// AUTHOR'S NOTE :- //

WARNING! ADULT CONTENT.

***************************************************

A whole day has passed and when I woke up this morning, one thought hit me like a hammer on my head. Aby was no more... it is now a reality. As much as I hoped that it would be a dream, but it was not to be.

I was now on my way towards the Zoit Army Communications Depot. Yesterday, I asked Wei to inform Javel and the group as well as Aby’s family about Aby’s demise. But, later I realized... it was my job to inform them. Wei was her cousin, but I was her husband. I just hoped Wei hadn’t informed them already.

I reached the Communication Depot and found Wei standing outside. She was continuously looking towards the entry of the Depot. She looked undecided and still coming to terms with Aby’s death. The scene of her standing in front of the Depot, undecided whether to enter or not reminded me of a particular incident. It was back in the Port Town of the Castor Clan when she was looking in a dress shop from outside, not sure whether to enter or not.

I walked up to her, close enough to put my hand on her right shoulder. Her body tensed at that moment, and when I saw her face, she had her eyes closed for some reason. She also had her fist clenched. Was she planning to hit me? She is angry at me?

Me: “Have you informed them?”

After a few seconds of silence, she nodded her head horizontally indicating me that she hasn’t.

Me: “Are you angry with me?”

She nodded her head in a vertically indicating she was. Well, that didn’t take long to answer.

Wei: “Why did you tell me to inform everybody?

How can I inform them? What should I say?”

Me: “Don’t worry... I am here now. Let’s do it together, just like we did in that dress shop back in the Port Town of the Castor Clan.”

She nodded in approval. She now opened her eyes and a few drops of tears flowed from them. She relaxed a bit and opened her fists too.

Me: “Come on.”

With that, we entered the Communications Depot. It was medium sized tent with five counters placed inside them. Currently, only two of them were being manned. In the right corner of the tent, there were some tables and chairs present. The tent was quite empty and the counters were being manned by soldiers. We walked up to a counter or rather, I walked up to it and Wei was just following me.

Me: “Excuse me; I would like to send some messages.”

The soldier manning the counter looked towards me. He was a young beast man, young in sense of experience. It looked that he lacked experience compared to the soldiers I have seen.

Soldier: “How many, King Le’On?”

With an eyebrow raised, I asked.

Me: “You know me?”

Soldier (a faint smile): “Who doesn’t??”

Me: “I need um... please wait a moment.”

I turned back towards Wei and asked her.

Me: “Should we write to all of the members of the group or just to Javel?”

Wei: “All of them. They knew her much longer than you knew Aby.”

Well, she had a point.

Me: “And how many to Aby’s family?”

Wei: “Just one, but first finish informing the group.”

Me: “Alright.”

I turned forward and said.

Me: “Please, give me five forms.”

Soldier: “Certainly King Le’On.”

He took out some copies under his desk, counted them and handed me five forms.

Soldier: “Here you go, King Le’On.”

Me: “I am curious... How did you hear about me? I mean, how did you recognize me? I certainly did speak to any Zoit soldiers other than Commander Eldin and few handful soldiers.”

Soldier: “Ah... that!

That would be because most of the female soldiers gossip about you. I mean not just gossip but if you could actually close to them, you would find each of them fantasizing about you.

And not just fantasize but they would very much like to ride on you.”

His voice changed from a calm one to now an angry one.

Me: “Do you have anything to say to me, soldier?”

Soldier: “No Sir...”

His ears had reddened and I could sense a small amount of hostility coming from him.

Soldier: “You know, King Le’On... I was just curious. How would you feel, if your soon to be wife fantasizes about a let’s just say a certain beast man in a manner, you could not even think she was capable of?”

Me: “Okay!?”

Soldier: “Or how would you feel if your soon to be wife always bothers you to become or act like that particular beast man.

I mean always questioning you, for example:-

Why can’t you be like him?

Why aren’t you distinguished yet?

Why can’t you fight like him or could you at least try to fight like him?

Why aren’t you in active front line duty?

Why can’t you be passionate like him?

Why this and why that... this goes on and on and on...”

He was now in full rage. The killing intent I sensed coming from him would have been certainly useful against the Dynoths.

Me: “Just for the sake of argument... Is there any chance that the particular beast man is me?”

The soldier keeps on looking at me.

Me: “Okay... I would take that as a yes.

Then, I am very sorry to... to come between you and your soon to be wife. But I have to ask you, you said that she asked you to be passionate just like me... How did she come by that fact?”

Soldier: “I... I don’t know that, Sir.”

Me: “Does your soon to be wife serve in the front lines?”

Soldier: “No, Sir. She is one of the personal guards of Commander Eldin. She mostly guards her own personal tent.”

Oh... that makes sense. She must have heard something while Eldin was tempting me.

Me: “Again, I am sorry but believe me I did not do it on purpose.”

He was coming back to normal after a short rage.

Soldier: “No... I am sorry Sir for my unruly behaviour.

If you want to complain about me to me superior, then I could show you the way.”

Me: “It’s fine soldier. Umm... just tell me your name.”

Soldier: “My name is Verold Feli, Sir.”

Me: “Feli?”

Wei (from behind me): “Are you from the Feli Clan?”

Verold Feli: “Yes Ma’am.”

Me: “Thank you... Verold.”

