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Chapter 1: Captured
Chapter 2: Aria
Chapter 3: First Day of Training
Chapter 4: Aria's Punishment
Chapter 5: Aria's Harem Duty
Chapter 6: Take off
Chapter 7: Of Beads and Begging
Chapter 8: Field Trip
Chapter 9: Unwinding and Prep
Chapter 10: Hooked
Chapter 11: Aurora's Present, and Aria's Past
Chapter 12: Pushing Boundaries
Chapter 13: Games
Chapter 14: Amber's Harem Night
Chapter 15: The Zenith Showcase (You Are Here)
If you read the story please take a moment to leave a comment below. It would mean the world to me as the writer.
**
The soft clinking sound of cutlery on plates mingled with quiet music in the ballroom. Guests enjoyed their dinner with light conversation. Some were paired up with random other guests at their tables, and some were in pre-set groups. The setting was comfortable and casual. There were tables on the sides that were more intimately set and lit, but most were casual groups. Hosts and Hostesses moved seamlessly between the layout of tables bringing food and drinks to the guests illuminated by the pale light shining down from the full moon into the room through the windowed opening in the ceiling.
The sounds and movement tapered off as the lights dimmed slightly suddenly. A spotlight lit up the stage area where a familiar male figure stepped out from behind the curtain. The captain wore his traditional white suit and hat. He flashed his fangs in a smile as he regarded the seated guests. “Ladies and gentlemen. Pardon me for interrupting your dinner. I am Captain Falar, and it is time for the show portion of the dinner show here in the Starry Heights Ballroom. It will be provided tonight by my own pet. You’ve likely seen her walking with me once or twice on deck during the trip, and it was her lovely voice that welcomed you all onboard over the PA when we took off. Allow me to introduce you to…Aria!” said the exusianox as he gestured behind himself while the sound of a bass guitar began to strum lightly in rhythm as pairs of drum beats echo around the darkened room.
A moment later a red furred foot stepped out from behind the curtain into the spotlight. With slow methodical movements to the rhythm of the guitar strums Aria revealed herself. She was wearing a shimmering black dress that sparkled in the light. The garment was slit up the side of her left leg to show off her curves. She stepped around her master sensually in full view of the crowd as he reached down and ran a hand over the side of her face and under her chin. “Never know how much I love you. Never know how much I care. When you put your arms around me, I get a fever that’s so hard to bear. You give me fever…” she began to sing as he handed the microphone to her. The red fox continued to move around her master as his hand traveled from her chin past her shiny silver collar and down her side following the curve of her ass before it left her body. The spotlight began to follow Aria as she stepped away from him now and faced the crowd to continue her song. The captain stepped back and behind the curtain no longer noticed by the guests.
**
Overlooking the ballroom and hidden behind one way glass was a room set aside for special guests. A large table decorated the room and had cozy seating for a small group. Aurora knelt on a pillow next to the chair at the head of the table. She wore blue silks that complimented her eyes, but could only be described as lingerie. Apparently this was what passed for fancy dining attire. While it left nothing to the imagination, her private parts were at least covered. She had watched Aria’s intro, and settled back into the position she’d been left in after she noted the exusianox captain slip away. She figured he’d be headed back here now.
**
“He’s inviting me to dinner?” asked the arctic vixen surprised earlier that evening.
“Yes. Master says that you’ve been pretty well behaved, and attentive in learning your lessons. So he thinks you deserve a real treat. You will be accompanying him to the Zenith Showcase tonight.” replied Aria simply; a sentence that led Aurora to tilt her head in confusion.
“Ooh I am so happy for you Aurora! The Zenith Showcase is so pretty!” replied Amber excitedly when she heard this.
“A real treat? He goes to the dinner show every night doesn’t he?” asked Aurora.
“He does, but this isn’t like the normal shows. It has a name for a reason. You’ll see. Now come. We need to get you cleaned up and prepared.” replied the red vixen with a smile as she and Amber pulled the arctic vixen toward the bathroom.
**
“I’ll admit. This is fancier than I was expecting.” Aurora thought to herself before a loud click echoed through the room as the door was unlocked. The white vixen turned at the sound, and moved into the bowed position she had been taught. Kneeling with her front bent low; her hands were on the floor before her bowed head. “Welcome back Master.” she said as politely as he’d expected her to as the door opened, and his loud footsteps entered the room with her.
He stepped through the room until he was in front of her. Her tail twitched with uncertainty as she fought with herself not to look up at him until he addressed her. “Thank you Aurora. You look beautiful tonight.” he said simply. The compliment made her heart beat a bit faster as she looked up at him to see him offering a hand down for her.
“Th-Thank you Master.” she replied as she took his hand and was surprised when he pulled her to her feet and turned her toward the large table in the room. He took a seat at the head, and motioned for her to take a seat next to him. This notion confused her. Up until now he’d made it clear that she was expected to kneel next to him and eat from a bowl on the floor if given food. “Um…Master?” she asked as she hesitantly took the seat he offered.
“Yes Aurora?” he asked with a smile at her confused look.
“Why…Why am I being allowed at the table? Even when we’re alone you’ve always made me kneel next to you.” she asked. She knew she shouldn’t ask questions she might not like the answers to, but she needed to know.
