I want to start off with a very important message. This is a reminder that this is a very different story than The Days That Came. This chapter is one of the many (but not every) that gives the exact reason why this story is rated M. I am not someone who enjoys writing smut and am not particularly interested in ever writing it. BUUUTTT foreplay and heavily sexual scenes do play a large role in developing the scenarios and relationships that I write for the sake of the story and the characters being presented. This chapter only has maybe one or two things in it. BUT DARKER THEMES DO COME INTO PLAY LATER IN THIS BOOK SO BE WARNED NOW. As for sexual themes, those are just going to pop up whenever, I'm sorry if that's not the story you wanted, but it's not smut, and this isn't rated K-T for a reason... You'll see what I mean.
I will put trigger warnings at the beginning of chapters that need them. However, things will not start to get too intense until much later in the book. So for now, please enjoy this chapter
Chapter 5 G
Don't Trust Me - 3OH!3
I waved goodbye to Catto. This being the first time leaving her alone made me excruciatingly nervous. I prayed in hopes to not come back to her dead body lying in my bed. I hoped there was plenty of food, water, and security to keep her safe for the time I was gone.
I needed to go to the Demon City, which wasn't unusual because being a leader of my people it was my duty to make decisions and come back to assist them every so often. Not just that but I needed to pick some things up and run some minor errands.
I teleported away from the front of the property and landed amid Lanayru desert. The warm sun soothed my body. The heat was incredible and much more extreme than Faron. Regardless, I was quick to remember the pain of sand itching and scratching through the wind and against my feet. It's a torture device the gods made to keep us demons at bay in our most prime location.
I peered up at the disguised entrance and placed my hand against the sandstone wall to summon the gate. The rock crumbled and shifted away to reveal the familiar ancient engravings and architecture. Pressing forward I walked through the long and dark corridor that beckoned me to enter my city. On the other side, I entered the threshold temple and the guards bowed to greet me.
"My lord, you are earlier than expected, would you like for us to send for an escort?" He spoke boldly and respectfully. I shook my head.
"I believe I will skip the paraded entrance this time and pop in for a surprise visit in the main hall." I eased for him to look up and relax. "I appreciate the question as always."
I had the doors open wide for me to peek down at the beautiful populated scene before me. But before getting too distracted I used my magic and went to the main hall in the City Center. I found myself comfortable in my throne and waited for the chaotic and populated mess of people before me to realize my presence. It was amusing to watch them scramble trying to prepare for my return.
"We need someone in the dining facility to request that- My lord!" A face snapped over to look at me and then he quickly dropped to his knees in worship. The rest of the hall quickly followed suit. I held out my hand for them to rise in my presence, no need to keep them waiting long.
"You're early, my lord." A familiar voice huffed behind me. I turned to see my old friend Darmon standing behind me looking a bit perturbed by my unannounced arrival. "I see you're making it all the more difficult to uphold traditions."
"I supposed I have more important things on my agenda than to be bothered by extravagant meals and welcoming ceremonies." I egged with enthusiasm in hopes he would lighten up in spirits. I turned to the poor worker who was stunned by my arrival. I dismissed him and then sat back down in my throne. Darmon raised his brow at me.
"May I ask what might be so important on your agenda that you couldn't sacrifice the few hours and decency to follow through with pre-arranged plans? Why are these plans so important that they were not discussed before you left your last visit?" Darmon was visibly distressed. If he had not grown up beside me I would take his harsh tone as disrespectful, but as my head advisor and oldest friend, I felt guilty for aggravated him so. I knew him well, we were often mistaken as brothers for how close we were. We were of similar height and stature, though he was of a common copper complexion and I was of the dark obsidian. My master helped train and raise Darmon as he did me, but I had my destiny and calling and Darmon had his. My master saw him as a great leader and war strategist. "Besides, you took a much longer time returning for this session. The people need to know that you are still a ruler and figure they can rely on while they are in your absence."
"Darmon, I apologize for the changes. I will be happy to discuss this all with you tonight-" I began but he abruptly interrupted.
"At the main hall dinner with all the council members?" He reminded.
"Actually yes, I would be ecstatic to share it with you and the entire council tonight at the dinner." I shifted my seating posture to swing my legs over armrests and looked at him lazily.
"Perfect, but before then could you return to etiquette courses and remind yourself on how to sit up properly." He growled at me. He was certainly on edge, perhaps he missed me? He was right. I almost couldn't remember where I learned how to sit like that. However, Catto would always be so improper around me, she would sit this way all the time during our study time. I promptly maneuvered and nodded towards him.
"What time is dinner?" I asked him in a more mature voice.
"It begins at dusk. It's formal attire, which I'm sure you have some of in your wardrobe. You will just need to actually wear it." He truly was tearing me apart every way he could. Who knew I could be so wrong by being early? I walked up to Darmon and patted him on his shoulder.
"I can follow your suggestions and do as you wish on a single condition." I bargained. He knew what this entailed and groaned loudly.
"I can ease up on the criticisms. Just don't keep testing me." He warned. I giggled in amusement.
"Now what would be the fun in that?" I nudged him and then shaped my fingers to appear in my room.
In my room, I had my large bed and elegant windows as I liked. There were little distractions. It had dark grey and black color tones throughout. I could tell that it has been kept to the highest standard of clean and has been maintained diligently.
I looked out onto the crowded streets. Small insect-like people roamed around while some flickered in and out with teleportation. I could easily watch the scene all day. Whenever I was here I felt comfortable, I felt proud, but most of all I felt wanted. I wouldn't ever admit this to anyone but my master raised me... independent. It would distract from the mission and I wholeheartedly agree, nevertheless, it's nice to feel as though one can be needed and care for despite that. I can easily rely on those I trust but not to an extent to sacrifice my mission. But feeling needed, that was a feeling that was so comforting.
