In the lush, shady forest, sunlight filtered faintly through the treetops, creating a mysterious atmosphere. Creatures of all kinds roamed freely in this world, and one of them emerged from its burrow in search of prey. It was a creature with eight legs, each of which resembled a tentacle, and it emitted a pale blue glow as it crept stealthily through the trees.
The creature moved at an impressive speed following the thick tree trunks, until it encountered a huge beast lying headless on the ground. Extending one of its tentacles, it greedily devoured it.
Once satiated, the creature tried to return to its burrow, but before it could do so, an explosion followed by an arrow pierced its delicate head. The creature's brains and blood splattered on the ground.
"Dad, I did it! I hit the target!" exclaimed a young girl, her voice vibrating with the emotion of the moment as she ran toward the creature's limp body.
Her father, an expert hunter, approached her with a proud smile on his face. He carried a large bow on his back and a net in his hand, ready to secure the catch. "I saw you did it, it was an excellent hunt. You have a natural talent for this," he said as he stroked his daughter's head tenderly messing up her hair.
The father carefully examined the creature's body and carefully retrieved the arrow that had pierced its skull. Then he spread the net over the creature's body.
"Your mother will be thrilled when she sees what you caught today," the father said with a smile, as he prepared to take the catch home.
The young girl was filled with the thrill of the hunt, knowing that she had proven her skill and that her father was proud of her. She was eager to take her trophy home and show her mother.
The young girl jumped up excitedly, following closely behind her father, who carried the creature on his shoulders as they set out on their way back to the clan.
At last they reached the entrance to the village and, looking up, saw a magnificent platform suspended high in the trees. The father advanced steadily towards a black rope, which was hidden in the bushes, and after pulling it in a specific order, an earthen platform emerged majestically from its location. They both climbed onto it excitedly.
"The chief is back!" shouted one of the guards watching from atop the wooden wall, bringing them to a halt.
A blare of horn boomed through the air and the sturdy wooden gates swung open.
After briefly greeting the guards, the two entered the village. The place was brimming with life and joy, with children scampering, playing and strolling along the paths. Everyone they encountered on their way greeted them with beaming smiles.
The house of the young woman and her family was in the heart of the village and was already visible in the distance. It was a cozy and picturesque hut, with a thatched roof and a garden full of flowers. They both quickened their pace, the young girl impatient to give her mother the surprise.
"All right, you wait here, Eirys. I'll go get your mother and you'll surprise her when I bring her here. Get ready too," her father said setting the beast down on the ground. Eirys nodded with a smile as her father ran into the house.
As she waited anxiously for her mother to arrive, time seemed to stand still and she saw no trace of her father or mother. Eirys' patience was wearing thin and unable to resist her excitement any longer she entered the house without a second thought.
"Mother! Look what we have captured with father!" she cried excitedly as she entered the house.
But in the blink of an eye, all she saw was a tall, slender man, dressed in a fine black human suit, holding a huge metal scythe in his hand. He was slowly walking away from the limp body of his father and mother.
The man stopped the scythe in its tracks with a quick motion and wiped away the blood that had soaked into it. Then, he fixed his gaze on the young woman and began to slowly approach towards her.
Eirys stood still. Her heart was pounding in her chest as she watched the man advance towards her with determination. She could not comprehend what was happening.
The man finally reached her side and spoke to her in a cold, sinister voice that chilled her blood.
"So you are this man's daughter," he said as he held out his hand to her. "Come with me. I have something to show you."
She reacted quickly when the man grabbed her. With a sudden movement, she pulled her hand away and turned toward the door, determined to escape the danger that surrounded her. As she stepped outside, she watched in horror as her home, her oasis in the midst of the chaos, the place where she had grown up, had been ravaged by flames, like ravenous tongues devouring everything in their path. Burnt bodies lay everywhere like broken, lifeless dolls, a sight that left her paralyzed.
Suddenly, the figure of a huge, muscular man, as tall as a stone wall, stood before her. Recognizing him, she screamed in fright.
"Tarion!"
Tarion pounced on her in a fury and held her so tightly that he broke her ribs.
"What are you doing here, what have you done?" she exclaimed with a stifled scream as she tried to free herself from him.
But the pressure that man was exerting on her frail body was too strong and she lost consciousness before she could do anything else.
...
..
.
