Venom hadn’t really felt herself for the last week or so and she’d just concluded that the cause was her broken leg and how much she wasn’t able to move around anymore. Today she was convinced otherwise. Autumn had fully taken hold and the chill of the season chased summer away with a fierceness. It also heralded her coming of age. Venom was not ignorant to the changes that took hold of her body, from a young age she’d been well aware of the processes of life. Venom just hadn’t realized how uncomfortable she would be because of it.

Despite the cold that was coming Venom felt like she would never feel cool again. Her skin was hot and she had become restless. She cursed her broken leg again as she was forced to remain inside her bedchambers. Getting around was nearly impossible, but she’d managed to get to her feet a few times on her own. Her leg was splinted and supported, but after a few moments of being on her paws the pain was too much to deal with and she was back down.

Frustration was evident in every fiber of her being, from the way her tail flicked at her hips, how she tapped her cat claws on the stone ground, or in the way her eyes darted from one side of the room to the other. She was not happy with her current state. The deep craving that had settled in her belly might have been the worst part. She knew that Toxicity had every intention of taking advantage of the season but Venom was more and more certain that her injury had come to impede those developments in herself. The Empress was still without an Emperor to soothe her aches so the young woman would stew alone and curse her injury and her sex.

Hattori let out a sigh as his ear flicked in a rare show of annoyance. Not a lot of Ashen's going-ons escaped his notice but any man with a functioning sense of smell would catch onto the lingering scent that flooded the palace halls. It wasn't an issue, nor was he a feral beast that couldn't control himself but still it complicated matters. And if anything Hattori silently loathed when things were more tedious than need be. There was no reason to kick up a fuss or make a big deal of it but he found himself avoiding the palace nonetheless, or at least until he drew to a stop along the beach and noted the setting sun. Venom would be expecting him shortly, every day he'd dropped in to offer her reports, to inform her of the tasks he'd completed and the state of her budding empire. And once all that official business was done they moved onto their language lessons.

Drawing in one final breath of fresh air, Hattori slipped through the threshold of the palace and meandered down it's corridors, coldly eyeing servants as they passed. If nothing he didn't have to worry about anyone overstepping their bounds and attempting anything stupid with the empress. Wounded or not she had her teeth and claws. Stopping outside of her chambers his talons clicked against the stone and he let himself in soon after. She was just about as he'd left her, comfortable as she could manage sprawled out on her pile of furs and pelts. The air buzzed with palpable tension, thick and heady, and Hattori noted- instinctively and despite himself - that she looked beautiful in this lighting. The warm orange glow of the setting sun streamed through the skylight, making the white of her fur look almost cream.

If ever he was grateful for his cold and blank exterior it was now.

"Venom." He said in greeting, and as always with a swift and fluid moment he dipped down into a bow. Maintaining his intense eye contact.

Venom tried to mask her scent, she really did. It was a bit of an embarrassment and only served to make her more irritable. She had the servant burn spices in the fire, she had Poison rub her fur with rose and lavender. Maybe a mistake but she would rather smell like her mother than her season. If she was uncomfortable with it she knew that Hattori would be as well, though she knew he also would not say a word of it. He was loyal to a fault, but she’d learned by now that trying to think of her shinobi didn’t help her circumstances. Thoughts of Azure made things worse as well.

Her mind had been unoccupied for too long when she heard the familiar rap of talons upon the threshold. Her eyes shot up as the ninja slipped through the doorway and into her chambers. Inviting someone into your den was a much more intimate experience than she’d ever thought. Not many wolves stepped foot in here, but Hattori’s presence had swiftly become natural. The evening was upon them, he’d come to give her his report and their daily lesson.

As his silver tarnished eyes fell on her she realized how difficult focusing on anything he said would become difficult. Another silent curse left her as she flicked her tongue in annoyance. Not at him, never at him, but at the circumstance that plagued her. Venom flicked her tail aggressively, finding it easy to show those little motions that gave away her emotions so easily. Hattori was one of only a handful that she’d give that privilege to.

”Good evening, Hattori.” She returned with her own subtle bow of her head, her fiery gaze settled on his own. His stare was intense and Venom was forced to take a breath as she fought back the memory of having him towering over her as his teeth brushed the delicate fur at her throat. Why was it suddenly hard to breathe? She tried to hide the subtle swallow before speaking again.

