Chapter 176 - Lucky Husband!
Room FE - 18, City Heart Hospital.
Morgan and Olly stood in the waiting lounge. Olly was observing his father while his father was looking at the glass.
Two sharp human silhouettes were projected on the glass. The details were clear and there was not much left to the imagination.
"Undress already!" Morgan prayed for the woman behind the glass to get nude. He has forgotten he stayed here to teach his son and not to enjoy the show.
Olly, on the other hand, noticed the fervor expression on his father's face.
"Dad," Olly felt sad for his father. He wondered how his father would react if he realized the identity of the woman.
Morgan sensed the gaze of his son and his expression turned stiff. He realized how odd his behavior was to actually let lust take control over him.
But he wasn't entirely at fault either since humans get easily aroused from the sexual activities of others. This was especially true when one was peeking at others without permission.
"What the couple did now was foreplay," Morgan composed himself and continued, "Foreplay stimulates arousal and increase emotional intimacy. The next logical step is..."
----
Suzane leaned against the desk with her eyes on Kiba. She raised the skirt up to her thighs and revealed her bare legs.
Kiba stepped ahead and lifted the skirt further till it reached her waist. His eyes brightened as he gazed at the black throng.
"Lovely," Kiba dragged the throng past her ankles and threw it away. His face was now just inches away from her naked pussy.
Kiba put his hands on her hips and pushed her on the table. She sat on the table with her pussy closing into him.
Suzane brought her hands down on her pink folds. With one hand on her clit, her fingers from the other hand slide through her pussy lips.
She rubbed her clit while the fingers stroked inside her wet pussy. She removed her glistening fingers and pushed them on his mouth.
Kiba opened his lips and sucked on her fingers. Her sweet taste greeted his senses and he lost himself in delight.
Suzane retraced her fingers and looked at him with a smirk. Kiba pushed her knees apart and buried his face in between.
His hands wandered over her breasts through her clothes while his tongue left his mouth to taste her mound.
"Ah!" Suzane threw her head back as his tongue licked her pussy. Her scent enveloped him completely as he licked her further.
Her taste was as sweet as honey and the scent was no less delightful than roses.
"Oh god," Suzane's body tensed, "Don't stop."
She put her hands on the back of his head as he continued. She felt juices flooding down from her pussy and filling his mouth.
Kiba leaned back and brought his eyes on hers. He freed himself of her grasp and pushed his lips to hers. Their lips joined in a long kiss, her sweet taste from his mouth passing into hers.
"Your turn," Kiba sat down on a chair a few steps away from the table.
Suzane smiled and squatted down to unzip his pant. She reached inside and pulled out his cock through the opening.
"You truly are enjoying this," Suzane licked her tongue around her wet glossy lips while she stroked him.
"I sure am," Kiba tossed her hairs on her shoulder as her face arrived on his cock. She struck her tongue around his shaft and licked him from top to bottom.
Her hand continued to massage him up and down, and she felt him grow further. Her eyes twinkled with lust as she gave the head of his cock a long wet kiss. She then slid her tongue out and began to lick back and forth over the tip.
Suzane closed her eyes as she took him in her mouth. Her cheeks hollowed out as she started sucking him.
She felt his precum on her tongue as she bobbed down on him further. She opened her eyes and looked at him, as she continued to suck as much as she could.
Suzane saw the same passion inside his eyes just like hers and she scooted back a little to adjust to his growing length. This time, she bobbed down on him till he touched the end of her throat.
Kiba held her head tight and he started stroking in and out of her mouth. His strokes were long but slow, giving her the time to savor his taste.
She moaned as he thrust so hard that she almost gagged. Kiba removed his cock from her mouth, and as he did, a trail of precum stretched out from her tongue to his cock. Suzane leaned forward to lick the precum off.
...
"Such a good blowjob!" Morgan thought with his eyes wide open, "How great it would be if Suzane also gave me a blowjob!"
The scene of the silhouette licking the trail of precum was engraved in his mind forever.
"That woman's husband is damn lucky," Morgan muttered in a low voice.
"You have no idea, dad," Olly bitterly mumbled. His attention was only on his father, and the more he looked at him, the more he felt sad for him.
...
Suzane shoved Kiba on the bed.
"I like you being wild," Kiba smiled as he saw her hands reaching up her back to unclasp her bra. She slipped the straps off her shoulders, revealing her firm breasts and nipples.
Suzane jumped on the bed and sat on top of him. Her wet pussy lips rubbed along the length of his cock.
She positioned herself on the head of his cock and gently slid down. Her hips quivered as her pussy opened up to devour his cock.
Kiba leaned his head forward to take her left nipple between his lips. His hands wrapped around her back while her hips bounced as she rode up and down his cock.
"Ooo..." Suzane moaned as she rode him frantically. Her juices covered his cock and helped her take him further.
The pulsating and warm sensation of him inside her made her squeal in pleasure. She snapped her head back and allowed him to take the lead.
Kiba moved his mouth between her breasts to enjoy her nipples. He controlled his movement and brought her down on the bed.
In just a movement, he positioned her on the doggy position. He tugged her hairs from the back just as he thrust his cock inside her.
She gasped and her perfect breasts bounced as he increased his pace. Her body turned a deeper shade of red with every thrust.
"Faster," Suzane begged as she felt herself close.
Kiba quickened his pace with more powerful thrusts. He let go of her hairs and moved his hands on her breasts from behind.
He pinched her nipples tightly as she reached her orgasm. She felt her body quivering and a blinding sensation enveloped her eyes.
"Yesss."
Suzane's breathing turned heavy and droplets of sweat precipitated out. She felt firecrackers exploding in her body and she savored every moment of the sensation.
From behind, Kiba's body jerked and he erupted inside her. They were both lost in ecstasy as if the entire time has come to a standstill.
...
Morgan gulped down a mouthful of saliva. He looked on as cum dripped down the pussy of the silhouette and falling on the bed.
Morgan's eyes turned wider as more time passed on. He saw the woman turning around to lick the remaining traces of cum from the cock of her lover.
The curves of the woman were seductive, and the action of her sucking her lover's cock even after the end of lovemaking made Morgan complain in envy.
"Lucky son of a bitch!"
How can the luck of that man be so good?! He has the best wife in the world!
She was definitely an ideal wife desired by all men!
Olly, on the other hand, was soaked with sweat. He has observed the emotions on his father's face throughout the session.
"If dad ever learns the truth then he would definitely die out of shock!" Olly thought with dread in his heart.
He could visualize the reaction his father would have if he realized the husband he was envying to such extent was actually him!
"Before he dies...he would definitely kill me and mom for making him cuckold!"
He swore to never let this happen, and his determination to hide the secret increased further.
"I would take this secret to my grave!"
Chapter 177 - Evil Triumphs!
The sixteenth floor, City Heart Hospital.
The corridor was filled with patients and staffs rushing from one corner to another. One can say the entire corridor was noisy but there was a part where there was absolute silence.
It was in the VIP zone of the floor. When one mentions the VIP zone on this floor, the room which would flash first in the minds of the staff was FE-18.
The staff knew how costly the ordinary rooms were in the hospital much a less VIP room, but yet the room was reserved throughout the year.
What was strange in this reservation?
Well, there were no actual patients!
The room was restricted and always locked but yet there were times when people entered the door.
Some rumors state the door only opens when the owner of this room is being treated. The staff wondered just what treatment the owner undergoes and why would ordinary people visit the room instead of doctors?!
They never asked questions to the visitors of the room though. The hospital policies strictly forbid such actions.
Currently, in Room FE - 18.
Inside the waiting lounge, Morgan was standing in front of the coffee table. He continued to stare at the glass screen.
The discarded bra, skirt and other clothing formed sharp erotic shadows on the screen. The desk and chairs were messed up with stains.
Some steps away from the desk and chair, a bed was placed upon which two human silhouettes were lying. The male silhouette has his head resting on the belly of the female silhouette.
Morgan could easily visualize the large upturned breasts with those prominent nipples from the naked silhouette. He couldn't help but think the seductive curves of the woman were really similar to Suzane.