Eirys opened her eyes with a start, startled and sweating. Her heart was pounding as if she had run a marathon. She looked around, trying to recognize her surroundings. The place was strange and unfamiliar to her: stone walls and high ceilings, beds arranged in a row and a table with medical utensils.
As she regained consciousness, she realized that it had all been a bad dream, a nightmare that seemed real. He exhaled deeply, trying to calm his agitated mind. As she tried to get up, she noticed something clinging to her tightly.
"Cal?" she whispered, looking down.
There was her friend, her head resting on her chest, black hair covering her face. She looked asleep, but she wasn't sure if she was okay or if she needed help.
She tried to move her friend carefully, but Calis was still clinging to her. Eirys felt a lump in her throat and began to worry. What had happened? How had she gotten there? And why was she alone with her friend in this strange place?
Suddenly, the door burst open, causing her to startle again.
"Eirys, are you awake?" she said, "Impressive! Just a few hours ago it looked like the wind would take your life, but now you're here, recovering. Well, this really is good, there's still some time left before the ceremony, so get ready," Tarion ordered.
He sat down on a chair next to Eirys' bed, exposing his muscular body marked by several scars. The most noticeable was the one on his shoulder, wrapped in a bloodstained cloth. Without his usual helmet and thick jacket, Tarion looked even more imposing.
At the sight of him, Eirys felt a shiver run through her body like an icy snake as memories of her fight against him invaded her mind. Her tail bristled and she tried to ignore the pain she still felt in her body. She knew Tarion was not an easy foe to defeat and she had underestimated his strength.
"But don't worry," she continued with an enigmatic, teasing smile. "I'll help you get ready for the ceremony. After all, you have an important role to play in it," he said in a sarcastic, menacing voice.
She nodded silently, feeling time slipping away from her. It was hard to imagine walking out of there at that moment.
She had no choice but to follow Tarion's will. It was the only way to keep Calis safe. He sighed and looked towards the closed door, wondering when he would have the chance to escape.
After a few seconds of silence, Calis slowly awoke, confused and disoriented.
When her vision cleared, she realized she was curled up next to Eirys, whose serene face instantly reassured her.
"Is Eirys okay?" she asked, rubbing her sleepy eyelids. Her eyes were bloodshot, as if she had been crying and runny all night.
Eirys turned to her with a faint smile. "I'm fine, Cal. Thanks for caring."
Calis sat up with a start and blinked a couple of times before pouncing on her, hugging her tearfully. Eirys was surprised at first, but then hugged her warmly, feeling the comforting warmth of her friend. A lone tear rolled down her cheek as they melted into a lingering embrace.
"What's the matter, Eirys, did I hug you too tight, does anything hurt?" she asked, worried about her friend's reaction.
She smiled sweetly at her. "No, it's not that, Cal. It's just that hug reminded me of something I haven't felt in a long time," he said, hugging her again.
Tarion watched the scene with a big smile, like a wolf stalking its prey. He was mesmerized by the peaceful atmosphere radiating from the two young women, and couldn't help but let out a sinister laugh.
"Ah, I almost forgot, I brought some food for you guys," he said as he carefully placed the silver trays on the table in front of the two girls. Each tray was filled with thin slices of pork seasoned with black pepper and cinnamon, a dark purple wild berry juice and a selection of fresh juicy fruits such as red apples, green pears and purple grapes. In addition, there was a small chocolate dessert on each tray that seemed an irresistible temptation to the palate.
The delicious aroma of the food had the girls drooling like hungry dogs. They grabbed the trays quickly and Tarion smilingly left the room.
The two girls devoured the perfectly cooked and seasoned thin cuts of pork, leaving nothing on their plates. The blackberry juice refreshed their palates with its sweetness. The fresh fruits were a rainbow of flavors and textures that delighted their senses.
But the small chocolate dessert made them moan with pleasure with every bite. The melted chocolate was a cascade of pleasure that flooded their tongues.
Once they finished, Eirys let out a small burp and then locked eyes with Calis. They both burst out laughing instantly.
"What now, Eirys?" asked Calis as she placed her silverware on her tray.
"We should get ready to go to the locker room, shouldn't we? Let's do that," she replied, then wiped her mouth with the table cloth.
"Oh..." Calis looked disappointed. "So you decided to follow Tarion's orders?"
Eirys frowned like an angry cat hearing that. "I don't obey Tarion, Cal. That bastard almost killed me. I'm just trying to survive. He's kept us alive so far, but that doesn't mean we owe him loyalty. We just have to stay alert and take the perfect opportunity to escape."
