Chapter 1: Birth1829Please respect copyright.PENANAf9XhDscrJC
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"Feelings from the past do diminish and move on over time. For others, these feelings linger and fester even when the target of affection has long since forgotten. So by the end, what comes of this longing, jealousy, anger and hate?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANATVe4XNAn3K
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On the floating island of Natta, there was bustling business in and outside of a large mansion. "Pick up the pace! We will have guests arriving within the coming two hours!" a man snapped roughly at the humans who tended to the grounds and inside preparations. He released a deep growl while he marched back inside with his reptile tail swayed behind him in his upper class garb.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAjvqkuqafN3
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"Are they all keeping on schedule?" a firm young male voice questioned as the demon man passed by an opened door room.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAh9w59Svfm3
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The demon halted and looked into the small library before advancing inside. "Yes, Emperor," he bowed at the waist. "They are working quick as they can to ensure tonight happens flawlessly." He finished while he stood upright.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAhjbvMfqcmt
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A smile came to the Emperor's lips as a white gloved hand touched a glossy photo of a group of young men in recruitment uniforms. "Good, ensure nothing goes wrong. I want everyone to meet her." His hand removed itself before the other snapped the book of past memories shut loudly. He set his sharp silver eyes on one of his few advisers. "She's coming, yes?" he questioned in a lower and sterner tone with emphasis on the first word.1829Please respect copyright.PENANA2B1OXrJGqI
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The demon nodded as he maintained his composure under the cold glare of his leader. "Yes, I triple checked the list of those who responded and Mr. Syta is coming with his wife, just as you requested."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAAVzCvKXxMY
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The Emperor nodded stiffly before quickly after confirming, made his way over and slipped the book back in place. "You are dismissed from my presence." His back was turned so he didn't see the demon bow in respect while his sight gazed over the book titles.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAomyZTZS3Cw
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"Yes, my Emperor."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAWL9fP0dIeZ
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When the demon had departed to keep an eye on the preparations, the Emperor finally reached up to pull down a thinner book and opened it to eye the photo of a woman with wings. "Soon we should meet again if my intelligence was right." He whispered softly with his charming voice as a few dark strains of almost black hair fell to rest above one of his eyes.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAMZ2BlPjfeH
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An hour and a half passed by with things finishing up as the afternoon continued on its way. The Emperor was getting his royal blue and gold suit touched up while a silver banded ring with a unique gemstone in the center was slipped onto his finger. It looked like a speckled black fire opal yet also like that of a ruby. A knock came to the door which drew a deep, almost annoyed, breath. "Enter," he ordered flatly with his exhale.1829Please respect copyright.PENANApTB5MGJpp4
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A woman let herself in and spun which caused her floor length rosy colored dress to flare out with elegance. "What do you think?" she quickly asked with excitement lining her prim tone. She came to a stop as she set her hazel eyes upon her betrothed. "I told the maids they did a standard job for their upbringing." She explained while extending an arm for a pose.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAfUsGEi5AeO
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The Emperor looked to her and scaled her up and down. "I say they are not complete wastes of life and managed to make your beautiful elegance even more enchanting." He swooned with a smile as he heard her giggle behind a hand.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAwreUCUjemO
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"Stop Emperor Amoxious, you make me blush~."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAMP3UH6l6qV
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Amoxious smirked as his maid finished with the touch ups before bowing while stepping back. This allowed him to move away from the mirror and over to the woman. Lifting a hand he softly took her chin into the curl of his fingers. "You are more gorgeous when blushing so why would I ever care to stop?" he purred alluringly close to her lips before stepping closer and took a deep inhale of her perfume. "Even their choice of fragrance compliments you."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAIseKNdrBI5
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"Oh I'm glad to hear and hope your help can learn to work with mine hired by my father."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAjNoINyB30I
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"I'm sure they will." He allowed a throaty chuckle to give sound in the quiet room. "If not, they'll just be sent to the Arena and give means for cheers for our beautiful land's citizens." 1829Please respect copyright.PENANAPKOCkMz67q
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"You are so devious~" she growled playfully as he kindly brushed back a single strain of her sandy-brown hair that had slipped from its woven up-do. She pressed her body against his while his arms wrapped around her waist. "I love it!" she exclaimed in a whisper against his lips while gazing lovingly into his eyes.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAPganx2R65X
