ã€ŠSMITTENã€‹


 Chapter 1 - The End Of The World

    "Oh my, gosh. Is this Doom''s Day?" Aisha drawled as she lowered down her black cat-eye sunglasses.

    Her long and thick eyelashes fluttered rapidly as she stared at the Herculean wave that was approaching her location.

    She was currently lounging around at a luxurious beach far from her hometown. It was their semester break, and she and her friends decided to hop on a remote island as a weekend getaway just for fun.

    Aisha rubbed her eyes, wondering if she was just imagining things. The waves were miles away from her, but Aisha noticed it at once while she was having her almost naked body tanned under the sun.

    She quickly jumped up, seeing that the ocean waves were very different from the ones she had seen before. Her heart thumped wildly in her chest.

    Island hopping was one of her hobbies.. She was not a novice in the ocean world. Riding the waves was just an easy feat for her.

    At first, she was thrilled to see such a huge ripple. She would have a fun surfing experience.

    But her wide smile turned downward when she saw them increasing in size until they completely covered the brilliant blue sky.

    "A tsunami''s coming!" One of the tourists on the island screamed with all his might as he ran back to the main coast. He was in the waters when he saw the approaching doom.

    As the other guests heard his warning, all eyes fled on the horizon and saw the horrifying truth.

    "Ahh!" The people fled in panic at lightning speed, not wanting to be engulfed under the ocean''s fury.

    Aisha''s stomach churned as her eyes witnessed the seismic sea wave slowly creeping in on them.

    Her fingers went icy cold as she blurted out. "No, no, no. These are only for movies. Wake up, Aisha! You''re just having a nightmare!"

    They had a movie marathon last night. And the last movie that they watched was Geostorm.

    It was a movie about a failed system that was supposed to protect the earth from natural disasters. But instead, it attacked the planet, wanting to wipe everything in it.

    Her feet scuffled in the sand as she wished that she was just continuing the movie in her dreams. In frustration, she pulled her hair and pinched her skin.

    To her dismay, her scalp burned in pain and her skin blanched to beetle red.

    "Jake!" Aisha shrieked out her boyfriend''s name with all her might. Her eyes darted everywhere.

    "Oh, my gosh. This is real!" She blurted out as she witnessed all the people were in a hysterical mode as they ran for safety.

    Keeping herself from being affected by the mass hysteria, her head tilted to her left and right. Jake and her friends must be somewhere.

    They must know about the impending tragedy. All of them must get out of there alive.

    With her dizzy head, she caught a glimpse at the giant sea wave. It wasn''t that close yet.

    She could still find them. They could still escape from the island.

    "Melissa! Nadine! Norman!" She continued to shout out as she ran like a bat out of hell.

    Even with the chaos, she wanted her friends to be safe.

    Without thinking about her own safety, she went inside the hotel, thinking that they were in the room.

    Perhaps they weren''t aware of what''s going on outside. Breathlessly, she quickly opened the door.

    As she did so, her jaw dropped in complete shock. What she was seeing was far more appalling than the approaching sea swell.

    Melissa, her best friend ever since she entered the campus, was completely undressed as she romped on her boyfriend, Jake, in their bed.

    Aisha felt her body tremble as she eyeballed them and engaged in an act that she and Jake haven''t even tried yet.

    "Was I too boring for him?" She thought as she gave them a butcher''s eye.

    Melissa was slithering around Jake like a snake who was about to eat him whole. Jake seemed to be enjoying it.

    His face radiated with exhilaration, while his shiny black hair bounced with every rhythm of their bodies.

    Her hand flew to clutch her chest. She didn''t know if it was the brewing disaster outside or the hurricane-like mess inside the room that was sucking the oxygen out of her.

    Her skin felt cold and clammy, making her feel that she would faint any time.

    Still, the two were so engrossed in their indecent action that they were oblivious that Aisha was already there, watching them betray her.

    The rage within her slowly swelled up, larger than the gigantic waves outside the building. She felt her blood pressure freezing her neck and jaw.

    This was the last scene that she would want to see before she dies!

    "Screw you both!" Aisha grabbed on the nearest throw pillow that she could find and threw it at them. Melissa and Jake both bolted up.

    Melissa immediately covered herself in a white blanket, speechless.

    "I-I can explain," Jake stuttered as he threw on his shorts to cover half of his nakedness at a breakneck speed.

    He was about to go to Aisha, but she was already storming outside the room.

    The hotel guests outside were already running around amok. Some of them were looking around for their lost loved ones.

    The evil ones took the opportunity to steal from others'' properties. Those include her so-called friend Norman and Nadine, who was already running out of the hotel with Aisha''s bag with them.

    Nadine saw her and told Norman. But it seemed like Norman told her to pretend not to see her, as Nadine suddenly looked away.

    They both ignored her as they cramped up with the people going to the elevator.

    Aisha couldn''t believe her eyes. "Seriously?" She muttered in disbelief, in the midst of the screams of the terrified people around her.

    Just a few minutes ago, her boyfriend and best friend were having fun playing Judas. And now this?

    She has an inkling that they were just exploiting her money for their whims. But it''s okay with her. She was having fun anyway.

    But she didn''t expect them to be this greedy. And in the midst of the mayhem, that is.

    They were supposed to be looking for her. Or Jake and Melissa. But they were too selfish to care at all.

    Indeed, it is true that people''s true color only showed up in times of pressure.

    "I wish the tsunami will catch up to you all!" She shrieked in extreme annoyance as she turned her back and tried to escape on her own.

    Because of her rapid-fire moves, she was already on the first floor in no time.

    However, water was now already coming inside the building.

    With tears streaming down her eyes, she quickly dialed the number of her parents as her eyes darted around wondering where else she could go.

    Even though they always neglect her, she was worried about them. They were miles away from where she was. But this disaster might still affect them.

    Her hands were already shaking as she thought that she would die anytime soon. But she kept on trying as she tried to get out of the building.

    To her sorrow, they weren''t answering. Like they usually do.

    She then dialed her stepsister, Julia. But she, too, wasn''t answering.

    Instead, to her horror, she saw on the internet that the whole world was already in turmoil.

    It was not only on their island that the tsunami broke out. But also in other parts of the world.

    Some countries were already buried underwater, including her own.

    Her shuddering knees finally gave way, making her slumped on the swamp of water.

    "Is this really the end of the world?" She blurted softly, accepting defeat.

    At that moment, all her memories came flashing through her mind.

    She saw herself just having fun with life, enjoying what it could offer. But deep inside, she knew that she was very lonely.

    Aisha let out a long sigh as she looked at her phone again, hoping that someone from her family would answer.

    Their voices were the last thing she wanted to hear before her life''s journey ends.

    She already felt alone all her life. She didn''t want to die alone.

    As she did so, she noticed that there seemed to be something at her back that was casting a dark shadow on her screen.

    She turned her back to catch a glimpse of what it was.

    Her eyes went wide open as she saw the enormous wave on top of her.

    She drew in a deep breath and closed her eyes as she accepted her fate.

    "I wished I could live in another world where I would feel loved," she wished with all her heart before the rippling waves finally crashed on her.

    *********************************************

    Lonely is not being alone. It''s the feeling that nobody cares.

    Grab a friend and don''t let her feel lonely today. ;)

 Chapter 2 - In The Beginning

    A piece of soft mythical music played in Aisha''s ears, waking her from her deep slumber.

    Her nose could smell a waft of wooden and floral scent, making her feel that she was in some kind of mysterious garden.

    "Where am I?" Her eyebrows furrowed as she was not expecting to experience such senses after her last memories.

    The last thing that she could remember was being engulfed in the enormous waves. The angry waters, suffocating the life out of her.

    Thinking that the whole world was being eaten alive by the monstrous waters, she allowed it to toss her to wherever it wanted to.

    She was feeling lightheaded with the oceanic pressure, and darkness was starting to envelop her.

    But someone suddenly appeared out of nowhere. The man seemed to be swimming to where he was..

    His moves were void of fear from the surrounding wrath of the ocean world.

    Aisha''s eyebrows knitted, wondering how another human being could breathe or even swim in that part of the ocean which seemed to be possessed by an evil spirit.

    "I.. must¡­ be.... Imagining¡­ things¡­" With the consciousness that she had left, she lifted her slender arm to him as if she was asking him to save her.

    Even in the midst of the chaotic scenario and her depressive life, she realized that somehow, deep in her heart, she has the desire to live.

    She expected the saving figure to eventually vanish from her sight. She knew that he was just a figment of her imagination.

    Her eyes fluttered open and close as the roaring waves seemed to hum death''s lullaby. Just then, she lost her consciousness.

    And now here she was.

    With her head aching, she tried to put both her arms on the ground, attempting to stand up, so she could take a look around her.

    As she did so, she saw her beautifully formed apexes dangling from her chest.

    Astonished at herself being half-naked, she quickly turned to her behind. It was also exposed! She was completely naked!

    What was worse was she was not alone in that place, whatever it is.

    It seemed like she was in an enchanted forest. And the forest itself was producing the music that she was hearing. Its leaves dance to an unheard beat, whispering their songs to the wind.

    Around her, sheltered by the mighty trees, seemed to be every kind of life, from the humble beetle to enchanting birds of every color. She held her hands up to feel the cascading light.

    However, as she did so, she noticed that some weird creatures were encircled around her, ogling with curiosity! She didn''t know who they were!

    They looked like humans. But they also appeared like they were not.

    However, one thing is for sure. She felt terrified!

    She didn''t bother to poke around the details of their eccentricity.

    She quickly wrapped her extremities around her legs, covering her nakedness, like a tortoise hiding under its shell.

    "Oh my gosh! What am I doing here? Don''t eat me, please! I''m not yummy!" Aisha pleaded while crying.

    She must be dead. And God must have sent her to the pits of hell with all the things that she has done while she was still alive. These creatures must be sent to torment her.

    They would probably tear her apart and make a feast out of her. Or throw her into the fiery furnace somewhere near here.

    "She''s funny," Aisha heard one of them laugh.

    It didn''t have a devilish sound like what she expected. It was melodious and pleasing to the ears, somehow like the voice of an angel.

    Aisha stopped sobbing as she pouted. "Wait, am I in heaven then?" She wanted to take a peek at them.

    Just then, one of them tried to touch her with his rough finger.

    It felt like her skin was being abraded by sandpaper as his finger trailed through her arms that were covering her head.

    Aisha''s heart almost bulged out of her chest.

    She quickly hid back in her shell, making the angelic voice angry. "Don''t touch her! She''s reserved for the King!"

    "Reserved for the King?" Aisha repeated to herself what she had just heard. "What does it mean?"

    She felt like her lungs were about to burst inside her rib cage.

    She was really confused now. Was he the King of hell or the King of heavens? What will he do with her?

    She tried to peep at the peculiar beasts who were having a conversation above her. They were towering over her with their gigantic heights.

    "Who are these people?"

    As she was doing so, she heard the beings scrambling to their feet as they all knelt down and shouted in unison, "We brought to you a gift, Your Majesty."

    Aisha could almost hear her heart thumping wildly against her chest. T-the King is here? And she is a gift? She slowly turned around to see him.

    And as she did so, her knees automatically fell to the ground.

    *************************************************

    Every end is a new beginning.

 Chapter 3 - Come With Me

    There was something in the King that made her knees succumb to his authority.

    She didn''t know if it was because he has magic, which seemed to be normal in this place.

    Or because of his gallant physical appearance that would make any woman''s mouth water.

    He was the hottest man alive on the planet. With his long silver hair brushed up from his strikingly Adonis-like face and the long large rod that he was holding, he was in no doubt the King of this land.

    Though, nothing is supernatural about his physical appearance. He didn''t have pointed ears or claws.

    Everything about him looked normal, unlike the three beings surrounding her a while ago, which looked like characters in a fairy tale.

    He appears like a human except that everything was muscular and had perfect angles, which were visibly seen since he was only wearing a furry royal robe and a piece of fur cloth over his private parts..

    Like he was molded out of the most perfect cauldron of God.

    "Does he have powers too? If this was a different situation, I would totally ask him to take me captive right now," she muttered under her breath.

    However, she has no idea what they were all thinking right now. Who should she trust or not?

    And besides, this place is very, very weird.

    "Am I transported to the Jurassic Period?" she muttered to herself as her eyes darted to her surroundings.

    Everything was in upsizes, including the colorful flowers and the other plants and trees. And she has never seen them before!

    Just then, the King slowly approached her. Beads of sweat formed in her forehead. She could hear her own heartbeat as her heart thumped wildly in her chest.

    "Who knows if he was a cannibal, and I am some fresh meat? Aisha gulped, a lump in her throat.

    "What is he planning to do with me? Would he eat me raw or barbecue me first? Should I just run now? Where would I go?" She frantically thought.

    But there was something hypnotizing in him that paralyzed her feet.

    The forest seemed to come to a standstill as the naked damsel and the King of Gaea had their first encounter.

    Every living creature was hushed as they watched in awe of how they beheld each other for the first time.

    As he neared the eccentric creatures, they all lowered their heads in honor of their King.

    Aisha noticed it and quickly did the same. She made a kowtow, like she often sees in the movies.

    Perhaps he would let her go away if she showed some respect.

    "Stand up," his voice thundered as he ordered her.

    It was like that order came from the heavens, making Aisha slowly stand up.

    She felt like there was really something in him that commanded the recognition of anybody in that place. Including her.

    As she did so, she noticed that he was also a colossal being, like the other beings that were just kneeling to him right now.

    Her head could only reach his bronzed, defined chest, which she could vividly see now that he was just so near her.

    He extended his blunt masculine finger and lifted her petite chin as if he wanted to study his ''gift'' better.

    The look on his gleaming plum eyes raking over her body made her skin quiver. She then realized that she was stark naked!

    With panic rising up in her heart, she quickly covered her body with her arms, as if she could cover them all.

    "I swear I have my clothes on a while ago. Forgive me for my indecency, your Majesty," She stuttered.

    "I don''t mind at all," A corner of the King''s lips curled up in response to her. He lifted his rod to move away Aisha''s arms that were covering her nudity to both her sides, so he could get a better view.

    It seemed that he was satisfied as his ravishingly attractive face that was previously void of emotion lit up showing signs of delight and satisfaction.

    Aisha''s cheeks turned beetle red at what the King was doing. But she felt like she had no choice.

    She was at his mercy now. He might kill her or throw her inside a whale''s mouth if she wouldn''t oblige.

    And honestly, she liked the feeling that she satisfied his taste.

    To her surprise, the King removed his robe and draped it over her nudity, snuggling her in it.

    The warmth of the robe made her feel comfortable, putting a serene smile on her face.

    However, it was quickly replaced with a frown with the King''s next words.

    "Come with me," King Leandro bellowed, distracting her from her getaway plan.

    "And," he stopped at the supernatural beings who were bowed down to him. "Do not look at her naked body ever again. If you don''t want me to give you as gifts to Draco."

    "Forgive us, your Majesty!" The beings bowed lower to the ground in honor of the King''s words.

    He then turned his back to her and walked away, expecting her to follow him, stunning Aisha.

    The King was already getting far away from her, so Aisha tried to stop him.

    "Wait!" Aisha''s slender arm reached out.

    The King came to a halt and turned back to her. Aisha quickly thought of a way out of her slavery.

    "I know I''m beautiful and all. But you don''t have to do this, your Majesty. My sister here was undeniably more attractive than me," she immediately pointed to the feminine being that was kneeling with the other males.

    She was truly stunning to behold. Her green curly hair cascaded down her back. Her bountiful bosoms were covered by beautifully formed seashells.

    The female creature''s amaranth eyes widened in surprise at her statement.

    The one on her left clapped his hands in delight and nudged the lady as if he was glad that Aisha complimented her. He seemed to be a different species since he has gigantic wings at his back. But he looked equally attractive.

    The other creature on the female''s right frowned at Aisha, making him look more wicked than he already looked. But he was devilishly handsome as well.

    ''Everyone seemed to be beautiful in this place,'' Aisha couldn''t help but mutter. Then her eyes landed back on the most attractive being of all.

    However, he was not flinching. It was as if he didn''t care about what she was suggesting at all.

    Aisha was having a hard time deciphering him, so she continued to beg for her freedom.

    "Let me just go back to my own world, your Majesty. My parents must have been waiting for me," Aisha pleaded, even though she really wasn''t sure if it was true or not.

    But she must save herself!

    "You don''t have a world to go back to anymore," The King stated to her, making Aisha froze on her knees.

    He was serious when he said that, making Aisha tear up.

    "W-what does he mean by that?" Aisha''s questioning eyes tilted to the three.

    "Does he have something to do with it?"

    But the King was already near a gigantic beast that was already awaiting him.

    He turned towards where she was as if he was saying that he was getting impatient with her.

    Aisha runs as fast as she could and climbed on it. Maybe she would think about how she could escape next time.

    The wrath of the King was more important right now!

    To her amazement, the King offered his huge muscular hand to assist her up. She gladly accepted it, making her feel his warm hand on hers.

    He really feels like a human, just like her! Now, she didn''t feel so alone in this strange place.

    He then guided her to sit in front of him, making her feel his warm body near hers.

    Her heart pumped wildly in her rib cage as millions of thoughts run in her head.

    "Hold tight," he instructed her, before his brawny hand glided to her ample waist, supporting her for their take-off.

    Just that action alone sent butterflies in Aisha''s stomach, making her unconsciously lean on his sturdy chest.

    It seemed that the King didn''t mind, as he just gave the signal to the gigantic animal that they were ready to go.

    Being obedient to their King, the mammoth monster flapped its wings and flew away.

    "Have a lovely trip, your Majesty," the three that were left behind chorused together.

    **************************************************

    Face your fears and stop allowing your mind to hold you captive.

 Chapter 4 - Smitten

    "Wow, I must be in paradise!" The female human exclaimed as she peeked below.

    Her brown, round eyes gleamed in wonder as they beheld the beauty of the mythical land underneath them.

    The land boasted of a marriage of rainbow hues, congregated in the greens. Flowers that she must have never seen before bloomed in different corners, cascading a large painting in the soil.

    Everything seemed to be moving, alive and vibrant, thanking God for creating them as they are.

    The waters were crystal clear, revealing the beauty of the ocean floor. Sea creatures as large as whales and sharks could be seen from underneath, making her squeal in delight.

    King Leandro and the lady were on their way to the Castle. It was already late in the afternoon. It was safer and speedier if they would ride Draco..

    Draco was the King''s favorite of the Dracus species. Dracuses were huge serpentine creatures with flaring heads and a huge tail, which they often use when they need to travel at a quick pace.

    It was her first time to set foot in the land of Gaea. He doesn''t want to scare her away. Traveling on land was too dangerous for her.

    There were creatures that could mistake her for a meal. Other species might treat her as an enemy.

    However, it was too late when he realized that the lady was too frisky, like a child who was in a new playground.

    He wouldn''t know if he would get angry or amused.

    Getting out of balance while riding a Dracus could kill anyone.

    And she was not an immortal.

    But he finds her reaction charming as well.

    Or maybe he was just so used to Gaea that he already lost the desire to admire its beauty.

    He was more enamored with the foreign attraction in front of him.

    "Watch it. You''re still not used to riding a Dracus," King Leandro growled, making her return to her previous position in a flash of lightning.

    As she did so, her head bumped with his chest in a loud thud.

    "I''m sorry, your Majesty," she apologized as she massaged her head.

    Then she grinned at him in a sheepish smile, softening his countenance. He couldn''t help but gaze at her.

    The moment he laid his eyes on her, he knew that she would be The Chosen One.

    His heart thumped like a hammer, banging on his chest. It was a feeling that he has never felt with other creatures before.

    The Great Theos said that he would know her immediately. He would be smitten with her.

    He was just wondering why she would appear at such a time like this. He has a lot of tasks at hand!

    As much as he wanted to control it, he knew that his face couldn''t hide the fact that he was captivated with her.

    She was a little smaller in size compared to him. But she has a perfect body figure, just as he imagined.

    She has long black silky hair, but they didn''t manage to cover her beautiful curves, her porcelain complexion and her pretty face.

    He would never forget how she looked the first time he saw her. She looked so pure and innocent.

    His big powerful hand went to her petite waist, pulling her up to a more stable position, the one nearer the head of the Dracus.

    "Stay still!" he ordered her in his authoritative voice as his brawny hands reached for her shapely waist.

    It seemed that she didn''t mind as she replied, "I''m just bewitched, your Majesty," she continued to explain as her eyes continued to dwell in the majestic land design further down.

    But her head was not peeking down anymore. Perhaps she was now aware of the danger her naughty habits might bring her.

    She pulled her wavy hair to her side as she babbled on, "I''ve been to different picturesque islands. But this is the cr¨¨me of the crop. Where exactly am I? Is this a magical land? Am I dead? Am I in heaven? Or in hell? Or in between?"

    He wanted to snicker at her wild imagination. But he understood. She just came out of a life and death situation.

    He cleared his throat as he explained in his deep orotund voice, "You are not dead. You are in The Kingdom of Gaea, milady. It is a hidden realm on earth where no humans have ever entered."

    It was true. She was the first human to have stepped foot on Gaea. Or rather, the first human that the Great Theos allowed entering.

    Gaea is a magical land where humans who have no supernatural powers could not thrive. That is mainly the reason why humans aren''t allowed to enter.

    She must have contemplated that too as she asked, "Oh! But why am I here?" Her round eyes widened in surprise.

    He clamped his lips as he thought about whether he would answer that one or not. How could he tell her that she was destined to breed his offsprings?

    He decided that he would just allow Theos to talk to her. "You will know about it soon, milady."

    "I hope I won''t be a slave or anything like that. To be honest, I really want to go back," she sighed, her lips went downward.

    "Should you have died then?" King Leandro answered her, with a slightly softer tone than his usual dark and foreboding voice, distracting her from her thoughts.

    His voice had a hint of sadness in it.

    Her doll-like eyes widened in response. "Oh right, I was supposed to die." Her finger flew to her jaw-dropped mouth.

    Then her face suddenly went pale. She looked like she was reliving her traumatic experience underwater as she held on to her neck like something was choking her.

    Anxiety glinted in his eyes as he saw what was happening to her.

    In a flash of lightning, his huge hand held on both her temples, allowing his healing energy to flow through her.

    As he did so, it seemed like the constriction subsided, making her breath normally again.

    "T-thank you, your Majesty. By the way, I''m Aisha," she uttered with a smile of gratitude as soon as she regained her normal self.

    "Aisha," he repeated to himself. Such a lovely name for an equally lovely lady. A corner of his lips curved up.

    He wasn''t used to saying his name to anyone. But he didn''t know why at that moment, it just seemed natural for him to introduce himself.

    "I''m Leandro. But the creatures here call me the King," he responded, though his tone was still commanding of anyone''s submission to his authority.

    Since he was at her back, she swiveled, so she could shake his hand

    As she did so, she didn''t realize that she was so close to him.

    Since she was sitting on the neck part of the Dracus, their heads almost collided with each other. His soft plum lips almost touched hers.

    King Leandro''s heart beat as fast as the galloping horse that suddenly was loosened from its tight reign.

    Her pink lips looked so soft and irresistible. He couldn''t stop himself from craving to press his lips to them.

    He drew near to her and was about to do his uncontrollable desire when Theos called out to him, "King Leandro."

    ***************************************************************

    The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or touched.

    They must be felt with the heart.

 Chapter 5 - Welcome To The Castle

    "Forgive me, but I need to leave you for a while, milady. The Great Theos is calling for me," King Leandro informed Aisha. Regret could be visibly seen in his lavender eyes.

    A muscle on his jaw clenched as he fought his overwhelming urge to stay and know more about his new acquisition.

    King Leandro and Aisha were nearing the Castle Gates when The Great Theos called on Leandro through extra sensory perception.

    King Leandro has no choice but to submit, being the chosen King of Gaea.

    The sun was already setting, and the torches were being lighted throughout the Castle walls. Draco slowly landed, as not to frighten the female human at his back.

    "No sweat! Take your time, your Majesty!" Aisha quickly replied in a bubbly voice. But one would not be mistaken that she was nervous as she quivered..

    She didn''t even cast a glance at him as she firmly clutched on one of Draco''s horns. She didn''t want to go down!

    Her heart still hasn''t moved on from almost kissing the King just a few minutes ago! She drew in a deep breath as she felt her stomach rolling.

    "No way, Aisha! Get a hold of yourself. You know what happened with Jake! Besides, you have no idea what this King is going to do to you," She scolded herself for her forbidden desire.

    She decided to focus her attention on the Castle''s structure instead. Her lovely autumn eyes widened in horror as she beheld the King''s abode.

    Gaea was like a beautiful painting using the 160 colors in a Crayola box. But this is like just using the color gray and black.

    "I-I didn''t expect it like this," She uttered as she bit her lips. Her wary eyes roamed around her colossal prison cell.

    Everywhere she looked was walls as high as the tallest skyscrapers in the metropolis. And there were no streets going out of it and into the countryside!

    She put her small, feeble arms around Draco''s gigantic head and leaned her head on him. "Please don''t leave me here. Please take me with you," she begged him in a whisper.

    "What would I expect? The people here are giants. I looked like a snail in a large aquarium in this place," Aisha continued to mutter to herself.

    "You better get used to it," King Leandro responded to her obvious disliking in a rough voice.

    In one quick move, he put his well-built arm around her small waist, pulling her to his left, making Aisha slide to it.

    "Wait!" Aisha blurted out. But since King Leandro was stronger than her, her slender back involuntarily shifted to lean on it.

    Her hands flew in the air, unconsciously coiling themselves unto the King''s broad shoulders for support.

    King Leandro''s other hand lifted her silky smooth legs until her whole body was now limped in his muscular arms.

    With her fluttering eyelashes and mouth gaped open, she lifted her surprised face to King Leandro.

    He was also gazing at her. His exotic amethyst eyes blazed with an inner torch. With their nearness, she could feel his thumping heartbeat. Her dainty little nose turned up as she smelled his masculine scent.

    His warmth penetrated through his robe that was draped over her, making her body instinctively snuggle to him.

    Her sparkling brandy eyes darted to his throat as it moved up and down.

    One could only hear pounding heartbeats until he was distracted by something that made him look up at the sky.

    Aisha looked up, too. But she saw nothing, except the rising moon, announcing the time of night.

    "I better be going. The Great Theos is waiting for me," He commanded in a hoarse voice with a hint of dismay.

    In one swift move, he moved to one side of the Draco as if he was ready to jump to the ground.

    Aisha immediately shut her eyes as their position was like a two-story building. How could he possibly leap down?

    She was expecting that they would come down with a huge force. But they did not.

    It seemed that the King flew from Draco''s back to the ground as his feet lightly touched the floor.

    "Greetings, your Majesty," the Castle servants paid their respect to their King as they lined up on one side, all bowing down to him.

    Aisha quickly opened her eyes and darted them to the servants. She was still in the arms of the King, and her hands were still curled up around his sculpted neck.

    Her long black hair dangled back, flowing through the King''s toned, rock-hard chest as they were exposed with his robe covering her nakedness.

    She quickly went down on her bare feet and fixed herself. To her amazement, the servants did not look like humans, either.

    They have the shape of a human with two hands and feet. But they have furry ears that are sticking up their head, whiskers on their faces and tails sticking out of their behind.

    They were wearing clothes that made it look like they were from the Medieval Age with their long gowns and tunics.

    "Your Majesty," One of them bowed down to the King and offered him a camel hair''s coat and a king''s robe.

    He seemed to be the butler in the place, as he was wearing a more decent piece of clothing than the rest.

    The King swiftly put them on and introduced her. "This is Lady Aisha. She would be staying with us from now on," His voice bellowed through the Castle grounds, declaring his authoritative command on everyone living.

    All the people in the Castle seemed to have heard him, as they all stopped what they were doing and kneeled down. "Greetings, Lady Aisha. Welcome to the Castle."

    The Castle seemed to hold almost five hundred dwellers including the other lords, knights, friars, women and children. And they were creatures from different tribes and species.

    The King then faced her and gave his last command. "Lord Emilio will accompany you. I will get back at once. Wait for me until then," he gave an order that no mortal could refuse, making her head bow down to him in response.

    Though she has no idea what her fate would be in this Grand Castle where there seemed to be no human that could understand her.

    Her supple hand clutched her heaving chest as she watched him ride Draco again and flew in the starless sky under the light of the full moon.

    ********************************************************************

    Challenges are gifts that force us to search for a new center of gravity. Don''t find them. Just find a new way to stand.

 Chapter 6 - Unorthodox

    "Good evening, my lady," Lord Emilio bowed down to Aisha, distracting her from her thoughts.

    Aisha quickly swiveled back to face the person who spoke behind her back. As she did so, her dainty hand flew to cup her jaw-dropped mouth.

    He was one of those beings that she saw in the forest! And now that she saw him up close, she noticed that he looked more human than the rest.

    He looked normal from top to toe. He was even ravishing, with his curly blonde that goes to his broad shoulders.

    He was also wearing a forest green linen coat lined with expensive sable fur. Everything about him appeared like he was a handsome Lord of some fairy tale kingdom, except that he has a huge set of pearly wings.

    King Leandro has already left the Castle with Draco. But before he did so, he entrusted her to Lord Emilio.

    He said he needed to be somewhere where she could not come. He has no choice but to leave her behind. The sun has already set, and it would be safer if she stayed inside.

    "A-are you an angel?" she curiously asked as she lifted her point finger to touch his wings.

    "I have worn a pair of angel wings before in one of my modeling gigs. And they were quite heavy. I almost tripped while walking on the runway," she chuckled to herself, as she tried to calm her nervousness.

    Lord Emilio''s eyes widened in surprise, perhaps because of her straightforwardness. He immediately looked at the servants. They were still there, awaiting their command.

    "Maybe you could call me that," Lord Emilio nodded his head with an awkward smile as he allowed Aisha to touch his wings.

    "I am Lord Emilio, at your service. I came from the Nephilus Clan, and I am one of the King''s most trusted Watchmen," he bowed down to her again.

    "Nephilus Clan? Is it like the Nephilims? The fallen angels from heaven?" Aisha asked with her eyebrows knitted together.

    "I heard about it during one of my mythology classes. It''s funny now that I remembered it. I wasn''t usually listening to my teachers back then," she continued to babble on, releasing the tension she was feeling inside.

    At her statement, Lord Emilio''s wary eyes darted to the other servants, who were still in a kneeling position at that time.

    Now they were starting to look at one another with a questioning look on their faces.

    Lord Emilio drew in a deep breath. "Leave us, please. Except you, Rosalia," He ordered them, making them scramble up to their feet and left.

    Rosalia went beside Lord Emilio and made a curtsy, "My lord, my lady."

    Rosalia appeared like the servants on their knees a while ago. But she looked more human than them.

    Her long wavy chestnut hair covered her cat-like ears. In place of her whiskers were cute brown freckles. And she was wearing a long white gown with a moss sleeveless tunic.

    "Hello, Rosalia! I''m Aisha," She extended her hand to shake hers. Her face radiating with a warm countenance.

    Since high school, she has loved meeting new people. And Rosalia seemed to be a nice person.

    She was expecting her to reach out and shake her hand. But instead, she bowed to her and kissed her hand, making Aisha chortle.

    "You don''t have to do that. It''s just the three of us here, girl. Come here," She pressed on her shoulders with a gleeful smile on her face and kissed both her cheeks, to the horror of Rosalia.

    Her beetle red face turned towards Lord Emilio, who was shaking his head. Rosalia stepped backward, her head still bowed.

    "Wait, what did I do wrong? We''re just being friendly," Aisha scratched her head in wonder.

    Lord Emilio cleared his throat and explained to her. "It is not customary in our land to kiss each other on the cheeks as greetings, especially between nobles and servants, my lady," he said in a kind and concerned voice.

    "I would suggest that we stick to our tradition so the Gaeans would not consider you as a threat," He added before stepping backward and bowing her head.

    Then he swiveled and pointed his arm to an entryway on their left, which would take her to the Apartment for the Lords and Ladies of the house.

    "A threat? What could I possibly do to anyone here?" Aisha replied. But she walked forward to where his hand was pointing.

    Lord Emilio walked in front of him while Rosalia was at her back. Both held a torch in their hands.

    The entryway took them to narrow stoned stairs along the insides of the walls that led them to her Chamber. The cold wind whistled through the crack in the walls, making her shiver.

    Recalling that she was naked under the King''s robe, she immediately rubbed herself warm.

    Rosalia seemed to quickly notice it as she excused herself, "With your permission, my lord and my lady. I would ask the butler for more wood in the fireplace, so my lady would feel warm."

    "Most certainly, Rosalia," Lord Emilio quickly replied.

    As soon as Rosalia left, Lord Emilio turned into the right, leading to a hallway with four wooden doors.

    He guided her to the largest one. But before she entered, he looked at the left and right before he spoke again.

    "You are the first female human that King Leandro allowed within the boundaries of the Castle, my lady. The people here honor traditions. Something that goes against the norms is already a threat to them," He oriented her with a stern look in his eyes.

    "But why did King Leandro bring me here? I don''t want to cause trouble to anyone," Aisha replied, bothered about what she has learned.

    Perhaps he saw the anxiety in her countenance. Lord Emilio''s tone shifted to a lighter one as he responded, "Don''t worry, my lady. Rosalia will help you learn our culture. I''m sure you will see it to your liking."

    "Meaning, I will act prim and proper, all ladylike in front of everybody?" Aisha grumbled as she gazed at her form.

    Her parents had already tried molding her. But even they, gave up. She was too free-spirited to be stuck in a closet. It may be the reason why they were displeased with her.

    Her face must have continued to reflect the dismay at her unfortunate state under the light of the lamp. Lord Emilio tried another statement to cheer her up.

    "Maybe perhaps King Leandro brought you here because he believes you to be The Chosen One," a thin smile edged his lips, probably hoping she would be thrilled about it.

    Then he opened the door of her Chamber, inviting her to go inside.

    The room looked like a chamber of a princess!

    Her eyes lit up as she felt enthralled by the place where she would be staying.

    However, she would not let Lord Emilio go without telling her more about her demise.

    "Wait, what do you mean by The Chosen One?" Aisha asked before Lord Emilio closed the door.

    Her heart pounded in her chest as it sounded too scary for her.

    To her dismay, Lord Emilio opted not to tell her by clamping his lips and replied, "It is best to know it from the King himself."

    Then he closed the door that separates her Chamber from the other parts of the Castle.

    ****************************************************

    The bird that would soar above the level of traditions and prejudice must have strong wings.

 Chapter 7 - Breeding Machine

    Aisha sat down on the enormous, cushy bed. Everything around her looked luxurious. And to think that she was just a ''Lady'' in this place.

    It''s not that she wasn''t used to it. She was a rich kid herself. What she wasn''t familiar with was not being able to do what she wanted to do.

    Her jittering hand clutched on her chest as she felt suffocated just thinking about it.

    She wanted to know what happened to her own world. If she was alive, then perhaps her family could still be breathing somewhere.

    If not, would there be another place where she could stay where she could be free to be herself?

    "Good evening, milady," Rosalia came into the room with another servant.. She was holding a tray of food while the other servant brought in pieces of quilts.

    "Here''s some honey broth and freshly baked baguettes to warm your stomach," She smiled as she placed the food on the table.

    At the smell of the searing soup with garlic and chicken, her stomach started gurgling. She didn''t realize that she was hungry.

    She tried to look at her watch to see what time of the night it was. But she realized that she has nothing from her own world but her skin.

    "Thanks, Rosalia. You''re a savior. Come eat with me," She quickly stood up and went to the chair, and started eating.

    Her eyes closed as she savored the flavorsome meal. It''s just ordinary soup and bread. But it was heavenly!

    "If you crave any kind of food, just inform me. I will get it for you," Rosalia flashed a thin smile as she got the comforters from the servant and placed it at the foot of her bed.

    "It''s okay. I''ll just go into the kitchen. You don''t have to bother yourself," she answered nonchalantly as she grabbed the baguette and ate it.

    "I don''t think it will be possible, my lady. Lord Emilio gave an instruction that you cannot leave the Chamber until the King comes back," she stuttered as she focused on fixing the room.

    Aisha stopped chewing as she was stunned by what she said. Until the King comes back? And when would that be? No doubt, she was a captive in this place!

    Rosalia and the other servant then placed the extra bed covers over her bed. "These should keep you warm through the night," she patted on the soft cushions

    She nodded to the other servant, giving her the signal that she could go out of the room, in which the servant quickly obliged.

    Now it was only Rosalia and Aisha. She decided to take the opportunity to ask all her questions away.

    She left her food, grabbed Rosalia''s hand, and asked her to sit with her on the bed.

    But Rosalia quickly stood up and got the chair that Aisha was previously sitting on.

    Then she placed it in front of Aisha, a meter away from her, before she sat down. Her head was still hanging low.

    "Do you know what they are going to do with me?" She asked her with her hands clasped together, hoping she could get her sympathy.

    "I- I''m sorry, my lady. I have no idea," Rosalia shook her head and averted her gaze.

    "How about the Chosen One? Could you tell me more about it?" She prompted her to speak.

    But Rosalia stood up and went to the drawers to get a piece of gown for her to wear.

    Aisha sighed as she unconsciously bit her lips. What did she expect? She''s a stranger to this land. She could not earn anyone''s trust that easily.

    To her surprise, Rosalia answered her question as she encouraged her to stand up, so she could help her change her clothes.

    "For the longest time, the King doesn''t have an heir. There is no woman here in Gaea that could produce an offspring for him," she shared as she removed the King''s robe that was draped over her.

    "Why? Is he infertile?" Aisha felt embarrassed as she covered her private parts with her hands.

    But it seemed that Rosalia had no problems with it, as she continued to share one of Gaea''s secrets to her while putting on undergarments on her naked body.

    "No, milady. The physicians said there is no problem with him. But his seeds could only grow in a certain woman''s womb. And that is where the Chosen One comes in the scene," she smiled as she finished tying the ribbon in her pure white gown.

    "Oh, my gosh. Do you mean the Chosen One will be the King''s baby-breeding machine? That could not be happening! That is a no-no!" She waved her hands frantically as she stepped back.

    "Why not, my lady? All the ladies in Gaea coveted such a position. You will bear the prince and princesses of Gaea," she said dreamily as she encouraged her to accept her fate.

    "That is so ridiculous! I don''t want to get pregnant. I don''t want to be a mom. And I don''t want to be a captive! I am definitely not the Chosen One!" She laughed in a quivering voice.

    The King is definitely the most attractive man she has ever seen. She could have sex with him every day. That could be fun.

    But giving him babies and being a mother to them? That is so out of this world! This Gaea land is more possible than that happening.

    "I must get the hell out of here," she resolved to herself as she quickly went to the windows, both to catch her breath and find a way to escape her horrible situation.

    ***********************************************

    Freedom is a path you choose every day.

 Chapter 8 - The Chosen Ones Fate

    Leandro''s desire was to stay and guard Aisha. She was still new to the land of Gaea.

    But The Great Theos was calling him, and he could not refuse.

    The Great Theos was the one who created Gaea. Also, He was the one who chose Leandro to rule it.

    As soon as he left the King''s Castle, he went straight to the Temple of Astrum where the Great Theos wished to speak to him. He also wanted to ask him why he allowed Aisha to enter Gaea.

    "Your Majesty," The priests who were on duty that day, bowed down to Leandro.

    Leandro removed the King''s robe over his shoulders. Then he removed the sandals on his feet.. He left them with the priest before he entered the Temple.

    Not everyone could speak to the Great Theos. Even the priests and the attendants who took care of the Temple could not hear his voice.

    It was only Leandro. That was why he was feared and respected by all. Anyone who would dare defy his orders would receive capital punishment, not just by Leandro, but the Great Theos himself.

    Leandro directly walked to the Sacred Alcove, the innermost part of the Temple, where no priest would step over the line and enter.

    It was a forbidden place. There were a few who tried, but they immediately died as soon as their foot stepped on its space.

    "The Honorable Theos, the great and mighty God of Gaea, I am here, King Leandro, at your service," Leandro said. Without hesitation, he went inside.

    He lit the incense near the Holy Coffer. Then he kneeled and made a formal bow.

    Like it had been struck by lightning, the Holy Coffret suddenly went ablaze with fire. But it didn''t burn. It continued to be in flames as Leandro stayed there.

    Leandro didn''t mind as he was already used to it. His head stooped lower to the ground without lifting his head.

    Meanwhile, outside the Sacred Alcove, the priests started getting agitated.

    "The Great Theos is here," One of the priests nervously uttered to another as he noticed a different kind of fog sweeping in through the Temple.

    It has a heavenly scent. But it has a glacial temperature. All the priests immediately left the Temple

    It is not a command for them to leave. But the presence of the mist caused anyone to tremble in fear and reverence. No one could stand it except the King.

    Meanwhile, Leandro stayed in his position until The Great Theos spoke to him.

    "Arise," A voice commanded him, which Leandro quickly obliged.

    He lifted his head and stood up. His chin was pointed up as he clasped his hands together. His feet stood widely apart.

    The presence of the Great Theos could be felt even a few blocks away. Anyone near would cower down in fear. Some even trembled and passed out.

    But not Leandro. He stepped forward and bowed his head slightly. Then he lifted it again and spoke, "How can I be of service to you, oh Great One?"

    "You must have met Aisha by now. I am the one who saved her from the waters," The Great Theos spoke through the burning Coffer and the icy haze.

    Leandro''s heart quickened at the mention of her name. The Great Theos seemed to have a plan for her.

    He recalled how he first met her.

    He was seeing the daily tasks of a King when he suddenly had a vision of a woman drowning.

    He immediately left the Castle to save her. But he has no idea what part of the world she was in.

    His instinct led him to go to the Valeo Forest. And there he met her, a female human, just like his own kind.

    "She could be your Chosen One," The Great Theos added, snapping him out of his recollections.

    His statement made his eyebrows furrow. "Could? What do you mean by that, your Excellency?"

    "It depends on her if she accepts her call or not," The Great Theos answered him. "If she will, I will make her name great. Just like I did to you. She will be a mother of the next generation, and she will preserve Gaea with you."

    With that, The Great Theos showed Leandro a vision of the future of Gaea, making Leandro exhilarated with excitement.

    It is more majestic than it actually is. People from different tribes, species, and races filled it. And all were wearing satisfied smiles on their faces.

    The previously fearful atmosphere now emitted a peaceful ambiance, making anyone near it feel an indescribable peace within himself.

    It seemed to appear that it would be a great pleasure for The Great Theos if it happened.

    Leandro''s face radiated as well. It was indeed a happy picture to dream of.

    But as he said, that could only happen if she agreed.

    "What if she refused?" He asked to clarify.

    "Then she must leave Gaea. I will remove all her memories, so she can not come back again."

    Leandro''s eyes widened in surprise. "I understand your concern for Gaea''s conservation, your Excellency. However, I am also concerned about what her life would be like outside of Gaea. Wasn''t the world that she previously lived in destroyed already?" He openly expressed what bothered him.

    She seemed to look fragile and helpless. Leandro''s heart palpitated just by the thought of her living by herself.

    "It is not totally destroyed. Also, she is not safe here even if she stays," The Great Theos continued to speak with him in the midst of the wintry smog.

    "She is a female from the human world. The Gaeans will have differing opinions about her. She could be either a curse or a blessing to Gaea depending on her decision and actions," He added, enlightening him about her current situation.

    Leandro nodded as he understood it perfectly. Humans have a negative connotation to the Gaeans. They have heard about the wicked things that they do to each other and their vile actions towards nature.

    "This is the reason why I called you here. I gave you Aisha as a gift. But it is up to you how you will handle her," The Great Theos made His final statement before he vanished into thin air.

    The mist slowly subsided. The fire in the Coffer started to disappear. But Leandro could not move his feet as he thought about what to do with the strange foreign lady in Gaea.

    ************************************************************

    In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing.

    The worst thing is doing nothing.

 Chapter 9 - Her First Night

    Leandro''s masculine fingers went to his throbbing forehead after they ran through his silky argentine gray hair.

    He was supposed to leave the Sacred Alcove. His meeting with The Great Theos had already ended.

    But he was too stunned to move.

    Both choices would endanger the new lady in Gaea. If she chose to accept the position of being the Chosen One, she would endure the pressure of being discriminated against by his people..

    "If she refused, she would be cast out of Gaea and would be alone in battling the after-effects of the disaster in her own world," he drew in a deep breath.

    He decided to think about it thoroughly within the Castle walls. Aisha must have been waiting for him.

    He stepped out of the Sacred Alcove and walked towards the Main Court of the Temple of Astrum.

    "Your Majesty," The priests, bowed down to him before he left.

    Leandro quickly rode on Draco, making him fly as fast as he could towards the Castle.

    It was already late in the night when he arrived. All the servants were already asleep. Except for some watchmen and Castle Guards who were roaming around for the Castle''s security.

    As fast as he could, he immediately went to the Chamber where he asked Lord Emilio to take her.

    He knew that she might be sound asleep by now. But he still wanted to be certain.

    He was already on his way there when he encountered Lord Emilio.

    "Your Majesty," he bowed down to him.

    "Is Lady Aisha in her Chamber?" He immediately asked. His eyes darted to the hallway leading to her Chamber.

    "Yes, she was. Rosalia was with her, and she was sleeping safe and sound."

    Leandro nodded his head in affirmation as he responded, "I''m glad to hear that."

    There were hoofbeats pounding wildly on his chest just a while ago. They seemed to normalize now.

    "I do have something to show you, your Majesty. We have already located a field where Spelta could be grown. It is in the Southern area, your Majesty," Lord Emilio deviated his path to the Royal Chancery, which was on the right side of the Castle.

    Leandro paused for a few seconds. Deep in his heart, he wanted to pay a visit to Lady Asha''s Chamber.

    But this was also a matter of great importance.

    Spelta is the staple food in Gaea. But currently, the weather is not being nice to the Gaeans. The previously rich soils that provided them were now dried up.

    They were looking for a new place to plant it. And now it seems that they have finally found the right location.

    "The Southern Lands have warm, sunny growing weather. They also have well-distributed intermittent moderate rains. And their irrigation was excellent," Leandro commented as he agreed to walk to the Chancery, so he could confirm the information on the map.

    Lord Emilio followed close behind.

    "However, the Southern Lands are owned by the Lycus Clan, your Majesty," Lord Emilio informed him, making Leandro stop in his tracks.

    All the Clans in Gaea submit to him. But the Lycus Clan was the most independent of them all.

    They obey the royal commands. However, there were times that they would clash with each other from time to time, especially with Lord Lycano, the leader of the Lycus Clan.

    As if Lord Emilio had read his thoughts, he expressed his opinion about the matter. "Lord Lycano doesn''t have knowledge about it yet. As far as my men told me, they are planning to use the field for training."

    A strong wind blew through the windows, making the heraldic flags flapped. Leandro noticed it as his eyes darted to the aperture.

    The Gaean flag is composed of three different hues. There were two horizontal lines. The top color is green and the one below has a blue tint. There was a white triangle shape on the left side with a cross with a crown in the middle.

    It represents the unity of the land, water, and sky by submitting to the lordship of the King and God.

    "They still live under my leadership. He will oblige. He has no choice," Leandro''s jaw clenched as his feet marched towards the Royal Chancery.

    "Most certainly, your Majesty," Lord Emilio bowed down to him.

    As soon as they entered the Royal Chancery, Leandro quickly went to the map to check on the exact location of the desired land. Lord Emilio immediately showed him the area.

    He was hoping that it is far from Lycus Territory. It was just years ago when they had an argument.

    But to his dismay, it wasn''t just inside their domain. It was even near Lord Lycano''s Manor.

    Leandro sighed. It looked like he had no choice but to meet with him in the eye again.

    Their last conversation was not a pleasant one. The Lycus Clan almost started a war. Fortunately, Lord Lycano still considered himself as a Gaean that was why he obeyed his command.

    "Have some men go there at early dawn. Make them look like merchants that would like to barter. But order them to snoop around regarding their plans for the land," Leandro instructed Lord Emilio.

    Then he folded the map and closed his eyes.

    "Maybe you should need to rest now, sire," Lord Emilio bowed down to him.

    "Yes, I will. Good night, Lord Emilio," Leandro answered him as he stretched his back. Indeed, it has been a long day.

    He was about to turn to the hallway to the King''s Chamber when he thought about dropping by Lady Aisha''s.

    Since it was already the middle of the night, he knocked softly, wondering if she would wake up somehow. But she still wasn''t answering.

    He went to Rosalia''s quarters and confirmed if she was indeed inside.

    "Yes, your Majesty. I even tucked her in bed," Rosalia explained. Then she clamped her mouth to prevent a yawn. She was in front of the King of Gaea.

    "I see. Thank you and have a good night''s sleep," Leandro turned his back on her.

    He was also tired. But before he left the hallways, his gaze darted to Lady Aisha''s room. He couldn''t help but peek inside.

    Slowly, he opened the door and closed it behind him.

    His throat moved up and down as he walked forward to her bed.

    She was wearing a Gaean nightgown, exposing the creamy part of her neck and chest.

    He gulped as he suddenly felt the room temperature warming up to a higher degree.

    Leandro drew closer to her as he admired her beauty.

    As he did so, he noticed that her eyes were closed. But he knew that she was not asleep.

    He could hear her fast heartbeat.

    "Is it fear?" He thought as he gazed at her pallid white lips.

    His face went dim as he tried to control himself from doing anything against her consent. He didn''t want to molest her. It was her first night at Gaea.

    "Good night, my lady," he bowed down to her, determined to talk to her first in the morning after she had taken a rest. Then he walked back towards the King''s Chamber.

    *********************************************

    To survive in peace and harmony, united and strong,

    We must have one people, one nation, one flag.

 Chapter 10 - I Will Not Be A Slave

    Aisha''s eyes blinked rapidly as she stared at the vaulted ceiling of her Chamber. She turned to the left. And then to the right.

    She wanted to rest at this beautiful royal Chamber. She needed all the strength that she could get for her escape plan.

    However, no matter how much she tried to, she couldn''t find herself being comfortable enough for her eyes to be at ease and relaxed.

    King Leandro just came into her room! Fortunately, he didn''t do anything to her. Yet!

    "What should I do? He must be thinking that I''m the Chosen One!" Aisha thought as she curled under the bedspread.

    "It''s too bad. We could be *Christian Grey and *Ana Steele.. But I don''t want babies. And besides, my family may still be alive," she sighed as she sat up in bed.

    Aisha was still in bed inside one of the Ladies'' Chamber. She decided to stay for the meantime in the room that King Leandro gave to her, since it was already nearing early dawn.

    Before Rosalia tucked her in bed, she already checked the area outside the Castle to see what route she could use for her disappearing act.

    There were Castle Guards everywhere! But she saw a field where it seemed like there were only a few Castle Guards around.

    She stood up from her bed and inspected it again. Now there were two Castle Guards that were securing it.

    "Now''s my shot," Aisha muttered to herself as she drew in a deep breath and grabbed a thick forest green cloak from the drawer.

    "No one has a right to take away my freedom," She resolved to herself in a steady, lower-pitched voice as she tied the knot on her chin, enclosing her identity inside the stocky cape.

    Her muscles were rigid as she opened the door of the Chamber. She recalled the face of King Leandro.

    Her heart thumped within her chest. She may have wanted to get to know him more. But not like this.

    She didn''t know what lies ahead of her. But she would not allow herself to be somebody else''s slave.

    She recalled the times when she would escape from their maids and their mansion. "This was just like a bigger maze," she encouraged herself as she was already outside the room and in the hallways.

    Fortunately, the room wasn''t locked. And the two guards who were watching her had fallen asleep.

    She slowly closed the door so as not to awaken them. Then her alert eyes darted to the left and right.

    Aside from them, there was no one around. It was just an empty hallway with torches on the stoned walls.

    Like lightning, she quickly surveyed the scene for the nearest route to the area with the minimum number of securities.

    She was about to turn a corner when she heard footsteps approaching her.

    At a fraction of a second, she immediately stepped back and laid her body as close to the wall as possible.

    She clamped her lips, preventing even a small amount of breath from escaping from them.

    The footsteps were getting nearer. They were heavy and seemed to be like one of the warriors of Gaea.

    As she inhaled a lungful of air, the musky smell of horses penetrated her nose. "I must be near the stables!" A glimmer of hope rose in Aisha.

    If she could just get there, she could ride a horse and get away from the Castle as far as she could. But the problem is, no one must see her. Or they would bring her back. Much worse, punish her.

    And the footsteps were getting nearer and nearer her area.

    Fortunately, another Castle Guard called him back. "The King wants us to go to the South now," he said to him, stopping him from getting closer to where she was.

    "Now? That''s too far from here. I haven''t informed my family yet,``he answered him. Now she couldn''t hear his footsteps anymore.

    She decided to peek at them while they were having a conversation. Indeed, the stable was just a few meters away from them.

    "We will get back immediately. Lord Emilio said he will take care of them," the one who approached him said.

    Aisha''s eyebrows furrowed. "I could probably go with them. That''s a faster route than walking barefooted. And that is miles deep from here. They could not find me there."

    Her hands formed into a steeple as looked at where they were headed.

    There was a huge cart with the back, filled with trunks. It seemed like they would use it for the ride as they checked on them.

    "Let me tell my wife first," the one who almost saw her told the informant.

    "All right. I will tell mine also. But let''s be quick. The King''s instruction was to leave at early dawn," The other replied.

    As soon as they leave the area, Aisha runs to the cart at breakneck speed.

    She quickly hid at one of the larger trunks. She left a little opening, so she could breathe.

    It was her first time to be in a dark, dusty, and closed space such as this. It felt like she would run out of air anytime.

    "Hold on, Aisha. You will make it out of here alive," she cheered herself.

    She didn''t know if she would be glad or afraid that the two came earlier than she expected.

    Within a few minutes, the horse was already galloping towards the Castle Gates.

    They were about to open the smaller gate. However, the Gatekeeper asked about the contents of the trunk.

    Aisha gulped a lump in her throat. Drops of sweat formed in her forehead. "Please don''t open my trunk." She pleaded in a whisper.

    To her relief, the Guards who were driving the cart showed him a letter with the King''s seal.

    "We need to get there before sunrise," He explained to him.

    The Gatekeeper, seeing the King''s seal, nodded his head at the servant as a signal for him to open the Gates.

    "Hiya!" The driver tapped the horse to move forward.

    Aisha''s lips curved up in relief. Now she was truly on her way to her freedom.

    *****************************************************************

    The most important kind of freedom is to be what you really are.

 Chapter 11 - Eenie Meenie Miney

    Aisha rotated her neck counterclockwise. The ride was probably two hours already! She would have a stiff neck if she would not be out of the trunk ASAP.

    "Maybe I could peek just a bit," Aisha suggested to herself as she peeped at the hole that she made in the trunk.

    It was already early dawn. The sun was starting to rise in the distance, slowly unraveling the beauty of the land.

    A green meadow stretched as far as her eyes could see. On the right were different animals lounging, excited about the sun rays penetrating their skins.

    She knew most of them, like the elephants and giraffes. But the others were unfamiliar with her. They were huge and brownish-gray in color. Some have horns on their heads.. And some have long necks as high as the largest trees.

    Aisha couldn''t help but throw the trunk open. She has always been an admirer of nature''s beauty.

    "This is just so beautiful," she uttered in admiration as her wide eyes roamed around her.

    Aisha has just escaped from the Castle walls and is now going with the Guards to the Southern Lands secretly.

    She was not really planning to go to the Southern Lands. She wants to go back to the world where she came from and look for her family, especially Julia, her sister.

    They may have done things that hurt her. But they''re the only family that she has.

    She didn''t know where or how she could get back. The last memory that she has was the beach being engulfed in the waters. The next thing she knew she was already in this land, the Land of Gaea as they called it.

    "It seemed to be truly a magical place," she blurted as she looked up and saw flying creatures in the sky. They don''t look like birds. Some of them have wings and some don''t.

    But all of them treated the sky as if it was their huge playground, freely flying to wherever they wanted.

    Aisha''s lips curled up as she watched them soar high.

    "I have a new favorite place, The Land of Gaea," she breathed out as she inhaled Gaea''s air into her lungs.

    She untied her hair and allowed the breeze to caress her black tresses while she watched the sun slowly unfold the paradise in front of her.

    Aisha loves everything beautiful and being part of it, from picturesque locations to fun outdoor activities. They were her sweet escape from the ugliness of her own life.

    As she watched these free creatures roam around, excitement flowed through her veins. An urge to be like them rose in her heart.

    She recalled how they got to the Castle while riding a Dracus, as King Leandro called them. Maybe she could also use one, so she could easily find her way out.

    Aisha put her palm over her forehead, so she could see the creatures clearly. To her joy, there were also Dracuses flying around. There were large and small ones.

    Aisha peeked at the two guards who were driving the cart. They were busy chatting around.

    She leaned her right ear forward, trying to eavesdrop on what they were talking about.

    "I know Lord Lycano is merciless and brutal. What would we do if he caught us sneaking behind his back?" One of them said,

    Aisha''s forehead is knitted together. "Who is Lord Lycano? So are these men spies, then? I thought they were just businessmen."

    Her fingers flew to her lips as her eyes darted to the other trunks that were on the cart.

    "We must be discreet then. And if it happens, we must not mention the name of the King even in the name of death," he answered her, making Aisha''s jaw drop.

    "Oh my gosh, what did I get myself involved with?" she bit her fingernails as she thought of what to do.

    If she were caught in this, her head would be in the guillotine in no time.

    "Maybe this is where we part ways. Thanks for your service," Aisha made a fake vow with her head and a wave of her hand.

    Slowly as not to arouse suspicion from the guards, she climbed out of the trunk and into the side of the cart, crouching down like a stray cat.

    She peeked at the side of the road, thinking if she could jump from the height of where she was.

    To her surprise, the cartwheels were not on the ground. It looked as if it was floating, using magnetic energy coming from the earth.

    "That''s cool. We could travel the whole day if it was just like an ordinary cart on earth," she uttered.

    Also, to her delight, it wasn''t as high as she thought it was. But now was not the right time.

    They were in the fields and a speckle of human flesh in the midst of it could arouse wariness to the nearby villagers, or whatever they call them.

    She waited until the cart turned to an area where she could easily hide. As if luck was on her side, the cart went inside the woods.

    There were a lot of gigantic trees where she could quickly take cover. She didn''t waste any more time.

    "1, 2, 3¡­" She gulped as she felt nervous. But she was excited at the same time. "Go!" She ordered herself.

    She closed her eyes as she leaped and tumbled out of the cart. As she fell on the ground, she allowed herself to roll down the steep soil.

    Pieces of wooden sticks, small rocks, and leaves bonded to her clothes and skin. But she didn''t mind.

    She spiraled down the slope until she finally fell on flat ground.

    Aisha opened her eyes. It looked like an ordinary forest for her. She would get by.

    "Piece of cake," she grinned as she dusted herself with her hands. "Now what?" she breathed out.

    There were tons of trees as far as her eyes could see on every side of the forest.

    She covered her eyes with her palm.

    "Eenie meenie miney..." she mumbled as she pointed her forefinger to every area of the forest encircling her.

    She was giddy to remove her palm and open her eyes to see what direction she would go.

    However, to her horror, her finger didn''t point her towards her life. But to her death.

    "Mo," her lips uttered the last chant as her finger dropped. She had just pointed at the most vicious pair of wolves that she has seen in her entire life.

    ***********************************************************

    Life is a matter of choice.

    Every choice you make, makes you.

 Chapter 12 - Beware Of The Lycus Clan

    Aisha''s hand quickly clutched on her chest as if she was trying to pump it manually as it almost stopped beating.

    Her jelly-like feet slowly stepped backward as she stared wide-eyed at the creatures in front of her. She was too scared to blink, as it might be her last before they tore her apart.

    The wolves were enormous and scarier than the ordinary wolves in her world. It''s not that she has a pet.

    But she just knew it. She has watched Animal Planet long enough.

    And their eyes. They were purplish, just like King Leandro and the others in the Castle! But they look more enraged and wrathful.

    They bare their fangs and teeth.. Their saliva drooled over their mouth like she was a piece of juicy meat.

    "I am not as yummy as you think I am, believe me," She tried to reason out with them as her eyes darted around, looking for a way out.

    Her chest was heaving up and down. She felt like she would faint anytime.

    But she didn''t want the cause of her death in her death certificate to be "strangled to death" or "torn apart by wolves".

    "You''re too many, and I''m too skinny!" She pinched her forearm to show them that they wouldn''t enjoy making a meal out of her. "See?"

    The sun was already up and everything in the forest could be seen by the naked eye. Including the hungry look in the wolves'' eyes and the fright of the damsel in front of them.

    As Aisha''s eyes darted everywhere to look for an offensive or defensive weapon, she noticed a sign that seemed to indicate where she was.

    "Property of the Lycus Clan. Beware!"

    Instantly, Aisha looked back at the growling wolves in front of her. They were now approaching her.

    She stepped backward until her back hit a tree. She has nowhere to run.

    One towered over her and was about to slash her with its claws.

    In one swift move, Aisha lifted her arm and defended herself as she shut her eyes tightly.

    "Wait! I have no intention of going to your land. I''m lost! A tsunami hit my place and the waters brought me here!" She rambled on, hoping these beings would understand her.

    She recalled the creatures circling her the first time that her eyes opened after the tsunami. One of them had their eyes.

    She bit her lips as she awaited her body to burn in pain, the sharp fangs and claws of the wolves piercing through her skin.

    Instead, to her surprise, she heard voices. And they were just in front of her.

    "She''s a human, then?" One of them asked the others.

    "But humans aren''t allowed here in Gaea. How could she possibly enter our secured location?" The other replied.

    "Maybe she''s a sorceress."

    "Or perhaps what she''s saying is the truth."

    "That''s impossible. The Great Theos wouldn''t allow it."

    At first she was surprised to see that the wolves who were gnarling at her just a fraction of a second ago vanished into thin air.

    But now Aisha was bewildered. In place of the pack of the wolves were a pack of naked men discussing among themselves about the strange specie in front of them.

    "Uh oh," she covered her eyes with her palm. But then she opened a window, so she could peep at them.

    They were still chatting about her.

    Aisha cleared her throat in a loud manner. "Um, guys, I''m still here. In case you didn''t realize," both her eyebrows shot up in the air with both corners of her mouth curved up.

    It seemed as if she touched a no-no button in one of them, as he quickly shifted back to his gigantic wolf state and snarled at her.

    Aisha''s knees crumbled, making her fall down on the floor. Her arms reached for the nearest support that she could find behind her.

    "Y-you''re a werewolf?" Aisha stuttered.

    As she peered into the wolf''s eyes, she could see that those eyes were the same as the man who was just speaking a while ago.

    One of the nude men stepped between the two of them and stretched his tattooed arm. "Stop it, Lyan. We will inform Lord Lycano about this and let him decide."

    Hearing his name made Aisha cringe in fear. She recalled the conversation of the two guards about him.

    She''s better off in these men''s hands than him!

    "Uhm, you don''t actually have to do that because I am already leaving your land. Thank you for your hospitality. Adios!"

    She made a curtsy and ran as fast as she could to where the muscles of her legs could take her.

    But what can a mere human do against these magical beasts?

    She didn''t even reach a meter when all the naked men encircled her, as if they were waiting who would first attack her.

    "I should''ve stayed at the Castle. I''m safer with King Leandro," she uttered in a wavering voice.

    Aisha felt her heart quickened as she recalled him swooping her in his arms. She wished he would be here to save her from her demise.

    But how could he possibly do that? He might even be snoring until now and unaware that she was already miles away from the Castle.

    And besides, who is she for him to even care whether she gets eaten or not?

    "You had an audience with the King?" One of them must have overheard her as he asked about her last statement.

    The others gasped as their bodies seemed to cower in fear.

    "Then it must be all the more reason for you to meet Lord Lycano," the one with the tattooed arm commented, signaling the other men to control their carnal desires.

    It seemed as if he was the leader of the pack.

    The name of the King must have rung a bell as their previously savage appearance transformed into meek little puppies.

    "Bring her to the Manor!" He ordered them, in which they immediately obliged.

    **********************************************

    When someone threw you to the wolves,

    Come back leading the pack.

 Chapter 13 - Cold, Dead Pillows

    Leandro woke up earlier than he used to. His heart pounded against his chest, arousing him from his sleep

    He didn''t usually feel that way every time. It seemed to be ominous, as if something bad was imminent to happen throughout the day.

    Or was it because he still hasn''t decided on what to do with the female human?

    He immediately stood up and went to the King''s Dressing Room to change his sleeping clothes. A servant immediately attended to him.

    "Good morning, your Majesty," he helped him fit in one of the royal robes that the King usually wears during ordinary days.

    "Quickly. I need to do an important task," Leandro hurried the servant, making the servant hasten his actions, so he wouldn''t be bothersome to the King of Gaea.

    It was early dawn and the sun was just peeking out of the horizon.. Its rays weren''t ready just yet to shed its light on the King''s Castle.

    Usually, the King woke up as its beams hit the Chamber''s window. But now he didn''t even wait for it.

    After the servant dressed him, he immediately went out to one of the Castle''s Towers and surveyed the land of Gaea. It seemed to be at peace.

    There''s no wildfire or any chaotic movement disrupting the tranquility within the Gaean realm. Still, something was bothering him.

    He decided to go to the Apartment for the Guest Ladies and Lords in the Castle. He wanted to make sure that the female human was all right.

    "Give me the keys," he said to the Guard who was currently looking after the Chamber at that time.

    He told the creatures that have found her to never utter a word about her to anyone. If anyone learned about her existence, her life would be in danger.

    And he wouldn''t allow that to happen. Now that the Great Theos has already confirmed the possibility of her being the bearer of his offspring.

    He could not recall in his hands the number of times he attempted to procreate until he finally gave up. She was a glimmer of hope for him.

    Her state in Gaea was complicated, though, which made him think twice about planting his seeds on her.

    As much as he wanted to have descendants of his own, he didn''t want to endanger someone''s life just because of it.

    He gently opened the door so as not to wake the sleeping beauty.

    She seemed to be sleeping with her body covered in a thick layer of quilts. But something was not right.

    Leandro''s heart thumped wildly as he quickly uncovered the blankets. And he was right. Under the blanket was not a warm vessel of human life, but cold dead pillows!

    The Castle Guards'' jaws dropped at what the King just found out. They immediately fell down on their knees with their faces to the ground.

    "We deserve to die, your Majesty!" They chorused in shame.

    "You will surely die if you don''t find her at once!" His rough, raspy voice thundered throughout the hallways, making the servants who have heard it shivered in fear.

    The Castle Guards immediately scrambled to their feet and fled to find the missing lady.

    In a fraction of a second, he immediately went to the window and peeked down below.

    His amethyst eyes turned to fiery scarlet as he searched every nook and cranny of the Castle.

    The Castle Guards were doing their usual morning rounds. He could hear the diurnal warblers chirping in the sky, excited to welcome the sun.

    His nose could smell the freshly baked bread from the furnace. His mouth could almost taste them.

    His skin could feel the changing temperature as the sun rose up.

    But he could not sense a warm-blooded human anywhere in the Castle grounds!

    "Your Majesty," Lord Emilio uttered breathlessly.

    He seemed to rush to the Chamber as soon as he learned of the news. "Forgive me for my negligence, your Majesty," he kneeled before him.

    "Gather the Nephilus Guards and find her. She''s out of the Castle," he ordered to him in a grim manner.

    He brushed his silvery gray hair away from his chiseled face as he tried to think where she might go.

    As he recalled, she wanted to go back to her world.

    But that was impossible. There was no portal that could make anyone travel from Gaea to the human world unless the Great Theos would allow it.

    "Should I have just brought her to the Temple of Astrum instead?" He thought as a feeling of regret crept up in his heart.

    Yes, he could request The Great Theos to bring her back to her world if she really wanted to.

    But as he thought about it, his heart felt as if it was breaking. His shoulders dropped low as he desired her to stay in Gaea.

    "Yes, your Majesty. With her bare feet, she could not have gone far," Lord Emilio responded to him, distracting him from his speculations.

    He was about to leave when an idea came to Leandro''s mind.

    "Unless -" Leandro''s lips blurted out. His alert eyes faced the other Watchman who was with him.

    "Prepare Draco," He ordered him in a hasty manner.

    "Yes, Your Majesty," The guard bowed and immediately went to the Dracus Dungeons.

    Leandro quickly faced Lord Emilio, "Did you command the spies to go to the Southern Lands this morning?"

    "Yes, your Majesty. I gave them the order to be there before dawn," Lord Emilio answered him.

    Leandro''s lips turned pallid white. "She would not have ridden with them."

    He immediately went to the Castle Gates together with Lord Emilio.

    "Who left the Castle since last evening until now?" He gruffly asked the GateKeepers who were on duty that day.

    Beads of sweat formed in Leandro''s forehead as he hoped that there were other travelers aside from the spies.

    She could go to other destinations in Gaea. But not to the Southern Lands.

    "There were two, your Majesty. One went to the Eastern fields to get some grain. The others were merchants to the Southern Lands," The GateKeepers stuttered as they gave a questioning look at each other, thinking that they have done something wrong.

    "Did you see a woman with any of them?" Leandro interrogated.

    "No, no, Your Majesty," The GateKeepers immediately shook their heads.

    Leandro nodded back. But he made his decision.

    "Once I learned that a woman escaped your oversight, all of you and your families will be banished from serving the Castle. Do you understand?" He growled at them before going to Draco, leaving horrified Gate Keepers behind.

    *****************************************************

    "A great battle is a terrible thing," the old knight said, "but in the midst of blood and carnage, there is sometimes also beauty, a beauty that could break your heart."

    ¨D George R.R. Martin, A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms

 Chapter 14 - Unwanted

    Aisha''s head drooped as the wolfmen dragged her away from the woods. She held her elbows tightly against her side as she forced her feet to trudge along with them.

    She has just freed herself from her first captivity. And now this. It seemed that the people here only know how to tyrannize others.

    Her wide frightened copper eyes took a look around her wondering how she could escape her second confinement. Her skin shivered as she imagined the gruesome sight ahead of her.

    Aisha was unaware that she had entered one of the most dangerous lands in Gaea, a forest where no Gaean dared enter. It was the Lycus Territory.

    The Lycus Clan were a part of the wolves'' species who can shapeshift into human forms. They were very possessive when it came to their properties..

    And the only way you can be allied with them is to respect their ownership. Strangers were considered enemies.

    "Hop on," The one with the tattooed arm transformed into its wolf form. Then he tilted his head as if he was reinforcing his instruction.

    "One wrong move, and you''re dead meat," Lyan, the one who almost strangled her, snarled at her, before transforming back to his wolf form.

    The others did the same.

    "Do I have a choice?" Aisha shrugged her shoulders as she climbed on the wolf with the tattooed arm.

    When he was in his wolf form, his forearms were still covered in tattoos.

    He howled, then he started to run, together with the others. She held onto its body that was covered in bristling fur, holding on for dear life''s sake.

    The woods were thick with trees. But the wolves seemed to think that it was a plain field as they traversed it with lightning speed.

    Aisha didn''t know if her heart was pounding because of the speed that they were traveling, or of what lies ahead of her. Or perhaps because it was her first time riding a wolf, a werewolf to be exact.

    As they travelled, she noticed that there were times that he would almost vomit. And he was having a hard time swallowing.

    "Hey, are you all right?" She asked him, though he didn''t expect that he would answer since he was in his wolf form.

    In no less time, they were already out in the clearing. And behold, a majestic, colossal Manor appeared in their sight.

    It has robust ivy trailing along its brick walls. And it has a large, healthy lawn with prune trees.

    Aisha went down the wolf with the tattooed arm as she beheld Lord Lycano''s Manor.

    "You will meet Lord Lycano shortly. Behave yourself if you want to live," The one with the tattooed arm warned her.

    He was already back in his human form.

    Aisha pulled the cloak over her face.

    Even though it was just a piece of cloth, she treated it as if it was like a shell that could protect her from harm. She walked with them until they reached the inside of the Manor.

    As she did so, she couldn''t help but compare it with the King''s Castle.

    The King''s Castle looked ghastly and cold on the outside. But inside, anyone would feel secured as one would feel its warmth.

    If she wasn''t a candidate for the Chosen One, she could have stayed there for a longer time.

    This one appeared more similar to the mansions in her own world.

    However, the place created an eerie feeling that would make anyone think that its beauty is just an illusion to deceive the eyes of the beholder.

    It resembled a witch''s apple with death''s poison inside.

    The servants inside led the wolf men to a separate room. They brought robes and silky clothes for them to wear, readying them to meet the Lord of the Clan.

    Aisha didn''t recognize that they were back to their stripped state.

    "Hmm, it seemed to be common in this part of the earth," she muttered as she recalled her first time in Gaean land.

    "The creatures seemed to be more interested in the fact that I was a human than a stark-naked being!" She thought out loud.

    "My lady," One of the servants bowed down to her as she led her to another room. He''s with a helper that also has a lot of items of clothing in his hand.

    "Uhm, I think I''m fine with this. Thank you," She gave him a friendly smile as she dusted her tunic.

    However, Lyan, the one who almost tore her apart a while ago, butted in.

    "You''re too ambitious to face the Great Lord looking like a peasant," he hissed at her.

    "Why did you hate me so much?" Aisha couldn''t help but react, with her hands shot up in the air.

    "Because I can smell your filthy blood, human. You will bring chaos to this land."

    As he said that, his amaranthine eyes went ablaze in rage. His claws thrust out from her hands, his beast side attempting to come out.

    Fortunately, he was able to control himself as he inhaled a lungful of air and closed his eyes. His jagged rippers retracted back.

    His fiery eyes just a while ago returned to normal. Then he turned his back and went with the others to the dressing room.

    Aisha was left stunned. Is her existence really a threat to this place?

    She followed the attendants in waiting to the dressing room. As soon as the servants left, she mindlessly undressed, picked one of the dresses, and tried it on.

    Her mind couldn''t grasp the splendor of the place anymore, as she thought about her mess.

    She recalled Lord Emilio''s forewarning to her about doing things extraordinarily, how the Gaeans perceive it as danger.

    It was one of the reasons why she wanted to leave Gaea as soon as possible.

    But now that another being has spoken to her again, even intending to harm her simply because she was there, she couldn''t help but ponder about it.

    "I''m already out of the world and still, nobody wants me," her petite mouth let out a long sigh.

    She went out of the room, looking glum.

    However, she was quickly awakened from her downcast state as one of the servants declared,

    "Announcing the presence of the Great Lord Lycano."

    ***********************************************

    "A season of loneliness and isolation is when the caterpillar gets its wings. Remember that next time you feel alone." ¡ª Mandy Hale

 Chapter 15 - Hunting Her

    Leandro''s heart was in turmoil. His cold, flinty eyes darted to the South as he traversed the Gaean sky.

    He truly hoped that Aisha didn''t cross the borders and went to the Land of the Lycus Clan. That''s the least place she should have gone to.

    He already sent the Nephilus guards to scout for her on the Eastern Fields. He and Lord Emilio went to the Southern Lands themselves.

    "We can hit two birds in one stone, your Majesty. You can also negotiate with Lord Lycano about our desired location for our Spelta grains," Lord Emilio opened up a conversation.

    Perhaps he was attempting to relieve him of the boiling rage within him for the female human''s carelessness.

    With the Dracuses as their mode of transportation, they would reach the Southern Lands even before the sun peaked at its highest..

    It would not be good if King Leandro would step into their territory with his furious emotions within him. It would cause a war.

    Meanwhile, Leandro was reasonable enough to not allow his temper to get the best of him.

    Lord Emilio was right. By now, he must have known the probable steps of Lord Lycano. He better get ready, so he would be unperturbed once they meet again.

    "I could see the scouts, your Majesty," Lord Emilio informed him as he pointed to a traveling cart in the fields.

    It seemed to be moving to the North. If it was their scouts, they were probably coming back to the Castle.

    Leandro instructed Draco to immediately fly down, which Draco immediately obliged.

    Like lightning, Leandro jumped down from Draco and stopped the cart.

    The scouts pretending to be merchants quickly got down from the cart and bowed down to him. "Your Majesty, we were already on the way back."

    "What information did you get?" Leandro asked as he encircled the cart, looking for traces of Aisha.

    "Indeed, they would use the property to train the young wolf men, sire. Their children were already growing up, and they needed to give them proper priming, as they say," One of the merchants answered him with a hint of quivering in his voice.

    "I see. I hope nobody noticed your actual intentions while you were there," Leandro responded as if he was really listening.

    But he was checking out every trunk that the merchants brought with them.

    "Did someone travel with you along the way?" He asked as he opened them one by one. There were different sorts of goods like salt, honey, and even garments.

    But there was no sign of a lady hiding anywhere.

    However, one trunk seemed familiar to him. His aquiline nose drew near it and sniffed the scent coming from it.

    It was feminine, ethereal, and pleasing to his taste. It evoked in him various desires that he has never felt before.

    He recalled the time when he first encountered that scent. It was when he brought Aisha to the Castle.

    Her nearness to him as they rode Draco together made him aware of her natural scent.

    It was probably one of the reasons why he was drawn to her.

    The merchants were about to say no. However, they were already confronted by their King.

    "Where is she?" He growled as he confirmed his fear.

    The ground almost shook with his outburst that the merchants quickly bowed down to him.

    "Please punish us, Your Majesty. But we assure you that we were not aware of her presence with us," the other merchant pleaded with his head on the ground.

    "I will deal with you later. Get back to the Castle at once! If I don''t see you, you know what will happen to your family," he threatened them, then he stormed back to Draco.

    The Lycus Territory was too large. Even with his supernatural senses, he couldn''t find her at once!

    With an irritated gruff, he quickly went back to Draco and commanded it to fly at the speed of light.

    His amaranthine eyes turned flaming red as he used them to scan the land. She could be anywhere!

    He felt his lungs were about to burst as he imagined what could have happened to her. Other Gaean creatures were not familiar with her. They could mistake her for food.

    Lord Emilio searched with him. But they didn''t see any signs of her.

    "I don''t have a choice. I must talk with Lord Lycano," he said in a rough voice as he led Draco to the Manor.

    Lord Emilio followed close behind. He must have seen his determination to protect her that he asked him straightforwardly, "Is she the Chosen One, Your Majesty?"

    "Possibly," Leandro answered him bluntly.

    He has no time to explain what the Great Theos just said as he was too focused on finding where she was, hoping she was still alive.

    He didn''t notice that Lord Emilio''s face brightened up as he mentioned the possibility of her being the Chosen One.

    "Lady Aisha is rough on the edges. But thank the heavens, your Majesty has now met a woman who would love him for her whole lifetime," Lord Emilio sincerely expressed his happiness for his King.

    "Love and reproduction are two different things. One does not guarantee the other," Leandro quickly retorted back.

    He did not want to get his hopes up. Besides, love is too big for the likes of him, a ruler who needs to tend to an enormous realm all his life.

    In no less time, he was already in Lord Lycano''s Gates.

    His men immediately gave way to him being their King.

    He was about to ask if he had seen Aisha. But to his surprise, she was already inside the Hall, speaking comfortably with him.

    His face brewed into a storm.

    ***************************************************

    "Some people are like singularities. Get close enough and you will be uncontrollably consumed in an infinite attraction and will cease to exist apart from them."

    ¨D J.S.B. Morse, Now and at the Hour of Our Death

 Chapter 16 - My Heart Is With Me

    Aisha bowed her head in response to the presence of Lord Lycano. Though deep inside, she was trembling in fear.

    If only those two guards didn''t orient her of his character, she would''ve lifted her chin in defiance.

    But because of their forewarning, she already has agitation wrapped in her heart for the Lord of the Manor.

    The wolf men bowed to him as well, "We brought you a gift, our Lord."

    Aisha rolled her eyes as her head was bowed down. "Not again," she grumbled silently.

    "Well, how did a female human end up here?" Lord Lycano drawled with a sly smile on his face as soon as his eyes laid upon her.

    "Leave us, please," He ordered the wolf men..

    "Yes, our Lord," they immediately dispersed at his command.

    They were still at the Main Hall of Lord Lycano''s Manor. The sun was already up, cascading the ornamental beauty of the Manor.

    But she was not here to admire it. She was here to plead for her freedom or be sentenced to death by this Lord in front of her. Aisha has to remind herself.

    Aisha could see that he stopped in front of her, even with her head bowed down.

    Her heart pounded within her chest, with his nearness. His voice was so frightening, she felt like it came out of hell.

    Her heart raced within her as she thought of what to say. She could give all sorts of excuses and lie in his face.

    Or she could tell the truth and ask for his help, so she could go back to her homeland.

    However, she could not trust anyone. After every relationship that she entrusted herself betrayed her in return.

    Aisha lifted her autumn eyes and gazed at Lord Lycano. To her surprise, he wasn''t scary at all.

