Chapter 2. The Early Dragon catches a Doctor. A Hot sun rises over the desert oasis of Thieves den. Cortex was slumbering in the bed he was given the other day, with the sun peeping through open windows and starting leaking light over the shadows of the room. Doctor Cortex steered in his slumber as the light peeked into the room shining over furniture, glazing over the bed onto the face of the doctor, who steered from being too bright on his face he turned over away, sleeping peacefully till A knocking came from the door of his room. Cortex turns over again grumbling, shifting the pillow to push it over his ears " Hmmm ..NGin! go away!! let me sleep!" There was a Moment of silence before knocking came again louder. As Cortex grumbles he became aware of the noise as it persisted in awakening him, he glanced eye open to push himself up from the bed onto his elbows. He was startled a little looking around the room in a panic, it was not his bedroom back home at his lair.. but then remembered the day before what happened all came back to him. He let out a sigh "oh yes.. we're still here" still far far away from home in the this place called the 'Thieves den' The knocking grew rapid. Cortex started scooting out from his bed, drowsy he came walking over to the door "Hold your horse's I'm coming! .. brr what time is it??". Cortex came and opened the door a few inches to peek out, he saw no one there till looking down to the small blue thief standing there looking back at him from under a hood, little startling seeing the creature there. The Small Blue thief now having the guests attention gave a nod " Her mistress wishes for you to join her for Breakfast at Low sun of 7 half hour... please!.". Cortex stared at the little creature wondering for a moment what he said till clicked in his head of what it Meant " you mean 7:30? ". "Yes" the little thief answered back quickly, the blue thief pipes up " do you acquire me to guide you to her majesty's chambers? ". "No no, i remembered the way" he put his hand up to jest for the creature not to wait. Scratchy voice of that thing irritated him this early in the morning. Cortex closed the door on creature for his privacy, rolling his eyes he turns back he headed to his private bathroom first to do his business first, flush the toilet and return to his bed to find his lab coat to get dressed...only it wasn't there and in its place was a cream silk coat / trousers with his Gloves, Belt and Boots all cleaned up. "Are you Serious!? " He looked over the bed and tried to find his lab coat but it was gone and just this set of clean clothes.. how did this get here.. did someone come into his room while he slept and leave this?. The doctor pouted but he picked up the satin coat giving it a look over, red trimming floral pattern with embroidered N on for him... guess this was made for him. He decide put them on, ounce all fitted on in place he went over look in mirror fix himself up, noted this didn't look half bad on him, he straighten out his hair he could and licked his finger wipe across his eyebrows fix any crooked hairs.. nodded of approval he had groomed himself to his liking he proceeded to the door, breakfast about now sounded very good.. he hadn't eaten that much since arriving here. *** Cortex had made his way to the front entrance of Her Majesty's quarters, there were two thief guards at their posts on each side doorway and a small blue thief that had awoken him this morning was waiting there for him. "Ah you arrive!, how promptly of you Doctor Cortex" the blue thief spoke in its shrill voice. Cortex winced hearing the voice of the creature again, creepy lil things he thought. "This way please" blue thief took to escort the human into the royal quarters. Cortex strode through the royal quarters taking quick glances into some open rooms, he could see lot more rooms down here...lounging room he was in yesterday, Large inclining room look like a Library and shut off door likely bedroom and another door closed opposite side... till he came to open entrance lead to private garden landing where dining table was set up. "Here we are and please Doctor... don't disturbed the chimera... her mistress is not here right now keep it calm." blue thief present led out outside, giving him a warning before turning and dashing off high speed before the doctor could say something, what was that about a.. chimera?. Cortex took a moment to straighten his outfit; he then walked outside onto the landing to the dining table. The table sat up for breakfast with white dining cloth, plates & cutlery, no one around him stood there little confused looking at the scenery before him we strode around the table out into the sunlight patio. The royal garden now he could see in daylight was small marbled with an edge line of floral plants, a large section of a natural stone pond to the side with Lily pads and bridge connected two sides.. very quaint, the doctor didn't think much of deco gardens but seemed like a quiet nice area. Cortex raised eyebrows and noticed a slumbering beast by the pond sunbathing... is that the chimera?. The large beast looks like a Large cat with snake hood and alligator tail.. most peculiar?.. kind of reminded him of Dingodile in his early hybrid stages experimenting till got him to an anthropomorphic stage. Cortex stepped back towards the dining table.. best leave the creature alone, fascinating as it was but not having his ray gun on him he didn't feel the courage to examine the creature too closely. "Good morning Doctor Cortex!..." came feminine voice behind him back at the entrance just walked from. Cortex turned, catching his attention. Steph had come from her own room, standing at the doorway, looking over at the doctor in his new outfit "Ah don't you look handsome Doc! I'm so glad it fits you.. had it made sure it was something similar to your lab coat". She strode out onto the patio to join him at the table. Cortex noted the compliment to his looks, of course he was handsome he thought to himself. He notice the Dragoness not in same outfit today, in short black playsuit and gold chain belt hold her waist in, certainly left doctor mind to his imaginations see full body form and not dress hid everything yesterday, his eyes did trace certainly more flesh revealed this outfit today, catching hints of blue lining underbelly of this female dragon... his eyes did linger little to long on chest area before averting his sight back to table. Cortex spoke holding in his flushed manner again " I would prefer to keep my lab coat". The Dragoness stepped into the light and stretched her arms up into the air in a moment before relaxing "I do apologize doctor cortex, but your uniform looked trashed upon arrival so took initiative to get them cleaned.. promptly