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Amoxious leaned in and briefly kissed her lips softly. "There will be time for that later on after the date of the wedding." Carefully he separated himself from her. "Go and I will be downstairs soon to start welcoming guests. Then I will introduce you to all and the celebration will begin."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAsUzLkqxJRq
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"Don't take to long~" she took her leave after blowing him a kiss from the doorway. Once she had left he waved a hand in dismissal and the maids in the room also departed from his side.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAh22iIMdi69
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The remaining time passed and as five-o-clock in the evening came, guests were arriving. Amoxious had made his way down the staircase to the foyer and put on his charming air. "Welcome to one of my humble abodes. I'm so glad to see you could make it Baron." He turned his gaze to a woman at the middle aged man's side. "And your beautiful wife," he took her hand and kissed the top of it. "Baronness, it is an honor to meet you. Your husband has spoken so fondly of you."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAoMwdf1Vu9l
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"You are kind Emperor but we are here but to see who you have decided to settle down with. I hope it is not some tainted creature." The woman sneered as best she could while concealing a blush with her opened hand fan.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAbf726woIhW
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"Then make your way to the ballroom and we shall begin once everyone arrives. Help yourselves to the hors d'oeuvre's and refreshments if you like." Amoxious stated in a tone that spoke to his pleasure in himself. Guests came from the upper crust and nobility of Natta as well as from other reaches of the region. All were of the primer end of bloodlines except a couple.1829Please respect copyright.PENANALx9Gal4d4O
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Meanwhile, outside in the evening sunlight, several couples were approaching the building. "Are you sure you should have brought me?" a young woman around twenty-four questioned as she turned her blue eyes up to her partner while they walked up the drive.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAjzQtSG88Tj
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"I'm sure. His invite did say for me to bring my mate and that's you." The man replied with loose black bangs falling to frame his brown eyes.1829Please respect copyright.PENANA7oF6jmjbuM
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Softly she pushed some hair behind her ear as the sides had been pulled back and held by an elegant clip. "I'm not from the upper society so I wouldn't want to stand out." She turned her sights down to her lovely blue dress which was slightly low cut and the sleeves rested off her shoulders. Her hand touched her ample belly which caused the dress to be slightly snug up top. "Plus I don't want to bring you down any." She turned her attention up to him. "You still sure you want some common woman here with you dressed in this glamorous attire?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAFUMohi9rNa
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He nodded and lead down as a hand creased her cheek and his lips found hers for a loving kiss. "I'm five-hundred percent positive I want you here at my side. Besides, the dress compliments your eyes and jewelry." He gave her cheek a quick peck and lick as he chuckled.1829Please respect copyright.PENANALD2nzitZDZ
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"Eck! Nate!" she exclaimed with disgust while wiping off her cheek before punching him in the arm.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAqnAAjC0Obt
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This brought a laugh and a wide grin to cross his face. "Aw but I thought you'd love being kissed like that, Sophia." He snickered as she shot him a glare with a pouting expression.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAMyTrgLaCsu
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"Just for that you are sleeping on the sofa. Hmph!" she stomped away from him and he quickly caught up to find her playing with her blue stoned necklace held by metal carved leaves.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAUX795gbCMM
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"Awe can't you forgive me?" he asked sadly with a small plea in his voice.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAkqpAcYqCYi
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Sophia glanced at him for a few moments before releasing a breath. "Fine but you are still sleeping on the sofa tonight for that move." She explained sternly as she folded her arms.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAZQGTkUTGdd
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"Thank you dear." They made their way inside after a pair of couples had entered and were greeted. "Nice to see you, Emperor Amoxious."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAkO90xDFM10
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Amoxious looked to Nate and put on his charming smile. "Ah, if it isn't my old friend." He walked up and gave the black haired man a quick, somewhat rough, hug. It lasted barely a second before it ended and he straightened out his jacket. "How have you been?" he turned his gaze to Sophia as she took in the interior design.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAyweUVwqlBS
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"I've been pretty good, got a lovely wife and been having a quiet life." Nate narrowed his eyes on Amoxious slightly with a bit of tension slipping through his body. "I would ask you how you've been, but since you are the former Emperor's son, I can and will assume the answer is great." He moved closer to Sophia as he put an arm around her waist. "Sophia and I have been married happily for four years." He explained with a defensive tone in his voice.1829Please respect copyright.PENANApnfOY5PwKD