He gave a smile... a forced one at that. Well, I turned my thoughts into writing the messages. Hmm... How should I write? I took the forms and sat on a chair. Wei followed me and sat beside me.

After thinking about it for some minutes, I found it difficult to even form words much less write about it. How should I tell them that Aby is no more?

Wei: “Can’t write?”

Me: “Can’t even think what to write.”

Wei: “Just tell them the truth... about everything. They need to know.”

Me: “Do you think they have reached the Capital by now?”

Wei: “Maybe... I am not too sure.”

She looks away from me and turns her face to the other side. I immediately cupped her chin and turned it towards me. Tears were again rolling down from her eyes.

Me: “What is it?”

Wei: “You know... if I hadn’t brought Aby here or if I had said no to her... then... then she still would have been alive. If I hadn’t...”

I smiled and replied.

Me: “If you hadn’t she still would have followed you here. I know in my heart that she didn’t come here just to see me but also because, this quest was important to you. She also came to support you.”

She nodded her head in vertically.

Wei: “Yes... I know it too.”

Me: “The fault lies with me. If had been more mindful of my surroundings at that time, I would have saved her. But I rushed... As soon as I saw her being choked, my reasoning stopped and... And I rushed foolishly. If I had just been mindful...”

Wei put her left hand on my shoulder and started rubbing it. It felt nice.

Wei: “You know... I don’t blame you.”

I looked towards her.

Me: “You don’t.”

Wei: “No... Not yesterday and certainly not now. Find the courage in you and write the messages.”

Me: “Okay.”

It took me about half an hour to finish writing a message for each of the members in the group, namely; Javel, Marion, Ron and Paleg. The message was same for all of them, but with Wei’s guidance I felt that each of them should receive their own message.

Me: “Now for Aby’s family.”

Wei: “First tell me, how much do you know about them?”

Me: “Umm... nothing. Nothing at all... Aby didn’t mention about anyone before, nor did I even ask.”

Wei: “I really think sometimes as to why out of all the beasts residing in this continent, she fell for you!”

Me: “I have been thinking the same thing since yesterday.”

Wei: “Stop making me take a guilt trip whenever I mention her to you. It’s-It’s not fair...”

Me: “Okay... Okay... alright back to our original task. Tell me about Aby’s family. Tell me about everything.”

Wei: “Aby was my cousin. Her mother was the sister of my father. Her name is Horuna. She married a Felonas or Feli Clan member as it was common between our Clans. His name was Darin Feli.

After the attack on my Clan, the remaining members allocated to the land close of the Feli Clan, but I stayed with Aunty Horuna until both me and Aby decided to be an adventurer. Aby’s father was serving in the Zoit Army and retired just some years back. Now, you would think being an Army man, he would cherish the idea of his daughter’s wish of becoming an adventurer but sadly that did not happen. He fought his hardest to stop both Aby and me from joining the adventurers unit. But, as you can guess... he failed.

Aby or rather we had a brother too. His name is Onray Feli. When we left, he was still a baby. I guess he is grown up now... maybe deciding what to do in life.”

Me: “Will they accept me?”

Wei thought for a few seconds and then replied.

Wei: “Well, most probably Aunty Horuna will accept you. She is a kind and gentle beast woman, but I can’t be hopeful about Uncle Darin.”

Me: “And what about both of your cousin brother?”

Wei: “Onray... I don’t know. He is quite like you... maybe.”

Me: “Aby’s father is an ex-Zoit Army!”

Wei: “Yes... he held the rank of a Commander before retiring. He is a good beast man.”

Me: “Well... let’s start writing the message to her family.”

I placed the form in front of me and proceeded to write on it, but stopped midway.

Wei: “Do you want me to write it? I can do it...”

Me: “No, it is something I have to do by myself.”

The next 20 mins were nothing but a blur for me as I have no idea what or how I have written it. I tried to write as honestly as possible, but I don’t know what came out. When Wei tried to check the message, I declined her request and told her it was something that only her parents should see... which was nothing but lies. Truth was, I was afraid to show her.

Without much delay, I went over to the counter and gave the Zoit soldier named Verold Feli, the forms. He took the forms and went over the details about the names and addresses to be sent to. After confirming everything, he looked at me and asked.

Verold Feli: “Would you like to make it an Urgent Class message?”

Me: “Yes... all of them.”

Verold Feli: “Certainly...”

Without delaying any further, he sent those messages on their way. After teleporting them, he wrote something in a slip and passed it to me. It was the bill for the messages.

Verold Feli: “80 Silvers for each message and you sent a total of 5 messages. That would make your total amount to 4 Gold.”

I payed the soldier and came out of the tent along with Wei.

Me: “Well, that went well.”

Wei: “What are you going to do now?”

Me: “For now, come with me.”

Wei: “Where?”

Me: “Where everybody is right now...”

We walked towards my tent. Compared to yesterday, the camp was now relatively peaceful. I saw fewer soldiers than yesterday walking here and about and fewer soldiers inside the canteen. When we crossed the soldier tents, we encountered very loud snoring sounds. Thus, stating the fact that today, most of the soldiers were now still asleep. Maybe the fact that, yesterday night Commander Eldin announcing to the whole camp that the Quest to capture the Galeform city was over and it was a success; may have been the greatest contributing factor.