“Yes. That hasn’t changed. But I’m sure Aria told you that this is a special event. When I invite my pets to the Zenith Showcase it is a reward; so there are special perks for the dinner you can enjoy besides the food and drink. One of which is being allowed to sit and eat at the table with me and any guests who pay to join us at the Captain’s Table. The exception to this rule is if there are exusians joining us. In that case you and their respective pets would be given trays and would still be expected to kneel next to the table.” he answered.
“I-I see.” she replied. While she was not surprised to hear the rule for when exusians were joining, she was still surprised at the overall answer.
"Tell me Aurora; what have you thought of your time on board so far?” he asked suddenly.
“Wh-What? I-I mean…I…It’s been…not as bad as I imagined it would be…” she admitted truthfully.
“But you’d still rather be in Bidel of course.” he finished for her. Sheepishly she nodded at that notion.
“Well we’ll have to work on that won’t we?” he asked with a smile that surprised her. She was afraid he’d be angry at her answer. “Are you enjoying the show so far?" asked Sly curiously. She squeaked softly as he cut off her thoughts for a moment.
"Y-Yes I am Master. Aria has a beautiful singing voice." she answered hesitantly. "Why do you call this a Z...Zeen..."
"Zenith Showcase." he finished for her. Clearly the arctic vixen hadn't heard the word before tonight. "I'm sure you noticed the big window in the ceiling." he started again. Aurora nodded to his inquiry. How could she not? Pale silvery light from the full moon was the main light source in the room below. "A zenith is the point when a celestial body like the Moon is directly overhead. This show begins with the window being uncovered and letting the light of the full moon in when it's almost at its zenith, and it provides the lighting for the acts in the showcase." he explained.
"It's beautiful." the white vixen replied.
“I got the idea from some of the structures in the Avian Consortium. The birds love their views of the sky, and the best thing to look at in the night sky is the moon.” he explained.
There was a knock on the door, just before it opened. A golden retriever female backed in pulling a small cart. She turned a polite smile to the two seated at the table before she pushed the cart over. On top of it lay two covered plates. She quickly placed a plate before both Sly, and Aurora and bowed respectfully. "Enjoy your appetizer. The main course will be served shortly." she recited before she turned to leave again with the cart.
Aurora lifted the metal cover and tilted her head at the contents of the bowl below. It seemed to have the look and consistency of tomato soup, but it was pinker, and had stuff in it that obviously wasn’t tomato. Her ear twitched at the light clink of silverware touching ceramic and looked to see her master already dipping his spoon into his own bowl.
"Is there a problem Aurora?" he asked and turned an eye to her suddenly.
"No um...No Master, but...what is this?" she asked curiously.
"This is the appetizer for the seafood course; lobster bisque." he answered simply as he took a spoonful into his mouth.
"Lobster bisque? I've never heard of that before. I mean I've heard of lobster before..." started the arctic vixen in thought as she regarded the bowl before her. "Maybe it's just soup? Lobster soup? I wonder how that would taste." she thought as she slowly picked up the spoon next to the bowl.
A squeak of delight escaped Aurora before she could stop it as the first spoonful hit her tastebuds. A light blush heated her cheeks at that realization as she looked up at the smirk he was directing at her having heard it.
"Like it?" he asked rhetorically with an amused tone. Aurora just nodded her head and tried to look elsewhere before she gasped at the feeling of his fingers gripping her bottom jaw lightly and turning her to look at him again. "Nodding is not an answer." he said simply while staring down at her. His yellow eyes locked with her ice blue orbs.
The brunette vixen swallowed the liquid in her mouth hard at the look in his eyes. "Y-Yes Master. I like it. It's good." she replied sheepishly.
"Good. I'm glad to hear that. The food served during the Zenith Showcase is the best served on board. Wouldn't do for it to get a poor review." he said as he released her jaw and resumed eating.
A moment passed with only the clinking of spoons and Aria's singing breaking the silence. When they were half done the exusianox spoke again. "While we eat; why don't you tell me a bit about yourself?" he asked.
"Wh-What? You want to know about me?" she asked confused.
"Yes. I know about Aria's, and Amber's pasts. Of course I'd like to know yours as well. This is a good opportunity." he explained.
“Uh…Well…I just…” the arctic vixen stammered while she fidgeted lightly in her seat. Why was he asking this? Was he trying to gain more leverage over her? Would he use this information against her? Would he punish her if she didn’t? Her mind raced a mile a minute as she thought about this situation.
The captain’s nose twitched at the slight scent coming from her. It was a scent he didn’t smell often, but had smelled it from her a few times. Fear. Was she scared of him simply asking questions of her? A sigh left his muzzle as he closed his eyes before he began to speak again. “I’ll tell you what. Don’t worry about titles for now. Since we’re alone here during the Zenith Showcase there’s no need to spoil the treat or the mood. If you tell me about yourself, I’ll do the same. I’ll answer any questions you may have about me as well. Sound fair?” he offered simply. The way he spoke was disarming; calming even, and was devoid of any air of superiority or danger. Was this how he normally spoke? It was very different from the cold indifference she was used to hearing from him. She’d had a feeling he was putting on an act for her training. Aurora’s breathing slowed slightly as she thought the offer over.
