[User]
According to the maps John had, this town had to be knew, built on the ruins of an old pre-rift community, because it wasn't listed on his map. Still, he wasn't going to let the chance of a rest pass up, so he made his way to the guards manning the gate. Like most enclaves, gaining access wasn't all that hard, so once he was inside, he was moving towards the Inn, which doubled as a brothel in these parts. John was just a drifter these days. He used to be a scout for a militia unit to the north serving one of the local warlords, but they'd recently been ambushed, and he'd been lucky to escape as most of his group had been slaughtered along with several border communities. The orcs had grown active over the past year, and they seemed to be spreading south. In fact, was pretty sure a few days from now they'd be here, and this village would suffer greatly as the others did.

It had happened some thirty or more years ago, then the world went to shit. The bombs fell and people died, but the worse, was the rifts. He didn't get it, he had no idea how or why, all he knew was that through those rifts came the orcs. Most of the world governments were knocked out by the bombs so there was very little organized resistance against these invaders. They killed and they enslaved. The rifts, at least most of them were gone now but the orcs remained. They rules large swaths of territory all over the world. Nowhere had been immune to their coming... and the devastation that followed them.

He hadn't slept in a real bed for at least two weeks, so he was looking forward to a good night sleep, before he left again first thing in the morning. His 6' frame entered the dark room, which was lit by a few lanterns and several candles set on the tables spread about the common room. He stood and he let his eyes adjust for a moment before he moved to a table near the back, and he dropped his rucksack to the floor before he settled down in a chair with a sigh of relief... he ran a hand through his short, messy hair as his brown eyes took in the room's other occupants. He had several days growth along his chin, square jaw and upper lip. He pulled a few of the barter coins used by the locals in these parts as money and he hoped it was enough to cover a room, drinks and food...

Most people avoided people like him, as they often meant trouble, but John wasn't in the market for that these days. He wanted to head southwest, as far away from the orcs as he could. He was a big man with an athletic build, and he carried several weapons which he didn't even try to hide. It had been several minutes since he'd taken a seat and still, no one had stopped to see if he wanted anything. He saw one particular good-looking girl walk passed his table a few times but she never stopped. "Hey... can I get a beer?" He called out to her finally, as he grew tired of waiting.

[Assistant]
The current state of the world was the only way Amelia had ever known. War torn and ravaged, crawling with orcs. She had learned from a young age to avoid them, having seen them nearly wipe out entire settlements of her kind, humankind. So often had they moved around when she was young, that Amelia stopped bothering to learn town or settlement names. Either they only stay long enough to rest their weary bones, or it'd be destroyed before she could form an attachment.

She was ten when her father was killed, Amelia having the unfortunate memory of seeing him be broken and ripped apart by an invading pack of orcs before her grieving mother grabbed her and escaped. When they weren't running or traveling, her mother was teaching her as much as her brain could hold. Reading, writing, math---Amelia's mother drilled it all into her head, claiming that (even though the world was a shadow of what it once was) Amelia would get no where in her life if she couldn't do these basic things. Of course, other skills were taught as well; ones necessary for survival.

Amelia's mother fell gravely ill when she was only sixteen, and that put an end to their wandering. Her mother could no longer run, and needed near constant care. The teenager had been able to secure a job at a small makeshift inn, and was able to keep a roof over their heads and food in their bellies by tidying rooms, helping feed and serve guests, etc. The sickness only took a few short months to claim her mother's life, leaving Amelia alone before she saw her seventeenth birthday. She buried her mother, and left that settlement; unable to face the looks of pity on everyone who knew her situation. Now Amelia was twenty-four, and had been living at the same settlement for several months. She had grown tired of constantly moving, never having roots, or friends, or romances. Being a nomad had gotten incredibly lonely. So here she was, working in a brothel as a waitress. This settlement had grown exponentially since she first decided to stay, and she had been living here comfortably. Amelia had even grown fond of the Madame who owned and ran the brothel.

Tonight had been a particularly busy one, many travelers stopping for a meal and warm place to sleep, several partaking in the comforts the prostitutes could offer. All night she had been running between tables and the bar, deftly navigating the dimly lit room. She honestly hadn't noticed the man sitting at the shadowed table until he called out. Amelia nodded at his request, hustling to the bar and pouring him a beer from the keg behind it. She brought it back to his table and set it down, wiping her hands on her shabby dress. "It's one coin for the beer," she told him. "The cook has a meat and vegetable stew hot and ready, with some day old bread, if you'd like, for two more coins."

[User]
John was a big man, and he was dressed in green combat pants with a light tan colored long sleeve T-shirt. His pack was on the ground and a combat jacket was strapped to the side, along with a number of weapons and other survival gear... he was leaning back in his seat, fingers drumming impatiently on the table as he scanned the other occupants. It was sad knowing most of these folks would be dead in a few days...

It was always a tough decision to just leave and keep moving, but he wasn't some savior; he was just one man trying to stay ahead of the horde. He often left a note explaining the dire danger they were in just prior to heading out, so he could beat out the potential refugees. He ran a hand through his hair as he watched the waitress move to get him that beer... he sighed deeply as he moved his hand to rub at the back of his neck... he never felt quite comfortable in crowded rooms, unless it was a military establishment, which this was most certainly not.

He offered the girl a half-hearted smile when she set the beer in front of him. His eyes took her in and he found her to be very attractive, and his smile seemed to soften... he dug into his pocket and he pulled out some coins... he set one down for the beer, then at the mention of food he set two more down... "Sounds good... I'd like that..." he said as he pushed the coins in her direction... "How much for you to sit with me while I eat...?" He asked with a smile... he hadn't been with a woman for what seemed like an eternity and her proximity to him was rather thrilling as his eyes undressed her...

[Assistant]
Amelia was admittedly a beautiful woman---not that she was aware of it. Her appearance had never been incredibly high on her priority list. Usually she just tried to make sure her hair wasn't a curly or wavy mess, and that her face was clean. She often wore hand-me-down and ill-fitting clothes, because showcasing her curves wasn't on her mind. As it was, the dress she wore was too loose around her torso and stopped right around her knees.

At the traveler's offer, Amelia smirked. She leaned forward, pressing her hands against the table in front of him. Some of her curls spilled over her shoulder and the candle light made her eyes look like molten honey. "You couldn't afford me," she teased quietly, knowing full well she was not one of the whores, and therefore had no price. If she chose to give a man her company, that would be her choice. She scooped up his coins and stood straight again, slipping them into a small leather pouch at her hip. "I'll be back with your dinner."

Deciding to be cheeky, Amelia let her hips sway as she walked away from his table, getting a rush of pleasure at knowing she'd left him wanting. She made her way into the kitchen, loading a bowl with the steaming hot stew, and slicing him a couple extra thick pieces of the cook's bread. She got him a clean spoon and a couple cloth napkins before making her way back to his table. Amelia bent slightly to set his meal in front of him, then stood and placed a hand on her hip. "Anything else I can get you?" she asked with a friendly smile.

[User]
To John, Amelia was stunning. She had an absolutely beautiful face and to him, that's where beauty began, not only in the features themselves, but the kindness and personality that was to be found in the eyes and in the way she smiled. The rest fell into place, and he could visualize her without the dress... when she leaned in close, and she spoke to him he chuckled in amusement before he leaned back... he was still grinning at her reply as she took his money and she walked away...

He watched her, seeing the extra sway in her hips, which he saw as a flirtatious act. She had indeed left him wanting as his eyes studied her legs until she was out of sight... he pulled a map out then and he looked it over, pulling the candle closer to better illuminate it. He needed to pick the next leg of his journey... he could see the obvious roads, so he nixed them, knowing the orcs always trod the path of least resistance, so he looked northwest, seeing the large gully... there was a note saying there was a rope bridge there...

When the door to the kitchen opened again, he looked over and he watched her approaching his table and he grinned... the way she bent over the table again revealing plenty of creamy cleavage, or at least to him it was plenty... he looked at the map for a second then back at her... he pushed the plate aside and he showed her map and the gully... "The map says there's a rope bridge here, about two miles north of town... any idea if it's still there?" He asked her curiously...

[Assistant]
The woman was unaware of how much of a show she was giving the man. Yes, she had intended to flirt and tease, but she didn't realize how much of her breasts were exposed every time she leaned down. So, she leaned over to look at his map, her loose neckline showed off a lot of creamy, white skin. Her finger traced over the map where he was showing her, her mind conjuring up mental images of the area. "It is there, but I can't guarantee that it's still sturdy enough for travel," she told him. Amelia shifted a little closer, trying to see the map better.

She studied the map closely, the side of her breast just barely touching his arm through the thin bodice of her dress. Her finger slipped over to a different area, to the right of the gully. "But, if you go here---" she tapped lightly at the map, "---there's a forest. The gully extends into it some, but there is a small, rugged path that goes through the trees and around. If you're trying to avoid main roads."

