Dog of War

Camila read through the contract again, correcting a few minor errors as she went. Everything was in order. It should be exciting, it should have made her ecstatic- the contract would bind Princess to her more than her Notice of Intent could- yet she couldn't feel more than a dull joy at the prospect. Something else occupied her mind; the result of a late-night exchange with Viola. The offending object sat on her desk next to the stack of papers- Princess' 'coin.' 

 

She had examined it thoroughly and it had seemed to be exactly what Princess said it was, until she had placed it in the compiler and had Jess look at it. Just below its silver surface was potentially terabytes worth of information, heavily encrypted. How many times had she held it? Transferred it to the girl's pocket- pockets she manually added just so Princess could have it on her. A bounty of secrets, hidden in plain view. 

 

Camila's imagination ran wild with the possibilities of what it actually contained. With the apparent size of its stores, it could be anything. Stars , it could be ever ything. She had an idea of what to expect. Viola had sent her a few files that referenced what was contained within; blackmail and extortion material, various secrets recorded nowhere else, wetwork records, and more. Purportedly the contents were meticulously detailed. They likely contained the entirety of Princess’ mercenary career, something Camila had only glimpsed through the surviving OCNI files on her. It could even have information on that elusive Company of hers! 

 

The most frustrating part of all was that the contents were still inaccessible. Jess had said it would take her a week or more to break through it, if she could at all. She was a Hab AI though, not properly suited for the task of brute forcing through fluctuating encryption. Bringing it to an expert would certainly speed things up. Viola desperately wanted a crack at it, but the information refused to be copied. Every attempt resulted in all the data becoming immensely corrupted, and it deteriorated quickly. No wonder there wasn't even a trace of her files on any server. Camila had sent several corrupted copies to Viola at faes request. Archeoxenobureaucracts could restore ashes to legible forms, perhaps fae could work a miracle here?

 

There was another option, one that was growing more tantalizing the more Camila examined the seemingly innocuous item. A one-two of Class D and B would give her the secrets and Princess would be none the wiser. It was tempting, but there was her conditioning to be wary of. Forcing every secret out of her could put a crack in the feeling of safety. Class B could erase her memory, but it wouldn't repair the damage. Camila wanted her secrets, but not at the cost of her feeling unsafe. She couldn't have both. If only she could just copy the information...

 

This was going nowhere. Princess needed to get up soon, and Camila still needed to make breakfast. More than that, she needed a break. She had been puzzling over the coin since last night. She tucked it away and made her way to the kitchen. Hopefully cooking would help clear her mind. 

 

Camila had at least figured out what to make- a dish called Sheepherder's Breakfast. She set a skillet on the stovetop, turning its heat to medium, letting it get hot as she gathered the rest of the ingredients. She shredded a potato as another set of vines diced an onion and several strips of bacon, both of which Camila set to sizzle in the pan. 

 

Once the bacon had started to turn crispy, Camila dumped the shredded potatoes on top, pushing them about with the spatula until they formed an even cover. After ten minutes she flipped it over. Camila pressed two divets into the crispy potato, then cracked an egg into each along with a sprinkle of salt and pepper before covering the skillet and reducing the heat. Another ten minutes later, she removed the cover and a burst of steam filled the air. She quickly sprinkled cheese onto it, and removed the pan from the heat. 

 

Camila prepared a couple pieces of toast and a glass of orange juice while letting the cheese melt. Removing it from the pan, she plated the meal and took a moment to admire her own work. Princess was bound to love it. 

 

Speaking of, it was time to get her up, and subsequently return the coin to her. Camila took it out to examine it one last time, and lamented that she couldn't delve into the treasure trove of information it contained. It really was incredible how mundane it looked- indistinguishable from the real thing. 

 

Suddenly, an idea came to her, with all the brilliance of a rising star. "Jess, do you still have the compiler information for Princess' coin?" 

-_-_-

Princess slowly stirred as consciousness trickled in. They felt good , a pleasant feeling radiating through their entire being. The sheets were so soft and the bear was so warm and their heart was so full and they were so safe . Everything that could disturb this perfect moment was light-years away. They smiled as they readjusted their grip on the bear.  

