Chronicles of the Kakonia

Hi, decided to post up two chapters this week. Chapter three is a long on, but does fill in some vital information about the world. Just so you know there's a bit at the end that deals with incest...there is a warning before it starts so if you want to skip it you can. Other than that, enjoy and leave a review!
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Chapter Three
The World & The Helot

Sometime later, Clara was huddled in the corner of a small room that served as Andrew’s office. The said soldier had stepped out to find Clara some clean clothes, since her once lovely dress was just about ruined and clung to her with all the ripeness of stink, sweat, filth, and God knows what.
She was shaking and in pain. The mark of the Kakonia Royal Family- Servant’s Edition was now branded into the small of her back.
Branded!
Branded like a steer with a hot iron pressed into the small of her back! It had hurt like nothing Clara had ever felt before.
“What kind of barbaric society is this?” whispered Clara to no one. Her back stun like hell, her eyes hurt from all the crying she had done, and her throat was raw from all the screaming.
This is the fucking price I had to pay for not to get executed by that psycho!
In addition to being branded like a cow, Clara had found out what helot meant; it translated to ‘slave’.
She was a slave, a fucking slave for an asshole of a king that nearly had her killed just because she was a human. As far as Clara was concerned everyone else looked human. Granted all the men she had seen so far were Greek gods, minus the doomed tax official guy.
“Fucking fantastic I land in a world of Amazon men and they look at me like I’m trash! I’m now a slave! And might as well be a million miles and a dimension away from home!” muttered Clara darkly “I want to go home”
“I’m afraid that’s out of the question” replied the voice of Andrew reentering his office. “Your home is a world away and I’m afraid you’re a helot now” replied the man in remorseful tone. “I’m sorry but it was the only thing I could think of to save your life”
“It’s okay…” Clara offered weakly. Despite everything she was alive after all; “… You saved my life from that psycho” replied Clara offering a weak smile to the kind soldier. Clara never really knew if she was a good judge of character, but Andrew seemed to be a really great guy…inside and out.
Andrew may have had a small stature compared to the others, but as far as, Clara was concerned he was very attractive; Andrew should at six foot or half an inch shorter. Messy light brown hair sat atop his head with warm brown eyes to match. Clean shaven on a rather teenaged looking face with narrow shoulders. The rest of him, though covered in black fabric and armor, was riddled with muscle giving him a wondrous medium build. Clara knew her friends back home would eagerly strip him down and make a meal out of him. To be honest Clara would gladly do the same, if the circumstances would have been different. Right now a rebound guy was far from her thoughts.
“The King is…well…he can be harsh in his decisions but he’s not that bad” commented Andrew breaking Clara’s thoughts.
Clara gave a glare “You could’ve of fooled me. He seems like an evil guy” muttered Clara bitterly. That bastard tried to have me killed than help me!
Andrew huffed; He couldn’t really blame the woman for being upset with their King. Lord Aiden didn’t make the best first impression on the poor foreigner and knowing his lordship, the woman’s opinion of the King wouldn’t improve anytime soon.
“I brought you some clothes…” announced Andrew handing a bundle of tanned clothes to Clara.
Clara took the offering hesitantly. “Thanks…I guess” she commented inspecting the outfit. It was just an oversized shirt with baggie shorts and the fabric was thin, thin enough to almost see through the garment. “Um…got anything…less see through?” asked Clara.
“Sorry, you’ll find that most of our clothing is very thin, with the heat and all” commented Andrew. “I’ll have to get in contact with my family to have them send some of my younger sisters’ old clothes for you…” said Andrew to himself. He gave Clara a once over, “Goodness you’re so small…I but it can’t be helped we’ll find something for you…I bet you could fit into some of Darren’s clothes…and oh dear…you could use a nice bath as well…you poor thing” fussed Andrew in parental way.
All the tender attention brought warmth to Clara’s heart that hadn’t been there since her nightmare began. Andrew had appeared to her like a saint that the nuns at Catholic school would preach about…. However, gratefulness aside, Clara wanted some answers.
She finally accepted that this wasn’t her world and these people were not as they seemed. If she was going to survive she had to know what to expect…
“…Thank you, all that sounds really good, but…um…can you explain a little more about this place…I mean this world? I had no idea something like this even existed…” admitted Clara timidly.
I think I should know exactly what I have gotten myself into; thought Clara.
“Sure, Clara…”
…
A brief History of the Fire Realm and its people:
Now some people do not believe in Demons and other supernatural things, but they are mistaken.
Demons and other creatures are all around; walking amongst us undetected. It’s just that most people don’t see them. Probably better for society as whole; ignorance is bliss as they say. Anyway, besides creatures existing in Human World (as others would call it), there are other worlds out there, separate dimensions or multi-universes. One of these worlds is known as the Fire Realm… no it’s not hell but it sure as hot as hell. It is an ancient world, far older than the Earthen plain and is full of un-believable inhabitants. Some could argue that Fire Realm cultural aspects have leaked into the Earthen plain and influenced human culture.
In the Fire Realm the land is dominated by one super continent with numerous islands dotted around the continent. Most of the land is desert-like or mountainous. There are a few areas that are lush with futile land, but mostly life has evolved to survive in extreme high temperatures from upwards of 150 degrees. Due to a catastrophic episode in the distant past, the once rich, vegetated land became mostly barren. Of course, the temperature isn’t helped with two hellish suns that tint the sky red. In the height of the dry season the days linger on with no nights for at least a month. Aside from the extreme heat, Fire Realm weather patterns are very similar to Earth, give or take extremely harsh storms.
Moving on…
While typical humans have no idea the Fire Realm exists, the peoples of the Fire Realm are very aware of the other dimensions that bordered their own, including the Human World. Demons in particular, favored the Human World, since their most important food supply comes from human blood.
Demons as mighty as they are in the arts of sorcery are actually very fragile creatures in comparison to other races. Their bodies are highly unstable; plagued with nutritional diseases. This race needs blood from others (mostly humans) to regulate their bodies.
Human slavery was banned many years ago by the current Demon King, Sen. Since much advancement had been made to the problem of collecting blood for a massive population by the use of alchemy to make an artificial blood supplement. Nonetheless, some of the Demon population had a problem with this; preferring good old fashion source of blood to the modern way with alchemy.
With any large nation it is difficult to control all of its citizens, so the Human Slave Trade was very much alive and running. Demons hardly had to do the kidnapping themselves, since mortals were more than happy to trade their own race for wealth or other things… To Clara’s bad luck, she had become a part of this underground world of human trafficking. Thus why, Clara ended up in a free-for-all market on the border between Demon and Kakonia empires.
In any case a part of the central, southern, and eastern areas of the main continent holds the Great Demon Nation;
The civilization of Demons is the largest of all the empires of the Fire Realm, as well as, the most advanced. The huge nation is split up into separate areas. Each area is in a specific region and is controlled by an Elemental Demon-lord. There is the Earth Nation, Water Nation, Fire Nation, Air Nation, and Shadow Nation… (Though, the populations of Lighting Demons have seceded from the Fire Nation recently. They hope to gain their independence and become their own nation). These nations function like independent countries most of the time, but all the Demon-lords answer to the Demon King.
The Demon Kings sits atop the hierarchy and is the strongest of all the Demons (consequently, leadership can change when someone stronger comes along). He acts as a moderator for the other nations to make sure nothing gets too out of hand; and things often get out of hand. Demons are naturally aggressive often deferring to their primal nature; they rather shed blood than talk.
While the Demon Nation is advanced with medicines and magic, there severely lack the social advancements of some other empires… due to their constant suffrage of civil war. The best example of a refined culture would be the Demon’s neighbors to the west, the Harpy.
Far to the west on the super continent holds the vast volcanic mountains and the Western Sea, which is the home to the Harpy Empire.
The birdlike creatures isolate themselves in their mountain kingdom. With highly sophisticated culture, these creatures hold knowledge and art to high degree, not unlike the ancient Greeks. Like in human legends, Harpies are mostly female. Males within the species are highly respected and treasured.
Not a particularly aggressive nation, since a strict caste system keeps the citizens in line, any bloodshed is reserved for the royal family. Heirs to the throne usually fight to the death to see who rules the roost. Once a male dominated monarchy, the political winds have recently shifted in the years. An empress now sits upon the Harpy throne. So far not much is known about her or the changes she’s made to the nation…Harpies after all like to keep to themselves.
The lands that these creatures inhabit are the volcanic mountain tops, which are well, protected my elevation and a ring of poisons gases. Though within the empire, the land is riddled with plateaus layered with rich volcanic soil; making farming very easy and sustaining their modest population handsomely.
The Harpy kingdom has never been invaded and most likely never will be. Though the other empires do covet the large amount of wealth the Harpies possess. Since their mountain home has the largest deposits of precious gems, minerals, and metals within the entire realm. Other Empires are forced to do business, and everyone wants to do business with the Harpies. Their riches of the earth, is something the Harpies’ closest neighbor exceedingly yearn for.
Finally, the other part of the central and eastern lands, as well as, the far north of the main continent belongs to the Kakonia Empire.
The Kakonia make up the second largest empire in the Fire Realm. They hold the majority of the most fertile land that rest on the flat plains and control most of the eastern ocean called the Spirit Sea.
They are not as advanced like their neighbors, like the science of the Demons or the social structure of the Harpy; often considered medieval or downright barbaric. However, what they lack in advancements they make up with military might!
The Kakonia Empire was born from nomadic barbarians that fought and carved their way to a super-power. A long line of great kings have ruled over the aggressive and war-loving race; they hold combat and strength in the highest regard. Their military are far more organized than the Demons, and far greater than the Harpies. Not bad for the most human-like beings in the Fire Realm.
Customary humans at one time in their existence, Kakonia believe that they were blessed by their, Keeva- Goddess of Darkness (or the yang to the yin, however a person wants to view it) with enhanced human abilities; like strength, speed, sense, longevity, and the use of minimal sorcery. Through, the Kakonia are a war loving race, they haven’t seen major war for in about ten thousand years. They’re not the only ones…
Neither of the ruling races were fond of one another. It is believed that there hasn’t been a point in time where all the races ever truly got along. Nevertheless, a lasting peace treaty between the empires has lasted many thousands of years. A great relief from the many hundreds of thousand years the empires had been at war with one other. Yet, no war in the distant past…could compare to the war that rocked the Fire Realm ten thousand years ago…
…
“I…I see…” uttered Clara with difficulty.
The redhead had to take a moment for all the information to sink in.
Holy shit! I’ve really stepped into it this time! Oka-okay…I can handle this…Oh my God! Demons, Harpies, Kakonia…Okay…okay-okay, focus on something else, Clara…Like what hell they are going to make you do here!?
“Oh…Um…so-so what are my duties in this place?” Clara dreaded asking this question. Usually a slave did the awful things no one else wanted to do and they were beaten and raped.
Oh god…I’m going to die here, thought Clara.
“Well… you’re my responsibility… so you’ll be assisting me in my duties” explained Andrew.
“I-I…don’t fight or know much about soldier stuff…you know…” Clara stated meekly.
Andrew chuckled at that, it was a warm sound that put Clara at ease unlike the chilling sound that came from the white-haired devil. “You won’t be doing that. I hardly think you could survive basic training,”
Your right, buddy, I find jogging on the treadmill exhausting. Considering the men in this place they must work out every-freaking-day, thought Clara.
“Well…my job is more administrative than anything else…unless war breaks out or something. I do paperwork most of the time for His Highness, the Generals, and the Capitan to go over. Sometimes I observe the cadets, bark out orders, and fuss at people. Not very exciting, but it puts meat on the table. In any case, Clara, you’ll just be delivering papers all over the castle…like a messenger”
“I’m a mail girl!” exclaimed Clara shocked
“…I guess…Is that a problem?” asked the man concerned.
“No! It’s that…well…I never expected a slave to push papers” the word ‘slave’ tasted bitter on Clara’s tongue. However, it was the situation she was in, better than being dead.
Andrew smiled at that “Well that’s what I need an assistant for. It rather a pain in the ass to walk around the castle delivering scrolls, eating up time… but if you rather do heavy labor you could work in the stables or farm or…” the soldier teased.
“No! No this is perfectly fine!” agreed Clara quickly. Paper she knew…heavy labor not so much.
Paper, I did that for a living back home, I can surly do this for a while, maybe I’ll find a way back home, thought Clara.
“So do I live here at the castle or something? Am I going to be locked in closet or chained to a wall!?” asked Clara nervously.
What-what if they throw me into a dark room with hundreds of other helots like some harem or something! Oh God!
“Good grief, we’re not that barbaric. You’re most likely one of the one helots within the castle, we don’t usually have helots” assured Andrew.
“…Seriously? You don’t have like-like thousands of slaves here?” asked Clara confused.
“Not really, mostly paid servants…or surfs that have to pay off debts but not helots…do you have helots in your world?” questioned the soldier.
“Oh… no; Well I mean I guess in other countries they do…as well in the past…but in my home, slavery is against the law…and the people vote their leaders in…no kings and all that jazz” explained the redhead
“Oh really, I heard that the Human World is way chaotic like Demons…no really authority anywhere” commented Andrew
“What? We’re organized…just a little divided you could say…I guess this place pretty medieval” muttered Clara.
“So human society is more complex then we been led to believe…interesting” commented Andrew genuinely fascinated.