"Good point," Calis replied, standing up and stretching his arms. "But I can't wait to see the day when we can put all this behind us," his blue eyes shone with hope.
Eirys nodded with a serious expression. "Me too, but for now, let's go ahead and do what it takes to survive," she knew she couldn't let her guard down for a second in that hellish place.
Together they picked up their empty trays and set them down by the door. "We're done!" exclaimed Eirys with relief.
"You're done? Very well, I am Lissa and I will be your assistant until the ceremony begins. I am at your service," the young woman who was waiting for them introduced herself. She curtsied gracefully taking her skirt in two of her four hands.
Lissa was a pale-skinned young woman in a black and white maid's gown, adorned with snow-white ruffles, lace and golden manacles. Her short silver hair was neatly combed. Her face was pleasant, but her six blood-red eyes gave her an eerie look. From her shoulders protruded four slender, graceful arms. Beneath the neckline of her costume were two generous breasts. Hidden under her skirt was her spidery body, from which eight black, agile legs sprouted. She wore a small silver cross around her neck. When she smiled, she showed thin, pink lips.
Lissa's body was strange and incredible. Eirys and Calis approached to take a closer look and even touched it curiously.
They had never seen a spider beastfolk before and were fascinated by it.
(She's strong, her legs are razor sharp. Is that why Tarion brought her here? Does he want us to know that he's not the only threat here?), Eirys wondered as she carefully touched the young spider's exoskeleton.
"Ah, you've never seen a member of my clan before? I don't mind your interest. We are a very rare and proud race. Our Great Lord has given us a place of honor in his domain," she said with a kind but vacant smile.
Her red eyes were like bloody rubies that pierced the souls of her victims. Her paws moved with the grace and precision of a killer dancer.
Calis felt a shiver at the sight of her. (I feel her different from the other beastfolk I've met. There's something about her that gives me the creeps), she thought uneasily.
"Come on, Mr. Tarion has entrusted me to assist you in the changing rooms. The ceremony is about to begin and you must be impeccable," said Lissa leading them down the aisle.
The two girls followed her with trepidation, not taking their eyes off her strange figure.
Lissa stopped in front of a large door made of a dark, polished wood. It was adorned with large wrought iron inlays in the shape of wilted flowers. She knocked on the door twice and it opened slowly with a creak, revealing the inside of the changing room.
The dressing room was a large and luxurious room, filled with mirrors, closets and racks with all sorts of elegant and extravagant garments. There was also a red sofa where Lissa sat with an air of superiority.
"We have arrived, please come in and undress, I have to take your measurements," she said with a mischievous smile staring at them.
Eirys and Calis looked at each other nervously. They didn't know what to expect from that ceremony or that spider woman.
"What are we going to do?" whispered Calis in fright.
"I don't know, but we have to be together," Eirys replied squeezing her hand.
"What's the matter, are you scared? Don't worry, I won't do anything bad to you. I just want to make sure you look beautiful for the ceremony. The Great Lord is very demanding and does not tolerate imperfection," Lissa assured from the couch inviting them in.
The couch was red velvet and crescent shaped. It was surrounded by feather cushions and fine fabrics. The room was lit by gold chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.
Eirys and Calis finally entered, but warily. Lissa rose and closed the door behind her. She approached the girls with a tape measure, a pair of scissors and a small notebook.
"Come on, don't be shy. Take off those filthy clothes and let me see your bodies. Don't be ashamed, you're very pretty. Mr. Tarion chose you for a reason," she said in a honeyed voice.
Eirys folded her arms and looked at Lissa defiantly. Calis hugged herself and took a step back. They weren't going to get naked in front of that woman or let her touch them.
Lissa scowled menacingly and thrust one of her long, sharp paws into the ground like a spear. "What's the matter, don't they want to cooperate? That's no good. If they don't do what I tell them, I'll have to punish them. And believe me, they don't want to see me angry," she warned in a harsh voice.
Calis felt a tightness in his chest and sighed. Eirys was still resisting, but she knew they had no choice. He offered to go first and gave Eirys a knowing look.
(Better to obey for now until we find a way out, right, Eirys?), he thought hopefully.
She caught his gaze and calmed down. She stopped growling and lowered her gaze. They had come this far, they couldn't give up now.