 

"Good morning Princess." A voice even sweeter than the lingering taste of berries on their tongue made their heart flutter. "It's time for you two to get up." 

 

Two?

 

Memories of yesterday slowly returned, working their way through the clearing fog. 

 

Oh. Oh . 

 

They sat upright, brushing hair out of their face as they turned bright crimson, the tips of their hair tickling their shoulder blades. "G-good morning, Miss Verdun." They cleared their throat, trying to ignore the resurgent memories of how nice being in her vines had felt. How safe and comfortable it was to drift off in them. How they nearly begged her to let them cum. How they loved her. 

 

Despite this, there was no panic, just a nice, safe feeling, and a desire to doze off in those wonderful vines once again. There was also a pent-up need; Princess could feel it in their chest, their lips, their thighs, their back, their straining cock. A nap wasn't the only thing they wanted from those vines. 

 

We need to stay focused. We might like Miss Verdun but we still don't want to be property.

 

Right, they needed to get a hold of themselves. Just because she was amazing and kind and loved them didn't mean they loved her . Miss Verdun smiled at them and that fuzzy feeling returned, scattering their thoughts again- she was so pretty it was unfair! "How are you feeling, Princess?" She seemed in a better mood than usual, and it was infectious; their few worries were quickly forgotten. 

 

"Good, like really good , but, uhm," Princess fidgeted with the bear's paw, its texture was oddly comforting. There was nothing they couldn't tell her. "A-a little horny."

 

Miss Verdun giggled. "I suppose that's my fault, I got a bit carried away washing you last night. The noises you were making were just so adorable , I couldn't help myself. Sorry about not letting you finish, I didn't want you to feel like I was taking advantage of you." Princess narrowed their eyes; the Affini hadn’t seemed concerned with that before, why start now? "If you want, I could help you take care of that now~"

 

If they could get any redder, they did. "Th-that is not necessary, thank you!"

 

"Are you certain? You seemed quite needy last night. I know you haven't cum since you arrived and I can only guess how long it has been before that. It's unhealthy, you know."

 

No, now they were as red as possible, they had to be. They could taste their brain boiling. Why was she talking about that first thing in the morning?! Sure it had been a while, they couldn't recall exactly when- sometime before coming aboard the Valiant for certain- but that was normal! They never really got horny before, and definitely not like this . 

 

Was that because we were still a guy? Or being treated like one? 

 

That really didn't matter right now! "It is fine, I will take care of it myself later!" 

 

"If you insist." Miss Verdun extended a vine. "Breakfast, then?" 

 

Ooo, what'll it be today?

 

Princess reflexively accepted the vine, already beginning to salivate. Thankfully, Miss Verdun didn't snatch them up in the way that they were trying not to enjoy. Instead she worked her vines around them, letting them feel their warmth and safety before lifting them up slowly. They had to fight to keep from pressing into the vines. It felt so nice here, being held. They wanted to stay as much as they needed it to end. 

 

Regardless of their warring desires, Princess was soon placed at the table, quietly lamenting the vines' withdrawal. At least they had accidentally brought along the bear. It was a poor substitute for actual touch, but it wasn't trying to make them property again. What were they even wearing? They hadn't noticed with the blanket over them still, but it was totally see-through! They were practically naked at the table! They tried to ignore that, turning their attention to the plate where they found some sort of cheese and egg amalgamation with several pieces of toast. 

 

Princess picked up the fork and started to carve out a chunk. "What is it?" 

 

"It's called a Sheepherder's Breakfast; it's potato, bacon, egg and cheese." 

 

Princess had tasted all those things together before, but they weren't prepared nearly the same way. They hummed in delight, borderline moaning as they took the first bite.The chewy egg and melted cheese atop the mass of potato had a rich, earthy taste that gave way to bursts of rich, smoky bacon every time they bit into a chunk. 

 

Oh fuck. that's good.

