10 days soltero has been gone
Ten days had passed since Soltero had departed from the palace, leaving behind only the lingering scent of his cologne and the echo of his promises. The letter arrived that evening, carried by one of his faithful messenger phoenixes—creatures no larger than parakeets, with feathers that shimmered like molten gold in the candlelight. Moon's fingers trembled slightly as she broke the imperial seal, her emerald eyes scanning the familiar handwriting:
"Things are progressing, cara mia. I have gathered my most talented soldiers and mages for your army to aid the new recruits of your choosing. Speaking of which, you certainly must write back to tell me how the planning is going—my curiosity cannot wait for my return.
I was told by my brother about the meeting between you two. I sincerely apologize for his proposition, my sweet. I know how particular you can be, despite that, your judgment has truly been the best, so I know your decision was probably the right one.
I promise I have been thinking about you nonstop every night. Every day I am not there to hold and feel you has been miserable, but it will all be worth it when I return.
Please wait for me.
Soltero takona"
The parchment crinkled as her grip tightened. Moon could only endure so much without satisfaction, the longing slipping away day by day like sand through an hourglass. She had tried so desperately to remain composed for Soltero, attempting to stay disciplined until his return, but how much longer could she maintain this facade? How much more could her resolve withstand?
She had endured separations before—months without his touch, his voice, his presence—but this time felt fundamentally different. The ache ran deeper, more persistent, like a wound that refused to heal.
Each night, Moon received these letters from the small messenger phoenixes, their ruby eyes gleaming with loyalty as they delivered their precious cargo. She would open them in the sanctity of her private chambers, usually clad in her silk nightgown when the rest of the palace had surrendered to deep slumber. These were her sacred moments, undisturbed and unobserved.
Reading his letters felt almost sensual, sometimes even arousing, particularly when her mind began to wander as he wrote more intimate passages detailing how he would touch her upon his return. His words made her body grow hot and needy, a fire building within her that she could not extinguish. But they were also torturous, especially when her own desperate attempts at self-pleasure could never replicate the same ecstasy she found in their intimate moments together.
Moon was slowly losing her sanity. She had believed she could handle the separation, but every moment he remained away from her—away from her desperate grasp—she would scream out in frustration in the dead of night. Even with trembling thighs from her frantic attempts to find relief, her efforts proved useless when she couldn't recreate the same overwhelming sensations that only he could provide.
Despite barely showing these turbulent emotions during daylight hours, she always felt a creeping guilt when her maids tidied her bedroom each morning, or when she realized her guards had likely heard her screams—a mixture of agony and frustration, accompanied by the crash of furniture and the shattering of objects during her nightly battles with longing.
Yet she always emerged from her chambers the following morning, resilient and composed, every inch the empress she was born to be, despite the emotional battlefield brewing within her mind.
Today began like any other. Moon had been dressed that morning in fine silks of crimson and obsidian, her arms and dalmatian tail adorned with shimmering gold cuffs and intricate accessories that caught the light with every movement. Her hair—which she still refused to allow anyone else to touch—was woven into a long, somewhat messy braid that nearly dragged against the marble floors. Perhaps the fluid, swooshing motion of her body as she walked helped keep the length from trailing completely, the braid swaying hypnotically behind her like a living shadow. Moon consumed her breakfast in quiet serenity that morning, savoring her simple meal of honeyed bread and exotic fruits while gazing out at the sprawling gardens beyond her window. The morning light painted everything in shades of gold and amber, a beauty that felt hollow without Soltero there to share it.
Soon enough, Moon settled herself comfortably at her ornate desk in her private office, the surface polished to a mirror shine and adorned with various documents requiring her attention.
"Good morning, my lady," Xiox announced as he entered, carrying several folders bearing the imperial seal—their golden emblems signifying matters of utmost importance.
"Good morning, Xiox. What business demands my attention today?" She extended her hand gracefully, accepting the folders from her trusted assistant. Her eyes flashed a brighter shade of emerald in that moment, illuminated by the morning light streaming through the tall windows. As she began scanning the documents, preparing to sign whatever bureaucratic forms required her approval, her elegant eyebrows arched in surprise. These were not the usual administrative papers, but rather detailed profiles of potential candidates for military recruitment.
"I hired a talent acquisition specialist to interview candidates for positions in the military, organizing them from youngest to oldest, and ranking them from most to least capable," Xiox explained with his characteristic calm demeanor. His hands remained clasped behind his back, his posture perfectly straight, fox ears pointed directly upward and alert—the proper stance for a personal assistant to the empress. "These represent the most promising options for your new program."
In recent days, recruitment flyers and classic propaganda posters had been distributed throughout the northern empire, seeking individuals willing to join the newly forming military branch. The campaign appeared successful, judging by the substantial number of profiles now spread before her.