be returned to you later. but please do keep wearing the clothes given to you, these clothes help deal with heat here". Cortex gave an annoyed sigh but nodded even though he preferred to keep his lab gear. "I hope you join me for breakfast today so we get things started early.. then i can let you have an evening to yourself to relax... please sit" she came to sit one side the table as well Dr. Cortex did on the other side. The two sat there quiet till, Cortex looked around a little awkwardly waiting for dishes to arrive, Cortex spoke up " um.. not to be rude but will breakfast be served soon?" he started to tap his finger on the table impatiently. Steph gleamed a smirk hoping he would say something "Of course" she lifted a hand up and clicked her clawed fingers. As she clicked her finger, trays appeared in front of them on the table like magic, adorning eggs, sausages, toast and roasted tomatoes and tea set all there to the ready. Cortex was left surprised but happy to have food, he forgot about magic things about her, even clicking her finger food appeared at her whim.. wondering what else she could do. Steph just wanted to try to impress him first thing in the morning with her trick, trick was actually breakfast all made & ready set on the table already but just invisible with an illusion spell to keep them hidden till he came. "I hope you like a good traditional breakfast... i wasn't sure of your preferences on dining" she commented, she twirled one of her fingers to make the teapot start to float and poured into the teacups before it landed back on the table. Cortex was staring at the breakfast he took up his cutlery to start dining, oh boy did it look good.. budgeting back on earth, the shared kitchen used in the lair was lacking sufficient food supply on being broken half the time... so usually toast and tea, he was going to enjoy breakfast. Cortex started to cut into sausages but halted wondering what kind of meat was he eating?, he looked up from under a bushy eyebrow to ask "um.. no offense but what is the meat source?" Steph was already into her tea. She looked back at him sipping, letting her cup down on the table to answer "hmm the meat?" Cortex continued "The meat for breakfast.. I'm not familiar to native wildlife of Dragon realms" questioning if not something he regret eating. Steph "oh that!...hmm Razorback pork sausages and Swamp Chicken Eggs, they're perfectly edible & all native to BeastMakers Land that next to our PeaceKeeper Desert, they look after their beasts in a farming way... I assume you have pigs and chickens on earth?". Cortex relaxed hearing that, he went back, cut the sausage up into bite size pieces and started eating, bit gamey but was mouth watering good... had been long awhile since he ate a good meal. The doctor continues to eat his meal with hungry glee. Steph just shrugs, guessing it was fine. She started to dine on her own meal, taking a piece of egg on toast when her large ears perked up hearing a strange grinding noise before she could bite into her meal. She followed the noise to the source ...was Doctor Cortex making that noise as he chewed his breakfast, there was a grinding & click as he ate.. she winced when he took another chomp. She try ignore that sound to dine on her breakfast, eating her egg toast just enjoy the time of peaceful breakfast, Was rather nice to dine with someone this early in the morning & not alone.. even company had questionable chewing habits, she let out a chuckle amused knowing even little weird detail on this human. The two dined & ate their fill, As Cortex was sitting there with a happy smile, his stomach full taking his tea after his breakfast to help digest it all... hmm good old fashion Robust Assam black tea to start the day, he favored black tea. Steph took a sip last bit of her tea placing it back on the table, she sees how the doctor fare on his meal.. the plate was clean of food. She smiles glad the doctor ate well.. his skinny frame was a bit worried how often he ate. "breakfast was to your satisfaction Doctor?" she asked. "exceptionally" he comments with a happy aura about him. "Good then we can best discuss on matters what we need from each other in our deal, get a draft of our needs, wants and i can create a proper contract papers, so please explain what you need doctor" she crosses her leg over leans back her chair to listen to him. Cortex straightened himself up in his seat, it was down to business now to bargain with this Dragoness "First for starters i need a supply of power crystals, i assume power crystals exist here cause you did mention them yesterday". Cortex Bold Arrogance led the charge in his mind to ask up what he wanted "So.. I request at least 6 for what I First need, A portion that you can provide as a loan.. possibly some that treasure, the business i do has added up over years of debt and supplies are slim back home... Gold is profitable on earth so I can get an exchange rate to help suffice on first i need". Steph actually nodded, she agreed to this part the terms "Yes first steps most ask is always money and power." Steph tapped her lip thinking " i can provide 2 for you but power crystals are still rare to get and need power that archway first so get home doctor, gold is near useless here other then use for decoration, treasure.. Some places use it in their technology but it is collected mostly for the platinum. gems are a much better exchange as we use this as our currency... so have make do what we give" She sighs "i suppose 20 kilograms of gold help first part" Cortex nearly had stopped breathing, he let out breath winded, his eyes bulging from his skull.. that much gold.. would be worth in millions in the right place to get it exchange money value, he could hear jackpots in his head going off. Steph nearly jumped out her chair seeing the doctor suddenly hunch over across from the other side of the table like he just had a heart attack.. guess gold more valuable on earth then she expected. Dr cortex took a moment to composure himself he leaned back up... time to ask his Bold request & the question he also had on his mind he wanted to ask... " I also... like to acquire your own personal assistance as a sorceress, i need a magic expert on my team to be over on earth with me." Steph had gone to pick her teacup up but dropped it with a 'clank' of porcelain when he spoke of what he requested from her. She was not expecting him to ask her for her own personal help here.. He had Balls! What he was asking way too much "I'm sorry.. you.. asking me!.. to join you on a team, Doctor!.. I know I said a partnership but I am assuming for investment help... not my actual 'in person' in this partnership". She wondered what he was gaining at this.. she had her life here and did not expect