Glass Love and Desire: Ch 5. Preparation for the Future.
The week after his wedding, Malakath was especially high in his glory. He didn’t care for the celebrations themselves; all that mattered was the rewards that were cultivated. All the Hasai loved him. He was the prodigal son; a new beautiful wife at his side and being a war hero gave him that honour. But events for Chione were starting to snow ball quickly. The Hasai, especially those deep in the Kikai Empire, wanted to know what kind of woman she was, and how she could be used politically.
There was very little time for a honeymoon period since Mally's people were eager to hear updates on their marriage. While Chione understood he had a duty to his kingdom, she did wish it was just a little more time for the two of them. Still, while he was away with meetings and diplomatic issues, she learned the Hasai language and tended to the beautiful garden that her husband gifted her. Within the short time Chione had been in the Kikai Empire, she had covered the greenhouse with a variety of plants. The botanist was currently trying to hybridize a Naran Kamazu with a Kikai Lily to produce a stunning red lily which could survive extreme heat and in a watery environment. So far, it was a waiting game to see if her efforts paid off in the end.
Still, it was a little lonely with limited interactions, waiting on Mally.
Coming through the door, Malakath entered with company beside him. Strolling in, the Prince gave his wife a kiss on the cheek. “How goes your experiment?”
"Mally!" Chione was delighted to see her husband after he had been in meetings all day. She purred loudly, her tail wrapping around his leg to pull him in closer for a deep kiss. Narans were especially affectionate with their mate. "I have growth for the hybrids. Soon, I hope to present you with a red lily. The white ones you have are beautiful, but imagine if I could grow these for you. It would be a blend of my home and yours, something truly ours."
“I like the sound of that. A mark I can leave on the lands of the Kikai Empire itself.” He enjoyed the deep kiss she gave him, a perk of a lovely woman like Chione. Pulling back, he licked his lips as he introduced his companion. “My dear Chione, may I introduce you to my confidant, Captain Bellum.”
The man before her was dressed in an onyx black uniform. With sharp blue skin and purple eyes, he was a Romtan. His gaze was analytic and stoic, and his tone was polite when he spoke. “Greetings, Princess Chione. We didn’t have a chance to speak at the wedding,”
"It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance." Chione's grasp of the Hasai language had improved immensely, despite Mally's sister teasing her about such a thick accent. "Captain of..." She paused, thinking of the right word. glancing at Mally for the correction translation. "Um... the fighters? All the fighters?"
"Simply a captain, Princess. I command my ship, the KE-Entrapment. There are many captains. Maybe one day I can be the first admiral of my kind in the empire." He smiled, breaking some tension. "I do lead the engineering department, however. I took the liberty in constructing your greenhouse."
"You built this?" Chione gestured to the greenhouse in surprise, but smiling so brightly at the revelation. Even her tail wagged from the thought of such a wondrous building in the stages of construction. Before she thought, the Naran blurted, "I want another one!"
Realizing what she suddenly said, Chione sheepishly then admitted, "I mean... it would be nice to have another one, but this one is plenty for now! It's just so... so at home. I feel at home in here with the plants. It's one of the best gifts I've ever received." She nuzzled foreheads with Mally, "My mate knows me well."
"You're a princess now, consider it a command." Bellum gestured to the plants she was making. "Tell me, Prince Malakath mentioned an experiment. What are you trying to create?"
"I do not wish to make a request of another greenhouse when I know the safety of the Hasai people takes precedence." Chione did not like the idea of being so demanding, but would not reject an offer of another building for her plants. "Only if you have time and wish to do so."
When Bellum inquired of the lilies, Chione bent down to show him the white Hasai lilies and Kamazu plant growing side by side. She explained, "This is a Kamazu plant from Al-Daida. It is good for all properties of healing, especially infection. Mally told me his favorite plant was the Hasai lily. He said the white lilies were good for increasing the hotness of a Hasai's flame in battle." She motioned to the tiny little buds starting to grow. "If these hybrids survive, I will have created a plant that is resistant to heat, thrives in soil or water, and may provide special healing properties to those who command fire here. A plus for all the souls in Kikai."
"Well, I'm sure the Skurge and Ocho will enjoy the practicality of the plant. While I can admire it myself, I think I will enjoy its beauty more."
Malakath patted his wife's back, enjoying the fact she and Bellum seemed to be hitting it off. "We're in times of peace right now. You can have all the greenhouses you wish."
"We still need a proper name for them," Chione thought a grandiose title was in place for the plant instead of a simple red lily. "What do you suggest, Bellum?"