I walked toward one of my grand wardrobes and flicked through the outfits. I found a dark suit with a satin cape that was draped over my shoulders for status. I felt dignified and well-dressed. Perhaps all the issues I've caused today will be reconciled because of my appearance and impression.
People were going to want to know what I have been doing in Faron. They are going to want to know the progress I made, what I have done, and what I plan to do next. And frustratingly, I have little to present to them.
I was chosen for this position, for a good reason, they should have no reason to question my authority. But when I am absent and leaving consistently to prepare for the return of my master and their king, I do not blame those who may feel like I could be avoiding my duties as their lord and taking advantage of my position.
I began to waste some time and walk myself down several flights of stairs and exploring each floor. I was glad to see the familiar faces. Though, names escaped me more than usual. Perhaps I needed to pay greater attention to those on the mid-ranged levels. I typically stay either towards the bottom levels which maintain and hold visitations and the events, or I will skip past them for my suite at that top.
I continued to find small conversations with many of the workers and refreshed myself with much of the center. Regrettably, I ran back into Darmon who was walking some elite representatives for the demons. I wasn't sure their positions exactly but based on their clothes they seemed near royalty. They all stopped walking quickly once they saw me and then genuflecting to humble themselves. I quickly waved them to stand and continue as they were.
"My lord, what are you doing out of your chambers so soon before the dinner?" Darmon asked with a hint of outrage hidden in his tone.
" I had gotten ready so quickly I decided to take a stroll of the center and greet everyone I have yet to see," I explained. Darmon wasn't thrilled by that answer.
"Well, you can certainly just see everyone at dinner tonight." He dismissed. He shot me a glance while he continued to usher the guests past me. I bowed in the spect. I took one of the ladies' hand and kissed it gently. She let out an excited laugh and held her hand like a relic; close to her heart. They all quickly turned a corner and disappeared.
I was feeling a bit neglected. There was nothing more for me to do. If I couldn't walk around the center and I couldn't go outside, what was there to keep me entertained? Why was Darmon so uptight about the formality of everything? I was going to find out and confront him, but I needed him away from work for five minutes to do so.
Once the dinner finally arrived, I was escorted in and applause filled the air. I smiled and waved to everyone around me. The main hall was lined with many large tables that stretched all through the room. At the end of the hall, there was a lifted platform with a large semicircular table. Another throne was in apex waiting for me and the rest of the council stood at their seats around it.
I stood in front of my throne and the applause continued to praise me until I gave signals for it to stop. Darmon sat on my right and my left was another old friend named Sidius Mundray. He and his family play a large role in our justice system. Sidius himself was in charge of maintaining and running our delinquent and servitude program which provided parole and work for those who have been irrational enough to break the law. He was a lot more light-hearted than Darmon.
I noticed there was much anticipation from those in the room. They were waiting for me to speak. So I took the opportunity to say a few words for inspiration and encouragement.
"The goddess has been reborn into flesh. The hero's spirit lives among her in the sky. We are all aware of this hope. Our king is so close to returning to us. I long for the day that I am no longer the center of this feast, but sitting at his right and letting him take back the surface world for ourselves! Victory is on the horizon, so feast! We have much to prepare for." I took my chalice and raised it for a toast and the hall followed suit. I looked over to Darmon who was rolling his eyes as he began to pile his plate with food.
"It worked, did it not?" I grumbled at him.
"I supposed it did." He sighed.
"If my opinion is of any value, I believed it was good, but could use some work." Sidius bumped me with his arm and began to gather food onto his plate.
"My lord, very incredible words." A council member spoke to me. "We have known of the goddess's rebirth, but we are very interested to hear how you have been preparing for her descent below the clouds?"
"Well, that is an excellent question." I grinned while trying to preparing a mental list of anything I could claim as a victory. "My troops and I have been laying siege on Faron and attempting to conquer the entire land so when the goddess descends she will have no allies and nowhere to hide."
"That's wonderful and all, but that has been the plan for the last several years. That is what you went out to Faron initially to do." Darmon added with a large amount of distaste in his voice. I turned my head to glare at him. Sidius quickly added in to try and calm the flames between us.
"Now now, my lord, I know you've been working hard on many different plans while in Faron. You tell me about them almost every day. I'm sure you're keeping yourself busy out there."
"That is right, there is honestly so much to tell." I agreed in an emphasizing tone. "In fact, there has been so much, I wouldn't even know where to start."
"Well, at least tell us something!" Darmon added, he was really trying to dig me into a hole in front of the council. One of the other council members shook her head in agreement. "Talk our ears off! You're our lord! We set up a whole dinner for you to discuss your progress with us!"
"My lord, at least tell us your favorite accomplishment over the last year." She kindly addressed me. I took a deep breath. Eyes were awaiting my response. I swore on my soul that I would be speaking with Darmon before the night comes to its end. I was breathing heavy and trying to find a way to buy myself more time.
"Of course I have a favorite." I teased back to the councilwoman who blushed at my response. "However, I would prefer to discuss it after I have a little more to eat and a lot more to drink." I chuckled. The other members laughed along. The only one who didn't was Darmon sitting sternly next to me.
"Take some time, besides I have news to share," Sidius whispered close to me. Everyone began to resume their small chats and eating. I took bites throughout the conversation. "We have a new group of servants that entered just this past week. They were all very understanding and trained very well. I was confident enough to let them serve here tonight. If you see some unfamiliar faces I encourage you to introduce yourself because many were quite nervous about being here tonight."