As he thought of the similarity with his wife, Morgan wondered just how great it would be if his wife also became like that woman in bed.
While he wasn't much of a performer in bed nor he was he sexually active every day, he was sure this would change if that woman was his wife.
He felt confident that his marital life would be full of bliss if his wife could even perform half the activities of that woman.
"Suzane should learn a thing or two from her on satisfying her better half," Morgan muttered as he felt a part of him getting erect.
Olly, on the other hand, clenched his fists tightly as he heard the words spoken by his father. Just a few minutes ago, Morgan has called himself the luckiest husband without even realizing it. He has also envied the luck of that woman's husband and has cursed him as a "lucky son of a bitch."
Now, Morgan was even begging for his wife to share similarities with that woman and the very thought has made him hard.
Olly couldn't imagine the horrifying reactions his father would display if he ever learned the truth. He was sure of one thing...his father would definitely turn insane with anger.
After all, what type of man actually calls himself as the luckiest man and envy-worthy figure after being cuckold?!
And the worse part for such a tragic man?
Everything happened before the eyes of his own son!
The son whom he has treated with care and love has taken the side of the enemy! The enemy who turned him into a cuckold!
If his wife was guilty of breaking the marital vows then the crimes of the son were far worse.
In the end, the vows of marriage were between strangers but the trust between a father and a son was based on ties of blood!
Blood is thicker than the water! A son would definitely reveal the details of the affair to his father as a duty-bound child!
Or at least that's how it is supposed to happen.
But what has Olly done?!
He has done nothing by being a silent spectator!
No!
He has actually helped the adulterous pair!
As Olly came to this point, he recalled the words Kiba spoke to him weeks ago.
"If not for you, how could I have developed the relationship with your mom? Your existence and help are what truly formed this relationship from the very start. Honestly, the real credit goes to you for being such an amazing cupid. You have my gratitude for being such an inspiring good son."
No!
Olly's chest turned heavy and his palms soaked with sweat.
"Dad shouldn't learn of my role in the activities that transpired at the home, the restaurant and now in the hospital!"
Olly once again swore to never let his father learn the woman behind the screen was none other than his mom.
"Ah!" Morgan noticed his son clenching his teeth. He realized how inappropriate his actions were as a father. He was here to impart education to his son and not for making such inappropriate comparisons with his wife!
"Olly," Morgan said with a light cough while praying that his son hasn't noticed his lewd actions.
"Dad?" Olly turned towards his father. He tried his best to not let his anxiety show on his face any longer.
"What the couple did just was the core of lovemaking," Morgan explained with a strict expression on his face, "Oral sex followed by sexual intercourse..."
Olly's expression turned rigid as his father went on to give a long lesson on sex education.
"Dad! This is not what I need now!" Olly thought sadly in his heart.
After five long minutes, Morgan concluded his explanation. He glanced at his son to see his reaction but the latter only gave him a blank look.
Morgan thought his son has noticed his actions from before which was why he was giving him the blank look. The atmosphere in the waiting lounge turned tense with the father-son duo being silent and staring at each other.
"I forgot!" Morgan falsely exclaimed as he brought his cell phone out. He believed he should make an excuse as soon as possible and get out of this embarrassing situation. "There is an emergency meeting for me now."
"Huh?" Olly was startled. Before he could react further, he saw his father dashing towards the door.
"Wait for your mom outside the cabin of the gynecologist," Morgan said with a hint of nervousness in his voice, "Accompany her and rest assured I won't tell her what you did today."
Olly was struck on the spot. He felt the situation was only turning worse from him no matter how he looks at it.
He could neither confront his mom due to the threat posed by Kiba, and nor could he afford to let either of his parents know what he knows.
"What sins I have committed in my previous life to pay such a heavy price now?" Olly ruefully thought as he stepped towards a sofa in the lounge.
The magazines focusing on Kiba were below the sofa he sat down, but he was in no mood to think about them. He made himself comfortable and allowed his body to recover from the stress.
The last 50 minutes were nothing less than hell for him. He was horrified the entire time worrying his father would discover the truth and lash out at him.
Olly now thanked his lucky stars for preventing the worst crisis he could ever face. When he thought of this, his eyes unconsciously moved towards the glass screen and he noticed the male silhouette stretching out his hands.
The man seemed to be fully relaxed with no signs of worry or discomfort. If anything, he looked more rejuvenated than before, akin to a thirsty person who has quenched his thirst in a desert.
"And what good deeds has he done for him to have such a fun life?" Olly bitterly mused.
He stressed his mind hard to think of any action of Kiba's which could justify his terrifying good fortune. Alas, no matter how much he contemplated, he couldn't find a single good deed in the known history of Kiba.
"A mercenary for hire, the biggest threat to innocent maidens, the eternal nemesis of husbands...the titles conferred on him only become more and more vicious."
"He has blood in his hands and that just doesn't belong to his enemies on the battlefield, but also to the pure young maidens on the bed."
As he thought further and further, he came to a tragic realization: Kiba has only carried out one evil act after another, but instead of facing divine wrath, his fortunes have only soared higher and higher.
Aren't the evil sinners supposed to face the divine retribution instead of living a carefree life?!
If the answer is yes, then what the hell is going on in this world!?
Why is the evilest man still roaming and screwing the wives of good-hearted men!? He has been doing it from years but with time, his success has only increased! There is just no sign of stopping!
Does the vows of fidelity no longer matter when this evil makes a move?! Or do the wives believe the gods have given this man a free pass to take what rightfully belongs to their husbands?!
How can the naive maidens still fall under his devilish charm despite knowing his history?! There are enough nice and honest guys out there but yet they willingly enter the trap set by this evil!
"Which bastard has said good always triumphs over evil?"
Olly felt nothing could be further from the truth than this statement.
Has the good won even once besides those children's stories?!
Looking at the silhouette of the man behind the screen and then thinking about his poor father and himself; Olly formed an answer to his question.
"Evil is not only a step ahead... it also ensure good is defeated."
Olly truly wished to strangle the people who preached about the greatness of the good.
What was the use of greatness when an evil man like Kiba takes away the best of everything?!
Chapter 178 - The Determination of Insects
(A/N: This chapter is two chapters merged into one!)
The Garden, Dream Rise House.
Kiba was sitting on the ground with his back resting on a pine tree. The wind gently passed through the plants and a soothing sound of rustling entered his ears.
Delightful fragrance followed in the air along with the chipping of the birds and the tinkling of wind chimes.
With a smile, Kiba continued his focus on a tablet screen in his hands. The screen projected the live experiments being conducted in the lab under his guidance.
[Specimen C-18 and C-19 are now deceased]
A message popped up on the screen along with the images of the dead revolutionaries. One of them has decomposed into a bloody paste while the other has exploded into blood and gore.
Kiba's smile didn't waver and he swiped away the message. He observed the readings from the experiments and compared them with the ideal result.
"We could improve the composition of the cure," Kiba opened a window on the screen, "The roots from the stardust mushroom should act as a better healing agent in the genes. The petals from the seven-colored golden rose could help in subsidizing the stress."
Kiba added a list of seven flowers and animals which could help him in the formation of the drugs he needs.
"I guess we will need to 'borrow' the materials," Kiba mused with a hand on his chin, "Hopefully the government facilities in the nearby cities would have them."
[[I will start a search for them]] Claudia said before moving on to an important topic [[We still lack an alternative to neutralize the damage of nanites in the coding region.]]
"I know," Kiba placed the tablet on the grass, "And that's the worst problem we have."
[[Yes.]] Claudia obviously knew he has a method to neutralize the damage but that was out of options unless he has no choice.
"Give me some coffee," Kiba looked at the sunlight passing through the leaves. In a city filled with skyscrapers, the beauty inside the garden relaxed him.
A humanoid droid stepped towards him with a cup of coffee in his hands. The sweet aroma of the coffee waked him from his thoughts and he took the cup from the droid. He took a slow sip from the cup and savored the rich taste.
[[Sir, Lady Eva wish to have a conversation with you now.]]
"Oh?" Kiba lowered the cup in surprise.