    She was expecting to stare at a man who looked like Beast from the Beauty and the Beast Classic Version. A gigantic hairy beast with a horrible face.

    But he was not. He was tall and had a good build, yes. But he looked like a human with a devastatingly handsome face.

    There is no trace in him that he is a werewolf. Except maybe for his eyebrows that met in the middle. Or his slightly hairy chest that was visible within his tunic.

    "A-are you a werewolf, too?" She thought out loud as her inquisitive eyes stared at him from top to toe.

    Lord Lycano made a devilish laugh at her question. Then he answered her with a question too, "What do you think, my lady?"

    He lifted her petite chin with his finger, making her feminine face look up to his.

    She slightly grimaced as she felt his finger touch the flesh on her chin. His finger looked like a human, but it was rough and ragged. And she could feel it with her soft, smooth skin.

    He was smiling at her in a ravishingly seductive manner. As he revealed his teeth, Aisha could see that he had sharp fangs.

    Though they were not as long and sharp as the wolf men, as she recalled.

    "I think you are," she answered him blatantly, without removing her brassy gaze at him.

    Lord Lycano''s lips curved up at her brazen attitude. It seemed like he had not encountered a being that could talk to him straightforwardly like what she was doing to him right now.

    He removed his finger from her chin and stepped away. Then his eyes raked over her figure.

    "What about you, my lady? What are you?" He bounced back the question, befuddling Aisha.

    She didn''t know if she could just tell him that she is a female human.

    Aisha quickly retorted back, "You don''t have to concern yourself with trivial matters, my lord. I am just a mere peasant who happens to get lost in your land. I didn''t steal or murder anyone. If you grant me your mercy, I''ll be off from your eyes even before you blink."

    Aisha''s eyes quickly darted to the door where they came in. Lord Lycano''s guards were securing it.

    She wished she could hear other people outside, making it feel more like a house than a prison cell. However, she could hear nothing, but her own beating heart.

    "Where exactly is your home, my lady?" He continued to interview her, with an amused expression on his face.

    He walked around her as if he was a predator readying himself to eat his prey.

    Aisha gulped. "This man was really provoking me to speak up," she muttered under her breath.

    "If I say my home is outside this world, I''m doomed. If I say it''s in the King''s Castle, I will cause conflict between him and the King. But I don''t know any location here in Gaea!" she rambled on in her thoughts.

    She gazed back at Lord Lycano. As she did so, she noticed something different in him.

    Even with his harsh and evil demeanor, there was something in his eyes that seemed to be saying the exact opposite of his actions.

    He seems to be lonely. His eyes kind of reflected her own life as well.

    She couldn''t help but feel nostalgic at that moment and meditate on his question. Where exactly is her home?

    Was it with her family? Then why was she always running away from home?

    Was it with Jake and her friends? Why does she still jump from one island to another, partying here and there, as if she''s looking for a place where she could settle down and really live?

    Or, the better question is, does she really have a residence? Or she''s just a lost soul traveling the world, looking for where her heart would find, a place she would call home?

    "Home is where my heart is, my lord," She stuttered out of the blue.

    "Oh my gosh, Aisha Song. That is so clich¨¦. Why are you so clumsy?" She scolded herself.

    She thought that the Lord would be mad at her cheesiness. But he continued to interrogate her like he was removing the masks that she was using to conceal her identity, ready to pounce on her with one wrong word.

    "And where is your heart?" One of his eyebrows shot up, as if he was assessing not just the reason for her trespassing, but the existence of her life itself.

    "My heart is..." She answered, but she stopped mid-sentence.

    To be honest, she didn''t know where it is. She wanted to give it to her family. But they always reject her.

    She tried to give it to her boyfriend and friends. But they tore it apart.

    "I guess my heart is with me," Aisha concluded, making a decision to keep it safe and not let it be broken again.

    She thought she was winning Lord Lycano''s mind games. But Lord Lycano seemed to have an opposite idea.

    "Then wherever you are, that will be your home. Am I right? If you''re going to stay here with me, you will still be at home," His crimson lips curved up in a devilish smile.

    Aisha''s face turned pallid white. She felt like they were playing a game of chess, and he has checkmated her.

    Her shoulders dropped in defeat. She has escaped entrapment only to find herself in a more suffocating, terrible confinement.

    But just then, someone came to her rescue.

    "That depends on where she wants to stay, Lord Lycano," he spoke in a strong and unfaltering voice.

    Aisha''s eyes widened in surprise as she slowly turned back to see who he was.

    **************************************************

    "I believe that all of our lives we''re looking for a home and if we''re really lucky, we find it in someone''s loving arms. I think that''s what life is-coming home." ¨CAnita Krizzan

 Chapter 17 - Everyone Is Mine

    Leandro felt his blood boil as his wine eyes witnessed the proximity of Lord Lycano with Aisha. Fortunately, he was able to manage his displeasure by conversing with him in a congenial tone.

    "That depends on where she wants to stay, Lord Lycano," he subconsciously answered his question for Aisha.

    He didn''t want him to continue to intimidate Aisha. Leandro stepped forward until they all met face to face.

    Aisha looked surprised to see him.

    He was also astonished at himself, for being there at that moment, of all places. As the King, he should be in the Castle, tending to his people''s needs.

    They were both at Lord Lycano''s Manor with the host himself. Lord Emilio was behind him together with Lord Lycano''s Guards, alert and waiting for their master''s orders..

    Leandro felt gratified that Aisha seemed to be unharmed. There was no scratch on her body. And she was all in one piece.

    He will check her later. But there is a much greater impediment that he has to deal with in front of him.

    He could count in one finger the number of times that he visited Lord Lycano''s Manor. And all were because of misunderstandings and conflicts.

    "This female human must be so special that the King himself honored his humble servant with his presence," he flamboyantly waved his masculine hand before he bowed to the King.

    Leandro''s jaw clenched at his comment. He must have an idea about her blood.

    "Pardon me for my intrusion to your humble abode, Lord Lycano. But I am not here primarily for the lady. I have other, more important matters to discuss with you regarding land estates," He said in his authoritative tone.

    He then gave a slight glance at Aisha, making him gulp a lump in his throat. Even if she didn''t speak, her sad eyes revealed that she was hurt by what he said.

    "It is for your own safety," he wanted to say to her. But he knew that Lord Lycano''s senses were as supernatural as his.

    He would hear the slightest whisper even outside the Manor.

    "That''s excellent, Your Majesty. We were just discussing her residence. As I recall, anyone who stepped foot on someone''s property is bound by the laws of that land. Isn''t it just right for her to stay in the Lycus Territory, your Majesty?" Lord Lycano openly expressed his desire for Aisha to stay within their land.

    He even stepped forward to put Aisha behind him.

    Leandro''s jaw clenched as he observed Lord Lycano''s actions.

    Lord Lycano was right. But he was also wrong.

    A corner of his lips lifted as he stepped forward, responding to him in his kingly voice. "I am conscious of that. I also know that you are aware that I am the King of Gaea. That means everyone who stepped foot in Gaea is mine, including her, you, and all members of the Lycus Clan."

    Lord Lycano seemed to be affected by his direct and straightforward words, that a huffed growl could be heard from his chest.

    His jaw twitched as if his sharp fangs were attempting to come out. His fingers stretched as if its claws wanted to burst out and rip the people in front of them apart.

    Lord Emilio was alarmed, making his hand clutch on his sword in case he tried to hurt the King.

    Lord Lycano''s men wanted to get ready. But they seemed to be in doubt since they would not be fighting with an ordinary smuggler, but the King of Gaea himself.

    Leandro was not oblivious of the tension. But he would not allow him to have her!

    He tried to dilute the argument, so this will not get bloody, as much as possible. So he added, "Even then, I am not imposing that law to any Lords in Gaea. I respect every one of you, and I hope we should respect the rights of our subjects as well."

    Then he glanced at Aisha. She seemed scared as she was frozen on her feet, without even blinking.

    Leandro drew in a deep breath as he continued, "I didn''t say that the Lady should not stay here. I am just saying she has the right to choose where she wants to live in whatever location in Gaea that she wished to. Don''t you think so, Lord Lycano?"

    He knew that he was taking a risk. Aisha might choose to be left behind. But this was the more peaceful option.

    But for now, he could only hope that Aisha would choose to go back with him to the Castle, where she would be safer. Or even anywhere, except here.

    Lord Lycano seemed to now be in control of himself as he inhaled a lungful of air and exhaled.

    His amethyst eyes glistened as he spoke, "You''re absolutely right, your Majesty. We are honored to be ruled by a benevolent and righteous King who respected the rights of his citizens. I''m now certain he will also honor my humble opinion regarding land estates and such matters."

    Lord Lycano bowed down to him as if he was truly holding him in high regard.

    Leandro already knew that with Lord Lycano''s cunning tactics, he would involve the land negotiation with this issue. Still, it made his muscles twitch.

    He wanted to burn him with fire and sulfur, together with his whole Clan. But The Great Theos wouldn''t approve of that.

    He clenched his fists as he controlled himself.

    As he did so, he heard Lord Lycano turn towards Aisha and spoke to her tenderly, "Now, my lady, it is your turn to speak up. I hope you will choose as wisely as I will."

    Everyone''s gaze fell on Aisha.

    ************************************************************

    "Government exists to protect us from each other. Where the government has gone beyond its limits is in deciding to protect us from ourselves."

 Chapter 18 - The Kings Choice

    Aisha wanted the ground to open up and eat her whole right now.

    "Why do I have to get caught up in this mess? I only want to come back home," She grumbled as her eyes darted from one party to another.

    She admitted that she was glad to see the King again. It was as if he was her knight in shining armor.

    Or not. Because he has a higher position than a knight.

    Or another not, because he has a different agenda why he was here. He must have been finding her an inconvenience, a sabotage to his plans.

    Still, she was thankful, as she really didn''t want to stay at this Manor..

    No matter how beautiful it is. It just appeared like a glamorous coffin, with dead bones inside.

    But then, why did it feel like she was being torn apart?

    If she chose to leave the Manor, does that mean that the King would not get what he was after?

    She stared at him with his towering height. His smoldering eyes were penetrating into hers.

    Her heart thumped an irregular heartbeat. And she knew it was not out of fear.

    She did not want to trouble him. But she didn''t want to stay in this land either.

    Just then, a bright idea came to her mind.

    "With all due respect, my lord, Your Majesty," she bowed down to everyone. "Your servant is a loyal subject of Gaea. Whatever the decision of the King is, I would gladly oblige."

    Her head remained in a bowed position as a sign of her humility before the royalties in front of her.

    Lord Emilio seconded the motion as he also made a formal bow and declared in a loud voice, "We are at your disposal, your Majesty."

    Lord Lycano''s men looked at each other and decided to do the same.

    It seemed that Lord Lycano was left with no choice. With a growl, his shoulder-length black wavy hair went down as he bowed down to him.

    Aisha clamped her lips to compress a smile from showing. It seems that it''s working!

    Now, everyone''s back to honor their King.

    However, the ball was now in the King''s Court. If he chose for her to stay, he would get what he was after. If not, he would lose it. But still, it wouldn''t be her fault.

    Of course, she wanted to leave. But not to the point that something important for the King would be compromised. She''s not that stupid and selfish.

    She readied herself for whatever his decision would be.

    She looked around her. It''s not so bad to live here. Maybe she could adjust. For a month or so. And then she would try to escape again if she could.

    She was lost in planning her survival when the King cleared his throat. It was as if he was already ready to state his decision.

    "Thank you for your devotion to the King, my lady, and everyone present," Leandro bowed down to them. "It is my decision then for Lady Aisha to live in the Northern Gaea."

    "But, your Majesty," Lord Emilio stepped nearer to him as if he was about to say something.

    But the King has already made up his mind. He lifted his royal rod as a signal for Aisha to step forward and obey his command.

    Aisha was stunned. Did he really say it right? Does that mean he chose her freedom over his kingdom?

    Aisha''s usually talkative mouth couldn''t utter a single word. She felt relieved that she wouldn''t have to stay on this side of Gaea.

    But she felt guilty that there is a price that the King has paid.

    She clearly recalled that the merchants came to the Southern Lands with their lives on the line. If they mentioned their death, their task must be too great. That means it is important for the King, too.

    Lord Emilio, Lord Lycano, and his men knelt before the King as he raised his rod.

    "Who am I to contend?" Aisha muttered to herself.

    "Thank you for your grace, your Majesty," Aisha bowed down to him.

    Then she slowly walked to his side of the Manor, the one nearer the door.

    The King''s aesthetically handsome face hypnotized her, making her see nothing but him. Her own heartbeat with her every step.

    As she drew near him, she could smell his scent again, that rich, earthy, and manly scent. Slowly, her fears started to melt away.

    She could see the King''s plum lips curved in a tight smile as she walked to his side.

    Her eyebrows furrowed as she wondered why he wanted her to leave this place. Was it because he wanted to protect her from Lord Lycano? Or because he wanted her for himself?

    The King turned his back on Lord Lycano and was about to leave when Lord Lycano spoke up.

    "Your Majesty, you said you were going to discuss something about land estates?" He followed up, with a sarcastic smile on his face.

    Perhaps he wanted to emphasize the opportunity that the King lost because of her.

    The King turned back to him and answered quickly, "I believe you already have your answer, Lord Lycano. Let us not waste each other''s breath. Gaea is a prosperous and bountiful land, living independently of other realms for centuries. I believe it will continue to do so, with or without anyone''s help."

    Aisha could see the black veins in Lord Lycano''s neck starting to creep up.

    Fortunately, the King finished the conversation early.

    "Anyway, thank you for your warm hospitality. I truly hope we would meet again at a more opportune time," he tilted his head in a half-bow to him, then he abruptly turned around and walked away, leaving a seething Lord behind.

    She could hear him gruff, "Surely we will meet again, Your Majesty. I will get back what is mine."

    She quickly ran forward to the King.

    Lord Emilio followed after her, with him being the last in the queue.

    "Your Majesty," Lord Lycano''s servants that they passed through bowed down to him.

    To Aisha''s delight, she saw a Dracus and its huge wings. She recalled how it brought her to the Castle.

    She was scared and itching to leave, then.

    But this time, she felt peace and joy, as if she was even desiring to see it again.

    **********************************************************************

    Those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves; and under the rule of a just God, cannot long retain it. Abraham Lincoln

 Chapter 19 - Consequences

    Aisha almost skipped as she walked forward to the Dracus. Her heart was beaming with joy that she didn''t have to stay at the Lycus Lands for long.

    Anyone could see that it was a beautiful Manor, elegant and pleasing to anyone''s taste. But the place was as creepy as hell. Especially the owner.

    Though he has a mesmerizing countenance, she didn''t want to live with him.

    "Thank you, Your Majesty. Forgive me for the inconvenience that I caused you," She said as she was now inches behind the King.

    It was he who helped him get out of there. And she was really guilty of the trouble she caused him..

    They were now outside Lord Lycano''s Gates. A Dracus was waiting for his master, King Leandro. There was another Dracus. Perhaps it was for Lord Emilio.

    She expected to hear an answer from the King. But he just walked speedily ahead.

    Aisha''s shoulders dropped as she observed his reaction. She heaved out a long sigh as she readied herself for what lies ahead.

    What did she expect? He could have had a pleasant day discussing with Lord Lycano about royal matters. But he has to bother himself because of her.

    "It will pass, my lady," Lord Emilio whispered to her behind her back. He must have witnessed how the King ignored her attempt to reconcile with him.

    "Is he angry with me? Will he punish me? What will happen to me?" Aisha mumbled as she walked at a slower pace, so she could be beside Lord Emilio.

    Lord Emilio didn''t answer her at once. He looked forward and gave the King a glance. "I am really not aware. But one thing I''m sure of, he will not let this go unnoticed."

    "Oh my gosh, what does that even mean?" Aisha clutched her chest.

    "I just don''t want to bother anyone with my presence. And I want to find my family," she sighed as she thought about her reasons for leaving.

    Her heart sank as she recalled them.

    She has no idea if the world really ate up itself. Or if someone from her family is alive.

    She was lucky to be alive and breathing. And this place seemed to be too magical to be engulfed by her world''s catastrophes. But she doesn''t want to live here alone.

    Also, she didn''t want to portray the role of someone that was clearly not for her.

    She was staring at her feet as they dragged along the grassy grounds when she saw a pair of two gigantic feet in golden sandals, stopping her tracks.

    To her bewilderment, it was King Leandro. He turned his back and faced her.

    "Then you should''ve waited for me," King Leandro growled at her.

    His amaranthine eyes were filled with anger that Aisha''s knees went weak, making her unconsciously step back.

    He didn''t transform into an Incredible Hulk or turn into a beast, just like the previous beings that she has encountered.

    But with his appearance and foreboding demeanor alone, one would immediately drop to her knees and beg for his mercy, which she immediately did.

    "Forgive me, my King. I deeply regret what I did," She uttered sincerely.

    Yes, she should have trusted him. But how could she do that when she just met him for the first time?

    She has been friends with Melissa, Jake, and the others, and yet they have betrayed her.

    Her actions must have melted the King''s infuriated heart, as his tensed figure slowly relaxed.

    His breathing gradually returned to normal. His aura calmly transformed from being fearsome to being considerate.

    She could feel the wind numbing her skin again.

    Lord Emilio quickly went to her side and bowed down with her. "Pardon me as well for my negligence in taking care of Lady Aisha, your Majesty."

    To both Lord Emilio and Aisha''s joy, the King gave a positive response.

    Or not?

    "Apology accepted. Nevertheless, there would be consequences," He said with great authority that Aisha''s heart wanted to get out of her rib cage.

    She didn''t dare defy his statement. He''s the King and of course, he must set the parameters, so there will be peace and order in the land.

    She always saw it in drama series.

    Aisha drew in a deep breath as she imagined herself being pulled by two horses in opposite parts.

    Or being hanged in a guillotine.

    She was thinking of what those consequences meant when King Leandro uttered something.

    "I will take you somewhere. Come with me," He lifted his big powerful hand, asking her to put her dainty one in it.

    Aisha gazed into his purplish eyes. They weren''t flaming, just like a while ago. It seemed like he was calmer now.

    Aisha felt her stomach twirling inside her. Where could that place be?

    Will that be in a lion''s den? Or a seashore with lots of hungry sharks? Her pulse quickened, making her bite her lips.

    "The King is waiting, Lady Aisha," Lord Emilio prodded her.

    "I-I''m sorry. Can I just choose how I would die? Can you just poison me instead? You know, the one who would make you sleep forever?" She asked with an awkward smile on her face.

    Still, she extended her slender arm and put her fine-boned hand in his. As she did so, her tensed feeling slowly dissolved away.

    Somehow, his nearness to her, made her feel safe. Or maybe because he has just saved her a while ago from the wolves'' mouths, that''s why she felt safe with him?

    She noticed King Leandro clamping his lips as if he was suppressing emotions that he didn''t want her to see. It all happened in a fraction of a second, as he quickly returned to his solemn look.

    "Lord Emilio, you can go back to the Castle now and carry out my orders. Lady Aisha and I will be with you shortly," King Leandro commanded him.

    Lord Emilio quickly bowed down his head, rode on his Dracus, and flew away.

    Then King Leandro helped her seat herself in Draco''s neck.

    Since it was her second time, she was not as frisky as the first ride.

    Still, her muscles were tensed as they traveled the Gaean sky as they seemed to be traveling not to the Castle, but to the North-Eastern part of Gaea.

    ****************************************************

    You are free to make whatever choice you want,

    But you are not free of the consequences of that choice.

 Chapter 20 - This Is The Truth

    Aisha took short, quick breaths as she gazed at the view below.

    Unlike the Northern Lands which bragged of vibrant colorful plants which were visible from aerial view, the Northeastern boasted more of rich green trees covering mountainous rocks.

    It was speckled with pools of water here and there. But one magnificent basin caught her eyes. It was perfectly oval in shape like a mirror waiting for someone to look into it and see her true reflection.

    "What is it, your Majesty?" Aisha pointed out to it in curiosity.

    She was somehow used to riding a Dracus that she didn''t lose her balance while peeking at the astounding beauty below her.

    King Leandro and her have just left the Lycus Territory. Aisha thought that they were going back to the Castle and that''s where she would receive her punishment..

    But they seemed to be heading to the Eastern Part of Gaea.

    Her heart pumped in a frenzy as she thought of ways how the King would chastise her. She clearly disobeyed his orders and deserved a grave punishment.

    Maybe he would drown her. Or lose her in the woods with wild creatures roaming around.

    Or maybe he would just let her go back to her own world being a nice King that he was, saving her a while ago from staying at a place that she doesn''t like.

    She gazed at the King, wondering what was going on in his mind. But he seemed to be too focused on whatever he was planning to do.

    His thick eyebrows were scrunched up, and his jaw muscles were tense. But it only made his appealing face more ruggedly handsome.

    His silvery white hair was carried by the winds, making him look like he was a flying hunk superhero in Marvel Comics.

    As she observed him with stars in her eyes, he must have felt awkward as he deviated to answering her question instead.

    "That''s Lake Visum. It is said that if you look at your reflection there, you could see other realms that you wish to see," King Leandro informed her.

    Then he directed Draco to slow down because they were about to land.

    "Wow. So it''s like a huge crystal ball. Can you also see the future there?" Aisha uttered in surprise.

    Her pupils dilated as they neared the magical body of water. The waters glistened under the light of the sun.

    She wiped her hands together and clasped them, as she couldn''t wait to get down, so she could take a good look at the lake.

    She wanted to get a glimpse of her own world. And, of course, to go there if possible.

    The surface looked like a mirror on the wall, which seemed to be forever guarded against the winds by the crown of lush hills around.

    Looking up into the sky and down into the water was just the same.

    "No. Even the past. You can only see the present circumstances in that realm," King Leandro answered her.

    They were now already in the land, and he was assisting her as she went down.

    She quickly went to see her reflection when King Leandro stopped her.

    "Wait" his voice bellowed, disturbing the residing birds resting on top of the trees.

    Aisha''s petite feet immediately screeched as she heard the commands of the King. She froze on the spot as she waited for the King to get near her.

    "You cannot just simply glimpse over there or you will die," King Leandro reprimanded her in an upset tone.

    "Can a tsunami rise up from there too?" Aisha rambled in a quivering voice.

    Now she allowed King Leandro to walk a few distances from her. He is the King of Gaea. The Lake must know him.

    True enough, King Leandro stood at the edge of the waters and uttered a chant. She wasn''t aware of the language that he used. Maybe it was one of their ancient ones.

    Her fingers were crossed as she awaited what would happen.

    As the King continued to chant, something stirred up the waters, turning them into a different color. King Leandro must have said the right words, as now, she was beholding her world in front of her.

    She immediately ran towards it, so she could take a good look. Her jaw dropped as her eyes beheld their city engulfed in waters. There were a few skyscrapers that were shooting up above the waters.

    But the rest was Water World. She could not hear honking cars anymore, which usually annoyed her. There were no more busy people walking to and fro the streets with their hands on their phones.

    She cupped her mouth as her eyes beheld one of her favorite buildings. It has a unique symbol on top, like a quarter moon and a star, that was why she couldn''t forget it.

    Below that building was a restaurant line that offered all her favorite foods in exquisite recipes.

    She used to go there to eat because there were a lot of people enjoying the dining, making her feel like she was not alone.

    But now they are all gone.

    "What happened to all those people?" Her small, thin lips trembled as she imagined them screaming for help.

    "And my parents! Julia!" Her hands flew into the air as she panicked.

    She immediately went on all fours, so she could view it clearly. Her face drew near the waters, thinking it would make her see them.

    But to her bewilderment, a translucent hand appeared out of the water with an attempt to grab her face and pull her under the water.

    ************************************************

    Seeing and admitting the truth about ourselves, about our role in creating our own problems, and about how we relate to others is vital for healing.

 Chapter 21 - A Comforting Hand

    "Woah!" Aisha screamed in fright.

    The hand looked like a dead woman''s hand, with its whitish cast and cold temperature. And it was about to drag her with it underwater.

    She was just emotionally unstable as she witnessed the horrifying state of her land when this gruesome extremity frighteningly shot up in the water.

    "Stay back!" King Leandro immediately pulled her away.

    Then he immediately slew the dreadful hand with his sword. The chopped hand flew to the grass beside Aisha, terrifying her all the more.

    "Are you all right?" King Leandro quickly went to her side and helped her to stand. Concern was written all over his face..

    "Yes," Aisha answered him as she dusted her tunic.

    "What is that thing?" She continued to ask in bafflement as she watched it wiggle as if it was suffocating out of the water. Then it eventually died, leaving a lifeless form behind.

    King Leandro returned his sword to its sheath as he responded. "They were Nagaes who were living inside Lake Visum. They must have thought that you''re an enemy. They haven''t sensed your blood yet."

    Aisha nodded as she understood. Somehow she was already getting herself familiar with Gaean people.

    "So far, I could see that most Gaeans were very protective of their homes. Maybe it was the reason why it didn''t suffer from Mother Nature''s revenge," She uttered as she recalled the vision that she just saw.

    Recalling the purpose of her desire to get near the waters, she went to it again. But this time she stood a little far from the lake. But enough to get a clear view.

    No matter how hard she tried to look, she couldn''t find any moving individual or even animals in the chaotic world.

    "You''re absolutely correct. That is why you should not be reckless if you want to survive here in Gaea, my lady. Almost all the people here could sense that you are an outsider. That is why I ask you to stay in the Castle - " King Leandro stopped midway.

    He must have realized that he would just admonish her again. He just took a deep breath.

    Then he spoke again, "This was the world that you''re risking your life to get back to. Do you still want to go back?"

    Aisha heaved out a long sigh. Deep inside, she knew that it was a hopeless case. Was she in denial then?

    She sniffed and wiped her nose as her eyes turned blurry. Should she just accept the fact that she alone survived that hapless strategy?

    "You know, our world may not be as beautiful as this land. But it is our safe place. Folks work hard to survive and provide for their children. Now it was completely useless. Everything that they worked so hard for was now gone underwater," she said in a quivering voice.

    She gazed at the waters of the Lake Visum which was now turning back to its natural beauty. The vision of her world being submerged underneath it.

    King Leandro drew near her. She felt the warmth of his masculine hand on her back as he spoke, "I understand where you''re coming from. I wouldn''t want to see Gaea in that state either."

    Aisha swiveled to face him. She wanted to ask if he had any idea how it happened. Or if they have something to do with it.

    But as he talked, she felt like they were just on equal ground.

    He has a colossal height compared to her, a king in every angle and decree.

    But they both wanted to preserve their own home. Hers, being destroyed, though.

    The King gazed at every part of her face admiringly, making Aisha feel butterflies in her stomach.

    He was not touching her or anything. But his smoldering gaze comforts her, like a warm fireplace in the winter seasons of her life.

    "Now that you''ve seen it with your own eyes, I hope you will never try to escape again. Because I will not be as merciful next time," King Leandro said tenderly as he lifted his finger to remove a strand of her silky black hair away from her reddened face.

    His heartwarming gesture made her head bobbed up and down. Her pink lips curled into a smile. "Thank you, your Majesty. You are indeed a good King," She couldn''t help but utter sincerely.

    Her statement seemed to bother the King, as his face suddenly transformed. It was as if he was surprised to hear it from her.

    "I am just obeying orders from the Great Theos. It is He who is good and just," With a swift motion, he turned around and walked away.

    Aisha scratched her head as he tried to figure it out. "Did I just hit a button?" But she shrugged it off as she followed him.

    She thought he would return to Draco. But King Leandro walked towards the woods.

    "Wait, can you show me how to do that chant? Please?" She babbled as she tried to imitate him while following him inside the forest.

    *************************************************

    "What to do if you find yourself stuck in a crack in the ground underneath a giant boulder you can''t move, with no hope of rescue. Consider how lucky you are that life has been good to you so far. Alternatively, if life hasn''t been good to you so far, which given your current circumstances seems more likely, consider how lucky you are that it won''t be troubling you much longer."

    ¨D Douglas Adams, The Original Hitchhiker Radio Scripts

 Chapter 22 - What Do You Want Before You Die?

    Leandro''s ruby lips twisted in a sad smile. His heart beat seemed to slow down.

    He knew how difficult Aisha could be feeling right now. He would be devastated himself if that happened to Gaea.

    At least, he did not have to worry about her leaving the island now.

    "There aren''t any Nagaes here, right, your Majesty?" Aisha curiously asked as she lifted her skirts, so she could see where she was walking.

    With her eyebrows furrowed in concentration, she was trying to trace his footsteps like something would come out of the ground and grab her if she did not.

    His amaranthine eyes twinkled at her innocent gestures.

    He was showing Aisha the unfortunate state of her land through the Lake of Visum when a Nagae tried to attack her.. Fortunately, Leandro saw him first.

    Leandro looked around the uneven ground. There were fallen trees covered in moss, bark fragments, dead leaves, and pine cones tangled in tall grasses.

    But there were no forest trails of Nagaes or wild animals that might have visited the water edge.

    "No," he answered bluntly in his usual deep, resonating voice, hoping she would be reassured by it.

    "Why are we here, anyway, your Majesty? Do you have something else to show me? Or will this be where I would leave my last will and write what I want before I die? Do you have a pen and paper with you, your Majesty?" Aisha inquired.

    Leandro clamped his lips to prevent a smile from creeping up.

    "This lady has only been here for a few days, but she has amused me in more times than the Castle''s Jesters have," Leandro pondered.

    He has been calling them lately as he was stressed with the current situation of Gaea. His dominion wasn''t as challenging as before, since there were only a few people to lead.

    But this year, the population increased exponentially. It seemed that the lands were struggling to keep up with it.

    There were even times that he couldn''t sleep at night, just thinking.

    Aisha is like a fresh breath of air to him.

    Though she was also a headache after her reckless escape only to go to the Lycus territory, the expected solution to the problem. His hand flew to his temples as he massaged it.

    Until now, he still wasn''t convinced that letting go of the Southern land was the best option. While it is true that they could find other suitable places, that was the best soil for Speltas.

    His head was aching so he just decided to just go with the flow as he questioned her, "I could have it prepared by the Chancellor with the King''s seal on it. What''s your final wish, my lady?"

    However, he wasn''t looking at her. His hyacinth eyes were wary as there might be wild animals trodding along which might mistake her for a meal.

    "Well, to be honest, I actually made that one, before the tsunami waves ate me up," Aisha said after she breathed out a sigh.

    Leandro suddenly stopped as his curiosity was piqued. "Is that so, my lady?" He asked as he turned back to face her.

    "Yes, your Majesty. But I guess it doesn''t matter now, since I was going to die anyway. Again," Her shoulders shrugged with her head bowed down.

    His eyes glinted as he drew closer to her. "What is it? I am the King of Gaea. I could fulfill them. Before you die, that is," He asked in his kingly voice.

    He has no plans of doing the latter. He just wanted to know how she would react.

    She seemed to be a person who usually thinks out loud, as she answered abruptly. "Well, the first one was already answered. That is to live in another world, which I have experienced for more than 24 hours, thank God. But the second one," she paused, "It hasn''t happened, yet, I guess. But that could not be given easily even if one is a King."

    Leandro''s eyes widened at her astounding statement. Both his thick eyebrows shot up in astonishment. "Is there such a thing that a King couldn''t give? Tell me, my lady."

    Clearly, there is nothing in Gaea that he could not do or give. Aisha''s final wish was definitely intriguing.

    Aisha seemed to think about it as she gazed up at the sky with her narrowed eyes. "Well, if I told you, it might not just happen at all."

    Leandro''s jaw dropped. "What is something that a King couldn''t give? That when one has knowledge about it, he has already lost his chance of giving it? Is this some kind of riddle, my lady? Are you buying your way out of your punishment?"

    Aisha quickly responded. "No, your Majesty. It is the truth," she shook her head and her hands vigorously in denial.

    Leandro peered into her eyes to see if she was lying. Her bronze-shaded eyes were wide in fear.

    It appeared as if she was indeed telling the truth.

    A silent wind came in between them, making Leandro hear what he was looking for.

    From where they were, he could hear the waters trickling around rocks and over twigs. He quickly went in the direction of the water, Aisha was close behind.

    True enough, they were near the grassy banks edging the shallow water. His chiseled face lit up as he saw that the waters were full of minnows and small fish flashing beneath the surface.

    It was already early afternoon and Aisha hasn''t eaten yet. He knew that ordinary humans have weak bodies. That''s why he decided to eat first before they continue on their way.

    He withdrew his sharp double-edged sword from its sheath and commanded Aisha, "Stay still!"

    Leandro lifted his sword and was about to plunge it at one of the fish.

    However, just as he was about to do, his eyes caught on Aisha''s expression.

    Her eyes were shut tightly, so did her fists which clung to her skirt as if that could save her.

    Leandro smiled. "He must have thought that I would cut her neck and have her head float in these streams."

    He was about to say that she could open her eyes, and he has no plans of hurting her. But he decided to close his mouth again.

    Aisha just looked too beautiful right now.

    Leandro drew near her until he was about a foot away from her.

    He could feel her staggering breath, even the scent coming from her hair as the winds were carrying it in his direction.

    Suddenly he felt his throat go parched as he stared at her pink, luscious lips. Her eyes were still closed.

    He drew closer to her and whispered in her ear, "If I kiss you right now, am I on my way to fulfilling your final wish?"

    Aisha opened her doll-like eyes in bewilderment and stared at him.

    ********************************************

    We live as if there are countless days ahead. We fail to seize the moment and grab the opportunities to enjoy life to its fullest, do things that make our hearts sing, or express how we feel about the ones we cherish the most. It always seems that we will be able to do that ''later'', when the only thing we really have is now.

 Chapter 23 - A Kiss With A King

    Aisha felt like her heart literally stopped beating at that very moment. Her wide copper eyes blinked rapidly as she stared at his slightly opened sensual mouth, ready to devour her as soon as she said yes. She knew her cheeks were redder than ripe cherries.

    The King of Gaea was asking for her permission to kiss him!

    "Oh, my, gosh," Aisha drawled to herself. She wanted to scream a bold and loud YES. The most attractive male physique on the planet. Just one peck would send anyone to heaven! It wouldn''t be so bad to feel a pleasurable moment a few seconds before she dies.

    King Leandro and her were still both in the woods. He was about to kill her when he offered to grant her final wish, though he wasn''t actually aware of what it was.

    Her last wish was to be loved sincerely. She knew two people kissing doesn''t mean that they already love one another.. But it could be a start.

    "Maybe, I''m not really sure. But we can try. It must not be so bad. Or -" she rattled on, trying to release her nervousness from the King''s dominating presence.

    But she hadn''t even finished her sentence when, for a fraction of a second, she felt the King''s soft and warm lips on hers.

    At first, she tried to fight it off. "Why would he kiss me when he was clearly intending to kill me? Or he has really no intentions to kill me but make me his Chosen One? His breeding machine?"

    Her muscles froze as she thought about it. But his warm lips seemed to be thawing her inhibitions away.

    At that moment, all her doubts and the painful memories that she had just seen in the Lake Visum slowly lifted and were quickly replaced by unknown blissful emotions.

    "Maybe I could think about it again later?" She concluded.

    Then she closed her eyes as she focused on the melting sensation that the King''s lips were doing to her.

    At first, his champagne-wet lips moistened hers as he slowly nibbled it. Like a delicious dessert that he wanted to savor every bite. Then they started to get deeper, his silky skillful tongue started exploring her submissive mouth.

    He was so adept that she just opened her mouth wider to accept his invasion of her privacy. Her knees went weak at what he was doing and she almost fell down on the ground.

    Even with his burning passion, he was still caring enough to catch her back and slowly lay her on the grass, without his lips leaving hers.

    Now she was lying on the ground, parallel with the clear blue sky, with a King who was passionately expressing his manly emotions for her. What else could she want at that moment?

    She was about to close her eyes again when both of them heard something that made them stop from what they were doing.

    "Who''s that?" King Leandro growled as he raised his sword.

    Then he immediately pointed the edge of the sword to something on the ground. It was a fish, the size of a Crappie. It seemed to be dead.

    "Is that a Nagae? Why did it fly here?" Aisha curiously asked as she went on her knees and drew near it. It looked like an ordinary fish to her.

    Just then, something seemed to splash in the water. It quickly disappeared, but Aisha''s eyes were quick to see a large sparkling blue tail diving into the water.

    "It seems that someone wants you to be fed rather than be eaten by me. I don''t know if I would thank her for fulfilling my original purpose. Or punish her for disturbing us," he answered her with a hint of amusement.

    He extended his hand and offered it to her.

    Aisha felt her face throbbed in embarrassment. But she immediately grabbed it and stood up.

    She was still in the heavens from the euphoric kisses of the King. But she shook her head, so she could concentrate on what he just said.

    "So we are here because you want to feed me? I really thought you''re going to kill me, your Majesty," she continued to babble on. "I knew you lost something there with Lord Lycano because of me. I''m sorry."

    It must have made an impact on the King, as his face grew dim. He paused for a few seconds. But then he continued to prepare the fish and grill it.

    There was complete silence, one could only hear the crackling of the wooden sticks as the fire burned them.

    Aisha decided to shut her mouth as she regretted opening the topic when the King was obviously thrilled by their kiss just a few moments ago.

    "Here, eat this," The King said in a deep, resonant voice as he gave her the fish.

    Aisha quickly received it as she was really starving. "Thank you, your Majesty. You are most kind."

    She continued to munch on the fish but kept a wary eye on the King. He was just there watching her eat. She has no idea what was going on in his mind.

    "Is he really just naturally nice? Or does he have an agenda why he is being this way to me? Is this because he needs my womb?" She contemplated, as she recalled that she doesn''t really have good people in her life that have treated her nicely just because.

    As soon as she was finished, she quickly asked what''s bothering her. "If you don''t mind me asking, why are you being so nice to me?"

    Her heart thumped in her chest as she awaited his answer. She hoped that it was not what she expected.

    But to prolong her curiosity, the King just stood up and said to her. "I will give you my answer once we get back to the Castle."

    Seeing that the King had already made up her mind, she followed him when he went back to the Dracus. She was glad that he kept her alive anyway,

    His nearness to her awoke her senses back when they were kissing a while ago. It was one of the most pleasurable experiences she has felt with a man.

    If this was a different scenario, she could have asked for it again. But she also wanted to know if this King was just playing her or what.

    She allowed him to take her back to the Castle, where she tried to escape previously.

    As soon as they landed, he immediately brought her to a different Chamber. One that is bigger and more luxurious.

    Rosalia was also there and bowed down to her.

    The King was about to leave her in the room. But before he left, he gave her his answer, which astounded the life out of her.

    "You will be my wife, my lady," he bowed down to her, kissed the back of her hand, and left the room, leaving a bedazzled Aisha behind.

    **********************************************

    "One day you will kiss a man you can''t breathe without, and find that breath is of little consequence."

    ¨D Karen Marie Moning, Bloodfeve

 Chapter 24 - Family Talks

    "Good morning, my lady," Rosalia''s voice awakened Aisha from her deep sleep.

    She tried opening her eyes, but she immediately shut them tight. The sun''s rays were already at their peak. They almost scorched her sensitive organs of sight.

    "I must have dozed off from wracking my brains out," Aisha yawned wide. She still hasn''t moved on from the King''s last words. He will make her his wife!

    "Yes, you have, my lady. But it''s all right. You must have missed your family. That''s why you escaped on your first night. I was like that when I first entered the Castle, too," Rosalia cheered her up as she fixed the blue and white curtains on the sides of the large glass-stained windows..

    Then she went to the table and got her breakfast.

    Aisha was still in the room where King Leandro left her. She did not dare leave again after her unfortunate encounter with Lord Lycano and the Nagae on Lake Visum. It seemed she really was not safe anywhere outside the Castle.

    "Yeah, I''m sorry if I got you in trouble. I won''t do it again, I promise," Aisha apologized to Rosalia as she gobbled the soup. But she kept her fingers crossed behind her back. Who knows? There might be someone in the Castle who might want her dead too!

    "It''s all right, my lady. The King gave me this," Rosalia pulled up a small horn and lifted it in the air for Aisha to see clearly.

    "This will alert the nearest guard that you have escaped again," she smiled from ear to ear as if she had just shared a brilliant idea.

    Aisha''s shoulders dropped with her head bowed down to the table. What did she expect? Of course, they will heighten their security after the mayhem that she caused.

    Her palm flew to her neck as she felt like she was literally suffocating. Other normal people may have felt that it was just normal for anyone to be inside closed doors. But not Aisha.

    She has too many painful memories behind closed spaces that she couldn''t just shake off just because this was the safer option.

    She grabbed the glass of water on the table. And as soon as her mind was cleared, she immediately pushed the memories away.

    "Don''t worry, you will not need it. For now," she reassured Rosalia with a smile.

    "I''m glad to hear that, my lady. Don''t worry, the King''s Castle is one of the most beautiful places here in Gaea. And the King gave you permission to travel anywhere as long as it is within these Castle walls, for your own safety," Rosalia returned the favor as she encouraged her to stay.

    Aisha''s eyes widened in excitement at what she said. She thought that the King would just keep her locked up in that golden cage of a chamber.

    She quickly ate her breakfast and immediately asked Rosalia, "Can we go out now? I want to see what the other parts of the Castle look like."

    Rosalia immediately nodded and bowed down to Aisha. Aisha immediately changed her clothes and went out of her Chamber together with Rosalia.

    Aisha took in a lungful of air as soon as she was out of the tower where she was staying. Her lips curled up in joy as the fear of being trapped inside those walls melted away.

    Just then, she heard children squealing and laughing. She immediately went to where they were. Rosalia followed close behind.

    The children were in the courtyard, and they were playing with each other. Aisha couldn''t help but draw close to them.

    "What are you playing? Can I join you?" She asked them.

    The children glanced at one another and then at Aisha. They were wearing ordinary-looking plain clothes, while Aisha was covered in a smooth silky tunic. They must have felt uncomfortable that someone like her would play with them.

    "Can I play too?" Rosalia sat down and smiled at them. It seemed that they were more comfortable with her, since they immediately said yes.

    "Or was it because they all have furry ears and tails?" Aisha scratched her head as she thought about it. But she was glad that they allowed her to play with them.

    They were having fun playing a game that resembled nine-pin bowling when one of the children fell on the ground and his knee was badly scraped.

    "Waa!" He cried out in a loud voice. Aisha immediately went to his side and tried to help him sit on a log. "It''s okay, little one. It''s just a minor scratch," she smiled at him, hoping it would help relieve his pain. But his cry only went louder.

    She was about to blow on his wound when a lady came rushing in while shouting, "Astar!"

    "Mother!" The boy''s face immediately brightened up as soon as he saw her.

    Astar''s mother quickly embraced him in her arms, making Astar stop crying.

    Aisha couldn''t help but smile at the sight.

    Rosalia whispered to Aisha as she explained the quick appearance of Astar''s mother. "I was about to look for her. But she was already rushing here as soon as she heard his voice. Mothers really know best."

    Aisha let out a long sigh. "Yeah, I wish all mothers were the same."

    Rosalia seemed to be bothered by her statement that she shared her own thoughts, "My mother was also like that whenever we get sick or wounded."

    "Well, lucky you. I can''t remember a time when my Mom would appear like that, even if my eyes were swollen with tears for a day," Aisha commented as she recalled her childhood moments.

    As she did so, a sharp, stabbing pain made its way in her heart, making her remove her eyes from Astar and her mother.

    "I apologize, my lady. I wasn''t aware. But maybe your father was there for you. My father wasn''t always that''s why our Mother was making time for us," Rosalia shared thinking that it would somehow lift Aisha''s sad recollections.

    But Aisha just shrugged her shoulders. "He wasn''t there either. Both of them were busy with their own careers and families. I don''t even know if they knew I existed on earth for eighteen years already."

    Rosalia''s eyelids welled up in tears at her statement. "Forgive me, my lady. I shouldn''t have asked!" She knelt down at her feet. But Aisha immediately picked her up.

    "Silly, it''s fine. Don''t worry, I have a stepsister. I''m somewhat close to her, so I guess I''m not really that lonely. But I don''t know where she is now," Aisha sighed again.

    "Don''t worry, my lady. I''m sure she is safe somewhere. I will pray to God with you to keep her safe," Rosalia beamed at her with her hands clasped together.

    Aisha''s cheeks lifted at her encouraging words. "I appreciate it, Rosalia. Really," she pressed on Rosalia''s hands and embraced her.

    Then she stood up and asked her to accompany her to the other parts of the Castle.

    They didn''t know that someone was silently watching them from his window in one of the Castle Towers.

    ************************************************

    "No amount of money or success can take the place of time spent with your family." -Unknown

 Chapter 25 - The Future Queen

    "You should see the Castle Garden, my lady. Its beauty is as exquisite as you," Rosalia boasted as they went on strolling down the Castle pathways.

    "Well, that''s surely stunning I suppose," Aisha grinned from ear to ear as she followed along. Her eyes continued to behold the beauty of the other parts of the Castle, which she hasn''t seen during her first time there.

    The King''s Castle wasn''t as hideous as she expected. Or was it because she went there at the darkest time of the night? Maybe that''s why she hasn''t seen how lively this place is, with the joyous laughter of the citizens and the harmonious sounds made by the animal live stocks?

    Aisha''s silky long tresses bobbed up and down as she kept looking around. She was busy looking at a stand when a man suddenly pointed to her with his forefinger.

    "There, that''s the female human that made the King banish us from the Castle," he angrily mentioned her to his wife.

    The wife glared at her as if she was already stabbing her with just her stare. The other bystanders'' attention was now caught..

    "Wait, what do you mean? How can I be the cause of some families'' expulsion? I don''t even know you, people," Aisha thought with her eyebrows together as she drew near them.

    Rosalia filled her in on the details. "I think they are the Gatekeepers that failed to examine the cart that you used in order to get away from here, my lady."

    Aisha''s bronze eyes widened as she recalled her stowaway plan while getting away from what she thought was her prison cell. She then gazed empathetically on the innocent man and woman who was affected by her reckless actions.

    She wanted to apologize to them. But she didn''t know if it would do any good. It seems that the King has already given an order to cast them out of the Castle.

    "Don''t worry about this. I will try and talk with the King about it. He will listen to me. We''re a little close, you know," She smiled and bowed down to them with all sincerity.

    However, the couple just sneered at her. "What can a mere woman like you do against the king''s order? You should have stayed where you came from. No matter what you do, humans will never be tolerated in Gaea."

    The wife nodded her head, and so did the other people who were eavesdropping at that moment.

    All of them snickered at her. There were even murmuring negative remarks against her stay.

    The previously fragrant air turned rancid as she felt the cold treatment of the Gaeans for her.

    At that moment, she recalled how her family used to scoff at her whenever she does something to please them. They did not just ignore her for her accomplishments. They even criticize her for her efforts, saying that she wasn''t good enough to do anything at all.

    "Is that also my fate here in the afterlife?" Aisha sighed as she shrugged her shoulders.

    She felt sad since she already decided to stay here. She thought that everything would work out fine, since the King seemed to like her to keep him company.

    But this is worse. The people hate her.

    "Let''s just go back, my lady," Rosalia suggested, seeing the response of the people against her.

    Aisha nodded her head. She wanted to reassure the couple who was sent away. But what they said was true. She is the reason why they were suffering.

    They turned back and were about to leave when, to their surprise, someone was coming down to their area.

    "Your Majesty!" All the people who were present at that moment kneeled to their feet. Aisha and Rosalia bowed down immediately.

    It was King Leandro. He was followed by Lord Emilio and other royal attendants.

    "I heard that the Gaeans in this side of the land were not very welcoming to their future Queen," King Leandro''s authoritative voice bellowed throughout the area, making the people cower down in fear.

    "Punish us with death, your Majesty!" They shouted in unison as they lowered their heads to the ground. But in the back of their minds, they started questioning, "Our future Queen?" They gazed at each other in puzzlement while kneeling down.

    "Come now, Lady Asha. There are a lot of things that you need to prepare for our wedding," King Leandro added as he lifted his hand in a lofty manner.

    The people seemed to understand that he was talking about her. With their surprised faces, they immediately turned to Aisha and bowed down to her. "Forgive us, Your Highness."

    "Your Highness? Future Queen?" Aisha snapped out of her thoughts. She was also thinking about the same thing. She was glad that he wanted to save her face from being more embarrassed. "But is this forced marriage? He hadn''t even consulted me about this yet!"

    She gazed at the King who seemed to be unperturbed at her confusion. Aisha drew in a deep breath as she thought, "I could talk with him about that later. But I need to deal with this couple here, first."

    Aisha stood up and made a formal bow to him again. "Apologies, your Majesty. But I would like to ask for your grace and mercy for these couples here. I believe they don''t need to be sent away because it was my fault and not theirs. You should have punished me instead of them."

    At her comment, the couple flailed their hands in the air. "Please forgive us for our impudence, your Highness. We should be the ones to take the blame. You should not lower down for mere peasants like us."

    King Leandro spoke up regarding the issue. "Whether it was Lady Aisha or other people, ally or enemy, stolen goods or not, it is a Gatekeeper''s duty to inspect every little detail of everything that is going in and out of the Castle for the safety of everyone. Thus, I will not revoke my command!" The King lifted his head in defiance.

    "Rule over us with wisdom and strength, your Majesty!" Lord Emilio crossed his hand over his head, followed by the royal assistants, who also chorused the same thing.

    *******************************************************

    Responsibility is accepting that you are the cause and the solution of a matter.

 Chapter 26 - A Mothers Advice

    Leandro was glad that Aisha was compassionate enough to put a stop to the banishment of the Gatekeepers'' families. Though, he felt bad for her for experiencing such negative treatment by his own people.

    However, he couldn''t blame them. It has been centuries that Gaea hasn''t encountered a human species. It is normal for them to be wary of her.

    As soon as he heard how Aisha was being treated, he immediately left the Chancery. He didn''t think that Aisha would go out of the towers at once. He thought she would familiarize herself first within the Castle walls, where it was safe for her.

    He gazed at Aisha, who was furious right now. As much as he wanted to agree with her, he must put things in order.

    If he allowed the Gatekeepers to be free, everyone would take their duties lightly.. And there is no great or small duty in the Castle. Being responsible no matter how small a task is contributing to people''s safety.

    "I understand," Aisha said, making him heave out a sigh of relief. "However, I would like to request these people to live in a place where their whole family will not go hungry, and they will have a nice roof to their heads."

    "Your grace is boundless, your Highness," the Gatekeepers fell at their feet and bowed to Aisha. "You will make a good queen."

    Aisha scratched her head and smiled sheepishly. "That''s the least I can do for your trouble. But still, it is up to the King to decide, isn''t it?"

    Everyone''s eyes darted to Leandro. He drew in a deep breath and stated his decision. "Of course. I will do as Lady Aisha said. The Gatekeepers will have a place in the Eastern region near the fields. I also sent sacks of Spelta for them, together with potatoes, salt and honey."

    "Your grace is immeasurable, Your Majesty," all the bystanders who were there to witness bow down to the King. It is not every day that they get to see the face of the king. And it is not every day that they could witness his merciful actions.

    "Rosalia, please bring Lady Aisha to the dining hall. The Lady must be starving," he commanded her court maid.

    "Yes, Your Majesty," she bowed down to him.

    Aisha also bowed to him. But she left a word, "Let''s talk later, okay? Your Majesty?" It seemed like she was glaring at him.

    They were still outside, so Leandro also returned to the Towers. He was in the Chancery previously, studying how he could provide for the increasing demands of the people, and he wanted to return to his studies.

    He walked back to the Castle while Lord Emilio followed close behind.

    "I understand that you want the people to view Lady Aisha in a positive light, Your Majesty. But do you think it''s alright for the people to know that you''re planning to marry her at this point in time, Your Majesty? The Tribal Council doesn''t know about it yet. They might think that you are bypassing them," Lord Emilio opened up to him as they walked back to the corridors.

    Leandro nodded his head. He understood perfectly what he meant.

    The Tribal Council was a group of people that the Great Theos also constructed as a form of government in Gaea. He is the King. But he must take into consideration the advice coming from the Tribal Council. And he was not just marrying a certain woman to bear his child. He was also establishing the Queen of Gaea.

    He pressed his lips together as his feet trudged to the Royal Chancery. Leandro could easily win the hearts of bystanders. But knowing the attitude and mindset of the Tribal Council, he knew that convincing them to allow him to marry Lady Aisha was no easy task.

    "Call the lords of the Tribal Council for a meeting," Leandro said as they turned to the right.

    Lord Emilio immediately bowed down his head and complied.

    Instead of going to the Royal Chancery, he decided to leave and went to the Western part of the Castle.

    He has no biological family to confide in Gaea. But there was one family that was there for him as he grew up.

    "Leandro! I mean, your Majesty," Olivia bowed down to him. But she immediately lifted her head with a twinkle in her eye. It has been a long time since they last saw each other.

    "No need for formalities, Mother," Leandro opened his arms to receive her embrace.

    Olivia may not be his biological mother, but she has been a family to her, one of the people in Gaea that he knew he could trust with his life.

    He gazed at her graying hair and her wrinkling eyes. She was also not a human and was from the Nephilus Clan, a distant relative of Lord Emilio.

    As soon as they sat down on their porch, he then shared with her his desire to get married to Lady Aisha. More than the Tribal Council, he values her opinion more than them.

    There were numerous situations in his life, both as a King and as a human, that he was torn as to what decision he must make. Her view always proved to be of value.

    "She''s also a human, and there is a big possibility that she would give me an heir. The Great Theos has given her permission to live in the land, provided that she would also agree with it," Leandro continued to explain to her.

    "I see," Olivia said after she sipped on her tea. "Marriage is not like cooked Spelta that you could spit out when you burn your tongue. If your purpose or desire to get married is enough to transcend all risks that come with it, then, by all means, do it. If not, don''t put yourself in a tough spot."

    Then she reached out and tapped on his shoulder. "Whatever your decision is, I will support you, you know that." She added with a supportive smile on her face.

    Leandro gave her a warm smile as he pressed on her hand and pondered on her advice.

    *************************************************

    It doesn''t matter how old you are or what you''re doing in your life. You will never stop needing a mom.

 Chapter 27 - She Will Be My Wife

    Meanwhile, the Tribal Council was already waiting for Leandro at the Throne Room. It is where they usually meet to discuss the significant issues within Gaean Realm.

    The three members of the Tribal Council were all present. Lord Roberto, the leader of the species that live in the air. He was also from the Nephilus Clan. Lady Marina was also there. She was the leader of the species that live underwater. And Lord Lycano, who was the leader of the species who lived in the land.

    From their looks, It seems like they already know the reason for the urgent meeting, as they were already discussing it among themselves even before King Leandro even mentioned it. But they all stood up and bowed down to Leandro as soon as he entered the room.

    "Forgive me for my rash actions, your Majesty. I just couldn''t hide the fact that a female human was currently living in Gaea.. I already told them about it," Lord Lycano said as Leandro sat down on the throne, a smug smile could be seen on his face.

    Leandro, who was already sitting on his throne, couldn''t help but grimace. He should have known. With that last look on his face before they left, he appeared to be planning something absurd. He has already set the atmosphere of the Tribal Council against Lady Aisha.

    "You don''t have to apologize, Lord Lycano. My servant told me that she has seen the King with her. And to think that I punished her for scandalizing the King," Lady Marina rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

    Leandro drew in a deep breath. He knew that Lady Marina would act this way. He was not unaware of her affections for him. But he just couldn''t return the favor.

    She is beautiful and physically attractive. But she is part of the Tribal Council. And besides, she could not produce an offspring for him.

    "Did the Great Theos know about this? Humans are evil. I wouldn''t be surprised that the Great Theos allowed their world to be destroyed. They have self-destructive behaviors. I don''t think you would want that kind of person to be the mother of your children, your Majesty," Lady Marina gritted her teeth as she pleaded her case with Leandro.

    "And the next King of Gaea will have human blood, too. What kind of King would he be?" Lord Lycano shook his head in a mocking manner.

    Leandro''s jaw clenched as his hands balled into fists. Even though Lady Marina and Lord Lycano both have personal agendas why they were reacting like that, he knew that they had a point.

    There is a reason why the Great Theos didn''t allow any human to live in Gaea. He has also witnessed how they destroy themselves through wars and civil attacks in the name of politics and religion.

    In his studies, he also gained knowledge that one''s blood has something to do with one''s personality and behavior. To be honest with himself, that idea was the one causing him to doubt his resolve.

    His amaranthine eyes darted at the paintings on the concave wall of the Throne Room. Drawn in it was the history of Gaea. Different events already took place across the centuries.

    Other tribe''s sons and great-grandsons have already made their legacies.

    "Will my name just end with me?" Leandro thought as loneliness crept into his heart. He appreciates the Great Theos gift of eternal life and rulership. But it would be even better if he has someone to share it with, someone that is his own flesh and blood.

    "The Great Theos must have known that Lady Aisha was different from them. Or else, he would not allow the Lady to enter our realm. If not for her, how would the King have an heir? Why don''t we give the female human a chance? If she would not abide by our rules and regulations, we could then meet again for the next step," Lord Roberto spoke up, diluting the negative atmosphere created by the two.

    Leandro gazed at Lord Roberto. Though he was part of the Nephilus Clan who has been supportive of him since his reign, he knew that Lord Roberto was a person who was always rational and objective.

    He felt relieved hearing that he was sympathetic with his plan to procreate with Lady Aisha.

    "Yes, I have already talked with the Great Theos, and he approved of her. And as I can see with Lady Aisha, she has a compassionate heart and views the welfare of other people more than herself, a character that is different from what we fear among humans," Leandro lifted his head and defended Aisha.

    He then asked the Royal Chancellor to make a royal command regarding their wedding. He was about to put the royal seal on it when Lady Marina spoke up again.

    "Why don''t we test her out first? Make her one of the royal concubines, like the others. Then, if she could provide an heir, she could be your wife. Three months would be enough," Lady Marina suggested.

    "Test? What if she could not get pregnant? The King would just dispose her? I suggest that the Lady would not be even a royal concubine at all," Lord Lycano stood up and raised his voice.

    Leandro was thinking about both their points. Deep inside, he didn''t want to treat Lady Aisha as trash.

    She just lost her family and her home. That would be too cruel for her.

    "I will make her my wife. If she could give me an heir and her character has not demonstrated signs that she was just like the humans that we fear, I would lift her into the position of the Queen. If not, she would still remain as my wife, with all its privileges. My decision is final," Leandro said with an authoritative voice before sealing the royal command with his seal.

    **************************************************

    "When you are a real queen, there is absolutely no reason to try and make people believe that you are one. Because you just are. Life is lived with grace, courage, and serenity. If you must dedicate any amount of time and mental ability to making anyone believe that you are one; you''re not!"¨D C. JoyBell C.

 Chapter 28 - The 1007th Lady Consort

    As soon as Aisha finished her meal, she immediately requested Rosalia to accompany her to the Castle Garden. She was hoping that its exquisite beauty would clear her mind.

    She was glad that the King had granted her request of compensating the Gatekeeper''s family. But his last statement blew her mind away.

    "At first, he told me that he would make me his wife. And now I am the future Queen? Oh my gosh, is he kidding me?" Aisha''s hands flung in the air in desperation, surprising Rosalia.

    "Why, my lady? Don''t you like to be a Queen and the wife of the King? Many ladies would die of envy to be in your position," Rosalia expressed her opinion as she continued to direct her steps to the Castle Garden.

    Her small nose wiggled and sneezed as it seemed to sense the presence of pollen, signaling that they were already near the Garden.

    True enough, as they turned to the left, rows or patches of flowers separated by ground cover plants laid bare before Aisha''s eyes. A breeze gently stirring the ornamental grasses caressed her nose, making her downcast lips turned up..

    "You''re right. This is beautiful," Aisha uttered as her slender legs ran towards the benches where she could sit and watch the butterflies flitting between blossoms.

    Her plum cheeks heightened as she admired its beauty. "I know being a Queen is one of the best positions a woman can ever have. I have even daydreamed about it when I was a kid."

    She extended her hand to touch one of them, but it flew away. "Actually, that''s the reason why I joined beauty contests. I want the crown. But that''s it. I don''t want responsibilities. And I don''t think I can raise up the next King. Oh my gosh, just thinking about it makes me vomit," Aisha held on to her neck to emphasize her point.

    "But what if it is a royal command? You could be punished by death if you disobeyed it. And by the looks of the King, I think he is so smitten with you that he will do what it takes to make you the Queen, his wife or a royal concubine, my lady," Rosalia said as she picked up one of the sprinklers on a nearby bench.

    She put it down to tie down her apron properly, and then picked up the sprinkler again so she could water the plants.

    "Royal Concubine? How could that be a royal thing? Oh right, Kings are entitled to polygamy. I thought that was just in the books," Aisha thought out loud, with her dainty fingers on her rosy lips.

    "Polygamy?" Rosalia asked as she scratched her head. She stopped from watering the plants and turned towards Aisha.

    "Oh, never mind. But what do you mean by royal concubine? Am I going to be like the 7th mistress or something?" Lady Aisha asked with curiosity.

    Rosalia brought down the sprinkler and pondered on what Aisha said. Her fingers shot up as if she was counting how many royal concubines King Leandro has.

    "If the King will make you his royal concubine, you will be the 701st. If he makes you his wife, you will be the 307th. And if he will make you his Queen, you will be the first," Rosalia finally answered her with a satisfied smile on her face.

    Aisha almost dropped to the floor at Rosalia''s response. "700 concubines and 306 wives? What kind of stamina does the King have?" She uttered with her pale lips as she imagined the King with his wives and concubines.

    Rosalia couldn''t help but chuckle at her comment. "The King has been looking for his Chosen One for decades. And he takes good care of his women, even if they could not give him an heir. As far as I know, only the Chosen One will be hailed as the Queen. That is why the royal concubines and wives are always competing for his attention," Rosalia shared with her as she went to the nearby fountain to wash her hands.

    "All the single ladies in Gaea even gave themselves to even just being a royal concubine. But the King has already given up his search years ago," Rosalia sighed as she looked up at the sky. It seemed as if she was one of the ladies that she was talking about.

    "Well, a thousand women is enough. I feel pity for the other Gaean men," Lady Aisha shrugged her shoulders. Then she bit her lips before adding, "But I don''t want to be the 1,007th Lady Consort. If I am one of them, I cannot go out of the Castle. Am I right? I''m just going to stitch clothes, wait for the King to come to my bed. Jeez, I''m getting the creeps," Aisha shivered and rubbed her arms as her hairs were standing up.

    "You would also be taking care of the prince and princess. You will be comforting the King when he is tired and stressed. I think it''s a lovely picture, my lady," Rosalia answered with a dreamy look on her face.

    "Well, maybe I''m not fit for a family. I don''t see myself being a good mother. My children will just blame me for their existence. I don''t want that to happen," Aisha drew in a deep breath as she gazed away, as if she could see past the sky and into the realm where she came from.

    A wind blew, silencing the both of them. Only the rustling leaves and plant stalks could be heard as they both have their own reminiscing of their past lives.

    Just then, one of the royal guards came to them with a scroll in his hand. "A Royal Command for Lady Aisha!"

    Rosalia bowed down to him. Aisha, not knowing what to do, bowed down to him as well.

    ***************************************************

    Your most valuable parenting skill is learning to manage yourself first. ¡ªDr. Laura Markham

 Chapter 29 - Be My Wife

    At that moment, Aisha couldn''t hear the birds chirping or the flap of their wings as they bathed in the small pond. All she could hear was her heart pumping wildly in her chest.

    Her head started spinning as she thought about the reasons why a royal guard searched for her with a ridiculous looking scroll in his hand.

    With her and Rosalia''s heads bowed down, she listened attentively to what the Royal Guard said as he read what was written on the scroll.

    "I hereby summon Lady Aisha to be one of the Royal Wives of the King of Gaea. She is to prepare herself for the Royal Wedding which will be held at the next full moon," The Royal Guard declared before closing the scroll, signaling the end of the royal command.

    Aisha''s knees went jelly as she heard the royal command. "M-me? A royal wife? I haven''t even worn my diploma yet!"

    She recalled the time when she was kissing the King at Lady Visum. Being a royal wife will give her the permission to do that oftentimes. And it makes her heart flutter.. But the responsibility that comes with it, it''s making her head ache!

    Rosalia pressed her lips and nodded her head as if she was saying to her to just bow her head at the royal command.

    "No, I will not! I don''t want to!" Lady Aisha shook her head vigorously. "I''m too young for this! I will still look for my family. Then we''ll find a place to settle down somewhere, where I can be free to do whatever I want, without kids pulling my pants and piercing my ears with their wails. Oh no, please don''t do this to me!"

    "You can talk about it later with the King, my lady. But if you do not bow your head, you will see your head rolling in the mud!" Rosalia almost raised her voice in worry about her life. She must have known how strict the King is with his commands.

    Aisha''s shoulders dropped as she drew in a deep breath. "If I bowed my head and accepted this, I might not be able to get out of it. I will be a plain old housewife, with ridiculous-looking costumes and makeup."

    She heaved out a long sigh as she watched the butterflies with their colorful wings fleeting from one flower to another. Her ears heard the rhythmic splatter of water in the fountain. She could smell the fragrant flowers as they bloom under the afternoon sun.

    They were all free to do what they wanted, without anyone stopping them from doing so. "I wish I could just be one of these. A butterfly, a flower, or a water drop," she thought out loud as she sighed again.

    She recalled how she felt with her own family, making her heart break into pieces. She doesn''t want to feel it again, nor her future children. In fact, she really has no plans of having a family of her own. She was planning to stay single and happy all the days of her life.

    "My lady, the Royal Guard is waiting. He must come back to the King with an affirmative answer, or you know what will happen," Rosalia continued to urge her with her head still in a bowing position.

    Aisha belled, "all right, all right." She bowed down to him and replied, "May it be to me, as the King said." She said through gritted teeth.

    But as soon as he left, she immediately lifted her skirt and went inside the Castle Towers. The King will not have what he wanted with her!

    Her small nostrils were flaring and beads of sweat formed in her petite forehead. But she doesn''t care.

    Rosalia said that he was probably in the Royal Chancery, as he was there most of the time. So she immediately went there, as led by Rosalia, since she doesn''t know her way around yet.

    "Announcing the presence of Lady Aisha!" The royal guard who was guarding the Royal Chancery reported to the King, who was certainly inside the room.

    "Let her in."

    Aisha heard his deep orotund voice inside, making her draw in a deep breath. She must talk him out of this!

    "Your Majesty," she immediately bowed as she entered the room. Rosalia stayed outside.

    "I must have suited your taste in women. But I have no plans of getting married at this point in time. Well, I would give you permission to kiss me anytime, if that''s what you want. But with no strings attached. No commitment and notarized documents or anything," She babbled on as she looked for the right words to express her defiance against his will.

    She didn''t realize that the King had already stepped into her private space, as he was now only a foot away from him.

    He stretched out his hand and lifted her small face with his gigantic fingers until she could gaze into his amethyst eyes. He was gazing at her pressed lips.

    "What if I want more than a kiss? Would you still give it to me without the legally binding papers that you''re mentioning?" He asked in a raspy voice, making Aisha gulp a lump in her throat.

    She could feel his heavy breath. The waft of his manly scent made its way into her nose, making her doubt her resolve.

    "How could I be attracted sensually to him right now?" Aisha scolded herself.

    She stepped away and shook her head as she thought of what to do. "Is he just asking for free sex right now? Well, that''s possible. But what if I got pregnant? I''m sure he doesn''t have a condom here. And I''m sure he will cum inside me and intentionally impregnate me."

    She just decided to ask it away. "What will happen if I get pregnant? What will happen to the child?"

    The King seemed to be amused at his question, as his plum lips curled up. But he answered her straightforwardly, clearing the option that she had in mind. "If you opt to be a royal concubine, there will be no wedding. But you can still conceive. I will take care of the child. But he or she could not be the next King or Queen. He or she will remain a bastard all his or her life."

    *********************************************************

    In the middle of difficulty, lies opportunity.

 Chapter 30 - I Accept. Wait, What?

    Aisha''s golden eyes narrowed at the King. It looked like he was offering him no choice.

    She drew in a deep breath as she pondered how her children''s lives would be in Gaea if the King would impregnate her.

    They would have to suffer the discrimination of the Gaean people because of her human blood. Just like what they were doing now.

    "Would you rather make them peasants than the princes and princesses of Gaea?" King Leandro challenged her.

    He crossed his brawn arms while his lilac eyes glimmered as if he was amused that her heart was in turmoil right now.

    Aisha and King Leandro were still on the Royal Chancery, discussing her fate in Gaea.

    As she could see, it would benefit her the most if she would accept being one of his royal wives.. She will be protected, her and her future children. The downside is she has to be a wife and a mother, two things that she has never dreamed of being, especially at that point in time.

    "Will you accept my offer now, Lady Aisha?" King Leandro stepped closer to her again.

    His big hand flew to her petite chin. To her shock and surprisingly delight, his masculine finger grazed on her petulant lips.

    "I promise I will be gentle and good to you. You already have a taste of it, haven''t you?" He spoke in a rough and husky voice, with his glistening lips near hers.

    Aisha''s full bottom lips instinctively opened as she gazed at his plump and moist lips. "Yes," she unconsciously answered as she recalled the last time that those parts of theirs touched each other.

    Her stomach fluttered as she recalled how good a kisser the King was, making her bite her lips unintentionally.

    King Leandro''s chiseled cheeks heightened up revealing his satisfaction with her response. However, like a tease, he drew back and put his arms behind his back. "Then it''s settled then. I will ask the servants to prepare you for our wedding," He bowed down to her formally.

    "Wait, what?" Aisha closed her eyes and opened them again in confusion.

    She answered yes about her having a taste of him. But not to be a royal wife! She wanted to refuse and say no. But it appeared like it was the better choice.

    King Leandro was gazing at her with a pleased smile on his ruggedly handsome face, enough to melt any woman''s heart, including Aisha.

    "All right. But I still don''t want to have children right now," Aisha directly told the King about her wish. It''s better if he has an idea about what she wants, so they wouldn''t have problems later on.

    "As if I could have my way with the King," Aisha thought to herself as she shrugged her shoulders.

    "We''ll see about that. Please go to your Chamber now, my lady. Your servants will be with you shortly. I can''t wait to see you on our wedding night," King Leandro responded to her with a knowing look on his face.

    Aisha gulped as she closed her eyes. "Is this it? Will I be a human breeding machine now?" She exhaled in desperation as she went back to her room.

    True enough, Rosalia was already waiting for her together with the other female servants.

    "Wait, why are you so many?" Aisha''s forehead scrunched up as she saw a dozen female creatures with different bottles in their hands.

    "We have to make sure that your body will be ready for the King on the next full moon, my lady," Rosalia answered as she pointed to the different oils and creams that the servants were holding.

    "Now we will give you a full bath with rose petals and honey, so your skin would be more supple and smooth," Rosalia grinned at her as she slowly removed her clothes one by one.

    "Wait, is this really necessary?" Aisha grimaced as she allowed her to take off everything, including her undergarments.

    If she could remember it right, the moon was in crescent shape last night. It means that she only has a week to prepare before the Grand Day! But this is not the kind of preparation that she wants!

    "I want a full body massage with yoga meditation. And lots and lots of ice cream with whipped cream and a cherry on top," Aisha sighed as she thought about it. "Something that would make me agree with what I''m going to do to myself for the rest of my life."

    "Don''t worry my lady, we could give you that, We could give you anything you want," Rosalia cheered her on as if she was happy that Aisha finally agreed with what the King desired.

    Rosalia led her to a tub filled with water. True enough, rose petals were floating around it. The other servants were waiting for her to step into it so that they could rub her with the oils that they have.

    "Wow, I''m just going to be a wife. But this looks like I am going to wear the crown," Asia thought out loud as her naked feet stepped into the warm water. "This is more relaxing than a sauna," Aisha couldn''t help but blurt out as a servant combed her hair in a gentle manner.

    "This is the instruction of King Leandro, my lady. He must really like you a lot," Rosalia commented as one of the ladies-in-waiting massaged her forehead, making Aisha''s eyes closed.

    "Well, this is not bad, at all," Aisha blurted out as she enjoyed the bath service. "I could stay here all day," she hummed as she recalled that it was the first time she pampered herself after the tsunami incident in her own world.

    **************************************************

    "In addition, receiving your spouse is not just a decision you make when reciting your wedding vows. It requires an attitude of continual acceptance throughout your marriage. In the months and years after the wedding, each of you will become more and more aware of your respective weaknesses and faults. The more you remember your responsibility to receive each other as God''s provision, the stronger your marriage will become. If the person who knows you best also loves you the most, your marriage will be truly special."

    ¨D David Boehi, Preparing for Marriage: Discover God''s Plan for a Lifetime of Love

 Chapter 31 - A Public Post

    Feeling better, Aisha woke up with an upturned face and a relaxed appearance. She felt her muscles loosened up after the wonderful service of the lady servants yesterday.

    Her cheekbones raised as she blurted out, "That felt really good,"  she hummed as she stretched her back and arms.

    Then she sat up straight and clasped her hands on her chest. "Maybe it really wasn''t that bad to be wed to the King," she thought as she recalled her conversation with King Leandro.

    Just then, Rosalia and the other servants came into the room. "Good morning, everyone!" she greeted them with an enthusiastic waving of her hand.

    "Good morning, our lady," All of them bowed down to her.

    Rosalia couldn''t help but chuckle, seeing Aisha in that bubbly state.  .

    "Our lady must have enjoyed your service last night," she whispered in a loud voice to the other servants who were with her.

    They continued to brighten up the room as they opened the beautiful curtains in the large chamber windows and allowed the sun''s rays to penetrate the luxurious room.

    "By the way, I have great news for you, my lady," Rosalia opened up to her with her eyes sparkling and gleaming.

    "Is there any better news than having ice cream with a cherry on top as a dessert? You promised me that yesterday," Aisha responded, giving her a bright-eyed look.

    "It''s not that, my lady. I heard that the Town Crier has already announced your engagement with the King," she said as she seemingly bounced from foot to foot.

    Aisha''s upstretched face turned into a frown. "Town Crier?" She repeated back to her.

    Rosalia''s forehead scrunched up as she seemed to realize why she was asking about a normal thing in Gaea.

    "I apologize, my lady. I forgot that you are from another world. The Town Crier is someone who makes public announcements on the marketplace and towns," Rosalia informed her of one of the wedding traditions in Gaea.

    Aisha''s petite chin dropped to her chest as she blurted out, "So what you''re saying is it was like the King has an Instagram account with all the Gaeans as his followers, and he has just made a post that I am going to be the 1007th Lady Consort."

    The other servants scratched their heads as they heard her mumble. Only Rosalia was bold enough to speak up. "What is Instagram?"

    Aisha seemed to wake up from her senses and tried to explain it to her. "Oh, Instagram is a social media account. All your friends and connections can follow you and see your posts and be updated on what''s happening in your life." She grinned at her.

    "That sounds interesting," Rosalia beamed back with a curious smile on her face.

    Just then, one of the servants came to her side and uttered, "What do you like to wear today, my lady?"

    Rosalia butted in and added, "Yes, my lady. What''s your plan for today? Do you like to go somewhere?"

    Aisha held both sides of her head as she shook it. "I could still remember the looks on their faces as they badmouthed me."

    Her shoulders curved over her chest as she thought about what the people would say now that it was confirmed that the King would marry her. Not as the queen, though. She was relieved. That''s too much responsibility she could handle in her hand.

    Even though she didn''t live in a monarchy form of government, she knew how the queens don''t even have private lives. They were all controlled by politics, which is a no-no for a free-spirited being like her.

    "They will not say negative things to you, this time, my lady. I even think they would think highly of you. The King is very choosy when he picks his wives. If you are chosen to be one, it means you are of high standards," Rosalia cheered on.

    The other servants agreed with her as they nodded their heads. "My daughter isn''t picked even though I prepared her for a year," one of them commented.

    "And you wonder why? Of course, you are her mother," one of the servants snickered in a teasing manner.

    The servant''s eyes widened in surprise at her statement and pinched her waist, "And you''re so pretty, huh?"

    The other servants laughed, including Aisha. "Don''t worry, pretty ladies. The only reason why I''m chosen is that I''m a human. No more. No less," she stated in a matter-of-fact tone.

    Then she added, "Speaking of that, is the King a human? He looks and feels like one. But I think he also has supernatural powers. He healed me one time. Or not? Why is he the King?" Aisha babbled in curiosity.

    One of the servants, who seemed to be at ease now with Aisha, spoke up. "As far as I know. He is not human. The people said that he can bring down rain and open the ocean at his command. There is also a rumor that he commanded the ground to eat up a group of rebels. That''s why no one dared try to oppose him after that."

    "That''s not true. They are all the work of the Great Theos," one of them disagreed with her. "I know he is just a mortal, just like us."

    "I have a different opinion about that. I heard he was once struck by lightning. Regardless, he was still alive until now," Another one commented.

    Aisha darted her head from one servant to another. It seemed like they had varying ideas about him.

    "Well, it''s okay. I''m going to find out for myself," she said in a determined voice. "Come along now, ladies. Let''s go out and have some fun!" She lifted her arms merrily.

    ***********************************************

    The danger of the Web is that you can go from idea to public announcement in under ten minutes. Think before you post.

 Chapter 32 - Celebrating Birthdays

    Aisha cupped her elbow with one hand as she tapped her pressed lips with the other.

    There were times that the King felt like he was a human just like her. But there were also moments where he seemed to be different. It was as if he was just hiding the beast inside him.

    "I will surely find out. I''m going to be his wife very soon. I really hope he''s not a vampire or something. How old is the King anyway?" She asked the female servants who were helping her get dressed at that moment.

    She tilted her body to them.

    "With his looks, he seemed to be almost a decade older than me," She muttered to herself as she gazed at herself in the mirror..

    She couldn''t help but feel elated by what she saw. She was wearing a different kind of tunic. One which seemed to be made from the finest clothing material.

    "I look like a princess," she couldn''t help but blurt out as she admired her reflection in the mirror. She looked like a blossomed flower warmed in the summer sun.

    "You''re more than a princess, my lady. You''re going to be the queen. You will be the Chosen One," Rosalia responded with proud, gleaming eyes. "About your question, we don''t know his age. We don''t celebrate his birthday every year."

    Her mouth fell open as she gave her an incredulous look.

    She ignored the Chosen One line, as she really didn''t want it. She''s just going along for the sake that she has a place to stay here in the Castle where it is safe.

    But she was surprised that the Gaeans didn''t celebrate the King''s birthday, and they have no idea about its date in the calendar.

    "What? How come? As far as I know, King''s birthdays usually are a grand event for every kingdom. It is like celebrated by the kingdom with parties for one whole week or something," she blabbed as she recalled the drama series that she watched on Netflix.

    "I heard it''s because the King doesn''t know his birthday. The Great Theos brought him here as a boy already," one of the servants whispered to her.

    "No, it''s because he doesn''t really die. He has lived here for centuries. My great-grandmother told me," one of them overheard, and cleared the information to Aisha.

    "Well, I wished it was the latter. If it was the former, that would be very sad," she quibbled.

    "Wait, if what you said is true. Then the King must have lived for a thousand years! Oh my! He could not be a vampire!" she covered her plump cheeks with her palms.

    Aisha shook her head to get her brain straight. "I will certainly know for sure. For now, let''s get out of this room and enjoy the fresh autumn air."

    All the servants bowed down to her as she stood up and left her Chamber.

    There were also other ladies in waiting outside her Chamber who followed her as she walked out, making Aisha shake her head, "I really cannot escape my fate now."

    As they were walking, Rosalia continued to chat with her. "By the way, my lady. How about you? Do you recall what your birthday is? How do you celebrate it?"

    She asked in a gleeful manner, as if she was really interested to know more about her lady.

    Aisha''s eyes glowed at the mention of her birthday. She immediately rushed to share her experience.

    "Well, it''s six months from now. It''s on March 17. And I usually celebrate it with my friends and my¡­" She stopped mid-sentence as she recalled that everything was just a front.

    Every year, she would travel out of the country with Jake, Melissa, Norman and Nadine, thinking that they were somehow real friends who wanted to celebrate her special day with her.

    "Since when are they waffling on me?" Aisha sighed as she recalled the last moments that she had with him.

    Her lips pressed tight as she hung her head.

    She wanted to ignore it, so she could preserve her happy life. But it was really breaking her heart every time she remembered it.

    Just then, they passed by a bird who was humming a melodious tune. It was unlike the usual hum of birds in her own world. It was as if the bird was singing a song to cheer her up, lightening up her mood.

    "I apologize for asking, my lady. You must have missed them," Rosalia sniffed as she laid her hand on her breastbone.

    "Miss? Of course not!" Aisha quickly tilted her chin. "Maybe I''m just missing the fun that we have together," she reassured herself, not wanting to admit that she missed the feeling of belonging to a group that welcomes her. Even if it''s just a facade.