"You're saying this to the man who barely acted impressed to see Madam Pontour and her siblings being toured around the center today." Interrupted Darmon who I wasn't expecting to be eavesdropping so easily.
"That is a bit disappointing to hear, but he hasn't been back for a whole year. He has his plate full." Sidius defended. Darmon quickly finished arguing. "Speaking of finishing plates-" he turned to snap his fingers at one of the servants behind us. A young male who looked as though he was going to combust from all the stress pouring off of him, stepped up shakily.
"My-m-my lord, may I take your plate?" He quivered.
"Son, please stop acting like our lord is going to strike you down, he is an honorable man! Introduce yourself!" Sidius encouraged. This boy was terrified of me.
"I-I am Grondol. I am from the north of the city."
"It is an honor to meet you Grondol, while my face pops in and out of the center, I will continue to be your ever serving lord as you are an ever serving citizen. " I eased. He began to calm down and smiled at me. "You may take my plate, just promise you won't be dropping it from the shakes you displayed before." I joked. I could tell that it bothered him a bit, but he took my plate and scuffled away. He would just have to learn to grow some tougher skin in the future. I leaned over to whisper more with Sidius.
"He is eighty-eight, he attempted to use his magic to spy on the girl he loved. Of course, it was still an invasion of her privacy, he ended up seeing her sleeping with her boss from the local tailor shop. He was caught when he tried to kill himself. We stripped him of his powers and he is under constant watch."
"He is so young, shows that maturity truly comes with age." I raised my cup and clinked it to Sidius. I drank the contents quickly. Sidius drank his and then waved for another servant. Another demon came up and held her pitcher of wine.
"My lord would you like me to refill your chalice?" She bowed and then waited for my response.
"How polite? Of course, and if you could, don't let it get empty for me, I will need a lot to get through tonight." She smiled a wide grin, it reminded me of how Catto smiled. She had a very fair rose-gold skin and was very petite for a demon.
"My lord, I will use this pitcher only for you during the rest of the night." She hummed as she leaned over and poured a tall glassful. "Would you like any Sir Sidius?"
"No, Saharin, that should be all for now." He declined and she disappeared into one of the back rooms for the servants. "She's the youngest of the delinquents we have here other than the children. A mere thirty-eight. She tried escaping over the wall about a year ago. It's a shame, she had much potential." He reached over and took my chalice just to pour some of its contents into his own. Before I could object, another voice was addressing me.
"Now that the night has progressed further, we would love to hear what you have come up with to share with us!" The council member from before interjected.
"Well-"
"And once again you waste all the time you bought for yourself," Darmon spoke under his breath just loud enough for me to hear. It enraged me, I wasn't going to let him treat me this way.
"Actually, I created a water battalion and attacked the water dragon in her lake," I admitted proudly. I was hoping I could leave it at that but a part of me knew that was not going to be the end of it.
"That is incredible! Having the lake conquered is a significant asset! Did you imprison or kill the dragon once you defeated her?" Another member asked. I reluctantly shook my head.
"Unfortunately she got her daughters involved-" I began but I was interrupted again.
"So you did not conquer the lake Floria?" They asked for clarification.
"No, you see we had the upper hand-"
"Did the bokoblins fail you in the battle?" Another voice spoke up.
"Well, yes but no more than usual."
"So what happened? What else have you been doing?"
"I had an interruption!" I blurted loudly. There were too many people speaking over me. I was beginning to panic. "And I would appreciate it if you all would quit speaking over your lord as if I am just another council member! Especially since I was the one to found the council in the first place." I barked at all of them. A hush fell over the rest of the hall. Now I had hundreds of eyes upon me. "I had an interruption in the battle. I struck a temporary deal with the water dragon in return."
"My lord, is she willing to keep her part of the bargain?"
"I am doubtful, only because I did not keep mine."
"What was the interruption?" The question I was trying to dance around finally arrived. And this conversation was going to go in only two different directions.
"A human had fallen out of the sky and into the lake," I explained. An even deeper silence rolled over everyone around me. "It was a young human and she seemed like she could be of use. So I told Faron I would retreat if she let me return the child."
"My lord, you let the power of the entire lake go for a pesky human? What could you possibly-"
"Even if we have control of the region, that doesn't guarantee that the hero wouldn't find a way to protect the goddess regardless. And the girl isn't like the rest of the goddess' people."
"How so? How can you trust her?"
"Because she couldn't even speak Hylian!" More confused and perplexed faces stared blankly.
"Then what does she speak? Ancient sheikah?"
"No, she came from a different world. She doesn't speak any native tongues." I clarified.
"That's a bit far-fetched of an idea" Darmon doubted aloud.
"Yes, but it is true. She could be so delusion that she believes she is. But she does have some strong physical differences from any humans in the sky. Her ears are small and rounded. She's very mysterious in many ways but she has no knowledge of anything the humans in the sky know. I want her to trust us demons more than her own kind." I revealed. I had a few head nods but many more looks of uncertainty. This was unlike anything we had ever done. I understood why they might be uneasy. "I encourage all of you to have faith in me as you always do. She is young and has a malleable mind. When the time comes, she could enter Skyloft and prevent parts of the Goddess's prophecy from fulfilling!"
"Are you certain you can train her in such a way?" Sidius questioned.
"As certain as certain can be." I grinned. I knew I had them on my side. They were reluctant and skeptical but still on my side.
I took another large drink from my cup and drained all of its contents. Before I knew it, a pitcher was over my should refilling it.
"You know, I like her, Sidius." I teased so she could hear me. She tried to suppress a smile. "I would like her to be relocated," I demanded and Sidius was well aware of where I was going with this. "I'd like her to be my own personal servant. I hate having so many people come into my room for one task. I need one person who will be obedient and work hard to answer my many requests."
