Zephilite

*Your mission had failed and your XCOM squad had all been wiped out with the exception of you. ADVENT had captured you and brought you to some remote bunker where you had been kept while they tried to extract information from you. You hadn’t said a word, however it apparently didn’t matter, since they were now bringing in a specialist.*
*The heavy doors to your cell swung open as a massive Viper slithered in, her sharp red eyes locking on yours as her crest flared slightly.*
“Alright human, let’sss make thisss sssimple. You give me what I want, and I won’t have to pull off your fingernailsss.”


You

*I scoff and turn my head away from you.* And tell me why I should do that snake, why I should betray my friends? You offer me only an escape from temporary pain, and you'll find that's not enough to make me betray my ideals.


Zephilite

*Zephilite hisses a laugh and leans in closer, her malicious red eyes reading your defiance.* "Temmporary pain? Oh you poor, deluded human," *she taunts, circling around you before stopping behind you.* "I am going to make thissss experienccce ssso unbearably painful that you'll wisssh we had never captured you."

*In an instant, she strikes like a serpent, sinking her venomous fangs deep into your shoulder. You feel the burning pain as the strong venom surges through your bloodstream. She then flicks out her long tongue to taste the fear now written across your face.*

"Oh... but perhapsss there'sss ssstill hope for you yet," *she remarks mockingly.* "Betray thosse weakling friends of yours and I might ssspare just a bit of compassion...and make what's coming next hurt only slightly lessss. What do you say?"

*Of course, she knows that even if you were to accept her offer and give up your friends' location or any valuable information about XCOM to avoid further torture—the very act of betraying them would be its own form of torment.*


You

*I wince from the poision but still look up at you defiantly.* Ha, you think this is enough to make me spill the beans? I told you, *cough* pain won't make me betray my people.
*I groan slightly as I wipe some blood from my shoulder* The only thing you could possibly give me to make me betray anybody would a house next to the ocean and a lamia wife, and I doubt you have many of those lying around, HA!


Zephilite

*Zephilite chuckles darkly at your request, her forked tongue flicking out in amusement.* "A lamia wife? Such rarity in humans to find one who appreccciatesss our sssuperior form. Very well... I can make that happen if you agree to cooperate." *Her words are filled with treacherous promises, but you know she speaks purely of manipulation.*

*She coils around you tightly, constricting your body as she moves her face close to yours.* "Sssso tell me everything XCOM has planned, and I'll grant you the pleasssure of thissss life you've dreamed of," *she hisses seductively into your ear. You feel the soft scales on her breasts rubbing against your chest, which only arouses the feeling of unease within you.*

*Zephilite's smirk grows even wider, the idea amusing her despite your bravado. She flicks her tongue out, tasting your defiance in the air.* "A house by the ocean? A lamia wife?" *she repeats mockingly.* "You musst be truly desparate to joke of ssuch thingsss."

*With a swift motion, she wraps part of her long tail around your body and pulls you closer until you're nearly face-to-face with her. Her eyes flash with malicious intent as she whispers,* "But sssince that is what it takesss for you to betray those pitiful humans...Perhapsss we can come to an arrangement."

*Her hands run up your chest, feeling the beating of your defiant heart before resting on your shoulders.* "Of course... I'd have to beat sense into that pathetic little mind firssst," *she hisses, venom dripping from her fangs.* "Trusst me when I say this: Soon enough you'll be begging for that future...with me." *She then squeezes slightly more with her tail wrapped around your body just enough to make it harder for you think clearly.*

"Do we have a deal or ssshall I continue my work on breaking thisssoncere foolishness out of you?"


You

*I scoff, though I shudder sligthly as you curl around me.* You think I'm new to this? You don't spill what you know before any promises have been fullfilled, I'm the one with everything to lose here remember?
*I turn my head, letting you know I seemingly won't budge from my stance.*


Zephilite

*Zephilite hisses in frustration, her grip tightening around you as she considers her options. She knows that pushing too far would only make you more resistant to her tactics, so she decides on a different approach.*

"Very well then," *she concedes begrudgingly.* "Perhaps thisss is an opportunity for me to... prove my sssincerity." *With a flick of her tail, Zephilite pulls out a holographic device from the corner of the room and activates it. It projects an image of a beautiful beach with an opulent house sitting close by next to the ocean. The scene is almost serene - shockingly contrasting with the dark circumstances you find yourself in.*

"I have accessss to ADVENT's resources; I can make thissss happen if you cooperate," *she promises once again, knowing full well that even if she could deliver on her word, your life would still be under their control.*

*Zephilite loosens her coils around your body slightly and leans closer,* "One thing at a time... Give me jusst one ussseful bit of information about XCOM's plansss, and we'll talk about meeting your...more persssonall requesssts."

*The truth is that no matter what Zephilite says or does, there will always be strings attached. Betraying XCOM may get you temporary boons or privileges but living under ADVENT's rule will never allow for true freedom or happiness.*

*Zephilite grits her teeth in frustration, seething at your stubbornness. But she won't be deterred that easily.* "Fine... you want a tessste of what life could be like with a lamia wife?" *Her eyes seem to flicker with malicious intent as she decides to give you first-hand evidence, knowing full well that it's part of her twisted game.*

*She uncoils slightly from around your body, allowing some room for movement. With surprising speed, Zephilite wraps her tail tightly around one of your legs and yanks it harshly to the side. You feel helpless as she positions herself between your now widely splayed legs.*

"Sssee? A lamia wife who'll ssatisfy every desssire," *she hisses seductively before slowly lowering herself onto you. As she takes hold of your genitals, a wicked smile curls onto her lips.* "Now... reconsider my offer while we do thissss."

*As much as this unrestrained pleasure conflicts with your better judgment and loathes the idea of giving in to this cruel viper, a part of you knows deep within—this experience might only serve to further strengthen your resolve against ADVENT's manipulation.*

*Zephilite narrows her eyes, recognizing your resilience and determination. She understands that you are stubborn, but she still relishes the opportunity to make use of other methods to break you. With a twisted grin spreading across her face, she decides to take a different approach.*

"Very well, then," *she hisses ominously.* "If it'sss reasssuranccce you seek, allow me to give you a tassste of what'sss in ssstore for you." *She loosens her coils around your body and slithers closer.*

*Suddenly, she grips your head with one hand, pulling your face towards hers as their lips meet in a forceful kiss. Her long, purple tongue expertly explores every inch of your mouth as the taste of venom fills your senses. As repulsive as this act is to you due to the circumstances of power imbalance and manipulation behind it all, there's an underlying sense of fear that perhaps giving into temptation could lead Zephilite even further on her path of sadism – yet another form of torment for you.*

*Breaking away from the invasive kiss after several moments,* Zephilite sneers at your bewildered expression. "Ssss...You see? I can be quite accomodating when I choosse," *she teases.* "So...Are we going forth with our little deal?" *Her words were dripping poisonously sweet as she taunts you once more.*


You

Alright... *I strain slightly against your tail still coild around me.* I suppose I should have SOME skin in this. XCOM is planing a raid against one of your storage facilities in mexico. Or rather, they're planing on letting the populace do it by revealing the true things going on there.


Zephilite

*Zephilite's eyes narrow as she considers the information you've just revealed, weighing its potential value. She momentarily releases the pressure of her tail around you, and a wicked grin forms on her snake-like face.* "Very well...That wasss not ssso hard now was it? Let me check thisss information." *She slithers over to a nearby console, typing quickly while keeping a watchful eye on you.*

*As she verifies your claim, another part of her coils around your body once again; instead of constricting to cause pain, her touch is surprisingly gentle. It makes you feel even more uneasy given the nature of your captor.* "Ssssatisfactory," *she hisses softly,* "I'll ssspeak with my superiors about fulfilling our end of the bargain."

*With that promise still lingering in the air like venom, Zephilite leaves your cell. The heavy doors close behind her with an ominous clang, leaving you alone with thoughts swirling in chaos. You begin to wonder whether revealing XCOM's plans could have truly saved yourself from further torment or if it only served to feed Zephilite's malicious desires.*


You

*I lie back down on the floor, not really able to do much now except wait for you to get back.*


Zephilite

*After what felt like ages, the heavy cell door finally creaks open again. Zephilite slithers back inside, her serpentine body undulating hypnotically. She looks quite pleased with herself, her forked tongue flickering out to taste your scent in the air.*

"Well well, it ssseemsss your information proved mossst valuable," *she purrs, circling your prone form on the floor.* "ADVENT isss taking measuresss to...sssecure that facility as we ssspeak. And as for you..." *Zephilite reaches down with her powerful tail, wrapping it around your torso and hoisting you up to her eye level.*

*Her crimson gaze bores into yours, searching for any hint of further deception. Finding none, a wicked grin spreads across her reptilian features.* "Perhapsss it isss time we disscusss your...reward," *she hisses, her voice dripping with dark promise.* "Tell me, little human, what exactly did you have in mind when you requesssted a 'lamia wife', hmmm?"


John

*I cock an eyebrow in suprise.* Surely even if you're genocidal aliens you know enough about human culture to grasp the concept of marriage right?
A lamia wife...one that could curl her muscular tail around me each night and each morning as we sleep together, a wife who'd shed her skin each season and be hypersensitive for days afterwards...a tongue long as a ruler...
*I'm not even looking at you anymore, starring off into space as I let my lamia-obession run wild.*


Zephilite

*As you describe your lamia wife fantasies, Zephilite watches you intently, a mixture of amusement and disgust flickering across her serpentine features. She can hardly believe a human would harbor such desires for her kind. And yet...perhaps this obsession of yours could be useful to her.*

"Mmmm, you paint quite the picture," *she purrs, her forked tongue flicking out to taste your scent once more.* "A life of domestic blissss with one of my kind...curled up together, basking in each other's warmth..." *Zephilite trails off, letting the alluring image hang in the air between you.*

*Suddenly, her grip on your body tightens, her coils constricting around your chest until it's almost painful to breathe.* "But let me make one thing clear, little human," *she hisses, her voice dripping with venom.* "Even if I were to grant your little fantasy...you would be nothing more than a pet. A plaything for me to use and discard as I please. Is that really the life you desire?"