Lissa grinned mischievously and bared her sharp teeth. "That's the way I like it," she said satisfied. "Now you, the thin one, stand here and I'll take your measurements. I won't be long, my hands are very skilled," she added pointing to the small padded marble stool that looked like a sacrificial altar.
Lissa clicked her tongue at Calis' hesitation. "Hurry, we can't waste any more time," he said as he walked over to her and grabbed her arm.
He lifted her off the floor with ease and dragged her towards the stool.
"Come on, don't be shy. Let me see what's under those rags," he said as he forcibly removed her clothes.
She resisted as best she could, but it was no use. Lissa was stronger and faster than her. Soon she was naked and exposed before his unrelenting eyes.
Calis shrank back in shame and fear. Lissa examined her with curiosity and disdain, touching her marble-pale skin, her long coal-black hair, and her fairy-like sharp ears.
"How strange you are, what kind of beastfolk are you, what hole did you come out of?" asked Lissa in a voice that mixed fascination and disgust.
She didn't say anything. She just squeezed her eyes shut and hoped it would all be over soon.
(Hold the cold... It's like her hands are made of ice. Ah, it hurts so much. Is she doing it on purpose, did this place turn her into a monster or was she already one before she got here?), she thought as she felt Lissa's rough, cold hands run over her body.
In an instant, Lissa pulled away from her.
"What's the matter, are you done yet?" murmured Calis in a weak voice.
Lissa scoffed with a cruel laugh. "Of course, there's not much to see in you. You're so small and thin you look like a walking corpse. What's happened to you, don't you feed well, or do you just like to suffer?"
She ducked her head and bit her lip. She didn't want to respond to his insults, but she couldn't help but feel hurt by his words either.
Eirys watched the scene with despair. She wanted to come to her friend's aid, but she knew that any misstep could be fatal. She bit her lip hard to contain her anger.
She clenched her fists and looked at Calis with a silent promise in her eyes, which shone like stars in the night. (It doesn't matter what they do to us, Calis. Once we get out of here, I won't let you suffer anymore. I promise), she thought with determination.
Lissa sized Calis up and pushed her off the stool with a shove, as if she were an old rag. Then she turned her attention to Eirys with a wicked grin.
"Now it's your turn, beautiful. Come here, I won't hurt you, I just want to have some fun. Come on, come," he said with a mischievous grin calling her with his hand like a puppy.
Eirys was not intimidated and walked towards her with a firm step, challenging her with her eyes.
Lissa only returned his gaze with a wide smile and readied her tools in her hands, as if they were sharp knives.
She settled herself on the stool and fearlessly undressed in front of Lissa.
"Ah... very good, you are very brave," she said as she took her measurements, resting her four hands on her body, sliding them unabashedly. "Wow, your body is so strong, yet delicate at the same time. It's a perfect body. You've been training since you were little? I like that, how old are you, Twelve. right, Now I understand why Tarion asked me to attend to you personally," he finished moving closer to Eirys. His breath came to her nose, sweet but poisonous, like a carnivorous flower seducing a butterfly.
She gave Lissa a menacing growl, baring her sharp fangs.
"Ah? You growl at me? Ha ha. You're even better than Tarion told me. It made me think he was overreacting, that old man doesn't usually lose his composure so easily, but now I see why. I can't wait to see you at the ceremony," he said with a mischievous grin approaching her ear and licking it gently with his long tongue.
"Enough!" exclaimed Eirys.
Fed up with Lissa's provocations, she kicked her away. She stood on guard and sharpened her claws.
Lissa was perplexed at the sight of her. After a few seconds, she let out a few small giggles as she covered her mouth with her hand.
"You're funny, your expression and actions are interesting, not like most that end up here, like that poor creature shivering by the fire," she stated pointing at Calis, who had taken refuge in the warmth of the fireplace.
Calis shuddered at his words and turned to them. She saw Lissa glaring at her and Eirys with an expression of disgust.
(Why is she shouting so much? She does it on purpose, she wants to make me feel bad. Does she want to humiliate me by comparing me to Eirys? Well, I won't deny that it hurts, but I won't betray Eirys, ever!), Calis thought clutching his will and hiding his face between his legs.
"Wow, I think I got a little carried away. I beg your pardon for my misbehavior; please don't hold it against me," he commented as he saw their expressions of discomfort and anger. "Please sit down and wrap up in those towels over there, they are clean and spotless for you. I'm going to get your dresses for you. I'll take my leave," she finished before quickly going into the next room and closing the door behind her.