"Well, my lord, I completely understand. However, it would have to be up to Saharin herself on what she would like to do." Sidius hummed by her ear. She was getting a bit flustered, nervous even. I enjoyed seeing her so interesting in the offer I was proposing.
"Well, Saharin? You would have to be comfortable completing all my requests and be at my call at any time." I lowered my voice, but her face changed from nervous to a very challenging side glance.
"My lord, there is no request I would not fulfill for you." She answered.
After the dinner finished, and back in my chambers, I pressed Saharin's body against the wall as I sunk into her. Her lips were dancing with mine. I was slowly feeling my hands up and down her body while untying and unbuttoning her servant's uniform.
Her body was so petite and so gentle compared to mine. I was towering over her. Soon enough all of her clothes were scattered about my suite from me tossing them away from us. My hand found her upper thigh and I raised it to my hip while supporting her. I used my other arm to lift her other thigh and she wrapped her arms around my neck. I carried her over to the bed where I threw her and began to undo my suit. I pounced onto her and began to gently bite and kiss her neck while slowly progressing our intimacy.
Once we had finished our little liaison. I grabbed a towel from one of the dressers and wrapped it around my waist. There was a loud knock at the door. While I wasn't worried much, Saharin looked frightened and began to dress and clean herself up from our moment. The knocking persisted and once she was done putting her uniform on, I opened the door and she hurried out. Darmon glimpsed at her and then back to me in my towel.
"You understand the level of reputation you have and you choose to sleep your time around with a simple servant?" He barked.
"I do as I want, so what if I choose to have a bit of free time to myself? You are not one to tell me how to spend it or who it should be with." I reprimanded. "And before you start your babbling about everything else that happened tonight, I'm going to make myself clear. I am the protege of my master. I am the lord of the demons and I am ruling over them. You will not continue to betray me based on our history together, I will not deal with it much longer."
"My lord, I will not continue to see you squander yourself in front of our most important city citizens." He demanded.
"I am not squandering myself!" I objected.
"All I can say as an advisor and as a friend is that you have been failing in completing your tasks as a respectable authority and harming your relationships. You best not let it continue much further because people are counting on you to win our freedom back. Heaven forbid the hero wins and strikes down the Demon King, all would be lost for our kind." His words struck a chord in me. "If you wish to sleep with a servant, that is fine. If you wish to try this plan you have with the human girl, so be it. But you must not let yourself become slothful. You are great. You are destined to be so."
I nodded and took in his words. I had been finding myself procrastinating. I need to begin researching and working to gain the upper hand. I should no longer be embarrassed when presenting to the council. I responded to him, "I understand. Changes will be made." I dismissed Darmon and returned to my bed for the night.
In the morning, I awoke with the sunrise. I rose to get my garments on and teleported to the entrance hall where I met my escort. He was just a typical powerful demon that was more there for looks than for strength. I was still much more powerful than he could imagine. But, as perfect as I may be, if an incident arose, I would need someone to be on my side of it all.
"What would you like me to do for the day, my lord?" A humble voice spoke from behind me. Saharin stood looking purposeless and confused. I forgot that having a personal servant meant I needed to give her orders.
"Your job is to be prepared to answer my every need, so you must follow me into town for the day," I instructed. Her face lit up enthusiastically and she stood up straight with confidence.
"My lord, she is a delinquent, she would not be able to teleport with us to and back from the marketplace." My escort reminded me. I saw her face fall again as she took a step backward.
"I suppose we will have to take a nice walk to the market then." I strutted. My escort looked burdened by this. I didn't let it bother me. I just applauded myself for being so noble.
The three of us began our parade through town. Maybe citizens came up to me and asked for blessing, hugs, and attention. They adored me, understandably. Other than my master, I have been their ruler for centuries. I have been incredible to them, I felt gifted by having them fawn over me, it is always well deserved.
Our parade quickly came to an end once we made it to the large street covered with tents and vendors. There was every sort of trait and item available at our market. I had a checklist to follow. So I started to work my way down the busy street.
"You may get whatever of your choosing while we are here." I offered to Saharin. She immediately shook her head.
"My lord, being here is enough for me and to be grateful for. It's not often enough that I get a day off to come this deep into the city." She shrugged and gazed around. I saw the first tailor shop approach us on the left. I took some steps over and the owner bowed her head in response.
"My lord, what brings you to our boutique today?" She asked politely. I saw her glimpse over at Saharin. "We are an all-female clothing boutique, but we could always make exceptions for our most-high." I laughed and shook my head slowly.
"I am in fact looking for female clothing. I honestly need the best quality that you have." I explained. The owner looked at me with confusion but once again looked over to Saharin who was feeling the fabric samples over the booth. The shopkeeper opened up a booklet of patterns and designs drawn inside. I flipped through and created a list of which I wanted.
"Do you know the measurement of the clothes, or would you like me to take them for you here?" The woman asked while picking up a pencil and notebook.
"I- uh, actually don't know the measurements. I will have to guess." I explained. I had a quick and easy idea. "Actually, take her measurement but create it for someone a little smaller about five inches shorter in height and shrink the measurement to match in bulk." The seamstress laughed.
"Smaller? My lord, she's already practically a midget, are you sure you want the clothes smaller?" She asked a bit confused.
"I know what I'm asking for. Now, I'm paying and ordering you to have it done, so it better be up to my standards before I depart tomorrow." I barked. She bowed her head and quickly began to tally up the total. Once she said it, I snapped my figured and a handful of silver rupees were in my grasp. "You may keep the extra change. May it be an encouragement to meet my deadline; which is tomorrow morning."