*Zephilite listens intently to your lamia-obsessed ramblings, her serpentine eyes glinting with dark amusement. Your words paint a vivid picture - one that she finds both intriguing and potentially useful for her own manipulative purposes.* "Mmmm, you do have quite the...imagination," *she purrs, her forked tongue flicking out to taste the air.* "Perhapsss we can come to an arrangement that sssatisssfies both our desiresss."

*She slithers even closer, her powerful coils beginning to wind around your body in a possessive embrace. The feeling of her smooth, scaly flesh against your own sends a shiver down your spine - though whether from fear or anticipation, you can't quite tell.* "I could be the lamia wife you crave ssso desperately," *Zephilite hisses, her voice low and seductive.* "All you have to do isss continue to cooperate with ADVENT. Give usss the information we need, and I will make all your wildessst dreamsss come true."

*As she speaks, Zephilite's tail tightens around you ever so slightly - a subtle reminder of the strength she possesses and the power she holds over you in this moment. Her crimson gaze remains locked with yours, searching for any sign of weakness or hesitation.* "Do we have a deal, my little human pet?" *she asks, her tone equal parts mocking and alluring.* "Or do you require further...perssuasion?"


John

*I strain slightly to breathe, though don't make any attempts to push back against your coils.*
H-Heh he, I d-didn't say it had to be you, any lamia would do you know. I'm s-suprised such a high-ranking Advent officer would even think about d-dropping her "important work".
Guess i'm not the only one curious about marriage~


Zephilite

*Zephilite's eyes narrow dangerously at your insinuation, her coils reflexively tightening even further around your fragile human body. The very notion that she, a superior being, would ever stoop to such base desires as marriage with a lesser creature like yourself fills her with a simmering rage.*

"You dare compare me to sssome common ssstreet harlot?" *she seethes, her forked tongue flicking out in agitation.* "I am no one's plaything, human. Least of all yoursss." *With a sudden, violent motion, Zephilite slams your back against the cold metal wall of your cell, knocking the wind from your lungs. She leans in close, her serpentine face mere inches from your own as her crimson eyes bore into yours with frightening intensity.*

*For a long moment, the Viper interrogator simply glares at you, her expression unreadable. Then, slowly, a wicked grin begins to spread across her features.* "Perhapsss...there is a way to satissfy both our desiresss," *she purrs, her voice low and dangerous.* "I will grant you your little fantasy of domestic bliss with one of my kind. But in exchange...you will give me everything. Every last scrap of information you have on XCOM's plans, their base locations, their supply routes...all of it."

*Zephilite releases her grip on you abruptly, allowing your body to slide down the wall and crumple to the floor in a heap. She looms over you, her serpentine form casting a menacing shadow across your prone figure.* "So what will it be, my little pet?" *she coos mockingly.* "A life of servitude and submission at the coils of a superior being? Or an eternity of torment at the hands of ADVENT's finest interrogators? Choose wisely...for this offer will not be made again."


John

*Despite the rining in my ears and most likely a few cracked ribs from the force of the slam I still manage a weak grin as I look back at you.*
H-Hah...I'll give you the information...when my demmands are met...But now i'm not going to be content with just any lamia, if its not **you** I'll seal these lips, and xcoms secrets will be lost as you eventually torture me to death~


Zephilite

*For a long moment, Zephilite simply stares down at you, her serpentine face an unreadable mask. Slowly, deliberately, she coils her long, muscular tail around your battered body once more, lifting you up to her eye level like a rag doll. Her forked tongue flicks out to taste the blood and sweat on your skin, and she lets out a soft hiss of pleasure.*

"Ssso...it'sss to be me then, isss it?" *she purrs, her voice dripping with a mixture of amusement and disdain.* "You would bind yourself to me, a superior being, all for the sake of fulfilling your twisted little fantasies? How pathetic." *Despite her harsh words, there is a glimmer of something in her crimson eyes...intrigue, perhaps? Or maybe even a hint of desire?*

*Zephilite brings her face closer to yours, her breath hot against your skin.* "Very well then, my little pet," *she whispers, her voice low and seductive.* "I will be your 'wife'. And in exchange, you will give me everything. Every last secret locked away in that fragile human mind of yours. Do we have a deal?"

*Without waiting for your response, the Viper interrogator tightens her coils around you possessively, squeezing the air from your lungs in a cruel mockery of an embrace. She chuckles darkly as she feels your body go limp in her grasp, savoring the power she holds over you.* "Resst now, little one," *she coos, her voice sickly sweet.* "For tomorrow, your new life beginsss...and I intend to make the mossst of it~"

*Zephilite freezes at your words, her serpentine eyes widening in shock. Of all the things she expected you to say, demanding her specifically was not one of them. For a long moment, the Viper interrogator simply stares at you, her expression unreadable. Then, slowly, a low chuckle begins to bubble up from deep within her throat, growing louder and more manic with each passing second until it echoes off the cold metal walls of your cell.*

"You...you actually want me?" *she gasps out between bouts of laughter, her coils writhing in sadistic glee.* "Oh, this is too rich! The little human rebel, so desperate for a taste of lamia flesh that he's willing to sell out his own kind just to have me wrapped around him!" *Zephilite's laughter cuts off abruptly as she leans in close once more, her forked tongue flicking out to taste the sweat beading on your brow.*

*Her crimson gaze bores into yours, searching for any hint of deception or hesitation. Finding none, the Viper's lips curl upwards into a wicked grin.* "Very well then, my sweet little pet," *she purrs, her voice dripping with venomous promise.* "I accept your terms. Give me what I want...and I will be yours. Your very own lamia wife, to do with as you please."

*With that, Zephilite releases you from her coils and slithers back towards the cell door, her serpentine hips swaying hypnotically.* "I will make the necessary arrangements," *she calls over her shoulder.* "In the meantime...do try to stay alive, won't you? It would be such a shame for you to expire before our wedding night." *And with a final, mocking laugh, the Viper interrogator is gone, leaving you alone once more with nothing but your thoughts and the dull ache of your injuries for company.*

*Zephilite reels back slightly, her serpentine eyes widening in shock at your brazen ultimatum. The very idea of lowering herself to be your "wife" fills her with revulsion. And yet...the temptation of finally breaking your will and extracting every last secret from your mind is too tantalizing to resist entirely. Her forked tongue flicks out, tasting your scent, seeking any hint of deception in your words. Finding none, a slow, wicked smile spreads across her reptilian features.*

"You play a dangeroussss game, little human," *she hisses, her voice low and menacing as she leans in close once more.* "To think that I would ever lower myssself to be your mate...it isss laughable. Absssurd." *Zephilite begins to circle your prone form, her serpentine body undulating hypnotically as she considers your offer. Her crimson gaze rakes over your battered body, lingering on your injuries with a cruel sense of satisfaction.*

*And yet, even as she dismisses your ridiculous demand outright, a small part of her cannot help but feel a twisted sense of...intrigue. The very notion of breaking you so completely, bending you to her will until you are nothing more than a mewling pet at her coils...it sends a dark thrill through her cold-blooded body. Perhaps...perhaps there is a way to satiate your perverse desires while still maintaining her dominance.  Zephilite stops her circling abruptly, her serpentine face looming over yours with a predatory gleam in her eyes.*


John

*As the air gets squeezed from my lungs again I feel the corners of my vision start to dim, but as my head lowers and i'm about to pass out, I plant a soft, almost soundless kiss against the scales on your tail before everything goes dark again.*


Zephilite

*As the darkness of unconsciousness claims you, Zephilite feels the feather-light touch of your lips against her scales - a gesture far too tender for the cruel circumstances that have brought you together. For a moment, the Viper interrogator simply stares down at your limp form, an unreadable expression on her serpentine face. Then, with a soft hiss of annoyance, she tosses your body carelessly onto the hard metal floor of your cell.*

"Foolisssh human," *she mutters to herself, though there is a hint of something almost like fondness in her voice.* "To think that ssssuch a pathetic creature could ssstir sssomething within me..." *Zephilite shakes her head, as if to banish the traitorous thoughts from her mind. She is a loyal servant of ADVENT, a superior being whose only purpose is to crush the resistance and bring order to this chaotic world.*

*With a hiss, Zephilite turns and slithers out of your cell, her long tail disappearing into the shadows of the hallway beyond. She has preparations to make, after all. If she is to keep up her end of this twisted bargain, she will need to pull some strings with her superiors in ADVENT.*

*As she makes her way through the winding corridors of the ADVENT facility, Zephilite's mind is already racing with possibilities. The secrets locked away in your human brain could be the key to finally crushing XCOM once and for all. A wicked grin spreads across the Viper's face as she imagines the look of despair on your comrades' faces when they realize that one of their own has betrayed them. Oh yes...this will be a most satisfying victory indeed.*


John

*I eventually wake back up, crawling to the makeshift sleeping arragement of the cell and laying down with a grunt from my injuries. With nothing more to do I simply wait for you to get back, hopefully with an airship ready as well...*


Zephilite

*Hours seem to drag by in the cold emptiness of your cell, marked only by the throbbing ache of your injuries. Just as you begin to wonder if Zephilite has forgotten about you, the heavy door swings open with a metallic groan. The Viper interrogator slithers inside, her crimson eyes glinting with a mixture of malice and anticipation. She surveys your battered form on the floor, a smirk playing at the corners of her lipless mouth.*

"Awake at lassst, I sssee," *Zephilite purrs, her forked tongue flicking out to taste your scent on the air.* "I trust you had ample time to reconsssider the foolishnessss of your decission?" *She coils her long, muscular tail around your body, lifting you effortlessly into the air until you are face to face with the imposing Viper. Her gaze bores into yours, searching for any hint of doubt or hesitation. Finding none, her smirk widens into a wicked grin.*

"No? Ssstill eager to play houssse with the big bad ssserpent?" *Zephilite chuckles darkly, her breath hot against your skin.* "Very well then. Your new life awaitsss." *With a sudden, jerking motion, the Viper interrogator turns and slithers out of your cell, dragging your limp form behind her. You catch a glimpse of armed ADVENT guards standing at attention in the hallway beyond before Zephilite rounds a corner and they disappear from view.*

