though a little rougher, eyes glinting with desire. Not uneagerly, the girl wrapped her legs around his frame, breathing in the dense scent, far thicker than usual, her body responding in kind until their mutual need tickled their senses, exciting them both*

Huxian: *Husky Voice* It's never enough, besides there's nothing wrong with sampling you, now is it?

Rodessa: *Looking Through lashes* You say ‘sampling’ but your friend down there says otherwise.

*Anything else she might have said was soon lost as his lips claimed hers roughly, leaving her dizzy and breathless as his fingers raked through her locks before running over her pliant form*

Huxian: *Assertive look* Blame it on the rutt. 

*Before either of them could go further, however, a knock on the door interrupted them. As one, the couple rolled their eyes, moment lost*

Huxian [Inner Thought]: I really...really need to talk to them about this….

Voice: Breakfast is ready!

Rodessa: *Suspicious*…That voice…

*Looking back at her partner, she gently pushed him back so that she could grab and loosely tie her robe around her to answer the door while Huxian quickly covered his modesty so as to not give the visitor - who sounded female - an unwanted shock*

Rodessa: Hello?

*A trolly cart barged into the room without any ceremony, forcing Rodessa to quickly move aside to avoid having her toes rolled over. Looking up to protest, her voice died as she found herself locking eyes with a now very familiar, but highly unwanted face. She was smiling, though it was a somewhat frail, wavering thing*

Female Staff Member: Sorry. I wanted to make up for my actions before. We made you a deluxe breakfast, paid for by my salary. It's only fair… my actions were inappropriate. So, I’ve brought you some tea. And your breakfast will be served in the dining hall.

Rodessa: Ok…? Now get the fuck out, please and thank you.

Female Staff Member: *Faltering* O-ok.

*The staff member eyed Rodessa for a moment, before hastily bowing and scurrying from the room. A moment later Huxian shoot and locked the door behind her, a faint frown on his face.*

Huxian: *Sigh*.... Come on. Let's get ready.

Rodessa:.... Yeah.

*Ignoring the tea, the pair got dressed and made their way to the hotel restaurant. Still a little agitated, Huxian kissed the girl’s neck before leading her to their table, where the staff quickly moved to serve them. However, even between the general hubbub, Huxian saw her, that staff member from before, bringing out their meal and….something primal inside him was on high alert, instincts that had helped a small white fox survive to becoming the powerful being he was now setting off tiny alarms in the back of his mind. But what was it?

Unable to relax, he turned his attention to Rodessa, wondering if she, too, had noticed something. However, rather than seeing her own frowning expression pondering odd sensations, he was instead met by a pale pace, dazed eyes and her hands covering her stomach. She had only eaten a few bites of her meal, but she looked...ill.*

Huxian: *Concerned* Love? Is there something wrong with the food?

Rodessa: ….

Huxian: *Allarmed* Roza? You look pale.

Rodessa: Hue… Some….something's wrong… I feel sick…

*As she made an attempt to stand, hand clutching her stomach, the world jered sideways, rippling and twisting, everything becoming a whirl of colour and sound with no meaning, sending her crashing downwards, only avoiding a harsh meeting with the corner of the table or the ground itself by Huxian’s quick reflexes. The buzzing trepidation turned to outright dread. Her skin was icy, yet her face was flushed as her eyes rolled back in her head, her body juddering and jerking, convulsing as if either perilously cold, or having a fit. However, Huxian pushed down his emotions, snapping at the staff for medical attention. This was by no means natural and he wasn’t about to risk her life because he himself was in hysterics no matter how much he wanted to be.

Yet, as the staff hurried to do as asked, he saw it...her face. The face of the woman from before, but it no longer held the nervous, twitchy smile. It didn’t even show worry Rather, her face held a grin, a twisted, morbid Glasgow smile of a grin that stretched almost from ear to ear, her eyes lit with sadistic glee and in that moment, he knew. He knew exactly what happened. He knew exactly who had caused his love’s condition.