"Yes, my lord!" She agreed and then quickly shuffled Saharin into a back area that was blocked by a curtain. A few moments later Saharin hurried back out looking giddy and ready to move on.
Our next errand wasn't going to be on the streets with the rest of the vendors. I ended up taking the lead past my escort to walk into a back alleyway with an open door frame leading into an old brick building. I entered slowly with the rest of my entourage. It was dusty and smelled of aging beer. I turned a corner and saw a figure with a face shield on and a large leather apron. Once he spotted me he dropped his tools and bowed respectfully.
"My lord, I t'was not expecting yee." The character spoke with a peculiar accent. "I hope the bed I made yee a century ago is still holding up strong!" He laughed excitedly.
"Why it sure is, I'm actually here for another one." I inquired. His face brightened up.
"Yee want another?" I think his lust for money kept him from asking any more questions than that. But I nodded and dropped a sack a rupees on his floor
"Yes, one more, however just a standard queen. Nothing too special, just make it a sight for sore eyes. I would also like a matching desk, dresser, some nightstands, and whatever bedroom set designs you have." He quickly searched the sack of all its contents and then began to mutter to himself while working. I yawned and spun around to leave him be. He worked best undistracted. The other two quickly shuffled behind me and awaited further instructions.
"Saharin, tell me," I demanded and she perked up ready for an answer. "When you were young, actually you still are so even better, what else would you like to be comfortable a new place?" I glanced around while we walked back out to the Main Street of the marketplace.
"Well, my lord, if I was in a completely new place, I would enjoy finding a hobby or task to keep me busy." She answered. It was a good answer. I immediately turned to march to the booth I trusted would provide those objects.
It was pestering to have every person in the street bump into me or interrupt my train of thought. I quickly remembered why I had a required escort. I turned to him and he began to usher the masses away from me and I went to a small booth. The boy running the booth quickly ran to his mother for assistance. She walked over and nearly fainted at the sight of me. Her son held her up and continue to push her toward the table.
"My lord, what brings you here on this fine day?" She panted while looking around frantically.
"I want the finest craft supplies you have," I demanded. The woman shakily turned to go to the back of her booth and pull out some jars of paint, a bundle of pencils, and a stack of parchment.
"My lord, this is as exquisite as we have." She handed them to me and in return, I paid her well over her due. Money was not something I used often, I keep the taxes low on the city and receive a small portion, however letting it sit and build over the last hundreds of years and minimal spending has given me quite a fortune. It is unsurprising, of course. I am their lord. It would look deplorable if I was tight on cash.
I spent the rest of the day wandering the marketplace and spending money left and right. I bought food, books, shoes, and jewelry. I was going to make Catto as comfortable as possible, there will be no reason for her to no trust and obey me if I continue to treat her this way. I also bought Saharin a few items to thank her for her company and assistance. I did not get anything for my escort.
Back at the city center, I was ready for some time back in my chambers. I turned to Saharin and smiled. I was ready to meet her in my room but I remembered her lack of magic. So we took the long way together, walking up the stairs.
At the top, I unlocked my bedroom door and ushered her in. She giggled quietly to herself.
"Is there anything you'd like me to help you with, my lord?" She grinned and I smirked back.
"I've had a terribly long day, I may need someone to help me relax and give me a reason to destress." I hummed and then sat on my bed to unbutton the shirt I was wearing.
"Well, of course! Whatever you order, it is my duty to serve." She walked over and straddled my legs with hers. "I am more than happy to help you with any task." She moved my hands and began to unbutton my shirt slowly for me. I lifted put my arms on her body and watched them feel her waist and her breasts. I typically only would "befriend" a woman to have sex with me once and then she could tell the story for the rest of her life. Saharin would be one of the few I have decided to follow-up with.
Her lips dove onto mine and she pulled off my shirt completely. I quickly got her message and realized she was ready to escalate the situation. I took my hands and tore off her dress at the seams to get inside. She arched her back and reach down to begin taking off my pants but before we could continue a loud knocking interrupted us.
I was quite distraught by the event. I grumbled and threw Saharan into the bed by herself. I had a strong feeling I knew who was at the door. With my pants still on but unmistakably unbuttoned, I stoop up and swung the door wide open. Saharan yelped and scurried under the sheets to cover herself. Darmon stared back at me and looked disgusted by the scene.
"Very mature," he cooed sarcastically. "Is this what you've been up to all day?" I wanted to correct him on what I was truly doing, but he always kept tabs on me; I knew he already knew what my day consisted of.
"You are going to have certain hours where you can visit me." I leaned against the doorframe and frowned.
"And then nothing else would be on time." Darmon rolled his eyes. "I just came to check-in."
"Well you did, bye-bye." I began to close the door again. He stopped it with his foot in return to keep me there.
"You bought new furniture and female clothing."
"Is that a question or a statement?" I retorted. He narrowed his eyes.
"It was a statement. I'm hoping that it isn't all for the little kid."
"She's not a little kid, she is fourteen." I corrected but he laughed mockingly.
"And how long has it been since you were fourteen?" He questioned. I saw his point. "I understand you are trying to make her comfortable but you don't need to treat her like a queen. She is still human after all."
"She is human, however, I prefer her not sleeping in my bed every night and she had been wearing rags, so it's beginning to smell," I complained.
"So buy her a few more rags and let her sleep on the floor. She should be grateful for at least that. Give her the same resources you give to your troops. Or is she manipulating you into pitying her already?"
"She isn't manipulating me. However, if she will be staying with me then I must maintain structure, order, and appearances for both of our sakes and sanity. If I wanted a mutt to lick my floors clean, I would have gotten one."