 

Princess felt tears start to well in the corner of their vision. How was food always so delicious? They washed it down with the nearby drink, bright orange in color and delectable in its own right. They hungrily began carving out another bite, their few worries forgotten, when they caught Miss Verdun's eye. That longing, loving gaze bearing down on them. 

 

Princess averted their eyes to stuff more in their mouth, ignoring the feeling in their chest. They tapped their foot against the chair in delight as the flavors filled their mouth. If being a pet meant being able to eat like this every meal, maybe it wouldn't be so bad? They would never be made to wear a collar, so they didn't have to worry about that. If it ended up that they couldn't be independent and failed to escape, that was... 

 

"Thanks, uh, for always making such wonderful food for me."

 

"It is my pleasure, Princess. You are really cute when you eat, you know." Miss Verdun hummed curiously for a moment. "You're using singular pronouns again?" 

 

"That's-" Princess paused for a moment, "it's just what I'm used to using? Using 'we' feels really exposed. I'm not sure if I really want to just do that." The food helped chase away the sour taste in their mouth. 

 

"Well you seemed to use it rather naturally yesterday; do you feel unsafe?"

 

Princess thought as they chewed. They definitely felt safe, that wasn't the problem. They had already exposed themselves to Miss Verdun and that had gone well. So what was it? "I guess... I'm just used to having to hide that part of my- of ourselves? I'm still not sure if I want to be open about the 'we' stuff," they grumbled. What were they even going to tell Daisy? 'Sorry we've been two people the whole time, but we're both the same person, so don't worry about it too much?' Would they have to have that conversation with strangers? 

 

Miss Verdun gave them a brief pet that caught them off guard and made them gasp. Princess pressed into it despite themselves. It felt fantastic, and temporarily relieved their itching scalp. 

 

Are we enjoying being pet?

 

Well they didn't have to worry about a collar, and they were safe . It did feel nice and somewhat comforting, maybe letting themselves enjoy the occasional pet wouldn't be too bad? Since they didn't have to worry about the collar and all. "I think you are both lovely girls, and it would be a shame to hide yourselves." 

 

"I-" Princess started, before stopping. Miss Verdun had a point, they didn't need to hide anymore. Not here, where they were safe. They tried again, correcting themselves. "We'll try."

 

They could feel the pride radiating off the Affini before she even spoke. "That's all I ask." 

 

Princess pushed past the feeling in their chest once more. A task that was growing increasingly taxing, and frequent. They grabbed a slice of toast and nibbled; it was also good, but not overwhelming. A welcome break for their taste buds. "So, uhm, anything going on today?"

 

"Yes, I have a few chores to take care of. I won't be back until after lunchtime. I was going to drop you off at Cordelia's so she can watch you while I am out." 

 

"I- We do not need to be watched, we are still independent. We'll be fine on our own for a few hours." The look on Miss Verdun's face as she internally debated the prospect prompted them to continue trying to convince her. "Besides, I- we still need to take care of that, uh," their voice lowered, "that unfinished business." 

 

Miss Verdun's voice took on a serious tone, her eyes piercing through them. "Are you certain? Here you would have to feed yourself, and there you could spend time with Daisy." 

 

"I can handle feeding myself." Princess scraped some of the food onto the toast. "One compiled meal isn't going to hurt me, and we can hang out with Daisy later. We haven't had any time truly on our own since we arrived. Surely if we intend to stay independent we can be on our own for a little while." The conflict in the Affini was palpable; did she really think they were that incompetent? "If anything goes wrong, or we need help, we'll let you know. Cordelia does live next door, she could be here in seconds in case of an emergency, and Jess is here, so I'm not even completely alone." They hummed with delight as they bit into the breakfast-laden toast, awaiting the answer. 

 

After several long moments of consideration, Miss Verdun sighed in defeat. "Alright. You showed considerable growth yesterday and I suppose you do deserve an opportunity to prove yourself. Just promise that you will contact me or Cordelia if something happens."

 

"Of course." Princess smiled, satisfied with the small victory. They were actually going to be on their own for little. Hopefully they could finish taking care of that pent up need quickly and utilize the rest of the time. "By the way, uh, did you finish writing up that contract? For no collars?" 

