Chapter 353 - Launcelot's Underhanded Scheme
[A/N: As I said before, the novel is not tragedy! It is fun with lots of humor and holy moments! This chapter contains a few references to ugly reality of our world, but read till the end, and you will be left smiling ;) A warning in case few people might misunderstand.]
Under the bright sun, Launcelot rested on the ground. The protective item has helped him but the remnants of fire energy still burned inside him.
His expression was unsightly and this was especially true when he heard the discussion between Jenina and Zed.
Here, he did everything to fight for Jenina (and also to smash Zed's image), and yet, she was now engaged in a conversation with Zed.
They both were busy discussing who was to blamed...each taking responsibility. This only turned his rage stronger.
He needed help and care, and yet, the woman he has eyes on was busy telling the man responsible for his condition that he wasn't at fault!
Is there even any logic in this world?
Zed was at fault!
He wanted to shout but he couldn't. The exhaustion was getting up to him, and finally, it was others from the group who helped him.
Jenina realized her mistake of ignoring him, and she proceeded with him...
"Are you fine?" Sophia asked as Zed placed back the water bottle into the storage ring.
"Yes, thanks for asking," Zed replied.
Sophia responded with a faint smile and nodded. She was relieved that he wasn't harmed.
Zed glanced at Ashlyn who has her eyes closed. It was like she didn't care about anything.
Aileen looked at him in surprise. She found not a single wound on him, not even a scratch. He seemed somewhat spent but otherwise, he was completely fine.
Something she or others didn't expect.
"How is this possible!" Carmen's expression was ugly.
He has placed his hopes on Launcelot but they were ruthlessly smashed into pieces. He eyed Sophia and thought of his chances of having her.
Meanwhile, a man named Onur Bolt came in front of Sophia. He wasn't interested in her or anything. Nor was he a member of an aristocrat family.
"We all have same destination so let's proceed together," Onur said. He was referring to the temporary group of ten and Sophia's group.
"Sure," Sophia agreed. She was in speaking terms with him so she agreed. By tomorrow evening they would reach Spirit Guardian Village so there was no reason to decline.
Zed and Ashlyn didn't care about being accompanied by a new group. They resumed the journey and didn't meet any obstacles either from beasts or humans.
A few hours later.
As the night approached, they found a safe place for night rest.
Sophia's retinues built a camp house for her, Zed, and others. Carmen, Onur, Jenina, Launcelot, and the remaining 7-8 people made their separate camp house.
Sophia's retinues and few people from the other group started making preparations for dinner.
In one of the rooms.
Carmen and Launcelot sat across each other.
"None of us have any chance of having Sophia," Carmen said with a dejected expression. "She has a fierce personality and she has always been the bossy type. She is not called a young fiend for nothing."
"I know," Launcelot agreed but his lips curled up in a sinister smile. "But we have a method of having her.... that too tonight!"
"What?" Carmen was surprised by his claims.
From his storage device, Launcelot retrieved a plastic packet containing a brown powder. The powder was sparkling in nature.
"Don't tell me that's...!" Carmen was shocked. He grabbed the plastic packet and checked it, his eyes wide.
"Yeap! This is an advanced date r#pe drug!" Launcelot declared proudly.
In higher society, the use of such drugs was rather common. The females he used it on weren't in any position to complain. After all, he has a high standing and the laws were always bent when people with strong backgrounds were concerned.
It was an ugly open secret.
Days ago, when Denisa was in Garrick Angel Inn's club, she has mused about the types of men, depending on their courting style.
Out of all categories, she classified the men who used drugs to make a woman open her legs as useless. She believed this type of men lacked skills which was why they have to rely on such methods.
Launcelot would obviously not agree with her assessment. He believed it was also a skill to own such drugs!
Why shouldn't people use the best of the advancement in science and technology?
Of course, the effect of any drug depended on its grade and the strength of the drug recipient. Launcelot was sure it would be effective on Sophia depending on her strength.
"Are you out of your mind?!" Carmen asked.
It wasn't like he has never used it to have women he has no chances of getting. But they were talking about Sophia!
Only death would await if her family found out. Not even their own families would be able to save them given her status in Neville Family.
"Relax! It contains memory disturbance particles besides the pheromones!" Launcelot assured him. "Don't you want to have her? The beautiful, treasured jewel of Neville Family?"
Launcelot enticed him further with the amazing time they could have.
"Ok! But we have to be careful!" Carmen gritted his teeth and agreed. He has enough of her refusals and given everything that has happened, he agreed.
"Hehe, don't worry," Launcelot said with a smirk. "I would make sure no one knows... I will make preparations for her to intake tonight."
As they discussed the plan, a mosquito buzzed above their room. Its eyes glinted and if one looks carefully, they would realize it wasn't a real mosquito, but rather a mechanical.
Meanwhile, in the other camp house.
Zed sat on a bed. He opened his eyes and removed an earpiece from his right ear.
"Haah~ From ages unknown, lust and greed have destroyed humans, and yet they never learn."
Zed stepped out of his room and glanced at the room where Sophia resided.
"I couldn't allow it to happen."
His alter ego liked teasing her by calling her a pervert but even he didn't dare overstep natural boundaries.
That was against his rules. She was young and he has no issue with her. So why would he ever do something which would affect her psychologically?
The only time he overstepped his own boundaries was with people like Ruby or Sarah.
Sophia has tried protecting Kiba from Mendel, and the conflict they had was not deathly. She only wanted to teach him a lesson and he didn't want someone like her to be harmed.
The mechanical mosquito returned to him. He transferred it back into his storage ring.
It was a surveillance device given to him by Claudia along with many other items. She believed Kiba didn't need them but Zed was different. (Chapter 182).
He understood psychology and the nature of humans far better than most otherwise his alter ego couldn't be the man he was.
He knew an unreasonable guy like Launcelot would plan something after being defeated in front of so many people, and that too when Launcelot's motives were to create a strong impression in front of others.
This was why he sent the mechanical mosquito for surveillance. While he wasn't afraid of someone like Launcelot, he still wanted to be prepared.
Zed was expecting a scheme against him. So he was a bit startled when he learned it was against Sophia. But then again, it made sense to him.
"Places like this truly bring the worst out of humanity. Core region would be even worse."
Zed couldn't help but smile.
When he was young, he thought slums had the worst type of people but as he grew up, he realized the higher one goes in the social hierarchy, the worse people he will find.
Of course, there were good people as well.
But initially, he was startled as his world view was limited, and he believed people from high society have no reason to be morally bankrupt like the slum dwellers.
Zed shook his head and cleared his thoughts. He went back to his room and retrieved two bottles from his storage ring.
He opened one of the bottles and took out a circular pill. The pill has star-like marks on it and as soon as it appeared, strong fluctuations of psychic energy emitted out.
"Never thought I would be using it for others."
This pill was something he created after his encounter with Akshobhya. After all, Zed couldn't face a Psychic mutant so he created a pill that can temporarily boost his psychic strength.
He owned an advanced genetic lab and his expertise in medicinal science was extraordinary. Naturally, he used them for his own advantage.
"The drug Launcelot owns contains Gamma-hydroxybutyrate, Methylenedioxymethamphetamine, and Trimratemine. In simple words, the combined three act as a strong central nervous system depressant and stimulating psychedelic. They are empathogenic and can increase disinhibition and sexual desire..."
