The Hunter's Serenade Ch. 01

As she shook her head to refocus her thoughts, Serina's grip on Sev's harness loosened. "So, what kind of reward did you get from King Gornu?" she prodded, her curiosity getting the better of her. Sev paused for a moment, contemplating his response. He didn't want to reveal too much, but he knew that Serina had a way of seeing through any lies. He had no doubt that she'd extract the truth even if it meant prying it from his lifeless form.

"Hyperium," Sev provided a succinct response. Serina's grip on his harness tightened again.

"Hyperium? So that's why you took that job..." she deduced, the pieces falling into place in her mind. "How much are we talking about? Your armor still seems in good shape," she noted as she traced her fingers across his chest plate, her curiosity pushing her to seek further details.

"Let's just say I acquired enough for a full set of armor for a certain someone," Sev vaguely hinted. Serina raised an intrigued eyebrow.

"Oh? Would this 'certain someone' happen to be anywhere nearby?" she played along with his deliberate ambiguity.

"Very," Sev confirmed with a sly smile hidden behind his helmet. Serina grinned from ear to ear at what he was implying.

She had always harbored a deep desire for a set of Hyperium armor. Its reputation preceded it as a technological marvel, boasting not only remarkable lightness but also unrivaled durability, which in turn made it almost impervious to even the most formidable weapon fire. Yet, the coveted Hyperium armor was a closely guarded treasure of the Valkorians, a space-faring people deeply rooted in a warrior culture. Their physical resemblance to humans was where the similarities ended. Valkorians were renowned throughout the galaxy for their exceptional combat skills, not to mention their unmatched strength, razor-sharp instincts, and cunning strategies. But all these traits were underlain by their indomitable, unbreakable will to victory.

To possess a set of Hyperium armor was to attain the pinnacle of protection and aesthetic appeal. It wasn't just a matter of accumulating enough of the rare Hyperium metal; it was the intricate craftsmanship, known only to the specialized Valkorian armorsmiths, that rendered it almost impossible to replicate. The secrets of the Valkorian armorsmiths were tightly safeguarded, never shared with any who lacked Valkorian heritage. However, there were rumors that the Coalition - the dominant governing force in the galaxy - was trying to replicate the method. But those were only rumors.

For anyone else who dared to dream of obtaining this revered armor, the pursuit was fraught with peril. Even if one were to acquire a set by some stroke of fortune, perhaps from the fallen body of a Valkorian, it was only a matter of time before the Valkorian community learned of the theft and set in motion a relentless mission to recover their cherished artifact. The stolen armor, as alluring as it might be, often came with a steep price: the wrath of a proud and unforgiving people.

Deeply grateful for her Valkorian partner's generous offer, Serina wrestled with a formidable obstacle that cast a shadow over her aspirations. She wasn't Valkorian; she was a mere human. Despite her remarkable combat skills, the unalterable fact was that she did not share their lineage. While her abilities might allow her to blend in, a constant undercurrent of impostor syndrome gnawed at her confidence. The ever-present fear of being unmasked by a true Valkorian weighed heavily on her, with the awareness that the potential consequences of exposure could be dire. Even if Sev was one of their own, there was nothing he could do to change her outsider status.

"Sev... I don't think this would work. Your people, they would know," Serina voiced her concerns somberly, her worry etched across her face. She couldn't help but question why he would go to such lengths, almost committing blasphemy by offering a coveted set of armor to an outsider like her. Even if he vouched, it was highly unlikely that such an act would be permitted by the Valkorian Elders. Despite her reservations, though, a warm feeling enveloped her: if nothing else, his offer was a clear testament to how deeply he cared for her.

However, Sev exuded confidence, as if he already held the answer to Serina's concerns. "What? Don't you have something to say? Anything??" Serina wondered, her curiosity piqued.

"There is a way for you to possess this armor legitimately," Sev revealed. Serina arched an eyebrow and nodded slowly, signaling for him to continue. "I'm not sure how you'll feel about this, but here goes nothing," Sev said, taking a moment to prepare his explanation. He knew that Serina valued her strength and independence, and his offer could potentially conflict with her principles.

"Well, spit it out," Serina urged her eagerness rapidly eroding her patience. Taking a deep breath before nodding affirmatively, Sev clutched Serina's hands, holding them tightly together.