    "Don''t worry, my lady. We will do our best to make your living here in Gaea as fun and enjoyable as your own world," Rosalia gave her a warm smile, melting Aisha''s heart.

    Rosalia has been nice to her, ever since her foot stepped in the Castle. She really wished that she was different from her friends. And she hoped that the King was not like Jake.

    She has enough of them.

    ************************************************

    "Romance novels are birthday cake and life is often peanut butter and jelly. I think everyone should have lots of delicious romance novels lying around for those times when the peanut butter of life gets stuck to the roof of your mouth."

    ¨D Janet Evanovich

 Chapter 33 - A Love Affair

    Aisha felt her stomach growling. Her hand flew to her abdomen as she grimaced, "We should''ve had breakfast first. My guts are complaining."

    She looked back at the long hallway where they had walked. "But my Chamber''s too far already. So much for a Castle. I thought our mansion was already gigantic by itself," she thought out loud.

    Her shoulders slumped as her posture went limp. Her home was not as luxurious as the Castle. But it was great. However, it was cold and uninviting. Since the only person who seemed to be living there was her and some servants. Her parents were almost-to-never home..

    Now that it has been submerged underwater, she finally misses the home where she grew up. Before she hated it too much.

    "It''s alright, my lady. We can go to the dining hall while the other servants serve the food from the Royal Kitchen," Rosalia suggested to her.

    "Or we could go to the Royal Kitchen. It''s more fun than waiting in the dining hall by myself," Aisha lifted her forefinger as if she had a bright idea.

    "Oh no, my lady. No royals go to the kitchen. It is not as clean and as roomy as your Chamber and the dining hall," Rosalia waved her hands to show her refusal.

    "That''s even better. Come on," She pulled her forward. But then she froze. "Where is it again? Gosh, I need a map of this place." She put her palm to her forehead.

    Rosalia gave out a long sigh as she knew there was no stopping her lady. She extended her arms to show her the way, "This way, my lady."

    Aisha grinned from ear to ear as she almost skipped going to the royal kitchen.

    They made a lot of turns with the same-looking stone walls with narrow rectangular windows before they finally reached the Royal Kitchen.

    It was the opposite of her Chamber at the East Side of the Castle. It was a colossal independent structure of its own and housed almost fifty servants.

    As they neared the place, she could smell the loaves of bread being baked, making her mouth water. She gulped as her feet scurried faster to the source of her satisfaction.

    One thing about this place was their heavenly food. Her tongue could not wait to taste a mouthful.

    However, as she neared the location, she heard loud commotions going on inside. Her eyebrows knitted together in curiosity.

    Inside the large kitchen area were two people arguing. It''s a man and a woman.

    "I have been putting up with you. And now you will return the favor with this!" the woman screamed at the man with her hands flung in the air. Tears were streaming down her face.

    "Shut it, woman. Have you lost your senses! Control yourself and let''s talk outside," the man pressed her arms as if he was stopping her from being more hysterical than she was.

    His frantic eyes darted around the room as the other servants were now flocking to them. They had their back turned on them, and they were behind a wall, that''s why they had no idea that Aisha and her servants were there, listening to the commotion.

    The woman pushed him forcefully, "Get away from me. You''re disgusting! How dare you go to bed with her!" She was now crying frantically as she beat him with her arms.

    The other servants tried to pull her away from him. And him from her.

    Aisha''s eyes bulged open in surprise. "That woman must have caught that man having an affair!" She cupped her jaw-dropped mouth.

    She tried to peek again and observed the surroundings. As she expected, they also seemed to be demi-humans. The woman looked like Rosalia, while the man seemed to be from Lord Lycano''s clan.

    "I''m sorry, my lady. You shouldn''t have seen this. Let''s go back to the dining hall. We will just serve your breakfast there," Rosalia offered to her as she bit her lips and hung her head.

    Just then, the man spoke up. "It is I who has been putting up with your nagging and complaining. She''s the one who comforts me whenever you stress me out!" The man now yelled back as he probably was now fed up with her.

    Aisha''s expression went pinched as she sighed heavily. She recalled how she experienced the same feelings that this woman was feeling when she caught her best friend and her boyfriend in the act.

    "How dare he say that!" She blurted out and twisted, so she could barge in and bark at the man.

    But Rosalia stopped her. "You are going to be the royal wife, my lady. You must not be caught in these petty arguments."

    Aisha scratched her temple. Rosalia was right. She was still the newbie and must earn these people''s trust. If she intervenes, it''s either they will like her or hate her more.

    Aisha clenched her fist as she controlled herself.

    ******************************************************

    "Infidelity is an opium of unfaithfulness."

    ¨D Toba Beta, Master of Stupidity

 Chapter 34 - Giving A Chance

    Aisha shut her eyes tightly to prevent the scenes from their hotel room from reappearing in her mind. But they keep on flashing before her overpowering her desire to stay calm right now.

    She stepped forward to the action scene, to the bewilderment of everyone present. Rosalia tried to stop her, but she was already in front of everybody.

    "Our lady," they all bowed down to her in one accord, including the man and woman who were arguing at that moment.

    "I was really just grabbing a bite, you know," she blurted as she picked up a piece of bread and ate it. She needed all the energy for this.

    All eyes awaited on what she would do or say next.

    "I couldn''t help but overhear the commotion. What''s this all about?" She lifted her head and asked in a calm manner after she had eaten a mouthful, secretly congratulating herself for being in control of her emotion at that moment..

    Her arms crossed together as she looked at the man, who seemed to have no remorse over what he did. The woman''s chest was still heaving up and down in rage at the man.

    Aisha observed that the kitchen indeed had a lot of servants. "Please go back to your work. You two, come with me," Aisha told the couple before heading outdoors.

    "Yes, my lady," they both obeyed her at once and followed after her, together with Aisha''s other female servants.

    The other servants went back to their tasks. But one secretly followed them, trying to catch juicy gossip to share with the others.

    Meanwhile, Aisha inhaled a lungful of air as soon as the coast was clear. She wanted to scold the man. But she wanted to hear what he wanted to say. It may be the reason why Jake replaced her for Melissa.

    ``All right. Now tell me, what is this about?" Aisha crossed her arms and tried to keep her head leveled.

    The two looked at each other, wondering if they would open up to her. But as they glanced at one another, they smirked and rolled their eyes.

    It was the woman who opened up about what happened. Aisha was right. It was a case of infidelity.

    With a controlled voice, Aisha asked the man. "Why did you do that, sir? You are married to this lady here."

    "I had enough of her. She is full of herself. She doesn''t listen to anything I say," the man answered her in defiance.

    Aisha gazed at the woman, who seemed shocked at what she learned. It seemed that it was her first time to hear about it. Aisha couldn''t help but pity her.

    She recalled hearing the same thing that Jake said when they were arguing one time.

    "You don''t listen to anything I say," he yelled at Aisha just as she was expressing her hurt for being stood up when she was expecting him to pick her up.

    "Still, it isn''t enough reason to be with another woman when you have a relationship with another," Aisha said, not really sure if she was talking to the man or to Jake.

    Aisha may have a bad attitude. But she thinks that it''s not a valid excuse for him to hurt her like that. She gave him everything he wanted.

    The man''s fangs and claws seemed to show up, expressing that he was dismayed by her statement.

    "You don''t know anything, my lady. You grew up with a spoon in your mouth," he growled, making the woman beside her shush him in response.

    Jake also said that. Aisha couldn''t help but react to it negatively.

    "Is that our fault, then? And don''t you think we also have the same problems as you do?" Aisha barked with her hands on her hips.

    "If you have a problem with her, why don''t you talk to her about it first before flirting with another woman? And if you don''t want her anymore, then why don''t you file a divorce?" She hissed at him.

    The chickens who were nearby clucked as they ran away from the fire-breathing lady.

    At the same time, the servant who was eavesdropping gulped a lump in her throat. "The female human is as feisty as a bat from hell," she muttered under her breath.

    Meanwhile, the man was speechless as Aisha voiced out her opinion on the matter. It was as if he realized that she had a point.

    The woman sobbed as she wiped her tears and darted her attention away, "Yes, we should have sat down and talked about it as husband and wife. You''re always silent and it irritates me more. I feel like you don''t care about anything I say. Don''t you love me anymore? Why do you hurt me like this? Do you want us to separate now?"

    "It''s not like that," the man said in a regretful voice. "I''m sorry," he put his hand on his face and buried it in them.

    Seeing his remorse, the woman turned back and faced him, "Do you love her?"

    The man immediately shook his head, "No, no. I don''t want to be separated from you." He turned towards the woman and pressed her arms.

    "He''s lying," Aisha gritted her teeth. But she kept it to herself. "If he doesn''t want them to separate, then he shouldn''t have done it."

    The woman continued to interrogate the man, "Would you stop seeing her if we stay together?"

    "Yes, I will break up with her," the man said in a determined voice, making Aisha roll her eyes.

    "All right. I''ll give you a chance," the woman said with her head bowed down.

    The man seemed to be pleased with her statement that he put his arms around her back and cooed, "Thank you. It will not happen again."

    The lady lifted her head and with a smile, she replied, "Me, too. I''ll try to change my attitude with you."

    They both had warm smiles on her face as they gazed at each other with loving looks.

    "Wait, wait, wait. You''ll forgive him, just like that?" Aisha asked the woman with her eyebrows furrowed together. Her palms pointing to the adulterous man.

    The man''s previously wolfish appearance now returned into its kind human face again.

    "I haven''t forgiven him. But I want to give him a chance. Thanks for clearing things up, my lady," The woman bowed down to her, making Aisha scratch her head.

    "But I''m not here so you could mend your relationship. I''m here to break you up," Aisha wanted to say to them. But maybe it''s better this way. They seemed to be in a good mood now.

    Her lips curled up in an awkward smile and pointed back to the kitchen. "Well, I better be going, lovebirds. I have to make love with my stomach too. I hope you won''t cheat again, Lycus man. Or we''ll have a human to wolfman talk. I will not be as nice next time," she pointed at him with her forefinger as her feet stepped backward.

    "Thank you, my lady," the couple bowed to her.

    "Well, I would certainly not forgive him if I were her. Over my dead body," Aisha muttered to herself as Aisha walked back to the kitchen.

    *********************************************

    "Reconciliation requires truth telling and empathy and tears. It requires changed perspectives and changing directions (also known as repentance)."

    ¨D LaTasha Morrison, Be the Bridge: Pursuing God''s Heart for Racial Reconciliation

 Chapter 35 - Human Blood

    Meanwhile, Leandro was walking along the parapet walks, observing the daily happenings in the kingdom, when Lord Emilio approached him.

    "A pleasant morning, your Majesty," Lord Emilio bowed down to him.

    "Good morning, Lord Emilio. What brings you in so early in the morning?" He asked him. Usually, Lord Emilio shows up after he has eaten his breakfast, except when there is an emergency or urgent task that he needs to do.

    "I have seen that you have already made a public announcement about Lady Aisha. I apologize for asking, but I hope you would give more time to think about it, your Majesty. Even though she was approved by the Great Theos, human blood still flows in her veins," Lord Emilio urged him. His voice almost quivered while he wrung his hands.

    Leandro''s attention was completely caught. It was unnatural for Lord Emilio to contradict his decisions.. Though he understood him. He was just worried about the safety of Gaea.

    He rubbed his chin as he thought about what he said. Yes, there is a possibility that evil desires could be transferred to his offspring.

    But then he imagined Aisha, with her innocent beauty and sincere way of speech. His heart fluttered as he thought about her, making him want to see her again.

    "Thank you, Lord Emilio. I knew you mean well," he said and was about to leave when a royal guard came in and bowed to him.

    "Greetings, your Majesty. Lord Roberto was here, and he was looking for you," the royal guard announced with his hand on his chest.

    Leandro''s thick silver eyebrows furrowed together. Lord Roberto never goes to the Castle unless he calls for a Tribal Council. He was usually the silent type, not wanting to bother anyone or be bothered in his personal life.

    He immediately went to where he was. He was in front of the Royal Chapel and was gazing at the painting of Great Theos.

    As soon as he saw Leandro, he quickly bowed down and stated his purpose for being there.

    "A reliable source told me that he saw someone who looked like Tarragon in town," he looked first to the left and right before sharing the information, making sure that no one was around to hear it.

    Leandro gave him an incredulous look. "I thought he was already banished from Gaea," he gritted his teeth as a vein bulged in his neck.

    Tarragon was the previous ruler of Gaea. There was no monarch government then. Only a leader of the Gaean species. But Tarragon rebelled against the Great Theos resulting in his disposal and the rise up of Leandro as the King.

    Leandro didn''t have memories of Tarragon as he was young when was hailed as the King. But he could feel the pain of the Great Theos whenever he was mentioned. He put his hands on his waist. His elbows were away from his body as his chest thrust out.

    "In my opinion, he must have learned that you are trying to conceive an heir with a female human. You must be careful, sire," Lord Roberto asserted with his head bowed down.

    "He must have been waiting for the right opportunity to kill me. My future son could have been a hindrance to his plan," he mused as he felt his muscles quiver. Leandro held his temple with his fingers as he breathed out.

    "Or he may influence the female human, which could cause your downfall. You know that he also has human blood," Lord Roberto reacted to his opinion.

    "I would not allow it," he immediately lifted his head and then turned around. "I must reinforce the security around Lady Aisha."

    His amethyst eyes gazed on the royal guards roaming below. There were groups of twos in almost every corner. But is it enough against a rebellious ex-ruler of Gaea? He knew that he was cunning and deceitful.

    "I have stated my purpose. I will be leaving then," Lord Roberto bowed down to him.

    As soon as he left, he immediately went to Lady Aisha''s Chamber to check on her. But she wasn''t around. He called on a servant to search for her.

    It didn''t take him long to see her, which he reported to Leandro at once. Like lightning, Leandro went to the royal kitchen and saw her.

    To his relief, he was cheerfully getting along with some servants while eating her food. Though it was unusual for a noble to do that, he was glad that she was safe and sound.

    "Tarragon has not gotten a hold of her yet," he reassured himself.

    Leandro gazed at her with wary eyes. He will surely know. By now, he knew that Lady Aisha was a simple-minded and humble woman who had no ambition to take over the throne.

    But what if Tarragon reached her out when she''s the royal wife? Or, worst, when she''s the Queen? Is he not making the wrong decision to marry her?

    He was deep in his thoughts when he noticed that Lady Aisha was already staring at him.

    ********************************************

    "People trust their eyes above all else - but most people see what they wish to see, or what they believe they should see; not what is really there"

    ¨D Zo? Marriott, Shadows on the Moon

 Chapter 36 - Lets Practice Until You Get Used To It

    Aisha gazed at King Leandro as he stood there, a few feet away from where she was. Her heart thumped wildly in her chest, making her froze from eating another spoonful.

    She didn''t know if it was because of his authoritative presence, making her slightly fear him. Or the new information that he learned about him.

    Either he was a vampire or a human with a sad past.

    She also couldn''t erase the thought of seeing him betray her when they will get married like what Jake did to her. And the Lycus Man to his wife. Though she has no deep feelings for him yet, she didn''t want the feeling of being cheated again.

    These thoughts swam in her mind, making her immediately stand up. "This will not do. I need to ask him firsthand!" she resolved to herself..

    She went directly to the King''s place, making him step back in surprise.

    "Good morning, your Majesty," she bowed down and greeted him, staggering the other servants who were there.

    With jaws dropped open, they immediately scrambled to their feet and kneeled. This was their first time to see the King in their building!

    King Leandro lifted his hand, ordering them to rise. "I am just seeing to it that things are in order," he declared in a strong voice, while he gazed at everyone with his piercing amaranthine eyes.

    The servants looked at each other as they thought about what they did wrong. Their pale lips trembled as they wrung their hands.

    Some of them secretly ate and sneaked out some ingredients. Others were not doing their tasks as they should be doing.

    Thinking that the servants could be in trouble because of her, Aisha quickly bounced up and gave the King a warm smile.

    "I am glad you''re here, your Majesty. I was about to go to you. I have some questions about the upcoming ceremony," she beamed from ear to ear.

    The King nodded his head and turned back, "Come with me."

    Aisha bowed again and when the King was already far from them, she turned back to the servants, "Thank you for the meal."

    One of the servants replied, "It is we who should thank you for saving us from the wrath of the King."

    "Those of you who were not functioning appropriately should do so now. Do you understand?" one of the old ladies glared at the others with her hands on her waist.

    The others nodded their heads and bowed down to her and Aisha, "We are at your mercy, our lady."

    Aisha smiled and scampered, so she could reach the King''s pace.

    He was already turning left, so Aisha scrambled at a faster rate.

    But as soon as she turned left, the King was nowhere in sight.

    Aisha scratched her head as she looked around. There was a hallway of rooms guarded by royal guards.

    "Where is he?" she mumbled to herself as she put her fingers on her parted lips.

    One of the royal guards stepped forward and bowed to her, "The King is in here, my lady."

    Aisha scooted to the room that he was mentioning. Indeed, the King was inside and waiting for her.

    Aisha''s bronze eyes darted to the room. It appeared like a vacant quarter with a bed, a table, and a lamp. It looked like it hadn''t been used in a while.

    "What are you doing in the royal kitchen?" Leandro''s deep and sultry voice, near her, made her jump to her feet in surprise.

    She turned back to find him near her, making her pulse quicken.

    Now that he''s here, she could ask the things that bother her.

    "Are you going to have a 1008th Lady Consort?" She blurted out at a rapid pace, only to realize that it wasn''t what she was about to ask.

    "Wait, wait. That''s not what I want to ask. Uh, what is it again?" Aisha paced back and forth as she tried to recall it.

    "Maybe this man really knows some magic spell. I''m always hypnotized whenever he''s around," Aisha scolded herself.

    She peeked back at King Leandro, whose lilac eyes glimmered as he gazed at her. A corner of his plum lips was lifted. He seemed to be amused at her.

    "I could stop at the 1007th if she could satisfy me," his voice even deepened as he answered her.

    Aisha gulped as those words made her knees weak at that moment.

    "What do you mean? Like if I could give you a child? Or if I''m good in bed?" Aisha rattled to fight her heart from escaping out of her rib cage.

    But just then, she recalled the last scene in the hotel room with Jake and Melissa.

    "I''m an amateur compared to Melissa. Or a newbie, to be exact," she muttered under her breath. But she wouldn''t regret that she hasn''t given herself completely to him yet.

    It was her point of view regarding sex, and she wouldn''t change it for the world.

    "I''m sorry, but I cannot give you both," Aisha inferred and told King Leandro.

    "Is there a reason for that, my lady?" King Leandro''s head flinched slightly.

    Aisha winced as her eyes darted away. She drew her limb closer to her body as if she wanted to pull herself into a shell.

    He must have seen the hurt in her eyes as his face softened. "Isn''t it too early to tell?"

    King Leandro approached her until she was just feet away from him. He leaned forward as he continued, "I think in time you would give me both, my lady. You just chose not to, for now, and I respect that."

    Aisha couldn''t help but release an appreciative sigh, thinking that it was nice of him to say that.

    "Thank you, Your Majesty," her lips flickered in a smile. She was about to step back. But as she gazed up at his stunning masculine face, she couldn''t help but gaze at his moist lips.

    She recalled their time at Lake Visum, making her unconsciously bite her own.

    King Leandro must have sensed her rising temperature, as he purposely suggested, "Maybe we could try practicing until you get used to it?"

    Aisha knew that he was both teasing and testing her. She wanted to refuse, but her lips must have missed being drenched by his as she nodded her head in slow motion.

    King Leandro didn''t waste any second. He lifted her chin and captured her thirsty lips with his. His tongue dipped between the seams of her lips, making her knees quiver.

    King Leandro''s hand glided to her back, slowly directing her to the bed beside them.

    Aisha wanted to think straight, but she couldn''t. Her temperature was hotter than the oven in the kitchen she was in a while ago. She was desiring more.

    King Leandro didn''t leave her hanging this time as the expert touch of King Leandro''s tongue trailed to the curve of her neck as he nibbled it gently. Aisha''s slender arms flew to his broad back as she felt enraptured by what he was doing.

    King Leandro''s sweet kisses slowly went down, reaching the ample cleavage of her breast, which could be slightly seen with her dress. He was about to go deeper when someone called from outside. "Your Majesty."

    Aisha bit her lips as she wanted him to continue what he was doing. But she knew, as a King, he needed to go out and check it out.

    She slowly pushed him away, making her see his hungry reddish eyes. Her jaw dropped open as she saw it. But she didn''t get scared.

    "Someone''s calling you, your Majesty," she smiled at him as she fixed her dress.

    "Oh my gosh, I still couldn''t believe I''m having an affair with the King. And he''s going to be my husband soon!" Aisha pressed her lips to prevent a smile from creasing up.

    Her doubts were somehow slowly melting away.

    Meanwhile, the King was just staring at her and her breast with his lips still parted. It was as if he was disappointed that he was being stopped from eating his favorite dessert.

    "Don''t worry, your Majesty. I am going to be your wife soon," her hand stretched out and touched his.

    King Leandro seemed to realize that too as he nodded. "Yes, I will. I will have all of you then, without anyone bothering me," a corner of his lips lifted as his eyes raked her body, making Aisha''s cheeks blushed in crimson red.

    He stood up and fixed himself before turning to her. He gazed at her adoringly and put a wisp of her tresses behind her ear. "I think we''re now a step ahead in stopping the 1008th woman from existing," he said with a teasing smile.

    Aisha didn''t know if she would laugh at his joke or get annoyed. But she felt so comfortable with him that she couldn''t help but chuckle.

    They both went out of the room as if nothing happened.

    All the royal guards and Aisha''s servants were bowed down.

    "What is it?" King Leandro asked the royal guard.

    "The public announcement regarding the royal wedding has already been announced to all regions in Gaea, your Majesty," the royal guard reported.

    King Leandro''s face glowed in excitement. Aisha pressed her lips as her heart beat wilder with the news. But somehow, she wasn''t as worried and as afraid as she was before.

    ******************************

    Love is weakest when there is more doubt than trust. But it is strongest when we learn to trust in spite of the doubt.

 Chapter 37 - [Bonus ] A Suspicious Meet Up

    While that is happening, Emilio''s jaw clenched as he heard the news. His eyes darted away, so he could not see the joyous celebrants in front of him.

    He recalled how he tried to persuade the King to stop their engagement early on while everything was still peaceful.

    The King might have said that he would think about it. But he doubted that he would do it, seeing his smitten state for Lady Aisha.

    "How could I make him see that he is making a huge mistake?" Emilio muttered under his breath.

    His fingers made small jittery movements as he pondered on the upcoming event.

    "Their union will only cause trouble in Gaea," he garbled as he gazed at Lady Aisha, who was smiling bashfully while giving the King a side glance.

    "Is anything bothering you, Lord Emilio? It''s quite a lovely day for a frown," the King now noticed him as Lady Aisha walked away with her female servants..

    Emilio lifted his head and was about to speak. But his shoulders dropped as he realized that the King must have been elated by the news, seeing his beaming face.

    Now is not the time to talk to him about it again. Or he would obviously fail.

    Lord Emilio shook his head as he answered, "There''s nothing that you need to worry about, Your Majesty. Thank you for your kind concern to your humble servant," Lord Emilio''s hand flew to his chest and bowed.

    "I see. Let us leave then," King Leandro declared and walked away with the other royal guards and King''s servants.

    Lord Emilio bowed down to him and obliged to whatever the King''s plan would be for that day. His chin was down to his chest and his arms were limped.

    He couldn''t help but be reminded of the loyal service of his ancestors for the King.

    The reason why he served the King was he wanted to follow in their footsteps and preserve the culture and stability of Gaea.

    King Leandro and his servants were walking towards the Royal Chancery when Emilio happened to saw Lady Aisha and her female servants on the other side of the Castle.

    To his surprise, Rosalia withdrew from the other servants of Lady Aisha and stepped away.

    Emilio''s eyes narrowed as she seemed to be discreet about her destination. She was glancing at her back and side every now and then as if she didn''t want to be caught.

    Perceiving that something must be going on, Emilio did the same and noiselessly drifted from the rest of the King''s servants.

    Rosalia strode as fast as she could towards the Castle Gates.

    Emilio knew that after the incident with the previous Gatekeepers, the present ones were more attentive and alert to those who were going in and out of the Castle.

    His head nodded in affirmation as he saw them interrogating Rosalia for her purpose in leaving the Castle.

    Rosalia must have said a reasonable excuse, as the Gatekeepers allowed her to leave the Gate.

    Emilio secretly followed behind.

    Rosalia didn''t go far. She walked only a meter away when Emilio saw another woman waiting for her.

    He quickly looked for a place near it where he could hide and listen to their conversation. But there was only another wall.

    It was too far to eavesdrop. Still, he chose to scurry towards it. From there, he could see that the woman appeared like Rosalia with a bushy tail and furry ears.

    "She''s also from the Felis Clan," Emilio sighed in relief.

    Maybe, it was her family member who was just wondering how she''s been.

    He was about to go back, seeing that he was worried about nothing, when he saw that Rosalia almost stumbled to the ground as if she heard some bad news.

    His reflexes told him to step forward and go to them. But Rosalia seemed to have gained back her strength instantly, as she stood up again and talked to the woman.

    Emilio controlled himself. It is better to stay far away and see things from where he was.

    They continued to converse for a while, boring Emilio. He thought of going back to the Castle, as the King might have been looking for him.

    But seeing Rosalia in that anxious state, made him decide to stay and wait for her.

    After some time, Rosalia''s family member finally left. As she did so, Emilio came out of hiding and approached Rosalia.

    She seemed to be surprised as her feet shuffled backward, seeing him in front of her.

    "I was just passing by when I saw you. Is anything the matter, Rosalia?" Emilio asked her straightforwardly.

    "There is nothing much, my lord," Rosalia stuttered as she bowed her head to him.

    He knew that she was lying as he witnessed her state just a while ago. "You can talk to me about anything that''s bothering you. I''m willing to listen," Emilio blurted, making her glanced up with her flushed cheeks.

    "The words didn''t seem to come right," Emilio thought as he cleared his throat. He just wanted to know about what happened. But he sounded like a friend trying to comfort her.

    "Thank you, Lord Emilio. I know you are a kind and considerate man," Rosalia bowed down to him.

    Emilio''s eyebrows knitted together. He has heard that from other people often. But now it seemed different as they were quite pleasant to hear coming from her.

    He shook his head and extended his hand, "Let''s go. Lady Aisha must have been waiting for you, too."

    Rosalia quickly obliged and followed him.

    Both of them were silent as they walked back to the Castle.

    "What do you think about the King and Lady Aisha''s wedding?" Emilio asked her, wondering if she could probably be on his side.

    He could probably influence her to convince Lady Aisha to go back to her homeland.

    "I think it''s lovely. Lady Aisha is a nice and warm-hearted woman. There''s also a big chance that Lady Aisha could be the Chosen One for the King," Rosalia spoke outrightly.

    Hearing that, Emilio let out a sigh. It appeared like she was Lady Aisha''s ally.

    "But if she''s not, and she turned out to be a dreadful influence to the King, Gaea would be in danger. Humans have always been a danger to Gaea," Lord Emilio expressed his idea openly, too. It indeed was bothering him.

    Rosalia defended Lady Aisha quickly as she quickly waved her hand in the air.

    "Humans aren''t always that bad. Maybe we could give them a chance, my lord," Rosalia said in a cheerful manner. But Emilio could see a quiver in her voice.

    Emilio was taken aback by her sudden defensive reaction. But then his shoulders dropped as he shook his head.

    "She was also smitten with the female human," he sighed before pressing on his lips and putting his arms behind his back, walking back to the Towers in a silent manner.

    ***************************************************

    To be suspicious is not a fault. To be suspicious all the time without coming to a conclusion is the defect.

 Chapter 38 - The King Is Mine

    Meanwhile, Lady Marina walked back to her abode. Her naked feet traced on the sand, rocks, and sea glasses.

    She heard the wind as it swept through the ocean water. But what''s louder are her ragged breaths as she pondered on the King''s decision.

    She has just heard of the public announcement by the town crier regarding the King''s marriage to the female human. What adds up to her fury was the report of her servant in front of her.

    "Are you 100% sure that you saw the two of them kissing beside the creek?" Lady Marina asked one of the mermaids. She was the one who told her about the King and the female human.

    "Yes, my lady. I threw a fish to distract them. Fortunately, they stop what they''re doing and eat what I have given to them," said the mermaid with her hand on her chest.. She sounded like she was completely loyal to her.

    Her back was still red with lash marks, making Lady Marina feel pity for her. She instructed a merman to whip her because she thought that she was giving her a false report about the King.

    Lady Marina gave her a shell before she commanded, "Go to Cordelia and have your wounds treated."

    Cordelia was a well-known female physician in the Land of Gaea who specifically treated mermaids.

    The mermaid immediately bowed her head in gratitude, "Thank you, Lady Marina. You are most merciful and kind."

    She received the shell with both her hands and immediately left Lady Marina with her merguards.

    Lady Marina couldn''t help but shriek in anger at the confirmation, making the merguards cover their ears in fear of being deaf.

    A regular mermaid''s scream could make any creature earless.

    And Lady Marina was no ordinary mermaid. She was the designated leader of all the creatures underwater.

    "How could he get intimately with her like that? And in broad daylight!" she seethed.

    She could feel her rage steaming out of her ears. With her anger, no oceanic melody could pacify what she was feeling right now.

    "Was it because she was also a human like him?" Just thinking about it made her grimace again.

    Her fingers flew to her skin. It was as cold as snow. She could not compete against a warm-blooded human.

    "Here I am, my lady," one of the merman approached her from beneath the waters.

    Lady Marina nodded her head at him. She already asked around how the female human came into Gaea.

    He must be the bearer of that information.

    "One of the Sturgeons told me that a supernatural creature saved her from a disaster," the merman reported.

    "A supernatural creature? Who is it?" Lady Marina repeated back to the merman, to which he immediately replied. "He has no idea. He said he has never encountered that creature before."

    Lady Marina''s heart thumped within her chest. "Did he see what he looked like?"

    "According to him, it seemed like he was a form of a pure light that could blind any creature within its radius," the merman continued to relay what the Sturgeon had seen during that day.

    "Could it be King Leandro?" Lady Marina''s jaw dropped when another thought hit her.

    "Or could it probably be the Great Theos himself?"

    She has not seen the Great Theos all the days of her life.

    But she has a deep instinct that the Great Theos was connected to the female human having the permission to get inside Gaea.

    The water waves splashed on her feet as they covered the sand and went to the horizon again.

    It appeared like it was calling her to visit its edge. But Lady Marina didn''t mind.

    "If that is true, this was the first time that the Great Theos himself involved himself in the affairs of the King''s procreation. How could I even be on a par with that? That is unfair!"

    She could still remember that night when they tried to procreate.

    The King''s ruggedly handsome face, his chiseled body and his excellent skill in bed.

    Lady Marina''s eyes unconsciously closed. "How could I move on from that?"

    At first, she just wanted to be the Chosen One that is why she agreed. But like the other women, she could not give him a son.

    After that, the King stopped seeing her, since it was the only purpose why they get together.

    She drifted away for a while, accepting her defeat.

    But now that she has a rival, it seemed like her desire got even stronger.

    It didn''t matter whether she was smitten to be the queen or she wanted the King for himself.

    She would not allow anyone, especially that female human, to take what rightfully belongs to her.

    ************************************************

    It is easier to pluck a flower than to nurture it; which is why some would prefer to destroy your talents than nurture them. Don''t let anyone destroy the pure beauty inside you.

 Chapter 39 - The Female Human Is Mine

    Heads up! Steamy scene ahead. You don''t have to read this if you''re uncomfortable. It''s just Lord Lycano planning to get Aisha back after hearing the public announcement. :D

    ***************************************

    On the Lycus Lands¡­

    Lycano''s body thrummed as the woman in front of him sucked his manhood in and out of her mouth. He knew he would reach his crescendo any time.

    "Faster, woman. I''m coming," Lycano hissed breathlessly before tilting his head.

    The woman obliged to him. Her pace quickened, heightening up his pleasure.

    But while he was enjoying the woman''s service with his eyes closed, a picture of the female human''s face flashed through his mind.

    A corner of his lips curled up as he allowed that thought to linger for a while until his maleness exploded in satisfaction.

    "That was an excellent service," Lycano blurted out after he caught his breath. His lips curved in a mysterious smile.

    "It is my pleasure, my lord. Please come back, anytime," the woman winked at him as she put on her dress.

    Lycano was in a brothel that he visits from time to time.

    The ladies smiled at him as he passed by and walked out the door. Most of them, he has already bedded with.

    But this is the first time he imagined a female human while in the act of satisfying himself.

    "I must be smitten with her. I wonder how she feels without that tunic?" He rubbed his chin as he gazed up at the sky.

    As he did so, he felt his manhood slowly hardening again. " No, no, no big man. I need to be somewhere today," he looked down and waved his finger to between his thighs then strolled again with a huge smile on his face.

    As he did so, his ears caught in the town crier who was making a public announcement a mile block from him.

    "Hear ye, hear ye. The Great King of Gaea and Lady Aisha will be having their royal wedding ceremony on the day of the next full moon," the town crier announced.

    Lycano felt his muscles quiver, making him crack his knuckles. His head tilted left and right.

    "That''s a fast move, King Leandro," Lycano gritted his teeth. "I should have acted quickly," he growled.

    He wanted to make a move on claiming back Lady Aisha. But there were some squabbles among the Lycus Clan that he sorted out first.

    He recalled their last encounter. The female human has already stepped into the Lycus Territory. If it wasn''t for the King''s presence in their land, she could have been his right then and there.

    His fist clenched together, making his veins twitch.

    It is not only Aisha that he desires, which the King snatched for himself. His women, his lands, and his men.

    The King took all of them whenever he wanted.

    "The King always gets what I desire. Why is the Great Theos so unjust? He should have chosen me to be King instead," Lycano gritted until his fangs came out.

    The passersby beside him moved away as they saw him about to transform into his wolf form. Fortunately, he was levelheaded enough to control himself.

    "She is the first female human here in Gaea. If I have her, that would be a big blow to the King," a wicked smile lifted Lycano''s lips.

    His frown turned into a devilish smile. His eyes gleamed in anticipation.

    As he thought about his plan, he couldn''t help but recall how she encountered the female human.

    Her physique appeared attractively innocent and pure. But her undaunted spirit is like a wildcat which has no trace of fear even if a monster was in front of her.

    "I can''t wait to see her again," he uttered in a deep, rough voice.

    He quickly went back to the brothel and to the whore who had just given him service a while ago.

    She was by the window with the other women, gossiping about the daily lives of the commoners who passed by.

    As soon as he opened the door, her eyes glowed with her cheeks. Then she quickly approached him.

    "Are you that satisfied with my service, my lord?" a corner of the whore'' lips curved up. She then toyed his scarf with her fingers.

    He gazed at her with bright eyes before wetting his lips.

    "Yes. In fact, I have another offer for you," Lycano''s rough hands went to her behind and caressed it.

    The whore didn''t seem to mind, as she even chuckled with his explicit action.

    "What is it, my lord? I will do anything for you," she drew near to him and whispered in his ear before she nibbled on it gently.

    "I want you to bring a lady to me," he said before licking the curve of her neck, making her moan in delight.

    "But I thought you like my service? What do you want with her, my lord?" the whore reacted.

    But still, her eyes were closed, savoring Lycano''s pleasurable moves.

    "You don''t have to know. Don''t worry, I will give you proof that I enjoyed your service. Come with me," Lycano answered her in a gruff voice as he quickly guided her to a room.

    The whore giggled as she followed him inside.

    ********************************************

    "The love of your girl...that''s something a man needs to own."

    ¨D Katy Evans, Womanize

 Chapter 40 - Sweet Lips

    Aisha grimaced as she saw one of the servants milking the cow.

    Her slender legs scuffled backward even though she was in a sitting position on the ground.

    "Isn''t it painful for the cow? I think you''re pressing it too much," Aisha blurted out as she pointed at the teats of the cow.

    The servant chuckled at Aisha as she saw her reaction. "Don''t worry, my lady. She is already used to it. It isn''t painful for her."

    "I think it''s awful. I feel sorry for her. I suddenly want to thank God that I''m not a cow," she pouted as she put her palms to her cheeks.

    "Mothers also give milk to their newborns," the servant voiced out her opinion as she continued to milk the cow.

    It was the next day and Aisha craved some fresh milk. Rosalia said she would get it from the stable.

    But Aisha insisted that she wanted to go there herself.

    "Mothers?" Aisha repeated back to her as she tried to think about what she was talking about.

    A picture of a mother breastfeeding her child came to mind, making her immediately stand up to her feet. "Oh, no! Will they also do that to my breast?"

    She peeked down at her ample chest and then immediately covered them with her flailing arms.

    "Oh my gosh, don''t you have powdered formula here? Or even a breast milk bank?"

    The servant''s frowning face was already enough to answer her question.

    With a terror-stricken face, she ran away from the stables.

    "Wait, my lady! Here''s your fresh milk!" Rosalia followed close behind.

    Fortunately, the dining hall was just nearby.

    It has beautiful fabrics hanging on the wall. The morning light sifted in through the narrow windows, cascading a bright ambiance on the place.

    Aisha huffed and puffed as she sat at the end of the long table. Her arm reached out to the edge of the table as the picture still haunted her.

    Now she saw herself with numerous lady servants squeezing her breast like the servant a while ago milked the cow.

    But only a drop fell from it. She was screaming and stomping her feet in pain.

    "It cannot be! I need to get away from here!" Her face crumpled like a piece of waste paper.

    Then she shook her head vigorously as she tried to shake away the thought in her mind.

    "Don''t worry, my lady. That''s not how mothers give milk to their newborns. The milk will just flow naturally from you, especially if you bond with them," Rosalia gave her a reassuring smile.

    Then she poured out the warm milk into a glass and gave it to Aisha. "This would calm you down," she continued to comfort her.

    Aisha''s pulse slowed down, making her heave out a sigh.

    "Really? I don''t have any idea. I''m the only child of my mom. And as I can remember, the maids only fed my stepsister Julia with powdered formula. I never once saw my mom breastfeed," Aisha babbled on, now feeling relaxed somehow.

    As she recalled her family, she remembered how she used to be. A free-spirited girl who enjoys her freedom.

    "I must not be enticed with those sweet lips of the King. I will be true to my resolve!" She immediately stood up and declared with a lifted chin.

    The other servants'' heads jerked back in surprise at her words.

    But they immediately returned to their bowing position.

    However, Rosalia was bolder in conversing with her since she was her personal lady assistant.

    "What do you mean by the sweet lips of the King, my lady?" She asked.

    Both her eyes fluttered rapidly.

    As she did so, flashes of vision from Lake Visum and now, the vacant servant''s quarter, came to her mind.

    King Leandro was very passionate in kissing her, making her temperature heat up at that moment.

    Her cheeks flushed and lifted into a wide grin as she looked down. Her body swayed back and forth as her fingers flew to her pressed lips.

    Her other servants'' eyes went wide open in excitement.

    "Well, the King and I¡­." she purposely left the word hanging.

    The servants leaned forward as they awaited the continuation of the sentence.

    "We''re conversing a lot, and he always encourages me. You know, sweet lips," she winked at them, making their shoulders drop in disappointment.

    Aisha chuckled at her own joke. She may be spirited. But she wanted to keep her privacy with that matter.

    Still, she couldn''t help but ask them, "Well, since we''re talking about lips now. Let me ask you a question that''s bothering me. Let''s say a Gaean guy kisses a girl. Does that mean that he has feelings for her?"

    "I''m just asking if there is a difference between my world and yours, you know," Aisha immediately blurted out in defense.

    There was silence for a few seconds before someone had the boldness to speak up.

    "I think Gaean men kiss Gaean women for different reasons,  my lady. They can do that because they have deep feelings for that woman," one of the servants answered her.

    Aisha''s head nodded exaggeratedly.

    "Or it could be they are smitten with that woman because of her physical features," another one commented.

    Aisha pout her lips as she scowled.

    "Another reason could be the woman must have seduced him to kiss her," one of them also added.

    The other servants nodded their heads.

    But Aisha immediately stood up and reacted, "I did not do that!"

    The other servants gazed at her with their foreheads scrunched.

    Asha coughed and cleared her throat. "I''ve been having an itchy throat lately." She coughed again.

    Then she added, "What I want to say is we should not do that. Let the men come to us," she grinned in an awkward smile.

    The servants all nodded their heads in agreement.

    "Why don''t you finish your breakfast, my lady? We only have five days left before your wedding," Rosalia coaxed her, making Aisha''s jaw drop in bewilderment.

    **********************************************

    Because with the right person, sometimes kissing feels like healing.

 Chapter 41 - [Bonus ] Gaean Lessons

    Aisha''s mouth slackened at Rosalia''s statement. Her copper eyes blinked rapidly.

    She was already trying to forget it. She thought that she would just pass the time until D-Day, so she would not get nervous. If not, she would back out and run away.

    To her dismay, she couldn''t escape the necessary preparations that she had to make. Like now.

    "The King has given an order that starting from now on, you will study Gaean history, traditions and culture. You also need to learn about the responsibilities and duties of a royal wife and learn the skills needed to fulfill them, my lady," Rosalia enumerated the scope of the King''s order to her.

    Aisha touched her temples as she closed her eyes. She felt a wave of cold air seeping in through her bones..

    "So what you''re saying is I have to take up classes and study? Again?" Aisha grumbled as it dawned on her.

    Aisha recalled how she hated studying. She would rather skip classes and go to the malls than review for exams.

    Fortunately, she has good genes, which she probably got from her mother. She never failed an exam.

    "But I will stop it after we get married, right?" Her face lifted in a hopeful smile with her wiggling eyebrows.

    Rosalia sighed, but she answered cheerfully, "It will depend on your Majesty, my lady. If he sees that you are proficient and knowledgeable already, perhaps you don''t have to attend it anymore."

    "But if not?" Aisha asked, her lips dropping.

    "You just have to keep learning them, my lady. You are very fortunate. There are only a few women who could sit under Master Aurelius," Rosalia responded with a smile. "In fact, he is already waiting for you at the Athenaeum."

    "I guess I have no choice then," Aisha''s chin went to her chest. But she stood up and followed Rosalia to the designated location.

    "Maybe I should also learn the architecture of this Castle. Until now, I haven''t memorized the chambers here," Aisha rambled on to Rosalia.

    She was expecting her to react. But she didn''t, making Aisha tilt her head to her with her forehead furrowed.

    Rosalia has been a little different since yesterday. Something seemed to be bothering her, but she was trying to hide it by focusing on her task as a personal assistant.

    Now, she was back to her quiet version with her attention drawn to the Castle Gates, which was visible from the parapet walks.

    Aisha continued to observe her manner and appearance. "Hey, are you all right?" She asked in a concerned voice.

    Rosalia immediately lifted her head and made a wide grin. "Yes, my lady. I apologize. What is it again?"

    Aisha squinted her eyes as she gazed at her and saw that her smile didn''t reach her eyes.

    "Never mind," she replied with an encouraging smile. Then she reached out and rubbed her back, which made Rosalia''s eyes wide open in surprise.

    But when she heard Aisha''s words, they were immediately replaced with gratitude and appreciation.

    "Whatever it is, it doesn''t reflect who you are. You''re a strong woman. I know you will make it through," Aisha said in the most comforting tone that she could utter.

    Rosalia couldn''t help but stop and with her eyes brimming with tears, she bowed down to her. "Thank you, my lady. I will do so for you."

    "Oh no, not for me. I''m nobody. Just an alien castaway in this land who happened to have a stroke of good luck, I guess. Do it for yourself. And your family," she said as she tried to lighten up her mood.

    However, her already lifting spirit slightly went back to her depressed state when she mentioned her family. But it was only a fraction of a second. Rosalia immediately bounced back as she pointed to a door.

    "There''s the Athenaeum, my lady," she gave her a genuine smile as she directed her.

    A royal guard opened the door as soon as she saw her.

    Aisha slowly walked inside as she gazed in wonder at the place. It was like a small public library with rows and rows of books.

    In the middle was a creature who seemed to be waiting for her. His head, his wings, and his whole body were covered in white and gray feathers. But his face appeared like a human.

    He was wearing black-rimmed glasses and his hand was holding a black stick.

    "Greetings, my lady," Master Aurelius greeted her with a bow.

    Aisha responded with a curtsy, "Thank you for your time, Maser Aurelius. I am excited to learn from you."

    However, Aisha was secretly mumbling to herself as she readied herself for a boring day, "I suddenly miss the video illustrations flashed by my professors during classes."

    Master Aurelius started as soon as Aisha sat down. He began with the history of Gaea and how it was founded.

    "In the beginning, darkness hovered over all of the Gaean lands. The Great Theos decided to create a place where creatures that are discriminated against from other realms could thrive. Thus, the Kingdom of Gaea was formed," Master Aurelius introduced the lesson.

    Aisha was about to yawn when Master Aurelius began to do something that made her almost drop from her seat.

    He waved his black stick, which changed the atmosphere, creating a hologram-like thing in the air.

    "Wow," Aisha blurted out with her lips wide open.

    It was like a big screen showing how the lifeless Gaean soil sprouted with different plant species, transforming the dark grounds into a fairy tale land. Different species flew, swam, and crawled to the majestic land bringing life to existence.

    "It''s beautiful," Aisha muttered in admiration.

    "Yes, it is indeed beautiful," a familiar voice spoke from behind her.

    Her heart thumped wildly in her chest as if it was excited to see its bearer.

    She quickly turned around and bowed her head with a suppressed smile, "Your Majesty,"

    Master Aurelius gave honors to King Leandro as well.

    **************************************************

    "To acquire knowledge, one must study;

    but to acquire wisdom, one must observe."

    ¨D Marilyn vos Savant

 Chapter 42 - Let Me Be Of Help

    Aisha''s bronze eyes shone as she saw the King in front of her. Visions of their secret rendezvous flashed in her mind.

    She immediately shook her wanton desires at the back of her head as she bowed, "What brings you here, your Majesty?"

    She bit her lips, hoping it would stop the galloping horses in her chest.

    Instead of answering her questions directly, King Leandro continued to walk forward and sweep his hand in the air, changing the holographic view to a map. It was probably a Gaean Map.

    "Whoa, I didn''t know you could do that, your Majesty," Aisha reacted with her hands clapping.

    King Leandro seemed to ignore her as he continued on, "The Gaean Lands are divided into four regions. The North, South, East, and West," he then pointed to the four corners of the map.

    "Oh my gosh, he''s freakishly the hottest teacher ever! I could do overnight classes tonight," Aisha gulped to prevent her mouth from drooling..

    Her palms cupped her face as she sat and put her elbows on the table.

    "The King''s Castle is here in the North and -" King Leandro continued on, but he stopped midway. "Are you listening, my lady?"

    Aisha immediately straightened herself and responded quickly, "Yes. And there is the Lycus Lands in the Southern Region, am I correct?"

    She grinned at him from ear to ear, bragging that she was indeed listening attentively.

    King Leandro nodded to Master Aurelius, who bowed back to him. Then he turned off the visuals.

    "To tell you the truth, I am here because I need to see a book. But I also want to inspect if Master Aurelius'' current pupil is studying well for her examination," he said as he darted his attention to Master Aurelius.

    The teacher lifted his eyeglasses from the tip of his nose and gave Aisha a stern look.

    Her face turned pallid white as she stood there, frozen on the spot.

    "Exams? Oh my gosh, this must be a nightmare," she lightly patted her cheeks to wake herself up. She felt the pain, but King Leandro and Master Aurelius were still in front of her.

    Her eyelids fluttered rapidly as she asked in a nervous tone, "What will happen if I fail the test?"

    If they call off the wedding, then she won''t be a royal wife anymore. She doesn''t need to be pregnant and breastfeed.

    "It''s probably a good thing to fail," Aisha thought to herself, making her less anxious.

    However, all her hopes were dampened by the King''s blunt answer.

    "You will stay here at the Athenaeum with Master Aurelius until you do," King Leandro said in a serious tone.

    Aisha''s shoulders hunched as her eyes darted to the Chamber. There were rows and rows of books everywhere. And it''s as high as a three-floor building! Seeing it suffocated Aisha. Her hand clutched on her neck.

    "No worries, my dear King. I will pass the test," She laughed uncomfortably. "I will even get an A+, you''ll see," Aisha put her hand on her forehead and made a salute.

    King Leandro pressed his lips as if he was suppressing a thrilled smile.

    "That''s excellent. I better be going then," King Leandro responded in a formal manner and was about to turn his back when Aisha stopped him.

    "Wait!" Aisha''s hand reached out.

    She didn''t know if it was because his presence made the atmosphere more colorful than the holograms.

    Or she could see the anxiety and tension in his face, which was different from when they were alone together.

    "What do you want to research, your Majesty? Maybe I could help you out. You don''t have to carry all the burden by yourself," she smiled from ear to ear.

    King Leandro seemed to be affected by her words, that he froze for a few seconds with his jaw dropped open. His smoldering gaze at her seemed to be saying a lot, but she didn''t understand.

    Coming back to his senses, King Leandro came back to his stance and rubbed his chin. "Do you have knowledge on crops, my lady?" He asked her, making Aisha gulped.

    "Uh - No," she laughed awkwardly. "Why? Are you planning to farm?"

    "Yes, that is true, my lady. I''m looking for an alternative to Spelta since it only grows on a specific kind of soil. It is Gaean''s staple food. But it''s getting scarce lately," King Leandro sighed as he answered her.

    Aisha felt bad for the King. It must have been hard for him to look after such a large kingdom.

    Her lips pouted as her face crumpled up. She didn''t know what Spelta is. But she ignored it. Maybe they have other crops that she knew about.

    "What other kinds of crops do you have aside from Spelta?" Aisha continued to ask.

    Maybe they would have some plant that she''s familiar with.

    Master Aurelius was the one who answered for her. "We also have viciam, triticum and hordeum -"

    Master Aurelius continued on, but Aisha lost count of them. She scratched her head, having no idea what they all are.

    "I''m sorry, I think I couldn''t be of help," Aisha said in a sad tone as her head hung low.

    King Leandro stepped forward and patted her head, surprising Aisha.

    "Thank you for doing your best to give one," his face was void of emotions. But his amaranthine eyes softened as he looked at her.

    Now it was Aisha''s turn to feel mushy inside. She didn''t receive that very often.

    As he walked away, she resolved to herself that she would do her best to be of help no matter what.

    **********************************

    A person''s most useful asset is not a head full of knowledge,

    But a heart full of love,

    An ear ready to listen

    And a hand willing to help others.

 Chapter 43 - Crop Hunt

    "Are you certain that we are doing the right thing, my lady? You should be in the Athenaeum with Master Aurelius. We only have four days left before your wedding!" Rosalia lifted her chin in feign courage as she walked towards the Gatekeepers of the Castle.

    Aisha formed her hand into a steeple and nodded her head.

    Aisha was wearing a cape over her face and pretended that she was sick of a skin disease that needed the treatment of a physician outside the Castle.

    "I already know the lessons by heart. I just need to find out about those crops. Then we''ll be back," Aisha whispered to Rosalia in defense of her reckless move.

    Fortunately, Rosalia was so deeply loyal to her that she nodded her head in agreement.

    Rosalia went to the Gatekeeper and pretended to be a concerned friend who was worried sick of her condition..

    "She needed a physician who is an expert in skin diseases, sirs. I know someone from outside the Castle," Rosalia explained as she lifted Aisha''s arm.

    Fortunately, Aisha knew how to do stage makeup. She has done this trick before to her butler, and she was able to slip through his fingers.

    However, the Gatekeeper who was in charge seemed to be extra cautious.

    "Please remove your cape, my lady," he ordered, making Aisha sweat profusely.

    Her footsteps dragged back. Would she just go back now? Maybe she''s just making a mistake.

    "My lady?" The Gatekeeper reiterated.

    His agile movements showed that he was getting suspicious of her.

    "Sh*t, what should I do?" Aisha cursed as her trembling hands unconsciously removed her cape in a slow manner.

    Just then, a brilliant thought came to her mind.

    She coughed violently, even coughing at the Gatekeeper''s face, making him wince and move away.

    His face scowled as his hands swept the air.

    "Forgive us, my lord. She really needs to be treated right now," Rosalia pleaded as she covered Aisha back in her cape securely.

    "Open the hatches!" The Gatekeeper immediately commanded the servant who was in charge.

    Aisha continued her fake coughing mode until they were out of the Castle.

    As soon as the coast was clear, Aisha removed her cape from her face and wiped her sweat with her sleeves.

    "Whew! That was close," Aisha breathed out as she inhaled a lungful of air.

    The clear blue sky seemed to welcome her with a smile.

    It was her second time to be out of the Castle. But this time, she was not afraid. She has a friend beside her.

    "You performed well, my lady," Rosalia commented to her.

    "I know, right. It''s really my dream to be an actress. I model for some companies, so the entertainment industries would notice me," she blabbed on.

    But seeing Rosalia''s confused expression, she just said, "Never mind, high five!" She lifted her hand in the air and expected her to give her one.

    Rosalia lifted her hand, but it''s not to give her a high-five. She put it behind her head to scratch it. She seemed to have no idea what Aisha was talking about.

    Aisha chuckled as she saw Rosalia''s reaction. She drew in a deep breath as she recalled her old world where high-fives were just normal, making her suddenly miss it.

    But it was only for a fraction of a second. She has a goal in mind.

    With Rosalia''s help, they were immediately at Market Town. Her honey eyes widened in excitement as she scanned every store in search of possible crops that are familiar to her.

    She has already searched the kitchen, the storerooms, and the granary.

    But none of them looks familiar to her. This is the reason why she decided to go to the public market, even though it is outside the Castle.

    To her dismay, they were just the same as the crops in the Castle.

    Her shoulders hunched as she let out a heavy sigh.

    Her heart was torn if they would just go back, or she would still keep on looking.

    "I think the King will be glad if he would learn of your efforts, my lady," Rosalia cheered her on.

    "He is blessed to have a wife that loves him dearly," she added, making Aisha''s eyes widened in surprise.

    "Loves him? I don''t think so. I''m just really a helpful person, you know," Aisha quickly defended her actions.

    Rosalia''s lips pressed as she suppressed a smile, "Yes, my lady. Any helpful person would risk her life like this just to help someone."

    She seemed to be teasing her, making Aisha flare up. But she was also laughing with her, "Of course, he''s not just someone. He is the King!"

    Though deep inside, she was already doubting herself. She knew it was just easy for her to fall in love even then.

    But she didn''t want that feeling right now. She didn''t want the feeling of being betrayed again.

    As she was contemplating her feelings for King Leandro, Rosalia asked her a favor.

    "If you don''t mind, my lady, I wish to buy something here, too," she grinned awkwardly. "I haven''t been here in quite some time."

    Aisha recalled how she looked downcast recently. She wanted to cheer her up somehow.

    Aisha pulled Rosalia into a side hug, surprising her female assistant.

    But this time Rosalia wasn''t as uncomfortable with Aisha as the first time that they met.

    "Sure! Take your time! Maybe let''s just meet at that post over there after an hour?"

    "You are very gracious, my lady," Rosalia bowed down with a smile of gratitude on her face. "I will be back in less than an hour."

    Rosalia quickly turned around and sprinted away. She was in a hurry, so she could get back at once.

    "Well, maybe I really am meant to find what I''m looking for. I just need to keep looking," Aisha resolved to herself as she skipped to another store.

    As she was checking out the products, a Gaean woman appeared and approached her side.

    "I know where to find what you''re looking for," she whispered to Aisha, making Aisha glanced quickly at her.

    **********************************************

    Winners are people who never fail,

    But people who never quit.

 Chapter 44 - A Helping Stranger?

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at the woman. Her body angled away from her.

    The woman has furry gray ears and a slightly pointed nose. She also has the same grayish bushy tail as the Lycus people.

    "Is she perhaps a part of the Lycus clan?" Aisha thought to herself.

    But she didn''t bother to ask her. She was more excited to ask if she had an idea of what she was looking for. Her feet were already aching from too much walking.

    "Hi, I am Aisha. I mean, Lady Aisha," she gave her one of her friendliest smiles. .

    She didn''t look like a bad person. And besides, she''s a woman.

    "Hello, I am Lysa," the woman bowed to her.

    Lysa has long grayish hair too. She was wearing a different kind of garment compared to the other woman in Gaea.

    The upper portion of Lysa''s gown was securely fitted, revealing her bountiful breasts.

    Its hem was shorter compared to the other Gaeans. But Lysa was wearing thick stockings to cover her legs.

    In this realm, it looks a little immodest. But it is a kind of skirt that is normal in Aisha''s own world.

    "You''re so pretty, you''re like a Cosplayer," Aisha''s lips couldn''t stop from smiling in adoration.

    Lysa chuckled and looked sideways modestly. But then she faced her again with a curious look on her face, "Cosplayer?"

    "Oh, they are cute ladies in our hometown. They''re adorable like you," Aisha answered her with a sincere compliment.

    Aisha and Lysa walked away from the store as some buyers were already crowding in to check on the store''s items.

    They seemed to be oblivious to the both of them as they were busy looking for the things on their list.

    "You''re looking for special grains, my lady?" Lisa asked. Her red tainted lips were curled up in a sweet smile.

    She appeared as if she was really genuinely trying to help her with her burden.

    "Yes!" Aisha exclaimed with enthusiasm.

    "Well, I noticed you going from one grain store to another. I know a man who has different kinds of grains. If you want to see his produce, I can take you to him. I was about to go there after I''m done here, too. I also need some of them for my father''s birthday tomorrow," Lysa explained to her.

    "Oh, that''s great! Happy Birthday to your dad! I mean your father," Aisha sincerely greeted Lysa''s father.

    But she deliberately lowered her head to check on her.

    Lysa''s eyelashes fluttered innocently, while her lips were curved up in a helpful smile.

    Aisha bit her lips as her eyes darted away. She couldn''t just trust anyone in Gaea. And besides, Rosalia would be waiting for her.

    Thinking about her gave her a bright idea. "I have someone with me. Can I wait for her before we go?"

    "Two is better than one. If something bad happens to me, she could escape and tell the King," Aisha concluded with a peaceful heart.

    Lysa''s face seemed to turn wolfish in a fraction of a second. But it was immediately replaced with a bright look.

    "I also need to go home. My family is waiting for me. The location is just a few blocks away from here. I believe you''ll be back even before an hour," she coerced her.

    But seeing Aisha''s uncertainty still, she added, "But if you''re doubtful of my sincerity, it''s alright. I just want to help."

    Lysa bowed to her and bid farewell, "So long, my lady. It was nice to meet you. I hope we can meet each other again."

    She turned her back and was about to walk away when Aisha stopped her, "Wait!"

    Fortunately, Lysa stopped from moving forward and faced Aisha.

    Aisha''s hands squirmed together as she thought about what to do.

    Lysa could be tricking her, making her feet scuffle backward.

    But she thought about her mission, why she was here. It seemed very important for the King.

    And besides, he has been kind to her even though he could have killed her like a fly if he wanted to.

    This is just a small token gift for him.

    Aisha drew in a deep breath and made a decision. "All right, I''ll go with you."

    Lysa''s cheeks heightened in delight at her answer. "You will not regret it, my lady," She bowed down to him.

    ***************************

    "It''s time to pay back; for something that can never ever be repaid."

    ¨D Adrian Leslie Lobo

 Chapter 45 - He Will Not Betray Me

    Aisha felt her stomach churning. Her senses felt like she was trapped at that moment.

    She gazed outside the window of the carriage that they were in. Lysa and she were getting farther away from Market Town.

    Her heart thumped faster, thinking that she might be making a wrong decision. Perhaps, she should have stayed behind.

    Her body tilted to Lysa and asked her, "It''s just blocks away from here, right?".

    Her hand reached for the couch of the carriage and pressed on it, wishing it could give her assurance that the answer to her question was what she was hoping for.

    "Do not worry, my lady. We are only a minute away," Lysa smiled at her sweetly.

    Aisha tried to sense the pace of the horse that was carrying the carriage. It continued to gallop steadily at the same road at a faster than normal pace.

    Then she peeked outside the window. Indeed, they passed by some storehouses which were around the Market Town.

    It must be where the store owners get the products that they were selling in the market.

    Aisha heaved out a sigh of relief. It seemed like Lysa was telling the truth.

    Lysa tried to deviate Aisha''s anxiety at that moment by asking, "What do you need the crops for, my lady? If you don''t mind."

    At the mention of her purpose, Aisha''s cheeks began to glow.

    She recalled the King''s bothered face as he mentioned the Spelta issue to her. And of how she wanted to ease that burden.

    But she didn''t want to tell her about the affairs of the kingdom, which the King had shared with her. Lysa may not be an ally of the King.

    She decided to answer her with a half-truth.

    "Oh, I''m just helping out a friend," Aisha grinned at her. The King really was a good friend to her, somehow.

    Lysa chuckled at her response. "You''re a kind friend, my lady. I hope he will not betray you in the end."

    Aisha''s hand flew to her chest as she heard Lysa''s comment on her answer to her question.

    She could not imagine the King betraying her. So far, he was always nice to her. Can he really do that?

    She decided to believe in him and replied, "I believe he will not do that to me."

    Aisha tilted her chin and squared her shoulders.

    Seeing her determination, Lysa quickly bowed down to her, "Forgive me if I have offended you in some way, my lady. I just had some unfortunate encounters with ''friends''. And I don''t want you to be hurt."

    Lysa sighed as she darted her eyes outside the carriage''s window.

    Aisha''s tensed face softened at Lysa''s statement.

    Lysa seemed to be feeling sad at that moment, making Aisha come back to her old bubbly self.

    1

    "It''s alright, Lysa. I''m sorry for bringing back your sad memories. Don''t worry, it will not happen again. You will find your loyal friend, too. You''re a nice and thoughtful lady," Aisha grinned at her as she reached out and pressed Lysa''s hands.

    Aisha expected Lysa to accept her offer of friendship. But she removed her hands away and muttered, "I don''t deserve your kindness, my lady."

    It seemed like they were already nearing the storehouse, as the horse was finally slowing down and turning to the left.

    Lysa quickly opened the door of the carriage and stepped out.

    Aisha scratched her head in confusion at her reaction.

    "Did I just say something wrong?" Aisha muttered to herself.

    But she also stepped out of the carriage.

    Aisha''s jaw dropped as she gazed up at the structure.

    It was probably 50,000 square feet in size. It looked like a normal warehouse in her own world. Just bigger.

    Her heart skipped as she thought that it might have some grains that were local to her previous country.

    With its size, it could even contain grains from the countries that she has visited before!

    "After you, my lady," Lysa spoke to her.

    Then she extended her arm, pointing to the door of the storehouse.

    She seemed to be back to her sweet self.

    "Thanks. Let''s go," Aisha nodded her head cheerfully and dashed towards the storehouse.

    However, there were guards that were securing the front door, making Aisha''s eyebrows knit in response.

    Aisha bowed down to them and asked for their permission, "Excuse me, sirs. I am searching for a certain type of grain. I hope that I might find it in this place."

    She smiled at them sweetly. But the guards didn''t move an inch, making Aisha''s lips pout in response.

    However, when Lysa drew near to them, she just nodded her head to the guards, and they opened the front door.

    "Well, it seems that you are a regular customer in this place," Aisha mumbled to Lisa as they entered the room.

    The place was gigantic. It was indeed a storehouse for grains and crops. There were mountains of grains across the ground.

    There seem to be different kinds and colors, making Asia walk further ahead.

    But she froze on her feet when she saw a familiar man who was also at that building at that time.

    ******

    The saddest thing about betrayal is it doesn''t come from your enemies

 Chapter 46 - In The Werewolfs Den

    Aisha''s expression went pinched as her breathing went heavy.

    She didn''t know if they had scammed her or not.

    Standing in front of her was Lord Lycano.

    As far as she could recall, their last encounter was very uncomfortable.

    But she didn''t want to let them know how nervous she felt at that moment.

    She tilted her head and asked Lord Lycano directly, "Greetings, my lord. What are you doing here?"

    Aisha bowed down to him since he was also a respected Lord in that place.

    A burst of laughter escaped from Lord Lycano''s throat.. "I think I should be the one who should ask that question. What are you doing here, female human?"

    Aisha''s forehead scrunched up and darted her attention to Lysa.

    Lysa''s eyes were shining bright as she gazed at Lord Lycano.

    Lysa must have sensed Aisha''s apprehension that she spoke up. "I brought her here, my lord. I believe she is also looking for the same thing that I have looked for."

    Lord Lycano''s wolfish eyes glimmered at Lysa''s statement.

    "You have come to the right place, my lady. I could give you anything you want and more," he uttered in a gruff voice.

    Then he drew near to Aisha, making her step back.

    But Lord Lycano kept on coming near her. Her hands went clammy as she continued to scuffle backward.

    Lord Lycano was making her very, very, very uneasy right now.

    To her dread, her back has already hit the wall.

    A corner of Lord Lycano''s lips lifted in triumph.

    "Do you know that wolves like it more when their prey tries to escape from them?" he antagonized her even more.

    He even licked his lower lips and bit it as he gazed at her like she was some delicious meal, making Aisha gulp a lump in her throat.

    Aisha''s heart wants to get out of her rib cage at that moment.

    Quickly, her eyes shut tight as she screamed, "I''m not Little Red Riding Hood!"

    Lord Lycano seemed to be taken aback at her reaction. "Little Red Riding Hood?"

    Aisha opened her eyes again and saw Lord Lycano''s confused face. It seemed like it worked, and he was deviated from eating her, so she continued her rant while slowly shuffling sidewards to the door.

    "Well, you know. There''s this story in our land about a girl who wears a red cape. And the wolf tried to eat her," she blabbed on.

    Lord Lycano''s lips curled up as if he was amused at what she was saying. "Did he do it?" he asked her.

    "Um, I think so. He pretended to be her grandmother," she retold. To her delight, she was already near the door.

    She was readying herself to run to it when Lord Lycano spoke up again. "I see. That''s an interesting story. But do you really think that I am going to eat you?"

    Aisha''s eyes that were fixed on the door suddenly shifted to Lord Lycano.

    He was handsome in his own way, with his unruly curly black hair, his dark eyebrows and freshly cut mustache and beard. He would be mistaken for a hot rebel in her previous world.

    "Are you not? In my world, werewolves were said to be savage beasts that crazily tear people''s flesh apart," Aisha confirmed to him.

    "I am not from the First Generation. I can control myself even when I''m with a warm-blooded creature," He crossed his arms over his broad chest and put his feet in a wide stance.

    Then he continued to speak, "Not all vile-looking creatures are innately evil. And not all likable creatures are inherently good, either." With the tone of his voice, Aisha seemed to hit a weak spot in him.

    Aisha felt her heart soften a little for him. It feels like he has a sort of a sad story, too, as he drew in a deep breath and glanced away.

    "Forgive me, my lord. I didn''t intend to say that. I don''t know that there was a first and second or third generation of werewolves. I should have not discriminated against you. I''m sorry, too, on behalf of all the human races who have judged your clan like that," Aisha bowed to him.

    She continued to rattle on. "And you are right. You are not one of them," Aisha said sincerely, making Lord Lycano stare at her with his eyes wide open.

    Unlike before when they seemed to be intimidating her, now it looked like they were softer and seemed to be asserting her sincerity.

    "Yeah, you should have gobbled me up the first time, right? But you conversed with me like you are doing now. You''re sort of a human in some way. Just the bully type," Aisha chuckled in a goofy way at him, hoping it would lift his mood.

    She was still feeling uncomfortable. But the tension seemed to have lifted.

    Lord Lycano also had a shift of mood, as he was now smiling in a nice kind of way and gazing at her differently.

    ********************

    Let''s practice motivation and love, not discrimination and hate.

 Chapter 47 - Do Not Fall For Him

    Aisha heaved out a deep sigh as a slow smile lifted her cheeks.

    Lord Lycano was probably not as bad as she thought he was. She also has her own fair share of being judged.

    Finally, she was now at ease. Her feet scuffled forward to the mountains of grains.

    Lord Lycano went behind her and Lysa tagged along Lord Lycano.

    Her bright eyes darted to the left and to the right.

    It seemed like Lysa was telling the truth. The storehouse boasted of grains that she had not seen in the Market Town..

    "This is a good warehouse," Aisha couldn''t help but blurt out.

    Lord Lycano was just nearby, so he heard Aisha.

    His cheeks heightened up as he commented, "Of course, I owned this place."

    Aisha froze on her feet. Her eyes peeked at Lysa trying to search for confirmation if Lord Lycano was telling the truth.

    Lysa nodded her head, making Aisha''s jaw drop.

    "Oh my gosh, so you''re the owner of this warehouse. How could I have missed that? That''s so foolish of me. Forgive me, my lord. I thought you both are plotting against me," Aisha let out a sigh of relief.

    But Lord Lycano and Lysa gave each other a knowing look.

    Lord Lycano snickered in response with his usual gruff voice. But it was a little kinder now.

    "Why would we do that, my lady? Go on, have a look. Lord Lycano bragged to her as he walked over to her side. Then he whispered, "Maybe you can find some grains that would remind you of home."

    Aisha couldn''t help but give a side glance to Lord Lycano. He was acting sincerely nice.

    "Yeah, right, the food here is foreign to my taste. They are yummy. But you''re right. Maybe I just missed the food in my hometown," Aisha grinned at him.

    Now, they were having a really friendly conversation. However, she noticed that Rosalia was frowning beside Lord Lycano.

    "Oh, I completely forgot. I''m sorry, Lysa. You also need something here, right?," She apologized to Lysa.

    Lysa was about to speak up, but Lord Lycano intervened, "We can talk about it later." He winked at Lysa, making Lysa cheer up in response.

    Then, with a sweep of his hands, he pointed to an area in the warehouse. "Maybe you can find what you''re looking for over there."

    Aisha bolted to that area to check it out. To her delight, she saw a very familiar-looking grain. It was white rice.

    "I can''t believe this," Aisha blurted out as she sat down. Her smile went from ear to ear while her hands played on the grains.

    It was the staple food in her country. Their citizens couldn''t live without it.

    "Those are Riso. They are fewer in quantity because they are used for ripening fruits and vegetables," Lord Lycano explained to her.

    Aisha''s heart skipped as she was excited to go back and tell the King that she had found a solution.

    She bowed down to Lord Lycano and said, "Can I have a small bag of this? How much is it?"

    "It is yours for free, my lady," Lord Lycano answered. "You can repay me back some other time."

    With Aisha''s excitement, she quickly bowed down to him. "Thank you, Lord Lycano. You are most kind."

    Lysa helped her put some rice in a small bag and gave it to Aisha.

    "I better get going. The King might be looking for me," Aisha gave them a warm smile before turning her back and walking away.

    But Lord stopped her with a confounding statement. "My lady, I just wanted to give you a warning regarding the King."

    Aisha''s eyebrows knitted together as Lord Lycano seemed to be saying a negative criticism about the King. But she turned her back and try to listen to what Lord Lycano might say.

    "I have known the King for the longest time. I don''t mean to offend him or you. But you need to know that he was not capable of loving someone. He is just using everybody to establish his kingship. But his only loyalty is to the Great Theos. He would risk everything for the sake of power. I hope you will not be swayed with his sweet actions and fall for him," Lord Lycano said, befuddling Aisha.

    His words against the King just stabbed her heart. It isn''t how she has known the King. But is that who he really is?

    She immediately replied, "Thank you for your advice, Lord Lycano. I will think about it. I will be going now. Lysa, are you coming with me?"

    "No, my lady. I''m staying for a while," Lysa answered before gazing at Lord Lycano.

    On the other hand, Lord Lycano bid his goodbyes.

    "Farewell, Lady Aisha. If the King hurts you in any way, you can always come to me," Lord Lycano said with concern in his tone.

    Lady Aisha didn''t know what to say, so she just bowed down again and waved her hand cheerfully, "G''bye everyone!"

    ************************

    Love doesn''t need to be perfect.

    Love just needs to be true.

 Chapter 48 - An Ambitious Evil Witch?

    Aisha rested her chin on her palms as the carriage took her away from Lord Lycano''s storehouse.

    The last words of Lord Lycano still lingered in her mind. Is she really just getting her hopes up that she would have a nice love story with the King of Gaea?

    She already thought about the King just using her for procreation during her first time stepping foot in the Castle.

    But her recent conversations with him made her think otherwise. He seemed a nice and sincere person, capable of loving and being loved in return.

    She shook her head, since falling in love was the last thing in her mind. She then focused on the bag of rice in her hands.

    "I''m sure he would be thrilled to know that there is a solution to his anxiety," Aisha uttered excitedly.

    She immediately bolted to the meeting place where she and Rosalia decided to meet..

    As she expected, Rosalia was already there and waiting for her.

    "Where have you been, my lady? I have been looking all over for you," Rosalia stuttered in a nervous tone.

    She already has a bag in her hand, showing that she has bought what she wanted in Market Town.

    "I got it!" Aisha said with wide-eyed excitement as she lifted the bag of rice and danced with her feet.

    Rosalia''s frown turned to a beaming smile as she gazed at the bag. "I thought it didn''t exist," she responded with an enthusiastic tone.

    "Well, I thought Gaea didn''t exist on the planet, either. Come on, let''s go back to the Castle. I want to let the King know about this at once," Aisha grabbed Rosalia''s hand and darted to an empty carriage.

    Rosalia agreed as she ran with her.

    The sun was about to set down and some stores were already closing their stalls.

    As soon as they were about to reach the carriage, one of the commoners who noticed them pointed his finger at them and made a critical remark.

    "That must be the new wife of the King. She has human ears, and she has no tail," she told her female companion.

    Aisha was about to wave her hand and say hi to them.

    But her feet froze when her companion responded to her friend. "The King must be desperate to bear a child that he has chosen to marry a lowly form. What will happen to Gaea if the future king has human blood? We''re doomed."

    She cupped her hand to her mouth and whispered. But it was loud enough for Aisha to hear.

    Aisha''s lips pressed into a white slash. "How dare they call humans lowly form," she put her hands on her hips and muttered in an annoyed tone.

    "Just let them be, my lady," Rosalia tried to pacify her irritated nerves. "We have to come back to the King, right? "

    Asian nodded her head in agreement. But the two kept on talking negatively about her.

    Now, it is not just between them, there were also other Gaeans flocking to them and gossiping about her and the King.

    "She''s evil. Human blood runs through her veins."

    "She must be a witch and seduced the King!"

    "Maybe she wants to take over the throne."

    Aisha''s mouth dropped at their rude statements against her.

    "For their information, I didn''t want to get married to the King in the first place!" Aisha growled as she put her hands on her waist.

    "I must put an end to this," she resolved to herself and stomped her way to the group of people.

    "My lady, wait! Please don''t risk your wedding for this!" Rosalia tried to stop her, but she remained indignant.

    Aisha continued on her way. But as she did so, she heard of stories that made her think about her defiant actions.

    "I heard those humans kill our kind for sports. They didn''t even leave the newborn ones to live."

    "They also kill each other for power. I would not choose to live there, even if they take away everything from me."

    Aisha froze on her feet. Her shoulders slouched back. She wanted to deny it. But it is the truth.

    A new desire sprang in her heart. She will let them know that not all humans are like that.

    She lifted her chin and continued on her way until she reached them. The commoners were shocked that the object of their scorn approached them.

    But they all bowed down to her in respect.

    "Greetings, my lady," They uttered in unison.

    She bowed down to them in a gracious manner and responded according to their culture, surprising Rosalia.

    She probably wasn''t expecting Aisha to respond to their negative remarks in that way.

    "I believe I haven''t properly introduced myself. I am Lady Aisha, and I am pleased to meet you," Aisha gave her one of her sweetest smiles. "Forgive me if I have offended you with my old ways. I am not accustomed to Gaea yet. Please enlighten me."

    She bowed down to them formally, making their jaws drop open in response.

    They have never seen a noble bowed down in a formal way and spoke kindly to them.

    One of them spoke up and responded, "You are too kind, my lady. You don''t have to apologize to us. By the way, what brings you to Market Town?"

    The other bystanders leaned forward as they were also curious why the next wife of the King is in a public place such as Market Town.

    Aisha gulped as she thought about what to say.

    ***************************

    We don''t need to share the same opinion as others.

    But we need to be respectful.

 Chapter 49 - The Three Slanderers

    Aisha has no peace that the result will be beneficial to her if she said the truth.

    She could not just say to them that she was looking for an alternative to Spelta even if it seems helpful with their current problem. They might think that she was planning to destroy Gaea with it.

    She must win against these people first.

    "I am just really checking out the products here," She grinned at them. Her bubbly side revealed itself again.

    "And did you find anything, my lady?" One of them asked.

    She seemed nice as she asked it with a warm tone. However, there was one thing that made Aisha uncomfortable. She was pointing at the bag that Rosalia was holding..

    "Um, excuse me, my lady, everyone. I will just ask the coachman to wait for us. He might leave us if we won''t give him a notice," Rosalia stuttered as she bowed down and dashed to the carriage.

    Aisha''s eyebrows knitted together at her reaction. Rosalia must have thought that the people will murder her if they caught on her secret plan.

    She couldn''t help but smile in appreciation of her concern. However, her upturned lips went down when she turned back and saw that the people were back to being the malicious gossipers that they were.

    "Those must be ingredients to the concoctions that she uses to the King."

    "Is she perhaps trying to poison the King?"

    Aisha heaved out a deep sigh. "Having human ears doesn''t make me insensitive to your judgmental comments!" She wanted to scream at them.

    But she didn''t. Unlike before, she was a little more determined to be the royal wife of the King. And a respected one.

    She didn''t know what got into her, but she answered them with a determined look, "I was actually planning to have a simple tea party before my wedding. I went here to see some materials."

    She would never tell them of her true intentions!

    "I hope you have a wonderful time, my lady. I''ve never been to a noble''s tea party. But they say it is lovely," One young lady commented with a dreamy like gaze.

    The others agreed with her as they all nodded their heads in agreement.

    Their looks appeared as if they''ve never been to one.

    "Those are only for nobles. I reached this age without ever attending one. We should never get our hopes up, or we''ll only be depressed," One old lady scolded them with her hands on her hips.

    Aisha''s previously fake desire to befriend them slowly turned to a sincere one. She was a party goer at heart because she knew how fun it is, bringing people together and having a good time.

    The world was already cruel, as it is.

    She could recall the first time she''s been to one. Her mom and dad were never at home. But there was this time that both of them were present.

    Aisha was elated. But her jolly excitement was quickly dampened when they started throwing things at each other.

    She was so scared that she locked herself in her room.

    Thinking that they might be having a divorce anytime, Aisha decided to pack her things and stow away.

    But Melissa messaged her and asked her out. She secretly went out and joined her and her friends. And she had a blast.

    Things might be inevitable to happen. But she could somehow forget the pain it brings even for just a moment.

    She glanced at each one of them. Even if they''re not saying it, she knew each one has a story to tell.

    A desire in her to bring joy to these ladies took root in Aisha''s heart. Besides, she also missed the fun of being at parties. Perhaps she could make this possible.

    "Why don''t you join me then?" She asked them, making them freeze on their feet.

    A quiet hush sweeps the place before someone breaks the ice.

    "Lady Aisha is indeed a considerate lady, different from what we thought her to be," she laughed, thinking that she was just joking. The other ladies laughed with her.

    Then she faced Aisha, "Thank you for just even thinking of including us in your guest list. That is very kind of you, my lady." She bowed down to her.

    The other ladies bowed down as well.

    "I''m serious," Aisha reinforced her statement.

    She hasn''t asked for permission yet from the King. But she could improvise one for them. She couldn''t count with her fingers the number of times she has hosted a party herself.

    The ladies glanced again at each other in astonishment. But now their faces were all excited and glowing.

    "But we don''t have gowns and our dresses are shabby compared with the other nobles," one of them said as she dusted her peasant clothes.

    The others glanced at each other''s garments as well. Some of them even covered their dirty aprons with their skirts.

    The other people in Market Town also have the same fabric material as Aisha observed, which looked like clothes on sale in a bargain store.

    She then recalled the numerous gowns in her closet that she hasn''t even worn twice.

    A decisive smile crept up her lips. "Don''t worry about that. I will handle it. Just come to the Castle tomorrow, okay? I''ll be waiting for you. I will be sad if you won''t."

    Aisha crossed her arms and pouted her lips to reveal her discouragement if they really won''t make it.

    They all laughed together, now in a genuine kind of way. "We''ll prepare for it, my lady. By the way, I am Estella. This is Diana and this is Martina."

    Aisha bowed down to them with a sincere greeting, "It''s a pleasure to meet such beautiful ladies like you."

    She recalled her former life where she had lots of friends. She knew that some of them are genuine and some are not. But she loves being surrounded by them.

    It makes her feel less lonely.

    "It now feels more like home," She muttered to herself with a satisfied smile. "I better go and prepare for the party as well!"