”What news do you bring me tonight?” She tried to settle down she really did. With effort she pulled her tail against her hip and repositioned her paws more neatly in front of her. She wasn’t sure how long this position might last, but she’d hold for as long as she could. It was easier focusing on that than her mind wandering aimlessly towards Hattori’s dark handsome features.

She looked restless, unsettled by her own nature as if it was something she could fight. Though he didn't care to think or learn about the specifics he knew that whilst unpleasant this wasn't going to kill her or do any lasting harm. He acknowledged her greeting with a throaty hum and remained standing on the spot for a moment longer before he reclined back into a sitting position. He sat more freely than he used to, a habit he noted but didn't care to read too much into. Despite the changing of seasons he didn't have much of note to report, the empire was about the same as it had been the day before, and the day before that. The empire was due some changes, for sure, but given Venom's condition it was for the best that things remained quiet and peaceful. At least till she was back up on her paws. Politely drawing his gaze away from her fidgeting, Hattori quickly organised his report.

"Hela has given birth. I did not intrude but from what I gathered she and her offspring seem to be well." His attention flicked  to the skylight as a shadow passed overhead, his eagle he assumed. "Other than that everything seems to be as it should be. Your borders are marked and patrolled and your stores full."

She was restless, and maybe if her leg wasn’t broken she would have been able to do something about it. Pace the borders, run, go somewhere. No she was stuck in the palace on her pile of furs with strict orders of bedrest. Venom was going to go insane here.

Hattori sat back onto his haunches, a habit he seemed ot be growing more accustomed too now that the two of them had started to fall into a routine. Was it a sign that he was growing more comfortable with her? The Empress wouldn’t entertain those thoughts, really having Hattori here in front of her was making her whole… situation… worse.

What was worse was the thought of puppies. She knew her aunt was expecting. These were highly anticipated children of her Daimyo. Though their mother would be out of commission for a while the result would be worth it in new citizens to train up right. She was uncomfortably aware of her need to produce her own progeny. She needed it in more than one way.

Dark ears slicked against her head as she turned her head from his form. She shifted again, her discomfort still glaringly obvious. ”I’ll need you to take me to see them soon.” Perhaps after their language lesson if she could stand to be around him for that length of time. Venom felt broken in that moment and it wasn’t because of her leg. Her chest was tight, her skin was hot, and her stomach seemed to be twisting itself into knots. Venom tried to hide the majority of her feelings, but her agitations were still apparent.

Hattori breathed slow and steady, his lungs full to the brim with her scent, sweet and roiling. The close quarters weren't helping either. He tried not to think about it, in the same way he didn't think much of salty ocean breeze, but she was right there and a foolish, base and instinct part of him was tempted to help her out. To ease her, as a man could. But he'd never been one to act on impulse and he was quick to banish the thought, tearing it up at the roots before it could settle and make a nuisance of itself. Instincts served only as a nudge in a certain direction, he had very little interest or obligation to take things further than this. They were stray thoughts and they'd remain as much.

Hattori said nothing, he didn't need to. It was a given that he'd do whatever she commanded of him, she only had to ask. Except she didn't seem in an overly talkative mood, if anything his company seemed to be causing her undue discomfort. He didn't wish to stay any longer than was necessary if that was the case. But he didn't feel as though he should say as much, that would inadvertently address the elephant in the room and Hattori knew better than that. Rather he left it up to her, she was the empress and he her shinobi.

"Do you require anything else of me?" He quirked a pale brow as he left the rest unspoken, knowing she'd prompt him to resume their last lesson if that's what she wanted.

Hattori wasn’t close to her but he was the closest she had to an unrelated man in the near vicinity. Venom wasn’t some crazed harlot, but him being here in such an intimate and secluded setting were starting to get to her. The Empress had grown comfortable in the Shinobi’s presence as well, showing her irritation wasn’t something she’d offer every wolf in the Empire. Venom felt like she had become completely honest with her hired hand, she hoped that she hadn’t to the point of folly.