And he knew, once Rodessa was saved, exactly who was going to pay.

Rage was a cold calm that burned like ice in his veins as he directed the staff. He remained calm and in control even as he was given a mithridate antidote to purge her system of what could only have been poison. He was calm even as he and several staff that doubled as guards removed Rodessa from the danger zone. He remained calm even as he took the antidote in his mouth - if it were also poison he would catch it in time long before it could worsen her state - and carefully administered it. He remained calm as he waited, checking to see her state. She still seemed in pain, making his stomach twist in agony for her, but he knew that the antidote just needed a little time. Until then, there was nothing else he could do except wait. That is, other than…

Mind set, Huxian gently kissed her heated forehead, whispering to her*

Huxian: Roza… wait for me.

Rodessa: *Pained whimper*

*Taking a deep breath, he swallowed back the ache in his chest at her plight, letting the icy wrath fill him, even as he raised his voice for the staff-turned-guards to hear*

Huxian: *Cold savageness* No one is to enter….and no one is to leave. I don’t think I need to make the consequences clear should you fail in this task. Am I understood?

Servants: Sir!

*That done, Huxian rose and swept from the room. Gone was the playfulness, gone was the flippant attitude. Even his demeanor as a commander was different to the predator that stalked the halls for his target, his eyes gleaming with an unholy light. This was no longer the Fox Lord, but rather the being whose very name had once inspired terror in all who heard it, not because he was just a force of nature, but because he was not only ruthless, but cunning as well.

As such, as he located his prey, he didn’t immediately barge into the room. Instead, he slunk into the shadows on the other side of the room that the woman was located in and listened at the raised voices that floated through from the other side*

Staff Member 1: *Concerned* Gods, what happened out there to the master’s wife? Did she have a...an allergic reaction or something?

Staff Member 2: She’s not his wife, fool! His concubine’s more fitting. *flippantly* But maybe she just wasn’t refined enough to handle the food.

Staff Member 1: Jeez… Seriously, I know you didn't like her, but-

Staff Member 3: That didn't look like a reaction. It looked like someone poisoned her.

Staff Member 2: Maybe someone decided to put the poor mutt down? So much for the ‘mighty leader’ of the Ashu-Wahari, am I right?

Staff Member 4: *Annoyed* Jeez, what's with you? You’re acting like you did it or something.

Staff Member 2: Really? Is that so? Maybe I just understand why they’d want to do it. After all, it’s just what the little hussy deserves, hanging around My Master like some leech, a parasite that latches onto another person's mate….If she just knew her place, then the poor dear really wouldn’t have needed a little dose of ‘Sleeping Death’.

Staff Member 1: W-what? You...Are you seriously saying that...The hell’s wrong with you?!!

Staff Member 2: Oh? All I was doing was clearing out the trash. After all, vermin is always vermin, and such a high establishment, full of such extinguished people like Master? When faced with vermin, it’s only natural to put out a little poison to be rid of it.

Staff member 4: *Stunned*….

Staff Member 2: Even so, the parasite had its claws in him for so long...He must be so confused… But that’s alright. I’ll be sure to comfort him in his time of need. As one who holds him so close to her heart, it is my duty...nay, pleasure to offer him anything he requires until he recovers. After all, I’d do anything for him.

Staff Member 1: You...you’re sick!

Staff Member 2: Sick? Oh no, not at all! I simply know how to defend what is rightfully mine against those who try to claim what is not theirs. Everyone does it, laying their claim so that unworthy others who might try to dig in their claws are warded away. My methods are just a little more...permanent.

Staff Member 3: S-seriously, what the hell is wrong with you!?!

Staff Member 2: No, what is wrong with all of you?! Why can’t you understand that I’m only protecting him! Did you ever listen to her? “I don’t like people touching my things” - as if she had any such claim on him at all! I love him, and I would never let some…some...mangey whore of a mongrel lay her paws on my lover!

Staff Member 4: I think I’ve heard enough. What about you…Master?