 

The Affini's flowers bloomed, her mood brightening. "I did! I was going to have you sign it after you get dressed, before I leave." 

 

"Well do you mind if we read through it while we finish eating? It would save some time." 

 

Miss Verdun's vines flicked nervously. "Read it? Don't you trust me?" 

 

Now that was worrying. "Miss Verdun, trust has nothing to do with it. There is no way I am going to sign any paperwork without reading it." 

 

"I... suppose that would be fine." Miss Verdun's chest opened up, and she withdrew a small stack of paper, setting them in front of their plate. "It's a little dense so-" she trailed off.

 

"I am well versed in legalese, Miss Verdun, we did negotiate all our own contracts." They flipped through the pages quickly, about a dozen in all. This shouldn't take too long. Examining the first page, the form's title caught their eye- Domestication Contract - General Addendum. "Miss Verdun." 

 

"Yes, Princess?" 

 

"Domestication contract?"

 

A few of her vines twitched again. "Yes." 

 

"Miss Verdun. I still do not wish to be a pet." 

 

"I am aware." Her serious tone returned. "However, you should know that I've already filed a notice of intent for you. In the event you are found to need ownership, at any point, you will be mine. Unless you ask another Affini to be your owner, of course. However, signing this will be something like your own notice of intent. It indicates that, in the event you have to be domesticated, you choose me." 

 

Princess hadn’t heard of a Notice of Intent before, but they could piece it together. It wasn’t news that the Affini wanted them, and if they had to be a pet, they'd certainly want Miss Verdun over any other Affini. But when had she filed it? Did they even want to know? Princess mulled it over as they ate. "Is this even effective without a signed domestication contract attached?"

 

Miss Verdun tapped a vine against her chin. "Yes and no? It effectively makes it so you would only ever be domesticated by me. Few Affini would court someone that has a notice on them, but none would if they saw you had a partial domestication contract on file. It also shows that we have an agreement you will not have to wear a collar. It will keep my vines tied on that matter. However, in the event you are declared independent and then there is some other Affini you end up interested in, you would have to get it annulled and then negotiate with them." 

 

Princess continued reading through, seeing if the contract actually corroborated that. The language seemed to back up what she was saying- as part of a future domestication contract with Miss Verdun it would definitely keep other Affini from trying to domesticate them. The collar stuff was pretty ironclad as well. It defined a collar in a satisfactory way, and it even had passages that kept her from forcing or coercing them to change their mind. The only complaint they had was that for every passage of legally binding text there were at least two stating how cute they were. That, and one more thing they found towards the end, hidden in a passage about how adorable they were when they stretched while waking up. 

 

"Mandatory cuddle time?" 

 

"It's just an hour a day." 

 

" Miss Verdun ." 

 

"It just seems like you could use it, is all. You are rather touch starved, and you can't tell me you don't enjoy our cuddle time," she defended, even as her vines twitched and coiled. 

 

"No." Princess pushed the small stack of papers back towards Miss Verdun. "Remove it." 

 

A vine collected the paperwork, and she stored it back inside of herself. "Are you sure I can't persuade you? You seemed to really enjoy napping in my vines; you could have that every day."

 

Princess blushed. "That's-" they took a moment to steady themselves and keep their voice from breaking. "That was one time, and I was still recovering from the Class H. I hardly want to do such a thing every single day." It may have been the most relaxed they had ever felt, but that was exactly why they couldn't accept the terms. 

 

"What if I added a berry to the cuddle time?" 

 

Oo . 

 

Berries were good, and cuddling was nice, but they couldn't let themselves be swayed by simple bribery. "Miss Verdun-"

 

"A berry and you can choose when it happens. You may even elect to break it up into smaller segments as long as it totals to one hour by the end of the day."

 

Did she really want to pet them that badly?! Stupid question, of course she did. Ugh, the worst part was how tempting they found the offer.

 

Miss Verdun clearly wants this, and we don't exactly hate the idea. We could negotiate! 

