Two Wrongs Make a Right Ch.44 ♥ (Patreon)

I kick open the door to the main bedroom of my manor.

Ilia lets out a small squeak of surprise, tightening her grip on my shoulders as I carry her inside.

"I-I can walk, y-you know," she protests weakly, though her arms remain firmly around my neck. Besides, she didn’t complain at any moment.

"I know," I reply with a grin, kicking the door shut behind us and giving her a peck on the lips. "But this is more fun."

It is.

My girlfriend looks away with a smile, her freckles turning pink before I gently place her on the king-sized bed, her long brown hair splaying out around her. I can feel my throat go dry at the sight of her there, waiting for me. 

She is even more beautiful.

The main bedroom might be big, but right now it feels small since I have her inside as all my senses are only on her.

Her grey eyes track my every move as I shrug off my jacket and let it fall to the floor. Her breath hitches slightly at the sound of it hitting the ground.

I crawl onto the bed, caging her in with my arms on either side of her head. She looks up at me, a mix of happiness but nervousness in her gaze.

That shouldn't be, so I slowly take off my blindfold.

"Are you sure about this?" I ask, connecting my blue gaze with hers.

She swallows hard, then nods, a small, determined smile on her lips despite her skin being a pink hue. "I've... I've never been more sure of anything."

Her confession hangs in the air between us, a fragile, yet precious thing. I lower myself down, my elbows sinking into the mattress on either side of her head, and capture her lips again.

This kiss is different from the quick pecks we've shared before. It's slower, deeper, more explorative. I take my time, savoring her taste, the feel of her lips against mine. Her lips are so soft, and as I deepen the kiss, they part slightly with a soft gasp.

I take the opportunity to gently sweep my tongue against her lower lip, a silent question. She hesitates for a moment, then opens her mouth a little wider, granting me access. Her own tongue is shy at first, meeting mine with tentative touches before growing bolder, mirroring my movements.

A soft moan escapes her as our tongues dance together, exploring her mouth. Her hands come up to rest on my shoulders, her fingers digging in slightly as the kiss intensifies.

When we finally break apart, both of us are breathing heavily. Ilia's face is flushed, her grey eyes turning a beautiful shade of pink as well.

"Ilia," I start. "You are beautiful."

She doesn't say anything at first as I slowly pull back.

I trail my fingers down her cheek a tender touch as I trace the line of her jaw, down the column of her throat, and stop at the collar of her tight suit.

"May I?" I ask, my gaze meeting hers again.

She swallows hard, then gives another small, determined nod. 

My fingers fumble with the zipper for a moment before I find the tab and drag it down. The rasp of the zipper seems loud in the quiet room.

As the zipper reaches her navel, I gently peel back the fabric, revealing smooth, freckled skin underneath. Her chest rises and falls with each breath, the motion captivating. The skin of her chest is a rich, warm brown, dusted with a constellation of darker spots that I long to trace with my fingertips.

I lean down, pressing a soft kiss to the newly exposed skin just above her navel. She jumps slightly, a small gasp escaping her lips, but she doesn't pull away.

Encouraged, I continue my exploration, pressing a trail of kisses up her stomach, between her small breasts, and up to her collarbone. Each touch elicits a small shiver or gasp from her, her body responding to my ministrations.

My hands find her breasts as I continue to kiss her neck and collarbone, my thumbs brushing over her nipples through the fabric of her bra.

Her hands move from my shoulders to tangle in my hair, her fingers massaging me as I continue my assault on her senses. I gently nuzzle the sensitive skin where her neck meets her shoulder, earning another soft moan from her.

"A-Adam," she breathes, her voice barely a whisper. "That feels... that feels nice..."

I smile against her skin, pleased by her response. I shift slightly, reaching behind her to unclasp her bra. I unfasten it and drag the straps down her arms, revealing her breasts for the first time.

They're perfect—small, pert, and topped with dusky nipples that harden in the cool air. I can't help but stare for a moment, captivated by the sight.

Ilia's hands fly to her chest, attempting to cover herself, a flush of embarrassment coloring her cheeks. "Don't look," she mumbles, her face turned away.

"Hey," I say softly, reaching out and gently take her wrists. I pull her hands away, lacing my fingers through hers. "Look at me, Ilia."

Reluctantly, she turns her face back to mine, her now pink eyes filled with that vulnerability and self-doubt. "They're... they're small," she says, her voice filled with shame.

I bring her hands to my lips, pressing a soft kiss to her knuckles. "They're perfect," I say, my tone leaving no room for argument. "YOU're perfect."

I release one of her hands to gently cup her breast, my thumb brushing over her peaks. She sucks in a sharp breath at the contact, her back arching slightly.

"Oh..."

I lean down, taking the other nipple into my mouth, swirling my tongue around the sensitive peak. Ilia gasps, her free hand flying to my hair again, holding me in place.

"A-Adam!" she moans, her hips shifting restlessly beneath me.

I lavish attention on her breasts, alternating between gentle nips and soothing licks, my other hand continuing to tease and caress her. Her breathing grows ragged, small whimpers escaping her lips with each touch.

As I continue my exploration, my other hand lets go of hers before it trails down her stomach, pausing at the waistband of her suit. I look up at her, seeking permission.

She meets my gaze, her eyes dark with desire, and gives another small nod.