    "I''ll be leaving now. I''ll be waiting for you, okay?" Aisha pressed her lips with both her eyebrows shot up.

    The ladies smiled at her from ear to ear and waved their hands after bowing.

    As soon as Aisha sat down on the carriage, she quickly commanded the coachman to take them to the Castle.

    The sky was already getting dim, and the King might have noticed her absence.

    "I couldn''t believe that you befriended those three, my lady. You truly are one of a kind," Rosalia spoke to her, making her turn back.

    "Why not? They''re just really chatty," Aisha almost chuckled as she replied.

    "Chatty is too elegant to describe them, my lady. They are known to be the greatest slanderers in Gaea. Some even say they could kill with just their words," Rosalia informed her with terrified eyes.

    Aisha''s jaw dropped open in response. "And I invited them to a tea party tomorrow afternoon. I''m doomed." She slapped her forehead with her palm.

    "Not at all, my lady. I think it would be to your advantage," Rosalia gave her a smile that seemed like she had a bright idea.

    ********************

    Never stop being a good person, even with bad people.

 Chapter 50 - Facing A Naked King

    Aisha''s lips pressed together in a slight grimace as she thought about the new twist in her Gaean life. Her lively actions went muted.

    How could she have opened up about a tea party? She could have thought about something else as a reason why she was at the Market Town.

    However, her heart still has that longing to make them experience the best time of their lives. "Who knows, that could be the reason why we met at the Market Town?"

    "If you will win their hearts, they might be useful to you, my lady," Rosalia spoke out her opinion on her situation.

    "That''s right," Aisha nodded her head vigorously as if she was reassuring herself that she did the right thing.

    "And besides, if I go back to my word now, I''m sure I will be the headline tomorrow in Gaea. I should be positive about this. This will just be fine," she reconfirmed to herself as she gazed out the window.

    The horse that was carrying their carriage was as fast as the wind.

    In no less time, they were already at the Castle Gates. Aisha resumed her sick alibi and covered herself with her cape.

    Seeing her, the Gatekeeper let them through immediately as soon as he saw them.

    Aisha couldn''t help but chuckle as they passed through, "He was probably afraid that he might catch my virus."

    To her relief, It seems like the King hasn''t found out that she left the Castle.

    The other female servants told her that he was also out of the Castle.

    Quickly, Aisha asked the servants to prepare for a tea party tomorrow afternoon.

    The servants immediately complied and went to the kitchen to relay the announcement.

    Then she dashed to the couch in her room and slumped.

    "Oh, that felt good!" She blurted out as she felt the soft cushion on her back.

    She stayed still for a while before massaging her aching calves.

    As she did so, she thought about her encounters with the different species in Gaea. The lord who did not cry wolf and the three slanderers.

    "This is indeed a magical land. Only it was written by a different author from my world," Aisha giggled as she thought about the versions of "The Boy Who Cried Wolf" and "The Three Musketeers".

    "I am glad to see that you are adapting well to Gaea, my lady," Rosalia bowed down and responded to her. "I could already see that you will become a good Queen someday."

    Aisha''s eyes went wide open in response as she jumped up from her seat.

    "What are you saying? I''m still clueless with the people around me as Lady Aisha. I''m not even a royal wife yet. Much more a Queen," Aisha babbled on as if she''s trying to make the Queen idea fly away from the Castle and out of Gaea.

    She then immediately stood up and dusted her gown. "Come along, now. The King must be here already."

    They left the Chamber and just as they were about to turn a corner, they saw the King walking along the hallways.

    His back was facing them, and he was trudging along on the floor. His broad shoulders were slouched as if he was tired and weary with today''s event.

    Still, his authoritative presence was not diminished even an inch.

    A thoughtful expression could be seen in Aisha''s face as she heaved out a deep sigh.

    "A King''s life must be very tiring," Aisha sighed in sympathy with him.

    Aisha was about to go and talk to him when Rosalia whispered to her. "I think it''s not the right time to talk to the king."

    They were at a dark corner and the King hadn''t noticed them yet.

    "The King was always irritable when he''s tired. He refused to talk to anyone. And will scold anyone who would try to reason with him at that state," Rosalia informed her about the King''s attitude.

    Aisha paused and glanced back at the King.

    "Could it be related to what Lord Lycano just said?" Aisha thought.

    Aisha has not seen him in that state before.

    He was usually just silent and serious. But she knew that he was kind and nice. Or maybe because she hasn''t seen much of him yet since she was just new in this Castle.

    Her news could be a good news or a bad one to him, depending on how he views it.

    Would she be willing to take a risk by approaching him now? Can she wait until tomorrow?

    Thinking about the tea party, a decision came to Aisha''s mind.

    The King could not know about it tomorrow, with only a few hours away before the event. She would be even more in a pickle.

    "I know what to do," Aisha''s forefinger shot up in the air.

    "You can rest now, Rosalia. I know you''re also tired. Thank you for supporting me," she gave her a warm smile.

    Then she immediately went to the kitchen and asked for chamomile tea for the King.

    As far as what she could remember, it was what the butler used to give to her when she couldn''t sleep.

    With her heart leaping in excitement, she dashed to the King''s Chamber with the comfort drink in her hands.

    "Announcing the presence of Lady Aisha," the servant who was guarding the King''s Chamber announced.

    Aisha inhaled a lungful of air and slowly released it.

    She recalled what Rosalia just said regarding the mood of the King. He was perhaps in that state now.

    "I hope this is enough," Aisha bit her lips in anticipation of how the King would react.

    She knew he might get angry. But he would be more furious with her if she would let this night pass without telling him the truth.

    The King was not responding for a few minutes. Beads of sweat formed in her forehead.

    "Should I just leave now?" Aisha nervously talked to herself.

    She decided to count to ten, and then she will leave. "Six, Seven, Eight, Nine..."

    "Let her in," King Leandro ordered, making Aisha jump from her place. She almost spilled the tea.

    Aisha bowed down to the guards and went inside.

    If her Chamber was large, this was gigantic. And to the highest level. It looks like a mini Castle in itself.

    She was only facing a vacant, elaborately decorated room. But on every wall was another door leading to another room.

    There was one room that was open. It seemed as if the King was in there.

    Aisha stepped forward and walked to it, curious as to what kind of room it was.

    To her horror, it was a bath house exclusively for the King!

    King Leandro was dipped in a large pool of water. Half of his naked body was visible above the waters. His blonde hair was loosely cascaded on his broad tanned shoulders, making him look explicitly hot!

    Aisha''s jaw dropped open. Her throat suddenly went as dry as the Sahara desert.

    She recalled their moments at the Lake Visum and the servant''s quarters, making her flush all the more.

    "Jeez, why is the King''s chamber so hot right now? It''s like a sauna here. Whew!"

    Aisha blew a gust of air with her pressed lips to relieve herself of her anxious feelings.

    She decided to just tell the King about it tomorrow, or she couldn''t talk at all!

    "I just made chamomile tea for you, your Majesty. I think it will help you relax. I will just put it on this table. Have a good night!" Aisha stuttered as she placed down the cup on the table.

    She was about to scuffle away when the King commanded, "Bring it to me."

    "Oh my, gosh! Is he serious?" Aisha blurted out at once.

    But she remembered that they say that the King would always get mad when he was being pressured in that state. However, now, he even asked her to come to him.

    "Could this be a sign?" She asked herself.

    She resolved to herself that she would just leave the tea with him and wait for him outside.

    Then she cleared her throat and picked up the tray and went inside the room.

    As she did so, she tried to narrow her eyes even when she couldn''t see where she was walking, so she could not see the King and got swayed.

    She immediately went to his side and placed the tray beside him.

    His back was to the edge of the pool and his elbows were leaning on them.

    "Here''s your tea, your Majesty. I will just wait outside," Aisha said and bowed down to him.

    She was about to stand up and leave when the King spoke again.

    "Stay here," he ordered in his authoritative voice.

    Aisha gulped, but she obeyed. Her heart was beating so fast that she was afraid she would collapse anytime.

    She tried to take a peek at His Majesty. Drops of water were glistening in his naked broad back.

    The ends of his beautiful silver strands were dripping wet.

    Fortunately, Aisha was at his back, so she could not see his naked entirety. But still, it was enough to make Aisha''s cheeks blush like red ripe apples.

    ********************************

    It''s either you will step forward to growth. Or you will step back to safety.

 Chapter 51 - Closing Eyes And Open Heart

    "How did your day go?" King Leandro asked her with his usual deep voice.

    He was not moving from where he was, nor glancing at her while she was at his side.

    Her face went pallid white as her hands went clammy.

    "Where would I start?" Aisha thought while blinking rapidly, thinking about what transpired the whole day.

    "Will I tell him how I was able to escape the Castle the second time? And how did I meet Lord Lycano again in the Market Town?"

    A sudden gust of wind seemed to send shivers down Aisha''s spine. "No way! That would not do!"

    Aisha decided to skip some parts of the story, so she would not add to the King''s stressful day, especially now that he was already winding down.

    "I was curious to know more about Spelta, so I searched around. And I found out about Riso," Aisha told him in the most nonchalant way possible..

    To emphasize that she just had a normal day, she went to the waters and played with it with her hand.

    As she did so, her eyes caught on something that she shouldn''t have seen.

    Her eyes bulged open as she realized what it was. She has never seen one, but it was definitely big!

    "Leave us," King Leandro ordered the servants who were also there at that time.

    The servants immediately complied and bowed down to them before leaving the room.

    Aisha drew in a deep breath and gulped to moisten her parched throat.

    "Sh*t, I told you, Aisha, you should''ve stayed outside!" Aisha scolded herself under her breath.

    She was fanning her face with her hands as she paced back and forth, not even casting a glance on the King, scared that she might see it again.

    Now that they were alone, the King must have had extra boldness as he turned back with a sly smile on his face, "Did you like what you see?"

    "See? I didn''t see anything!" Aisha replied immediately as her eyes frantically darted elsewhere.

    "Then maintain your innocence. Close your eyes," King Leandro commanded before standing up from where he was, completely naked from head to foot

    "Uh, oh, oh," Aisha immediately dashed away with her flailing hands, not knowing what to do. Without even thinking, she went to a nearby huge vase and hid behind it.

    A soft chuckle escaped from King Leandro''s lips. "You''re really a ray of sunshine, Lady Aisha."

    He then donned on a soft furry robe and closed it with a tie. "Forgive me if you have to see me in this way," He continued to say, "I am too weary to stand up earlier. As you were saying?"

    Aisha heaved out a sigh of relief. Her wobbly legs finally found the strength to stand up.

    She slowly peeked from behind the vase and saw that the King was now covered and waiting for her to come out.

    She didn''t know if she was disappointed or glad. But the situation was now more relaxing than before.

    She quickly jumped out from her hiding hole and grinned from ear to ear.

    "Rice, I mean Riso, is a staple food in my country. If you grow more of its kind, you can have an alternative to Spelta," Aisha proudly said in a cheerful demeanor.

    Her body swayed from side to side with her hands behind her back.

    King Leandro''s eyes went wide in excitement as he heard Aisha''s news. It seemed like it somehow has helped alleviate his stress, which was what Aisha was after.

    "Riso crops needed a hot and humid climate. It is best suited to regions that have high humidity, prolonged sunshine, and an assured supply of water. I think the Southeastern Lands are perfect for that," King Leandro thought out loud as he gazed up.

    "But tell me, my lady. How have you encountered Riso? I believe the Castle doesn''t have them because we get our ripe fruits and vegetables straight from Market Town. Not unless -" King Leandro paused mid-sentence and faced Aisha.

    His excited reaction turned into a frown as his amaranthine eyes bore into hers in search of answers.

    Aisha''s elbows unconsciously pressed to her side as she felt rooted to the spot.

    She could recall how the King banished the Gatekeepers just because they had missed checking on her.

    He might do it again to the current ones if he learned about it. But what would she say? She may have managed to lift his mood. But he still had a bad day.

    Aisha decided not to tell him the truth and made an excuse.

    "I learned it in the Athenaeum, while I was studying with Master Aurelius," she smiled with her fingers crossed behind her back.

    Her feet slowly scuffled backward, unconsciously. She knew herself. She''s not a good liar.

    "Why don''t you continue to do your thing, your Majesty? I only came here to tell you that. I''m sorry to disturb you. I will be leaving now," Aisha stuttered before bowing down.

    The servants seemed to be waiting outside for them to finish their conversation. Aisha was about to go out so that they could come in when King Leandro spoke again.

    "For a minute, my lady," he said, making Aisha tilt back.

    As she did so, she didn''t realize that King Leandro was already standing near her.

    "I want to thank you for your help on behalf of all Gaea. The Great Theos would certainly be pleased," he bowed down to her in acknowledgment.

    Aisha''s head bobbed in a nod as her lips lifted in a smile. She was supposed to be happy that he was being a good King to Gaea.

    But she recalled what Lord Lycano said about him. He wasn''t capable of loving anyone because of his greed for power.

    Could it perhaps be true? Was he really just living for the throne and pleasing the Great Theos, who is probably their God in this land?

    At that time, King Leandro was gazing at her intently, perhaps wondering what was going on in her mind.

    He drew nearer to her and asked, "Is anything troubling you, my lady?"

    "Maybe it''s too early to tell," Aisha concluded. Still, she didn''t want to get her hopes up.

    Aisha''s lips lifted, even though they didn''t reach her eyes.

    "Nothing, your Majesty. I''m glad to be of service," she bowed down to him. "Thank you also for allowing me to stay in Gaea when I lost my home," she smiled sincerely.

    It really was one of the reasons why she wanted to help. She could''ve been swallowed up by the wrath of the sea. And killed by the Gaean creatures, who thought of her as harm if it weren''t for him.

    Those words must have struck something in King Leandro, that he suddenly went soft on her.

    "I am more glad that you came to Gaea. You have given me back hope," He uttered as he gazed at her with warmth in his eyes.

    Aisha swallowed hard as her eyes gazed at him. He seemed to be sincere.

    But she couldn''t help but recall the legend of the Chosen One, where he has no offspring to pass on the throne unless the Chosen One would bear it.

    Was he perhaps talking about that? Or he really is just talking about the issue with the scarcity of Spelta?

    She felt like her lungs were getting more constricted. It would burst if she wouldn''t release the negative vibes. She decided to ask straight away.

    "By hope, you mean that the Gaeans will not starve? Or that you could produce a child, your Majesty?"

    She asked it in the nicest voice possible, hoping that the King would not get a hint that she was negatively thinking of him.

    "I think it would be both," he finally answered.

    "With the solution that you have offered, the Gaeans would continue living in peace, without needing to fight to survive. And with your presence, I could finally have peace about the next in line to the throne," King Leandro added.

    That is a nice answer. He would have won first place if there was a contest for the kingship of Gaea.

    He is really the best-suited King of Gaea. No wonder the Great Theos chose him. He seemed to have pure intentions for his people.

    "I just wish that Lord Lycano was just bluffing. I wish he would desire something else than being a great king. Something like love," Aisha mused while gazing at him.

    The reason why she didn''t want to bear a child was that she was afraid that her children might not experience the love that she had longed for from her parents.

    If they can''t have it from her, they could have at least a loving father. But now that he was having this conversation with the King, she wondered if that would possibly happen now.

    Thinking about it, Aisha decided to ask him straight.

    "Have you ever loved someone, your Majesty?" She asked all of a sudden, making King Leandro''s eyebrows shoot up in surprise.

    His foot stepped backward, putting more distance between them. His face slightly grimaced at her question.

    "That''s out of the blue, my lady. Maybe we can talk about it some other time. You may go back to your Chamber now," his voice suddenly went cold as his body tilted away.

    His response lifted Lord Lycano''s statement in the weighing scale of truth, making Aisha sigh heavily.

    She was about to turn her back when she recalled another reason why she was there.

    "Your majesty, I also just want to ask for your permission to hold a tea party tomorrow afternoon, if you don''t mind," she asked.

    The King gave her a crisp nod and walked back to the pool.

    But before she goes, Aisha couldn''t help but blurt out. "Maybe you should open your heart not just to the Gaean people, but yourself too, your Majesty. Good night."

    *********

    A woman who opens her heart to love you when it''s already broken is braver than any person you''ll meet. The same goes with a man.

 Chapter 52 - Topsy-Turvy Feelings

    Leandro rubbed the middle of his forehead with his eyes closed.

    He was weary the whole day, but he couldn''t sleep.

    He couldn''t help but think about what Lady Aisha told her. They were just talking about Riso. Then she started talking about love and opening his heart to himself.

    His aquiline nose wrinkled unconsciously.

    "Is there a difference between opening my heart to the people and opening my heart to myself? If the Gaeans were satisfied, I would be at peace. I am also loving myself," Leandro grunted.

    He turned to his side while trying again to sleep.

    Still, his eyes were wide awake. He couldn''t forget her expression when she asked him if he has experienced loving someone.

    Thinking about that, made him heave out a deep sigh.

    "Is that what she meant by opening my heart to myself?" Leandro thought as he gazed at the empty cup of chamomile on the table.

    As he stared at it and recalled Lady Aisha''s kindness to him, the more he was confused with his emotions.

    He was certain that he was very attracted to her. Physically. Also, he was happy whenever he was with her. There were even times that he was looking for her just to be with her.

    Aside from that, he felt very protective of her whenever she was in danger.

    "But it probably isn''t love. She''s just cheerful and fun to be with. That''s why I like her. But that''s it,"  He reassured himself. Or he hoped to be.

    Loving someone means giving her the power to hurt him and make him weak. And he doesn''t want that to happen. Again.

    He tried lifting a vase with his amaranthine eyes and put it over in front of the cup, so he couldn''t see it anymore. As he did so, his eyes started to fall down, and he was fast asleep.

    The next morning, Leandro woke up early, so he could order some men to go to the Southeastern Lands and look for vacant land where they could plant more Riso.

    He would also like to go to the royal kitchen and see for himself if the Riso is indeed edible.

    As he thought about his goals for the day while staring at the window, he noticed that there were two love birds sweetly pecking at each other while they were sitting on its sill.

    His eyebrows furrowed at them. He had already forgotten about Lady Aisha''s statement last night, but now he was being reminded again.

    "Can you please open the window?" Leandro ordered his servant, hoping that he would disturb the two, to which he immediately complied.

    "It looks like it will be a lovely day today, Your Majesty," his servant commented with a bright smile as he pointed to the clouds.

    Leandro''s forehead scrunched up. But he went beside his servant to look at what he was pointing at. The clouds were in a heart shape.

    "It''s not a heart. It looks like two carrots together," Leandro''s face frowned as he focused on his garments in an attempt to ignore it.

    But it made him think. "Does the Great Theos agree with this? Maybe I would consider that after the Riso has been recognized as food. If it is possible. This is more important," Leandro resolved to himself as he finished his last pair of garments.

    He went out of the Chamber and, as always, Lord Emilio was already waiting for him.

    "What are my duties for the day? I need to talk to some men who could scout the Southeastern Lands for open fields," he asked as he strode along the hallways in an authoritative manner, making the servants whom they passed by bow down to him in respect.

    "You have finished what you need to accomplish today yesterday, Your Majesty. The only thing left is the fitting of the royal gown for the wedding, which was only four days away," Lord Emilio said to him.

    Leandro froze on his feet for a fraction of a second before continuing.

    "I almost forgot about that. I wonder how Lady Aisha was preparing. She must not fail the exam, so she could be the next royal wife," he thought out loud.

    He turned around and went immediately to Lady Aisha''s chamber.

    To his surprise, she was not there. Her female servants told him that she rose up early and went to the kitchen.

    The royal kitchen was bustling as always, with the servants preparing the breakfast skillfully. But there was one area that smelt like burnt food and smoke.

    "It shouldn''t be this way," Aisha''s shoulders slouched with her mouth downturned at the result of what she was cooking.

    His mouth fell open in surprise. He wasn''t expecting her to try to cook. But if she will, he didn''t expect that it would be this bad. Her face was even covered in soot.

    "She must have not experienced cooking in her former life," Leandro muttered under his breath as he watched her struggle.

    "Your Majesty, some of our trusted guards would be on patrol at this time. We need to hurry if they need to see the location as soon as possible," Lord Emilio pointed the way out of the royal kitchen.

    But he scowled secretly as his head tilted back. He tried to control his loud breaths. But he couldn''t.

    It was early morning and everyone in the kitchen was occupied with something to do. Pantry doors continued to squeak open and close while the servants were coming to and fro.

    Leandro nodded his head. The Centauri Clan has already informed the Tribal Council that they are already running out of Speltas. They were hoping that their neighboring Clans would help them, but they were bleeding dry too.

    If Riso could be an alternative, it needs to be planted as soon as possible.

    It will take 110 to 120 days before it can be harvested. There''s also the drying, milling, and storing process.

    "If only there''s Wi-Fi signals here. Mr. Google could teach me how," Aisha thought out loud, disturbing Leandro''s thought process and making him glance her way.

    She was slumped on a chair with her head bowed down, as if the whole earth was at her back.

    With her reaction, she became noticeable by the other kitchen servants. Some of them went to her side and tried to check on her cooking failure as well.

    "We apologize, my lady. We also don''t know how to cook Riso," the other servants sympathized with her. "We haven''t even tried cooking them before."

    Their furry ears were folded as they looked at each other for help.

    Leandro''s head shook slowly in a disbelieving manner.

    With his distance, he had no idea that Lady Aisha was trying to cook the Riso.

    His eyes glowed as he was glad to know that Aisha was already doing what he had in mind.

    Most ladies in Gaea just do what the men tell them to do.

    An amused smile curved Leandro''s lips. She has the potential of being a Queen.

    "Maybe it wouldn''t hurt to spend a little time helping her out. You can assign other royal guards to patrol in the meantime. Tell them that I need to speak to them," Leandro instructed Lord Emilio and walked forward to where Aisha and the other servants were.

    Emilio shook his head. He wanted to impel the King to leave. But by now, he knew that there was no stopping him, especially when it comes to Lady Aisha.

    "Your majesty!" the servants, who finally noticed Leandro, stuttered as they scuffled backward and bowed their heads as low as possible.

    Their tails folded behind them in fright. They were not accustomed to the King being present in the kitchen.

    All the servants did the same as they saw him. Aisha was also taken aback and bowed with them.

    Oh my gosh, forgive me, Your Majesty. Does the smoke reach your room? I promise I will pay you," Aisha stuttered. But she paused as she realized something.

    "Wait, I don''t have my ATM. And Rosalia has no more money either," Aisha uttered in a long, low sigh.

    "You can always pay back in another way," Leandro reassured her, his eyes unconsciously fixating themselves on her pink, moist lips.

    The other servants didn''t mind what he said. But Lady Aisha seemed to understand what he was saying.

    Her cheeks burned like the cherries that were beside her. "No, I will pay you with cash, your Majesty. If I have to work as a slave, I will," she uttered in a low-pitched voice with her lifted chin.

    Leandro also noticed that her fists were pressed tightly as she said that, making him scratch his head.

    "Did I say anything wrong to her last night?" He felt like she was mad at him with her fiery bronze eyes. But she was not saying anything.

    He didn''t like the feeling of having hurt her in any way.

    He unconsciously blurted out, "Let me just help you cook, then," making the other servants look at each other in bewilderment.

    *****************************

    Love works in miracles every day: such as weakening the strong, and stretching the weak; making fools of the wise, and wise men of fools; favouring the passions, destroying reason, and in a word, turning everything topsy-turvy.

 Chapter 53 - Understanding Women

    "Do you recall the recipe for this?" King Leandro asked as he rolled up his sleeves and fixed his clothes.

    One of the servants offered an apron to him. His head was bowed down while his arms trembled.

    "Thank you, you may get back to work," King Leandro ordered the servant.

    The other servants did the same.

    King Leandro now faced her..  His eyes were gleaming, making him look like he was sincere in his desire to help.

    Aisha was still in the kitchen, as she had no desire to stop trying to cook rice. She must show them that she was not joking.

    However, she has never experienced cooking it before. There was always the cook and the helpers to do that for her.

    She would just eat whatever is in front of her. And it doesn''t look like this every single time.

    Aisha thought hard while staring at the burnt rice in front of her with a downcast face.

    As far as she knew, she just needed to add water to it, and it would be cooked.

    But she didn''t know how much water she had to put in and how long she had to cook it for it to absorb the water and make it look like what she was eating every day.

    Besides that, she has ill feelings towards the King.

    She felt like Lord Lycano was telling the truth about him. He wants everything for Gaea''s sake.

    Not that it was a bad thing. Maybe she was just really hoping that he could also open his heart to falling in love. But it looked like he was not open to that idea.

    "Maybe you have a different way of cooking than here in Gaea, that''s why it scorched," King Leandro said as he pinched his lower lip.

    He appeared like he was thinking of a solution, so she could cook the Riso properly.

    He then went to the cauldron and the fiery furnace. It seemed as if he was checking out the temperature and the material of the cauldron.

    Aisha drew in a deep breath. He was right. They have rice cookers and smart ovens which have temperature regulators.

    He called on one of the servants and ordered him, "Can you minimize its heat?"

    "Affirmative, Your Majesty," the servant obliged at once. He then went to the furnace. And to Aisha''s surprise, a powerful gust of wind came out of him as he opened his mouth.

    "Whoa, that''s cool!" Aisha was distracted with the display of magic, making a corner of King Leandro''s lips curve up in response.

    Aisha couldn''t help but gaze at the King, smiling. Even when she was sulking for the King''s indifference to love, he didn''t scold her for her failure or even punished her.

    She couldn''t help but be reminded by her father.

    His words were still vivid to her.

    "Your mother must have given you birth from a different man. Failing does it run in our family," he sneered after showing him her grades which is B+.

    After that, he didn''t talk to her for a month. When he passed by, and he saw her, he would not even say hi.

    She tried to study hard for the next semester. But he acted the same way. He wanted to see an A+.

    She tried again and again, giving her best in studying. But she can''t. That''s why she just gave up.

    This is the first time she has tried to do something meaningful again through her best efforts. But she failed again.

    Fortunately, King Leandro hasn''t said any demeaning words to her. This was not the first time, actually. That must be the reason why she wanted to help him like this.

    She stood up and went to his side. "It''s not supposed to be watery and brown like this," she told him, what happened to her first try of cooking rice.

    "Then you must have put in more water than needed. Do you remember how much you put in? Maybe we need to measure it," King Leandro suggested she speak up a cup of Riso and put it in a bowl.

    Aisha nodded without even smiling. "Yes, let''s do that. I actually put equal parts of water and Riso. Maybe we need to lessen the amount."

    She tried cooking it again. Only this time, she was not alone. However, it didn''t come out the way she wanted it to. Again.

    She tasted a spoonful while King Leandro was looking at her with anticipation. But It was dry and crunchy to eat.

    She paused for a fraction of a second before glancing at King Leandro with her lips pressed together and her head shaking.

    "Failing is inevitable. But we could always try," Leandro encouraged her before pouring another cup of Riso in the small cauldron.

    It was probably just a simple statement from him. But it means a lot to her. His encouragement slowly removed all her negative thoughts away. Still, she kept her heart in check.

    Her lips curled up in a tepid smile at him, "Then let''s try again."

    King Leandro called on the main cook, so she could write down the mistakes that they made and when they already made the right ratio, they will have a copy and cook it at a larger scale next time.

    They did a few more tries, but they always failed. Aisha was already wondering if the Riso and the rice that she had in her own world were the same.

    Their cooks must have not gone the whole day just so she can have a bowl of rice.

    "If I haven''t suggested Riso, do you have other crops that you have in mind, your Majesty?" Aisha asked after she breathed out a dejected sigh.

    Maybe she was hoping for nothing.

    "Yes. But yours is proven and tested already. I would be starting from scratch if I would start with it. And we''re running out of time," King Leandro said as he opened the cauldron. "How about this?"

    Aisha jumped up to her feet as she saw the cooked rice. "Wait, it''s getting familiar," she said as she frantically took a spoon and tasted it. Her eyes bulged out in delight.

    Her feet started to dance in excitement as she touched the King''s arm, "I think this is it!"

    She tasted another spoonful and munched on it with her eyes closed. Tears almost start welling in her eyes. "Oh, my gosh. I miss you so much!"

    With her joy, she unconsciously put her arms around the King as she uttered, "We did it!"

    She was so happy that she didn''t notice that she made the King uncomfortable for a few seconds. But then, his lips lifted into a wide smile, a thing which he didn''t do often.

    "At last," he answered with a voice of satisfaction.

    Aisha recalled that she was slightly angry with the King, so she distanced herself again.

    The other servants were glowing as well. They were excited to try out a new kind of food. There were some who rejected the idea.

    But seeing the rice made her so happy, she decided to pushed her doubts behind her head and focused on introducing it to the King.

    "Do you want to taste it, your Majesty?" Aisha said as she grabbed another spoon for the King. But she paused as she recalled, "Wait, you would only appreciate it if you have a main course or side dishes."

    *******

    "Your breakfast is ready, your Majesty," a servant drew near to them as if he was suggesting an idea.

    Lady Aisha''s eyes beamed brightly. "That''s great! Let''s go, your Majesty. I promise you, you will love it!"

    She gave him her warmest smile as she dashed to the dining hall. Leandro followed close behind. He was shaking his head, but he was smiling.

    "I really don''t understand women," He muttered to himself in amazement at her sudden shift of mood.

    He seated himself in his usual chair. He was expecting Lady Aisha to sit in front of her, a meter away from him because of the long table.

    But to his surprise, she lifted her chair and walked towards him.

    "Wait! Get the chair from Lady Aisha," he ordered one of the attending servants, who immediately complied with his command.

    "Just place it beside the King," Aisha smiled at the servant.

    The servant quickly looked at Leandro for confirmation.

    Leandro nodded his head in agreement. It was uncomfortable because he wasn''t used to being in such proximity with someone while eating. But he wanted her to be near him, too.

    "You can partner Riso with meat, vegetables, and soup. Just about anything! Here, try this!" Aisha excitedly babbled on as she put a piece of meat and some vegetables on top of a spoonful of rice.

    "Ahh," Aisha nodded her head as she commanded Leandro to open his mouth.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped open, not because Aisha told her. But because he was surprised at her audacity to command him.

    To his bewilderment, Aisha thought that he was obeying her command as she grinned from ear to ear while putting the spoonful in his mouth.

    King Leandro''s eyes frantically went to the observing servants to see what they thought about the situation.

    They were suppressing a laugh.

    King Leandro cleared his throat as he distanced himself away from her. He wanted to stop her, but his mouth was full of food.

    He just focused on tasting the rice in his mouth.

    It was soft and slightly glutinous. It doesn''t really have a strong taste, so he didn''t know if it was delicious. But it was well blended with the meat and the vegetables. It felt like it was a complete meal.

    He nodded his head in an agreeing, but not totally convinced manner. "It is¡­ fine," he uttered after gobbling down the last bite.

    It was edible, but he didn''t know if it could match Spelta as a staple food in Gaea. They might reject it and grumble for Spelta instead.

    However, his doubts were washed away as Aisha beamed at him with her hands clasped to her chest. "I told you, your Majesty. Gaeans will not be hungry anymore," she smiled at him cheerfully.

    Leandro nodded his head as Lady Aisha reminded him of what truly matters.

    *********************

    TRUE LOVE:

    Seeing their bad side,

    their mood swings

    and their crankiness,

    yet still wanting to be with them.

 Chapter 54 - Happiness

    Somehow, the Riso with the roasted beef tenderloin and red potatoes were becoming more savory for Leandro''s taste that he couldn''t help but have another bowl.

    He and Lady Aisha were still in the dining hall, having their breakfast after their numerous attempts to cook Riso.

    "While we''re at it, I want to ask why you desire to have a tea party today? We will have a grand ball the day before our wedding," Leandro asked Lady Aisha.

    He was curious to know about it, too. It just got buried under the major issues that he has to deal with.

    It is normal for nobles to have tea parties. But he wanted to get to know more about her.. Maybe he could understand more about what ''opening his heart to himself'' means.

    Meanwhile, Lady Aisha was already seated in front of her across the table. She was just helping him taste the beauty of Riso, as she said.

    Now, she was delighting in her own share of the meal. She must have missed her staple food so much that she was smiling and even tilting her head from side to side as she ate.

    "Well, I just want other people to have fun," she answered directly. Her angelic cheeks were heightened up.

    "We should eat it while it''s still warm," she added in a bubbly voice.

    Leandro nodded at a servant who was a member of the Kimero Clan. He immediately understood what he meant.

    He drew near the table and extended his hand to the Riso stand, creating fire underneath it.

    "Whoa! Do all of you guys have superpowers here? I must probably be transported to Marvel Comics!" Lady Aisha blurted out in obvious astonishment.

    The member of the Kimero Clan scratched his head as he returned to his position. The other servants remained bowed to them.

    Leandro leaned back on the chair as he stretched his taut legs under the table while gazing at Lady Aisha.

    These abilities were just natural for them. But it appeared a thrilling experience in the eyes of a human from the outside world.

    And her answer was a different one from what he expected. He couldn''t help but be amused.

    If he assessed himself, he was totally different from her. He doesn''t care if he has friends or not. Or whether other people were having fun or not. He doesn''t even care about his own.

    He just calls for jesters from time to time for his mental health''s sake. But if he would just call for them just because he wanted to have fun, that is very rare.

    That was probably why he was smitten with Lady Aisha. She was literally like a ray of sunshine to him.

    "That is nice of you to think about others'' enjoyment, aside from your own. You must have a lot of friends in your former world," he couldn''t help but comment as his sparkling amethyst eyes drank her in.

    "Well, to be honest, I''m not just doing it for them. I''m also doing it for myself. When they''re happy, they''ll stay with me," Aisha answered straightaway. But her voice wavered as she spoke the last sentence, making her press her pink, soft lips as if she has said something that she shouldn''t have.

    She froze for a few seconds before she continued with her meal. But her shoulders hunched, and her mouth went downwards.

    They were already finished with the main course. So the other servants came in and poured some tea.

    That was his favorite part after a meal. But now he didn''t even notice it.

    It seemed a heavy numbness invaded his chest, squeezing away the warm emotions he was feeling just a few minutes ago.

    By the tone of her voice, it seems like some people have left her by herself. And her response was she was giving other people what makes them happy, so it wouldn''t happen again to her.

    But he hoped it''s not the case. If it is, she must have a lonely life. Other people could have taken advantage of her.

    His thick brows crinkled as he watched her fight her probably chaotic emotions inside her while still managing to eat.

    His heart was so troubled that he couldn''t help but ask, "And their staying didn''t hurt you in any way?"

    His question must have hit a button, as she suddenly stopped eating and put her trembling hands on her lap.

    "I''m full already. Maybe I should leave now, so I can prepare for the teaparty." She smiled, but they didn''t reach her eyes.

    Her cheerful disposition suddenly went dim, as if a dark cloud covered the sun''s beaming rays.

    Leandro was taken aback by her response.

    Even without her saying anything, he knew his suspicion was true.

    He stood up and was about to go to her side when another servant came in rushing with a scroll in his hand. "It''s from the Centauri Clan, your Majesty."

    Leandro immediately opened it, as he was afraid that they had already run out of Spelta.

    He has told Lord Sebastian, the leader of the Centauri Clan, to inform him immediately once they have a few stocks left, so he could find a way and help them.

    He didn''t expect that it would be this soon.

    "Forgive us for disturbing your peace, your Majesty. But we have only a hundred sacks of Spelta to feed our families. We believe in the mercy of the Great Theos and the generosity of our King''s heart. We hope you could aid us in these times of need. Signed, Lord Sebastian."

    Leandro gulped as the back of his throat ached in response. He must attend to their needs at once!

    He stood up and was about to leave when he noticed that Lady Aisha was staring at him with both her copper eyebrows raised.

    She must be wondering what was in the letter.

    He drew in a deep breath as he didn''t want to leave her in that state. But he needed to leave.

    He bowed down to her and said, "Thank you for the pleasant breakfast. Forgive me if I have to leave early, my lady. Let us have another conversation later after your tea party. But let me tell you this. That will be the last time you''re having one without my permission."

    Then he quickly walked away.

    *************************

    If your happiness depends on things, people or situations, you''re bound to get hurt eventually.

 Chapter 55 - The Tea Party

    "And I thought that I will not be a slave here," Aisha mumbled to herself before she pursed her lips.

    Her arms were crossed together with her eyebrows.

    It was already afternoon, and she was waiting for the three to arrive. The Castle has their own private Tea Room, to her surprise, making it easy for her to make excuses for the absence of the other guests.

    Aisha was supposed to be focusing on her party. But she couldn''t shake off what King Leandro said to her before he left.

    He seemed to be apprehensive about the letter that the servant brought to them while they were having breakfast. But he managed to stop and gave her a warning that this will be the last time that she''s having one.

    "I hope everything is alright, though," Aisha thought as she recalled the appearance of the King.

    He appeared worried after he read the letter. He even left his plate still half-empty.

    She was thinking about all these things when her awaited visitors arrived.

    "I will now have a story to tell to my great-grandchildren," Martina stuttered as she wiped her eyes with her handkerchief.

    Diana and Stella rubbed her back, but it was obvious in their glowing faces that they were awestruck as they entered the halls of the Castle.

    Aisha''s lips curved up in response to their reaction. She pushed her thoughts away and just decided to focus on her guests instead.

    "I''m still new here. But welcome to the Castle," Aisha slightly bowed to them with her extended hand.

    The three entered the Castle with their jaws dropped open as their eyes scanned every nook and cranny of the majestic abode.

    "I felt like I''m a Princess," Diana responded as she put both her hands on her face.

    Aisha couldn''t help but be reminded of her first experience in Gaea. She said the same thing herself.

    "Wait, there''s more," she said with a proud smile on her face as she opened the door to the drawing-room where there were gowns and gloves and hats that they could wear while they''re having the party.

    She recalled doing the same thing for her friends in her old world. But instead of gowns and gloves, they have dresses and costumes instead. Then they will go out and party all night.

    It appeared like the gowns in this room came from rich ladies who have visited the Castle who have only worn the gowns once. They look so new that they seem like they have never been touched. But they were numerous.

    She realized that these people were no different. They use these tea parties to have fun and bond with each other, too.

    Aisha felt like she was back to her normal self.

    "Can I wear this? I''m afraid I might tear it. I have no money to pay for it," Estella said as she touched one of the silk gowns.

    "That''s the last thing you need to worry about," Aisha reassured her.

    Estella''s cheeks lifted in a smile as she took one of the gowns that she has been eyeing all the time.

    As soon as they were ready, they went to the Tea Room, where everything was already prepared for them.

    "The other guests said that they couldn''t come. That''s why you can be comfortable for the rest of the afternoon," Aisha said with a warm smile as she felt their uneasiness while standing at the door of the Tea Room with their hands trembling.

    Her words seemed believable to them, so they decided to step forward.

    While inside, their mouths seemed to water as they gulped numerous times. Their eyes devoured the dainty sandwiches, scones served with clotted creams and preserves. There were also other cakes and pastries.

    Silver teapots that hold the tea were being poured over delicate bone cups.

    The three immediately seated themselves comfortably in their chosen chairs. They couldn''t help but giggle as they imitate the noble ladies while having a cup of tea.

    Aisha couldn''t help but chuckle with them. They look very happy.

    "Forgive us for our unkind words to you, my lady. But you are the kindest creature I have ever met. You made me change my view on humans," Martina leaned forward and gazed at her.

    "Yes, my lady. We hope you will be the Chosen One," Diana added with her hands on her chest.

    "No, no, no," Aisha answered immediately while waving her hands. "I''m just following a command. I couldn''t be."

    "Why not?" Estella asked with her forehead scrunched up. She was about to take a sip, but she put it down instead.

    "I don''t know. I''m just not fit for it, I guess," Aisha laughed awkwardly.

    Martina butted in with a stern face. "Don''t tell me you are afraid of the King."

    Aisha was about to say no, but Martina continued to speak, "Behind that cruel and cold demeanor is a good man, I tell you."

    "Cruel and cold?" Aisha thought to herself as she recalled the King''s warm kisses and smiles. "He didn''t seem that way to me."

    But then, she recalled how he treated other people aside from her. He was in all manners an authoritative king. Like an alpha boss in her world.

    "Why is he acting differently towards me?" Her pouted lips curled up, hoping that he might like her. But they went down again when she recalled that he was not into love.

    But she was glad that these three supported the King.

    "Why do I keep thinking about him?" Aisha shook her head to remove her thoughts.

    Estella must have sensed her inner turmoil that she blurted out, "If you need help with anything, feel free to ask us, my lady."

    As she said that, she nodded to a servant as a cue.

    "Actually I want to introduce to you a kind of food that you might have not tasted before. It is one of my favorites in my former world. Do you like to see it?"

    The three looked at each other first before they responded.

    It was Martina who first spoke up, "Certainly, my lady. We know you will not poison us or plan anything against us because we are just mere peasants, right?" Then she laughed in a nervous way.

    Diana and Estella did the same.

    Aisha chuckled as well. She understood perfectly where they were coming from.

    She even thought that the Gaeans would eat her the first time she entered the land.

    "Of course, I know you don''t trust me yet. But don''t worry, I will be the one who will eat it first. I will be your food tester," Aisha said to reassure them.

    The servants now delivered the rice with some meat and vegetables.

    Unlike the King, they appreciated it at once.

    "What kind of food is this? We just ate a few, and we already feel full," Diana asked as her hand flew to her tummy.

    "In here, you call it Riso. But in our land, we call it rice," Aisha informed them.

    "I can''t believe it. I thought Riso was just for display. This could be an alternative for Spelta!"

    Aisha nodded her head as they caught on to what she and Rosalia had planned.

    Just as they were already having fun, an uninvited guest came in.

    *******************

    A journey well shared is a journey well enjoyed.

 Chapter 56 - The Unexpected Guest

    "Lady Marina!" Martina immediately stood up and bowed to her.

    She clumsily fixed her hair and dusted her skirt with the palms of her hands.

    Seeing her fretful state, Diana and Estella bolted up as well and bowed in a formal way to their new guest.

    All of them seem agitated with their surprise visitor, including the servants, whose feet scuffled backward.

    "Bow down to her, my lady. You wouldn''t want to get on her bad side," Martina whispered as she drew near to her.

    She was just seated beside her.

    Aisha was still guessing who she was and how she learned about the Tea Party. But she stood up..

    The event was only known to the kitchen servants who prepared the snacks for them. And King Leandro.

    "Did he invite her over?" Aisha thought to herself. "The ladies here seem to be surprised that she is here right now. They couldn''t be the one who invited her."

    Her heart was wildly pounding in her chest. She has no idea who she was, but she appeared very intimidating.

    "Aren''t you going to bow down to me?" Lady Marina crossed her arms and raised her eyebrow.

    Her transparent skin glowed as she said that. Aisha has no idea if it was because her temperature shot up with her rudeness. Or it was just a natural thing for her.

    "It seemed like she held a high position in Gaea with her snotty attitude," Aisha muttered to herself. But she drew in a deep breath before she walked forward to where she was and bowed down to her.

    "Forgive me for my rude actions. I was stunned by your ethereal beauty. Please come in," Aisha responded respectfully.

    A chuckle escaped from Lady Marina''s throat as she walked to where they were previously seated. Her voice sounded like the sea.

    "I completely understand. It is not just you who have acted that way when they met me for the first time," Lady Marina said as she seated herself in the chair where Aisha was previously seated.

    "You may all sit down," She instructed everyone. "I have heard that there will be a Tea Party here. I took the liberty to come unannounced since I was also visiting the King. And I want to take a look at the next royal wife."

    She then gazed at Aisha from head to foot before rolling her eyes. "Aren''t you a little too skinny for the King? You look like a child who just had her period, dear. Are you sure you''re at the right age to marry?"

    Martina, Estella, and Diana gave a quick glance at each other as they saw how Lady Marina belittled Lady Aisha. But they kept their mouths shut.

    "Why don''t you ask the King yourself, lady? He was the one who insisted on this wedding thing," Aisha growled in her mind.

    But she managed to smile and said, "I am of marrying age, my lady. I believe the King doesn''t just look at the physical appearance. But of the character and heart, like a good King that he is."

    Lady Marina''s eyes went wide open at her response. She glared at her for a few seconds before she went back to her poker face. "Indeed. But there are women who have everything," a conceited smile lifted her cheeks.

    Aisha gazed at Lady Marina from head to foot. She was indeed very beautiful in a hypnotizing way. Her hair boasted of a rich grassy color that cascaded down her beautiful curves.

    Her voluptuous breasts were enormously bigger than the ordinary, making any woman''s eyes look at their own and cover them in embarrassment.

    Lady Marina spoke up again, "I thought there were other nobles around here. Wait, is that you, Martina, Estella, and Diana?"

    Aisha''s forehead scrunched as she gazed at all of them. "Do you know each other?"

    A corner of Lady Marina''s lips smirked as she answered her, "And I thought humans weren''t dull-witted. Who in Gaea wouldn''t know me? The question is how I know them."

    She then shifted her menacing stare to the three.

    Martina stood up and bowed down to everyone, "We''ll be leaving now, my lady. The sun was already setting. Thank you for this opportunity."

    But Lady Marina intentionally continued on, "Their reputation for being the worst slanderers are known far and wide, even under the sea. If I were you, I would be careful. They don''t deserve to be treated like this. They''re just pests in our society," she sneered at them in a hostile manner.

    Aisha gazed at the three. They were looking down with their lips trembling. Aisha couldn''t take it anymore.

    She couldn''t help but be reminded about how she met Nadine. She was a known theft in their school. Nobody wanted to make friends with her.

    At first, Aisha was indifferent to her. But one time, she saw some seniors bullying her and forcefully getting her bag from her.

    Aisha defended her. And because she has money, fame, and friends, they immediately went away. Nadine followed her ever since, and no one had bullied her anymore.

    Now she was seeing the same scenario again. Will she allow Lady Marina to bully them?

    She recalled how Nadine turned her back on her at the last moment of her life. Will these three do the same and betray her soon?

    She wanted to go to Lady Marina''s side. But her conscience was killing her.

    Her lungs would burst if she wouldn''t do anything. She may be a bad judge of character. But bullying is still bullying!

    "It is my belief that every creature deserves a chance to be happy, my lady," Aisha blurted out as she lifted her chin.

    It''s up to them if they will turned their back on her in the end. But she will do the right thing!

    All of them were surprised to hear her, including the three, as their jaws dropped open. Then their eyes started to water.

    "Lady Marina, I apologize for saying this. But you are making my guests uncomfortable. Maybe we can have a chat some other time," Aisha said as politely as possible, with her lips curved up in a smile.

    Lady Marina''s eyes widened in bewilderment. "I am making them uncomfortable? It was them who were making me uncomfortable! You should be sending them away, not me!" She bolted up from her chair and put her hands on her waist.

    "Do you even know who I am?" she shrieked at the above her voice, making Aisha, the servants, and the three cover their ears in response.

    Aisha has never encountered such a deafening voice before.

    She continued to speak like there was a gurgling thunderstorm in her throat.

    "I am Lady Marina, a member of the Tribal Council and leader of the creatures who lived under the sea. Remember this day because you will pay for this!" She then stomped out of the room, leaving Aisha and the three behind.

    ***************

    Strong people stand up for themselves.

    But the strongest people stand up for others.

 Chapter 57 - An Ex -Lover

    Aisha and the three were left standing in astonishment at what just took place.

    They were still in the Tea Room. The tea that was poured into their cups was already getting cold. But the three remained frozen on their feet.

    "You should have not said that to Lady Marina, my lady," Martina scolded Aisha.

    In slow motion, she sat back in her chair. Her face was pallid white, as if all of her blood was drained from her.

    Aisha couldn''t believe what just happened as well.. They were just enjoying their time together when she appeared out of nowhere and said demeaning remarks to all of them, wreaking havoc in their fun time.

    But her curiosity peaked at her. She was a powerful woman in Gaea. Why would she bother herself with trivial things like this?

    "Why is she angry at us anyway? She was already acting high and mighty as soon as her face showed up," Aisha said as she crossed her arms and rolled her eyes.

    As she spoke up, the servants seem to have breathed properly as well. They bowed their heads and took the cold teas, replacing them with another one.

    "She must be jealous of you, my lady," Estella answered her after she has finally come back to her senses.

    She took a sip of the new tea that was poured to her, perhaps hoping it would alleviate her anxiety.

    "Jealous? Why would she be jealous of me? She was very beautiful already. She''s like a Playboy hot model in my world," Aisha thought out loud.

    An idea made its way in her analysis as her finger shot up. "Wait, is she a part of the 1006 Lady Consorts?"

    Her other finger crossed behind her, hoping she was not.

    "She could not be a Lady Consort since she was a part of the Tribal Council," Martina answered for her, making her breath out a sigh of relief, only to be taken away in a matter of seconds by Estella''s add-ons.

    "But she had a relationship with the King before," Estella said with her eyes wide open as if she had just shared a juicy piece of gossip that would give light to their predicament.

    Aisha''s shoulders scrunched down. "What do I expect? Of course, the King would choose beautiful women as a girlfriend," she thought to herself, suddenly feeling insecure.

    Just then, she recalled how the King flinched when she asked him if she had experienced loving someone. He even sent her away.

    "Did he remember Lady Marina? Why did he avoid that topic?" Aisha''s eyebrows knitted together.

    Now that she thought of it, the King could have loved anyone from the first to the 1006th Lady Consort. Or could it be Lady Marina?

    "Can we still have this party after that? I feel terrible," Diana finally uttered in a grimace.

    Aisha shifted her gaze at Diana. She was definitely quiet the whole time.

    Then Aisha stared at the pieces of bread and cakes. They looked delicious, but they are now right. It was hard to eat them after what happened. That lady was a 100% killjoy!

    "Sure! I will just ask the servants to put it in a basket, so you could take them home with you," Aisha responded warmly.

    "Maybe we could do this again some other time?" Estella said with a hopeful look on her face.

    As she said that, she recalled the last words of the King. "This is the last time that you could hold a tea party without my permission," he said in a determined tone.

    "He said ''without his permission''. Maybe I could ask for his permission next time," Aisha concluded to herself.

    Her heart was also feeling heavy at that time, too.

    She was just unsure if it''s because of the horrible confrontation. Or the point that the King has fallen for somebody else, which could probably be Lady Marina. And that woman must be the reason why he wasn''t able to love anybody else, like Lord Lycano said.

    "Yes, let''s do this again next time," Aisha said with a warm smile. Then she leaned forward and asked, "Last question, I just want to know if you think his relationship with Lady Marina was a serious one."

    To which, Martina answered abruptly, "We don''t really know. But they have been together longer than the other royal wives and concubines. No wonder she acted that way to you."

    A heavy boulder seemed to press down on Aisha''s shoulders as she heard that.

    If she got it right, Lady Marina was like her Jake, making her shoot up another question. "But was she the last relationship of the King? Are there no other Lady Consorts after her?"

    "That''s what''s bothering me, too, my lady. She couldn''t have gotten angry with all the Lady Consorts, too. I wonder why she was that mad at you. Is it, perhaps, the King would lift you up to the queen position soon?" Estella''s eyes and mouth dropped open as the thought dawned to her.

    The three gazed at each other with obvious excitement.

    "No, no, no. I''m just going to be an ordinary royal wife," Aisha shook her hand vigorously. "Maybe you should go home now. It''s already getting late," she added as she bolted up, making everybody stand up.

    They were already at one of the exits of the Castle when Aisha spoke up again.

    "I apologize for what happened. I will make sure next time there won''t be an event such as that again," Aisha apologized and bowed down to them.

    "It''s alright, my lady. No one predicted such a scene. Thank you again. We will rally the people in favor of you, my lady," Estella said with conviction as she waved her head.

    "No, don''t do that. I just want to live a normal life here," Aisha smiled at them awkwardly. But she was gratified that she has people on her side, somehow.

    Aisha was smiling as she went back to her room. She was really glad that they came, even after how the event turned out.

    However, her smile went downturned as she saw a scene that she didn''t expect.

    The King and Lady Marina were talking in a dark corner, in proximity, and Lady Marina was toying with his robe.

    *************************

    True friends don''t judge each other.

    They judge other people together. :'')

 Chapter 58 - Back To Her Former World

    "I have never been so angry in my entire Gaean life," Aisha blurted out.

    Her nostrils were flaring as she heaved out a lungful of air.

    She felt like her lungs would burst if she didn''t say that.

    Fortunately, King Leandro and Lady Marina didn''t see her. She went straight to her Chamber without even looking left or right.

    Lady Marina has just belittled her and her new acquaintances. And now she was flirting with the King!

    And it seemed like the King liked it! He didn''t even back off from her slithering hands.

    "What happened, my lady? Did Lady Marina talk with you again? I was really uneasy leaving you behind. But my assistant was sick.. I have to supervise the others," Rosalia asked in a worried tone as she walked forward to where Aisha was.

    Then she nodded to the other servants as a signal that they should leave AIsha''s Chamber, to which they immediately obliged.

    "No, she didn''t. Don''t worry about it," Aisha lifted her hand and waved it as she tried to calm Rosalia''s anxious state.

    She told her about what she saw.

    It was already evening and the lamps were already flickering, revealing Aisha''s reddened face.

    "That was indeed very cunning of her," Rosalia answered. But she immediately bit her lips and glanced from left to right, making sure that no one''s around to hear her.

    She was still a part of the Tribal Council and the leader of all the creatures under the sea.

    "Yeah, right. And besides, why did the King and Lady Marina separate in the first place if they''re going to flirt like that still? They should have been together. They should have been husband and wife," Aisha babbled on.

    Her eyes rolled as she folded her arms over her chest.

    With that, Rosalia couldn''t help but gaze at Aisha as she slowly responded, "Did that scenario hurt your feelings, my lady?"

    "Of course!" Aisha abruptly answered as she panted for air.

    She stood up and went to the table to pour herself a cup of water.

    A corner of Rosalia''s lips curled as she replied, "I knew it. You are jealous right now because you have already fallen for the King!" She smiled from ear to ear.

    With a startled response, Aisha waved her hand vigorously, "Not at all!"

    "I''m - I''m just hurt because Lady Marina has insulted me and it seemed like the King has taken her side. That''s all," her body twisted and walked back to her couch, away from Rosalia. She didn''t want Rosalia to continue to tease her.

    But it made her think about her feelings for the King.

    "I think it''s all right to acknowledge your feelings, my lady. You will be his wife soon," Rosalia encouraged her to open up to the King.

    But she replied in a resolved manner, "That will all be just papers. My heart will not be involved with it."

    Aisha didn''t know if she would be relieved or nervous that another servant spoke from behind the door, disturbing their conversation.

    "The King wishes for your presence in the dining hall, my lady," the messenger announced.

    At the mention of the name of the King, Aisha''s heart started pumping wildly in her chest.

    "Is he going to talk to me about the Tea Party?" Aisha bit her lips.

    "I don''t want to see him," She quickly responded after recalling his actions with Lady Marina. "And besides, Lady Marina might be there."

    She was still furious with what Lady Marina did a while ago. And she knew that she had also offended her pride. She also didn''t want to see the King siding with her.

    "That would be very uncomfortable for the three of us," Aisha continued to think out loud.

    "But my lady, there is a corresponding punishment for those who disobey a King''s order," Rosalia said in a worried tone.

    Aisha could sense Rosalia''s concern for her so she added, "I will just meet him tomorrow instead. Lady Marina could have been gone by tomorrow."

    She was resolved not to see the two tonight.

    Aisha stepped forward, giving Rosalia the cue to open the door.

    "Please tell the King that I am exhausted from today''s party and I desire to rest. But I will see him at the earliest in the morning," Aisha told the messenger.

    Her chin was lifted as her shoulders straightened.

    The messenger quickly bowed down and left her Chamber to give her response to the King.

    Then she faced Rosalia and said, "That was true, by the way. I really feel drained by today''s events. I will just take a nap. You may go and rest now."

    Aisha smiled at her, making Rosalia bow down in gratitude.

    "Good luck to the both of them," Aisha smirked as she went back to her Chamber, washed herself and changed her clothes.

    She was indeed so tired, physically and emotionally that she went to bed and tried to rest.

    She has rested for a few hours. But she was awoken by her growling stomach.

    "What time is it?" Aisha scratched her head after yawning.

    She stood up from bed and went to the table. To her delight, there was some bread from the tea party.

    "How thoughtful of Rosalia," Aisha smiled with her eyes as she sat herself and grabbed a bite.

    As she ate, she recalled what Rosalia said about her feelings. "That cannot be. I''ve just known the King for a short time. How could I be in love with him?"

    After she finished the bread, she still wasn''t satisfied. Her stomach was still grumbling.

    "Is it because you have tasted rice again, you naughty tummy," Aisha scolded her stomach.

    It seemed to agree with her as it gurgled back.

    "Hmm, I think we have leftover rice from the party a while ago," Aisha said.

    She stood up and sneaked into the royal kitchen.

    It was already in the middle of the night so she wasn''t expecting anyone to be awake at that time.

    "I wonder where they put it. There you are!" Aisha''s eyes brightened up as she saw the white plain rice in one of the cauldrons.

    It was only half full. But it was enough for her.

    She caressed her abdomen as she uttered, "You deserve to be happy after what you went through."

    She then sat herself and ate her dinner. Because of her enthusiasm, she started choking up.

    *cough*

    She felt like the food in her throat was preventing her lungs from sucking in the nighttime air.

    Her frantic eyes darted everywhere for a cup of water.

    Seeing a jar, she immediately opened it and got herself a cup full.

    "Whoa, that was good!" Aisha exclaimed as she finished it.

    It tasted like fresh fruit juice.

    She took another cup and went on eating. Then she took another one and another one afterwards.

    Eating was always one of her ways to distract herself from thinking too much. She ate to her heart''s content while drinking the juice from the jar.

    After a while, her vision started to get blurred.

    "Wait, I think I''m now getting sleepy," Aisha mumbled to herself as she slowly felt that her world was spinning.

    The cup in the table seemed to be swirling as well as the plate.

    She tried to stay awake by trying to open her eyes as she didn''t want to sleep in the royal kitchen.

    But to her surprise, she felt like she was transported back to her former world.

    Her bewildered eyes gazed around her. Instead of the royal kitchen, she was seeing a bar that she used to go to.

    There were people dancing while having drinks with their friends.

    "Is this for real?" Aisha narrowed her eyes as everything was blurred. But they never changed.

    A girl even asked her to stand up and dance with them.

    Aisha chuckled, but she stood up.

    Her world was still spinning, and her body suddenly felt very heavy. But she danced like she used to do.

    "Yeah! Let''s have fun!"  swayed along to the beat of the music that she was hearing.

    She closed her eyes and thought, "Maybe everything was just a dream after all. What a terrible terrible dream!"

    Like she used to do, she danced and exhausted herself so that when she gets home, she will just sleep the night away.

    However, her body felt like it wanted to find a soft cushioned bed already at that moment.

    She decided to go home, thinking that she was back to her former world.

    "Bye, guys! I had fun!" She grinned from ear to ear and waved her hand at them.

    But her actions were sluggish as they felt really heavy at that time.

    She started walking as she tried to find her way through the streets that she was seeing.

    There were no cars, so she''s free to crisscross the streets when she feels like it.

    Seeing a familiar looking house, her finger shot up and pointed at it, "There''s my house! Oh, how I miss you! My room, my bed, even the boring paintings on the wall!"

    Her heart felt elated to see the house where she grew up in front of her.

    "Wait, I need to creep in. Or Mrs. Lee will surely get angry at me," she sheepishly told herself.

    She tried to open the gates with her spare key like she used to do. But it won''t open.

    *****************

    There is no place like home.

 Chapter 59 - Intoxicated

    Warning:

    There''s a steamy scene at the end! Please don''t read them if you''re uncomfortable. There''s more in the next chapter. ;)

    *********************************

    "Mr. Lee! Let me in!" Lady Aisha was shouting outside Leandro''s Chamber, waking him up from his deep sleep.

    Leandro was already in his bed and dozing.

    He had a rough day. Making a decision to distribute the Spelta that was stored in the Castle warehouse to the Centauri Clan was difficult for him. But he did.

    He would have to rely on harvesting Riso for the people in the Castle so that they could have food to eat..

    Aside from that, Lady Marina told him about how she and Lady Aisha were involved in a conflict during the tea party.

    He wanted to clarify the truth from Lady Aisha and have a talk about their conversation during breakfast. But she said she needed some rest a few hours ago.

    "What''s with this now?" Leandro growled under his breath as he took off his blanket and grabbed his robe.

    "Mr. Lee! I promise I won''t sneak out again. It''s true this time! Please let me in!" Lady Aisha continued to rant outside his door.

    Her voice sounded like she was desperate and even on the verge of crying.

    Leandro was a little annoyed and at the same time surprised that he decided to open the door of his Chamber and faced her.

    "Who is Mr. Lee? And why do you want to come inside my Chamber?" He asked in a rough voice.

    It is true that he wanted to talk to her, but not at this hour!

    As she saw him, her jaw dropped open. "King Leandro? What are you doing at our house? Are you here to pick me up and bring me back to Gaea?" She asked in bewilderment.

    Leandro drew near her as she smelled quite different. He was right. She drank Prunum wine!

    With her reddened face and muzzy appearance, she must have drank a lot! And her human body could not tolerate it. It must be the cause why she was hallucinating now.

    To his astonishment, she continued to walk inside his Chamber without his permission as if she owned that place.

    "No. I don''t want to see you and Lady Marina. I''m staying. I will never go back to Gaea again," She responded sluggishly as she walked in a tipsy manner to his bed.

    "Wait!" Leandro tried to stop her. But before he knew it, she was already lying down on his mattress.

    "You are in Gaea, my lady. This is my Chamber. And I believe you should also go back to yours," He tried to explain to her, even though he knew that in her state, she would not understand a thing.

    Prunum wine could only be found in the kitchen. She must have gone there for midnight refreshments. Of all the wines in Gaea, it has the least alcohol content, making it the most friendly drink during occasions.

    He has no idea that it has that effect on humans. Or was it because she has consumed a lot? They usually drink 1-3 cups during ceremonies. Perhaps she has drunk it with something else that could have hastened its effect in her bloodstream?

    "Why are you still there? Go home. I don''t want to see you," Aisha said as she tilted her head and narrowed her eyes at him.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered slowly as if she was having a hard time seeing him clearly. Then her head went back to his pillows.

    Leandro didn''t know if he would be irritated or amused with her. She was sending him out of his own Chamber! But what intrigued him was her refusal to see him.

    "Why is that, my lady? Did I do anything wrong that upsets you?" He drew near and sat on his bed.

    Lady Aisha''s eyes were still closed. But her forehead was crinkling, revealing her awakened state.

    "Why do you have to talk to Lady Marina that way? Do you still love her? Would you still see her like that even after we''re married?" She opened her eyes and asked straightforwardly.

    Leandro was taken aback by her question. He didn''t know that she saw them talking. He was already on his way to the dining hall when Lady Marina stopped him and told him about what happened.

    Lady Marina was indeed emotive when she talked with him privately. But it was just a normal thing for him.

    Seeing her being affected by it, he decided to just allow her to stay in his Chamber for the night. He wanted to continue conversing with her.

    "Is that the reason why you drink the Prunum wine, my lady? Do you want me to distance myself from her?" He asked as he pulled over his blanket and tucked her under it.

    Usually, he felt suffocated when other women cling to his affections, making him distance himself from them.

    He wondered why, with Lady Aisha, he finds it heartwarming.

    "Punu wine? I don''t know what it is. But if I will be coming back to Gaea, I don''t want to see you with other women anymore. If you''ll do that, I will just stay here," Lady Aisha''s lips pouted. Her pretty eyebrows knitted together.

    Leandro couldn''t help but smile. "All right, but you have to promise me one thing, too. You will stop finding happiness from other people. That even if you lose everyone that you love, you will still be happy."

    Leandro recalled their conversation as they were having breakfast a while ago. That was what he wanted to tell her. But he didn''t know if it would sink into her right now.

    "How could you be happy when you have no one beside you? That is so hard," Aisha answered as she rubbed her forehead and heaved out a sigh.

    Leandro drew in a deep breath as he answered, "Yes, it is. But you have to." As he said that, he couldn''t help but think back on his own life.

    Since it''s making him melancholic, he decided to just shove it away and pulled up his blanket on the other side of the bed. He was just going to sleep beside her.

    It seemed that Lady Aisha didn''t mind, as she didn''t move an inch.

    But Leandro seemed to doubt his decision as the skin on his arms touched her warm side. He didn''t know if he could sleep in the same bed with her without having contact!

    And she was drunk. He didn''t want to violate her in her vulnerable state.

    He tried to move away until he reached the edge of the bed. Then he faced the wall, so she was at his back.

    "Your Majesty?" Aisha said behind him.

    "Hmm?" Leandro answered her. But he pretended that he was already asleep.

    "Do you still love her?" She continued to ask.

    Leandro couldn''t help it but faced her again.

    "I wasn''t in love with Lady Marina, my lady," he answered her in an understanding tone.

    He wondered why she was insisting that he was in love with her when he was not. He has resolved to himself to never give his heart to a woman as long as he was alive.

    But as he was now facing her, only a foot away from her, his heart started to beat wildly.

    Beads of sweat formed in his forehead as he gazed at her glowing face, her copper eyes covered by her thick eyelashes, her small nose, and her pink moist lips.

    "I see. I thought you fell in love with her because of her boobies. Mine are small," Lady Aisha answered him nonchalantly while pressing her breasts together.

    The Prunum wine must have taken all the inhibitions away from her that it''s making her extremely bold right now.

    Leandro gulped, a lump in his throat as it suddenly felt dry. Her actions heated up his temperature.

    He drew nearer to her until he was just a few inches away from her. "Do you want to know how I feel about them?" He asked in a hoarse voice.

    "Yes," Lady Aisha grinned at him.

    Leandro thought that she was giving him the privilege of invading her privacy by her agreement.

    So he removed the blanket that was covering her and started planting kisses on the curve of her neck, going to the upper part of her creamy, swollen mounds.

    "Wait! That''s not what I mean," Lady Aisha tried to push him away.

    But her strength was not enough, probably because of her intoxication of the Prunum wine.

    Leandro wanted to stop since he was the sober one.

    But his thirsty lips have already tasted her flesh, and her human feminine scent was like an intoxicating wine that was luring him further. He just had to have her.

    His head went down to nibble her left swelling flesh, while his masculine hand caressed the other one, molding and reshaping them at his pleasure.

    He felt Lady Aisha froze for a few seconds at what he was doing. But she was not pushing him away.

    ************************************

    The greatest pleasure of life is love. Euripides

 Chapter 60 - Lets Stay In Bed

    Warning: This is a very steamy chapter! Please don''t read if you''re uncomfortable. If you like it though, please give me a 5 star review. haha! Just kidding! Enjoy. :D

    ********************

    Leandro froze for a fraction of a second as he waited for what Aisha would do next. But she didn''t move an inch.

    He decided to continue on giving pleasure to himself and her. He sat up only to loosen the top portion of her gown until her breasts were exposed.

    They were beautifully formed, rosy, and mouth watering. His lips curved in an appreciative smile.

    Lady Aisha tried to cover them with her arms and tilted her head away..

    "I told you they''re smaller compared to Lady Marina." She pouted her lips.

    Her shoulders shrugged in a nonchalant way, but her cheeks were beetle red.

    She turned her back away from him, revealing her shapely curves.

    The lamp in his room illuminated the luminosity of her skin, making her body more desirous to him.

    The temperature of his body went top-notch, making him remove his robe to cool himself somehow.

    Then he lies down beside her. Gazing at her silk skin, he whispered in her ear, "I like them just the way they are, my lady. That''s the verbal version. But I think that doesn''t give them justice."

    His throat moved up and down as he could smell her natural scent with their nearness.

    His masculine hand went to her small waist and slowly gilded it to her swelling flesh. As he does it, his warm lips touch the flesh behind her ear, making her suck in a quick breath.

    "Stop it," she responded as she breathed heavily. But her body was saying otherwise.

    Her eyes instinctively closed as her soft pink lips parted. Her chest tilted forward to the meticulous movement of his hand, revealing her body''s true desire.

    He didn''t know why she was trying to fight it off with her words. So he tried to stop her mouth from refusing.

    He stopped kissing the back of her ear and moved to her parted lips instead. He enraptured hers in his while his fingers flicked her flushed red tip.

    A surprised gasp escaped from Lady Aisha''s throat. But she tilted towards him. Her back was now lying in the bed

    "Do you really want me to stop?" He asked before thrusting his lips into hers again. This time, his tongue plunged into her warm mouth.

    His eyes closed as he tasted its sweetness. The more he savored her, the more he was hungry for more.

    His left hand went to her other engorged mound and cupped and caressed it

    A raspy moan came out of Aisha''s lips as she opened her mouth wider to receive his tongue. It seemed to be the answer to his question.

    Her hand lifted to his bare, taut chest. He thought she would push him away. But they just stayed there, as if she wanted to feel his bronzed skin on her ivory palms.

    She was now reciprocating his kisses as her tongue lashed with his.

    Leandro''s pulse quickened all the more as he saw how Aisha was responding positively to his advances.

    He was suddenly unsatisfied, wanting to taste other parts of her body more.

    His carnal mouth left hers as they trailed down her neck to the upper part of her mounds, making Lady Aisha''s chest heaved up in pleasure.

    "Your Majesty," She moaned in a soft tone, sounding like music in his ears.

    In response, he licked her ripe bounty, making Lady Aisha gasp in delight. Her half-naked body seemed to be tense for a few seconds before she closed her eyes and enjoyed the feeling of her breast in his mouth.

    Leandro continued to lick and kiss it, massaging her other one with his other hand. From where he was, he could see how Lady Aisha was enjoying it, as her parted mouth made silent breaths of euphoria.

    Her hand went to his silver hair and caressed his head as his actions gave her heavenly pleasures.

    "Tell me what you want, my lady," He answered her in a rough voice.

    He usually bedded with women just for the sake of procreation and pleasure. And he thought that it would just be the same with her.

    But with Lady Aisha it was different. He also wanted to please and satisfy her.

    He didn''t know if it was because she was the destined Chosen One. Or he liked her cheerful personality and her sweet and helpful nature.

    Or he was physically attracted to her. Or because she somehow made him think that he could fall in love again.

    Making her feel blissful was what was invading his thoughts at that moment.

    "Let''s not go back to Gaea now. Let''s just stay here, like this," she uttered deliriously.

    Her legs parted as if they were ready to receive him. Her hands pulled his head closer to her.

    He was supposed to be pleased that she was open to more.

    But he paused as he recalled those exact words that have a painful memory with them.

    "Let us not go back to Gaea. Let''s just stay here."

    Leandro was slightly taken aback, but he cleared his throat.

    "We can do this in Gaea, too. We can do this every day if you want," A corner of his lip curved up as his other hand continued to play with her other burgeoning swell.

    He tried to push the thought aside. Perhaps it was just a coincidence that she has mentioned that.

    His skillful tongue left her heaving bosom and trailed down to her silky abdomen. Her soft hands went to his broad back as he moved downward.

    "No, we couldn''t. You always have to leave the Castle. And there were 10006 Lady Consorts. And there was Lady Marina," Aisha responded.

    Again, doubtful thoughts came to Leandro''s mind, making him pause at what he was doing.

    Does she want me to leave the throne then and settle here with her? She was still thinking that he was back in her former world.

    He shook his head as he resolved not to entertain his doubts. She was probably enjoying this act that she just said what comes to mind.

    "Don''t worry, my lady. I will make sure I will give time for you," he said sincerely as his heart softened towards her.

    He hasn''t said that to anyone before, since he would not be sincere if he said that. But this time around, it was what was in his heart.

    He was glad that he would be wed to her because he would have the chance to be with her all the time, not just to bed with her, but to converse with her, eat with her and share some of his Castle issues with her.

    He stood up and gazed at her lovely face under the soft flames of the lamp.

    At that time, he could hear the roosters crowing, telling that it was already nearing dawn. But he didn''t mind.

    "Can you also give me your heart?" Lady Aisha asked as she also gazed at him in his towering height, her lips curved up in a smile.

    She was probably feeling as lighthearted as he was at that moment that she asked that question in an unwavering manner.

    She even stood up from the bed, covered her luscious peaks with the thick blanket, and awaited his answer.

    But his tongue went numb at that moment. It seemed a cold wind came through the windows and dampened his skin.

    He has resolved to himself not to give his heart to anyone, not even a piece of it.

    Would he go back on his words now? He has never broken his integrity with other people. And also himself.

    He likes her, yes. Maybe too much. But can he really try giving his all to someone again?

    His eyes darted sideways as he thought of what to say when Lady Aisha seemed to come back to her senses.

    "Wait, where am I?" She asked as her eyes darted from left to right in a frantic motion.

    She must have realized that she was half-naked as her head peeked below the blanket and came out with two big eyeballs popping out.

    "Oh my gosh, what did you do to me?" Aisha blurted out in disbelief.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped open as he was stunned that she couldn''t recall anything. The spirit of the Prunum wine must have left her.

    Who was he making love with just a while ago?

    She continued to back off to the headrest and pulled the blanket over her whole body.

    "Stay away from me. Even though you''re a King, I will call the royal guards, so they will arrest you!" Lady Aisha said under the blanket.

    She was huffing and puffing as she squirmed under the blanket.

    She must be trying to put her dress back on.

    It must be frustrating for her to see herself undressed in a room she was not familiar with.

    Leandro heaved out a sigh as he forcefully removed the blanket away from her.

    "Guards, help me!" Lady Aisha screamed. But Leandro quickly counteracted it as he shouted back, "Everything is alright. Do not come inside."

    He then went near her and commanded her, "Turn around. That''s an order."

    Lady Aisha quickly turned around in fright as he used his authoritative voice to calm her down.

    "Forgive me, Your Majesty. I deserve your punishment. I shouldn''t have refused your call last night. I am really just tired from the tea party, so I went to sleep early," Aisha explained herself in a nervous tone.

    "And?" Leandro prodded her on as he drew near her and fixed her gown that he had opened a while ago.

    He was unsatisfied and his lower abdomen was aching.

    But her condition matters more now.

    He felt a tinge of guilt as he realized his mistake. He should have controlled himself with her.

    Meanwhile, Lady Aisha seemed surprised that he was closing up her gown for her. "And I got hungry, so I went to the kitchen and ate. And then I was transported to my world," then her eyes gazed around her.

    "Or was it just a dream?" Lady Aisha scratched her head as she thought about it. "But it feels so real."

    Leandro''s lips curved up in a smile as he watched her back to her normal self again. "You had drunk Prunum wine, my lady. Next time, don''t drink it. Especially, when I''m not with you. You can sleep here in the meantime."

    He said before he turned around to leave. Or else he couldn''t control himself and embrace her in his arms. He needed to sort out his emotions first.

 Chapter 61 - Seducing The King

    "King Leandro must have done something to Lady Aisha after that party," Lady Marina''s lips twisted into a triumphant smile as her hands flew to her back.

    She had just stayed the night at an abode of one of her lady friends who lives near the Castle. And now she was planning to go back and talk to King Leandro again early this morning.

    King Leandro was busy last night, and she couldn''t get to talk to him with the little time that he has. But she was not planning to let him go off the hook that easily.

    She has witnessed how Lady Aisha defied traditions to indulge in her personal whims. She needed to attract the King again and distract him away from that female human.

    She went to the Castle Garden and decided to wait for the King there. She has already sent word to the servants that she was there, and she would wait for him no matter how busy his schedule was.

    However, as she did so, she noticed that a nearby pond was already drying up..

    Her eyebrows furrowed as she narrowed her eyes at it.

    "Was that an ominous sign?" Lady Marina''s hand flew to her chest.

    The waters have always warned her or guided her to the right path. And it seemed to be telling her to quit from her motive of stopping the wedding of the two.

    Just then, he sensed the King''s footsteps walking towards the Castle Garden. They were heavy and seemed to be laden with impatience.

    "Greetings, my lady. I thought you had already gone back to your abode. Please have a seat," King Leandro bowed down to her in a formal and respectful way.

    He extended his arm to the benches nearby.

    It was nice of him to still act in a gentlemanly way, even if he was obviously displeased by her presence. She knew that he had a lot of tasks at hand at that time.

    She turned around and walked to the nearby bench. But as she did so, she was having thoughts on what to do.

    "Will I just bid farewell now and discontinue my mission?" Lady Marina pondered as her hand flew to her lips. Her face turned into a downcast expression.

    But she recalled the female human''s indifference and disrespect towards her that a flash of revenge glimmered in her eyes.

    "She could not have the last laugh," she muttered to herself in a determined manner.

    Then she pulled down her off-shoulder gown to reveal more of her sizable bosoms.

    As soon as she sat down, she gave the King a warm smile before she bowed in a feminine way.

    "Forgive me for my interruption. But I do hope you would find this moment relaxing somehow. You also need someone to converse with while unwinding at a comfortable place like this from time to time," she encouraged him sincerely.

    She knew how exhausting it was to be a ruler, since she was also a leader in her own area as well. And he was sovereign over the whole land of Gaea.

    She sighed as her face expressed a thoughtful expression.

    "Indeed," King Leandro drew in a deep breath as he closed his eyes and felt the fresh morning air.

    As he did so, she couldn''t help but gaze at his handsome, square face.

    His silver strands glistened under the morning sunshine. His aquiline nose tip pointing at the sun in a defiant way, as if his glory was equal to the sun himself.

    "I miss you," she blurted out, unconsciously leaning towards him.

    Her eyes brightened as she recalled their memories together.

    There was only his servant and hers at that time in the Castle Garden. And they were a few distances away.

    King Leandro must have heard her as he opened his eyes and gazed at her.

    "Forgive me, my lady. But can I ask why you stayed? Do you have anything else to say to me?" He asked in a fine manner, but he was obviously deviating from the topic.

    Still, Lady Marina wasn''t unmoved. Instead, she drew near him until he could clearly see the tiny space between her pressed swollen bounty.

    "Don''t you miss me, too, my King?" Lady Marina bit her lips as she gazed at his chest.

    It was covered in a robe and other garments. But she knew what it looked like underneath.

    She couldn''t help but recall the last time that they were in bed together, making her knees go weak.

    She reached out to touch the fur in his robes, intending to slightly open them, so she could take a peek inside.

    To her disappointment, King Leandro stepped away from her and looked away.

    "I''m getting married now, my lady. It''s only three days away," the King said as he gulped a lump in his throat and glanced away.

    His shoulders drew up as he tucked his elbows to his side.

    "Then we still have time, right? Who knows, I might bear you a child this time? That''s the only reason why you are marrying her, right? You wouldn''t risk marrying an evil-blooded human if you have a choice," she continued to fight for her cause using her hypnotizing voice, though she didn''t know if it would take effect on him because he was not purely human.

    She could recall their Tribal Council Meeting where they discussed his desire to marry her just so he could conceive a child. He was just probably desperate to have an offspring that he would take the chance of being a half-blooded human.

    She was about to fling her silky arms around the corners of his neck and give him a seducing kiss when he stepped away from her. This time it was farther than the first one.

    King Leandro turned his back to her and said, "What if she wasn''t like that? Having human blood doesn''t necessarily equate to wickedness."

    Lady Marina''s jaw dropped open at his response. He sounded as if he was even talking to himself, trying to defend his own resolution.

    "Was he desiring to marry her now because he likes her?" Lady Marina growled silently.

    King Leandro was the one who was usually against having humans in Gaea. He even told stories about the history of the human race, telling them how vile their species was. And now here he was defending them.

    Lady Marina started to remind him of those stories, reminding him that in almost all generations of their kind, there was always corruption, war, and greed for power. They never have peace for a long time.

    Fortunately, the King seemed to be listening to her. She knew him already. You cannot reason with him with emotions and drama. He likes to rationalize things and act based on facts.

    As he became more open to her again, she drew near to him and touched his arm, "Besides, the Gaeans would have wanted a fellow Gaean to be the next King. It will prevent a rebellion from an uprising, and the Great Theos will be honored through the unity of the Gaean people."

    King Leandro nodded his head as he crossed his arms, "You have an excellent point. Thank you for sharing with me your perspective regarding this matter."

    Lady Marina pressed her lips and put a strand of her moss green hair behind her ears. She thought that she had already reasoned with him and won.

    She drew forward to offer him the opportunity to bed with her again when his feet quickly scuffled away at the speed of light. His eyes were on the entrance of the Castle Garden.

    Lady Aisha was coming towards the center of the Garden, followed by her maidservants.

    As soon as they saw them, they immediately bowed and chorused together, "Your Majesty, my lady."

    Lady Aisha also did the same.

    Lady Marina wanted to use her powers against them immediately. But she didn''t want to act rudely in front of the King.

    "I apologize again for what happened yesterday, my lady," She said in a demure manner to Lady Aisha. "But what are you doing here this morning, my lady?" She continued to ask, so she could know how to send them away.