[[Should I establish a link]]
"Yes," Kiba nodded before taking the tablet in his hand. The screen flashed and the video conference started.
"You are sitting in a garden?" Eva asked in some surprise as she saw the background.
"Yes...and don't say it was unexpected," Kiba knew the types of thoughts running across her mind.
"I won't," Eva smiled in response, "I have better things to speak now."
"Hmm?" Kiba looked in her eyes. One of the qualities he liked about her was that she wouldn't go in circles before arriving at the main topic.
"I assume you are using your lab to find a cure for Felicity," Eva continued without waiting for his response, "And most likely thinking of a way to neutralize the effect of those nanites."
"Yeap," Kiba was startled. Not because she guessed those things since they were rather obvious to her, but because her choice of words denoted she has an answer to his problems.
"Just don't get your hopes too high before I complete," Eva has a serious expression on her face, "From what I can tell, a team of revolutionaries acquired the nanites from the core region of Desolate Blood Forest."
"Oh!" Kiba listened to her words with interest...
---------
The Throne Room, Atlantis.
Large stone pillars supported the hall and each of them was joined with polished braziers. The fire inside the braziers was strange for it resembled fire in appearance but didn't bear any other similarities. Instead of heat, the fire radiated a cooling sensation.
Currently, Poseidon's eyes moved from one brazer to another. As he did so, he tapped fingers on the armrest of his throne.
A red carpet stretched from the throne to the doors of the room. Below the dais, on the red carpet, many members from the different species of the sea race were in kneeling position.
Anthea was standing on a step of the dais. She gave a quick glance to the kneeling subjects and her husband before fixing her eyes on a hovering crystal at the center of the hall.
Lights projected out of the crystal to form a giant virtual screen. The screen was divided into two, the first half displayed the details of the recent happenings in the Delta City, while the other half has an image of a black-haired youth with blue pupils.
The subject of the image was none other than Zed.
"That kid is someone whom Holy Seer sees as a danger for our very existence," Anthea thought of the recent happenings, "Someone we can't afford to offend no matter what."
Anthea made a motion with her fingers and the projection on the screen changed. The screen now displayed the background of Zed.
"An academy student with no actual background to speak of," Anthea mumbled the details, "Textbook example of rags to riches story. Nothing extraordinary."
She was sure nothing could be further from the truth. After all, when she saw the image of Zed the first time, she recalled him sharing facial features with someone whom she has met a long time ago.
If she didn't know it better, she would have thought the report was fake. The truth was that the report was compiled by the high ranking members of Atlantis in secret.
They used their influence through government channels to access the information. Furthermore, they ensured that there would be no clues of their search left. While this took extra efforts and time, the officers thought it was utmost necessary given the warning Poseidon gave them months ago.
Poseidon has wanted the government to offend this 'kid' and suffer casualties. Poseidon might be a part of the governing council but he would like nothing more than to see the human race suffer.
In the end, the government was a human organization at the core even though it has a treaty with Atlantis. Someday, in the distant future, when the delicate balance of power breaks, there would be a war of epic proportions. The allies of today would become bitter enemies of the future.
"It is just like Holy Seer warned," Poseidon made a swiping motion towards the crystal projection.
Ssss
The crystal shook and then turned into fragments of dust.
"Never underestimate a person due to their weak outer appearance," Poseidon repeated the words spoken by Holy Seer, "She knew we wouldn't find anything even if we try so she warned us of the greater danger."
The entire room turned silent with no one speaking a single word. They all tried to think why the Holy Seer would warn them of him.
A few minutes later, a siren raised her head as if wishing to speak.
"Ligeia, is there something you wish to ask?" Poseidon looked at her.
"Yes, my king," Ligeia respectfully answered. Her voice was sweet and enchanting, carrying a charm which could make even the strongest hearts waver.
"Go ahead," Poseidon gave her the permission.
"Couldn't we request Holy Seer to gaze in the future to know more about this kid?" Ligeia offered her suggestion. She felt this should be an easy task for someone of Holy Seer's level.
Alas, much to her horror, the words let to an unimaginable reaction from Poseidon. His expression turned unsightly and he clenched the armrests with a terrifying force.
With a loud bang sound, the armrests broke into fragments of gold.
Ligeia, Anthea, and others were shocked by the action. Before they could react, they felt suffocating pressure surging out of Poseidon.
"You think I don't know something so obvious?" Poseidon gritted his teeth.
From the last two months, he has hated himself for requesting Rhea to peek in the future and the consequences that followed.
But now Ligeia was asking him to request Holy Seer once again. He didn't dare fathom the danger Rhea would face if she tried to gaze into the future now.
"I didn't mean this," Ligeia quickly clarified but yet the pressure on her increased further.
"Stop," Anthea's body blurred into a series of afterimages as she arrived in front of Ligeia. She waved her hand and out of nowhere, droplets of water appeared around Ligeia. The droplets turned into silver curtains of water, similar to a waterfall.
The pressure surging out of Poseidon struck on the curtains like arrows. The curtains sunk and suppressed as more pressure manifested.
Anthea, seeing her husband showing no signs of stopping, raised her hands up.
Swoosh~!
The stone pillars shook as the inscriptions of the sea beasts on them turned life-like. In just a few moments, various fantasy beasts leaped out of the pillars.
Roarrr.
"You are my king and theirs," Anthea aimed a finger at Poseidon, "But I have sworn to protect them just like you have. Do you truly want me to remind you of your oath?"
The beasts looked at Poseidon with a ferocious expression on their faces. The air behind them was filled with a sinister dark aura.
Poseidon remained silent with his gaze on Ligeia and other members of sea race.
"You have the authority to dictate and lead us in the way you think is best," Anthea continued in a grim tone, "But you have no right to murder people of our race unless they have done the unforgivable. This is the rule set by Holy Seer and no one has the right to break it. No one and that means even the king of Atlantis."
Poseidon was the king but Rhea was the god. The masses might have enough guts to rebel against the king but never the god.
In Atlantis, the rules formed by Rhea were like the verses from holy scripture. Almost everyone followed them by the heart including Anthea. This was the reason she showed no hesitation in facing her husband to save the life of an official.
"No amount of stress and anger can justify what you wish to do," Anthea said as a blue sword manifested in her hand. Golden droplets of water appeared behind her and clad on her body like armor.
She was ready to risk everything if it meant carrying out the oath she has sworn.
"Queen," Ligeia muttered. She couldn't understand how her one suggestion resulted in such a situation.
As the tension in the room increased further, a heavy sigh suddenly reverberated all around. It was difficult to say where the sigh originated from, but everyone felt it like a whisper in their ears.
The sigh carried an extraordinary might along with it. The suffocating pressure from Poseidon disappeared while the beasts turned into streams of light and returned to the pillars.
"Holy Seer?!" Poseidon's pupils dilated and without any hesitation, he kneeled down. Anthea quickly followed and dropped down to her knees.
"No need to do this," Rhea said with a voice filled with exhaustion, "Poseidon, I told you to not blame yourself for my condition."
Condition?!
Anthea was shocked by the weakness in the voice of Holy Seer.
"What must happen will definitely happen," Rhea continued, "There are around eight months before the crisis arrives in the human city. But I have a premonition, I would face trouble much before than that."
Poseidon's heart started beating rapidly.
"I don't know what use I would serve for that existence," Rhea's voice contained bitterness, "But there is no doubt that I'm part of the plans."
"..." Poseidon clenched his fists tightly.
"Poseidon, your request was just a tool. That existence could have found other tools to entrap me. So stop blaming yourself and don't let your worry for me hinder you in your responsibilities."
"Holy Seer..." Poseidon's chest tightened with grief.
"Rest assured I won't accept my fate like some puppet," Rhea said in a concluding tone, "Give my love to your daughter. Always remember she is the future of Atlantis."
Poseidon felt the presence of Rhea disappearing from the room. He jumped to his feet and returned to the broken throne.
"You all are dismissed," Poseidon sat down on the throne.
Ligeia and others gave a bow to him before taking their leave from the room.
