The Hunter's Serenade Ch. 01

As she walked, Serina felt goosebumps rising on her skin, the cold floor chilling her bare feet. Each step felt like walking on thin ice, and she was determined not to let her composure break. She was well aware that not all the Valkorians would fully accept her due to her outsider status. However, during her brief time among them, she had at least earned a significant amount of respect from them.

At last, Serina reached the imposing doors of Remus's chambers. As the doors slid open, she let out a sigh of relief, her tense journey through the hallways now at an end. Stepping forward, she entered the room and was met with an eerie darkness, save for the blue flame that cast an otherworldly glow in the center of the chamber.

Darius and Hadrian remained outside, guarding the doors as Serina ventured further into the darkness of the chamber. As she approached the eerie blue flame, her gaze fell upon Elder Remus, who was accompanied by another figure, a male Valkorian. His presence piqued her curiosity as she didn't recognize him. His armor, black with intricate gold engravings, was distinctive, and he wore a black-cloaked cape that added an air of authority. The commander's pauldron on his right shoulder bore familiar engravings, and his visor emitted an imperious golden glow.

Despite the mystery surrounding the man, Serina couldn't shake the strange sense of familiarity that connected them. Her gaze was drawn to his visor's golden glow, which held a captivating allure. However, Elder Remus's words brought her attention back to the matter at hand.

"Ah, you are here, Serina," the elder greeted her. "During your tenure here, you have learned much about our ways. You've proven your worth to others and strengthened your resolve. I always believed that your determination would lead you here. So, are you ready to receive your armor?"

Serina respectfully lowered her head, showing her readiness. "Yes, Elder Remus. I am ready," she replied with gratitude. "Thank you for believing in me."

Elder Remus gestured towards the enigmatic Valkorian, who turned and led a hover casing over toward Serina. She realized that the casing must contain her new armor. "Go ahead, Serina," Remus encouraged her. As Serina looked down, she noticed a handprint scanner. She cautiously extended her hand and placed it on the screen, which then proceeded to scan her hand. After a brief moment, the casing began to slowly open, revealing her armor waiting inside.

Excitement and anxiousness welled up within Serina as she stood before the open casing containing her Hyperium armor. She had waited for this moment for what felt like an eternity, and she didn't doubt her worthiness; she knew she had earned this honor. Serina couldn't wait to share this monumental moment with Sev, eager to see his reaction when she presented her new armor to him.

Her anticipation building, Serina peered inside the casing, and her amber eyes widened in astonishment as they fell upon her meticulously crafted Hyperium armor. The suit was a sleek black with intricate gold engravings that accentuated its elegance. It even had its own feminine touch. The design appeared tailored to her flexible and nimble combat style, featuring specialized compartments and sheaths for her arsenal of blades. A broad grin of satisfaction graced her lips as she realized how perfectly this armor had been custom-made for her.

However, her sense of déjà vu struck as she glanced at the helmet. There, she recognized a distinctive gold visor. Puzzled for a moment, she lifted her gaze and fixed her eyes on the enigmatic Valkorian standing in the room. Her voice quivered with curiosity and realization as she cautiously called out, "S-Sev?"

Sev acknowledged Serina's presence with a subtle nod, his actions sending waves of happiness and surprise coursing through her. She couldn't help but wonder why he had donned different armor, but the looming presence of Elder Remus redirected her focus.

The elder spoke with gravity and meaning, emphasizing the significance of the armor Serina was about to receive. It wasn't just a set of equipment; it was a representation of their culture and people, an embodiment of Valkorian values and identity As she listened intently to Elder Remus, the weight of the responsibility she was about to undertake began to settle upon her.

Once he concluded, he asked her a crucial question, one that would signify her formal acceptance into their sect. With unwavering determination, Serina answered, "I understand, Elder Remus. I will bear the responsibility of being a Valkorian and uphold the traditions of the sect and our people." Her commitment was evident in her words and resolute demeanor. Remus rubbed his white beard and grinned pridefully.

"Good, now put on your armor," he urged. Serina happily obliged.

As Serina adjusted her arm bracers, she couldn't help but feel the weight of responsibility that came with her new armor. Looking over at Sev and Elder Remus, who both nodded in acknowledgment, she felt a surge of pride and determination. It was clear that she had embraced her role as a Valkorian and had every intention of upholding their traditions and values.