[User]
John watched her as she glanced at the map once it had been set down. He was curious to know if she knew the area at all, but when she leaned over the map those thoughts escaped him as his eyes gazed at that lovely cleavage. He found himself getting rather heated and he was glad he was sitting down, as the table concealed his arousal.

Even after she'd replied his eyes lingered on her breasts until he finally leaned back and he shifted his gaze to her eyes, grinning in amusement as she'd shifted closer. He could smell her feminine scent. It had been a while since he'd been this close to a woman, and all this was getting him rather excited. Finally, his eyes looked at the map and he followed where her fingers were tracing. He pulled a piece of pencil, some two inches of it left and sharpened by a pocketknife most likely and he lightly traced the indicated path... but he still circled the bridge in case...

He looked at her eyes again and after a moment he nodded... "Mighty kind of you to share that info... now seriously, how much to have you keep me company...?" He asked her with a playful grin, though the look in his eyes meant he was being serious...

[Assistant]
Amelia was aware of his stare, even if she wasn't aware of how much of a show she was giving. His gaze was like heat on her skin, and it made her feel warm all over. Stepping back and righting herself, she gave the man a look. He was determined to buy her for the evening, it seemed. No matter how curious she felt about him, she was not a common whore, she was a waitress. Amelia popped her hip out and placed her hand on it, giving him an amused but stern look. "I'm sorry to inform you that I can't be bought," she said. "I'm a waitress, not a bed warmer." She nodded down at his meal. "Enjoy the stew, and... you're welcome, for the info."

The young woman turned away, ready to go check on her other customers, when commotion outside made her pause. At first she couldn't hear, but as it got louder and closer, the entire bar room went silent, and then the noise was identifiable--an attack. There was screaming, both men's and women's voices crying out in fear, warning, and---in some cases---agony. Amelia's heart felt like it had turned to lead in her chest. Despite the fear that soured her stomach, she found herself frozen to her spot, unable to move.

This is why her mother had never let them get comfortable. No where was safe. The Orcs could attack at any time, for no reason other than their insatiable blood lust. Now she understood, fully, the mistake she had made by deciding to stop running and settle down here. What had she been thinking? Was the prospect of finding someone to love greater than staying alive? Apparently, she had decided it was, because she could hear the end of her life approaching.

[User]
"I don't have to pay you, you know, if your reputation is what you're worried about... you could just hang out with me because you're bored" John called as she started to walk away. He took the spoon, and he took a bite, closing his eyes as he tasted the flavors... he sighed in contentment, as he hadn't had food this good in a long time... of course, as the clatter and commotion started to be heard he realized he wasn't going to get to enjoy this meal either... "You gotta be fucking kidding me..." he muttered to himself...

He knew what was happening as he heard the screams of pain and agony in the distance. Sounds traveled faster at night, so he guessed they had a few minutes. He slung his rucksack over his shoulders, and he quickly pocketed the map before he grabbed the bowl of stew with both hands and he brought it to his lips, downing as much as he could as fast as he could before he tossed the vessel aside and he made for the back door, but he paused then as he looked at the girl... _This is a bad idea..._ He thought to himself... suddenly there came a flash outside in the distance as a building went up in flames... the Orcs loved burning buildings down, especially with people still in them...

"Fuck!" He yelled to himself as he moved quickly and he grabbed her by the wrist... "Shit woman, move... come with me if you want to live" he said simply as he pulled her towards the back door, which a well-placed size 13 combat boot quickly turned to a splintered mess... he still held onto her wrist with a firm grip, but if she started to struggle, he would let her go...

[Assistant]
*Tha-thump, tha-thump, tha-thump* Amelia felt her heart beating like it was trying to escape from her chest. Her feet felt frozen to the floor from her fear, and there was a certainty in her mind that she would die tonight. Lessons and warnings from her mother bounced around her skull, crushing any amount of hope that tried to surface. Orcs we're large, brutal, and sadistic. They didn't leave survivors if they could help it. Killing seemed to be both a sport and form of sexual release for the beasts.

Her heart stopped momentarily as she felt the hand on her wrist, and Amelia turned wide, fearful eyes on the stranger she'd chatted with moments ago. She understood what he was saying, understood that she would die if she didn't listen, but her feet didn't seem to get the message. Hazel eyes were filled with terror, and her full lips parted in wordless distress. A loud bang from somewhere outside caused the woman to jump, and suddenly she was in motion.

Amelia was tugged along like a rag doll, tripping over her feet as he led her through the kitchen to the back door. Her entire body flinched as he broke down the door, and she followed him out into the night. The inn was thankfully towards one edge of the settlement, and she only chanced a glance back as they both raced away from the carnage behind them. Oh, how she wished she hadn't looked back. Buildings were burning high into the air, and was used to be a street of sorts now was darkened with the blood of the people who used to live there. It made her stomach churn sickly.

She shouldn't have looked back, she should have kept her eyes forward. That sight... it wasn't something she'd ever be able to forget. If she had never looked back, Amelia wouldn't have tripped on an uneven section of earth, causing her to be pitched forward toward the ground, and pulling her wrist from the grip of her savior.

[User]
John was glad the woman seemed to have some sense as she started to move, and together they rushed through first the kitchen, then out into the night. Instantly the smell of burning wood and other things caught his nose and he only wrinkled it as he headed between a couple buildings towards the small fields and gardens behind them. He could hear a mix of orc battle cry and the anguish and suffering of their victims.

_We're gonna make it..._ He thought to himself before her wrist was wrenched form his grip and he almost pulled a muscle stopping as fast as he could to see what had happened. "Goddamn it..." He called out loud as he moved to her side, and he grabbed an upper arm, and he almost effortlessly pulled her to her feet... "Run damn it!" he yelled at her just as a very large orc charged towards them...

He stood taller than John by several inches and drool flung from his open maw as she looked at John and the woman, charging with a rather large and menacing club held high in the air... clearly the orc assumed John was just another weak villager, so there was a moment of surprise when he watched John pulled a sawed-off shotgun slung at the side of his rucksack and he pumped it quickly...

"Ugly mother..." John said as he pulled the trigger... the orc was hit square in the chest, and he was thrown back several feet and he landed with a large thud, unmoving... of course, the loud bang was likely to draw attention... he pumped the shotgun's action again before he turned, and he ran making sure the girl was close by... "Head for the rope bridge!" he called to her...

[Assistant]
Seeing him stop, then come running back for her seemed like fiction, even though she witnessed it with her own eyes. It baffled her that he hadn't saved himself, instead doubling back to help a stranger he'd barely met. That was how people got killed. Amelia had lost many a friend over the years, in similar situations. It was drilled into her brain from as early as she could remember: if you're running from an attack, don't ever look back. Looking back only slowed you down, and left you prone to decisions that could cost your life. _I hope I don't get him killed,_ she thought. She would hate to be the reason someone else died.

As he yanked her to her feet, pain exploded in her shoulder. She didn't think it was dislocated, but the jarring action had certainly hurt, and---if they survived the night---it likely would for the next few days. Her heart dropped to somewhere around her toes as she saw the big, ugly orc charging at them. For a moment, she'd actually thought they'd live.

With her attention off the stranger, she didn't see him pull out the shotgun. The blast caused her to flinch, and left a ringing in her ears. She turned back to him to see him take off, and barely heard his command over the ringing and the sounds of carnage behind them. Amelia didn't have to be told twice, and followed him as fast as her feet could carry her. Her shoulder hurt so bad she could have cried, but her need to survive kept her going forward instead of crumbling to her pain. She cradled her arm to her chest as she ran to keep from jostling the joint so much.

When they reached the bridge, she faltered. It was so old, and looked so dangerous. If it broke with them on it, they'd be dead. Then again, if the orcs caught up to them, they'd be dead anyway. Amelia would rather fall to her death than be ripped apart by savage beasts. Mustering up all her courage, and using both hands to help her balance, she followed him onto the rickety bridge. One consoling note was, if they managed to get across, the old rope would never support the weight of an orc.

[User]
John made certain the woman remained in front of her and he made certain to offer her 'encouraging and motivating' words, which usually took the form of some very colorful language and yelling. He could see she was favoring one of her arms, but there was nothing for it now, they needed to press on until they were at the very least on the other side of the chasm.

When they reached the spanning rope bridge John saw her hesitation and he knew very well as she did, if they didn't cross, they were likely going to get killed. The position here was untenable, so to show her it would hold (as he hoped) he took off across the bridge. He slipped the shotgun securely into his belt before he moved briskly to cross. He never looked back as he crossed, and before very long he felt the bridge moving under her weight.

He could hear some howls and cries of anger way back and he knew the orcs were fast on their tails. Once he reached the other side, he pulled out a weapon of his own creation. It was a handle with an old 10-inch circular saw blade affixed and sharped to a razor's edge. "Hurry up, run!!!" He called to her, urging her on to greater speeds... already two orcs were starting to scramble on the bridge, but he was ready to cut the ropes as soon as she was off the bridge.