And just like that she was completely bare before me.

Yet that alluring sight only lasted a second as her hands reacted fast to cover her quim, her face turned away as if trying to hide from me.

A sigh escapes my lips before I gently take her hands and try to pull them away but much to my surprise she actually resists my advances.

"Ilia, we don't have to keep going if you don't want to." I say softly as I squeeze her hands reassuringly.

It takes a few seconds, but she finally answers."I... I want to keep going. I do. But I'm... I'm nervous. It's embarrassing...."

"Of course you're nervous," I say, leaning down to press a soft kiss to her forehead. "It's your first time. There's nothing wrong with being nervous."

"But... but it's different for you," she mumbles, still not looking at me. "You've done this before. You know what you're doing. I just... I don't want to disappoint you."

Dammit, she is comparing herself with Sienna and feeling inadequate.

I have to fix that.

In response, I gently brush a stray strand of hair away from her face, tucking it behind her ear. "You could never disappoint me, Ilia. Just being here with you like this... it means more to me than you could ever know."

Her pink eyes finally meet mine. "Really?"

"Really," I say, my tone leaving no room for doubt. "We can go as slow as you need. We can stop right now if that's what you want. Whatever you need, that's what we'll do."

She bites her lower lip, considering my words. Then, slowly, she relaxes her hands, allowing me to gently pull them away from her vulnerable center.

A small patch of dark, curly hair crowns the apex of her thighs, a stark contrast to the smooth skin surrounding it.

I don’t mind it.

I let my gaze linger for a moment, my appreciation evident in my eyes before I look back up at her. "Cute."

And that causes the flood to cascade as her entire body turns a strong pink, but she doesn't try to cover herself this time. Instead, she watches me, her curiosity momentarily overriding her embarrassment.

I trail my fingers down her stomach. She shivers, her muscles tensing beneath my touch. I can even feel her heartbeat.

My fingers continue their downward journey, tracing the line of her hip before delving into the warmth between her thighs. She tenses again, a soft gasp escaping her lips as my fingers brush against her outer folds.

"So soft here…" I murmur, more to myself than to her as I gently part her folds, exposing the delicate, pink flesh within.

Ilia's hips buck slightly, a strangled whimper escaping her. "A-Adam… wait…"

I look up at her, my fingers stilling their exploration. "Too much?"

She shakes her head, her eyes squeezed shut. "No... it's... it's good. Just... intense."

"Okay," I say softly. "Just relax. Let me take care of you."

I lower my head, pressing a soft kiss to her inner thigh. Her breath hitches, her thighs trembling slightly. I kiss my way up her thigh, getting closer and closer to my destination.

When I finally reach her core, I pause, looking up at her one last time. Her eyes are open now, watching me with a mixture of apprehension and anticipation. I offer her a reassuring smile before dipping my head down and flattening my tongue to give a slow, broad lick up her slit.

A choked sob escapes her, her back arching off the bed. Her hands fly to my hair, not to push me away, but to hold me in place, her fingers tangling in the strands as if she's afraid I might disappear.

I continue my exploration, my tongue delving deeper, tasting her essence. She's sweet, musky, a flavor that is uniquely hers. Soon I find her clit, a small, sensitive bud peeking out from its hood, and circle it with the tip of my tongue.

"Ah! Adam!" she cries out, her hips bucking wildly beneath me.

I use my hands to hold her steady, my grip firm but gentle, as I continue to bring her as much pleasure as possible. I vary my movements, alternating between broad licks and focused flicks, occasionally gently sucking on her clit.

Her response is immediate and overwhelming. Her breath comes in ragged pants, punctuated by small whimpers and moans. Her entire body tenses, her muscles coiling tight like a spring. I can feel her approaching the edge, and I redouble my efforts, determined to send her soaring.

Her cries grow louder, more urgent, her hips grinding against my face as she seeks more friction. I can feel her inner muscles beginning to flutter, a sure sign that she's close.

"A-Adam! I... I think... oh gods, Adam!" she cries out, her body bowing off the bed as the wave of pleasure crashes over her.

Her entire body shakes with the force of her orgasm, her thighs clamping around my head as she rides out the intense sensations and much to my surprise her entire body goes through a myriad of colors, a full rainbow. I can't help but smile at that as I slow my movements, gently lapping at her as she comes down from her high.

As her body finally goes limp and returns to her beautiful dark skin, her thighs relax their grip on my head, and her breathing slowly returns to normal. I place a few soft kisses on her inner thighs before making my way back up her body.

I hover above her, my elbows sinking into the mattress on either side of her head, and gaze down at her. Her eyes are closed, a peaceful expression on her face, her body still flushed with the aftermath of her orgasm. Her chest rises and falls with each steady breath, the small beads of sweat on her skin catching the light filtering through the window.

"You did amazing," I whisper, leaning down to press another soft kiss to her forehead.

Her eyes flutter open, the pink slowly fading back to their usual grey. A small, contented smile plays on her lips. "That was... that was incredible," she murmurs, her voice still a little breathless. "I... I didn't know... I didn't know it could feel like that."

"I'm glad you enjoyed it," I say with a smile, brushing another stray strand of hair away from her face.

Ilia's smile widens, her grey eyes twinkling with newfound confidence. "Enjoyed it? Adam... that was... wow."