to travel all the way to another world. She leans in towards the doctor over the table "i don't do battling of hero's or minions work if you asking me that... i kindly refuse" Dr Cortex gritted his teeth, he brought a hand to his chin rubbing it while thinking how to convince her "Then what about your spells or enchantment whatever you do.. I'm sure their field will help with enchanting my minions in their pursuit of my goal, don't need battle of course.. just use your magic as a booster on my team hmm?" She felt rather insulted at that.. enchanting his minions?.. This human had no idea what he was talking about. "Doctor, you're asking far beyond what I persevered with this deal. I don't wish to move from my home, but yes I'm curious about your world but it can be only a temporary situation, I have... important duties here." her mind worried about something else. Guess Cortex Would have laid his gentleman on charm again to be convincing and use his wits. " My lady... i don't wish for you stay forever, temporary accommodations is acceptable, i just ask for advisory to the magical phenomenon's i experience on daily level of my everyday home on the wumpa islands.. course if your not interested, i guess i have acquire around for other help instead.. maybe Ripto be home to ask again to team up?." Steph can see what he was doing and was working.. ripto!! RIPTO!.. of all the gall to ask about a magic expert, she was far better Mage then that Dinosaur in Anyway. She let this human get under her scales, her left ear flicked from annoyance but her attitude calmed down she tapped her cheek... smirking at her own idea "Well doctor you do make a plea for help.. soo... interesting. but i suppose a 'temporary' assistance can be acquired from me" Doctor Cortex let a sneer smirk on his face hearing this, in his head a 'yes!! those bandicoots don't not know what will hit them' Steph spoke up again "but you are asking me to do a very personal task... such things need to be evaluated to pay the same price back Doctor.. I might need to ask the same from you". She wriggled her eyebrows while flirting at him..."A Very intimate favor: ask a sorceress for her assistance now? hmm.. was there more to what you intended from me Doctor Cortex?". She cocked a smile to him "I tend to ask back the same". Cortex noted what she said about 'intimate favor' " how.. intimate are we speaking here? "The doctor got a little heated up under his collar about her flirting. Steph pondered leaning back in her seat smirking.. thinking of the value of the exchange, what he needed to give in return, the universe demands compensation for everything taken & given. "Hmmm something you can only give, never taken nor by force.. have been given freely" she said her own riddle to baffle the doctor.. it will be fun to see if he can guess her riddle, just lil fun side to amuse her. Cortex just sitting stumped there wondering why sudden riddle.. was this a game she trying pull over him.. what need be given freely?, not taken by force?.. he did not have time for riddles let alone play silly games, it only make him grumble annoyance he just wanted straight answer. Steph just smirked back at him "you'll figure it out later... but I'll agree for now, but martial exchange is needed from you.. magical items or gems are great as a return for exchange of power crystals and gold." Cortex pondered what she said, figured out what would be given later this riddle.. What nonsense but He least got this sorceress to be on his team, so it was a win for him... tho exchange of items. Doctor Cortex leaned back scratching his beard.. hmm maybe relics could be collected.. Those island gems are pretty useless to him, maybe alright to exchange, volcano on skull island would have something of mineral deposits be collected by his minions. " i suppose can provide relics of power and gems, should be easy task to collect when home get my minions to scout for" Steph smiles glad he had something give back for the materials "Then it settled for now on most things..at the end of your stay here you can sign the papers, its expected to be sign in blood you know for safety" Cortex swallowed hard hearing the word blood, what reason sign in blood?.. Was this like selling his soul to her? tho nothing but nonsense a soul to him " in blood.. is that ethical to do?" She nodded to him leaning over the table, she perked her hands under her chin, pushed her chest out exposing a bit more cleavage neckline, she could see the doctor start to squirm in his seat he crossed a leg over taking notice. the Doctor fidgeted in his chair keep his gaze up to her eyes, but they did take a glance down to her exposed chest, swirling of emotion rose up his stomach, the feeling heat sliding down to his core, damn dragoness had to wear such open vestige of clothing around him to make him squirm.. she was doing this on purpose he knew it. "Blood is acquired, yes doctor.. magic contracts are always signed in it for safety, need blood of the host & customer to make a deal sealed in honor..like no harm comes to the host if customer decides to break their deal in a betrayal.. doesn't end well." she motions a finger out from under her chin making a slit to the throat gesture that last bit.. so he better not try planning that. Cortex nodded and understood it, he knew he had done some betrayal of his colleagues tho they did betray him first, be understood it best not plan anything with her. "Course you don't have to keep the deal.. no power crystals, no treasure.. no assistance get home and just be left to make your own way through a desert... don't sound nice now hmm, so yes doctor you need to sign make all your problems go away for now" she smiles at him. Cortex feels warmth in his stomach not from breakfast, but other feelings.. like anger and frustrations of another nature. He was in her hands; he could not back out from this unless like to get home to earth. Steph got up from her seat and walked around the table over to him. She leaned in on the table close to him, cortex leaned back far in his chair wondering what was she doing coming up so close to him. "Doctor Cortex, I'm a merciful type of gal.. i see people need help from all backgrounds & i will give what u need...you need to trust me on this deal if we are to be working together 'closely', i deserve the same respect like i have given to you and we get what we need in helping each other now." She placed her claw hand on the doctor's glove hand on the table. Cortex feeling warmth flush up over his face as she was acting towards him.. certainly making him uncomfortable but flattering emotions of this attention he was getting, that flutter from last night started up from his lower limb feeling her claw hand on his gloved hand. "madam i assure