"I-I guess that's fair.” the vixen said a moment later. She took a deep breath to calm her nerves before she began. “My name is Arnarra Siora. I was born in Bidel. My family lives in the arctic district. My mother passed when I was still a kit. My father raised me along with my grandmother." she started.
"How did your mother pass?" he asked curiously while looking at her with a sympathetic eye.
"She joined the Bidel Army. Guess that's where I got the drive to fight myself. Unfortunately she never returned from battle and was pronounced killed in action. She joined to try to prove to the reds that arctics have something to offer too. But in the end she died, and we're still regarded as second class citizens in Bidel." explained the white furred vixen as she slowed her eating and stared into the bisque in the bowl before her.
"I'm sorry to hear that." replied Sly sincerely.
"It's okay. The loss hit my dad and grandma the hardest. I knew her for a few years, but was still very young. Since then my grandma started saying that it's foolish to chase the approval of others who refuse to give it. Guess that lesson didn't sink in as deeply as she hoped it had." continued Aurora somberly as she reached up to touch the leather collar around her neck softly.
"You're talking of your time in the Free Vixen Alliance." noted the exusianox next.
"Yes. I was looked down on a lot growing up. Picked on, and made light of just because I was born an arctic fox. It was like a stigma all throughout high school; even though I placed higher than others in my class. I was desperate to prove them wrong. To be seen as more than just the stereotype of an ignorant arctic. My dad and grandma didn't approve, but when I was approached by the FVA I jumped at the chance. I was a grown vixen and could make my own choices. My...own choices..." she continued then trailed off at her thoughts for a moment as her mind came to her present.
The distracting sound of a knock at the door tore the vixens gaze from her now empty bowl to the door as it opened to admit the golden retriever female from before with two new covered plates on her cart. She took the empty bowls and replaced them with the trays she'd brought before giving another polite bow. "Please enjoy your main course. Dessert will be served in a bit." she said as her lop ears flopped forward to match her long blonde hair with her motions.
"Thank you Heather." said Sly politely in return before he lifted the tray from his plate. Immediately a familiar smell hit Aurora's nose. It was one she hasn't smelled in a long time, and she didn't have to look to know that the main course was salmon. She quickly pulled the tray off her own plate and had to wipe a small line of drool from her bottom lip as her tail wagged hard in the air behind her.
The exusianox noted her eagerness with another smirk. "I take it the main course meets your approval." he said with amusement.
That light blush heated up the arctic vixens cheeks again before she cleared her throat. "I...Y-Yes Master. Salmon is my favorite. How did you know?" she asked.
"I didn't. But I know that fish is a staple of Bidel fox diets, and salmon isn't very easy to come by on the island. Figured you'd appreciate it." he answered.
Aurora stared at the big fillet on a bed of rice accompanied by a few asparagus stalks. A creamy mustard sauce was drizzled over it. She had only had salmon a few times in her life. Her family was too poor to afford it, and when they could it was small off season ones. The size of this fillet looked as if it was caught during the peak of its season. Her ears lay flat as she thought about the exusianox's words. He wasn't kidding when he said that this was a treat.
"Thank you...Master...for inviting me here tonight." she said sincerely.
"You're welcome Aurora. Continue to deserve it, and you can be again in the future." he regarded her with a pat on the head.
"The future. Right. This is my life now." she thought as she picked up the fork before her. This time she was ready to suppress the squeak of delight at the flavor dancing on her tongue when she took a bite.
“Now that I know a bit more about you. Do you have any questions for me? Who knows when will be the next time you’ll get to ask them?” asked the exusianox as he cut a bit of his own fillet with his fork.
“Why did you choose to leave Exusia? Wouldn’t you be happier living there?” she asked curiously. She didn’t really know what she wanted to ask him, but she shouldn’t waste it if he was giving her the chance to.
“Choose to leave? Oh that wasn’t a choice I would have been given.” he replied to the white vixen’s surprise. He noted the look of confusion on her face at that statement and smiled a little at her puzzled look. “In Exusia my blood would have set my fate. Sure; I’m half exusian, but I’m still half fox. While I would have been given a higher station than a full blooded fox; I would likely end up as some rich exusianess’ boy-toy. A trophy slave.” he clarified.
“Oh. I…I didn’t know.” replied Aurora surprised.
“To spare me that fate, and give me the freedom to make my own decisions and live my own life my father made the choice to smuggle me out of the country shortly after I was born and before the news of my existence could become public knowledge.” he continued.
“So the exusian’s need to enslave foxes extends to even those that share their blood then.” noted Aurora in thought as she took another bite of salmon.
“My father owns a farm in the south of exusia, though I was mostly raised by the family of a merchant friend of his; the Blacktalons.” said the captain before he took up his water glass for a drink.
“Blacktalon? I think I’ve heard that name before.” mused the smaller vixen aloud.
“You might have. The Blacktalons sell wares to multiple areas of the world including Bidel. Avians don’t care who their clients are as long as the money is good. Exusians, foxes, canines, felines, or even reptiles are all fair clients to them.” he explained.
“Are you still close with the Blacktalons?” asked Aurora curiously.
“Yes. In fact one of them is on board this zeppelin. Her name is Erica. She’s the daughter of the friend of my father. We grew up together. She’s my first mate now as well as the head engineer on board.” he answered simply.