I lean down again, this time capturing her lips in another tender kiss before our tongues intertwine.

When we break apart, she looks up at me, her eyes dark with renewed desire. "I... I want to... I want to... to touch you. Like you touched me."

"Ilia..."

"Please?" she asks, her grey eyes pleading.

How could I ever say no to that?

I shift slightly, giving her more room to maneuver as I take off my shirt. Her hands don't waste a moment to explore. They trace the line of my jaw, down my throat, across my chest. Her touch is tentative at first, hesitant, but grows bolder with each passing moment as they feel every line of my muscles.

Her hands continue their downward journey, pausing at the waistband of my pants. She looks up at me.

I nod and slowly pull out my member causing her to gasp. She doesn't look away or show any signs of embarrassment. Instead, her gaze is filled with a raw, unadulterated curiosity that's both endearing and incredibly arousing.

"It's... bigger than I thought it would be," she whispers, her cheeks flushing.

I watch as she slowly reaches out, her fingers hovering just above my flesh before making contact. The touch is feather-light, almost hesitant, but it sends a jolt of electricity straight through me. 

"It's... It's so warm."

Her touch grows bolder, her fingers wrapping around me as she begins to explore with a newfound confidence. She watches my reactions closely, a small smile playing on her lips as she learns what I like.

"Just like that..."

Her grip tightens, and she begins to move her hand up and down my length, her movements slow and deliberate at first, then gaining speed as her confidence increases.

All of that work caused me to grow full mast.

"T-That will go inside me?"

"All of it." I can't help but smile at her innocent question and her eyes go wide, a mix of excitement and trepidation in their depths.

But she doesn't say anything else as her eyes are completely glued on my rod.

I let her explore for a few more moments, enjoying her touch, before I gently took her hand in mine. "As much as I'm enjoying this, I think it's my turn again."

She looks up at me, a hint of disappointment in her eyes, but it quickly disappears when she sees the look on my face.

I shift, positioning myself between her legs again. Her thighs fall open, an invitation I have no intention of refusing. I lean down, capturing her lips in another passionate kiss as I finish moving between her legs and my shaft resting above her, making her tense up for a moment. I break the kiss, looking down at her.

"Just relax," I whisper.

She takes a deep breath, her body slowly relaxing under my touch. I reach down, positioning myself at her slick entrance. I can feel the heat radiating from her core, a promise of what's about to come.

A moment she very much understands as her hands quickly move to hold mine, her fingers finding their way to interlock with mine.

Our eyes meet. "Ready?"

She nods, her grip tightening.

Slowly, I begin to press forward until I meet the expected resistance. Her breath hitches, her body tensing again at the sudden intrusion.

"Just breathe," I murmur, my thumbs stroking the back of her hands.

She follows my instructions, taking a deep breath and trying to relax her muscles. I press forward again, this time meeting with less resistance. The head pops past her entrance, causing her to gasp, her eyes widening.

I pause, giving her a moment to adjust.

"A-Adam..." She nods, her chest rising and falling rapidly. "It... it's strange. A little... uncomfortable. But not... not bad."

"Good," I say, pressing forward again, this time sliding in a little deeper. I can feel her amazing inner walls stretching to accommodate me, a tight, hot embrace that's almost overwhelming.

"A-Adam," she whimpers, her hands squeezing mine tightly. "It's... it's a lot. S-So big..."

"I know," I say, my voice strained with the effort of holding back. "Just a little more."

I wasn't half inside her but didn't want to scare her.

I continue to push forward, slow and steady, until I'm fully seated inside her, surprising me. A choked sob escapes her lips, her back arching off the bed, a rainbow of colors briefly flashing across her skin again before settling back to her natural dark tone.

I stay still for a moment, letting her adjust to the feeling of being completely full. Her body trembles beneath mine, her inner walls fluttering around me as if trying to expel the foreign object but at the same time, holding it in place.

"Ilia?" I ask, my concern evident in my tone.

She doesn't answer right away, her breathing ragged, her eyes squeezed shut. I'm about to pull back, to give her space, when she suddenly locks me in place with her legs.

"Don't... don't move," she says, slowly opening her eyes. "Just... just stay like this for a moment."

I nod, complying with her request. I can feel every twitch, every flutter of her inner muscles, a hot, tight grip that threatens to undo me completely.

After what feels like an eternity, she finally speaks again. "O-Okay…" she whispers. "Okay, I think... I think I'm ready."

Slowly, carefully, I begin to move, pulling out slightly before pushing back in. Her breath hitches, her body tensing again, but this time, it's different.

"A-Adam..." she breathes, her eyes wide.

I repeat the motion, this time pulling out a little further before sinking back into her warmth. Her body responds instantly, her hips rising to meet my thrust, a soft moan escaping her lips.

Encouraged, I establish a slow, steady rhythm, keeping my movements controlled. Each thrust elicits a new arousing sound from her—a gasp, a whimper or soft moan. Her hands, still interlocked with mine, squeeze tighter with each time, her knuckles turning white.

I lower my head, capturing her lips with a sweet kiss as I continue to move inside her. Our tongues dance together, mimicking the rhythm of our bodies. I can feel her inner walls relaxing and then clenching around me in a delightful dance of pleasure.