"Anthea, thank you for stopping me from committing the unforgivable," Poseidon glanced at his wife.
Anthea looked at her husband and didn't say anything. The golden armor from her body turned into golden droplets before evaporating.
"You wish to know about the condition of Holy Seer," Poseidon could pretty much understand her thoughts.
"Yes. Just what has happened to her?" Anthea enquired.
"No one truly knows including Holy Seer," Poseidon answered in a cheerless tone, "She peeked in the future to find details regarding a treasure."
"A fragment of Cosmic Spark," Anthea easily guessed.
"Yes," Poseidon nodded his head, "The result was that she was infected by a mysterious gray matter from the future."
"What is this matter?" Anthea felt a deep sense of uneasiness.
She thought of the words spoken by Rhea and now the answer from her husband. Just what type of existence could infect an individual of the past from the future?
"I wish I know," Poseidon answered with a self-deprecating smile, "The only thing I know for sure is that it has its own free will."
"A matter has its own free will?!" Anthea muttered in disbelief.
"Yes," Poseidon nodded bitterly, "The gray matter almost killer Holy Seer when she tried to share details about that kid named Zed."
Anthea listened to the words in shock. She contemplated everything she knew so far and concluded everything was the fault of Zed.
"Just what is that kid?!"
"He has a strong parentage from what you told me about the person with whom he shares his facial features," Poseidon sighed before continuing, "But that's nowhere near enough to harm Atlantis much less Holy Seer. "
"Yeah," Anthea bitterly agreed, "We truly know nothing about him besides the useless details our agents reported."
The two spoke for a few more minutes before walking out of the throne room. A few minutes later, they stepped inside a bedroom.
On the bed, a teenage girl was sleeping.
She has long black hairs with a face that gleamed of innocence and purity. Her skin was fair, smooth and glistening with luster.
Anthea sat beside her and removed the tiara from her head.
"Melina," Anthea muttered before giving a kiss on her forehead.
Behind, Poseidon looked at her daughter and wife. He then thought of the millions of lives in Atlantis he has sworn to protect.
"I will prepare to tackle whatever that is planning to harm Holy Seer."
His expression turned into that of a man with strong and unwavering determination.
---------
The sky inside the Paradox Dimension thundered with red lightning. Green flames poured out of the clouds like rainfall and fell on the ground akin to meteorites.
Titans dashed on the land dodging the green flames. Griffins flapped their wings with all their might as they rushed towards their shelters.
The seasons in the dimension changed every week. Sometimes the weather invoked the feeling of heaven while the other times it made one feel the dimension was no less than a hell.
The various species stopped their wars for resources and entered into a truce of peace at such times. They lied dormant under their shelters and gazed at the sky as if requesting the weather to change.
A young Chimera peeked out of the make-shift window and noticed an area where the sky was clear. The chimera's eyes focused on a hovering castle which was bounded to the ground through blood-soaked chains.
"Don't you dare look at the castle!" An ancient chimera struck its claws on the neck of the young chimera. The young chimera fell on the ground and looked at the adult chimera with confusion.
"Why?" The young chimera asked.
Ever since he was born, he has believed the chimeras were the strongest and bravest of all races. He thought the chimeras should make that castle as their home, given the clear sky but now even looking at the castle resulted in a punishment.
"The castle is the most dangerous area in the entire world. If you observe it for a long time then you would be considered as hostile and killed by those blood-soaked chains. Not only you, but those near you would suffer the same fate."
The ancient chimera explained with strong traces of fear evident in his voice.
"That castle is the doorway to the underworld!"
The eyes of the young chimera turned wide with shock. He gave a quick glance to the blood-soaked chains and his heart palpitated.
Just what was so horrifying in that castle for their race to dread it so much?
The Castle.
Inside the enormous hall.
The skeletons of various races continued to stare at the throne of darkness and the entity sitting on it. The skeletons seemed broken and lifeless but yet an unyielding force streamed out of them. This force was regal and pure, and not even the seemingly lifeless state could corrode this force.
The man on the throne of darkness opened his eyes with his head resting on his hand.
"Insects would forever remain insects no matter what type of determination they hold."
Chapter 179 - Leaving The City (Part I)
Delta City.
The Garden, Dream Rise House.
"Desolate Blood Forest?" Kiba murmured. He has heard about the forest in passing but wasn't aware of the details.
"I'm sure you know of the balancing act of nature." Eva took a short pause to give him the time to contemplate.
"Yeah, I know far too much for my liking," Kiba sighed. He understood what balancing act she was referring to here.
If the nanites originated from the forest then there should be something to balance and neutralize them. Otherwise, the revolutionaries and other adventurers in the core region would have exploded into a blue mushroom cloud.
After all, the nanites fed on the untapped potential inside the genes. They should effectively target every living being in the vicinity and in turn, the range of explosion would effectively cover the entire Earth.
But obviously such was not the case. They have their own weakness in the form of a mineral or a material which acted as a balance. This counteracting agent should have a clue on neutralizing the effect of the nanites in the coding region of the genes.
"I assume this core region is dangerous for you to warn me to not get my hopes high," Kiba said with a smile.
"It is," Eva nodded her head, "The core region is actually a meteorite from that world."
"..." Kiba didn't make a remark as some unpleasant memories flooded in his mind.
"Honestly I don't have much information," Eva added with a bitter smile, "That area is out of my league and I am only able to tell you what I have gathered from trustable sources."
"It is more than enough," Kiba looked at her image on the screen, "I truly appreciate the help."
"You should think thrice before you make a decision."
Eva actually wouldn't have informed him about the forest if she didn't have some confidence in his abilities. She didn't know the limits of his power but she believed he should be powerful enough to escape if the situation turns dangerous.
"I will," Kiba reassured her.
"Goodbye," Eva ended the video conference.
Kiba placed the tablet away and took back the cup of coffee.
[[Lady Eva has sent some files on the forest.]]
Kiba silently listened as Claudia informed him of more details.
[[What would you like to do?]]
"The forest sounds a better alternative," Kiba stood up from the ground.
[[Understood. The jet should be ready in a day.]]
"Good," Kiba gave the cup to the humanoid droid, "In the meantime, I would be gathering more information and tieing up the loose ends."
-------
Delta Police Headquarters.
Emily looked in surprise as the door of her cabin opened and Kiba stepped in.
"Are you expecting someone else for you to give me such a reaction?" Kiba asked with a smile. He walked forward and took a seat opposite to her.
"No." Emily shook her head. "Just surprised since you never came here after our awkward police interview."
"Well, I prefer the luxury of a bed than an uncomfortable desk and chair for our subsequent interviews," Kiba said with a teasing smile.
"...."
Emily was stunned by the double-meaning in his words. She felt her face turned a deep shade of red.
"Agatha was right," Emily said after she regained her composure, "Your shamelessness knows no bound."
Kiba's smile turned stiff while Emily laughed at his reaction.
"Cough." Kiba made a coughing sound. "Anyways, I came here to ask you something."
"About what?"
"Nanites," Kiba looked her in the eyes, "I want to know everything you know about their origins."
Emily was shocked by his such upfront request. As an investigator and a government official, she couldn't share the confidential details.
"I know the obligations you have, so you can refuse me directly and I would respect your decision," Kiba added in an amicable tone. "Trust me there would be no bad blood amongst us."
"I..." Emily wasn't expecting such a conversation when he arrived here.
She wanted to decline but then she thought of how he protected her during the explosions on the street. If not for him, she would have died just like her colleagues and ordinary masses.
"I will answer you," Emily nodded her head.
"Thanks," Kiba took out a green crystalline bead from his pocket and gave it to her.
"This is...?!" Emily looked in disbelief at the inscription of a human brain on the bead.
"It should erase the memories of any conversation you want and replace it with anything you desire," Kiba knew she should be aware of its function but he explained nevertheless. "I am not cruel enough to risk your life and career if I have a choice."
"...." Emily stared at Kiba and wondered just how he could get such a bead. As far as she knew, to make such a bead required the help of a strong psychic mutant.