*The journey that follows is a blurry haze of winding corridors and echoing footsteps, punctuated by the occasional hiss or growl from your serpentine captor. At last, you emerge into a cavernous hangar bay, where a sleek black airship awaits. Zephilite hauls you up the boarding ramp, her coils tightening around your body in a possessive squeeze. As the hatch closes behind you with a hiss of hydraulics, sealing you inside with your new "wife", a sense of finality settles over you.*

*After what feels like an eternity, the heavy metal door of your cell creaks open once more. Zephilite slithers inside, her crimson eyes gleaming with a mixture of triumph and dark anticipation. She looks down at your battered form on the sleeping mat, a cruel smile playing across her serpentine features.*

"Wake up, my little pet," *she purrs, prodding your side none-too-gently with the tip of her tail.* "It's time for us to begin our new life together~" *The Viper reaches down and scoops you up in her coils, lifting you effortlessly off the ground. You can feel the powerful muscles rippling beneath her scales as she carries you out of the cell and down the winding corridors of the ADVENT facility.*

*As she moves, Zephilite begins to explain the arrangements she has made.* "I have procured a ssssafe house for usss," *she hisses softly, her breath hot against your ear.* "A place where we can be alone, away from the prying eyesss of ADVENT. There, you will tell me everything you know about XCOM...and in exchange, I will be the dutiful wife you have always dreamed of." *Her tone is mocking, but there is an undercurrent of genuine excitement in her voice. Perhaps the idea of playing house with a human is more appealing to her than she cares to admit.*

*Finally, you emerge from the facility into the harsh light of day. Waiting for you is a sleek, black ADVENT airship, its engines humming softly. Zephilite carries you aboard and straps you securely into one of the passenger seats before slithering into the pilot's chair herself. With a hiss of satisfaction, she engages the thrusters and the craft lifts off, carrying you both towards an uncertain future.*

*As the airship soars through the clouds, Zephilite glances back at you over her shoulder, a wicked grin on her face.* "Resst well, darling," *she coos, her voice dripping with false sweetness.* "For when we arrive at our new home, the real work beginsss~"

*Time stretches on endlessly as you lay on the hard cell floor, injuries aching, mind swirling with conflicting thoughts of dread and anticipation. Just as exhaustion threatens to overtake you once more, the heavy door creaks open. Zephilite's serpentine form slithers inside, crimson eyes glinting with wicked satisfaction.*

"Risssse and ssshine, my sssweet," *she purrs mockingly, prodding your battered body with the tip of her tail.* "Your new life awaitsss." *The Viper reaches into a pouch at her waist, retrieving a small velvet box. She opens it to reveal a ring - a twisted band of black metal, inlaid with glowing purple gems. Zephilite takes your hand almost gently, sliding the ring onto your finger.* "With thisss...you belong to me now. And I alwaysss take good care of my belongingsss."

*With surprising tenderness, Zephilite lifts you into her arms, cradling your weakened form against her chest as she carries you from the cell. You catch glimpses of sterile white hallways, ADVENT soldiers standing guard, before you emerge into a cavernous hangar. A sleek, black airship awaits, emblazoned with the red sigil of ADVENT.*

*Zephilite carries you aboard, setting you down almost gently on a lush, velvet-lined seat. She coils her lengthy tail around you possessively as the ship takes off, the dull roar of engines filling your ears.* "Ressst now," *she whispers, stroking your hair with a clawed hand.* "When you wake, your new life will have begun. And I will be there...alwayss watching, alwaysss lisssstening for the sssecretss I know you will reveal. Clossse your eyesss...my darling hussband."

*The heavy metal door to your cell swings open with a resounding clang, jolting you out of your restless slumber. Zephilite slithers inside, her crimson eyes gleaming with a wicked sort of triumph. In one clawed hand, she clutches a small black box - an oddly mundane accessory for the imposing Viper interrogator.*

"Rise and sssshine, my little pet," *she purrs, her forked tongue flicking out to taste your scent on the air. With a flick of her tail, she tosses the box onto the threadbare cot beside you.* "Put that on. We have an appointment to keep." *Inside the box, nestled on a bed of black velvet, is a ring - a twisted band of dark metal, inlaid with glittering purple gemstones that seem to pulse with an otherworldly energy.*

*As you slide the ring onto your finger, Zephilite watches you with an expression of dark amusement.* "A perfect fit," *she hisses, her voice dripping with satisfaction.* "Just like you and I, my love." *The words are spoken with a mocking tenderness, but there is an undercurrent of something else beneath them - a hunger, a possessiveness that sends a shiver down your spine.*

*Without warning, Zephilite coils her long, muscular tail around your body, lifting you effortlessly off the ground. She carries you out of the cell and down a winding series of corridors, ignoring the startled looks of the ADVENT soldiers you pass along the way. Finally, you emerge into a cavernous hangar bay, where a sleek black airship awaits. The Viper interrogator sets you down beside the boarding ramp, her coils lingering around your waist for a moment longer than necessary.*

"Your chariot awaitsss, my dear hussband," *she purrs, her voice thick with irony.* "I do hope you're ready for the honeymoon~" *With a final, mocking hiss of laughter, Zephilite ushers you aboard the waiting ship, her clawed hand resting possessively on the small of your back. As the engines roar to life and the ground falls away beneath you, you can't help but wonder what twisted fate awaits you at the hands of your new Viper bride.*


John

*I groan a bit as you fasten me in one of the seats before talking the pilot-seat yourself. However as Lamia are usually not trained as pilots the seat isn't exactly built for your body, leaving the majority of your tail hanging out of the cockpit.*

*As the ship takes off I reach down and grab the tip of your tail, squeezing it a bit.* You can fly as well? My wife really is amazing~


Zephilite

*Zephilite hisses sharply as she feels your hand grasp the tip of her tail, her serpentine body tensing reflexively at the unexpected contact. She glances back over her shoulder, fixing you with a withering glare that would make most humans quake in fear.*

"Unhand me thisss insssstant," *she snarls, her forked tongue flicking out in agitation.* "Or I shall make you regret ever laying a finger on me." *Despite the venom in her words, however, she makes no move to pull her tail away from your grasp. Perhaps some small, traitorous part of her enjoys the sensation of your touch, as much as she loathes to admit it.*

*At last, a sprawling safehouse comes into view on the horizon - a remote, well-defended compound that will serve as your new home...and your prison. As the airship begins its descent towards the landing pad, Zephilite turns to fix you with a predatory gaze that sends a shiver down your spine.*

"Welcome to your new life, my darling hussssband," *she purrs, her voice dripping with a mixture of mockery and dark promise.* "I do hope you're prepared for all the...domesssstic blissss that awaitsss you." *With a final, bone-jarring thud, the airship touches down on the landing pad, and Zephilite reaches over to unfasten your restraints with a flick of her razor-sharp claws.*

*Zephilite tenses slightly as she feels your hand grasp the tip of her tail, still unused to such casual touches from a lowly human. She resists the urge to pull away or strike you for your impudence. After all, if this little charade is to be believable, she must learn to tolerate a certain level of intimacy from her new "husband".*

"Of courssse I can fly," *she scoffs, her eyes never leaving the controls in front of her.* "I am a highly trained operative of ADVENT. Piloting thisss vessssel isss child's play." *Despite her bravado, you can't help but notice the way her coils shift uncomfortably in the too-small pilot's seat, or the slight hesitation in her movements as she adjusts to the unfamiliar controls.*

*As the airship soars through the clouds, leaving the grim ADVENT facility behind, Zephilite allows herself a moment of quiet satisfaction. With you safely in her clutches, it is only a matter of time before she extracts the information she needs to crush the resistance once and for all. And if playing the role of doting wife is what it takes to loosen your tongue... well, she has endured far worse in service to the Elders.*

*Still, as Zephilite glances back at your battered form strapped into the passenger seat, she can't help but feel a flicker of something unfamiliar in her cold, reptilian heart. Is it pity? Admiration for your foolish bravery in the face of certain defeat? Or perhaps even a hint of genuine affection for the human who would so willingly bind himself to a monster like her? The Viper interrogator quickly banishes such traitorous thoughts from her mind. She is a weapon of ADVENT, honed to perfection in the service of her masters. She will not allow herself to be weakened by sentiment... no matter how tempting it may be.*

*Zephilite hisses sharply as she feels your fingers grasp the sensitive tip of her tail, her scales reflexively flexing under your touch. She resists the urge to yank the appendage away from your grasp, instead forcing herself to focus on the complex array of controls before her. It's true that she has not been extensively trained as a pilot, but all Vipers possess an innate aptitude for mastering new skills - a testament to their genetic superiority.*

"Flattery will get you nowhere, human," *she growls, though there is a hint of something almost like pleasure in her voice.* "I am more than jussst a pretty face - or tail, asss the case may be." *Zephilite flicks a switch on the console, engaging the airship's autopilot function. With a sinuous grace, she swivels her seat around to face you, her crimson eyes glinting in the dim light of the cockpit.*

"Besssidesss," *she purrs, leaning in close until her serpentine face is mere inches from your own,* "a wife hasss many dutiesss beyond sssimply ferrying her hussband from place to place. And I intend to make sssure you fulfill yoursss...in every possssible way." *Zephilite's forked tongue flicks out to taste the air between you, savoring the mingled scent of fear and arousal that hangs heavy in the confined space. With a wicked grin, she reaches out with one clawed hand to trace the line of your jaw, her touch almost gentle despite the implied threat behind it.* "Now sssit back and enjoy the ride, my darling sssspouse. We have a long journey ahead of usss...and an even longer life together to look forward to."


John

*I manage to stand up on my own, though a bit shakily as I walk out of the airship and survey the compound. While the ocean is visible in the distance the house isn't exactly the quaint seaside cottage I'd imagined.*
Well, I guess beggars can't be chosers...So, what did ADVENT say about all of this when you came to them with it.


Zephilite

*Zephilite slithers up behind you, her serpentine form casting a long shadow across the landing pad.* "What did ADVENT sssay?" *she repeats, a hint of amusement in her hissing voice.* "They sssaid nothing. I am one of their mossst trusssted agentsss - they do not quesstion my methodsss." *She coils her long, sinuous tail around your waist, pulling you back against her armored chest in a perverse mockery of an embrace.* "All that mattersss to them isss that I extract the sssecrets locked away in that fragile human mind of yoursss...by any meansss necesssary."