The initial discomfort has given way to a building pleasure, evident in the way her body responds to mine. Her hips rise to meet each thrust, her legs pulling me deeper inside. Her breathing grows ragged, her moans growing louder, more urgent.

"Faster..," she breathes against my lips. "Please, Adam... faster."

I comply, increasing my pace, my thrusts becoming deeper. Her body writhes beneath mine, her back arching off the bed as the pleasure builds.

I shift my angle slightly, hitting a new spot inside her that makes her cry out.

"Ah! " she moans, her nails digging into my hands.

I focus on that spot, hitting it again and again. Her response is immediate and overwhelming. Her body tenses, her inner muscles clamping down on me like a vise.

"A-Adam! I... I think... oh gods, Adam!" she cries out, her body bowing off the bed as another wave of pleasure crashes over her.

Her entire body shakes with the force of her orgasm, her thighs clamping around my waist as she rides out the intense sensations. The sight of her, lost in ecstasy, her body momentarily shifting through a rainbow of colors, is the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.

I slow my movements, gently thrusting into her as she comes down from her high. Her body goes limp, her legs relaxing their grip on me. Her breathing is ragged, her chest rising and falling rapidly. Her eyes are closed, a peaceful expression on her face.

I lean down, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. "You did amazing,"

Her eyes flutter open, the pink slowly fading back to their usual grey. A small, contented smile plays on her lips. "That was... that was incredible," she murmurs, her voice still a little breathless. "But.... But you..."

Yeah, I haven't finished yet.

I give her a small, reassuring smile. "Don't worry about me. Tonight is all about you."

"But I want you to feel good too," she insists, her grey eyes pleading. "I want... I want to make you feel good."

"You already have," I say, leaning down to capture her lips in a tender quick kiss.

Ilia looks away in embarrassment but I can see the bashful smile on her.

Showing me that face, I simply couldn't hold back and pulled her back.

She yelped as I rolled us over, shifting her on top. She gasped, her hands flying to my chest to steady herself.

"A-Adam! What...?"

"You wanted to make me feel good, right?" I ask, my hands resting on her hips before my thumbs caressed her. "Then you're in control now."

Her eyes widened. She looks down at me, then at our joined bodies, her cheeks turning that alluring pink tone. "I... I don't know what to do."

"Just do what feels natural," I say, my thumbs stroking her hips. "There's no right or wrong way."

She hesitates for a moment, then tentatively begins to move, rising up slightly before sinking back down. A soft gasp escapes her lips at the new angle as the head kisses her entrance.

"Oooooh..."

Her movements are slow and uncertain at first, but she quickly finds a rhythm that works for her. Her hands brace against my chest, her long hair cascading down around us like a curtain. Her eyes are closed, her head thrown back in ecstasy as she rides me.

The sight is intoxicating.

Her movements grow bolder, more confident. She rises up until I'm almost completely out of her, then slams back down, taking me to the hilt.

"A-Adam... it... it's different like this," she breathes, opening her eyes for a second before closing them again. "It's...sooo good!"

I can only groan in response, my hands gripping her hips as I help guide her movements. The pleasure is building a tight coil in my stomach.

"Ah! Ah! AH!" Her cries grow louder, more urgent. Her body begins to tense again, her inner muscles fluttering around me.

That was faster than before.

But this time I am also close.

So I move to finish her by reaching down between us, my thumb finding her clit and rubbing it in tight circles.

Her eyes fly open, a strangled cry escaping her lips. "A-Adam! I... I can't...!"

"Yes, you can," I growl, my thrusts becoming more erratic. "Let go, Ilia."

“ADAM!” With a final cry of my name, she shatters, her body convulsing around me as another powerful orgasm wracks her slender frame. The sight of her coming apart above me, her body once again briefly flashing through a rainbow of colors, is enough to send me over the edge.

With a final, deep thrust, I bury myself inside her, releasing everything deep inside her. Ilia collapses against my chest, her body trembling with the aftershocks of her orgasm. Naturally, I wrap my arms around her before a hand holds her head, holding her close.

"H-Hot… So hot…"

A small smile touches my lips as I press a kiss to the top of her head. "I love you."

"I..." she starts, then pauses, as if searching for the right words. “I love you.”

I tighten my arms around her, pressing another kiss to her hair. "I'm glad I could be your first."

She lifts her head, her eyes searching mine. "My only..."

I wanted to keep going, to leave her gasping and a mess, to have an unforgettable night just like I did for Sienna but after hearing that, I didn't want to ruin the moment. So instead I just hold her, my fingers tracing patterns on her back as we both come down from our highs. 

The room is quiet except for our ragged breathing, the air thick with the scent of our lovemaking.

And we fall asleep.

------------------------------------------------

I'm seated with Kali on the same large couch in the living room, both of us holding teacups. The afternoon light streams through the windows, casting warm, shifting patterns across the floor as we sip our tea.

Kali sets her cup down on the low table before us, a satisfied smile crossing her features. "I have some good news to share with you. I've finally finished the training for the new administrative staff—all twenty-three of them are now capacitated in their respective roles and responsibilities."

She leans back slightly against the couch cushions. "I've already assigned them to their departments and initial duties. This should significantly speed up many bureaucratic processes that have been bottlenecking through my office, and that's not even accounting for the much broader governmental reach and coverage this gives us across all of Menagerie's territories."

