New Teachings... [Asp - Sophia]

[thesteedman]

There was a brief pause when Asp spoke her words of comfort. The Crimson haired captivating Egyptian certainly had a way with her words, saying the right things with a tone that was soothing and comforting to the soul. Sophia could not help but feel a ping of regret however realising how she had unloaded upon Asp with matters that should not have been her concern.
"I am so sorry. I should not have done that. I invited you here to spar with me and then have a nice evening. It... it was wrong of me to just throw out such personal information and lay it upon you like that." Sophia spoke. A little of her more stoic nature tried to repair itself as Sophia adjusted herself upon the seat. Her position and pose had been somewhat defensive whilst she had been speaking. She tried to correct that, sitting with her back straight, emanating the very persona she tried to maintain as a serious presence.

It did not last long when Asp began to share a little of her own thoughts, coming in to press her forehead against the German's own. It broke her efforts to look more guarded, with Asp all too kind and welcoming to listen to Sophia's troubles, discovering a past relationship. It was a pleasant moment, and it did put Sophia at significant ease as she managed a minute sheepish smile.
"Thank you. You do so much for me. I fear I am more burden to you then friend at times. I really need to repay all you have done for me in some way. I know that is not why you do what you do, but still..." Sophia spoke, watching as Asp slowly pulled away, releasing her hand to fold her arms and bring her legs in up against the couch. Asp would then dance around the very reason why Sophia had actually invited her over... naturally it made Sophia blush ever so slightly. Her eye contact broke, her body language shifting suddenly from feigned confidence to discreetly squeamish with little movements.

"Well... I was... Um. Do not take this the wrong way, but I know... you are a well-travelled woman. You are not afraid of who you are and you take quiet pride in what you do. I was actually hoping if you could perhaps... teach me some things that might... help me please Katherine." And there it was. Asp had already figured Sophia had an ulterior motive to the spa invite, but now the cards were finally revealed on the table. As nervous as Sophia was, she at least managed to make eye contact with Asp when she requested what she did.
"Having been in only one relationship before this. I... I want to be certain I am doing everything right. I do not know if I am even... ... ... kissing correctly." Sophia whispered with a defeated shrug, her form almost closing in on itself as if what they spoke of was some taboo.

[BlackAkuma]

It was fascinating to watch Sophia’s emotions, as the woman went through the gamut in only a few moments. There was sadness there, no doubt thinking of paths not taken and decisions not made in her prior relationship, the sort of regret that comes with any failed partnership. Anger, perhaps? At herself and at the woman who wronged, but where was more of that fire directed? Fear, wondering if she might be making the same mistakes with Katherine, or entirely new ones.

Love could be a terrifying thing, but Asp envied the German’s problems, all the same. It was a struggle she had seen in others many times, but never had herself. The sort of problems she someday wished to have.

For now, however, she was content to remain a spectator in the game of love. Or, perhaps, a coach.

”You have never been a burden, Sophia. Far from it.” She shook her head, always amazed by the woman’s modesty. It was hard to picture a more humble woman with so much talent behind her. ”We’re friends. You owe me nothing. I’m here for you, you’re here for me, this is all we need.”

That being said, Asp couldn't help but feel that her friend was winding up to something, like there was a question on the tip of her tongue, a request she was on the edge of making. Asp had no real inkling what it was, but she was willing to wait and see if Sophia’s guard would lower enough for her to let it out. Sure enough, the dam broke, the contents spilled, and what came out was a good deal more than she ever expected. From Sophia, at least.

She took a moment to process what Sophia was asking, making sure she understood. ”I see.” Asp was often want to use the most flowery language as possible, happy to flourish her words, but there was a time to speak colorfully and a time to speak plain. This was the latter. ”Are you asking me to teach you how to be intimate? How to make love?” She was already waist deep, she might as well dive into the waters. ”Have you not spent the night with another woman before?”

[thesteedman]

Sophia's nerves were up and down and all over the place. It was a difficult thing to talk about such a subject for someone as reserved as she was. The moment Asp asked if she had lay in bed with another woman, she went a little in upon herself, her head dropping a little and her posture closing in on itself at how personal the question was. She hunkered down however, knowing all of this was for a greater purpose, refusing to become shy when the alluring German had ambition. Her reaction was in no way a slight to Asp, her Egyptian friend was only asking for clarification to help assist after all, it stood to reason she would ask such manner of questions.
"I... yes I have. My past relationship was with a woman... and... well... Myself and Katze... have already shared a bed once already." Sophia would confess, trying to will her cheeks not to shift into a shade of pink.