On the way, we met with Commander Eldin. We had to maintain formalities outside our private space to suppress the fact that she was now working for me or my concubine... I have some concerns within me. How would now she react? Will she honour the agreement or is she playing another angle? Is she going to have cold feet?? Lots and lots of concern... But most of all, the fact that scares me most is her lust for power. If left unchecked, she would certainly be the greatest factor of me and my Clans demise. But, I have full faith on Adi’Je to whip her up into a fine Commander devoid of her lust for power.

Commander Eldin: “Good morning, King Le’On... Miss Wei.”

Wei: “Nothings good about this morning. Aby is still dead.”

Commander Eldin realises Wei’s mental state and rephrases her sentence.

Commander Eldin: “I am still sorry for your loss and know that in my heart, I too mourn her passing.”

Commander Eldin gives a quick glance towards me before continuing.

Commander Eldin: “And know that we are going to try to at least bring closure to her and to those who were close to her.”

Wei (suspicious manner asked Commander Eldin): “And how are you going to do that?”

I interjected within their conversation as it was not one of those which should be had while being in outdoors.

Me (looking towards Wei): “We shall discuss about this at a later time. For now, please go ahead and join the rest of the group. I have some... unfinished business with Commander Eldin.”

She looks at me with a questioning look, but later decided to listen to me.

Wei: “Okay... we will be waiting for you.”

Me: “Alright.”

After giving a nod of her head, she walked towards the direction of my tent. I turned towards Commander Eldin, who by now had a smile on her face.

Me: “Why are you smiling?”

Commander Eldin: “Nothing... umm do the unfinished business needs to be discussed here... outside or does it require a more secluded area?”

Me: “Secluded would be preferable.”

Commander Eldin (still smiling): “Then I know just the place... please follow me to my personal tent, King Le’On.”

Me: “Certainly.”

I sat pretty comfortably on a chair while Eldin was getting comfortable while sitting cross legged on her bed opposite to me. She had a rather closed lip smile as if telling me that she was hiding something. A few moments of silence falls upon the room as we continue to look at each other. I do not want to talk first... why should I? I am a King of a Clan and moreover I am the King she now serves.

Maybe getting the hint, she breaks the silence.

Eldin: “You know... the term concubine has a different meaning as opposed to what you are forcing me to do.”

In response to her statement, I gave her a lopsided smile and replied.

Me: “Aren’t you forgetting something?” I raise my left eyebrow for an extra effect.

She stares at me for a few seconds and then realizes what I was referring to or rather what her folly was.

Eldin: “I am truly sorry, My King.”

I don’t like to lord over any beastmen the fact that I am a King of a clan other than it is extremely needed, but as far as her case is concerned, I have no qualms about dominating over her.

Me: “Hmm... continue.”

Eldin (still giving me the closed-lip smile): “As I was saying My King, the term concubine has another meaning as opposed to what I am being forced to do.”

Until now, I was sitting in a rather comfortable way, with one leg up onto another, but I think she was in the mood to play some games so I straightened my spine and sat in an upright manner.

Me: “You chose the path. I simply gave you a choice.”

Eldin: “It was not a choice to begin with... either join me or face the loss of my career in the Army.”

Me: “That was the best chance you will ever receive to actually be a part of truly powerful Clan... as least not in this lifetime.”

Eldin: “That... might be true.”

Again I raised my left eyebrow and asked.

Me: “True... what?”

Realizing her mistake, she corrected herself.

Eldin: “True... My King.”

Me: “And as far as the term concubine, it is apt for you.”

Eldin (in a questioning manner): “How so... My King.”

Me: “You are not my wife, but you are my toy. A toy which I am going to use as an asset within the Zoit Army. As you rise in power in both the Zoit Army and the Council of Zoit so will my hold on both of them.

But, if you look at another angle, what we have right now... is a mutually agreed partnership. You will earn a portion of my power that I wield.”

Eldin: “And what will you receive in return, My King.”

Me: “That... that I will tell in the future.”

Eldin: “My King, you referred to me as a toy for you. Does this toy as any right over... her King?"

Me: “Depends upon what your handler... Queen Adi’Je. If she says anything regarding that matter, then only I will act on it. So, you should get your dos and don’ts from her.”

She gets up from her current position and walks towards me with a very... very malicious intent. She walks close to me and with a swift movement; she puts her right arm around my neck and gracefully lands her bottoms on my lap. She brought her face close to mine... barely just inches away from mine and spoke in a very sensuous voice.

Eldin: “Not... even if she wanted... to sit on her King’s lap and consoles him. Not even when she wanted to share some of the sorrow of her King, accumulated due to the passing of one of his wives? Is she not even entitled to do that?

What if she... wants her King to feel the warmth growing within her... can’t she even do that?

What if, she wants to... kiss ... (She leans towards me, closing the gap between us to some few centimetres. I could feel her warm breath and saw her eyes darting between from my lips to my eyes... as if she is probing, testing... to find a chink in the armour) her King, is she not allowed even that?”

Me (I stop smiling and with a straight face): “Not before Queen Adi’Je sets your boundaries or your King wants to share that sorrow after losing his wife.

Now, get off me.”

Her smiling face quickly turns into a serious one and her eyes sharpened. She gets off me as gracefully as she landed first. After getting up, she walks towards her bed and in midway, she turns. Her expression was still one of seriousness. I forced a smile myself and spoke.

Me: “Now, that the game was over, I want to discuss some matters with you.”

Eldin (forcing a smile as well): “I am all ears, My King.”