“Hey that’s another thing…aren’t you guys human? (Minus the tallness and muscles…) you look human and you don’t have the fangs and stuff” asked Clara confused.
“At some point in our history we were human like you, but that changed when Keeva blessed the First King, Damien and his kin. We may still look human but we are far from our humble roots” explained Andrew.
I wonder if bits of humanity are sprinkled everywhere. If they were human and Demons look human…did humans like me come from this world or did we come from our world here!? Or are there different species of humans everywhere!? Are we some genetic building block or something!?By blessed do they mean evolved or something?
“How so?” questioned Clara “How are you so different, minus the whole Adonis thing”
“…Adonis? Never mind…well…we, Kakonia are much stronger than a mortal, our senses and reflexes rival that of Demons. We heal faster and can take a great deal of damage without dying. However, I suppose, the biggest difference between Kakonia and humans is that we have longer life-spans. The average person can live up to a thousand years…”
“…Thou, a thousand years old! Are you serious?!” exclaimed Clara in utter shock!
Holy shit! For real!
“Yes…I’m one hundred and forty myself.” commented Andrew embarrassed.
“You’re shitting me!” Clara gaped astonished.
“I shit you not. Nobles have even longer life spans and well… His Highness is immortal” added the soldier
“Huh?” a red eyebrow raised in disbelief. “Immortal? You’re kidding right!?”
“It is was ordained by Keeva that those in the royal family are immortal in the sense that they will not age after a certain point and live forever, however that’s hardly the case since many other kings have ruled before King Aiden”
“So the ass is immortal! Great, wait… so why don’t the kings last?” asked Clara generally confused. Immortal meant a person was untouchable, right?
“To be a Kakonia you have to be strong and I’d be lying if I said that this wasn’t a brutal society. Kings are assassinated, killed in battle, can get illnesses and what not. The norm is that no king as lived passed a thousand years on the throne, minus Lord Aiden” explained Andrew.
“How long has he ruled?” asked Clara wide-eyed with astonishment?
“Over ten thousand years…”
“Oh my god!” exclaimed Clara
“Lord Aiden is the best king the empire has had in a long time and he is the strongest Kakonia alive. A true king of kings” answered Andrew is a fond look in his eyes. “Anything else you like to know?”
“Who’s Keeva? You mentioned…her…a few times” asked the redhead.
“…Keeva? I guess you humans have different belief system than everyone else, even those in the Other Realm believe in Keeva. To answer your question, Keeva is the Goddess of Darkness, Mother of the eternal void, and the co- maintainer of existence. She is our main deity and we share our devotion to her with the Demons. You could say we and the Demons are rivals for the affection of Keeva. We Kakonia take Keeva very seriously but we won’t force our beliefs onto anyone. As the priestess’s say ‘Keeva only cares for those who devote themselves to her, the others can wither in pain and suffering for their indifference for Keeva has no time to worry about the non-believers’ or something like that. Of course, there are other gods that people worship. Harpies worship Hellina the Goddess of Fire for example.” finished Andrew. His thoughts wondering back when he was forced to go to temple as a child
“Okay then…” replied Clara in disbelief.
Clara wasn’t a religious person. She figured she’s worry about the beyond when she got there. So far this Keeva stuff sounded harebrained to her, but whatever, as long as, they didn’t shovel this down her throat she was fine with it.
“Um…you seem to know about my world, but I’ve never heard of yours, Mr. Andrew” commented Clara.
“You can just call me Andrew, though you’ll have to be more formal with the others. For normal citizens its first name rather than last name when greeting. The use of a last name in greeting means you hold a higher social rank; for military officials, it’s their rank first than first name, you could throw in their last name but it isn’t necessary, usually considered polite overkill. But for nobles, it’s always starts with ‘Lord or Lady’ followed by their full name with a ‘Von’ in the middle. I’m guessing I don’t have to tell you about addressing the king, but for reference you could call him King Aiden or King Aiden Von Arcania or simply ‘Majesty’ or ‘Highness’. Do you understand?”
“Yeah…I get it….” murmured Clara, filing away the info.
Weird, you call people by their first names when you meet…odd, but whatever…
Andrew answered, “As to your question; knowledge on your world, it’s more of second hand information. Demons pass through other worlds in their restlessness and there have always been natural openings from world to world. Citizens that live on the border between our countries tell stories of the other worlds and the people that drift through. It’s been said that humans tend to ignore outsiders…I guess…I’m not sure”
Good god, those sci-fi nuts were right! Government conspiracy or science experiment done wrong, I mean is it really true that there are other dimensions with people in them? This is some crazy shit! Nuts it what it is, thought Clara; the implications of these facts blew the mind. The redhead wasn’t sure if she could process this absurd reality.
“Are you going to break down again Clara?” asked Andrew concerned since a manic smile morphed upon the girls face. Nevertheless, he was ready for the girl to have another nervous break -down like she had after the branding.
“No…no, I’ll be fine” whispered Clara hoarsely, “Just have to wrangle my thoughts into submission”
“Should I leave you alone for a bit?” asked Andrew concerned, rubbing Clara’s back in comfort.
“I…I…think I’ll be fine…” offered Clara shakily.
“Okay then…um, if you’re sure, you can change clothes and we’ll be off for home…well, my home at least. Later we’ll give you a bath, is that okay?” asked the brunette softy.
“Yeah…yeah, that will be great” replied Clara lamely.
“Okay, I’ll leave you to change, just come out when you’re done, okay” explained Andrew shuffling to the door.
“…Andrew” Clara called.
“Yes?” paused the man.
“Thanks, I mean really thank you for all this” said Clara from her place on the floor.
Andrew gave a warm smile, “You’re welcome”
…
It didn’t take long for Clara to slip out of her dirty dress and into her new clothes.
Some adjustments would have to be made to the outfit, because this wouldn’t cut it; the off colored brown shirt was two sizes too big on Clara’s little form. She had to adjust it so a portion had to hang off her shoulder. The slightly darker shade of brown pants weren’t much better; they were also a few sizes too big. Thank goodness the pants had draw-strings so the garment could be tightened around Clara’s small hips. But to top it all off, the outfit was far too thin for Clara’s liking! The pants weren’t so bad since they were dark colored, but the shirt was another story. She knew that her forest green bra was very visible.
I hope Andrew can find me some other types of clothes…this is not going to cut it. Man, I really need a bath! I don’t think I ever smelled this bad in my entire life! Well, Andrew promised a bath, can’t wait…
Taking a deep breath, Clara steeled her nerves and opened the door.
She found Andrew leaning against the wall, he instantly pushed off and gave Clara the once over.
“We’re going to have to do something about this…I’m sure I can find something a little smaller for you at home” commented Andrew. “You look like you’re drowning in that” he chuckled light-heartedly.
Clara also smile, “Yeah, it’s a little big, something smaller would be great”
“I’ll see what I can do. Well come along, I sure you’re starving and I did promise a bath didn’t I” announced Andrew cheerfully.
“You have no idea how good ‘food and a bath’ sound right now” replied Clara happily.
“…Well follow me then” explained Andrew before he started off down the hall. Clara followed closely behind.
…
It didn’t take long for the duo to navigate through the numerous corridors; they eventually got to an entry way that led outside.
Walking outside, Clara found herself in a massive courtyard. Lots of people were milling around, most of them were heading towards a gateway in the distance.
Following Andrew, the duo stepped out of the shadow of the castle; Clara finally got to view the full castle up close. It looked like something out of a fantasy movie. She had never seen a real one, so this was a special moment for the redhead.
The castle structure was intimidating to say the least. The stone was practically black making it look sinister; the red background didn’t help. Tall towers with spires, blood red shingles, and gargoyle-like statures clinging on walls; the place looked like the home of an evil overlord.
Like the evil king’s castle where’s he either holding a princess or plotting the down fall of the hero, though Clara awe-struck. Their goddess person is mother of darkness…so does that mean…their considered evil people? I mean the Demons were definitely evil…and they worship this Keeva. Well shit…Andrew isn’t evil…he a freaking saint…I really don’t understand this place…
As Clara followed behind Andrew she couldn’t help but to continue to gaze back at the structure. Something was a little off…
Holy shit! The…the…the sky is red! Not, not… like sunset, but the sky is all red!
“Andrew…has the sky…always been red?” uttered Clara meekly.
“Yeah…we have two sun-s, we also have three moons …I guess that’s why it’s called the Fire Realm” stated Andrew perplexed. “I take it in your world your sky isn’t red?”
“…That is a big N…O…” replied Clara shell shocked. “Nice…nice…castle” commented Clara, changing the subject from the completely alien heavens.
“That’s Castle Damien. Named after the first king” commented Andrew
“Oh!” It’s so big, makes me feel like an ant in comparison, thought Clara. And with a red-Red SKY!
While Clara could only see the front of the castle, it was actually far bigger than she could have imagined.
The pair continued their journey, soon coming up to a pair of massive gates; the gates weren’t anything to sneeze at either. The gates and their watch towers soared up at four stories with massive iron bars four inches thick. Full armored guards stood at attention with large spears in their hands. They stood rigidly at attention when Andrew drew closer, saluted him as he walked past.
“Have a good evening Lieutenant” the guards said in unison. Andrew gave a nod in acknowledgment.
Clara followed over a draw bridge overlooking a sizable moat. The smell of sea water and salt air hit the redhead in the face.
We must be close to the sea, thought Clara.
Turning her head to the left, Clara could see the horizon with the sparkling sea. While the water in the moat looked normal, the ocean seemed to be in a lilac sort of color. It was weird but beautiful.
This is defiantly going to take some getting used to. Red sky, purple ocean, I wonder what else is in this strange world? I guess I’ll find out…
Finally reaching the end of the bridge, the duo stepped onto the street. The two suns were setting, the bigger of the two sinking into the sea with the other just above it; the fiery orbs casted and orange-red and green glow on the backdrop that was the sky.
Clara directed her attention back in front of her. In the distance there was another wall that was similar to the wall that surrounded the castle. Andrew sensing the unvoiced question, answered;
“That’s the outer wall; we just came from the inner wall. This area is for soldiers and servants of the castle. Beyond the outer walls is the rest of city” said Andrew turning to the right.
They walked for at least ten minutes before they reached a large open street. There were rows of simple stone two-story houses with small yards in front of them. It reminded Clara of a normal neighborhood back home, minus the orange trees with blue thorns on them and the meadow-like yards.
“Is this where you live?” asked Clara.
“Yeah, this is housing for lower officers, veteran soldiers and their families” replied Andrew with a smile. “It isn’t a nobles manor but it suits my needs fine”
They came to the third house in the row. The yard was like a meadow, with tall grass and some small flowers peeking up through the vegetation. Some wooden building blocks were scattered on the stone walkway towards the door. The toys brought questions to Clara’s mind about Andrew’s home life.
…Blocks? I wonder if Andrew has a kid, thought the redhead.
“Um…Andrew…do you have a family?” asked Clara
“Yeah, I have a wife and son” smiled Andrew “I wish he’d learn to pick up after himself” muttered Andrew.
“…It’s fine” assured Clara.
Andrew gave a small smile before turning into a frown. “Listen Clara…my wife…is…how do I put this? A bitch…” bluntly said Andrew running a hand through hair as a nervous gesture. “She isn’t the nicest person is the world and…well isn’t too friendly when it comes to strangers, so don’t expect a warm welcome. I apologize in advanced for this”
He calls his wife a bitch!? That’s…very blunt…and bad…
“Um…I’m sure it won’t be that bad” commented Clara nervously.
“It’s that…she and I don’t get along…we were forced to marry by our families you see” explained the soldier shyly.
“Oh! An arranged married… are they common here?” asked Clara meekly.
“Yeah… it a normal practice for marriages to be arranged…I had no choice in matter, I was the only one out of my brothers that wanted to come to Arcania to become a soldier” offered.
“How does that work?” asked Clara confused.
“I come from a mining village near the Dragna province. My family is rather attached to the life of mining, but I wanted something more. I wanted to be a high ranking solider, however, you need funds to come to Arcania and enter the Academy to become a higher ranking soldier. My family isn’t rich, but my father was good friends with a wealthy merchant. So…to make my dreams come true, I had to marry the merchant’s daughter. I did…and my father-in-law pulled the strings so I could go to the Academy…fifty-seven years later, I’m an officer, with a wife, and a four year old son. On the down side, my wife, Charity, hates me” finished Andrew sadly.
“After all this time, she doesn’t…um…you two don’t get along…” asked Clara unsure how to proceed.
“It’s not like I haven’t tried to love her, but she is unhappy with everything. Frankly we come from two different worlds… She’s used to a high life, while I am content with simple things. Her dream wasn’t to marry a miner’s son and live the life of a lowly Lieutenant’s wife…she’s very bitter” muttered Andrew to himself.
“I see…” offered Clara…
Well this is awkward as hell…hard to believe that a saint like Andrew would have any troubles like this…poor guy.
“I’m sure she won’t be that bad” offered Clara with a forced smile.
“Yeah…maybe…” sighed Andrew; he made for the door.
…
It’s that bad, thought Clara as she sat in the cozy looking sitting room listening to a heated discussion between Andrew and his wife in the kitchen.
Awkward…echoed through Clara’s mind.
“The hell do you mean she’s a guest! She a helot!” the woman named Charity yelled.