"We were sparring and... well it led to something else. We ended up kissing as we often did, but... this time it went further. It turned into a wonderful night, but Katze was the one who led and took control. I felt like I let her do everything. I.. desire to take control and... please Katze as she pleased me. So, yes, I am asking if you would teach me how to be more intimate, amongst other things." Sophia added, though quickly she realised a yes probably would have sufficed to Asp's former question.

"I know I am requesting a lot, but... the next time we share such a moment, I want to be better prepared. I want to know I am doing things right before and after. I want Katze to know that I... really like her." Sophia whispered, managing a weak smile.
"Please.." Sophia then added, reaching her hand to softly hold onto Asp's, giving it a gentle squeeze. She took in a deep breath and let out some air. It was a funny thing to witness this side of Sophia after encountering the fierce warrior she had fashioned herself into during their sparring session.

[BlackAkuma]

Despite the outfit she often wore, Asp didn’t possess a crystal ball and she couldn't look into the future. Yet, she could already see the road this was taking, clear as if it were before her very eyes. What Sophia asked made a certain sense, after all. The German was looking for knowledge in intimate relations and here was likely the most intimate person she knew, as had been easily evidenced in their first encounter. Asp had forgotten more about pleasing women than most would ever know.

There was a time when she would have jumped as such an offer without hesitation. Now, however, she had certain reservations. While she believed in free love, the homewrecker was a role she never desired to play.

Asp took Sophia’s hands within her own and held her tight as her gaze moved forward and locked with her friend’s. While she usually liked to keep things jovial and light, this was not a moment for such levity. She needed to be sure they were on the same page.

”I won’t lie and say I don’t have my worries, but if you insist on this, I will do my best to aid you. However.” She held up a single finger. ”If you, at any point, feel uncomfortable with anything I say or do, I want your word that you will let me know and ask me to stop. No hesitation. Am I clear?”

Asp leaned forward, expectant. She wanted to wanted to hear the words, preferably verbatim.

[thesteedman]

Sophia was not used to Asp being so stern, and witnessing her being so did bring some apprehension. It began to make the German become somewhat hesitant given the sombre look within Asp's piercing eyes and the firm motion and gesture of her hands. Still... There was reassurance amongst that urgency, the promise that with a solitary word and request that Asp would cease and desist the moment Sophia felt uncomfortable or no longer wanted to proceed. It did begin to fabricate more questions, wondering exactly what lessons Asp had in mind for her, laying seeds to some doubts that perhaps this was not so great an idea. Given Sophia's desire to please Katherine Hart, she was willing to risk what came next. She had come this far after all..

After another pause whilst the German contemplated the next move, solemnly, Sophia nodded to Asp, letting her know what she was willing to continue. Though before Asp could even fashion a thought or command of where the subject of the matter would begin, there was a commanding rattle of knocks upon Sophia's front apartment door. Sophia frowned, clearly she was not expecting any guests save for Asp herself as her head turned towards the rapid and firm knocks.
"Excuse me one moment. Let me see who that is." Sophia whispered, taking a deep breath as she let the nervous edge subside for a moment. If nothing else, it certainly broke the tension of the subject, allowing Sophia to clear her head for a moment. Standing from the couch, Sophia made her way towards the front area of her expansive living space, still clad in little more than a sports bra and loose fitting pants.

She did not bother to check the peep hole, though the moment she undid the latch and the moment the front door slid open, the platinum blonde beauty would have wished she had. Not that it would have mattered with the shadow her form cast at the foot of the door upon her approach. The one who stood on the other side already knew she was there. A pit developed in Sophia’s stomach instantly, her half closed eye where her scar ran across opening to match the other when she witnessed the presence of her current woes. Sophia had opened the door widely initially, but closed it over in haste to conceal the presence of Asp from the unwanted guest that stood beyond the confines of her home.
"Lola... w... what are you doing here?" Sophia whispered, trying not to let the despair she felt slip into her tone. The Body, a newer recruit to the LAW stood within all her glory in an arrogant fashion before the German.