"Oh, I dare not take away that honour from you. You're the artist after all."
"A good artist is always open to suggestions," Chione countered with a smile. "Mally? What about you? After all, they're my gift to you."
Malakath thought about it for a moment, then shrugged his shoulders. "I agree with Captain Bellum. It's your design. You're a princess of the Empire now. One day, you'll be a future Empress. It's up to you to leave your legacy. That means it's your name for your creation."
"Very well," Chione then stated, "Then I will call them kaji lilies, after the great fire that Mally controls, and many other fire users of the Hasai people. For the Narans, my native tongue, it will be Anwara Lilies, since their radiance will glow even with the lack of the sun."
"That's a beautiful name my dear." Malakath kissed her again, grinning happily. "Bellum, wouldn't you agree?"
"Yes my prince. It is a very fine name. I shall go put the order in to start building other green houses, unless either of you need anything further from me?"
"I would like to request your knowledge of the military system , Bellum." Chione asked the captain with sincerity. "I still have much to learn about the Hasai people. What better way to learn about the military than from someone who is in it?"
“Excellent. If you have time, I can teach you the devil in the details that help keep the empire running. Perhaps you’d also like some self defense lessons?”
"There are no dragons left. Not anymore." Bellum seemed to speak with a tinge of regret, but not enough to rouse Malakath's suspicions. "I speak of hand to hand combat. Wrestling is merely a sport."
"Sport? In Al-Daida, it is the main way females subdue their males." Chione did not realize the Hasai people considered wrestling a mere pastime. "Very well, I'd be happy to learn, though you might have your work cut out for you. The only weapon I've ever held is my carving knife for the plants."
"That's fine. Everyone begins from nothing. Even Prince Malakath had to learn technique." Bellum gave her a bow. "If you excuse me, I'm sure the prince can tell you where to find me."
Watching the Captain leave, Malakath nudged his wife. "What do you think of him?"
"From what little you told me about him before, I thought he'd be ten feet tall and super imposing." Chione admitted to her husband, before pouncing on him, knocking him to the ground. Smirking from ear to ear, the Nara then said, "But he's wrong about wrestling simply being a sport," She leaned down to nibble on his ear, "It's a way of passion to the Naras."
"Oh, I agree. This is far better than a sport. Wrestling for us is combat. Passion is far better." Malakath grinned ear to ear.
"What better place to find passion than here?" Chione grinded her hips downward to tease him. "In the beautiful gift you gave to me?" She was quite bold when it was just her and Mally together, especially pertaining to intercourse. "Just imagine. Each time I come here to tend to my plants, I'll remember how handsome you looked, sprawled out underneath me, just like this."
"Then why don't we make a sweet memory?"
"And have everyone smelling how we fucked?" Chione mused, teasing. "Scandalous. Although, it is my greenhouse."
The Nara slipped her tail into Malakath's pants, rubbing against his length. Her hands were busy sliding up his shirt, as her tongue traced from his navel to a nipple, giving a harsh bite, before going to his throat. She loved how his body was, and even more so, the noises he made for her.
They started kissing and feeling each up on another, getting more and more intense as they went on. Just as Malakath was pulling his member out of his pants, positioned right behind Chinoe with a horn in his other hand, his sister happened to come marching around the corner.
"Chione, are you- HOLY EXODRUM! What the fuck are you two doing?" She looked away, extremely embarrassed by the site of them. "Why here?!"
Malakath barely batted an eye. "I'm going to make love to my beautiful, strong wife. What does it look like to you?"
"Oh go fuck yourself. Just- please stop."
Chione was far from embarrassed. No, the Nara was actually very pissed. For the past two weeks, Silvia had made it her personal mission to interrupt any kind of mating session. Her tail twitched in irritation. She had tried her best to be kind to Silvia, but her sister-in-law had brushed off any attempts for conversation. Matter of fact, Silvia had been quite rude to Chione.
"Tell her to leave." Chione growled, "We haven't fucked in days because of continuous interruptions, and my heat cycle is ending in two days. If you want a child, we need to try. Now."
"I wanted to ask you a favour here, I didn't know my brother was here!" Silvia still didn't dare look at them. "I'll leave you to your debauchery."
"Oh come sister. Stay. You might actually learn how to please a man."
"Go to hell brother."
"Wait outside if you wish to speak so urgently." Chione nipped at Mally's bottom lip, having little to no filter during her heat cycle. "With how vigorous your brother is, it won't take too long for a rut. If he only goes for one round, that is."