I nod approvingly. "That is good news, Kali. I knew you could do it."

I take a thoughtful sip of my tea before continuing. "Is there anything else you need help with? Additional resources, more personnel, approval for new initiatives or programs? Just say the word and I'll make it happen."

If she thinks something should take priority I will follow, I trust her judgement.

Kali nods, her expression becoming more business-like. "Actually, yes. I'll be providing you with a detailed file to review later this evening—it's quite long, so I wanted to give you advance notice rather than just dropping it on your desk."

She folds her hands in her lap. "The proposal is for a new public governmental building—a civic center, really. A dedicated facility where we can establish a systematic census bureau and begin issuing official identification documents to all residents of Menagerie, including those in the outer settlements and newly integrated communities."

That's actually a very solid idea. We technically have a census of sorts already, but it was conducted hastily, and it's frankly quite inefficient and embarrassingly incomplete. Her proposal would address that weakness and give us accurate, up-to-date population data.

"That makes sense. I'll review your proposal and work with Pod to identify the best location to construct that facility—probably somewhere central and easily accessible to most major population centers."

Kali smiles approvingly. "My thoughts exactly. Accessibility is very important. Especially now that we have received these many refugees."

Well, I have already sorted out the men and women from Ironveil and it was way faster because the bastard overseer also kept a large and comprehensive profile for the entire population as well.

All for the sake of efficiency, even in death I still loathe that man.

But realistically speaking, it will probably take months—possibly even a year or more—before all of them properly heal, both physically and psychologically, from their prolonged ordeal and can fully join our society as functional, contributing members. The systematic trauma they've experienced, the deliberate dehumanization and calculated exploitation, doesn't just disappear overnight because they're free now.

But that entire rehabilitation and integration process will be left primarily for Kali and her newly trained staff to handle and manage. I have other pressing matters to worry about.

Kali and I continue our discussion between periodic sips of tea, methodically talking through various domestic affairs she's currently managing and future plans.

"The budget allocation for the educational initiative is proceeding well," Kali explains. "We've secured three qualified teachers for the children's school, though I'd like to expand to five if we can find more candidates. The curriculum is being developed with input from the Pods to ensure we're teaching practical skills alongside traditional subjects. Also to promote the clans to send their children to us for their education instead."

"Good. And what about the healthcare expansion you mentioned last week?"

"Ah, yes." Kali's expression grows more animated. "We've identified individuals with some medical training. They're willing to help establish a proper clinic if we can provide the necessary equipment and supplies. I've been working with Sienna to source what we need through the Spider clan, though."

She pauses to take another sip. "There's also the matter of infrastructure maintenance schedules. The Pods have been doing excellent work, but we need to establish a proper rotation for inspecting the water systems, power generation, and—"

But after about twenty minutes of this increasingly technical discussion, I set my cup down with perhaps more force than strictly necessary and let out a weary sigh.

"We shouldn’t be talking about work." I state flatly.

Kali stops mid-sentence, her mouth still open with whatever she was about to say. She presses her lips together thoughtfully, her ears twitching. She's quiet for a long moment then lets out her own soft, understanding sigh and sets her own cup down gently beside mine.

"You're right," she agrees, her voice taking on a warmer tone as her entire demeanor shifts. "We don't have nearly enough time together as it is—you're always so busy running everything. It wouldn't be fair to monopolize what little time we share just to keep discussing work and governmental issues."

She shifts on the couch to face me more directly, tucking one leg under herself in a more relaxed posture. "Adam. How are you really doing? Not as Commander or High Leader, but as my son?"

“This again?” I feel a slight smile tug at my lips despite myself. "Tired more than anything else, honestly. But still happy overall. Content with how things are progressing."

"That's it? Just tired and happy?" Kali lets out an exaggerated sigh. "Haaah, Adam, you were always such a man of few words, even as a child. We used to joke that getting a full sentence out of you was like mining for Dust."

I merely roll my eyes.

Her hand moves to adjust her hair and a mischievous smile plays at her lips. "But surely you can give your poor mother more than that? For instance..." She leans forward slightly. "Why don't you want to tell me how you actually feel about the fact that you're going to be a father? Have you thought about names yet? Started preparing? Or are you just going to pretend it's not happening until Sienna goes into labor?"

I whip my head around to look at her. "I... I haven't really been thinking about that." I admit honestly.

Kali's expression shifts to an exaggerated pout, her ears drooping slightly. "Adam, she's going to start showing soon. You do realize that, don't you? This isn't something you can just ignore until it goes away."

Time passed that fast already?

I pause, mentally calculating the timeline. When exactly did Sienna tell me she was pregnant? I count back the weeks in my head…

Three months.

It's been over three months already since she revealed the news.

Time sure flies.

But then something else occurs to me, a question that's been in the back of my mind. "Since when are you and Sienna back on good terms?" I ask directly. "I thought there was still... tension between you two. Unresolved issues."

I mean, Kali said she would put some of those differences aside after we broke the pregnancy news to her, but I could still feel Kali had some lingering resentment beneath the surface civility. The kind of wounds that don't just heal because circumstances demand it.

Kali's playful, teasing smile fades slowly, gradually replaced by a melancholic expression. She sighs deeply, her shoulders dropping slightly as she seems to gather her thoughts.