“Yes…but she’s in servitude to the castle not us…” Andrew stated calmly.
“What difference does that make!? A helot is a helot! Here I thought you had done something right for a change! Brought me a helot to help me, but no! You want to treat the little beast like a fucking guest!”
“She’s been through a lot and she’s going to need time to adjust, I can’t ask her to perform more than she’s capable of…” argued Andrew.
“What about my needs! I can’t handle this place by myself!” Charity screamed.
“What do you do!?” replied Andrew his voice rising.
“The hell does that mean!?” she shouted in her shrill voice
“It means, why isn’t anything done!? I saw the washing sitting on the floor and you haven’t cooked dinner! By Keeva, Charity did you even feed Darren today!?”
“Shut up! I was busy today! My friend came over and…” Charity was interrupted
“OH! What happened yesterday!? And the day before that! You don’t do anything! I’m the one that has to do it all when I come home! Don’t you think I have enough on my plate!?” yelled Andrew
“…You, you, it’s always about you! What about me! I’m not cut out for this peasant life! That’s why a helot would be perfect for the house…”continued Charity; so the fighting raged on.
If the argument about Clara wasn’t awkward enough but to make the situation that much more uncomfortable, a little boy named Darren was staring at Clara intensely.
The young child was the spitting image of Andrew with shaggy light brown hair and big brown eyes. His chubby cheeks had dirt smeared on them and a cut was on his left cheek. His clothes weren’t much better condition than his face. The shirt and shorts dirtied with dust and such.
“Hi” said the boy.
“Um…hi” replied Clara tensely.
Poor little guy, I wonder if he has to listen to his parents argue like this all the time? And what did Andrew mean by ‘feed Darren today’ does his wife not feed their kid!?
The boy craned his neck and looked at Clara at an angled before righting his head.
“Your head is red” commented the boy
“Yes…it’s my hair color” answered Clara perplexed
“I’ve never seen someone with red hair before” said the boy.
…Really? Go figure…he speaks well for a little kid, thought Clara.
“Are you a princess?” asked Darren
“Huh? No, why would you ask that?” asked Clara shocked
“You’re a redhead and you have blue eyes. Only royals have blue eyes” said the boy.
“Huh?” asked Clara with a quirked eyebrow.
“Okay! It’s settled, make yourself at home Clara” announced Andrew walking into the room.
“Whatever…” muttered the blond woman from behind; known as Charity. She was a beautiful woman. She was the same height as Andrew with long flowing blond hair and brown eyes. She had a lovely hour-glass figure with a large bust currently on display in a low cut orange, medieval-style dress.
“Brings a fucking servant home and won’t let it serve…married a fucking fool…” muttered the woman darkly.
“Anyway, Clara, you’re our guest so don’t think you have to be a servant here” stated Andrew with a glare to his wife, “Right, Charity?”
“Fuck you, do want you want! Not like I have a say in the matter…treat the little beast as you see fit” Charity hissed viciously, “While you’re at it, you can cook dinner” she announced. With a wave of her long golden hair, and pretty woman marched over to the door.
“Where are you going?” asked Andrew darkly.
“Out!” she yelled and threw open the door. She then stomped out and slammed the door closed; disappearing into the evening.
Andrew rubbed his temple in frustration, mumbling out an apology; “I’m really sorry about that…we don’t usually get that heated…um…Darren this Clara, she’ll be staying with us for a while, okay”
“Okay, hi Clara” said the little boy, “I’m Darren”
“Hi Darren” offered Clara if a nervous smile, the boy only looked at her with big chocolate eyes.
“Daddy, I’m hungry, are we going to eat tonight?” asked the little boy.
Clara saw the hurt and frustration in Andrew’s eyes, but the man managed to put on a happy face and bent down to his knees. He opened his arms widened, Darren wasted no time in barreling into his beloved father’s arms.
Andrew hugged his son close and kissed Darren’s head. If anything good ever came out of his marriage, it was his son. Darren meant the world to him.
“Yes, we’ll eat, I’ll cook dinner” said Andrew softly.
“I like it when you cook, you’re better than mommy” replied Darren meekly.
Andrew smiled at that…hugging his boy closer “Okay, now be a good boy and wash for dinner” commanded the bigger brunette.
The little boy pulled away a little; “Yes sir!” saluted Darren happily.
“And while you’re at it, please fill the bath and start fire to warm the water…”
“But I just had a bath, daddy, I don’t want another one” whined the little boy.
“Not for you silly, for Clara” corrected the elder.
“Oh! Then that’s okay then” stated the boy cheekily.
Andrew ruffled his son’s head and released him from his hold, “Keep getting dirty and you’ll have a bath soon enough”
The boy pouted in return.
“Don’t give me that face, now off with you” urged Andrew gently.
“Yes, daddy” and then the boy was off towards the back of the house.
“He’s really cute, Andrew” commented Clara.
He’s really good with his son…that’s good…I guess the Mrs. Seems to be the problem…poor guys…
“Thank you, he’ll be a good man when he grows up…” smiled Andrew proudly. “Well looks like I’m cooking… again…would you like something to tie you over Clara… it might be a while before actual dinner is ready” asked Andrew.
“Sure…that would be great…” answered Clara.
I guess we’re sweeping the earlier episode under the rug for now…I wonder if she’s coming back. Oh well, food sounds well for right now…no more jerky…
“All right then, follow me” stated Andrew making his way to the kitchen that stood in a separate room off to the side.
The kitchen was small, but in cozy way. It looked medieval with overtones of country farmhouse. The fireplace took up most of the space, consuming the entire back wall with brown stone. The hearth was large, large enough to have a spit and room for three pots at the same time. Two black pots were currently seated within the unlit hearth;
A huge un-polished wooden table stood just in front of the fireplace. The wood was dark and worn, with dents and scratches. The surface was thick, by at least four to five inches, supported by beefy legs that resembled logs more than table legs. The four chairs matched the table perfectly; in a rustic hunting lodge sort of style, along with being old and weathered.
Continuing her observation of the room; Clara noticed to the left of the room stood a hand-pump companied with large basin and bucket. A picture window provided a cozy backdrop, with sunlight pouring through. A few strings of herbs were stung up in front of the window, their scent reminding the redhead of sage and basil through the herbs didn’t resemble their human world counterparts.
To the right; stood a large cabinet that took up half the wall; it was made of dark wood with numerous cubbies. The majority of the structure was cluttered with stacks of dishes; veggies and other forms of food and dishware stuffed in any available space. Covered meats hung from the ceiling beside the immense cabinet.

Despite the unorganized state of the kitchen, it gave off a comfortable homely feel, which Clara welcomed...the feelings of warmth dimmed a little when the redhead’s stomach gave a pang of hunger.
“Give me a moment, Clara. I get you a snack” called Andrew from the fireplace. The brunette man was busy lighting a fire in the soot filled hearth.
“Take your time” replied Clara softly;
Hopefully not too long, I’m starving…
“Clara, can you do me a favor and take these to pots and fill them with water?” asked Andrew, poking at his newly made fire.
“No problem” chirped Clara, she moved towards the resting pots.
No doubt that the pots were authentic cast-iron; the things were heavy and would become heavier with addition of water.
“Can you handle them?” asked a concerned Andrew.
“No problem, I can handle it, I’m not that weak” answered Clara confidently.
Lies, lies, and more lies, my arms have the muscle power of limp noodles…but I don’t want to be a burden to Andrew…
The brunette didn’t look convinced, but if the girl wanted to try he’d let her; “If you’re sure then…fill them up a little more than half way…”
“Can do!” replied Clara cheerfully. Steeling her arm muscles she hauled the pots up by their handles and made her way to the water pump. She placed the first pot down and began to pump the handle. With considerable effort, water began to pour from the spigot.
“Do you like fruit, bread and cheese, Clara?” called Andrew from the in front of the cabinet.
“Sounds good to me, I’ll eat anything by this point” replied Clara.
Especially fruit…another day of eating that damned jerky and I would have died of scurvy…
“Okay then…how about some blood fruit with a piece of bread with kuna cheese and a cup of Kuna milk…does that sound alright?” asked Andrew.
“Sounds tasty…I would love some” answered Clara, finishing filling the first pot.
What the hell is a Kuna? I guess it’s something like a cow or goat in this world…whatever, I like milk and cheese…huh, who knew that an alien world would have cheese and milk as part of a diet…curious…I wonder how similar this place could be to Earth?
Andrew busied himself with making Clara’s snack; in the meantime, the redhead was trying to figure out how to move the freshly filled pot.
As Clara predicted the damned pot weighted two times heavier when filled than it did empty. One hand wasn’t going to cut it; even with two hands the task may still be impossible.
Come on Clara, you’ve survived being kidnapped, living in the hull of a ship, and countless death attempts…you can lift a damned pot;
Taking the a deep breath…the redhead clamped the handle with both hands and pulled with all her might…the pot was a lot heavier than Clara thought, the thing was barely lifting from the basin. Yet, Clara kept pulling, she wasn’t about to let a pot get the better of her.
Her arms began to burn as the weight became too much, Clara let go. The pot made a heavy thud with minimal shifting of the water within…it was like it was mocking her.
Fucking pot from hell!
“Clara…are you having trouble?” asked Andrew from the table.
She really wanted to deny the truth, but the redhead knew there was no way in hell that she was going to be able to lift the pot;
“Sorry…it’s a little heavy for me…you know…with the water and stuff” muttered Clara ashamed.
Andrew offered a comforting smile; “Don’t worry about it, I can finish up. Come and sit…your food is ready. I’m sure Darren will be in shortly…you can bathe before dinner”
“Okay…” offered Clara. With a last glare at the pot, the redhead made her way to the table.
The spread before Clara made the redhead nearly salivate in anticipation.
A fruit that had must have been the size of a cantaloupe with a purplish-yellow rime was cut into slices on a plate. The meat within was blood red and looked juicy and had a heavenly aroma coming off it; Next to the plate of fruit was a large piece of bread with a thick slice of white cheese upon it. A strong, robust scent emanated from the wedge; lastly, a mug of milk to wash the snack down.
“Eat as much as you like, dinner won’t be ready for about an hour and half” commented Andrew. The brunette then left to tend to Clara’s unfinished task.
“Thanks so much, Andrew! It’s looks great!” called Clara happily. The redhead immediately snagged a piece of the blood fruit.
A large bite later and Clara was in heaven. The fruit was indeed juicy if the drops of red juice were any indication.
Clara groaned in pleasure as a mix of favor hit her tongue; the meaty fruit tasted like a mix of mango and watermelon with a bite of orange thrown in; favors that Clara adored.
The first slice was gone in a minute, followed but a second and third. After the third slice, Clara decided to try the bread and cheese.
The bread had the consistency and crunch of French bread, but the soft favor of the bread was over powered but the brutish taste of the cheese. With the bite of cheddar with a hint of sweet, and pinch of spice, it tickled Clara’s taste buds. The redhead was never a person for strong cheeses, but she could appreciate the burly favor. It didn’t take her long to finish off the bread and cheese, leaving the mug of milk left.
Craving something other than water, Clara took a gulp of milk; the taste surprised her. The milk was thick, like cream, but instead of the bland favor of cow milk like Clara was used to, this milk had a favor all its own. It was sharp yet sweet…most unusual. Even the smell was different, like a heavy walnut smell…very odd.
Tastes better than regular cow milk I could get used to this…thought the redhead happily. Then again after living off dried jerky and stale water for over a week, anything would taste good about now…
“It is good?” asked Andrew setting a plank down that holding a sizable piece of log shaped meat along with a bowl of mixed spices.
“It was delicious, thank you” replied Clara eagerly.
“Not a problem, you look like you could put more meat on your bones” laughed Andrew. The brunette then began his task of rubbing the spices into meat.
“What’s that?” asked Clara staring at the meat.
Now I’m hungry again…
“Oh, this is hind-quarters of Yak. It’s a tender and juicy meat. It also takes well to rubs and cooks quick. It complements well with mashed squash and red rice” explained Andrew.
“You guys have squash and rice here!?” asked Clara stunned.
“Indeed, squash and rice are very common here, easy to grow you know. I take it you have the same in your world?” asked the male.
“Yeah, there pretty common too where I come from” answered Clara.
“I suppose there are some similarities between our worlds then” smiled Andrew.
“I guess” agreed the redhead.
The two fell into a comfortable silence as Clara watched Andrew prepare the meal with expert hands.
The silence was broken when Darren came into the kitchen, “Daddy, the baths ready” announced the little boy.
Andrew spared a smile towards the child, “Good boy, can you please take Clara to the bath then” commanded Andrew putting the roast on the spit.
“Depends…can I have some fruit?” countered the boy.
“Darren don’t be cheeky…take Clara to the bath…and then you may have some fruit” answered Darren.
“Can do!” happily exclaimed the boy, “Come on Clara, I show where the bath is”
“Okay” replied Clara amused.
Andrew nodded in approval and turned back to his original task; with his father’s back turned the impatient boy went to grab a slice of fruit. Before a little hand could claim a large slice, Andrew’s voice cut it;
“Darren, I believe I said Clara first and food second” commented the older male without turning around.
Darren pouted, but dropped his hand and turned to walk out the kitchen defeated. Clara had to smile at the little boy’s antics.