Me: “Have you contacted the Council of Zoit yet?”

Eldin: “At first light, My King.”

Me: “Exactly what did you inform them?”

Eldin: “What you... ordered me to inform them. We are victorious in pushing back the Dynoths after suffering heavy casualties from them. Our victory would not have been possible if not for the timely help from the Blood Zuma Clan led by their King... My King too from on... but that part I didn’t tell them... led by their King Le’On.

Mainly under their guidance and planning, we were able to clear the most infected parts of the city and how they taught the Zoit soldiers along with me, the way to kill the Dynoths far easily then what we were used to.

Unfortunately, during the last day of the victory, the Blood Zumas along with their King suffered a casualty in the form of his wife, a Queen of the Blood Zuma; who died bravely while fighting against the Dynoths.

I recommend to the Council of Zoit’s Department of Defence to consider the Blood Zumas for receiving equivalent compensation due to their heroic deeds during the Quest for liberating the Galeform City.

Does this report satisfy your... needs... My King?”

Me: “It seems so...”

Eldin: “Really!! Imagine my happiness, My King...” She says that with a sarcastic tone in her voice.

I got up from the chair. I was sitting on it for a long time... I was getting a stiff back. I slowly walked towards her, step by step... with no expression on my face.

Me (In an authoritarian voice): “Anything else, you want to... inform your King?”

Eldin: “Yes... yes there is, My King.”

Me: “State it!” Al the while making my way towards her very slowly.

Eldin: “After reporting the Council of Zoit, I received a message from the Civilian Camp, where all the Galeform populace has been living ... for now.

They got to know the news about our or your victory over the Dynoths from my Deputy present there. I believe you have met him previously, Commander Rotun Monik is his name.”

Me: “Yes, I have.”

Eldin continuous on.

Eldin: “After learning that their whole city was under our control now, they sent two of their high ranking officials here... well actually they were the only two left of the high ranking Red Galeform officials. They will reach here in the evening and have requested to fix a meeting with you, My King... the leader of the Clan that saved their city. They are very... very eager to meet you and I have also heard that the Red Galeform members have many deep ties within some Departments of the Zoit Council.”

Me: “Hmm... interesting.

Inform me at once when they arrive here.”

Eldin: “Yes, My King. Anything else?”

Me: “No... Nothing more. I will convey... your performance to Queen Adi’Je.”

Eldin: “Again... imagine my happiness... My King.” She spoke again in a sarcastic tone.

By now, I was standing much closer to her. Watching her face, the smirk on her face, her eyes watching my lips and my eyes just as she previously... waiting... waiting for me to fall into her trap. I put my right hand on her right arm. Her smirk turned again into a closed lip smile, maybe thinking her moment of victory has arrived. Maybe she was right... maybe... just maybe if her plan worked. But sadly... it did not.

As to what plan? The answer was simple... unknown to me, when she sat on my lap gracefully at that, her right hand had a concealed dart in it... it was miniscule in nature, but maybe or may not be have been a dart. It could have been anything, I am not sure, but there was something concealed in her hands. While coiling her arm over my neck, she pricked my neck with it. At that moment, I felt nothing but as soon as she pricked it, someone saved my life. Does anyone have any guess???

KING’S CRYSTAL:-

WARNING!!!

UNKNOWN COMPONENTS HAVE BEEN INJECTED INTO THE BODY.

INITIATING SELF ASSESSMENT FROM STORED INFORMATION...

POINT OF CONTACT:- NECK.

UNKNOWN COMPONENTS IDENTIFIED.

ARAKA ARIENT TYPE II POISON.

INITIATING COUNTER MEASURES.

SEARCHING DATA STORED IN KING’S SKILL...

COUNTER MEASURE FOUND.

FOLLOWING SKILL(S) AVAILABLE TO HANDLE SITUATION IN KING’S SKILL LIST:-

1. POISON ABSORPTION.

USING SKILL... (TO STOP PROCESS ‘DEACTIVATE’)

SKILL SUCCESS:- 100%

POISON STORED INSIDE THE KING’S CRYSTAL STORAGE.

She tried to poison me and it didn’t effect. My guess is; her turning of herself midway from walking away from me had a purpose. Maybe to check whether I am dying or not.

With a blink of her eyes, I pulled her right arm to the right side and with my left hand, I pinned her face down onto the table close to her bed. I twisted her right arm towards her back and held it with my right arm, tightly. Then without delay, I parted legs wide so that she could not use them to gather strength or kick them towards me. She did not make any sound during the take-down. I concluded that she was probably dazed. I was now positioned right behind her, twisting her arm.

After some grunts and struggle, she finally wakes up from her dazed state.

Eldin: “Wha-What is happ-happening? How... how? Wh-why?”

I twisted her arm a little which produced a soft scream of agony which opened her palms. When her palms opened, I saw a small pin, neatly tucked between her middle and heart fingers. She positioned it in a way that the poison coated part was inside her palm while the non-poison part outside.

The reason I knew the inside part was poison coated because of its green colour. There were still traces of the poison left. Luckily, the pin did not prick her during the take-down. As a matter of how it ended up this way, I will find it out later. But for now...

Me: “You should not have tried to poison me... Eldin!”

Eldin: “Poi-poison?? What Poison, My-my King? You are mistaken.”

I brought the pin close to her face so that she could see it.

Eldin: “Tha-that... My king... that...”