She knew that he would do whatever she asked of him, anything her heart desired he would give to her of that she had no doubt. But Venom would not ask for this. Not today at least. Hopefully the idea didn’t linger and fester for too long. She wanted to be certain of herself, but even as the thought was dismissed it made to wiggle back to the forefront of her mind.

"Do you require anything else of me?"

Venom’s features swiftly returned to his expression, the way his brow arched and how the words fell on her ears brought a surge of electricity through her body. Like a cold chill up her spine she wondered if he could read her mind. Surely he only meant their next lesson.

”Would you take me outside? I’m in need of some fresh air.” If that wasn’t an understatement. ”We can have our next lesson on the beach, and then perhaps visit my new cousins?” When had she gotten into the habit of asking over commanding? Perhaps it was just Hattori and his handsome features...

Hattori got to his paws as soon as her request passed her lips. Though-sadly- he wasn't a mind reader he had already surmised that remaining in here wasn't good for her, both mentally and physically. He lowered himself down a little, bending at the knees as supported her wobbly ascent to her paws. He straightened then, giving her a moment to adjust herself before he pressed himself further into her side, taking the brunt of her weight. It might have been less taxing on her broken leg if he carried her again but he knew without asking that she wouldn't want that. Surely being carried once was humiliating enough, he wouldn't put her through that again. Not unless he could help it.

Slowly the pair made their way out of the palace and Hattori blinked a few times in quick succession as his eyes adjusted to the sudden shift in lighting. The rush of salty ocean air filled his lungs, making it easy to ignore Venom's scent as it seeped into his fur. Rubbed in with each shift of his muscles against her side. The open stretch of beach was empty and quiet, with nothing but the gentle cooing of doves and the hiss of the waves to keep them company. Hattori's aloof gaze took in the soft lighting, the way the water looked almost pinkish as it reflected the setting sun. Even with the arrival of autumn it was pleasant out, cool but comfortably so. This spot would do.

He hunkered down again, guiding Venom to her belly before he stood back and reclined on his haunches.

"Last time I taught you how to introduce yourself. Go on." He got straight to the point, as per usual. He'd given her a lot to take in but believe it or not he was starting gently, if she couldn't remember a simple introduction she'd struggle with what laid ahead.

Hattori was quick to stand even as the words were leaving her mouth. Getting out into the fresh air would do her good, but it seemed like he was just as eager. She hadn't given much thought to how she might be affecting him. The revelation was eye opening though, he was always so stoic and she had no doubt he’d keep any distress from her. He was quite the honorable shinobi, and the thought made her lips turn up slightly as her heart beat excitedly in her chest. She thought it might disturb Hattori even when he shifted lightly and pressed himself against her to help her find her paws.

She struggled, but it was mostly because of the sudden close contact between them. She was glad that he didn’t even make the suggestion to carry her. She needed to keep moving around, she couldn’t let herself stagnate. She rested much more than she found comfortable, but it was good for her to get up and stretch and move. Even if she was sore and could hardly breathe with Hattori so close.

She was acutely aware of everywhere their fur touched, the way he moved perfectly with her to keep her on her feet was impressive as the strength she felt beneath his vibrant marked fur. She tried to keep her eyes off him, bright in the sunset as she took in the soft lights of the sky. Hattori found a comfortable stop and helped her down into the soft sand before releasing her. She leaned into him maybe a little bit too heavily as he pulled away.

The lesson started quickly, but it was better to keep her mind occupied on learning than wanting him to return to her side. ”My game is Venom” She offered, not correctly but she was close. ”May I have your game?” She followed up, wondering if he’d expected her to go above and beyond.

Hattori's method of teaching was firm but fair. It was true they were in no rush, that there was no deadline looming overhead, but Hattori was a man of expectations. When he put effort into something he expected to see good results sooner rather than later. He knew it was a large undertaking for the empress and he valued her enthusiasm but he almost couldn't help himself as disapproval creased his brows. His eyes narrowed into a squint, she'd gotten so close and yet so far. He wasn't mad by any stretch of the word, it would have been blazingly obvious if that were the case, but if she was hoping for a pat on the shoulder or praise she was going to be disappointed.  