 

With what though? Miss Verdun's vines were too nice, too safe. That much routine cuddling would melt through their already waning resistance. It was true that if they did get domesticated, there would certainly be more cuddling than an hour a day. The flower festival was sometime soon anyways, they wouldn't have to hold out much longer. This could let them at least secure some rights? 

 

Princess shook their head., were they seriously considering this? They must already be more far gone than they thought. Capitulating here would only incentivize her. "We asked for no collars, let's keep it to that, alright? That you tried to sneak something into this honestly makes it hard for us to trust you." They finished the last of the meal and drained the rest of the drink.

 

Miss Verdun wilted, "I-" she paused, considering her next words very carefully. "You are right. I tried to take advantage of your trust and I'm sorry. I will remove the passage." She bowed her head. 

 

Geh, seeing her sad made them feel bad. Maybe they should have just asked for a stipulation of their own... "It's just- every day for an hour is kind of a lot. If you wanted to pet me for a little while now and then, you could just ask." 

 

Miss Verdun brightened, her vines wriggling happily as they collected the dishes in a manner that lifted their own mood. "I will keep that in mind, Princess. I'll make a new contract after you are dressed, and you can sign it before I leave." She offered a vine to them. "I would like to get you dressed now, if you are ready."

 

Princess accepted it, they were definitely ready to wear something that actually covered up any of their body. Their heart leapt as they were swept up off their seat and into those loving vines. Refusing the offer had been simultaneously the right and wrong choice. They felt so safe and loved

and right here. An hour in these everyday and within a week they would be pleading to never leave. 

 

They were carried into the bathroom and set down, the bear removed from its place in Princess' arms with a promise of its return after. Vines tapped their elbows and they raised their arms, as instructed. They gasped as the silky material and its feather trim brushed against their nipples as it was removed. The act felt exposing, despite the fact the garment had hid essentially nothing, and they felt their cock twitch in response. Their breasts jiggled lightly at the removal of the nightie. They were bigger now, about a handful each, and the areolas were larger too.

 

That wasn't the only difference they noted about their changing body. Their hips were wider, and they were also noticeably shorter now. The sink used to come to their hips, now it was near their softening stomach. They had definitely started to put on a bit of weight. All the treats and three full meals a day had been adding up. They were used to two or three synthcubes a day, and their caloric intake had easily doubled with all the delicious things Miss Verdun had been feeding them. The lack of proper exercise didn't help either. With all these things shifting their center of gravity, it seemed like the Class Es weren't the only cause of their balance issues. Maybe they should have a talk with her about their diet?

 

But then we wouldn't get to eat so many tasty things ...

 

Perhaps they should reassess their physical training then. 

 

A bra was pulled down Princess' arms, matching the panties that she had put on them. A lace flower only partially obscuring their nipples. Wearing a matching set this revealing made something in them stir once again. If they weren't before, they were very much looking forward to getting their relief once Miss Verdun left now. A dress was lowered in front of them, pink in color, white lace frills with floral patterns. A tap on the back of their knees had them step into it, and it was pulled up around them. A vine helped their arms into the holes. Their shoulders were still exposed, but only their shoulders. There were small poofy sleeves hanging off their arms, and a bit of material that covered their collar bone, obscuring a portion of the hickies left by Daisy. 

 

It was shorter than other dresses, stopping midway down their thigh instead of below their knees. Around the top of the skirt was a small green sash creating the visual effect of a sepal, and making it look as though they were wearing a rose. The neckline dipped in a V shape, although they lacked the cleavage it clearly wanted to show. They did note that their breasts actually made a distinct visual impression in the dress today, something that made them feel fluttery inside. Looking down and seeing a woman felt indescribable, and they couldn't help but giggle. They should thank Miss Verdun for having the foresight to get them started on Class G early. They weren't even done yet! 

 

Princess let out an 'eep' as the laces were pulled tight. Something about it stoked that simmering need into a proper heat, like bellows breathing life into dying embers. The tightness reminded them of the snug feeling of their boots, when they were properly tied. It just felt right. 

 

A vine slipped their coin into a skirt pocket. "I'm going to do your hair now." Miss Verdun informed them, shortly before pulling them into her lap and eliciting a small squeak. 