Clara followed the little boy to the back of the house where there was a wooden attachment. The structure looked and was about the size of a medium-sized shed. Eight inches of open grate separated the top of the walls from the inclined roof; the open space letting lazy puffs of steam escape.
The door was open revealing a fairly large sized ceramic tub with steam pouring out of it. A hand-pump stood at the head of the tub. Cubby holes lined the perimeter of the basin, stashing varying jars, sponges, and towels.
Clara couldn’t remember a time where she was so happy to see a bath;
Huh, look at that…a outdoor bath, kind of oriental rather than the medieval European theme going on…Oh well…bath, bath, lovely bath time…no more stink; thought the redhead happily.
“The outhouse is over there” commented Darren; he jacked a thumb behind him to where an outhouse stood on the opposite of the bath; “I always have to go before a bath or I piss the tub” explained the boy dully.
“Um…okay…” Clara wasn’t sure how to respond to that.
“You want anything else?” asked the boy, though his eyes drifted over the door to the main house.
“I’ll be fine, thank you, Darren” smiled Clara.
The little boy said nothing, but some rosy color filled his chubby cheeks. Darren wiped his nose before giving a small nod before running back into the house.
He’s a real cute; thought Clara amused.
In the next minutes, Clara was striped and in the hot water. Despite the humidly of the coast, the hot water was refreshing.
The redhead easily found a crumbled brown, loofah sponge, along with some ceramic jars filled with a wax-like, beige colored soap that smelled a lot like the Kuna milk, but overplayed with a masculine smell similar to sandalwood. It really didn’t matter to Clara, as long as, it got her clean and smelled decent.
After scrubbing away over a week’s worth of filth, Clara allowed herself to lie back in the spacious tub and relax; the hot water soothing tight muscles and dull kinks. Clara was allowed to reflect on her situation.
Well…I currently stuck in an alien world parallel to my own…There are Demons that drink blood…Kakonia that are Amazons…and I’ve been branded, literally! A slave to asshole of a king! Well shit…I guess I have no choice but to make the best of this till I can figure out a way back to my own world…at least Andrew is nice…I can’t believe this is happening to me? Seriously, what are the odds of this happening to me!? But I suppose freaking out about it isn’t going to help me, right? Right, so…I’ll just buy my time. I’m still curious…they know about my world, and accept that I’m from a different world easily, but I’ve never heard of this place…this is really science-fiction…Jules Vern kind on shit…
Clara sunk down further into the water.
But these creatures are human-like…I still wonder…if human beings are some building block for the evolution of these things…like a mixture or is it…there are really different species of humans in existence other than Earth or the Earth dimension? I’m going to give myself a headache…maybe I should have watched for science shows instead of trash T.V.
After thirty minutes of the redhead’s ‘think tank’ session, Clara got out, dried off, and redressed. Not sure how to drain the tub, Clara left it the way it was, deciding it best to ask Andrew.
Clara reentered the house was greeted by the smell of cooking meat…
Wow, I’m already hungry again…

…
Dinner was served a half a hour after Clara’s bath; which suited the redhead just fine. The smell of juicy cooking meat made Clara’s stomach swoon. She was so ready for a hearty meal.
The meal was God-sent!
“Wow, Andrew, you’re a great cook” praised Clara; savoring the array of flavors from the meat.
“I’m not that great, these are just family recipes” down-played the brunette.
“No way, this is beyond delicious” urged Clara.
“I’m glad you enjoy it” smiled the soldier.
Something tells me that Andrew is the real domestic in the house. His wife from what I could gather isn’t suited for housewife things…I’m not really good at housework either…but I guess I could try and help out I mean Andrew saved my life and welcomed me into his home…I got to repay him somehow…I’ll figure something out…I wonder how the job is going to be…no matter, I’m going to survive this…maybe I will get back home…someday…but at least I have Andrew.
Dinner finished, and by then the last sun in the sky was finally setting.
Clara had played a bit with Darren while Andrew cleaned up. The redhead had offered to help, but the soldier had declined the offer.
For the first time since her nightmare started, Clara felt at ease. For now she was safe in a comforting environment. How long this would last was anyone’s guess. There was little doubt in the redhead’s mind that more trials and tribulations would soon follow so she had to prepare.
The thought of carving out a new life in a parallel world didn’t sit right with Clara, but there was little she could do…one thing was for sure, she had made it this far and she wasn’t about to give up…her optimism gave her hope that she would find a way back home…but till then she had to stay strong…
…easier said than done…

…
Clara found herself being roused from her sleep to what she could adequate to be at least four in the bloody morning. The smaller sun hadn’t set the previous night; though with curtains blocking out the majority of the light, the odd occurrence still bugged Clara enough to keep her awake for some time.
“Come on, Clara, up” spoke Andrew again, but to Clara, his words were muffled in her zombie-like state.
Clare had never been a morning person, getting up at seven to be at work by nine was always a chore for the redhead. This situation was no different, though it took Clara awhile to process why a strange man was waking her up at the ungodly hour.
Yesterday’s events came rushing back to Clara making her groan in annoyance. She desperately thought the whole nightmare would be over by now.
No such luck, thought Clara bitterly.
Another call form Andrew drew Clara further from her sleepy state.
Oh that’s right, I begin work today…I’m not getting paid…I’m a slave…shit…fucking Demons…were Clara’s disorganized thoughts.
With great effort and an epic fight with the blanket she cocooned herself in. For a world with two suns is sure gets cold at night, thought the redhead; as she released herself like a newborn butterfly.
…
Breakfast had been uneventful, except for the huge egg the size of the plate presented to Clara.
It’s like Texas here, everything is bigger…
Darren was surprisingly up but not all there in the head, as the kid’s head kept dropping. Charity hadn’t come home last night, apparently not a shocker for Andrew, well used to his wife disappearing. Clara thought better not to question the dysfunctional family.
After breakfast the three left the house. Darren dragged himself across the street where a woman was waiting by her door to welcome the child. She and Andrew exchanged friendly waves and smiles before she disappeared back inside her door.
“Babysitter?” questioned Clara.
“Yeah, no telling when Charity will return. I pissed her off bad last night” muttered Andrew.
“Sorry” muttered Clara
“Don’t worry about it, Clara. She’ll be back…she always comes back” explained Andrew softly
After that, the conversation turned silent as the two made their way to the castle. Surprisingly the courtyard was abuzz with activity as cadets were in the middle of morning training.
Good god I’ve never seen such a congregation of good looking men in one place before…and they’re all shirtless, thought Clara her mouth slightly watering at so many buff bodies on display.
“God... do all men here look like that?” said Clara aloud.
“They’re not a good crop of soldiers, but hopefully they’ll improve over the next few years” commented Andrew. “They’re boys fresh out of the academy; young, reckless, and far too eager to prove themselves. Little prepackaged headaches” said Andrew.
Clara chuckled at that. It was eerie how normal yet different this society was. If this was to be her new home (for the time being) it was okay, after all things could be worse.
Though, I am considered a …slave…and this place is in a completely different world. But…I could’ve ended up with those demon things. Still this is not home or anywhere close to it. Can I really live here? Especially working for that bastard of a king? I wonder how's Leah is doing right now? I hope she’s okay…damn demons… Clara thought bitterly. So lost in her own thoughts she barely noticed that she had entered the castle with Andrew.
“Keep up Clara. It’s easy to get lost in here” called Andrew.
The call woke Clara from her thoughts and saw that she had wondered away from Andrew’s side. The man was half way down the hall while Clara found herself stationary in front of a large slab of rock attached to the wall.
“What the…” began the redhead
The stone was flat and was at least a half a story high. Odd writing was scrapped into the rough surface of the light colored rock. The writing itself were sharp lines of both broad and bold strokes, strung together in acute angles.
In college; Clara had taken a class on Calligraphy on both western and eastern styles. She could see some of both styles in this writing, strung together in a rather haphazard way. Her class had touch on the subject that a culture’s writing style reflects upon the society itself.
I guess this is their written language, like the ‘Rosetta Stone’. Hmm…their style of writing does show their aggressive nature as well as their value in strength. Such a violent style lettering, thought Clara as she gazed at the slab.
“Impressive isn’t it?” said Andrew appearing beside her.
“Yeah…what is it?” asked Clara; “Is it something important?”
“It is the ‘Arc Orin Lex’ which means the ‘High laws” in ancient tongue. These are the original laws laid down by the first king. Our entire society is based around this” replied Andrew
“Wow, impressive…Ancient tongue?” asked Clara.
“I don’t know much about it, but according to scholars the language we speak now ‘common tongue’ is actually a language we adopted from another society. ‘Ancient tongue’ is supposed to be our original mother tongue- it’s sprinkled here and there in a few phases…” explained Andrew.
Adopted from another society…I guess that explains how they speak English…I guess it is a universal language…who knew. I wonder if they adopted the language from humans in my world or…did we learn it from them…Could human society have some of their roots here!? Okay…thinking too much…I’m not equipped to unravel the mysteries of this place…
“You sure know a lot, Andrew” commented Clara trying to make her brain from over analyzing Kakonia anomalies.
“When I was in the Academy I took advantage of learning to read…I spent a lot of time studying history and culture…it fascinated me…” admitted the soldier bashfully.
“Is education really that hard to come by here?” asked Clara alarmed.
Andrew shook his head; “It is…not many get to the opportunity to acquire such knowledge…usually it’s for the nobles or the wealthy…”
“Wow” mumbled Clara, turning her attention back to the slab of rock on the wall.
The silence between the two was instantly broken when a female voice came booming;
“Hey! Andrew!” a female voice called.
Attention was refocused on the approaching woman coming down the hall. Clara took in an eye full of the most impressive specimen of woman she had ever seen; The female in question towered over Clara in height by at least six to seven inches; a bit taller than Andrew.
Her chocolate colored hair was cut short, stopping at the shoulders in a smooth cut. Layered bangs obscured dark eyes on an oval shaped face with pouty lips. A bodice of black metal supported two massive breasts, but left good amount of cleavage to jiggle as she walked. The chest fell away to a long torso with a near flat stomach adorned with a four pack of abdominal muscle which then descended to wide hips covered in a tight black skirt decorated with side flaps of silver metal and a dangling sword scabbard. Her legs and arms were also deck out in muscle in a rather feminine way. The woman may have in built like a brick-shit house but that did little to lessen her female beauty.
Holy crap on a freaking sandwich is she for real! You’ve got to be kidding me, thought Clara, blinking her eyes in disbelief.
“Good Morning Tawny” addressed Andrew with a smile.
“Morning, heard you caused a stir in front of His Majesty about a human” boomed the woman.
“Already the rumors are starting” muttered Andrew disapprovingly.
“Hey besides work, not much to do but gossip” chuckled Tawny “Whoa! Is this the human!?” asked Tawny peering down at Clara. Clara in turn snuck back behind Andrew. So far people other than Andrew hadn’t been too friendly.
“Yes, this is Clara. Clara this is Capitan Tawny of the Priestesses. Her squad protects the noble ladies of the court” explained Andrew.
“More like babysitters to a bunch of high class bitches. Oh woe is me, for I have princess bitch to watch” grumbled the woman. “Well at least she’s away on her thousandth vacation to Eyvind. At least it’ll be quiet till she comes back” laughed Tawny. “Anyway good to meet ya, Clara”
“Hi…” squeaked Clara.
“Come on honey, I won’t hurt ya, I don’t mind humans” smiled the woman. Tawny held out her hand for Clara to take.
With much hesitation Clara took the offered hand and the two women shook hands. Tawny’s grip was firm, Clara had the feeling the woman was holding back her immense strength.
“Welcome to the Empire, hope they don’t work ya to death” proclaimed the woman
“…Yeah…” answered Clara letting go.
“We better go Tawny, lot to do” announced Andrew from behind.
“Yeah-yeah, hey, watch out for Jarard today; worked him-self into a proper hissy fit. Some smart ass cadet thought he mouth off” said Tawny.
Andrew faked a wince, “Ouch, these kids don’t have any respect”
“Serves the brats right; they should know what they’re in for. Well, see ya around. Good luck human, you’ll need it” said the woman before walking off down the hall.
“Wow…” commented Clara “Are all the women here like that?”
If that’s the case…I feel inferior, thought Clara, the need to cup her breasts for a dismal comparison.
“Mostly, then again Tawny is Capitan for a reason. One of the strongest females you’ll find in the country” announced Andrew. “We need to get going Clara”
“Right…”
…
The duo made their way to Andrew’s office, where a sizable stack of scrolls had piled up overnight.
“By Keeva… where did all this come from!?” exclaimed Andrew; the soldier rushed over the pile and pick up a scroll. Unraveling the parchment, his eyes ran over the contents.
“Oh no!” groaned the brunette.
“Bad news?” asked Clara concerned.
“We’re beginning preparations early this year” whined Andrew.
“Preparations?” asked the redhead.
“For the festivals’ coming up… Ritual of Keeva and Ode Warrior is this year and we need to begin planning for the events…the biggest pain in the ass on the calendar; security, permits, diplomatic foreigners!” groaned the soldier in defeat.
“Are those like holidays?” asked Clara curiously.
“Yeah, big ones…they happen every four years…so it a real big deal” muttered Andrew.
“I’m guessing it has to do with your goddess” commented Clara peering at the scroll Andrew was still holding; the writing was similar to the ones on the stone slab…
Looks like gibberish to me…
“I suppose the earlier we start the more prepared we’ll be when the actual celebrations start” muttered Andrew to himself.