[BlackAkuma]

There was that tone. That little hint of defiance. As if Sophia still had some say in the matter as far as her life was concerned. Lola had made some good progress with the German so far, but it was clear that she still had a ways to go.

They could work on that tonight, among other things. Lola hadn't had anything particularly pertinent in mind with this visit. She’d just gotten home fora little workout, spending some time on the treadmill, and she needed some time to unwind. Normally, that would’ve involved some tea time and a few tunes off Spotify, but since she’d acquired a squeeze toy, she figured she might as well have some fun with Sophia. Bring her over, get her between the thighs, and maybe put on a movie for them to watch while she worked on the woman’s midsection. She could be an easy woman to please. Sometimes.

”Mosca. Hi.” She started to step in, expecting the way to be opened to her, only for Sophia to keep her place, an unmoving sentinel. Did this woman truly not get how their relationship worked? Lola had only planned to crush her for an hour or two, but now she thought another sleepover was required.

She looked her over, head to toe - looked like she’d working out, wearing some gym attire with some sweat soaking into it. A good thing, it meant wearing her down would be easier. ”Not a social call. I need you to come over for-”

Lola paused when she heard a rustling from behind Sophia, and the telltale sounds of approaching footsteps. The German wasn’t alone, which made this all the more enjoyable. ”Hm. Who’s that?” She titled her head to the side with a growing smile. ”Open the door, mosca.”

It wasn’t a request. Oh, it might’ve sounded like a suggestion, with her sweet, lilting tone, but the force in her eyes was clear enough.

[thesteedman]

"I... have a guest over right now." Sophia would speak somewhat meekly, witnessing the intent in Lola's eyes. The menace of a woman made no effort to hide her desires, taking in the form of Sophia as her eyes began to trace over her midriff. It prompted Sophia to fold one arm around her stomach, feeling a sudden increase of unease, stacking onto what was already developing within the pit of her stomach. An unpleasant and nervous sensation that would not shift.

Sensing the intent of Lola, Sophia did not want to further displease her tormentor. Nothing good would come at resisting her right now. After a brief awkward pause, Sophia would open the door a little more. She heard Asp approaching from behind, her bare feet softly padding against the clean tiles as she began to come and see who was here. Sophia had wished she stayed seated, but Asp was always the curious sort. Nothing seemed to scare the Egyptian beauty. Without a doubt, Lola would have witnessed her by now, as Sophia turned, trying to keep a stoic expression as to hide the despair she felt right now in the presence of the Body.
"Lola... this is Aspasia. Aspasia, please meet Lola. She is my neighbour." Sophia would introduce the two, trying to keep a pleasant tone.

Given Sophia had used Asp's full name... it was an accidental tell upon Sophia's part that all was not as it seemed. Given Asp's current form, and lack of attire, without a doubt Lola would have been taking in the beauty before her eyes. Clad in little more than a somewhat revealing top and form fitting bottoms, with a light shine to her flawless skin, it was a clear indication the two had been working out together for Lola. A pleasing sight indeed.

"Would it be alright if we meet up tomorrow? I'm free after midday." Sophia would ask, her breath almost catching within her throat as she managed a weak smile. It was a clear Sophia was looking for mercy from the woman that was holding her head over the barrel.

[BlackAkuma]

Asp approached the door, drawn by the conversation and curiously approached. Usually, she would have been content to sit by and let whatever this was play out - while she valued Sophia’s friendship, she understood that she shouldn’t be privy to everything the woman did, and the last thing she would want was to intrude on a conversation not meant for her ears. But, while she could not quite make the exact worlds out from where she’d sat, something about Sophia and this woman’s tone was oft-putting. Her tone, the way she carried herself, the looks between them…

Worried, she came up behind them just as Sophia opened the door, to reveal an unfamiliar face. A woman of Latin American descent, she guessed, dressed in a white crop top and denim shorts that looked tailor-made to show off as much of her legs as humanly possible. She was a beautiful woman, model-worthy and picturesque.

And yet, there was something off about her. When the two were given a clear view of each other, Asp could see that she was brazenly looking her over, head to toe, with an analytical eye. It wasn’t the sort of lustful gaze that the Baroness or Naga might have had for, either. No, this was more mechanical, more practiced, as if she was studying a specimen in a petri dish and not another human being.

