Page 2 of Baby for the Serp General

NATALIA SAT IN NUMBsilence as the Mosaic Med Chief explained the genetic procedure she was about to undergo. Her mind rebelled at his clinical, dispassionate words.

“The process will rewrite your DNA just enough to make you compatible for breeding with General Zath. You will be able to safely carry Serpentine embryos to term and give birth. There should be no complications.”

Just the obliteration of my humanity, she thought bitterly. Altered on a genetic level to become this monster’s broodmare. She barely flinched as Quillen injected her with the modification serum. There was no escaping this violation of her body. She could only endure, hoarding her hatred, until the chance for vengeance presented itself.

The Mosiac studied his datascreen. “Excellent. The changes have begun. You’ll stay here under observation for about an hour.” His luminous golden eyes were sympathetic despite his clinical manner. “I know this is difficult but try to rest. The process can be taxing as your cells transform but is typically uncomplicated. My mate, Briana, handled it well, and I have never seen a serious reaction.”

“Among all the women you’ve tortured and forced into breeding slavery? That’s so reassuring.”

He frowned slightly. “We mean you no harm, Natalia. Your match wants a family, and the Faction risked everything to save Earth.”

“Certainly not from the kindness of your hearts.” Without looking at him, she laid back on the exam table, turning away her face in dismissal. She would find no comfort or pity from those who served the Faction.

With a soft sigh, Quillen departed. The only sound remaining in the room was the soft hum of equipment monitoring her vitals.

Alone again, she slowed her breathing as exhaustion weighed upon her. It was a struggle to keep her eyes open. She suspected the “serum” also contained sedatives to keep her docile. Maybe they didn’t do that to every proxy, but she was special, being part of the rebellion.

As darkness crept into the edges of her vision, she clung desperately to one thought before oblivion claimed her. Somehow, some way, she would make them pay.

***

NATALIA GRADUALLY BECAMEaware of voices filtering through the fog veiling her mind. She kept her eyes closed, feigning continued unconsciousness as she strained to listen.

“The conversion was successful,” said Quillen. “Her vitals are strong. She’s ready for release, sir.”

“Excellent,” General Zath’s hissing voice sent a spike of revulsion through Natalia. “I am eager to claim her, but I intend to be patient with this female. The goal is not just offspring but a willing mate.”

Natalia nearly choked in dismay. This beast thought she would ever willing mate with him? She would rather die.

“A wise approach,” said Quillen mildly. “It’s unlikely but don’t hesitate to bring her to our facility if complications arise.”

“Thanks, Quillen. I’ll take her from here.”

Natalia struggled not to recoil as Zath’s rough grasp closed around her arm. She blinked up at him, feigning dazed confusion.

“You belong to me now, little one,” he said, studying her with those fathomless black eyes. “It’s time you learned your true place.”

She cast her gaze downward submissively, hiding her defiant thoughts. She would pretend to accept her fate but never give up seeking escape.

Natalia followed Zath silently as he led her through the polished corridors of the embassy. After several turns, they entered comfortable quarters outfitted with two bedrooms, a small table and chairs, a kitchenette, and a hygiene chamber.

“You will share my rooms during your time here,” said Zath. “My sleeping chamber is beside yours should you require anything. There are garments and toiletries for you.”

He gestured to the neatly folded stack of clothes and basic toiletries laid out. “I’ll return shortly with a meal.”

He departed without waiting for a response, the door sealing behind him. Natalia glanced around warily before sinking down on the edge of the bed. She had expected to be thrown into a cell or forced into his room and immediately mounted, not given private rooms. What game was Zath playing?

Suspicion warred with grudging relief at the chance to clean herself and change clothing after so long confined. Cautiously, she explored the hygiene chamber, finding the basics needed to wash and refresh herself. The promised garments were plain but comfortable and far better than her tattered rags.

When Zath returned, Natalia was seated rigidly at the table. He nodded in approval at her transformed appearance before placing a tray before her.

“Quillen recommended only light foods until your system stabilizes. I synthicated this soup and bread for you. Eat, and then rest.”

Natalia eyed the steaming bowl distrustfully. Anything could be in it—more sedatives, or worse. Yet she was already so altered against her will that it hardly mattered now. Resigned, she lifted the spoon with a slightly unsteady hand to sip the fragrant broth.

She forced herself to eat slowly, though nausea roiled her empty stomach in protest. The meal was soon finished, her body craving more but she ignored that, not wanting to be ill since her stomach was still rocky.

Exhaustion pressed upon her, but she resisted the lure of the bed, sitting tensely in the chair. She would not sleep, vulnerable, while Zath was so close by. Natalia settled in to keep her silent watch.

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