"I'm just looking out for you. You seem to already be forming a bond with her. I was concerned." He eased up and frowned.
"Well, you've done enough. Let me make decisions for myself. I have my duties and you have yours. Do not continue to cross over lines." I ordered. He nodded and stepped away.
"Before you leave tomorrow, I would like to have breakfast with you a Sidius. For old times sake?"
"That seems reasonable. I will just need time because I must bring all of the items I've bought today up to the threshold and then teleport each piece to Faron. It will take a few hours I predict."
"Completely workable. Wear something comfortable."
"Certainly." I agreed and he dismissed himself and I shut the door. I turned to Saharin who was holding the sheets over herself nervously.
"Perhaps he will relax after the king is returned." She smiled gently. She was trying to make me less irritated, but it made me more stressed. When the king is returned? It was my destiny to do so and I only had a matter of a few years left. I am the only hope for my people. Not only do I have to succeed in aiding his return, but what would afterward be like?
I sat on the bed and dropped my head into my hands to think. Saharin sat up and crawled over the bed and rubbed my shoulders. I held my hand up for her to stop and she did.
"My apologies, my lord." She apologized but her voice was unapologetic. She used a hushed tone and emphasized my title. Her voice sang it. I turned back to her and she had her face close to mine. There was something about her that made her addicting. Like a drug. Yet, drugs always lead to problems in the future, I didn't see how she could cause me any more trouble than I already have. I leaned in, met my lips to her, and hand my way with her for a second time.
I knew I didn't have much time today for this morning's breakfast. I needed to begin my work by getting all of my items back to the house before it goes too late in the day. This blasted breakfast was going to most likely delay me more than I would care to admit. I put on some casual clothes that kept the dry sandy air of the desert from irritating my skin. I had no clue what these plans were going to entail.
I walked leisurely to the main hall where Darmon and Sidius were waiting. Sidius looked tired and disturbed and Darmon looked uncomfortable that he even suggested this. Nevertheless, once I arrived they both bowed and we walked out the main door together. The streets were busy and many individuals stopped us to inquire and greet. Darmon was leading the way and was impatiently charging his way through the crowds. Sidius and I caught up and we followed close behind him quietly.
Sidius and I were pleasantly surprised when we saw Darmon lead us to the small back ally that took us to our favorite small restaurant in the city. It was owned by some of Sidius' distant relatives and kept under the radar for only the most elite of customers. Once inside we were given a table in the middle of the room. We were the first customers of the day since it was so early.
"My lord, we welcome you to our service once again. It has been a while." The waitress walks up and greets with a bow. "Sir Mundray and Sir Argorith, it is a pleasure to see you again."
"Please, I prefer Sidius." Sidius corrected. His last name is tied to many different well-known individuals and traits. He always preferred his given name to stand out more.
"Well, Sir Sidius, you are welcome to anything on the menu, as always we will provide fresh meed to the epic trio." She held out her tray and three large mugs filled with mead appeared for her to hand out. Sidius quickly began to down his but Darmon and I started to glance over our menu. I had many favorites but my eyes kept catching one dish in particular.
"Any decisions? Any usuals?" The waitress grinned hospitably.
"I would say the usual for Sidius since he is too busy drowning himself to order." Darmon snickered. I looked over at Sidius who had just finished his last sip of meed. I let out a soft chuckle and looked back to Darmon who was stilled amused. "And I will just take the pan-seared buck." Everyone looked towards me, I cleared my throat for the answer.
"Could I take the fresh fried eggs with rye?" I asked. Sidius and Darmon were a bit shocked by my order but the waitress smiled and shook her head.
"It will all be here shortly." She hummed and walked away.
"Trying to slim down a bit?" Sidius teased while wiping his face from dripping mead.
"Are you counting carbs now?" Darmon added. They knew I typically ordered something larger and a bit more hearty than a couple of eggs and toast. However, I felt like I wanted to see how theirs would taste. It could be very delicious.
"I just wanted to try something different." I shrugged. Darmon locked eyes with me. It seemed like a threatening glare until he broke it with a laugh.
"You know, if the king were here, we probably wouldn't even be eating." He began to drink his mead.
"Haha! You're right Darmon. We would be sitting in the main hall for twelve hours and being force-fed war tactics and retreating patterns." Sidius stretched back to get comfortable. I realized they were both being light-hearted and I smiled to see where this was going.
"Now, Argorith, what would you say to the outer ring going to the harbor?" Sidius mimicked my master's voice to make it more amusing.
"My king, you already decided the outer ring was going to the barricade." Darmon dramatically called in response. Sidius scratched his chin and continued his impressions.
"Of course… Argorith! You're a genius! We need to place them on the barricade! Ghirahim! Go straight and conquer the barricade!" He ordered me while he stood up on his chair in a heroic stance.
"Master, the barricade weak enough to fall-" I began but Sidius raised his hand to cut me off.
"Shut up!" Sidius growled at me and I cut myself off.
"My king, the barricade is weak enough to fall on its own!" Darmon added.
"ARGORITH! YOU'RE A GENIUS!" Sidius laughed and dove on top of Darmon who used some magic to redirect him to fall on his face. A heavy laugh escaped me. Once Sidius got up and dusted himself off to join us at the table again he let out a sigh of relaxation. "While life was certainly organized and boring while he was around, we seemed much more productive. I'm excited to begin initiating some humans into the servitude program once this is all over."
"Yeah, Ghirahim, you could give the little rat have a special spot in the sewers instead of in the trenches with the rest of the humans. That way she is rewarded for her hard work assisting our people." Darmon took a final swig and finished his drink. I nodded and stared into my untouched mug.
"Yes, at least then she will keep her mouth shut and understand her place," I grumbled defeatedly.