Me: “That has some poison still coated on it. If you want to still deny it, shall I test it upon you... Eldin?”

Eldin (fearful voice): “N-no no... Please... ye-yes, I tried to poison you.”

Me: “Good... I won’t ask you why. I don’t need to know your reasons. But today I am feeling generous and seeing this is your first offence, I will not punish you for it.”

Eldin: “Th-thank you, My King. Thank you... I would do no such thing to you in the future... I-I learned my lesson.” She said in a pleading voice.

Me: “I have no doubt over it. But...”

Eldin: “Bu-but what, M-my King?” A tinge of dread in her voice.

I put the poison coated pin in an empty glass situated on the table beforehand.

Me: “You see... I just thought about your request.”

Eldin: “Re-request!!”

Me: “Yes... which you made to me earlier.”

Eldin: “Ye-Yes, yes...”

Me: “By the way, why aren’t you shouting? Anyone in this predicament would shout... at least that’s what I think. So, why aren’t you shouting?”

Eldin: “Um-um...”

Me: “Wait! Do not answer that. Let me guess...

There is no one around here, is there... You gave everyone off today. They are all sleeping right now.

Am I right?”

Eldin: “Um...Ahh...”

Me: “Of course I am right. That’s how you were going to dispose of my body after killing me. And if I speculate any further, you would have made it look like the same mysterious beast men that killed Aby. If you can’t have it, neither will anyone...

Am I right?”

Eldin: “My Ki-King believe me, I have learned my lesson.” With each passing moment, the dread in her voice increases.

Me: “Of course you have. I have no doubts about it. But I digress... where was I??

Ah... yes... your requests. You see I am not going to grant them as it is for Queen Adi’Je to decide, but I am going to give you a small incentive so that you can work more umm... how should I term it... umm... yes... ‘Loyally’ for me.”

With my free left hand, I pulled her pants along with any underwear she had worn down up to her knees, revealing her fair and naked bottoms to me. I slowly and gently traced my finger on her naked skin of her bottoms. The action was not without any struggle, but she quickly realized the power ratio.

Me: “You see; I have heard that the Council of Zoit has ruled that if any King wants to do anything... anything to his concubines if any, can do it without any punishment. You relinquish your right when you decide to be a concubine of a King. Mind you, wives enjoy splendid rights under the law and they are different from concubines. The moment you accepted the proposal, you were out of luck.”

I had positioned my index finger outside her vagina, barely touching it... only to make her notice of it and she did notice it.

Only things that escaped her mouth was...

Eldin: “N-no!!”

Me: “I can’t use my member... that would just kill you. But how about a substitute... a finger, maybe.”

I inserted her vagina with my left arm index finger, but just barely, maybe millimetres.

Eldin: “N-noo!!”

Me: “One finger... or think about two.”

This time, I inserted my middle finger into her vagina, but just up to the length my index finger had penetrated which was just millimetres. Truthfully, we were at the door and just peeking into it. But her fear amplified her feelings and might I add... she was getting wet.

Eldin: “Please noo...”

Me: “Or three...no no ... think about four or you know what... scratch it.”

I pulled back both of the fingers out. As soon as I did it, she let her body loose... as if she thought it was over.

Me: “How about a whole fist?”

I positioned my whole fist and just poked her vaginal walls with it.

Eldin: “Nooo... please... nooo...”

I felt her voice getting choked... maybe she was crying. And as I kept poking her, she was leaking fluids from there.

Up until now, I was using a sarcastic playful voice, but I changed it to a more serious one.

Me: “I am not that kind of a beastman to exploit you.”

I pulled back my fist and slowly pulled up her pants. She gasped sometimes, trying to say something, but only sounds of a mixture of no’s and pleases came out.

Me: “At least for now... but beware! The next time I find you doing anything, indicating that you haven’t been loyal to me... I will kill you. After enjoying you of course... You would be the concubine that died receiving multiple orgasms.”

Eldin: “Th-thank you M-my King... I wi-will remember it.”

Me: “Good... now time for your punishment.”

Eldin: “Punishment!!! Bu-but you said that you wouldn’t punish me.” Dread had gripped her well within its arms.

Me: “Yes I did and I wouldn’t... but she would.

Am I right, Queen Adi’Je?”

Adi’Je had been present the whole time we were having our conversation. She really knows me...

She stepped inside the tent with a mischievous smile on her face.

Adi’Je: “Absolutely right, My Lord.”

Me: “Great... I need her in the evening. So, until then, do what you want to with her.”

Adi’Je: “Yes, My Lord.”

She stepped forward and applied pressure on Eldin’s twisted arm. I removed myself from that position and proceeded to walk outside. I turned around and found Eldin’s face was mixed with tears and fear. The only words she could mutter was “No” and “Please”.

Adi’Je had now pulled her off the table and onto the bed. I turned forward and stepped out of the tent. When I did, I found two Blood women standing on the side.

Me: “What are you doing here?’

Seeing me, they quickly gave a bow and replied.

Blood Woman 1: “My King, we were accompanying Queen Adi’Je and she told us to wait here.”

Me: “Okay... then do one thing. Whatever happens, guard this tent. Do not let anyone inside the tent nor in the same vicinity. Only beastman who are allowed are Queen Naj’Rak and me. If I bring any other people, then its fine. Guard it until Queen Adi’Je had finished her business. Do not kill anyone but subdue with extreme prejudice.