Zed thought before grabbing the pill built for enhancing psychic endurance. He created it for facing a Psychic Hunter so the drug Launcelot owned didn't even deserve a comparison.
"Maybe I'm unnecessarily interfering. She has a strong background so most likely her parents would have given her some protective charms to face drugs that could affect her mentally... But still, just in case..."
Strands of fire enveloped the pill and it evaporated into vapors. Zed controlled the heat in the air to move the psychic energy vapors towards the room where Sophia was resting.
Her body suddenly jerked and she opened her eyes in confusion. She felt a slight pain in her head but then her senses enhanced. It was like she gained more clarity mentally.
"What was that?" Sophia wondered. She glanced at the protective pendant she was wearing and seeing no action from it, she felt nothing bad has happened.
Zed was right. She did own a device that was created with high-tech technology to face psychic interferences and other forms of attacks. Since the pill he used was beneficial, the pendant didn't interfere.
Her parents were aware of the types of people that existed in the world.
This was why they prepared for every scenario before they sent her here. Had Launcelot and Carmen tried to take advantage of her, they would have been taught a lesson by her.
Back in his room, Zed was obviously unaware. He has a guess that she might own such a device, but he was just taking a precaution.
"Now for those two idiots..."
Zed smiled slyly as his eyes arrived on the other bottle containing pills. It was labeled with warning signs.
"Am I going overboard?"
Zed wondered as he opened the bottle. He took out two cyan pills with skull signs engraved on them.
Even he shuddered with dread as he thought of the properties of the pills.
"Claudia... We created them as a joke but..."
Chapter 354 - Understanding!
[A/N: Please read till the end before making any judgment ;) A bit of dark humor! ]
Zed stepped out of the camp house and walked towards the other camp house where Launcelot and Carmen were resting.
In the space between two camp houses, the servants of Sophia and a few acquaintances of Launcelot were closed to finish cooking dinner.
They didn't react to Zed's presence as they were not acquainted with him. Still, as a kind and friendly guy, he greeted them while strolling around.
They were impressed by his friendly attitude and greeted him in return. By this time, he was standing close to the cloth wall of the camp. Launcelot's room was just a step away from his position.
Zed only stayed for a moment and he swiftly threw the pills to the wall when no one was noticing. It was dark and no one would bother observing his every action.
The two cyan pills evaporated as soon as they touched the cloth wall...
In the meantime, Zed walked around the camp house. He even helped in placing the dinner plates. The retinues were happy with his helping attitude. He wasn't at all arrogant and acted as if he was one of them, much to their happiness.
Five minutes later.
Sophia, Aileen, Ashlyn, Jenina, and others walked out of the camp houses for dinner.
"Where is Launcelot?" Jenina asked Onur.
"He is in his room with Carmen," Onur answered.
"I will get him," Jenina felt she need to show caring to Launcelot.
"I should also go with you," Onur said.
Jenina nodded and they walked forward. As she proceeded towards his room, she heard noises.
"Huh?"
Jenina has heard similar noises a few times in her life, and usually, she would be amused at such noises. But when she heard them now, she trembled.
"No! This can't be right! I must be imagining!"
Jenina cleared her thoughts as she moved closer. She heard more sounds of thumping and violent breathing along with the sound of flesh hitting flesh.
In fact, the noises were getting so loud that even those in distance could hear. There was hardly a distance of thirty meters of the room from the dining arrangement, so the voices could easily travel at such a distance.
"Oh yes! Faster!" Launcelot's loud voice rang out.
"You like it rough, bitch?" Carmen's voice followed.
"Yes! AHHHH!" Launcelot's moan reverberated.
As soon as the males heard the voices, their faces fell, and goosebumps swept over their bodies. Such words spoken by a man to a man were no less than ants crawling up their bodies, making them palpitate.
The faces of females flushed red with warm blood.
"This... Don't tell me!"
No one dared believe what the sounds implied.
Jenina refused to believe her thoughts. She parted the cloth door and gazed inside. As soon as she watched the scene inside, she felt her guts churning.
"NO!"
Jenina collapsed on the ground. She rubbed her eyes and watched once again, but the scene remained the same.
Jenina was sure Launcelot and Carmen would have noticed, but they didn't stop. In fact, their actions turned more intense.
She noticed her promised man with his eyes unfocused, glazed over from bliss.
Her stomach rolled in agony that no one could understand. Unable to handle it any longer, she threw up her lunch.
Onur, who was beside her, shut his eyes tight. He has seen things inside, and he now wished he was blind.
Onur considered himself as a proud straight man, and the sight of two men doing an undescribable act made his eyes almost bleed.
"Slap me!" Launcelot begged in an intensely passionate voice.
Around ten minutes ago, the two cyan pills evaporated into medicinal vapors, and were inhaled by Launcelot and Carmen. Their hormones turned crazy as if they were injected with strong aphrodisiacs.
In seconds, they were huffing, wanting to vent up their enhanced libido.
They looked at each other, felt mutual attraction like opposite poles of a magnet, and without caring about anything, they began...
Currently, their voices of passion were like sounds of horror for those outside.
Onur and other men felt a chill down their spines.
A few of them were secretly happy despite the uneasiness they felt from the sounds. After all, there was competition between them, and now seeing Launcelot and Carmen running their reputation, they couldn't help but take joy.
"He would lose Jenina!"
Many of them happily wondered. A hot girl was now back in the market!
Even females who didn't have a favorable relationship with Jenina smiled secretly. They had envied her ties with Launcelot, and now, learning he was a queer, they rejoiced.
Who wants to be associated with such a man, much less be in a relationship with him? The era has changed, and despite the acceptance of sexual deviance, people were still prejudiced against such acts.
The dinner was ready but no one was in the mood to eat.
Discussions broke out with everyone stating their views. The males added fire to the oil by saying how Launcelot shouldn't have hidden his sexual preference from Jenina. The females, on the other hand, wondered aloud she is lucky to have a man who likes in both ways!
"I have always known there was something between Launcelot and Carmen," A man named Hariol said. He didn't have favorable relationship with the two, so he further added, "I have seen them hanging out with each other and knew they were close, but never thought this close!"
"Same! Carmen said he was going to Launcelot's room to check his condition... Only now I know what he meant by checking!" Another man said.
"Given the yearning and craving from their voices... I don't think this is their first time!"
"They have been separated after coming into the forest... meeting only now. So no wonder they couldn't keep their hands from each other!"
"Not hands but...!"
"Sssh!"
"They really hid their relationship," A female remarked.
"Are they in love?" A female friend of Jenina wondered aloud.
Jenina's eyes turned misty and tears trailed off her face. Even in her worst nightmares, she didn't expect such a thing.
"How could he do this?" Jenina was crying and yet, Launcelot was still lost in lust.
When she heard the discussion and the seemingly concerning remarks, her heart turned heavy. She knew they were taunts and jabs, and she could imagine how her reputation would be ruined.
Not only was her heart broken, but she even has to face a cruel society. People who would love to see her go down...
Her shoulders slumped down in despair and tears continued to drip down. Just as the hopelessness was about to engulf her, she heard a voice from behind.
"Here," Zed's voice ringed in her heart. She turned around and noticed him handing her a tissue.
Jenina secretly wondered if he was enjoying this. After all, just some hours ago, she has tried to insult Sophia which lead to his fight with Launcelot.
Now, he was here to wipe her tears.