"You see, that's what I don't understand about you, you let yourself get defeated. What you need to do is put your foot down and show her who she's dealing with. She should be scrubbing your floors and kissing your ass every day." While Darmon was laughing but I knew he was also being serious. He never wasted a breath without a lecture for me. "Just, treat her kindly, but when you must, tread lightly over her as a reminder. A small punishment here and there will only do a pet well."
Our food arrived and was set in front of us. I cut into my eggs and bread and they were awfully good. Better than the ones I had tried to make on my own. I wanted to understand how someone as extraordinary as myself could be so talentless when stepping into a kitchen. I understood I never needed to learn cooking, but surely it was easy to know when food smells and looked cooked rather than not. Catto certainly had that understanding, however, she had a long way to learn.
Once we finished, our meals, the conversations quickly died out and refused to resurface. However, they both did offer to assist me in transporting all of the new items I bought for Catto, to and from the threshold. I was carefully teleporting and placing them in front of the house in Faron and they were bringing them into the threshold for me to take away. Many items were in pieces and needed construction. At one point I looked back at the house during one of my trips and saw Catto sprinting through the house through the hallway windows. She had not even noticed me or the furniture in the front yard, how clueless? I was curious to see what she had been up to. I was also relieved to see her alive, and not injured in any way. I had little worry that she would run off, but after learning more of who she is, I realize it is unlikely she will leave unless I prompt her to.
I took the last item from Sidius and bid my friends farewell for the time being. I knew I would return soon. I reappeared on my front lawn and summoned a small troop of bokoblins to the area and instructed each of them to gather to tools and pieces necessary to create the bedroom after I gave them further instructions. But first, I wanted to see what Catto had been doing running around the house so frantically.
I was expecting her to be acting as foolish as I had just seen her. I was excited for her to notice that I was back, however, I was only greeted with an empty hallway. I peered into the kitchen, it was spotless. Dishes were clean and everything was dusted and wiped down. If I was being honest, it was cleaner than how I left it. I wasn't expecting her to be so responsible. The floors were shined and windows were crystal clear too. She had been cleaning for the last three days? I was expecting her to be rambunctious and mischievous; getting her nose into things she shouldn't.
I was startled by how silent the house was. Where had she gone? I quietly walked down the hall and then a melody sang to my ear from the other section of the manor.
My piano?
It was certainly my piano. The out-of-tune notes interrupted the elegant ode but it was promptly corrected by finding the next proper in-tune note. It was quite the passionate ad-lib; something that would take years to master. I realized quickly I was being hoodwinked by the little twat. Darmon's words echoed through my ears.
"Or is she manipulating you into pitying her already?"
I took a deep breath to calm myself before losing my temper. I walked through the library doors and stood to listen. My rage was boiling over when I saw the girl sitting at the bench and dancing her fingers over the keys. It continued for a while, she was stuck too much in her head to notice her audience. I too was beginning to become enchanted, but the spell broke when she noticed my reflection in the gloss of the instrument and her hands crashed into a multitude of uncomplimentary keys while turning around to look at me. As angry as I was, as soon as we made eye contact I felt a flood of relief fill me. The sight of her put me in almost a completely different mood, however, that was most likely due to all the manipulation she had been casting on me. Fortunately for her, it was enough to keep me from lashing out as much as I originally was going to.
"You play?" I asked, hopefully, language barriers wouldn't keep her from understanding my sarcasm. And as if she read my mind-
"That's a bit of a rhetorical question isn't it?" She answered nervously. Her voice was shaky. I did my best to hide my visual betrayal of her response. I had never taught her that word. I know every word I placed on her vocabulary sheet. And it was such a complex sentence for her to be able to know for her skill level. She certainly had been up to mischief, she had gone to the books I forbade her from. Regardless, I remain calm by looking into her eyes and keeping my emotions at bay.
"You learned 'rhetorical' from teaching yourself while I was gone, yes?" And she softly nodded. I soon realized that I was not upset by her teaching herself. I was still steaming about her newfound musical talent, which I was not going to be left unsaid. "You did not teach yourself how to do that, in three days." I gestured towards the piano and she did not even flinch to look at it again.
"I already knew."
"That is clear," I answered blankly, I needed composure. I realized I had just spent a fortune on her. I got her everything to make her feel comfortable so she would be open with me, but she had already taken advantage of me and walked over my kindness. Then again, I wasn't going to make her start sleeping in the woods, and I was certainly not sleeping in the library any longer. "Let me show you your bedroom." I beckoned her. Her eyes glowed and she marched at attention until we reached my lair. Inside I noticed all of my things. I had storage to keep it all at, so all I needed was to relocate it so there was room for her furniture set.
Once I had everything cleaned away I escorted to two of us back to the main door where I would bring in the bokoblins. The train of items began to track into the building and we stood to the side in the hall to watch. I peered down at her, she was mesmerized. I don't think she was quite aware of what had been going on, however, once the mattress came through I think the picture was clear.
"Is that all for me?" She gasped while continuing to stare. She was grateful, and if I had known that the look on her face was going to feel as rewarding as it did, I would have gotten her these things much sooner.
I was getting ahead of myself. I was still supposed to be angry with her mutiny. I needed to remain neutral for the time being.
"Yes, I got this all from the city," I answered but I realized I let out a small chuckle. I cleared my throat and tried to combat it with a negative addition, "I want to sleep in my own bed again."
Catto immediately looked as though her whole world had been torn apart right before her. I took a step back in astonishment. She had just been so delighted a moment ago! Her mind struggled to find the words to express her emotions.