Are you clear?”

Blood Woman 2: “Yes My King!!”

With a simple nod of my head, I left the place and walked towards my tent. While walking, I thought of checking what that ‘Poison Absorption’ skill was and what did it do with the poison.

Me: “King’s Crystal.”

KING’S CRYSTAL:-

WELCOME, KING LE’ON.

YOUR ORDERS?

Me: “King’s Crystal... Show Skill Poison Absorption.”

POISON ABSORPTION:-

PART OF KING’S SKILL LIST.

THIS SKILL ALLOWS A PERSON TO ABSORB ANY AND ALL POISON INSIDE THE BODY EXCEPT A POISON INDUCED INSIDE THE BODY AS A GENETIC TRAIT.

AFTER ABSORBING THE POISON, THE POISON WILL BE STORED INSIDE A TEMPORARY SPACE CREATED INSIDE THE BODY, IN THE THROAT REGION.

THE STORED POISON CAN BE USED FOR FUTURE PURPOSE AND CAN BE STORED FOR AN UNLIMITED AMOUNT OF TIME.

USE:-

1. CAN COAT ANYTHING WITH THE STORED POISON.

2. CAN REGURGITATE THE POISON BACK OUT.

RESTRICTION:-

1. CAN ONLY STORE 2 TYPE OF DIFFERENT KIND OF POISON AT THE SAME TIME.

2. CAN ONLY STORE A TOTAL OF 900 Mg AMOUNT OF POISON AT ONE TIME.

EXCEPTION:- CURSE OF ANIYA. [/b]

Well... it did come handy. But I am not too sure of keeping the poison inside me. Better discard it before something happens.

Me: “King’s Crystal... Regurgitate Stored Poison.”

Suddenly I felt something burning inside my throat. I stopped and immediately I felt a huge gag reflex. With one full force I vomited, then and there. It was not a good experience... it was awful and it left a bad after taste in my mouth. The burning sensation stopped right after I vomited. So, that’s how it regurgitates.

I reached my tent with a sour mouth. Naj’Rak was sitting alongside Wei and Deiti along with other Blood women in my unit. They were 3 of them and surprisingly, there were many female Zoit soldiers too. I counted 6 of them. From what I saw, they were having casual conversations. Naj’Rak was one who noticed me first.

Naj’Rak: “My King! You took too long to come. Queen Adi’Je went to search for you.”

She stood up along with the other Blood Women and the Zoit Soldiers too, and gave a small bow. I gave a hand gesture to make them sit down.

Me: “Yes, I met her while coming here and I am sorry, I was having a conversation with Commander Eldin.”

Naj’Rak: “Oh... well, where is she?”

Me: “She too had something to discuss with her. I figured it was necessary to give those two some room to talk.”

Naj’Rak: “Okay...”

Me: “Naj’Rak, please prepare for some guests who will be coming to meet us today in the evening.”

Naj’Rak: “May I ask, whom?”

Me: “They are Red Galeform Clan officials and they want to meet us.”

Naj’Rak: “I will make all the arrangements, My King.”

Pointing towards the three Blood women, she orders.

Naj’Rak: “You three... come with me.”

She leaves with three Blood women following her. I turned towards Wei and Deiti who were looking at each other. At first I thought it was nothing but I realized something, they haven’t realized I had come. They were locked in a trance... weird. But I didn’t disturb them. What I needed most at that moment was to clear the foul taste in my mouth. I looked around and saw the female Zoit soldiers were drinking something. With the Blood women gone, they moved to a corner and were having casual conversations while casually having an occasional glance towards me. I decided to ask them, what they were drinking.

Me: “Excuse me... soldier... what are you drinking?”

From the sudden call, she nearly spills her drink on herself. Rest of the soldiers froze while looking towards the soldier I called. She too was frozen.

Me: “Excuse me... soldier! What are you having?”

Still no reply from any one of them. They just stood there. Ufff... What is the matter with them?

Me: “Hey!...”

“Why are you scaring them?”

I turn to find Deiti and Wei looking at me as if I was scaring babies.

Me: “Nice to find both of you back in reality.”

In an instant both of their faces became red. Deiti was more so... and Wei... she just averted her eyes from me. This is weird!

Me: “I am not scaring them... I just want to know what they were drinking. That’s all I asked.”

Deiti: “Okay, okay... you don’t have to yell. Look at them... their scared down to their bones. These pretty ladies are here just to catch a glimpse of you and you scared them... How dare you?”

Me: “Shut up.”

Deiti: “What? Don’t like the truth! If you ask, they would share their life with you, but you broke their fantasies.”

Me: “How did that happen? I just asked what they were drinking and if it was any good. If so, then I would like to have one so that I could get this... this foul taste from my mouth...”

Deiti: “I get it. Now sit down and calm yourself. I will get you that drink that you want so bad.”

Me: “Fine!”

I sat down opposite to a smiling Wei... I know I should be happy that she was smiling but... Wei was smiling. She was having a full blown smile and she continued to look towards Deiti as she made her way to those frozen Zoit soldiers.

She conversed with them with a smile while rubbing the back of the soldier I called out. Initially, they were a bit defensive, some took the occasional glance towards me and then conversed some more. All the while, Wei was looking at Deiti and smiling. Am I missing something? Finally, Deiti came back carrying three medium sized glasses while smiling. She sat down beside Wei and passes a glass towards me and one to Wei.

