"What if I break them?" My voice came out smaller than I meant it to.
"Then consequences happen. We'll get to that." He gestured and the next section expanded.
Daddy's Promises:
1. Provide clear structure and consistent enforcement.
2. Protect Thalia from all external threats and internal conditioning.
3. Feed her properly and ensure her physical needs are met.
4. Encourage her intellectual brilliance and provide resources for exploration.
5. Give her safe space to regress and be small.
6. Never use her past as a weapon against her.
"These are what you can expect from me," he said. "Always. Without exception. If I fail to uphold any of these, you have the right to call me on it."
The idea of calling a Dragon Lord on broken promises seemed absurd. But through the bond, I felt his sincerity. He meant this. Every word.
The text shifted again.
Consequences for Rule-Breaking:
Progressive discipline system:
First offense: Verbal warning and discussion of why the rule matters.
Second offense: Loss of privileges (workshop access, choices in activities).
Third offense: Spanking—over Daddy's knee, bare bottom, until lesson is learned.
Heat flooded my face. Spanking. The word sat in my brain like something foreign and electric.
"I won't hit you in anger," Zephyron said, watching my reaction. "Discipline is about teaching, not punishment. It's about helping you remember why the rules exist when your conditioning tries to override them. Understood?"
I nodded, not trusting my voice.
Rewards for Good Behavior:
1. Verbal praise and physical affection.
2. Extended playtime in the nursery.
3. Workshop access for personal projects.
4. Physical intimacy as bond stabilizes.
5. Special treats and experiences chosen by Thalia.
"You're allowed to want good things," he said gently. "The rewards aren't earned—you already deserve them. But they reinforce positive patterns. Help your brain learn that following the rules leads to safety and joy."
The cult had used punishment almost exclusively. Rewards had been sparse, unpredictable, always contingent on perfect performance. This was different. This was consistent. Reliable.
Safeword: "Sanctuary"
Use stops all activity immediately. No questions. No judgment.