    Deep inside, she was livened up with fury.

    "I would never apologize if it wasn''t for the presence of the King!" Lady Marina gritted her teeth.

    "Yes. Did you sleep well, my lady?" King Leandro added to her question with a concerned note in his voice.

    Lady Marina shrugged her shoulders as the King also asked her that, though not frequently.

    "Yes, your Majesty. Your bed was very soft and fluffy," Lady Aisha bowed down to him with a sweet smile on her face.

    Lady Marina''s eyes widened in bewilderment. Her face went pallid white.

    Did she just sleep in the King''s Chamber? And they weren''t even married yet! Is he that anxious to bed her?

    "Was he just acting coyly with me because he doesn''t want to hurt my feelings?" Lady Marina muttered under her breath.

    She gazed at the King, who was staring at her with his gleaming eyes. Just before she stepped in, they seemed to be solemn and serious.

    Was this the sign that the pond was warning her about?

    "I''m here to practice a dance for the wedding ceremony. They said they would teach it to me," Lady Aisha continued to explain the purpose of her appearance in the Castle Garden.

    She yawned, but immediately closed her mouth as she realized that she was in front of the King and a member of the Tribal Council.

    Did they just have intercourse the whole night, that''s why Lady Aisha was this dazed?

    Her eyes darted from her to the King and back and forth. What happened after the tea party issues?

    She wanted to know right away. But she couldn''t bear to ask them.

    "Go on, then, my lady. Lady Marina and I are already finishing up our conversation," King Leandro prodded her with a smile on his face, something that she rarely sees.

    Then he faced her and said, "I''ll think about what you said, my lady. Thank you for your genuine concern for Gaea, as always. I appreciate it."

    He said in a formal way before turning back to leave.

    *************

    Giving up doesn''t always mean you''re weak. Sometimes you''re just strong enough to let go.

 Chapter 62 - Three Days Before The Wedding

    "I wonder how the female human was doing?" Lord Lycano''s eyebrows furrowed as he crossed his arms.

    His body tilted to the west windows and gazed outside as if he could see her from there.

    He was at the storehouse observing the daily functions for the day. And he was reminded of her as his eyes beheld the stocks of Riso.

    He thought that she would come back in a day or two, believing that she would see the King''s true colors as she stayed longer at the Castle. But it was taking her a longer time than he expected.

    "Do you need help with anything, my lord?" the eldest worker in the warehouse asked him. He has just laid down a sack of Riso.

    Lord Lycano knew that he was asking about his business. But he couldn''t help but see that it could also be about his setback..

    "Do I need extra help to have her?" He contemplated.

    He still wants her. And he wanted her to come to him voluntarily and not threaten her, since she has been nice to him. And it would not lead to bloodshed.

    But it seemed like he was wrong. He shouldn''t have let her go back.

    Just then, a new guest came to the warehouse. She was a familiar looking guest.

    "I knew I would find you here," Lady Marina greeted him in a furious state.

    She was like a fire breathing dragon with smoke coming out of her nostrils in rage.

    If he guessed what happened, she must have been making her own way to separate the two. As he recalled, she was the one who was more aggressive in stopping the female human in being a royal wife during the Tribal Council.

    With her appearance, she looked like she failed, too.

    Lady Marina crossed her arms and asked directly, "What have you been doing all this time? Would you really allow that female human to bear the King''s child?" Lady Marina grumbled at him with her clenched fists.

    Lord Lycano knew that she was just controlling herself. Because if she will really allow her anger to burst out, his warehouse would be eaten up by the ground.

    It is very rare that he has seen her like that. It was like once every five decades.

    The other servant workers in the warehouse left in fright as they saw Lady Marina''s bottled up rage.

    "Calm down and relax. We don''t even know if she was really the Chosen One," Lord Lycano tried to pacify her anger, even though he knew that he failed as well.

    "I thought the female human was smarter," Lord Lycano thought to himself.

    He could still remember how she offered an apology for discriminating against his clan on behalf of all the humans.

    That was very kind of her, making him go soft on her, wanting her to come to him not through force but through her own volition.

    He led Lady Marina to his workroom. It wasn''t that large. But it was a private room where they could talk about confidential matters.

    Lady Marina seemed to calm down as she sat herself and asked for a cup of water.

    "I went there as soon as I left the Castle. The Butler told me that he saw lady Aisha walking out of the King''s chamber just this morning," Lady Marina told him after she drank the cup straight.

    Lord Lycano was taken aback. He didn''t know that King Leandro would be that fleet-footed.

    He could have waited for the wedding before he consumed her.

    Lord Lycano''s fangs appeared as he was reminded of how greedy the King was and how he has taken everything he wants.

    "I should have not given her a chance to leave this place," he growled as he stood up and almost transformed to his werewolf form if it wasn''t for Lady Marina''s intervening statement.

    "What are you planning to do then? Will you kill her? Or abduct her? For sure the King would be looking for her. And if he finds out that you stole his bride, you know what will happen to you and your clan," Lady Marina tried to talk sense to his clouded mind.

    She was right. He could still recall how the King banished some of the members of his Clan from Gaea, which led them to be savage beasts in the human world.

    "Am I really willing to risk my clan for her?"

    He drew in a deep breath as he sat down in front of Lady Marina and talked with her.

    "What do you suggest I do?" Lord Lycano asked.

    "I have a plan," A sly smile curved on Lady Marina''s face before she shared her idea with Lord Lycano.

    Lord Lycano''s face shone as well. "It''s a deal," he uttered while rubbing his palms together.

    ***********

    Meanwhile, at the Castle, Lady Aisha was still struggling to imitate the traditional dance of the Gaeans.

    "Can''t I just do it my way?" Aisha grumbled as she tried to do a hip hop step to the beat of the music.

    She did a Doggie step as she moved her arms and shoulders from left to right. Then she did a body pop where she isolated her arms, then her chest and made them pop.

    The traditional dance has a lot of twisting and turning.

    And her body was still numb. Her head was still splitting from that wine that she drank last night. Fortunately, the King allowed her to sleep in his comfortable bed.

    She now knew that it was her fault that she was there, as she asked the King''s royal guards what happened last night.

    But what she couldn''t comprehend was why she was almost naked when her senses came back.

    "Did the King rape me? Or did I give myself completely to him? Gosh, if only I didn''t want to outdo Lady Marina a while ago, I would have turned around and checked out another location instead," she thought, not realizing that her cheeks were turning as red as the roses around her in embarrassment.

    While she was doing her own version of the music, some Castle servants came to the Castle Garden and bowed down to them.

    "Greetings, my lady. We ask for your permission if you could fit in the wedding dress today," the head seamstress bowed down to her.

    "Will it be alright if I wear it?" Aisha''s fingers flew to her parted lips.

    She recalled one of the traditions in her former world about fitting in a wedding gown before the actual day. The elders said that there is a chance that the wedding will not take place if the bride wears her wedding dress in advance.

    "Please do so, my lady," Rosalia pleaded with them. "You must look lovely on that day," she gave her a beautiful smile, convincing Aisha to come with them.

    They went to the dressing room where the wedding dress was.

    Aisha''s jaw dropped as she saw it. It was an ivory and gold garment made from the finest materials, as if the threads that were used with it were real gold.

    It was different from her idea of a wedding dress. But she liked it.

    She was about to pick up the dress, so she could change into it, when the headmistress stopped her.

    "You can just stand there, my lady. Let us do that for you," the head mistress said before nodding to her lady assistants as a sign for them to come forward and do their tasks.

    To Aisha''s surprise, they started to undress her. She recalled the first time that she was announced as the soon-to-be royal wife of the King. They also did the same to her.

    "I really can''t get used to this," Aisha muttered to herself as they fit the dress to her.

    "The head mistress was circling around her, checking out the details as the lady servants put on one garment after another on top of her.

    Aisha drew in a deep breath as she felt suffocated with the thick garments that are over her petite body.

    "I think the dress was too big for you in the chest area, my lady," the headmistress shook her head as she lifted both Aisha''s arms sidewards.

    "You don''t have to emphasize that my boobies were small, ma''am," Lady Aisha rolled her eyes.

    But as she said that, memories started flowing flashing through her mind like flash cards.

    Aisha''s face went pallid white. Her knees went weak making her almost fall to the ground.

    "My lady!" Rosalia rushed to her side. Like a flash of lightning, she supported her and helped her be seated on a couch near them.

    "The garments must be suffocating her. Please remove them now," Rosalia pleaded as she grabbed a fan and tried to increase Aisha''s air intake.

    The lady servants quickly nodded their heads and undressed Lady Aisha again.

    "It is good that we have learned our lady''s condition before the actual wedding. We will change the garment to a thinner one. Probably a Bombycus with small onyx stones and ..," the head mistress continued to think out loud.

    But Aisha cannot hear what they are talking about. Her ears were deafened as she stared into space, recalling the intimate scenes that the King and her shared last night.

    Her palm flew to cover her face as she recalled how she provoked him by sleeping on his bed and talking about boobs and stuffs.

    She even reacted like a wild woman with him saying ridiculous things without a sense of shame.

    "What have I done?" Aisha scolded herself as her feet stomped on the floor like a toddler having tantrums.

    "It''s alright, my lady," the head mistress tried to comfort her as she bowed repeatedly to her. "Please don''t blame yourself. We will change your dress, so you can be comfortable during the ceremony."

    But Aisha''s shoulders slumped as she uttered, "I really couldn''t face the King now."

 Chapter 63 - A Fairytale Bridal Shower

    Aisha continued to fulfill her duties, like studying under the guidance of Master Aurelius about Gaean traditions.

    But she did her best to stay away from the King throughout the day and the next day.

    However, there was one event that she cannot escape from the eyes of the King. The ball before the wedding.

    "You look like a queen, my lady," Rosalia proudly said with her hands clasped to her chest as her blinking eyes gazed at her.

    However, Aisha was biting her lips in nervousness.

    Today is the day when the King would announce her as the royal wife formally to the nobles in Gaea.

    She wasn''t usually the scaredy-cat type in front of the public. She has confidence enough to face the public, as she has joined a modeling agency and displayed clothes on a fashion runway..

    But this was no ordinary show. The audience was supernatural creatures of different kinds.

    She didn''t know if they would act rudely to her. Would they act in a pretentious manner in front of the King? Or would they explicitly express their dismay to a female human-like her and the King''s choice of the 1007th Lady Consort in Gaea?

    She knew how nobles usually wear discriminatory in nature, as in the historical movies that she watched. But she hoped it was not the case here.

    She drew in a deep breath before she entered the Great Hall.

    The Great Hall was massive in height and structure, boasting of elegant architectural design that even modern famous architectures in her world would die just to be in her place.

    And the place was already filled with the aristocratic Ladies and Lords of Gaea. Lady Aisha''s lips couldn''t help but part as she was stunned to see different creatures mingling together in one place.

    There were werewolves, mermaids, Demi-human creatures, Nephilims, and unfamiliar creatures that her eyes had just beheld for the first time. She rubbed her eyes as if she was just in a dream.

    Her eyes darted to the left and right, too. It seemed like the King hadn''t arrived yet. She heaved out a sigh of relief. She didn''t know how to face him yet.

    As she was observing the people around, who happened to be so busy chatting with each other they didn''t notice her arrival, a familiar voice spoke behind her. "You look exquisitely stunning today, my lady," Lord Lycano''s rough voice near her ears made Aisha almost jump to her feet in surprise.

    "My Lord," Aisha bowed down to him and stuttered. "I didn''t know that you would be here, too."

    "Of course, silly," Aisha wanted to scold herself as she thought. "He was an influential leader in Gaea, he''s supposed to be here."

    Fortunately, he was well-mannered enough to cast the issue aside, unlike Lady Marina.

    "You look amazing as well, my lord," Aisha said as she gazed at him from head to foot.

    His black curly hair was put in place behind the nape of his neck revealing his stubble-marked jaw. His choice of the coat was also stylish that suited Aisha''s taste.

    "Any woman would entrust their hand to you for a dance." she continued to try and give him a nice compliment.

    She still felt guilty of her negative criticism against his kind. And she has a debt to him.

    Meanwhile, Lord Lycano''s eyes glimmered in delight at her positive appraisal of him.

    "Would you do that for me? Consider that as the payment for the bag of Riso," Lord Lycano offered to her.

    His face expressed a hopeful expression.

    But both Aisha''s eyebrows couldn''t help but shoot up in the air. Will it be alright to dance with another man when she is already getting married tomorrow?

    She knew that even though Lord Lycano was nice to her, he had bad blood with the King. She has seen the tension between them when she was still at the Manor. She wouldn''t want the King to see them that way.

    Lord Lycano seemed to see her apprehension as her eyes searched for the King.

    "The King hasn''t arrived yet. He usually showed up when all the guests had arrived," Lord Lycano explained to her, making Aisha exhale a lungful of air.

    But then he tried to remind her of what he said to her when they were in the warehouse as he added, "Have you thought about what I said last time? Are you still willing to marry him even if there could be no possibility of love existing between you two?"

    Aisha couldn''t help but gaze at Lord Lycano as he said that. He was asking that question in a sincere way as if he was really concerned about her life after the wedding.

    To be honest, she was not really sure. Now that her memories were back, she recalled how the King refused to answer her when she asked him for his heart.

    She didn''t know the reason for his decision to remain behind a thick wall, but that would be the case when they get married. As Lord Lycano said, there would be no love between them. Just duty and lust.

    Aisha doesn''t want to live like that, since all her life she was looking for love from her family. But does she have a choice? The Castle is the safest place in Gaea.

    She has tried to run away, but she encountered creatures who wanted to kill her.

    And besides, he also wants to stay and be with the King.

    She was in this dilemma when Lord Lycano spoke again, "Just in case you change your mind, you can come to me and I will help you. You can stay at my Manor and live as freely as you want. My men and I would protect you. The King doesn''t force anyone against one''s will. He respects one''s chosen home as far as I can remember."

    Aisha nodded her head in agreement as she recalled the King''s statement when he stepped on Lord Lycano''s Manor back then.

    Aisha''s lips couldn''t help but curve up in gratitude. She replied, "Thank you for your offer. I will hold on to that when things go haywire." She gave him a sweet smile before turning back.

    She was pondering on what Lord Lycano said when the emcee of the program announced the coming of the King.

    Aisha quickly distanced herself away from Lord Lycano and hid with the other nobles in the hall.

    As he entered, everyone bowed down to him. It took Aisha a while before she tilted her head as her jaw dropped open.

    He didn''t wear the crown, but his commanding presence and his gallant attire and manner were roaring, "I am the King."

    His long silver hair was complemented by his ivory and gold coat, the same theme that Aisha was wearing, only more shiny and glistening under the Gaean lights.

    He looks so ravishingly handsome that the embarrassment she was feeling because of that night turned to gratitude for having a man with that physique almost made love to her.

    He didn''t sit by himself at once as he extended his hand to her. "My lady," he called out to her, making Aisha''s eyes bulge out in surprise.

    All eyes were on her, making Aisha waved her hand in a weird way as she was taken aback. She thought that the announcement would be at the end of the program.

    But the King didn''t seem to plan it that way, as if he was excited and wouldn''t want to prolong the hours before he saw it.

    She walked gracefully to where the King was, like the servants had taught her.

    King Leandro was waiting for her with anticipation in his eyes. Could he still remember what happened that night? Aisha bit her lips.

    As soon as she came to his side, she bowed down to them the formal Gaean way, keeping her mouth shut as the Gaean culture forbids women from speaking in public unless necessary.

    The ladies and lords glanced at each other in an appreciative way.

    "I would like to announce to you officially my soon-to-be royal wife, Lady Aisha from the human realm," King Leandro extended his hand to her, making all the nobles and guests bow down their heads as they uttered in unison, "May you have a joyous union, your Majesty, Lady Aisha."

    Aisha gulped as she stared at the event. Everyone, both the nobles and servants, was bowing down to them. She gazed at the King, her soon-to-be husband, who was by her side, as she felt like it was all surreal.

    Was she really getting married now? She didn''t want to, before. But given the idea, she was thinking of partying with her friends with a hot gigolo dancing in their midst while they''re having a good laugh during her bridal shower.

    But this was fine. It isn''t every day you have rich lords and ladies bowing down to you. As long as they were really sincere in being glad that they would get married, which she doubted was the case.

    And a King for a husband? What more could she ask for?

    Just then, the King gave the go signal to proceed on with the program. "Thank you for participating in this event. Please have an enjoyable time," King Leandro lifted his scepter to everyone, making their faces brightened up all the more in delight.

    ***************************''

    Once in a while

    In the middle of our ordinary life

    Love gives us a fairy tale.

 Chapter 64 - I Like You

    "I haven''t seen you in a while, my lady," King Leandro started the conversation as they were already seated.

    King Leandro''s familiar deep voice lifted Aisha from a trance-like state.

    She immediately recalled what happened the night she was intoxicated with the Prunum wine. All the blood in her body went to her face making her cheeks as red as blood itself.

    She squirmed in her seat as she tried to find a comfortable position that will stop her from running away.

    He didn''t know how she could talk to him after revealing the wanton side of her.

    "Yeah, I''ve been busy with the classes," Aisha stuttered in reply, but she didn''t look at him in the eye.

    Just then, the music background changes to a more vibrant one. The music was unfamiliar to her. But it sounded like a merry one that can be used as a piece for dancing.

    The moment that the guests have heard this song, some Gaeans went to the dance floor and formed two lines.

    Like what Master Aurelius taught her, the Gaeans love dancing. Aisha would have been pleased since she loved dancing herself, but their steps are different from what she knew.

    "I see, I thought you were avoiding me because of what happened the other night," King Leandro said. His facial expression was serious when he said that.

    ''Oh my gosh, he remembered it!'' Aisha''s jaw dropped as she heard the King''s response. ''How could I have even thought that he has forgotten?''

    Perhaps she thought that the King''s numerous experiences with women were enough to make him think that his experience with her was just an ordinary night to him.

    Or because he wasn''t really into love that''s why he must have forgotten about that night when she was remembering the details so clearly.

    Or he has chosen to think that he has forgotten so that she wouldn''t be so ashamed of herself.

    But all those excuses were negated by the King''s statement. He surely recalled what happened that night!

    To add to his statement, he faced her and tilted his head down in a slight bowing position, "I know this is not the right time to talk about it. You probably can''t recall anything. But I want to ask for your forgiveness, my lady."

    The dancing couples continued to enjoy the fun moment with each other''s arms as the music kept on playing in the background.

    But the King and she were having a heart-to-heart talk! Her heart was completely racing right now!

    But she didn''t say anything. She didn''t know what to say!

    It was King Leandro who spoke up again, "I''ve been meaning to tell you this. But you are always unavailable. Now that I finally have a decent conversation with you, I want you to know that I regret what I did. I hope you could still trust me."

    She didn''t expect that coming from the King. For her, she was at fault. She was the one who went inside his Chamber, drunk. The King was just a man who has needs and desires. If she didn''t go there in the first place, that wouldn''t have happened.

    But now that he mentioned it, he was right. She didn''t intentionally go there in the first place. And she did tell him to stop a few times. Though the wanton side of her caved in.

    With that, she asked him, "Why did you do that then, your Majesty?" Aisha faced him and asked him straightaway.

    Leandro''s amethyst eyes widened in surprise as he was not probably expecting to hear that question from her.

    The servants came in to save him just in time and offered them some wine and food. Again, the servant members of the Kimero Clan made a show as they breathed fire into the food containers.

    Now it was Aisha''s turn to be surprised as she gazed at the menu on the table. It was rice! And the Gaeans were not eating that kind of food just yet!

    Some guests were scratching their heads as they pointed to what it was, doubting whether they would eat it or not.

    The others were trying to taste it. Some who nibbled it alone have crumpled faces. While the others who munched it with meat and vegetables nodded their head in delight.

    Her bewildered face glanced at the King. He nodded as if he was confirming what was going on in her mind.

    He stood up, making the audience go silent as they stopped from whatever they are doing, and attentively listened to their King.

    "What you have in your table right now is Riso," King Leandro explained to them.

    "Riso?" They uttered in unison. Some of them even pushed their plates away.

    But King Leandro wasn''t at all intimidated as he continued to explain.

    "Riso has been known to us as preservation ingredients. But with meticulous research, I have learned that it can also be food that could satisfy our hunger. Lady Aisha has also confirmed it, as it was their staple food in their world. Please try it and give me your feedback, even through letters after you have gone home. Perhaps this could be the solution so our children and grandchildren will not grow hungry again."

    He said this with heartfelt sincerity mixed with kingly authority, making the people obey him willingly.

    Aisha couldn''t help but gaze at King Leandro with admiration. When he sets a goal, he will make sure that he will do it without delay and hesitation.

    What better day to propose a new product than now when all the buyers are here? If he was the CEO of a company in her former world, he would be one of the top in the industry.

    As they have been instructed by their King, the lords and ladies tried to eat Riso again. There were a few who don''t. But when they saw those who agreed with the King, savoring the food, they started trying it out, too.

    And most of them enjoyed it, to Aisha''s relief. She was a part of that plan, too.

    She smiled as she tried to eat the rice, too. She knew that realistically, rice was bland. Without combining it with meats, vegetables, and other scrumptious foods, it would taste blah.

    But there must be a reason why her ancestors couldn''t live without it. And she hoped that the reason could also benefit the Gaean people.

    Her mind was completely engrossed with the introduction of the new product that she wasn''t aware that after the meal, the music played again, inviting the couples to dance in a slower motion.

    "May I invite my future wife for this dance?" King Leandro offered his hand to her. His smoldering eyes were both commanding and pleading her to accept his offer.

    Aisha froze for a few seconds as she thought of what to do.

    Why would she not dance with him? As he said, she would be the next royal wife in 24 hours. No matter what her inhibitions are against him, he was still King.

    And to be honest, she did want to feel that physical intimacy with him again.

    She was not really lusty before. But he gave the feelings that made her feel complete whenever they were physically close.

    And being attracted to anything fun that she was, he was like a magnet pulling her in.

    She immediately nodded her head and laid her hand on his.

    As they walk to the dance floor, all eyes went to them. Aisha gulped as there were those whose foreheads were scrunched up, seeing them together. But they were obviously trying to keep it secret as not to offend the King.

    The hand that was holding King Leandro trembled with her heartbeats.

    The King must have noticed that, as he stopped midway and put her hand and her other one to the back of his neck and pulled her closer to him. His hands flew to her back as he started to sway with the music.

    Aisha couldn''t help but gaze up in astonishment. There was the feeling again. The feeling that everything will be all right even if the world looked down on her as she gazed at the calm purplish seas in his eyes.

    He was also gazing at her in a loving way. It seemed perfect. But Aisha couldn''t help but be reminded that the King in front of her wasn''t capable of loving.

    As she thought about that, her shoulders slouched down with her head.

    However, they immediately shot up again when she heard the King''s profound statement. "I would like to answer your question for me a while ago. I like you, Lady Aisha. I like your physical appearance. I like your personality. I like your heart. I like everything about you. And I couldn''t control myself from showing it to you."

    *******

    When you love someone, you love the whole person.

    Just as he or she is, and not who you want her or him to be.

 Chapter 65 - Confessions

    Aisha''s copper brown pupils dilated at the King''s confession.

    Her heart seemed to stop beating at that moment, freezing all her extremities.

    Everything around her seemed to blur as her eyes specifically chose to gaze at the man in front of her.

    She gulped, a lump in her throat as his smoldering eyes penetrated her. He was sincere as he said that, making her face burn like it was baked in an oven at the highest degree.

    It just felt so surreal for her. The last time that someone confessed to her was Jake. And he was just an ordinary guy.

    But the man in front of her was a King of a supernatural realm! Aisha wanted to drop to her feet right now!

    She wanted to return the favor.. But she couldn''t help but feel scared. The last time that she had mutual feelings for someone, she was betrayed.

    And Jake has told her a million times that he loves her.

    On the other hand, King Leandro wasn''t even mentioning anything about love.

    She recalled that he wasn''t capable of giving his heart to anybody, as was proven also to him by his silent actions.

    She has known by now that liking someone and loving someone are two different things.

    ''Maybe Jake didn''t love me at all. If he did, he wouldn''t have done it with Melissa. Maybe he just likes me. Like King Leandro.''

    The realization hits her as the soft music turns to a different melody, but still radiating the same romantic effect.

    The other lords and ladies have already withdrawn from the dance floor. But there were some who came in after they had their early dinner.

    Aisha slightly drew back. Her hands that were previously coiled around his neck went downward.

    "I''m honored, your Majesty," Aisha bowed her head before darting her eyes away, looking for someplace where she could think.

    "But?" King Leandro asked her with a concerned tone.

    She wanted to pull away, but King Leandro firmly held her in his arms, making her hands stop at his broad chest.

    Seeing that the King has no plans of letting her go without hearing her answer, Aisha drew in a deep breath as she decided to be honest with him about what was bothering her.

    "But I am not ready to be in a relationship yet, your Majesty. Though I don''t know if that was applicable to us since we''re getting married tomorrow. Technically speaking, we''ll be in a relationship already," Aisha heaved out a deep sigh as their situation was very confusing to her. Her eyebrows furrowed as her lips pouted.

    Fortunately, the King seemed to understand where she was coming from. "I understand. And I''m willing to wait. I just don''t want to be a King to you and a father to your children. I want to be someone whom you would want to share the rest of your life with," He said in a serious and solemn voice, making Aisha''s heart soften towards him.

    He has no idea how that made her heart flutter like it never has done before.

    "Does that mean that you are already opening your heart to me?" Aisha curiously asked, as it sounded like it is, though she didn''t want to get her hopes up.

    She slightly withdrew, so she could take a good look at him.

    King Leandro paused and thought about what to say. Aisha thought that he would not answer it again.

    But he said, "To be honest, I couldn''t answer that with a resounding yes. But I will try. I couldn''t keep count of my marriages. But this was the first time that I wanted to start right. That is why I am telling you this now. Starting tomorrow, everything that I will do will be sincerely out of my affections for you. I want you to know that."

    His plum lips curled into a warm smile before he continued, "And I am not forcing you to reciprocate my feelings. I just want you to trust me."

    Trust. As of that moment, she hated that word. She wanted to refuse outrightly. But what stopped her was his honesty. It must have been hard for him to open up his heart. But he was willing to take it on

    ''Can I also do that? Trusting again after what Jake and Melissa did to me?''

    "Maybe I could also try," Aisha answered him with her pink lips curved up as well.

    She didn''t want to stay heartbroken for the rest of her life, anyway.

    But it was like a first-time acrobat trying to cross a narrow thread to the other side. She might get her heart broken again anytime.

    But she wasn''t the type of person who allows herself to be stressed for longer than 30 minutes.  And to be honest, she also likes the King.

    King Leandro''s face beamed in enthusiasm at her response, making him pull her closer to him and embrace her with his strong arms.

    Aisha chucked as she responded, "Your Majesty, I am just human. I will die in your arms at this rate!"

    King Leandro pulled away immediately. "Forgive me, my lady. I have never been this happy in quite some time."

    "You can just call me Aisha when we''re alone like this," Aisha giggled as she was also feeling the same emotions that the King must be feeling at that moment.

    It was pure happiness. Something that she also hasn''t felt for a while. Though it was probably shorter than the King''s who has decades or perhaps centuries without having those emotions. If the stories were true.

    It made her feel sad for him and relieved that he was now feeling it again.

    Just then, someone came near to them and cleared her throat.

    "Your Majesty, my lady, you are the only people left," Lady Marina said with a haughty attitude that she tried to control but still came out anyway.

    King Leandro pulled away from her and bowed down to her.

    To Aisha''s surprise, she was right. All eyes were on them wondering why they were still in each other''s arms when the music had already ended.

    Aisha frantically bowed to him as well. As she lifted her head, she noticed that the King was pressing his lips to conceal his smile.

    Aisha couldn''t help but smile at him as well, irritating Lady Marina all the more.

    "By the way, I have something to discuss with you, your Majesty. It is a matter of Gaea''s security," Lady Marina said as she nodded at Aisha, giving her the cue that she needed to leave.

    Aisha didn''t know why at that moment, her feelings towards Lady Marina changed.

    She was not that insecure with her boobies anymore.

    "I will take my leave now, your Majesty. I enjoyed our dance," Aisha said as she bowed down to him.

    She really didn''t like leaving the King with Lady Marina as she recalled how she last saw them. But hearing the words of the King made her feel reassured somehow.

    She hoped she was not wrong and that she could really trust the King just like what he said.

    "Don''t worry, my lady. Please have your dinner and rest now so you can enjoy our wedding ceremony tomorrow," King Leandro bowed to her as well before he and Lady Marina left the dance floor.

    Aisha was now by herself. "Whew! That was one hell of an emotional ride! I''m starving!"

    Aisha drew in a deep breath before she went out of the hall and into the kitchen.

    "Our Lady! What are you doing here?" The kitchen servants replied in unison as they saw her.

    They were still busy chopping and roasting here and there for the guests upstairs.

    "I''m more comfortable here," Aisha grinned at them before opening up a pot herself and getting her own share of food.

    The Head Cook quickly got the spoon from her and served her food.

    Aisha gobbled up the food like a person who has gone on a hunger strike for weeks.

    As she was doing so, she couldn''t help but be reminded of what the King just told her.

    Her lips unconsciously curved up in a smile. She couldn''t wait to see him again, so she finished her food quickly and went back to the hall.

    She was expecting to see him at once. Lady Marina and him couldn''t have talked for a long time.

    Aisha''s eyebrows furrowed as anxiety crept in her heart.

    ''Could the King go out to give a solution to Lady Marina''s news?'' She pondered.

    It was likely to happen since the King was very responsible to his kingdom.

    She gazed at the beings in the dining hall who were having a good time with each other.

    Even though she wanted to have fun and all since it was a party, she didn''t know anyone on her side to mingle with.

    She might just encounter beings that would criticize her species.

    She just decided to go back to her Chamber and rest.

    As she did so, a certain chamber caught her eyes.

    It was lit with a lamp and the door was open.

    Aisha decided to peek inside and to her horror, Lady Marina was there, naked from head to foot, with King Leandro.

 Chapter 66 - A Night With A Werewolf

    "I know this is difficult, but you have to see this for yourself," Lycano muttered.

    He clenched his fist as he tried hard to control himself from transforming to his werewolf form and stop the indecent act that was hurting Lady Aisha.

    "At least Lady Marina''s proposal was working, Lord Lycano nodded his head to reassure himself that everything was going according to their plan.

    At first, he didn''t think that it would work.

    He was watching the King and the female human on the dance floor. They were exchanging adoring gazes at one another, oblivious of the people around them.

    He thought that it was a lost cause. The King wouldn''t be tempted even with the prettiest mermaid''s seduction.

    Or did he?

    He gazed at Lady Aisha, who was still shocked right at that moment. As soon as she saw what was happening inside the chamber, she immediately turned around and moved away. Her face was as white as winter snow.

    "What could she have seen inside?" Lord Lycano rubbed his chin as he continued to contemplate from his chosen hiding place. "Well, this is my part now."

    He smoothed his hair and his collar before clearing his throat. Then he walked towards Lady Aisha and acted surprised.

    "Lady Aisha, are you alright? You looked like you''ve seen a ghost," He asked in a worried tone.

    He was really concerned for her, even though he was already certain of what was going on.

    Lady Aisha was still frozen on her feet as if he wasn''t existing.

    The other guests must be going home at that moment since the program has already ended. There is a chance that someone might see her that way.

    Lord Lycano removed his fur coat and put it over her. She didn''t shake it off. But instead, Lycano noticed that she was trembling like a leaf.

    "Maybe I was just born to be unloved," she thought out loud with her blank eyes staring into space

    Lycano was taken aback by her reaction

    He couldn''t help but recall his past, the reason why he couldn''t count in his hands the number of women he has to spend time with.

    Unlike the King who did it to conceive a child, he does it too to fill an empty well in his heart. But until that time, it was never full.

    Do they share the same story? His heart couldn''t help but sympathize with her.

    He decided to just go along and continue to offer her emotional support. It was also part of the plan. But his motive changed.

    Whereas before it''s because he just needs something from her, now he just wanted her to not endure what he was suffering.

    He pulled her away from the chamber. And when they were far enough, he then asked her, "What do you want to do?"

    Lady Aisha''s petite forehead scrunched up as she digested what he had just said.

    "I guess I just want to breathe. It''s suffocating here," Lady Aisha said as she drew in a deep breath and gaze outside the windows.

    Lord Lycano was supposed to be happy with her answer. The next step of the plan is to trap her with him until the King finds out about her infidelity. Then he will not marry her.

    But now that he was with her, he felt like he didn''t want to add to her pain anymore.

    However, Lady Marina has done her part. And he must do his.

    He shook his head and tried to stick to the plan.

    "Come with me," Lord Lycano dragged her out to the exit of the Castle.

    "Wait," Aisha tried to pull away from his grasp, but he was stronger. He didn''t exert much effort though because it seemed that she also wanted to get out of the Castle at that moment badly.

    He knew a secret tunnel that would lead them out without the guards seeing them. As they ended the tunnel, he stopped for a minute and started unbuttoning his clothes.

    "Wait, what are you doing?" Aisha immediately reacted as she tried to put his buttons back.

    His lips couldn''t help but curl up, "Move away while I''m being nice to you."

    Lady Aisha started to back off. But her feet continued to slowly scuffle away intending to escape.

    "If you make another step, I will run after you and kill you," he said in a gruff commanding voice, continuing to remove his coat, pants, and undergarments.

    Lady Aisha seemed too paralyzed to move, but her eyes remained shut. "I will not run. Please spare my life. I promise I will pay you back with three sacks of Riso. No make it five, or a dozen," she stuttered as her hands were shot up in the air.

    A snicker escaped from Lycano''s lips as he found her amusing. "Grab my clothes and hop on me," Lycano gruffly said as he allowed himself to transform.

    He doesn''t usually shift into his werewolf form unless it was provoked by anger or rage.

    But this was the first time that he has done it for a woman. It will be faster for them to travel together in that state.

    He glanced at Lady Aisha, who was jaw-dropped at his transformation.

    Being the leader of the creatures who live in the land and the Lycus Tribe as well, his animal appearance was different compared to everyone. He was larger in size and his coat was the deepest shade of crimson.

    Lycano thought that she would back out and go back to the Castle as she saw his true form.

    But she didn''t. Instead, she drew near to her and touched his fur. "You''re so beautiful," she whispered as her soft ivory hands played on his hair.

    Lycano''s heart suddenly stopped beating. He gaze at Lady Aisha''s adoring eyes. No one has ever told him that before.

    He was on that ground when Lady Aisha suddenly blurted out, "I missed my pet Keebo. I used to dress him up in the same shade, especially during Christmas seasons." Her small full lips pouted then went downwards.

    ''A pet? Is that what he thinks I am?'' Lycano snarled as he hated the idea.

    Most of the creatures he knew cringe in fear when they saw him in that state.

    He was about to show his murderous form when She crossed her arms and gazed at the stars as she uttered, "I wonder what happened to him. I knew he could swim. I hope he just got tossed on a nearby island, just like me. He''s a really sweet fellow."

    He suddenly felt empathetic towards her. He knew what happened to her realm. And it must be tough for her to be right here, the lone species of her kind, without anyone who could understand her.

    His initial motive of taking her captive was slowly melting away and being replaced with a desire to make her feel less lonely.

    Still, he couldn''t help but think about Lady Marina and his agenda. Will he choose to drop the plan or continue on with it?

    Lady Aisha hopped on him and said, "Let''s go, giant Keebo."

    At her statement, he made a decision. He dashed outside the Castle at once.

    At first, Lady Aisha was tense as he bolted at breakneck speed. But as she was finally feeling comfortable, she laid her head on the back of his neck and sobbed.

    He felt her tears trickle on his fur, as she cried her eyes out, probably releasing all her pent-up emotions as they were already far from the Castle.

    With her vulnerable state, Lord Lycano made up his mind. He turned from the initial direction that he was going to and went to the opposite one.

    Lady Aisha wasn''t aware of the change of way, as her eyes were blurred with her tears.

    He didn''t understand himself, but he swore that he would protect Lady Aisha no matter what.

    He stopped as soon as he had reached his desired destination. Aisha stood up and wiped her eyes.

    "The wind must be polluted. I''m getting teary-eyed," Aisha chuckled as she continued to rub her swollen eyes. Then her jaw dropped as she realized she saw where they were.

    "Oh my gosh, am I in Aurora?" She immediately went down from him as she gazed at the sky.

    They were in Mount Carmelo, the best mountain to gaze at the Laetus Sky.

    The sky boasted of resembling a painting canvas with a splash of different colors only known to Gaea.

    This is Lycano''s go-to whenever all the entertainment was gone, and he was left with his lonely self. It also helps clear his mind away.

    He brought her here, hoping it would help in healing her broken heart. She can also breathe fresh air like what she wanted to.

    He transformed back to his human form.

    Lady Aisha''s autumn pupils bulged out as she saw his naked form again.

    "Here''s your clothes, my lord," she stuttered as she stretched her hand, but she closed her eyes tight. Her feet scuffled backward, feeling uncomfortable with him.

    However, as she did so, her foot slipped on a rock.

    With Lycano''s supernaturally fast instinct, he immediately caught her.

    He opened his hand and caught her back. Because of it she didn''t fall and hurt herself. But their nearness almost made him drop her.

    He was naked from head to foot, and he was holding a shapely woman in his arms. It made his manhood stand up instantly.

    It seemed like she was also stunned at the sudden change of situation that her mouth-watering lips parted unconsciously.

    ************************

    Love is only made more valuable by the risk of heartbreak.

 Chapter 67 - Dont Force Yourself Into Me

    Warning! A little steamy scene ahead. Don''t worry there''s no rape here!

    *****

    Aisha''s mouth fell open as her hands flew to her chest. Her heart galloped like horses running in a race to win the first prize.

    She gazed at Lord Lycano''s devilishly handsome face which was so near hers, she could hear every thump of his heart.

    The smooth velvet skin of her arms could feel the roughness of his as her nose smell his manly scent mixed with his supernatural side scent.

    With their position, the creamy part of her slender neck was so exposed that one wrong word will provoke the beast in him to take a bite.

    As she recalled, werewolves always have a murderous instinct within them. She just didn''t know if it was also the case with Lord Lycano. She gazed at his dark crimson eyes..

    Or was it lust? She felt his hard manhood on her thighs.

    Alarmed, Aisha quickly tilted her head away and uttered, "Forgive me, my Lord."

    She slightly pushed him away as she was not in the moment for that. Besides, the King might had likely betrayed her, but she just couldn''t jump from one man to another.

    She has still not moved on from Jake''s betrayal. She was just giving the King a chance. And now this?

    But perhaps it was not the case.  Lord Lycano was just probably horny now because of their proximity.

    She tried pushing him away again. This time, with more force. Lord Lycano moved, only to help her stand up.

    Still, his brawny hands were on her arched back and they seemed like they didn''t have a plan to let her go.

    "Are you smitten with the King? Would you still accept him even after what he has done to you?" Lord Lycano asked in a gruff voice.

    Aisha''s eyebrows knitted together. ''Did he also have a peek at the chamber, that''s why he knew? How did he know what the King could have done to me?''

    She was pondering on these things when Lord Lycano spoke again from his set jaw, his bright fiery eyes penetrating hers, "Whatever the King did for you, I can also do it and more. I will make you happy and I will not hurt you."

    The winds tossed some strands of his dark locks across his face. But she could see a hint of pain in his expression.

    Aisha heaved out a sigh as her hand that was initially pushing him away unconsiously pressed on his arms.

    Those words seemed to be like honey to her wounded heart. However, she has heard those words several times. And those people all made her sad and hurting.

    Now she didn''t know if they all meant that at first. Or they were just playing with her in the first place.

    "Thank you, my lord. I knew you mean well. But I will pass. Once is enough, twice is too much, three is no more," Aisha said as she pressed her lips together and tilted her chin.

    She felt her temperature rising as she made that decision. She will not allow herself to get hurt again!

    Aisha was expecting Lord Lycano to back out or get hurt that she rejected him. But he did not. Instead, his face drew near to hers all the more.

    "Did something like this happen to you in your former world, too?" He snarled, as if the voice that he used was that of his supernatural form.

    Aisha felt her hair raise up as she saw his angry state, making her extremities tremble.

    But she nodded as she recalled the last scene that she saw in the hotel where her boyfriend and her bestfriend were enjoying each others'' bodies behind her back.

    A vein throbbed in her neck as she clenched her jaw.

    "Am I really a skirt-chaser magnet? Or are all the guys just the same?" Aisha couldn''t help but blurt out, making Lord Lycano pulled his arm away from her and cough.

    Seeing that he finally let go of her, she quickly looked around her so she would know how to escape. But all she saw were steep rocks. At the bottom was a huge forest where she didn''t know what creatures were sleeping in it.

    "People can change," Lord Lycano answered her question in a serious note, making Aisha glance up at him.

    Her eyes bulged open in surprise as she realized that he was still stark naked from head to foot.

    And to her bewilderment, he was now facing her, bare chest, erect manhood and all.

    She didn''t realize that he was hiding a hot physique underneath that layers of garments.

    Aisha''s face flushed in the deepest red. "Oh my gosh, can you just put on your clothes?" Aisha waved her hand frantically making her trip the second time.

    "Uh ¨C uh¡­" She was about to fall when Lord Lycano caught her again.

    With their nearness, she caught on the corner of his lips curving up in a teasing manner.

    Aisha immediately pushed him away and explained herself. "I didn''t mean to do that, I promise. Don''t think that I am faking it so we could be like this."

    She again pushed his hard chest. But again, Lord Lycano was not letting her go.

    "Am I really that horrible to you?" He swallowed hard and tilted his neck downwards. His broad shoulders dropped as if he was really hurt by her indifference to him.

    Aisha''s eyes darted to the colorful sky. He indeed made an effort to take her there and calm down. But she could pay him with anything except her body!

    "No, it''s not that. It''s me," Aisha stuttered. "Look, you''re the nicest and most warm-hearted werewolf I have ever met. But I am really not jumping into another relationship right now," She shook her head.

    To lessen the pain that he must be feeling, she quickly added, "I''m sure there were other women who were vying for your attention."

    He looked like a man who could attract any woman that he wanted.

    That could be the reason why he refused to accept her rejection.

    She again shoved him. But to her surprise, he laid her down on the rocks as he breathed raggedly, "But I only want you, my lady. I have never desired a woman like this before."

    The colorful sky seems to change its color from the color of Aurora to something darker.

    They were still on top of the mountain, making it appear like there was smoke coming out of the volcano like appearance of their location.

    Aisha couldn''t breathe at that moment. She bit her lips as she felt her own heart beating wildly as if it wanted to get out of its cage.

    She gazed at Lord Lycano''s longing look on her. It was like he wanted to eat her right then and there.

    "With what I can do, I can easily imprint on you right now  and make you mine," Lord Lycano said as he slowly kissed every part of her face.

    Aisha wanted to scream at that moment. She doesn''t want to be his! She didn''t like to be taken by force by anyone!

    But her defiant voice seemed to get stuck in her throat.

    She couldn''t help but recall how she felt with King Leandro. He was gentle and loving.  And she was comfortable with him. Unlike now.

    She wanted to get away from his grasp but he was stronger.

    Lord Lycano was slowly lifting her skirt up while kissing every part of her face. His rough finger traced the silky smooth texture of her porcelain legs until it reached her thighs.

    Aisha trembled not because of ecstasy but of fear. She has never given that part of her to a man.

    She couldn''t help but recall her moments with King Leandro. Even if he tried going down there, she would not allow him, too. Intoxicated or not!

    "If you really don''t want to hurt me like you said, you should stop this minute. You wouldn''t want to force yourself into me," Aisha said as tears started trickling down her eyes.

    It seemed that it worked, as Lord Lycano immediately stood up, tasting her tears in his mouth.

    He drew in a deep breath before uttering,

    "Forgive me, my lady. I couldn''t control my emotions. With you, I feel all sorts of passion right now," he gruffly said as he went to the rock where his clothes were placed.

    But he froze on his feet as the beast inside of him wanted to come out.

    "No!" He growled at himself as he pounded on his chest. " Not her! Get away, my lady!"

    Aisha ran with all her might.

    ******

    The greatest power requires the gentlest touch.

    If you have to intervene or force yourself on someone else, then what that''s actually an indication of is that you don''t actually believe in your own power.

    Because if you believed in your own power - if you knew you were powerful enough to create the reality that you prefer - why would you need in any way shape or form to interfere with anyone else''s process?

    Basha

 Chapter 68 - R-25

    Warning: A sexual scene below!

    ***************

    "How could Lord Lycano change from a nice and sweet man to a vicious monster?" Aisha stuttered as she felt trickles of sweat formed on her forehead.

    She climbed down as fast as she could, not even thinking if her foot might slip or not.

    Lord Lycano was still fighting himself not to transform into his literal beast mode.

    Since they were in the mountains, the cold, chilly air was paralyzing Aisha''s extremities. Still, she managed to carry her weight and climbed down.

    Perhaps her adventurous and energetic nature has helped her in these times of need. It wasn''t the first time that she had climbed a mountain.

    But she was doing it for fun then.. Now she was doing it to survive.

    She continued on her way down, hoping that Lord Lycano would not decide to run after her.

    It seemed to be the case, as she didn''t hear or see him after her steps.

    It didn''t take her long to enter a forest within the mountain. It looked dark and ominous as giant trees covered it. But the moon was bright enough for her to see a path.

    She couldn''t help but be reminded of her first time in Gaea when she found herself in a forest which looked like this.

    ''Is this that forest, then? How did I get there?''

    Just then, she heard an animal sound a few distances away from her. Her heart pounded wildly in her chest.

    She thought that it was a dinosaur or a giant bear that could strangle her alive. But he looked like a small gnome.

    "I feel like I suddenly became Snow White now," She scratched her head as she recalled the fairy tale where the female lead escaped and got trapped in a forest where she met seven dwarfs

    To her surprise, he was whimpering a cry as he held on to his foot.

    Aisha immediately went to him to check on the matter.

    "Hello Dopey, are you all right?" She asked as she knelt down and put her long black tresses away from her face and checked on him.

    By now, she was not surprised anymore to see supernatural creatures everywhere she goes.

    It seemed like his foot got stuck in the bark of a tree.

    Because her hands are larger than his, she quickly lifted it, letting the gnome get away immediately.

    "Thank you, female human. I have to go home now. I will repay you someday," he bowed his head before quickly running away to a hole under a large tree.

    "Wait!" Aisha said as she extended her hand. She wanted to ask about how to get out of that forest.

    But to her surprise, the hole that the gnome entered suddenly closed up, making Aisha almost stumble to the floor.

    She looked around her in fright as she realized that everything in this forest was alive!

    "Should I just go home now, too?" Aisha muttered to herself as she started to run again.

    "Maybe I should''ve just stayed behind," she uttered as she panted for air.

    She felt like she was running around in circles as she was getting nowhere, so she stopped and took a breath.

    As she did so, she noticed that there was another sound nearby. She gulped and remained frozen on her feet, trying to hold her breath, so she could get a better feel of what it was.

    With her natural ordinary ears, she could only guess that there was not just one but more creatures. And they were conversing.

    Aisha was surprised because if she calculated it right, it was probably nearing the middle of the night.

    ''Could it perhaps be enemies? Or allies? And why were they here, like they were doing something that they don''t want to do in daylight?

    Aisha decided to find the source. To her bewilderment, there was a naked man and woman in the middle of the forest.

    Aisha''s jaw dropped as she immediately turned back and covered her mouth before they found out about her location.

    "Oh my gosh, are they werewolves, too? Are they servants of Lord Lycano? Are they here to hunt for me?"

    Her hands went clammy as her chin trembled. Her eyebrows knitted together as she thought of what to do. She doesn''t know the way out.

    And from their slow steps, it seemed like they were planning to stay there for a while.

    Aisha rubbed her arms as the cold winds were getting chillier. And her gown was not that thick to give her warmth.

    She recalled the pack of wolves that attacked her when she came to the Lycus Territory.

    Are they perhaps from the same group? Why is there a woman?

    Aisha turned around and peeked again.

    To her shock, the man and woman were now kissing each other while they were on the ground, the woman on top of the man.

    "Holy Molly, is this their secret hotel?" Aisha couldn''t help but bit her lips as a mischievous smile curved her lips.

    "Wait, she looked familiar," Aisha muttered to herself as she narrowed her eyes, so she could get a good glimpse of them.

    Her hand flew to her chest as she confirmed it. The woman was Lysa! But she couldn''t get a good glimpse of the man that was under her.

    "Right there, that feels so good," the man growled as Lysa''s fleshly hips thrust a steady rhythm on the man''s hardness.

    He seemed to be in euphoria as his chin was tilted up while his eyes were closed.

    His big hands were on the smooth skin of her small waist, guiding her every move. Lysa was moaning in delight as well.

    Aisha couldn''t help but feel uncomfortable watching them.

    She was surprised to see Lysa engaging in such an act, much more at a place like this.

    "But maybe he was her boyfriend, who am I to judge?" Aisha shrugged her shoulders and was about to leave and find her way out again.

    But the man spoke again, making Aisha froze on her feet.

    "What if Lord Lycano learned of this?" the man said, making Aisha''s eyebrows knit together.

    What if Lord Lycano will learn of their affair? Is Lysa her relative?

    She recalled that she seemed to be close with him when they were at the warehouse.

    "Don''t worry, he''s not going in the brothel nowadays," Lysa answered him before standing up with a smile on her face.

    It appeared as if she wanted more as she knelt on the ground on all fours.

    The man stood up and, with a smirk, went behind her and put his bulging manhood to her entrance.

    "Oh my gosh, why am I here? This is not just R-18. This is R-25!" Aisha scolded herself as she patted her flushed face.

    She quickly turned around and covered her ears as loud moans were heard from Lysa as the man pumped on her. The man groaned also with every thrust.

    It seemed as if they were now both going to climax anytime soon.

    "I better be going now, so they can have some privacy," Aisha resolved to herself.

    She peeked back just to take a look if they would be glancing in their direction before she left when she noticed the man''s face.

    It was more open to her view as he was now facing her side.

    "Isn''t that Lyan?" her fingers went to her parted lips as she tried to recall the man''s face within the pack that attacked her the first time.

    "So Lyan was Lysa''s boyfriend? Then, what does it have to do with Lord Lycano going into the brothel? And Lord Lycano was going into a brothel? Why does he have to take me, too?" Aisha pouted her lips as she crossed her arms.

    Aisha was thinking about these things with her back behind them when Lysa spoke up again.

    "Ever since that female human went into his warehouse days ago, he hasn''t taken me into his room ever since. Or even the other women in the brothel," Lysa said, with a hint of both hurt and irritation in her tone.

    Aisha tilted her head in shock at what she just heard, making her glance back at the two.

    It seemed as if they were already finished with their quickie, as they were now both resting in the ground.

    Aisha heaved out a sigh of relief as she could eavesdrop properly now. Lysa was his woman? But Lyan was her boyfriend?

    "Uh- oh, this is a complicated relationship," Aisha shook her head. But what astounded her more was her involvement with them.

    "Does that mean that the female human has captured the Lord''s heart?" Lyan asked Lysa while he lay down on her thighs and played with her hair. "But she was the King''s woman."

    Aisha gulped as it hit her that what Lord Lycano was saying a while ago might be true.

    She couldn''t help but slap her forehead with her palm as she realized that she was far more in a complicated relationship than them.

    *******************************

    A woman can''t change a man because she loves him.

    But a man can change himself because he loves her.

 Chapter 69 - I Am The Chosen One? Yikes!

    Aisha''s lips pressed together in a slight grimace as she felt a constricting tightness in her chest.

    "Lord Lycano''s not bad, to be honest. But his timing is so wrong. How can I just accept him when a few hours ago, someone I like just confessed to me..." she talked to herself.

    But she stopped mid-sentence before adding, "but he betrayed me, too."

    Her shoulders shrugged down as she recalled King Leandro with a naked, voluptuous woman in the same room.

    She was then reminded of Lord Lycano who almost raped her just a while ago.

    But she understood that it could be because of his primordial instinct, and he really wasn''t intending to, since he stopped as soon as he realized that she got afraid of him.

    Aisha heaved out a loud sigh, "Gosh, you guys. You''re making my head ache!"

    She patted her head simultaneously when she realized that she was not supposed to talk out loud.

    Her eyes bulged out as she slowly pressed her lips. Her shoulders lifted and caved on her chest, as if she could cover herself with her back.

    Her heart beat so loud that they were like sound effects in a suspense movie.

    Slowly, she turned around to see if the two had caught on her. To her horror, they were now transformed into their wolf form and snarling at her with their vicious canine teeth.

    The cool forest scent suddenly transformed as a whiff of animal ambiance filled the air.

    Aisha fell to the ground as her knees went weak. Her hands and feet scuffled backward, hoping that she could escape from death again.

    She quickly thought of something that could save herself at that moment. Perhaps the two were afraid of the King.

    At the speed of light, she stated, "I am Lady Aisha, the soon-to-be royal wife of the King of Gaea."

    She didn''t really want to, now. But she guessed she had no choice. Or she could take it back as soon as she got out of there.

    The larger and more muscular one who could have been Lyan glared at her as if it doesn''t have an effect on him.

    Aisha recalled that he was angry at her since they first met. And she was not the soon-to-be royal wife then.

    Lyan was about to jump at her when Lysa leaped on him and pushed him away.

    Then she quickly transformed to her human state and shouted to her, "Get away, my lady. I will talk to him."

    Aisha nodded her head and uttered, "Thank you, Lysa." Then she scurried out of that part of the forest.

    Even when she was running away, she could still hear them talking.

    "What did you do that for? She could have seen and heard us. She will tell on us to the King, or Lord Lycano!" Lyan growled.

    "She will not," Lysa quickly answered, making Aisha slow down on her tracks.

    Then Lysa added, "She is not the kind of person who betrays a friend even if that friend has betrayed her."

    Aisha''s eyes widened in surprise as she heard Lysa''s words, making her peek back as she was running.

    Lyan was still fuming mad with his clenched fist and scrunched-up face.

    He was about to transform again, but Lysa held his arm firmly as her eyes gazed on Aisha.

    She nodded her head as if she was prompting her to leave the place as quickly as she could.

    Aisha drew in a deep breath before running with all her might away from them. But she couldn''t help but think about what Lysa just said.

    Perhaps she was talking about their conversation in the carriage.

    She couldn''t possibly know that the King that she was referring to was the King. And he has just betrayed her, that''s why she was here.

    Or was she literally talking about herself and her? Did she truly consider her as a friend, and she trusted her that she would not betray her?

    She shook her head as she thought that it doesn''t matter now. "You must survive, Aisha!" She motivated herself.

    She didn''t know if Lysa could really control Lyan''s wrath. It seemed like werewolves were very intense with their emotions whether it be lust, love, and rage.

    Aisha continued to run, hoping she could find the way out. But to her dismay, she ended up at the edge of a cliff.

    Aisha dropped to her knees as she panted for breath. She gasped as she inhaled a lungful of air.

    "What should I do now?" Aisha''s head hung low as she peeked down below.

    The cliff was too high for her to jump. But if she goes back, she might encounter Lyan again.

    And if she ever got out. Where would she go? She doesn''t want to see the King. Or Lord Lycano. Or Lysa. If she goes to Martina and the others, they might gossip about what happened to her.

    Her hand flew to her chest and pressed on it. She could feel beads of sweat trickling on her body.

    Her hair was all disheveled and her throat was as dry as the soil under her.

    She recalled the last time that she felt this hopeless was when the tsunami waves were about to crash on her.

    "Am I really not fit to live anywhere?" She thought as she gazed at the stars above her. "Maybe I''m better off dead. I would not bother anyone then."

    It seemed that her existence was intolerable to everyone.

    Her parents, her friends, and here in Gaea. There were even people that were trying to kill her.

    She closed her eyes as she felt a stabbing pain in her chest with everything that was happening to her.

    As she did so, she heard someone call to her. "Aisha."

    Aisha immediately stood up and glanced around, but she saw no one.

    However, the voice continued to call on her. Now it''s clearer, louder, and more terrifying.

    Then it said, "I am the Great Theos, the Creator and God of the Land of Gaea."

    Aisha felt her heart literally stop beating at that moment, as she suddenly felt like she was fainting.

    All the oxygen in her body seemed to disappear into thin air, making her fall on her knees.

    She has heard that no one has spoken to the Great Theos or has been spoken to, except for the King!

    Aisha quickly bowed down with her head on the ground. "I- I am Lady Aisha, at your service."

    She couldn''t see him, but all the hairs on her skin were shooting up as she felt his presence around her.

    "It is I who gave you back your life. It is I who saved you from the destruction of your former world."

    Aisha''s jaw dropped as she heard him. Suddenly, a wave of peace splashed on her, overwhelming her heart with both hope and curiosity.

    As she remembered, she saw a figure saving her from the waters before she completely passed out.

    It was him, then? Finally, a smile made its way to her lips as she finally met her savior.

    "Thank you, your Majesty. I will forever be indebted to you," she bowed down again and again as she expressed her gratitude to him.

    The Great Theos continued to speak in a thundering voice, making Aisha stay in her stooping position. "I save you for a greater purpose, to be the bearer of the future ruler of Gaea."

    Aisha gulped as she was stunned by his statement. Her lips that went pallid white stuttered, "Wait, does that mean that I - I am the Chosen One?"

    The Great Theos immediately clarified the most terrifying revelation that Aisha has encountered in her entire two lives.

    "I am not a God who forces my way to my people. It is up to you to accept it or not. If you are willing, then Gaea will continue to live in peace. If not, you can go back to your world. But you cannot come back to Gaea until your death. Your memories in this land will also be erased."

    Aisha inhaled a lungful of air as she heard the options that were being laid down to her.

    She was glad to know that she can finally come back to her former world. Though she didn''t know what it looked like now. Or if there were others who have survived.

    She would be alone, but she would get out of this land that was getting chaotic because of her.

    But her shoulders shrugged down as she didn''t really want to leave here to the point that she couldn''t come back again.

    She already grew fond of the people in the Castle, her newfound friends and -

    She was about to say the name of the King, but she stopped as she recalled the last scene that she saw him in.

    "If only the King passed on Lady Marina''s b*tchy stint," Aisha grumbled as her jaw clenched.

    She was already so happy to hear the confession of the King that she can''t wait to get married tomorrow. That''s why she was so devastated by what she saw.

    She thought that the Great Theos didn''t hear her. But to her surprise, he answered her, "He did."

    Suddenly, a wind came gusting in, even lifting Aisha''s tunic. Aisha pulled it to the ground and lifted her head to see what was happening.

    Her jaw dropped as she witnessed a hologram-like video of the exact scene that took place in that chamber.

    *******************************

    Your life has a purpose.

    Your story is important.

    Your dreams count.

    Your voice matters.

    You were born to make an impact.

 Chapter 70 - Accepting The Call

    Aisha watched in awe at the magnificent display of magic in front of her.

    She has seen it before in Master Aurelius'' class. But this was more enormous and vivid, as if she was really in the location at that time.

    Now that Aisha was inside that room, she saw that it wasn''t really a bed and table kind of room.

    The elaborate walls of the octagonal room were filled with paintings of past kings and the heads of slain supernatural creatures. In the center of the room sat a large seven-sided war table, engraved with a very detailed map of the surrounding lands in Gaea.

    "And the other news that you want to say?" King Leandro uttered in a nonchalant tone as he checked a map on the table.

    "It came from Cordelia herself, so it is very possible that it could be true. Humans could never handle a Gaean baby in their womb and vice versa. She told of a story of long ago where a mermaid was impregnated by a human.. Cordelia was the one who gave birth to her. But the offspring were mutated. It lived for a few months before it died," Lady Marina continued to share a story that she has just learned recently.

    Aisha''s palms immediately went to her abdomen as she listened to Lady Marina''s tale. Could that happen to her, too?

    It is true that different species breeds could not mate and produce a viable baby. And if they did, it will have some sort of abnormality in him.

    She remembered that part in her biology class as she got interested in breeding Keebo and a neighbor''s cat.

    ''If we have a baby, what will happen to him or her then? Will the baby have supernatural powers like the King? Or will he be without one and susceptible to die, like me? Or will he like that mutated monster. Or will he live at all?''

    Aisha felt so bad for the unborn baby. She glanced around, hoping to hear from the Great Theos again about this matter. But he remained mum.

    Her eyes quickly darted to King Leandro as she awaited his response.

    "Thank you for your concern, my lady. But I believe the Great Theos wouldn''t approve of the female human if he didn''t know of the risk. If he trusts her, then I will, too," King Leandro who spoke up.

    Then he added, "If there is a possibility that the child will be mutated, then there will also be a chance that he will not."

    Aisha couldn''t help but release an appreciative sigh. She felt her heartbeats quickened at his gallant response.

    Even the atmosphere changed, making her feel more warm-hearted. The Great Theos must have been pleased with his answer, too.

    She couldn''t help but feel thankful for both the Great Theos and the King for thinking highly of her, even if she wasn''t really that extraordinary.

    Just then, Lady Marina spoke again. "Gaeans are for Gaeans. Why would you risk having an abnormal offspring when you have an alternative, your Majesty? To be honest, Cordelia gave me a tonic that could increase my chance of bearing a child."

    Aisha''s eyes bulged out as Lady Marina stripped naked in one snap. Her body truly was a masterpiece to the eyes of both men and women alike. She has shapely beautiful curves, two round plump bottoms, and a porcelain smooth skin that every woman envies.

    Her eyes immediately darted to King Leandro to see how he views her. But he was glancing away.

    This was the scene that she probably witnessed before she turned around.

    Just then, Lady Marina put her arm around King Leandro''s neck. But he stepped backward before drawing in a deep breath.

    Aisha could see beads of sweat on his forehead. His breathing was ragged and his throat was moving up and down.

    How could he not? *It was the rice who was coming to the chicken.

    She even found it odd that he would back out from that tempting offer. Just a one-night stand before the wedding. Who in his right mind would refuse that?

    It must be the reason why Aisha quickly went away from the room without knowing the details first. She knew how alluring and attractive Lady Marina was, that the King would obviously take advantage of her offer.

    Plus the fact that they''ve been lovers before.

    But to her surprise, King Leandro said to Lady Marina, "There seems to be a misunderstanding, my lady. I am not marrying Lady Aisha just to conceive a child. Though I admit that was my initial intention before. I am now marrying her because I want her to be by my side in the lifespan that the Great Theos has given to me."

    Aisha could see the determination in his eyes as he said that, making Aisha''s hand fly to her chest.

    She couldn''t believe what she was seeing. The King of Gaea was being faithful to her, even if they weren''t married yet!

    She thought that euphoria could only be felt while lovemaking, or getting drunk. But what the King did and what he just said sent her to the heavens.

    And he had no idea that she was there!

    Lady Marina seemed upset. But she drew near him and continued her seductive bait as she said, "There''s no harm in trying, your Majesty. I would gladly offer my body as a service to you and Gaea. Lady Aisha doesn''t have to know."

    Aisha gritted her teeth as she clenched her fist. "That''s the sluttiest thing I have heard in my entire two lives!"

    Lady Marina then pressed her bountiful breasts on his taut chest. Then she tiptoed, so she could reach the angle of his neck, so she could kiss it.

    Aisha felt her blood boiling to the highest degree, making her bolt towards her and try to pull her hair.

    Aisha thought she wouldn''t know that it was her because this was just a vision.

    But since it was a hologram, her hands just passed through."

    "Uggh!" Aisha smirked and crossed her arms in frustration.

    Fortunately for her, King Leandro removed her arms again and uttered, "I respect you, my lady. You are a brilliant woman, a member of the Tribal Council, and the leader of all the living creatures living under the sea. You should respect yourself, too."

    Aisha smelled victory, making a corner of her lips lift. She clapped her hands together as she applauded the King.

    "Woohoo! What do you say to that, b*tch?" Aisha cocked her head and crossed her arms as she glared at Lady Marina.

    She was a little bold because she knew that Lady Marina couldn''t see her.

    Just then, the vision lifted. And she was back in the mountains. The Great Theos spoke again, "Lady Marina was still my chosen Member of the Tribal Council. Respect her, too."

    Aisha immediately went down on her knees and bowed to him. "Forgive me, your Majesty. I got ahead of myself."

    She was still fuming mad. But she understood what the Great Theos meant.

    "What is your decision now? Would you accept being the Chosen One?" The Great Theos asked again.

    Aisha gulped as she was still hesitant. Yes, King Leandro didn''t betray her. Thanks to the lords. But was she really ready for the responsibility?

    She cleared her throat as she asked, "I just have one last question, your Majesty. Why did you choose me?"

    "I have hopes for humankind. I knew that there was goodness in them, and I saw that in you. I wanted a future where humans and supernatural creatures could thrive together and live in harmony. And that would start with you."

    Aisha nodded her head as she now understood the Great Theos''s intentions. It was for the benefit of all.

    She recalled how the Gaeans explicitly shoot hate remarks against her kind. Because of that, she also desired to prove them wrong by trying to be a good example somehow.

    She was also reminded of the King''s pure motive in ruling Gaea. He and his lineage deserve to sit on the throne.

    "Thank you for clearing things up for me, your Majesty. I would gladly accept the call." Aisha bowed again.

    The atmosphere lifted again. The winds encircled around her, making Aisha fall to the ground and hold on to it, so she wouldn''t be lifted off.

    The Great Theos spoke again in a thundering voice, "The journey wouldn''t be easy. But you will have the grace and strength that you need with the King beside you."

    Those were the last words of the Great Theos before the heavy cloud lifted, making Aisha breathe normally again.

    Aisha was still bowing low to the ground as she pondered on what the Great Theos just said.

    She lifted her head as soon as she made her decision. And to her surprise, the mountains and the edge of the cliff vanished.

    Now it was replaced with the four corners of her Chamber. She drew in a deep breath as she knew now what to do.

    She fixed herself in the dressing room and walked out of her Chamber with her face tilted up.

    Just then, Lady Marina walked in.

    ***************

    Sometimes, bad things happen to us, so we can achieve a higher purpose and attain greater happiness and fulfillment in life.

 Chapter 71 - Giving Up

    "What are you doing here, female human?" Marina gritted her teeth as she saw Lady Aisha walking along the corridors of the Castle.

    ''Did Lord Lycano just let her go that easily?'' She crossed her arms as she felt her temperature shoot up.

    "Wasn''t I supposed to be here? I think it is I who should be asking that, my lady. This is my home," Lady Aisha said as she tilted her chin.

    Then she added, "You know, I think you should put the lid on, my lady. You can back off now."

    She gave her a tepid respectful smile before bowing again.

    "So you''re acting high and mighty now?" Marina''s eyes blazed with fury as her shrill voice filled the hallways.

    She recalled how the King told her how he truly felt for this woman.. He was marrying her not just for convenience but for companionship.

    She must have an idea about it, that''s why she was this arrogant.

    One of her eyebrows shot up as she eyed her from head to foot. She was about to answer back when the female human spoke again.

    "If you have nothing else to say to me, I would take my leave. I need to prepare for my wedding with the King tomorrow. If you''ll excuse me," Lady Aisha bowed down to her.

    Her graceful act were the exact opposite of her words. It would make anyone think that she has been a Gaean for a long time.

    The female servants who were accompanying her bowed down as Lady Aisha turned around and walked away.

    The lamp that Lady Aisha''s servant was carrying was now lighting the hallways farther and farther away from her.

    She was aware that it was already nearing the curfew and everyone was about to be in their quarters, lords and servants alike.

    There were some lords and ladies who stayed at the Castle, so they could attend the wedding ceremony tomorrow.

    But Marina recalled the reason why she was there. She must stop the wedding at all costs!

    If she could not get to the hard-headed King, maybe she could break through the female human.

    Marina went after her. Fortunately, Lady Aisha has not gone too far. She was at the royal kitchen, sitting at a table while her servants served her food.

    It was Marina''s first time in the royal kitchen, and she was very uncomfortable. Still, she managed to stay and asked Lady Aisha, "Can we talk?"

    She flipped her wavy curls away from her face, hoping it would make her less intimidating.

    Fortunately, Lady Aisha responded in a positive manner.

    "Sure, have a seat," Lady Aisha said after gulping down a bowl of soup in a nonchalant way.

    "Gosh, I must be really starving," Lady Aisha said as she rubbed her stomach.

    Then she lifted the bowl up and requested, "Can I have some more, please? Thank you," she grinned at the servant before facing her. "Oh, do you want some, my lady?"

    Lady Marina was stunned at her indifferent attitude. She shook her head and sat in front of her.

    ''I knew she saw us then. Doesn''t she care about the King, as he did to her?''

    Marina put the thought aside as she cleared her throat. She hoped she could convince her about her situation.

    "I will be honest with you. It''s not that I have something against you. I just want what''s best for Gaea," Marina said sincerely as she leaned forward and clasped her hands on the table.

    Lady Aisha seemed to know that she was telling the truth as she stopped eating, wiped her lips with a napkin, and looked her in the eye.

    "I know the Great Theos chose you to be a member of the Tribal Council for that reason. You may not believe me since I have just been here for a short period of time. But I also want what''s best for Gaea. Maybe not as much as you do, though" she replied as her bronze eyes glanced down while she shrugged her shoulders and drew in a deep breath.

    Marina''s lips curved in a slight smile as she recalled how she was anointed to be a part of the Tribal Council decades ago. The priests declared that the Great Theos had chosen her. It was still a mystery to her until now. Have the Great Theos seen her devotion to their homeland?

    But what astounded her was Lady Aisha''s concern for Gaea. She thought that she was a fun-loving young girl who just wanted to play around.

    "Does that mean that you understand me? Humans can never be accepted in Gaea. It will be hard for you and your child if ever you get to bear one. It will be beneficial for you if you would just leave," Marina said with a pleading voice.

    "But what if I am the chosen one? And I am the only one who can give Gaea an heir for the King? Would you not support me for the sake of Gaea?" Aisha asked with a determined expression written all over her face.

    The servants were now removing Lady Aisha''s utensils, taking away the hindrances between them. Now, she could see her calm and focused gait clearly.

    The curfew bell had already sounded, announcing that the fires should be covered up or deaden and that everyone was about to be in their quarters, lords and servants alike.

    Anyone who would be caught out in the hallways will be punished, as these were not tolerated in the Castle.

    But Marina was frozen on her feet. Her lips were drained with blood as she replied, "Are you the Chosen One?"

    She gulped as her mind screamed, "No!"

    But Lady Aisha nodded her head and replied, "It wasn''t my choice, either. But I respect the decision of The Great Theos."

    Then she stood up and bowed to her, "I better leave now, my lady. Good night and see you tomorrow."

    But Marina couldn''t even stand up. "That couldn''t be. The Great Theos wouldn''t approve of that."

    Her fists clenched underneath the table as just the thought made her cringe.

    To her shock, Lady Aisha just pressed her lips before uttering, "Actually, he was the one who told me about it."

    Marina stood up in a flash. She couldn''t believe what she was hearing. No one has ever seen the Great Theos nor talked to him except the King!

    The female human must be bluffing!

    "You''re just lying because you want to be with the King! You just want to be the queen!"

    But Lady Aisha just drew in a deep breath and closed her eyes. When she opened them, they were lighted with a fiery gaze, making Lady Marina back out a little.

    "You can ask him yourself if you want. To be honest, I really hate you for seducing the King behind my back, even casting bad omens against a baby who wasn''t even born yet. But now that you have become transparent to me somehow, it made me want to forgive you. A little. Goodbye, Lady Marina," she uttered in a strong voice, which was so unlike her, before stomping her feet out.

    Lady Aisha left together with her servants, leaving a stunned mermaid behind.

    Marina''s jaw dropped as she thought, ''How could she be so confident? Has she really talked with the Great Theos?''

    Her throat constricted, making it painful for her to swallow. Her eyes went blurry as all hope in her heart vanished.

    The curfew bell kept on ringing, but her knees were too weak to stand up.

    Even with the cold midnight air, her lungs seem to lack the right amount of air to breathe.

    The Great Theos'' statements were law. It could not be contradicted even by the King. She hung her head in defeat.

    The last bell has stopped ringing, making Marina stand up. She has to oblige to the rules of the Castle as the King doesn''t tolerate disobedience even with the aristocrats.

    She dragged her feet back to her Chamber as she fell, the whole world collapsed on her.

    There''s no chance of her being the queen anymore. There was no chance to bear the King''s child.

    She recalled Lady Aisha''s statement a while ago about her backing off.

    ''Should I really just let her be the queen and support her childbearing for the sake of Gaea?''

    Marina tilted her head to her side as she pursed her lips.

    She was now at the door of her Chamber. She decided to unlock it and went inside, planning to think about it as she slept.

    To her surprise, Lord Lycano was there waiting for her.

    ********************************

    What defines us isn''t where we''re going, but where we''ve been. Although there are places and people we will never see again, and although we move on and let them go, they remain a part of who we are.

    There are things that will never change, things we will carry along with us always. But as we venture into the murky future, we must find our strength by learning to leave things behind."

    ¨D Brigid Gorry-Hines

 Chapter 72 - A Changed Woman

    "Go to Lady Aisha''s Chamber and see if she has woken up," King Leandro ordered Lord Emilio.

    The King was already seated at the dining hall but he hadn''t even touched his plate.

    Lord Emilio glanced at him with furrowed eyebrows. This was the twentieth time that he was going to Lady Aisha''s Chamber to check on her.

    He stretched his wrist at his back as he recalled how the King didn''t retire according to his regular schedule just to personally search for the female human.

    He hasn''t even eaten breakfast yet and Lord Emilio''s stomach was already growling. He couldn''t eat unless the King had already had his fill.

    The scrumptious meal prepared by the servant was also torturing him, making him gulp a lump in his throat.

    "Yes, your Majesty," Lord Emilio still bowed his head in obedience and was about to go back to the female human''s Chamber when the King said something that astounded him..

    "Lady Aisha is not as bad as you think. I hope you could give her a chance to prove that. If you could not do that for her, then do it for me," King Leandro said in a serious tone as he earnestly gazed at him.

    Lord Emilio was taken aback. He was not aware that the King knew what was going on in his mind.

    Why would he be surprised? He was the King of Gaea.

    "Forgive me, Your Majesty. I am not confirming it but I am grateful that you were sensitive to the concerns of your people. I will go now to her Chamber. Please have your breakfast now," Lord Emilio bowed again before he left the dining hall.

    As he walked, he couldn''t help but recall the advices of his great grandfathers. He must serve the King and Gaea even if he sacrificed his life. That''s the only way that Gaea will be protected.

    "But what if the King''s decision will destroy Gaea? Could I still support him?"

    Still, Lord Emilio continued to walk towards the object of his contempt.

    To his surprise, Rosalia was already at the front of the door. That means Lady Aisha was about to go out, too.

    The other servants also bowed down to him. They were also waiting for Lady Aisha to come out of her room.

    The morning sun was cascading its rays on the hallways, giving the cue that it was time for the breakfast of the Royals.

    Lord Emilio was surprised because he knew that Lady Aisha was gone the previous night and he expected her to be snoring at this hour.

    "Greetings, my Lord," Rosalia bowed down to her as soon as she saw him.

    Her hair was neatly tied in a bun revealing her fresh morning face. She even smelled like the daisies in the summer seasons.

    Her voice sounded like she was joyous. Does that mean that she has good news for the King?

    He couldn''t even get to her last night as he asked Lady Aisha''s whereabouts. She was horror-stricken as she blamed herself for not taking care of Lady Aisha well.

    Lord Emilio was glad to see her finally at peace even though it is bad news to him. He was still hoping that the wedding would not proceed.

    He also bowed down to her and asked, "Is the Lady awake? The King is looking for her."

    "Yes, my lord. She will be out in a minute," Rosalia answered in a cheerful manner.

    She gave him a warm smile making her face appear more lovely than before.

    Lord Emilio cleared his throat as he was distracted for a minute. He must remain focused on his task.

    "It seemed that the Lady Aisha was well judging from your pleasant countenance," Lord Emilio hinted, hoping he could have an idea of what happened last night.

    The last moment that he saw the Lady was with King Leandro on the dance floor.

    Who would have not noticed them as they were the only couple in the dance floor left, seemingly obviously of the people around them?

    He has no idea why she would disappear last night. And it was the night before the wedding ceremony which will be later in the evening.

    Anyone would think that she has backed out including the King, which made him anxious as he was now.

    Fortunately, he was able to dilute the issue so only a few Castle people knew of what happened.

    The King made sure that the guests wouldn''t know.

    "Yes, my lord. I am glad that Lady Aisha was fine after what she encountered last night. She didn''t tell me what happened, but I think Lady Marina has something to do with it. Her face frowned as I mentioned about her," Rosalia babbled as her hands shot up in the air.

    Then she continued, "The kitchen servants also told me about their conversation last night. Lady Marina sent them away but they were able to eavesdrop in their conversation ¨C" Rosalia stopped immediately then she pressed her lips as she realized that she was getting ahead of herself.

    "Please forgive them, my lord," Rosalia said in a softer volume as she realized her mistake.

    However, Lord Emilio rubbed his chin as he thought about it.

    He knew that Lady Marina would not allow the female human to be a royal wife too. But he wasn''t aware of her schemes.

    If he would guess it referring to Lady Marina''s personality, Lady Aisha would not be here right now and run away.

    But it looked like Lady Marina''s prowess could not defeat the determination of the female human.

    Just as he was thinking about what Rosalia just revealed to him, Lady Aisha came out of the room.

    Her eyes bulged out as she saw him but she immediately bowed down in respect to him, "Greetings, my lord. Forgive me for the ruckus I caused last night. It will not happen again."

    She seemed sincere as she didn''t lift her head until he replied.

    "It is fine. But are you alright, my lady? Did you have a bad encounter with Lady Marina?" He asked in a straightforward manner.

    Lady Aisha froze for a few seconds before she answered, "I couldn''t say that it was a bad encounter. She was just concerned for the welfare of Gaea. She truly has all the right to be in the Tribal Council."

    Lord Emilio''s forehead scrunched up as he glanced at Rosalia. She just shrugged her shoulders as if she was saying that she didn''t understand too why Lady Aisha was acting nicely to Lady Marina.

    He gazed at Lady Aisha again. She was not frowning or rolling her eyes. She was just acting normal as if she was waiting for what he would say next.

    Lord Emilio narrowed her eyes at her because she thought that she would rant against Lady Marina.

    He was a hundred percent certain that Lady Marina had either physically or emotionally hurt her. Why is she talking about her in a positive light now?

    He drew in a deep breath and answered her, "That is good to hear, my lady. If ever you have problems with the Gaean people, you can ask me about it. I will try my best to help you."

    It was sincere because even though he was against Lady Aisha as being a wife of the King and much worst, the queen, he doesn''t like terrorism.

    "Thank you, my lord. I truly appreciate it. Please help me be a good citizen of Gaea and a subject of the King and the Great Theos," Lady Aisha humbly bowed her head.

    Rosalia and the other female servants bowed as well.

    Lord Emilio almost gasped at the sudden change in the female human''s responses. It appeared like she had transformed overnight.

    He recalled how she first stepped foot in the Castle. She was so different, it was obvious to anyone that she came from another world.

    She didn''t even shed her former world''s influence on her as she stayed in Gaea during her first few days.

    But now, she was submitting under it''s leadership.

    Lord Emilio just decided to let it pass since the King was waiting for him.

    He immediately cleared his throat and told her of the reason why he was there.

    "I will be coming with you then, my lord" Lady Aisha said in response.

    Lord Emilio led the way to the dining hall. He was hoping that the King had already left since it was already past breakfast time and he had to do his other kingly duties.

    The less time they have with each other, the less involvement they would have with each other''s heart.

    He has seen husbands and wives who were just living together because of responsibility. Both of them remained in their beliefs and values without affecting each other.

    If the wedding will be inevitable, that''s the best that could happen. Lady Aisha''s set of values must not affect the King and his decisions in any way.

    "My lady," King Leandro immediately stood up as soon as he saw her.

 Chapter 73 - My Beautiful Bride

    "The procession was about to start, Your Majesty," Lord Emilio reminded Leandro.

    Leandro woke up from his trance-like state and gazed at the mirror in front of him.

    He was at the Chamber preparing for the wedding ceremony, which is just a few minutes from now.

    His wedding attire was already donned on by his servant. It was a cotehardie made with black damask in a classic lozenge pattern, designed with real gold crosses and snugged tightly with golden buttons.

    ''Lady Aisha might be done by now, too.''

    Leandro drew in a deep breath as he was not used to getting married anymore.

    The last marriage that he has was a decade ago, since he has already given up on having a child.

    "Thank you, Lord Emilio. I will be out shortly," Leandro nodded his head, expressing that he understood what he meant.

    He then gazed at his reflection in the mirror. The cotehardie fitted him well exhibiting his kingly authority.