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Amoxious glanced to Nate and reached out, taking up a confused Sophia's hand to kiss the top of it gently with his other hand closed in the small of his back. "It's a glory to meet you, dear Sophia." His tone had quieted as he spoke with his eyes downcast and partially closed.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAR3HB4dB1Ze
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Sophia felt her cheeks lightly heat as she stared blankly at the Emperor's head. "Uh...um thank you? It's...nice to meet you as well." What's this feeling? she firmly pushed the small sharp urge down while keeping her hand from curling into a tight fist.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAgADcszXJEr
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Amoxious stood and released her hand. "Please, make your way into the ballroom and we will begin soon with the introduction of my betrothed."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAzxtpiW1L7q
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The pair nodded and made their way to the ballroom with Nate not releasing Sophia's waist. There was quiet between them until, "Nate?" she asked softly which drew his attention. "Do we both know him?" she looked up to Nate's eyes. "I wanted to punch him into the ground a moment earlier."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAndMXPEjO6g
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Nate shook his head. "No, you don't know him but I do from my days at the academy. Just don't be alone with him, okay?" Sophia nodded, "thank you, now, let's see what they got as we wait to meet this woman he's met." Once in the ballroom they went to one of the tables to sample a few of the hors d'oeuvre's.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAhAIa68gqI4
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It would be fifteen minutes 'til six-o-clock before the sound of metal tapping glass sang out and causing the group to quiet down. Amoxious set down the whine glass and fork when all eyes were on him at the head of the room. "I wish to say to everyone, welcome and thank you for coming tonight." He gave a polite deep, yet brief, bow then stood straight once more. "Now for the real guest of honor!" he swept his arm out and to the side towards a curtained archway. "Solaria Vynwood!"1829Please respect copyright.PENANA6BODTAVvnz
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The woman from before stepped out into the ballroom in her gown, waving gracefully to the applauding people as she turned and made her way up to stand at Amoxious's side. "Thank you my love. It makes me the happiest woman to know we shall soon be one."1829Please respect copyright.PENANACv9BgYMKqd
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They shared a loving kiss which got an applause which quieted down as the engaged couple separated. Amoxious turned to the group with a hand lifting. "Enjoy yourselves for the remainder of this celebration." Everyone did just that, going back to conversing while others danced to the live string and wind musical artisans. Amoxious eyed Sophia who began to chat with another women before Solaria drew his attention back to her, planting a kiss on his lips deeply while sliding her arms around behind his neck.1829Please respect copyright.PENANA2TMwP9L0Kn
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"Pay attention to the one you are going to bed after our wedding." She reminded him softly after getting some air. She gently pressed her forehead against his so her eyes were locked with his. "Unless you wish to test my father's temper by betraying the arrangement."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAR2yk2igmzY
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Carefully he wrapped his arms around her and rested his hands on her back. "Oh I would never break my word to ones who hold such influence in key positions of government."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAUsAMicRpiL
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"I'm glad you are not like some clueless men." She pushed away from him and held her hand out to him with her palm up. "Come, I wish to dance and enjoy myself." He nodded, took her hand and they stepped down onto the ballroom floor where they took part in dances with the others.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAt8IqZBsMLR
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The evening wore on and just after eight-o-clock a few guests had begun to leave with 'thanks' and 'congratulations' being paid again upon their departing. By nine-o-clock, anyone leaving for their home were on their way. This included Nate and Sophia but they were actually on their way for some filling food and drink. Their escort let them out, after receiving payment from Nate, at a pub called Rusty Girl. "This place has a weird name." Sophia commented as she stepped closer at Nate's side.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAjdYokp1otR
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"It's a nice place with a unique story behind its name."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAsOvr2yZcTf
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"It does?" she asked as he opened and held the door for her.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAfeCGIZFldY
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Nate nodded before following her inside the beautiful wood interior. "The founder of it named the building after a strange one night stand he had after barhopping in Azumara." This caused Sophia's face to twist in a mix of confusion and disgust. "What?" he asked while pulling out then pushing in a chair at a table after Sophia sat. "It's not his fault the elf smelled like rust when they made out." He stated while taking his own seat across from her.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAFUKXnM7bje