Her gaze lingered on Sev, her partner and guide on this journey. She noticed the striking similarities between her armor and his, particularly the features that seemed to signify their shared family name, Balteus. It was a moment of realization that they were bound by more than just their partnership; they were now part of the same lineage, carrying forward the legacy of their family.

"Hmm, you look like you were born to wear that armor. Wear it with pride and make us proud. You've earned it," Remus happily praised Serina. She smiled beneath her helmet and nodded. Then, clapping his hands once, he declared, "Henceforth, you are now Serina Valeria Balteus, the first wife of Sevilius Corin Balteus! May your lineage thrive for the years to come!" Serina took a moment to reflect on her new middle name and the title of 'first wife'. For the moment, however, she was too proud and elated to dwell on these details.

Stepping closer to her, Sev placed his gloved hand on her shoulder and pulled her into a warm embrace. Serina happily returned his hug. Pulling away, they affectionately placed their helmeted foreheads against each other.

"I like your new look, tiger," Serina said with a joyful hum.

"Hm, not too bad yourself either," Sev replied with a smile behind his helmet.

Kneeling on one knee, Sev bowed his head, and his voice held a deep, unwavering commitment as he addressed Serina, "I, Sevilius Corin Balteus, vow to honor you, to cherish and protect you for all the days of my life, until my last breath escapes my lips." His words resonated with profound meaning, and his eyes locked upon Serina's with intensity and devotion.

Serina's heart swelled with emotion as she watched Sev, her beloved Valkorian, make his heartfelt declaration. She could feel the sincerity in every word, and it touched her deeply. Sev continued, his voice strong and unwavering, "I promise to stand by your side through all the challenges and triumphs that life may bring. I will be your shield, your confidant, and your unwavering support. Together, no force in the universe can sever the bond we share, and I vow to be your loving partner in this journey that lies ahead."

Serina, who had always prided herself on her emotional resilience, felt a flood of emotions surging through her as Sev's heartfelt words resonated with her. Tears welled up in her eyes as she lovingly placed her hands on her armored chest. With great tenderness, Sev removed his helmet and revealed a side of himself Serina had never seen before - a warm, happy, and deeply affectionate expression.

Following his lead, Serina slowly removed her helmet. As they stood face to face, Sev gently cupped her face, and their lips met in a passionate, heartfelt kiss. Their connection was palpable as they embraced, their foreheads touching, and their eyes locked in a gaze that spoke volumes of love and commitment.

Elder Remus couldn't contain his pride and happiness as he witnessed the union of the newly formed couple. A sense of relief filled him, knowing that he had played a role in securing the continuation of a legendary bloodline.

With profound gratitude to Elder Remus, Sev, and Serina put their helmets back on and exited the chamber. Serina had walked in as an outsider but now walked out as a full-fledged Valkorian. Darius and Hadrian couldn't hide their amazement at the sight of the pair's new armor.

Darius enthusiastically shared his approval of Sev's new look, believing that the armor was well-suited for his position. As they strolled through the hallways, many of Serina's new brothers and sisters greeted her warmly.

Hadrian approached Sev and offered an affirming handshake. "Congrats, brother," he said with a genuine smile under his helmet. Sev nodded in acknowledgment.

After some minor festivities, Sev led Serina to his quarters. They had been staying in separate rooms since their arrival, but now there was no further reason to deny his longing for her touch. Seeing her in her new armor had further stirred his desire to consummate their bond.

Serina was in awe as she entered her lover's personal quarters. The space was minimalistic, featuring an armor rack, weapons locker, and a desk area with a monitor and various personal trinkets from Sev's early life. While exploring the room, she noticed a portrait of two individuals on his desk.

Examining the portrait more closely, Serina noticed that both Sev and the older woman were depicted without their helmets. In the picture, Sev appeared significantly happier and more vibrant than his usual stoic and serious self. The deep connection between the two was evident, and it was clear that their relationship was more of a mentorship or maternal one rather than a romantic bond.

Serina's curiosity was piqued, and she couldn't help but wonder about the story behind the image and the woman who'd had such a significant impact on Sev's life.