"Adam, you have to understand that my relationship with Sienna is... complicated. Deeply, painfully complicated. It always has been," she begins, her voice taking on a softer, more reflective quality. "She's been with our family for so long—too long for me not to care about her wellbeing and happiness, regardless of everything else that's happened between us."

She looks down at her hands folded in her lap, her fingers intertwining. "I still remember her when she was just a child, you know. So young, so full of raw life and fire in her eyes, so eager to prove herself worthy, so determined to make a real difference for our people. I watched her transform from that passionate, idealistic girl into the formidable woman she is now."

Kali pauses, her expression growing visibly more pained as old memories surface. "Even after that fateful day when everything changed, even after our relationship drifted apart and fractured so badly over political disagreements, even with all the fundamental things I disagree with her about, the difficult decisions she's made that I couldn’t support or condone..." She looks up at me directly, her amber eyes showing a lot of emotions. "I would still offer her a shoulder to rely on when she needs it, without hesitation. Especially now, when she's carrying my grandchild and facing something as monumentally life-changing and terrifying as becoming a mother for the first time."

Her voice becomes firmer. "I can't simply erase all those years of shared history, all those memories and moments we built together, just because we've had serious conflicts and fundamental disagreements about how to lead our people. That's not how feelings work, Adam. Relationships aren't simple mathematics where you can just subtract the bad and keep the good. It's messy? Yes, absolutely. It's complicated beyond description? Yes. Painful and frustrating and sometimes infuriating? Of course it is. But it's real. I care about her wellbeing even when I'm angry at her choices and disappointed by some of her methods."

She takes a breath, her expression softening further. "And honestly, seeing her pregnant, seeing her vulnerable in a way she never allows herself to be otherwise—it reminds me of the girl I once knew. The one who hadn't yet been hardened by politics and power struggles. Part of me hopes that becoming a mother might help her reconnect with that softer side she's buried so deeply."

Well… She has shown me that vulnerable side many times already.

"As for you becoming a father..." Kali continues, shifting the topic. "I know it's overwhelming and probably terrifying. Ghira was absolutely worried sick when we learned we… We were having Blake. I was even more anxious and afraid. We both worried constantly that we wouldn't know how to be proper parents, that we'd fail our child, that we were bringing a precious life into this harsh, unforgiving world without being able to protect them from all its cruelty."

Her voice becomes gentler, almost wistful. "And yet we persisted. We raised Blake as best we could, and when circumstances brought you into our lives, we didn't hesitate to open our hearts and home to you as well. We chose to love despite the fear, to try despite the uncertainty. Even with what occurred between you, I still love both of you dearly."

Goddamit Blake… Godfucking dammint…

She reaches over and places her hand on mine, squeezing it. "So you shouldn't hide those feelings of doubt, Adam. You shouldn't pretend they don't exist or that you're somehow above them. It's completely okay—natural even—if you're nervous or have doubts. And just like I've already said this to Sienna multiple times, I will tell it to you as well: you won't be alone in this journey. I'll help you as much as I can. I'll guide you, support you through every challenge, teach you everything I know about raising children with both love and care."

Her grip on my hand tightens slightly. "You're going to be a good father, Adam."

Before I can give a response to that declaration, Kali's expression shifts again dramatically, this time to something considerably lighter and more mischievous. "And speaking of relationships we should discuss..." She pauses deliberately, her eyes beginning to twinkle with that particular gleam I've learned to be wary of. "Congratulations on you and Ilia finally making things official, by the way. I'm so happy for both of you."

That catches me completely by surprise. "You... already knew about me and Ilia getting together. Why are you congratulating me again now specifically?"

Kali just smiles with perfect innocence.

And then suddenly, I understand exactly what she's implying with that timing, and my expression turns absolutely deadpan as I drag my hand slowly down my face in pure exasperation.

"Kali..."

She just giggles in response, actually giggles like a mischievous teenager rather than the dignified former Chieftess of Menagerie, and reaches over to ruffle my hair affectionately with both hands. "Such a wonderful gentleman you've become, my dear son. So responsible and considerate with the women in your life. I'm so proud of how attentive you are to their needs."

I cannot believe I'm feeling embarrassed about this, again. I've led military operations, defeated ancient behemoths in single combat, stood against entire armies, and here I am feeling embarrassed because my adoptive mother is gleefully teasing me about my sex life.

"I really don't want to have this conversation," I mutter, trying to fix my now-disheveled hair and regain some dignity.

"Oh, but we absolutely must!" Kali says with entirely too much enthusiasm. "After all, I need to make sure you're being careful and respectful with both partners. Polygamy is such a delicate dynamic to navigate properly, and I want to ensure everyone's needs are being considered—"

"Kali, please."

"—and I certainly hope you're taking appropriate precautions and being responsible about protection unless you're actively planning to give me multiple grandchildren all at once," she continues as if I haven't spoken, warming to her subject. "Which, while I wouldn't really mind it personally—more grandbabies to spoil—would still be quite overwhelming for you and the women involved, don't you think? Especially with Sienna already—"

"I'm begging you to stop talking."