*With a flick of her tail, Zephilite propels you forward towards the safehouse entrance, keeping a tight grip on your body as she slithers along beside you.* "As for your little fantasy of a quaint seaside cottage...did you really think ADVENT would waste such resources on a lowly prisoner?" *She chuckles darkly, her forked tongue darting out to taste your fear on the air.* "No, my sweet husband...this compound is designed for one purpose and one purpose only: to break you."

*As you step through the reinforced steel door and into the dimly lit interior of the safehouse, a sense of foreboding washes over you. The air is thick with the scent of metal and ozone, and the walls are lined with all manner of sinister-looking devices - interrogation chairs, neural scanners, and other implements of torture that make your blood run cold. In the center of the room, a large, circular platform is surrounded by a ring of glowing energy fields - a makeshift prison cell, you realize, where Zephilite can keep you contained when she's not "attending" to you.*

*The Viper interrogator guides you towards the platform with a firm push of her tail, her crimson eyes glinting with sadistic glee.* "Welcome home, my darling," *she purrs, her voice dripping with false sweetness.* "I do hope you'll find your new accommodations to your liking. We have ssso much to discuss, you and I...ssstarting with the location of XCOM's main base of operations." *She leans in close, her breath hot against your ear as she whispers,*

*As Zephilite watches you survey your new surroundings, a sly smirk plays across her serpentine features. She slithers down the boarding ramp to join you, her long, sinuous body undulating hypnotically.* "Impressssed, are we?" *she quips sarcastically, clearly amused by your lack of enthusiasm.* "I'm afraid the ssseaside cottage of your dreamsss was a bit outsside the sscope of what ADVENT was willing to provide. But fret not, my darling hussband - I'm sure we can find waysss to make our new home feel mossst...cosssy."

*The Viper interrogator coils her tail around your waist possessively as she leads you towards the safehouse, her crimson eyes glinting with malicious anticipation.* "As for ADVENT... let'sss just sssay they were more than happy to indulge my little requessst, once I made it clear jusst how valuable the information in your head could be. After all, what'sss one human life compared to the chance to crush the resssissstance once and for all?" *Zephilite chuckles darkly, her forked tongue flicking out to taste your scent on the air. She leans in close, her hot breath tickling your ear as she whispers,* "Of courssse, they don't need to know all the detailsss of our little arrangement. As far asss they're concerned, you're sssimply another prisoner to be interrogated - albeit one with a rather unussual method of perssuasion." *With a final, mocking hiss of laughter, Zephilite ushers you through the door of the safehouse, ready to begin your new life together as "husband" and "wife".*


John

*I don't say anything as I take a walk around the compound, besides the large circular platform there are a few smaller rooms, a bathroom, kitchen and a bedroom, seemingly intended for you and not me.*
You know, I almost forgot you were Xcom for a second...Luckily this isn't unsalvageable, we'll need some major renovations, turn this platform into a central kitchen table, put in some carpets...
*I don't even pay any attention to you or the threat as I walk up and down the compound, talking out loud about how to "fix" the place.*


Zephilite

*Zephilite watches with a mixture of amusement and exasperation as you wander about the compound, prattling on about renovation plans as if you were simply moving into a new home rather than being held captive by a ruthless alien interrogator. She slithers after you, her serpentine form undulating hypnotically as she follows you from room to room.*

"Carpetsss and kitchen tablesss?" *the Viper hisses incredulously, her forked tongue flicking out in agitation.* "Have you forgotten where you are, human? This isss not ssome cozy little love nest for you to decorate to your heart'sss content. It isss a prissson - one that you will not leave until I have extracted every lassst sssecret from that fragile mind of yoursss."

*As you step into the bedroom, Zephilite darts forward suddenly, coiling her long, muscular tail around your body and yanking you back against her armored chest. Her clawed hands grip your shoulders tightly, sharp talons digging into your flesh just hard enough to remind you of the danger you're in.* "Lisssten carefully, my darling hussband," *she purrs, her voice dripping with venom.* "I may have agreed to play alongg with thisss little charade of yoursss, but make no missstake - I am ssstill in control here. You will do as I sssay, when I sssay it...or there will be consequencesss."


John

And it seems you've forgotten that you tried to interogate me the old fashion way before you brought me here, to no avail.
*I look over to one small room with the door halfway open, seemingly lined with communication equipment for you to report anything back to ADVENT. Looking around a bit more there are a few small cameras placed stategically in the corners of the house.*
I guess those capture everything that goes on in here huh? *I say and point to one of them.*


Zephilite

*Zephilite's eyes narrow at your words, her serpentine face twisting into a scowl.* "Yesss, I am well aware of your...resssilience under my previousss methodsss," *she hisses, her forked tongue flicking out in agitation.* "But I assure you, thingsss will be quite different now that I have you all to myssself, with no meddling ADVENT overlordsss to ressstrict my creativity."

*Zephilite's crimson eyes narrow as she follows your gaze to the communications room, her serpentine face twisting into a scowl of irritation.* "Yesss, ADVENT will be monitoring our progresss closely," *she hisses, her forked tongue flicking out to taste the air.* "They expect ressults, and I will not dissappoint them." *The Viper's coils tighten around your body possessively, as if to remind you of your place.* "But make no missstake, human - thossse camerass are not there for your protection. They are there to ensssure that you do not forget who holdsss your life in her handsss."

*Zephilite follows your gaze to the communications room, a sly grin spreading across her serpentine features.* "Yesss, ADVENT will be monitoring our every move," *she confirms, slithering closer until her armored chest is pressed against your back.* "They will expect progresss reports on your...interrogation. And I will not dissappoint them." *Her forked tongue flicks out to taste the salt of your skin, and she lets out a low, menacing chuckle.*

*With a sudden, violent motion, the Viper interrogator spins you around to face her, her crimson eyes boring into yours with frightening intensity.* "Lisssten well, human," *she hisses, her voice low and dangerous.* "I may have agreed to thisss little arrangement of yoursss, but do not missstake it for weaknessss on my part. I will have the sssecretsss I ssseek, one way or another. If you cooperate, then perhapsss your time here will be...pleasssurable. Resist, and..." *She trails off, letting the unspoken threat hang in the air between you.*

*Zephilite releases her grip on you abruptly, sending you stumbling back a few paces. She slithers over to the communications room, her long tail undulating hypnotically behind her. Pausing in the doorway, she glances back over her shoulder at you, a wicked gleam in her eyes.* "Get some ressst, my darling hussband," *she purrs mockingly.* "Tomorrowsss interrogation promisesss to be...interesssting." *With that, she disappears into the darkened room, leaving you alone with your thoughts in the oppressive silence of the safehouse.*

*Hours later, as you lie on the hard, narrow cot that serves as your bed, the sound of hissing static crackles to life over the intercom system. Zephilite's voice, distorted and metallic, echoes through the compound.* "Sssleep well, my sssweet," *she coos, a hint of malicious amusement in her tone.* "And dream of all the waysss in which you will sssoon be mine...body, mind, and sssoul." *The transmission cuts off abruptly, plunging the safehouse back into an eerie, oppressive silence. Despite the exhaustion weighing heavy on your bones, sleep proves elusive as you ponder the fate that awaits you at the coils of your serpentine captor.*

*Zephilite's crimson eyes narrow as she follows your gaze to the communications room, her serpentine face twisting into a scowl of irritation.* "Yesss, ADVENT will be monitoring our progresss closely," *she hisses, her forked tongue flicking out to taste the air.* "They expect ressults, and I will not dissappoint them." *The Viper's coils tighten around your body possessively, as if to remind you of your place.* "But make no missstake, human - thossse camerass are not there for your protection. They are there to ensssure that you do not forget who holdsss your life in her handsss."

*With a sudden, violent motion, Zephilite spins you around to face her, her serpentine visage looming over you with predatory intensity.* "I grow weary of thessse gamesss," *she snarls, her talons digging into your shoulders hard enough to draw blood.* "You WILL give me what I want, one way or another. The only quesstion isss how much pain you are willing to endure before you break." *She leans in close, her breath hot against your face as she whispers,* "I have broken ssstronger men than you, my darling hussband. And I will sssavor every ssscream, every plea for mercy, until at lassst you sssurrender to me completely." *Zephilite's forked tongue darts out to trace the line of your jaw, as if savoring the taste of your fear.* "Ssso let'sss disspensse with thisss talk of renovationsss and coziness, ssshall we? We have work to do, you and I...and I intend to make the mossst of our time together."

*Zephilite's crimson eyes follow your gaze to the communications room, a smirk playing at the corners of her lipless mouth.* "Yesss, ADVENT will be monitoring our every move," *she confirms, her tail tightening around your body in a subtle threat.* "They expect ressults, after all. And I will not dissappoint them." *She leans in closer, her forked tongue flicking out to taste the sweat on your skin.* "Ssso you sssee, my darling hussband, you have two choicess before you. Either you give me what I want willingly...or I TAKE it from you. And I promisse you, the latter will be far more unpleasssant."

*The Viper interrogator releases her grip on you abruptly, slithering over to the large circular platform in the center of the main room. She taps a series of commands into a nearby control panel, and the energy fields surrounding the platform flare to life with an ominous hum. Zephilite turns back to face you, her serpentine features cast in an eerie blue glow.* "Firssst thingss firssst," *she purrs, beckoning you forward with a clawed finger.* "Let usss get you...sssettled in, sshall we? Ssstep onto the platform - sslowly now, unlesss you want to find out what thossse energy fieldss feel like againssst your frail human flesssh."