”Ah, hello. It’s a pleasure to meet you.” She stepped forward and extended her hand after the introduction, hoping to make things less awkward, only for that effort to fail when Lola merely stared at the offered appendage for a moment, as if Asp had extended a tentacle instead.

”Yes. It is.” Lola left it at that, and turned back to Sophia, as the German gave her apologies and extended an offer for another meeting. For a moment, it seemed like the woman was going to say something harsh, as the hints of a frown began to form, but she slipped into a pleasant smile at the last second.

”Midday, it is. I’ll buy lunch.” She waved a lazy finger at Sophia’s stomach. ”Wear something that shows that stomach off, by the way.”

With that, she gave Asp one, final look, a slim smirk, then about-faced and strutted away, without some much as a wave goodbye. Asp waited until she was away, then turned to her friend, not saying a word - her furrowed brow said enough, she thought.

[thesteedman]

As quickly had Lola arrived, did she swiftly make her peace and depart. Sophia had been trying to hide her anxiety during the course of the encounter, fearing that Lola would just invite herself in. The German would have been powerless to stop her, given what she was holding over her head, and there was no telling what would have happened beyond that. Instead she made her demands, before motioning for Sophia to wear something revealing for her. Sophia folded an arm over her stomach, feeling suddenly exposed as Lola made it no secret she admired her form with a taste for the alluring German's midriff. Sophia was barely able to conjure a response before Lola slipped away after making her demands known, allowing Sophia to shut the door softly once she was gone. Sophia figured that Lola was aware that too many questions would be asked with a stranger involved if she decided to remain or even pull Sophia away. It brought some much desired reprieve, but Sophia was aware such a notion would only be temporary.

The platinum blonde turned to see that Asp was close, a look of concern washed on her own features over the entire experience after her brief encounter with the menace. Sophia managed a small smile, trying to pretend that nothing was amiss.
"Lola moved in a few weeks ago. I have been trying to help her settle in." Sophia spoke, suddenly feeling awful about manipulating her own words. She hated lying; in truth she was not really capable of it. so what she stated certainly had an element of truth to it, it just omitted the severe details that she was being blackmailed and over a few unfortunate encounters had served as something of a plaything for Lola when the mood hit her. Those first two nights had been the worst without a shadow, but the two encounters since had not been desirable. Sophia suspected that her freedom today would be paid for tomorrow.

"I am ready to begin if you are?" Sophia would then declare with an unusual amount of rigour. After such an encounter with Lola, it removed what nervousness had settled into her core about what Asp had been offering at her request. In truth, Sophia was now eager to be with Asp and be educated, looking to rid herself of the trepidations and despair that came with thinking about Lola and whatever ambitions she had for her on the morrow.
"W... where would be the best place to do this?" Sophia then asked, letting Asp know that she was in total command now. Where Sophia had been the instructor during the sparring session, it was now Asp's turn to take the helm.

[BlackAkuma]

Asp was quite sure that Sophia was the worst liar she had ever met.

This said little since she tried her damndest to avoid individuals who would lie to her in the first place, but even so, it bore mentioning. This was a woman who wore her heart on her sleeves, who was honest and forthright to a fault. The telltale signs were all present - the nervous look, the forced smile, the averted gaze. While Asp wouldn’t presume to know what was going on between her and this Lola, she could tell it wasn’t a healthy relationship and that there was a far darker edge to the story than what she was being sold.

But she knew better than to pry. Whatever it was, Sophia had no desire to dwell on it. While she wanted to return to the subject, it need not be on this day, not when they had more pleasant matters. She could tell that the blonde was eager to move onto anything else, and she was happy to oblige.

”Ah, well, if you are certain.” Asp straightened out and tried to meet Sophia with a smile, hoping to keep her calm. ”I suppose the best place would be your bedroom, for obvious reasons.” She reached over and took the German’s hand, hoping to be led there. While she knew the way, she felt it would help to have the connection.

”Tell me about Katherine.” She kept her close and spoke low, intimate, making sure Sophia was given every comfort. ”Have you given any thought to where you two might end up, how this relationship will go?”