His intentions couldn't be more obvious!
He was here to gloat!
"Please don't mind others," Zed said, his voice containing no malice. If anything, it was filled with concern and kindness.
This stunned her greatly. She took the tissue and wiped her tears.
Zed then stretched his hand for support and she took it to stand up.
Just then, Launcelot's voice came out once again.
"Don't stop! Rougher!"
"He..." Jenina once again broke into tears. She was in a complete mess and her mascara started falling, covering her soft cheeks.
Seeing her emotional state, Zed couldn't help but take her into his arms for a hug. His heart ached to see her suffer like this for a man like Launcelot. That was not something he wanted.
"Everything would be fine," Zed patted on her back. "Don't overthink."
Some distance away, everyone was stunned. They were either busy taking pleasure in her plight or being silent spectators, and yet, Zed who has only met her today was consoling her.
Many of them noticed his face and they were shocked. His expression was that of concern and worry as he consoled her.
"But he and Carmen...they..." Jenina said between her sobs.
"There is nothing wrong with what they are doing," Zed said much to her amazement.
Before she could respond, he took out a handkerchief from his back pocket and cleaned her cheeks. He wiped the mascara marks along with her tears.
"Love is love... Just because our definition of love doesn't match with theirs, it doesn't mean we should look down on them," Zed explained with a smile.
"Instead of gloating or chiding those two, we should be understanding. Let them celebrate their love in ways they want; without being judgemental.
"Nature has made all types of people. Everyone is different and special... they are more special than others."
Jenina was startled and so were others.
She thought he would hate Launcelot given he has attacked him today. Everyone expected him to smash down Launcelot given the perfect opportunity, but instead, he was supporting Launcelot!
Out of everyone, he has the best reasons to hate Launcelot, and yet, he was the only one to support him!
"But he fooled me!" Jenina complained. She was happy that they never consummated their relationship as it was still fresh, but that didn't reduce the anger she was feeling at the betrayal.
If he was a queer, he should have said from the start! Why break her heart by hiding it?!
"In our era, we are prejudiced as we look down on people with a special type of love," Zed replied, his voice soft. "It is due to us that they are always under pressure... we are responsible for suppressing their freedom to express!"
"?"
"Tell me, given their background, could they afford to tell their sexual preference to others?" Zed asked.
Everyone was dumbfounded.
Indeed!
As they were from aristocrat families, Launcelot and Carmen were under performance pressure. If they revealed their strange sexuality, they would be obstructed and looked down upon.
It wouldn't be shocking if the families snap ties with them. After all, such families have a reputation and status to honor.
How could they accept queers as their own?! They would be instantly disowned!!
"So please forgive those two," Zed brushed a strand of hair from Jenina's face. He tucked the hair behind her ear, and said, "Try to be a bit understanding...and if possible, forgiving."
She calmed down as she understood the pressure faced by those two. She has even heard about queers who forcefully entered into a relationship with the opposite gender just for social acceptance.
There was no happiness for them but they pretend for appearance's sake.
The onlookers agreed with him and acknowledged the pressure faced by Launcelot and Carmen.
"When they come out, and realize they have been exposed... they would say they didn't know what happened...or that it was their first time or something along those lines. It will be something they have to do in order to hide their embarrassment," Zed said with a sigh. "But reassure them that it is fine. Tell them that you accept their love for what it is."
Everyone was stunned into silence. He was asking them to support, but this shocked them greatly.
Not only was he supporting them, but he was also gaining the support of others for them!
"I would forgive him," Jenina wiped the final traces of tears. "I would also tell Launcelot that he can come out of the closet without any worries."
"Me as well," Onur also chimed in. "I would make them feel acceptable!"
He was ashamed of his behavior. He couldn't believe he was looking down on fellow humans just because they were different.
Some distance away, Sophia was in silence. She recalled how Carmen tried to ask her out for dates multiple times, and yet, now she learned he was gay.
"Mother once said people try to hide their real self by pretending to be what they are not! Carmen must be trying to act straight by asking me out!!"
Sophia's eyes brightened as she realized Carmen's truth.
She wasn't the judgemental type and she accepted Zed's lesson. She decided to be openly acceptive of Carmen's nature and reassure him that she wouldn't insult him!
Aileen looked at Zed with respect. She knew he was kind, but never thought to such an extent with even those who were antagonistic towards him.
On a chair, Ashlyn was sitting, observing everything. She didn't know much about sexual relationships but she understood a bit after hearing the discussion.
Contemplating everything, she was sure if it was Kiba instead of Zed, he would have taken sadistic pleasure in Launcelot's plight. Kiba wouldn't have helped Launcelot in being accepted by society unlike Zed.
Ashlyn focused her eyes on Zed and thought, "He is truly kind!"
Chapter 355 - Best Friend!
In the night sky, among the wild trees, and between two camp houses, there was an open space where everyone was standing for dinner.
But now, the focus was not food which was already prepared. Instead, it was on Zed's words after everyone learned what Launcelot and Carmen were presently doing in their room...
Zed's words of kindness have affected most, if not at all. Sure, the prejudice still remained, but nevertheless, they were impressed by his conduct. They knew they were incapable of matching his attitude.
In this world, just how many people can show such pure kindness towards those with antagonistic tendencies?
Everyone knew the answer especially in the present era where selfishness has corroded every soul.
"They say kindness is a gift everyone can afford to give... but this is the first time I'm seeing such purity in actions," Aileen thought.
She has lived for more than four decades and seen every type of person. Meeting a person like Zed was her first.
Even when her young miss almost punched him, instead of being angry or trying to retaliate, he ensured she was fine by providing first aid.
Now, the circumstances have changed and the subjects have actually tried to harm him, and yet, Zed's stand didn't change.
Earlier, a part of Aileen thought he forgived Sophia for her mistake because he wanted to get closer to her, given her beauty and status. Now she no longer thought of such a thing.
She chided herself for doubting the intentions of such a sagely man...
While the onlookers analyzed his selfless actions, Zed has finally helped Jenina recover from her emotional state.
"Thank you," Jenina said.
Her face was flushed from her the crying, and also because she made a show of herself in front of so many.
"No need to thank me," Zed replied with a smile. "I'm glad you are fine and moved on."
Jenina didn't respond and glanced at the white handkerchief he was holding. It was stained with her tears and mascara.
She recalled the way he consoled her.
The close hug, patting her back, wiping her tears... standing for her while everyone was gloating over her misery.
This made her eyes misty with emotions.
As a twenty-six years old, she has a bit of experience in love though none of them turned serious, and even the one with Launcelot wasn't consummated.
In all her relationships, she has never met a man like Zed. She wasn't referring to his kindness or his handsome facial features.
No, it was about his conduct.
She knew how men try to take advantage of a woman in her emotional state. In the end, all they want is consoling to turn into sexual. Even during consoling, they would 'mistakenly' grope or touch inappropriately, hoping the woman wouldn't mind due to her emotional state.
But Zed did no such thing.
Even though he took her in a close hug, he didn't try to press his chest against hers, nor there were inappropriate movements.
He was a perfect gentleman! He was a refreshing change from all the perverted-minded males who were always hungry for lust!
Jenina chewed her lips and took a deep breath. Without saying anything to him, she turned around, and walked to Sophia.
"Huh?" Sophia was startled.