Silvia held her hands up in defeat and turned to leave. "Goodbye."
Malakath grinned wickedly. Now his sister would know just how far behind she was.
"Finally," Chione purred in satisfaction as she wiggled her backside at Malakath. She made sure to move her tail out of the way as she lowered her head down onto her arms, on all fours. This was her favorite position, allowing him to thrust as hard, as fast, and as deep as he liked. "Some time for just me and you."
"Finally."
Silvia waited outside on a nearby balcony, tapping her fingers impatiently. An hour went by and there was no sign of Silvia. The last thing she wanted-
"Oh hello darling."
... was to be disturbed. "Hello father."
The Emperor smiled broadly, taking a seat across from her. "You know darling, you really need to learn how to knock. No one likes a pervert."
"I'm not a pervert, father."
"Your constant attempts to stop me from having grandchildren would say otherwise. From what I overheard, you can't make me believe you wanted to ask Chione an actual favour."
"I did..."
"Oh my dear, dear Silvia. I'm impressed you're still wanting to keep yourself ahead of the game. You're not a quitter, I'll give you that."
Silvia grimaced. For once she wished her father didn't want to play games. Yet, she never wanted to disappoint him either. "I never do."
After a very passionate and intense bout of love making, Chione was persuaded by her husband to at least hear Silvia's request. Five rounds of rutting had put Chione in a better mood to entertain the idea. Fixing her dress and her hair, the Nara walked through the curtains on the balcony, not realizing there was other present company.
"Silvia, what do you want that's so important you had to interrupt Mally and---oh!" Chione saw Emperor Chillowack and immediately extended a polite bow. It was customary in the Hasai culture. "I beg pardon, father-in-law, I did not know you were here as well. I hope I did not keep you waiting too long. Your son is quite..." She figured there was no way to sugar coat it, especially since Hasai noses were quite adept at scents. "Demanding."
"I'm sure he is." Chillowack winked with a chuckle. "Just pretend I'm not here. I would love to simply observe how my new daughter will get along with the old."
Silvia held a stare at her father that was cold and distant, yet held a barely contained hatred.
"In all honesty, father-in-law, that remains to be seen." Chione replied candidly to the Emperor. While she would not show weakness around him, the Nara was not above being blunt. Mally told her that his father appreciated the brutal truth... most of the time. For some reason, he found it amusing. "I've little time to know Silvia, but more with Mally."
"Then you two should get to know one another. After all, you're both big cogs in the machine that runs the Empire. Best you both get along."
"That all depends if she's going to keep interrupting your son and I." Chione retorted dryly, "But I will endeavor to be a good sister-in-law."
"You shouldn't have to rush into such things just to spite me." Silvia sneered, but remained in her seat.
"You shouldn't have judged me before you knew me." Chione snapped right back, tired of taking Silvia's constant snide remarks. "I have done no wrong against you, yet you are rude, short, and view me as inferior all due to the fact that Mally and I wed before you have found a mate." She went straight to the heart of the matter. "Your fear of being replaced by a child of ours is irrational. You are his sister, and he cares for you. I seek no ill will towards you and wish you happiness like I have found with your brother."
She then added, crossing her arms, standing tall. "But if you insist on being petty like a young teenager, then I will not indulge you. I would like to be friends, since I have so few here, but I will not be belittled nor made to feel beneath you each time we speak. I am not Hasai, but I am Naran, and I do commend the same amount of respect as you."
"Fine. Be naive." Taking a deep breath, Silvia shook her growing animosity off, least for a moment. "I need your advice as a botanist."
"I'd rather be naive than prickly like you." Chione growled in annoyance, but was surprised at such a statement. "You want to know about plants?"
“I want to know about romantic plants.”
"Romantic plants?" Chione could not believe what she was hearing. "The language of flowers? As in, nine roses means 'our love is eternal'?"
“Yes. I need to know what the best bouquet of flowers to give a mate would be.”
"Red carnation, apple blossoms, white lilies, daisies, yellow pansies, and red tulips would make for a grand gesture," Chione stated off the flowers she knew that proposed intentions toward another. "Unless you rather settle for a single rose to declare love."
“Thank you.” Silvia was quick with her response. It was all she could muster.
"I do not have all of those species in my garden yet, but you are welcome to gather a few." Chione figured it would keep Silvia out of her hair for now by giving the woman what she wanted. "My assistant will help you."