 

"O-okay." Princess acknowledged, vines already weaving through their hair. Being this close to her while worked up was driving them wild; they could feel a thrumming emanating from the Affini. Every time it pulsed through them, the heat built even higher, until it was dizzying. It wasn't long before they were struggling not to grind against the vines, their every thought filled with all the ways they'd explored their body. All the ways they could explore their body. Fantasies played across their mind; those vines slipping under their dress once again and not contenting themselves with a mere tease. A good squeeze from them and they could have that nice, tight feeling everywhere... 

 

Princess was panting with desire by the time they were lifted up and helped to their feet. "All done!" Miss Verdun beamed as they tried to calm down. The vine assisting them pulled away a bit too soon, and they stumbled. It returned immediately, catching them, fuck it felt good when she touched them. "Oh dear. Are you feeling alright, Princess?"

 

They opened their mouth and tried to explain the weakness in their knees. "Hahhh... Hahhh..." was all they managed. 

 

Miss Verdun's laugh sounded more divine than usual. "I see! Well, no worries cutie, you can take care of that shortly." She punctuated the statement by scratching their head, causing them to moan and arch their back into it. Why couldn't she take care of it for them again? She was so much better at this than they could ever be. "I suppose you do need some help though." Oh thank the stars! 

 

Princess was picked up, and could no longer help themselves. They pressed needily against the vines carrying them, grinding against them before they held them in place. They whimpered, unable to satisfy themselves. This wasn't helpful at all! If only they were at least tighter, forcing that warm, safe feeling deep into their bones. 

 

They were set on the couch, and whimpered as the last vine pulled away. The bear was returned to their arms and they clutched it tightly, hoping to squeeze a bit of extra comfort out of it. "I know. Just stay here for a moment, and I'll go get your corrected contract. I'll be back in just a few minutes, okay?" 

 

Contract? Princess nodded thoughtlessly as the gears in their head tried to start up again. Maybe if they did whatever she wanted she'd touch them more. They were rewarded with another wonderous laugh, and a headpat that ended far too soon. 

 

The moment the Affini left the room was like opening a window on a cold day. Princess felt their thoughts slowly return as the heat began to bleed off- oh, oh fuck, had they really been grinding their dick into her vines? They really did need to masturbate, being this pent up was driving them crazy and making them act like a fool. Thank goodness that Miss Verdun at least had some sense and a clear head. 

 

Princess focused on their breathing, forcing some of the need out with every long exhale. In... Hold. Out... In... Hold. Out... In... Hold. Out... The stickiness slowing their thoughts faded, and the burning desire returned begrudgingly to a low simmer. Hopefully after jacking off they wouldn't be so worked up by the slightest tease that they ended up at her mercy. They felt a pleasant, melty feeling trickle down their spine and somehow knew Miss Verdun had returned. 

 

"Okay, I removed that passage, everything should be in order." Miss Verdun stepped into view, a clipboard in a vine. "Feel free to look over it." 

 

Princess took the clipboard, noting it had a pen as well as the paperwork. A quick scan through the document and they found it to be unaltered outside of the removal of the cuddling clause. "Looks good." They removed the pen and gave it a click as they flipped to the last page. There were two lines, one for them, and the other for Miss Verdun. They tried to ignore that they said 'Floret' and 'Owner' respectively as they signed 'Princess.'  

 

Perhaps we should come up with a last name?

 

It would help show that they were serious about the independent thing, but that was a future worry. Maybe they could come up with one after they took care of the more pressing matter. Princess offered the document back up to the Affini. 

 

Miss Verdun took it happily, adding her own name beneath it with a flourish. "There we are, all done!" She tucked the clipboard away. "You are now legally guaranteed that you will never have to wear a collar. How does it feel?"

 

The weight of the constant had already been lifted last night, but there was still a sense of relief. A feeling of permanency that wasn't present before. They would never be made to wear a collar again and there was nothing that would change that. Princess smiled. "Relieving. Thank you, this means more to us than you know." 