you …" before he could say more a claw finger landed on his lip/mustache to quiet him. She leans closer to him "I can make sure all your needs are taken care of so please doctor.. trust me and will be both be very happy from end of this deal" she said tone that was silky, she removed her finger from his lips leave the doctor in silence. Cortex sitting there, his face turning bright orange from all of this, all sounded like she was pursuing something promiscuous.. her promising caring words were triggering emotions he hadn't felt in awhile. Was very flattering but was this all a act from her or was her teasing & flirting were real... tho that side his brain for emotions not had such activity excitement in long long time.. so having hard time putting his thoughts together in his head...he could feel bit tightening from his silk pants as his other head start think on its own. Steph leans back, giving him her innocent smile now, though inside she was having fun testing how far the boundaries would go with the doctor... he hasn't shoo her away from the attempts so must be inflating that ego of the attention he's receiving. She tilts her head seeing the human seem to have brain dysfunction, maybe she pushed him too far " hmm if that all then you can go freely to R&R Evening.. so please doctor.. relax and enjoy your stay." " Thank you " cortex didn't hesitate to leave from his seat; he moved around the table to avoid her and proceeded to leave towards the entrance lead inside the hallway out of sight. She stood standing over the table, watching him go and pouted "Maybe that was too much for him to handle?" she snickers to herself but felt concerned she did go too far, warmth in her stomach rose up thinking how cute he looked turning orange there but maybe she should apologize to the doctor. She leaned over the table take her plate that still had a piece of sausage on, she walked across the garden to the pond where slumbering chimera beast was, she bent down to chimera she patted top of its head.. she very fond of her chimera familiar, he was a beautiful mix of alligator, cobra and lion. " lycia.. i got some pork sausage for ya" the chimera called lycia turned over like a big cat, stretched out and letting its gaping maw into a yawn with a chuff, he looked up with its frilled neck puffin up like a cobra.. he sniffed the sausage and took it in one biting down with one swallow.. Steph smiles at her familiar having his treat she patted her chimera again before standing up looking up at the balcony that was to the Doctors. She sighs "I should go up and tell him I am sorry for making him uncomfortable back there, maybe I should invite him to do some shopping this late evening?" she talked to her familiar chimera. Lyica the chimera gave a grumble as speaking back in response in their own beastly noises. Steph nodded understanding the chimera.. a familiar is not a pet but magical contract between beast and mage so they understood each other. "yeah i was being too prompt on those flirts too soon.. but i mean I'm bored!" Lycia gave noise like alligators grumble and chuff of a feline "hmmm...alright shouldn't use him like that, but maybe he does seem like it.. I kinda like how ballsy he is, asking for my own personal help.. kinda admire how forward he was. really like that gentleman manner he puts on" she smiled with blush on her cheeks... she averted her gaze down to lycia who was giving her a look of disapproval. Steph coughed and went to change the subject "yes i'll go check him.. you're in mood today to talk to" she commented at her chimera she started to walk back to entrance. The chimera rolled his head back and went back to lay in the sun. *** Cortex had hurriedly dashed back to his room, shutting the door in meanwhile. His heart beating fast from all the adrenaline pumping through him glad to settle that deal and get what he wanted... but this rush.. he wondered what came over him. Cortex walked over to his side room bathroom to wash his face and maybe a bit of cold water would do the trick to calm his erratic emotions.. so much mixed feelings there he would not admit to anything of the sort with that dragoness's flirting, scaring him and teasing him again. Thinking of her words 'i can make sure all your needs are taken care of so please doctor.. trust me and we will be both be very happy from end of this deal' Cortex stood over the sink breathing in & out slowly to calm his mind, turning on tap to bring some cool water onto his face with his gloved hand. Conflicting emotions about this deal but he got what he wanted and that was all he needed...nothing else... Was she just toying with him.. did she mean those words but more than they seem.. well the doctor can play that game too, worm his way maybe get more. He smirked thinking he did get a good reaction from her when he played the gentleman part. Cortex looked up grabbing a towel he wiped his face clean dry, His ego went back up thinking it. They only met within 24 hrs...He got what he wanted.. his mind thinking of power crystals he going get his hands on, treasure was very exciting process just think able have money again in his bank balance able afford all necessary things he wanted and a plus able get a powerful sorceress that's a Dragon work for him.. he feel himself giddy excited what luck he had turned around. His mind wondered about this sorceress's own intentions in this, he not dumb seeing she wanted something from this. Her presences was Both Frightening, Frustrating, Amusing and Arousing to him... it was feeling he hadn't felt since all way back a making his mutations on tawna to her 'respectful' body proportions to his perspective liking and presence being around N Tropy, he was handsome but smug bastard he had rival with a long time, specially nearly decade being stuck together... going through puberty again in the stone age around Dr. N tropy had gotten heated one point and led two in a moment of weakness of a night together... but that was all past endeavors and we just hated each other now. he thought it would be a nice change to have a female in the team, he was open to other species being contracted in his team .. It was the whole reason his army were anthropomorphic animals, other species being better than humans on any day. Yes a feminine touch in a team makes things much better, give Nina someone she speaks with, have a female with a warm presence around... I mean she didn't annoy him like most have in his lifetime and enjoyed conversing with her.. it helped she was a pretty creature to look at.. there were the first instant attractions, she was adorable with that smile to and curve down figure line. He was Living breathing Man after all and he did find these to release dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin create attraction to attractive attributes to his scientific mind... but one problem that lead to these thoughts. Cortex taking a heavy Sigh, he peaked down to see the lining of his pants waist seeing the he was 'Pitching a Tent' from his Crotch, guess not only thing then his ego went up too. He let out from under his breath a "crap" .. he needed to relax and get his head straight from this conundrum he put himself into now... all he needed was an unwanted erection but glad to be not noticed by her as he left breakfast. 