Kiba didn't say anything more and she didn't ask. She explained to him everything she knew about the nanites and then discussed the details on replacing her memories.
Later, she pressed the bead and focused her eyes on the brain inscription.
Her pupils dilated and she felt her consciousness losing in a whirlpool of memories. She saw the memories of the last few minutes and with just a thought, those memories twisted and blurred into something new.
Swoosh~!
The bead turned into green dust and disappeared in the room.
Emily opened her eyes and saw Kiba next to her. She felt his lips pressing on to hers and they kissed for a long time.
"I now think the meetings at police headquarters are not so bad," Kiba said after their kiss broke.
"Y-yes," Emily nodded with her neck and ears flushed.
"Till next meeting," Kiba walked towards the door but then he stopped with his hand on the knob.
"?"
"Why are you risking everything for short-lived glory?" Kiba turned around and asked.
"What do you mean?" Emily was confused by his words.
"I'm talking about the investigation which brought you and your team here," Kiba let out a long sigh before continuing. "Almost all your comrades are now dead. Some might have been killed by the terrorists, but even before that, many died in the wasteland when the golden lightning phenomenon repeated once again."
Emily was at loss of words. She didn't know how to answer but deep inside she felt fear. She has always thought she was brave and honest, but after thinking about the fate of her colleagues, her body was drenched in cold sweat.
Emily wondered if arriving in the city to seek the treasure and decode the mystery of the golden lightning phenomenon was a correct decision.
When her colleagues died in the wasteland and at the police headquarters, she thought she should continue her investigation to honor their memories.
Maybe it was the rush of adrenaline or her feelings for her colleagues, but she felt more inspired to continue. But when the explosion occurred and she escaped from the clutches of death, she realized she wasn't as fearless as she thought she was.
"Maybe I'm the strange one here for I don't believe in throwing my life for the sake of others," Kiba said as he arrived in front of her. "We only have one life, so live it for yourself and not others."
Emily raised her head and looked at him. She didn't know how to reply since agreeing with him would mean she was afraid.
"There is nothing wrong in giving priority to your own life," Kiba placed a hand on her chin. "Nor it is wrong to be afraid of death. I have feared death and so does the entire world, they just hide behind false bravado."
Emily felt tears forming up in her eyes. She leaped up and hugged him tightly.
"I don't want to die," Emily said the words she never thought she would ever say. "I want to live for myself."
She accepted her fears and decided to leave the city no matter what. She no longer wanted to risk her life for the sake of some glory.
Thinking back, she realized the glory was truly short lived just like Kiba said. Just how many people remembered the deaths of her comrades?
Maybe their families would mourn for them for months or years, but what about the government and ordinary masses?
"If you know how quickly people forget the dead...you will stop living to impress people," Emily repeated the words he once said to her. Only today did she fully realized their meaning.
Kiba patted on her back to console her. Inwardly, he sighed in relief.
"I won't have to kill her," Kiba thought as he helped her regain composure.
He has never shown compassion to those who have tried to harm him. This was why he didn't bat an eye when he killed Lisa Ray and that too, just hours after making love with her.
The same would have applied to Emily if her investigation risked everything he has built here.
But after she agreed to share the confidential information, despite the risks to her life and career... he knew he would definitely feel bad if he has to kill her in the future.
"We would meet in the future, right?" Emily asked as she wiped her tears with a tissue.
"I'm sure we will," Kiba answered with a smile, "Let's commemorate the final meeting in the city."
"Commemorate?" Emily looked at him in confusion but then she got her answer as his hands wandered over her shirt.
She didn't resist and leaned on to him more closely. She placed her hands over his cheeks and then pulled him down for a long passionate kiss...
----------
Weisz House, Central District.
Patrick and Kyla stood at the entrance of a bedroom. They looked on as droids adjusted various medical equipment under the guidance of Zed.
On the bed, Felicity was in slumber under the effects of sedatives. Her body was covered with a crystalline liquid screen.
"Finally done," Zed stretched his hands out before sitting down on a chair. He turned his head towards the entrance and signaled Patrick and Kyla to step in.
"Claudia would be overlooking the arrangements in my absence," Zed explained slowly, "She is as good as me, if not better, so there should be no trouble for the time being."
"Where are you going exactly and why?" Patrick asked the question which was bothering him from the last hour.
"I'm going out to meet an acquaintance in order to get some resources I need for the treatment," Zed lied while skipping the location name.
"Then let me accompany you," Patrick hurriedly said. He believed his influence as a senator should help in the negotiations.
"You can't," Zed shook his head before adding some fictional details, "I have to help him in some research and in return, he would offer me the resources."
"I see," Patrick didn't say anything further.
He didn't doubt Zed's words just because of his expertise in genetics but also due to the existence of the silver bracelet. He knew the composition of the bracelet and it left him no doubt that Zed has connections for him to have access to such resources.
"How long it would take for you to return?" Kyla asked. She wanted to see her daughter laughing and playing around as soon as possible.
"Two months."
Chapter 180 - Leaving The City (Part II)
Kyla and Patrick were startled by the time period Zed mentioned. Two months was a long time but after some deep contemplation, they thought it was a reasonable time frame given what was at stake here.
"Tell me if you need anything," Patrick said in a sincere voice. He knew the nanites were a problem which not even the nine aristocratic families could tackle much less him. But after seeing the skills displayed by Zed, he felt hopeful.
"Of course," Zed nodded his head before leaving the chair.
Zed glanced at Felicity but he didn't say any words of farewell. He just smiled and then walked towards the door.
"Actually there is something I would like you to do for me," Zed said as he opened the door.
"Yes?" Patrick and Kyla looked at him.
"Please provide better facilities to Jessica," Zed stepped out of the door, "Give her good accommodation and better teachers while ensuring she no longer has to be burdened by her poor background."
The husband-wife duo was stunned by the request. They knew Jessica was his and Felicity's friend but they couldn't understand why he would make such a request to them.
After all, Zed was more than rich enough to help her on his own without any outside support.
"I don't want her to be obligated to me," Zed explained his reasons, "Nor I want her to be bound to you. So please fulfill my request through means which wouldn't hinder her."
"We understand," Kyla nodded in agreement, "Rest assured we won't disappoint you, my child."
She thought of Jessica's conduct in the hospital and realized why Zed wanted them to be discreet. She looked at him with appreciation in her eyes.
"Thank you."
Zed left the room and walked out of the house. He was sure Patrick could help Jessica through scholarship, lottery or even a well-paid job to her father. This would be far better than the help he could provide by his means.
Zed entered the car and started the engine.
[[The jet is ready.]] Claudia flashed a notification screen in front of him. [[Two more tasks for you to complete before you can leave.]]
"And both of them needs my other self," Zed mused as he transformed into Kiba, "You will have to drive the car back."
[[Sure.]]
The next moment, rays of white light enveloped him and he teleported away.
...
Inside the bedroom, Patrick and Kyla observed their daughter.
"I wish Zed was my own flesh and blood," Kyla said as a drop of a tear fell down her chin, "He has been a better child than our son."
Patrick nodded and hugged her tightly.
------
Wife Pleasuring Service Ltd. was located in the outskirts of the business district. The property rents in the area were rather far too high, but despite this, the company occupied a two-storied building.
As one steps inside the building, their eyes would be greeted by the sight of a grand Buddha statue and stone tablets.
The Buddha was a symbol of kindness and selflessness, and the inscriptions on the stone tablets were dedicated to these great qualities.
"If you knew what I know about the power of giving, you would not let a single meal pass without sharing it in some way."
"The greatest sacrifice is when you sacrifice your own happiness for the sake of someone else."
"When you really care about someone, their happiness matters more than you."
Short but profound quotes were engraved on the stone tablets along with the history of Buddha. One couldn't help but truly appreciate the beauty of altruism after thinking of the life the Buddha lived.
A few steps away from the Buddha statue, there was a raised platform. On the platform, a holographic projector was projecting an ash-blonde woman.
"The Great Buddha said happiness is not something ready-made. It comes from your own actions," the woman has an expression of deep reverence on her face.