“That’s good to hear.” Silvia stood up, and grasped Chione’s hands to shake them. “You have a good day, sister.”
"... good luck with your romantic endeavor." Chione was confused by Silvia's behavior for sure. Why the sudden change of heart? Yet, the Nara was not convinced. Silvia was probably using her for whatever small benefit she could get.
Chillowack chuckled at the sight of his daughter barely being able to ask for a favour. "Run along princess."
After he left, he smiled at Chione favourably. "It's no business of mine to say where you should or shouldn't make love, but I would advise caution doing it in a public setting. We aren’t savages dear."
"I apologize," Chione's tail twitched slightly, not exactly wanting to discuss this topic with her father-in-law, but a Hasai's nose never lied. "The fault lies upon me. Naran heat cycles are hellish to endure, and your son will not deny me. I will be more mindful of my surroundings in the future."
“Good to hear dear. I am very excited to know what you name your twins.”
"... twins?" Chione blinked, a bit caught off guard. "What makes you think there's going to be twins? Is it common for Hasai to have multiples?"
Chillowack looked surprised. “You mean he hasn’t told you? It's a royal tradition. Those who give birth to Ocho children always give birth to twins. One boy, one girl.”
"No, I... well... I'm not Hasai." Chione wondered how the cross between their two races would work. "Does that mean I will still have twins?"
“Well, Malakath is. His blessed seed will be enough.”
"Well... I um..." Chione was not sure how to react to this news, but supposed it was not a bad thing. Names. What names would Mally like? What did she like? "I've always liked Zannah for a girl. I thought it was very regal for a lady." She thought for a moment more, "Maybe... maybe Nihilus for a boy. Or Seras. Both are strong names for a son." Curious, she then asked, "What about you? I'm sure you've discussed names with Mally before."
“Please, not my place. Naming was exhausting enough with him and Silvia.”
"Names hold meaning in many cultures, father-in-law," Chione reminded the Emperor with a small smile. "If anything, I want our children to be healthy, to be strong... and to be happy."
“Happiness? Oh that is just adorable.” The Emperor stood up, shaking his head. “Strong and healthy, I certainly hope so. But take it from me. Don’t promise happiness. You’ll often be disappointed. Good day dear.”
As the Emperor took his exit, Chione was rather confused. What kind of parent would not wish for their child's happiness? Even her parents, who were not rich by any monetary standards, gave her a lovely and happy childhood. Dismissing the thought, Chione returned to the inner sanctum of her greenhouse to check on the sprouts of the kaji lilies. She hoped the flowers would bloom soon so she could present the plant to Mally as a gift.
~
About a month in, something miraculous occurred. Silvia had stopped openly antagonizing her sister in law. And Chione received the first evidence that she was pregnant. When the news reached the other members of the royal family, there was a thick air of joy, but also tension. The birth of a new line was a momentous occasion, but one that always had a hint of vulnerability around it. The prince did not hesitate in taking precautions. "Chione. I won't have any arguments. You're going to have a bodyguard wherever you go."
Over the moon at the news, Chione was determined to be the best mother possible. She was excited for the arrival of the twins. Already, she had set to designing a nursery and collecting adorable baby clothes. Often, she wondered whether her children would have horns or a tail like her, or perhaps favor their father more in inheritance.
Yet, the pregnancy had not been easy. Chione had extreme morning sickness, confined to her chambers due to the fatigue and nausea, but luckily it had passed by the time the first trimester concluded. The doctors hounded her, but the Naran had lost her temper at several of them, hating to be touched by the foreign hands. After one doctor nearly lost his hand, Mally had at least ordered the physicians to leave her be for the time being. The arrival of the second trimester promised an easier storm to weather.
Though, Chione was a little concerned. Thus far, there was barely any bump visible. She had heard tales of many Naran women only showing evidence of pregnancy in the last trimester, so she tried not to fret over the thought too much. For now, Chione was spending time outside with Mally, enjoying the fresh air. The ten guards with them, however, she thought was a bit of overkill. If it made Mally feel better, Chione supposed she could tolerate their presence.
But the promise of a constant babysitter was a bit of an irritation.
"My darling, are you sure it is necessary?" Chione gently ran her fingers through his hair as he used her lap as a pillow. Both were enjoying the breeze and clear sky, the perfect day for a romantic picnic... despite extra company. "I will not argue with you, but we are in the palace. Surely it is quite safe here?"
"You never know my dear. There are certain political families that would love nothing more than to prove themselves our superiors and take the throne from us. While you are pregnant, you will be more vulnerable than usual." Malakath held his head, feeling a slight migraine. "I will not risk your health or the future of our line."
