long time coming

Artorias wasn’t so upset that she didn’t take him up on his offer. It was a good thing Maverick was not here because she had a sneaking suspicion that he would have jumped at such an opportunity. Venom’s mind and heart were fully wrapped up in her new love, for all she cared Hattori had already fallen off the face of the earth. The Aegis seemed to perk, but despite his question she knew he was expecting the words that she said. She grinned and nodded in acceptance as he invited her inside for a drink.

White gloved paws carried her along beside the young alpha as he brought her into a cozy room and began to heat a spiced beverage. Venom hadn’t really smelled anything like it before. The Empress made herself comfortable, lounging where Artorias gestured, folding her paws as her tail wrapped around her hip and Artorias brought her a mug of steaming hot liquid. "Thank you.” She settled in with her warm drink as the man settled himself and began to speak of the business at hand.

Artorias question what kind of arrangement Ashen held with the rest of the Empire. "One of mutual protection.” She started easily. "If you are threatened, Ashen will be there to fight beside you, and the same is expected in return. To a lesser degree, mutual raid training has always benefitted.” There had been more than one practice raid within the Empire. "As well as exploring our options to be trade partners.”

"Venom"