Moon nodded softly, beginning to flip through the profiles with practiced efficiency. Her hands glided across each document with deliberate precision, making small but significant annotations as she evaluated each candidate with her steady, analytical gaze.
"Have you received any reports regarding the training camp program I requested? Will it be completed soon?" she inquired, her voice maintaining its usual authoritative tone.
Xiox nodded solemnly, his expression reflecting both confidence and dedication. "Yes, my lady. Your program is being established with perfect precision. Once Lord Soltero returns with his chosen personnel, the entire operation will be prepared to commence. Everything will be exactly as you envisioned."
His words carried confidence, but Moon's hand paused for a brief, telling moment. "Do you have any knowledge of when he might return?" The question escaped her lips with a somber undertone that surprised even herself.
Xiox was momentarily taken aback by the vulnerability in her voice, recognizing that this was not a question seeking information from her assistant, but rather one born from the heart of a woman missing her beloved. His fox ears folded back slowly as he regarded her with a paternal, understanding gaze.
"Your husband is working tirelessly to return to you, my lady. He is doing everything in his power, making the best choices for both you and the empire. Continue to shine as brightly as you can—for him, and for when he does return."
A brief flash of pride illuminated her emerald eyes before her expression returned to its usual composed state. She nodded approvingly at his words of comfort and continued making her swift annotations before handing the completed folders back to Xiox.
"You know what must be done with these. Return and inform me when the camp is fully operational."
Xiox accepted the folders with a respectful bow, tucking them securely under his arm. "Yes, my lady," he confirmed before making his way toward the door.
Moon watched him depart, and as the door clicked shut behind him, she released a long, weary sigh that seemed to carry the weight of all her unspoken longing and the burden of an empire that demanded her strength, even when her heart ached for the return of the one man who could make her feel complete.
12 days soltero has been gone
The palace grounds felt hollow without his commanding presence. The messenger phoenix arrived during the unusual hour of midday—a deviation from its typical nocturnal visits. Moon stepped outside into the courtyard, her breath forming small clouds in the frigid air as she extended her hands with practiced grace. The majestic bird descended in a spiral of crimson and gold feathers, landing the precious letter delicately in her waiting palms.
Snowflakes drifted down from the overcast sky, each one catching the pale winter light before settling gently against the aged parchment. Moon's fingers trembled slightly—whether from cold or anticipation, she couldn't say—as she carefully unfolded the letter and began to read her husband's familiar script.
"Hello my sweet cara mia,
I'll be returning home soon to see you again, and I've done as promised, gathering only the best for you. Rest assured your people will be trained by the finest warriors I could find across the lands.
We boarded the ship to the western coast of the northern empire—you should've seen the sky's hues when we set sail. Pinks and purples painted the skies like watercolors bleeding across canvas. I wish you could've been here to witness such beauty alongside me.
We should be docking directly at the shores of Abyscarn within the week. I promise you that when we do, my first stop will be in your arms again, where I belong.
Please wait for me, my lady.
Forever yours, Soltero Takona"
A soft smile graced Moon's lips as she folded the letter with reverent care. She tucked it securely within the bodice of her dress, close to her heart where it seemed to disappear against the dark fabric. The warmth of the parchment against her skin was a comfort as she turned to continue with her imperial duties.
Her boots crunched rhythmically through the fresh snow, each step deliberate and measured, while her tail swayed behind her, leaving a distinctive path in the white blanket that covered the training grounds. Moon walked down the long line of military candidates, flanked by two of her most trusted advisors: Xiox and Commander Verosika Lynette, the formidable leader of her personal guard.
Verosika was a woman of unique heritage—half beastman, half incubus—whose mixed bloodline had made her a target of prejudice throughout her youth. Her parents' love story had been one of scandal and whispers, but their devotion to each other had raised Verosika to stand proud despite the harsh commentary of others. From childhood, she had possessed an unwavering devotion to the empire and an burning desire to serve in its military forces. At the tender age of fourteen, she had begged and pleaded until she was finally accepted into the training program, where her fierce determination and natural combat instincts quickly set her apart from her peers.
Moon had watched Verosika's transformation over the years with growing interest and admiration. The young woman's personal growth, her resilience in the face of discrimination, and her unwavering loyalty had not gone unnoticed. When Verosika achieved the rank of commander, Moon had felt a genuine surge of pride—a rare emotion for the typically composed empress. Though Verosika was only a few years older than Moon herself, she had earned her position through merit and dedication rather than birthright.
Standing tall with the regal bearing befitting an empress, Moon surveyed the hundreds of new recruits assembled before her. Her piercing gaze swept over each face with the calculating intensity of a predator evaluating prey. The stone-cold expression she wore was one that had struck fear into the hearts of enemies and inspired unwavering loyalty among her subjects. She drew in a slow breath of the crisp winter air, feeling it burn slightly in her lungs, before speaking with measured authority.
"Very good—a fine selection indeed," she remarked, turning her glacial gaze toward Xiox to gauge his reaction to her approval.