Sev, unclasping his cloaked cape, looked at Serina with a hint of curiosity. "What are you thinking?" he inquired as he observed her studying the portrait.

Serina, caught in her reverie, shook her head and quickly returned the portrait to its place. "Uh, nothing. Just looking at your stuff," she replied, turning around to face her close companion. Spotting a nearby chair, she sat down and crossed her legs.

Sev pulled another chair over to face her and sat down directly facing Serina. "So, how does it feel to be a Valkorian?" he asked. Serina rubbed her chin on her helmet, deep in thought as she contemplated his question.

"Hm, strangely I don't feel anxious about it at all. It's almost like this was meant to be... Is that weird, or is it just me?" she replied with a hint of uncertainty.

Sev shook his head and chuckled. "No, that's a good thing. Feeling like you belong here is essential. Uncertainty about your identity can cause unneeded distractions. You've earned this. So there's no need to fret," he reassured her. "You are a Valkorian now, one of us." Serina returned his reassuring smile.

"Hm, wow... I'm a real Valkorian now. Isn't that something..." Serina muttered as she held her armored arms out to observe herself. Noting how the details matched with Sev's, she wondered where his old set of armor had gone. "Hey, what happened to your old armor? And why does our armor look so much alike?" she questioned.

"Elder Remus forged this new set just for me. These colors represent our clan. This armor is typically worn by the head of the Clan, which I now am - even though I don't have a clue about being a leader," Sev explained with a nervous chuckle. "As for the matching armor, it's a tradition for the heads of the family to have similar armor, at least to some extent," he continued.

"Why? Don't you like the black and gold?" Sev chuckled. Serina quickly shook her head.

"No, it's not that... It's nice, actually. I think it's kind of cute that we have matching armor," she clarified. "But I was hoping I could add some of my own personal touches... If that's allowed, of course. If not, I'm totally fine with just this."

Sev nodded. "You can customize the armor however you like, just as long as you maintain the colors," he assured Serina.

Serina's face lit up with excitement. "That's great! I have a few ideas in mind. I'll make it unique, but I promise to be faithful to the original colors," she replied with enthusiasm.

Sev smiled, delighted by Serina's enthusiasm. "I can't wait to see what you come up with. It'll be something exceptional, I'm sure," he remarked. "Once we leave here, we can visit my weapon-monger Roxy, over on Redshift-9, to give our armor a more modern touch. While this armor looks cool, it's a bit dated in style." Serina nodded in agreement. The armor did have a somewhat ornamental quality to it, and she knew Sev had his own preferences for combat and utility tech. He was particularly enamored of Coalition-grade hardware, known for being top-of-the-line military-grade equipment.

For the next half hour, they continued conversing just as they had used to, before all of these changes. Since they had arrived at the Conclave, their discussions had necessarily been filled with traditions and history, leaving no room for casual chat. Returning to a sense of normalcy was a welcome relief.

As they conversed, Serina playfully and sensually began to caress Sev's leg with her booted foot. Her actions made it increasingly challenging for him to concentrate on the conversation. Like Sev, Serina had been yearning for his touch. The experience of having his insignia etched into her skin aroused a deep desire within her. She no longer just needed him; she actively wanted him.

Sev met Serina's gaze, his helmeted face concealing any overt expressions. Her matching armor rendered her even more alluring to him than before. He could feel the intense chemistry between them, heightened by the significance of their new bond.

He responded with a suggestive tone, "Now that we're officially united, I think we should explore the privileges of our new status." Serina's eyes sparkled with anticipation, her foot's caress on his armored leg continuing.

"Hmm, yeah?" Serina hummed suggestively. Sev nodded.

-

As they finished hanging up their respective sets of armor, Sev and Serina stood there, their naked bodies on full display. They gazed at each other, appreciating each other's enticing forms. Serina admired Sev's well-defined muscles and the scars that adorned his skin, giving him a rugged, masculine appeal that she found irresistible. Sev, in turn, couldn't help but admire Serina's graceful, toned physique, appreciating her every curve and her shapely bust.

Bracing her hands on her hips, Serina bit her lip as she observed her lover. She noticed the intensity in Sev's gaze, his eyes fixed on her enticing figure. She couldn't resist a playful tease as she quipped, "Are you planning to keep staring at me, or will you finally get over here and kiss your woman?"

