For the past few weeks, married life has been surprisingly simple for Moon. She had thought it would be dreadful having to be married to Soltero, seeing as she always used to consider his presence agitating or annoying—his booming laugh echoing through the halls and his tendency to leave scorch marks on the furniture whenever his temper flared—but now she suddenly couldn't find herself being away from him, craving his warmth beside her at night.
Their honeymoon had been wondrous, though it was mainly just a week long of passionate lovemaking everywhere they could—on the silk-draped bed, against the terrace railings beneath the twin moons, and amid the fragrant flowering vines climbing the villa walls. Though Moon wasn't a traveler, preferring the security of her own territory and familiar chambers, Soltero had somehow convinced her to journey all the way to the southern empire of Wevalon for their honeymoon to enjoy the coasts of the capitol. Though originally they were going to spend their time in the capitol itself, with its towering spires of opal and gold, Soltero had bought an entire villa directly on the shoreline of the village Nahr Al-Zahra, which was still somehow located within the confines of the capitol, its white stone walls glowing almost ethereally in the sunset.
Moon and Soltero wouldn't be doing much traveling at all throughout their honeymoon; most of the time was spent in the villa doing, well, what you'd expect from a succubus and a dragon demon—their supernatural stamina allowing for encounters that would have exhausted mere mortals days ago. As much as the warm weather affected Moon's mood and energy, she somehow found herself enjoying the beachy views and Soltero's company. For once, she was seeing him in a loving light, noticing how the sunlight caught the ruby undertones in his maroon scales, or how his tail would unconsciously curl around her ankle when they sat together on the veranda. Soltero caught her longing gazes and sweet attitude occasionally, but he never dared to comment on it, afraid she might snap or charge at him like a feral animal, her demonic nature always simmering just beneath the surface of their newfound marital bliss.
As her now husband and former close friend, he could see how much she was slipping away to corruption each day—the slight glow at the tips of her horns, the occasional flicker of crimson in her normally emerald eyes, the way her nails would sometimes elongate into claws when her emotions ran high. No matter how much it truly broke his heart and how he knew things in their marriage wouldn't always be this peaceful, he could still enjoy things as they were now. In the moment, he happily enjoyed making love to her in the shimmering ocean when they were far enough from the public for no one to accidentally walk in on them in the act together, the salt water beading on her skin like diamonds as moonlight bathed them in silver.
Upon returning to their imperial estate, with its soaring spires of black marble and curved archways adorned with ancient runes, it wouldn't be classified as unusual that Moon would return to her office to face a pile of paperwork that she had missed out on due to the honeymoon phase of the wedding celebration. The stacks were neatly arranged by her diligent assistant, but still towered ominously, casting long shadows in the afternoon light. Of course, Moon let out a long, stretched sigh of agitation, sitting down at her mahogany chair—carved with the symbols of her lineage along its high back—and starting to flip through each file. The light shining in through the stained glass windows cast a golden glow onto her orange-brown hair locks, adorned with small jeweled pins that clinked softly as she moved, and made her beautiful emerald eyes shimmer as well, the heart shaped pupils dilating slightly as she focused on the documents before her.
"My, don't you just look stunning," Soltero came in and leaned against the door frame, arms crossed, staring at his lover with his blazing yellow eyes that seemed to glow like molten gold in the shadows of the doorway. His tall form nearly filled the entire entrance, the tips of his folded wings just brushing the top of the frame. He wore formal attire today—a deep burgundy doublet with gold threading that complemented the ruby undertones of his scales, and a ceremonial dagger at his hip, its jeweled hilt marking his status as both consort and emperor.
"Don't flatter me, Soltero. Have you come in here to make a painting of me again?" Her last comment was a bit of a mindless tease, referencing the numerous portraits he had insisted on creating during their courtship, as she focused solely on completing her paperwork that she'd missed out on doing when she should have. Her quill scratched across the parchment with practiced precision, the imperial seal sitting ready in its dish of melted wax. But that's just what you get when you try to enjoy yourself for once—responsibilities always waiting upon return.
Soltero only let out a chuckle and lifted himself from the door frame to walk up to her desk, watching Moon's fingers elegantly glide across the papers with such efficiency. "No, I wouldn't dare disturb my wife while she's doing her work," he replied back in a teasing tone which made Moon stop for a moment and glance up at him.
"Then whatever is it you want?" she sneered ever so softly, only for Soltero to brace his hands on the desk and lean in, giving her a passionate kiss to the lips that could only leave her flushed and wanting afterwards.
"I've come to inform you that I've already made preparations to get started on the proper reinforcements to jumpstart the new military program that you were wanting," Soltero stated rather calmly, his voice deep and resonant in the quiet office. He produced a sealed scroll from inside his doublet and placed it on her desk with ceremonial precision, the wax seal bearing his family crest—a dragon coiled around a sword. "My generals have already begun selecting candidates from among the elite guard regiments. The best fighters and my most powerful mages will be at your disposal within a fortnight."