“Do you guys have a lot of holidays or those two the only ones?” asked Clara.
Dropping the scroll to the desk, Andrew plopped down behind his desk before answering Clara’s question; “There are many others…I guess your first lesson should be about the Kakonia calendar”
…
A Brief Lesson on the Fire Realm Calendar
The Kakonia Calendar is broken down like this; The Kakonia calendar consists of 418 days in a year; with 8 days in a week. 52 and half weeks equal to one year. There are six months within a year. These months go by the names, Fernis, Helios, Sol, Meenus, Azlaith, and Nazril. One month has 8 weeks to it, coupled with leap years every so often. The months spread out over two seasons, which are the dry season and the wet season.
The calendar starts off with Fernis, which is also known as the harvesting month since is comes right after the rains. It also begins the season of major sporting events and its own holiday known as ‘The Harvesting’ which celebrates agricultural which is really big within the interior of the empire. There is also, ‘Sovereign’s Day’ that celebrates the current king’s birthday.
Helios is second and it officially begins the dry season; Nothing really interesting about the month.
Then the month of Sol is next with the peak of the dry season with its own holiday ‘Sun Feast’ which a certain redhead just missed by a week or so. Basically it’s there to be a joyful distraction from the peak of dry season. The holiday isn’t too popular with mainstream Kakonia society, but it is important to Borderlanders or people of Aadrinian descent.
Then the next month is Meenus, which is the transiting month that brings high winds and lighting storms that show the first signs of the wet season. Also major sporting events (like Dragon Joisting, Dragon Racing) usually close out seasons around this time with major tournaments. This month also showcases the holiday of ‘Ritual of Keeva’; this is the most religious holiday of not only the Kakonia but the also the Demon Nations (Demons have a different version of this ritual). This ritual happens every four years on the Fire Realm calendar where the three moons become perfectly aligned. This astrological occurrence lasts for eight days (eight is a sacred number in both cultures). On the eight day the largest moon waxes full and the celebrations reach their climaxes.
On the heels of Ritual of Keeva is Ode to Warrior; This week long bloody and gory holiday is a testament to the Kakonia way of life, meaning to say, the way of the fighting. This holiday follows right after the Ritual of Keeva, so it happens occurs every four years right before the rainy season. All eligible warriors gather in the great coliseum located in the Royal city of Arcania. The thousands of warriors compete till there is a grand champion who has the honor of battling the king. If the warrior wins he is handsomely rewarded and can become ‘King for a Day’. Another bonus of this holiday is that the women of the Empire can have their pick of the competing males to bed, whether they are married or not or noble or common (It’s encouraged in hopes of producing strong offspring).

The fifth month is Azlaith, which starts off the wet season with torrid of rain that falls for the entire month. Strangely enough there is a holiday within this dismal month called ‘Day of Mourning’ which is a day of remembrance of those who have fallen in war. In any case, the rains continue into the middle of the month of Nazril.
The rest of the month of Nazril is known as the growing month and ends the year with another major holiday ‘New Year’ which is celebrated in all three major empires in the Fire Realm.
…
Clara did her best to absorb all the information that Andrew was giving her about Kakonia culture. No doubt it would take a while for the redhead to fully grasp everything, but at least she found it interesting. If anything, the Fire Realm and its peoples were unique.
“Wow you guys sure have a lot of holidays…bet there’re a lot fun” commented Clara as she organized the scrolls on Andrew’s desk.
I’m not so sure I like the sound of the ‘Ode Warrior’ one, but New Year I can get behind…
“They are, but a hassle to plan for. I have the feeling that Lord Aiden is going to be very stressed out this year…We’re supposed to be hosting a Demon Ambassador…”
“…Demon! Their coming here!?” cried Clara alarmed; Fuck the last thing I want to deal with is more of those damn monsters!
“Relax Clara, it will only be a hand-full of Demons” tried to pacify Andrew. “We have to welcome them”
“Why…I thought you guys were enemies?” asked Clara.
“Well…yes…but we had a long lasting peace treaty with the Demons. After the Great War, ten thousand years ago; King Aiden and Demon King Sen signed a peace treaty. For the most part our empires ignore one another, but with major holidays that we share we try and put our differences aside and pretend we’re friends” explained the soldier calmly.
Clare nodded in understanding, but the explanation did little to calm her nerves; “What if they try and take me back there! I can’t go back there Andrew!” replied the scared redhead,
“Clara, relax please. They will not take you. You’ve been made a-a...a ‘vassal’ of the Kakonia Empire…more importantly a vassal of Lord Aiden, they wouldn’t dream of touching you. Besides the Demon King outlawed human ownership a thousand years ago”
“That didn’t stop them from kidnapping me!” argued Clara “And I hardly believe that ‘Lord’ Aiden would lift a finger to help me”
Andrew huffed tiredly; “Perhaps Lord Aiden wouldn’t go out of his way to aid you, but he wouldn’t let Demon’s take someone under his rule. Despite a peace treaty Lord Aiden and the Demon King don’t get along”
“I’m not sure that makes me feel better” whined Clara.
“Clara, every noble, soldier, and guard are going to have their eyes on the Demons. They won’t be able to take a piss without someone knowing about it, so relax. I highly doubt that you will be within a hundred feet of them” reassured the brunette.
“I guess…” the redhead huffed; I still don’t like it!
…
Although, displeased at the thought of Demons coming to the castle, Clara tried to put it out of her mind. She had a while before the blood suckers would show up anyway. In the meantime, she helped organize the small office.
An hour in, Andrew announced that they would break for ‘first lunch’ and then begin making rounds around the castle to drop off filled-out scrolls.

I’m in a rat maze, thought Clara.
She’d been trailing behind Andrew as they made their way to ‘mess hall’. Clara did her best to commit the route to memory. No doubt she would be using the same route before long and most likely would be traveling by herself.
At last the duo made it to the Mess Hall.
The area was huge; almost as big as the throne room that Clara had run into the day before. However, unlike the vast openness of the throne room, this room was filled with long tables filled to the brim with soldiers and cadets. At the front of rectangular room was series of long tables bearing massive piles of food.
The smell of cooked meat and fresh bread hung in the air, along with the noise of hundreds of people talking all at once. A bit overwhelming for the redhead, but Clara reminded silent.
The redhead stayed close to Andrew as the two of them made their way to the buffet-like spread.
Clara beheld the sight of organized chaos as many young men and some women jumbled together in a messy assembly line grabbing at anything they could get their hands on and piling their loot on large metal plates.
Good grief, it like dogs fighting over a piece of meat! How the hell are we going to get anything!? I’m not even that hungry, we just had breakfast over an hour ago…
Clara was startled out of her thoughts as Andrew made his way forward, going straight through the middle.
There is no way he’s going to penetrate the wall of people! He’s going to get hurt!
A lot of the men in the line were bigger than the petite Andrew and looked mean to. All Clara could do was stay behind and watch in horror.
As Andrew made it to the jumble of bodies, Clara was about to call out to coax the soldier back, but her words died in her throat as Andrew addressed the herd of ravenous cadets.
“CADETS!” shouted Andrew, drawing the attention of most in line.
The eighth wonder of the world took place in front of Clara’s eyes within that moment. The river of bodies instantly parted for Andrew to have access to the food! Hell a cadet twice the size of Andrew stepped up and offered his empty plate to the tiny brunette!
Andrew took the plate and offered the large man a nod of acceptance. Clara starred with her mouth open at the display of submission.
“Clara…” Andrew called “Come on and pick out something, don’t want to keep the cadets waiting” said Andrew like something extraordinary didn’t just happen.
It took a moment for Clara to wonder over…
The redhead timidly picked up a roll of bread…took a mug to dip it in a barrel of water… and then trail behind Andrew away from the line.
“An-Andrew…how did you do that?” asked Clara timidly; amazed the soldier heard her over the roar with the hall.
“Do what?” asked the brunette taking a seat at a one on the independent round tables sitting in the middle of the hall.
“Just-just walk up and be served…like a boss!” replied Clara still amazed.
“…Um…’Like a boss’?” asked Andrew confused.
“You know…like an important person! You were like all ‘hey everyone’ and they were like ‘we got to move out of the way’ and that one guy is like ‘would you like my plate sir’ and-and yeah!” explained Clara in a frenzied way.
“Oh…I am Lieutenant…it’s only natural that I wouldn’t have to wait in line…it’s not all that impressive” smiled Andrew.
“But-but, dude that was awesome!” exclaimed Clara.
Andrew just laughed; “It wasn’t a big deal, if you really want to see an act of Keeva, you should see how the Capitan is treated”
“Capitan?” asked Clara; it sounds vaguely familiar.
“You met him yesterday…well…he was… the one… that was going to carry out your execution” said the soldier softy.
“…That guy!?” cried the redhead.
“…Don’t worry, Clara, you no longer have a death sentence hanging over your head. Jarard shouldn’t hurt you” reassured Andrew.
“…Shouldn’t hurt me! What is that supposed to mean!?” demanded the redhead.
Before Andrew could answer her, a commotion from a few tables away took his attention.
Shouts and yells stood atop of the roar within the hall; it seemed two young cadets had an argument. What at first was yelling at each other, quickly turned to throwing fists! Their fellow cadets did little to stop the fight, but instead hooped and hallowed encouragement.
“Damn it!” growled Andrew “Clara stay here, I’ll only be a minute”
Before Clara could begin to replay, Andrew had already swept away from her and towards the brawl.
…Aw… man, don’t leave me alone here; thought the redhead dismally.
Clara normally didn’t mind crowds but this wasn’t a packed subway car in New York…while dangerous in its own right…Clara doubted that a subway car was as dangerous as a foot-ball sized hall filled with rowdy, fight-happy young men with gallons of testosterone running through their muscled packed bodies.
I hope no fights break out near me, I think I would be dead meat…
Clara tried to fold into herself and make herself as small and un-noticeable as possible; it seemed to work. No one took much notice of her, far too busy eating, talking or casually watching the fight going on.
Andrew seemed to be having trouble separating the two fighting cadets. Clara watched the scene closely; hoping that nothing bad would happen to Andrew. She knew the man was a Lieutenant but his small stature compared to the rest of the men concerned her.
So engrossed with the scene, the redhead didn’t see the tall form of a man approaching her from behind.
“The fuck are you doing here?!” growled a deep male voice.
Clara gave an undignified squeak before whirling around to see who addressed her. Blue eyes widened in fright as she took in the monster of a man behind her; worse she recognized him as the guy she was just talking about…Jarard-Capitan of the Guard.
The beast was tall, far taller than Andrew by a foot and half, with a body that was easily twice as big as the small brunette. Glossy black hair cascaded down behind broad shoulders encased in silver shoulder plates. His face was sharp and angler with caramel colored skin and dark eyes obscured with thick bangs. All in all, he looked like Aladdin on steroids that ditched the fez and patchwork pants for black knight armor.
He stared down at Clara with distain. He then repeated his earlier question, “What are you doing here, human?” he growled.
Clara said the only thing that came to mind, “…Double shit on a stick…”
Of course I would run into the freaking guy that tried to kill me the other day…fuck why do I have the worst luck?
“That’s not an answer you little rat” spat Jarard.
“I-I…lunch…” began Clara; she timidly held up her roll, “see…food…” finished the redhead lamely.
“That explains why you’re here in Mess, not why you’re sitting here at the officer’s table!” shouted the man.
Clara flinched and dropped her roll back on the plate; “I-I…”
Fuck…
“You dirty little pest, you may have lucked out yesterday, but don’t think you’ll be allowed to infest the rest of the castle on my watch!” hissed Jarard as he took an intimidating step towards the defenseless little redhead.
Clara was about to duck under the table and make a run for it. The hell with staying put and getting the shit beat out of her. The fucker could keep the damn table!
Her intentions must have shown on her face…because Jarard reached and seized the human by her arm.
“Oh you’re not sneaking off that easily…I’m not going to let you run to Andrew for protection, you’ve deceived him enough!” accused the dark haired soldier.
“I haven’t done anything! Let me go you bastard!” cried Clara trying to pull away. It wouldn’t do her much good since the man had a vice grip on her arm.
Panic mode was quickly overtaking the redhead as she pulled with all her might to get away.
“…For the love of Keeva! Jarard let the poor thing go” called a familiar female voice.
Jarard didn’t get to respond before being swatted upside the head.
The soldier instantly let go of Clara, as he turned to his assaulter; “Fuck Tawny! What was that for?!” yelled Jarard.
“For being a jackass naturally…” answered the female Captain from earlier. “Honestly, isn’t lunch dramatic enough without you adding more drama?” quipped Tawny sitting down next to Clara; “Don’t mind him honey, he’s just being a racist ass”
“…Am not! That little beast is in my seat!” shouted Jarard
Tawny fixed the man with a dull look “So ya bitching over a seat…how old are you?”
“That’s not the point, Tawny. This is reserved for officers’ not helots!” countered Jarard.
Tawny snorted, “What the difference she obviously here with Andrew and if you kick her out he’ll have a fit…directed at you…for being a ass”
Jarard glared down at the woman, “What do I care, I’m his commanding officer!”