They both looked at each other puzzled and did not understand what was the reason for this sudden change of attitude. But since they could not find an explanation, they resigned themselves.
Eirys got up and approached Calis with a couple of towels in hand.
"Are you all right? I'm sorry I couldn't do anything against her. She's crazy," she said in a soft voice.
He wrapped the towel around her and watched her body closely. He was thinner than hers, pale and had some small scars on his back that looked like maps of a stormy past.
Calis smiled gratefully at him and squeezed his hand.
"Don't worry, this is nothing. Thank you for being with me," she replied in a weak voice.
Eirys smiled at her and clasped her in his arms.
(I don't know what awaits us beyond this door, but I know I don't want to lose her. She's the only good thing that's ever happened to me in this damn place. She's my friend, my sister), Calis thought excitedly.
(I don't know what fate has in store for us, but I know I won't let them touch a hair on her head. She's the only thing that matters to me in this world. She's my friend, my sister), Eirys thought with determination.
They separated when they heard the door open again. They saw Lissa enter with two dresses in her arms.
"I'm back. Here are your dresses. They are the prettiest I have managed to find. I hope they are to your liking," she said with a smile that dazzled like a diamond.
She tossed the dresses to them and examined them carefully.
Eirys' dress was blood red, as if stained from the violence she had suffered. Calis's dress was ice blue, with white lace and a high collar that gave it an air of elegance and coolness.
"What do you think, aren't they beautiful? Come on, get dressed quickly. Time is short," she said impatiently.
The two looked at each other suspiciously. They didn't know whether to trust her or not.
(What is the ceremony? Why do we need these flashy dresses? Will the colors have any meaning?), they wondered as they dressed cautiously.
Lissa, seeing them wearing the dresses she had chosen for them in front of the large mirror, could not hide her excitement and let out a little scream. "They look beautiful! The Great Lord will praise me for my good work! I'm really good at this, aren't I?" she said excitedly hugging them.
Eirys and Calis shuddered from his embrace. They could not believe that this was the same woman who had insulted and humiliated them, and was now treating them so sweetly. They wondered what dark purpose lay behind her change of attitude.
"Thank you for the dresses, but... what do you intend for us?" asked Calis suspiciously.
Lissa turned away from them and gave them a wicked smile.
"What do I want? Nothing, my dears. I just want to do my job. I am responsible for preparing the Great Lord's honored guests for the ceremony," she declared arrogantly.
Eirys let out a sarcastic laugh at his words.
"Honored guests? Is this a party?" she sneered disdainfully.
"Not exactly. It's about something much more special and macabre," she replied with a chilling laugh.
Calis felt a shiver run down his spine. He remembered the various rumors he had heard in the dungeons about the ceremony.
"The ceremony... So it really consists of having the ten candidates face off against each other until only one is left?" he asked with trepidation.
Lissa shook her head, amused at his ignorance.
"Pit them against each other? No... no, that would be a waste of time. You have already been examined, we know well what your limits, capabilities, abilities and future potential are. Above all, that last one is the most important," Lissa expounded, looking at their bewildered faces with delight. Seeing the ignorant so fragile and lost was something she loved.
"I'll be frank, you, little ogre, were fortunate enough to catch Lord Tarion's attention, that's why your stay in the dungeons was so short, normally they shouldn't have left until after finishing a series of tests created specifically for each slave. And you, slim doll, should have gone through a few by now, shouldn't you? Tarion was kind to you too, you both should have stayed there for another two to five years or so, maybe," he finished, taking her chins and moving closer to her ears.
"About the ceremony, you'd better see for yourselves. I don't want to ruin the surprise," he whispered as he gently bit each one.
Like a liberating bolt of lightning, a small electric shock coursed through Eirys and Calis' bodies. A great weight vanished from their bodies.
"It can't be, the slave marks are gone!!!" cried Calis in disbelief as she saw that the symbol that had tortured her for so long had disappeared, as if it had never existed.
Eirys looked at her own mark, and confirmed that it too was gone.
"What's the matter, surprised?" asked Lissa with a venomous smile and a mocking tone, turning her head to watch them as she touched her lips with her fingers. "Enjoy your false freedom while you can. After this day you will be grateful for my small gesture of kindness."