'Knock!' 'knock!' 'knock!' Noise of Soft Knock came from his chamber door in the moment of his problem...feminine voice spoke up from the other side " Doctor are you in.. may i speak to you?" Cortex whispers words under his breath "why me" again now becoming a worry. All the worse timing for this to happen: get a visit, he panics a little striding back and forth in his small bathroom, he just has to hide behind the door to speak? He quickly walked over to his door and opened slowly with a few inches so just his head was shown to say "You wanted to speak to me?" He came up close to the door to make sure the rest of him was hidden. Steph she looked at him why he was not opening the door wider.. guess maybe she caught him Undressing and best not to pry. "I wanted to apologize to you Doctor Cortex, that discussion at the end of breakfast if I pushed myself into my own personal bubble...If I made you uncomfortable.. my words meant to be sincere" Cortex was surprised she came up to his room to apologize for her teasing behavior he.. didn't expect to be respected like that "it's fine.. thank you, but i'm not bothered by it" trying make sure this was brief as possible he could make it. Steph tilted her head back and gave a worried look to the doctor "are you sure doctor?, you were looking very flustered back there.. " she started to feel bashful herself now her cheeks started to go pink, she didn't want to feel like she was annoying the doctor. Very noticeable color change on her white scales when she was blushing.. a smile curled at the corner of his lip unwillingly thinking it was cute, but this made his own situation worse thinking that he felt his 'problem' firming twitch against the door frame. " I assure you I'm fine". She persisted, not catching on he was trying to make it brief "I like to make up for my improper behavior earlier... I Would Like to take you out to see our markets in the bizarre.. You can pick rare items and might be able to find what you need for your plans, enchanted items.... even gifts or souvenirs to bring back?." she tried Enjoining him while she grew shy asking, her ears pressed to her head to give the doctor a genuine smile. Cortex's situation only got worse as the tent in his pants was flinching to his thoughts of her cute manner of begging to him.. Dominating his Ego was enjoying it. He nodded conceiving "yes yes sounds like a lovely activity to do.. umm.. I just wanted to rest for a while." he hurried this conversation. Steph bit her lip and nodded glad to hear it.. " You wont regret it, the Evening is a great time to go outside when it's cool in the marketplace." She smiles, able to have him agree and be nice have a shopping buddy too...she bowed her head she was ready to leave him to his lone time. " Please don't hesitate to ask for Any service when you need it, doc.." She turned to leave and started to walk away from his door with Happy Dragon wiggles, her tail flicking back and forth glad to patch up her mess even though she did worry a little too much. Cortex left there holding the door, he bit his lip and stared too long at her walking away wiggling her rear, his thoughts were too turned on now. He really needed to clear his mind and calm down. He closed the door hanging onto the doorknob for support.. things were standing in his silk pants & felt tighter now he covered his face and his hands from his own secret embarrassment. He walked back over to his bed sat down carefully loosen up buttons of his pants give him freedom from the tightness and just lay there thinking of equations and theoretical math in his head till he calm himself down, not time to get himself worked up, beside there was no lotion or anything help on side so this only option hold it off. He needs the morning to himself to calm down. *** Throughout most of the day, the doctor didn't leave his quarters, just relaxed on the bed avoiding his feelings and tension.. a large breakfast certainly kept his appetite down, he pacing around his room again. Cortex thinking his own ideas, maybe best start earning this dragoness trust, win them over and put in effort for his side schemes.. maybe convince use her magic to curse crash with bad luck.. turn into an ant where he could squash under his boot!, he chuckles to himself thinking of his revenge. Idea popped into his head.. A gift, yes that should work, everyone loves a gift, it is a good way to start to earn her trust. Going to a market schedule happens soon so he'll have a chance to. By a later time that evening the doctor was escorted from his chamber to a meeting spot just by the exit of the palace grounds where the Den Leader waited for him, dressed back in her blue hooded robe. Steph gave a nod at his presence he came and didn't back out from this, She brought along for the doctor a bag of gems worth at 100 to use as currency to buy things at the market. She led the way for him outside palace walls and into streets of surrounding towns.. bazaar markets not too far along the way she helped guide him through busy streets of merchant stalls, with all kinds of things being sold from strange animals, spices, sheets of fine fabrics and clothing.. so much to be found. Cortex eyes wandered around the shops they passed.. not much to his attention, but he was active to look for something that would please this sorceress, his manipulation strategy be tough one to pull... what does a sorceress like? The Doctor is not used to gift giving unless it was a bomb in a box for his enemy's ...maybe pick up something for his niece while here too. The doctor felt a tap on his shoulder and jumped .. he was so deep in his own thoughts he forgot he was in company. Steph had been over to a vendor buying a bag of snacks of 'chickpea pistachio biscuits' she presented the doctor the bag for him to try one. "Here doctor, try one of these.. they melt in your mouth" she smiles at him. " You're not allergic to nuts or anything I hope?" Cortex bit skeptical try something new but guess he shouldn't insult her wanting him try one, he took a biscuit " no i'm not.. just wumpa fruits from the islands" he pop the biscuit into his mouth and wipe away crumbs from his beard, biscuit broke apart like shortbread in his mouth, nutty sweet flavor. Tasty