    He could also hear the music coming from the minstrels who were preparing for the grand ceremony. The minstrels were the first in the procession going to the door of the Clesia.

    Everything seemed to be fine, but his heart was conflicted. He knew that Lady Aisha didn''t tell her the whole truth.

    As they had breakfast together, he asked her of her whereabouts last night. She said she just went out to have some fresh air since she has been used to being a single lady for a long time, and she wanted to cherish the remaining hours of her single life.

    But he believed she was lying.

    ''Is she covering something or someone up? Or is it really the reason?.''

    ''Or is that because something happened, and she didn''t trust me?''

    He recalled her apologizing that she should have trusted him.

    ''Has she seen me and Lady Marina?''

    He shook his head as he refused the possibility. If she did, she would have not come back.

    She has even answered all his questions regarding Gaean culture and traditions perfectly. And it was his prerequisite before she become a royal wife.

    All those thoughts were swimming in his mind. But he still went out of the Chamber, where Lord Emilio and Lord Roberto were waiting for him.

    He nodded his head at them and proceeded on to the Clesia.

    As they were walking, Lord Roberto said something to him that somehow ease up his burden, though not completely.

    "I don''t know if I can talk to you after the wedding ceremony. If you will, your Majesty, I would like to give you a piece of advice. Just believe in her. She has been doing fine until today."

    They had already turned to the east part of the Castle. With the sun''s setting rays, he was able to see the serious expression on Lord Roberto''s face.

    ''He has a point. But can I really let that go?'' Leandro pondered. ''She was still considered as a new citizen of Gaea. She might have gone out again last night and other creatures could have harmed her.''

    His eyebrows knitted together as he predicted what could happen.

    ''Even though she would be a royal wife, there would be oppositions that could try to use her against me. Like Lord Tarragon,'' he continued to contemplate until he reached the Clesia Hall.

    It didn''t take them long to reach the door of the Clesia, the location in the Castle where he usually gets married.

    "Announcing the presence of the King," the town crier blew his trumpet, making everyone bow down.

    Lady Aisha was also there and bowing down with them.

    According to traditions, Lady Aisha must walk with him after the minstrel towards the door of the Clesia Hall.

    Every noble lords and ladies who were present to witness the event awaited with anticipation for the ceremony to start.

    The minstrel started playing their instruments which include, bagpipes, the six-stringed viol, flutes, drums, and trumpets.

    At the sound of the instruments, Leandro''s heart started to beat with them. His hands flew to his chest for a fraction of a second.

    This wasn''t his first time to get married. But it was his first time to be anxious while having it.

    Usually he just wished for the ceremony to end so that he could get on with it.

    But now he was having doubts. Aside from Lady Aisha''s disappearance, she also recalled his conversation with Lady Marina.

    Even if he has refused Lady Marina''s warning, it still haunted him last night.

    ''I couldn''t bear to have a monster for a son and the next ruler of Gaea.''

    Even though he rebuked her, a fear crept in his heart for the possibility of it happening, making him freeze on his feet.

    "Is there anything wrong, my lord?" It was Lord Emilio who asked in a concerned tone.

    Lord Roberto was already inside the Clesia Hall with Lord Lycano and Lady Marina as part of the Tribal Council.

    "You are more knowledgeable in the history of Gaea since your grandfathers have educated you. Were you aware of instances where a human and a Gaean had a child with deformities?" He inquired with his eyebrows knitted together.

    Lord Emilio''s eyes darted to Lady Aisha as he thought of his answer.

    As he did so, he recalled that Lord Emilio was one of those people who wanted to stop the wedding.

    He was about to just cast out his thoughts and walked again when Lord Emilio spoke up.

    "Not that I know of, your Majesty. Lady Aisha was checked by the royal physician and her health seemed to be excellent for child bearing. You can cast your fears aside, your Majesty," Lord Emilio bowed down to him.

    Leandro was surprised as he thought that he would invent tales where the children became a new bred species.

    But he even affirmed her health to him.

    ''Has he finally agreed to gave Lady Aisha a chance?''

    Then Leandro gazed at her from afar. ''Maybe I need to do that, too,'' he resolved to himself as he finally made up his mind to proceed on with the wedding no matter what.

    As he neared her, she bowed down to him in an elegant manner.

    Her auburn locks were styled up, leaving some of its curls down. Her meek angelic face and smooth creamy neck were more exposed, outshining the pieces of precious stones that were embedded on her velvet blue gown.

    "You are the most stunning woman I''ve ever seen," He couldn''t help but blurt out as she admired Lady Aisha''s elegant courtly appearance.

    Lady Aisha''s cheeks who were tinted for that event reddened even more.

    "Really? This isn''t the wedding dress that I dreamed of. It''s a little bit conservative," She said as she peeked down to check on her gown and turned to her back.

    Then she added, "But it''s fine as long as you like it," Lady Aisha said as she swayed back and forth with a welcoming smile.

    "You look ravishing as well, your Majesty," her eyes gleamed in adoration, making Leandro clear his throat in embarrassment.

    Seeing her cheerful personality reminded him of what made him desire to marry her, casting all his doubts aside.

    The minstrels started walking towards the door of the Clesia hall. Lady Aisha seemed apprehensive as she nervously nibbled on her lips, so she grabbed her hand and pressed on them before they entered, saying, "I know this is just out of necessity. But I sincerely hope you are happy right now."

    To his delight, Lady Aisha responded, "Don''t worry, your Majesty. I am not forced to do this. And I am happy to be wedded to you. We may have known each other for a short time, but I know I am safe with you and I want to be with you for the rest of my life." She then grinned at him.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped at her statement. Up to that time, he has thought that he was just forcing his way into her, which didn''t bother him at first because he was used to doing that.

    However, it made him feel good that someone was obeying him not just out of obedience, but because it is her own volition. And it is Lady Aisha.

    His hand unconsciously pressed hers. "Likewise," he answered her and gave her a warm smile, something that he has never given to his previous wives.

    He didn''t let go of her hand as they marched towards the door.

    The lords and ladies who approved of their marriage were smiling and almost clapping if it wasn''t for the solemn ambiance of the wedding.

    However, there were still some who were secretly rolling their eyes as they were disagreeing with their union. But he didn''t care. He continued to held on her hand in front of everybody.

    The minstrels finally stopped playing, and those attending lined up quietly inside the Clesia Hall.

    The Chief Priest opened the proceedings with a greeting to everyone present. Then he called on him and Lady Aisha to the altar.

    Both he and lady Aisha do the routine bow to each other, signifying that both of them decided that they would now be united as husband and wife.

    Leandro drew in a deep breath with satisfaction as he watched Lady Aisha perform the routine.

    His amethyst eyes shone as he watched her every move, as if it was his first time to get married and he was feasting on his bride.

    As they were finally seated together, Lady Aisha whispered to him, "Did I make a mistake? Did I embarrass you?"

    A corner of Leandro''s lips lifted as he gave her an encouraging smile, "You are just perfect, my lady."

    The priest continued on with the rest of the ceremony. Leandro felt that he was finally at peace and are ready to face the challenges ahead with his new wife.

    ***************************

    A good marriage is one where each partner secretly suspects that they got the better deal.

 Chapter 74 - You Are Finally Mine

    Meanwhile, Lady Aisha has her own share of doubts even in the midst of her wedding.

    She was still in the Clesia Hall with King Leandro beside her as her groom and the other noble lords and ladies and guests behind them.

    "Is Gaea really worth it of this sacrifice?" Aisha muttered to herself.

    Even though she was greatly motivated by the Great Theos and she really liked the king especially after she witnessed his loyalty, the thought of being married and having children still hasn''t signed into her yet.

    Just then, the Chief Priest said something that made Aisha glance up. "Children are a hertitage from God, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hands of a warrior are children of one''s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quivers with them. He shall not be put to shame when he talks with his enemies in the Gates."

    He was reading a verse from their own bible..

    The guests nodded their heads in agreement with the Chief Priest.

    At that time, the lamps were also being lit up by the magic of the Kimero servants who were also there to witness the event, making the location reflect the statement of the Chief Priest.

    However, as much as Aisha wanted to believe everything he said, she was still skeptical about it.

    ''Yeah, it was pleasant to the ears. Children are a blessing. It''s also nice to know that a woman''s womb can produce a reward like them.'' She thought while gazing at the Chief Priest as he continued on with his sermon.

    They would also be someone that the King would be proud of in front of his enemies, as she interpreted it.

    But she couldn''t help but be reminded of her own parents who didn''t seem to see her as a blessing or as a reward.

    ''They were never proud of me, either. They didn''t even bring me to their social gatherings. Only my successful step brothers and sisters.''

    She drew in a deep breath as she was afraid she might bring the same loneliness to her soon to be children knowing that the King was a very busy man.

    If it would be possible for her to bear a child, she would be hailed as the Chosen One and be the Queen. She might neglect them, too.

    Aisha heaved out a sigh in frustration.

    Just as she was still thinking, the Chief Priest was already closing the program in prayer.

    "Wait, that was quick! It didn''t even last for thirty minutes!" Aisha blurted out, but almost in a whisper.

    The women were never allowed to object or to utter even a word to the Chief Priest, as was instructed to her during the wedding preparation.

    In less than five minutes, the servants has put a special white veil on her. It was embedded with pearls and onyx stones.

    "Lady Aisha, you are now the royal wife of the King. King Leandro, Lady Aisha was now your royal wife," The Chief Priest declared with his hands raised.

    There was no exchange of vows or wedding rings and such. Not even a wedding kiss.

    It was the tradition of a marriage ceremony to the King since it was not really out of love but of necessity.

    Everyone stood up and bowed down to the King.

    King Leandro stood up as well and with a wide smile on his strikingly handsome face, offered his hand to her.

    Aisha gave him an awkward smile but she gave her hand to him.

    As she did so, the atmosphere was filled with a display of acrobatting slashes of different colors.

    They were like fireworks in her own world. Even more extravagant.

    "It''s beautiful," Aisha blurted out before her jaw dropped open.

    "It''s not as beautiful as you," King Leandro whispered to her ears in a deep masculine voice before he uttered, "You are now mine, Aisha."

    The crowd couldn''t take their eyes off the spectacular fireworks. But Aisha was not with them anymore.

    Her wide-eyed amazement was at the King who just possessively claimed her as his.

    Her heart banged as loudly as the clapping hands of the public.

    She knew her cheeks were flushing ridiculously red at that moment.

    She suddenly gulped a lump in her throat as she recalled what would happen next after every man and woman''s wedding.

    ''The honeymoon!''

    She recalled the night she was drunk with Prunum wine and they almost got there.

    Now there was no stopping it!

    She didn''t know if she would be thrilled or not since she wanted the act. But not the resulting baby. Yet.

    But she felt elated that she has gotten married to a good man. And the King of a supernatural realm!

    She gazed at him adoringly, not just because of his position. But because she knew that he sincerely likes her, even though he was still in the process of opening up to her completely.

    Fortunately, there were still parts of the program left so she could prepare physically, mentally and emotionally.

    The guests went to the reception hall followed by both of them.

    Then she and King Leandro were seated at the banquet table with the Tribal Council.

    The minstrels continued to play their instruments while the guests had a feast.

    "Congratulations, my lady," Lord Lycano whispered to her as soon as she sat down.

    Aisha glanced at him as soon as her bottoms touched the chair.

    He appeared like his usual self now.

    "Thank you, my lord," Aisha tilted her head down in respect to him.

    But she still felt uneasy around him. The last moments that they have was very, very uncomfortable.

    She secretly glanced at King Leandro. He was busy giving instructions to the servant beside him.

    "I apologize for what happened -" He was about to continue on but Aisha lifted her finger and shushed him.

    "I understand, don''t worry. But I didn''t tell the King for your sake and Lysa. Please be quiet about it," Aisha said in a hush.

    "Lysa?" Lord Lycano''s forehead crinkled up in surprise as her name was mentioned.

    Aisha bit her lips as she forgot that Lord Lycano wasn''t aware of Lysa''s relationship with Lyan.

    She could still recall their intimate act in the forest.

    Lysa saved her then, she must save her now.

    "I thought you were together back when you were at the warehouse," she bluffed.

    Then she added, "Forgive me for being ahead of myself."

    Lord Lycano nodded his head as he understood what she meant. "I see. It must probably be the reason why you felt indifferent towards me ever since. I couldn''t blame you."

    Aisha wanted to tell him that it was not the case. But Leandro was already facing them.

    "You seemed to have a serious talk, my lady, Lord Lycano," he said with his authoritative tone.

    His amethyst eyes were changing into deep wine.

    Now that Aisha was getting familiar with King Leandro, she knew that it happened when his temperature was shooting up because of lust or wrath.

    "He was just wishing me well, your Majesty," Aisha chuckled awkwardly as she sipped on a goblet of wine in front of her.

    "Yes, we are, your Majesty. I was just telling her that you would not do anything that would hurt her or make her unhappy."

    He said as he gave the King a knowing look

    "Of course," the King tilted his chin with a corner of his lips curved up. "There is no one in Gaea who could do that for her except me."

    His broad shoulders squared back, thrusting his chest forward.

    Aisha gulped as she felt the rising heat between the two. She quickly stood up and said, "I will just get ready for the dance number. If you''ll excuse me."

    She bowed before the two and scurried away.

    She still hasn''t perfected the intermission and she hoped she didn''t have to perform it. But that''s the best escape plan for this.

    She changed into her dancing outfit which was quite revealing than her wedding dress, to her surprise.

    It was a tube top revealing her slender waist and creamy shoulders. The short lifted sleeves have a sash attached under it to her fingers.

    The pants were baggy but they were seen through revealing her undergarments beneath.

    She walked towards the hall in a bashful state. But to her irritation, there was Lady Marina beside the King flirting with him again.

    Her copper eyes gleamed in fury against her. She lowered the waist of her pants down until her v cut was revealed.

    Then she lifted her.head and walked towards the center of the banquet with a confident gait.

    The minstrels changed the tune to the music that Aisha was practicing for days.

    She was quite nervous. But she didn''t want to be under Lady Marina anymore.

    She closed her eyes and started swaying her hips to the beat of the music like she has rehearsed.

    It was probably because of her anger with Lady Marina or her new confidence because of the Great Theos'' revelation that she was starting to dance in a different step than what she prepared.

    It was both seductive and conservative, making King Leandro''s jaw drop in awe.

 Chapter 75 - Overwhelming Desire

    "I think I want to end the feast right now," Leandro blurted out after he closed his mouth that dropped after seeing Lady Aisha dance.

    They were still in the reception area and the guests were having a banquet as is customary after the wedding ceremony.

    The guests seemed to be having a great time as none were leaving the area even though the moon was already visibly seen in the early evening sky.

    He continued to stare at Lady Aisha''s movements while his throat moved up and down.

    She was in the middle of the dance floor and dancing in a way that was foreign to him but very captivating.

    "You are one lucky King," Lord Lycano said in an inaudible whisper but was heard by Leandro.

    He couldn''t help but agree with him as his silver tresses bobbed up and down.

    "She''s just a show-off," Lady Marina rolled her eyes as she crossed her arms. "She still came from a weak species."

    Then she took a sip of wine to her pressed lips and darted her attention away, appearing unaffected.

    But her skin glowed into a transparent mode, revealing her true emotions inside her.

    ''I don''t care. I am not going to fight with her anyway.'' Leandro thought. But he didn''t voice it out loud.

    He couldn''t help but be reminded of the night when Aisha went to his Chamber.

    That thought haunted him even in his waking hours, making him long for this day with excitement.

    The minstrels continued to play their instruments while Lady Aisha danced with its rhythm.

    "The female human was a graceful dancer," one of the guests uttered to the person who was sitting beside her.

    She couldn''t take her eyes off her, either.

    "I want to learn that kind of dance too," the person that she was speaking to replied to her.

    However, the other guests were rolling their eyes in annoyance like what Lady Marina did.

    Just then, Lady Aisha came in front of Leandro and danced gracefully, while locking eyes with him. Her actions display as if she was dancing for him.

    "Are you enjoying this, your Majesty?" Aisha asked with her lips curled up as she leaned forward to him. Then she stepped backward and continued on with her steps.

    Leandro nodded his head in approval. As she drew near him, her natural female human scent was sniffed by his sensitive nose, increasing the temperature of his body at that moment.

    Lady Aisha looked very different when she danced. It was as if she was the most free-spirited creature in the Land of Gaea.

    With her sweet sensual moves, she was like dancing with the wind, caressing it, and making love with it.

    He could hear his own heart beating with every beat of the instruments excellently played by the minstrels.

    His hand flew to his parched lips as she watched her, recalling the moments when they were ravishing hers.

    She could still taste the juice of her mouth in his, making him thirsty for more.

    Leandro wanted to wait for the dance to be finished, so he could announce the end of the ceremony, and he could get Lady Aisha to his Chamber.

    He clenched his fists as he tried to control himself from interrupting her number.

    Fortunately, it was a short one. Lady Aisha finished it with a grand ending.

    As soon as she did so, Leandro stood up. "Thank you, Lady Aisha, for concluding the ceremony with an excellent display of your dancing skills. Everyone, we could all go back to your Manors. I am glad that you came here and celebrated this event with us," Leandro bowed down to them.

    The minstrels stopped playing their instruments and glanced at one another with curious looks on their faces. They knew that they had more songs to play. But they obliged at the King''s order.

    Lord Roberto stood up and bowed down to him. "I hope you have a well and healthy marriage this time, Your Majesty."

    He pressed his lips as if he was about to say something. But he chose not to.

    Leandre nodded his head at him in approval.

    With a serious look on his face, Lord Roberto walked at the front of the hallway and went out of the hall, leading the others to do that as well.

    "It is still early in the evening. May I request if I may just stay at the dining hall before I leave," Lady Marina said as the other guests bowed down to the King and followed Lord Roberto''s footsteps.

    She seemed to sulk and Leandro knows why. He didn''t want to make her feel bad for a long time. They both had a relationship before and she was still a member of the Tribal Council.

    He also nodded his head in agreement.

    On the other hand, Lord Lycano seemed to side with Lady Marina as he uttered, "I will just accompany her, if you will. Cheers to you and your lovely bride, your Majesty."

    He then lifted his goblet of wine.

    Leandro narrowed his eyes on him. But he also agreed.

    He can''t wait to be with lady Aisha right now that she would agree to anything just to hasten the clock.

    "You can both stay at the Castle until later in the evening. But as you know, your people are waiting for you, so I will expect you to be gone by the morning," Leandro said to the two In his authoritative tone.

    He doesn''t like the Castle to be a public place because he values his privacy. He just opened some areas of the Castle for special events such as this.

    Lord Lycano and Lady Marina knew about this, that''s why they asked his permission.

    They both bowed down to him as their way of saying goodbye before leaving the halls with the other guests.

    The other servants were also readying themselves to clean up the place. But they were also waiting for Leandro to leave together with Lady Aisha.

    Now that the guests were gone, he could finally have Lady Aisha all to himself.

    He swiveled around to find her. As he did so, he noticed her sitting at the chair with her head bowed down, silently waiting.

    She seemed to sense that he was observing her. She lifted her head and peeked up at him with her eyes like a puppy who was about to cry.

    ''I shouldn''t have done that. Forgive me, Your Majesty. I was so engrossed with dancing that I forgot that this was Gaea and they were not used to that kind of entertainment," she said as she put her palms together while her head hung low.

    Leandro wanted to laugh as he gazed at her, feeling sorry for herself, thinking that she had done something wrong.

    She has no idea that her performance was applaudable and that most of the guests were awestruck at her.

    "You did well, my lady. In fact, you are so alluring that I want to take you in my Chamber right now," a corner of his lips curled as he said it outrightly, not wanting to sugarcoat things when he wanted it to be plainly understood.

    Aisha''s cheeks turned beetle red in embarrassment at his response to her self-pity.

    Leandro could hear her heart beating wildly as he watched her chest heave up and down.

    With her body''s natural reaction to his statement, his flesh and bones responded as well. He felt suffocated with the wedding garments that he wanted to take them all of at once.

    He gulped as he felt his throat felt parched even after having dinner with the scrumptious food and drinks that were laid on the King''s table.

    He recalled that when he had marriage ceremonies and receptions before, he would just focus on eating and drinking and watching the guests enjoy the party. He would just wait for the time of consummation. But he was not at all interested.

    He couldn''t understand why now, he even skipped some parts of the routine programs just to do the consummation.

    With his burning emotions, he felt he had been as dry as dust for a long time and an overflowing fountain was in front of him at that moment. He didn''t want to lose the opportunity as he felt like he has never longed for someone that way in his entire Gaean life.

    He was so overcome by his desire. He didn''t even wait for Lady Aisha''s response.

    He picked her up with his strong, brawny arms, making Lady Aisha''s copper brown eyes widened in surprise.

    "Wait! I haven''t taken a shower yet. I smell gross," Lady Aisha said while sniffing herself.

    But he couldn''t hear her anymore. He continued walking towards his Chamber, being obsessed by a fiery passion that overwhelms him.

    *****************************

    "Sex in marriage is one of the most powerful gifts God ever created. It was designed to bring a man and woman together in a physical, emotional and spiritual bond that would create pleasure, intimacy and also procreation." ¨C Dave and Ashley Willis

 Chapter 76 - Please, Dont Torture Me

    "Oh, my gosh! This is it! This is it! This is it!" Aisha mumbled to herself as her stomach started to swirl.

    The wedding ceremony has officially ended and the King is now walking towards His Chamber while carrying her in his arms.

    Since the guests were finished with their evening meals, it was now the servants turn to dine.

    "Oh, no, this is embarrassing!" Aisha covered her face as she saw court maids passing by and bowing to them.

    They were all scurrying towards the royal kitchen, so most of them saw them in that ridiculous state.

    But King Leandro continued to walk along the hallways, not minding the odd looks of the Castle servants upon noticing them.

    ''It seemed like the King couldn''t wait to have sex with me''

    His breathing was raggedly heavy as she was near his chest. She could even feel his heart beating at a fast rate..

    With their nearness, she could sense the musky fragrance that came from his own scent and his royal clothes.

    ''Maybe I shouldn''t have danced Bachata,'' Aisha gulped in response at the King''s determined actions.

    It was one of the dance classes that she took then out of boredom. She didn''t know why her body swayed along to the minstrels'' music with those moves.

    Perhaps it was because the minstrels have some sort of magic with their instruments. Or she was enlivened with jealousy.

    She shook her head as she tried to inhale and exhale, so she could be ready for what will happen next.

    To be honest with herself, she was also excited to experience it.

    They were already at the door of the King''s Chamber and the royal guards already gave way to them when the King suddenly froze.

    "You didn''t drink Prunum wine, did you?" He asked her.

    As he did so, his warm sweet breath wafted into her nostrils, making her gulp a lump in her throat.

    "No, sir. I behaved myself," she grinned at him in response.

    "That''s good. Because I don''t want you to forget everything that will happen tonight," King Leandro whispered in her ears, sending shivers down her spine.

    She was just imagining setting up a spy cam to record her first-ever sexual intercourse with the King of Gaea for memory keeping when, to her bewilderment, the door of His Chamber opened without anyone even touching it.

    King Leandro walked inside casually, then the door closed behind her with the same effect.

    "Whoa, I can''t believe you have an automatic sliding door here!" Aisha exclaimed with wide-eyed wonder.

    Then her face scrunched up as she put her forefinger to her cheeks, "Or did you actually do that?"

    She was still being carried by the massive arms of the King, as if he wasn''t planning to put her down until they reached the bed.

    They were already inside the enormous Chamber of the King and there were different doors leading to different rooms.

    But there was one door that was distinct from them all. It is a door where court nobles were awaiting them in a bowing position.

    Aisha glanced at the King as she didn''t understand why they were there.

    Leandro seemed to understand her inquisitive gaze, and he explained to her.

    "They were here to witness our consummation, my lady," King Leandro said in a matter-of-fact tone.

    Aisha''s jaw dropped to her chest. "What?"

    She immediately went down from the King''s grasp and pulled her silk gown over her body as if it had not really covered her at all.

    She was reminded of a scene that she watched in a movie before where the neighbors were waiting outside the window while the newly married couples were having their first sex.

    After a few minutes, the man peeked out the window and showed the neighbors the blood-stained blanket, making the neighbors rejoice.

    "I hope it is not the case here," Aisha muttered to herself as her eyes darted to everyone who was present at her honeymoon.

    The King must have sensed her uneasiness so he gave her a short explanation, "The royal conception is a very important matter to the Gaean people."

    He continued to explain so she would not be scared of the situation. "The reason why there must be witnesses present in every consummation after the wedding ceremony is to prove the chastity of the woman. Aside from that, it is also to substantiate that the child was indeed the offspring of the Lord of the house, and in our case, the King of Gaea."

    Aisha nodded as if she understood the gravity of what he meant. She was not aware that the childbearing in royal families was that sensitive in Gaea."

    "Still, Master Aurelius and the other tutors should have informed me so I will not be this shocked," Aisha complained as she pouted her lips and crossed her arms.

    It''s not that she has something to hide.

    Thank God that she hasn''t given herself to Jake and she has preserved her virginity until this day. Or she would die!

    But she wanted privacy. How could they both express themselves freely with these people watching?

    Before she could decide, the King walked forward with her little hand in his.

    "Let us begin," King Leandro commanded in an impatient tone as he almost pulled her inside, leaving Aisha no choice but to follow him.

    Aisha''s heart beated erratically as she both felt excitement and nervousness mixed in one.

    To Aisha''s further distress, the servants started to follow them,

    "Oh no, it is even worse than I imagined," Aisha covered her wide-open mouth in horror as she watched the court nobles lined up. There was just a thin curtain that was separating the bed from them.

    "Thank God for the curtain," Aisha muttered.

    But still it is very, very uncomfortable.

    "Do we really have to do this?" Aisha pressed her lips as her whole face revealed her apprehension. "I know this is tradition and all. But I feel like I''m making a sex video scandal for free."

    Even the love making of the King was like a program where there was a specific time for the start and end.

    It just so happened that the King started earlier than the scheduled time.

    Aisha and King Leandro were already in the bed area.

    The King started to remove his wedding garments leaving a thin white undergarment to cover his body.

    Then he went to her side and gently laid her down. "Do not worry, they would not even lift their heads unless I say so. Or else they will be punished by death," the King said in a serious tone even though his eyes were already burning with fire.

    That made Aisha calm, somehow. She hoped that no one would die in her honeymoon, though.

    However, the servant seemed to be affected by his threat as Aisha heard their feet scuffling from the bed to the door of the chamber. Then they turned their backs from them.

    She then concentrated on the act itself.

    "Shouldn''t we take a bath first?" Aisha asked as she smiled uncomfortably. "You know I danced a while ago and I really don''t smell nice."

    To emphasize her point, she lifted the under part of her gown which is covering her underarm and sniffed it. Then her face grimaced, making her pinch her nose.

    King Leandro was already slowly loosening her gown with anticipation.

    But he paused for a fraction of a second. He didn''t stand up. While still laying besides her, he uttered in a hoarse voice that seemed like he was already pleading, "Please don''t torture me."

    Aisha couldn''t help but gaze at him, assessing his real state.

    It seemed like he would burst with so much pent-up emotions inside.

    Aisha was surprised that she would hear that kind of request from him. As far as she knew, he never made a request. It was always an order.

    ''And am I torturing him?'' Aisha thought as she gazed at his clenched jaw and throbbing veins in his neck.

    She recalled their private times and realized that she was indeed torturing him.

    And he has respected her decisions all the time without forcing his way into her even if he was left hanging!

    "Forgive me, your Majesty," Aisha tilted her head as she felt how dishonoring she must have been to him.

    She is just a royal wife who needs to give the King a child.

    With a solemn look on her face, she stood up and started undressing herself in a quick manner.

    However, Leandro stopped her as he put his hand on hers.

    "I don''t want you to see this as an obligation. Let me ease you into this," King Leandro said as he laid her down again.

    This time, Aisha let go of all her worries away and focused on the man in front of her which she previously called King, but was now her husband.

    **************************

    We waste time looking for the perfect scenario when we should be enjoying what was in front of us.

 Chapter 77 - I Want More

    Warning: A lot of erotic scenes coming. Here''s the first. Enjoy. :D

    ***********

    "Okay, I''m ready," Aisha blurted out after she shook her hair and drew in a deep breath.

    She tilted her petite chin up as she gazed at the King.

    The lamps were dimly lit in the King''s Chamber giving the ambiance of a romantic night.

    Aisha was tired the whole day with the actual preparation and the wedding ceremony itself.

    But all her senses were awake as the King was about to make her his literally tonight.

    "I have been waiting for this, my lady," King Leandro drawled in a husky voice.

    He was gazing at her with his smoldering amethyst eyes, appreciating every part of her face downwards.

    His masculine hand slowly removed her outer garments, making her gulp in response.

    This wasn''t the first time that they did this. But she still felt nervous like her heart wanted to get out of her ribcage.

    "Please be gentle with me, your Majesty. I know it hurts the first time. My friends told me," Aisha said randomly just to ease up her uneasiness.

    "Don''t worry my lady, you will look forward to this starting from now on," Leandro answered her as his champagne-wet lips pleasured themselves in hers.

    By the movement of his mouth, it seemed as if he had been waiting to do this all day long.

    As he did so, his skillful hands continued to remove all of Aisha''s clothes that were thickly layered over her body until there''s nothing left.

    But she was oblivious to it as she responded with the same ardor in kissing him back.

    No matter how much she hid it, she also longed to taste them again.

    Her eyes closed as she felt his sensuous lips giving her warmth as they enraptured hers.

    Aisha coiled her bare arms around his head as he sipped her lips like they were a cold glass of juice on a hot summer.

    As Aisha did so, his powerful hand started to grope downward, touching her smooth delicate skin with his rough one.

    But she didn''t care. She was now willing to give everything to him, from her head to her toes.

    As her eyes were closed, she could just feel what he was doing through her sense of touch.

    She felt his strong and warm hand trailed from just below her breastbone to her pert mounds.

    Aisha gasped as she recalled it happening also when she was in His Chamber and was intoxicated with Prunum wine.

    She thought that she was just wishing it as the details of that event were still obscure until now.

    She thought that she would push him away if she was in a somber state.

    But why was her chest heaving up as if she wanted more?

    ''Am I really this lustful? Or is it because of him being skillful with this? Or maybe because he was the most mouth watering male creature that I have ever seen?

    She didn''t want to complicate her life anymore. She just allowed her body to respond to him knowing that she was already his wife and he was already hers.

    His hungry lips left her petite mouth and went to the other part of her breast making her gasp in an erotic way.

    As she recalled then, the King was gentle. His tongue lashing the tips of her nipples in a sweet way.

    But today he seemed more like a wolf who was eating his meal like there''s no tomorrow.

    Aisha thought that she would be in pain. But her body was saying otherwise.

    She was even pulling his hair and pressing it to her erect areola more.

    At that moment, she felt like a queen who was so desired by her husband, the King.

    Seeing her response, King Leandro''s deft hand travelled to the part of her body that she has never let anyone see or touch.

    Aisha froze for a fraction of a second. But because she was in euphoria, she allowed him to do so.

    She even put her legs farther apart so he could gain more access to it.

    "You''re already wet, my lady," King Leandro lifted his head and uttered in surprise.

    His swollen lips curved up as if he was pleased to know that.

    "Wet? What does it mean?" Aisha''s forehead scrunched up after catching her breath and before she gazed downward to the King.

    As she did so, she couldn''t help but smile as she saw him in a different light.

    She didn''t know if it was because of the lighting that was causing his face to appear more robust than he actually was.

    Or was it because he was making her deliriously happy at that moment.

    "It means you''re now ready, my lady," King Leandro breathed as he stood up and took off all his clothes.

    His purplish eyes turned to crimson. It seemed as if they were even on fire.

    Aisha''s eyes bulged out as she gazed at the King''s nakedness in front of her.

    The King was perfect in every angle. If he was a part of her world, he would win every bikini open contest!

    Aside from his hot physique, he was oozing with the alpha aura from head to foot.

    But what made Aisha''s eyes pop out was the size of his manhood.

    It seemed to be twice the size of what she saw when he was at the pool.

    ''Was that thing going inside me?''

    Aisha''s legs automatically closed as she felt that she would die if he pursued his plan.

    But the King was the King.

    He went on top of her and pointed his erect rod to her soft femininity.

    To her surprise, it isn''t as scary as she thought it would be.

    It felt warm and soft and her center felt like it wanted to welcome it inside of her.

    "I will be gentle with you," he whispered in her ear as he started nibbling on it.

    But his manhood was still directed at her entrance.

    Aisha nodded her head as she closed her eyes again.

    King Leandro''s tongue dipped between the seams of her lips, opening them so it could enter in and taste her again.

    His mouth surely has a way of relieving her stress away as her fears started to melt away.

    As his tongue made quick deep strokes in her mouth, slowly and gently, he pushed his way in her.

    But it was only a fraction before he pulled it away again.

    At first, Aisha froze. But as he continued to do that again and again, she started to enjoy it.

    It was the most satisfying feeling her body has ever felt in her entire life. She felt like she was being lifted in the heavens as her body responded with every thrust of his hardness in hers.

    She couldn''t control her mouth from expressing her emotions as words of delight escaped from them.

    "Deeper¡­ deeper..." She was pleading to him as she pulled him closer to her.

    Her naked hips were now rocking as his shaft entered hers and out.

    King Leandro paused as he checked on her and asked, "Are you sure, my lady?"

    Aisha immediately nodded her head as she even lifted her curvy hips to meet his.

    Seeing her overwhelming desire, he immediately complied with her request.

    It was what he wanted after all. He was only inserting half of his aching erection in her. And even though he was enjoying it, he would appreciate it more if his whole hard flesh was hers.

    Still, he didn''t put it in all at once. He just continued on how he started, lunging in and out.

    But this time, it was deeper and deeper until all his enormous manhood was inside.

    King Leandro''s eyes closed as he felt it pulsating because of the warmth of Lady Aisha''s pinkness.

    Then he pulled it out and shoved it in again and again. This time, it was he who was having a hard time controlling himself.

    Meanwhile, Aisha felt like something was burning down in her flaps. But she didn''t care.

    It was quickly replaced with pleasure as the King pumped into her passionately.

    Tears started streaming down her eyes with both pain and delight. Her cries of ecstasy started getting louder and louder.

    King Leandro was also expressing his satisfaction as deep groans could be heard from his throat.

    "Fuck me more," Aisha was even saying as her body shake under the King''s vigorous movements.

    King Leandro obeyed her as he pumped into her harder and deeper.

    Aisha was already screaming with both euphoria and a stinging sensation until the King exclaimed, "I''m coming!"

    His movements became faster making Aisha''s body quake.

    Suddenly, the King''s body thrummed as he baptized her tightness with his warm liquid.

    His thrusting became slower and slower until he removed his masculinity from her flower.

    But Aisha pouted her lips. "But I want more."

    ***************

    The difference between sex and love is that sex relieves tension and love causes it.

    Woody Allen

 Chapter 78 - A Pleasurable First Time

    "You want more?" Leandro asked as he turned his head to his side.

    They were still in his Chamber and he has just reached his crescendo.

    Unlike before, it usually took him a long time to climax. He was always nearing the end of the time given for him to procreate.

    But now, he was just on a fourth of it. And his new wife was asking for more.

    He gazed at his lovely naked wife who was still flushed from their lovemaking.

    He couldn''t help but touch her petulant sulky lips with his blunt masculine thumb.

    Her feminine human scent was lingering all around his room making him reach over and kiss them hungrily..

    It seemed like his desire for her will never be quenched.

    Lady Aisha responded with the same passion as her soft dainty hands flew to cup his chiseled jaw and kissed him back.

    However, one of the court nobles cleared his throat and bravely uttered, "Forgive me your Majesty. But I believe it is the time to prove the lady''s chastity."

    He bowed low and clenched on his stomach as if pained, as if he was anxious that the King might punish him because of his indifference to the lady and him.

    As he said that, Lady Aisha''s eyes bulged out. In a flash of lightning, she covered herself with a piece of a blanket to cover her nudity.

    "Oh, my gosh. I totally forgot about you guys. I''m sorry for my vulgarity. I''m really not the kind of girl that you think I am. I promise," she blurted out as she waved her hand frantically.

    The other servants pressed their lips as they gazed at one another with a knowing look.

    Then one of them spoke up. She was an elderly woman and the oldest among the group.

    "Do not fret, my lady. It is ordinary for a man and woman to take satisfaction in their copulation. You are quite vocal about it but we understand that you are part of another realm and have a different culture. What is more important is your virtue. May we see your blanket, my lady?"

    As she said that, Lady Aisha immediately stood up.

    Leandro was already out of the bed and putting on his robe as he knew the customary routine.

    "Eews, that is so gross," Lady Aisha''s face grimaced as she saw the blood-stained sheet.

    Leandro''s lips couldn''t help but lift up.

    As he has read, the humans in her world did not regard purity anymore. But he was glad that she had preserved hers until that day. He felt honored.

    It was one of the things that bothered him. If she was found out to have fornicated and she dared get married to the King, she would be put to death.

    Leandro walked to where Aisha was and put his hard, lean arms around her to cover her bareness.

    His robe was enough to cover her completely.

    "You may now come in," he said to the court maids who were awaiting his order before he flipped his silver tresses back.

    The servants immediately did as they were told.

    They went inside and checked on the stain, even smelling it to be sure that it was real blood.

    "Oh, please don''t do that. It''s disgusting," Aisha squirmed from his grasp.

    But after that she turned around and put her slender smooth arms around him as her soft head nuzzled the hard ridges of his chest.

    "You''re so warm," she smiled as she closed her eyes.

    Leandro was taken aback at her bold display of affection.

    To his surprise, he felt warm not just physically but emotionally, making him put his beefy arms around her, too.

    Before, he didn''t even let anyone touch him while in the act of doing so before, during or after.

    They were just there for procreation. If they would dare touch him, he would stop it altogether.

    He felt like they were there with a hidden agenda and he would not tolerate it.

    But it was different with Lady Aisha.

    He cuddled her closer to him and closed his eyes as he delighted in the warmthness of her soft curves.

    "Can I just wash myself now, your Majesty? There''s like a pile of sticky junks all over me," she requested as she smiled at him with an upturned face.

    Leandro glanced at the court ladies. They seemed to be finished with their ritual inspection. They have already nodded their heads, confirming that she was indeed a sterile woman.

    With the use of their supernatural abilities, they immediately change the linens to a new one.

    "Whoa, automatic washing machines are nothing compared to you guys, I may say," Lady Aisha grinned from ear to ear, with her eyes sparkling in delight.

    "You may go. But don''t change to your sleeping gown yet. We''re still not finished," Leandro responded in a strong tone.

    He heard the court maids gasping as they gave one another a questioning look.

    They were used to him sending back the lady to her Chamber after he was done, whether it was early or not.

    But he didn''t want to do that to Lady Aisha. If he could be with her all throughout the night, he will.

    He crossed his arms over his sculpted chest and responded to their confusion.

    "I still have remaining time, don''t I?" One of his eyebrow shot up.

    He hasn''t broken any laws since he was hailed. And he has no plans of doing so.

    The court maids all nodded their heads vigorously and bowed while scuffling away.

    Lady Aisha Also did the same. "I''ll be back, your Majesty. I promise," she grinned at him.

    While she was gone, Leandro couldn''t help but look back on what happened.

    He was sure that he has acted harshly towards Lady Aisha. He tried his best to be gentle with her. But he couldn''t control himself.

    And he didn''t know if he could restrain himself, too, the next time around.

    This was the first time that he felt those feelings during copulation.

    Everything he does is always a responsibility, even procreation.

    But now, he did it because it felt good.

    He just didn''t know if it was because she was a female human. Or the Chosen One.

    Or because he likes her and she seemed to like him, too.

    Like what Lady Aisha said, she was back in no time.

    She was wearing a silk robe put together with golden threads.

    "Are you hurt?" Leandro immediately asked.

    His eyebrows furrowed as he checked on her.

    "To be honest, yes," Lady Aisha smiled awkwardly as she sat down on the bed beside him.

    Like what she did a while ago, she put her silky smooth arm around his taut abdomen, her pretty head laying on his muscular chest.

    It was such an unnatural experience for Leandro that he couldn''t help but jolt up in surprise.

    But he drew in a deep breath and tried to calm himself. He wanted to be with Lady Aisha in that way, too.

    He gently leaned back and looked for a comfortable position before he put his arms around her silk-clad shoulders.

    "Please forgive me, my lady. I didn''t mean to hurt you. I wasn''t able to fulfill my promise to you," he whispered to her.

    He thought that she would get angry or feel like he was violating her. But it was contrary.

    She said in a low volume, "I know. I already knew that it would be painful. But I didn''t know that it would feel that - Oh my gosh, I can''t even describe it."

    She even leaned back to her own pillows and stared at the ceiling with a huge smile on her face.

    "No wonder why they say that size and performance really matters. I am really lucky," Lady Aisha said in almost a whisper as she chuckled to herself.

    Then she turned around and faced him and blurted out in a whisper, "Thank you for making my first time a pleasurable one."

    She even cupped her mouth and glanced at the curtains to make sure that nobody could hear her.

    Leandro''s muscles stiffened at her compliment. It was his first time hearing that. Almost all of the consorts didn''t say anything even after the act.

    He was worried that he had traumatized her. But she was now even appreciating him.

    Lady Aisha was really a uniquely desirable woman!

    In a fraction of a second, he turned over to her and lovingly gazed at her.

    "Thank you, too, for giving me my first pleasurable evening."

    Then he whispered to her ear, "Do you want to experience more pleasure tonight?"

    Then he slowly kissed her earlobe, making her respond with a vigorous nod.

    He then removed her robe away from her smooth white shoulders and started planted kisses on them going down to the upper mound of her sweet creamy peaks.

    This time he take it slowly as if he wanted to taste every bit of her flesh.

    He felt his manhood harden again. But this time, he wanted to please her more than himself.

    *************************

    Look at everything as though you were seeing it for the first time or last time. Your time on earth will be filled with glory.

 Chapter 79 - Illusions

    Warning: Another steamy scene. Pls be advised that there are a lot more ahead. Haha Pls don''t open this if you''re uncomfortable. It''s just the two council members hitting on each other out of frustration. ;)

    ******************************

    "I wonder if the female human was already in her Chamber," Lady Marina sighed as she cupped her porcelain face with her translucent smooth hands.

    Her shoulders were both shrugged down in defeat.

    Both she and Lord Lycano were still in the dining hall, drinking until the curfew bell struck.

    Lord Lycano has already given up on their plan. He said he doesn''t want to hurt her.

    Marina has no idea what happened that night. But it led to detrimental effects on their agenda.

    Because of that, Marina decided to lie low as well. She could always cook up another plan to oust her out of the Castle. Or even Gaea!

    "Don''t even bother mentioning," Lord Lycano responded to her in a slurred voice as he pointed his forefinger at her.

    He couldn''t even look Marina straight in the eyes.

    He seemed to be more crapulous than her because of the union of the King and that female human!

    "It''s better to get drunk. Or I might destroy the King''s door and take her out of there."

    "Why don''t you do just that? I would help you escape," Marina suggested with a gleaming glow on her red face.

    She was also tipsy as she already had too much to drink.

    She couldn''t accept that she was defeated by a weak sickly looking female human!

    Marina stood up and was about to pull Lord Lycano up so they could go to the King''s Chamber when both of them fell on the floor.

    Marina''s back sprawled on the floor while Lord Lycano was on top of her. His face was buried between her bosoms!

    "My lady," he sulked as he buried himself deeper in between her cleavage.

    Marina was stupefied at their accidental position.

    She didn''t know if he was mentioning her or the female human as he said "my lady".

    But it was the first time that a man was trapped in between her cleavage for quite some time.

    Surprisingly, his face warmed her cold skin.

    She immediately pushed him away, making him fly to the wall.

    But he didn''t endure it. He fell down with a loud thud. But he was already snoring.

    "How could he pass out like that?"

    Marina grimaced as she saw Lord Lycano''s head hung low to his chest.

    She lifted his chiseled chin with her dainty fingers to see if he really had passed out.

    As she did so, she couldn''t help but recall how they both first came to Gaea.

    They were still young and naive then. And their personalities click together.

    Lord Lycano was good-looking from then until now. But he is just a lord. And King Leandro is the King.

    She pulled him and decided to bring him to his room.

    She laid him at his bed and just as she was about to leave, his hand shot up as he uttered, "Stay with me tonight."

    His eyes were still closed so she had no idea if he was talking to her or he perceived her as the female human.

    She wanted to refuse. He was drunk and so was she. They could make a mistake with that state.

    Marina stood up and pulled away from Lord Lycano''s grasp.

    With the supernatural strength that she has, she was able to escape.

    But it was only to see that her dizziness couldn''t make her go out of the room, either.

    "I''m just going to rest here until my sense of balance returns," she said as her hand flew to clutch her head that was about to fall down.

    But Lord Lycano grabbed her firmly as he cried out, "Be careful."

    With that, she recalled the number of times that he has done it for her.

    They truly were a great team from then until now.

    "I''m fine," Marina pulled away. But Lord Lycano pulled her towards him in his bed.

    "Stay here tonight," he repeated again.

    This time he even put his arms around her waist, his unruly black hair nuzzled the corner of her pale neck.

    Marina''s head jerked back in surprise. She tried to give a glance to Lord Lycano even with that position to see what he was thinking.

    But his eyes were closed. As if he was using her as a soft cushion for his head.

    Marina heaved out a sigh as she leaned back on the pillows. She was also exhausted and she really wanted to rest.

    She closed her eyes and tried to sleep even with Lord Lycano snoozing off at her shoulder.

    Just then Lord Lycano started talking. "I''m better than the King. I will not hurt you like he did to you," he slurred even though his eyes were closed.

    Marina''s eyes immediately opened up as he said that.

    Why was he suddenly talking this way?

    She just decided to turn her back away from him and crossed her arms.

    "Just go to sleep," she ordered and tried to close her eyes again.

    She needs to get out as soon as her dizziness subsides or they will be the talk of the town.

    However, Lord Lycano was quite determined.

    His strong lean arm flew around her again and pulled her closer to him. "Don''t go, my lady."

    His warm breath grazed the back of her ear sending shivers down her spine.

    Suddenly, her feelings changed from being indifferent to something that she must not feel.

    Her heart thumped wildly in her chest as her body craved for more of his touches.

    It seemed like Lord Lycano felt it, too, as his rough fingers started to caress her abdomen, his thumb slowly going up to her bountiful breasts.

    Marina was paralyzed as she didn''t know what to do.

    Her mind was screaming to get away immediately.

    But her body was too weak to stand up.

    Or was it enjoying what the Lord of the Lycus Clan was doing to her?

    "You''re not yourself, my lord. Please stay back," Marina said, hoping it would be enough to drive away the lord as her body seemed to be rebelling against her.

    But Lord Lycano probably thought she was the female human. Or one of his women that he continued on what he was doing.

    He even cupped one of her luscious peaks while smothering the back of her neck, making her gasp in surprise.

    Marina was not oblivious to his womanizing. It was probably the reason why she was turned off at him and she couldn''t see him as a partner in life.

    However, this was the first time that she became a victim of his masochism.

    And surprisingly, her body was responding positively to it.

    Was she too dried up sexually to say no?

    Or maybe because she had too many drinks because of that union of the two.

    And so does he. Even worse.

    Maybe it wouldn''t be so bad if they enjoy this night as well, and not just them.

    She closed her eyes as she arched her body and allowed him to take possession of her body.

    His fingers went downward to her pink flesh as he continued to lick her shoulders savagely.

    Perhaps it has been a long time since she was foddled like this that she was immediately moist with her own liquid.

    Seeing her readiness, he uttered in a gruff voice, "This would just be quick and you''ll be in heaven."

    Then he lifted her gown and before she could even respond, his erect manhood was already inside her, pumping in and out.

    All thoughts of saying no were replaced with delighted gasps and moans.

    Instead of pushing him away, she even tilted her bottom so he could penetrate her more deeply.

    After a few regular rhythms, he suddenly went faster as his hand that we''re continuously fondling her engorged large mounds flew to her small waist, making her almost scream in delight.

    She bit her lips hard so the guards outside could not hear them. They thought she was just caring for him because of his drunken state.

    As Lord Lycano continued to rock his hips on hers, he blurted out a word that made Marina froze for a fraction of a second.

    "Lady Aisha," he breathed as he went on.

    ''So he was thinking that he was romping on that female human?''

    She wanted to stop him and push him away. But then his enormous rod inside of her started rotating, touching every nook and cranny of the inside of her flesh, making her groan in ecstasy instead of getting angry at him.

    Her tensed arms started to loosen as she just decided to let it pass and imagine that he was the King instead.

    Both of them reached their crescendo at the same time, making them experience a little bit of joy in their own illusionary world.

    *************************

    Some people are magic, and others are just the illusion of it.

 Chapter 80 - Screams Of Delight

    This has no steamy scene, sorry. But it''s a good read; a budding romance between two of our side characters. ;) I hope you like it. :D

    ************************

    "You can cover your ears if you want to," Lord Emilio said to Rosalia in a concerned tone.

    Both of them were outside the King''s Chamber as both of their masters were inside for the royal procreation.

    Lady Aisha''s cries could be heard from where they were.

    To be honest, Lord Emilio was surprised. It was the first time that he heard such emotional expressions during the King''s procreation.

    ''Certainly, all the royal wives and concubines were oriented to not be expressive to the point of overpowering the King during procreation,'' he contemplated..

    He didn''t know why the King was allowing Lady Aisha to be explicit during their copulation.

    ''Was it perhaps because she came from another world? Or was he taking satisfaction in it that much?''

    With that, Lord Emilio''s face reddened.

    It wasn''t every day he could hear a lady expressing her delight in an intercourse. And it somehow made him both uneasy and surprisingly thrilled.

    "It''s alright, my lord. I''m glad that Lady Aisha seemed to be having a wonderful first night with the King," Rosalia responded as she swayed sideways. Her dark eyes gleamed in the light of a nearby lamp.

    "It is a pearl in the sea to be with someone whom you want to be with for the rest of your life," Rosalia added dreamily.

    Lord Emilio nodded his head as he agreed with her.

    In their Kingdom, most marriages were held for political reasons.

    ''It is either to strengthen one''s bloodline and equities. Or to increase one''s power or influence in the land,'' Lord Emilio pondered.

    In this case, the union of the King and Lady Aisha was to extend the lineage of the King in the throne.

    There is a great risk of producing an unqualified offspring. But now he understood the King''s decision to still advance with the plan. It is better to take risks than to have no offspring at all.

    He decided to give Lady Aisha a chance.

    Still, he doesn''t believe that these feelings will last.

    "Emotions will fade through time," Lord Emilio''s jaw clenched as he responded to Rosalia''s idealistic opinion.

    He looked outside the window and saw that the full moon was already shining brightly in the evening sky.

    The night creatures seemed to be rejoicing at that time as well.

    "The emotional exhilaration of these events were only momentary. Tomorrow everything will be back to normal."

    Just then, Lady Aisha''s noises slowly vanished. It seemed like the copulation had finally ended and they could rest for the night.

    His feet made a wide stance as he put his hands behind his back and lifted his chin.

    Lady Aisha will be coming out anytime by now to be escorted back to her chamber with Rosalia and the rest of her female servants.

    Indeed, the doors of the King''s chamber opened. But there was no Lady Aisha.

    Instead there was a court noble who bowed down to them and expressed the wish of the King.

    "The King wishes to extend the period until the allotted time, my lord," she said.

    "The Lady would stay?" Lord Emilio reiterated in disbelief.

    He cupped his jaw-dropped mouth.

    He gazed at the court maid who was still bowing down at him waiting for his response even with his obvious dislike.

    "Could the King be delighted with our Lady, too?" Rosalia turned to her fellow female servants with her eyes wide open and her lips almost reaching her ears.

    Lord Emilio rubbed his chin as he mulled over it. Ever since he has served the King, he has never stayed for a long time.

    ''What''s with Lady Aisha that differentiate her from the rest? Is she perhaps the Chosen One?''

    Maybe the reason why the King couldn''t produce a child then was because he only stayed with a woman during the royal procreation once. Then he would wait for his seed to flourish within her womb.

    But with Lady Aisha and his obvious fondness for her, it looked like he would try to impregnate her more than once.

    ''Somehow it would be beneficial.''

    He wanted the King''s lineage to stay on the throne. He doesn''t have anyone in mind who could replace him.

    "Alright, we will wait," Lord Emilio finally decided to speak as he went back to his position.

    ''Do I have a choice?'' Lord Emilio muttered to himself.

    He and the King''s male servants together with Lady Aisha''s female servants should wait for their masters to return to their chambers before they can take a rest.

    They were all aware about it so each made their own way to stay awake through the night.

    Some yawned. The others stretched their backs. While the others rubbed their eyes.

    As they were doing that, Lady Aisha started being vocal about her emotions again. This time it was louder and more pleasing to Lord Emilio''s ears, making his wings shoot up in response.

    He immediately cleared his throat as he defended himself.

    "I was surprised. Are all humans like that?" Lord Emilio complained in a rough voice as he controlled his wings so it could return to its normal state again.

    Rosalia seemed to sense his apprehension as she asked him directly.

    "Why, my Lord? Haven''t you heard those screams before?" Rosalia asked him with her twinkling eyes.

    "Of course I have," Lord Emilio immediately fended himself.

    He has been to brothels to act out some royal tasks.

    Though he didn''t spend time with a woman, he has also heard shrills like that before.

    But then he was irritated by it. He felt like the harlots were just faking them to please their lords.

    But Lady Aisha sounded sincere like she was in the higher heavens, enjoying whatever the King was doing to her.

    ''That counts as an experience, right?'' he asked himself, feeling not convinced at all by his answer.

    Glancing at Rosalia, he felt like she was asking a personal question which she should not do to a Lord.

    So he returned the sarcasm to her as he asked, "How about you, Rosalia? Have you done it before?"

    Rosalia''s face turned apple red, making Lord Emilio''s lips curve up. It was what he wanted.

    "I have not, my Lord," Rosalia immediately shook her head.

    But she added, "But I want to give it to the man I will marry someday. I don''t want to deprive him of the pleasure of knowing that he pleases me."

    Lord Emilio was stunned with her audacity.

    It seemed like she was heavily influenced by Lady Aisha''s blunt manner of speaking.

    But he became more curious with Rosalia''s personal background.

    To be honest with himself, he also wanted to hear those noises from his wife. If he will get married.

    "I was not aware that you have a fiance, Rosalia," Lord Emilio commented.

    One of his blonde eyebrows shot up as he crossed his strong arms. But he sounded more friendly than before, even if he wanted to make it more authoritative.

    He gazed at Rosalia''s petite face as they went downturn and pouted her lips. "No, I don''t, my lord. I guess I''ll be Lady Aisha''s chambermaid for life."

    Lord Emilio''s forehead scrunched up as what she was saying could be true. There were maids of Lords and Ladies who didn''t get married just to serve their masters until they got old.

    However, Rosalia was too beautiful to remain a spinster.

    "What do you look for in a man? I might know one who could be a match for you," Lord Emilio inquired.

    Indeed, he knows a lot of men from Lords to knights and servants, being the King''s personal watchman.

    But he was also interested to know what her preference was.

    Rosalia''s eyes twinkled as if it was her first time to be asked about it. She seemed to be excited to share herself that she even clutched her hands to her chest.

    "I want a Lord for a husband," Rosalia said with her plump cheeks lifted up.

    Lord Emilio was taken aback by her bold utterance of her ambitious fantasy.

    Lords can marry servants, but it was a rare case.

    Most often Lords marry someone who was on the same status as them. He himself wanted to do the same thing.

    "I admire your preference and your straightforward answer. But why do you want a Lord specifically?" Lord Emilio implored.

    He bit his lips as he shouldn''t have asked that since he knew Rosalia''s family background.

    He knew that she came from an impoverished family. He expected her to say that but she didn''t.

    "I want to change the image of women servants in the society, my lord. Our social status doesn''t dictate how well we could run our household," Rosalia pressed her lips in determination.

    That was an answer that Lord Emilio was not expecting to hear.

    Indeed, servants were still servants in the eyes of the nobles even if they had married Lords.

    Lord Emilio was about to praise her excellent answer when she added, "And besides, Lords are more physically desirable to marry."

    Rosalia giggled and faced the other servants who agreed with her, too, as they cackled silently with her.

    Lord Emilio''s lips couldn''t help but pressed together to prevent a smile from creeping up. Rosalia was both mature and childish for her age.

    His eyes twinkled as a longing crept in his heart to know more about her.

    *******************

    The secret to a happy marriage is finding the right person. Most often, they are those who you love to be with all the time.

 Chapter 81 - Draft

    Pls dont open unless the title has been changed. I really tried to write a second chap. But I got feverish and I''m feeling very dizzy. :( I will try to update this as soon as I can. I love you all and thank you for all the support that you''ve been showering me. I am so honored.. :* :* :*

    ************************

    "You can cover your ears if you want to," Lord Emilio said to Rosalia in a concerned tone.

    Both of them were outside the King''s Chamber as both of their masters were inside for the royal procreation.

    Lady Aisha''s cries could be heard from where they were.

    To be honest, Lord Emilio was surprised. It was the first time that he heard such emotional expressions during the King''s procreation.

    ''Certainly, all the royal wives and concubines were oriented to not be expressive to the point of overpowering the King during procreation,'' he contemplated.

    He didn''t know why the King was allowing Lady Aisha to be explicit during their copulation.

    ''Was it perhaps because she came from another world? Or was he taking satisfaction in it that much?''

    With that, Lord Emilio''s face reddened.

    It wasn''t every day he could hear a lady expressing her delight in an intercourse. And it somehow made him both uneasy and surprisingly thrilled.

    "It''s alright, my lord. I''m glad that Lady Aisha seemed to be having a wonderful first night with the King," Rosalia responded as she swayed sideways. Her dark eyes gleamed in the light of a nearby lamp.

    "It is a pearl in the sea to be with someone whom you want to be with for the rest of your life," Rosalia added dreamily.

    Lord Emilio nodded his head as he agreed with her.

    In their Kingdom, most marriages were held for political reasons.

    ''It is either to strengthen one''s bloodline and equities. Or to increase one''s power or influence in the land,'' Lord Emilio pondered.

    In this case, the union of the King and Lady Aisha was to extend the lineage of the King in the throne.

    There is a great risk of producing an unqualified offspring. But now he understood the King''s decision to still advance with the plan. It is better to take risks than to have no offspring at all.

    He decided to give Lady Aisha a chance.

    Still, he doesn''t believe that these feelings will last.

    "Emotions will fade through time," Lord Emilio''s jaw clenched as he responded to Rosalia''s idealistic opinion.

    He looked outside the window and saw that the full moon was already shining brightly in the evening sky.

    The night creatures seemed to be rejoicing at that time as well.

    "The emotional exhilaration of these events were only momentary. Tomorrow everything will be back to normal."

    Just then, Lady Aisha''s noises slowly vanished. It seemed like the copulation had finally ended and they could rest for the night.

    His feet made a wide stance as he put his hands behind his back and lifted his chin.

    Lady Aisha will be coming out anytime by now to be escorted back to her chamber with Rosalia and the rest of her female servants.

    Indeed, the doors of the King''s chamber opened. But there was no Lady Aisha.

    Instead there was a court noble who bowed down to them and expressed the wish of the King.

    "The King wishes to extend the period until the allotted time, my lord," she said.

    "The Lady would stay?" Lord Emilio reiterated in disbelief.

    He cupped his jaw-dropped mouth.

    He gazed at the court maid who was still bowing down at him waiting for his response even with his obvious dislike.

    "Could the King be delighted with our Lady, too?" Rosalia turned to her fellow female servants with her eyes wide open and her lips almost reaching her ears.

    Lord Emilio rubbed his chin as he mulled over it. Ever since he has served the King, he has never stayed for a long time.

    ''What''s with Lady Aisha that differentiate her from the rest? Is she perhaps the Chosen One?''

    Maybe the reason why the King couldn''t produce a child then was because he only stayed with a woman during the royal procreation once. Then he would wait for his seed to flourish within her womb.

    But with Lady Aisha and his obvious fondness for her, it looked like he would try to impregnate her more than once.

    ''Somehow it would be beneficial.''

    He wanted the King''s lineage to stay on the throne. He doesn''t have anyone in mind who could replace him.

    "Alright, we will wait," Lord Emilio finally decided to speak as he went back to his position.

    ''Do I have a choice?'' Lord Emilio muttered to himself.

    He and the King''s male servants together with Lady Aisha''s female servants should wait for their masters to return to their chambers before they can take a rest.

    They were all aware about it so each made their own way to stay awake through the night.

    Some yawned. The others stretched their backs. While the others rubbed their eyes.

    As they were doing that, Lady Aisha started being vocal about her emotions again. This time it was louder and more pleasing to Lord Emilio''s ears, making his wings shoot up in response.

    He immediately cleared his throat as he defended himself.

    "I was surprised. Are all humans like that?" Lord Emilio complained in a rough voice as he controlled his wings so it could return to its normal state again.

    Rosalia seemed to sense his apprehension as she asked him directly.

    "Why, my Lord? Haven''t you heard those screams before?" Rosalia asked him with her twinkling eyes.

    "Of course I have," Lord Emilio immediately fended himself.

    He has been to brothels to act out some royal tasks.

    Though he didn''t spend time with a woman, he has also heard shrills like that before.

    But then he was irritated by it. He felt like the harlots were just faking them to please their lords.

    But Lady Aisha sounded sincere like she was in the higher heavens, enjoying whatever the King was doing to her.

    ''That counts as an experience, right?'' he asked himself, feeling not convinced at all by his answer.

    Glancing at Rosalia, he felt like she was asking a personal question which she should not do to a Lord.

    So he returned the sarcasm to her as he asked, "How about you, Rosalia? Have you done it before?"

    Rosalia''s face turned apple red, making Lord Emilio''s lips curve up. It was what he wanted.

    "I have not, my Lord," Rosalia immediately shook her head.

    But she added, "But I want to give it to the man I will marry someday. I don''t want to deprive him of the pleasure of knowing that he pleases me."

    Lord Emilio was stunned with her audacity.

    It seemed like she was heavily influenced by Lady Aisha''s blunt manner of speaking.

    But he became more curious with Rosalia''s personal background.

    To be honest with himself, he also wanted to hear those noises from his wife. If he will get married.

    "I was not aware that you have a fiance, Rosalia," Lord Emilio commented.

    One of his blonde eyebrows shot up as he crossed his strong arms. But he sounded more friendly than before, even if he wanted to make it more authoritative.

    He gazed at Rosalia''s petite face as they went downturn and pouted her lips. "No, I don''t, my lord. I guess I''ll be Lady Aisha''s chambermaid for life."

    Lord Emilio''s forehead scrunched up as what she was saying could be true. There were maids of Lords and Ladies who didn''t get married just to serve their masters until they got old.

    However, Rosalia was too beautiful to remain a spinster.

    "What do you look for in a man? I might know one who could be a match for you," Lord Emilio inquired.

    Indeed, he knows a lot of men from Lords to knights and servants, being the King''s personal watchman.

    But he was also interested to know what her preference was.

    Rosalia''s eyes twinkled as if it was her first time to be asked about it. She seemed to be excited to share herself that she even clutched her hands to her chest.

    "I want a Lord for a husband," Rosalia said with her plump cheeks lifted up.

    Lord Emilio was taken aback by her bold utterance of her ambitious fantasy.

    Lords can marry servants, but it was a rare case.

    Most often Lords marry someone who was on the same status as them. He himself wanted to do the same thing.

    "I admire your preference and your straightforward answer. But why do you want a Lord specifically?" Lord Emilio implored.

    He bit his lips as he shouldn''t have asked that since he knew Rosalia''s family background.

    He knew that she came from an impoverished family. He expected her to say that but she didn''t.

    "I want to change the image of women servants in the society, my lord.

 Chapter 82 - Conflicting Differences

    Lycano''s forehead scrunched up as soon as he heard his father''s notion. He brushed his medium length wavy hair back as he tilted his head to face him again.

    "How did you know about my affections for the female human? And why are you making me pursue her? She is already the royal wife of the King," he asked with a hint of disappointment in his tone.

    Lyana''s upturned face went downwards as she listened to the conversation of the father and son.

    However, Lord Lyon''s face lifted up in a smile. "Since when have you become dull-witted? The lady was a weakness to the King."

    Lycano''s face lighted as if a heavy cloud was lifted off his vision.

    Why has he forgotten about his desire to be the King? Was he waived by his emotions for the female human?

    Lycano completely forgot that he wanted the throne for himself.

    He just went lie low for years as the attempt of the rising of the Lycus Clan ceased to function a decade ago.

    King Leandro was an unmatchable opponent. He must calculate well so that their plan will succeed.

    Lord Lyon leaned forward and clasped his hands together.

    "This is what I want you to do. Stick to the lady and don''t act rashly. Gain her trust. Then use her to bait the King."

    He nodded his head as he agreed with his father. Indeed, Lady Aisha is a liability to the King.

    But can he really do what he was suggesting? He has already tried to snatch her away from the King but he couldn''t do it.

    She was hurting and he couldn''t bear to see it.

    And now, even though he was wounded by Lady Aisha''s decision, he still doesn''t want her to be harmed.

    He inhaled a lungful of air as he put his head on his palms thinking about what to do.

    ***************************

    "Good morning, my lady," Leandro greeted his new wife.

    He gazed at her with his eyes full of adoration and warmth.

    Lady Aisha immediately stood up and glanced around.

    "I''m pretty sure this is my room," her eyes narrowed in confusion.

    Leandro chuckled, a thing that he didn''t do so often, and explained to her.

    "I know. I want to see you first thing in the morning, that''s why I went here."

    Leandro thought that if he extended his time last night, he would be exhausted and would not be extremely desirous of her anymore.

    But the moment that he opened his eyes, he started craving for her. Even greater than his usual breakfast every morning.

    She was like an addictive wine that he had drunk for the first time.

    He didn''t hesitate to go to her Chamber just to see her.

    "Oh my gosh, me too," she beamed as she put her slender arms around him and kissed him on both his cheeks.

    "Good morning, your Majesty," she added while gazing at him with her glittering autumn eyes.

    Leandro''s eyes went wide open. He thought he was being too expressive with his emotions already. He didn''t usually act that way before.

    But she was more explicit. And he likes it.

    "Can we really not stay in one room? I mean, duh, we''re already married," Lady Aisha said in a matter of fact tone.

    Leandro scratched his head as he tilted so he could sit properly.

    "Was that your tradition in your land?" He asked curiously.

    "Yes!" Lady Aisha immediately answered. She even jumped from her bed as she put both her hands on her thighs.

    "Husbands and wives spent the whole time together during their honeymoon. Some even went on vacation out of the country and just bond and have fun. Can we do that, please?"

    She put both her palms together as if she was begging for it.

    Leandro''s lips curved up in a sad smile. ''It''s a nice place to live,'' he thought. But he didn''t dare voice it out since there were servants around them.

    A royal like him must still attend to his daily duties, no matter what the event there is. And the wives must stay in their chambers until the scheduled time of the next King''s visit.

    It has been the norm and it must stay that way. Or they will accuse her of changing the rituals of Gaea which would not be beneficial for her.

    Then she added, "I really haven''t toured Gaea, you know. There are a lot of places I want to see. We could ride a Dracus -"

    She babbled on. But Leandro wasn''t listening. He tried his best not to. Or he would be swayed. Deep inside of him, he longed to do what she was saying.

    "Let us have breakfast first before we continue our conversation," he gave her a warm smile.

    "Okay," Lady Aisha said immediately as she stood up and put on her slippers.

    But then she must have realized that she was wearing a see through nightgown and she had no underwear underneath.

    In a flash of lightning, she covered herself with her extremities.

    A brisk chuckle escaped from Leandro''s lips again as he said, "I have seen everything already, my lady."

    "Still," Lady Aisha almost scowled at him. But she immediately realized that he was still the King.

    "Please look away, your Majesty," she bowed down her head to him as her hand immediately bolted to her dresser while calling on her female servants.

    Leandro couldn''t help but smile as he felt like he was very fortunate to not just meet her but to be married to her.

    There may be roadblocks ahead. But for the first time in his life, he was happy.

    It didn''t take Lady Aisha a long time before she was finally dressed.

    The Chamber door opened and she came out with a simple gown made for every day wear in the Castle.

    But she looked like she was attending a ball. She was naturally attractive to behold.

    "Let''s go, your Majesty?" both her eyebrows shot up, as if she was waiting for him to take the lead but he wasn''t able to because of his paralyzed state.

    He quickly nodded his head as he came back to reality.

    ''How could a woman be that beautiful in the morning?'' He scratched his head as he walked ahead.

    He didn''t even put any adornment and maquillage on like the other women do.

    He has seen other ladies in the early mornings and their faces were different from when they have their masks on.That is why they always take time before they meet him in the morning.

    ''Or was I that smitten with her?''

    He was thinking about it when suddenly, she crept in beside him and grabbed on his arm.

    His eyes bulged out, making him tilt his head to her immediately.

    He wanted to get angry at her for no one could dare touch the King without his permission especially in public places.

    He sensed the royal guards who were with them pulling out their swords.

    But his hand immediately shoot up as a sign that they must refrain from doing anything.

    He also became alarmed and thought that she was going to harm him with a small knife or any small weapon.

    But when he gazed at her lovely glowing face, his apprehension melted away.

    "Can we walk in the hallways like this? I mean it''s just us and the servants," she was beaming at him with her pearly set of white teeth.

    His lips curled up as he gently pulled her arms away.

    "We can do more than that in my next visit, my lady," he pressed on her hand and gazed at her intently, making her cheeks go naturally red.

    Rosalia, her personal servant intercepted in as she said, "Let''s go back to our line, my lady. Your breakfast is waiting."

    Lady Aisha immediately nodded her head and went back to the traditional line required for royal wives.

    ******************************

    We are all equal in the fact that we are all different. We are all the same in the fact that we will never be the same. We are united by the reality that all colours and all cultures are distinct & individual. We are harmonious in the reality that we are all held to this earth by the same gravity. We don''t share blood, but we share the air that keeps us alive.. - C. Joybell C

 Chapter 83 - A Sweet Morning

    "Aisha, learn to control yourself. You cannot move around like you used to do," Aisha scolded herself.

    She tried to lift her chin and squared her shoulders so that she could walk as naturally Gaean as possible.

    King Leandro has just fetched her in her Chamber so they could have breakfast together on her first morning as a royal wife.

    ''It would have been better if we could be free to act as a couple. And I thought it would happen after we got married,'' Aisha rolled her eyes as she felt dismay at their set-up.

    She peeked at the King as he strode a few feet away from her.

    His guards and servants and her female servants were all lined up behind their backs.

    She couldn''t help but press her lips as she gazed at his broad shoulders, his silver strands held up by his head adornment and his gallant attire from head to foot.

    He was formal in every way. One would not imagine that a sex god was underneath it.

    The sounds of their feet marching could be heard throughout the hallways that the servants stopped what they were doing to bow down to them.

    To Aisha''s surprise, they gave her a different kind of bow this time.

    ''Maybe it''s for the royal wives,'' Aisha thought as they continued to walk.

    Soon her nose has already wafted the smell of food. It means they were already nearing the dining hall.

    It smelled familiar to her, like it came from her former world. Like it was what she usually ordered at her favorite bake shop before she came to school.

    ''But that couldn''t be. Ever since I stepped foot in here, I haven''t tasted anything like that. I remembered asking for it then. But they said they don''t know how to do that,'' she contemplated before they went inside.

    To her surprise, it was actually what she was visualizing.

    On the royal table were freshly baked custard cakes with hot maple syrup, sweet cream butter, and rich buttermilk, all sitting on a wonderful base note of a nice lingering vanilla.

    "I knew you would like it, my lady. I specifically asked for this as our breakfast for this morning," King Leandro explained to her before he sat down at his usual chair.

    There was even background music while they were eating.

    Aisha was speechless. ''How could he have known about her cravings? And how could a sweet soul reside in that royal body?''

    She heaved out a longing sigh as she watched her husband sitting a few feet away from her.

    She wanted to cuddle him in her arms and give him a dozen pecks. But she knew she couldn''t.

    He made it clear a while ago.

    "Thank you, your Majesty. I appreciate it,"

    She bowed down and sat on her chair to taste it.

    Indeed, it''s flavor was almost identical with the one in her hometown!

    She continued to nibble on it with delight. She peeked at the King''s plate and saw that he was also eating the same thing.

    "Do you like it, your Majesty?" she asked, her eyes beaming with curiosity.

    "I do, I do. It''s just more plain and simple, unlike the cakes in Gaea. But it''s delightful," he answered her.

    "Oh, that I would agree. But you know that the bakeshop where I ordered it from was very famous. I even ordered it in advance. Because if I don''t, their baking trays would be as clean as a whistle," she replied back.

    "That''s because they haven''t been to Gaea," King Leandro reacted with one of his eyebrows shot up. He appeared to be very proud of his homeland.

    "I know, right. If they know this place, I''m sure they would flock here, too," Aisha chuckled merrily.

    But it seemed like the servants were not happy with their conversation as their faces grimaced with her joke.

    They were in that fun conversation state when a servant came rushing in.

    "Greetings, my lord," he bowed down to him.

    He seemed apprehensive as he stuttered and his body was slightly shaking.

    King Leandro asked him to come near him so he could state the purpose of his interference, which he immediately obliged.

    "What?" King Leandro immediately blurted out as soon as he heard the news.

    Aisha stopped from chewing her food and started at the King.

    His aquiline nose was steaming as he heard and his strong brawny hands were on his hips.

    She has not seen him that angry before. ''What could be the cause of this?''

    She tried to sip on her cup of tea in a nonchalant way as if she didn''t care about what was going on. But in fact, she was dying to know about it.

    "Forgive, my lady. But I need to do some tasks. Is it okay if I leave earlier?"

    Anxiety was written all over his face. His previously plum lips turned to a bland purplish hue as if he had just drunk a cup of vinegar.

    The messenger continued to wait for the King''s response while the kitchen servants stepped backward in response to the King''s reaction.

    "But you haven''t finished your food yet, your Majesty," Aisha responded as she saw that his plate was only half empty.

    Aisha knew the importance of not skipping meals because she had gastritis before.

    If it was an urgent case, he might not be able to eat anything until later.

    But the King had already made a decision.

    "I will be back as soon as I can. Please enjoy your meal, my lady," Leandro said before dashing off with the messenger.

    Now it was just Aisha and her cakes and the servants that morning.

    Aisha''s lips pouted as she gobbled down the last morsels of her food.

    "I hope this wasn''t the case all the time," she calmed herself.

    Fortunately, Rosalia was always on her side.

    After she was finished with her breakfast and came back to her Chamber, she quickly asked about last night.

    "Oh my gosh, it was so freaking awesome. I think I somehow enjoyed all of what life has to offer. But that''s a new level," she babbled on as she bit her lips, recalling the incident.

    "We know. We could hear you from the door, my lady," Rosalia giggled as she covered her mouth.

    "Oh, sh*t. Really? I thought I was just embarrassing myself with the court maids. Oh no, I don''t know how to face anyone anymore," Aisha covered her blushing cheeks.

    "It''s all right, my lady. At least we single ladies know that it is possible to be happy while in the act of doing it. We thought it was very unbearable. Our mothers said that we must just bite our lips and cry silently so the men would not get angry," Rosalia shared with her.

    Aisha couldn''t help but draw in a deep breath at the revelation of women''s first experience in Gaea.

    Of course, she could remember how painful it was at first. But it was replaced with heavenly joy afterwards. It''s a very unique experience.

    She just didn''t know if it was because of the King''s skills or because she also desired to please him as well.

    Or is it because he decided to open up his heart to her already.

    Aisha''s lips couldn''t help but smile. ''I hope it''s the reason.''

    "You are indeed lucky, my lady. Even if the King left early today, I know you are special to him. He even requested for your favorite food," Rosalia reminded her with a cheerful smile.

    Aisha nodded her head in agreement. "You''re right. I would just let this pass," Aisha resolved to herself even though deep inside, she was worried that what happened to her family would then repeat itself with them.

    "How about you, Rosalia? When are you planning to get married?" She just deviated the topic away from herself so she would not think a lot about it.

    With her question, Rosalia seemed to get awkward as she glanced sideways and scratched her head.

    "I don''t think that could happen, my lady. I don''t have many suitors. There were some, but they were old men who looked like my grandfather already," she chuckled uncomfortably.

    "Oh, no! Don''t do that. I''ll help you get one, too," she rubbed her chin as she knew someone who seemed to be interested in her but she was not sure just yet.

    ***********************"

    You can''t touch love, but you can feel the sweetness that it pours into everything.

    Anne Sullivan Macy

 Chapter 84 - Helping Others

    "Greetings, my lady," Lord Emilio bowed down to Aisha in the same way that the other Castle people are now giving courtesy to her.

    His wings also seemed to honor her as they were curved in a cute way.

    However, his face was stiff and void of emotions. And she understood why.

    He has been against her ever since she stepped foot in Gaea. But she was not here for herself.

    "Greetings, my lord. I hope I am not disturbing you," Aisha bowed down to him.

    It was the next day and they were in one of the foyers, overlooking the expanse of the Castle.

    From where they are, they can see the different areas in the Castle ground, places where Aisha has not visited yet.

    "It''s all right, my lady. The King has given me permission to go to your needs since he was just at the Royal Chancery. Do you need anything, my lady?" Lord Emilio asked with a worrisome tone.

    She recalled his last statement when they were having a conversation the night before the wedding.

    Maybe she would use just that as an excuse.

    She turned towards him and put both her hands together in a graceful manner.

    "You told me that I should ask for your help when I''m in trouble. Well I''m not really in trouble just yet. But I want to prepare for it. Could you tell me more about the Gaean lands. Maybe it would be helpful for me someday," she said with a pleasant smile on her vibrant face.

    Lord Emilio was taken aback at her question. He must not probably be expecting that.

    She has already done classes with Master Aurelius. He must probably be expecting that she knew all the things that she needed to know. But she needed an alibi.

    It was obvious that he was hesitating as he scratched his head and paused for a minute.

    ''He probably must have other things to do since he was the personal bodyguard of the King,'' Aisha thought.

    But Rosalia, who was on her side, butted in.

    "It would be really helpful for my lady, my Lord. She has many things to face ahead now that she is a royal wife," Rosalia pleaded to Lord Emilio.

    Aisha was surprised to hear Rosalia. She was not aware of her plan.

    ''Could she want the same thing that I have in mind?'' Aisha''s fingers flew to her mischievous smile in response.

    To her delight, Lord Emilio seemed to listen to her request as he said, "Most certainly, my lady. It will also help the King if you don''t get in trouble."

    "That''s splendid, I am really just curious. What is that part over there? The one with the thick trees. It was as if it was barren for a long time," Aisha said as she pointed to an area a few miles from the Castle but still visible to them.

    Aisha wasn''t really serious about it.

    She just pointed at it so that she could move away from being in between Lord Emilio and Rosalia so they could be together that time.

    She went on a little bit to the right side of the foyer and pointed at the area.

    As she did so, her peripheral vision was glancing at the two, hoping that they could somehow spend a little time together even with their busy schedule.

    To her joy, neither of them moved to her side and remained where they were.

    Still, Lord Emilio was dutiful enough to orient her about her question.

    "That was an off-limits place that was set there by the Great Theos. Anyone was banned from going there, even the King. That''s the least place you want to go to if you want to stay out of trouble," Lord Emilio explained to her.

    With that, Aisha''s curiosity was piqued. ''How could a place like that exist in Gaea at all? It shouldn''t have been placed there if it''s not meant to be enjoyed.''

    She was about to ask that when she noticed that Lord Emilio was talking to Rosalia in a low volume. A pleased smile cracked up Aisha''s lips.

    She just kept the thought to herself and let the two talk.

    ''I didn''t have to exert effort, after all. Those two were both natural. I hope they really end up with each other. They both have good hearts,'' Aisha muttered to herself.

    Aisha already noticed about Lord Emilio''s special attention to Rosalia.

    Even though his head was always bowed, he was sensitive to Rosalia''s every move. Even just a slight itch or a change in position made him glance quickly at her.

    He also asked her questions out of the blue even if it''s unnecessary.

    He might be interested in Rosalia, but he hasn''t confessed to her yet.

    ''If he has, Rosalia will surely tell me,'' Aisha pondered.

    Then she heaved out a sigh. ''I wish King Leandro was.also here. I miss him already.''

    Like an angel''s tongue, a servant came to them and said, "The King was looking for you, my lady."

    Aisha''s eyebrows both shoot up. She has already set her heart to wait for two weeks.

    Her tutor and Master Aurelius both told her that the King has a rotation schedule for all his royal wives to prevent envy and strife.