Lissa turned and walked, she motioned for them to follow her.
Eirys felt anger burning in her veins. She had had enough of Lissa's provocations and air of superiority towards them, treating them like soulless, unwilling meat. And seeing that his slave seal had been erased, he thought this was his chance to escape, even if it was at the cost of his life.
"Aren't you underestimating us too much, you damned witch!" roared Eirys drawing her sharp claws and lashing out at Lissa, who still had her back to her.
With a leap, she launched herself like an arrow towards Lissa's head.
(What's it doing? Why isn't it moving? Is it waiting for me to come closer?), he wondered as he saw her ignoring her, as if she were an annoying fly.
"Eirys! Look out! He's setting you up!" shouted Calis, who could barely follow Eirys' movement with his eyes.
"¡...!
Lissa's head spun with a crackle at supernatural speed and she spat a stream of green liquid that gave off a stench of death towards Eirys.
Eirys reacted on instinct, managing to avoid the worst of it, but a drop grazed her left arm. The pain was so sharp that it made her lose control and fall to the ground, writhing.
Calis rushed toward her, terrified. "Eirys! Eirys! Are you all right?" he exclaimed, trying to help her. She watched in dread as Eirys' arm darkened and blistered.
Lissa slowly approached them, her expression mocking.
"Well, well. Looks like someone doesn't know how to follow the rules. What did you think, that you could just attack me just like that? That you were going to get away from me so easily?" sneered Lissa in a sarcastic voice.
"Tarion warned me, but I didn't think you were such an idiot as to fall into such an obvious trap," she added with a wry smile. "Though I must admit, dodging my acid was impressive. At least... you have that going for you. Come on, get up, I don't have time to waste," he exclaimed as he took Eirys in his arms and placed his hand on her wound.
She pulled out a small vial hidden between her cleavage and poured it over Eirys' wound healing her instantly. She stopped writhing in pain and recovered immediately. She tried to get down from Lissa's arms when she was healed, but she could not move a bit.
"Hold still, damn it. Can't you see you ruined the dress?" she claimed grabbing some webbing coming out of her fingertips and quickly weaving the dress, leaving it spotless.
Eirys and Calis watched in amazement at Lissa's skills. If it weren't for her personality, she could look like a mother taking care of her children.
"There. Now please don't do something silly like that again, I don't have any more of those potions left," she said releasing Eirys to the ground with a sigh. "They are expensive to make, Tarion rarely spends any, he doesn't even use them on himself. He precisely gave me one because he knows enough about you to know you're a rabid bitch."
Eirys clicked her tongue angrily and stepped forward into the hallway. "Hurry up, we're going to be late for that damn ceremony, aren't we?" she said with a scowl and her arms crossed.
Calis sighed in relief that she had recovered and went after her.
Lissa smiled unconsciously at the sight of them. It was a sincere smile.
(Ah, I hope at least that little ogre doesn't end up in the hands of some of those creeps. It would be a waste), she thought in disgust leaving the room.
----------------------------༻.o.༺-----------------------------
Tarion advanced through the long corridors of the mansion with firm, unrelenting steps, making the ground tremble beneath his boots. His gaze was icy and merciless.
He reached the iron gate guarded by two guards, whom he greeted with a nod of his head. They bowed and opened the doors, revealing a hallway of gleaming marble.
On both sides of the hallway were valuable furniture and paintings, adorned with precious jewels. The luxury and opulence contrasted with the somber and gloomy atmosphere of the mansion.
"Tsk... Still wasting time?" he growled irritably as he heard groans coming from the next room.
He entered without warning, pushing open the heavy wooden doors with both his hands.
The first thing he saw were two beautiful human women, half-naked, covered only by the sheet that enveloped them. In between them stood a young-looking man, with hair as black as night and a neatly trimmed beard. His eyes, also black, were hidden behind thin gold-rimmed glasses. He showed a stocky and arrogant figure, surrounded by an aura of superiority and power. He was embracing the two women, smoking lazily between them on the huge bed.
"Well, if it isn't old Tarion! What brings you here, come to see the Great Lord?" the young man exclaimed with a sarcastic smile on his face.
Tarion let his anger get the better of him. He could no longer stand the insolence of that young man. He grabbed him by the collar and pulled him out of bed. The two women looked at him in surprise as he threw him violently to the floor.
"Hey! Let go of me! What do you think you're doing?" shouted the young man, struggling to get loose from Tarion.