 

Miss Verdun returned their smile. "I am always happy to help you, Princess. Now, before I go, would you like to cuddle for a few minutes? I won't be back for some time, you know."

 

Princess fidgeted with the bear's paw. Despite themselves, they did want to be held again... "Nothing weird? No groping?" 

 

"Nothing weird." Miss Verdun held up her hand as though to swear. "Just a bit of relaxing, like yesterday after our talk." 

 

A few minutes is a bit vague, at least quantity it.

 

"F-five minutes." 

 

Vines gently lifted them up, a few already snaking through their hair. "Five minutes, then."

 

Princess melted into her in seconds, barely registering the fact they had no way of telling the passing of time as their eyes closed. They were safe and loved here. There was no danger, so what would it really matter if it was a bit longer? They felt themselves begin to doze off as vines worked their way up their dress, through their fingers, stroking their cheek. Miss Verdun was whispering something in Affini they couldn't quite make out and translate in their state. "... cute... perfect... how... independent?... foolish... dropping... minutes..."

 

What was she talking about? Princess decided it didn't really matter, as long as they got to enjoy this for a few moments more. They hummed with satisfaction as they continued to drift off, the words fading into indistinct murmurs. 

 

A scratch at the base of their skull snapped them back to reality, and they were unceremoniously set down. "That's five minutes, Princess." 

 

That was it?! No! They needed more! They heard a whine- was that their voice? They sounded so needy . 

 

Miss Verdun gave them a head pat they eagerly pressed into. "We can cuddle more after I get back, okay?"

 

"O-okay," they nodded, already looking forward to it. 

 

The Affini looked them over. "Are you certain you'll be fine on your own Princess? I won't think less of you if you aren't."

 

Princess nodded again. If they couldn't be in her vines, then some alone time was the next best thing. The need was already creeping back into their flesh. "W-we'll be fine." 

 

Miss Verdun didn't look so sure. "Just remember to eat lunch. and let me know if you need help with anything . You can even let Cordelia or Jess know."

 

"R-right." Did she really think they couldn't remember to eat one time? 

 

Miss Verdun sighed. "Alright. I'll be back not too long after lunch." She moved to the door and they followed after to see her off. The door opened and she paused. "Ah, one more thing." Vines wrapped around their right arm, and they let them pull it out. "You still need your class G." A needled vine traced a spiral inwards, before it sank in and delivered its payload. "Such a good girl~" she cooed as she released them, giving them another pet. Princess felt their brain short circuit, neurons misfiring left and right.

 

Miss Verdun crossed the threshold, the door closing behind her, and they were finally alone for the first time since they arrived. 

-_-_-_-

Camila forced herself forward. It would be fine it would be fine it would be fine . As painful as it was to leave Princess even somewhat alone, this was a necessary step for her. A taste of independence should help her realize it wasn't for her. Not that it made it any easier. They were already a floret in all but name, and a fairly needy one at that. The way she had melted into the comfort of her vines in moments- it was ridiculous that she still clung to her Terran ideals. She could hardly keep herself from grinding into her vines, how did she expect to be declared independent? 

 

It took all of Camila's strength to keep from running back and scooping her pet up. Giving her the affection she not just needed, but clearly desired. Princess would be ready soon. She just had to wait a few more days. Cordelia told her Daisy had asked Princess to go with her to the flower festival. That afternoon seemed like a perfect opportunity to finally break her, she would surely be ready then. If she did it before, Princess may not recover in time to attend. It would be a shame if she missed it, even if it happened every few months. Princess would even get to see the differences between herself and someone actually capable of being independent the day before. 

 

Ash's intentions were truthfully still a cause of concern for Camila. They said they just wanted to make sure Princess was no longer a threat- a concern that seemed laughable when applied to the girl who had struggled not to beg for Camila’s touch- but Princess was responsible for their partner's death. That was something even an Affini might hold a grudge over. Camila would be right there, of course, but it still unnerved her. 

 

There were three more days until the festival, just three more days until she could finally claim Princess. In the meantime, Camila had a core sample to give, and a rendezvous with Viola to make.