A knock on the door caught both of their attentions suddenly. It was way too quick for Heather to be back with dessert. The raven who opened the door was a new face to Aurora. Her black feathers held a slight sheen to them in the light.
“Speak of the devil. Erica. We were just talking about you. Is everything alright?” said Sly jovially before his tone shifted to a work one.
“No wonder my ears were burning. Good things I hope. Everything is fine. I just came to let you know that we are on course and on time. We’ll be arriving in Freeport tomorrow morning on schedule.” she reported.
“Always good to hear. Thanks for the report.” he replied gratefully.
“I see your new pet finally got herself invited to the Zenith Showcase huh?” she asked as she looked at Aurora properly for the first time.
“Yes. Aurora’s been pretty diligent so far. I still have to coax her in certain things, and her training’s not yet complete, but I figured she’s done well enough to earn a nice treat.” said the exusianox truthfully.
“Is that so? Good for her. This is the first time I’ve seen her. She’s beautiful. I can see why you’ve spent so much time with her the past couple months.” the raven jabbed at him. Aurora’s cheeks heated with blush again at the black feathered female’s words as they spoke like she wasn’t sitting right there.
“Ha ha…” replied Sly dryly with a smirk at the jab.
“I’m just teasing you Sly. Anyway I just thought I’d let you know that while I knew where you would be. Who knows where you’ll go once you finish dinner. If I were a betting bird my guess would be the Aurora’s brig, but you never know.” she mused and stuck her tongue out as she turned to leave. “Have a good night Captain.”
“I dunno. I seem to recall you losing quite a few bets to me in the past.” he called after with an audible smirk. Aurora could swear she saw the raven’s tail feathers ruffle a little for just a second at that remark before she regained her stride. “Thank you Erica. Have a good night.” he called as she closed the door behind herself.
**
After the interruption the noises died down to the clinking of cutlery, and Aria’s singing as the pair enjoyed their salmon dinner. This continued for a short while until the relative quiet was interrupted by the sound of a ringing bell. Sly’s ears twitched at this and he quickly moved to finish his meal. Aurora tilted her head softly at the increase in his motions. “Sounds like Aria’s set will be wrapping up soon. I’ll be back shortly. I need to go see her off the stage.” he announced as he wiped his mouth and stood to leave. The white vixen watched him go. He must be going to do an appearance like he did with her intro. The door closed and once again she was alone in the room.
Soft piano music began as the next song played. Nothing fancy, just a light melody. After a couple seconds Aria’s voice joined in. “Listen as your day unfolds. Challenge what the future holds. Try and keep your head up to the sky…” Aurora stood and stepped up to the window that overlooked the ballroom floor. Aria was there on the stage. She looked beautiful in the moonlight. So comfortable doing the thing she loved. But it wasn’t the sight that Aurora was focused on. It was the lyrics. “You gotta be bad. You gotta be bold. You gotta be wiser. You gotta be hard. You gotta be tough. You gotta be stronger.” Aria sang the chorus of the song.
“Wait…” thought the arctic vixen as a realization hit her. She hadn’t heard the characteristic loud sound of the lock engaging when her master had left. “There’s no way.” she thought as she moved to the door quickly. She turned the knob, and sure enough, it was unlocked. Had he forgotten? He was in a hurry. And she knew where he was going.
“Time asks no questions it goes on without you! Leaving you behind if you can’t stand the pace. The world keeps on spinning. Can’t stop it if you try to. The best part is danger staring you in the face. Whoa. Remember listen as your day unfolds. Challenge what the future holds. Try and keep your head up to the sky…” continued Aria as the song cycled back to how it began.
“Challenge what the future holds…” noted Aurora of the lyrics. “Should I? His first mate DID say that we are due to arrive in Freeport in the morning.” Her mind raced a mile a minute as this choice was now presented to her. Could she? Should she? She only had a short time to decide.
**
If you read the story please take a moment to leave a comment below. It would mean the world to me as the writer.
Seems Aurora has gotten herself invited to a fancy event on board the Moonchaser. A quiet moment, and a chance to get a bit more understanding of who each other is. But now a choice has been presented, and the question is, will she take it? What do you think? Would she? SHOULD she?
As always thanks to evilymasterful for allowing me to dabble in their setting.
Artwork featured belongs to shana
Exusians, Exsuianoxes, and the setting belongs to evilymasterful
Captain Slyrrinmar Falar, Aurora, and Aria belong to me and were allowed to be placed in the setting.
Chapter 2: Aria
Chapter 3: First Day of Training
Chapter 4: Aria's Punishment
Chapter 5: Aria's Harem Duty
Chapter 6: Take off
Chapter 7: Of Beads and Begging
Chapter 8: Field Trip
Chapter 9: Unwinding and Prep
Chapter 10: Hooked
Chapter 11: Aurora's Present, and Aria's Past
Chapter 12: Pushing Boundaries
Chapter 13: Games
Chapter 14: Amber's Harem Night
Chapter 15: The Zenith Showcase (You Are Here)
If you read the story please take a moment to leave a comment below. It would mean the world to me as the writer.