Staff Member 2: *Shock* M-master???

*Having heard all he needed to know, Huxian stepped into the light of the room, as if morphing from the shadows themselves. His expression was as if carved of stone, his eyes cold as the sharpest steel as he gazed down on the wide eyed woman who had proclaimed her guilt so proudly before. Any joy that might have come to her to know he was there seemed to die in a matter of seconds, her very form withering under the judgmental gaze, her voice utterly silenced by the cloying wrath that seemed to ooze through the room*

Huxian: Her voice has been heard and her testimony judged.

*Before she could even open her mouth to question, or even to plead, Huxian clicked his fingers. It was as if a giant maw opened beneath her. She didn’t even have time to scream as she plummeted into the darkness, the jaws snapping closed behind her as she hit what felt like stone with a thud. Before she had even got her bearings, she was grasped roughly, her arms wrenched behind her. The Hotel manager was binding her with rope tying her to a metal hoop nailed into the floor of a room that didn’t look like any part of the hotel. Rather it looked more like a cell. She tried to struggle, nut the manager only tied the ropes that much tighter, enough to start cutting into the skin of her wrists and as she cried out, tried to get the man to stop, the manager merely kicked her to the ground, knocking the wind from her lungs, her eyes flat, disgusted*

Hotel Manager: You pathetic, useless sow!

Female Staff Member: W-what did I-?

Hotel Manager: Pathetic, spiteful!

Voice: I believe that is enough for now.

*Wrenching her head up, the woman saw that Huxian was now there, slipping into the cell, his face still frightfully still. In the semi darkness lit by what seemed to be torchlight, his eyes seemed to glow hellishly as slitted pupils stared down at the woman as if she were merely an ant that he would very much like to squash under his heel*

Huxian: I thank you for receiving our...guest. For now, it would be best if you were to help contain any problems upstairs. Once you’re able, if you could make the arrangements so that there won’t be any problems later. In the meantime, I believe that I might like a...chat with our….guest.

Hotel Manager: Of course. Everything will be ready when you’re finished.

*Without looking back at the guilty staff member, the Manager left the cell, vanishing into the darkness, even as the woman struggled to her knees, trying to search her master’s face for some clue as to what might happen*

Staff Member: A-arange-

Huxian: Silence.

*The woman closed her mouth so fast that she almost bit off her own tongue, though if merely from fear or if Huxian’s order was closer to supernatural than mere words was anyone’s guess.

Seeing her tremble before him, Huxian approached, circling her form like a predator trying to decide just which weak point to sink his fangs into.*

Huxian: I have met, in my lifetime, many a fool. There are fools who merely had a slip in common sense, a simple moment of stupidity, but otherwise an oddity in their behaviour. There are then those who are fools, but who learn from their mistakes, who learn never to repeat them. And then there are fools who stand at the height of stupidity, who are doomed to make their mistakes over and over again.

*A hand suddenly grabbed her jaw, jerking her head upwards in a vice grip, fast enough she could feel the bones in her neck crack from the speed, her very teeth aching at the pressure as she stared up into merciless eyes, pupils practically vertical slits*

Huxian: And then there’s you.

*His eyes narrowed even as he used his grip on her jaw to force her to her feet.*

Huxian: You who would not only take for granted the mercy shown to you by your previous behaviour, not only drag down the reputation of the place that has shown you kindness in hiring you and who had granted you the mercy in your first mistake by acting like some half-bit assassin, but you would actually target a person who I hold in the highest regard, and have the utter gall to then try and shift blame by saying it was for my benefit.

Staff Member: But Master, I-

Huxian: Did I say you could speak?