Sev shook his head, snapping back to the moment. With a nod, he closed the distance between them, approaching Serina with purpose. Her eyes widened with anticipation as he drew near. Gently, he cupped her face with his strong, rough hands and leaned down to capture her lips in a fiery kiss. A wave of joy and affection washed over Serina as their mouths met, igniting their passion.

They lost themselves in the kiss, their desire evident in their fervent embrace. Serina squealed into his mouth feeling his hands take firm command of her voluptuous rear cheeks. She could feel Sev starting to seize control of the situation like he usually did. But Serina wanted to make a change. Her newfound confidence from becoming a true Valkorian had emboldened her.

With a determined passion, Serina pushed against Sev, skillfully maneuvering their bodies toward his bed. Once there, she placed her hands on his solid chest and assertively shoved him onto the bed. Sev's eyes widened in pleasant surprise as Serina assumed control. While she manifested moments of assertiveness in the past, these tended to be rare, typically occurring after particularly intense missions or well-earned accomplishments.

"I know you should be the one taking point. But I don't think I want that," Serina teasingly said. "Allow me to get a taste of my new man..." Leaning down, she wrapped her slender fingers around Sev's stiffening manhood. She bit her lips as she felt his heat and how heavily he throbbed.

"Hmm, someone seems excited to see me again," Serina seductively cooed. Sev just smirked. Serina knelt, bringing her face up close to Sev's now fully erect cock. "Hmm, it's so big. I can't believe that this is mine, and mine alone," she hummed. Sev couldn't help but feel uneasy at her words, remembering the strength with which Elder Remus had suggested that he needed to seek out other companions. Sev kicked himself; he should have already brought those discussions up with Serina.

Stretching her tongue from her mouth, Serina planted it at the bottom of his shaft and began to lick and slather his shaft, coating it in her wet saliva. Sev quietly groaned at the straightforwardly salacious way in which his lover was pleasuring him.

Moving up to Sev's cockhead, Serina then enveloped it in her lush lips and worked her way down his shaft. Sev grunted and placed a hand on her head, weaving his fingers into her short hair. Serina hummed with pleasure as she felt his strong grip on her hair. Sev assisted her in giving him oral pleasure. Serina could feel her slit getting wet and hot with arousal.

Reaching a hand down to her moist lips, she began to play with herself as she continued giving her lover head. She slurped and sucked away. Sev reveled in the warmth of her wet mouth and throat. He always appreciated how skilled Serina was at the art of fellatio. But, sensing how close he was already getting, Sev pushed her head away from his member, leaving thick webs of saliva stretching from her lips to his cockhead.

Serina tilted her head, curious why he'd stopped her. Usually, he was happy enough to let her go until he'd orgasmed down her throat. Instead, Sev now used his strength to lift Serina onto her feet and sat her down on the edge of the bed alongside him. Then, falling to his own knees in front of her, he got between Serina's long legs and pulled her towards him until his face was positioned point blank in front of her sopping pussy.

Serina gasped and chuckled with eager anticipation. As their eyes locked, Sev let out a mischievous smirk that made Serina's heart skip a beat. It was a look she had never seen from him before, and it sent shivers down her spine. Then, leaning forward, Sev reverently pressed his lips against her wet slit.

"Ohhhh," Serina moaned out in pleasure as Sev held onto her thighs for leverage. He sensually kissed and licked her womanly parts, making sure to investigate every nook and cranny. He hummed with satisfaction as he swallowed her sweet tasty nectar, adding to the pleasure he was delivering to her.

Feeling his tongue slip past her folds, Serina gasped and grabbed Sev's short black hair. Her thighs involuntarily squeezed her lover's head. Her immense strength caused him to groan and attack her further.

Serina's amber eyes rolled back and her tongue sexily fell from her mouth in response to Sev's wiggling his big tongue around in her soaking love canal. Falling onto her back, she arched her ass up from the bed and rolled her hips deeper into Sev's mouth. She gripped the sheets for dear life as waves of pleasure pulsed through her body.

"Ah ah ah, yes... Right there. Keep going, my love... Ah..." she mewled. She sexily ran her delicate hands across her body.