"You would have to be my woman," he finally revealed.

Serina felt a rush of emotions as his words hung in the air. She had never anticipated a conversation like this, and it left her torn between flattery and confusion. They had shared an unspoken arrangement, a companionship with benefits, and she'd grown accustomed to that dynamic. Now, confronted with the prospect of a formal commitment, she had to reconfigure the shape of their relationship in her mind and heart.

They had always been discreet about their connection in public, rendering it less apparent to outsiders, but their bond undeniably ran deeper than casual encounters. Some of their colleagues had noticed, gossiping and making assumptions about them. Perhaps, they had come across as more of a couple than Serina had previously realized.

Serina's lengthy pause for internal contemplation seemed to cut through the tension in the room. At least she hadn't rejected the notion outright. "Okay, so, I'm not totally opposed to the idea of being your woman. "Alright, I'm not entirely against the idea of becoming your woman. Let's just say I am. How that will help me get this armor?" Serina inquired, breaking the silence.

Sev took a deep breath before elaborating further. There was more important information he needed to explain—more that was involved than simply deciding to become a couple.

Gently squeezing Serina's hands, Sev hastened to clarify. When he spoke again, his voice held a mixture of uncertainty and determination. "To legitimately own a set of this armor, you would have to be formally inducted by a Valkorian Elder. It's not just a matter of declaring a relationship; a candidate needs to prove their worth. Traditionally, this requires a candidate to pass rigorous tests: you would need to demonstrate your commitment to our cause."

Sev paused, his gaze fixed on Serina's. "However, in your case, I can vouch for you since I seek for you to become my woman, which should make things easier. But it's not a decision to be taken lightly, Serina. The armor represents our heritage, our traditions, and our responsibility. It's not just about appearances; it's a symbol of the deeper connection we share with the Valkorian legacy."

Serina nodded in understanding. The weight of Sev's request had settled in, and she realized the gravity of what he was asking of her. While the allure of the armor had intrigued her, Sev's offer clearly held a deep personal significance. It was a connection to a world she had never anticipated becoming a part of.

This moment, this opportunity, felt entirely foreign to her. Never in her life had she imagined that she would be presented with such a momentous choice, a path leading to a culture and a heritage she had only glimpsed in stories and shared moments with Sev. As she considered the possibilities, Serina couldn't help but wonder how this decision might change her life forever.

As Serina locked her gaze onto Sev's visor, she couldn't shake the feeling that there was something more to this request. "There's more to it, isn't there?" She voiced her suspicion, and Sev's slow nod confirmed her intuition.

Sev elaborated further, his voice carrying a mixture of seriousness and affection. "Once you are accepted, it's a lifelong commitment. You will be considered mine, and we will be bound to each other for life. As a symbol of our connection, you'll have my insignia tattooed on your body, signifying our link."

Serina's emotions were a whirlwind. She had always cherished her independence, but this prospect felt intensely intimate, stirring emotions she had rarely experienced. It was a significant decision that would not only change her life but her identity as well.

Sev continued to explain, his voice soft and earnest. "Only then, would you be officially recognized as a Valkorian. You would become one of us, even though you aren't of our blood." His gaze and his tone conveyed a weight, a sense of belonging, that transcended mere words.

He went on, "If you ever encounter another Valkorian, your insignia will be the sign that to them that you belong with us, regardless of your heritage." The significance of what he was offering and the depth of their connection became even clearer to Serina.

As he softly spoke again, Sev's voice carried a hint of uncertainty. "I know this is a lot to ask, an immensity of complications you have never asked for." There was a vulnerable edge to his words, but it was also clear that this was something he deeply desired.

Serina's heart raced as she considered the magnitude of the choice laid before her. Affection and anxiety swirled within her, knowing that becoming a Valkorian was a rare and legendary opportunity. Sev's commitment to her was palpable, it thrummed through the connection of their tightly gripped hands.

With her eyes closed, Serina drew a deep breath, gathering her courage and resolve. She opened her eyes and met Sev's visor with unwavering determination. "I accept your offer," she declared. "I will be your woman." The transformation in Sev's armored demeanor was immediate and unmistakable as if the weight of the world had been lifted from his shoulders, and he radiated a sense of pride and joy at her decision.