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"You know some weird people."1829Please respect copyright.PENANA4FhRqYRn9r
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"I know," he said with pride while blowing on then polishing his nails on his shirt. "It comes with the territory of being a croen."1829Please respect copyright.PENANA7BSH8Du0Yy
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Sophia felt herself smirk and shook her head. Men never change when they think they are getting an ego stroking. "I love you."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAjHW7etWG8U
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"I love you too."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAyrgQoVoE0z
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A throat cleared which drew both their attentions to the waitress standing with a pad of paper at the ready. "Good evenin'! I'll be Mirsel your waitress so what will you both be havin'?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAK78Bti6Zao
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"What are the specials if there are any still going on?" Sophia inquired politely.1829Please respect copyright.PENANA7OHNo7NLsQ
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"We got a veggie and meat stew or we have a mushroom sauce filled hamburger with a side of your choice of fries. As for drinks, shots are five relu each and full drinks are fifteen relu, then if you want a pitcher of alcohol then that will cost you fifty relu."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAZNavE0gV2e
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Sophia thought it over while regarding their finances. "Hmm...I think I will have the stew and a glass of water."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAW0iBGysbk4
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Mirsel nodded and wrote down Sophia's order before looking to Nate. "I'll have the hamburger and an order of curly fries with a glass of whiskey." She nodded and took it down.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAr5HZMbggaJ
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"Got it! Give it a few minutes and I'll bring it right out!" she said pleased before taking her leave and turned in the order to the kitchen.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAuRYNCa7rpb
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Sophia looked around and took in the hanging lighting lit by both natural flames and magically created firelight. "I think we should head home after we're done, that way we can get back in time." Nate nodded absent mindedly while looking at a few of the other customers. "Are you looking for someone particular?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAAKNIJ3j4E2
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"Not really, just looking." He turned his attention back to her. "Jealous?" he questioned with a bit of smugness to his voice.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAxwdLHPEfpl
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"No," she said with some defense. "I just wanted to make sure you weren't creeping out any of the other customers by you staring at them like that."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAhA9Sm3pXHr
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Nate rolled his eyes lightly. "Honey, they are demons. They don't care if anyone stares."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAALjiaBtpJk
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"You care when anyone stares at you when you've transformed."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAI5Vd17poqB
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"Hey! That's different!" he snapped in defense before lowering his voice to almost mutter his last words while crossing his arms and slouching in his chair. "You know how self conscious I am during mulching season when I switch."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAcBhox7DspI
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Sophia lightly laughed before reaching out and taking one of his hands into hers. "I know and I love you, even if you go prematurely bald, hehe."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAprW2aYIK4Y
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He smiled and lightened up some when seeing her smiling face. "Thanks but acting cute doesn't make the reminder any less self conscious."1829Please respect copyright.PENANANjqJ4WKKql
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The couple shared more small talk and after fifteen to twenty minutes had passed, their order arrived steaming hot with their drinks being nice and cold. "Here you are!" she set the meals down, "if either of you needs anything, just ask."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAXdaZs2FG7b
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"Thank you!" they answered together and Mirsel took her leave.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAUfEx33tvKm
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Sophia closed her eyes and inhaled deeply. "It smells so good~" she said pleased while exhaling. Nate nodded while taking a bite of his sandwich.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAeikKDXmhcK
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"Tastes great to!" he added after swallowing. Sophia took a bite of stew and nodded in agreement with a satisfied groan.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAK5hRB4WFNL
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Minutes passed quietly as they were almost finished as a new group entered the pub. A young man looking to be in his thirties spotted Nate and approached, slamming a hand on his shoulder. "Hey!" he said vociferously which caused Nate to jump. "If it isn't Nate, how are ya?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAREo3nITcgC
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Nate shrugged him off after regaining his composure. "Hey there, Jyn." He turned his head to meet Jyn's eyes. "I'm good, you?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANABb0lrvqhOW