This definitely got Moon's attention because she sat up straight in her chair, expression growing more serious. "And what does that entail? You can't just leave me out of this kind of information. Even if you are my husband now, I need to authorize anything that's going to happen within my graces," Moon said rather sternly, starting to get even more agitated due to the fact it seemed like he was already enforcing his own plans.
"Calm yourself, cara mia," he soothed, his accent thickening as he used the endearment, the ancient dragon tongue adding a smoky quality to his words as small wisps of steam escaped his lips. "I'm merely traveling back to Piffedal for a short time to get everything straightened out to be easier for you. That includes prepping some of my high-ranking commanders to be transferred into your military to train some of your soldiers more fiercely. Like you wanted" He traced a claw gently over the map on her desk "Obviously, as the Empress, you'll be able to keep everything in check how you prefer, and I've ensured all commanders understand they answer to you above all others."
A somewhat smug yet teasing gaze tugged at his sharp features before making a sly comment, "I know how much you like to be in charge, after all." His fangs glinted as he smiled, the scales at his temples catching the light.
Moon glared at him briefly, but her tail swaying and slightly thumping against her desk betrayed her slight amusement. Moon let out a soft sigh and rubbed her temples with her index finger and thumb before responding.
"I suppose I can work with that. I recall your brother asking to set up a meeting the last I spoke with him," she met his gaze, setting down the ornate silver pen that she held in her other hand. "It sounded... serious" her voice was monotone, starting to wonder what his brother could've possibly wanted to discuss. After all, he said he could help with aiding in her military, but the way he put it made it seem like he had something else in mind to help.
Soltero raised an eyebrow curiously, the ridge of scales above his eye glinting in the light, small flames briefly dancing along the edges of his horns before extinguishing themselves—a sign of his interest piqued. "Well, I have no reason to suspect anything suspicious would happen between my wife and brother. I'm sure that if anything did happen, you'd smite him with all you've got," he joked at the last part, miming an exaggerated explosion with his hands, small sparks actually emanating from his fingertips. It really did seem like in every situation, Soltero had to have a slight bit of humor, even when discussing matters as serious as imperial military strategy. Admittedly, that was one aspect Moon adored about her dear husband—his ability to lighten the weight of her crown, if only for brief moments.
"I don't have any intention of keeping the meeting past fifteen minutes at most. I'm sure whatever he wishes to discuss, he can get straight to the point. I'm a rather impatient person," she replied, tapping her long, polished nails against the desk's surface.
"Oh, I'm aware, sweetheart," he teased, but was only met by Moon's scoff before she stood up from her desk and walked up to Soltero, fixing his crest on his suit vest that had been irritating her from the moment she spotted how crooked it was. Soltero made no complaints, happy for his lovely Moon to be touching him so intimately and caring about his outward appearance.
"How long will you be gone on this trip?" she questioned, her voice softening despite her attempt to remain composed, her fingers lingering on the golden emblem.
He lifted up his hands to caress her soft cheeks with his thumbs, staring lovingly into her green eyes, his own yellow ones burning with affection, pupils narrowing to thin slits as they often did when his emotions ran deep. The heat radiating from his palms was comforting against her naturally cool skin, the difference in their temperatures a constant reminder of their complementary natures. "I shall only be gone a month or so. I promise it will fly by quickly," he stated confidently, trying to make her feel better about how he'll be gone for a while. "Besides, I've arranged for a messenger phoenix to deliver communications twice weekly, so you'll not be without word from me."
A sadness only passed by Moon's gaze for a moment before she let out a sigh and leaned into his touch, the warmth of his hands comforting against her skin. "As long as you return to me in due time," she said in a soft tone before they shared a passionate kiss that lasted a few moments, her arms wrapping around his neck as his pulled her closer by the waist.
Her hands started to trail down to his groin, trying to at least get some intimacy before he'd be gone for so long, her succubus nature craving the connection and energy exchange that came with their physical union, but Soltero caught her wrist before she could cup his manhood. His grip was firm but gentle, the heat of his scaled palm sending a pleasant tingle up her arm. He leaned into her ear and whispered in a heavy breath, his voice dropping an octave lower, "I promise, cara mia, it will feel even more immaculate to ravage you once I've returned." The heat of his breath sent shivers down her spine, carrying the faint scent of cinnamon and smoke that was uniquely his, and the promise in his words made her heart race. A subtle pulse of energy passed between them at the contact, a reminder of the magical bond they now shared as husband and wife.