"—though I suppose Sienna and Ilia do seem to get along reasonably well, all things considered, so perhaps co-parenting wouldn't be entirely impossible if it came to that," she muses thoughtfully. "They have similar temperaments in some ways, both fierce and protective, both deeply loyal to you. The household dynamics could actually work quite—"

I stand abruptly from the couch. "I just remembered I have urgent things to do. See you later."

Kali laughs openly and delightedly at my obvious retreat. "Oh, sit back down, Adam. I'm just teasing you because you make it so wonderfully easy and your reactions are priceless. You should see your face right now, I'm glad you have changed little in that aspect."

"You're enjoying this way too much," I accuse, but I can't help the slight smile tugging at my lips despite my embarrassment. Her joy is infectious even when it's at my expense.

"I'm your mother," she says simply, as if that single fact explains everything. "Embarrassing you occasionally is part of my sacred job description. It's practically a parental responsibility and benefit. Ghira would have done exactly the same thing, you know—probably worse, actually. He had a terrible sense of humor about these matters."

The casual mention of Ghira softens both of us immediately, that familiar bittersweet feeling settling over.

"I wish he was here," I admit quietly, the words coming out before I can stop them.

"I know, sweetheart. I know." Kali reaches out and pulls me back down beside her on the couch, wrapping her arms around me in a proper, secure maternal embrace. "I wish he was here too. Every single day. Every moment of every day, I wish I could share all of this with him, the joy of knowing our family is growing."

Her voice becomes quieter, more intimate. "But I’ve told you already that he'd want you to be happy, Adam. He'd want you to build this life, to embrace these blessings, to not let grief and loss stop you from moving forward into the future.”

We sit like that for a while.

Finally, Kali pulls back and looks at me, her maternal concern reasserting itself. "But really, Adam—you need to start thinking about becoming a father. Actually thinking about it, not just acknowledging it exists. It's coming whether or not you feel ready. Have you actually talked to Sienna about any of this? About your fears or concerns or hopes? About what kind of father you want to be?"

I shake my head slowly, I only told her I would take responsibility.

"That approach won't work for much longer," she says gently but firmly, her tone brooking no argument. "That baby is going to arrive in approximately six months. You need to talk to her seriously. Ask her how she's feeling about everything, what she needs from you, what plans you have, what values you want to instill and so many other things."

She pauses meaningfully. "And you should probably talk to Ilia about all of this too, given your relationship and your commitment to each other. She deserves to know where she fits into this new family dynamic you're creating, how you see her role, whether she wants to be involved in raising this child. These are conversations you can't avoid forever with the excuse of work."

She's absolutely right, of course. 

"I will," I promise sincerely, meeting her eyes. "Soon. I just... I need to figure out what I actually want to say first. I just haven’t really thought about them with everything going on."

"That's fair enough," Kali acknowledges with an understanding nod. "But don't wait too long, Adam. These conversations only get harder and more complicated the more you postpone them. And avoidance doesn't make the reality any less real—it just makes everyone more anxious."

Yep, that’s Kali Belladonna for you.

---------------------------------------

-9S, Beacon’s Academy-

Nines sat alone in Beacon's outer gardens, the late afternoon sun casting long shadows across the manicured grounds. Her tablet displayed a complex array of footage and anatomical diagrams, specifically focusing on common cybernetic augmentations and their vulnerable access points. She was reviewing the footage from their recent... unsanctioned team escapade, analyzing how the gang members had reacted when she'd compromised their cyberware.

It served as a performance review of sorts, allowing her to run simulations and refine her techniques for future operations.

Some gangsters had possessed so many augmentations that they appeared more machine than human; those individuals had suffered the most devastating effects when she'd interfered with their systems. During her analysis, she'd discovered something both troubling and fascinating: theoretically, she could kill such heavily augmented targets with a single command sequence. A simple shutdown protocol sent to their neural interfaces, and their bodies would simply... cease functioning.

She hadn't attempted it, of course. Not yet. Such an action required more study, more understanding and consequences. 

For now, her attacks had been limited to sabotage; disabling optical implants mid-combat, short-circuiting neural interfaces to create temporary paralysis, or completely shutting down limb functionality. The variety of reactions fascinated her from an analytical standpoint. Some targets panicked immediately, their bravado evaporating in the face of their own bodies betraying them. The fights had become trivial once opponents couldn't even lift a finger to defend themselves.

The tactic had proven remarkably viable against augmented enemy forces. Now she was determining the optimal targeting sequence for maximum battlefield effectiveness, and more importantly, perfecting methods to execute these intrusions with zero visible sign of her involvement. Subtle warfare through digital infiltration—exactly what a Scanner model excelled at.

"No... no... please... I'm sorry..."

The soft, distressed murmuring pulled Nines from her analysis. She looked to her side where Blake lay sleeping on the bench, clearly caught in another nightmare. The faunus’ cat ears twitched sporadically, and her fingers flexed as though grasping for something that wasn't there.

These episodes had become increasingly common, which made sense considering everything Blake had experienced and done. The withdrawal symptoms were intensifying.

Nines sighed quietly, shaking her head. The increased nightmares were likely an inevitable consequence of Blake's substance abuse. She'd suspected from the beginning that those drugs would prove addictive. Nines had wanted to acquire samples for proper analysis, but obtaining them had proven more difficult than expected. A minor setback in her research, though admittedly, that investigation ranked low on her priority list compared to her primary objectives.