**
The soft clinking sound of cutlery on plates mingled with quiet music in the ballroom. Guests enjoyed their dinner with light conversation. Some were paired up with random other guests at their tables, and some were in pre-set groups. The setting was comfortable and casual. There were tables on the sides that were more intimately set and lit, but most were casual groups. Hosts and Hostesses moved seamlessly between the layout of tables bringing food and drinks to the guests illuminated by the pale light shining down from the full moon into the room through the windowed opening in the ceiling.
The sounds and movement tapered off as the lights dimmed slightly suddenly. A spotlight lit up the stage area where a familiar male figure stepped out from behind the curtain. The captain wore his traditional white suit and hat. He flashed his fangs in a smile as he regarded the seated guests. “Ladies and gentlemen. Pardon me for interrupting your dinner. I am Captain Falar, and it is time for the show portion of the dinner show here in the Starry Heights Ballroom. It will be provided tonight by my own pet. You’ve likely seen her walking with me once or twice on deck during the trip, and it was her lovely voice that welcomed you all onboard over the PA when we took off. Allow me to introduce you to…Aria!” said the exusianox as he gestured behind himself while the sound of a bass guitar began to strum lightly in rhythm as pairs of drum beats echo around the darkened room.
A moment later a red furred foot stepped out from behind the curtain into the spotlight. With slow methodical movements to the rhythm of the guitar strums Aria revealed herself. She was wearing a shimmering black dress that sparkled in the light. The garment was slit up the side of her left leg to show off her curves. She stepped around her master sensually in full view of the crowd as he reached down and ran a hand over the side of her face and under her chin. “Never know how much I love you. Never know how much I care. When you put your arms around me, I get a fever that’s so hard to bear. You give me fever…” she began to sing as he handed the microphone to her. The red fox continued to move around her master as his hand traveled from her chin past her shiny silver collar and down her side following the curve of her ass before it left her body. The spotlight began to follow Aria as she stepped away from him now and faced the crowd to continue her song. The captain stepped back and behind the curtain no longer noticed by the guests.
**
Overlooking the ballroom and hidden behind one way glass was a room set aside for special guests. A large table decorated the room and had cozy seating for a small group. Aurora knelt on a pillow next to the chair at the head of the table. She wore blue silks that complimented her eyes, but could only be described as lingerie. Apparently this was what passed for fancy dining attire. While it left nothing to the imagination, her private parts were at least covered. She had watched Aria’s intro, and settled back into the position she’d been left in after she noted the exusianox captain slip away. She figured he’d be headed back here now.
**
“He’s inviting me to dinner?” asked the arctic vixen surprised earlier that evening.
“Yes. Master says that you’ve been pretty well behaved, and attentive in learning your lessons. So he thinks you deserve a real treat. You will be accompanying him to the Zenith Showcase tonight.” replied Aria simply; a sentence that led Aurora to tilt her head in confusion.
“Ooh I am so happy for you Aurora! The Zenith Showcase is so pretty!” replied Amber excitedly when she heard this.
“A real treat? He goes to the dinner show every night doesn’t he?” asked Aurora.
“He does, but this isn’t like the normal shows. It has a name for a reason. You’ll see. Now come. We need to get you cleaned up and prepared.” replied the red vixen with a smile as she and Amber pulled the arctic vixen toward the bathroom.
**
“I’ll admit. This is fancier than I was expecting.” Aurora thought to herself before a loud click echoed through the room as the door was unlocked. The white vixen turned at the sound, and moved into the bowed position she had been taught. Kneeling with her front bent low; her hands were on the floor before her bowed head. “Welcome back Master.” she said as politely as he’d expected her to as the door opened, and his loud footsteps entered the room with her.
He stepped through the room until he was in front of her. Her tail twitched with uncertainty as she fought with herself not to look up at him until he addressed her. “Thank you Aurora. You look beautiful tonight.” he said simply. The compliment made her heart beat a bit faster as she looked up at him to see him offering a hand down for her.
“Th-Thank you Master.” she replied as she took his hand and was surprised when he pulled her to her feet and turned her toward the large table in the room. He took a seat at the head, and motioned for her to take a seat next to him. This notion confused her. Up until now he’d made it clear that she was expected to kneel next to him and eat from a bowl on the floor if given food. “Um…Master?” she asked as she hesitantly took the seat he offered.
“Yes Aurora?” he asked with a smile at her confused look.
“Why…Why am I being allowed at the table? Even when we’re alone you’ve always made me kneel next to you.” she asked. She knew she shouldn’t ask questions she might not like the answers to, but she needed to know.
“Yes. That hasn’t changed. But I’m sure Aria told you that this is a special event. When I invite my pets to the Zenith Showcase it is a reward; so there are special perks for the dinner you can enjoy besides the food and drink. One of which is being allowed to sit and eat at the table with me and any guests who pay to join us at the Captain’s Table. The exception to this rule is if there are exusians joining us. In that case you and their respective pets would be given trays and would still be expected to kneel next to the table.” he answered.
“I-I see.” she replied. While she was not surprised to hear the rule for when exusians were joining, she was still surprised at the overall answer.
"Tell me Aurora; what have you thought of your time on board so far?” he asked suddenly.
“Wh-What? I-I mean…I…It’s been…not as bad as I imagined it would be…” she admitted truthfully.