In a wordless moment of gratitude, Sev pulled Serina into a tight embrace. She couldn't help but emit a small, surprised sound as she felt her delicate, nude body pressed against his solid armor. "Thank you," he murmured softly, his voice filled with genuine appreciation and the deepest admiration. Serina responded with a warm smile, her heart swelling with affection for him.

As they parted from the embrace, Sev reached for his helmet, then lifted it halfway, just enough to reveal his mouth and nose. His sharp jawline and the small scar across his right jaw became visible. Leaning towards each other, they tenderly pressed their lips together. Their kiss was deep and filled with warm affection, eventually evolving into a bout of steamy tongue action. However, Sev pulled away before things could go any further.

As he pulled his helmet back down, Serina couldn't help but snarl in annoyance. Underneath that helmet, Sev was an undeniably attractive man, but he almost never took the darn thing off. The only times she ever got to see his face were in moments of intimacy, which always left her longing to know him more fully.

Gazing deeply into each other's eyes, they each felt that their relationship was reaching a new peak. Sev and Serina felt as happy as they ever had. Who would have thought that a pair of stone-cold killer bounty hunters could find romance amid the chaos and desperation of a conflict-riddled galaxy?

Kira's unexpected interjection abruptly shattered their intimate moment. "Awww, this is just so sweet. You two are going to make me cry," the AI chimed in from the speaker in Sev's helmet. The look in Serina's eyes, which had just been filled with warmth, flashed instantly to one of frustration and annoyance at the rude interruption to their private moment.

"Dammit, Kira! Don't you understand the very basics of emotional intimacy?" Serina hissed. Kira giggled in response as Serina vented her feelings further. "Don't you have anything better to do?"

Kira's virtual voice held a hint of mischief. "I do, but I couldn't help it! I'm stuck in Sev's head!" she exclaimed, as if her presence there formed some kind of an excuse for her intrusion.

Finding himself caught in the middle of their argument, Sev decided to intervene by refocusing their attention. "Kira, how long until we reach our destination?" he interjected calmly, his voice cutting through their squabble.

Kira, quick to comply with her owner's request, replied, "About two more hours until we reach the Conclave." Her prompt response defused the momentary tension.

Sev attempted to stand up, but his arm was suddenly grabbed and used to pull him back down onto the bunk. Swiveling his helmeted head around, he saw Serina, her eyes glowing with her eagerness to keep him close. She teased him with a low, seductive voice, "Where do you think you're going, mister?"

Sev couldn't help but smirk beneath his helmet, fully aware of where she wanted this to lead. However, he had pressing matters to attend to. "Not right now. I have things I need to settle with some of my contacts," he explained, his voice firm, yet tinged with a touch of regret.

Serina, undeterred, arched a challenging brow and tugged at his arm even harder this time. "You can't be serious right now. You get a girl all hot and riled up after committing to you, and you'd rather do work stuff? I can't believe you," she snapped. Sev squinted his eyes at her from behind his visor, torn between his desires and responsibilities.

Serina continued to press her case, her voice now laced with allure. "You have your trusty AI. Why don't you let her take over for you?" Her suggestion was accompanied by a suggestive smile, and Kira was quick to jump in with a protest.

"Hey! That's not fair!" Kira chimed in, trying to defend herself. However, Serina simply rolled her siren-like amber eyes and pulled her Valkorian lover even closer, brushing a hand against his armored chest.

"Come on," Serina whispered, her voice filled with longing, "Don't you want to consummate our bond?" Sev felt his blood pumping, his helmeted head spinning at the intensity of Serina's commitment, the allure of the moment nearly irresistible.

Sev activated the tacpad on his left forearm, deftly inputting commands. "Kira, send a report about 'The Autumn Fox' to 'Allfather'," he instructed, his voice steady. He added, "And would you give us some privacy for an hour or two?"

Kira let out a resigned sigh. "Of course, boss," she responded dutifully. With a brief acknowledgment, she promptly shut down her access to Sev's helmet, respecting their need for privacy, and leaving Sev and Serina to explore their moment uninterrupted.