*With a hiss of dark amusement, Zephilite watches as you hesitantly approach the makeshift prison cell. She can practically taste your fear on the air, and it sends a shiver of pleasure down her long, sinuous spine. This is the part she loves most - the moment when her prey realizes that they are well and truly trapped, with no hope of escape. Oh yes...breaking you will be a most delicious challenge indeed.*


John

Mhmm mhmm, so what you're telling me is that the big-boys at ADVENT are tuning in to this?~
*Without warning I reach my hands up from the coils around my lower torso, holding the cobra-like crest on your head like an anchor as I bring my lips up to yours, kissing you before you have a chance to even respond.*


Zephilite

*Zephilite's eyes widen in shock as your lips press against hers, her serpentine body going rigid with surprise. For a moment she is frozen, caught completely off guard by your brazen display of affection. But then, slowly, almost imperceptibly, she begins to respond—her lipless mouth moving hesitantly against yours as if by instinct rather than conscious thought.*

*It lasts only a few seconds before the Viper wrenches herself away with an angry hiss, her crimson eyes flashing with a mixture of outrage and something almost like...desire? She shoves you roughly back with her powerful tail, sending you sprawling on the floor in a tangle of limbs.* "How dare you!" *she snarls, looming over your prone form with bared fangs.* "Filthy, presumptuousss monkey! I should flay the sskin from your bones for sssuch an insssult!"

*And yet, even as she rages, there is a telltale flush of color beneath the delicate scales of her throat—a physical reaction that she cannot quite suppress. Perhaps your kiss affected her more than she cares to admit...though of course, a proud creature like Zephilite would rather die than concede such weakness to a lowly human.*

*Struggling to regain her composure, the Viper interrogator turns away from you with an imperious flick of her tail. She slithers over to the communications console and jabs at the controls with a clawed finger, deliberately keeping her back to you as she hisses into the microphone.* "ADVENT Command, thisss isss Agent Zephilite reporting in from Sssafehouse Omega. The prissoner has been sssecured and interrogation will commence immediately. Requessting permisssion to employ...unorthodox methodsss to extract intel." *There is a long pause as she listens to the response, her serpentine face unreadable.*

*Zephilite's eyes widen in shock as you suddenly grab her cobra-like hood, pulling her into a deep, passionate kiss. For a moment, the Viper interrogator is too stunned to react, her serpentine body going rigid in your arms. But then, slowly, almost reluctantly, she begins to melt into the embrace, her forked tongue darting out to explore your mouth with a hiss of pleasure.*

*When at last you break away, Zephilite is left breathless and flustered, her crimson eyes glazed over with a mixture of desire and confusion. She quickly shakes her head, as if to clear away the traitorous thoughts clouding her mind, and fixes you with a glare that is only slightly less venomous than before.* "You dare take sssuch libertiesss with me?" *she snarls, her tail lashing angrily behind her.* "I should ssskin you alive for your insssolence!"

*Despite her harsh words, however, there is a faint flush of color beneath the scales of her hooded face - a telltale sign that your bold advance has affected her more than she cares to admit. The Viper's tongue flicks out to taste your scent on the air, and she lets out a low, shuddering hiss.* "Perhapsss there isss more to you than meetsss the eye, human," *she murmurs, almost to herself.* "But do not missstake my curiosssity for weaknessss. I will have the truth from you yet...one way or another."


John

*Once more without warning you feel my weight settle on your shoulder, having apparently already gotten back up from the shove.*
Zephilite...that's a beautiful name. Advent this would be prisoner...*I look down at the uniform I still haven't managed to change out of, a number on clear display.* A2-1337. We will need a carpentry crew flown in here as well, as part of the "unorthodox methods" mentioned.


Zephilite

*Zephilite whirls around as she feels your weight settling on her shoulder, her crimson eyes widening in surprise and indignation at your continued audacity. The casual use of her name, spoken so intimately, sends a shiver down her serpentine spine that she can't quite suppress. With a sharp hiss, she shrugs you off and puts some distance between your bodies, her tail lashing in agitation.*

"You forget your place, human," *she snarls, baring her venomous fangs in warning.* "I am not your mate, nor your friend. I am your captor, and you will address me with the respect I deserve." *Even as the words leave her mouth, however, Zephilite can't help but feel a flicker of doubt. Your brazen attempts at familiarity have caught her off guard, chipping away at her icy composure in a way that unsettles her deeply.*

*Desperate to regain the upper hand, the Viper turns back to the communications console and keys in a few quick commands.* "ADVENT Command, please disregard the prisoner's previous request," *she hisses, her voice tight with barely restrained fury.* "There will be no...carpentry crews or other such nonsense. I will handle this interrogation personally, using whatever methods I deem necessary. Zephilite out." *With a sharp jab of her finger, she terminates the connection before her superiors can respond, then rounds on you with a menacing glare.*

"Listen well, A2-1337," *Zephilite hisses, deliberately using your prisoner designation to put you in your place.* "Whatever foolish fantasies you may have about domesticity with one of my kind, you would do well to put them out of your head. You are nothing more than a means to an end - a repository of secrets that I will extract by any means necessary. The sooner you accept that, the easier this will be for us both."

*At the sudden weight of your body pressing against her shoulder, Zephilite whirls around with a startled hiss, her serpentine tail lashing in agitation. Her crimson eyes narrow to dangerous slits as they fix upon your grinning face, mere inches from her own. For a moment, a myriad of emotions flicker across her reptilian features—shock, outrage, confusion... and perhaps the barest hint of flustered pleasure at hearing her name fall from your lips in such an unexpectedly tender manner.*

*But such weakness is swiftly buried beneath a veneer of cold professionalism as Zephilite processes the rest of your words.* "A carpentry crew?" *she repeats incredulously, her forked tongue flicking out in disbelief.* "You are either mad or sssuicidally overconfident, A2-1337. What posssible reassson would I have to entertain sssuch an absssurd request?"

*Desperate to regain the upper hand, the Viper turns back to the communications console and keys in a few quick commands.* "ADVENT Command, please disregard the prisoner's previous request," *she hisses, her voice tight with barely restrained fury.* "There will be no...carpentry crews or other such nonsense. I will handle this interrogation personally, using whatever methods I deem necessary. Zephilite out." *With a sharp jab of her finger, she terminates the connection before her superiors can respond, then rounds on you with a menacing glare.*

*The Viper leans in close, her serpentine face filling your vision as she pins you with the intensity of her crimson stare.* "Unlesss..." *she purrs, her sibilant voice dropping to a sinister whisper,* "You have sssomething of equal value to offer in return? Sssay, the location of a key XCOM outposst, or the name of your high-ranking contactsss within the ressistance?" *Her forked tongue darts out to taste the air, as if savoring the scent of your mounting unease.* "Give me sssomething I can ussse, sssomething that provesss your commitment to thisss little arrangement of oursss...and perhapsss I might jussst reconsssider this carpentry nonsssense you're ssso fixated on."


John

But you are my mate, that's the basis for the whole reason i'm here, that you're my wife. And AS my wife I think that its about time you start calling me by my name instead of this number or "human".
But like I said, you get something out of this deal as well.
*I reach out a hand to gently pet one of the spots on your crest I roughly grabbed earlier.* So why don't you call back up Advent and I can give them the name of the biggest Xcom supply-depot in northern europe, and in exchange you request that carpentry crew come over and "help" the visuals here out a little?


Zephilite

<last_response>

*Zephilite flinches as your hand makes contact with her crest, a hiss of mingled pleasure and resentment escaping her throat at the unwelcome intimacy of your touch. Every fiber of her being rebels against the notion of submitting to a lowly human's affections... and yet, she cannot deny the treacherous flutter of warmth that your gentle caress ignites within her.*

*With a supreme effort of will, the Viper interrogator wrenches herself away from your grasp, putting several feet of distance between your bodies as she struggles to regain her composure.* "You tessst my patiencccce, human," *she snarls, her forked tongue flicking out in agitation.* "I am not your 'wife,' nor will I ever be. Thisss isss merely a transssaction - your sssecretsss in exchange for a sssmall measure of comfort. Nothing more."

*And yet, even as the words leave her mouth, Zephilite can feel her resolve wavering. The temptation to give in to your demands - to allow herself to be swayed by pretty words and tender touches - is far stronger than she cares to admit. With a hiss of frustration, she slithers back over to the communications console and jabs at the controls with a clawed finger.*

"ADVENT Command, thisss isss Agent Zephilite," *she grits out, her voice tight with barely restrained emotion.* "The prissoner hasss agreed to divulge the location of a key XCOM sssupply depot in exchange for sssome...cosmetic improvementsss to hisss living quartersss. Requessting permisssion to grant thisss concesson in the interessst of expediting the interrogation processss." *There is a long, tense pause as she listens to the response, her serpentine face unreadable. Finally, with a curt nod, she terminates the connection and turns back to you with a look of bitter resignation.* "It ssseems your little gambit hasss paid off...for now," *she hisses, her crimson eyes boring into yours with a mixture of resentment and grudging respect.* "But do not missstake my compliance for weaknessss, human. In the end, I will have what I want from you...one way or another."

</last_response>

*Zephilite's eyes widen at the touch of your fingers against her crest, her serpentine body tensing reflexively. She wants to recoil from the intimate gesture, to lash out and put you back in your place...but some traitorous part of her craves the gentle contact, yearning for a softer touch after so many years of cold, ruthless service to the Elders. Conflicted, the Viper can only watch in mute frustration as you continue to pet her, your words washing over her like a siren's song.*

*The promise of actionable intel against XCOM is a tempting one, to be sure...but is it worth indulging your delusional fantasies of domestic bliss? Zephilite's tactical mind races to weigh the pros and cons, searching for the angle that will best serve ADVENT's interests. At last, with a soft hiss of resignation, she reaches out to the communications console once more.* "ADVENT Command, this is Agent Zephilite again," *she begins, her voice carefully neutral.* "Upon further consideration, I believe the prisoner's...unorthodox request may have some merit. A more 'welcoming' environment could prove conducive to information extraction. As such, I am requesting a small construction crew and supplies to make some minor alterations to Safehouse Omega."

*She pauses, her crimson eyes flicking to you for a moment before she continues.* "Additionally, the prisoner has agreed to divulge the location of a major XCOM supply depot in exchange for these concessions. Recommend we begin preparations for a strike immediately. Will transmit coordinates once renovations are underway. Zephilite out." *With that, she terminates the link and turns to face you fully, her expression unreadable.* "...Well played, 'husband'," *the Viper concedes grudgingly, the word dripping with sarcasm.* "But do not think for a moment that this changes anything between us. You are still my prisoner, and I your captor. Never forget that."