[User]
A soft sound of relief left her as praises were cooed in her ear. Nadia barely moved as she was gently coaxed back to her shoulder. Around her fingers, her pussy continued to spasm and clench as she came down from the powerful high. The soft caresses helped ground her, allowing her to come back to her senses at her own pace. Soft whimpers continued to leave her as she twitched in her arms. A few minutes were needed for her to fully return to her world.

"I'm okay," she said. The hand that had remained around her wrist slowly pulled her out from beneath her pants. Her breaths shuttered with the emptiness left behind. She brought her hand to her mouth, tasting herself on her fingers. Honeyed eyes watched her as she licked her fingers clean. "Do you have any more work for me today, Doctor Whitefall?" Her name was breathy on her lips. There was so much more to her mentor than she could have ever imagined. All of her fantasies had been so wonderfully wrong...

Nadia sat up, arching and stretching her back before she pulled her bra back on and quickly shirked on her shirt. She hopped down from the counter, still visibly gathering herself after the euphoric experience. She ran her fingers through her messy hair and looked at the spot where she'd been sitting. Her pants were soaked, and she had a long drive back to her apartment. "I can clean up if you'd like." The counter would have to be disinfected to ensure there wasn't any contamination there, and she also simply enjoyed the process of making sure her lab was spotless.

[Assistant]
Nadia's recovery was adorable. Distant aftershocks of her first proper orgasm still shook her for minutes after the initial release. She then began to slowly remove the fingers from within herself. It was sooner than Selena would have done so, but if Nadia believed herself ready, who was she to object?

"No more work, no. As I said, tomorrow we can get started properly after collecting the rest of the equipment and samples that we need." She stepped back, still stark naked as Nadia left the counter and recollected her clothes. "I normally take to cleaning up as, in a way, it's me that makes the mess." Reaching up and into a cabinet, she grabbed a bottle of disinfecting spray and a few small towels. "Also, my partners are usually left incapable of standing, let alone much else." She'd returned to being Selena Whitefall proper in both tone and stance, but allowed some mischief back into her voice as she alluded to how she normally left those she played with. "However, I do keep referring to you as my partner, so if you're willing, it makes all the sense that we share in this responsibility." She handed Nadia one of the towels and began spraying down the table.

"I know today has been something of a whirlwind, and that's largely... entirely my fault..." Selena's voice left her for a moment as she dropped the towel into a hamper. "I won't lie, I planned to do that. All of it and more. However my plan also included waiting. Waiting for you to become more comfortable in this place, and with me. Something about you Ms. Anika broke through the resolve I've spent most of my life curating." She nearly went to sit on a counter, but as she was still naked and they'd just cleaned everything, she caught herself. "And it's because of that, that I now say this. There is no more work to be done today, but there is one more experiment I'd like to conduct." With that, she simply gestured toward the bedroom doors. "Your apartment is far, and it's getting late. I have my senses about me, so if you wish to go home I won't stop you. I would ask that you at least let me call you a cab tonight." Selena stepped past Nadia towards the bedroom as she'd planned to use it all along. "That said, both my mind and body wish to spend the night with you Ms. Anika."

[User]
Nadia wasn't sure if she was relieved or disappointed to find that there wasn't any more work to be done. She tied back her hair into a loose bun before retucking her shirt. Her movements slowed upon hearing her mentor normally left her partners in such a state that they couldn't so much as stand. She decided she was simply teasing her. Whitefall was experienced, but she couldn't be that experienced. If she was, she'd likely come to discover the truth during her time beneath Whitefall's employment. "I don't mind." She took the towel and quickly wiped down the counter she'd sat on. She made sure to make sure everything was properly cleaned, including the wall before she dropped it in the hamper.

_Yes, it's absolutely your fault,_ she thought. Loosely, her arms crossed over her chest and she kept her gaze carefully directed toward her face. Her lips pursed upon hearing that she'd planned it all along. Though, perhaps she'd been a touch hasty in enacting her plan---something she'd completely failed to do. Her brow lifted, not entirely believing the story that she'd been the one to break the might Dr. Whitefall, but she didn't openly challenge her. Nadia remained where she stood despite the gesture for her to follow.

"Is that to say you didn't have your senses about you earlier?" She tilted her head, ignoring the stray strand of raven hair that fell out from her bun to shroud her left eye. "I'm perfectly capable, Dr. Whitefall." She took in a deep breath and ran her hands over her shirt to brush off invisible dirt. "It's only an hour." A very long, boring hour. "I appreciate the invitation, but I have plants to water at home, and I don't have any clothes here. I'll bring a bag tomorrow on the off chance that I need the room." Or a change of clothes simply so that she could continue working should something like this happen again. "Goodnight, Dr. Whitefall." She looked over her mentor, who remained bare. The honey of her gaze lingered on her cock before she turned. "I'll see you at eight tomorrow morning." The door shut firmly behind her. She knew she'd be susceptible to being talked into staying, so her exit was swift.

Nadia was exhausted. The day had been long and filled with surprises she hadn't been the least bit prepared for her, but she was glad to be home. She hadn't lied when she'd mentioned her plants. In her one-bedroom, one-bath apartment situated in a dingy part of town, she'd decorated her home with plants and simple furniture. She didn't need much to live, but the greenery made the bland prison walls of her apartment feel less suffocating. A long bath in her too-cramped bathtub eased some of the complicated feelings that had plagued her throughout her car ride. She wasn't sure what to do with her new working situation. The opportunity was too good to miss, but she was worried that her time would be wasted. By the time she got out, and made herself a pathetic dinner consisting of instant ramen and a boiled egg, she'd decided she would return back to work.

As per usual, Nadia was a half hour early. Her clothes were far more casual, but she'd obviously put some effort into her appearance. Her black sweatpants along her waist and a white shirt clung to her unbound cleavage. She entered the bedroom and placed her duffel bag on the floor in front of the bed that she claimed as hers. "The equipment is waiting for us downstairs," she said, switching on the lights and disturbing her mentor if she'd decided to sleep in. If not, she'd go to wherever Whitefall was busying herself. "And the samples should be here within an hour or two. They're still in transit."

[Assistant]
Selena let Nadia go without contest. Of course the part of her that was still horny from everything that had happened wanted to make any case to keep the young woman around, but her better judgment said otherwise. She also knew that a night spent alone, after the past events would feel different now. Selena knew that some small part of Nadia was now wondering what it would be like to share that bed.

When the door closed behind Nadia, Selena went over to her discarded clothes. She'd been undressed early enough in the foray that they were still wearable. Leaving her lab coat behind, she left the lab and building to go to a nearby diner. Ordering a sandwich and a coffee, she was content to sit, rest, and decompress. The day had been productive. The lab was largely ready for use, and with the rest of everything arriving tomorrow she and Nadia could actually get some work done. As well, she'd confirmed that she could win Nadia over with time. She was confident she could have her young partner eating out of her hand by the end of the next day, but there was something amusing about her. Nadia seemed to have a duality within her. She wielded a fierce independence, likely the result of being a young, immigrant woman, in America no less. It truly did remind Selena of herself in her twenties. She may have been born and raised here, but she still had to fight tooth and nail to have her name be heard, let alone remembered. At the same time though, a part of Nadia appeared to love being commanded and controlled. Selena could make her into an adorable, submissive puppet within a day, but it would require breaking a part of her. No, what Selena wanted was a proper partner in Nadia. She'd meant what she said. She wanted Nadia to become another her. To carry on her legacy while her own in the years to come. That would require patience.

"I said patience." She commanded herself. As if understanding that it may be some time before she'd have sex with Nadia, Selena's semi-hard cock twitched between her legs. She finished her food, which was surprisingly good, left a generous tip, and returned to the lab.

"Yes I saw. We'll go down and get them soon." Selena called from around a corner with a towel wrapped around herself. Technically the on-site shower was meant for events such as chemical spills, but she didn't care. She quickly dressed casually, similar to Nadia with a pair of jeans and long tee beneath her coat. The interviews were over, and appearances no longer needed to be made. The lab was private, so Selena was going to be comfortable. "Shall we?" Gesturing to the door, Selena headed out to collect the rest of her equipment. If not for the fact she'd been shamelessly nude a minute ago, this could've been mistaken for a purely professional relationship. There was no hint of recognition for past nights events.

[User]
An unexpected sight greeted her upon leaving the bedroom. She turned around, forbidding herself the opportunity to toggle over her mentor. "I'll be at my desk." She sat down and rearranged the table so it faced toward the lab with her back to the wall. Whitefall was ready before she could make any real progress in setting up her laptop. She stood, eyeing her attire and subtly any sign of her bulge. Nadia followed behind her mentor with a vague feeling of confusion. Had she done something wrong? She'd readied herself to be pounced on the moment she walked into the lab, and yet she found her mentor to be rather indifferent toward her.