Malakath smiled slyly. “My dear. As much as I would love to, nothing would get done. So no, it will fall to someone else. I’ve trusted Bellum to find a suitable person to be at your side.”
Entering a doorway to a dojo, the captain gave a bow. “Princess Chione. Prince Malakath. Welcome.”
"Oh, what a shame, how would the palace survive without you?" Chione teased her husband lightly when he smirked at her. "While I understand, I cannot say I'm a bit disappointed. I am, after all, the perfect excuse to pull you away from your duties."
As Mally led her to a dojo, Chione admired the lovely structure. There were no such places in her homeland. All of the fighting was in the gladiator rings or 'the pits' as her people referred to the area. Once Bellum greeted both of them, Chione gave the captain a smile.
She said warmly, "How are you fairing, Bellum? Has Mally granted you the rank of admiral like I've asked him to do so?" Chione was not above some goodhearted banter with her husband, resting her head on his shoulder. "Do remember that you promised when the title was granted, I'd be the first to get a tour of your lovely ship."
"I did. And that will come soon. But first, business. I would like to introduce you to Zarun Thel. First Lady of House Thel, and your protector."
Malakath was completely surprised when he saw an Ocho step forward. The civil war had reduced their numbers to- well to be blunt, Malakath thought his blood family were the only ones left. She was certainly beautiful, and he had no doubt that she would be an excellent fighter. The woman, garbed in an unique onyx black armour with red striping among the shoulders gave a firm bow.
"Princess Chione. It is my honour to serve as your bodyguard."
"It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lady Zarun." Chione was surprised to see an Ocho as well. She was expecting a Skurge at most, but this was far from her expectations. Not to mention, the woman was absolutely stunning. "I do hope we will be fast friends."
"Likewise ma'am." Zarun shook her hand by the forearm in a firm handshake. "I won't let you, or Prince Malakath, down."
Bellum nodded. "Lady Zarun will be your sword and shield. I'm sure you won't be disappointed."
"If you have Bellum's vote of confidence, then you have mine." Chione returned the handshake, being mindful of her claws. "I thank you for taking this job."
Malakath eyes went up and down the other Ocho. She was beautiful; incredibly so. Her eyes had a steep confidence, her hair was cut sharp, and her lips were flowerily. Above all else she smelled like-
Shaking his head, the prince felt his breath hitch. No. Why were these thoughts coming to him? He had mated with his wife. He was bound to her. He should not even be physically capable of feeling this way. Rather silent, he eyed both women back and forth. Finally, he gestured for Bellum to come forward. "Captain, walk with me. We shall leave the two women to... get to know one another while we discuss our project."
"As you wish my lord. Princess. Commander. I wish you both well."
"Tell me, Lady Zarun, I'm curious, what do you know of the Naran culture?" Chione asked as she motioned for the bodyguard to take a seat on a pillow next to the tea table. "I'd be rather happy to answer your questions if you have any."
“Naran? I was only given cliff notes. I know that you come from a desert across the sea, you have abnormal physical strength, and you have a cultural taste for jewelry. I must say that your Hasai is rather good.”
"My people are from Al-Daida," Chione clarified for Zarun with a soft smile. "We are supposedly the descendants of Aliyah, the sorceress, and her lover, the great drake of the desert, Daidan." She offered her bodyguard a cup of tea. The leaves were from the variety of plants from her greenhouse. It was soothing and calming. "Indeed, we are strong, and yes, I do appreciate fine jewelry, but there is certainly more to me than such trivial little things."
She encouraged Zarun, "Ask me your questions and I'll ask you a few in return. It is nice to get to know a friend in such a way."
"Very well." Zarun seemed to be deep in thought, then answered honestly. "Your horns. Can you use them in battle? Do you know magic if you are a descendant of a sorceress?"
"Of course!" Chione replied enthusiastically. It was refreshing to have someone else to talk to besides her husband or a servant. She took the tip of her finger and poked her sharp horn. "Naran horns are incredibly resilient. If broken, they grow back. Very useful to use to pierce or gorge." She then gave a slight shake of her head, "Some Narans are blessed with magical talent, while others possess strength. I, unfortunately, do not have magic to use, yet I was blessed in other ways." She motioned to the tea that was in the pot. "I was able to implement the usage of my ancestor's green thumb. She turned the desert into an oasis for us."
"You can manipulate plant life with magic? That sounds beautiful. Part of me is glad you fit so well in the Empire then."