    Fortunately, the other royal wives whom she has befriended yesterday told her that even though the King visits them, he doesn''t lay down with them. He was just obeying the traditions of the land.

    ''But I have to confirm it too with him,'' her lips pouted as she crossed her arms.

    To give him the benefit of the doubt, she was lucky to be in the two-week schedule. The others weren''t even visited at all.

    Aisha immediately complied and went to the Royal Chancery where the King was. And just as she expected, Lord Emilio and Rosalia were following behind her.

    ''If only we could spend more time together, it would be beneficial for them too,'' Aisha complained, but silently.

    As soon as she reached the Royal Chancery, Aisha immediately bowed down to him.

    He was seated at his table with a pile of scrolls in front of him.

    His face seemed draught and weary. But when he gazed up and saw her, it was quickly replaced with a radiant one.

    But it was only momentary.

    "Leave us," he ordered the other servants in which they all complied, including Lord Emilio and Rosalia.

    Aisha''s forehead scrunched as she tried to guess what the King needed.

    He was back to his formal neutral face. His tone again was cold and aloof. And he was not that warm and comfortable to be with.

    ''Was it perhaps related to the incident during yesterday''s breakfast?'' She thought.

    She couldn''t think of any reason since she was not making a mistake so far.

    "Is there an illness that came from eating Riso in your land? I tried to research it. But I can''t find anything," he finally opened up.

    "Not that I know of too, my lord," Aisha answered him immediately.

    As far as she knew, it could even heal malnutrition in poverty-stricken countries.

    King Leandro exhaled a lungful of air as he clasped his hands together as if he was in deep thoughts.

    "Is there a problem with Riso, your Majesty?" Aisha said as she drew near him.

    She could sense his anxious state just by merely looking at him.

    "I don''t want you to be bothered by it, my lady. But I guess you could know. Our guests during the wedding ceremony didn''t tolerate it well. They are now complaining of stomach illnesses and were complaining again of the lack of Spelta produce."

    He breathed in exasperation, probably because he expected that it would be the solution to Gaea''s number one most pressing issue.

    Aisha was appalled by the news. "How could that happen? I ate the Riso and I''m as fine as daisy. You ate them, too. And so does Martina, Diana and Estella."

    Aisha''s eyebrows knitted together as she thought about it.

    "It could be perhaps because they have eaten so much and they were not used to it just yet. I can only eat it as much as I want to because I have been eating it before I could even call out Mama or Dada. And your Majesty, Martina, Estella and Diana only have a cup then," Aisha expressed her thoughts out loud.

    "Or," she paused as she glanced at King Leandro, wondering if she would continue on what she wanted to say.

    "Or?" King Leandro repeated to her.

    Aisha waved her hands in the air. "Forget it. I''m sure no one would try to sabotage the Riso and cause a conflict between you and them."

    At her statement, Leandro''s palms struck his table.

    "Or not," Aisha muttered to herself as she pointed her forefingers together.

    She didn''t want to aggravate the King''s already troubled state. But it was really the only reason that she could think of.

    *************************

    To get the full value of joy, one must have someone to divide it with.

 Chapter 85 - Relieving Tension*

    Warning: Steamy scene ahead. My prize for you all for waiting for me patiently. :*

    "That man would certainly be punished by death," Leandro''s teeth gritted as he clenched his fist.

    He and Lady Aisha were still in the Royal Chancery, discussing the solution to an outbreak in the noble society because of the consumption of Riso.

    Lady Aisha was standing in front of him, still shocked at his revelation of the incident. But she was quick-witted enough to think about the matter and offer ideas.

    And her last statement made him fume up. Indeed, someone could have put something in that food to destroy his integrity and also Lady Aisha''s.

    He could sense his heart thumping like drums in his chest as beads of sweat formed in his forehead.

    To be honest, Leandro has already thought about that. But he refused to acknowledge it in denial.

    Who would dare poison the royal guests during the King''s wedding ceremony? If it wasn''t a rebellious act!

    But he hoped it wasn''t the case, that is why he tried to study about it first, and now, ask Lady Aisha about it.

    "We still aren''t sure yet, your Majesty," Lady Aisha grinned at him with her pearly set of white teeth.

    She was probably wishing it could alleviate his tension, somehow. And it did.

    "Maybe you could try doing an inspection of the food preparation during the wedding just to be sure," she pointed her forefinger to her plump cheeks as she gazed at the ceiling.

    "I will also ask the three ladies how they feel about it after they have eaten them, too," she beamed at him as she stood straight like a royal guard with her sparkling eyes.

    Leandro could see her determination to help him, melting all his difficulties away.

    He stood up from where he was and added his own input while approaching her.

    "Then, we could also try testing it on some of our servants. Let''s introduce the rice slowly until their stomachs can eat three to five bowls in one serving," he said as he walked towards her.

    Then he put some of the tresses that fall down from her soft raven hair and put it behind her tiny ears.

    "Thank you for your help, my lady. And I apologize for my indifferent attitude just now," he said sincerely as he gazed into both her eyes, telling her that he was sincere in what he was saying.

    "That''s a great idea, too. No worries, your Majesty. I know you have a lot of things to juggle. But do not be harsh on yourself. Everything will unfold in a good way eventually," her cheeks heightened up as she rubbed his arms like she was comforting a companion.

    Leandro couldn''t help but feel calm by Lady Aisha''s comforting words and her soft hands on his lean arms.

    Even though they were covered by his royal robe, he could feel her warmth and tenderness towards him.

    With her nearness, he could also sense that familiar scent which she has been missing for days, making her lean towards her so she could smell more of it.

    Flashes of his most memorable night came back to him as he felt Lady Aisha in his arms and sniffed her lovely natural female scent.

    If only he could be with her every night, not just to bed with her but to feel her beside him.

    He snuggled her closer to him, as he uttered, "I missed you, my lady."

    He felt her returning the favor as she hugged him back and pressed her head in his chest, "I miss you, too, your Majesty."

    He pulled her away from him only to stop down and kissed her soft plump lips.

    Lady Aisha was surprised. But she closed her eyes as she felt his lips on hers.

    He pulled her harder to him as he tasted her sweetness again.

    Lady Aisha responded with the same fervor as she initiated to put her small silky tongue inside his.

    His temperature slowly heated up, making him bring her to the table without removing his lips from hers.

    He gently laid her back on top of his books and stood up while catching his breath.

    He couldn''t believe himself for doing such. With all his 1006 consorts, no woman has ever lied on his table.

    Just then, Lord Emilio started calling from outside the Chamber.

    "Your Majesty. A messenger just arrived with letters in his hand," he said from the door.

    Leandro was torn. He has indeed sent letters to the noble families requesting a physical check up for those who attended the wedding and sending him back the result.

    They were probably some of them. It would let him know if the cause was indeed Riso-related or not.

    But Lady Aisha was here, in front of him, her lovely face looking at him with that longing look.

    "It''s okay, your Majesty. We can do this within two weeks," she grinned at him and was about to stand up.

    But Leandro couldn''t wait for two weeks.

    He gently pushed her down again and lifted the skirt of her gown.

    "I will be out in a few minutes," he shouted in his deep authoritative voice so Lord Emilio could hear him.

    He quickly removed her lower undergarments and was about to wet her mounds so that it would not be painful for her.

    But to his surprise, they were already slippery. She must have truly missed him, too.

    He stood up and was about to open his garments when Lady Aisha spoke up. "But my lord, they are waiting for you."

    "They can wait. I cannot," Leandro said in a hoarse voice as he rapidly removed his lower garments and pointed his erected manhood at Lady Aisha''s entrance.

    Lady Aisha didn''t refuse. She even opened her thighs, accepting her longed-for visitor in her body.

    Leandro couldn''t help but seep in a lungful of air as he gazed at his breathtaking attractive new wife, lying on top of his study table and ready to receive his gigantic sexuality.

    Her position turned him on, making him put his hard rod inside her at once.

    Lady Aisha gasped in surprise. But she covered her mouth immediately so the people outside of his Chamber would not hear her.

    He continued to penetrate her orifice in and out, transforming the troubled state of his physique to a euphoric one.

    **************************

    If you want to conquer the anxiety of life, live in the moment, live in the breath.

 Chapter 86 - Stop Regretting

    Meanwhile, on the Western Seas:

    "What are you doing here?" Lady Marina asked Lycano in surprise.

    She immediately turned her face away. But it was only to don a piece of robe over her.

    She was sitting on the sands staring at nothingness when he came to see her. The waves were lapping on her feet and skirt, but she didn''t mind.

    Her long emerald green curly hair cascaded over her back to the sands where she was sitting.

    She doesn''t need to use her magic to lure anyone. Beholding her is enough for anyone to be entranced and be lured into her lair.

    Lycano drew in a deep breath as he recalled his purpose for why he was there.

    It may seem absurd if it was not true. But he still must confirm it for himself.

    He bowed down to her before he sat down beside her.

    "You left early the other night, my lady," he blurted out as he stared at the horizon.

    ''This part of Gaea has a magnificent view,'' he thought.

    This is the part where most of the mermaids gather. They were known to seclude themselves and only arose if needed.

    He could even see some playing in the waters at a distance.

    "Do you remember?" she stuttered as she turned her face towards him.

    Her bountiful chest heaved up and down as if she was perturbed at that moment.

    Seeing her acted that way made his pulse palpitate as well.

    The ocean breeze passed through them, letting his sensitive nose smell the familiar smell of his sheets.

    Instantly, he sensed a warm feeling in his abdomen as flashes of his dream came running to his mind.

    ''Is it really her? I can''t believe it.''

    She was biting her lips as if she felt nervous. And he seldom saw her in that state.

    "I thought it was just a dream. Have we really -"

    He couldn''t even utter it aloud. His tongue felt like it was twisted, and he cannot continue on with what he was saying.

    He has not heard of her flirting around with men, whether it was her same kind or not.

    He would understand it if she was like that. But she isn''t.

    Her body glowed and turned transparent, showing that she was having thick emotions at that moment.

    "It was nothing. We were both drunk," She waved her hand in the air nonchalantly.

    He didn''t know if she was just trying to make the situation casual. Or it really meant nothing to her.

    He gazed at her as her body continued to glow. The waves were quite loud as they lapped the seashore.

    But his heartbeats were louder to his ears than them.

    Even with the cold air coming from the seas, he was sweating profusely.

    He recalled romping hard on her, satisfying himself to ease his pain.

    What did she think about it? He should have been careful if he knew it was not a dream.

    He didn''t know what he would feel at that moment.

    Lycano was both apologetic, but delighted and disappointed all the same time.

    He didn''t mean to use her. But he was thrilled that he was able to make love with one of his fantasies before.

    He didn''t know if he would be disappointed that it wasn''t Lady Aisha. Or if because he was not cautious that it was all real.

    "Forgive me for my recklessness, my lady. I deeply regret what I have done," he said sincerely.

    He didn''t want to have a bad relationship with her because of it.

    It wasn''t the first time that they partnered together in achieving a goal. And he needs her now more than ever.

    Lady Marina was playing on the seashells beside her when he said that.

    But she paused when he said those words.

    "You deeply regret it?" She reiterated before standing up and dusting her skirt.

    "Don''t worry, you''re not a good replacement for the King either," she blurted out before she immediately pivoted around and dashed to the sea.

    He could hear the swoosh of air that came out from her nose as she balled up her fists while marching back to her real home.

    ''Why was she getting angry all of a sudden? And I am not a good replacement for the King?'' He growled at just the thought.

    He quickly ran after her and grabbed her arm.

    "Why are you getting mad at me? And what do you mean by that? Am I lesser than the King?"

    He could feel his anger surging within him. His bronze eyes were glaring, and his fangs were attempting to come out.

    He doesn''t like being compared with the King, much less in a lesser way.

    Fortunately, Lady Marina was as equally strong as him that she wasn''t intimidated at all.

    She fought with the eye stare as her jade eyes fired up while shooting a death stare at him. "Why, did I just stroke your pride? You did it first," she seethed as she gritted her teeth.

    Lycano''s eyebrows knitted together as he thought out loud. "When did I hit your pride?"

    Then his eyes went wide open as it dawned on him. "You didn''t like it that I regret it, do you? Do you want me to say that I enjoyed having sex with you?"

    A corner of his lips lifted into a wicked smile as his face brightened up.

    "Why don''t we try it, sober, this time, my lady?" He pulled her closer to him as he sniffed her neck.

    Yes, that was indeed the scent that was on his bed.

    He can''t believe that he just had sex with the most aloof lady of the Gaean seas!

    Lady Marina''s face turned beetle red as she tilted her head and pulled away from her grasp.

    "No, it''s not that," she stuttered. "I told you''re no match for the King."

    She then ran towards the seas and quickly transformed into her mermaid form before diving in the waters.

    Lycano was left alone. But he was not angry nor dismayed. He was challenged.

    Hea would prove to her that he is a match to the King. And even better.

    *******************************

    "It''s nice to look back on your life and see things as lessons, and not regrets."

    - Rihanna.

 Chapter 87 - Uncontrollable Desire*

    Warning: a little steamy scene ahead :D

    ***************

    "The nerve of that man," Marina''s jaw clenched as she swam back to her abode under the sea.

    She felt herself emitting a dangerous energy around her that could kill any fishes nearby.

    But she was having a hard time controlling herself.

    She was a little far from the land and some of the mermaids and mermen who were above were already returning to their homes.

    They were heading back at a leisure pace while Marina was gliding like she was in a swimming competition.

    ''So I''m the only one who enjoyed it? I''m the one who has no regrets even if I''m the woman?''

    Her face scowled as she continued on her way.

    But another mermaid approached her and gave her the news.

    "I receive a note from inside the Castle, my lady. They said the guests during the wedding ceremony were ill. And it''s because of the Riso."

    Marina halted from speeding and froze for a few minutes. It seemed like it took a longer time for it to sink in as she was just fuming mad a while ago.

    ''I didn''t experience anything. Or was that because I only took a morsel? I was too busy chatting with the King.'' She contemplated. ''What could be the cause of it?''

    As she was thinking about it, she realized that it could be to her advantage. It was the female human who encouraged the King to use it as food.

    A wicked smile lifted her lips as she changed her course and went back to the land.

    To her surprise, Lord Lycano was still there.

    "Did you miss me already?" His lips curled up in a seductive way as he swept his medium length ebony hair away from his face.

    Marina''s heart thumping erratically at the sight. ''Why does he have to look like that?''

    She drew in a deep breath so she could remain focused on her goal.

    "Of course not. Please, just because something happened between us one night, I would already have feelings for you. And besides, you still have feelings for that female human, right?" Marina tried to knock some senses into him. And also to herself.

    ''You''re even calling her name while you''re having sex with me.'' She wanted to add but she kept it to herself.

    That thought made her ashamed of herself. She shouldn''t have allowed him to continue pleasing himself using her body. But she gave him freedom to do it.

    If she would be honest with herself, she enjoyed it and really wanted some more. But she would never admit it.

    "You''re right. You are also smitten with the King. What do I expect? You might even be imagining me as the King then," he gritted his teeth.

    Marina almost choked with her own tongue. Her feet unconsciously stepped back.

    He was right. She didn''t know if she had a great time because she was thinking that the King was f*cking her. Or is it because of Lord Lycano''s lascivious actions and not because of her fantasy.

    ''Is he also as confused as me?'' She narrowed her eyes at him.

    His shoulders were hunched down and he was glancing sideways.

    "All right. To be fair, let''s say it was satisfactory," she said nonchalantly, making Lord Lycano tilt his face towards her again.

    The setting sun cascaded its last beams on his physique creating a beautiful silhouette in the sands.

    "Is that true? Just satisfactory?" he drawled as his lips curved up while stepping forward to approach her.

    But Marina plodded backwards, making her skirt swish underneath her.

    She put her emerald tresses behind her ears as they were being carried by the wind, and tilted her chin.

    She was level headed enough to know that both of their hearts were with someone else.

    She gazed at him and tried to recollect her thoughts.

    ''This man is just a Lord. A womanizer. And a vicious man. I have no future with him.''

    She said those words in her mind hoping it would brush away the fog that was trying to keep her head in the clouds.

    But he still made his way to her until he was only a breath away.

    "Don''t get ahead of yourself, my lord. We both know that we still haven''t moved on," she stuttered as she couldn''t help but recall what happened that night.

    "Yes, you''re right, my lady. I don''t want to be a hypocrite. I still have feelings for Lady Aisha. And I know you do so for the King, too. But why do I want to kiss you right now?"

    He gazed at her lips like it was a waterfall and his mouth was a desert.

    She gulped a lump in her throat as it suddenly felt parched.

    She also gazed at his soft warm lips, the ones that were kissing her body that night.

    She could hear the fast beating of his heart from where she was.

    Even though they were a few feet away from each other, she could feel his warm temperature and smell his manly scent.

    Her teeth unconsciously bit her lips as she recalled the scenes of that night.

    It was dark in that room and only the radiance of the full moon was giving them the light that they needed so they could do what they wanted with their bodies and satisfy themselves that night.

    She could still feel his warm taut chest on her bountiful bosoms, his rough hands all over her and his erected shaft inside her body.

    She shook her head vigorously. If not, she might give in to her wanton desires.

    "Do you want to know the real reason why I went up the waters again?" Marina tilted her chin so she could face him properly.

    But it seemed like it was a wrong move as their lips almost brushed each other.

    Unlike that time when they both reek of wine, now she could smell his breath.

    And it wasn''t horrible to her taste. In fact it was making her bodily desire increase all the more.

    "I don''t. What I want to know is if I could have you again sober, my lady," he uttered as he didn''t move away even an inch.

    She couldn''t respond at that moment. Her mind was screaming no. But her lips seemed to have a mind of their own, as she gazed hungrily at his lips as well.

    Immediately, Lord Lycano''s lips pressed on hers.

    She froze for a few minutes as she didn''t know how to react.

    He was already wetting her lips with his mouth.

    Marina''s knees went weak and it was only his hand on the back of her neck that was supporting her.

    Will she push him away or not?

    His actions were making her weaker and weaker, she would put her arms around his head anytime.

    He started licking her neck down to her cleavage as he uttered in a hoarse voice, "So this is what you taste like, sober."

    "Ahh," a moan escaped from Marina''s lips as he put the upper flesh of her breast inside his mouth.

    She couldn''t control herself anymore. She has been wanting this since that night.

    She put her hand on his hair and almost pulled it as she was pleased by what he was doing.

    Her flesh between her thighs was already getting wet, and she wanted more of him.

    Just then, a seagull squawked from a distance reminding her that they were both at a public place, distracting her and making her immediately turn away.

    She tried to concentrate on doing what she needed to do.

    If not, she would just give in completely. Just like that night. And she was sane right now.

    As soon as she regained her confidence and fixed herself, she turned back again to Lord Lycano.

    To her surprise, his back was also on her.

    He was inhaling and exhaling a lungful of air.

    "Forgive me, my lady. I couldn''t control my desires," he said even with his back turned on her.

    Marina didn''t know if she would be happy or disappointed.

    She was glad that he was putting a wall between them. But she was disappointed too as she really wanted to get physical with him.

    She just decided to focus on her mission instead.

    "Do you still want to separate the King and the female human?" She asked him.

    Lord Lycano immediately swiveled to face her.

    "Why?" he inquired with inquisitive brows.

    Marina told him of what happened during the wedding ceremony.

    "That''s odd," he replied as he rubbed his chin.

    The traces of lust vanished from his face, making Marina more disappointed.

    Still, she continued on. "This is an opportunity to get in the arena again."

    He nodded his head in agreement to her. "I will see what I can do."

    Then he froze as he gazed at her from head to foot. "But I don''t know if I can control myself again with you," he said after gulping a lump in his throat.

    A smile lifted Marina''s lips as that is what she wanted to hear. She also was getting addicted to this kind of thing now that she felt it again.

    "Then don''t," she answered, surprising him.

    "Just find a decent place next time," she added, before turning away from him.

    **********************

    Desire is in men a hunger, in women appetite

 Chapter 88 - A Beautiful Barrette

    I''m sorry, it took me a while to update this. Something came up and it ruined my writing schedule. :( I''ll be trying to update as much as I can this November. But I''ll be more consistent once December sets in. Thank you all for the support for me and all the characters of Smitten! I''m loving the story as the chapters go on. I hope you do, too! Keep safe and love lots everyone! :* :* :*

    **************************************

    "That''s impossible! He could not be interested in me," Rosalia shook her head vigorously in denial as she let out a self-depreciating laugh.

    She and Lady Aisha were strolling down the Castle''s open fields the next morning because she was looking for something to do.

    That day is the day of the week when merchants from outside the Castle could come in to sell their goods.

    They were just talking about some things when Lady Aisha asked her what she would feel if Lord Emilio proposed to her.

    Lord Emilio has been in the Castle way longer than she was. She admitted that she had a crush on him when she first stepped foot in the Castle. But he was always aloof and sometimes scolded her when she even made a small mistake.

    She even thought that he''s gay since he doesn''t have a fianc¨¦ or a rumored woman.

    She immediately went to a nearby booth to check on  just to deviate from the topic.

    "I''m just asking, what if?" Lady Aisha chuckled as she went to her side and continued to tease her.

    She even coiled her arms around her and lie on her shoulder, making her feel uncomfortable.

    They were both outside, wearing an ordinary looking gown and cloak, so they could blend in well.

    True enough, nobody noticed that she was with the King''s new wife.

    "It''s very unlikely. But Lord Emilio''s not bad. If only he would try to smile a little often," she thought out loud.

    Just then, someone spoke from behind her and spoke to her, "How frequently?"

    Rosalia''s eyes widened in response. She immediately turned back to see who it was. To her horror, he was the person whom they are talking about.

    "Lord Emilio!" she exclaimed in disbelief. "What are you doing here, my lord?"

    As far as she knew, he and the King were supposed to go to a nearby village as their agenda for today.

    He never left the King''s side unless necessary. ''Has he heard about what I just said?''

    She was about to make up an excuse, so they could leave immediately, when Lady Aisha spoke up.

    "I will just check out something over there for the King," she pointed to a nearby cart.

    Then she added, "You can both stay here. I don''t mind. Lord Emilio''s swordsman could be with me. Rosalia hasn''t made a choice about what to buy yet."

    Then she immediately went off, singing and hopping as if something good happened, "La la la la la."

    Rosalia gulped as she felt a drop of sweat fall from her forehead. She knew it was not because it was hot at that time of the day, since there were clouds that were covering the sun, giving them a cool shade.

    Now it was only her and Lord Emilio. She bit her lips as she felt uncomfortable.

    She was used to talking with him in the Castle, together with the other Castle servants, with him lording over them.

    "Forgive my rudeness, my lord," she quickly bowed to him.

    With Lord Emilio''s domineering and harsh attitude, she knew he would get mad if he indeed heard of her remarks about him.

    She even dared to think of the possibility that he would have affection for someone like her.

    She slowly peeked at him. But as she did so, she immediately bowed her head, her face red as two ripe apples. He was intently staring at her!

    She could hear her heart pounding like horses in her chest. He has never gazed at her like that!

    Somehow, that kind of gaze made her feel womanly.

    Was Lady Aisha telling the truth?

    She was pondering on these things when Lord Emilio finally spoke up, "Why haven''t you made a choice yet?"

    Rosalia lifted her head with furrowed eyebrows. Then she directed her eyes to where he was pointing.

    Indeed, she was looking for a new barrette to put on her hair. Her previous one was broken, and she wanted to have a new one.

    But they were all beautiful, so she couldn''t make a choice.

    "I think this would look good on you," Lord Emilio said, which surprised Rosalia.

    He picked up a small pink barrette with a golden butterfly in the middle.

    To her astonishment, he put it on her vermilion wavy hair, making Rosalia froze on her feet.

    With their nearness, she could smell his natural angelic scent and feel the warmth that was emanating from his body.

    She looked up at him and since she was a little smaller than him, all she could see was his chiseled jaw and his perfectly shaped coral lips.

    Rosalia felt like the butterfly in her hair was swirling in her stomach.

    She has never been as near to a man like this before.

    "There," he uttered as a corner of his lips curled up.

    Indeed, she was right. He was way more strikingly handsome when he smiled.

    He glanced towards her, awakening her from a dreamy spell.

    She immediately scuffled backward in embarrassment as she scrambled onto the barrette in her hair.

    She admits she also wanted this design. But it was too expensive.

    Rosalia was about to return it to the table when she saw that Lord Emilio was already paying for it, making her jaw drop.

    "I would just pay it with my next month''s salary, my lord," she said in a low voice as they went towards Lady Aisha.

    She felt guilty of not uttering a word of refusal when he was already giving groats for payment. But she felt elated for wearing such an exquisite barrette on her hair.

    It was the most gorgeous barrette she ever had.

    She tried to hold on to it again, and she felt the butterfly design as if it was sitting gently on her hair.

    "Don''t mention it. Consider it as my gift to you for your devotion to your service," he answered her with his usual cold tone. But she noticed a slight difference in it. Like it has a tint of warmth in between his words.

    It made her feel somehow comfortable that she asked, "Why did you choose this specific design for me, my lord?"

    There were a lot of beautiful embellishments in the other barrettes like flowers, crowns, and ribbons.

    ''Could it be because he likes butterflies, or he thought I like butterflies?''

    She glanced to her left side as Lord Emilio was walking behind her.

    It didn''t take him long to respond. "Butterflies are proof that one can go through a season of darkness and could still come out beautiful."

    He then darted his gaze at her, making Rosalia stop from walking.

    ''Does he know about what I just went through? Was he talking about me?''

    Her tail puffed up in an unconscious response.

    She scurried to where Lady Aisha was, thinking that it would relieve her anxious feelings at that moment.

    Lady Aisha was also checking out a cart a few blocks away from them. She was busy reading a book, so she didn''t notice them as they approached her.

    She could feel Lord Emilio following her behind her back. But instead of slowing down, she even hastened to get to Lady Aisha.

    She could remember her mother''s words to her. "Do not let anyone know which clan we are from. Especially from those who are in the Castle."

    She has been keeping that for a decade now.

    She bowed down to Lady Aisha as soon as she saw her.

    "You''re back already?" she asked in surprise. Then she darted her attention to Lord Emilio who bowed down to her.

    Lady Aisha closed the book that she was holding and paid for it from her purse. Then she faced them properly.

    "Do you have to go somewhere else, my lady? The King told me to accompany you whenever you go out of the Towers," Lord Emilio said to inform them both why he was there.

    Lady Aisha nodded and pointed to a stall which was a little far from where they were. "Those sells herbal plants, right? I just want to see it."

    The three of them went to the store where Lady Aisha wanted to go. As they did so, Lady Aisha whispered to her, "What went wrong?"

    She seemed to be sincere as she asked that, so she answered immediately, "I don''t want him to know me."

    To that, Lady Aisha responded, "Then don''t."

    Rosalia was stunned, making her glanced back at her. She was expecting her to say "open up to him". Or "he isn''t who you think he is."

    Lady Aisha continued on, "I''ve been there. It''s really hard to trust. And no one''s forcing you, too. But give him a chance to show his affection for you, and give yourself a chance too. If you don''t want to open up your inner self yet, then don''t. I''m doing the same for the King. And I think everything''s going well, somehow."

    Rosalia nodded as it made sense to her. But was Lord Emilio really into her? And was she into him. She wasn''t really sure. All she knows was she liked that Lord Emilio bought her a barrette as a gift. And she liked the barrette too.

    *************************************

    Pain changes people. It makes them trusts less,

    Overthink more, and shuts people out.

 Chapter 89 - Getting Pregnant? Oh, No!

    "Astar!" Aisha blurted out as a child suddenly rushed to her as soon as he saw her.

    Aisha couldn''t help but chuckle as she felt his warm embrace on her legs, even with the thick gown.

    They were still in the Castle''s open area and were about to go back to the Castle after buying some herbs when Astar must have seen them.

    Aisha was reminded about him back when she was just getting accustomed to Gaea.

    With his reaction, it seemed that he must have missed her. She always greeted him if they passed by him whenever she was out of the Castle. It must probably be the reason why he was familiar with her, even with the disguise.

    The female servants who were with her and Lord Emilio and his swordsmen were alarmed. But she immediately lifted her hand and stated. "I know him."

    Fortunately, his mother came to the rescue and got Astar and put him behind her back.

    "I told you she''s already a royal. You cannot treat her like you used to," she scolded him. Then she faced them and bowed down to them. She led Astar to do the same.

    "I apologize for my son''s rude actions, my lady, my lord. Also, I would like to congratulate my lady for being a royal wife of the King. May you bear him a child as powerful as the King and as compassionate as you," she greeted them.

    Astar was bowing down. But he was lifting his little head to see what Aisha would say.

    Meanwhile, Lady Aisha''s pulse just started to quicken.

    At the mention of the phrase ''bearing a child'', her mind suddenly panicked. She hasn''t thought about that, feeling elated by her new level of relationship with the King.

    He hasn''t mentioned that either.

    Aisha gazed at Astar. He was charming for his young age, with his unruly wavy short hair and robust physique. It''s cool to have a kid like him around sometimes.

    ''But can I really handle the responsibility? Will I not be able to neglect him and make him feel lonely?''

    She pondered as she thought of her own family. She knew that both her parents loved her. But they just don''t have the time.

    She would''ve wanted to give him or her everything that she has. But will it be enough for him or her?

    Aisha knew she has said yes to the Great Theos, but she couldn''t help but doubt, still.

    She smiled and thanked her. "See you around, Astar. By the way, you could approach me anytime. I''m still Lady Aisha," she winked at him, making him go back to his usual cheerful attitude again.

    Then Aisha turned back to return to the Castle with the others.

    As they walked back, she saw Martina rushing somewhere. But she managed to stop by and greet them.

    "I needed some medicinal herbs from the Royal Infirmary, my lady. My daughter-in-law is already in labor with a child. The physician requested that I bring him these," she then gave her a list of herbs.

    To her surprise, she saw that she had just bought them a while ago!

    The Royal Infirmary was in the opposite direction of where Martina was heading, as Aisha was already familiar with the Castle''s architecture through her study with Master Aurelius.

    From the looks of it, she would be late if she would struggle through her way there.

    "Good grief, it must be the reason why I bought these. They''re yours, Martina. I''ll probably buy some other time," she smiled at her and gave the bag of herbs to her friend.

    Aisha was planning to try them on those who got sick because of eating Riso. But this was more important.

    She has learned in school that giving birth is like knocking on hell''s door. It''s another reason why she wanted to prolong her childbearing, even when she was not in Gaea yet.

    It will be dangerous for the mother and the baby. Especially here in Gaea, where it is not as technologically advanced as it is in her former world.

    Martina glanced up at her with her eyes full of gratitude.

    "Thank you, milady. It is a great help to us. Do you want to come with me and see the baby? It''s just in Anderida, a few blocks away from here," she smiled at her, hoping she would agree with her.

    However, Aisha glanced at Lord Emilio. She really wanted to go and help. But she wasn''t at peace whether the King would approve of it or not.

    "I personally know the lady who was giving birth. I wanted to come, too, if you don''t mind, my lady, my lord," Rosalia bowed down as well.

    Lord Emilio was apprehensive. But seeing Rosalia''s desire to participate must have changed his mind.

    "Let''s ride a horse, so we can get there before the sun sets," Lord Emilio decided, making the three women''s faces lift in joy.

    In time, they were about to make it to the house of the lady.

    Aisha was able to see the mother''s struggle in pushing the baby out of her womb.

    "Oh my gosh, do I have to experience that, too?" Aisha asked after glancing away. She couldn''t bear to see her in so much pain.

    She could feel the woman''s agony as she screamed loudly enough to disturb their neighbor, which lived a mile away from them.

    "It''s just for a short while, my lady. It will all be worth it," Rosalia whispered to her. She was with her as she was allowed to peek in the room for a few minutes since she was the one who gave the herbal medicine to them.

    True enough, the painful cries of the mother were changed into a shrill wail of a baby who has just experienced the outside world for the first time.

    Aisha''s eyes widened as she drew in a deep breath. She decided to peek again and saw the mother bathing in her own sweat but carrying a tiny living being in her arms.

    Now she was not crying anymore, but smiling as she adoringly gazed at the source of both her pain and her joy.

    Aisha couldn''t help but smile with her.

    *****************************************

    "Making the decision to have a child¡ªit''s momentous.. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking outside your body."

 Chapter 90 - Behind The Crown

    "Where exactly is she in Anderida? Is Lord Emilio with her?" Leandro growled as he glared at Lady Aisha''s female servant.

    He has just come back to the Castle after visiting the noble men and women who got sick during the wedding ceremony.

    He didn''t believe their reports at first. He even doubted that the royal physicians were colluding with them to slander their reputation.

    But he saw with his naked eye how they appeared with their sunken eyes and nauseous state.

    It was indeed a disease, which was unfamiliar to him, and absolutely for them. Sickness is very uncommon in Gaea given the rich fertile land and the conducive atmosphere for health and wellness.

    Even with his invigorated life lately because of Lady Aisha''s presence, he couldn''t help but have an inch of doubt.

    ''Have I trusted her too easily?'' He was pondering before Lady Aisha''s servant informed her that she was in Anderida, and she didn''t ask for his permission, making him doubt her all the more.

    Just then, he heard noises from outside the window, which was a meter away from him.

    His heart thumped as he expected that it was Lady Aisha. He immediately went there to verify. But to his dismay, it was just a group of servants who were laughing at a joke.

    It was not surprising since their work hours were already finished, and they were about to retire for the day.

    The bell would soon ring, announcing the desired hour of every working servant.

    But Leandro was not in the mood for fun and laughter.

    "If you have nothing else to do, go back to your quarters!" He boomed, making the servants jump to their feet in response.

    They glanced up and saw the irritable King glaring at them. He was too high up to hear them. But they were not surprised. Their King was a supernatural being after all.

    They immediately scrambled to form a line and bowed down to him before they dispersed like lightning.

    "Why is the King back to his old self again? Does he have issues with his new royal wife?" One of them whispered to another.

    "I don''t know. The King''s attitude indeed changed because of his new wife. I wish they would solve it quickly. I like him better these past few weeks," the servant that she was talking to replied.

    As they were on their way to their rooms, the cause of everyone''s anxiety finally appeared.

    Lady Aisha seemed to witness everything. She immediately went upstairs and bowed down to Leandro, "Forgive my actions, my lord. I should''ve informed you of my whereabouts even if Lord Emilio was already with me."

    Leandro couldn''t help but feel at ease knowing that Lady Aisha was finally within his line of sight.

    He has no idea if he wanted to see her just because he desired to see her. Or because he wanted to know that she was safe since she was still a female human. Or he wanted to confirm to himself that he made the right decision in trusting her.

    He glanced at Lord Emilio, who was also bowing down to him behind her back.

    ''If he was with her, then I don''t need to worry, don''t I?'' he pondered before he faced her again.

    "Where have you been?" he asked in a serious tone. But it was gentler than when he talked with the servants a while ago.

    "I helped a lady give birth to a child," she lifted her head, revealing her beaming face.

    Then she added, "I also bought some herbs for the sick nobles. I already gave them to the lady. But since there were too many, she only used a few of them. Here. I hope these could help."

    Her lips lifted into a sweet smile, slowly melting Leandro''s skepticism against her.

    "Are you certain this would work?" he asked as he gazed at the herbal plants.

    They were brown, with a corky outer layer and pale-yellow scented center. These were Gingiberis. They were commonly used as spices. But he didn''t know if it could cure their illnesses.

    "I don''t really know. But you could try. I read that in one of your books. We also have that plant in our country which could cure common stomach illnesses. I remember our butler used to give that to me when I ate a lot of candies," she chuckled, being back to her bubbly old self.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips twisted up just as a calming wind seemed to pass through him. He didn''t know why he would always be affected whenever she was cheerful.

    He drew in a deep breath before he put his hands behind his back. "Thank you for your warm generosity, my lady. What would you like in exchange?"

    He was expecting her to ask for more freedom, since it is what she seemed to want at that moment, getting out of the Castle and exploring Gaea.

    He even recalled her saying that before and asking him to accompany her, which he refused because of traditions and his obligations.

    Lady Aisha peeked at Lord Emilio as if she was thinking if she would state her desires out loud.

    She made a conclusion to just go over to him and whispered in his ears, "I want to see you enjoy your life, your Majesty. Not as a King, but as a person. I want to see you happy."

    Her words seemed like a spell that froze Leandro at his feet. In his entire lifetime, no one has ever cared for the person behind the crown.

    His amaranthine eyes gazed down at her. Her lips were not grinning from ear to ear. It was more of an expression that even when the whole Gaea would be furious with him for being a useless King, she would still be by his side.

    Leandro unconsciously nodded his head in response to her request.

    *******************************

    Sometimes people only love you for the masks you put on every day.

    Treasure those who love you, even without the mask on.

    They are rare.

 Chapter 91 - I Didnt Sign Up For This

    "Why did I say that? I should''ve asked for a one-week Gaean trip for free!" Aisha pondered with her pouted lips as she walked back to her Chamber with Rosalia and the other female servants.

    She heaved out a heavy sigh as she continued to walk with her head lowered down.

    She had just finished her dinner alone. She thought that the herbs that she had found were enough to appease King Leandro''s crankiness. But he said, he has no appetite for dinner and encouraged her to eat well instead and stay inside the Castle walls for the time being.

    ''Well, maybe it''s true. He seemed to have a rough day,'' Aisha thought as she recalled his dim appearance.

    While she was being sincere when she said that she wanted him to think about his own happiness for once, she also wanted to be free to roam around.

    She could not stay within the walls of her room for even half a day!

    Her autumn eyes darted to every corner of her Chamber, which was lit with beautifully placed lamps. It was every female human''s dream to live in such a luxurious place with lots of female servants serving her.

    The room also was very comfortable with a relaxing scent of incense filling the place. Her hands touched the soft cushions on the plush couch before she sighed, "If only I was an introvert or a homebody, this would''ve been nice."

    She recalled her former life when her parents would put her in a deluxe playground in the hotel where they would have meetings and leave her to the care of hotel attendants and their butler.

    But she would always find her way out of it and roamed the hotel, making the staff irritated whenever they saw her with her parents.

    ''Maybe that''s the reason why these things don''t excite me,'' Aisha thought to herself before she sat on the couch and laid her head on its headrest.

    She was physically tired, but she felt fulfilled. She was just out and helping other people, seeing their lives change and being a part of it. That''s what makes her happy.

    As she was pondering how she would get by without leaving the Castle walls, Rosalia responded to her.

    "I think the King is just concerned about you, my lady. You are still a hot subject in Gaea. And besides, you will bear his child soon. You must always keep yourself safe always, my lady," she tried to see the positive light of her experience.

    Her voice sounded like a cooling fountain watering down her constricted soul.

    Aisha understood the part that he was keeping her safe. That was why he sent Lord Emilio himself to guard her. But the reason for keeping her within the walls was because she would carry his child? That was new to her.

    She immediately stood up from lying down, making Rosalia''s tail and the other female servants'' puff up.

    "What does that even mean? I''m not allowed to go out until I have given birth to a child? Oh, no! I haven''t thought about that!" Aisha whined.

    Her face froze in a pained stare. "But that couldn''t be. I have friends who got pregnant early on, and they still hang out with me at the bar," she tried to reason out how unreasonable it is to keep her confined.

    But she quickly added, "It''s not that I will drink or anything. But maybe I can just get out of the Castle, breathe in some fresh air, you know? It will be good for the baby, right?" her face lit up, hoping she was making sense.

    But the other female servants'' lips went downward as they gazed at one another, feeling the distress of their lady. Their chests heaved out sighs of sympathy.

    It was Rosalia who spoke what was going on in their mind, "But yours was no ordinary conception, my lady. You will conceive the next heir to the throne. Maybe it would be helpful to think of a woman who will be carrying the baby of the next King of your country. Here, that woman is you."

    Aisha nodded her head as Rosalia''s words removed the cloud of selfishness that was blurring her mind. It is true. What''s worse, the King has never born a child before!

    Just as she was pondering on these things, a messenger announced his presence from behind the door of her Chamber.

    "A letter from the royal physician, my lady," he informed them, making Aisha''s eyebrows knit together.

    "Oh my gosh, what could it be? Am I sick or anything?" she stood up as she waited for Rosalia to get the letter from the messenger.

    Aisha''s jaw drop as she held in her hand a long scroll with these words written:

    "This is a list that a royal wife must fulfill in order to conceive a child for the King. This must be started as soon as possible. Failure to do so could lead to punishment or removal of the rights bestowed by the King."

    There were classes that she has to attend, daily exercises, foods that she has to eat, and a lot of don''ts scribbled in a formal way.

    She flipped the scroll up in a quick manner, hoping she would see the last part. But it took her minutes to reach it.

    Her body slumped back on the couch as she put her palm to her forehead. "These were like a one-year fertility program treatment. I didn''t sign for this. I''m doomed!" her extremities collapsed, faking a faint.

    "Maybe I shouldn''t have agreed with the Chosen One thing," she uttered in a helpless cry.

    The baby held by the mother who has just given birth somehow deepens her resolve to be faithful to her word to the Great Theos. But she didn''t know how tedious the preparation would be. And everything was against her norms!

    "Don''t worry, milady. The King and us are here to support you. It will increase your chances of having a viable conception, too," Rosalia encouraged her with a warm-hearted smile.

    Aisha couldn''t help but respond positively. "Thanks, Rosalia. What would I do without you?"

    Then she peeked at the list again. With a deep sigh, she asked herself, "I just hope you''re right."

    ************************

    Pregnancy is the happiest reason ever for feeling like crap.

 Chapter 92 - When Your Crush Is Your Husband

    "Alright, wake up early. Done," Aisha said in a singsong voice as she pointed her finger beside the scroll as if it was a pen, and she was marking it with an x.

    That''s all she knew about her would-be daily routines. The rest? Only God knows how she would accomplish them.

    Rosalia and the rest of the female servants were already there and helped her get dressed. "Wait, what is this?"

    She recalled that she used to wear a skirt or a long gown, usually made of silk and rich in velvet, covered by a luxurious tunic that is embroidered by lace and gems.

    Now she was wearing a simple gown with a linen apron over an above-the-ankle skirt and a box-pleated blouse.

    One of the servants was stuffing the apron''s ample pocket with gardening tools until it was brimming to the top.

    "It was included in the royal physician''s request that you have physical activity within the day. Most of the time, the royal wives and concubines would do gardening to accomplish that," Rosalia explained to her in a cheerful manner.

    Aisha nodded as she understood. But she drew in a deep breath as she stated, "I see. But I don''t have any experience in gardening."

    "You will soon know the ropes, my lady," Rosalia cheered her on as they all walked out of the Chamber to the Castle Garden.

    As they got there, Aisha couldn''t help but be amazed at how well the Castle gardeners have kept the place neat, tidy, and flourishing with plants of different species and beauty.

    The rhythmic splatter of water from the fountain was like music to her ears.

    The whole area smelled of fragrant sweet flowers that would make everyone feel recharged and energized.

    "All right, where do we start?" Aisha blurted out with a smile. Her dainty hands went on her petite hips.

    Rosalia pointed her arms to a vast area where there seemed to be a lot of soil.

    "That seemed to be turned over a few weeks ago. It won''t be hard for you now, my lady. You just have to break up large chunks of earth with the rake," she grinned at her before she offered the gardening tool to her.

    As she picked it up, her arms almost fell to the ground with it.

    "Seriously? Is this Thor''s hammer?" she gritted her teeth as she tried to pull it up. But she couldn''t.

    "Okay, so why am I doing this again? To exercise, right. I know a lot of exercises to keep myself fit before my shoot. Here, let me show you," Aisha stretched her hand over her head and to her right side.

    Then she did the same to her other side before she put both her hands on her hips and rotated it. "See, it''s super easy."

    The lady servants glanced at each other as if they were befuddled by their lady''s bizarre actions.

    Just then, King Leandro suddenly appeared in front of them, making the lady servants immediately bow their heads in response.

    He was at Aisha''s back, so she didn''t see him. She even responded with a wave of her hand and a slight chuckle, "I know. I look cool. Don''t worry, I''ll teach you how to do this. Here''s another one."

    She bent down to reach the ground while keeping her legs straight. But just then, she saw a royal figure in between her legs.

    He was staring at her with his scrunched forehead and his muscular arms folded over his taut chest.

    "Am I seeing things?" Aisha consciously blinked her eyes rapidly to see if he was just a figment of her imagination.

    As far as she knew, the King had a lot of tasks to do today. It was the day of the week when he had to go out of the Castle and observe the Gaean lands himself.

    Besides that, she knew he was still upset that she left without his permission. That was why he had refrained her from leaving the Castle grounds.

    ''Was he checking out if I am doing the royal command properly?'' she immediately stood up and turned around to face him.

    Indeed, it was King Leandro in the flesh!

    Her heart skipped an extra beat, knowing that he was around.

    "What are you doing, my lady?" he asked curiously, making Aisha''s face burn in embarrassment.

    ''Has he seen all my goofy stints?'' her palms flew to soothe her scalding cheeks.

    "I am just warming up, your Majesty. I would rake all the soil here with this," she grinned before picking up the massive tool with her hand.

    To her surprise, she could now lift it with just one hand.

    Her dazzled eyes darted to the lady servants as she said, "Do you guys see this? I''m like Wonder Woman now."

    Then she quickly glanced at King Leandro. As she did so, she noticed that his eyes turned to crimson, then returned to being purplish in a fraction of a second.

    She shook her head, thinking that it must be a reflection of the sun on the flowers behind him.

    The sun was already above them at that time. But the weather was still cool enough that her skin didn''t even feel the heat of its rays at all.

    She lifted the rake and tried to smash a piece of hardened soil with it. But to her horror, the rake flew away like a piece of stick.

    Like a flash of lightning, King Leandro lifted his mighty hand. And just like a magnet, the rake flew back like a boomerang and landed on it.

    "Whoa, that was so lit," Aisha cupped her jaw-dropped mouth as her eyes turned to stars.

    She gazed at King Leandro as she imagined him to be a real live version of one of the Marvel Comic Superheroes with his long silver hair and gray armor covered by a red cape while holding the precious powerful rake.

    She froze on her feet as it seemed like everything else was blurred, and it was only him at that moment. His long strands are caressed by the winds. The muscle in his arm twitched as he played with the weapon in his hands.

    "My lady, the King was asking you a question," Rosalia cleared her throat and whispered in her ear, breaking her trance-like state.

    Indeed, the King was looking at her with concern in his eyes.

    "Are you all right, my lady? You don''t have to do this if you aren''t familiar with this. You might hurt yourself," he repeated before putting away the rake and going to her side.

    As he walked over to where she was, Aisha''s heart started beating like crazy.

    ''How could a sweet man live inside that rock-hard bod?'' she asked herself as she recalled who the person was in front of her, now expressing his concern for her.

    She couldn''t believe that even though they have been intimate already, she was still crushing on the King of Gaea, who was already her husband and the soon-to-be father of her unborn baby.

    ************************

    Marry someone who is also your happy place.

 Chapter 93 - I Am Making Myself Happy

    "I thought you''re just going with the flow, my lady. It seemed like you are already in love with the King," Rosalia teased Aisha, making her come back to her senses.

    "No, I''m not. I just have a crush on him because he looks so hot, that''s all," Aisha retaliated back to Rosalia, who stepped backward while still stifling a smile.

    Aisha immediately cleared her throat and answered his question in a determined manner.

    "No, it''s fine, your Majesty," Aisha bowed down to him before she lifted her head and chuckled uncomfortably. "It''s better than staying inside my room. May I?"

    She thought that King Leandro would just hand her the rake.

    But he went over to her back and put his arms around her before putting the rake on her hands. "Allow me to help you, my lady," he said to her.

    Aisha''s lady servants'' eyes went wide in surprise. They haven''t seen their King act in such physical proximity with another person.

    But they giggled afterward, seeing a loving act between a couple in front of them.

    However, Aisha was oblivious to all of them. She, too, was surprised at his actions.

    She knew he was a cold man, and the only time that he expressed his soft side was when they were alone together.

    There were even times that she also experienced that aloofness herself.

    Aisha gulped as his warm breath grazed on her ears, sending shivers down her spine.

    Her eyes unconsciously closed as she felt the warmth of his body again on hers. She couldn''t help but recall their moments together, in his Chamber.

    She glanced at him at that position. Her heart was pounding, so wildly she could almost hear them.

    But he was not looking at her. He was focused on the rake that they were both holding. But she could see his throat going up and down.

    She didn''t know what he was thinking. But she couldn''t help but remember what Rosalia told her last night.

    She, the lady servants and the King would support her all throughout her childbearing preparation.

    ''Was he expressing his determination to do just that right now?'' Aisha''s lips lifted in a smile.

    "You should hold it firmly like this and lift it using your shoulders, not your arms," he instructed her, making Aisha come back to her senses and focus on the task in front of her.

    She nodded her head and tried to do it again, as he instructed. And she was able to break through the piece of hardened soil.

    "Yes, I did it!" she blurted out, grinning from ear to ear as her balled-up fist shot up in the air.

    She just didn''t know if she was able to do so because his hand was on the rake, too. Or she really did it by herself.

    Her supportive servants clapped their hands in glee.

    "This is fun," she said as she held the rake firmly again. She thought that King Leandro would let her do it by herself this time.

    But he didn''t. He circled his masculine arms around her again like a loving boyfriend who was teaching his girlfriend how to play golf.

    This time, Aisha didn''t mind. She even leaned her back to his chest, so she could feel his warmth more.

    "Why are you doing this, your Majesty?" she thought out loud, feeling like a teenager at that moment.

    As she did so, King Leandro whispered in her ear, "I am making myself happy, just like you said."

    Surprised, Aisha turned to face him. As she did so, she saw that soft gaze again, melting Aisha''s resolve to stay focused on what she was doing.

    "Oh my gosh, you really know just the right words to say, do you?" she couldn''t help but smile at his flattery.

    She was pressured with all the childbearing tasks that she has to do. But he was like a clear sky, and she was like a bird that could fly freely whenever he was around.

    His presence made her feel that she can do impossible tasks and enjoy them at the same time.

    His gaze darted down to her lips, and her eyes landed on his.

    They were at a public place and within the sight of both her lady servants and the King''s royal guards.

    She wasn''t expecting him to make an intimate move. But with the silent conversation of their bodies, it seemed like there was a possibility that they would both ignore the warnings in their minds.

    Fortunately, a messenger came in with an envelope in his hand, making them separate from each other quickly.

    King Leandro immediately opened the envelope and read what was written in the letter.

    As Aisha was hoping, it seemed like it was good news, as King Leandro''s face brightened up.

    "This is from the ill servants who have tried drinking Gingiberi tea. They said that they don''t feel nauseous anymore," King Leandro told her the content of the letter with his face still in his solemn look, but his eyes were obviously gleaming with excitement.

    Aisha responded with the same enthusiasm. "Wow, that is so great! I can''t believe that the same method worked for different realms."

    Her eyes darted to the sky as she thanked God for the natural cure that He has provided for His people in times of need.

    The servants'' faces were also beaming, as some of them personally know those who were having the disease.

    "Why don''t we have breakfast now and let''s celebrate this event?" Aisha suggested to the King with her flashing set of white teeth.

    She was anticipating him to agree with her, as she was witnessing his uncontained joy.

    But King Leandro shook his head in refusal. "You go on ahead, my lady. I have to go to the Royal Chancery and write a letter first to the nobles, so they can be treated as well."

    Aisha''s previously upturned lips went neutral as she heard his response.

    "Of course, you must do that. They must be cured at once," she quickly bounced back with a forced smile.

    Aisha knew that it was the right thing to do.

    But she felt sad because she really wanted to be with him at that moment. And she wanted him to enjoy his time, even just for a few minutes, too.

    ******************************

    The greatest gift that you can ever give someone is your time.

    Because you are offering them something that you can never get back.

 Chapter 94 - Hearsays

    "Well, I guess, I just have to wait," Aisha heaved out a sigh.

    She was used to doing things the way that she wanted to, with whomever she wanted and wherever and whenever she wanted.

    "This is really a different world for me," she thought out loud as she tried to pick up the rake again. This time it seemed like it was lighter than before.

    She tried to break through the soil, just like she was trying to break through Gaean living.

    She was not just mentioning the difference in the species of the people around her. Or the structure of the place where she lives in. Or the normality of the place. But of the way she used to live and not.

    Rosalia and the other female servants waited for her. What Aisha didn''t know was Lord Emilio was also there with them.

    "May I speak with you, my lady?" Lord Emilio said in a deep voice, making Aisha turn around in surprise.

    "Oh, I thought you left already with the King. Sure," Aisha smiled awkwardly with her furrowed eyebrows.

    They were still in the Castle Garden and she wanted to go back for her breakfast. To be honest, she was already feeling a little dizzy. But it seemed like this was a serious matter to Lord Emilio.

    The other female servants stepped away to give them privacy. As Lord Emilio was already certain that they were a distance away, Lord Emilio spoke about what was bothering his mind.

    "I asked the King''s permission to leave, so I could apologize to you personally. I shouldn''t have allowed you to leave the Castle grounds," Lord Emilio bowed his head in apology.

    Aisha just waved her hand in response. "You can chill. No worries. I had a great time anyway. And it seemed like the King was already in a good mood. So everything''s great," Aisha chuckled as she joked around.

    "I can see that," Lord Emilio nodded his head as he rubbed his chiseled chin. Then he added, "He was probably relieved that the nobles would not think ill of you anymore since you provided a cure for them."

    With that, Aisha''s lips turned downward. "They are thinking ill of me? What did I do? I didn''t put poison in their food or anything," she repeated back to him.

    Her previous jolly heart turned cold as she thought of what they might be accusing her of.

    "I believe you," Lord Emilio said. "But as far as I know, there were hearsays among the higher class society that the disease happened because Riso was not really an edible food for Gaeans. They said you wanted to take revenge on them for not inviting you to their parties, so you influenced the King to make them eat it."

    Lord Emilio stated that in a matter-of-fact tone. But still, Aisha''s shoulders unconsciously dropped at his news. She froze on where she was that even her stomach which was previously growling with hunger went silent. Her dizzy spell seemed to worsen.

    Aisha couldn''t believe what she had just heard. Her hand flew to her chest as she felt it became suddenly heavy.

    She didn''t even know that she was being left out of parties, which could have been nice because she loves gatherings herself.

    "I-I just want to help," Aisha stuttered as her eyes darted away.

    She knew that it was a big burden to the King. And she didn''t want the Gaeans to grow hungry, too, when there is a clear alternative. She hasn''t thought that they would think badly of her motives.

    "I know, my lady,"  Lord Emilio responded, cheering Aisha somehow. "Rosalia has told me how you go out of your way to solve this matter. And I saw that, too."

    Lord Emilio''s cheeks heightened as he nodded his head, which surprised Aisha. ''He was being extra nice. Unlike before,'' Aisha thought. But it was a good thing for her.

    ''If this man who was against me before saw the sincerity of my action, perhaps the other nobles might, too,'' Aisha thought, as she didn''t want them to continue thinking of her as an enemy.

    Now she wanted to really live in Gaea until her last breath.

    She drew in a deep breath before her body tilted to face Lord Emilio while lifting her chin. "Do you think it''s possible that I could talk with those nobles, too?"

    Lord Emilio was surprised as he paused for a minute before he answered, "I haven''t seen royal wives talk to lords and ladies before. Royal wives'' only role was to provide an heir to the King. Some royal wives have even encountered the worst accusations. But they remained silent until the issue passed," Lord Emilio answered her.

    Aisha bit her lips as she recalled that she was in a land where women still have no equal rights with men. But if she wouldn''t do something about this, their *accusations might get bigger, until they banish her from Gaea. She wouldn''t prove to them that humans weren''t what they think they are.

    "Has any of the royal wives experienced getting involved with the noble''s health?" Aisha asked as she remained in her stance.

    "It''s not that I know of, my lady," Lord Emilio answered her after some time of thinking.

    Aisha''s face brightened up as she responded, "Then I am an exception, right? Wouldn''t it help if I could change what they think about me? I think it would also help stabilize their trust with the King, don''t you think so?"

    She continued to explain her point, hoping Lord Emilio would agree with her. To her delight, it seemed Lord Emilio was consenting with her as he kept on nodding his head.

    "You have a point, my lady. But it may fire back at you if you are not careful. You don''t know what those people are capable of," Lord Emilio replied with concern in his tone.

    Aisha paused for a moment as she thought about it. He was right. Just as they thought ill of her desire to help them have an alternative for their staple food, they might think that her effort to reach them may have an ulterior driving force as well.

    Just as she was thinking about what she must do, an idea came to her mind, making her finger shoot up.

    "I know! Let''s go to the King first," she blurted out before lifting her skirt and dashing to the Royal Chancery.

    ********************************************

    Hearsay - There is a reason it''s not admissible in court.

 Chapter 95 - Relentless Positivity

    "I just hope they would be open to drinking Gingiberi tea, too," Leandro heaved out a sigh as he engraved the envelope with the King''s seal.

    Just as he told Lady Aisha, he went straight to the Royal Chancery to write a letter to the noble lord and ladies of Gaea, who were currently sick after eating from their wedding ceremonies.

    He was also hungry and wanted to eat with Lady Aisha, but this is a matter of national importance.

    Leandro was about to stand up and give the letter to the messenger when he saw a flower planted in a clay pot in a corner of His grand chamber.

    He couldn''t help but recall how he acted towards Lady Aisha in the Castle Garden, making him press his lips and close his eyes in embarrassment.

    He could still feel the bizarre stares of the surrounding servants. He was also surprised, as it was unnatural for him.

    With his thousand wives and concubines, he has not initiated an act of intimacy in public.

    But he couldn''t control himself to be as close to her as possible.

    ''Am I that smitten with her?'' He drew in a deep breath as he recalled her dancing without music as her form of ''exercise''.

    As he did so, a corner of his lips curled in response.

    As if she could hear his desires for her, the servant from outside the Royal Chancery announced a surprise guest, "Announcing the presence of Lady  Aisha."

    Leandro thought that she was having her breakfast already in the Dining Hall. "Come in," he replied at once, so he could see her again.

    Lady Aisha walked in with buoyant, fairly wide steps than her normal ones. Her gleaming copper eyes gazed at him as soon as she faced him at his table.

    Then she bowed her head and stated her purpose without hesitation. "Forgive me for interrupting your duties, your Majesty. But there are three things that I would like to ask your permission for."

    Leandro''s eyebrows knitted together as he was not aware of anything that she might need. "It depends on your request, my lady. What is it?"

    She may be the apple of his eyes. But he would never let her sway him to go against their traditions.

    "Thank you for even just listening, your Majesty. First, may I request that you not mention my name when you gave them the Gingiberi tea. They might think that I am poisoning them with that, too," she said in a determined, steady voice.

    Leandro was dumbfounded at her statement. ''Did she have an idea that the nobles were spitting negative words against her?''

    To be honest, he was already contemplating doing just that. He already thought about it. But he also knew that the nobles would soon find out that it was from her.

    ''Maybe it will be fine if they drink it first and get well. Even if they find out later on that it was her idea, they would not blame her anymore,'' he concluded.

    He lifted his head and glanced back at his lovely new wife, "Request granted. What is the second one, my lady?"

    "The second one is, may I come with you if you ever visit them?" Lady Aisha asked straightforwardly.

    Leandro was frozen for a few seconds. In his entire rulership, he was never accompanied by a woman. The nobles might think of it as a ridiculous idea! And besides, he wasn''t the kind of King who visits his people often.

    It just so happened that he was seeking pieces of evidence himself, and he was directly involved, that''s why he went to their property the last time.

    "I''m afraid I cannot allow that, my lady," Leandro said in the mildest tone possible so as not to dishearten her.

    Indeed, Lady Aisha''s face went downcast. But it was only momentary, as she opened up another suggestion again.

    "Then can I just go to them myself, your Majesty? I really want them to know that I deeply regret what happened to them," she said as she gulped a lump in her throat as if she felt genuine pain that they were experiencing discomfort because of eating Riso.

    Leandro drew in a deep breath as he thought about what to do. Lady Aisha was certainly feeling guilty about what happened, even though it wasn''t really intentional.

    If she was just another lady, he would just tell her to just stay still and wait for it to pass. But he wanted to alleviate her anxious state.

    Still, he didn''t want her to go there by herself. She is just a human, and they were supernatural beings.

    He recalled how he used his powers to help her lift the rake just a while ago without her noticing.

    They might respond positively or negatively towards her reconciling move.

    "Maybe we could have a luncheon where they would come here to the Castle once they have recovered," Leandro finally decided.

    ''If they were here, they wouldn''t dare do anything against her in my territory,'' Leandro thought, feeling satisfied with his answer.

    "That is exactly my third request, Your Majesty!" Lady Aisha blurted out suddenly, distracting him from his thoughts.

    "I was about to request an event where I could mingle with them," her petite face brightened up as her hope soared up like an eagle in the sky.

    Leandro couldn''t help but admire her for her relentless positivity. He stood up and went in front of her.

    Fortunately, they were alone and none was around. "Thank you for seeing everything in a positive light," he said to her sincerely.

    "It''s not a big deal, your Majesty. I just want to stay here for as long as I can," she answered him with a smile on her face.

    But those words were like daggers to Leandro''s heart. ''For as long as she could.''

    He forgot that she was a mortal. And even if he protects her from anyone who might take her life, there will come a day when she will lose it.

    He drew in a deep breath as he suddenly pulled her in his arms and tightly embraced her before whispering in her ear, "I will make sure that it happens, my lady."

    *******************************************

    That it will never happen makes life so sweet.

 Chapter 96 - The Chosen One Version That I Like

    Leandro wanted to stay in that position a little longer. It made him feel that she would be safe, somehow.

    It seemed like she also felt the same way, as she nuzzled her head in his chest, making him feel warmer inside.

    Just then, a messenger from outside the Royal Chancery announced, "The carriage is ready, your Majesty."

    Leandro glanced at the door, knowing that his blissful moments were only for a split minute. He must go back to being the King.

    But he was having a hard time letting go of Lady Aisha in his arms. Her soft body makes him want to spend a few more minutes with her. Her rhythmic breaths and her female human scent were like a natural aphrodisiac to his flesh.

    Indeed, he was physically captivated by her. But it seemed like it was not only his body but his soul as well.

    ''If only, I could make her immortal, too.''

    With that thought, he immediately shook his head. A memory that he wanted to forget flashed through his mind.

    "It''s all right, your Majesty," Lady Aisha pulled away. "You need to tell them about the cure, right? We still have a lot of time," she added in an understanding tone as she glanced up at him with her doll-like eyes.

    ''A lot of time? How long is a lot of time for a human? 80 years? 90 years?'' He gulped as his throat suddenly felt painful. He gazed at her then youthful appearance, which he knew would change as the years go by.

    He wondered if she would have the same cheerful demeanor with her failing body 60 years from now. Will she be able to dance as she did on their wedding day? Will she be able to see the beauty of Gaea with that childish amazement when he first saw her?

    Leandro suddenly felt the urge to shrink back from being emotionally attached to her. If he continued to do so, he might get to the point where he could make a grave mistake just to extend her life and would eventually lose Gaea.

    "Your Majesty?" Lady Aisha asked again, now in a worried tone. "Are you all right?"

    He drew in a deep breath as he shook his head. He must have been thinking too

    much about this. He nodded his head in agreement as he called the messenger in.

    He gave the letter to him and gave an instruction to send it as quickly as possible to the nobles on the list that he also gave him.

    When he turned back, he saw that Lady Aisha was sitting at the couch near the bookshelf with her eyes closed.

    Her usually pink lips looked pale, as also was her complexion. Her forearm was on her forehead as she grimaced while taking in a lungful of air.

    His forehead scrunched up as he walked back to her in long strides. "Are you feeling well, my lady?"

    Lady Aisha slowly nodded her head.

    "Yes, your Majesty. I just feel a little dizzy. It''s just probably my guts complaining. I didn''t eat dinner last night and I skipped breakfast today. Plus, I tried gardening work a while ago. Maybe I just need to feed them," her pallid white lips grinned at him.

    Seeing her like that reminded him again of what he was just thinking about just a while ago. Truly, humans have physical limitations. He wanted to detach himself from her so his convictions wouldn''t be swayed by his sympathy.

    But seeing her suffering because of the weakness of her form makes him want to be by her side all the more. He didn''t want her to endure her weaknesses by herself.

    He pressed her cold, clammy hand and transferred some of his powers to her.

    But it was only enough to make her feel comfortable. He didn''t want to mask the underlying condition of her body.

    Fortunately, her complexion seemed to return to its original color.

    He then responded, "Wait here." He then went outside to ask the female servants to bring the food from the Dining Hall to the Royal Chancery. He also called for the Royal Physician.

    Then he went back to Lady Aisha, who was gazing at her in a weak state.

    "We would eat our breakfast here at the Royal Chancery. So just rest until the servants arrive," he told her as he put the back of his hand to her neck to see if she had a fever.

    Fortunately, she has none.

    "You don''t have to do this, your Majesty," Lady Aisha stood up from reclining and was about to stand up. But Leandro pulled her back.

    "Stay here until the royal physician has arrived. That is a command," Leandro said in a firm voice, making Aisha relax and heaved out a sigh.

    "Forgive me, Your Majesty. You can go now. I know you have a lot to do," Aisha said in a weak voice.

    As she said that, Leandro recalled that he indeed had some tasks to do for the day. But how could he leave seeing her like this?

    "I will go as soon as I confirm with the royal physician that you are all right," he decided before sitting beside her and waited with her.

    As they did so, Aisha glanced at him with a weak smile.

    "Thank you for your concern for me, Your Majesty. I''m not used to being chosen over other important responsibilities," her voice broke as she said that. "This is the kind of Chosen One version that I like," she jested around, but it sounded sincere.

    Leandro didn''t know if it was because of her illness or if it was a part of her emotional heartaches in the past.

    To be honest, he didn''t know why his feet were very heavy to leave. He knew the value of his presence in the agendas that he needed to go to today.

    But still, he chose to stay and be with her. It was as if her health was more important than his schedule for the day, surprising him as well.

    "You will get used to it, my lady," he said with a warm tone as he gazed at her with empathy in his eyes.

    ***************************************

    No amount of money or success can replace the time you spent with your loved ones especially in their time of nee

 Chapter 97 - Lets Go Get My Crown

    "Do you already have a plan in mind?" Lord Lyon asked Lycano as soon as he entered his room.

    His father''s request for his presence seemed to be getting frequent. At first, he was wondering why. And to be honest, he was irritated by it. But now, he understood the reason.

    Lord Lyon was lying in his bed while Lyana was wiping his perspiration with a piece of white cloth.

    He looked fragile as he laid there with his graying head in Lyana''s laps.

    It seemed to have slipped Lycano''s mind that his father was already old, and soon he would meet eternity.

    "You''re a grown man now, Lycano. Stop playing games and stand up for our Clan," Lyon continued on since he was only silent as he observed him.

    He has already talked with Lady Marina about it. But still, he was still hesitant for Lady Aisha''s sake. He didn''t want her to suffer the consequences of what he was about to do.

    "I will, my lord," he just bowed down to him after taking in a deep breath. At the back of his mind, he was thinking of ways as to how he could remove Lady Aisha from the scene.

    Just then, Lyago, the physician of the Lycus Clan, entered the room accompanied by Lord Lyon''s servant. He seemed to be in a hurry as he clumsily laid down his things on Lord Lyon''s table.

    "Forgive me if it took me a while, my lord. I have to wait for the royal physician to give me permission to get these medicinal herbs from the Royal Infirmary," he explained as he prepared the medicine that Lord Lyon needs to take.

    "It took him a longer time than I expected," he added on.

    ''Everyone in the Lycus Lands knows the temper of Lord Lyon. It must probably be the reason why he was doing his best to come up with a good excuse for his tardiness,'' Lycano thought as he moved aside.

    He could go since their conversation was already over. But he was also concerned about his father''s health.

    "I will forgive you if you tell me what is going on. Is the King sick?" Lord Lyon curiously asked as he sat up.

    At first, Lyago clamped his lips as he froze for a few seconds. Divulging information on what is happening inside the Castle is prohibited in Gaea. But his fright in Lord Lyon must have won him over, as he finally answered, "No, my lord. It''s his new wife, Lady Aisha."

    With his response, Lord Lycano''s head immediately lifted. "What happened to her?" he asked at once. His jaw clenched as both his fists balled up.

    He felt his temperature shoot up as beads of sweat formed in his forehead. He couldn''t even imagine her lying in bed with her beautiful face all scrunched up.

    Seeing his reaction, Lyago responded as quickly as lightning. "According to the royal physician, she was just physically exhausted. Her body is still human, and she hasn''t fully adapted yet to our environment."

    "I see. I thought she was already pregnant with a child," Lord Lyon rubbed his chin as he pondered about it. "But that would be worse. Just imagine what would happen if she would bear a supernatural Gaean being in her womb. And the King''s offspring, to be exact."

    Lycano gritted his teeth at the thought. ``If she had just chosen me, I would not have forced her to bear me a child."

    Like a bat out of hell, he bolted out of the room and headed straight to where Lady Marina was.

    He was confused with the different level of relationship that they have now. As much as possible, he didn''t want to use her like he did with other women. But he needed an ally. His forces were not strong enough.

    With his resources, he found out that Lady Marina was on Emus road, going to the Valero Manor.

    As he knew, the Valeros were guests during the wedding ceremony. ''They must also be among the people who got sick because of the Riso, that is why Lady Marina was planning to go there.''

    He didn''t waste any more time. He quickly transformed to his other nature and ran as fast as the wind to Emus Road.

    To his delight, he saw Lady Marina''s carriage still on its way to the Manor.

    He went in front of the carriage, baffling its horse and the coachman.

    Lady Marina''s head quickly bobbed out the window as she screamed, "Who dare cross my path?"

    She was fierce as usual. But she seemed a little feminine today. The winds flew from her back to her front, slightly tousling her emerald hair. She put back tresses behind her ears as her long eyelashes fluttered rapidly at him.

    "L-Lord Lycano? What are you doing here?" She asked in bewilderment.

    His wolfish jaw couldn''t help but grin as he was pleased that she recognized his form. He transformed back to his human form and walked forward to the door of the carriage, opening it as if it was his.

    "Do you really have to show up like that?" she complained as she crossed her arms. But her face was red like cherries. He didn''t know if it was because of anger or embarrassment.

    So he quickly apologized. "I actually have them with me," he smiled as he pulled out a sling bag.

    He was changing to his clothes when he noticed that Lady Marina was gazing at him. But her eyes quickly darted away as she said, "I wasn''t looking! Your buttons are just wrong."

    She stammered as her finger shot up and pointed to his vest. As he did so, he was reminded of how those fingers ran through his hair as he pleasured himself in her bosoms.

    Recalling that, his eyes darted to the upper curve of her bountiful mounds that were peaking above her gown. He gulped as he thought how delicious they were in his mouth.

    His love for the female flesh peaked up as his mouth started to water.

    He was debating whether he would let himself be swayed by his lustful instinct or be firm with his decision to respect her when she asked, "Why are you here, anyway?"

    That statement cleared his head as he answered her, "I made up my mind. Let''s go get my crown," he said in a determined manner.

    **********************************************

    "Who can really say how decisions are made, how emotions change, how ideas arise? We talk about inspiration; about a bolt of lightning from a clear sky, but perhaps everything is just as simple and just as infinitely complex as the processes that make a particular leaf fall at a particular moment. That point has been reached, that''s all. It has to happen, and it does happen."

    ¨D John Ajvide Lindqvist, Harbo

 Chapter 98 - Partners In Crime

    Marina nodded her head while Lord Lycano explained to her how they could turn the hearts of the nobles against the King.

    But her arms were still folded across her bountiful chest while her eyes narrowed at him. ''He seemed to be more motivated now than the last time that I saw him,'' she muttered to herself.

    The Emus Road was a little bumpy, making the ride to Valerus Manor a difficult one. But with Lord Lycano''s resolved stance, she seemed to be oblivious of it.

    ''Will that impulsion be enough to put distance between us? I don''t want to be swayed by my flesh again,'' she continued to question his actions in the back of her mind.

    Because of their last encounter, she decided to just go on with her plan alone. After some time of thinking, she concluded that she didn''t want to deviate from her course.  She didn''t want to be physically intimate with him again. Or it might ruin her plans.

    "Are you listening, my lady?" Lord Lycano said, waking up Marina from her internal struggle.

    "Yes. But don''t ruin the King''s image with your schemes. It wasn''t his fault, but the female human''s anyway," she rolled her eyes.

    As she did so, she felt the carriage slowly halting down. She glanced outside and saw the grand Manor which housed the Valeros household.

    They were indeed a family of noble wealth, as their residence looked like a mini version of the King''s Castle.

    "I will find a way. But I don''t want Lady Aisha''s name to be dragged down, either," Lord Lycano''s jaw clenched as he said that.

    But he extended his hand to offer her assistance as she went down the carriage.

    Marina just tilted her nose and went down herself. "So you are still smitten with that female human?" she thought out loud.

    "As you are with the King," Lord Lycano rebutted back. "After you, my lady," he gallantly pointed the way to the entrance to the Manor.

    Marina''s eyebrows knitted together as she stomped her feet inside their desired location.

    ''How can we work together if we''re opposite poles apart?'' she gritted her teeth. But as she recalled his ideas, she realized that two heads are better than one. She might have to bear with their differences. And her physical attraction towards him?

    She shook her head as she realized how complicated her situation is.

    Fortunately, the Valeros warmly welcomed them. To her surprise, they even prepared a sumptuous meal for them, taking her mind off from thinking too much.

    "We are fortunate to be blessed with the presence of two members of the Royal Council here in our humble home. Please make yourself at home," Lord Varo said as he led them to the dining table.

    Lord Varo was the head of the Valero Household. They came from the Faunus Clan. They can stand up like humans, but they have extremities and horns like goats.

    They usually live apart from the other Clans. But they are well-loved by the Gaeans not just for their helpful nature. But their persuasive words that could make anyone with a fixed belief trust what they were saying.

    "It is good to see you up and well, Lord Varo. I heard you became ill. We came here to bring you some Psidium. It might help with your fast recovery," Lord Lycano said with his lips curved up into a kind smile, making his devilish face appear gentler.

    Marina''s eyebrows both shot up. She was not expecting that he was ready for this visitation.

    She cleared her throat as she pulled up the basket that she brought with her during the trip. "I also baked some bread made with viciam. Cordelia told me that they are good for those with stomach ailments," she smiled sweetly to Lord Varo, making him laugh uncomfortably.

    "You are most kind, my lord, my lady. You should not have even thought about these. Your presence is already enough,"  he humbly bowed down to them.

    "It is our pleasure to serve one of the most notable citizens of Gaea. The King could have been here too if he wasn''t entertained with his new wife," Lord Lycano chuckled, hoping he would make things lighter.

    Marina immediately threw a death stare at Lord Lycano as if reminding him about what they talked about a while ago concerning the reputation of the King.

    Fortunately, Lord Varo seemed to be on her side as he stated, "I understand the King. He has a lot of duties to even make time for a simple citizen such as me. What I am bothered about was his new relationship with his wife. This kind of disease has never happened to us before. I don''t know if it indeed was a coincidence or if the female human has brought bad luck with her."

    He was thinking out loud, making Marina smirk as she gave a winning glare at Lord Lycano, who was pressing his lips to control himself.

    Marina thought that Lord Lycano would counterattack what Lord Varo said. But to her surprise, he uttered, "Maybe, you''re right. I also wonder why the Great Theos allowed her to stay in Gaea. I thought he knew everything. He must have known that this would happen."

    Marina almost got choked with the juice that she was drinking at that moment. He was absolutely committed to moving on with their plan. Her apprehension against him somehow ebbed away.

    "That was a good start," Marina praised him as they went back to the carriage after their visit.

    She finally accepted his hand as he assisted her to her seat.

    "Do I have a prize for that?" His lips curved up in a seductive smile, as he climbed up the carriage, purposely sitting beside her.

    Marina''s heart pumps erratically as she feels his warmth beside her.

    But seeing his actions a while ago and the positive outcome from it, her resolve was strengthened to not be swayed by his charm.

    Lord Varo started to question the Great Theos'' decision as well. It wouldn''t take long before that skepticism in him and their relationship would circulate the noble society in Gaea.

    "Your prize is gaining the noble''s side.. And my support for your other agendas, too," Marina said with a confident smile as she glanced outside the window, overseeing the picturesque land of Gaea, being a little unaffected of his nearness to her anymore.

 Chapter 99 - A Man In A Mask

    Meanwhile, Emilio was interrogating one of the royal kitchen servants who were assigned to prepare the food during the wedding ceremony.

    The servant was sweating profusely as he wiped his hands in his apron unconsciously. Emilio could hear his heart beat at a fast rate while his eyes darted from left to right.

    Emilio was also tense as he narrowed his eyes at him. His feet were spread apart in a wide stance as he observed him.

    He learned that this man was supposed to be present during that time. But he was absent, and another man filled him in.

    "I swear to the Great Theos, my lord. I didn''t know that the man had a fake identity. I thought he was part of the royal kitchen staff," he stuttered before biting his bloodless lips.

    His feet were slowly scuffling backward, as if he was looking for a way out. But the royal guards at his back pointed their spear at him.

    "Being replaced on duty unknowingly is already a grave offense. But allowing a stranger inside the royal kitchen? That is capital punishment," Emilio reminded him in case he forgot the rules of the Castle.

    "Please have mercy on me, my lord!" the servant fled to his knees and bowed down before him. "I only wanted to be present on my son''s birthday. I didn''t know that things would end this way," he put his palms together and rubbed them as he pleaded for his pity.

    But Emilio wasn''t affected. How many absences did his father do during his birthday because he was not neglectful of his duties?

    When he was young, he didn''t understand. But now that he was in the governmental position, he finally appreciated it. And he wanted to be the same as his father, honorable and dutiful until his last breath.

    "You may not know his actual name. But you surely must have seen his face. Describe him to our men, so they can draw his face," Emilio commanded him.

    "But, my lord. All of us are wearing masks during that time. I was not really planning to be absent during the preparation. I was already in my uniform when he said he would cover for me, so I can attend my son''s birthday,"  the man continued to explain with his head still bowed down.

    Emilio''s eyes glared at the begging man in front of him.

    The bell in the royal kitchen signaled that the afternoon meal was ready. And to be honest, Emilio was starving even before his confrontation with the man.

    But he was oblivious of all that right now.

    His temperature was shooting up to the highest degree, he could feel his blood pulsating within his veins.

    "How could you be so clueless? That was a major event in the Castle, and almost all the nobles in Gaea are there! It was definitely an opportune time for an enemy to attack," Lord Emilio gritted his teeth as he clenched his fist.

    He wanted to slash the servant with his feathers, but he controlled himself. He was the only witness to the person who disguised himself as a kitchen servant.

    There might not be evidence that he was the culprit. But he was the oddest one out of the story.

    "I apologize, my lord. I should have thought about that since we have a female human in the Castle. It has been decades that we live in peace. It didn''t occur in my simple mind that anyone would be in trouble by my attending my son''s birthday," the man continued to reason out, making Emilio draw out his sword and put it on his neck.

    "If you don''t stop spitting unreasonable excuses, I''m going to cut your tongue for good!" Emilio snarled at him, making him clamp his lips hard while beating his head to the ground.

    "You might have not seen his face. But you heard his voice, you saw his height, his stance, his complexion, his species. Tell it to the guards now!" Emilio bellowed before walking away.

    "Wait, my lord! Where are they taking me?" The man shouted behind his back as the guards dragged both his arms away.

    "You will stay in the dungeons until the culprit has been found!" Emilio answered him immediately.

    Then he stormed out to the guard house. As he did so, he inhaled a lungful of air. "I shouldn''t have been lenient with the Castle''s security," he pressed his lips as he also blamed himself that a trespasser had entered and exited the Castle.

    He was focused on dealing with a possible physical war, and he neglected that there could be an internal one as well.

    "But who could be the instigator of it?" He contemplated before reaching his next plan of action.

    "Have you traced the whereabouts of the man with the fake identity, inside the Castle?"

    "Yes, my lord," the head of the royal guards immediately answered. "He was not seen anywhere around the Castle except the royal kitchen and the storage house for grains."

    Emilio nodded as he thought that the Riso was their only target in the Castle. That means that the sickness that was prevailing was intentional.

    ''But what could be the purpose behind it? If this is a war, the nobles must be dead already. But it was only a temporary case. They have already gotten better after drinking Gingiberi tea,'' Emilio continued to ponder.

    "However, my lord, we weren''t able to know where he went after he left the Castle," he added.

    Emilio nodded as he replied. "I will take care of that."

    Immediately, his wings shot up. He flew to the headquarters of the Nephilus watchmen and gave them the information that the man gave him.

    "Find this man and bring him to me alive," Emilio ordered.