She hasn't taken pleasure in her misery but she didn't try to console her either. And why would she when Jenina tried to insult her when they meet in the afternoon? If not for Zed's intervention, she would have really felt bad for being wrongly accused as a pervert by Jenina.
Much to Sophia's amazement, Jenina took her hands into her palms, and said, "I'm really sorry. Please forgive me for what I did."
The entire camp house turned silent. Onur and others were stunned by her apology as they knew her personality. She wasn't the type to apologize for her actions even when she was wrong.
Sophia was dumbfounded and didn't know how to react. From the corner of her eyes, she eyed Zed and thought of things he has achieved in less than a day. His kindness has brought so many positive changes.
"And then there is that shameless villain who robbed the auction house! He is a living example of anarchy and chaos! Next time I meet him, I would teach him positive values! Maybe if he stays in touch with Zed, he can even change for better!!"
Sophia internally decided before accepting Jenina's apology.
A few minutes later, the dinner finally started. Everyone pretended to not care about the occasional sounds that came from Launcelot's room.
In the open space, the retinues of Sophia served the food. Zed, Ashlyn, Sophia, Aileen, and even Jenina were sitting on the same table.
The dinner was rather light with meat and soup. Zed didn't mind and he thanked the servants for delicious food.
"Is Guardian Spirit Village your final destination? Or you are visiting the core region?" Jenina enquired.
Zed thought for a moment. He wanted to separate from Ashlyn and others, and this was the final night Zed was going to be in the forest. Tomorrow, he would look for an opportunity so that Kiba can come back.
As such, given his plans for Zed, he said, "I'm only here to roam around with no interest in the core region."
"Oh!" Sophia was disappointed.
She actually enjoyed his presence and his well-mannered attitude, something her mother always said was a must in any person for her to consider worthy of being a friend.
Now, she felt sad to not have any chances of meeting him in the core region. But she suppressed her disappointment and recalled her objective.
Ashlyn was surprised by his answer. She thought he would be going to the core region along with his elder brother.
Jenina was in the middle of making a reply when she heard stepping sounds. Startled, she turned her head and noticed two males.
Carmen and Lancelot.
They were dressed in proper clothing but their faces were pale, and even their eyes were filled with threads of blood. When they walked, especially Lancelot, his legs were trembling, almost on verge of buckling.
Anyone who observed them for the first time would feel they have come out of a haunted house...
A few minutes ago, the effects of the cyan pills faded. When they regained clarity and looked at each other, joined as one in the worst possible way, they went berserk. They pushed each other and broke the bed in the process.
They were on the verge of screaming at losing their innocence, but they didn't dare shout! Both of them were afraid of making any sound which might be noticed by others and let their dirty secret out!
Even though they didn't know why they did what they did, the memory of their actions was fully clear in their minds.
In fact, the scene flashed in crystal-clear clarity before their eyes, making their skin crawl. They were on the verge of passing out!
Neither Launcelot nor Carmen could believe their present state.
Just some forty minutes ago, they were looking forward to the best time of their life... but just a few minutes later, they experienced the worst time of their lives!!
Both of them were sure that even hell wouldn't treat them with such scary moments!
For now, they tried their best to act normal and avoid scandal.
Sophia, with a radiant smile, invited Carmen to a seat next to her.
"?" Carmen was pleasantly surprised. She has never invited him nor any male except for Zed, but she was inviting him!
He wondered if this was the good that comes after bad! He was on the verge of crying at such a good fortune after the disaster.
Regardless, he rushed and took the seat. His lower body was paining when he sat down, but he suppressed it with the happiness he was feeling.
He glanced at Zed with a smirk, as if telling - see! I'm with this beauty! she invited me!!
Carmen's lips curled up further when he heard Sophia's next words.
"Carmen, I think you are the only man I can trust!" Sophia said while offering him a bowl of soup. She added grilled meat pieces on a plate and placed it alongside.
Her actions were like fireworks in the darkest of night... bringing warm light in his life!
Carmen couldn't believe his luck. Not even in his sweetest dream did he dare expect such a favorable turn of situations.
"You are right! You can always trust me!" Carmen assured her while glancing at Zed. With the same smirk, he stuffed a meat piece in his mouth.
Carmen decided to cancel the drug plan he has made with Launcelot. Not like they were in any condition to implement the plan, but still, there was no way he was going to let another man even gaze at her!
"Yeap," Sophia agreed with him. "Most movies I saw were telling me that Carmen is the man you can trust but I only realized it today."
"Umm..." Carmen looked at her in surprise while chewing the meat pieces.
Did she start loving me through movies?
Oh god! I would reward those movie directors with a fortune!!
"All those boring stupid romance movies mom made me watch weren't fully wrong! Every female's best friend is not a female, but a male... A male like you, a gay!" Sophia said happily.
Her intention wasn't to insult him by calling him gay. In fact, it was to make him feel acceptable.
But it did the opposite effect...
Her words were like a clap of thunder right below his ears.
Does she know?!
She considers me trustable because she thinks I'm....?! No!
Impossible!!
His pupils turned to the size of a needle, and he unconsciously gulped down the meat pieces, and choking in the process.
"You are the best friend I was supposed to have," Sophia brought a spoon of soup to his lips. "Have some soup."
She even patted his back to help him from choking.
In ordinary times, such an act would make him scream in joy, but now, it horrified him. His entire body began dripping with cold sweat, and his soul cursed every movie director in existence.
"I'm not gay!" Carmen shouted and the pieces of meat sprayed out.
He was sure of it, and believed what happened with Launcelot was just a freak accident... a mistake! He was a proud straight man!!
And yet, Sophia was considering him as a gay?! She was aware of what happened between him and Launcelot?!
That couldn't be!
"Relax, bestie, there is no reason for you to be worried," Sophia said with a patient smile. She knew it was too much for him at his secret being leaked but so what? She was there for him!
Sophia remembered what Zed said about peer pressure and social acceptance. As such, she could understand why he was pretending to be not gay.
She knew she has to help him get his confidence to face the world. Just till when can he hide his sexuality due to fear of others?
That wasn't living but merely being existing!
She didn't want this for Carmen just because he was different and a homosexual. No matter what, she wouldn't let there be any discrimination!
If she did, then how could she ever face her mother who said one shouldn't discriminate on how they were born!?
She might be young and eighteen, but her passion to fight injustice was strong. She would be a fierce protector of Carmen!
"Everyone knows about you, but if anyone dares to mock you, they will face my fists."
Sophia raised her fists and they crackled with streams of energy. A single punch could destroy a metallic pillar to pieces!
Her words and action were supposed to relax him, but when they registered in his mind, they were like an explosion.
Does everyone know?!
No!
Carmen refused to believe it.
This couldn't be true!
It must be a nightmare!
Yes! A nightmare!
Chapter 356 - No Act Of Kindness Is Ever Wasted!
While Carmen was invited by Sophia to a seat next to hers, Launcelot wasn't ignored. In fact, when Launcelot stepped forward, Jenina jumped on her feet and rushed to him. Without any warning, she hugged him.
Launcelot was stunned by her actions. Every part of his body was hurting and aching due to what trespassed before, but he didn't push her back.
They began dating around four months ago, and while the final act was still remaining, he believed they were a couple. In fact, if he didn't read the signals wrong, she planned to allow him to bed her in a few days.
Launcelot was thinking of moving his hand up to fondle her when Jenina opened her lips and said, "I forgive you."