Deiti: “Those poor girls. Not only you scared them, but even managed to make one of them cry.”

Me: “I just wanted to know... you know what... I don’t care.”

Deiti: “By the way, this drink is called Morning Bliss. It is a fruit drink made from a fruit called Bliss. It just so happens that the Zoit soldiers consider this a part of their diet.”

I do not wait for her explanation of something I don’t want to know the end. I drank it whole in one big gulp. It tasted a little bit of both sweet and sour, but it did make the foul taste in my mouth to disappear.

I noticed the dynamics of both Deiti and Wei had changed. They were looking at each differently. I could not put my finger on what it was but something was happening.

Just as informed, the two Galeform officials came to the base camp in the evening. Immediately, they wanted to meet the King of the Blood Zumas. We were seated in a rather large tent which was newly erected for the purpose of the meeting. A newly motivated Commander Eldin cooperated with Queen Naj’Rak and made it possible. Before the official meeting began, we had a friendly lunch first. Beastmen who were in attendance to the meeting was of course me and my two wives along with Commander Eldin, whose green eyes had a tinge of red in them and our two esteemed guests, the officials of the Galeform Clan. Needless to say, all arrangements were done by Queen Naj’Rak.

During the lunch, I noticed that every time I looked at Commander Eldin, she would avert her eyes. I must have great anger for me. Well, she did deserve it. In the meantime, I got to know the names of the two Gameform Councillors.

After finishing our lunch, we sat down to start the official meeting.

The two Councillors were seated on one side of the table while me and both Adi’Je and Naj’Rak sat on my right and left respectively. Commander Eldin sat at the right hand side corner of the table.

The Councillor who was sitting on the left side of the two, his name was Nerues R.Galeform. He was on the shorter side with a round body. He had a light yellow complexion with yellow round eyes. His eyes were a bit hooded type, which means the folds of the skin were hanging over his socket. He had a wide forehead and a bulbous nose and small ears. His face showed signs of life experience and if I had to judge, he would be around Elder’s age.

The Councillor sitting adjacent to him was named Astreus R.Galeform. He was a little taller than his partner. Except for some minute facial features the rest was same as his partner, Nerues R.Galeform. He too was experienced in life and the biggest common factor was their hair colour. Both of them had red hair. While Nerues had short red hairs, Astreus had some patch of his hair missing or it was gone.

Naturally, I asked what the ‘R’ in their names meant and they replied that the ‘R’ represented the colour of their hair which was Red. They were dressed rather nicely considering many of their people died and the Red Galeform variant took the biggest casualty of civilians. Their speech was also refined and they were well mannered. So much so that they put me to shame. I was an actual King, but they behaved like they were Royalty.

Our conversation started and it was Councillor Nerues who started it.

Councillor Nerues: “It is an honour to meet you, King Le’On. Thank you for agreeing to meet with us.”

Councillor Astreus: “Yes, when we heard that our City was finally rid of those filthy monsters we were ecstatic. We were also surprised to hear it too because just few days ago, we heard the Zoit soldiers were being pushed back and were receiving heavy loss. Then, we learned of the help received by them which were vital for defeating them and then we learned that the Blood Zumas were the once to help.”

Councillor Nereus: “We got into confusion... who were the Blood Zumas. We have heard about Zumas before, but they were not known for these kinds of endeavours and certainly not even capable of the level of heroic deeds you and your men showed here.

So, the Council of Galeform Clan wanted to know about the history and the birthplace of your Clan along with the question: Are the Blood Zumas a rare variant of the Zumas? We also would like to know you the Blood Zumas are open to a discussion of joint economic development.”

From the corner of right eye, I saw Adi’Je clenching her fist under the table and her eyes were fixed on those two. She still hasn’t come to terms with our Clans fallen reputation in the Zoit continent. I slowly put my hand on her hand. With a passing glance she saw me and quickly came back to normal.

Me: “First of all, it was my duty as a fellow Clan of the Zoit continent to come to the aide of another distressed Clan.

Secondly, The Blood Zumas were the actual name of our clan and we were supposed to be like how we are now. But our last King suppressed the racial trait within us and introduced us to the rest of the still evolving Zoit continent as short, frail Zumas. I assure you, we are not frail and certainly not short by any means. Frankly, we were the first Clan in the Zoit continent to evolve into a superior species. That is also our history.

Now, after becoming the King, I cancelled the racial trait suppression, thus we got back our original forms.

So, the answer to your question about whether we are a variant of Zuma or not, is no... We are the same beastmen.

And we are interested in discussing about the possibilities of joint economic developments.”

They listened to me diligently and showed signs of surprise, but they kept themselves in check.

Councillor Nereus looks over to his partner for a few seconds before looking towards me.

Councillor Nereus: “We-we apologize with our rude comments early on, King Le’On regarding your Clan. Please believe it was done due to sheer ignorance on our part and we will be careful with our behaviour in the future.”

Me: “Please, you couldn’t have known about it even if you searched history books. But you were right on one thing. This misconception is due to the fact of sheer ignorance on the part of most of the Zoit continent and almost all within the Council of Zoit.

At this point, our main aim is to re-establish ourselves in the Zoit continent. Due to our recent pact with the Council of Zoit, we are in total control of selling and distribution of Vitalis in the whole Zoit continent be it in any form. The eradication of Dynoths also falls under that pact, fortunately for you might I add.