“As if that’ll make much of a difference…you bend over backwards to keep Andrew happy…after all he is technically your senior…and trained you when you were a cadet” smiled Tawny cheekily, taking a bite out of a meat bun.
Jarard recoiled at the remark, “So what I’m Capitan not him”
“Whatever…” replied the woman swallowing “Quit your bitching and sit down”
“I’m not sitting down at a table with this little pest at it” growled the man making another move to remove Clara.
The redhead sunk down to avoid the grab.
“Fine stand there for all I care” sniffed Tawny in annoyance.
“How can you be okay with this?” demanded Jarard.
“Cause I ain’t a racist…my-my how your father still lingers even while in the grave…”
“I’m not like him!” shouted Jarard offended.
“Then shut up and sit down!” shouted Tawny.
“…Bitch!”
“Dick!”
With that final insult Jarard huffed before sitting down on the opposite of the table muttering to himself; “Can’t believe this…damn human getting special treatment from everyone…sitting at ‘my’ damn table…eating ‘our’ food….leeching off ‘my’ Lieutenant…son of a bitch…”
“Ya can stop hiding now, he’s settled down” assured Tawny, looking at the cowering redhead.
The aforementioned redhead poked her head up, staring warily at the glaring male.
“Come on now, he ain’t going to try nothing” persuaded the female smiling.
Clara finally righted herself into her seat, trying to calm her frazzled nerves.
Damn psycho! I can believe he’s a fucking racist to humans…bastard…at least what’s her name came to the rescue…thank you mighty boob-lady…
Jarard was still grumbling to himself, sneaking glares between Clara and the female Capitan. Tawny blissfully ignored him and Clara timidly nibbled on her roll, watching…and hoping that Andrew would return soon…this was awkward.
In her musings, Clara did make the observation that both Capitan’s look ethnically similar; both had dark hair and eyes with tanned skin.
“Oh wow!” came Tawny’s shout that made Clara flinch. “I just realized you’re a redhead!” boomed the woman.
“Huh?” asked a scared and confused Clara.
The redhead got another shock as the woman took her hand and started rubbing Clara’s head affectionately.
“Lucky-lucky redhead…lucky-lucky redhead…” she chanted happily while rubbing Clara’s head.
The hell is going on? The day started out well enough now it just went from good to bad to damn weird…
“I didn’t know that humans could be redheads?” questioned Tawny.
“Of course they can…” Jarard muttered sourly; “Did you know that redheads are also rare among humans…if I’m a racist then how would I know that…”
“Useless facts hardly justifies your behavior…” quipped Tawny finally ceasing her rubbing “Anyway…so redheads are rare to humans…so were you a big shot where you came from…Oh wow! You have blue eyes too! Fuck you must have been a princess or something!” exclaimed the woman.
“…No way…she couldn’t have blue eyes” commented Jarard in disbelief.
“She does so! I’m looking at them!” argued Tawny.
Is my appearance really that much of a big deal? Is having red hair and blue eyes a big thing here?
“Who cares if she does…doesn’t change the fact she’s a human…in our world…and a helot…even if she was a big shot somebody she ain’t no more” spat Jarard.
“Blah-blah Jarard…even still, she’s one lucky girl to escape from Demons make it here and be spared by Lord Aiden…”
“Um…excuse me…is it a big deal that I’m a redhead with blue eyes?” asked Clara puzzled
Both Capitan’s’ fixed her with an odd look. Jarard snorted in annoyance, but Tawny offered an explanation; “Red hair is pretty rare here…only people from either the Wolfgang Clan or the Mountain Barbarians have the color. Redheads are supposed to be really lucky so you got to rub their hair in hopes of having some of their luck rub off on you”
Okay…that’s really weird…
“As for the blue eyes…well only Kakonia royalty are blessed with blue eyes…no other creature here as them…so pretty important…If I didn’t know any better I’d mistake ya for a Wolfgang noble”
Only royalty has blue eyes…that’s strange…blue eyes are common back home…though natural redheads are a rarity nowadays. Go figure…I swear this place gets stranger and stranger…I wonder if people are going to randomly come to me and rub my head? That’s going to be really uncomfortable…
Jarard scoffed loudly; “Only you since you’re an idiot”
“Piss off Jarard!” growled Tawny.
“Whatever….Hurry the fuck up, Cadets!” hollered Jarard towards the line.
A duo of cadets came rushing over; one with a fresh plate of food and other with a mug. The two boys looked like they been to hell and back to bring food for their Capitan.
“Sorry sir, the others didn’t believe us when we told them we were fetching your lunch” explained the one carrying the plate.
“Yeah the assholes put up hell of a fight but we won in the end!” boosted the other.
“Good job cadets, dismissed”
“Yes sir!” the two saluted before walking away.
“Honestly, Jarard, are really that lazy where ya can’t get your own food?” questioned Tawny dully.
“Keeps the brats on their toes” replied the dark haired male.
Wow this guy sure likes throwing his ego around doesn’t he…he still a dick; thought Clara monotonously.
Tawny shook her head, but turned her attention back on Clara; “So what’s ya story?”
The question caught Clara off-guard. She hadn’t really gone into detail about her ordeal. She had only spit out a quick-frantic version of events to the king dude. Andrew hadn’t even asked.
“Um…” began the redhead un-sure about how to start.
“Why do you want to know? It’s just some poor sob story” commented Jarard rudely.
Jackass…
“By Keeva did the Lord of Assholes come and slap you this morning? Or has your lady cycle come early?” quipped Tawny.
“I don’t understand what the big deal about this-this thing is? First Andrew now you…By Keeva I think she’s diseased and you all infected!” stated the man dramatically.
I have no idea whether he’s just being an ass or if really believes it
Another argument between the two Captains was about to start when Andrew finally came back to the table.
Praise the lord, he came back! Please save me from these nuts!
The rest of mealtime was Clara listening to the others talk; mostly complaining about how rowdy the cadets were. The two Capitan’s argued with each other a lot, but the banter held no venom.
In any case, Clara was glad when lunch ended; eager to put as much distance between her and the male Capitan as possible. Soon Clara and Andrew were back to doing rounds around the enormous castle.

….
Indeed the interior of the castle was outfitted for government work with different departments in different areas of the mammoth castle.
It’s like a medieval office building, thought the Clara, I guess they’re not too primitive, but how the hell am I going to remember this crazy route!?
Of course remembering the twists and turns of castle wasn’t Clara’s only problem; rumors traveled fast. No matter where Andrew dragged Clara, the red haired woman could her whispers behind her back. The subject being Clara herself, apparently humans weren’t the most common visitors to the empire…
‘…Is she really a human?’
‘…They say she came from Demon territory…’
‘…Nasty…I hope she didn’t bring any diseases with her…’
‘…Humans are pathetically weak…she’ll be dead soon…’
If the sneers and whispers weren’t bad enough, some soldiers actually had the balls to tug on her hair roughly and laugh. Andrew would instantly push back the bastards and yell at the guards, but the bastards took the tongue lashing with smirks on their faces.
It was scary and humiliating but the redhead tried to keep her emotions under control.
There’s no way in hell I’m letting these assholes have the pleasure of seeing me cry!
Even with steadying her emotions, the words and assaults didn’t lessen the sting of the situation. Clara hadn’t felt this bad since her first day of Catholic high school where she traveled down the hall with the back of her school skirt tucked into her panties.
However, by the time the afternoon rolled around Clara was tearing up; never before had her self- esteem plummet down to such dangerously low levels.
“Don’t listen to them Clara. There’s nothing wrong with being human. Those asses should remember that we both come from the same ancestors.” Andrew had said.
Clara humored him with a weak smile, but his words did little to raise her spirits.
To think I’ll have to endure this hell…I really want to go home…now, thought Clare dismally.
Thankfully, the duo left the hostilely of the interior halls and to the emptiness of the outdoor corridors’ that framed a vast courtyard. A huge dome building sat in the middle of the courtyard; made of the same black stone that made up the castle, with addition of red leafy vines crawling all over it. The odd colored vegetation made the structure all the more sinister looking.
“Clara, I need to run this down to the Council Chamber, please wait here”
“Wait! Can’t I come?” asked Clara.
“Sorry, you can’t follow because the Council Chambers are strictly guarded and no person below the rank of an officer is allowed in. Not to mention, a meeting is going on…I’ll only be ten minutes at the most” reassured the man.
“I…I don’t want to be alone” whined Clara.
“You’ll be fine. Just don’t bring attention to yourself. I’ll be right back” called Andrew walking away. Clara watched as Andrew made his way across the lawn to and massive dome building in the distance. The soldier’s pace was quick, within moments he was out of sight, swallowed up by the pitch black opening to the dome.
I hope he is quick, thought Clara plastering herself against the wall.
The first five minutes passed with no one within the corridor except for Clara. The redhead’s guard soon fell and Clara began to watch the little bugs buzzing around some flowering vines growing on the wall. Clara noticed too late the three guards approaching her.
“Lost little girl?” asked a guard with an ugly brown beard.
“Huh? No, I’m fine!” squeaked Clara, now focused on the three men.
“Hey, I know her!” shouted a blond guard. The blond was far younger looking than the bearded man or the one with an eye patch covering his left eye. In fact he looked to be a teen, his voice was high pitched and obnoxious. “She’s the human that Lt. Andrew saved! She was in the mess hall…The Capitan was trying to-to throw her out, but then Cap. Tawny came-and…”
Oh God…
“Okay-okay kid we get it!” snapped the one with an eye patch “So this little redhead is really a human, huh?” One beady brown eye ran over Clara’s form appraisingly, “She’s got red hair, don’t see that often”
“Is she supposed to be a full grown woman? She’s looks like a pubescent girl!” commented the obnoxious blond; “Hey are all humans as tiny as you? Are your men any bigger? Did ya slip by the Demons like a mouse cause’ you’re so tiny?”
“I’m full grown, thank you very much” snapped Clara. Oh god, why’d I open my mouth?
The man with the beard glared at her. “..I heard she’s got a mouth on her, talked back to the king himself; looks to me that Lt. Andrew hasn’t begun training the little creature”
“She’s really full grown? My kid sister is way taller than her and she’s like ten!” Commented the blond again.
“That’s what she said shit-for-brains” barked the eye patch guy.
“The name’s Frey, old man! I was just saying she’s so puny, I guess human males don’t have much to work with” commented the young blond.
“Human males are worse, there’re practically the same as their women expect for dicks the size of a finger” stated the bearded one, as though the information he gave was fact.
…The hell? Where are these people getting their damn information!? Our men are not the same as women…well most of them are not…
“What a pathetic race” laughed the blond. “But still how could she make all the way here all by herself?”
God what a bunch of assholes, how about I knee you all in your nuts? Bet that’ll level the playing field, thought Clara deviously. Her thoughts soon melted into panic when the guard with the patch spoke.
“I don’t think she’s so bad” the man reached out and squeezed Clara’s right breast. “She’s kind of cute…besides a woman is woman…at least if she isn’t no Demon” he laughed
Clara yelled and slapped the offending hand away. “What hell is your problem?!” screamed the redhead. “This is sexual harassment you bastard...”
Wham!
Clara’s statement was cut off as the man with the beard slapped her across the face.
“Bitch we can do whatever we like with you. Your nothing but a disgusting, weak human and a helot at that” growled the man.
Clara didn’t hear a word the man said, her head was ringing. Her cheek was screaming in agony and Clara could taste blood in her mouth.
Son of a bitch! Shit! That hurt…damn…damn…ouch, were Clara’s thoughts as she nursed her throbbing cheek.
“I bet that hurt” spoke the blond dumbly
“She should know her place” defended the bearded man “Human or not, a helot is no better than a garbage skun”
“She’s feisty” the one eyed man smirked, “Maybe she should be taught some more by hands on methods…” the man’s one good eye scanned the girl. “She not much but, it’s been so long”
“That’s disgusting” said the bearded man “She’s a human, surly you won’t disgrace yourself by violating such a lonesome creature”
“Wait…what? What’s he talking about?” asked the blond.
“Frey, you are truly an idiot aren’t you” commented the breaded guard.
“Hey!” cried the blond haired, Frey.
“Don’t deny an old soldier his pleasures” smiled the one eyed guard ignoring the other two.
The bearded one made an appalled look. “Fine do what you want with her. I will not have any part in this delinquency” he then walked off.
“Pops is gone, we should split as well” spoke the blond.
“Come on kid, I need a look out. No one else will care, but Andrew would have me hung from my balls” said the man, gabbing Clara.
“Huh? What are you going to do?” the blond teen asked unsure of the situation.
“By Keeva ya got shit for brains…I’m going to give her a quick fuck” declared the older soldier.
The blond soldier seemed to add two and two together; “Are you crazy, ya can’t do that! We’d get into trouble…Lieutenant would kill us and-and then he would tell the Capitan and-and he would kill us again!” shouted Frey waving his arms franticly.
“Shut ya mouth kid! Ya want the whole castle to hear ya!?” growled one eye.
“You’re nuts old man! Come on let’s just go” pleaded the teen pulling at the older soldier.
“Off me brat!” snapped the elder pushing the teen away.
The blond knew that there was no changing his seniors minds…Frey turned his brown eyes to the stunned girl in sympathy, but there wasn’t much he could do.
“You’re on your own old man” stated Frey weakly.
“The fuck I am, kid. You’re my look-out got it” demanded the elder.