Her words of praise reached Xiox's sensitive ears, which twitched involuntarily at the unexpected commendation. Despite his efforts to maintain his professional composure, a satisfied smirk tugged at the corners of his lips. He stood rigidly at attention, hands clasped firmly behind his back, but his body language betrayed his pleasure at earning his empress's recognition.
Moon's amusement grew exponentially when she noticed his fox tail wagging with barely contained excitement, betraying his typically stoic demeanor like an eager puppy receiving praise from its master. She bit the inside of her cheek, fighting to suppress what would have been a most undignified laugh from escaping her lips.
Soon, her beloved husband would return home, and the new training program would begin. The empire would grow stronger, and with Soltero by her side once more, Moon felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead in the coming seasons.
Moon tossed and turned in her sleep. Tonight had been particularly harsh on her—another night without someone to pleasure her, to sedate her needs. Tugging at the sheets, she let out heavy, ragged breaths into the darkness. Moonlight shone in through the balcony windows, illuminating her exhausted form.
"God fucking damnit…" she breathed through coarse gasps. Her mind was running wild with feral, lewd thoughts. There was an ache deep within her core, a pulsing pain between her thighs that refused to fade. Sitting up in bed, curls hanging in a tangled mess over her face, her gleaming green eyes still cut through the dark like daggers. She was no longer thinking straight. Her body was ready to act on its own. She had lost all patience—she couldn't take it anymore.
She slid out of bed, bare feet pattering softly across the cold floor. Her nightgown clung loosely to her curves, nearly transparent in the moonlight. Moon had dangerous intentions. She knew a nightguard was posted just outside her chamber doors every night, a silent sentry meant to protect her. But tonight, he would serve a different purpose—one far more intimate.
The guard stood firm in traditional Rabukira military armor, sword sheathed, hands clasped behind his back. He didn't expect to be yanked violently into the room. He almost yelped, but her hand clamped tightly over his mouth before the sound could escape. Her gaze was predatory, glowing with raw intent. She climbed atop him, straddling his waist with a wicked grin.
"Don't say a word," she whispered. His eyes widened, staring up at her. He could have protested, but this was the Empress—gorgeous, commanding, and utterly unyielding. To deny her could mean death. And even beyond the fear, this was an opportunity few could dream of. He nodded rapidly, accepting his fate.
Moon's pheromones released without warning, flooding his senses. He gripped her waist, overcome with heat and desire. Her demon claws began to form as she shredded his uniform. He didn't resist. Soon, he was stripped bare beneath her, and she slid his cock inside her slowly, savoring every second. One hand stayed clamped over his mouth while she rode him at a feral, erratic pace, channeling all of her pent-up frustration into him.
He groaned into her hand, fingers digging into her hips, helping her bounce atop him like a rabbit in heat. Her tail flicked back and forth with each thrust, her moans filling the cold air. "Feels so fucking good," she hissed hungrily, eyes wild with lust. The bed slammed against the wall, the headboard cracking the plaster with each thrust. Her pussy clenched tightly around him, fitting him better than any condom could.
Caught up in the moment, she moved her hand from his mouth to his horns, gripping them hard. That one shift pushed him to thrust upward with everything he had. He wasn't Soltero—not in size, skill, or stamina—but for now, he was enough. He would satisfy the storm raging inside her.
Just as Moon felt her body tense, chasing release, she forgot her own strength. Her orgasm hit like a tidal wave, moaning loudly, body trembling as she climaxed. But as she came, she also slammed down too hard—too forcefully. Her grip on his horns ripped them free from his skull. The guard went still beneath her.
He was dead.
At least he died fucking the Empress, she thought, lifting herself off of him. His cum trickled down her thighs. "Ugh… how messy," she muttered, staring at the lifeless body, then down at her bloodstained hands. With a sigh, she decided to take a quick bath—alone. She didn't need her maids whispering about this.
Warm water embraced her body as she sank into the tub, suds gliding over her full curves. But even here, there was no guilt. No shame. She had just slept with another man—killed him, even—and yet she felt nothing but calm satisfaction. He wasn't her husband. He wasn't as big, as skilled, or as passionate. But the thrill had been intoxicating.
A slow, wicked smile curled her lips. What if Soltero found out? Would he rage? Would jealousy consume him, make him possessive, make him never let her out of his sight again? The very thought made her wet all over again. She was spiraling. Corruption was sinking its claws into her. Madness whispered in the back of her mind, growing louder each day, and still, she refused to acknowledge it.
After her bath, she calmly ordered a few servants to dispose of the guard's body. They worked quickly. The bed was cleaned, the blood scrubbed, the evidence erased in mere minutes. The rest of the night, Moon stood silently on the balcony, arms crossed as snow drifted gently into her hair. Her wild curls swayed in the breeze as she stared into the night, unbothered by the cold or the darkness in her own heart.