Soon enough, she was too busy dragging heavy equipment through the lab. She set things where she determined to be the best place for them amongst the small workstations she'd made the previous day. A light sweat glistened along her brow, but she made no complaint. She stood outside the lab, taking a moment to drink from her water bottle and check her phone for any important emails. There were a few that piqued her interest---job offers, a random news article, people practically begging her to do research for them.

"What are we doing today," she asked after walking back into the lab. She didn't bother with a lab coat. There was no reason for one until they were working with something that could potentially spill or harm her. She tied back her hair, making sure every strand was meticulously held in a tight bun. "I read over your notes last night." She sat down on one of the stools near the work tables. "Maybe we can start making a protocol for your new formula." Doing so would keep them (or her) rather busy as there was lots to do for protocols. Media needed to be made. Measurements had to be checked. Most of all, they would have to wait around for things to finish processing or brewing. They'd be there late into the night from what Nadia had read from Whitefall's outline.

[Assistant]
Getting things to the lab was easy. The moving company provided carts for the heavier items. However, the sensitive nature of the lab itself forbade the outside workers from entering. Moving the last pieces of gear onto tables and counters was more of a workout for the two women than Selena had expected. Around the time that was done, they received a notification that their other shipments were arriving. It was fortunate that everything could be done and organized in one fell swoop, but it was annoyingly more of the same. Getting to the lab was simple, but once on the other side of their door, the woman had the arduous, repetitive task of moving small boxes only a few at a time to various places. It would have been a nightmare if not for the previous days efforts.

"Oh did you? Anything catch your eye?" Claiming to have 'read Selena's notes' was an ambiguous statement as there were lots of them. Even just regarding her recent work there was a significant catalog. "That sounds like as good a start as any." Selena agreed with a nod and brought up plans she'd drafted on her laptop.

"How are your plants?" While re-grabbing some of the samples that had just been put away, Selena regarded Nadia who had also taken a project on for herself. "Oh thank god." Peering over Nadia's shoulder at the labels she was making, Selena noted the date writing scheme she was using. "It drives me insane when people write month /day /year. Clearly something you learned before coming here."

[User]
"Just your most recent work. I got through one of your notebooks." There was a hoard of work for her to go through, but Nadia was determined to memorize them all. She planned to work for Whitefall for at least a few years, and she wanted to be well acquainted with her process. "You had a few notes on the slag that I looked over." The details were a bit blurry as she'd fallen asleep while studying them. And her thoughts had drifted to things other than research... particularly one rather delicious thing.

"My plants?" A confused look was passed over to her mentor before realization struck her. "Oh! They're fine. My Monstera hasn't been doing too great, but I think she'll be alright. I moved her out onto my patio. Hopefully, some sunshine will do her some good." She'd gotten a stack of plates, already beginning to label them with a sharpy. Whitefall's notebook was in front of her with the outline of her experiment when a comment had her pausing. "That's how you wrote down the dates in your notes," she said. Nadia had long since picked up on different researchers' peeves. One of the most common was how people labeled their plates.

A stack of forty was quickly finished. She set her sites on making the agar that would be needed to be mixed with some of the slag in order to grow E. Coli. The experiment was to see what genes the different types of slag would alter, if any. It was simple enough. Nadia was confident she wouldn't need any guidance while she worked, but the process would lead to her needing to be in the lab for 24 hours to check on her time points. Nadia went about making media. Before pouring it into the plates, she put four different jars of slag into each container for it to mix in with the agar. She made a note in her own notebook of the dilutions she was using before she began to innoculate each plate.

"They're all inoculated. I'll check after 3, 6, 12, and 24 hours and count the plates." The process had taken her two hours as she'd had to wait a considerable time for the media to finish. "So I'll be done by ten tomorrow." It wasn't horrible. She could go home at a semi-reasonable hour and return to the lab, or she could stay in the spare bedroom. "Do you need any help with what you're working on?"

[Assistant]
From behind her computer, Selena just watched Nadia work for a minute. There were dozens of new emails even since yesterday, and she was ignoring them. None needed to be responded to, she'd guaranteed that she would be left alone here. Of course that didn't stop those above her from attempting to gain information on her work anyway. Nadia, on the other hand, was the opposite of annoying. Her movements nearly hypnotized the doctor with their efficiency and precision. Even if she were a true professional who didn't factor in physical attraction, she'd have hired Nadia on the spot after seeing her work ethic.

"Monstera? As in Deliciosa? One of my roommates in college had one. It's a more tropical plant isn't it? Can't imagine it's native to anywhere in Europe, mind if I ask why you opted for it?" The small talk, while genuine, was mostly a veil to keep Nadia thinking about something while Selena ogled her. She of course, wasn't a true professional. She did have every intention of performing world-altering work here, but what was the harm in having a little fun at the same time.

Tired of only being able to see Nadia from over a screen, Selena finally closed the laptop and made her way to one of the cooled cabinets. From within she retrieved a few more jars of various slags. She'd managed to find several who's chemical makeups were similar to the compounds that had been refined out of others. Her latest pet project would be re-introducing the different slags with each other in an attempt to reverse engineer two byproducts back into one of the original materials. It was a long shot, as other chemical reactions occurred during the various refinement processes, but then so had been her past work, and look at how that turned out. If she could find a way to make disposing of slags easier and increase the efficiency and output for even one of these materials, then she'd consider it a success.

"If you want to, I won't turn down an extra pair of hands." Done with one pairing, Selena activated the machine to combine them and returned the original jars to the cooler. "Grab a pair of jars and make a few samples to combine them as directed." Each pair had different instructions relating to the initial way the slags had been created in the first place. "Ignore the clear one with purple hues. I'm having trouble getting what I think is a suitable partner for it. A shame as it's the one I'm most interested by."

[User]
"Monstera dubia," she lightly corrected. Deliciosa was the more common plant that people bought, so she didn't fault her for her assumption. "A colleague gave it to me as a gift." She left out the part where he'd tied a note to it asking her to go on a date with him. "She came from my last job working for the university nearby." It had been a horribly boring job that had only lasted for a short time. The professors hadn't been engaging enough, and the work they gave her was horribly dull. She didn't mind having to work her way up to doing actually research, but she hadn't seen a future working for professors who should have retired thirty years ago.

She peeled off her gloves, disposed of them, and pulled on a new pair. She looked briefly over the instructions. They were simple enough. "Do you have enough of a catalyst to do that," she asked. In order to return slag to its previous state would require a ridiculous amount of energy, hence why it was usually dumped or turned into pellets. But Whitefall had proved herself able to do the impossible, and Nadia had nothing better to do.

She made several samples of slag and placed them on her mentor's workbench before stepping back. "Don't you think this is a bit of a waste?" If it wasn't clear already, Nadia thought her mission to make some sort of use for slag was ridiculous. While her tone remained professional, there was an obvious doubt behind her honeyed eyes. "I thought your research was mostly concerned with fertility." Making a use for slag seemed entirely off topic.

[Assistant]
Selena listened intently as Nadia explained the origins of her plant. Dubia was the variant her old roommate had wanted, but wasn't able to source. Hearing that Nadia had received it as a gift answered the follow up question of how she was able to get her hands on one. "Ah yes, I remember seeing your stint there on your resume. Is Kindradchuck still there? I briefly had a course under her. Old bag should've quit before even I was a student." The reminiscing was fun, and a welcome addition to the day. Initially, Selena had resented the decision that forced her to take on an assistant. Nadia was proving to be worthwhile company in more ways than expected.

"I don't believe anything is truly a waste unless we give up on it. Like I said yesterday, some of the most widely used products in the world today once started as nothing more than an unwanted byproduct. Imagine if we can make even one of these reactions work. We'll eradicate a difficult and costly disposal process, as well as making something like biodegradable plastics effectively free to produce." With the last of the combinations prepared, it was nearly the three hour mark since Nadia had started her project. The two women moved back over to the slag / agar samples and started taking down notes. "My initial work was with infertility, yes. It was a project that was personal to me, hence my passion and the aggressive way I tackled it. I've since solved infertility... down to ten percent anyway, and the world knows my name now. The people are clamoring for the next big thing as it were." The mention of the final missing ten percent came mostly under Selena's breath and there was a clear frustration in her that lingered because of it. Everyone else saw the ninety though, and ninety percent success on a global scale was of course an incredible result, but that didn't seem to be the way Selena saw it.

"I'm of course never going to give up on it. If I can find even one or two more reliable percent effectiveness then any time that has gone into it will be a success, but that ship has sailed. If you thought you'd be working alongside me on fertility research in any significant capacity, then I'm sorry for not correcting that misunderstanding earlier."