Moon just huffed and returned to her desk, causing Soltero to let out a hardy laugh in response to her pout, her tail now lashing behind her in frustration. "When I'm back, I promise you can have me all to yourself for as long as you desire," he followed up his commentary with a wink and made his way out of her office, his boots clicking against the marble floor.
"Oh! Send Xiox in here on your way out!" Moon shouted out after he left the room, referring to her trusted personal assistant.
"Will do!" he shouted back, now down the hall, his voice echoing slightly.
Moon slumped back down in her chair, taking out a blank piece of parchment with her royal seal to write a note to deliver to Soltero's brother—a follow-up message on the meeting he requested to discuss ways he could help with Moon's military and, well, any other further things he thought were necessary to talk about. As she dipped her quill in the inkwell—an ornate crystal vessel filled with ink infused with powdered moonstone that gave her imperial correspondence a subtle shimmer—she couldn't help but smile faintly, already missing her husband despite herself. The empty space beside her throne already felt colder without his presence, though she would never admit such sentimentality aloud.
From the desk of Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Moon of rabukira
Lord Docenal,
In response to your recent request for audience, I shall grant you fifteen minutes of my time three days hence, at precisely two hours past midday. We shall meet in the Strategy Chamber of my Imperial Estate.
I understand you have proposals regarding the enhancement of my military forces, which your brother has already begun preliminary work on before his departure to Piffedal. Be prepared to present your suggestions concisely and with clear benefits to my empire.
Should you have additional matters to discuss beyond military strategy, I expect you to be equally direct. My time is valuable, and I have little patience for diplomatic pleasantries or circular conversation.
You will be searched upon entry, as is standard procedure. Bring no more than one aide, if necessary.
I trust you will arrive punctually.
Empress Moon Imperial Seal of rubukira
Two Days Soltero Has Been Gone
Not yet has Moon started feeling herself slipping, but the loneliness without her husband had been palpable. Moon hated to catch herself longing for that agitating man. She stared out of the window of her office, the crystalline panes reflecting the harsh winter light, occasionally wondering if Soltero would just pop up again without warning. But thinking such a way was foolish of her—he had important things to do that would benefit her empire. The delicate frost patterns on the glass matched the cold emptiness she felt inside, though she would never admit it aloud.
Sometimes she wondered why he cared so much to make her reputation better. His devotion to her empire's standing puzzled her, especially given his own responsibilities to Piffedal. The grand tapestries depicting their union hung on the walls of her study, a constant reminder of their love turned to political alliance.
Her heightened senses caught the sound of footsteps, soft but deliberate against the marble flooring, and her attention snapped to the door just when Xiox walked in. His fox tail brushed slightly against the ground, the russet fur catching the afternoon light streaming through the tall windows. If Moon didn't have such good maids to clean everything, she was sure his tail would make great use at dusting off everything. The pristine condition of her office—from the intricately carved desk to the shelves lined with ancient tomes—spoke to the efficiency of her staff.
The thought was amusing, but she wasn't focused on that in the moment. Her long fingers traced the edge of an unread report as she composed her thoughts.
"What news have you come bearing now?" she asked with a raised eyebrow, her voice carrying the practiced authority of an empress.
"Well, my lady, Lord Docenal is here for the scheduled meeting." Xiox walked over to the desk where she sat and placed down a leather-bound folder that provided all the topics and information she needed to discuss. The insignia of her empire was embossed on its cover, the golden details catching the light.
Moon stood from her chair, her dalmatian tail swaying gracefully from side to side and heels clicking sharply on the marble floor as she walked around her desk. Her posture remained impeccable, spine straight and shoulders back, projecting a steady look upon her perfect features. "Walk with me," she commanded in a calm tone, striding down the corridor while quickly absorbing all the information she needed upon making her way to the conference room. She flipped through the pages with practiced efficiency, her mind cataloging the essential points for negotiation.
The windows in the hall reflected prismatic hues onto their features, stained glass depicting the history of her bloodline casting colored light across her face. A swoosh-swoosh of her orange-brown locks from the fast pace matched the rhythm of her steps, while Xiox steadily kept up with his empress. His ceremonial uniform, adorned with the symbols of his rank as her advisor, gleamed in the filtered light.
Upon reaching the grand oak doors to the conference room, Moon stopped before them and read over the last bit of information. The notes about Docenal's recent activities in the northern provinces troubled her, though her expression revealed nothing of her inner concerns.
Lifting up her head, Moon let out a long sigh and handed the folder back to Xiox, who buried it under his arm, ready to stand by her side as a supervisor for the meeting. He adjusted his spectacles, sulfurous gaze alert and watchful.
The doors opened to a room that was just as grand as the rest of the estate—a large circular table dominated the center of a velvet checkered floor, and a roaring fireplace cast dancing shadows while counteracting the harsh winter outside, Not that the cold would bother anyone but outsiders to the empire. Crystal chandeliers hung from the vaulted ceiling, their light reflecting off the polished surface of the table. Moon briefly scanned the room before laying eyes on Solvieg Docenal, who was dressed in his commander attire, a stark contrast to Soltero's emperor uniform.