treat it was, not bad as he gave a nod and shrug. She perked up by trying the snacks, he never bothered leaving his room the whole day, not even eating anything. " everything ok.. you've been rather zoned out into your own world since walking, i was hoping we could chat more" gives the doctor concern look. Cortex gave a simple nod and it felt nice being checked on "yes yes i'm fine... thank you, just thinking of what i could use to bring back.. hmm maybe bring back something for nina" his gaze back to the stalls. Steph's ear flicked there and took in notice the female name she learned in curiosity: who was this 'Nina' "sorry to pry... but who is Nina?" Cortex looked up seeing sorceress curiosity looking intently at him, wondering if it was wise to let more knowledge out of his background but suppose if she was working with him and she met his niece on chances from time to time. "She's my daught...Eeerr...I mean niece!" he corrected himself there. "she is apple of my eye, it would be nice of a idea bring back for her a little something on this trip" " oh!.... So she's your niece? " she was relieved to hear from the doctor it was a family member and.. not a spouse.. she would hate herself to find out she was flirting with a married male.... again. She would have made better conversation and learned more of the doctor's background. "Well, does she have something in particular she likes doing? A hobby?" Cortex stood there scratching his chin "I guess.. gothic stuff?" He honestly really didn't know what a teenage girl like his niece Nina did, he hoped she was studying at Madam Amberly's evil academy. But maybe should get into some quality time again with his niece like they used to, he had let her paint his nails and teach him how to use makeup which was fun and useful to keep his villain appearance ...when he had the freedom when he was not plotting. Steph tilts her head thinking "hmm.. maybe something from in the Exotic Emporium stalls...yes!.. might find something there" she pats him on the shoulder pointing in the direction where to go. "follow me along doc" Cortex nodded and went along with the idea, he best start pulling the charm out while he can "sounds lovely of an idea, you're the expert here so i'll just follow my Lovely companion on the way" he pulled the best dashing smile he could. She looked at him, raising an eyebrow. He was pulling that gentleman's side out again "I know what you're doing doc.. this act don't fool me" she did like it really.. It feels nice to be treated as a lady. Cortex raised eyebrows and looked lil worry for a moment but kept façade of his smile on " I have no idea what you're talking about, I'm just treating my host with utmost respect like I should" cheeky smile on his face. she beamed gentle smile his way.. this human making her smile to often, maybe she have try get a 'real' smile out of him in few days, she giggles at his whimsy act "but i do like it, so keep it up with charming me Doc'' she leans over to him " You think got what it takes to allure me into this manipulation tactic... well its working but do step it up abit." she challenged him into his act for more, the attention from him was becoming addictive now. Cortex let down that cheeky smile and placed it with a sly one " oh so you do now hmm.. think i don't know what u been playing since with me yesterday...i see your game" not be outsmarted here. Steph stopped in her tracks and leaned in close to him "oh?" She said smiling under her hood, leaning in as she looked at him at his level " well if you know what i'm up to Doctor Cortex.. then you know all this flirting and teasing is for my own fun.. but been nice to banter with someone.. hmm.. you seem to just enjoy the attention as i notice doctor so lets play our game of banter, please do keep the gentleman side going.. i adore it, you make a girl like me feel 'special'" she gives him a wink from under her hood. Cortex feels his collar tighten with the heat underneath seem build up... she admits it to his own face there she was flirting with him. "How Forward of you" Steph leans back and looks at him she gives one of her happy dragon wiggles "Come on doc!.. were both adults, responsible and intelligent.. have fun with this just indulge me and yourself!, this might be our thing in our partnership.. we got to get along now and seem like a good start we able talk with ease to each other, honesty is best policy" Cortex's manner relaxed to this.. it was generally nice even though she seemed to be maybe too honest in her behavior ... but was fun. He placed his hands up to act if he was caught by the cops " alright you got me.. but i'm still going to try" if they are going be honest he gave back the devilish smirk of a mad doctor. "Fair enough doctor" she smiles, she was glad to be wearing her hoodie up that evil smirk of his gave her the chills... in a good way that made her fuzzy all over, she points the way they need to go to keep walking. They both walked a tad bit through the Market area till each section had stalls selling antiquities and gift items of variety. "Here we are!. Do try to bargain cheap as you can doc" she puts her hands together "so use that gentleman charm to weasel out something good in the markets " smirking making a jest at him. Steph let the doctor go off on himself to go explore the stalls while she walked away behind him to examine her own thing.. giving the doctor to his own thoughts. Cortex watched as she left him there to have a look around, he gave 'hm!' At her joke, using back on him, he spots a tent stall called 'moneybags emporium of fine goods'... supposed to be a good enough place to look. Cortex walked in over inside the tent to have a look around. A bear at the counter was counting the gems he had in a bag... noticing he had a customer, a gleeful expression appeared on his face and he came around the counter " Ah! a customer!.. I am Mr Moneybags What do you look for from my humble abode? ... all my wares here are fine and genuine of course all exchange for a small fee?" Cortex looked up and down at this bear.. they were wearing very fine tux suit & monocle, he reminded him of the monopoly man. "yes..i acquired something.. as a gift for a lady?" The doctor tried to be subtle on his question. Mr Moneybags chirped up thinking what of his wares he got. "Oh a romantic gift for a lady.. sir i have many fine items for you to pick to impress the Ladies" he place hand to his monocle and adjusted it giving his best customer smile. Cortex grit his teeth.." It's not meant to be.. romantic.. it was just.. hmm " he huffed he pinched his brow for a moment not wanting to argue on this just go with it " what do you have i can impress a sorceress?" Mr Moneybags smiled a greedy glee in his eyes " Well sir hmm, how