[User] Amastacia's ears caught the sound of a voice and footsteps yet she couldn't tell who it was until the footsteps stopped and she turned her head at hearing Fushiko's voice, the kitsune kneeling on the floor next to the kitsune's bed. Fushiko asked if she were alright, saying she was awake and greeting her. "Yes... I'm... hungry. Don't... think... fever," she said, her voice slightly hoarse from disuse. "How long... have I been out Fushiko?"

[Assistant]
"Going on three days. It's impressive... when it isn't utterly terrifying." He seemed more prepared this time, ready with a much denser loaf of bread. He placed it in her hand, then briefly excused himself from the hut.

It took only about two minutes for Fushiko to return, bowl of warmed soup in hand. He set it down beside the bed and knelt down beside her, ready to help her sit up and eat if must. "Mother said she was worried your wounds had made you comatose, but I knew you'd pull through. I knew you would." He repeated softly, genuine excitement in his voice as he spoke and watched her.

[User]
Amastacia stared at Fushiko in bewilderment as he would say she'd been out for going on three days, the kitsune saying that was impressive. She wasn't sure what was impressive about it but did take the denser loaf of bread when he handed it to her, excusing himself from the hut and she stared at the bread in her hand. Fushiko quickly returned, holding a bowl of soup in his head, something that she could smell easily.  It was set down beside her, Fushiko kneeling down beside her as well and she turned her head to stare to stare at him before slowly forcing herself to sit up, having to have Fushiko help her.

Once she was sitting up, Fushiko spoke about his mother being worried about her wounds making her comatose but that Fushiko knew she would pull through. He seemed rather excited about this, from what she could detect in his voice and on his face. Amastacia stared at the bread loaf briefly for a moment before picking it up and tearing off a piece of bread before biting into it, setting the loaf on the bed beside her as she looked feverishly around her. "There... hasn't been... anyone... looking for me has there? No... strangers or... anyone from the mines?"

[Assistant]
"No one. Not a soul. We don't get many visitors, even the odd patients mom gets have connections to town already. I'd say you're safe here." Fushiko told her proudly, like he hopefully found the words that would help her relax in her seat. He knew she was being hunted, which justified the fear, but it didn't help her heal or relax at all.

"How are you feeling? At all improved? Still hurting beyond belief?" He asked softly, tying to remember it was the middle of the night.

[User]
Hearing that nobody had come to this village, not even those from the mines, Amastacia breathed a sigh of relief. So that hopefully meant that the foreman was still digging out people from the cave in or thought she was dead. She didn't know whether or not the miners... the foreman... were in touch with her father and stepmother. It was unlikely but the thought had entered her mind before after she'd found herself within the mines. Fushiko said that even the odd patients they did get, and they didn't get many visitors, had connections in to town already, saying that she was safe there. She tore off another piece of the bread and bit into it as Fushiko asked how she were feeling and if she were at all improved or still hurting.

"Feel... feverish," said Amastacia, gesturing to her head. "But... feel okay I think otherwise. Not... hurt so much... breathe," she said. "I think... pain dying." Amastacia hadn't really taken stock of how she felt with being trapped in a nightmare before waking up.

[Assistant] "Well that's good. We have a reputation of helping people. It'd be very unexpected if our streak broke here." He chuckled softly, smiling to her while she ate the bread she was given. As the conversation came to a halt, it was obvious the longer he looked at her, that Fushiko was physically smitten with her. His glancing wasn't annoying or over the top, but it was clearly enjoying the view of her. He also seemed to be a charmer, yet he seemed to be holding back nicely, probably not wanting to aggravate the healing girl.

[User]
Amastacia nodded as Fushiko said that their village had a reputation of helping people, not yet touching the soup but tearing off another piece of bread. She wasn't sure what to say as the conversation came to a halt though Fushiko seemed content to look at Amastacia. He didn't do it in an annoying or uncomfortable way though but he did stare longer than most and she wasn't sure what to think of it. She had a feeling he might be smitten with her though she didn't understand why. "I don't understand... why you like me," said Amastacia at last to break the silence. "I like... your ears," she said at last, unsure what to say and then realizing that was probably rude, she flushed and looked away from him. Though he could probably see the way the woman's cheeks suddenly had color by the way they were dusted pink in embarrassment.

"The bread is good," said Amastacia, trying to find something to say. "What... thou role in this village," questioned Amastacia. "I know nothing about thy race."

[Assistant]
"Like you?" Fushiko repeated as he hadn't realized he was broadcasting his intentions, embarrassing himself. "I really like your eyes they've seen too much already but still hold a glowing shine to them." He told her, which was true, but it was also a lot better than probably trying to convince her of her body structure looking very fine to Fushiko.

However, when she mentioned his ears, he gently felt up the small fox like ears along the upper crest of his head. He blushed himself and gently held onto them, happy but embarrassed all the same. "I'm a harvester or a gathering, however you want to label it. I was out looking for odd ingredients when I found you. I was also on a bit of a walk that day too... didn't mean to go that far when I did. But it turned out for the better. You're getting healed at least."

[User]
Amastacia nodded as Fushiko questioned her. He spoke of liking her eyes, that they had seen too much but still held a glowing shine to them. She watched as she then moved a hand to his ears, a blush coming to his face yet he did answer her question about what he did here. She learned that he seemed to be in charge of foraging and gathering though she could not place what would that would be in terms of either human or elven ranks, let alone within her father's kingdom. He spoke of the fact that he had been looking for ingredients when he had found her and that he had gone for a walk that day as well, saying he hadn't meant to go that far but it was for the better that he did as she was healing now.

Amastacia supposed that were true for she didn't think she'd have had the energy to go much further than she had with her injuries, injuries that were still healing but slowing her down all the same. She knew staying here wasn't good. The longer she was in one place, the easier it might be to track her. "I can't stay here for long," said Amastacia. She then made to get the soup, setting the bread down beside her as she leaned down to get the bowl of soup, managing to get her fingers on the rim and lift it without spilling it. She carefully balanced the bowl of soup on her lap as she lifted a spoonful of soup to her mouth, finding it warm and rather nice. "This is... good," she said.

[Assistant]
"It's my mother's potato and leek soup. But you can't stay? That's... rather unfortunate." Fushiko told her downtrodden, clearly saddned by even the half thought that she might leave. He knew she probably actually couldn't stay and He shouldn't expect her to stay anyways.

"Why can't you stay? Is it perhaps I can still assist with it. You are still quite always from being even half of your strength and wits." Fushiko did mean this sincerely, but it was also not hard to say this with a tinge of sadness in his facial muscles.

[User]
She learned that the soup was his mother's recipe, made of potatoes and leeks. He seemed saddened when she said that she couldn't stay, saying that it was rather unfortunate. Amastacia didn't say anything to this, only listening as he questioned why she couldn't stay and then as he went on, questioning if it were something he could help with. He pointed out that she was still quite a ways from being even half her strength and wits, the kitsune again appearing sad at this by the tinge of sadness he exhibited, even if he did not say anything.

"My staying would only cause trouble for you and your village," said Amastacia. She wasn't sure if her father and stepmother would discover her here or how long it would take the foreman to discover she was missing, if he didn't believe her to be deceased and she didn't want to deal with his temper. "I don't think it is anything that you or your people can help with," said Amastacia, "but the less you know about me the better."

[Assistant]
"How are you so sure? That we can not help? I don't mean disrespect but... if you were a slave, of sorts, you can't be sure your owner hadn't perished himself. Or believes you to be. We don't have wanderers or visitors through here. You have the best chance of hiding, even of for awhile longer." Fushiko explained, trying not to, but failing, at showing his excitement for the situation.

He slowly moved up from the floor to the edge of the mattress, just at the end of the bed, holding a crossed leg as he held his eyes on her. "For whatever reason, I've grown somewhat attached... I'd like to make my effort to make sure you stay safe and stay well. You haven't even half way healed yet. Any kind of exertion would cripple you, maybe permanently..."

[User]
Fushiko questioned if Amastacia were sure about the village of kitsune being unable to help her, saying that he meant no offense, the young woman tensing briefly when he brought up the word slave. He told her that she couldn’t be sure of her owner not having perished himself or believing her to have perished. He kept insisting she had the best chance of healing and hiding here in this kitsune village, saying they didn't have wanderers or visitors coming through the village. Excitement was on his face as he explained this to her, Amastacia staring wordlessly at him as he moved slowly up from the floor to the edge of the mattress, one hand on her crossed legs as he spoke to her. How was she supposed to explain anything without explaining anything? "I was a miner and was in a cave in on a lower level," explained Amastacia. "It is unlikely that the foreman died, he rarely entered the mines and never that deep so should be relatively fine." Not that she particularly cared.