"I cleaned the house to be nice." She growled while rubbing her face. Perhaps I misread her previous reaction. Because she was now acting like a spoiled brat.
"Well, that's quite inconsiderate!" I barked. She quickly stared back at me disturbed but confused. Of course, she knew what 'rhetorical' was but she didn't understand 'inconsiderate'. "You don't care about what I'm doing for you. You think I'm just making a mess." I defined but her face quickly shifted to horror as she tried to take back her words. A miscommunication on her part.
"No-no-no that's not what I meant!" I could see her beginning to worry but her head quickly snapped over to see the fine chest with all of her clothes inside. She ran up to the bokoblins carrying it and interrupted them. Once she peaked through, she froze. She appeared broken, I did not understand what she was doing until she turned back and sprinted over towards me. I wasn't aware of what she was trying to do but then she wrapped her arms around my waist and held me close.
I was entirely uncomfortable.
I realized I could easily fornicate with a stranger but not be hugged by a teenager. It was only a few moments but the feeling began to seer itself under my skin.
"I'm not upset, I just don't know what else I can do to repay you." She quivered. I aggressively pushed her off of me and she fell onto the floor. I initially felt bad after hearing her hiss in discomfort, but I realized I could still feel her embrace even after she let go.
"How about you start by never doing that again?" I demanded. She seemed caught entirely off guard. She ended up not responding and calmly getting up to walk into her new bedroom. I took a small pitstop into my own room. It was certainly cleaner than it has been in decades. I tried keeping things tidy on my own, however, I rarely dedicated the time or the soldiers to have it done for me. She had made my bed. I realized she truly did go out of her way to make sure everything was perfect for my arrival home. But why? She had no idea I was bringing her all of those items back.
I went over to my dresser and opened my drawer to the whistle she gifted me and inspected it. While I don't doubt she knew how to be creative with garbage similar to this in her past. Properly carving a stick to play several different notes and understanding the musical components of an instrument like this takes a vast understanding of the subject. She was taught this, and my hunch was that was by the same source of her piano lessons. I became curious and walked over to the other side of my bed.
I sat down on the side that she typically slept on and was uneasily greeted by a hard lump under the covers. I pulled back the bed and realized she had left her journal. I curiously flipped through to see if she was writing in it. She was. However, when I attempted to read through some of her thoughts, I realized it was still all in her native language and that I could not understand it. I slammed the book shut and walked over to return it to her.
The room was finished in no time. While it was a rather strange setup, the matching furniture gave it a pleasant design. She was frozen, again, staring at her bed. She then took a step towards it, then another, and then sat down on the edge. She was stuck in a daze, so I chimed in.
"I'm happy that you are grateful." She looked up at me and grinned softly. "You left this in my room."
"Thank you, so much. I've never had this much in my life." She anxiously spurted. I realized that this was my time to assert myself.
"Yes, I've noticed, which makes me incredulous," I responded. I purposely used a difficult word to confuse her, but before she could inquire about it, I continued speaking. "For an orphan girl who grew up with nothing, I can't help but wonder how you would know how to play the piano like that. Or had the knowledge to create something like this," I held her whistle up and then stashed it away again.
"It is strange. I just... have a talent." She bullshitted. A talent? She was truly trying to lie her way out of this too wasn't she? Very well… I let my face fall and I approached her and kneeled on the floor, putting my face inches from her. I spoke to her with a harsh, low tone.
"I want to be clear. Now that language is no longer becoming an obstacle, I will find out everything about you and there is not much you can do to stop me. So if you have secrets you want to keep undisclosed, I would start forming your lies now. And make them more convincing because I won't be having you believe you are invulnerable in my own home."
She swallowed heavily and then leaned away from my face. She wasn't frightened, she was intimidated, which was exactly what I was intending. I stood up tall and turned away from her. I figured we were done speaking with each other, she probably did not have many words to respond to what I had just said. So when her voice echoed, "Did you want anything for dinner?," before I shut the door, I realized I was then the one at a loss for words. I shook my head and then shut the door behind me.
I stood in the hallway for a moment. She genuinely just offered to cook for me after that? Did she think I was bluffing? Was she not intimidated as I had thought? What sort of response was that? I teleported to my bedroom and then sat down on my edge of the bed. I reached into my pocket jacket pockets and pulled out the few jars of paints from the market. I had the brushes in another pocket. I already put the pencils and parchment in her desk earlier, since I can always get her more, but the extra paints as a gift were staying with me until I felt it necessary to reward her. So I stored them in a drawer in my dresser where she would not see them.
I spent the rest of the evening organizing all of the items I had kept in my lair to fit in my bedroom. It was cluttered and chaotic. However, it would work for the time being. As long as she has her own space and didn't run away, I was content with dealing with some untidiness.
Wow, I feel really accomplished by finally getting this chapter out here. I've mentioned this before, but I like to try and write ahead of schedule and keep a good time budget for when chapters need to be finished and edited. Typically I spend the week prior to editing and fixing the chapters I am preparing to post and working slowly on writing newer ones. This was a long and complex chapter. To put it in perspective, I try to keep my chapters on the shorter side of 2,000 (on a rough day)- 4,000 (on a good day) words. Which ends up being about 3-6 pages long single-spaced.
This chapter was 10,300 words and 16 pages single-spaced.
In other words, when I was trying to finish finals, deal with my family matters AND finish writing+editing this chapter at the normal pace of my other chapters, it took soooo much longer. Nevertheless, I hope it was enjoyed. I really liked writing this.
ALSO THANK YOU ALL SOOo MUCH FOR THE GROWING SUPPORT! IT REALLY ENCOURAGES ME TO KEEP GOING AND I CAN'T EXPLAIN HOW GRATEFUL I AM!
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