“But you’d still rather be in Bidel of course.” he finished for her. Sheepishly she nodded at that notion.
“Well we’ll have to work on that won’t we?” he asked with a smile that surprised her. She was afraid he’d be angry at her answer. “Are you enjoying the show so far?" asked Sly curiously. She squeaked softly as he cut off her thoughts for a moment.
"Y-Yes I am Master. Aria has a beautiful singing voice." she answered hesitantly. "Why do you call this a Z...Zeen..."
"Zenith Showcase." he finished for her. Clearly the arctic vixen hadn't heard the word before tonight. "I'm sure you noticed the big window in the ceiling." he started again. Aurora nodded to his inquiry. How could she not? Pale silvery light from the full moon was the main light source in the room below. "A zenith is the point when a celestial body like the Moon is directly overhead. This show begins with the window being uncovered and letting the light of the full moon in when it's almost at its zenith, and it provides the lighting for the acts in the showcase." he explained.
"It's beautiful." the white vixen replied.
“I got the idea from some of the structures in the Avian Consortium. The birds love their views of the sky, and the best thing to look at in the night sky is the moon.” he explained.
There was a knock on the door, just before it opened. A golden retriever female backed in pulling a small cart. She turned a polite smile to the two seated at the table before she pushed the cart over. On top of it lay two covered plates. She quickly placed a plate before both Sly, and Aurora and bowed respectfully. "Enjoy your appetizer. The main course will be served shortly." she recited before she turned to leave again with the cart.
Aurora lifted the metal cover and tilted her head at the contents of the bowl below. It seemed to have the look and consistency of tomato soup, but it was pinker, and had stuff in it that obviously wasn’t tomato. Her ear twitched at the light clink of silverware touching ceramic and looked to see her master already dipping his spoon into his own bowl.
"Is there a problem Aurora?" he asked and turned an eye to her suddenly.
"No um...No Master, but...what is this?" she asked curiously.
"This is the appetizer for the seafood course; lobster bisque." he answered simply as he took a spoonful into his mouth.
"Lobster bisque? I've never heard of that before. I mean I've heard of lobster before..." started the arctic vixen in thought as she regarded the bowl before her. "Maybe it's just soup? Lobster soup? I wonder how that would taste." she thought as she slowly picked up the spoon next to the bowl.
A squeak of delight escaped Aurora before she could stop it as the first spoonful hit her tastebuds. A light blush heated her cheeks at that realization as she looked up at the smirk he was directing at her having heard it.
"Like it?" he asked rhetorically with an amused tone. Aurora just nodded her head and tried to look elsewhere before she gasped at the feeling of his fingers gripping her bottom jaw lightly and turning her to look at him again. "Nodding is not an answer." he said simply while staring down at her. His yellow eyes locked with her ice blue orbs.
The brunette vixen swallowed the liquid in her mouth hard at the look in his eyes. "Y-Yes Master. I like it. It's good." she replied sheepishly.
"Good. I'm glad to hear that. The food served during the Zenith Showcase is the best served on board. Wouldn't do for it to get a poor review." he said as he released her jaw and resumed eating.
A moment passed with only the clinking of spoons and Aria's singing breaking the silence. When they were half done the exusianox spoke again. "While we eat; why don't you tell me a bit about yourself?" he asked.
"Wh-What? You want to know about me?" she asked confused.
"Yes. I know about Aria's, and Amber's pasts. Of course I'd like to know yours as well. This is a good opportunity." he explained.
“Uh…Well…I just…” the arctic vixen stammered while she fidgeted lightly in her seat. Why was he asking this? Was he trying to gain more leverage over her? Would he use this information against her? Would he punish her if she didn’t? Her mind raced a mile a minute as she thought about this situation.
The captain’s nose twitched at the slight scent coming from her. It was a scent he didn’t smell often, but had smelled it from her a few times. Fear. Was she scared of him simply asking questions of her? A sigh left his muzzle as he closed his eyes before he began to speak again. “I’ll tell you what. Don’t worry about titles for now. Since we’re alone here during the Zenith Showcase there’s no need to spoil the treat or the mood. If you tell me about yourself, I’ll do the same. I’ll answer any questions you may have about me as well. Sound fair?” he offered simply. The way he spoke was disarming; calming even, and was devoid of any air of superiority or danger. Was this how he normally spoke? It was very different from the cold indifference she was used to hearing from him. She’d had a feeling he was putting on an act for her training. Aurora’s breathing slowed slightly as she thought the offer over.
"I-I guess that's fair.” the vixen said a moment later. She took a deep breath to calm her nerves before she began. “My name is Arnarra Siora. I was born in Bidel. My family lives in the arctic district. My mother passed when I was still a kit. My father raised me along with my grandmother." she started.
"How did your mother pass?" he asked curiously while looking at her with a sympathetic eye.
"She joined the Bidel Army. Guess that's where I got the drive to fight myself. Unfortunately she never returned from battle and was pronounced killed in action. She joined to try to prove to the reds that arctics have something to offer too. But in the end she died, and we're still regarded as second class citizens in Bidel." explained the white furred vixen as she slowed her eating and stared into the bisque in the bowl before her.
"I'm sorry to hear that." replied Sly sincerely.
