just forget the world

A great weight was lifted off Venom’s shoulders when Hattori agreed to restructure the contact that held them together. No longer a proper servant but her betrothed. Venom hadn’t said much to anyone yet, she enjoyed the little secret she shared with her Shogun. It was exciting and new, but stabilizing at the same time. She had a partner for life, one that she knew would be loyal to her for the rest of their lives. Hattori proved his strength, intelligence, and determination to her many times over. He cared about her deeply and despite his private ways he’d opened up his life to the young Empress.

Not only did he have great value to the Empire but he had great value to Venom. She felt protected and safe in his presence, and had come to crave her time at his side. She enjoyed looking at his handsome features and losing herself in his deep silver eyes. Hattori knew how important he was to the pack, but Venom wondered if he realized how special he was to her. Not long after the night with him in the main hall the Empress very carefully began making preparations. She couldn’t allow anyone to catch wind so the trips had been frequent and small but eventually she made the cave on the sparkling beach inhabitable.

There would be a full moon tonight, and she’d been told that the whole cavern lit up at midnight, in addition to the pools at the back of the cavern. Glowing fish and squid were often trapped here, and their bioluminescence added to the magic. Hattori was a free man, she’d seen how intensely he focused on his duties, and she wished to see him relax for just a night. The patrols were given double duty tonight, security would be doubled while they were away. There would be nothing to worry about but the mystic lights of the cavern.

Venom was satisfied with her work and darkness had long descended. She arrived at the cave a little early, but she’d long sent Poison to escort Hattori. The young Empress stepped daintily inside, the only sounds of waves echoing off the dark wall and the sound of paw pads on stone. Venom breathed in the salty air and made her way to the camp beneath the ground. Plush furs were piled on a slight incline looking out over the hidden pool. Bowls of fresh water were gathered to one side, along with some fragrant herbs and preserved meats. Displayed in the middle another rare bottle of sake. Above a skylight allowed the pale moonlight to filter inside. Soon midnight would come and the entire cavern would light up and sparkle. For now Venom reclined onto her dark hips and waited in the peaceful silence.