“…Oh… Hell no! I ain’t getting my ass beat by the Capitan! I’m already spread thin with him!”
“Look shit for brains…you either do this for me…or I let the other men know that a tight ass just became available in the barracks tonight” threatened one eye.
The teen paled in fright…there was no way he was going to be the barracks bitch. He’d worked too hard to be a lap-dog to the seniors for protection…
Defeated, the teen weakly agreed.
“Good boy” praised the elder snidely.
By now, Clara’s mind came back after being slapped silly. Realization came over her like a cold tidal wave when a calloused hand grabbed hold of her pants and yanked down.
…The fuck! OH HELL NO!
“No! NONONONONONO! Let me go! Help! Help! Please someone help!” Clara screamed at the top of her lungs.
A large hand grabbed her throat in an iron grip, cutting off air, making Clara cough and gasp. She clawed at her assailant’s hand with success.
“Shut the hell up, bitch or I’ll break your neck” growled the patch eyed guard.
“Be quick will you… Or-or we could forget this…” hissed the blond “Someone could come at any moment!”
“Shut it kid, and keep watch” growled the elder male.
“Yeah…all -right…” muttered the teen nervously. “Maybe you should go easy on her, keep it up and you’ll be fucking a corpse…asshole…”
Oh god, oh god, oh god! I’m going to die…and be raped…die and raped…No please not like this…not like this. Help Andrew…please help…anyone…please…I don’t want to die…not like…this, were Clara’s broken thoughts.
She could barely breathe. Tears were beginning to burn her eyes. Kicking became futile as the man inserted his body between her thighs. His free hand was fumbling with his pants, desperate to release his aching cock from its cloth prison
“…There…” he purred rudely; the engorged organ was released, standing proudly like a canon ready to go off. “You may be small, but I bet you’re as tight as hell” cooed the man.
Tears began to spill from Clara’s eyes as she felt the man’s cock brush against her pubic curls, no doubt the rust colored hairs were being smeared with sticky pre-cum from the weeping head. Her heart was pounded a mile a minute adding more pressure to an already constricted chest.
Clara’s vision began to blur…
Oh God! No please no! Not to me, screamed Clara in her head; I-I hope I...black-out…then-then…I won’t feel…it…please-please-please…God help me…
“Get on with it” hissed the blond turning to his slow partner in panic. The teen couldn’t believe this was happening…he actually felt sorry for the poor redhead.
“Yeah, yeah” grunted the man, poised for a violent penetration.
“Get on with what?” came a hard voice.
Both the blond and the eye patch turned violently towards the interruption.
“Fuck off you…” stated the eye patched man, annoyed at being interrupted, “Oh…Keeva…fuck…” his anger quickly faded away at the sight of his king standing there.
“Milord!” shouted the elder guard as he instantly let Clara go. The poor woman slid down to the floor, coughing as she desperately swallowed oxygen.
Oh thank-you lord, I’m saved, she thought. After a moment of regaining herself, Clara turned weakly to look at the scene and her savoir. Her eyes beheld Aiden and hope slowly faded. He won’t help me, thought Clara dejectedly.
Eye patch stood at attention, saluting his king, though he did forget about his erection hanging out for all to see. The blond soldier had fallen to his knees with his head bowed; sweat pouring off the youth in buckets.
The blond had heard that the king had no reservations about killing people on the spot for upsetting him.
Aiden observed the guard before him dully; is face void of any emotion. Blue eyes glanced down for a brief second before returning to the guard’s face.
“I don’t need a salute from your dick” stated Aiden calmly.
Patch’s eye widened comically before dropping his hands to fumble with his member. After a minute or two the guard wrestled his penis back into his pants. The process painful as the stubborn organ took its time going down. With slight moisture in his one good eye the guard looked up at Aiden.
“Ten thousand pardons your Highness…I didn’t…”
…The guard was cut off instantly…
“Your look out should pay more attention” replied Aiden. The blond made violent shudder but didn’t dare look up from his place. “So…taking a small break from your duties?” asked Aiden, a silver eyebrow raised.
“You see…and she…and I…and…and” stuttered the guard, not sure what to say. He’d been caught with his pants down, by the king no less. One eye would never live this down.
Aiden chuckled in a rather chilling way that froze all that were present. One eye swore his heart stopped in his chest. The king hardly laughed and when he did something bad happened. His lord was known for his cruelty…nothing less from a kin-killer…
The elder soldier was now sweating like a pig.
“I had no idea that I had such pathetic soldiers. It is one thing to take a woman when she’s wonting, but quite another when she doesn’t. That one is the helot is she not?” asked Aiden a smirk appearing on thin lips.
The guard nodded dumbly. “She’s but a helot, Sire. Surly no harm done” smiled One-eye, his body shaking.
“I suppose…” agreed Aiden dully.
That asshole is going to pat them on the back and walk away! The bastard is going to leave me here to be raped, thought Clara dazed. A fresh wave of tears flowed from her red rimmed eyes.
“…There’s no harm done, but you do realize that humans carry far more diseases than we do, right?” said Aiden inclining his head to the side.
The guard gave a confused expression. “No Sire, I didn’t”
“In that case, you might be infected then”
“Oh no Sire, I didn’t get far…” the rest of the sentenced was cut off with a scream of agony erupted from the guard’s mouth.
Aiden was never unarmed; wherever he went some sort of weapon was hidden on his person. He didn’t have a full length blade on him today, but rather a small dagger hidden within his sleeve.
How fortunate this guard is…he doesn’t lose a limp today; were Aiden’s thoughts
It took less than a second to release the blade and make a cut to the guard’s crotch. Already blood was staining the guard’s pants.
“Better let it bleed out so the disease won’t spread. Careful not to bleed too much or you’ll just die” commented Aiden off-handily slipping the blade back into place. In the meantime, the guard had crumbled to the floor holding his groin in anguish
Aiden regarded his soldier with unhindered disgust, “You know if you spent more time on your duties than looking to score you wouldn’t have this problem.”
The words were lost on patch eyed guard; too much pain numbed him to the world.
“A tiny flesh wound and you’re falling apart; the recruitment system isn’t the same nowadays” remarked Aiden lazily. “… Hey, blonde”
The young blond lifted his head; he looked up with terrified eyes to his king. “Yes…yes…Sire?”
“Take your buddy to the healer, before his bleeds to death on the floor. Inform your Capitan why he is …ill” smirked Aiden.
The youth looked horrified.
“Chop- chop, kid or would you like to do some blood-letting as well?”
The youth sprang to his feet and assisted his wailing comrade. The two made their way out of the hallway and back with the walls of the castle. The wounded wails of the guard echoed off the stone walls.
Aiden watched them go before turning his attention to Clara, still slumped on floor. She looked up at Aiden with wet and wide eyes.
“You…you…” the redhead stammered in disbelief.
“You’re really are a nuisance. Next time don’t distract my guards” commented Aiden before walking off.
“Huh? Wait…why…”began Clara weakly.
The man had his back towards the redhead, but responded nevertheless, “You’re intact…you shouldn’t question it, be grateful about how un-naturally lucky you are”
Clara looked after Aiden, her mind in a fog. The woman neglected to notice when Andrew ran up.
“Oh Keeva!”; “Clara, are you all right? What happened?! Clara, answer me?!” Andrew shouted at Clara. The man gently shook the girl for any response.
“Oh my Keeva! Hang on Clara! ”
“The bastard…does have a shred of…humanity” mumbled Clara before passing out.
…
At some point in time Clara found herself slowing rousing into consciousness. Her head was killing her and her neck was sore. Her vision was still blurry, but as minutes passed the images started to clear. With a painful moan she sat up. Taking a look around Clara found herself in an unknown place.
She was sitting on a couch in a decent sized room. Vast amounts of weaponry decorated the stones walls; in the middle of the room stood a desk with piles of papers on them. In another corner of the room was a human sized statue of a woman with long flowing hair wrapping around her nude body.
“Where am I?” asked Clara aloud.
“My office, I see you’re feeling better” answered a woman coming in through the door. Clara recognized the woman from this morning.
She’s the Capitan…but I forgot her name, thought Clara.
“Andrew couldn’t stay with you, and the assistant healer in the infirmary was being bitchy about have to tend to a human, so here you are” said the armor clad woman.
“Oh” offered the redhead weakly.
“I checked you out, the dicks didn’t nail the target” she said bluntly, “However, you’ll be feeling the abuse they put you through for a while. You’re really lucky” commented the woman.
“He saved me…” said Clara without thinking
“Come again?” questioned the dark-haired woman
“The king dude, he actually saved me” replied Clara astonished. He acted like he hated me and he didn’t think twice when he ordered me killed but then goes out of his way to save me, thought Clara.
“Yup, lucky you, the King; hasn’t the tolerance for rape for some reason. Too bad the rest of the council doesn’t see it that way” muttered the woman. “Here drink this, it’ll lessen the pain” remarked the woman handing a cup to Clara.
Clara took the cup, “Thanks…Captain…”
“Just came me Tawny, but Capitan in public got it” winked Tawny.
“Okay…” replied Clara before taking a sip of the warm liquid, strangely it had no taste.
Tawny gave a small smile before walking towards her desk. “You can stay in here for a bit, Andrew will come for ya later. That man has such a mother hen complex”
“What going to happen to those men?” Clara asked suddenly.
“Well…nothing for trying to rape you. The King already gave a good punishment to that one creep and no doubt Jarard will jump in their shit for that stunt him they pulled in front of the King...”
“You mean they won’t be punished for what they tried to do to me?!” shouted Clara shocked.
“Sorry to break it to you, but here rape isn’t recognized as a crime” said Tawny bitterly “If you’re a noble woman its different, but for we regular women, tough luck”
“WHY?!” cried Clara appalled
“It’s always been like that. Females are considered inferior in comparison to men. We are lovers, wives, mothers, and occasionally support in dire times but that is it” explained Tawny.
“But you’re a Captain…You’re a high ranking woman shouldn’t you be able to punish them… have rights?” asked Clara.
“Yes, I’m a Capitan but only to the priestesses. I can order around male cadets can’t punish them…really… I have no authority over Jarard orders. My job is to protect and tend to the noble woman of the Court and train my girls to do the same. Being a warrior priestess is the only military position available for a woman, and it’s not looked highly upon.” muttered Tawny
“That’s unfair!” cried Clara outraged
“Life is unfair. Just be grateful you weren’t raped, others aren’t as fortunate as you, girl” remarked Tawny coldly. Clara noticed a distanced look in the dark skinned female’s eyes.
“I’m sorry, it’s just in my home, and things like this are against the law. Hey, if the King doesn’t like rape, then why doesn’t he change the law?” ventured Clara.
“The council wouldn’t entertain such a thing. His lordship may be King, but even his has to answer to the damn council. Those upper crust bastards couldn’t care less about average citizens let along women” growled the woman “It be better if Aiden was absolute ruler” murmured Tawny to herself.
Wow these guys really love that jackass. Sure he saved me, I’m happy about that, but he also tried to have me killed. Is there more to that tyrant?
…
(Warning-mature content)

…Elsewhere…a certain victim wasn’t so lucky….
Everything felt hazy…his vision was blurred. The dimness of wherever he was didn’t help his swimming eyesight. What he could distinguish; he was in a room, and there were walls… Some sort of light source was coming from the ceiling, and he was laying down on something soft. That was about all he could place for the moment, but a new realization hit the male… he couldn’t move his body.
His body felt heavy, he couldn’t even lift a finger. Not a good situation to be in, especially if his life was in some sort of danger. But he couldn’t panic; panicking would be counterproductive to whatever this episode was.
Great… I can barely see, my body feels like lead, and…fuck…
But worst of all…his mind was in disarray. Navan… couldn’t remember where he was or how he got there or the events leading up to this capture.
What’s happening? Where am I?
Glazed over eyes tried to focus on their surroundings; though the images were blurred, the male could tell that the room had a stone interior…a familiar cast iron chandelier hung from the rocky ceiling, its wax caked candles flickering in the dim room. There were drapes hovering above him the color of red wine with patterns inlayed in gold. Even without seeing the patterns clearly, Navan could tell that he hadn’t been taken from his home…no…he was still chained to headquarters that sat upon the Cora Arena.
No doubt the dome shape building lay a few floors below him, and below the different fields of battle, the laid the underground where the gladiators were kept; below that…Hell’s Labyrinth…but that was completely different place.
Strangely, Navan preferred the arena with the heavy scent of blood and musk in the air; the screaming of agony and profanity…the bloody den of madness felt more like home than the calm and cleanness of the Order’s headquarters
Pity…I’m still within the confines of the Order…but this isn’t my room.
His ears picked up the sound of heavy breathing.
Whose breathing…is it me? It is me!
It was indeed Navan breathing heavily. Navan could feel his lungs inflate and then exhale rapidly as though he was running hard.
Why am I breathing so heavily!?
His mind was so fuzzy; Navan didn’t have the capacity to be alarmed, not like it would do him any good at the moment. Instead he tried to unravel his brain that seemed to have gone lame on him;
Swimming through his thoughts, the male made another discovery…his body (though still heavy) was hot, burning in fact but not in a painful way. There was also a pressure near his stomach…it felt like it was swelling.
The hell is wrong with me!? Am I sick or something? Did I eat something funny today? No…couldn’t have. I’ve been fasting for a week now…Hmm…perhaps I took it too far and now I’m starving to death…a possibility…Wait why was I fasting again?