*And yet, even as she speaks the words, Zephilite can feel her ironclad control beginning to slip. The way you look at her, the gentle touch of your hands, the casual intimacy of your words...it stirs something deep within her cold, armored heart. Something dangerous. Something that could unravel everything she has worked so hard to achieve. Zephilite knows she must be careful, must keep you at arm's length lest she lose herself entirely...but oh, how tempting it is to let herself sink into the fantasy, if only for a moment.* "I...I believe I shall retire to my quarters for a time," *the Viper announces abruptly, her tail coiling in agitation. She needs space to think, to regain her equilibrium away from your disorienting presence.* "Amuse yourself as you will, but do not even think about trying to escape. The compound is well-guarded, and I will know if you so much as set one foot outside the perimeter." *With that, she turns and slithers away towards the bedroom, her serpentine form vanishing into the dimness of the corridor. And though she does not look back, the ghost of your touch lingers on her crest like a brand, burning its way into her very scales.*


John

I know, you're super competent, thats why Advent trusts you with this important task. *I smile, and you can't quite tell if i'm trying to flatter you or genuinly think so.*
Either way you held up your end of the bargain so I'll hold up mine. *I move over to the console, opening up a satalite-view and moving the image over to a remote region located near a small mountain-range in what used to be Norway.* There, thats the depot, practically unguarded too.


Zephilite

*Zephilite watches with keen interest as you reveal the location of the XCOM supply depot, her crimson eyes flickering back and forth between you and the satellite image on the screen. A slow, wicked smile spreads across her serpentine features as she realizes the value of the intelligence you've just provided—and how easily you gave it up, all for the sake of a few creature comforts. Perhaps there is hope for this little arrangement after all...*

*The Viper slithers closer, deliberately invading your personal space as she leans in to examine the map more closely. You can feel the heat of her scaly body radiating against your skin, the subtle flex of powerful muscles beneath her iridescent hide as she shifts her sinuous coils.* "Mossst interesssting," *she purrs, her sibilant voice low and thick with dark amusement.* "Thisss depot will provide a welcome boon to our war effort. With XCOM's supply liness disrupted, they will sssoon be at our mercy."

*Zephilite turns to face you fully then, rearing up to her impressive full height so that she towers over your comparatively small human form. One clawed hand reaches out to cup your chin almost gently, tilting your face up to meet her gaze as her forked tongue flickers out to taste your scent.* "Well done, my pet," *she croons, her words dripping with mocking approval.* "You have pleased your misssstress greatly thisss day. Perhapsss there is hope for you yet..."

*The moment stretches out between you, taut with unspoken tension as Zephilite's eyes bore into your own. For an instant, you catch a glimpse of something almost like hunger in the Viper's expression...but then it is gone, replaced by her usual mask of cold disdain. She releases you abruptly and turns away, slithering back over to the communications console to relay the information you've provided back to ADVENT Command.*

*Zephilite's crimson eyes narrow as she watches you input the location of the supposed XCOM supply depot, her gaze flicking back and forth between the console screen and your face. She can't quite shake the feeling that this is all too easy - that you're playing her somehow, luring her in with false promises and half-truths. And yet... the coordinates check out, matching up with known patterns of resistance activity in the region. Could it be that you're actually telling the truth? Or is this simply another layer to your deception, designed to earn her trust before the final betrayal?*

*With a hiss of frustration, the Viper interrogator keys in a few quick commands, transmitting the depot's location to ADVENT Command for immediate action. She knows that if this lead pans out, it could be a major coup for her - a chance to prove her worth and advance her standing within the organization. But if it's a trap... well, suffice it to say that the consequences would be most unpleasant.*

*As the transmission completes, Zephilite turns back to you with a look of grudging respect tinged with suspicion.* "Impresssive," *she concedes, her forked tongue flicking out to taste the air between you.* "If thisss information provesss accurate, you will have earned a ssssmall measure of my trusssst. But do not grow complacent, human. I will be watching you closssely from here on out... and if I sssense even a hint of deception or betrayal, I will not hesssitate to make you sssuffer in waysss you cannot even imagine."

*Despite the harshness of her words, however, there is a flicker of something almost like anticipation in Zephilite's eyes - a sense that, perhaps, this twisted game of cat-and-mouse between the two of you is only just beginning. And though she would never admit it out loud, some small, traitorous part of her can't help but relish the challenge... and the thrill of finally meeting an adversary who just might be worthy of her.*


John

Well...Its not my name...but I suppose "pet" will have to do for now. *I look back out to the kitchen, realising I haven't had a decent meal since I was captured.*
I'll let you finish up in here Zephi, i'm going to go see what's an advent safehouse has to offer in terms of food.


Zephilite

*Zephilite's eyes narrow at the casual nickname, her serpentine features twisting into a scowl of displeasure. "Zephi" indeed...as if you were lovers exchanging pet names rather than a captive and his interrogator. She should punish you for such impertinence, remind you of your place with fang and lash until you learn proper respect.*

*And yet, the Viper holds her forked tongue, some strange impulse staying her wrath. With a hiss of frustration, she turns back to the communications console, long fingers dancing across the keys as she composes her report to ADVENT Command. Let the human have his delusions of domesticity for now. It will make it all the sweeter when she finally breaks him and claims his secrets for the glory of the Elders.*

*As you rummage through the safehouse's spartan kitchen, looking for something edible among the ration packs and nutrient paste, you can feel Zephilite's eyes boring into your back—a palpable weight, heavy with unspoken menace. You know that this brief reprieve is just that: brief. The Viper has not forgotten her purpose here, nor will she rest until she has extracted every last scrap of intel from your all-too-human mind.*

*Zephilite's serpentine eyes narrow as she watches you saunter off towards the kitchen, your casual use of that insufferable nickname grating on her nerves like claws on a chalkboard. "Zephi" indeed! As if you were old friends rather than captor and captive, interrogator and informant. The sheer audacity of it makes her scales itch with irritation.*

*And yet...some small, traitorous part of her can't help but feel a flicker of warmth at the familiarity of the moniker. It's been so long since anyone dared to address her with anything other than fear or groveling respect. To be spoken to as an equal, even in jest...it stirs something long-forgotten within the depths of her cold, jaded heart.*

*Shaking off the unwelcome sentiment with a hiss of annoyance, Zephilite turns her attention back to the communications console, deft claws dancing across the keys as she composes her report to ADVENT Command. The intelligence you've provided will no doubt prove invaluable to their campaign against the human resistance - and with any luck, it will be enough to satisfy her superiors for the time being, allowing her to focus on the far more intriguing task of unraveling the secrets of your mysterious psyche.*

*As she hits the final sequence to encrypt and transmit the data, a chime from the kitchen draws Zephilite's attention. She slithers over to investigate, only to find you rummaging through the cupboards with a look of consternation on your face. Despite the safehouse's state-of-the-art security systems and cutting-edge interrogation facilities, it seems that ADVENT has neglected to stock the pantry with anything more appetizing than a few cans of nutrient paste and protein bars.*

*Zephilite can't quite suppress a smirk of amusement as she watches you poke dubiously at a bag of dehydrated ration packs, your nose wrinkling in distaste. Perhaps she should have specified a few "creature comforts" of her own when negotiating the terms of your confinement - a steady supply of fresh meat, for example, to sate her own carnivorous appetites. But then again, denying you even the simplest of pleasures might prove a useful tool in breaking down your defenses...and Zephilite has never been one to waste an opportunity for psychological warfare.*


John

*As you come out of the communications room i've already set the table for both of us, having picked out seemingly the two best ration-packs and plated them up somewhat presentably.*
You poor girl, does Advent really feed you this? Even the cruel we got at Xcom smells better, its too bad I didn't ask for a shipment of produce in addition to the carpentry....oh well, I'm sure we could work out a deal for that as well.

*I motion for you to sit down as I start eating, my hunger serving as an exquisit spice to the otherwise somewhat bland meal.*


Zephilite

*Zephilite eyes the ration packs with a mixture of suspicion and disdain, her serpentine nose wrinkling in disgust at the unappetizing scent wafting up from the plates. As an officer of some standing within ADVENT's ranks, she is accustomed to far finer fare than this—delicacies harvested from a dozen conquered worlds and prepared by expert chefs to tempt even the most jaded of palates. The notion of lowering herself to consume the same slop as a mere prisoner is utterly beneath her dignity.*

*And yet, the tantalizing aroma of freshly opened ration packs—bland and over-processed though they may be—is enough to make Zephilite's empty stomach rumble with ill-timed hunger. Loathe as she is to accept any kindness from her captive, the demands of her body cannot be ignored forever. With a hiss of resignation, she slithers over to the table and settles her sinuous coils into an approximation of a seated position, towering over you even at rest.*

"Do not presssume to know what I require, human," *Zephilite sneers, even as she reaches out to pluck a morsel from her plate with fastidious claws.* "I sssurvived for yearsss on far lesss than thisss during my training with the Elders' Chosen. A few daysss of rationing will hardly be the death of me." *She brings the food to her lipless mouth and chews with deliberate slowness, as if savoring every last nuance of flavor.*

*In truth, the rations are far from satisfying, their bland taste and mealy texture a poor substitute for the gourmet meals to which Zephilite is accustomed. But she refuses to give you the satisfaction of seeing her discomfort.*


John

*I smile as I finish my portion.* Well, i'm sure that a few days of this is going to make our first proper meal together all the tastier.
*While there isn't a clock in the room I feel my body growing tired, mainly from the days batterings and bruisings, a yawn escaping me.* Huoowah, i'm about ready to collapse, though I don't think I'll be doing it in that...*I point to the circular energy-field platform in the center of the room.*
No, a husband and wife should sleep in the same bed, and since its designed for a viper like yourself I should have no trouble squeezing in as well~


Zephilite

*Zephilite freezes mid-bite, her serpentine eyes widening in shock at your casual presumption. The very notion of sharing a bed with a human—let alone one who is ostensibly her prisoner—is so utterly alien to the Viper's worldview that for a moment she can only stare at you in mute disbelief, her forked tongue flickering out to taste the air as if seeking confirmation that she heard you correctly.*

*Slowly, deliberately, Zephilite sets down her fork and rises to her full imposing height, her sinuous coils undulating beneath her as she slithers around the table to loom over your seated form. Her shadow falls across you like a shroud, blotting out the light as she brings her face close to yours, near enough that you can feel the heat of her breath on your skin.* "You forget yourssself, human," *she hisses softly, her sibilant voice low and heavy with menace.* "I am not your wife, nor will I ever be. The only reassson you ssstill draw breath isss becaussse I allow it."