Fushiko admitted that he had grown somewhat attached to her and that he didn't understand it but that he'd like to make his efforts to make sure she stayed safe and stayed well a priority. He spoke that she hadn't healed fully, let alone halfway and that any exertion could perhaps cripple her, even the possibility of being permanently crippled was there. "Even a crippled woman can be put to use," said Amastacia though she did not know if Fushiko understood what she was saying or meant behind that statement. For a moment, a brief look of resignation came to the half-elf's face. "I... appreciate the strange concern... but there is no need to put yourself out for a stranger."  She lifted another spoonful of soup to her mouth, using the excuse of food not to speak for a bit. After a few swallows of the soup though, she did speak again. "It sounds like... you're attracted to me though I don't know why but... there's no way your village can stand up against... against the foreman or bandits who found myself and other survivors five years ago," she said.

[Assistant] As badly as he wanted to argue with her, Fushiko knew she was right. He had all the hopeful beliefs that perhaps, Maybe she could stay, shed unique light into his life among the town that barely grew, stayed in the traditional life of its past, and left him to always play second fiddle to his family. "Yeah, I suppose you're correct. We aren't an offensive village, I mean we treated Orcs and ogres before without hardly any arm twisting. So I guess that leaves only one option. I wish to leave with you or your journey... your journey to anywhere."

[User]
Amastacia stared at him, not expecting to hear him tell her that she was correct. But he admitted that they were not an offensive village though mentioned orcs and ogres and a choice... a choice that turned out to be him traveling with her wherever she went. Where would she go? Amastacia was not sure, only knowing she could not return to her father's kingdom, the place she had been born. It had been five years... it was possible her father had never been told about the ship crash and believed her to be dead or lost. Would he even have cared if he knew she were alive and her grandmother had perished?

That she had been in the mines for the past five years? She didn't think he would notice or care. Perhaps her father who had never shown her love in the first place would have thought it a good thing. But having someone to travel with her? Someone that seemed... possibly attracted to her?

"You would give up your comfortable life to travel with a complete stranger? Why would you give that... I suppose it's your choice," said Amastacia. Truthfully, the fact that Fushiko was apparently willing to give up his life and safety comfort to travel with her on her journey, a journey she wasn't even sure where she would be heading, was surprising.  "I don't know where I will be going or where the ship was sailing to when it got caught in that squall... storm... and crashed here," she said.

[Assistant]
"Safety and comfort are unfortunately in a large abundance around here. Imagine... if you loved apples but could never have one... I have grown up on an apple orchard and have had many a fill of apples. I tire of it. Life beckons me beyond these walls. And you appear to be my guide. If you will allow me... I will follow and be your partner. Eh, journey partner. I wish to not overextend my value." Fushiko seemed, not hesitant, but nervous about this new proclamation, yet he was still confident.

He rubbed at his knee idly, smiling to himself before he looked to her with his grin. "Besides, you attract ship wrecks, hard labor, and bandits... you're gonna need someone else to patch up your wounds." He smirked as he shrugged, confident even more so in his words.

[User]
He tried to explain his reasoning for leaving, equating his home to being an apple orchard and that he'd had his fill of apples, even tiring of it. He spoke of life beckoning him beyond the walls of his village and how she appeared to be his guide in such an endeavor. Suddenly he was nervous at his words as he spoke of being her partner and following her, clarifying what he meant by that and that he wished not to overextend his value. This conversation, this turn in the conversation she should say, ended up surprising her so that her focus on her food was forgotten as Fushiko then looked to her with a grin, saying that she attracted apparent interesting things and that she would need someone to help patch up her wounds before he smirked and shrugged, yet the nervousness was soon replaced with confidence by the end of his explanation. "I wouldn't say that I attract such trouble but I think I understand what you mean and there being no harm behind your words," said Amastacia.

"And if I say no, you'll follow me anyway?" Amastacia looked down at the bowl of soup she balanced on her lap. She knew her father and stepmother had bodyguards, due to being the rulers of the kingdom she had been born into and lived within until five years ago. "I I suppose... in that case... you can be my bodyguard and partner," she said, apparently giving into Fushiko's confidence and smile.

[Assistant]
"I'd try to follow, though I'm not sure if I can keep up." Fushiko chuckled softly, just before she confirmed that he could tag along as her bodyguard.

"I'm honored, thank you. But first things first... you're gonna need to be healed. I've seen too many people return from leaving too quickly and they get twice as hurt from before. So we make sure you heal and them we can worry about how and where to go, alright?" He asked with a smile, nodding gently just to help reinforce his words of caution to her.

[User]
Fushiko chuckled as he said that he'd try to follow her though wasn't sure he could keep up. For a moment this broke the tension again that Amastacia was feeling as he then spoke about being honored and thanking her. This earned a nod in response from Amastacia as he continued with saying that she had to get healed first and that he had seen too many people return from leaving too quickly, only to end up twice as hurt as they had been be fore they'd left. She sighed as he said that they had to make sure she was healed fully before they could then worry about how and where to go, smiling at her as he nodded. "Fine," she said resignedly as she went back to the soup.  She spent the next several minutes just eating in silence, the griffin showing no signs of hatching at all nor did the egg make any movements as the hatchling remained within the egg, its heartbeat still there.

Over the next several weeks, Amastacia couldn't do anything but wait for her injuries to heal. The griffin's heartbeat seemed to grow stronger with each passing day... each passing week as well that they remained there yet it still showed no signs of hatching. Perhaps it was not time for the egg to hatch yet. Yet in these weeks there she didn't hear anything about any strangers coming for her. She knew cave ins took a while to to get taken care of and she wasn't sure how many people had perished in the cave in or been injured. Still, she did not willingly go out of the hut that she found herself in and Fushiko and his mother continued taking turns tending to her injuries but occasionally she would end up walking a bit during the night when her bones were starting to heal to get used to walking once more.

That was what Amastacia was doing currently, slowly walking through the village, the egg having been left in the blanket where it could be warm. She noticed too that Fushiko seemed to spend what time he could with her though she did try to help out as she got stronger, gathering sticks and wood or fetching water. For a few days she was even put in charge of watching the kits of the village, who she discovered were children. Money, however, was not something she had expected... even if Fushiko had said they paid for jobs. She was rather at a loss as to what to do with this money received. She still had yet to open up with how she had really come to this place five years ago or her past. She was just aimlessly walking, not with any destination in mind at all.

[Assistant]
"Beautiful night for a walk." A voice called out behind Amastacia, pulling her attention back onto Hana, the incredibly tall mother of Fushiko. She was bound only by a deep blue robe, her feet bare as they stepped across the solid dirt floor.

"Mind if I join you for the evening? I known you usually walk along but... I feel I should have a conversation with you." Hana didn't seem aggressive, or dishonest in her calm appearance, just Motherly as she always had been to Fushiko and most recently, Amastacia. "You've healed quite quickly. Thought I believe you can take most of that credit. I just supplied bed and bandages."


[User]
The act of looking down minorly improved her confidence. A soft breath left her as Whitefall pressed forward, heavily breathing in the air that swam with her arousal. "I haven't," she said with more surety than she felt. Warm, soothing hands kneaded the tension coursing through her legs. For a moment, her legs eased, nearly parting. "You know that's not what that law means." Whitefall was manipulating a known law to achieve her own desires. And yet, Nadia couldn't help but want to give in. Despite her words, she uncrossed her ankles but didn't allow her between her thighs.

Honeyed eyes looked down to the space between them as the doctor rose, hoping to capture her gaze. The restrained ache in her chest eased with the sympathizing words that left her mentor's lips. She was just nervous. No one had ever handled her in such a vulnerable state, and she was afraid of what would happen if she let Whitefall in. She would be her first...

A kiss came to each cheek, chipping away at her resolve. She didn't move to reciprocate the half hug, but her back arched, allowing her to bring her closer. Whitefall returned to her line of sight, a teasing look resonating behind her eyes. "I'm not denying you," she said softly. "I'm just not ready." She met her gaze, eyes soft and wavering in their resolution. No one could blame her for not being ready to spread her legs. It was a worthy excuse to not continue forward...

[Assistant]
"And that's fair, it's expected, it's human." Now worried she might have pushed too far, too fast, Selena lowered herself again. Once more giving the height advantage to Nadia by a few inches. She moved to peck and pepper Nadia's neck with more small kisses as she spoke. "It's why we're both here, in science and desire. I need someone who can keep up with me, match my passion but keep my eagerness in check. You need someone to learn from. To show you that proven, replicable results of a world changing breakthrough sometimes aren't enough, that you might need a sledgehammer of persistence to break through the walls of past stigma."

The shift in Nadia's body didn't go unnoticed, but it still wasn't quite enough. She'd undone the lock, but the door was still closed. Placing her hands over Nadia's, Selena moved the two of them towards the still clothed breasts.

"You were so eager to play with mine, why don't we start with yours?" Despite being the one who initiated this, she moved as though Nadia was guiding her. "You control me. Find what you want, and see if my hands can provide it. We're far from your womanhood here. I won't try to take what you don't want to offer." When her hands finally cupped the young woman's chest Selena relished in their softness, even through the fabric. "This is a safe space, Ms. Anika. On this side of that double-locked door the rest of the world falls away and only you and I exist."