A breathless moan, that wasn’t from him jarred the male from his thoughts.
Tired eyes focused on his stomach, where Navan was greeted by two heaving breasts with red hair flowing over them. Gazing further upward, those breasts where attached to a chest, neck, head, and a face etched in pleasure.
I’m having sex! Fuck! She got me again!
Navan couldn’t remember how he got into this situation, but it was no surprise. This occurrence happened quite often, despite Navan's diligence in staying alert. His fasting plan had failed.
Looks like mommy dearest managed to drug me again…how does she keep doing that without me knowing! Fan-fucking-tastic! Mother- 27… Me- 14
Navan settled down and turned his empty gaze to the ceiling. There was no point in fighting…the drugs his mother inflicted were powerful…even as someone as strong as him would have to endure till the drugs wore off.
Instead, Navan focused on the numbers. Twenty-seven times his mother had managed to inflict this humiliation upon him, while he only managed to escape it fourteen times; and that was only within a two month time span. To add the numbers when the molestation started, he would have to go back to his early pre-teen years. That would be a bitch to add up and not a practically victorious time for him.
At the tender age of six did this rape begin; by eight, Navan knew it was wrong; by nine, he fought back; by ten, mother fought back; by thirteen, Navan was free from her grasp for a year and half; by fifth-teen, Navan got strong and clever, but mother was cleverer; by, sixteen the whole thing turned into a sick game.
Navan had enough sense to know that making this into a game was dismally morbid, but we all do what we must to keep control of our lives. Navan by nature had a very playful demeanor, so turning unpleasant circumstances into a game helped him cope. Granted the ‘Mother’s going to get you’ game wasn’t Navan's favorite. He really wanted to avoid the whole game.
However, he could see how affectionate his mother had been lately…that sent warning flags up. The only way for her to get Navan to participate in this detestable act, was to drug him. If she didn’t Navan would try and kill her. Thus why Navan had been starving himself for a week…a lot of good that did…She still found a way to inject her medicines into him.
The most diseased part of this fabrication of intimacy wasn’t that she was his blood mother or it started when he was child or they had turned it into a cat and mouse game! No! The real twisted part of this was it wasn’t Navan she was fucking…in her mind, he was not her son…No…Navan didn’t exist…only the living image of his late father.
“…So good…” she moaned
Keeva strike me down now! How the hell did I lose this time? Sneaky bitch!
Navan felt the bile raising his throat but swallowed it down. Getting sick would mean that he was letting this bother him, which wouldn’t be good for his chaotic mental state. He wanted to focus on anything that wasn’t this. Sadly, now that he was aware of what was going on, he could feel things more clearly. By the pits of the abyss he could feel himself sliding in and out of her hot slickness.
Fucking drugs…if they’re going to numb my body, can’t they numb my dick so it doesn’t act like a whore rod!
“So close!” she gasped
Whoop-de-fucking-doo…hurry up woman…my fasting plan is shot to hell, might as well go eat something after this…Something good too…I wonder if there is anything sweet lurking around the kitchens…
“Call my name!” she screamed in ecstasy.
What?
The confusion must have shown on his face, because he mother’s lust covered, violet colored eyes peered down at him, pleading.
“Please my love! Call out my name!” she begged
I’m not your love! I’m not him! Can’t you see me…ME!
“Please! Darling! Say my name!” She pleaded earnestly.
Her creamy thighs hugged tightly to Navan's narrow hips, she pushed down hard, riding him for all he was worth. She’d make him scream in pleasure.
He’d been teasing her all week with his silly starving scheme. He knew she wanted him, but still he fought back.
One day he’ll learn…No! Tonight he’d learn!
His body already loved her, now only if his heart and mind would catch up. Such a stubborn boy he was…but she’d be lying if she said she didn’t enjoy the game they played. Her beloved had played hard to get as well, but she eventually broke him down…she would do the same with… Nave…Her BELOVED…
A harsh downward thrust made him gasp!
By Keeva look how beautiful he is!? From snowy mane and sapphire eyes, to his god-like body! Oh darling, how I love you…please just give in…
Another savage thrust made a shameful moan come from Navan…
Yes, yes that’s right love; give in….give in to the pleasure…love me!
She was nearing her climax and so was he. His sizable manhood was swelling up in anticipation. His breaths more labored then before…they both were ready.
She would command him once more.
“Call my name!” she commanded passionately. She couldn’t last a moment longer.
His eyes showed dull in defeat…his throated rumbled into action…his quivering lips parted…
Yes, yes, yes, yes! Call my name, my love!
In the moment when both of them reached the end…Navan's eyes brightened, brows lowered, and an evil smile formed on his mouth…
No…no…don’t you dare!
In the most venom, malice, and hate soaked way, Navan, hoarsely whispered…
“…Mother…”
Her illusion was scattered at the utterance of that dreaded title. He wasn’t hers! He wasn’t her beloved! No! Instead of becoming the god that she dreamed him as, the wretched boy had to ruin it! Instead of reaching the divine pillar, he had to forsaken it! He had to remain…
“…Navan…”
She silently uttered his name in pleasure soaked agony.
Navan really did almost vomit, the acid of his empty stomach burned in his throat…but he resisted. He gritted his teeth and pushed through the agonizing feeling of emptying his seed into the wretched creature atop of him.
Her greedy nether mouth milked him for all he was worth. Thank Keeva above that the woman was barren. Navan was her first and last child. The pervious queen made damn sure that mother never produce anymore children after Navan's birth.
Navan couldn’t endure the thought of the two of them ever spawning an abomination. A shudder of revolution went through the young male.
At least it’s over now…only if she gets the fuck off of me; thought Navan annoyed
His mother was still coming down from her high…breathing heavily.
“I’d appreciate it if you release me from your slimy dungeon” muttered Navan dully.
That comment caught her attention…her gaze turned to him quickly, her violet eyes bright in restrained fury.
“What did you say!?” she hissed.
“You have what you wanted, my task is done release me, woman” rephrased Navan.
“You’re done when I say you’re done!” she snapped, “You didn’t call my name…” she whispered sadly.
Navan huffed in discontentment; “I called you by your title…no matter what you think you will always be my mother…”
“I’m not your mother when we are like this!” she yelled desperately.
It’s almost pathetic how much denial she’s in. Still why do I have to put up with her crazy? Then again…I’m kind of crazy myself…How ironic birds of a feather flock together…and apparently fuck together…I’m still hungry…
“Come on now, I’m really hungry… and whatever act you force me into, you’re still my mommy dearest” mocked Navan evilly.
“You’re wicked child! Why can’t you be like…” she cried.
“Him…you mean…Why I can’t be more like daddy…” Navan laughed cruelly “Hmm…I wonder why…maybe because I am not him…Ooh what a shocking discovery!”
“You could be!” she argued back.
Navan rolled his eyes; “I cannot be anything other than me. No matter how much you wish it, I’ll always be a Navan” stated Navan in a matter-a-fact tone.
“You’re so cruel, dearest son…” she mumbled in defeat.
“Yes, yes shame on me, now release my dick! How long before I can move my body?” Navan asked calmly.
“Ten minutes” his mother answered automatically
“ ..Ten minutes!” groaned Navan in displeasure “I’m really hungry damn it” He whined.
“You shouldn’t have starved yourself” she commented. She shifted her body, allowing Navan to slide out of her. She already missed the feeling of him filling her. But if she delayed and he regained movement he would try and kill her. Not like he could, she was the more powerful Blood Mage, but it would be a hassle.
“Don’t make fun of me; I really thought that plan would work. You won’t win next time” proclaimed Navan. “Can’t we play another game, playing house is getting old…I prefer tag”
He really does act like a child; she thought dully; so unlike his father…oh well, things will change…soon…
“Whatever…” she answered. The red haired woman moved off the bed. She bent down to retrieve her robe from the floor. “Your version of tag requires someone to die at the end. Darius didn’t deserve what you did to him”
“He pissed me off…it was justified…but we would play tag, and I would win” replied Navan with a manic grin.
He is going to be impossible to deal with for the next couple of days. He does cop an attitude like his father when displeased. Of course my darling could be appeased by some sweet words and sex…I don’t think Navan would go for that…shame.
“If your attitude doesn’t improve soon, you won’t be going to Corashank at the end of the season. You’ll remain here and we’ll continue playing house” she threatened.
“You, you wouldn’t dare!” stuttered Navan. Leaving to fight in Corashank Arena was the only freedom he got to taste.
“Oh I would…I’m not foolish enough to believe you won’t try anything in retaliation for tonight. The mischief you make is a hassle to deal with” she stated sternly.
“I wouldn’t have to retaliate if you stop doing this to me” Navan shot back viciously.
“I do it because I love you; people in love do these things. Besides better me then those filthy whores from the arena”
“I prefer the filthy whores” replied the male, wiggling his fingers.
Damn he’s regaining his motor skills, quicker than I thought…
Tightening her robe around her, the red head drifted to the bedroom door. She paused for a moment to look back at her son; he look so delicious sprawled out on the bed naked; his pale body gleaming in sweat, his silver hair a mess, and his legs slightly parted to reveal his manhood.
By Keeva she was tempted to take him again. Her womanhood ached at the thought of having his cock filling her again…but…he would try and slaughter her…so she had to leave her deadly beauty.
“I mean it Navan, no funny business okay, I love you” she said softly.
“And I hate you…balances out doesn’t it” he mocked.
The red haired woman said nothing; she slipped out silently, her heart heavy with ache.
Navan, finally left alone, release a sigh of relief. He could put this entire night behind him.
I’m super hungry…but no way am I walking around with her juices on me…yuck! Okay regain motor skills, go bathe, and then food, glorious food!
…
It took less time for Navan to regain movement in his limbs. Granted the appendages were sore from disuse, it still felt good to move.
Navan wasted no time in escaping the room and making his way down the torch lit hallway. He got seven feet down the hallway when a soft voice stopped him.
“Young master?” questioned a soft female voice.
Navan turned around to see a familiar brunette helot girl. She was a foot shorter than Navan; caramel skinned, dark eyed; traits of a Borderlander. Her family had sold her to Cora to pay off the father’s gambling debts. The fresh adult girl was given to Navan as a personal servant and he had her for about two years now.
The young girl beheld her naked master and quickly adverted her eyes to the floor; she ventured to question him; “Young master…you are naked…would you like some clothes? You might catch cold” she mumbled quietly.
“Aw, how sweet that you care about my health Tia” laughed Navan.
The girl blushed. Out of all the people within the Order, her master was the only one that called her by her name.
“Of course, I care for your health, Master. You are my master and I only wish you the best” she added meekly. “Shall I fetch something for you?”
“Nah, I’m taking bath, got filth to wash off” Navan muttered.
“You had a bad night?” Tia questioned, daring to peek up. She couldn’t help but ogle at him. Master Navan had to be one of the most handsomeness male within Cora. He was at least seven foot tall, well muscled in all the right places; exotic white hair decorated with traditional red streaks marking him as an high ranking Blood Mage; and eyes that shifted from light blue to purple in different light. All the female servants lusted after him, but Tia had been lucky enough to become his…his servant that is….
“You can say that…and I’m hungry too” he replied off-handily.
“Oh! Thank goodness, you’re going to finally eat a proper meal” gasped Tia relieved. It worried her to have watched her master fast for so long. But she understood there was method to his madness. Tia knew of the sick game her master was forced to play with Mistress Marjolaine.
“Yeah, yeah, how about you draw me a bath, okay” commanded Navan renewing his walk.
“Of course, Master. But you should cover up…”
“I don’t have anything to hide…why? Does my body repulse you, Tia?” asked Navan slyly.
“No…no, Master! You’re beautiful! Oh I mean…I…I…” stuttered the young woman, embarrassed for voicing such a personal opinion. The girl stood shaking like a leaf, her gaze falling to the floor once again.
“Please forgive me, Master Navan!” she cried.
“What’s to forgive? You gave an honest opinion? For Keeva’s sake Tia I’m not going to kill you” Navan sighed.
“I know…”
Tia knew that Navan wouldn’t kill her, but she had seen him kill before. Cora was a den of monsters and Navan was one of the scariest. His fighting skills rivaled the strongest gladiator in all on Cora. If that wasn’t enough, Navan was a Blood Mage. The things he could do with blood were things nightmares were made of. Those terrifying skills coupled with his manic/unstable personality and you got a frightening breed of monster.
A large hand came down to affectionately pat her head; “You’re so skittish, Tia. Like a little mouse worried about cat...” the hand came to stroke down her face to cup her chin, lifting her gaze. Chocolate eyes clashed with bluish-purple. A shiver went down the helots back, making her shake. “You should know I don’t chase mice…I chase fiends …understand?” Navan smiled creepily.
“Yes…yes…Master” uttered Tia.
“Good girl, now come on I feel this shit is starting to dry on me” remarked the male before pulling away.
“Yes master!” Tia squeaked. She quickly caught up with the male and began to follow behind him, trying not to stare at perfect aligned back with black inked tattoos shifting gracefully as he moved. She failed hopelessly.
The young master was many things; playful but demented, intelligent but manic, tortured but ridiculously optimistic, strong as he was ruthless, and sweet but monstrous…but that didn’t stop Tia from being in love with her young master...