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"Great and I'm hoping you are up for a rematch."1829Please respect copyright.PENANADN4cePH99X
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Rematch? Sophia thought, "Nate," she said with a warning tone.1829Please respect copyright.PENANABLekkcnvPX
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"It's fine Soph." He assured before finishing the rest of his sandwich and stood, washing it down with the rest of his drink. Sophia gave him a stern look even as he followed the group to the bar. "Trust me, this won't take long."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAoyQClG0Igv
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Sophia sighed while taking a curly fry off his plate, dipped it in her stew then popped it in her mouth. I guess those fact's about men being mature by twenty-three isn't universal. She took another curly fry and dipped it into the remaining stew. Hmm surprisingly tasty together. She popped it in her mouth and started to watch the starting competition.1829Please respect copyright.PENANA1joSjtNwu2
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At the bar, Nate sat beside Jyn with Jyn having his support group behind him. "Barkeeper!" he slammed his opened hand against the counter. "Two shot glasses and your best whiskey!" he looked to Nate as the keep brought what was requested. "Ready to lose? I've increased my tolerance since last time." He beamed with confidence.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAl1DOVeMnci
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"So you mean you've got a stronger stomach?" he taunted.1829Please respect copyright.PENANABLJ8m5Xv7m
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"This is the night you lose, filthy croen." Jyn poured them each a shot and slid the glass to Nate. "First one to lose it or fall over loses."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAAXwjrpm0lM
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Nate picked up the shot. "Sounds good, bullhead."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAY1YBjkhivw
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"Ready? Drink!" a female companion of Jyn shouted enthusiastically. Both downed the shot easy and another glass was poured which repeated this routine.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAn6ackRBuHC
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A second, third, fourth, and a fifth shot was finished within a span of ten minutes with a swaying Jyn and slightly looking affected Nate. "You wanna quit?" he asked coolly. "You did actually manage to go more than four glasses."1829Please respect copyright.PENANA7qH0EQOy99
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"No!" Jyn snapped with slurred speech as he clumsily picked up the bottle and proceeded to pour a sixth shot for both, resulting in the counter becoming wet with spilled alcohol. "You're going to go down!" he hiccuped and picked up the glass and downed it fast. Nate shortly after downed his sixth and set his glass down easy while Jyn slammed his down roughly.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAdBefzDbvxj
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"If you say so." He shrugged and poured them a seventh shot. "Cheers," he downed the drink in a blink. Jyn was sluggish but downed it and slumped onto the counter as he brought his glass down. "And it looks like I won." He started to stand as Jyn stumbled to his feet with one bull horn coming through his messy dark hair.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAtENNMEZbBO
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"Awe nah, you didn't win...you," he hiccuped as he set his glaring and blurring sight on Nate. "You cheating croen." He growled while moving and pressing his chest into Nate.1829Please respect copyright.PENANATMZ5Civ0Kz
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Nate pushed him back and watched Jyn stumble over the leg of the barstool before falling into the arms of his two female companions. "Best you take a seat and get a nap. Your drunkard is showing."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAxYKpAgsWY8
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"Why you..." he growled as he was pushed forwards and threw a right hook. Nate ducked, slipped back, grabbed a barstool that he spun around then angled, and shoved the back of into Jyn's stomach. Jyn grunted as he fell back with a clatter from the other stools before he found the floor the hard way. Nate stood with a sigh and set the seat back to its spot.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAfxZDM1RMcp
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"Nate," Sophia began while standing. "I think it's time we pay and go."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAszQBzoDuSj
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He looked at the Jyn who now had a second bull horn showing along with skin drooped from his nose like a metal ring. "Maybe you're right," he looked at the displeased barkeeper. "How much do I owe?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANACJXSBQcmmt
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"Three-hundred relu."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAOOqy8vwg5V
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Nate's jaw dropped before closing as he prepared to yell about the high price. "Just pay him." Sophia ordered while folding her arms. "You got into that drinking game and caused damage. So, pay him and let's be off."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAFRkiu5Qfyj
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"Yes dear," he sighed while getting out his money pouch and began counting before handing over the coins.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAvkibIZOadf
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A man there, the fourth in the bull demon's group, snickered and let his human facade drop some to show a few of his bore features, such as his tusks. "Hehe yea, listen to your little human." He snorted with stifled laughter that tried to slip out.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAZ1uZOIAUqp
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One of the two girls giggled as feline features began to appear. "Yea!" she agreed with enthusiasm as her tan tail swished happily. "It's so funny how the mighty demon race filled with so much pride has been whipped by a wittle human." She mocked with the crinkling of her nose at the end before another sharp giggle was released.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAOaqtsicU9x
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Nate tightened his jaw but held his tongue as he forced his legs to start for the door with Sophia. "Get going back to your human brothel on that weak, peace loving chunk of rock you call an island." The room went quiet as Nate stopped dead in his tracks with Sophia a step ahead with her hand on his arm. She tugged to pull him along but he turned sharply on his heel with his hands curling into tightly balled fists. He made his way over to the bore demon with his head slightly angled so his bangs shadowed his eyes. The bore snorted and puffed out his chest. "Aw is the little croen mad?" he mocked.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAIyKXPrKtP3
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"No," he replied eerily calm.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAqsgysXLeRt
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Customers paid for their meals, leaving the money on the tables as they swiftly moved past Sophia and out the door. "Honey, just leave it be and walk away." She urged with growing concern and an uncomfortable feeling twisting in her gut.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAGzY6ZxamV7
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The bore grinned with an expression fitting one who expected another to admit they were right. Nate looked up while his fist began making its move. "I'm furious!" he bellowed while landing a strong right punch square in the bore demon's face. He moved after the bore as the man fell back into a table with a loud crash. The feline demon rushed over and spun to land a roundhouse kick into Nate's side, throwing him into the front of the bar. She bared her fangs with a hiss at the croen demon who was now getting small black speckles of feathers along his arms, along with his nails sharpening into points as they grew.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAgZJTjx3bz5
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Briskly he pushed away from the counter and threw a left punch at the feline who quickly dodged while stepping back. He shifted to get his foot behind her legs to trip her but was thrown back by her sharp claws to his face, done almost the same moment she lept into the air. He moved back and let a sharp yell out when the bore punched him in the back of the head. The feline moved so Nate hit one of the tables. Nate turned in a roll to get back up only to get his shirt collar snatched up by the bore demon looming over him.1829Please respect copyright.PENANATtMwdcKWwa
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As this went on, Sophia lifted her hands to either side of her necklace. It began to glow as her eyes shifted to a colder blue. A blast of blue energy shot from the sapphire just as the bore demon lifted a fist to punch Nate. The demon didn't move as the bright light shot between the pair and nearly hit the cat demon. It lasted a few moments before coming to an end and Sophia dropped her hands while glaring at the trio, ignoring the other two who began to inch their way further from them. "Let go of him, now." She commanded in a cold calm voice. Quickly the bore demon with burnt tusks released and backed away from Nate who pushed up off the table and began to mess with some of his singed hair while heading to Sophia.1829Please respect copyright.PENANA1081HiaEdE
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He looked into her eyes and felt a chill run down his spine. But she never said that would happen. Only...that her necklace could when in tune with her heart. He shook these thoughts to the back of his mind as he looked sorrowful to the young woman. "Sorry, I got carried away."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAYQ2BHDOM35
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"Fine, now come." Her tone still held the cold edge to it which matched her eye. Nate did follow while removing his jacket to kindly drape it over Sophia's shoulders as they left.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAkamANfDX32
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The barkeeper peeked out from behind the counter to see the group trying to leave after Nate and pulled a gun, firing a bullet into the wall which caused them to stop. "You're going to help fix this place or you're going to face a judge." The group nodded and turned back around to start help cleaning up the broken furniture and clean up the space.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAzGcczDLzVQ
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Outside the couple walked in silence to their escort with Nate having his arm around her, rubbing her arm to help calm her down. He looked to her, opened his mouth to speak but closed it without a word. She doesn't want to chit-chat, what am I thinking? Ugh, great job Nate. Just go and upset her on a night that was supposed to be fun and relaxing. As they got to the car and he opened the door for her, she hesitated while starting to get in. "Are you okay?" he asked curiously.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAr8WkuvJ3LI
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Sophia stared at the ground while startling the car's doorway in silence. After what felt longer than a short moment, she looked up to Nate. "Honey, I think it's time."1829Please respect copyright.PENANA4gbcODAFoY