"Alas, with the change of era, the world has forgotten the teachings of the enlightened one," the ash-blonde woman sighed in pity, "But this needs to be changed."
The eyes of the woman were firm with determination.
"And this change starts with you! Be the change and get the happiness you deserve!" The woman continued with excitement, "Rest assured you would have our help, and together, we would ensure you become the happiest man/woman out there!"
The woman waved her hand and four screens flashed up in the air.
"Please select an option so that we could guide you further," The woman pointed at the four screens, "If you are a husband then chose this screen and if you are a new wife then this screen..."
Some distance away, Kiba and Natalie were looking at the projection. Kiba was laughing loudly while Natalie's face was as red as a tomato.
"You are so convincing in those videos," Kiba placed his head on her shoulder, "I just love them."
"Damn," Natalie made a slicing motion towards the projector.
Sss
The projector was severed into two and the holographic projection disappeared.
"I still can't believe I agreed to shoot those crazy videos," Natalie pushed his head away.
"Don't say that," Kiba pretended to be hurt, "Everyone loves them."
Natalie could pretty much imagine the 'love' shown by the husbands, new wives, patron wives, and fiancee when they see the videos directed towards them.
"This reminds me that we need a new business card," Kiba has a thoughtful expression, "Targetting children with hot mothers."
"@!$%" Natalie waved her hand and orange energy orbs manifested in the air.
"I was kidding," Kiba leaped back to dodge the energy orbs.
"Then why are you here?" Natalie asked with a large energy orb in her hand.
"To say goodbye," Kiba sighed before turning towards the office room where dozen of the female staff were working.
Some were analyzing documents on their computers while others were making notings in files. Their job was rather difficult for they need to find suitable customers and lure them to their service. This needed proper research and deep analysis.
The worst part was that not many agreed to buy the company's service despite it being free. The staff often complained about the ungrateful people who would decline such heavenly services due to their limited world view.
"Goodbye?" Natalie was startled.
"I need to carry out some personal tasks," Kiba turned towards her and said, "And I need you to ensure no one learns of my disappearance."
While it was true that no one knew about where he lived or what he did when he was not active, he still has to ensure that no one ever connects Kiba's long disappearance with Zed's. The probability of such a thing happening was almost nill but it was better to be safe than sorry.
He was obviously aware that spreading the rumors of his presence here might lead to another set of problems but they were something he could handle.
"If that's what you want then sure," Natalie didn't ask him further.
"See ya~" Kiba kissed her on lips before teleporting away.
-------
Evening.
Dream Rise House.
Swoosh~!
A column of white light appeared outside the house. The light soon converged into Agatha and Kiba.
Agatha was wearing a black dress and her baby bump was slightly visible. Kiba glanced at her belly and then closed his eyes.
"This is a right decision," Kiba told himself.
"Where have you taken me?" Agatha asked after the effects of teleportation subsidized.
"My home," Kiba answered truthfully. He has taken her to the underground facilities but not the villa.
"Oh!" Agatha looked around and noticed the waterfall upon which the villa was partly built. Her eyes turned wide as she remembered something.
"Isn't this the house of that slum dweller who made a big fortune?" Agatha has heard about the rumors since they were even discussed in the high society of the city.
Kiba didn't reply but allowed her to contemplate further.
"Hang on! You are also from slum...!" Agatha recalled the conversation where he shared his background. She then contemplated everything she knew about him and the words he spoke when she shared his secret in the lab.
"Please tell me I'm wrong," Agatha felt her head spinning around. Kiba stepped ahead and supported her.
"You are not wrong," Kiba helped her in taking a seat on the stairs outside the entrance.
Agatha put a hand on his shoulder as she tried to compose herself with all the revelations.
"Can you show me that form?" Agatha turned her head towards him.
"Of course," Kiba nodded his head.
Agatha felt her mouth opening wide as she saw the golden color from his hairs and iris fading. She looked in disbelief as his hairs started getting shorter while his facial features morphed.
In just a matter of seconds, in place of Kiba, she saw a black-haired youth with blue iris.
"What was your name again?" Agatha tried to joke but the shock made it impossible for her to be funny.
"Zed," Zed answered with a stiff smile.
Agatha pressed her forehead with both her hands. She tried to grip with the reality and convince herself that everything was real. His transformation has left no doubt on this front.
For five long minutes neither of them spoke. Zed silently waited for her to get over the shock. He was sure she would move on easily given everything that has has happened in her life so far.
"So who is the real one? Zed or Kiba?" Agatha asked.
"I am Kiba and Kiba is me," Zed replied with a light cough.
"I can see that," Agatha took a deep breath before continuing, "But there has to be a dominant side, right?"
"....."
"I don't know much about Zed," Agatha was not really interested in the gossips but she did listen to a few, "Except that he is not shameless."
"....."
"So either you must be suffering from dual personalities or you are good in hiding your shameless side," Agatha reasoned with a hand on her chin.
"I'm not shameless!"
Chapter 181 - Leaving The City (Final Part)
Zed didn't like being called shameless. He believed he has done nothing wrong for such a word to be associated with him.
"Are you trying to convince me or yourself?" Agatha asked with a faint smile. It took her some time but the initial shock has passed.
Zed noticed her smile and he could only allow her to have a win over him for the time being.
"I didn't expect you to bring me to your home," Agatha rested her back on a pillar.
Zed looked at the setting sun for a moment before turning towards her.
"I'm going out on a personal trip and most likely it would span between a month or two," Zed slowly explained his reasons, "And till I return, I want you to be here if it is fine with you."
Agatha was startled by his explanation. She observed him for a moment before asking, "Can I know where you are going for you to be not sure of the time period?"
"Desolate Blood Forest," Zed answered with a low sigh, "Rest assured I'm only going there because I have the utmost confidence in my powers to survive."
Agatha was concerned but she wasn't worried. She already knew he has more abilities then what others assumed after seeing his display during Hypocrite News broadcast and events that followed.
"Why would you go to such a dangerous area?" Agatha further asked. She was aware of the things he desired and she was pretty sure the forest should have nothing to lure him.
"Because..." Zed took a deep breath before explaining everything about Felicity and her importance.
"Sister?" Agatha looked at him in a different light. She now understood why he has such an extreme reaction when Claudia informed of 'code red' after the nanite explosion. She has helped him in opening the suitcase containing nanites so she was able to connect a few dots.
"You truly surprised me," Agatha said with a sincere smile, "She is lucky to have someone who would go to such an extent for her."
"You misunderstood," Zed shook his head, "I'm doing everything for myself and not for her."
He always did what he desired and the same applied now. He wanted Felicity to recover because he liked her company.
In his entire life, he has never deluded himself into thinking he has carried out any action for the sake of others. Perhaps his actions resulted in the benefit of others but to him, that didn't matter. He did what pleased him regardless of how his actions were perceived by others.
"You are sweet when you say such stuff," Agatha ruffled his hairs, "But I do believe you are selfless on many occasions even though you wouldn't agree. "
In the end, the actions of an individual are always in the self-interest of oneself. Even the most selfless acts have benefits involved.
Like a man donating half his fortunes to the poor. The benefit to oneself might be in the form of fame, self-satisfaction, or an unconscious belief in the workings of karma and after-life.
The best example would be how Agatha spared the life of Daniel after Sarah reminded him of the importance of a father in the child's life. A part of Agatha believed that in the future when Kiba is in danger, he would be helped just like she has helped Daniel and Sarah.
She did it because she wanted her daughter to have a father in her life. But perhaps from the perspective of others, her actions were selfless and even foolish.
"Kiba...I mean Zed," Agatha took his palms in her hand before continuing, "I don't want to be a jinx, but you do have to think of a possibility that you might not get what you are seeking for in that forest. It is better to be prepared for a worst-case scenario."
Zed looked her in the eyes and saw her concern for him.
"I know," Zed released a long sigh, "And I do have an alternative if I failed. Just pray I don't have to use it."
Agatha didn't ask what was the alternative for she felt it was most likely referring to Section IV in the underground facilities. She remembered the words he has said when she has arrived in front of that section.
"Please stay here till I return back," Zed once again stated his request.