Now that they were alone, Sev and Serina gazed at each other with burning affection and arousal. "So, are you gonna get out of that armor and join me?" Serina teased in an alluring voice. Rolling his eyes under his helmet, Sev nodded in agreement and proceeded to rid himself of his Hyperium armor.

-

Serina moaned in the darkness of the claustrophobic bunk. Her long legs hung in the air as Sev thrust himself into her with exceptional vigor. The air was thick and musty as their sloshing sexes sparred with one another.

"Oh! Fuck! Sev!" Serina moaned, her legs firmly wrapped around his waist and her hands clawing at Sev's back, her nails inscribing the many scars with which it was littered. She fervently pulled him deeper. Electric shocks of pleasure pulsed through her body, his cock filling her perfectly as he rhythmically slammed himself against her cervix.

Serina loved the times when she and Sev were able to get intimate. Even if it was more like fucking than making love. Sev had just as much prowess in bed as he did in combat. He was unsurpassed, which only made him more attractive to Serina. She'd had a few men in her life, but none of them had ever reached her expectations. She had almost given up on having sex until she met Sev. He could take her to heights of pleasure she had never reached before, and then take her even higher!

Yes, she prided herself on her strength and independence but, in bed, she loved nothing more than getting thoroughly ravaged. Perhaps that's why she hadn't enjoyed the past men of her life. None of them had come close to fucking her as good as Sev did.

With skill and precision, Sev rolled his hips unremittingly into Serina as he feasted his eyes upon his lover. She failed to return his gaze: her amber eyes were rolled back and glazed with lust. Her mouth hung open sexily as she exhaled steamy puffs of air.

Serina tried to keep eye contact with her Valkorian lover but the strength of his rolling hips kept overriding her intent, he was just rocking her to her core. His serious dark eyes dominated hers as he grunted and thrust deep into her. The clapping of their flesh reverberated within the small confines of the bunk.

As Serina released her grip from Sev's muscular back, she gently cupped his cheeks. She relished the rare opportunity to gaze into his handsome face, a sight she didn't get to enjoy as often as she liked. The knowledge that she was perhaps the only person who knew what he truly looked like filled her with a sense of satisfaction. It was like having her own personal secret, a connection that was uniquely theirs.

Planting his hands on either side of Serina's head, Sev leaned down and locked lips with hers. The two breathed heavily through their nostrils as their tongues twirled and danced.

As they pulled back from their kiss, webs of their mixed saliva still connected their lips. Sev bore a satisfied smirk on his face at how he had reduced Serina to a moaning mess beneath him. She rolled her eyes as she saw that familiar look on his face. "Ah... Sev... stop looking at me like that..." Serina playfully objected in a breathy voice.

Sev chuckled and replied, "Sorry, I can't help it. I just made one of the fiercest women in the galaxy mine..." His words caused Serina to feel things. Her principles demanded that she not belong to anyone other than herself. But it just felt so right to surrender emotionally and sexually to Sev. Being bonded to this enigmatic Valkorian felt natural to her deepest self. As if she had been instinctually destined to defer to him.

Her pupils dilated and her body heated up as she thought about her future with Sev. She gazed up at the chiseled man above her as he pounded her soaking wet pussy. Serina contemplated her new role as Sev's woman, realizing that as a mere human, she was now bonded to a genetically superior race. Her thoughts drifted to what it would be like to carry his child, to be impregnated by him, and to have his superior genetic material take root within her. It was a concept that had never crossed her mind before. Her line of work had never allowed her to consider the idea of motherhood, but now, in this new chapter of her life, it was a possibility that seemed both foreign and intriguing.

Serina's thoughts were increasingly entangled in a web of questions and desires. She wondered whether Sev even desired fatherhood, given his dedication to the demanding life of a bounty hunter. His commitment to the job was unflinching and all-absorbing; having a child might well complicate things and slow him down. On the other hand, she could not entirely ignore the traditional role of a woman in a relationship, especially in a context like theirs. Would it be her responsibility to bear strong children as his woman, further cementing their bond and lineage?

These thoughts stirred within her in a complex mix of arousal and confusion, as she grappled with the interplay of her own desires, her sense of duty, and her evolving connection with Sev. It was a conundrum that added another layer of complexity to their relationship.