"It's not a very flashy type of magic, but at least I can ensure that the Empire will never be hungry." Chione mused, "Though, here of late, I feel very drained by the pregnancy. I must admit, it's a bit out of sorts for me to lack such energy."
"I am more than willing to lend a hand when need be." The bodyguard walked around with the princess, keeping a steady pace. "I believe it's your turn for questions?"
"I have to admit, you are an Ocho," Chione asked Zarun, rather bluntly, but figured there was no reason to sugarcoat things. "I thought Ocho were all part of the royal family. Why are you working as my bodyguard?"
There was a little bit of regret on Zarun's face, but she kept her tone steady. "When the Waku went to war with the royal family, Emperor Chillowack called upon all the royal houses for support. Fighting the Waku was a struggle on its own. Fighting the dragons, it became a long term slaughter. Because the Emperor held the Crown of Exodrum, he was the most powerful Ocho among us, so we followed any order he laid out with obedience. Even if it meant dying with honour. And that, ultimately, is what occurred."
Reaching a balcony, Zarun pointed out the countryside in the distance next to the volcano. "Out there, in the distant plains. That's where my family laid down their lives fighting two dragons. We were allowed to command armies of Skurge and Romtan, but for my family, for the rest of the Ocho, honour dictated that we lead by example. That put us right in front of all the carnage. When all the fighting was done, I was one of the last remaining Ocho outside of the royal family. Certainly the last of mine. Now only a handful of families remain."
"Oh..." Chione did not realize there were other Ocho families besides her husband's. There was still a lot left for her to learn. The pain in Zarun's voice was evident. Loss was a wound which never went away, even with the passing of time. The pain only became easier to deal with as the years passed. "I'm sorry for the loss of your family."
The Nara frowned, and then gave Zarun's hand a soft pat as a gesture of comfort. "I know what it is like to lose someone you love. My parents have been gone for a few years, but I still miss them." She gave a brief pause and then stated, "I hope you find someone one day that makes you as happy as Mally makes me. Then, you can have your own family again. No, it won't be the same, but still..." Chione gave a small smile. "It will be less lonely for sure."
The Ocho smiled, feeling a sense of comradery between herself and the princess. "Indeed. I take it you've enjoyed your time here in the Empire so far?"
"The Empire is very different from Al-Daidan, but I have enjoyed my time here." Chione supposed that was a half truth. She was enjoying her time here, but felt so... alienated. There was hardly anyone here who she could consider a true friend. "It'd be nice if I could... go outside of the palace." The Naran gave a defeated sigh, "Mally is insistent that I remain within the walls for my safety, stating he does not know how the people will react to me."
"Well... you're safe with me. If the prince's first concern is safety, then that matter is settled. I can take you to see the countryside."
"Really?!" Chione lit up like fireworks in the sky, grasping both of Zarun's hands in excitement. She had her hopes up now. Even her tail wagged from the thought of visiting the lush countryside with so many new plants. "There's so many new plants I've yet to gather for my garden! I mean, of course, Mally told me he'd have them delivered here, but I want to see them in their natural environment! It might give me the opportunity to make more hybrids!"
"We can ride a Manticore. Come on, you're going to love the sights." Grabbing her hand, the Ocho was quick to lead the Nara down through the palace, down every hall to the monster's stables. Here, in zoo-like cages, various monsters were lying about. An incredibly large Wyvern rested, a few Basilisk's slithered in coils, some Griffins were putting together a nest, and finally, there was the Manticore.
Opening the cage, Zarun let out a whistle. "Myhrra, come!"
From the shadows of the cave corner, a large beast walked forward with heavy paws. The monster had the body of a lion, but on its rear was a massive scorpion-like tail with a rounded spiked tail. It had leathery wings upon its back, and its face was like a man with the main and jaws of a lion. Seeing Chione, it smiled with hunger. It seemed Zarun was on this behaviour right away, flicking fire at its feet.
"No! She is not food! This is Princess Chione. She's going to be a friend."
"A what now?" Chione was barely able to inquire what the hell a manticore was before being dragged by Zarun to the stables. This was new. She had never seen this part of the palace before. There were so many beasts in here that were new to her. Of course, Chione was a bit biased, since in her opinion, there was nothing which could compare to the majestic sand rays of her homeland. When the beasts licked its lips, Chione's tail stood on end for a moment, before flicking in warning. She would fight if necessary, though, thankfully, Zarun calmed her creature. "Are all your pets so bloodthirsty?"