"Name." He corrected, emphasising the word with a low rumble as he held her gaze. "Hattori of the Iga clan." And then, whilst it didn't necessarily apply to their situation he took this as a moment to further teach her about his culture. "But you must remember what I said. In my language we do not often offer our first name so freely. It is seen as very disrespectful to call someone by their given name. If you were speaking to someone else you would introduce yourself as Empress Abraxas."

In saying that he had inadvertently admitted that Hattori was only his family name, not the one given by his betters.

She hadn’t expected to be corrected and that much was obvious on her face as he corrected her. The sudden correction made her do a double take as her features skimmed over his disapproving expression. ”Awe.” She lamented with an over exaggerated huff as he went on. Normally she could take criticism with ease, but her moods had been anything but normal since.. All of this. Her mind wasn’t ever far from her girlish affliction. He spoke his native tongue flawlessly and at that moment Venom saw the long path they had to go, especially faltering so early.

She resigned herself, shaking off her emotions internally as she returned to what he’d said first. Forget everything she already knew, she had to open her mind in ways she hadn’t before. The young Empress tilted her head slightly as he went on to explain a bit of his culture more in depth. He told her more thoroughly how to introduce herself, and admitted that she should be using her surname instead of her first.

She narrowed her gaze slightly, though she did like the sound of Empress Abraxas as the title fell from his lips. More curious though, was the window into his life and the chance to garner her collection of information about her shinobi. A shiver ran down her spine as her sunset gaze turned to him. Venom’s dual toned tail flicked at her hips as her familiar smirk played on her features. ”What is your name, shinobi?” She asked him softly, daring him to utter his true name.

Whilst he'd snuffed her a little, Venom didn't seem too disheartened. Nor should she be. Letting her have a moment to gather her thoughts and take his correction to heart, Hattori said nothing and let the silence linger as his lesson sunk in. As did the implication of his words. His lips down turned a touch at her question and he found himself a little frustrated that he didn't see that coming. She was naturally inquisitive and rather unabashed about it, so why wouldn't she want to know? He shifted his weight as he pressed his paws close together, his talons touching. He was quiet for a long moment, the silence was almost as heavy as his gaze and he let it stretch on for more than was probably considered socially acceptable. By now Venom should have been used to his quirks and mannerisms.

"Hattori." He said flatly, as though it wasn't a topic up for discussion. Not quite the tone a loyal shinobi should take with his mistress but there were some things he would not budge on. For now. If she respected him at all she would let it go.

She would be lying to herself if she said that his disapproving frown was not amusing. Hattori was always so serious and straightforward, he was silent for a long moment after she asked her prying question. Venom had little real hope of hearing the man utter his first given name but as he spoke the name he first gave her once again she didn’t hide the look of disappointment play on her features.

”Now that’s not fair, you know my name.” She grumbled lightly as she shifted her weight once more. Her tail switching hips as she tried leaning more heavily on her injured side. She had to keep her leg in a certain position but that made her other side sore. What she really wanted to do was playfully bump him on the shoulder, but her leg and how easily she lost focus when she touched him held her back. She ‘humphed’ softly but did indeed drop her pressing.

”Alright, what’s next?” Already she was feeling better than when they’d been cooped up in the palace, but it was still so easy to get distracted by his sharp handsome features. ”Memorizing more words? Learning common phrases?” She started easily but her expression took a mischievous look as she dwelled in her boldness. ”Sharing a meal with me?” Azure was easy to forget when she was so close to Hattori, Venom couldn’t help herself. Though she knew what she really wanted from her Shinobi right now her wisdom would prevail and Venom would mostly hold herself back.

For once Hattori couldn't really see where she was coming from, her response didn't seem logical, or at least it didn't follow the societal rules he'd lived by for so long. He was quick on his feet and fast to adapt but his way of thinking was stubborn, resolute to remain as is. Being all pouty wasn't exactly a flattering look but her beautiful features had a way of twisting the expression into something else, sharp, yet elegant. Like a hushed whisper urging him to bend to her will once more. He would have no doubt folded if he were a weaker man, but he remained steadfast and rode out the waves of her mood till she dropped it with a grumble.

"You gave it to me." He wouldn't have taken offence if she hadn't, it would have been her prerogative. Though that begged the question, what else was she willing to give him?