The military cut of his jacket emphasized his broad shoulders, medals and insignias of his service to the western territories prominently displayed. His toned orange-streaked hair was pulled back tightly, revealing sharp features that had been hardened by years of military service. When he laid eyes upon Moon, he stood up only to take a quick bow. "Lady Moon, a pleasure to see you again." His voice carried the distinct accent of the western provinces, deep and rumbling like distant thunder.
"Good evening, Lord Docenal," the greeting was brief as she settled into the high-backed chair at the head of the table. Sitting down, she crossed one leg over the other, thighs plumping up with the action, the fabric of her tailored dress stretching slightly. "How about we make this easy and get straight to the point? I understand what you wanted to discuss seemed rather urgent, so let's not beat around the bush." The request was quite plain, but truly, Moon just wanted to get this over with already—though that much should've been obvious by the apathetic look upon her face, her green eyes coolly assessing the man before her.
Solvieg let out a small sigh and pulled his own folder of information out of his coat, taking out a blueprint for what seemed like weapons, but it wasn't something Moon had seen before—not something like swords or knives, not even a bow and arrow. The parchment crackled as he spread it out, weighted at the corners with small silver emblems bearing his family crest.
Something... mechanical. Gears and pistons were meticulously drawn in blue ink, with equations and measurements crowding the margins in a cramped handwriting. She gave Solvieg a pointed gaze from what he seemed to be suggesting, her jaw tightening almost imperceptibly. "Lord Docenal, you know how I—"
"Please listen, my lady," he interrupted, an action few would dare in her presence. He spread out the papers, first information charts with colored graphs and trends. He pointed to a particular rise in certain activity, his fingertip tracing the sharp upward curve. "In the northern borders, I've noticed a rise in divine activity." His expression grew grave, the lines around his eyes deepening with concern.
Moon crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow and leaning back in her chair. The leather creaked softly beneath her weight. "What is that supposed to mean, my lord? Divine activity?" Truthfully, she had heard that term in passing when she was far younger, listening to her mother and father argue, only for her father to be gone for days and months, but she just chalked it up to her parents' toxic relationship together. The memory brought an unbidden frown to her lips, quickly masked behind a neutral expression.
Solvieg cleared his throat, glancing briefly toward the closed doors as if checking for eavesdroppers. "Angelic activity..." His voice dropped to almost a whisper, the firelight casting dramatic shadows across his face.
Moon opened her mouth to speak, but nothing came out. She actually had to process his words for a moment, her usual quick responses failing her. The legends of angels were ancient, dating back to before the founding of her empire—beings of immense power and unknowable motivations. She glanced down at the charts, noticing the level of activity compared to other things, the colored lines showing an unmistakable pattern. "What are you proposing?" Her voice had lost some of its edge, curiosity briefly overcoming her irritation.
He moved a paper out of the way to reveal blueprints for automotive weapons that could aid militaries and such, the detailed drawings showing mechanisms that could harness energy in ways her traditional forces could not. "Think of how much easier it might make things. Consider importing technological advances into the Northern Empire, my lady, for future use." His eyes gleamed with enthusiasm, clearly believing in the necessity of his proposal.
She scoffed slightly, the sound sharp in the otherwise quiet room. "You and your empire know exactly how I feel about such things, Lord Docenal. I am not one for making my empire use mechanical advances." Her fingers drummed once on the tabletop, the only outward sign of her growing impatience. The tradition and mysticism that had sustained her people for generations was not something she would abandon readily, regardless of threats real or imagined.
"Please, my lady, you are married to the Emperor of Piffedal, the most technologically advanced empire within the four regions. Think of how much more powerful your empire will be if we bring our forces together," he basically pleaded, at least just for her to consider, his hands spread imploringly across his documents. A bead of sweat traced down his temple despite the controlled temperature of the room.
But Moon wasn't having it. "There is no big issue with the angelic activity yet. We have no use for thinking of such things now, and I am very disappointed you've tried to impose these suggestions on my empire." She hissed out the words, standing up, her tail swaying rapidly from side to side in agitation, the black and white pattern a blur of motion. Her chair scraped against the floor, the sound cutting through the tension like a knife.
"My lady—" Solvieg began, rising halfway from his seat, desperation creeping into his tone.
"Have a good evening, Lord Docenal. Have safe travels," she cut him off decisively. Soon enough, Moon exited the room, Xiox following behind her, his expression carefully neutral as he matched her brisk pace. They left Solvieg sitting there to gather himself back together, the blueprints of his mechanical weapons still spread across the table, illuminated by the dying light of the fire.