“All the best creatures are.” The way Zarun petted the main of the creature made it almost seem docile, the way it slapped its foot up and down in happiness. Almost wasn’t good enough when it still had maddening eyes staring at Chione, yet it didn’t make any moves. Grabbing a saddle, the Ocho attached it to her pet, then instructed Chione to climb aboard the back. It was about the size of a horse, so just about enough room to fit together. “She won’t bite. Unless I command it~”
"If she bites, I bite back. Just warning you." Chione climbed up on the saddle, the feeling rather foreign. In Al-Daida, she rode the sand rays, camels, and every other mount without such equipment. She was curious as to why the Hasai used such a thing for their pets. "We do not have these in Al-Daida."
“Manticore are rare, even in the empire, so I’m not surprised. Myhrra here I found as a kitten. Trained her to be my companion in battle. Other Ocho gravitated to beasts like griffins, basilisks, or even minotaurs. Since they’re all mostly dead, I’d say I chose wisely. Come on Myhrra, show the princess what you can do.”
With a roar that sounded more like a woman screaming than a cat, the Manticore spread its leathery wings, then with a few paces of running forward took off into the air. Soon enough, the pair was flying over the walls of the castle.
As soon as the manticore took off into the air, Chione was laughing in absolute delight. This reminded her of the flights on the sand rays. It was not as smooth as the ancient rulers of the desert, but it was still wonderful to experience the wind on her face again. It made the kingdom feel a little less foreign, and more like home.
With a slap of the reins, Zarun had her beast take them down with a dive towards the hillsides. Carefully, they flew over rice farmers, going into the lush countryside. “That’s good you’re taking this so well.”
"In my homeland, there are sand rays that are larger than the palace." Chione told Zarun with her arms wide for emphasis. "I miss riding on them. Miss seeing them. Their calls were like music echoing across the desert."
“That sounds beautiful Princess. I can’t say we have anything like that. Least, not since the dragons.”
"I was rather saddened when Mally told me there were no more dragons here," Chione gave a small sigh. "I was hoping to see one. Yet, he told me the dragons and the Waku were evil."
“Corrupted is more accurate. They weren’t always that way. We used to have a powerful and peaceful relationship with the dragons, and the Waku were some of the greatest in our empire. But greed and pride spread through them. There are some beasts that are similar, like Wyverns. Look like dragons from foreign lands, but less intelligent and smaller. There’s also the Krayt. But we avoid them where we can, unless it’s to hunt.”
"It is a sad day when all an individual cares about is power and cannot see what is enough around them." Chione looked out over the farmland, her tail flicking in excitement. "There's so many beautiful plants here. Thank you, for bringing me to see all this. I really appre---um..." She paused, noting that quite a few Hasai were staring at her. "... do I really look that odd?"
"Oh, the Hasai used to have horns and a tail?" Chione did not know that piece of history. Taking Zarun's hand, she was so eager to explore, but knew better than to go running off into the countryside. Malakath had warned her that not everyone was friendly. "I don't want to interrupt their day. I know they have work to do."
Zarun nodded to Chione before addressing the crowd. “Your princess demands you carry on your tasks! We are merely observing. Dismiss your gazes!”
The farmers did as they were told, going back to their livelihoods.
"... that's... effective?" Chione could not believe how fast the people returned to their jobs. "I mean, I don't want to startle them, I just want to be... well... nosy." She admitted sheepishly, "For lack of a better word, I'm curious."
“You can travel wherever you wish. This is your land to observe. You are royalty, and even if you are not originally of these lands, you carry within you holy blood. Your respect does not need to be earned, it is cemented upon you already.”
"While I appreciate all the given respect, I don't want to be..." Chione had to think for a moment, translating in her head. "Perceived as a tyrant. I don't want the people to fear me, or think I'm merely a trophy for Mally. I want them to know me for me."
Zarun observed Chione rather curiously, a raised brow at her thinking. “That’s rather noble of you. If you feel that way, observe. See what you can do to give back to the citizenship. Or perhaps find something worthy of fighting.”
"Mally rarely addresses the topic of his people," Chione then asked Zarun, looking around the area. "What do they need? I might not be able to do much, but I will try."
Zarun gestured to the landscape, at all the people around them, and when she spoke, she did so with reverence. “What do they need? Nothing but to keep the machine that is the Kikai Empire running. As the workers of our land, they keep up all the happiness everyone could ever need. As leaders, those who are of royalty and chosen might hold power as both a weapon but also a tool. It’s up to us to share that power with the people. You want to stand out? Give them a project. After the civil war, much of our beautiful land was scorched. Perhaps you can share techniques or create inventions our people can use?”