There was a lot she still needed to learn and her question had him leaning forward in thought, his talons leaving wide grooves in the sand. The sea was a constant, soothing hiss in his ears and a flock of seagulls bobbed on the ocean waves, only to scatter in alarm when they noticed Hattori's eagle soaring above. He'd been considered the next topic of their lesson when Venom pushed forth a suggestion that had his gaze snapping to hers once more. He examined her expression for a moment, noting the glint in her eyes, and wondered what she was getting at. What thoughts whizzed through her mind. Hattori played dumb.

"We could do that, if you wish." Whilst Hattori had eaten a little earlier that day he'd be able to eat again. He looked to his bird and let out a sharp bark, the eagle soared down and landed behind them. His feathers shifted as it bounced on the spot, eager to do as it was told. "Will fish suffice?"

His logic was infallible and Venom wouldn’t press him no matter how much she wanted to. She would have his name one day of that she was certain. For now he could keep his secret. Venom was patient, as demonstrated by the fact that she hadn’t jumped him in the palace, but she was better than that. Her physical cravings could be tamped down even if she didn’t want to. The Empress had her responsibilities and being a floozy wasn’t one of them. Though her thoughts certainly returned to her need of an Emperor more than she wished them to. Hattori’s handsome features wouldn’t cease to tempt her.

Her heart fluttered excitedly in her chest as she regained the attention of his bright silver eyes. There was an understanding there that did not reach his words, but she already knew what a blunt creature he was. There were no subtle hints or suggestions that he would follow through with. She did feel a thrill down her spine as he agreed to her last request, but his enthusiasm was quelled enough to keep Venom from growing too excited. They had yet to share a meal together, ”Is that what you wish, Hattori?” She asked softly with a light tilt of her head. Venom didn’t expect a real answer from him, but she pressed him anyway.

Living on the islands made seafood a frequent experience but Venom didn’t mind. The ocean was abundant and she enjoyed the salty flavors. ”Fish will suffice,” she answered him with more certainty in her voice. ”Have you ever taken a girl out for dinner, Hattori?” She asked him with obvious interest as she tried to distract herself from her deeper thoughts. She also wondered if the man she was finding herself so attracted to had another woman that he was thinking about whilst in her presence.

Hattori paused. For the most part- given his profession-his wishes and desires were kept on the back burner. Out of sight and mind till he had an opportunity to give them the time and attention due. He was hired to serve and he did so gladly but Venom's question felt far more personal than any she had asked before. His mind roved over her words, tearing them apart as though he expected to uncover some deeper meaning, but it was as simple as it seemed. Did he want this? Hattori frowned, far too serious for such a mundane question. But admittedly he was out of his element here and he didn't know exactly how to respond. As though she sensed this Venom doubled down and asked him another question; this one even confounding than the last. Hattori wasn't much of a talker and if that wasn't already clear by now then he was making it blaring obvious.

His silence lingered on and even his eagle gave him a sidelong glance, questioning whether he intended to respond anytime soon. Not that was any of his business, the bird simply took flight and soared over the waves, scanning the surface for fish that would soon fill the pairs bellies. Hattori watched his companion go and then finally responded. As though he hadn't noticed the time passing.

"I have not. You are my first and last, I presume." He shifted his weight a little, considering his next words. Whether he felt like admitting this and how she would interpret it. "My former employers did not seem to enjoy my company, as you do." Not that he cared or tried to rectify that fact. It was their problem not his.

But undoubtedly Venom had taken a shining to him and whilst he would never say as much he appreciated her for that. For the fact she'd treated him with nothing but kindness and welcomed him into the fold, as though he was one of her own. A shinobi such as him rarely received such a warm welcome and his personality alone-or lack thereof, according to some- was usually enough to keep others at arms length. And yet here Venom was, poking at his defences, looking for weakness as though she simply wanted to be let in.

"But for what it is worth, I find your company agreeable." He told her, with a polite dip of his head.

If this broken leg taught her anything at all it was to have patience. The young Empress fluttered her eyes close as the softest hum fell from her lips. The tune was some lullaby, surely that her mother had sung her as a child. She opened her eyes again to watch the eagle’s hunt, unbothered by the silence. She hadn’t been expecting an answer anyway. When the man did reply her attention was easily given in full again.