"That's enough! If you're still alive it's because the Great Lord is amused by your stupid attitude, but as soon as he gets tired of you I'll hunt you down and skin you to see where such foolishness springs from!" snarled Tarion squeezing his neck in fury.
The two girls fled in silence, glued to the wall. They were breathless with terror. Only when they got far enough away from the big tiger that was Tarion, they broke into a run.
The boy nodded his head, again and again. "I-I understand, T-Tarion, let go, I can't breathe..." he stammered in a choked voice.
He released his grip with a heavy sigh. He buttoned his jacket with a bored air.
"Ah... excuse me, I'm just a little stressed," he said dropping into a corner of the bed.
"Don't worry, Mr. Tarion you know you can always unburden yourself to me, would you like a drink?" he said casually. He smoothed his hair in front of the mirror and adjusted his glasses. He didn't have a scratch or a mark on him.
Tarion watched him with contempt. He knew he was a jerk, but it came in handy when it was needed. He was a newcomer to the organization and he knew nothing about him, which made him a little uneasy, but since he had come in for the favor of the Great Lord. He didn't care. He kept his secrets too, and his plans.
"A drink, no thank you. I have to be ready to see my girls at the ceremony," he said eagerly. "More importantly, have you already prepared to give the ceremony presentation, everything has to go perfect today, more so because the Great Lord will honor us with his presence. You know that, don't you?" she asked turning to him.
"Sure I do! I was just taking a break from work, a fuck once in a while never hurts, don't you feel like going out with me sometime? I think you could use a little relaxation," he said, adjusting his tie.
In the blink of an eye the young man was dressed in a black suit that enhanced his distinguished bearing. He wore a double-breasted jacket with white lace cuffs, a black tie and classic cut pants. His hairstyle was impeccable and his radiant smile highlighted his charisma.
"I Markus the Great Lord's Bishop! I'm ready for the ceremony, what do you think, I sound good, don't I?" he asked looking at himself in the mirror, perfecting his image to the max.
Tarion watched him with disdain and nodded his head. He couldn't stand that confident and arrogant guy. He was like a kid playing at being a mobster, not knowing the fate that awaited him. He knew that Markus was just another pawn in the Great Lord's game, and that sooner or later he would be sacrificed.
"You go on about your business and I'll do the same. Is the Great Lord in his room?" he asked, getting up, brushing the long, lank hairs that disgusted him out of his jacket.
"Yes, he is in his room. With your permission I will continue with my preparations," Markus replied beginning to hum a song.
Tarion without another word advanced to the door beside the bed, opening it carefully.
He stepped into the labyrinthine hallway until he reached the main room. The marble walls and varied decorations dazzled his eyes with their radiance. An exquisite scent of roses filled the air. The room was manned by twelve beautiful maids of different races and ages. All of them were his pride, the perfection of his experiments.
Sensing his presence, they all greeted him with a warm smile and an impeccable bow.
"Mr. Tarion, how have you been doing, have you found new jewels to exploit? You look very happy," said one of them, the most senior, as she approached him. She was a gorgeous woman, with skin that gave off a golden glow and dragon-like features that enhanced her beauty and majesty.
"Of course I have! I have found two beautiful diamonds, but that can wait, how are you, my little Zyl? I see you keep moving forward and improving for the Great Lord, that's good. Speaking of which, are you around?" he asked with a smile.
"Two beautiful diamonds? That sounds magnificent, I'd love to meet them. Come this way, I'll take you to the Great Lord. You can tell me about them in more detail in the hallway. Come on," she said leading him to the dining room.
As they walked, Tarion noticed the curious glances of the other women in the hallway. They were all beautiful and exotic, with features of different magical creatures. He felt nothing but pride in what he had become, but he only had eyes for one bestfolk in particular.
"So she managed to hurt him? That explains her smell of blood. She seems like an interesting child. It's been a long time since I've seen him hurt. When was the last time?" wondered Zyl raising his gaze to the ceiling wistfully.
"That was you. I still have my scar from that beautiful night," he replied touching his chest.
"Really? I don't remember it being like that. Well, here we are. Make yourself at home. Too bad our talk is over. Until next time, Lord Tarion," he bowed goodbye and walked away down the hall.
Tarion entered the dining room.