In the end, no matter how strong he was, his power has a limit. He could freely teleport within a range of fifty kilometers but the distance between the forest and the city was vast.
Not to mention, if his guess was right based on his past experience, the core region would restrict teleportation.
"You are worried?" Agatha asked.
"Yeah, I don't want to be worried about you and Hope while I'm gone," Zed explained his fears.
--------
The Castle, Paradox Dimension.
Inside the hall, the man on the throne of darkness retracted his vision before letting out a heavy sigh.
"A useless worry," The man shook his head, "The reality wouldn't strike from behind like a coward."
The skeletons on the floor looked at him with malice and hate as he continued his words.
"The final onslaught of reality would be from the front," The man said in a low voice, "The reality wish to enjoy the sight of helplessness and despair."
--------
Section III, Dream Rise House.
Agatha and Kiba stood in front of a jet. The jet resembled an ordinary jet from outer appearance but in truth, its engine and self-defense abilities were no less powerful than a high-grade military jet.
Agatha has checked the jet when she arrived here a month ago but even now she couldn't help but marvel at the integration of tech and luxury.
The interior of the jet was as fabulous as a high-end suite at a seven-star hotel: Leather upholstery, sumptuous handwoven carpets, chandeliers, and gold touches.
The jet included all the perks of a superyacht in the skies, from grand dining rooms and casino areas to aquariums. The luxury was completed with a double bed, a spacious lounge with sofas, gold accents, and even a marble bathroom.
Not only that but the entire jet was integrated with touchscreen panels for access to in-flight services. The best part was perhaps the auto-pilot mode which was managed by Claudia and hence Kiba could actually meet the comforts of home on board.
Agatha once again prayed for the poor souls who went bankrupt after Kiba 'borrowed' the resources needed for the manufacturing of this jet. She wouldn't be surprised if those 'lenders' died out of heart attack after seeing the jet.
"What are you thinking?" Kiba noticed her expression filled with pity.
"Nothing really," Agatha cleared her thoughts, "Take care."
"I will," Kiba assured her.
[[We are ready to take off.]] Claudia informed them,
"Till next time," Kiba leaned down to kiss on her belly. There were around four months before her pregnancy complete and Hope is born.
Kiba swore himself to return in two months regardless of whether he gets what he wants or not in the forest. He wanted to accompany Agatha in the final months before she gives birth.
"There is something I need to give you," Agatha brought out a flyer from her purse, "This should give you a nice lucrative to return soon."
Kiba was confused. What can be a more important reason for him to return than Hope and Felicity?
Kiba got over his surprise and opened the flyer. As he saw the pictures and text on the flyer, his jaw dropped.
There were pictures of women in bikini and some even in traditional dresses. Each woman was more beautiful than the other with gorgeous curves and seductive poses.
"Miss Delta Pagent begins in April!" Agatha read out the text on the flyer, "Around 75 days from now!"
Kiba started sweating profusely. He looked at Agatha with a blank expression.
"Why are you looking at me like that?" Agatha pretended to be confused as she further questioned, "Remember how you tossed a coin in the fountain so that the pageant start as soon as possible?"
"...."
"I also seem to recall you mentioning a heavy burden on your shoulders since you are one of the judges."
Agatha could imagine the stuff he has in mind when he agreed to become a judge for such a competition.
"...." Kiba wanted to cry at his own helpless state.
"Haha," Agatha starting laughing as she enjoyed his reactions.
"You are taking advantage of my innocence!" Kiba felt hurt.
It has always been him who plays such a prank on others, but now Agatha used his style against him.
"I was kidding," Agatha kissed him on the forehead, "Return soon."
"Yes," Kiba turned around and stepped on the airstair.
Agatha looked on as the door closed and the jet took off.
"Please be safe."
Chapter 182 - Desolate Blood Forest
A black jet flew higher and higher into the clouds with its boosters emanating out blue light. The jet crushed the layer of clouds, creating a loud thunderous roar.
Inside, Kiba was sitting on a sofa. He flipped through a booklet on Desolate Blood Forest.
After some time, he threw the booklet away and brought his attention to a large table in front of him. The table was filled with various items he might need in his trip.
Campsite gear, medicines, cigarettes, liquor, specimen containers, food utensils, spices, condiments and so on. There were even two bottles full of food capsules.
The development in the technology allowed the manufacturing of highly nutritious food capsules which can meet the energy requirements. Not only they suit the body needs, but they also satisfied the food craving through artificial flavoring.
On another table, there were weapons and tracking items such as plasma grenades, laser guns, mechanical insects and drones.
"I don't really need such stuff," Kiba said as he left the sofa and stretched out.
[[Kiba doesn't need them but Zed does.]]
"..."
[[Besides you have no reason to complain when you are not going to carry the load.]]
"I guess so," Kiba pointed his hand towards the two tables. A stream of white light surged out from his palm and fell on the tables.
Swoosh~!
The items were wrapped by the light and the next moment, they disappeared.
Kiba might not have spatial equipment but he never really cared about them since his powers gave him a far better alternative. He would be carrying the items with him but they would be intangible and exist in another space.
[[There is still one item left.]]
"I know," Kiba walked to another table where a cylindrical glass pod was placed. It was partly filled with a menacing blue liquid: nanites. He has left most of the nanites in the lab but brought a sizeable amount with him.
Kiba sighed and took the pod.
[[We would be reaching the outskirts of the forest in a few minutes. You should get dressed.]]
"Sure," Kiba walked to the wardrobe and took out a set of clothes and shoes. They were made from nanoparticles, offering both high durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Perhaps the best part about them was that they would transform into another set when he changes his form. The nanoparticles would check his body heat and energy signals to decide on what type of clothes and footwear he needs.
Kiba clad into the new set and glanced at himself on the mirror. White shirt, black pant, and matching shoes.
"Am I really going to a forest like this?" Kiba felt as if he was going on a fun trip instead.
[[Yes. ]]
With a bitter smile, Kiba returned to the cabin and sat near the window. He looked out of the window to observe the night sky.
The sky at such a high altitude was serene; the clouds and the stars together forming a mesmerizing sight to the eyes.
"The sky here is far more beautiful than the city," Kiba thought as he observed further, "Then again the city has to pay a price for progress. "
ROOOOAR
Suddenly, a deafening roar from the below entered his ears. Disturbed from his thoughts, Kiba lowered his head.
His eyes glittered with extraordinary radiance as he stared off in the distance. His gaze seemed to almost bore directly through the confines of the jet and fell on the vast area that formed the forest.
The forest was full of excessively tall and lush vegetation, with deep emerald green color flooding the entire region. Some trees were so towering that their crowns blotted in the sky.
The trees seemed to be has grown for hundreds of years under the gracious blessing of the mother earth. Their wood contained a special type of energy which could provide extreme benefits to the living beings within their vicinity.
Currently, a humongous red tiger stood on a branch of such one tree. Its body was covered with black stripes while its fangs were crystalline red.
Some distance away, a giant bird was flapping its wing ferociously as it looked at the tiger with hatred.
The tiger leaped out from the branch while spitting out a stream of red-hot flames. The bird's body flashed and a terrifying radiance rose up from its wings that shot towards the tiger.
BOOM
The branches shattered as two oppressive forces collided and formed into a mushroom cloud. The mushroom cloud enveloped everything within its range and thereby annihilating it.
The bird backed away from the blast, but then it saw the tiger rushing through the mushroom cloud. Before the bird could react, the tiger grabbed its head with the claws and dived towards the ground.
"Didn't expect to see such an interesting tiger at the outskirts," Kiba mused with a smile, "It didn't hesitate in taking damage head-on as long as it could capture the bird."
Kiba then expanded his vision further ahead and noticed a ferocious beast spanning for thousands of feet. Its skin resembled rock and in place of body hairs, it has grass and trees growing up on it.
The beast threw back its head and roared loudly. The shockwaves made the beasts in the area experience a severe headache with their bodies stiffening up. Some of the beasts even have blood flowing down from their ears and nose.
The giant beast lifted its front arms high in the air and then smashed them down on the ground viciously.