"Huh?" Launcelot was surprised.
She left the hug and looked at him with a smile. Before he could ask what she meant, he noticed Onur arriving next to him.
Without any words, Onur pulled him for a hug.
"Why do you have to hide it from me?" Onur asked while hugging him tightly. "You think I would discriminate just because you are gay? You think so low of me?"
"What?!"
Launcelot was caught off balance and he started feeling nauseated. He found the ground parting and the sky twisting, and his knees buckled down. Thankfully, Onur was providing him support by the hug and he didn't collapse.
This didn't give Launcelot any happiness. His throat turned dry and hoarse, and butterflies ran havoc in his stomach. His entire body was engulfed in despair by the time he realized both Onur and Jenina knew his worst secret.
He opened his mouth to speak but no words would come out. He was feeling a terrible pain aleready, and what just happened now brought him close to a heart attack despite his young age.
No! This isn't true!
Launcelot tried to pacify his rapidly beating heart. His heartbeats were like the sound of a drum, and every new beat was stronger than the last.
He was thinking when he felt dozens of eyes focused on him. He swept a glance and noticed everyone observing him.
Their expressions were strange. Some were of amusement, some complex, and some were of understanding and acceptance!
Understanding and acceptance of what?!
Don't tell me they know about me and Carmen?! No! They misunderstood!!
"It was not what it looked like!" Launcelot said, his voice rough.
"Don't worry," Jenina patiently said. "We know everything."
What?
Know everything?
But I don't know anything! Not even why it happened!
"I'm your best friend and this wouldn't change just because you are not straight," Onur declared. "Besides, there is no reason for you to feel ashamed. LGBT community is accepted throughout the world."
"No! You are not understanding anything! I'm not homosexual!" Launcelot barked.
Just some forty minutes ago, he was planning to ravage a young woman! He was sure a gay couldn't do that!
It was a different matter that he was left in no condition to do anything for some time...
"You are worried about your family, right? I would talk to your parents," Jenina could 'understand' his concerns. "They can't disown you for this! I'm sure they would understand you are special and appreciate it!"
Parents?
Talk?
Launcelot couldn't handle it any longer. He collapsed on all fours, his face deathly pale. He knew he was destroyed even without being killed.
If everyone here knew about his act and they misunderstood... No, even if they knew it was a one time act, they would spread this news to others.
This was not something that could be avoided given human nature!
Sooner or later, more people would learn.
He could even imagine how his friends and acquaintances would act. They were prejudiced and felt discomfort in the presence of queers.
Heck, they even made jest with rude remarks. Now, those same friends and acquaintances with whom he enjoyed making fun of queers...would start avoiding him, and even make fun of him.
Even those who pretend to be open-minded would find reasons to avoid him!
There would even gossip between aunties before reaching the ears of his parents!
He could visualize the reaction of his family. They held ancient honor as an aristocrat family!
While he wouldn't be killed, he would either be 'cured' by forced medication to make sure he turns straight, or thrown out of the house!
Regardless, his life was ruined!
No girl from a respectable background would give him any attention. Even if he showed he was capable in bed, they would think he was taking drugs to create a false image so that he wasn't humiliated!
And if some woman of real standing showed interest in him, it would be due to his 'strange' nature. He can imagine what type of those women would want from him.
Launcelot wondered if this was karma...if it was, then it was unfair! The punishment was far worse than death!
Even the king of hell wouldn't give a lifetime of punishment!
Launcelot started weeping.
Jenina and Onur were dumbstruck by his crying. Jenina was worried but then Zed arrived next to her and said, "They are tears of happiness."
"Right!" Onur agreed. "He was most likely afraid Jenina would be angry if she ever learns his secret. And he would have expected rejection from all of us!"
"Ah!" Jenina's eyes sparkled. She crouched down and hugged Launcelot again.
"Don't worry! I never held any grudge!"
She rubbed his back to assure him, but it only increased his crying.
He didn't want such understanding and forgiveness!
More people arrived and hugged him. The hugs were of assurance and filled with kindness.
Some of them were fake but most of them were filled with sincerity! It was like their innate dislike for queers was destroyed, and instead, replaced with love.
The world was vast, filled with various types of people. There were mutants, ordinary humans, and even cursed ones!
So why should they dislike people like Launcelot? Why shouldn't they accept him for what he was?!
They firmly believed in Aesop's wise words: No act of kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted!
Presently, both Launcelot and Carmen found them to be at receiving end of love, warmth, and kindness!
A minute later, their minds couldn't stand it any longer, and they fell unconscious!!
For the first time in the world, two people mentally collapsed due to too much love and kindness!
Zed observed everything with a faint smile.
"Psychology is so much fun... You can achieve so much without any bloodshed or efforts."
Chapter 357 - Jenina and Zed
People often considered Kiba's extraordinary powers as his greatest strength. But only those who knew him closely understood that it was a fatal misconception.
Sure, in the present era, he was one of the most powerful mutants in existence. No doubt powers were most important to gain standing, survive, and achieve greatness, but for someone like him, powers were just an additional strength.
His main and greatest strength was his brain! It was his ability to think of schemes even those considered devilish!
(Women who have received his affections felt he has a far more powerful possession in his pants, but let's not talk about it now.)
Even before he gained Cosmic Spark and became the man he was, he has unconsciously focused on the science of the mind and behavior.
Psychology.
From the times when he was nothing but a slum insect to the present times, psychology was the only field he considered worth studying.
As a slum dweller, it made him understand what fuelled emotions of almsgiver, and helped him when he has to rely on begging to meet day's end. It further helped him analyze motivations of slum overlords, and act accordingly to increase his chance of survival.
After the events that took place in BSE79, his knowledge and expertise in biological science were already at the top.
So when he left slums and entered Delta City, he was in a position to actually research on psychology. Before, what he knew was only based on his observations and nothing else. This obviously has limitations.
Naturally, after he created Claudia and built his home, he started studying psychology. He finally has both time and means!
He finally understood the roles of emotion, motivation, cognition, love, and communication...
His seduction process, naturally, was based on mind games and wits. This was despite the natural charm he carried as a handsome deviant!
In Delta City, hundreds of men - who have been cuckolded - would readily acknowledge his wits as his most powerful possession!
Like Natalie - CEO of Wife Pleasuring Service Ltd - once said, the world was truly lucky that he only used his brain to get between legs of women!
If not, he was capable of creating anarchy and chaos the world has never seen, and that was without using his powers!
Mind is a weapon that can defeat enemies without a drop of blood!
...
Presently, Launcelot and Carmen were the ones who suffered under Zed's scheme. From Zed's perspective, what he did wasn't worth any mentioning. He didn't even consider it as a scheme but just a minor use of psychology.
All he did was misdirect cognitively through minor tweaks in perception. Something that was truly simple.
Alas, what he didn't consider worthy of mentioning left Launcelot and Carmen mentally broken. Their self-esteem and ego were shattered beyond repair from the kindness they received.
Even the physical agony of what they did with each other didn't pained so much...
Thankfully, their mental instinct took over and left them unconscious to prevent further damage to their spirit.
Seeing them unconscious and knowing the affection they held for each other, Sophia directed her servants to transfer them to a room.
"Mom said people in love are always together! So don't separate them!"
The servants swiftly reacted to her commands. The night winds swept past but the servants were fast in following the orders.