*The woman choked on her words, as if the very air had been stolen from her lungs. She struggled, as if she wanted to raise her hand, to grasp at the hand that was not long squeezing her jaw but now lifting her feet from the ground, the rope tying her to the metal ring near straining*

Huxian: If there is one thing I hate in this world, it is fool who waste their lives through utter stupidity. You claim that you have such ‘love’ for me...I wonder...are you even aware of the kind of person I am? Time has past...but the marks of my will still remain to this day...the last time there were people who acted with such stupidity and harmed those under my protection, who laid a finger on those I love. Once, I threw away my status as a celestial being, I tainted by very soul, I became a Demon, a Dark Lord willing to do anything, no matter how imoral, no matter how depraved, no matter how unholy, in order to protect what is mine. So tell me then…

What made you think that, should you hurt what is mine, I wouldn’t tear you from existence as well?

*Roughly, he threw her to the ground, stars exploding behind her eyes as her head bounced from the floor, but suddenly, she could breathe, her tongue no longer feeling as it it were stuck to the roof of her mouth. But even with the ability to speak returned - he hadn’t even uttered a spell! It was just his presence and will that had utterly overpowered her, giving her no choice but to obey - she couldn’t utter the words. She could only stare at the devil that wore the face of the man she thought she knew. Was this….even the Huxian she knew? She remembered him, the wonderful man with the form of a god and the voice of a siren who treated the staff with respect and kindness, yet flirted like a fiend. He was an easy person to fall for. Yet since he had come back to the hotel, that...thing...in toe, he had been entirely different. And now this…

The words seemed to slip out*

Female Staff Member: What...what did she do to you?

*Huxian, for a moment, seemed near nonplused*

Huxian:...Excuse me?

Staff Member: Its her….isn’t it? She did something to you, made you like this? She must have toyed with you or messed with your mind to make you think to do such things. You would never-

*Lips curling in an animalistic snarl something white flashed in the darkness and wrapped around her neck, slapping her into the wall, hard enough that the rock itself seemed to shudder raining debris onto her choking form, even as the ropes, forced to near breaking point tightened enough that blood began to flow from the wounds. Her vision blurred from pain, from lack of oxygen and the second blow to her skull, she could see the white thing was what looked like a tail. No longer caring about his transformation, Huxian allowed his inhuman features to be entirely on show, the lashing tails were not choking her writing like serpents or hellish flames as he approached.*

Huxian: “I would never”? Is that what you think? That this behaviour is beyond me? Oh no...you are quite mistaken.

He held up one clawed hand, which burst into white blue flames that crackled in his palm, throwing shadows in stark relief, his expression unmistakable*

Huxian: You’d be surprised by what I am willing to do.

*Turning his hand, the flaming palm pointed towards her face, it began closing in on on the woman who writhed, struggled, anything to escape the fate that was quite literally staring her in the face.

She didn’t even have the air to scream*

----------

*The hustle and bustle of lunch time service was coming to a close when the girl began to stir from her brush with death. Her stomach churned with nausea as she rolled to side with a groan. Even though her sight was a little hazy and the need to gag, she couldn’t miss the two men who were guarding the door.

All thoughts of her discomfort forgotten, she sat bolt upright, only to immediately regret it as a wave of vertigo threatened to send her crashing into the bed once more. Seeing her reaction, the guards quickly moved to her side.*

Guard 1: Ma’am, please, don’t move around! Your body hasn’t fully expelled the poison just yet. Just relax. The Master will be back shortly.

*To ill to argue, Rodessa could only lay back against the pillows, body trembling like a day old kitten, yet her limbs felt like lead, her eyelids heavy…

When she next opened her eyes, she still felt like hell, but there was improvement. She no longer felt quite like she wanted to turn her stomach inside out. What was better was the heavenly cool palm on her forehead, checking her temperature. Eyes fluttering open, taking a little time to focus, she found that the palm on her head belonged to Huxian, who, seeing her awake, quickly grasped her hand, his face, pale and tense, brightening, as if the sun had just risen after a long cold winter night*

Huxian: Ro...Thank heavens.

Rodessa: *Weak chuckle, exhausted tone* Am I dead, or just seeing angels?

Huxian: I’m far better than seeing an angel, I’m sure. *Becoming serious* Though you were very close to doing both. If we were just a moment longer...