RUMBLE
The ground cracked open and trees were rooted out of their spot. Stones and dirt were blown apart with a loud explosion.
The weaker beasts started stampeding over as they tried to rush away from the rampaging beast.
"Crazy guy," Kiba thought as he moved towards the door.
[[Activating force field suppression for pressure adjustment.]]
Sss
The door opened up and Kiba stood at the entrance. His long golden hairs fluttered in the wind while a heavy breeze brushed across his face.
[[All the best, sir.]]
"Thank you, Claudia."
Kiba tapped his foot lightly on the surface as he jumped from the aircraft. His body was like a cloud, free from the confines of the ground, with the entire sky as his territory.
He flew among the clouds while looking at the passing landscape with a smile on his face. After he started flying, he finally realized why Claudia chose his clothes in such a manner.
She wanted him to consider this visit as a fun trip instead of some serious mission in a dangerous land. She wished he would have a good time here just like the city.
This thinking was rather perilous and not something anyone would ever agree. After all, unlike the civilized society, the forest solely operated under the law of the jungle. One has to be vigilant at every moment, otherwise, death might come in an instant.
[[Danger lurks in every corner but now the question is for whom.]]
Chapter 183 - Wolves
Desolate Blood Forest.
Kiba walked between the trees with his eyes on his cell phone.
"Just entered the outskirts but yet such low signal," Kiba thought as he proceeded ahead, "There would be no signal after I travel further."
Kiba placed the phone back in his pocket while looking at the surrounding area which was full of tall trees.
The canopy of branches and leaves shielded the sunlight from falling on the ground, making the entire region seem dark. Occasionally, there would be specks of light coming through the gaps between the branches and trees.
Kiba walked ahead and so far he didn't meet any ferocious beast or animal. He did sense squirrels peeking at him from tree holes but otherwise, he was all alone.
"Hmm?"
Kiba saw an area, a few miles ahead, which wasn't shrouded with darkness. His figure blurred into a series of afterimages, and the next moment, he was standing in front of what appeared to be a river stream.
The water in the stream was rather sparse and from what he could sense, there were no traces of fish or any other aquatic life.
"Haah," Kiba let out a sigh as he sat down on a boulder.
He was disappointed with the lack of living beings in the region. He wondered where were the teams send by the nine families, government, and other organizations.
"Awoooo."
A wolf's howl suddenly echoed through the silent stream, shattering the tranquility that was there before.
"Mmm?" Kiba's gaze once again swept across his surroundings.
About a half mile ahead, five large wolf abruptly scuttled out from the forest, chasing after an injured human. The wolves have white fur, ghastly teeth, and pointed claws.
"Level 2 mutated wolves?" Kiba murmured.
Such wolves were often a target for hunters since their fur was rather popular among the women of the higher society. Then there was the nutritious meat and the skeleton which was no weaker than steel. It wouldn't be wrong to say the carcass of such a wolf could easily make one rich enough to live a luxurious life for a decade or so.
But the mutated wolves were not to be underestimated and especially not in the outskirts where they were the supreme rulers. The struggles in the forest have transformed them into strong predators and most often, their hunters became the prey.
"He must have tried to hunt one of them but ended up facing the entire pack," Kiba hypothesized based on the intensity of the chase.
The injured man noticed Kiba and he hurriedly dashed towards him. For him, Kiba was like a globe of fire in darkness and despair. He was sure Kiba should be reasonably strong for him to enter the forest and thus capable enough of hindering the wolves for the time being.
"Help me!" The man shouted loudly, "I have a treasure as compensation!"
The man took out a bright golden bead from his shirt. He showcased it in his hand while rushing towards Kiba.
In truth, he didn't really plan to offer the treasure. He just wanted Kiba to hinder the wolves while he would use the opportunity to escape.
Kiba looked at the man for a moment before turning his head away.
"Bastard," The man cursed in anger.
He now felt Kiba was far too scared to actually take the bait of the treasure. He was sure Kiba would now run away like a coward leaving him behind to his fate.
But the next moment, the man almost coughed up blood as he saw the scene ahead. Much to his disbelief, Kiba removed his shoes and placed them on a nearby boulder.
"This is the best way to get over a jet lag,' Kiba said as he soaked his feet in the stream.
"He is not afraid of wolves!? Then he should rescue me instead of practicing reflexology!"
The man wanted to curse Kiba's parents. Just what types of manners have they taught him for him to ignore the plight of a fellow human?!
Even barbarians teach their children to help those in need if they have the power!
"Fuck! I need to get him to help me no matter how!"
The man, having no better alternative, gritted his teeth and rushed at Kiba with full speed. He was dozens of feet from Kiba when a wolf pounced on him.
"AHH!"
The sharp claws pierced his back and blood flew out. The man stumbled down and fell on the stream with his head hitting on a rock.
He ignored the pain and took out a laser gun from his shirt. He aimed the gun at the leader of the pack and then pressed the trigger.
A stream of red laser light flew out, but much to the man's horror, the wolf twisted its body to dodge. The laser collided with a boulder some distance away, turning it into dust with a loud bang sound.
"Damn!" The man wanted to cry. He only has only shot left and he was saving it for emergencies.
The leader of the pack opened its mouth wide as it moved towards him.
The man suddenly took out the golden bead and threw it on the boulder where Kiba was sitting.
"Friend! Take away the bead!" The man shouted in a voice filled with sincerity, "I will hold them away while you escape!"
"Oh?" Kiba's lips curved up in a grin. He could pretty much understand what the man was trying to do but he didn' stop him.
The wolves turned towards Kiba. They didn't care about the bead since gold was of no use to them. The only reason they now looked at him was due to the tone used by their injured target.
While they couldn't understand the language, they felt the tone was friendly, and their suspicion grew with the action of the bead being thrown towards Kiba.
"I'm overwhelmed with emotions," Kiba continued with a grin, "Just a few minutes ago I was complaining about lack of lives here. Now, I even have a friend."
The leader of the wolves leaped up at Kiba with its claws brightening up. The wind whistled and the air pierced with a sharp glint of the claw.
"Who I am to stop you if you wish to discard your life?" Kiba asked as he raised his right hand.
Steams of golden energy began concentrating around his hand. He clenched his fist tightly and punched out.
The wolf felt a deep sense of crisis but was in no condition to dodge after coming so close. Before its claw could strike the opponent, the wolf sensed intense vibration transmitting to its body.
The punch hasn't struck the wolf, but the golden energy cascaded in its body as vibrations!
CRACK
The destructive energy rampaged throughout its body, shattering all organs and smashing the steel-like backbone in an instant.
The other wolves and the injured man felt their eardrums on the verge of splitting apart with the vibrations roiling in the air and water.
PUFF
The wolf leader was sent flying backward while releasing an arrow of blood from its mouth. It crashed on a giant boulder, and the destructive vibrations from the wolf's body transferred to the boulder.
BOOM
The boulder instantly exploded into dust while the wolf yelped pitifully for a moment before its life faded. Dark blood from the corpse mixed with the stream, giving it a shade of red.
The remaining wolves and the injured man didn't dare move nor make any sound. They were scared witless by the brief display of the power.
"How is this possible?" The injured man was completely dumbfounded. He expected Kiba to be strong enough to hold his own for some time but never to this extent.
The wolves, on the other hand, lowered their heads as if apologizing for the conduct of their deceased leader. In the jungle, the respect was always shown toward the powerful.
The water reeks of blood." Kiba ignored their reactions and removed his feet from the stream. "So much for relaxation of body and soul through feet massage."
He put his feet back in the shoes and then stood up.
All this time, the wolves and the injured man didn't make a single movement. They didn't have any confidence to run away after the previous display of power.
"Well," Kiba glanced at them, "Why are you still here?"
The wolves could understand his language as if it was also spoken in their minds. They lowered their heads again to thank him before turning around.
The injured man relaxed and his heart elevated in delight. He now looked at Kiba with deep gratitude in his eyes.
"Hey," Kiba called out the wolves, "Aren't you guys forgetting something?"
"W-what?!"