She'd used the excuse of "practical studies" to bring Blake out here, knowing her teammates wouldn't question the reasoning. In reality, Nines had detected that the faunus was rapidly approaching a complete psychological and physical breakdown. Getting her away from the increasingly toxic environment of the faunus dormitory and letting her rest in Beacon's peaceful gardens seemed like the most logical intervention that wouldn’t reveal anything about her.

Even if Nines couldn't fully articulate why she felt compelled to help beyond simple operational necessity. Blake's deterioration could compromise team efficiency, she told herself. That was reason enough.

Her sensors detected someone approaching—slow, measured footsteps accompanied by the rhythmic tap of a cane against stone. This wasn't a coincidental encounter. Someone was specifically seeking her out.

'The Headmaster?'

Nines pretended to remain absorbed in her tablet, maintaining the appearance of a dedicated student reviewing coursework until the visitor arrived.

"What a pleasant surprise to find you here, Miss Nines," Professor Ozpin's calm voice greeted her.

She looked up slowly, meeting the gaze of Beacon's enigmatic Headmaster. He stood a respectful distance away, leaning on his cane—not from physical necessity, her preliminary scans showed, but perhaps from habit. His expression carried that characteristic tired warmth, eyes reflecting something ancient despite his relatively youthful appearance.

"Good afternoon, Headmaster," Nines replied with polite formality, her posture straightening slightly. "What brings you here?"

"Simply to talk with one of my students, of course," Ozpin said, adjusting his spectacles with his free hand. "An old man's curiosity about those entrusted to his care. I hope I'm not interrupting anything important?"

Nines couldn't help but analyze the statement. According to her assessment, Professor Ozpin wasn't particularly old by human standards—perhaps in his late forties or early fifties at most, well within the average lifespan for someone of his resources and station. Yet he carried himself with a strange weariness.

There was deterioration there, not of body but of spirit—something worn and eroded that suggested far more experience than his apparent age should permit.

"Not at all, Professor," she replied, setting her tablet aside. "I was simply reviewing some combat scenarios for my team."

Ozpin's gaze drifted toward Blake's sleeping form, and Nines observed his expression. There was no judgment in those eyes, no disapproval or malice. Instead, she detected something far more complex—pity, certainly, but also a profound sorrow that seemed entirely disproportionate to the situation. 

'Fascinating,' Nines catalogued, filing the observation for later analysis.

"Is your..." Ozpin paused, and when the word finally emerged, it carried an almost imperceptible strain, "...bearer well?"

As she thought, the word itself caused him discomfort. Another data point to consider.

"She's been struggling to keep pace with her studies and responsibilities," Nines replied carefully, offering a partial truth that wouldn't raise suspicions. "I thought some fresh air and quiet surroundings might help restore her equilibrium. The gardens seemed an appropriate place for rest."

"Indeed." Ozpin's response came quietly, his eyes still on Blake. "Sometimes the weight we carry makes rest... elusive. No matter how desperately we might need it." There was something deeply personal in those words, as though he spoke from intimate experience. "Though I'm pleased to see she has such attentive... teammates watching over her."

Teammates. The word choice struck Nines as deliberate. Technically, she and Blake were teammates in the broadest sense, but officially? Blake was designated as a bearer—essentially a support role, a servant to the combat team if one wished to be crude about the power dynamics. 

Yet Ozpin had deliberately used the more egalitarian term.

"I simply try to be observant of my companions' needs," Nines said neutrally.

A brief silence settled between them. Ozpin seemed content to observe the peaceful garden.

Commander Taurus had given her specific instructions—if she ever found herself in a private conversation with Professor Ozpin, there was a particular question she needed to ask.

This seemed like the optimal moment. They were alone, Blake wouldn't interrupt, and the casual nature of the encounter provided perfect cover for what might otherwise seem like a strange question.

"May I ask you something, Professor?" Nines asked with a curious yet innocent tone. "It may seem like an odd question."

Ozpin's tired smile curled, amusement touching his features. "While you certainly may, I must confess that in all my years, I've heard quite a lot. It takes something truly unusual to surprise me anymore. Though I do enjoy the occasional attempt." He gestured with his cane, an invitation to continue. "Please, ask away."

Nines nodded.

"What's your favorite fairy tale?"

The casual demeanor evaporated, revealing a more serious expression. His grip on his cane tightened and his eyes behind those spectacles became focused.

He studied her for a long moment, and Nines could practically see him weighing his options. This wasn't the response of someone caught off-guard by a student's random question. This was recognition.

"That is..." Ozpin began slowly, "...a very specific question to ask, Miss Nines. One that suggests this conversation may be more significant than a simple chat in the gardens." He paused for a moment. "Before I answer, might I ask what prompted such curiosity? Fairy tales are, after all, just stories—though I've found that the wisest among us recognize that stories often contain truths that facts cannot convey."

Nines simply kept her silence and maintained her gaze on him.

Finally, Ozpin exhaled softly, something like resignation crossing his features. "The Tale of the Two Brothers," he breathed. "Though I suspect you already knew what my answer would be, didn't you? Otherwise, you wouldn't have asked."

Nines furrowed her brow. 

That was the right answer.

Now it was Nines's turn to make a choice. 

-------------------------------

AN: Have some cute chameleon girl and more Kali mommy shenanigans