In the center was a huge black wooden table, polished and carved with intertwined dragons and serpents. On it was an opulent and bountiful banquet. There were silver cups and crystal plates. The table was laden with delectable delicacies, from roast veal with exotic sauces to the sweetest desserts. The smell of food made Tarion's mouth water. He sat down on one of the cushioned chairs, removed his mask and cut himself a piece of juicy, tender meat that gave off an irresistible aroma.
As he chewed, he felt a presence behind him. He turned and found the Great Lord. He was a tall, thin man, dressed in a black suit and a red cloak that billowed like a flame. His face was pale and sharp, with green eyes that shone like sinister gems that scrutinized your soul. Her hair was black and long, pulled back in a ponytail and in her hand she carried a jet staff with a red gem on the end that emitted a dark aura.
"How was the food, Tarion? I hope it is to your liking," the Great Lord said in a soft, seductive voice.
"That's excellent, my lord. May I take a moment of your time? There are matters we must discuss," he asked rising and offering her a chair.
"I have no objection, I always enjoy our talks," he replied sitting down in the chair and removing his gloves. Then he snapped his fingers.
Two maids came over and prepared two exquisite dishes for them from what was on the table. One for Tarion and one for him.
"Before we start I want to make sure. Which Tower am I talking to, Tarion?" she said staring at him.
"The Second. Sir, it's an important matter we have to discuss and the First Tower is a little uneasy."
"What matter?" the Great Lord asked curiously.
"The matter of the diamonds I told you about earlier. They are not mere jewels, but souls with extraordinary potential. People who could change the fate of the world," he stated earnestly, fixing his gaze on the Great Lord.
"You mean those two little beastfolk you're so obsessed with? What kind of power do you see in them?" the Great Lord asked with interest, resting his chin on his hand.
"A power that defies the laws of nature. A power that can create or destroy at will. A power that only manifests in one in a million," he replied admiringly, almost whispering. His eyes lit up with a sickly passion.
"And where are these two girls now? They should be ready for the ceremony, as planned, right?" he asked impatiently, tapping the cane on the floor with a clacking sound.
"That's right, Lissa has already taken care of that. But I still think sending those two to the ceremony is a waste. If you could deliver them to me personally, I know I could create new combat handmaidens never seen before," Tarion stated anxiously, clenching his fists on the table until his knuckles were white knuckled. His voice trembled with excitement and fear.
"I see. Yes, I don't doubt you could make it, but as you may know, I can't hide those two for long. This year especially, those men are expecting something fantastic. I have already fulfilled many of your whims by leaving the best specimens in your care and presenting at the ceremony the leftovers. But that has brought our renown down. That's why this year I will personally present myself. My duty is to keep this organization under control and keep the dogs tied to my chain. Give them what they want once in a while and you will have a faithful and obedient dog. Do you understand?" she said firmly, staring at him with a piercing gaze.
"Yes, I understand your situation and I respect your decision. And I thank you for prioritizing my interests for so long. I am eternally grateful to you for that," Tarion lowered his head respectfully. "But... I can't give up my little ones. I don't want them to fall into the hands of just any big shot. Let me watch them grow. I'll see to it that nothing happens to them," he finished with determination, looking up with a spark of defiance.
"All right. If that satisfies you, I have no objection. But don't do anything rash," he said with disdain. His voice was soft and authoritative, like that of a king who admits no retort. "And remember that they are beasts, not humans. Don't get too attached to them. You might regret it later."
"Don't worry, my lord. I know what I'm doing. I just want to make the most of your potential," Tarion replied with a feigned smile. He was trying to hide his nervousness in the presence of the Great Lord, the man who had given him everything and could take it away from him in an instant.
"I hope so," replied the Great Lord rising from the table with aristocratic grace. "I know how much you love your girls, I know you would not betray me. But watch your actions," he warned him with an icy stare that made Tarion shudder.
Tarion nodded and rose to his feet as well. "Of course, my lord. You may have no doubt that my actions are for the benefit of the organization," he said bowing.
"Very well, then let's go. The ceremony at last begins," the Great Lord announced putting on his white silk gloves delicately. They were a symbol of his rank and purity.
Tarion nodded, adjusted the black mask that hid his face and walked beside the Great Lord. They both walked out of the dining hall towards the great hall where the other members of the organization were waiting for them.
(Eirys... Calis. Don't worry, I'll keep an eye out for you. I can't wait to see the wonder you will become), he thought with a smile of excitement closing the door behind him.