"Put a blanket over them," Sophia commanded the servants as they carried them to one of the rooms in camp house.
She considered herself a kind soul despite fierce elements of her personality.
Aileen was impressed by the conduct of her young miss. She knew her young miss wasn't fond of Carmen as she was tired of his requests. And yet, she openly called him as the only man she could ever trust.
That was truly a sign of being open-minded and kind-hearted. Something very few females were capable of when it concerned a male like Carmen. Sure, it might be due to pity, but even then it was very rare.
"I'm glad she isn't thinking of that shameless man she often mentions," Aileen mused while sweeping a glance at Zed. She knew he deserved the credit for this and she was glad that she asked him to accompany young miss.
Aileen then thought of her mistress - mother of Sophia- and smiled.
"Mistress would be happy to see how young miss has grown into a fine lady," Aileen thought with a smile. "She is just like the mistress - treating everyone with warmth."
In the meantime, Jenina sat opposite to Zed on a table. Their dinner was paused in between due to Launcelot and Carmen's episode but now, they resumed again.
Jenina secretly eyed Zed as he ate his food. His movements were filled with elegance and when servants served more dishes, he was respectful.
Jenina felt her heartbeat raising when his eyes moved on her just as she was taking a glance at him.
"Is there anything on my face?" Zed gave her a puzzled look.
"Ah... yes!" Jenina lied. She was thankful he didn't noticed her staring and misunderstood her glance.
"Oh!" Zed took a tissue and wiped his lips. After which, he enquired, "Is it gone?"
Jenina thought of answering yes but then she recalled him saying that he plan to leave soon. There wasn't much time they could spend together. It was due to him that she even apologized to Sophia and she wanted to better know him better.
It wasn't an everyday occurrence that she got to meet a man like him.
In ordinary situations, she wouldn't prefer to be in the company of a man after having her heart broken, but he was different, a very strong exception given everything that has taken place so far.
He wasn't like most men who were corrupt and very definition of sleaze.
This was why she said, "No, there is some grease. Let me help."
"No need," Zed tried to politely refuse, but by then, she leaned forward on the table.
"It is fine. You helped me as well so..." Jenina said in an obvious reference to how he wiped her tears and mascara while consoling her.
Sure she might be lying but her intention were good! She wanted to return his kindness by small actions even if they didn't really make sense to others!
"I guess you are right," Zed replied she stretched a hand towards him.
She responded with a smile, and her creamy fingers slowly arrived on his face. Her skin was smooth and vibrant, like a jade, and the soft fingertips brushed his right cheek.
The sweet perfume on her skin greeted his senses into a delightful sensation as she wiped the nonexistent grease stain...
Chapter 358 - Devil or Sage
Under the twinkling stars, Jenina's face was radiant with a starry glow as she wiped Zed's face. Due to gene selection, development in technology and selected breeding, those from middle or high society would usually have beautiful descendants.
She might not be breathtaking like Ashlyn or Sophia, but she was gorgeous. No less than a fashion model whether you consider her face, curves, or legs.
She was a work of art, molded into a jade figure. Totally irresistible.
Her perfume was like a resplendent lily, full of attractive smell.
It took her half a minute to clear the grease stain from his face. After which she sat back in her chair.
"Thanks," Zed politely expressed his gratitude.
Jenina nodded with a smile. In a way, what she did was also a part of a small test. When she leaned forward and moved her hand on his face, the swells of her breasts were visible. In fact, they were in his line of sight and really close to him.
But, much to her surprise, he closed his eyes. She heard his heart beating and noted his excitement that was the natural response of a healthy male, and yet, he shut his eyes in a movement.
She has only eyed him secretly, making sure he didn't notice, but his eyes were closed throughout. There was no forced pretension or anything.
The fact that his heartbeats turned normal and his excitement subsidized in just a moment were the absolute proof!
He really didn't try to take any advantage!
"Why does the world no longer create man like him?" Jenina wondered in her heart.
Till now, she liked bad guys but after her recent experiences, she realized bad guys were not ideal partners. For many women, there was a natural attraction to bad guys due to their attitude, but now, she no longer cared about that attraction.
Jenina lowered her head and checked her figure. She was sure she was attractive, in fact very attractive.
From his earlier heartbeats and excitement, she knew he also found her attractive. And yet, he was showing no interest in her. Much less flirting, he wasn't even trying to hold any conversation.
"Is it because of my personality? Or my clothing?" Jenina thought to herself. "Or maybe he is already in a relationship?"
Jenina sighed internally. She felt given what she knew of him, he was most definitely a one-woman-man!
A man who cherishes a woman for the rest of his life!
The ideal man and the fancy of countless women.
"It's getting late," Zed said while standing up. "Goodnight."
Jenina repeated the same and also took her leave. Zed also wished Sophia and others goodnight before stepping into his room. He entered into a peaceful sleep with a smile on his face.
Outside, Onur and other males from his group hanged out together for some games.
In the meantime, Jenina met with Sophia who was silent as five young women around her discussed something.
Every one of them has an extraordinary background. Only Sophia was a noble descendant but others had a strong background of their own.
Naturally, given their origin, they were beautiful with slender figures. They might not be well-acquainted but since they were females, they naturally stayed together in a dangerous land.
A few minutes later, Jenina learned the topic of discussion and her eyes brightened.
"We will go there in the morning then!" Sophia ended the discussion.
The other women smiled sweetly and thanked her.
...
The next morning.
When Zed stepped out of the camp house after freshening up, he learned something surprising from one of Sophia's servants.
Just some distance away, there was a hot spring!
The hot spring was in the form of a pool surrounded by boulder and rocks; between the lush of the forest.
The groundwater was heated and brought up to the earth's surface by geothermal forces. Given the scenary and the quality of water, which was no different than drops of crystal and carried medicinal values, the spring was a perfect retreat to relax and enjoy therapeutic benefits.
Not only this, due to mutation and reasons unknown, the spring was also filled with petals of special roses. The petals carried a sweet scent whose delightful sensation was further enhanced by the steam.
Presently, the retinues of Sophia has covered the perimeter of the hot spring with a curtain. Inside the spring, engulfed in steam, seven females were about to take a dip.
Every single one of them was young; the youngest being around eighteen while the oldest being only 27!
They had perfect curves that were further complimented by flat belly, thin neck, slender waist.
Currently, five of these women started undressing. They pushed the straps of the bra past their shoulders and pulled panties down their feet.
With ease, they put their clothes on a rock behind the pool and sat down.
They were stark naked!
Their flawless and exquisite figures were exposed and barely hidden by the steam and water. Only Sophia and Jenina were clad in clothes.
Sophia was fully clothed due to her experience with the shameless scoundrel not so long ago. She didn't want to give that villain any reason to call her pervert even though she believed she wasn't nor it mattered, especially after the events that trespassed yesterday.
The other women were surprised by Jenina. She was usually brazen by wearing exposing clothes but now, while enjoying the relaxing spring, she wasn't naked.
Not like they cared as they dipped down in the spring water. Some had their legs spread out while a few of them had their legs gathered together.
The water was at the perfect temperature, relaxing their stressed bodies. The fatigue of journey so far was quickly lost under the therapeutic warmth and medicinal water.
A few minutes later, slowly, they started washing their elegant bodies with spring water. The steam flushed their faces as they rubbed their breasts with dripping roses.