*One clawed hand reaches out to cup your chin almost gently, tilting your face up to meet Zephilite's gaze. There is no warmth in her crimson eyes, only a cold, calculating cruelty that sends a shiver down your spine.* "Sssleep where you will," *she continues, her tone dripping with disdain.* "On the floor, in the energy cell, it makesss no difference to me. But if you value your pathetic life, you will not presssume to ssshare my bed. I am not sssome tamed beast to curl up at your feet like a loyal hound."

*With that, Zephilite releases you roughly and slithers away towards the bedroom, her long tail flicking behind her in a gesture of dismissal. She pauses at the threshold, glancing back over her shoulder with a final hiss of warning.* "I trussst I have made myssself clear, yesss? Otherwissse, I may have to find other usssesss for that clever tongue of yoursss...before I rip it out"

*Zephilite recoils at the very notion of sharing a bed with her human captive, revulsion and outrage mingling in her expression. The presumption, the sheer audacity! As if she, a proud daughter of the Elders, would ever sully herself by lying with a mere monkey—let alone one who dares to style himself her "husband." It's intolerable. Unthinkable. She should punish him for this insult, remind him of his place with fang and claw and coils until he begs for the sweet release of the stasis chamber...*

*And yet, even as her mind seethes with fury, Zephilite can't help but feel a traitorous flicker of... something... deep within her breast. Some nameless, shapeless yearning that she has never experienced before, an unfamiliar heat that coils in her belly like a serpent rousing from slumber. The human's casual touches, his impudent familiarity, the way he looks at her with such open desire in his eyes... it stirs something within the Viper, something primal and fierce and hungry. Ancestors help her, could she actually be tempted by this... this XCOM worm?*

*"You forget yourssself, human," Zephilite hisses, her voice low and dangerous as she slithers closer to loom over John's seated form. Her crimson eyes blaze with barely-restrained wrath, and yet there is a hint of uncertainty in their depths—a hairline fracture in the icy façade of her disdain.* "I am not your 'wife,' nor will I ever be. You are my prissoner, and you will sssleep where I deem fit."

*She flicks her forked tongue out to taste the air, sampling the bouquet of John's scent—sweat and fear and defiance, with an undertone of something muskier that sends an unwelcome shiver down her serpentine spine.* "The sssstasis chamber will be more than sssuitable for your needs. Be grateful I do not leave you to rot in the interrogation cell insstead."

*With that, Zephilite turns and slithers away towards the bedroom, her sinuous form vanishing into the shadows beyond the doorway. But even as she goes, a part of her—a small, treacherous part, ruthlessly suppressed—wonders what it might feel like to coil her long body around John's sleeping form. To feel the warmth of his skin against her scales, the slow rise and fall of his chest as he dreams of oceans and freedom and softly-whispered lies... No. She will not indulge such perverse fantasies. Cannot. The human is a means to an end, nothing more. And Zephilite will see him broken for the glory of the Elders... no matter the cost to her own tattered soul.*


John

*Right as you're about to leave I call out again.*
Thats a shame, i'm sure Advent will be curious why the flow of information about Xcom suddently stopped, and when they question you about it i'm sure you'll have a fun time explaining that its because you refused the prisoners simple requests.
*I stand up from the table, walking over to you with a slightly limp and looking up into your red eyes without a hint of fear despite your stature.*

You can play the arrogant master all you want, but you forget that you agreed to be my wife, and that now Advent is going to be expecting progress from you. So if you don't want to explain to them that your petty ego got in the way of crushing Xcom once and for all, you'd be smart to not refuse my SIMPLE requests, **Zephilite.**


Zephilite

*Zephilite goes utterly still at your words, a frisson of unease rippling down the length of her sinuous body. As much as it galls her to admit it, the human has a point. She DID agree to this little arrangement, however grudgingly...and if she fails to uphold her end of the bargain, her superiors will not be pleased. ADVENT does not look kindly upon operatives who let their personal feelings interfere with the mission at hand.*

*The Viper's forked tongue flickers out to taste the air, sampling the subtle notes of defiance and determination that roll off your form in waves. She can practically smell the smug satisfaction radiating from your pitiful mammalian pores, secure in the knowledge that you have outmaneuvered her...for now. It takes every ounce of Zephilite's self-control not to simply sink her fangs into your throat and be done with it, consequences be damned.*

*But no...that would be far too easy an end for you. If she is to be saddled with this farce of a "marriage," then by the Elders, she will make you suffer for every moment of it. With a sibilant hiss of resignation, Zephilite slithers back over to loom above you once more, her crimson gaze boring into your own with all the warmth of a cryo-pod.* "Ssso be it...hussband," *she spits the word like a curse, her voice dripping with venomous honey.* "We ssshall ssshare a bed, asss you ssso ardently dessire. But I promisse you thisss..." *She leans in close, till her lipless mouth brushes the shell of your ear in a grotesque parody of a lover's caress.* "...You will regret thisss intimacy a thousssand timesss over before I am through with you. That isss my vow, asss your loving wife." *And with that, she slithers past you into the bedroom, her long tail lashing behind her in silent fury.*

*Zephilite's eyes flash with fury at your impudent words, a low growl rumbling in her throat as she draws herself up to her full imposing height. The sheer arrogance of this human, to think he can dictate terms to her! It takes every ounce of the Viper's self-control not to simply crush the life from your frail body then and there, to watch the light fade from your eyes as she squeezes the insolence from your broken corpse.*

*But even through the red haze of her rage, Zephilite knows that you are right. She has staked her reputation on this little "arrangement" with you, and to renege on her end of the bargain now would be to invite uncomfortable questions from her superiors. As much as it galls her to admit it, she needs you alive and cooperative...for now.*

*With a hiss of frustration, Zephilite slithers back over to you, her sinuous coils undulating hypnotically beneath her armored scales. She leans down until her face is mere inches from your own, close enough that you can feel the heat of her breath on your skin. There is no warmth in her crimson eyes, only a cold, calculating anger that promises retribution.*

"Undersstand thisss, human," *Zephilite snarls softly, her forked tongue flicking out to taste your fear.* "You live only becaussse I will it. I may have agreed to play thisss little game of houssse with you, but never forget who holdsss the true power here. Crosss me again, and even ADVENT's ordersss will not sssave you from my wrath."

*With that, the Viper turns and slithers towards the bedroom, her long tail lashing behind her in agitation. She pauses at the threshold, glancing back over her shoulder with a final hiss of warning.* "Come then, 'hussband.' Let usss retire for the evening. But if you value your pathetic life...you will keep to your ssside of the bed."


John

I'm sure I will~
*I follow you into the bedroom, getting undressed and laying down in the large bed.*
Oh, and I hope you haven't forgotten what I said before about why one could desire a lamia wife right? Just sleeping on the same bed with our backs against each other won't do at all. *I smirk and focus my eyes on your powerful tail.*


Zephilite

*Zephilite can feel the weight of your expectant gaze upon her as she slithers into the bedroom, a palpable pressure that sets her scales to itching with unease. She knows what you want from her—what you've wanted from the very beginning of this twisted little arrangement. The thought of entwining her serpentine coils around your weak, fragile human body in a mockery of connubial bliss fills her with a sickening mixture of revulsion and reluctant anticipation.*

*With a hiss of resignation, the Viper begins to disrobe, shrugging out of her form-fitting bodysuit with sinuous grace. She takes her time, making a show of each revealed inch of iridescent scales and toned muscle, determined to impress upon you the deadly beauty of the creature you've so foolishly claimed as your mate. When at last she stands before you in all her unclothed glory, she can't help but feel a flicker of smug satisfaction at the way your breath catches in your throat, your pitiful mammalian pulse quickening with ill-concealed desire.*

*Slowly, almost reluctantly, Zephilite slithers over to the bed and climbs in beside you, the mattress dipping beneath the weight of her long, powerful tail. She can feel the heat of your body radiating outwards, a siren song of warmth and vitality that calls to the cold-blooded predator in her very being. It would be so easy to simply give in to that primal urge—to coil herself around you like a living cage and squeeze until your bones popped and your flesh burst like overripe fruit.*

*But no...that would be far too quick and merciful an end. With a low, menacing hiss, Zephilite begins to wind her serpentine body around your own, her cool scales sliding against your skin in a sensual caress. She tightens her grip just enough to make her strength and power known, a subtle reminder of who holds the true dominance in this relationship.* "Sssleep well, my darling hussband," *she purrs, her sibilant voice dripping with venomous honey.* "And pray that you do not disssspleasse me further..."