much you have? " he pulled out from somewhere behind him his wealthy bag of gems with little shake as example his wealth. Famous last words Dr. Cortex heard before losing all the gems that were given to him. Back out in markets, Steph kept an eye on the doctor where he was till he walked over to a tent.. she had things she wanted to look for herself, she walked to a stall selling homemade children toys she picked up a sewn together aqua blue octopus plushie. She paid the stall seller for the toy she put it away in a deep pocket of her garb hood, she walked over to a shop that a Blue wizard was selling enchanted goods for other wizards to use.. she picked up a box with beard combs inside. Smiles at the idea of buying the Doctor a gift for him since he had particularly nice facial hair...she gave the gem amount to the blue wizard purchasing the box and placing the box in her pocket. She walked away from the stall, time checking what the Human Mad doctor back over at the tent where she last saw him walk in. There was a commotion when she came closer over to the tent, sign above reading 'moneybags emporium of fine goods'...she pressed her ears to her head " hmm moneybags of all places the doctor had to walk into.. he going loose all those gems i gave him" She Heads to the tent entrance to peek inside... she spotted the Doctor Cortex arguing back and forth with Mr moneybags... everyone knew moneybags would ask the highest price on goods when he was in the markets, shrewd old bear he was, so most marketers and customers avoided him. Tho look be quiet comedy scene Doctor Cortex gesturing to an item and trying bargain with the greedy bear... deciding if she should interfere or let this go on. Seems Dr Cortex looked to be getting redder in the face till he gave over most of the gem bag he had to the bear and exchanged taking items given to him, moneybags very happy getting what he wanted.. he opened the bag and started counting them. She backed away from the tent entrance, walked back over to another stall seeing the seething Mad Doctor come out with his bagged item.. she turned and pretended she did not notice him come over to her "Oh doctor!.. Did you have good findings in your shopping?" Cortex was seething from that bear.. he may not know prices on things but that bear was ludacris on prices of items.. he ended up getting something simpler then what he intended " yes i have. That bear took all i had" Steph spoke softly seeing the Doctor agitated, she try get him calm down " yeah wish i saw the tent name sooner before i walked away and warn you about Mr moneybags, he very shrewd on his deals, his greedier then a thief in the thieves den...but i guess I'm paying for moment, so don't need interact Mr Moneybags now you know him." Cortex started to tap his foot on the ground and folded his arms, like a pouting angry child till he calmed himself down before he said any colorful words calling that bear. Steph tried to hide the amused smile under her hood, the Little human temper flaring.. he was rather Cute when mad, He didn't let people walk over him his stature, liking the passion he showed. " Hmm i suppose you should head back for some Early dinner...you should be able to Dine Fine in a quiet place away from everyone to cool your temper down, always return to the market place when you feel so now i showed you around." Cortex pipes up hearing dinner.. he is getting Hangry & prefers to go back to the palace.. he is no longer in mood to do shopping. So Steph ended up cutting the trip short, the two walked around the market back towards the palace. *** As Evening turned to Night that came over the Den. Steph let the doctor be on his own time in the dining quarters after returning from shopping, let him have a private dinner and to cool off his temper. She walked down the hall, she was not overly hungry after eating her whole bag of biscuits way back and just felt tired she waved for the blue thief servant to come over. "What is your wish, oh mistress" the blue thief spoke up. "Please take my items of mine from shopping to my quarters please." she handed the servant her items she bought, the thief nodded as it dashed off down a corridor. "hmmm i could use a good bath right about now...just relax" she walked down to the bathing quarters she stretched her arms, it was a nice evening having her new companion on a shopping trip, even cut short from moneybags taking all docs gems. She wondered what he bought make him so flaring over mad with the bear, she walked along thinking how the human looked orange when angry and let out a giggle, flaring nostrils and him tapping his feet in the dirt angry was a site …someone of his stature being a nerdy type, he didn't let people pull one over him and glad see him hold up with the greedy bear, even at her when she spoke out of his act, yet he kept his façade going and witty charm on, she'll enjoy the banters with him in the future. Dr Cortex was becoming more and more she got to know him and enjoyed his company. she came up to entrance of bathing quarters and stepping to right side doors to female facilities, she slipped inside and started remove her outfit over her head and dump her clothes to side, and went step into the water of large pool, swimming out into deeper end and diving under, just letting her snout peek out the surface she let herself lay down in the warm waters relaxing. *** In the half-hour after Dr Cortex finished his dinner and made his way back to his room, he dumped his purchased goods on a small table. He stretched his back with his arm over his shoulders feeling tightness in his limbs. it's been a long day and rough, clicked in his head maybe good time try those bathing quarters... also since he bathed, he went to take a whiff under his arms and cringed how he smelled.. Yes, time to bathe. soo off he went where he was guided at the start of the first day where bathing rooms were. An open arch way door that indicated Way in with two signs on stone plaques, he couldn't tell what they meant with the two images, go left or right signs show two thieves in figures that looked the same to him... he shrugs and went right. Inside the bathing quarters were a set of stalls, tiled to roof and floor, towels folded on side bench and storage wicker boxes, guess this where doctor changed out his clothes, as so he did removing all and his undergarments he wore. He folded what he had into a wicker box and grabbed a towel wrap around his waist and walked into the bathing room. He walked into a large pool room, was exceptionally beautifully tiled with mosaics of images of constellations on the ceiling.. he felt like he was in a luxury hotel, he inspected looking around space and had it to himself. Letting his towel down and placing it on a ledge.. he