Before coming here, we visited and helped the Cillata Clan on a matter and we signed a treaty with them. I also happen to know that the relation between Cillata Clan and the Galeform Clan are very... very good.

If the Galeform Clan is interested in what the Blood Zumas could offer, then I will advise you to seek the Cillata Clan and review the pact we signed with them. It is an open treaty or pact where any interested economic based Clan can join and be benefited from it.”

Councillor Astreus: “We-Well... we... would definitely follow up on that matter. Actually, (he turns to Nereus, who gives him a nod, then turns back to me) the moment we go back, we will contact the Council of Cillata and mention them they you, King Le’On has referred us to the... umm... open treaty.”

Me: “Okay.”

Councillor Nereus: “Another aspect we would love to discuss with you King Le’On and especially to Commander Eldin Vest.”

Commander Eldin: “Yes Councillors...”

Councillor Nereus: “We would like to know when our populace can come back to our city.”

Commander Eldin: “We are now in the process of removing the bodies of deceased Galeform members along with dead Dynoth bodies as well. We are also working to clear out the rubbles that have been accumulated in the city. So, according to that report; it will be close to another week before we hand over the Galeform city back to you.”

Councillor Astreus: “Dynoth bodies? Ho-how many have you managed to kill?”

Commander Eldin: “Hundreds...”

Councillor Astreus: “Then could we ask if you can be kind enough to hand over the Dynoth bodies to us?”

Commander Eldin (shrugs her shoulder): “The Zoit Army has no need of these bodies and moreover, almost 90% of the dead Dynoth bodies belong to the Blood Zumas as they killed that many. So, it is a request suitable towards Ki-King Le’On.”

For a brief moment our eyes met and immediately she averted her eyes.

Councillor Nereus: “Oh... then King Le’On... could we take all of your kills? We are ready to pay compensation for it too... We, umm we are ready to pay 20 Gold for each body of Dynoth.”

Adi’Je: “Why do you need them?”

Councillor Nereus: “W-we are a Clan mostly dependent upon dairy and farming products. Now, the Dynoths meat, skin, organs, teeth, bones, etc can all be used by us. The powerful the monsters are the more rich their meat, organs or any part of them becomes. We would benefit hugely for it and we need to or we could not sustain the amount of rebuilding needed to be done in the Galeform city, Queen Adi’Je.”

Naj’Rak: “Then buying the bodies from us won’t deplete your Clan savings? You would hard pressed and it will take much longer for you to rebuild.”

Councillor Astreus: “Yes... in a way it would, Queen Naj’Rak.”

Me: “Then, you don’t have to pay anything for them.”

Councillor Astreus: “Bu-but it will be not right. Please... we have enough to rebuild our city even if we buy those bodies from you. We cannot take those for free knowing you it costed you much effort and you even helped us reclaiming our city. We would really like to...”

Me: “As I stated previously, as fellow Clan in the Zoit continent, it is a duty to help those in distress. The Blood Zuma will not take any money from selling those bodies to you.”

I turned towards Commander Eldin.

Me: “Commander, I want you to transfer all the bodies that we killed to the Galeform clan when you have finished collecting them all.”

Commander Eldin: “Yes King Le’On.”

Councillor Nereus: “Thank you King Le’On... thank you.”

Councillor Astreus: “Will the Blood Zumas also be stationed here with the Zoit Army before handing over the city back to us?”

Me: “Yes and the Blood Zumas will stay here and also assist the Galeform Clan until all of them have settled down.”

Councillor Astreus: “Oh... that would be great. We are in deeply indebted to the Blood Zuma.”

Me: “It’s nothing like that and unfortunately me and Queen Adi’Je will going to another place so, Queen Naj’rak will take over from me.”

Councillor Nereus: “Excellent.”

Me: “Now if you’ll excuse us, I have other matters to attend to... Councillors, as the Blood King of the Blood Zumas, I give you my word that we will stand by the Galeform clan from on.”

I stood up, followed by Adi’je and Naj’Rak. Then Commander Eldin and the two happy Councillors stood up too.

Councillor Astreus: “Thank you King Le’On once again and hopefully the next time we meet, we would have a much longer conversation.”

Me: “Absolutly...”

Councillors greeted Adi’Je and Naj’Rak too, and both of them put such royal aura around them that I felt kind of pale compared to them.

We exited the tent and headed towards our tent.

Naj’Rak: “My King... I am to stay here, away from you?”

Me: “Naj’Rak... there has been many developments, listen carefully.

First, yesterday night after a short exchange, I have temporarily granted Commander Eldin the status of my Concubine and put her under Queen Adi’Je. The details of her term you can know from Adi too. This information is to be known only by the three of us.

Secondly, you are to remain here and lead in mine and Queen Adi’Je’s absence. The rest of the Bloods will remain here with you too, and help you to assist the Galeform clan in their rehabilitation. And while you are at it, you are to keep Commander Eldin in check. Adi will brief you about the do's and don’ts too.”

Naj’Rak: “I understand My King... but may I ask where are you going?”

Me: “We are going to the Amoith Mountain to find and kill Aby’s killers.”

Adi’Je: “I cannot wait to unleash my anger on them. I just hope they can endure it.”

Me: “As do I Adi... as do I.

I will create such carnage in their hearts and minds that after I am done, they will know the depths of my pain and wished they never even laid one finger over her.”