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Nate's face fell upon hearing this. Oh god, really? Now? Why now? Why can't you wait until we got home?! he thought quickly as he inhaled and helped her inside. "Don't worry, I know someone who does after hours calls." He slid in beside her and closed the door. "Take us to seven-five-six South Mouler street." The driver put the car in gear and drove towards the destination as Nate focused on Sophia.1829Please respect copyright.PENANATxcMENUlB3
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It took a couple to a few minutes for them to arrive at a modest home with its lights off. It was nearing eleven-o-clock at night. He helped Sophia out with a groan from her before he turned and began frantically knocking on the wooden door. He didn't stop until sound sang within along with the sound of movement and grumbling. "I'm coming!" the male voice grumped from being woken up so late at night. Lights began to turn on, locks came undone and the door opened to reveal a moderately in height elf eared man with small stone scales along his jawline. "Can I help you?" he snapped roughly.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAPhZDHXBl1i
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"It's nice to see you too but that can wait." He gently moved and had Sophia come forwards. "She's in labor and we need a doctor. Since you're the best I know I thought you could help."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAdtCQIchDkx
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The doctor took a look at Sophia then nodded as he took her hands and lead her inside with Nate following behind. "You better be glad I have two offices." He pointed out as he lead Sophia into another room that was curtained off.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAZIcwdvBiNZ
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"You have no idea how grateful I am for this Miles."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAnKKrzOhV3T
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Miles grunted at Nate as he left the room to go into the wash room to get ready. "How are you paying?" he called out as he changed and got cleaned up. He hit a button with his foot which silently alerted his head nurse who lived next door connected to his place.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAA8Uy45dB5Y
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"I'll use coins tonight. I don't have my card on me."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAYMDJfoLafy
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"Good," he came out and pointed to the room for the woman who entered via the swinging door. She nodded and went to get started with being prepared with Sophia. Miles began to head that way to but stopped just outside the curtain. "Stay put so we don't have to pick you off the floor again." Nate nodded and Miles vanished behind the curtain after the nurse held it back for him. Nate walked over and sat on the sofa while putting his face into his hands. He slid his hands back so his fingers slipped into his hair as he leaned back into the sofa, leaving his hands to rest for some moments atop his head and closed his eyes.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAVbg06jF7rP
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Now...how should I go about the next step? I'm sure he'd leave it blank or have another make a certificate out in Flora for us. That would help protect them both for the future, at least... he opened his eyes to gaze at the ceiling. For a time.1829Please respect copyright.PENANA36hVkl0IJj
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A few hours passed by slowly and it was the sound of an infant crying that woke Nate in the early morning hours from his slumber. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes as he groaned then stretched before releasing a heavy breath while letting his arms fall. He stood and moved towards the curtained off area as Miles came out. "Well?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAiJ4m91t3NL
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Miles looked to him and smiled. "Both are doing fine and you have a healthy baby girl." He began to get his messy outfit and gloves off while walking away to the wash room. "I will prepare the certificate once you both have decided on a name."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAfObkp6jxa5
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"Hey, about the certificate..." Nate approached the doorway of the washroom. "Can you have someone in Flora prepare it for us when we arrive?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAdfMu5Bn27Y
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"Why? I've never messed up any paperwork yet."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAY2tGgyuZi4
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"Well..." he sighed and continued with a softer voice. "I have my reasons for not wanting there to be record of Sophia birthing our child on Natta."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAy5xfvxSYKU
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Miles finished up and turned to face Nate and took in his concerned face. "...I don't blame you but I'm wondering how much of this is sense and how much of it is that alcohol you smell of."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAlXkeG0SAbw
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"It's not the whiskey, trust me. I don't want the Emperor knowing my wife had our child here." Softly he crossed his arms so the opposing hand held onto his upper arms. "You know how he is towards humans so just imagine him towards a half demon."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAZU4sGCjAv4
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There was silence but eventually Miles relinquished. "Alright, I'll call a friend and tell him when you'll be on your way. You can discuss with him about the information you want on it." He shook his head with his eyes closed before reopening them. "But if anyone comes knocking then I'm not taking any fall for you, got it?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAbpiz9mhXE1
