5 Minutes of Compliance.

The full moon cast a luminous veil over Alias Island, its silvery light highlighting the jagged peaks of the mountains and painting the churning ocean below with a soft glow. Mariah, her coat blending seamlessly with the hushed darkness, looked out at the serene landscape. She gazed out at the serene landscape, her features inscrutable as she took in the rhythmic assault of the waves crashing against the rocky shoreline below. In that moment, it seemed as though even nature itself was echoing the uncertainty that churned within her soul.

Beside her, a tall shadow appeared and coalesced into Caedes. His looming figure brought both comfort and unease. She knew her father had given Caedes permission to visit their home, yet she couldn't shake the inexplicable sense of tension that surrounded them. It felt as though they were sneaking around, hiding their meeting like a secret she wasn't ready to share. Why were they going through all this trouble? She wasn't ashamed of Caedes in any way. In fact, his presence filled her with pride and admiration. She just didn't want to have to answer any questions. Questions about where they were headed, what they were planning, and what their intentions were.

She turned her head slowly, her eyes meeting his as he stood before her. His massive dire form was outlined against the backdrop of the moon, his muscles rippling in the faint light. She met hi piercing emerald eyes, a silent communication passing between them. The salty scent of the ocean filled their nostrils as they stood in silence, their ears perked to catch the gentle sound of waves crashing against the shore and the steady rhythm of their breaths mingling together.

The journey to Mariah's den on the eastern coastline was quick, the pair easily navigating the familiar terrain. As they approached, the den came into view, nestled at the base of the mountains, offering an unobstructed view of the vast ocean beyond. Mariah had put much effort into crafting this sanctuary since her return, and it showed in every meticulous detail.

Stepping inside, her paw lightly crunching on the mix of sand and rock that made up the den's floor, Mariah felt a sense of calm wash over her. The scent of herbs from the storage area wafted out, mingling with the salty tang of the ocean air. She paid no mind to the comforting scents and sights, instead focusing on lighting whatever kindling remained in the small fire pit. With tender care, she nursed the flames until they danced and crackled, casting an intimate glow around the carefully curated den.

Her attention then turned to her companion, expecting him to be trailing closely behind her. A mischievous glint sparkled in her sterling gaze as she took in his obsidian form. The eclectic decor adorning the walls seemed to come alive in the flickering light, adding a touch of whimsy to their private space. Satisfied with her handiwork and eager to share it with him, she turned to face him fully.

"Finally," Mariah purred, her voice like liquid velvet as she savored the moment. Her eyes glinted with a fierce satisfaction, a daring challenge to anyone who dared to interrupt this stolen solitude. She reveled in the peace and quiet, free from the prying eyes of others. Her gaze traced over Caedes, taking in every inch of his hulking form that cast an imposing shadow on the den's walls. But that shadow was not foreboding; instead, it provided a comforting embrace, tangible proof of his presence beside her. She closed the distance between them, her body humming with newfound anticipation as she leaned up against his chest, bracing herself for what was to come. With full intention, she captured his lips with her own, savoring the taste of him and losing herself in the moment. Her heart pounded a rhythmic cadence that echoed the crashing waves outside, adding to the intensity of their connection within these walls. In this secret world they had created together, nothing else existed except for them and the overwhelming feeling of being completely and utterly consumed by each other.

"Mariah Mendacium"