Dark ears and bright eyes focused on his orange marked face as he explained his history more in depth. He’d never done so, but she had. If he returned the question Venom wondered what she would say about Azure. He didn’t though, only told her about the way his former employers treated him. She wondered what a life like that would be, so fully focused on your job that you had to forgo social connections. Perhaps she judged too harshly, she had yet to see him interact with his people. However much she doubted he opened up to them anymore. Yet, he mentioned her being the last as well. What kind of meaning was hidden there?

She smirked lightly and flicked her tongue playfully as he mentioned that her company was agreeable. This was the closest she had gotten to a compliment from him and even closer a personal opinion. Her features brightened and she chuckled lightly, maybe she would get somewhere. ”Good, I think I’d like to keep it that way.” Her tail flicked at her hips again as she shifted her body to relieve the pressure on her leg. She suppressed that familiar surging of her heart rate and the mass of elated butterflies that bubbled in her belly. ”Maybe I will be the only woman you treat to a meal.” pale brows raised curiously as she pressed her luck.

Venom seemed pleased by his words. He'd never seen her as self absorbed or the sort to get swayed by compliments and praise, but here she was savouring his compliment-if you could call it that- with a smirk. Perhaps it was because she was used to hearing this sort of talk, that they were treading down a well worn path in her eyes, but Hattori meant what he said. But maybe not. Her expression shifted, far removed from the cunning smile she'd worn during their first meeting, and she seemed genuinely appreciative. At first he'd found the flicking of her tongue a little odd, uncanny almost, but now he realised that it was one of her most obvious tells. Her expression, for the most part, said little but her tongue spoke volumes. She shifted and his gaze snapped to the soft slip of her leg, long and lithesome. He recalled her being very swift on her paws and thought it was a shame it would be likely be a season or so before she could do so again. But now that he was looking again it was hard to stop, to shove aside that matter and maintain his calm, stoic composure. He made it look far easier than it was.

"I am not opposed to that notion. You are a fine woman." Which...hm. It was true and he meant what he said but he wasn't exactly sure what inspired him to say as much. Perhaps the situation was getting to him more than he'd like.

For the first time he was allowing himself to slip. Venom savored the moment as her sunset gaze caught his own bright silver eyes roving her slender form. Hattori would remain as polite as ever, and settled his wandering gaze as easily as his expression. Venom wasn’t allowed much of a window into his thoughts, just the subtle movements in that precious metal gaze. When he spoke the young Empress would look far more pleased with herself than intended.

”Don’t forget that, Hattori” The Abraxas royal warned him, though a grin played on her lips and amusement danced in her eyes. He was quiet, reserved, and more secretive than any other wolf she knew, and cracking him would keep her mind more sharp than any language lesson. His handsome features were hard to ignore, and though their location was no longer so intimate the proximity to him was a constant distraction.

Thankfully it seemed their meal would soon be served as her attention was drawn to the provider of their first meal.

As if he ever could. The words had been uttered and it was too late to take them back, not that Hattori cared to. He chalked it up to the fact that-currently at least- it was his job to serve, that if she asked him to jump he'd want to know how high, but deep down he knew it was more than that. Multifaceted and gleaming like Venom's sharp gaze. Her expression danced with mirth and it was a pleasure to see, not that Hattori's own features said as much. Despite the sharp contrast in their personalities she was easier to get along with than most, she simply accepted his nature as it was and left it at that. There was a lot others could learn from her and he could see why the Armada supported her so readily, she had far more potential than anyone else he'd met. And that meant a lot coming from someone as judgy as him.

His eagle soon landed and he came bearing a gift. Clutched in his talons was a fish, not one Hattori recognised, but it looked edible and large enough for the pair to eat together. Without even needing to be dismissed the eagle excused himself and took flight once more, keeping a watchful eye on the borders as Hattori so often directed him to do. The shinobi eyed the fish for a long and lingering moment, watching it's gills open and close as it grew all the more sluggish with each passing second. And then it was dead, no fanfare or drama just an inevitable silence. Reaching out with a front paw, Hattori slashed the fish into two with a few swipes of his talons. A neat, almost perfect 60/40 ratio, with Venom having the larger half. He said nothing as he pulled his section closer and began to tuck in with grace and manners expected of a man of his upbringing.