Rodessa: I-I see… Thank you for-

*The girl's words were cut off by a distinct metallic scent cloying the air*

Rodessa: Hue...Blood! You’re-

Huxian: Hush, love, it’s not mine. I was asked to take care of a little….pest problem. They thought if I paced the floor more I might have worn holes in the ground while I was waiting. Unfortunately, dealing with the pest was a little messier than calculated. With my nerves I got a little carried away. But it’s dealt with now. I just….I didn’t want to not be here when you woke up.

*Motioning for the guards to give the two privacy - the men vacating to the other side of the door - He made a quick motion to erect a ward before Huxian climbed onto the bed, pulling the girl close to him, careful not to give her any discomfort even as he buried his face in the crook of her neck, feeling her pulse beating steadily under her skin, her scent, while still slightly tainted by the echoes of the poison, was still hers, her body having regained its colour and its warmth. With every bit of evidence that she was alive and recovering, the bloodlust that had flowed through him in torrents began to subside, warmth beginning to thaw the cold rage that had turned his heart to ice. His eyes pricked with tears, each breath a shudder, a silent chant proclaiming that she lived.

Thankfully, before he could utterly humiliate himself by sobbing and cradling her like a rag doll, a loud gurgling growl filled the air, startling him into laughter. Only Rodessa’s stomach could make such a sound so soon after near death.*

Huxian: *Soft chuckle* Hungry? My princess, hasn't eaten all day.

Rodessa: *Blush* Yeah, but I’d rather have something you made - I don’t trust other people’s… cooking right now.

Huxian: Try not to judge the entire staff for the actions of one. Bad egg aside, they’re good people, if a little rough around the edges. They were so worried about you.

Rodessa: I’m s-sorry. I-

Huxian: *Hand covering face, shaky voice* No...no, it’s entirely understandable, to be honest. I don’t blame you for being on guard. When you fell...I though...It felt like…*Swallowing* I thought that maybe….I was going to see it again….The person I love most in the entire world stolen from me by the actions of another. I thought you would die and I...I could only watch. If that happened...I can’t…If you did...my world might as well have ended with you.

*Alarmed, pain stabbing her heart, Rodessa whirled around to face him, placing her hand on his cheek, even as the other, still clasped in his hand tightened, anything to remind him that she was there, alive, right there with him. An odd sound that no human throat cout make broke from his lips, as he nuzzled into her palm, holding it there against his cheek, eyes closed, just savouring her touch as her thumb brushed his cheeks, a soft caress to remind him she was there. Eventually, he took one last shuddering breath before turning his face into her palm, pressing his lips against her skin lingeringly before reluctantly pulling away in order to fetch the pitcher and washcloth before scooting back to her side, carefully washing the last remnants of her broken fever from her skin and helping her to change into fresh clothing. That done, he scooped her into his arms and carried her out of the hotel, where a car waited for them*

Rodessa: Hue, where are you taking me?

Huxian: What, were you scared that the wicked fox might spirit away the princess to dangerous lands?

Rodessa: *Weak chuckle* Idiot.

Huxian: *Smile* It’s a place where I can be the one to prepare your meal - another one of my businesses. It's far more modest than the hotel, but the food is sourced locally and I can guarantee it’s excellence.

*A short while later, the two drove into a rural town, where a seemingly hidden restaurant was located. Soft music played as Huxian carried the limp girl to their table. Her nose sniffed at the air*

Rodessa: *Salivating* BBQ?

Huxian: Indeed. They’ll bring out the sides as we eat, but mainly I’ll be doing the cooking. I hope my lovely bride will satisfied with this?

Rodessa: *Weak Chuckle* Yes, dear husband, more than satisfied.

Huxian: Then it is only right that I do my best to exceed your expectations. After all, it is only fitting that, should I feed you, it should surpass even that of the hotel’s food. As such, my lady, it will be my honour to serve you your greatest meal.

[END]