Chione wanted to argue that people needed more than a job to feel happiness. Love, friends, stability, food, there was so much she could say a person needed. Yet, a fulfilling purpose was different as well. Taking a look over the land, the Nara thought for a minute. Just because the land was scorched did not mean nothing could grow.
"... do they need more food?" Chione asked Zarun. "I know of very resilient plants that will grow in any type of soil. Of course, it will need some treatment, but I have an idea of what will work." She pointed with her finger, "And spilt the water flow to run in-between the fields instead of having the farmers having to go get it. Irrigation is important."
Zarun smiled at the idea Chione crafted. “It will be done. Would you like to see the forest fauna for inspection?”
"Yes, please!" Chione started to follow Zarun, but stopped, noting some of the farmers lacked the proper equipment. "... and safety needs to be first and foremost. I see a lot of these people do not even have gloves. Some plants are poisonous or could cause a bad reaction. Please make note I want the people to have the appropriate gloves, clothing wear, and boots. Boots are important when working with such heavy farming tools."
“I’ll make a note in my report, princess.”
It only took a couple minutes of flight until the pair found themselves going through the forest line. Landing on the road, Zarun made sure to look around first before letting Chione off the Manticore. “You can look around, but don’t walk too far away.”
The forest was oddly quiet for a place of nature. Chione was quietly observing the different types of plants. Though, one certainly caught her eye. It seemed to be... watching her? It moved as she moved. Curious, she flicked her tail one way and then the other, watching the plant mimic her movements.
"Zarun," Chione called to her bodyguard. "What is this? It... copies me."
“Ah, that’s the Dabara Bush. It can sense movement next to it. In a bid to not be eaten, it follows the movement next to it to scare off animals. We have used it as a detection mechanism against pests in times of war. As long as you aren’t five feet in front of it, it won’t move.” Carefully, Zarun drew her sword. “The trick, however, is sometimes they can grow alongside Deku Baba. I’m sure you’re aware of the man eating plants?”
"The only man eating plant I know is extremely rare called a Jawstalk Mantrap," Chione told Zarun as bent down to observe the Dabara Bush with her tail thudding against the ground in excitement. "Grows to extraordinary lengths and can swallow a man whole. I only save a preserved one, once." She then said, "We can use these in the fields to keep away flies and other pests. They don't feed on other plants, right? So it can be a symbiotic relationship!" She suggested excitedly, "Minus the Deku Baba, of course."
“That would be ideal. Grab some seeds, I just need to feed Myhrra. She gets antsy if she doesn’t eat every 7 hours.”
"Very well," Chione then asked Zarun, "Does your manticore eat fruit? I saw some berry bushes along the way."
“Alas, only meat.” Grabbing a slab of chicken from a sack, the Ocho tossed it in the air. The Manticore rolled its tongue over its teeth, then snatched it with one gulp.
"As long as it doesn't develop a taste for Naran flesh, I'm good." Chione then asked, "... can I pet her?"
“You may. Just don’t show any regret with fear. It’s like blood for a shark.”
The manticore waited, its spiky tail resting as it smiled that monstrous grin.
Chione approached the beast. It was dangerous, that was for sure. Not to show any fear, right? She stepped closer, hearing a small, rumbling growl. So, Chione did the only thing she knew to do, and growled right back, giving the manticore a harsh pat on the withers.
"Don't test me, poofy," Chione told the manticore sternly, chiding it. "I'm nauseous all the time, I want to eat until I puke, my feet are swollen, and my boobs are huge. Go on, test me and see what happens. I dare you. I'll rip out a fang and feed it to you. I'm small, but I can still toss around your emperor like a rag doll."
The Manticore paused, tilting its head. As it seemed like it was about to let Chione pet her, it raised its tail over its head and fired off three metal spikes. Behind the princess, a man who was charging with a blade let out a death rattle as his chest was filled with the projectiles. Before he could even fall to the ground, the smiling Manticore leaped over Chione to swallow the would be assassin whole.
Zarun was quick to draw her katana, watching as other figures emerged from the undergrowth. “Princess, stay close!”
A number of red skinned men brandishing weapons strode forward. The hatred in their eyes was clear. “For our fallen brothers and sisters! For our children! Die!!!” ______________________________________________________________
Written with @ridersoftheapocalypse, prequel to War of Fire.
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