"It's okay. The loss hit my dad and grandma the hardest. I knew her for a few years, but was still very young. Since then my grandma started saying that it's foolish to chase the approval of others who refuse to give it. Guess that lesson didn't sink in as deeply as she hoped it had." continued Aurora somberly as she reached up to touch the leather collar around her neck softly.
"You're talking of your time in the Free Vixen Alliance." noted the exusianox next.
"Yes. I was looked down on a lot growing up. Picked on, and made light of just because I was born an arctic fox. It was like a stigma all throughout high school; even though I placed higher than others in my class. I was desperate to prove them wrong. To be seen as more than just the stereotype of an ignorant arctic. My dad and grandma didn't approve, but when I was approached by the FVA I jumped at the chance. I was a grown vixen and could make my own choices. My...own choices..." she continued then trailed off at her thoughts for a moment as her mind came to her present.
The distracting sound of a knock at the door tore the vixens gaze from her now empty bowl to the door as it opened to admit the golden retriever female from before with two new covered plates on her cart. She took the empty bowls and replaced them with the trays she'd brought before giving another polite bow. "Please enjoy your main course. Dessert will be served in a bit." she said as her lop ears flopped forward to match her long blonde hair with her motions.
"Thank you Heather." said Sly politely in return before he lifted the tray from his plate. Immediately a familiar smell hit Aurora's nose. It was one she hasn't smelled in a long time, and she didn't have to look to know that the main course was salmon. She quickly pulled the tray off her own plate and had to wipe a small line of drool from her bottom lip as her tail wagged hard in the air behind her.
The exusianox noted her eagerness with another smirk. "I take it the main course meets your approval." he said with amusement.
That light blush heated up the arctic vixens cheeks again before she cleared her throat. "I...Y-Yes Master. Salmon is my favorite. How did you know?" she asked.
"I didn't. But I know that fish is a staple of Bidel fox diets, and salmon isn't very easy to come by on the island. Figured you'd appreciate it." he answered.
Aurora stared at the big fillet on a bed of rice accompanied by a few asparagus stalks. A creamy mustard sauce was drizzled over it. She had only had salmon a few times in her life. Her family was too poor to afford it, and when they could it was small off season ones. The size of this fillet looked as if it was caught during the peak of its season. Her ears lay flat as she thought about the exusianox's words. He wasn't kidding when he said that this was a treat.
"Thank you...Master...for inviting me here tonight." she said sincerely.
"You're welcome Aurora. Continue to deserve it, and you can be again in the future." he regarded her with a pat on the head.
"The future. Right. This is my life now." she thought as she picked up the fork before her. This time she was ready to suppress the squeak of delight at the flavor dancing on her tongue when she took a bite.
“Now that I know a bit more about you. Do you have any questions for me? Who knows when will be the next time you’ll get to ask them?” asked the exusianox as he cut a bit of his own fillet with his fork.
“Why did you choose to leave Exusia? Wouldn’t you be happier living there?” she asked curiously. She didn’t really know what she wanted to ask him, but she shouldn’t waste it if he was giving her the chance to.
“Choose to leave? Oh that wasn’t a choice I would have been given.” he replied to the white vixen’s surprise. He noted the look of confusion on her face at that statement and smiled a little at her puzzled look. “In Exusia my blood would have set my fate. Sure; I’m half exusian, but I’m still half fox. While I would have been given a higher station than a full blooded fox; I would likely end up as some rich exusianess’ boy-toy. A trophy slave.” he clarified.
“Oh. I…I didn’t know.” replied Aurora surprised.
“To spare me that fate, and give me the freedom to make my own decisions and live my own life my father made the choice to smuggle me out of the country shortly after I was born and before the news of my existence could become public knowledge.” he continued.
“So the exusian’s need to enslave foxes extends to even those that share their blood then.” noted Aurora in thought as she took another bite of salmon.
“My father owns a farm in the south of exusia, though I was mostly raised by the family of a merchant friend of his; the Blacktalons.” said the captain before he took up his water glass for a drink.
“Blacktalon? I think I’ve heard that name before.” mused the smaller vixen aloud.
“You might have. The Blacktalons sell wares to multiple areas of the world including Bidel. Avians don’t care who their clients are as long as the money is good. Exusians, foxes, canines, felines, or even reptiles are all fair clients to them.” he explained.
“Are you still close with the Blacktalons?” asked Aurora curiously.
“Yes. In fact one of them is on board this zeppelin. Her name is Erica. She’s the daughter of the friend of my father. We grew up together. She’s my first mate now as well as the head engineer on board.” he answered simply.
A knock on the door caught both of their attentions suddenly. It was way too quick for Heather to be back with dessert. The raven who opened the door was a new face to Aurora. Her black feathers held a slight sheen to them in the light.
“Speak of the devil. Erica. We were just talking about you. Is everything alright?” said Sly jovially before his tone shifted to a work one.
“No wonder my ears were burning. Good things I hope. Everything is fine. I just came to let you know that we are on course and on time. We’ll be arriving in Freeport tomorrow morning on schedule.” she reported.
“Always good to hear. Thanks for the report.” he replied gratefully.
“I see your new pet finally got herself invited to the Zenith Showcase huh?” she asked as she looked at Aurora properly for the first time.