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"I know, thank you." He looked towards the curtain. "Is it okay if I go back and see her?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAlidvGMsW2U
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"Yes, you may and Sophia will be fine to travel after a bit of rest."1829Please respect copyright.PENANALO9SwxDymL
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Nate made his way behind the curtain and smiled when he laid eyes on Sophia holding their new daughter all wrapped up in a cute pink blanket. Quietly he approached and sat on the edge of the bed. "She's beautiful." He whispered kindly as Sophia nodded.1829Please respect copyright.PENANALmIFEFmzlD
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"Isn't she?" she turned her head towards him. "What should we call her?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANA9Q0fKfB316
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"Hmm..." he stared at the infant with thought over possible names as the baby slept peacefully. "What about Tina?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAwzlRCWAeKZ
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Sophia scrunched up her nose as she shook her head. "No, I've heard that name too many times. Um, what about Beth?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAMn9Eesrm0P
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Nate shook his head. "Nah, doesn't feel right for her." He pondered over other names as the baby yawned wide with an adorable sound. She opened her wide big eyes to stare at Nate with confusion before looking to Sophia, then looked around the room curiously. "What about Alura?" he suggested after meeting her brown-blue eyes for that brief moment.1829Please respect copyright.PENANApSLchjZxiW
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"Alura..." Sophia repeated softly as she took it in. She nodded after giving it some thought. "I think that's a beautiful name. How about Nyht for her middle name?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAJwuONkf1Jk
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"I think that fits and is lovely. So her name is Alura Nyht Syta."1829Please respect copyright.PENANA7qJio559yY
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"Alura Nyht Syta it is then." Sophia finalized as she leaned against Nate's chest. "I love you but I would have liked some support."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAQGtEZhHKu7
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Nate lightly gulped. "You see, I get queasy when it comes to blood due to military past things and stuff."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAqgkyw6qltQ
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"Alright but I'm not fully buying that. You just didn't want to put up with me possibly squeezing the life out of your hand."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAxlFszGFFQL
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"Maybe~" he grinned and kissed her lips. "Just be happy it wasn't more. Imagine what pain there had been if there were two." He chuckled.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAIfplBVKVBg
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Sophia slightly glared at him at that joke then slowly smirked. "Oh yes, it would have been horrible. I would have had to make sure to have a sage with us so you could experience it with me." She giggled, "just for...bonding purposes...to make our family stronger~" she had a cute devious look on her face.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAh0xVP75z7O
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Nate gulped and shifted uncomfortably. "Um on second thought, I take back that joke." Sophia giggled at this and lifted Alura up to him. Gently he took her and cradled her close. "Hey there sweetie. You're so beautiful like your mother." Alura stared at him with fascination before wiggling her arms free and reaching up while flexing her fingers in a grabbing motion. He brought his face down and let her feel it as well as his hair. He jumped a little as one of her little hands took hold of his hair and gave it a strong yank. Alura giggled happily and began to clap after letting him raise his head back above her, rubbing the side of his head while Sophia took Alura back into her arms. "Ow, she's got a strong grip for a little thing."1829Please respect copyright.PENANAfNwJLyQwAX
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"Maybe that will teach you to watch the jokes." Sophia teased as she tickled Alura under the chin, causing the little girl to burst into laugher. "The nurse said we can go once I've rested up enough." Nate nodded and leaned over so his head softly rested on hers. "Will we take an airship back or are you going to give us a direct flight?"1829Please respect copyright.PENANAvTOiEqz2tx
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Nate was quiet as he pondered these options over. "We will use an airship that way she doesn't get chilled by the rushing wind during flight." Sophia nodded and played with Alura using her fingers, lightly laughing as the little girl grabbed and examined her longer extensions.1829Please respect copyright.PENANAIL47OxOqFz
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An hour and a half to nearly two hours later, they were released. It was just barely dawn as they stepped out. Sophia was dressed in comfortable pants, sweater, and comfortable shoes. Nate carried the bag which carried her evening wear. They were surprised to find their escort had waited on them but was glad. "To the western airship docks." Nate requested and the driver complied, making his way to the city limits and out. At the docks the new family stepped out, paid him with a 'thank you' and went to see if any ships were running. They had gotten lucky, as Nate was hoping they could ride without a bunch of others on board, and after paying the captain, they boarded. Within minutes the airship took off and made its way towards the floating island named Flora.1829Please respect copyright.PENANA8gVoS2klxT