Water droplets slide down their supple bodies like precious gems. The droplets moved from their necks to their creamy backs before falling on their perfect rear.
Any man lucky enough to witness this scene wouldn't mind dying. In fact, he would prefer to be reincarnated as those lucky water droplets!
If there was heaven on earth, then every male in existence would agree on one thing: It was between those mouth-watering breasts and smooth ass cheeks.
A few of the women started checking the 'assets' of others. Naturally, just like men, they too had a complex about their bodies and preferred to compare.
One of the women named Rita ran her hands across the body of a woman named Divya. She caught the ample breasts between her palms and couldn't help but say, "You have a perfect size!"
"Stop it!" Divya pushed her hands back.
"We have a shy one here," Rita said with a smirk. She then glanced at others and realized almost everyone was shy and reserved.
"I was just kidding," Rita said before concentrating back on her body.
A minute later, a few of them started discussing matters. The spring pool was a relaxing spot and naturally, they didn't talk about adventures in the forest.
"What do you think of Zed?" A woman wondered aloud.
This question attracted the attention of almost everyone. Only Sophia didn't show any interest though she did listen. She found him different and an honorable man but she wasn't the gossipy type of woman.
"An open-minded gentleman!" Another woman replied.
"Or perhaps, a devil in disguise!" A woman named Verna, aged 27, added.
"?" Everyone looked at her in confusion.
A gentleman like Zed being a devil? That wasn't possible! He was kind, respectful, and lovable!
Even Sophia grunted in denial.
She felt if a devil existed then it was that shameless villain she encountered a few times.
An honorable and kind man like Zed, on the other hand, was a sage! It was no less than blasphemy to call him a devil!
Verna didn't explain for a long time as she brushed her beautiful legs with rose petals. Her thigs were such that every man in existence would desire to grab them and feel for once.
"I refuse to believe any man could be so perfect!" Verna said, her eyes sparkling. "Give any man a chance and perfect opportunity, and he would show his true nature of debauchee!"
A few women unconsciously nodded in agreement. From the time they could remember, their parents would warn them of men and their intentions.
"Zed is different," Jenina openly disagreed. "Yes, he is a man, and has an attraction towards women like any healthy heterosexual man, but unlike other men, he is respectful. He doesn't treat women just as pieces of warm flesh!"
The other women recalled his wise on 'because you are a woman'. What he said was truly profound and close to the truth.
Was it possible for a corrupt man to say such words? So far, every action of his has proved otherwise.
The women started having doubts.
Verna observed their expressions and understood their doubts. She straightened and raised her left leg above the water surface. Her skin was smooth and clean, and her movements graceful.
"Let's bet then," Verna said with a playful smile. "Knowing men from our group, I'm sure we are now going to have an opportunity to test him"
"?" The others were puzzled by what she meant.
She didn't reply. She curled a finger and the steam rose up above the pool, transforming into a mirror-like screen upon which scenes from outside were displayed.
"Let's see if he is truly different!"
Chapter 359 - Perfect Men Do Exist!
In the hot spring, Verna gazed at the mirror-like screen upon which scenes from outside were projected. The perimeter of the spring was covered by a thick, white curtain to give privacy to the women.
As for potential danger, the others from the group were not really that far away. Besides, they had confidence in their own strength, at least to defend themselves, otherwise they wouldn't have stepped this far into the forest.
Verna's body was developed nicely, and it was rather evident from the gazes other women looked at her. Many of them even took deep breaths to calm themselves as they admired her gorgeous figure, accentuated by her wet hair.
If men looked at her body then their blood veins would shatter from over excitement! She was no less than an enchantress!
"Earlier, he might have been pretending," Verna said while enjoying the steam. "But now that he has no woman to impress and he is in the company of only males... he would most likely show his true character!"
Verna refused to believe a man like Zed could even exist. That was impossible as far as she was concerned.
This was the twenty-first century and the honorable men women often fancied only existed in fairy tales! They were just pipe dreams sold to innocent girls by movies and stories!
Verna firmly believed these thoughts and she wanted others to understand her as well. As such, she was obviously disappointed when she saw so many women liking Zed. It was like they truly believed he was a legendary type of man that only existed in fiction!
How was that even possible?!
"What do you mean by a test?" Jenina asked.
"You know how men are, especially the younger ones," Verna answered, her voice filled with disdain towards men.
"Most of their thoughts are on women... What do you think men from our group would do now that they know we are in a hot spring?"
Divya's eyes turned wide into realization, and she dipped further into the water, her hands covering her ample breasts. Others did the same and they chided themselves for not thinking of this.
"Relax, I have casted an illusion," Verna knew the types of thoughts running in their minds. "If not, I wouldn't be relaxing with you all."
It was her who shared the information about the hot spring and suggested they should give it a try. They even asked Ashlyn but she refused, and instead, stayed in the camp house.
As for the white curtain around the hot spring, while it gave privacy, it wasn't really a guarantee in case people tried.
The illusion she cast ensured that when anyone peeked inside, they would see women, but it wouldn't be them. The scene, instead, would be something from her memory, not at all related to the beauties here.
The others understood what she meant. The men would be looking for opportunities to check them out!
This hot spring was now heaven on earth for any straight man!
Would men waste this once in a life time opportunity?!
They knew the answer! The men wouldn't for it would be against their nature!
Meanwhile, back in the camp.
Zed was enjoying the fresh air and the morning sky when he learned about most of the women taking a bath in the hot spring.
He noticed Onur and almost every other man from his group stepping out of the camp area and moving towards a particular direction.
The only men left here were him, the servants of Sophia, and the 'new couple'. Launcelot and Carmen have lost all desires ever since the event from the night before.
Zed was a bit curious so he followed the men, his steps quick. It was soon obvious to him where Onur and other men were proceeding.
He looked on as they hide behind a few boulders. They were near the hot spring and even the land texture here was a bit rocky.
They hid well without making the least bit of noise and arrived without any servant or even Aileen noticing.
Only Zed noticed because he was paying attention, and also because they didn't really try to hide it from him. For others, they made a false excuse of hunting for breakfast...
One of the men named Raxu retrieved a very small drone from his storage device.
The other people, in the meantime, took out digital tablets and entered some codes in an app. The camera embedded in the drone soon started projecting its visuals on the tablets.
Onur and others noticed Zed walking straight in their direction.
"Ah!" Onur was startled but soon his lips curled up. "You are right at the time. The show is about to start."
The drone left the ground and flew upward. It was covered with transparent layers that ensured it wasn't noticeable, almost like it was one with the surrounding.
Zed arrived next to Raxu and the latter smirked with a smile that was familiar between men.
"To screen mirror, you have to enter this coordinates---" Raxu has kindly begun sharing details for the greater good, when much to his shock, Zed pulled the remote from his hand.
"We should learn to appreciate the right to privacy," Zed said, his voice polite. "It is fundamental to human dignity, regardless of gender. So please, let's stop before it is too late."
Zed pressed on a switch to make the drone turn its direction.
"YOU!" Raxu and others were incensed.
Back in the spring, Verna was stunned, her expression filled with shock. Just a few minutes ago, she was sure of exposing Zed's true nature but now...
"How is this even possible?!" Verna refused to believe this.
Zed didn't know about the trial or even that the women were expecting them to carry out perverted actions. He did it on his own because that was true to his character as Zed.
As for enjoying heaven on earth, well, for that, there was Kiba. His alter ego's life mission was dedicated to getting women in bed.