[User]
Kisses peppered her neck. She tilted her head, relishing in the electrifying touch. Her thighs parted a fraction, allowing Whitefall to get her fingers through the door she'd firmly shut only moments before. "That wasn't in the job description," she lightly joked. She'd heard that her mentor could be a bit wild at times, but this seemed to be a whole different beast. It both excited and terrified her.

Nadia looked down at their hands. She was in control---able to guide them how she liked. Coaxed by the hands resting over hers and the cooed words that lessened the anxieties in her chest, she rested her palms over her breasts. "Maybe you should have been a poet instead of a scientist," she said, pulling a weak smile across her lips. The way Whitefall spoke was enchanting. Every syllable was a spell that eased the burdens of the world from her shoulders.

She was right. They were nowhere close to the need burning through her. There was no harm in indulging her. Nadia was slow at first, guiding the warmth of her hands over her bra, encouraging them to squeeze and fondle. She left Whitefall's hands there on her chest as she pulled off her shirt. An easy tug had her bralette unclasping and falling off her shoulders. Supple breasts fell from their binding. They were a generous handful, but little more. With her top half left bare, she found it difficult to meet the sphynx-like gaze of her mentor as she guided her palms over her hardened peaks. Gingerly, she encouraged her to roll her nipples between her fingers, earning a shuttering breath from the untried assistant. She gave one of her peaks a swift squeeze, coaxing out a quiet moan. Between them, her thighs parted, allowing her to step forward...

[Assistant]
"Hmm, you think so? Perhaps in another life. In this one I hate speaking in front of crowds. I'd much rather write a paper and submit it to a journal without warning to blow everyone's minds." Selena caught herself licking her lips as Nadia's shirt and bra were removed. Her earlier assessment had been correct and each mound fit wonderfully in her cupped hands. Nadia clearly had experience playing with herself as she maneuvered Selena in ways that pleasured her the most, however the additional stimulus of touch coming from foreign hands elicited small gasps and moans that rang in the older woman's ears. When Nadia's legs parted, Selena slid forward slightly as if she'd been resting on top of them and gravity itself pushed her in.

"Are we getting closer? Perhaps your body wants one of my hands somewhere else?" She leaned in and placed a kiss directly between Nadia's breasts. The slight pressure on either side of her face, and the light vibration of a pounding heartbeat made her salivate even more. "Maybe my mouth takes it's place?" She could see the scene vividly as she spoke but she wouldn't dare act on it without her lover saying so. More kisses trailed their way up, the last landing on her collarbone.

"I want you Ms. Anika. I've wanted you since I first saw you. However, back in that conference room I only craved your body. Now though I desire all of you. To show you how wonderful your body can feel. I want to help you become a powerful and respected woman who can get whatever she wants from whoever might have it." A gentle push on Nadia's chest slid her back on the table, and braced against the wall. A sturdier position to be played with, and to manipulate Selena's hand and head however she saw fit. "Whether that's with your mind, body, or combination of the two." Briefly defying the hands atop her own, Selena pressed and rolled each breast, kneading the supple chest before her. "I don't want you in my shadow, I already have plenty of fans and followers. I want you at my side."

[User]
"You do?" Nadia wasn't sure why it surprised her. Most scientists, other than the narcissistic ones, hated giving speeches. They viewed it as a waste of time. Someone else could be entertaining crowds while they continued their work. But when Whitefall gave her presentations, she commanded the room. Her energy captured the audience's attention as if she'd been born to rule the feeble minds of the world. It struck her as odd that her mentor would despise the power to influence an entire crowd of people.

The small question had her lips pressing together for a moment. 'Yes', she wanted to say. Nadia had been ready for her hands to go elsewhere since the moment she'd placed one on the small of her back. She looked down at her mentor, watching the way she squished her face between her breasts. The thought of her mouth between her legs stirred something within her. She lifted her gaze toward the ceiling as if the answer to her desires might have been written there. It wasn't.

Whitefall's lust for her was something new and intimidating. She'd had people tell her how beautiful and exotic she was, but none of them had hungered for her. Not the way Whitefall so openly did. "I want that too," she said. The table and wall were cool against her skin, sharply reminding her of how hot she felt. Brazened hands groped her chest without her direction. Her legs opened wider as she let out a soft breath. The image Whitefall painted was like a dream. She could give her everything she needed to fulfill her goal. Nothing could be out of her reach if she was at Whitefall's side.

Watching her mentor, she guided her hand away from her breast, down the smooth planes of her stomach to her waistband. "I want you to show me what you have to offer, Doctor Whitefall." There was a steadiness behind her determined words---an unspoken challenge. Nadia had heard similar speeches, but no one had managed to keep her in their program. Why would Whitefall think she was different? Like all good scientists, Nadia needed proof...

[Assistant]
She could have cum right there. The way her head fell back and her back arched, it was near unmistakable. Selena knew better though. Nadia absolutely could have reached orgasm by now, multiple times possibly, but she was still holding back. Likely unsure of what it could mean if she did, but also... there was a determined look behind her curious gaze. If she was going to be brought to climax, it wasn't going to be from such simple play. That changed as her right hand was allowed to move south.

"Permission and a challenge?" She grinned as the words echoed around her. "She's better at this than she may give herself credit for." Her right had disappeared from view and moved towards its prize. Mimicking the last time she was here, Selena slowly moved a finger between the soaking lips. However this time she didn't retrieve it. She moved forward and backward, steadily working deeper with each pass until her hand was drenched and the finger now threatened to push it's way completely inside.

"Have you at least played with yourself Ms. Anika? Or will I be the first to claim even this simple act?" The kisses had stopped and Selena now held herself at eye level with Nadia once more. Their noses bumping one another as their chests heaved with deep breaths that mingled in the air. Her touch was no less gentle, but the sweetness in her tone had faded slightly and the look in her eyes dared Nadia to ask for more.

[User]
The dare was met with predatory enthusiasm. Her hand lingered on Whitefall's arm, feeling the way the muscles shifted as her hand slipped past her pants and underwear. The challenge behind her eyes only faltered for a moment as her lashes fluttered with the first brush of her fingers. It was an effort to keep her hips from rolling. "What do you think?" She tilted her head, giving her the barest amount of attitude. "For the mind to be clear, one must take care of their needs," she said in answer.

Though as wicked fingers worked against her, she was certain it may have been the first time she'd ever been touched. She bit the inside of her lip, fighting back moans as her breaths grew more ragged. Defiance lingered behind her gaze. There was no room for shyness. Nadia was giving a piece of herself to her, but she could decide how much she would give. "Have you ever touched another, Doctor Whitefall," she said, toeing the dangerous line of teasing and degrading in her tone.

Every pass of her delicious hand brought a new shock to her nerves. The closer she got to her entrance, the more she felt her lust begin to cloud any sense of reason. She needed her. Needed to be claimed and broken. "You're a woman of many talents," she crooned, "is this supposed to be one of them?"

[Assistant]
"I think you're a pretty little virgin who's brain and body have let her get away with everything until now." Selena nearly let the words spill out as Nadia challenged her once more. She rolled her hand in slow circles, further teasing just how close she was to Nadia's core. Her next statement implied she'd at least done something for herself, but past events made it clear she was still unfamiliar with the amount of pleasure a human body was capable of feeling, even when alone.

"More than you've ever met." Nadia was getting brazen now. On one hand, Selena was thrilled to see the energy return to her cohort, but she would not be contested like this. "And it is. Let me show you." The finger curled and plunged itself into Nadia to the knuckle. At the same time Nadia was wrapped in a familiar embrace as Selena moved to keep the young woman in place. Still rocking her hand, Selena was now gently stirring Nadia from within as she moved to kiss and carefully nibble on her neck. As more wetness rushed across her, Selena pressed a second finger against the entrance and then slowly introduced it. The two of them now curled and bent opposite of each other while her thumb placed itself atop Nadia's clitoris.

"I said I want you at my side Ms. Anika, and I do. However you're far from matching my step, so choose your words carefully." She whispered so close it was more like making sound while blowing warm air into Nadia's ear. "From here I could make you shake clean through this table, and I will." With that statement, she began to slowly pull her hand back and release the hold around Nadia. "But only if you ask nicely. The world is full of things we might want. We can only have them if we take them for ourselves." With her fingertips now at risk of retreating from Nadia's waistband, Selena moved to look her in the eyes once more. "I won't say it again. Stop hiding behind yourself, and give in to what you've been craving."

[User]
_How many?_ The question was blatant behind her eyes, but she didn't ask. She wasn't sure wanted to know. How many had been previous assistants who'd been seduced into pleasuring her? The questions were frozen before they could spiral. Bliss surged through her nerves as a finger plunged within her. A hand grabbed at her shoulder, steadying herself as she gasped. "Doctor Whitefall," she whimpered, her legs squeezing against luscious hips. Honeyed eyes blew wide. The few times she'd put things inside her had never provoked such a reaction from her body. Her chest rose and fell in sputtering breaths. Her mentor had dragged her beneath the surface of a world filled with foreign ecstasy... and they'd barely begun.