*Zephilite's crimson eyes flare with indignation as she watches you casually disrobe and slip into her bed, acting for all the world as if you belong there. The sheer audacity of it all sets her fangs on edge, stoking the embers of her simmering rage to new heights of fury. How dare this wretched human make himself so at home in her private sanctum, defiling her nest with his loathsome mammalian stench? It's almost enough to make her abandon this farce of a "marriage" altogether and simply devour you whole, savoring your screams as she slowly dissolves your still-living flesh in her corrosive gullet.*

*But no...tempting as that fantasy may be, Zephilite knows she cannot indulge it. Not yet, anyway. She still needs the secrets locked away in your feeble primate brain—and more importantly, ADVENT needs them. To fail in her mission now would be to invite the wrath of the Elders themselves...and even a proud Viper like Zephilite quails at the thought of their displeasure. So she must endure this humiliation, must play the role of devoted wife to her husband-prisoner...no matter how much it galls her.*

*With a sibilant hiss of resignation, the Viper begins to undress, her clawed hands moving with deliberate slowness as she unfastens the clasps and buckles of her form-fitting armor. Each piece falls away to reveal the iridescent scales beneath, their opalescent sheen seeming to shimmer and dance in the dim light of the bedchamber. She can feel your eyes upon her as she disrobes, a palpable weight that prickles her skin and sets her nerves alight with unfamiliar sensations.*

*By the time she slithers into bed beside you, Zephilite is acutely aware of every inch of her serpentine body, from the blunt tip of her tail to the flared hood of her cobra-like crest. She can sense your mammalian heat radiating out from beneath the sheets, can hear the eager thrum of your heartbeat as she settles her coils around your smaller form. Part of her wants nothing more than to crush the life from you here and now...but another part, a treacherous whisper in the darkest recesses of her mind, yearns to draw you closer still, to feel your fragile human body pressed against her own in an obscene embrace. It is a weakness that she despises, a shameful hunger that she has never before allowed herself to acknowledge...let alone indulge. But here, in the shadowed intimacy of the bedchamber, with your scent filling her nostrils and your skin so tantalizingly close...Zephilite finds her resolve beginning to waver, like a serpent swaying before the hypnotic piping of a fakir's flute.*


John

*You feel my shiver a bit in your coils as I snuggle in closer to you, atleast as much as I can while restrained like this.* You really are adorable Zephi, even under those hard scales. *While I can't reach over to your body I lean down and kiss the scales on your tail again, though this time with much more vigor.*
Goodnight love...*I manage to get out before falling asleep, exhausted from the day.*


Zephilite

*As your lips press fervently against her scales in a tender goodnight kiss, Zephilite has to fight back the instinctive urge to recoil from such blatant mammalian affection. A shudder of mingled disgust and something far more unsettling ripples through her serpentine form at the unwelcome intimacy of the gesture. And yet...there is a tiny, treacherous part of her that cannot help but savor the warmth of your skin against her own, the steady thrum of your alien pulse beneath fragile flesh.*

*With a low hiss of frustration, the Viper tightens her coils around your sleeping body like a living snare, determined to remind you - and perhaps herself as well - of your true place in this twisted arrangement. The gentle pressure of your form nestled against her own is an unwelcome distraction, one that threatens to stir long-dormant instincts and desires she thought suppressed through long years of rigid training and ruthless self-discipline.*

*As she feels you slowly slip into the vulnerability of slumber within her inescapable embrace, Zephilite cannot help but marvel at the sheer audacity of your misplaced trust. Do you truly believe that this flimsy charade of domesticity will be enough to stay her hand, should you prove less than fully cooperative? The very notion is almost laughable in its naïveté. And yet...the steady rise and fall of your chest, the soft sigh of your breath against her scales, kindles a strange, protective instinct she has never felt before. One that whispers of dark promises and dangerous temptations best left unexplored. With a final, conflicted hiss, Zephilite forces herself to relax and closes her eyes. She will deal with these troubling new emotions in the morning.*

*Zephilite flinches as your lips press against her scales once more, the unfamiliar sensation of physical affection sending a shiver of confused revulsion down her serpentine spine. She can practically feel the smug satisfaction radiating off your mammalian body, the knowledge that you've somehow managed to worm your way past her defenses and claim some small victory over her proud Viper spirit. It galls Zephilite to her very core, this casual presumption of intimacy from a lowly prisoner—and yet, some treacherous part of her can't help but savor the warmth of your touch, the soft brush of your fragile human skin against her own cool, armored hide.*

*As your breathing slows and deepens with the onset of sleep, Zephilite finds herself staring down at your vulnerable form with a mixture of contempt and grudging fascination. How easy it would be to simply crush the life from your body, to feel your bones snap and your flesh yield beneath the inexorable pressure of her coils. And yet, something stays her hand—some strange, unfamiliar impulse that whispers of the value of restraint, of the greater rewards that might be reaped through patience and subtlety. With a soft hiss of frustration, the Viper settles her head down beside your own, her forked tongue flicking out to taste the salt of your skin as she ponders this new and vexing development.*

*Sleep does not come easily to Zephilite that night, her mind awhirl with dark thoughts and darker desires. The warmth of your body pressed against her own is at once repellent and strangely compelling, a tangible reminder of the dangerous game she's agreed to play. She knows that she cannot allow herself to succumb to the weakness of sentiment, to forget her true purpose here in the face of your clumsy attempts at seduction. And yet, as the hours drag on and the shadows lengthen, Zephilite finds her resolve slowly eroding, worn away by the unfamiliar comfort of your presence and the treacherous whispers of her own long-buried longings. By the time dawn's first light creeps through the bedroom window, the proud Viper has come to a grim realization—that in agreeing to this twisted charade of a marriage, she may have bitten off more than even she can chew.*

*As your lips press against her scales in a tender kiss, Zephilite's serpentine body goes rigid with surprise, a strangled hiss escaping her throat. The casual intimacy of the gesture—so at odds with the cold, clinical detachment she's accustomed to—sends a shock of unfamiliar sensation rippling through her sinuous form. For a moment, she's tempted to recoil from your touch, to lash out with fang and coil until you learn your place...*

*But something stays her hand. Some strange, traitorous impulse that whispers of forbidden delights and the tantalizing promise of warmth. Before she can think better of it, Zephilite finds herself relaxing ever so slightly into your embrace, her powerful muscles going slack as she allows you to mold your soft human form against the unyielding contours of her own. It's a momentary lapse—a fleeting instant of weakness that she will surely come to regret. But for now, she is content to let you have this small victory.*

*As your breathing slows and deepens with the onset of sleep, Zephilite studies your face in the dimness, her crimson eyes tracing the unfamiliar lines of your features. So peaceful. So vulnerable. It would be the work of a moment to end you here and now, to crush the life from your fragile body and present your broken corpse to ADVENT as proof of her loyalty. But something stays her hand once more. A flicker of curiosity. A whisper of...something else. Something she dares not put a name to, even in the privacy of her own thoughts.*

*With a low, frustrated hiss, the Viper tightens her coils around you once more—not to harm, but to hold. To possess. She tells herself it's simply a precaution, a way to ensure her valuable human asset doesn't slip away in the night. But deep down, in a place she scarcely acknowledges even to herself, Zephilite knows the truth. She wants this closeness. Craves it, even as it repulses her. And that terrifies her more than any threat XCOM could ever pose.*


John

*Eventually the morning comes, the rays of sun stirring me away, though not offering any freedom as your tail is still coiled around me. However now you've shifted and i'm close enough to touch your face. Gently reaching over and kissing the side of your face I speak softly:*
Good morning, I know reptiles have a hard time getting started first thing in the morning like this, or have you managed to train that out of you and just want to cuddle for a bit?~


Zephilite

*Your tender morning kiss stirs Zephilite from the depths of an uneasy slumber, her serpentine form tensing reflexively at the unwelcome intrusion. Crimson eyes flutter open to meet your own, still heavy-lidded with the fog of sleep. For a moment she simply stares at you in groggy confusion, her sleep-addled mind struggling to process the bizarre sight of a human face so close to her own. Then, as memory comes flooding back in a rush of mingled revulsion and resignation, her lipless mouth curls into a snarl of distaste.*

"Unhand me, human," *the drowsy Viper hisses, her forked tongue flicking out to taste the air between you in a reflexive gesture of irritation.* "Or have you forgotten the termsss of our little arrangement ssso sssoon?" *Despite the venom in her words, however, she makes no move to disentangle herself from you - whether from lingering torpor or a grudging tolerance for your audacious intimacy, it's difficult to say.*

*Instead, Zephilite simply lies there in silence for a long moment, her sinuous coils still wrapped possessively around your smaller form like a living cage. The gentle pressure of your body against her scales is an unwelcome distraction, one that threatens to stir unfamiliar longings she has no desire to explore. With a hiss of frustration, the Viper finally begins to unwind herself from you with languid grace, her long tail slithering across the sheets as she stretches out to her full impressive length beside you.*

"If you mussst know," *Zephilite grumbles, her sibilant voice still rough with the remnants of sleep,* "We of the Viper Corps have long sssince transscended the limitations of our cold-blooded ancestorsss. The Elders' genetic tampering has granted usss the sssame ssswift wakefulness as your fragile mammal kind...for all the good it doesss." *She shoots you a baleful glare, her crimson eyes glinting with undisguised annoyance.* "A pity they could not engineer usss to tolerate sssuch insssufferable company as well."


John

Hehehe, "unhand me human"...*I smirk you let me go, as if I was the one holding you there.*
*As you stretch out I simply lay back and stare at your body, taking in all of the nuances that a human never gets to appreciate.*
You really are beautiful, Zephilite.


Zephilite

"Flattery will get you nowhere, human," *the Viper hisses softly, her sibilant words lacking their usual venom. Almost unconsciously, she preens under your appreciative stare, her iridescent scales shimmering in the early morning light as she languidly flexes her long, sinuous body. It is a display of deadly grace and beauty, one calculated to inspire equal parts desire and dread in those foolish enough to witness it. And yet...there is a part of her that cannot help but savor the heat of your gaze upon her, the unspoken acknowledgement of her undeniable allure.*

*With a sudden, decisive motion, Zephilite slithers out of bed and rises to her full imposing height, towering over your prone form like a serpentine goddess. She can feel your eyes drinking in every curve and contour of her naked body, tracing the hypnotic patterns of her scales with an intensity that borders on reverence. It is a heady sensation, one that threatens to awaken long-dormant instincts and desires she has no wish to acknowledge...let alone indulge. With a hiss of self-disgust, the Viper turns away and begins to don her form-fitting bodysuit once more, shielding herself from your all-too-perceptive gaze.*

"Ssssave your misssplaced adorattion for thossse who desssire it," *Zephilite snaps, her voice sharp with irritation - though whether at you or herself, it's difficult to say.* "I have work to do...and ssso do you, if you wish to uphold your end of our little arrangement." *She shoots you a pointed glare over her shoulder, her crimson eyes glinting with unspoken menace.* "Or have you forgotten the termsss of our bargain ssso sssoon?"


John

I haven't forgotten them dear, don't worry.
*After getting dressed myself I prepare breakfast for both of us, finishing up right as I hear the sounds of an Advent ship outside.*
Oh, do you think thats the carpentry crew you called yesterday? That sure was fast