“Yes. Aurora’s been pretty diligent so far. I still have to coax her in certain things, and her training’s not yet complete, but I figured she’s done well enough to earn a nice treat.” said the exusianox truthfully.
“Is that so? Good for her. This is the first time I’ve seen her. She’s beautiful. I can see why you’ve spent so much time with her the past couple months.” the raven jabbed at him. Aurora’s cheeks heated with blush again at the black feathered female’s words as they spoke like she wasn’t sitting right there.
“Ha ha…” replied Sly dryly with a smirk at the jab.
“I’m just teasing you Sly. Anyway I just thought I’d let you know that while I knew where you would be. Who knows where you’ll go once you finish dinner. If I were a betting bird my guess would be the Aurora’s brig, but you never know.” she mused and stuck her tongue out as she turned to leave. “Have a good night Captain.”
“I dunno. I seem to recall you losing quite a few bets to me in the past.” he called after with an audible smirk. Aurora could swear she saw the raven’s tail feathers ruffle a little for just a second at that remark before she regained her stride. “Thank you Erica. Have a good night.” he called as she closed the door behind herself.
**
After the interruption the noises died down to the clinking of cutlery, and Aria’s singing as the pair enjoyed their salmon dinner. This continued for a short while until the relative quiet was interrupted by the sound of a ringing bell. Sly’s ears twitched at this and he quickly moved to finish his meal. Aurora tilted her head softly at the increase in his motions. “Sounds like Aria’s set will be wrapping up soon. I’ll be back shortly. I need to go see her off the stage.” he announced as he wiped his mouth and stood to leave. The white vixen watched him go. He must be going to do an appearance like he did with her intro. The door closed and once again she was alone in the room.
Soft piano music began as the next song played. Nothing fancy, just a light melody. After a couple seconds Aria’s voice joined in. “Listen as your day unfolds. Challenge what the future holds. Try and keep your head up to the sky…” Aurora stood and stepped up to the window that overlooked the ballroom floor. Aria was there on the stage. She looked beautiful in the moonlight. So comfortable doing the thing she loved. But it wasn’t the sight that Aurora was focused on. It was the lyrics. “You gotta be bad. You gotta be bold. You gotta be wiser. You gotta be hard. You gotta be tough. You gotta be stronger.” Aria sang the chorus of the song.
“Wait…” thought the arctic vixen as a realization hit her. She hadn’t heard the characteristic loud sound of the lock engaging when her master had left. “There’s no way.” she thought as she moved to the door quickly. She turned the knob, and sure enough, it was unlocked. Had he forgotten? He was in a hurry. And she knew where he was going.
“Time asks no questions it goes on without you! Leaving you behind if you can’t stand the pace. The world keeps on spinning. Can’t stop it if you try to. The best part is danger staring you in the face. Whoa. Remember listen as your day unfolds. Challenge what the future holds. Try and keep your head up to the sky…” continued Aria as the song cycled back to how it began.
“Challenge what the future holds…” noted Aurora of the lyrics. “Should I? His first mate DID say that we are due to arrive in Freeport in the morning.” Her mind raced a mile a minute as this choice was now presented to her. Could she? Should she? She only had a short time to decide.
**
If you read the story please take a moment to leave a comment below. It would mean the world to me as the writer.
Seems Aurora has gotten herself invited to a fancy event on board the Moonchaser. A quiet moment, and a chance to get a bit more understanding of who each other is. But now a choice has been presented, and the question is, will she take it? What do you think? Would she? SHOULD she?
As always thanks to evilymasterful for allowing me to dabble in their setting.
Artwork featured belongs to shana
Exusians, Exsuianoxes, and the setting belongs to evilymasterful
Captain Slyrrinmar Falar, Aurora, and Aria belong to me and were allowed to be placed in the setting.
Category Story / All
Species Unspecified / Any
Gender Any
Size 59 x 120px
Another enjoyable read, with some interesting backstory for Sly. Would/does Sly consider Erica to be like a sister to him, I wonder?
Also, regarding the last part, I keep hearing Admiral Ackbar’s most famous line…
“It’s a trap!”
Also, regarding the last part, I keep hearing Admiral Ackbar’s most famous line…
“It’s a trap!”
Much obliged for the kind words. I'm glad to hear you're still enjoying it.
Erica is as close to Sly as a sister can be without being blood or species related.
Hmm...A trap huh? You may be right, but at the same time there may not be another chance like this. She has a very tough choice to make.
Erica is as close to Sly as a sister can be without being blood or species related.
Hmm...A trap huh? You may be right, but at the same time there may not be another chance like this. She has a very tough choice to make.
Kudos for another fine read.
It weird I heard “Fly Me to the Moon” while reading this?
It weird I heard “Fly Me to the Moon” while reading this?
Thanks for the kind words.
"Fly Me to the Moon" would definitely be another song in Aria's set.
"Fly Me to the Moon" would definitely be another song in Aria's set.
I like that an astronomical zenith plays a part in this social event aboard Sly's airship. It's a little detail that really helps sell the idea of airship travel.
Thank you. I'm glad you pointed that out. I've tried to keep things in theme as far as the airship is concerned. The ballroom is called the "Starry Height's Ballroom" as well.
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