"блядь." Nadia's mother tongue hardly ever left her lips, but there was nothing else she could think to say. Her hand shifted from her shoulder to the back of her mentor's neck, listening to the words crooned against her ear. She whimpered as two fingers sunk deep within her, searching for the magical spots that would threaten to unravel her. "не уходи," she said, her voice tinged with desperation. "Don't." Her hand closed around her wrist, keeping her from retreating fully.

She took in several breaths, eyes frantically searching her mentor's. Would she really leave her so unfilled? "I need you," she said, her voice laced with an accent she'd once trained out of her words. "Please don't leave me like this." The hand around her wrist directed her back beneath her pants, to the aching need between her legs. "I didn't mean to cause any offense." Liar. She was getting exactly what she wanted, but she wasn't going to betray that...

[Assistant]
Hearing a partner who spoke a second language resort to using it was a hot button for Selena. Her mind went back to an old college professor. A woman initially from Mexico, who stopped speaking English entirely once Selena got her pants off. She didn't know what Nadia's foreign words meant, but the charged emotion behind them was crystal clear. As the look in Nadia's eyes quickly shifted from brazen and daring, to needy and pleading, Selena made a mental note to start studying Russian in her downtime. Something told her that dirty talk in her native language could wrap Nadia even more tightly around the woman's finger.

"Yes, I can see that you need me. But what do you need from me?" She allowed her hand to be placed back over Nadia's sex and resumed the gentle rolling and pressure from before, but did not return her fingers inside. "Whether intentional or not, you are skilled at only telling half truths. Answering questions honestly, while leaving out key details." A finger curled, briefly parting the lips below once more, before fleeing as quickly as it arrived. "You will become my equal, perhaps even my better Ms. Anika... with time." Another curl, this time Selena also took firmer grip of the breast and nipple she was still playing with. "But you are from that pedestal as you are now, so stop trying to match me." Next she shoved the two fingers back inside and wrapped her mouth over the nipple that had since been left alone. Flicking it with her tongue and gently suckling as if there was milk within.

"Tell me your desires." She moved up to kiss Nadia's gasping lips. "Ask me for lessons." The next was on her neck. "Let me teach you all that a woman's body can be, can give, and can receive." Returning to view, the women's lips were pressed together once more. Softer than last time and Selena took Nadia's bottom lip with her for a moment as she pulled away. "Perhaps you need a demonstration." She glanced down at Nadia's pelvis. "What I want is to make you cum." Her fingers danced with Nadia and her thumb started tantalizingly tracing around her clit. "To make you soak these clothes so thoroughly you deem them unfit to be worn ever again." A third finger teased Nadia's entrance with novel dexterity and promised to test her virgin tightness. "To make your body wrack with pleasure so that your voice gets caught in your throat." Finally, she pressed her forehead to Nadia's. Getting so close that Selena's bright blue eyes were all that could be seen. "So for the last time. What. Do. You. Want?"

[User]
Nadia let out a pathetic sound. Why wasn't her answer enough? Why couldn't she be like the normal idiots she played with and fill in the lines? Because she was a scientist. Surface level answers weren't enough for a woman like Whitefall. She wanted her assistant laid bare. Every second would be uncovered. Every truth would be spoken. Nadia was an excellent liar, but she was a fool to think it would get past someone as intelligent and mischievous as her mentor. "Please," she whimpered, feeling the finger curl inside her and retreat. She was melting in her hands. Unable to put together a single thought. Again, she teased her, and Nadia's body reacted in turn. She arched into her, legs widening in blatant invitation. A cry left her lips as her senses were overtaken all at once. "I know I can't match you," she said between pants, "but that won't stop me from trying."

Velvet lips captured hers, muffling the gasps and moans coming from the struggling assistant. "I want you to teach me how good I can feel," she said, her voice high and strained. The kiss against her neck had her hips rolling with need. The sinful, cooing words coated her slit with nectar. She was ready. Ready to receive whatever lesson Whitefall was willing to teach her. A moan escaped her as Whitefall retreated, tugging at her bottom lip. Rhythmically, she began to roll her hips into her hand. A third finger teased her entrance, and her gaze snapped to her mentor's features. She clenched around the two digits pressed inside her. Would she be able to handle so much?

The demand reverberated through her core. Whitefall left her no room for escape. "I want---" she let out a shuttering breath, "I want you to make me cum with your fingers." Her words felt graceless on her tongue, like she was learning how to speak English all over again. "I want you to show me why I shouldn't leave and find a new mentor." Nadia moved her head, rolling it to knock Whitefall away from her and press her lips against her ear. "I want you to prove why you're worthy of having me as your assistant. Pedestal or not, Doctor Whitefall," she steadied her voice despite the growing need building inside her, "I don't need you to succeed... unless you can prove me wrong." She nipped at her ear and bit her lip, swallowing a moan as her legs began to close, trembling with the need for release...

[Assistant]
"Gooood." Selena cooed as Nadia finally cracked. "You should see me as much as a mentor, as an obstacle to overcome! The world will never acknowledge you as more than my assistant unless you achieve something even more groundbreaking, more monumental!" She pulled at the back of Nadia's shirt, finally casting it aside somewhere near her own. "You should dream of the day our roles are reversed and it is me quivering for you." The third finger slipped inside and pressed against the other two. Now, bundled together they roamed Nadia's depths, searching for more cracks in the façade.

"You want me to prove my worth? I suppose that's fair. I was permitted your resume, but you've only heard of mine." Slowly, but deliberately, Selena's ring and index fingers separated. Spreading Nadia's pussy gradually and resisting any attempt to close once more. Now, with the freedom provided, her middle finger searched and curled throughout Nadia. Any spot that brought a wince, gasp, or shudder was pressed once more for good measure, before moving on. By now, the heat of their combined arousal had caused a thin veil of sweat to form over the women. Selena took the opportunity to press herself against Nadia again, utilizing the slight slickness to heighten the pleasure of making their hardened nipples dance.

"Cum for me baby." Selena caught herself in the slip, she'd only planned to call Nadia by name or title this early on. Darling earlier had been an acceptable deviation, but baby felt far too casual. Whether it was or not, she wasn't going to let Nadia know, and continued without breaking stride. "Give in to me Nadia. I want to show you a whole new world of pleasure. Let this be the first step we take towards it."

[User]
_I will._ One day, her mentor would be the one to whimper at her feet... a third finger slipped in, sending a shock through her system. She arched her back, trying to adjust to the sudden girth of her fingers. "это так много." She held onto her as though she were the singular thread keeping her tied to the earth. Her thighs rose up, squeezing around her hips as she gasped. The casual tone in which Whitefall spoke left Nadia at odds with herself. For her, this moment was all-consuming, but for her mentor... what was she?

More curses in her native tongue left her mouth as she felt her fingers spread inside her. Nadia's tight pussy could barely compensate three, much less having them stretch. The discomfort mixed with her probing finger quickly began to unravel her. Each skillful curl of her finger shoved her closer to the edge of bliss. She buried her face in her shoulder, too embarrassed to show her face or allow the sounds leaving her to be unencumbered.

Nadia gasped and her world went white as Whitefall tore her tether to the world. She writhed beneath her, hips moving of their own accord as unfiltered notes filled the air in a primal melody. Whimpering softly, she melted down against the counter. The strength seemed to leave her as she blinked dazedly. "что я делаю?" The question was soft and directed solely toward herself. She looked up at Whitefall but had no words on her silver tongue. Nothing had ever brought her to such a consuming release. She could see now why some people were addicted to sex. But not her. No. She had self control...

[Assistant]
"Well done Ms. Anika. Well done." The lust in her voice was gone. Selena was proud of herself, and even more of Nadia. She wished she knew what alien words had been spoke, but the language barrier was sexy in it's own right. Of course, somewhere in the middle, she might not have known the translations, but those were the textbook 'fucks' and 'oh gods' of someone reaching the peak of climax. "I have no grade to give this time, the conventional scale doesn't have a number or letter high enough."

She brought the laid out young woman back to her shoulder and held her there. Gentle caresses made their way down Nadia's head, to her shoulders and back up. Selena now only wanted to soothe the exhausted body of her new lover. Her fingers remained inside, but now bundled together again and completely still. She knew from experience that Nadia's body would be at least somewhat anchored to them now, and to pull back, no matter how gentle would be painfully stimulating.

"You did wonderfully, and I know you'll make an excellent partner, in all fields." She'd continue like this as long as necessary. Petting Nadia's silky hair, speaking softly into her ear about her accomplishments and the bright future the two women had ahead of them. "I'm glad you came to my office that day, Ms. Anika."