noticed another towel there.. shrugs, maybe someone left it behind. He walked to the edge of the pool he walked in slowly making his way in, was a thermal pool Milky water with fine scents of vanilla oils in the water, guess bathing waters were already present to have bath oils in, water went up to his waist high he let himself dip in and sink himself down to let him lay back on the water, feeling warm water spread over him and let himself float..."hmm this feels nice." He swam himself deeper into the pool and as he stood up he started to groom and clean himself rubbing his hand over his body and feeling grime removed off him, running his fingers through his beard to clean and remove bits of sand tangled into it. There was movement in the water behind him.. he could hear bubbles coming underneath the water surface, he turned around to look where he heard it " is.. is somebody there???" he shied down into water hoping there wasn't anyone else in the pool. Silence for a moment water surface till more bubbles bubbled up far side the deep end the pool as a form surfaced up with their back turned to him...a female form, female form was of the Dragoness!. Cortex slinked lower into the pool not sure what to do here but try back up slowly... what was she doing in here!...was he in the right bathroom... did those signs indicate male & female bathrooms!!!...oh he had to get out of here as quietly as he could.. ever feeling warmed up his cheeks he stared at her back watching sure she didn't turn around. Steph had been under the water surface holding her breath, she leaned over empty her ears of water "3 minutes.. not bad holding my breath hehe " she smiles, once cleaning her ears of water .. she heard water shift behind her as she started to turn around. That's when the poor doctor only thought one thing.. he took in a breath and ducked under the water. Steph turn around seeing no one there but feel water did shift, her ears shifted around to hear and she turned looking around " hellooo?.... " no else was meant to be in here then female royal guests.. there were none at the time and servants & staff use their own private facilities. She started to swim forward back towards the middle of the pool … something was odd here. Cortex held his hands over his mouth trying not to be found but he wasn't that good holding his breath starting to run out of air as steph swam over him passing him.. he started to go blue in the face. Steph swam to middle pool and stood up water down to her thighs, little agitated but calms down and turned around " i guess im hearing things" as she turned back go deeper side the pool side, Dr Cortex couldn't hold his breath any longer, he came emerging up from underneath startling her backwards. "WHAT THA!!" It took her a few moments from her jump scare to focus on a naked Dr Cortex but water only to above his waist. Cortex gasped deeply started coughing and splattering he couldn't hold himself under any longer.. he turned slowly with look of dread he looked up to see steph there....in all her Birthday Suit since water only came thigh high for her bigger form, his face turned beet red staring at her for way too long.. confirmed all his imaginations about her that for sure. The two in the Moment were in shocked silence till steph broke out screaming at the doctor and cortex started screaming, convoluted Cacophony of the two screaming at Each Other..."AAHHs!!" Steph stepped back and went and folded her arms over her bosoms, why was Dr cortex in here!.. in the pool.. with her!!. " WHAT THE HECK YOU DOING IN HERE!!! Cortex tries to explain himself. He tries to shift around her to get to the exit of the pool trying not to look and avert his gaze but the glimpses short moments make it worse for him " I was Trying have a bath!.. Why you doing in here!!" Steph Herself steps back into the water watching him try to leave " I'M BATHING!...WHY ARE U IN LADYS BATHROOMS!" Cortex was correct in what he thought of those strange signs images.. it was Men's and Women's bathing rooms signs " I DIDN'T KNOW THIS WAS WOMEN'S BATHING ROOM... IT WAS A MISTAKE!!" trying to claim his innocent mistake he made. Steph sits herself back into water.. she shouts back .." IT'S LEFT TO MEN'S AND RIGHT TO LADYS! OKKK!!!" her face turned red from a bit of an embarrassing fluster. "SORRY.. SORRY ..DIDN'T KNOW!.... I'M NOT A PERVERT!!" he hurriedly waddled to get out the pool, oh boy he was red from cheeks to ears.. he did see way too much then he thought and it was imprinted in his mind of her body... Way too much today he had to deal with. She Watch him struggle walk out pool, he trip along the way taking face dive into shallow end pool before able get out pool, questions answered from her early question what human looked without his clothes were answered there. Cortex scuttled out the pool, grabbing his towel making it dash out of there.. "Why me!!!" How was his luck this bad and Dumb at same time.. this was a very embarrassing moment. While Cortex made himself disappear out the pool room, Steph relaxed seeing him gone now.. her scales pink all over from this. She was at fault for not explaining the part bathing quarters had separate mens and lady's side baths, this certainly made an impression on both of them. She sat down in the lower herself far she could in the water where she could where she could make water reach her head she blew bubbles, cant believe that just happened. *** Cortex had slip back into his clothes fast as he could, making fasted dash back to his room and his hair still wet as he closed the door behind him... he was still orange over his face and removed his clothing ounce again leave him just in his undergarments.. that whole fiasco scene was like from a comedy movie.. Of course it would happen to him!. Cortex placed his hands to his wet hair giving them a yank in anger, frustration & annoyance of himself.. This Could blow up everything he started here, would she kick him out for this.. would she drop the deal!.. He could've slapped himself in the face for this...the images of her naked body now burned into his mind...worse.. she saw him all down to his birthday suit too. The cringe and embarrassment he felt, he should just avoid her for the rest of the time till ready to go home, hope this didn't blow the deal. Cortex went walked to his bathroom to dry his hair he could and went to bed... to much today had happen and top it off..that boner was back again with Vengeance, he brought pillow from behind his head placed it atop over his erection, he wasn't going able calm himself out this time just arithmetic equations, he would have to do the dirty...this was going be long night. Oh what interesting day for the dear poor Doctor.. Stay tune for chapter 3 Beauty is in the eye of the Dragon.