The number of women he slept was far greater than the combined number of women people like Onur, Raxu, and others even made hand contact with...
So, for him, there was no reason to be overexcited at the prospect of seeing a few women naked.
When he created his twin personalities, he decided on their roles and limits. This was fundamental, otherwise what purpose having two identities served?
As the drone made an arc to return back, Raxu grabbed the remote back and quickly dashed to another boulder. He commanded the drone to move back to the hot spring for fresh visuals.
"If you don't want to watch, then don't, but stop preaching us!" Raxu warned with a fierce expression.
Onur and others nodded in agreement.
If you want to be an idiot and waste this god-send opportunity, then do so, but don't impose your stupid thoughts on us!
Zed didn't respond and remained silent in his place. He didn't run towards Raxo to grab the remote.
In the hot spring, Verna smiled as if she has won. She took a handful of rose petals in her hand and placed them on her face.
Her face was flushed and the rose added a delightful sensation to her smooth skin.
"He might have surprised me with his decision to not peek like a pervert man, but, at least, I have proved he is a coward in face of threats. If he was truly kind and caring then he wouldn't have minded the warning----"
Verna was saying but she trailed off in between. Her eyes were locked on the mirror-like screen and as she observed the new developments, her mouth turned wide.
The hot spring water entered into her mouth along with rose petals but she was far too stunned to care.
Outside, as the drone swept above, just as it was about to cross the curtain, it was shot by a burst of fire. The heat was so strong that by the time it began crashing towards the ground, it was no better than wreckage.
Zed has an arm, enveloped in flame, raised in the air. As the wreckage crashed down, he lowered his hand and the flame faded from his hand.
"There are things for which a man must fight, even when stakes are against him," Zed said, his expression filled with determination. "And the privacy of individual tops that list."
Verna gulped down in amazement. Her breasts trembled under the hot water, and goosebumps bloomed on her smooth skin.
"This...!"
Her heart thumped loudly as his words rang in her mind like a bolt of lightning.
I was wrong again?!
Sophia's eyes twinkled and she said, "As expected! He is truly different!"
Jenina also agreed and added, "Perfect men do exist!"
Verna was overwhelmed. She has a strong dislike for men due to their nature. And yet, a man she hasn't even known for 24 hours was breaking her image.
Meanwhile, outside.
Raxu gripped his hand tightly into a fist and punched out. The air currents streamed around his fist, and the next moment, the entire air was concentrated and blasted outward in the form of countless wind blades.
The wind blades surged with piercing sharpness as they swept forward. The earth shook and trails of rock pieces rose high like a wave as the wind blades rushed at Zed, ready to chop him.
People nearby were alarmed.
Raxu was using such a fierce move from the start, without any warning. Everyone could imagine what would happen if those wind blades slammed onto a person...he would become mincemeat! And given the quantities of wind blades, there was no chance of dodging them!
Zed's fate was set!
The females inside the spring closed their eyes, unable to look at the scene that was about to unfold. They didn't want to witness the moment he got cut to pieces!
Zed was surprised by a sudden attack but he wasn't worried. If Raxu was capable of killing him by this attack, his ability would have warned him in advance.
As the wind blades rushed at him, under the wide eyes of onlookers, he ingeniously jumped above. The spectators were stunned, their expressions filled with disbelief, as he used wind blades as stepping stone to leap further high in the air.
This was shocking.
The wind blades were short and sharp, and yet, he was using them as staircase?! They couldn't understand how.
From what they knew, he was fire elementalist so how could he do this?!
Verna's eyes glinted.
"Such creative use of fire element!"
She noticed faint sparks around the wind blades as he used them for stepping up. When he stepped on them, for a very short moment that couldn't be detected by the naked eye, there would be heat haze.
"The wind blades are nothing but concentrated air. This, in turn, means they have a high amount of oxygen! Oxygen is fuel for fire!"
Verna was impressed.
Igniting the oxygen in the blades to create an explosion would be far easy for powerful fire elementalists, but he was using it to only propel himself by increasing temperature momentarily.
She knew how tough it was.
Even Beta-rank mutants with fire-based abilities would have a tough time, and yet, he could achieve this with so much ease.
"There is only one way he could use his ability in such a way despite his low level... he understood the principle of fire element! That requires enlightenment! But he is only 21 or 22 years old! A few years younger than me!!"
The others were only shocked because they didn't understand anything, but since she understood, she was terrified.
In cases like this, ignorance was truly bliss!
In the meantime, the wind blades slashed forward. They missed their target, and now they sliced apart the boulders and trees in their path.
Soil and wood particles swept in the air, creating a dust cloud. At the same time, as people were still in shocked states, and before Raxu could react to the development, Zed retaliated.
As Zed started falling towards the ground, he aimed a hand at Raxu. A column of flame shot out, carrying blistering heat.
Even people far away felt hot sweat dripping down their bodies before evaporating. It was like they were fish being grilled!
Raxu gritted his teeth so hard that they emitted breaking sound. He didn't expect things to happen this way.
Having no time to block on his own and given the intense crisis, he pressed on a charm device on his neck. Streams of prismatic lights swept out, forming a circular barrier around his body.
BANG
The stream of fire crashed on the barrier and sparks flew out. Despite the volcanic heat, the barrier showed no signs of melting.
The air around the barrier was filled with terrifying heat haze that instantly burned what little grass grew in this rocky area.
Raxu chuckled for he knew he was safe.
His friends also smiled in unison.
The protective charms were made of nanotechnology with costly materials. Most organizations and families, even those not affiliated to world government, would give such charm devices to their members.
The price was high but it was nowhere near high enough on the resources already invested in the members.
By now, Zed has landed on the ground and lowered his hand. He eyed the barrier but his expression didn't change.
"I might not be able to break the barrier in my current form, but only an idiot would think he is safe," Zed coldly thought.
Under stunned gazes of everywhere, after landing on the ground, he crouched down. They wondered what he was doing.
There was no way he could attack Raxu after the use of barrier.
They were still thinking when Zed placed his hands on the ground. He closed his eyes, and large amount of flames cascaded out of his palms.
The flames swiftly surged at barrier but instead of attacking the barrier, they began melting the ground around Raxu. The rocky land below his feet began broiling under radiating heatwaves.
Sure, the barrier prevented his feet from heat, but now that the layers of land started melting, his feet lacked support. He started falling down, still surrounded by the barrier. The flames did everything so quickly that he didn't even get time to react.
He could have acted before when he had the chance, but he was far too confident in the barrier's ability, and now there was no time...
What needs to be mentioned is that Zed wouldn't have used this move if not for the close proximity of this area with the open hot spring.
The ground here was susceptible to his attack thanks to its geological composition, unlike normal ground where he would need an intense amount of energy to barely melt it.
"What?"
Everyone was dumbfounded. It wasn't a type of move they could think of, at least no so quickly in the middle of a battle.
The move might be a bit underhanded but no one could doubt it was smart.
"How dare you!" Raxu screamed in anger.
He has fallen into groundwater whose temperature was very high and not suitable for human, unlike the open spring. Thankfully, the barrier saved him from any injuries, but now that he was in the water, he was having a hard time coming up to the surface.
The barrier was circular like a ball and there was no way he could swim due to its design.
Fuck!
Why couldn't those damn researches prepare for such a situation when they designed the charm?!