    Actions All the Nephilus watchmen bowed their heads and immediately complied.

    As he watched them fly, that''s the only time that he could somehow breathe normally.

    He was about to return to the Castle when he saw Rosalia on the ground, gazing at him.

    As soon as their eyes met, she gave him a warm smile.

    *********************************

    When solving problems, dig at the roots instead of just hacking at the leaves.

 Chapter 100 - A Horrifying Premonition

    Emilio flew down from the Castle''s high corridors and went to where Rosalia was.

    Lady Aisha must have had her lunch and was resting in her Chambers, that is why Rosalia was free to roam around.

    "You are working very hard for this case, my lord," Rosalia bowed down to her as soon as his feet landed on the ground. Her smile, shedding light on his heavy heart.

    He was discouraged to learn that the disease spreading among the nobles was intentional, and it passed through his senses without him noticing.

    He opened his mouth and was about to speak up when he realized that he shouldn''t divulge confidential information to anyone other than the King.

    He decided to say another thing instead of what he wanted to say. "Thank you, Rosalia. Is Lady Aisha all right?"

    As he recalled, she was not feeling well, which is why she and the King had their breakfast in the Royal Chancery.

    Because of that, he wasn''t able to know if Lady Aisha''s idea regarding the nobles'' condition was approved by the King.

    "Yes, she''s fine, my lord. The royal physician said that she was just exhausted and needed to rest for a day or two," she beamed at him, relieving Emilio.

    Emilio was about to ask Rosalia whether she had eaten her afternoon meal when a messenger came to them.

    "A letter from the Lord Pahaliah, my lord," the messenger bowed down to him.

    Emilio''s eyebrows knitted as he was not expecting to receive a message from his grandfather.

    He glanced at Rosalia who was also gazing at the letter with curiosity. But as soon as she noticed his stare, she immediately bowed down and bid her farewell. "I was about to go to the poultry to get some eggs for milady. I hope you will solve this issue soon, my lord."

    Then she scurried away together with the messenger.

    Emilio drew in a deep breath as he watched Rosalia walk away. He really wanted to spend more time with her.

    But his grandfather must have some important message, too.

    He opened the envelope and read the letter. He was asking him to meet him at Market Town now.

    "Market Town?" Emilio repeated to himself. "What task does he need me to do again?"

    He heaved out a sigh as he recalled that whenever his grandfather would lecture him, he would always bring him to Market Town.

    He rubbed the back of his neck as he felt reluctant to go. But it was Lord Pahaliah, the leader of the Eliud household.

    "I''m already old for this," he grumbled. But he immediately went to the Market Town as he submitted to his grandfather''s will.

    The town was crowded at that time, but it wasn''t difficult to spot Lord Pahaliah even in his disguise.

    "How can you even put a broken clay pot for sale? The people might get injured because of your negligence," he was growling at the poor merchant who was just scratching his head.

    "You never change, grandfather," Emilio teased him as soon as he landed on his feet.

    Lord Pahaliah lifted his eyeglasses and peeked at him behind his back. "And so do you, Emilio," he grunted as he turned back and walked away, expecting Emilio to follow him.

    Emilio couldn''t help but smile. Even in his old age, he was still in his perfectionist hat.

    He glanced around and, as he expected, there were some of Lord Pahaliah''s guards lurking around the area, protecting him from afar.

    "An uprising rebellion greater than the former ones is about to happen. Do your best to take care of the King and the land will be safe," he uttered in almost a whisper, knowing Emilio''s ears could hear it.

    Emilio froze on his feet for a few minutes at what he heard. His heart almost came to a stand still.

    ''Have I heard it right? The issue with the nobles seemed to be chaotic. But Lord Pahaliah made it sound like the whole Gaean land would vanish in existence,'' Emilio pondered as he walked on. But he was getting left behind.

    Even though Lord Pahaliah doesn''t have clear evidence that what he was saying is true, Emilio trusted his words. There were already numerous situations where Lord Pahaliah had predicted what would happen, including the Great Theos'' choice of King Leandro as the King of Gaea.

    "Emilio," Lord Pahaliah called on him, making him dash forward in compliance. And also, so he could ask what was bothering him.

    Lord Pahaliah was already a meter away from him and seemed to be walking towards the bridge.

    As he saw Emilio bolting to where he was, he turned around and continued to walk ahead.

    As soon as he reached his side, Emilio immediately asked him, "Is that connected with the Spelta and Riso issue, my lord?"

    "It is even greater than that. It is enough for the King to be overthrown from his rulership. You should watch the people around him and be prepared yourself," he whispered again.

    His face was void of emotions, making anyone think that he was having a friendly conversation with his grandson.

    But Emilio''s face was pale white as if his grandfather was whispering threats of murder in his ears.

    This time, Emilio couldn''t even swallow or blink.

    "Who would dare do such a thing?" He uttered as he realized how grave the situation is.

    He finally understood why he was having uneasy feelings these past few days.

    He was about to ask whether Lady Aisha was involved with it when an unexpected situation occurred while they were having a conversation.

    A man who appeared out of nowhere dashed to where they were in the middle of the streets.

    He seemed to be escaping from someone who was running after him.

    "Stay back, my lord," Emilio immediately drew his sword to protect his grandfather.

    But what he didn''t realize was that the man has powers.

    He pushed Emilio and Lord Pahaliah, together with the other consumers in the Market with a powerful force using just his hands.

    All of them were thrown off balance. But Emilio was able to stand up quickly.

    His eyes didn''t leave the man. He was about to follow after him when Lord Pahaliah spoke in a weak voice, "Help me, Emilio."

    Emilio immediately turned back. His jaw dropped as he saw his grandfather''s leg full of blood.

    **********************************

    Early and provident fear

    Is the mother of safety.

 Chapter 101 - Switching Places

    The whole Market Town went disorderly after being disturbed by an uninvited passerby. The previous noise of people turned even louder as they argued who the man could be and why the royal guards were after him.

    The stores'' goods were damaged. Some of them were broken and different kinds of smells filled the air. Some people were also hurt.

    But Emilio was oblivious of them. His shaking hands immediately reached out to touch Lord Pahaliah''s leg that was covered with blood.

    "A-are you all right, my lord?" he stuttered as he watched Lord Pahaliah wince in pain. Some of his guards were already surrounding him. The others went to catch the man who created the chaotic scene.

    "I can manage," Lord Pahalia tried to stand up as Emilio assisted him. But he wasn''t able to do so as he growled in discomfort.

    Emilio gulped, a lump in his throat, and glanced away. He couldn''t bear to see his old man hurt in that way.

    "Wait here, my lord," he said as his eyes searched for something where he could place his feet on, so he could check his leg.

    As he did so, he gave a command to one of Lord Pahaliah''s guards in a thundering voice, "Bring the nearest physician here at once!"

    "Yes, my lord!" The guards immediately complied.

    As far as he knew, a physician was assigned in the Market Town to care for emergency cases such as this.

    Fortunately, there was a stool nearby. Emilio quickly picked it up and bolted back to where Lord Pahaliah was. He lifted his foot to the stool, so he could open his undergarments and see what happened.

    To his surprise, a piece of wood was stuck in between his bones, creating excruciating pain.

    Emilio''s face couldn''t help but grimace. It was an ugly sight, and it was imprinted on his grandfather, the person that raised him when his father died.

    His jaw clenched as his eyes darted in the direction where the man ran to. He could kill that man right then and there.

    "Go after him," Lord Pahaliah nodded his head as he prodded him on.

    Emilio was taken aback by Lord Pahaliah''s statement that he couldn''t help but comment, "But you''re injured, my lord. I couldn''t leave you like this."

    "I would rather you catch that culprit and prevent him from harming others than staying when you couldn''t do anything. The physicians would be here anytime. Go! You didn''t become a Nephilus for nothing," Lord Pahaliah prodded him as he tried to remove the debris from his legs.

    Emilio nodded his head as he knew what Lord Pahaliah wanted even without him telling him.

    He stood up and, with his bare legs, he ran to where the man went. He would not go home unless that man would come with him to the dungeons!

    However, the royal guards who were running after him were already coming back. Emilio stopped in his tracks.

    "What is happening? Have you caught him?" he asked immediately.

    But the royal guards just shook their heads. "He jumped into the Fluvio River, sir," one of them reacted.

    The Fluvio River is one of the most dangerous rivers in Gaea. Whoever happens to even put a foot in it is eaten alive by the river.

    Emilio''s shoulders drop in defeat. ''Why would death snatch him from me?''

    Emilio felt like a bucket of cold water was poured to his head and drenched him to his toes.

    His grandfather was injured, and he wasn''t able to protect him. And now he couldn''t even get his revenge on his perpetrator.

    "This was all your fault, Emilio. If only you are more agile, you could have prevented this," he hit his head in condemnation.

    Thoughts about the sickness that is circling the wedding ceremony guests came back to his mind, too, adding to the turmoil that was eating away his faith in himself.

    After a few minutes of internalization, he finally drew in a deep breath and decided to fight back.

    "Why are you running after him, anyway?" He asked the royal guards. He was in disguise, so the royal guard must have no idea that he was talking to the King''s personal watchman himself.

    "He was on the wanted list, sir. Some guards said that he seemed to be the culprit who put poison on the noble guests during the King''s ceremony," the royal guard responded.

    Emilio''s eyes widened in bewilderment. "The man who made the nobles sick is also the same man who injured my grandfather? Being eaten up by the Fluvio River is too comfortable for him!"

    He immediately went back to Lord Pahaliah and made sure that he was attended by a physician, and was safely carried to his Manor. Then he went to the royal kitchen servant who switched places with the now dead criminal.

    "Banish him from Gaea!" He ordered the royal guard, who was assigned to keep him in the dungeons, with a bellowing voice.

    "Yes, my lord," the guard bowed down to him and immediately did as he was told.

    However, he didn''t realize that the young son of the man was also there, crying as he saw his father in jail and now was being banished, vanishing from his sight forever.

    "I beg of you, my lord. Please forgive my father for his mistake. Please let my father stay. I will just switch places with him," he dropped on his knees and put his head on the ground.

    Emilio was baffled at the son''s reaction. He seemed to be only ten years old. And he seemed to be the birthday celebrant.

    But Emilio''s mind was blackened by his anger at the masked man who almost got his grandfather killed.

    "What is wrong with your family, old man? Do switching places run in your blood?" he grimaced at the royal kitchen servant before facing the boy.

    "Look, kid. Your father made a bad decision to switch places with someone. Because of that, an old and respected man in Gaea was hurt. Do you still want to switch places with him and repeat what he did someday?"

    The boy nodded vigorously. But Emilio shook his head. "Well, unlike you, I don''t want to make the same mistake again. Do as I ordered!" His voice bellowed in the dungeons, making the prisoners cower in fear.

    *****************************

    Man is everywhere a disturbing agent.. Wherever he plants his foot, the harmonies of nature are turned to discords. - Author: George Perkins Marsh

 Chapter 102 - Rest For A While

    A few hours ago in the Castle¡­

    "Is the lady still sleeping?" Leandro asked Rosalia in a worried tone.

    He wasn''t used to visiting his consort''s chambers often. But he couldn''t keep count of the number of times that he has visited Lady Aisha''s since their last conversation at the Royal Chancery.

    "Yes, your Majesty," Rosalia bowed down to him.

    Leandro drew in a deep  breath as he pinched his lower lip. It has been a day or two and Lady Aisha was not leaving her Chamber, which was so unlike her.

    He glanced at the closed door of the Chamber, hesitating if he would wake her up or not.

    "Do not worry about milady, my lord. She''s a strong woman. I believe she will be back to her usual self in no time," Rosalia took courage to speak, perhaps trying to alleviate his distress.

    To their surprise, they heard her familiar voice calling out for her servant, "Rosalia."

    Leandro immediately came in with Rosalia to check on her. To his relief, she seemed back to her old self.

    She was pulling her hair up when they came in. But her extremities  immediately covered her torso as soon as she saw him.

    "W-what are you doing here, your Majesty?" her wide copper eyes were staring at her in surprise.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips couldn''t help but lift as he recalled that exact response when he also came to her room unannounced.

    "It seems that you''re finally feeling well. I''m relieved. You can dress now. I''m on my way out of the Castle, too," he responded.

    The ministers were waiting for him to discuss the recent situation among the nobles.

    He was just really there to check on her status.

    Leandro was about to turn and walk away when Lady Aisha stopped her.

    "Wait! I would like to tell you something, your Majesty," Lady Aisha said in a solemn voice.

    Then she scurried towards the dressing room and fitted on a gown and washed her face.

    Leandro''s eyebrows knitted as he gazed at Lady Aisha. ''What would she say after being bedridden for a few days?''

    Leandro paced back and forth. He knew that the meeting was about to start. And he was never late. He was usually an hour earlier than the scheduled time.

    But before he knew it, Lady Aisha was back, faced the servants and said, "Please leave us."

    Rosalia and the other female servants all bowed their heads and went out of the Chamber.

    To his astonishment, Lady Aisha jumped to her feet and put her arms around him.

    "I miss you, your Majesty. I just want to feel you again," she snuggled at his chest like a little kitten who saw her master again.

    Leandro wanted to step back as his heart was beating so loudly. Aisha''s eardrums might break.

    To be honest, he longed for this moment, too. He could feel Lady Aisha''s warm soft body and smell her comforting scent.

    He wanted to stay a little bit longer. But he still has to do his responsibilities.

    "Thank you again for taking care of me, your Majesty. I will always be grateful that God gave me a second chance in life here in Gaea. I couldn''t ask for more," Aisha whispered without lifting her head.

    As she said that, Leandro recalled that Aisha''s life was only momentary.

    She was not an immortal and this situation can happen again.

    He slightly withdrew, so he could look at her face.

    She was smiling at him. Every part of her face beamed with serene beauty, calming his weary heart.

    "It is I who should thank you for coming here to Gaea. But I ask you a favor. Please take care of yourself. Do not let yourself get this exhausted again," he said, with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

    Lady Aisha''s lips turned down as she tried to reason out with him. "I wasn''t aware of it, your Majesty. I promise. I used to feel energetic even with little hours of sleep. I don''t know why I got sick all of a sudden."

    Then she turned towards him and bowed her head, "I''m sorry if I cause you trouble, your Majesty."

    With her reaction, Leandro immediately responded. "That is because the climate, atmosphere, and temperature here in Gaea are different from yours. But the physician said you will get used to it. Have you been drinking the medicine that he gave you?"

    Lady Aisha immediately nodded her head.

    "Yes, sir! I mean, your Majesty," she grinned at him. Then she exaggeratedly breathed out a lungful of air.

    "I thought I''m making you worry. Well, is everything okay, your Majesty? You look worn out," she leaned forward and gazed at her with her thick fluttering eyelashes.

    Leandro''s eyes darted away in embarrassment at her straightforward manner.

    To add up to his awkwardness, Lady Aisha''s hand shoots up. "I know! Come on," she pulled his hand and dragged him to her bed.

    He wasn''t used to being dragged. And if it wasn''t Lady Aisha, he would push her away immediately.

    But it was her. And he felt that he liked where it was going.

    She made him sit down on her lap.

    His head was on her warm thighs and his eyes gazed on her sweet face.

    "Now you tell me what is going on while I''m a Sleeping Beauty while I''m massaging your tensed face," she ordered him as her fingers pinched his cheeks.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped at her audacity. No one has dared touch the King''s face!

    If the guards see this right now, they will immediately put Lady Aisha in the dungeons!

    He, too, was astounded at her boldness.

    He was about to stand up, but Lady Aisha''s meticulous fingers were magically softening out the tensed muscles in his head.

    His eyes went heavy, making him close his eyes.

    **********

    "Sometimes you have to give your body a break before it breaks you. I mean, you have to rest your body before it arrests you with sickness. Rest to restart and break to breakthrough."

    ¨D Ned Bryan Abakah

 Chapter 103 - Just A Quickie*

    Warning: Steamy scene ahead! ;)

    *********

    Lady Aisha continued to press her warm fingers on his aching forehead.

    ''How did she know that it has been throbbing lately?'' Leandro thought as he felt like she was loosening the hands that squeezed it dry.

    He continued to relax and let her remove his stress. "If only we could stay like this," he thought out loud.

    "Why not?" Aisha replied immediately. "You can always come to me when you''re tired or exhausted. I know it''s a tiring job being a King and all. You should be the one who should be resting, you know."

    "Oh," Leandro couldn''t help but retreat as Lady Aisha''s hands seemed to be pinching him, as if she was scolding him for being a naughty boy.

    He couldn''t help but be reminded of Olivia, the person that he grew up to be with as his mother.

    He didn''t know if he would be annoyed or thrilled with Lady Aisha''s straightforwardness. But he likes the feeling of someone caring for the person inside the royal suit.

    Feeling warm inside, he suddenly stood up and faced her. With his face only a foot away from her, he asked, "What if I come to you for a different reason? Would you still let me come into your room?"

    He knew that she understood what he meant when he saw her face turning to crimson red. He thought she would make up excuses. But with her personality, he thought that he should not be surprised at all whenever she says what is in her heart to him.

    "Of course! I would love that, too," she shyly grinned as her eyes darted away.

    Seeing her react positively to his request, makes him inhale a lungful of air. Then he drew near to her and pressed his lips on hers.

    Lady Aisha was surprised at first. But she closed her eyes. Leandro closed his as well as he savored that sweet little flesh again.

    Lady Aisha leaned back on her bed until she was lying down, and he was on top of her.

    To his surprise, she was more passionate this time, making him lose his breath. He slightly pulled away and gazed at her with her still opened mouth.

    "You sure have rested a lot, my lady," Leandro teased her, making Lady Aisha bite her lips and smile.

    "I just really miss you, your Majesty. You know that I am really expecting a honeymoon week. But we only got a few hours for ourselves. It''s not that I''m complaining. I know you have a lot to do. But you know, maybe a quick moment like this would be okay?" she beamed at him.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips lifted as he gazed at her flushed face. She was like a child who just got a new toy.

    He was a bit hesitant to make love with her, thinking that she had just recovered, but seeing her this way slowly removed his inhibitions. His concern for her was overwhelming, but his desire for her hasn''t ebbed away.

    "As you wish, my lady," he said in a hoarse voice as he went back to kissing her while he removed her undergarments inside her gown.

    All thoughts about the meeting vanished as it was replaced with an insatiable desire to please the lady in front of him and himself as well.

    "Yes, it will be a quickie. I don''t want you to be late for your duty," Lady Aisha responded as she put her arms around him and even drew him nearer to her as her legs helped her remove the blockage to their heated bodies.

    His masculine hand started groping her silky smooth thighs all the way to her center.

    As he expected, she was already wet with her own fluid coming out of her swollen flesh.

    Leandro''s temperature shoots to topnotch. He quickly removed his robe and pulled out his already gigantic rod and pointed it at her entrance.

    Lady Aisha opened her lean legs even wider and lifted her hips up.

    A moan escaped from Leandro''s lips as he watched Lady Aisha''s response and felt her warmness enveloping his erected shaft.

    He pulled it away and inserted it again. This time, it was Lady Aisha who gasped in delight.

    She bit her lips as he thrust his manhood again and again in her soaked flaps.

    He gazed at her lovely face as he did so. And to his surprise, she was also gazing at him directly in the eyes. Her eyes were blazing with passion and desire for him.

    Leandro gulped a lump in his throat as it made him feel something he has never felt before. He couldn''t describe it, but there is one thing that he could say at that moment. He felt like she was the woman that she had been waiting for.

    With their pent-up desire for one another, they immediately reached their peak, feeling satisfied even though it was just a short time.

    Leandro was smiling as he walked towards the throne room, where he would meet with the other royal ministers. He was certain that he was still earlier than the scheduled time.

    But to his surprise, there were already other ministers who were present and waiting for him.

    Leandro cleared his throat as he sat down on his throne, hoping it would clear away the guilt he was feeling for being late for the first time.

    "Why are you early today?" he asked immediately as soon as the ministers returned to their posts.

    "A scene broke out at the Market Town, your Majesty. And Lord Pahaliah was injured," one of them commented, making Leandro stand up from his throne.

    "Who dared do such a thing?" he growled as he felt the veins in his arms constricted. Lord Pahaliah is one of the respected people in Gaea.

    "It was the culprit behind the food poisoning during the wedding ceremony, your Majesty," Lord Emilio answered with his gritted teeth.

    Leandro could feel his fuming head, as Lord Pahaliah was the one who raised up Lord Emilio since his father died.

    But he was somehow relieved that it had been proven that it was not Lady Aisha''s fault. However, there was another remark from one of the ministers as he said, "Forgive me for asking, your Majesty. But do you think this is partly because of the presence of Lady Aisha? Bad things are happening one after another."

    The other ministers nodded their heads in agreement.

    **************************

    "Never surrender your hopes and dreams to the fateful limitations others have placed on their own lives. The vision of your true destiny does not reside within the blinkered outlook of the naysayers and the doom prophets.. Judge not by their words, but accept advice based on the evidence of actual results."

 Chapter 104 - Draft 1

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I will update this the soonest. Thank you for understanding!

    *****

    He has just come back to the Castle after visiting the noble men and women who got sick during the wedding ceremony.

    He didn''t believe their reports at first. He even doubted that the royal physicians were colluding with them to slander their reputation.

    But he saw with his naked eye how they appeared with their sunken eyes and nauseous state.

    It was indeed a disease, which was unfamiliar to him, and absolutely for them. Sickness is very uncommon in Gaea given the rich fertile land and the conducive atmosphere for health and wellness.

    Even with his invigorated life lately because of Lady Aisha''s presence, he couldn''t help but have an inch of doubt.

    ''Have I trusted her too easily?'' He was pondering before Lady Aisha''s servant informed her that she was in Anderida, and she didn''t ask for his permission, making him doubt her all the more.

    Just then, he heard noises from outside the window, which was a meter away from him.

    His heart thumped as he expected that it was Lady Aisha. He immediately went there to verify. But to his dismay, it was just a group of servants who were laughing at a joke.

    It was not surprising since their work hours were already finished, and they were about to retire for the day.

    The bell would soon ring, announcing the desired hour of every working servant.

    But Leandro was not in the mood for fun and laughter.

    "If you have nothing else to do, go back to your quarters!" He boomed, making the servants jump to their feet in response.

    They glanced up and saw the irritable King glaring at them. He was too high up to hear them. But they were not surprised. Their King was a supernatural being after all.

    They immediately scrambled to form a line and bowed down to him before they dispersed like lightning.

    "Why is the King back to his old self again? Does he have issues with his new royal wife?" One of them whispered to another.

    "I don''t know. The King''s attitude indeed changed because of his new wife. I wish they would solve it quickly. I like him better these past few weeks," the servant that she was talking to replied.

    As they were on their way to their rooms, the cause of everyone''s anxiety finally appeared.

    Lady Aisha seemed to witness everything. She immediately went upstairs and bowed down to Leandro, "Forgive my actions, my lord. I should''ve informed you of my whereabouts even if Lord Emilio was already with me."

    Leandro couldn''t help but feel at ease knowing that Lady Aisha was finally within his line of sight.

    He has no idea if he wanted to see her just because he desired to see her. Or because he wanted to know that she was safe since she was still a female human. Or he wanted to confirm to himself that he made the right decision in trusting her.

    He glanced at Lord Emilio, who was also bowing down to him behind her back.

    ''If he was with her, then I don''t need to worry, don''t I?'' he pondered before he faced her again.

    "Where have you been?" he asked in a serious tone. But it was gentler than when he talked with the servants a while ago.

    "I helped a lady give birth to a child," she lifted her head, revealing her beaming face.

    Then she added, "I also bought some herbs for the sick nobles. I already gave them to the lady. But since there were too many, she only used a few of them. Here. I hope these could help."

    Her lips lifted into a sweet smile, slowly melting Leandro''s skepticism against her.

    "Are you certain this would work?" he asked as he gazed at the herbal plants.

    They were brown, with a corky outer layer and pale-yellow scented center. These were Gingiberis. They were commonly used as spices. But he didn''t know if it could cure their illnesses.

    "I don''t really know. But you could try. I read that in one of your books. We also have that plant in our country which could cure common stomach illnesses. I remember our butler used to give that to me when I ate a lot of candies," she chuckled, being back to her bubbly old self.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips twisted up just as a calming wind seemed to pass through him. He didn''t know why he would always be affected whenever she was cheerful.

    He drew in a deep breath before he put his hands behind his back. "Thank you for your warm generosity, my lady. What would you like in exchange?"

    He was expecting her to ask for more freedom, since it is what she seemed to want at that moment, getting out of the Castle and exploring Gaea.

    He even recalled her saying that before and asking him to accompany her, which he refused because of traditions and his obligations.

    Lady Aisha peeked at Lord Emilio as if she was thinking if she would state her desires out loud.

    She made a conclusion to just go over to him and whispered in his ears, "I want to see you enjoy your life, your Majesty. Not as a King, but as a person. I want to see you happy."

    Her words seemed like a spell that froze Leandro at his feet. In his entire lifetime, no one has ever cared for the person behind the crown.

    His amaranthine eyes gazed down at her. Her lips were not grinning from ear to ear. It was more of an expression that even when the whole Gaea would be furious with him for being a useless King, she would still be by his side.

    Leandro unconsciously nodded his head in response to her request.

    *******************************

    Sometimes people only love you for the masks you put on every day.

    Treasure those who love you, even without the mask on.

    They are rare.

 Chapter 105 - Defended

    Aisha was right. They were indeed discussing what happened at Market Town.

    Everyone seemed to be tense as each had their own opinion regarding the matter, including the King and all the royal ministers present.

    "Shouldn''t we just trust the King about this matter, my lady? Someone might catch on to us. This is a grave offense, my lady," Rosalia tattered as her feet scuffled in their hiding place.

    But Aisha remained undaunted. She wanted to know how the meeting would turn out, so she would know what to do.

    "Five minutes, Rosalia. Then we''ll leave, I promise," she continued to eavesdrop from where they were and put her ears to the curtain, so she could hear more clearly.

    She couldn''t keep her feet grounded in her Chamber anyway. She must do something.

    The King and her may have gotten into a higher level of relationship. He has also said that he would try to open his heart to her. But he might still go back on his word.

    As Lord Lycano said, he would do anything for the throne. And it seemed like the throne was being threatened because of her.

    As much as she wanted to stay and just enjoy her life in Gaea, she didn''t want it at the expense of anybody, especially the King.

    "Forgive me for saying this, your Majesty. But this all started when Lady Aisha set foot in Gaea. We didn''t have any situations of this kind before that. I believe there is a reason why the Great Theos didn''t allow humans in Gaea for a certain period of time," a man who looked like a half-goat said.

    The others in the group nodded their heads as well. Someone even said, "At first, I didn''t say anything about the wedding. But it all happened so quickly. I think the heavens do not approve of this union, your Majesty."

    Some others voiced their opinion as well. But none were in favor of her.

    Aisha drew in a deep breath as she turned her back away from them. She didn''t know if she could handle listening to this anymore.

    Whenever her mom and dad fought in front of her, she would either put a headset over her ears or walk away and bar hop with her friends.

    "You''re right, Rosalia. I shouldn''t have come here. I thought I''m Wonder Woman. Silly me, right?" she said as every word that they say were like daggers thrown at her as if they could see her in the shadows.

    She was about to turn away and walk back when she heard the King''s thundering voice.

    "Do not use my wife as a scapegoat for the true criminal! We are wasting time with tales and groundless rumors. What we must be discussing is finding out the mastermind!"

    A powerful wind force swept through the room. If the royal ministers weren''t able to crawl to the ground, they would have been swept away and torn apart together with the curtains.

    Aisha almost forgot to breathe, bewildered by the sudden display of power in a fraction of a second. It was just a gist of his irritated nerves. What more, if he was not controlling himself?

    She recalled the other times that she has witnessed him use his powers unconsciously. Aisha glanced back at him as she felt surreal for being married to a supernatural being. She suddenly felt awe, fear, and reverence all the same time for him.

    But what astounded her more was how he defended her in front of the pressures in front of him. They all have a point. But he still chose to believe in her.

    Her chin lifted as she felt all her confidence return to her. Rosalia might be right. She could trust the King.

    Now that she was certain that she was on the King''s side, she wondered who the mastermind could be.

    ''Is it Lady Marina, my number one enemy since I first met her? Or Lord Lycano, who felt rejected because I didn''t choose him? Or is there someone else? But why?''

    She was thinking about all these when the royal ministers spoke again after regaining consciousness, "Forgive us for our impudence, your Majesty. We deserve to die!"

    They were all kneeling with their heads on the ground, while the King was doing his best to control his rage for the sake of the people in front of him.

    "I am certain that that man is not working alone. Mobilize the royal guards to search for anyone who is related to that man and bring him to me!" he ordered before standing up and leaving the Throne Room.

    "Your grace is endless, your Majesty," all the Royal Ministers hailed repeatedly as he left the room.

    Only then did Aisha could breathe out normally.

    "T-this is the first and the last time that I''ll be doing this, my lady. Even if you kill me, I won''t join you ever again," Rosalia''s voice quivered as if she was about to cry.

    Aisha bit her lips as she squeezed her shoulders. "I''m sorry for scaring you, sweetie. I won''t do this again, I promise."

    She pulled her out of the hidden place and scurried back to her Chamber when she met the King along the hallways.

    Aisha''s feet froze on the spot. She felt Rosalia''s body shiver as they both gazed at the towering ruler in front of them.

    Aisha felt that Rosalia was about to tell the truth in fright. So she spoke at once. "I''ve been looking everywhere for you, your Majesty. I would like to invite you for a cup of tea if you don''t have anything to do."

    Her lips lifted awkwardly as she cleared her throat to prevent her nervousness from showing.

    Leandro''s brooding face went a little soft as he answered, "Not now, my lady. But please refrain from going out of the Castle for the time being. It is for your own good."

    Then he bowed and quickly left with his royal guards.

    Aisha''s smile turned into a sincere one as she finally understood what staying inside the Castle actually means.

    **************************************

    "Raising the sword aloft is sometimes the only way to make the other side stand down."

    ¨D Rehan Khan, A Tudor Turk

 Chapter 106 - Draft 1

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I will update this the soonest. Thank you for understanding!

    *****

    He opened his mouth and was about to speak up when he realized that he shouldn''t divulge confidential information to anyone other than the King.

    He decided to say another thing instead of what he wanted to say. "Thank you, Rosalia. Is Lady Aisha all right?"

    As he recalled, she was not feeling well, which is why she and the King had their breakfast in the Royal Chancery.

    Because of that, he wasn''t able to know if Lady Aisha''s idea regarding the nobles'' condition was approved by the King.

    "Yes, she''s fine, my lord. The royal physician said that she was just exhausted and needed to rest for a day or two," she beamed at him, relieving Emilio.

    Emilio was about to ask Rosalia whether she had eaten her afternoon meal when a messenger came to them.

    "A letter from the Lord Pahaliah, my lord," the messenger bowed down to him.

    Emilio''s eyebrows knitted as he was not expecting to receive a message from his grandfather.

    He glanced at Rosalia who was also gazing at the letter with curiosity. But as soon as she noticed his stare, she immediately bowed down and bid her farewell. "I was about to go to the poultry to get some eggs for milady. I hope you will solve this issue soon, my lord."

    Then she scurried away together with the messenger.

    Emilio drew in a deep breath as he watched Rosalia walk away. He really wanted to spend more time with her.

    But his grandfather must have some important message, too.

    He opened the envelope and read the letter. He was asking him to meet him at Market Town now.

    "Market Town?" Emilio repeated to himself. "What task does he need me to do again?"

    He heaved out a sigh as he recalled that whenever his grandfather would lecture him, he would always bring him to Market Town.

    He rubbed the back of his neck as he felt reluctant to go. But it was Lord Pahaliah, the leader of the Eliud household.

    "I''m already old for this," he grumbled. But he immediately went to the Market Town as he submitted to his grandfather''s will.

    The town was crowded at that time, but it wasn''t difficult to spot Lord Pahaliah even in his disguise.

    "How can you even put a broken clay pot for sale? The people might get injured because of your negligence," he was growling at the poor merchant who was just scratching his head.

    "You never change, grandfather," Emilio teased him as soon as he landed on his feet.

    Lord Pahaliah lifted his eyeglasses and peeked at him behind his back. "And so do you, Emilio," he grunted as he turned back and walked away, expecting Emilio to follow him.

    Emilio couldn''t help but smile. Even in his old age, he was still in his perfectionist hat.

    He glanced around and, as he expected, there were some of Lord Pahaliah''s guards lurking around the area, protecting him from afar.

    "An uprising rebellion greater than the former ones is about to happen. Do your best to take care of the King and the land will be safe," he uttered in almost a whisper, knowing Emilio''s ears could hear it.

    Emilio froze on his feet for a few minutes at what he heard. His heart almost came to a stand still.

    ''Have I heard it right? The issue with the nobles seemed to be chaotic. But Lord Pahaliah made it sound like the whole Gaean land would vanish in existence,'' Emilio pondered as he walked on. But he was getting left behind.

    Even though Lord Pahaliah doesn''t have clear evidence that what he was saying is true, Emilio trusted his words. There were already numerous situations where Lord Pahaliah had predicted what would happen, including the Great Theos'' choice of King Leandro as the King of Gaea.

    "Emilio," Lord Pahaliah called on him, making him dash forward in compliance. And also, so he could ask what was bothering him.

    Lord Pahaliah was already a meter away from him and seemed to be walking towards the bridge.

    As he saw Emilio bolting to where he was, he turned around and continued to walk ahead.

    As soon as he reached his side, Emilio immediately asked him, "Is that connected with the Spelta and Riso issue, my lord?"

    "It is even greater than that. It is enough for the King to be overthrown from his rulership. You should watch the people around him and be prepared yourself," he whispered again.

    His face was void of emotions, making anyone think that he was having a friendly conversation with his grandson.

    But Emilio''s face was pale white as if his grandfather was whispering threats of murder in his ears.

    This time, Emilio couldn''t even swallow or blink.

    "Who would dare do such a thing?" He uttered as he realized how grave the situation is.

    He finally understood why he was having uneasy feelings these past few days.

    He was about to ask whether Lady Aisha was involved with it when an unexpected situation occurred while they were having a conversation.

    A man who appeared out of nowhere dashed to where they were in the middle of the streets.

    He seemed to be escaping from someone who was running after him.

    "Stay back, my lord," Emilio immediately drew his sword to protect his grandfather.

    But what he didn''t realize was that the man has powers.

    He pushed Emilio and Lord Pahaliah, together with the other consumers in the Market with a powerful force using just his hands.

    All of them were thrown off balance. But Emilio was able to stand up quickly.

    His eyes didn''t leave the man. He was about to follow after him when Lord Pahaliah spoke in a weak voice, "Help me, Emilio."

    Emilio immediately turned back. His jaw dropped as he saw his grandfather''s leg full of blood.

    **********************************

    Early and provident fear

    Is the mother of safety.

 Chapter 107 - No Strings Attached*

    Warning: Very steamy scene. If you''re not comfortable, please don''t read! It''s just Lord Lycano and Lady Marina deciding to try out a relationship with no strings attached. ;)

    *******

    "Are you serious, my lady? You want to try to be in a serious relationship with me?" Lycano repeated back to her as he slowly stepped forward, nearer to where she was.

    His eyes were blazing as he gazed at her intently.

    They were still at his Manor and Lord Lyon had already left, leaving the two of them alone in his guest area.

    Marina gulped as her heart galloped like horses in her heart. It was already midafternoon. But she felt like a potato in a cauldron.

    ''Silly you, Marina. What were you even suggesting?'' she scolded herself.

    "Well, I thought it''ll be all right for a show in front of your father, so he won''t mess with our plans. That''s it. Don''t get your hopes up, my lord," she rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

    ''Yes, that''s just it. There''s no other reason behind it,'' Marina resolved to herself.

    But it seemed like Lord Lycano didn''t believe her, as he kept on drawing near her, making her step backward until she reached the couch.

    "I''m just making a joke, my lord. Don''t take it seriously. I know you don''t get in a serious commitment with a woman," she chuckled awkwardly as the atmosphere was slowly changing, and she could feel it.

    "But don''t you want that, my lady? There would be no strings attached," he suggested as he gazed at her lips down to her bosoms, which were a little exposed in her gown. "I wanted to remain formal with you, my lady. But I''m also having a hard time controlling my flesh with you," he added as his eyes raked over her.

    Marina drew in a deep breath as her throat went parched. She already had resolved to herself that she would not get intimate with him again. Why is her body going against her now?

    Seeing that she didn''t react negatively, he made another suggestion. "Why don''t we try to do what serious couples do, now? Maybe it will help us both come up with a decision," Lord Lycano took a plunge on her lips and kissed her hungrily, making Marina gasp in surprise.

    At first, she pushed him away as her eyes darted around the room. There might be servants or guards roaming around, and she felt embarrassed at what they were doing.

    But seeing there were none, her hands slowly weakened as she felt his mouth tasting hers with passion, again.

    To be honest, she missed that taste. She even dreamed of it sometimes. Unlike the last time, they were both at a convenient place right now.

    ''Maybe it isn''t so wrong to experience this every once in a while,'' she thought as Lord Lycano''s hands started touching her body.

    She closed her eyes as she allowed Lord Lycano to fondle her silky bountiful mountains in his rough hands.

    Her mind wandered off to the first time that he fondled her, during the King''s wedding night.

    They were both sober now. And her senses were more heightened. Her head tilted back and rested on the headrest of the couch as her chest heaved up and down.

    But Lord Lycano was not content.

    "Oh," a moan escaped from her lips as he put his fingers inside her undergarment and put one of her swollen breasts inside his mouth.

    "Bolos, don''t stop," she cursed after a quick breath.

    Marina felt like every stressful thought was being washed away as Lord Lycano''s tongue flickered on her peaks and his fingers went in and out of her slippery flesh.

    "If we''ll be in a relationship, I''ll do this to you as often as you want," Lord Lycano responded as his hand started to roughly remove her undergarments, almost tearing them apart.

    Marina nodded her head in a drunken state as she waited for Lord Lycano to insert his bulging maleness inside her ready orifice. "No strings attached, all right? No emotions involved."

    She still doubts it, thinking that it might ruin their plans. But her brain seemed to be not functioning well at that moment.

    "I knew you want it, too," Lord Lycano''s lips curled in a devilish smile as he stepped away only to remove his lower garments.

    Marina also stood up. But it was only to turn over and lean on the headrest.

    She lifted her skirt, and revealed her silken bottoms, making Lord Lycano''s eyes turn red with lust.

    He pointed his swelling manhood on her warm flesh.

    Both of them closed their eyes as they waited for them to be joined together when a messenger cried out from outside the door.

    "Announcing the presence of Lord Varo," Lord Lycano''s servant shouted from outside the door.

    Both of them froze from what they were doing in shock.

    Marina thought that Lord Lycano would pull back. But to her astonishment, he pushed it inside her, making her gasp loudly.

    "But Lord Varo is there. He might have brought news from the royal meeting," she reminded him as she glanced back.

    But like her, Lord Lycano seemed to be in a drunken state too, as his eyes were void of any emotions except for lust. "That can wait," he answered her in a rough voice.

    She wanted to move away. But her eyelashes fluttered as he felt his warm flesh inside hers. She felt like she was lifted to the heavens as he rocked his hips back and forth against hers.

    She couldn''t help but hold on to the headrest firmly as she felt like her knees would give way.

    Marina just decided to just let herself go and just enjoy this moment.

    She would think about what to do later.

    Lord Lycano continued to romp on her until both of them reached their climax.

    ****************************

    Enjoy every moment. Because in life, there are no rewinds. Just flashbacks.. But make sure they are worth it.

 Chapter 108 - Draft 1

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I will update this the soonest. Thank you for understanding!

    *****

    ''Will that impulsion be enough to put distance between us? I don''t want to be swayed by my flesh again,'' she continued to question his actions in the back of her mind.

    Because of their last encounter, she decided to just go on with her plan alone. After some time of thinking, she concluded that she didn''t want to deviate from her course. She didn''t want to be physically intimate with him again. Or it might ruin her plans.

    "Are you listening, my lady?" Lord Lycano said, waking up Marina from her internal struggle.

    "Yes. But don''t ruin the King''s image with your schemes. It wasn''t his fault, but the female human''s anyway," she rolled her eyes.

    As she did so, she felt the carriage slowly halting down. She glanced outside and saw the grand Manor which housed the Valeros household.

    They were indeed a family of noble wealth, as their residence looked like a mini version of the King''s Castle.

    "I will find a way. But I don''t want Lady Aisha''s name to be dragged down, either," Lord Lycano''s jaw clenched as he said that.

    But he extended his hand to offer her assistance as she went down the carriage.

    Marina just tilted her nose and went down herself. "So you are still smitten with that female human?" she thought out loud.

    "As you are with the King," Lord Lycano rebutted back. "After you, my lady," he gallantly pointed the way to the entrance to the Manor.

    Marina''s eyebrows knitted together as she stomped her feet inside their desired location.

    ''How can we work together if we''re opposite poles apart?'' she gritted her teeth. But as she recalled his ideas, she realized that two heads are better than one. She might have to bear with their differences. And her physical attraction towards him?

    She shook her head as she realized how complicated her situation is.

    Fortunately, the Valeros warmly welcomed them. To her surprise, they even prepared a sumptuous meal for them, taking her mind off from thinking too much.

    "We are fortunate to be blessed with the presence of two members of the Royal Council here in our humble home. Please make yourself at home," Lord Varo said as he led them to the dining table.

    Lord Varo was the head of the Valero Household. They came from the Faunus Clan. They can stand up like humans, but they have extremities and horns like goats.

    They usually live apart from the other Clans. But they are well-loved by the Gaeans not just for their helpful nature. But their persuasive words that could make anyone with a fixed belief trust what they were saying.

    "It is good to see you up and well, Lord Varo. I heard you became ill. We came here to bring you some Psidium. It might help with your fast recovery," Lord Lycano said with his lips curved up into a kind smile, making his devilish face appear gentler.

    Marina''s eyebrows both shot up. She was not expecting that he was ready for this visitation.

    She cleared her throat as she pulled up the basket that she brought with her during the trip. "I also baked some bread made with viciam. Cordelia told me that they are good for those with stomach ailments," she smiled sweetly to Lord Varo, making him laugh uncomfortably.

    "You are most kind, my lord, my lady. You should not have even thought about these. Your presence is already enough," he humbly bowed down to them.

    "It is our pleasure to serve one of the most notable citizens of Gaea. The King could have been here too if he wasn''t entertained with his new wife," Lord Lycano chuckled, hoping he would make things lighter.

    Marina immediately threw a death stare at Lord Lycano as if reminding him about what they talked about a while ago concerning the reputation of the King.

    Fortunately, Lord Varo seemed to be on her side as he stated, "I understand the King. He has a lot of duties to even make time for a simple citizen such as me. What I am bothered about was his new relationship with his wife. This kind of disease has never happened to us before. I don''t know if it indeed was a coincidence or if the female human has brought bad luck with her."

    He was thinking out loud, making Marina smirk as she gave a winning glare at Lord Lycano, who was pressing his lips to control himself.

    Marina thought that Lord Lycano would counterattack what Lord Varo said. But to her surprise, he uttered, "Maybe, you''re right. I also wonder why the Great Theos allowed her to stay in Gaea. I thought he knew everything. He must have known that this would happen."

    Marina almost got choked with the juice that she was drinking at that moment. He was absolutely committed to moving on with their plan. Her apprehension against him somehow ebbed away.

    "That was a good start," Marina praised him as they went back to the carriage after their visit.

    She finally accepted his hand as he assisted her to her seat.

    "Do I have a prize for that?" His lips curved up in a seductive smile, as he climbed up the carriage, purposely sitting beside her.

    Marina''s heart pumps erratically as she feels his warmth beside her.

    But seeing his actions a while ago and the positive outcome from it, her resolve was strengthened to not be swayed by his charm.

    Lord Varo started to question the Great Theos'' decision as well. It wouldn''t take long before that skepticism in him and their relationship would circulate the noble society in Gaea.

    "Your prize is gaining the noble''s side.. And my support for your other agendas, too," Marina said with a confident smile as she glanced outside the window, overseeing the picturesque land of Gaea, being a little unaffected of his nearness to her anymore.

 Chapter 109 - Resentments

    A cool early evening breeze separated Emilio and Rosalia. They were still far from the Cenatio where dinner was waiting for him.

    It was nice of her to ask him out and express her concern for him and his grandfather. But now she was asking for a frivolous thing. What in the Great Theos'' name would be the reason for him to forgive such a man?

    "I''m afraid. I cannot do that. There might be Gaeans who were affected negatively by rage. But there were also some who, when fueled by it, accomplished great things," he said in a determined manner of his belief regarding this matter.

    He lifted his chin and squared his shoulder before putting his hands behind his back.

    Rosalia chuckled uncomfortably as she tilted sideways. "Of course, my lord. I am only suggesting. Let us go? My lady might be looking for me." she pointed back to the path going to the Cenatio.

    As they continued walking, Emilio thought about what she said. There is a possibility that what she was saying might be true. He also has witnessed people who got caught up in wrath that they ended up either in jail or banished from Gaea.

    However, he believed it would not happen to him. He has pure intentions to protect Gaea from enemies of any sort no matter what the cost. As their Clan always did.

    He decided to just shift the topic and glanced at Rosalia, "How about you? Have you experienced hating someone?"

    Rosalia froze for a fraction of a second before she answered in a steady and low-pitched voice, "I did. But it''s eating me up inside, so I decided to let go and just live my life."

    She drew in a deep breath as she tilted her head. Emilio noticed that her hands were balled up in fists.

    Emilio''s head scrunched up as she pondered about his answer. Who could be that person that she hated so badly and destroyed her heart?

    Before they hired servants, they checked everyone''s background status. Rosalia may have come from a poor family. But they never have issues with anyone. If Rosalia has passed the assessment, then she is qualified.

    ''Maybe it''s not a family issue?'' Emilio thought.

    It seemed like Rosalia had no plans of opening up about it as she kept her lips pressed while they walked.

    "At least, now, you are happy. Am I right?" Emilio decided to take the conversation in a positive light, so she would not think about what happened then anymore.

    "Yes, I am. That is why I want to thank you, my lord, for taking me in and making me Lady Aisha''s chamber lady," she grinned as she faced him and bowed down at him.

    Her eyes were shining as she said that. Her demeanor also changed from being melancholic to optimistic.

    "You are a hardworking and efficient servant. You deserve to be promoted to a higher rank," he genuinely complimented her.

    ''Whatever happened in her past, at least she came out victorious. Maybe letting go of resentment isn''t so bad,'' Emilio thought.

    But thinking about applying it in his situation makes him feel like he is a weak being.

    ''Should I just let the issue go and leave the punishment to the Tribal Council?

    The Tribal Council might even be a part of that plan, heaven forbids,'' he contemplated.

    They were already nearing the Cenatio and from where they were, it seemed like Lady Aisha was in big trouble.

    It was normal for the Cenatio to have other people besides her since there were other lords and ladies who either lived or visited the Castle for different purposes.

    But Lady Aisha seemed to have picked an unlucky timing, as the other consorts were also eating there at that time.

    He has no idea if she has a good relationship with them or not.

    Like someone was listening to his previous thoughts, a royal guard came rushing to him.

    "I have been looking for you, my lord. We have some news about the man''s whereabouts," the guard reported.

    He almost choked as he spoke and caught his breath. It seemed like he came from a far land.

    Rosalia butted in and replied, "I better be going now, my lord. I will just tell my lady that you are joining her later." Then she scampered away.

    He wanted to go with her and defend Lady Aisha from them in case they bully her. But this is more important to him.

    ''Maybe they wouldn''t do that to her anyway,'' he concluded as he faced the messenger of good news.

    "Someone saw the man described coming out of Lord Lycano''s storehouse near the Market Town, my lord," the guard reported with his hands waving in the air.

    Emilio''s heart thumped faster than its regular rhythm.

    "Does that mean that Lord Lycano was behind this, my lord?" the guard thought out loud, reflecting the very thoughts of Emilio.

    It wouldn''t be a surprise if he did.

    It has been said that Lord Lycano almost started a revolt a decade ago.

    He has proven his innocence then and was able to persuade the royal ministers that he was not capable of doing such a thing.

    But Emilio became wary with him after that.

    Besides, he thinks he is interested in Lady Aisha, seeing how he looks at her during the wedding ceremony.

    ''But if he has affection for her, why would he destroy her reputation?'' Emilio pondered as his feet spread apart in a wide stance, his arms crossed over his chest. ''Is this some form of revenge against her?''

    He drew in a deep breath as he recalled his conversation with Rosalia about living a life with bitterness.

    ''If he is motivated by bitterness, it is either he could conquer the land, or be destroyed by it. I prefer it to be the latter, he concluded before confronting the guard.

    "What is important is we now have a lead," he answered the guard. "I will let the King know about this."

    The guard bowed his head in agreement and went back to his post.

    Meanwhile, Emilio was left thinking by himself.

    *******************

 Chapter 110 - The Other Royal Wives

    Meanwhile, Aisha continued on eating by herself in the Cenatio.

    It was like a large hall but smaller than the dining hall, with round tables for different groups of people who would come and dine.

    Like the rest of the Castle it was elegantly designed with extravagant and poshed materials made with expensive stones and garments.

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 111 - Harem World

    Aisha wanted the ground to open up and eat her right now.

    The Royal Consorts continued to talk about their experiences with the King, naughtily slapping one another as they had fun exchanging their intimate moments.

    She has no right to object or anything, since they were there before her, fulfilling the role that she has just done now. Because of her genuine affection for the King, she forgot the main reason why the King picked her up from the forest. She was there to give him a son.

    Aisha heaved out a sigh as she glanced around the Cenatio with a long look on her face. ''Please stop their nonsense,'' she thought, wishing someone would stand up and encourage the rest to go back to each of their Chambers.

    She didn''t want to take the initiative since it would be too obvious that she was hurt by what they were talking about. Though in reality, she felt like her heart was really down the gutter.

    "It''s all right, my lady. Maybe you need to put a little more to your skin, so the King would be interested during your schedule. Don''t worry, I know a lot of tricks for that," a lady consort winked at her.

    She seemed genuinely concerned that she could catch the King''s attention. But Aisha narrowed her eyes on her.

    She was one of those whom she has talked to before, who told her that the King has visited them only once. And when it is their scheduled time, he would just sleep beside them.

    She wondered why she was acting differently now. Which one was the truth?

    But she decided to pretend and act nicely with them.

    "Thank you, my lady. That would be nice," she pressed on her hands before glancing at the rest. "I thought the King only visits you once. I''m glad that you all seem to be in the King''s favor."

    As she said that, they glanced at each other with knowing looks.

    But Aisha added, "However, I''d rather choose to stay this way, unlike the King. I really don''t want to bear a child right now."

    ''It is true,'' Aisha told herself. ''I am not lying because I really don''t want to have a kid yet,'' she continued to reassure herself.

    It seemed like the faces of the royal consorts turned to curiosity as they all responded in unison. "Why not?"

    Aisha glanced at each one of them, wondering whether she would open up her heart to them. But she chose not. They have already proven that they cannot be trusted when they change statements in front of her alone and in front of each other.

    "I just feel like I''m still too young to be a mother. I want to enjoy life as it is. Gaea is very beautiful. And I haven''t been really out and enjoying the sun since I stepped foot in here, you know," she said, which was partly true. But not entirely the reason.

    "Oh, I feel you!" one of them also said. "Actually, I was just forced by my mother, since royal wives families have advantages in society. That''s why I''m really glad that the King just went into my room once. And that was ages ago," she grinned at them.

    But one of them debated the two of them as she said, "Bearing a child for the King is a very noble job. If only my womb would open up to him, I would gladly bear him five all at the same time at once."

    "You mean quintuplets?" Aisha couldn''t help but chuckle, making the others say in unison again, "Quintuplets?"

    Aisha immediately responded, feeling light somehow as if she was just chatting up with her girlfriends even though her heart was breaking and she was talking to her husband''s other wives.

    "Yes! That happens in our country. I heard the most numbers of a woman giving birth are eight all at the same time," she told them, making their jaws drop.

    "I didn''t know female humans are that strong," one of them commented, which made the others nod their heads.

    As they continued to chat, the curfew bell rang, signaling that everyone should be back in their Chambers before the final bell rang.

    "I want to know more about your world, my lady," one of them said as if she hadn''t heard the curfew bell.

    "Yes, my lady. Why don''t you join us again at the next quarter moon? We usually gather around like this during that time," one of them said, with her face beaming in excitement.

    "That would be great," Aisha responded genuinely. Even though her heart was broken by her stories, it seemed like she somehow made them think positively about her race, which is one of the reasons why she stayed at Gaea.

    They all stood up and went to each of their Chambers in obedience to the set curfew.

    She was already on her way back when she crossed paths with the King.

    It seemed like he had just gotten back to the Castle after a day''s work as a King.

    "Good evening, my lady," his face brightened up as soon as he saw her. His broad shoulders squared up as his chin tilted up.

    He was previously hunched down, but still, his authoritative presence would make anyone who would meet him cower down in case they get on his bad side. But now it seemed like he was changed because of his encounter with her.

    However, Aisha would not be swayed. The stories of the Royal Consorts were still fresh in her brain. In fact, she didn''t want to see him for a month. Or until she has accepted the fact that she now lives in a harem world!

    "Good evening, your Majesty. I hope all is well. May you have a restful sleep," she said in a cold and formal tone before resuming her walk, leaving a stunned King.

    ******************************************

    "The destruction of something beautiful can appear so entertaining."

    ¨D Thomas Sweeney, The Harem

 Chapter 112 - A Jealous Wife

    Aisha heard the female servants rustling in her room. But she covered herself in her thick blanket. She didn''t want to wake up yet.

    The Royal Consorts stories still played in her brain that she even dreamed about them!

    ''I never imagined myself to be married to a polygamous man!'' she screamed inside her head, before furiously shifting to the other side of the bed.

    But then, her face scowled as she thought why she was being like that. She knew from the start that this was the setup. She was the 1007th Lady Consort of the King of Gaea. And she was married to him because she must give him a child.

    ''Why am I being frustrated right now? This wasn''t a problem for me before!'' Aisha grimaced before scuffling and lying on her back, still inside the blanket.

    ''Is it because I am already in love with the King and I am jealous right now?'' her fingers flew to her parted lips.

    "Good morning, my lady," Rosalia greeted her.

    Aisha could sense that Rosalia was just a foot away from her. Still wanting to stay in bed, she pretended that she was still asleep.

    *snore loudly*

    "It seems like Lady Aisha didn''t want to do the royal physician''s requirement of waking up early today," Rosalia told the other female servants, which she could also hear from under the bed.

    ''I just got sick. It''ll be okay. And besides, what''s the sense? I don''t want to bear a child for the King anymore,'' she continued to rant under the blanket.

    Just then, a messenger gave a message from outside the Chamber to Aisha.

    "The King is requesting for the presence of Lady Aisha," he announced in a loud voice, that even when Aisha was still sleeping, she would surely wake up and oblige.

    Aisha pulled the  warm blanket even closer to her as she spoke in a pretentious weak voice, "Please tell the messenger that I feel sick, I cannot come."

    She recalled that the King is genuinely concerned about her health. Perhaps she would not be punished if she used that as an excuse.

    Rosalia bowed down to her and went outside the Chamber. Aisha immediately opened the blanket, jumped from her bed and eavesdropped at the door of her Chamber.

    "Please tell the King that my lady is not feeling well. But she would just dress and be with him in a short while," she told the messenger, to Aisha''s horror and surprise.

    Aisha''s face grew as dim as a cloud of a mighty storm. She put her arms over her chest, surprising Rosalia as she came back after talking with the messenger.

    "I told him what you just said, my lady," she bowed down to her with a quivering voice.

    "You did not," Aisha growled, before stomping away. "I am not coming," she blurted out before sitting at the edge of the bed.

    "Forgive me for saying this, my lady. But no matter what you are feeling about him, he is still the King," Rosalia reminded her before brushing her hair with a boar bristle brush.

    Aisha nodded her head as she agreed with her. She knew Rosalia was listening to her conversation with the Royal Consorts as she was just a foot behind her being her court lady.

    "I know," she sighed. "But you know what happened last night. If you were me, can you really face him right now?" She shrugged up her shoulders and glanced up at her as she waited for her response.

    Rosalia was about to answer when another messenger called out from outside her Chamber. This time, it was her own servants.

    "Lady Sofia, the King''s 87th concubine wants is here, my lady," her servant said, *surprising Aisha and Rosalia as they both darted their heads to the door.

    Then they glanced back at each other before Aisha uttered, "Who is she? What is she doing here?"

    Rosalia''s shoulders lifted as if she was telling her that she has no idea. "We will know if you get dressed now, my lady."

    Aisha nodded her head vigorously in agreement. Like lightning, she dressed and faced Lady Sofia.

    Aisha immediately recognized her as soon as she saw her. She was the one whom she talked to before who changed her statement last night.

    As soon as they sat down in Aisha''s Chamber''s Patio, she immediately stated the reason why she was there.

    "Forgive me for lying to you, my lady. I couldn''t sleep last night because of guilt. I know you have a good relationship with the King. But the other consorts were envious of you," she said without even looking at her.

    Aisha''s eyes widened in surprise. "So they were all playing with me last night? But why do their stories connect together? And it seemed like it was true, since I experienced the same thing myself."

    "To be honest, we were all planning that even before we met at the Cenatio. They combined their personal stories together, so they would be more believable. But the truth is, all of them were just one or two experiences," she smiled awkwardly at her as she darted her eyes away.

    Aisha froze for a minute with her jaw dropped open. "S-so that means the King wasn''t really meeting with you all."

    As it finally dawned on her, her lips lifted into a wide grin.

    She immediately faced Lady Sofia and grabbed her hands. "Oh my gosh, my lady. You''re such a lifesaver. I already thought of filing for a divorce."

    Lady Sofia gave her a curious look. "Divorce?" she repeated to him.

    Aisha''s shoulders shrugged as she responded, "Never mind. Still, thank you for being honest right now. Just as I thought that all potential girlfriends are backstabbers in real life."

    As she said that, Lady Sofia''s lips lifted into a genuine smile. "Well, I just want to help the King, too. He''s been good to us and our family. And all he wants is an heir."

    Aisha nodded her head in agreement. Now she knows where to go to next.

    *************************

    Honesty has a power that very few can handle.

 Chapter 113 - Hiding The Truth

    ROSALIA

    Rosalia''s face lifted as she heard Lady Sofia''s confession. She knew how troubled Lady Aisha was since last night.

    With all her troubles and the whole Gaean land against her, it would be near to impossible for her to conceive a child, even if she was the Chosen One.

    Fortunately, Lady Sofia seemed to be a genuine and sincere person who supported Lady Aisha. She is not that alone.

    After Lady Aisha and Lady Sofia''s short conversation, Lady Aisha went immediately to the Royal Chancery, where the King was.

    It seemed like they were on good terms already since it was taking them a longer time than usual.

    As always, Lord Emilio was there outside the Royal Chancery, with her.

    "A coin for your thoughts?" he said, distracting her from her thoughts.

    Rosalia was surprised as she recalled that she first say that phrase to him. She glanced up at him as she was previously bowing down.

    She was even more astonished as Lord Emilio''s face seemed to be brighter than his usual grim and serious look.

    Her face, which already expressed the gladness in her heart, radiated even more.

    "I''m just happy for my lady, my lord," she answered him honestly, as she saw no reason for not doing so.

    As she said that, she noticed a ray of sunshine penetrating from the windows near to where they are. As she gazed at the window, it seemed to penetrate from a fluff of thick white clouds.

    She couldn''t help but sigh as she commented, "It is true that even after the worst storms, the sun will shine again.

    "Indeed," Emilio nodded as he also gazed at where she was looking with a compressed smile on his face.

    Rosalia''s forehead scrunched up as she recalled that he had an opposite foreboding mood last night.

    She has even tried to lighten up his mood, which she wasn''t really certain if it worked or not.

    It seemed like something happened overnight that was better than her words of encouragement.

    She decided to ask him straight away, "Did something good happen, my lord?"

    Lord Emilio immediately glanced at her, surprised that she asked that question. "You are a brilliant lady, Rosalia. Yes. In fact, it was even a piece of great news. We already have a lead on the culprit behind the food poisoning."

    His eyes sparkled as he said that revealing his enthusiasm with the information that he received.

    ''Who would not be thrilled?'' Rosalia thought. ''Finally, he would find out the mastermind behind the cause of his anxiety.''

    But Rosalia wasn''t excited at all.

    Her face went pallid white as cold sweats began to form on her skin.

    She could hear her own heart like footsteps walking on a wooden floor one quiet night.

    She gulped the lump in her throat which built up as she awaited for what Lord Emilio would say next.

    Lord Emilio glanced at the other female servants and the King''s royal guards who were also with them.

    Seeing that they might divulge the confidential information that he was about to share, he called her to step away and follow him as he walked over to the window with the peeking ray of sunshine.

    Then he opened his mouth and shared with him the exciting news that he was happy about.

    "I received a message last night that a Gaean saw the man sneaking out of Lord Lycano''s storehouse. He seemed suspicious, that was why that person reported him to the local guard that was roaming in that area," Lord Emilio said.

    Then he added, "That local guard didn''t report it to the head at once because Lord Lycano cast the issue away. He said that he didn''t lose any sack and everything was smooth and running. Perhaps it was just one of his men that the reporter must have seen."

    Rosalia nodded her head as she understood why Lord Emilio was elated. Somehow, there is a lead as to who his connections are.

    "Do you think he was an accomplice of Lord Lycano?" she asked to confirm her thoughts.

    She tilted her head up and gazed at him without blinking.

    "Most probably. Lord Lycano has already a history of almost starting a revolt before. If not, why would he be in the storehouse, right?"

    His chiseled jaw clenched as he drew in a deep breath.

    Indeed, Lord Lycano already has a bad reputation. If not for the Great Theos and the King''s grace and pardon, he could have been banned from Gaea, even if there was no proof about his rebellion.

    But they should not just be wary about him. There were also others who were secretly wanting the throne.

    Aisha heaved out a sigh. But her petite lips curved up as she straightened her stance.

    ''At least they would not be suspicious of me anymore,'' she concluded as she said to Lord Emilio, "Just as I said last night, my lord, holding a grudge isn''t always the solution."

    She grinned at him as she now felt finally at peace.

    However, Lord Emilio''s next words almost froze her heart.

    "You''re right. The truth will always come out no matter how much it is concealed," he said in a nonchalant way.

    But Rosalia unconsciously clutched her heart as if it had just been stabbed.

    ''Can I really not escape the truth?'' she bit her lips as that discouraging thought slowly crept into her mind.

    She knew that Lord Emilio wasn''t talking about her. But she felt like it was meant for her.

    Still, she wouldn''t let her true emotions be revealed. She has worked hard enough.

    That saying could not be true for anybody.

    You''re right about that, my lord," she responded with a gleeful smile but it didn''t reach the eyes.

    Fortunately, Lady Aisha came out of the Royal Chancery, saving her from a hard pretense act.

    But she decided to be more cautious than she already was.

    *******************

    Three things cannot be long hidden.

    The sun, the moon and the truth.

 Chapter 114 - Accused?

    MARINA

    Feeling great about her newfound complicated relationship with Lord Lycano and the effectiveness of their plan, Marina decided to shop* around Market Town.

    Her fellow mermaids and mermen were not used to leaving out of the sea at will. Those who were of low status could not even change to a human form. The others need water in just a few hours of being out of it, or else they would die.

    She was given the privilege of being able to transform to a human and back to mermaid form whenever she wanted to as the Lady of the Gaean Seas and a member of the Tribal Council.

    As she glanced around, she noticed different items that her fellow sea creatures would be interested to see.

    One particular item caught her eyes. And it was a vase with its mouth shaped like a mermaid''s tail, and the mermaids were playing with each other at the base.

    "How lovely my buyer is today. For your admirable beauty alone, I could get that for you for half a price, my lady," the seller said in an enticing manner.

    Marina didn''t put anything on her face, so she would look ordinary and not be noticed by anyone. So when she was complimented by the merchant, she was flattered at once.

    With a smile, she was about to bring out an Argentum from her purse, planning to not get the change, when someone spoke beside her.

    "Do not be deceived by its outward appearance, my lady," she said.

    Before she knew it, she picked up the vase and showed her the inside part. They were already marred with cracks.

    Marina''s jaw dropped in surprise. She should have known. But she was deceived by the seller''s flattery.

    She immediately crossed her arms at the seller and smirked at him.

    "Be careful of whom you are talking to, sir. Perhaps, she could be a powerful mermaid who could sink your goods underwater with just a wave of her hand," she cursed at him, making the man''s face pallid white.

    Then she swiveled to the lady beside her and was about to thank her when she realized that she was someone who she didn''t want to meet, even accidentally.

    Her face immediately scowled. "I know it''s broken. I just like its outward design. That''s all." Then she rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

    Meeting her at the Tea Party wasn''t their first encounter. They have confronted each other because of the rumors that they have been saying against her, making her hate them even before the female human arrived at Gaea.

    "I have no problem with that, my lady. I just thought that you might be buying a  fake," she smiled at her awkwardly before she added, "I better be going now. My husband might have not eaten anything yet. He was one of those who were repairing the shops that were broken down last time."

    She lifted a lunch bucket and grinned at her.

    One of Marina''s eyebrows shot up. ''Why is she being nice to me? Does she need anything?'' She gazed at her from head to foot.

    ''She looked shabby, from her hair to her shoes. Of course, she could need a lot of things,'' Marina concluded.

    But her interest was piqued as she mentioned the recent chaos in the Market Town.

    To be honest, she has no idea who the man is and if he works alone, or if he has someone backing him up.

    Knowing that Estella was one of the queens of rumors, she nonchalantly asked her, "Have they found out who the culprit is?"

    She slowly walked to the next shop as if motioning Estella to follow her, in which she obliged.

    Lord Varo has told her and Lord Lycano that the man was already dead. But all the royal guards have been mobilized to search for connections related to the man.

    "It is too late, my lady. The culprit is already dead," Estella excitedly told her, perhaps a manifestation of her love of gossip.

    "I see," Marina shrugged in an indifferent way. But deep inside, she was saying, ''And I thought I would get something out of you.''

    She was about to walk away when Estella added, "Do not worry, my lady. I think they already found someone who was connected to him. But I guess you would have known it by now."

    At her words, Marina immediately swiveled around to face her. "What do you mean by that?"

    Estella''s finger flew to her parted lips. "Oh, you didn''t know yet?" It was Lord Lycano. But it hasn''t been proven yet. Someone just saw the culprit coming out of his storehouse -" Estella was continuing on with the story.

    But Marina couldn''t hear her anymore as she rushed to the storehouse that was owned by Lord Lycano.

    To her bewilderment, he was already being escorted away by the royal guards.

    Their eyes met, revealing both their appalled emotions at what was taking place.

    Marina''s eyes almost welled up at the scenario. Everything was running smoothly with her plan, now backed up by his involvement. But what is this? It''s even just the first part of the plan.

    Marina felt her throat hurt, seeing Lord Lycano also like that. Her knees went weak. But she tried to stand tall and remain calm in the horrendous scenario.

    "What is happening, my lord?" she thought out loud, in a voice filled with regret and disappointment.

    Lord Lycanio immediately shook his head. "I didn''t do it. It wasn''t me. I promise," he firmly stated.

    Marina gazed at him with his pupils dilated in disbelief at his unfortunate state. It seemed like he was telling the truth.

    She could sense that he wanted to transform into his werewolf form and kill the royal guards right then and there, as his fangs were creeping out.

    She immediately went to him and touched his arm. "I believe you. Settle this in a diplomatic way. I''ll see what I can do," she said to him, seemingly calming his irritated nerves.

    *************************************

    True understanding and mutual respect do not bridge blames, destructive, negative criticisms, false excuses, and gossip.

 Chapter 115 - Draft 1

    Please do not open unless the title has been changed. I will update this the soonest. Thank you for understanding! I love you all! :* :* :*

    ********************

    It was like a large hall but smaller than the dining hall, with round tables for different groups of people who would come and dine.

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 116 - Draft 2

    Please do not open unless the title has been changed. I will update this the soonest. Thank you for understanding! I love you all! :* :* :*

    ********************

    "Are you serious, my lady? You want to try to be in a serious relationship with me?" Lycano repeated back to her as he slowly stepped forward, nearer to where she was.

    His eyes were blazing as he gazed at her intently.

    They were still at his Manor and Lord Lyon had already left, leaving the two of them alone in his guest area.

    Marina gulped as her heart galloped like horses in her heart. It was already midafternoon. But she felt like a potato in a cauldron.

    ''Silly you, Marina. What were you even suggesting?'' she scolded herself.

    "Well, I thought it''ll be all right for a show in front of your father, so he won''t mess with our plans. That''s it. Don''t get your hopes up, my lord," she rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

    ''Yes, that''s just it. There''s no other reason behind it,'' Marina resolved to herself.

    But it seemed like Lord Lycano didn''t believe her, as he kept on drawing near her, making her step backward until she reached the couch.

    "I''m just making a joke, my lord. Don''t take it seriously. I know you don''t get in a serious commitment with a woman," she chuckled awkwardly as the atmosphere was slowly changing, and she could feel it.

    "But don''t you want that, my lady? There would be no strings attached," he suggested as he gazed at her lips down to her bosoms, which were a little exposed in her gown. "I wanted to remain formal with you, my lady. But I''m also having a hard time controlling my flesh with you," he added as his eyes raked over her.

    Marina drew in a deep breath as her throat went parched. She already had resolved to herself that she would not get intimate with him again. Why is her body going against her now?

    Seeing that she didn''t react negatively, he made another suggestion. "Why don''t we try to do what serious couples do, now? Maybe it will help us both come up with a decision," Lord Lycano took a plunge on her lips and kissed her hungrily, making Marina gasp in surprise.

    At first, she pushed him away as her eyes darted around the room. There might be servants or guards roaming around, and she felt embarrassed at what they were doing.

    But seeing there were none, her hands slowly weakened as she felt his mouth tasting hers with passion, again.

    To be honest, she missed that taste. She even dreamed of it sometimes. Unlike the last time, they were both at a convenient place right now.

    ''Maybe it isn''t so wrong to experience this every once in a while,'' she thought as Lord Lycano''s hands started touching her body.

    She closed her eyes as she allowed Lord Lycano to fondle her silky bountiful mountains in his rough hands.

    Her mind wandered off to the first time that he fondled her, during the King''s wedding night.

    They were both sober now. And her senses were more heightened. Her head tilted back and rested on the headrest of the couch as her chest heaved up and down.

    But Lord Lycano was not content.

    "Oh," a moan escaped from her lips as he put his fingers inside her undergarment and put one of her swollen breasts inside his mouth.

    "Bolos, don''t stop," she cursed after a quick breath.

    Marina felt like every stressful thought was being washed away as Lord Lycano''s tongue flickered on her peaks and his fingers went in and out of her slippery flesh.

    "If we''ll be in a relationship, I''ll do this to you as often as you want," Lord Lycano responded as his hand started to roughly remove her undergarments, almost tearing them apart.

    Marina nodded her head in a drunken state as she waited for Lord Lycano to insert his bulging maleness inside her ready orifice. "No strings attached, all right? No emotions involved."

    She still doubts it, thinking that it might ruin their plans. But her brain seemed to be not functioning well at that moment.

    "I knew you want it, too," Lord Lycano''s lips curled in a devilish smile as he stepped away only to remove his lower garments.

    Marina also stood up. But it was only to turn over and lean on the headrest.

    She lifted her skirt, and revealed her silken bottoms, making Lord Lycano''s eyes turn red with lust.

    He pointed his swelling manhood on her warm flesh.

    Both of them closed their eyes as they waited for them to be joined together when a messenger cried out from outside the door.

    "Announcing the presence of Lord Varo," Lord Lycano''s servant shouted from outside the door.

    Both of them froze from what they were doing in shock.

    Marina thought that Lord Lycano would pull back. But to her astonishment, he pushed it inside her, making her gasp loudly.

    "But Lord Varo is there. He might have brought news from the royal meeting," she reminded him as she glanced back.

    But like her, Lord Lycano seemed to be in a drunken state too, as his eyes were void of any emotions except for lust. "That can wait," he answered her in a rough voice.

    She wanted to move away. But her eyelashes fluttered as he felt his warm flesh inside hers. She felt like she was lifted to the heavens as he rocked his hips back and forth against hers.

    She couldn''t help but hold on to the headrest firmly as she felt like her knees would give way.

    Marina just decided to just let herself go and just enjoy this moment.

    She would think about what to do later.

    Lord Lycano continued to romp on her until both of them reached their climax.

    ****************************

    Enjoy every moment. Because in life, there are no rewinds. Just flashbacks.. But make sure they are worth it.

 Chapter 117 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. Im really sorry for this. My head is splitting right now. I will update this the soonest. Thank you for understanding!

    *****

    He couldn''t keep count of the number of times that he has visited her since their last conversation at the Royal Chancery.

    "Yes, your Majesty," Rosalia bowed down to him.

    Leandro drew in a deep breath as he pinched his lower lip. It has been a day or two and Lady Aisha was not leaving her Chamber, which was so unlike her.

    He glanced at the closed door of the Chamber, hesitating if he would wake her up or not.

    "Do not worry about milady, my lord. She''s a strong woman. I believe she will be back to her usual self in no time," Rosalia took courage to speak, perhaps trying to alleviate his distress.

    To their surprise, they heard her familiar voice calling out for her servant, "Rosalia."

    Leandro immediately came in with Rosalia to check on her. To his relief, she seemed back to her old self.

    She was pulling her hair up when they came in. But her extremities immediately covered her torso as soon as she saw him.

    "W-what are you doing here, your Majesty?" her wide copper eyes were staring at her in surprise.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips couldn''t help but lift as he recalled that exact response when he also came to her room unannounced.

    "It seems that you''re finally feeling well. I''m relieved. You can dress now. I''m on my way out of the Castle, too," he responded.

    The ministers were waiting for him to discuss the recent situation among the nobles.

    He was just really there to check on her status.

    Leandro was about to turn and walk away when Lady Aisha stopped her.

    "Wait! I would like to tell you something, your Majesty," Lady Aisha said in a solemn voice.

    Then she scurried towards the dressing room and fitted on a gown and washed her face.

    Leandro''s eyebrows knitted as he gazed at Lady Aisha. ''What would she say after being bedridden for a few days?''

    Leandro paced back and forth. He knew that the meeting was about to start. And he was never late. He was usually an hour earlier than the scheduled time.

    But before he knew it, Lady Aisha was back, faced the servants and said, "Please leave us."

    Rosalia and the other female servants all bowed their heads and went out of the Chamber.

    To his astonishment, Lady Aisha jumped to her feet and put her arms around him.

    "I miss you, your Majesty. I just want to feel you again," she snuggled at his chest like a little kitten who saw her master again.

    Leandro wanted to step back as his heart was beating so loudly. Aisha''s eardrums might break.

    To be honest, he longed for this moment, too. He could feel Lady Aisha''s warm soft body and smell her comforting scent.

    He wanted to stay a little bit longer. But he still has to do his responsibilities.

    "Thank you again for taking care of me, your Majesty. I will always be grateful that God gave me a second chance in life here in Gaea. I couldn''t ask for more," Aisha whispered without lifting her head.

    As she said that, Leandro recalled that Aisha''s life was only momentary.

    She was not an immortal and this situation can happen again.

    He slightly withdrew, so he could look at her face.

    She was smiling at him. Every part of her face beamed with serene beauty, calming his weary heart.

    "It is I who should thank you for coming here to Gaea. But I ask you a favor. Please take care of yourself. Do not let yourself get this exhausted again," he said, with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

    Lady Aisha''s lips turned down as she tried to reason out with him. "I wasn''t aware of it, your Majesty. I promise. I used to feel energetic even with little hours of sleep. I don''t know why I got sick all of a sudden."

    Then she turned towards him and bowed her head, "I''m sorry if I cause you trouble, your Majesty."

    With her reaction, Leandro immediately responded. "That is because the climate, atmosphere, and temperature here in Gaea are different from yours. But the physician said you will get used to it. Have you been drinking the medicine that he gave you?"

    Lady Aisha immediately nodded her head.

    "Yes, sir! I mean, your Majesty," she grinned at him. Then she exaggeratedly breathed out a lungful of air.

    "I thought I''m making you worry. Well, is everything okay, your Majesty? You look worn out," she leaned forward and gazed at her with her thick fluttering eyelashes.

    Leandro''s eyes darted away in embarrassment at her straightforward manner.

    To add up to his awkwardness, Lady Aisha''s hand shoots up. "I know! Come on," she pulled his hand and dragged him to her bed.

    He wasn''t used to being dragged. And if it wasn''t Lady Aisha, he would push her away immediately.

    But it was her. And he felt that he liked where it was going.

    She made him sit down on her lap.

    His head was on her warm thighs and his eyes gazed on her sweet face.

    "Now you tell me what is going on while I''m a Sleeping Beauty while I''m massaging your tensed face," she ordered him as her fingers pinched his cheeks.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped at her audacity. No one has dared touch the King''s face!

    If the guards see this right now, they will immediately put Lady Aisha in the dungeons!

    He, too, was astounded at her boldness.

    He was about to stand up, but Lady Aisha''s meticulous fingers were magically softening out the tensed muscles in his head.

    His eyes went heavy, making him close his eyes.

    **********

    "Sometimes you have to give your body a break before it breaks you. I mean, you have to rest your body before it arrests you with sickness. Rest to restart and break to breakthrough."

    ¨D Ned Bryan Abakah

 Chapter 118 - Draft 4

    Pls don''t open unless title has been changed. I will update this the soonest. Thank you for understanding! I love you all!:*

    *******

    "Are you serious, my lady? You want to try to be in a serious relationship with me?" Lycano repeated back to her as he slowly stepped forward, nearer to where she was.

    His eyes were blazing as he gazed at her intently.

    They were still at his Manor and Lord Lyon had already left, leaving the two of them alone in his guest area.

    Marina gulped as her heart galloped like horses in her heart. It was already midafternoon. But she felt like a potato in a cauldron.

    ''Silly you, Marina. What were you even suggesting?'' she scolded herself.

    "Well, I thought it''ll be all right for a show in front of your father, so he won''t mess with our plans. That''s it. Don''t get your hopes up, my lord," she rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

    ''Yes, that''s just it. There''s no other reason behind it,'' Marina resolved to herself.

    But it seemed like Lord Lycano didn''t believe her, as he kept on drawing near her, making her step backward until she reached the couch.

    "I''m just making a joke, my lord. Don''t take it seriously. I know you don''t get in a serious commitment with a woman," she chuckled awkwardly as the atmosphere was slowly changing, and she could feel it.

    "But don''t you want that, my lady? There would be no strings attached," he suggested as he gazed at her lips down to her bosoms, which were a little exposed in her gown. "I wanted to remain formal with you, my lady. But I''m also having a hard time controlling my flesh with you," he added as his eyes raked over her.

    Marina drew in a deep breath as her throat went parched. She already had resolved to herself that she would not get intimate with him again. Why is her body going against her now?

    Seeing that she didn''t react negatively, he made another suggestion. "Why don''t we try to do what serious couples do, now? Maybe it will help us both come up with a decision," Lord Lycano took a plunge on her lips and kissed her hungrily, making Marina gasp in surprise.

    At first, she pushed him away as her eyes darted around the room. There might be servants or guards roaming around, and she felt embarrassed at what they were doing.

    But seeing there were none, her hands slowly weakened as she felt his mouth tasting hers with passion, again.

    To be honest, she missed that taste. She even dreamed of it sometimes. Unlike the last time, they were both at a convenient place right now.

    ''Maybe it isn''t so wrong to experience this every once in a while,'' she thought as Lord Lycano''s hands started touching her body.

    She closed her eyes as she allowed Lord Lycano to fondle her silky bountiful mountains in his rough hands.

    Her mind wandered off to the first time that he fondled her, during the King''s wedding night.

    They were both sober now. And her senses were more heightened. Her head tilted back and rested on the headrest of the couch as her chest heaved up and down.

    But Lord Lycano was not content.

    "Oh," a moan escaped from her lips as he put his fingers inside her undergarment and put one of her swollen breasts inside his mouth.

    "Bolos, don''t stop," she cursed after a quick breath.

    Marina felt like every stressful thought was being washed away as Lord Lycano''s tongue flickered on her peaks and his fingers went in and out of her slippery flesh.

    "If we''ll be in a relationship, I''ll do this to you as often as you want," Lord Lycano responded as his hand started to roughly remove her undergarments, almost tearing them apart.

    Marina nodded her head in a drunken state as she waited for Lord Lycano to insert his bulging maleness inside her ready orifice. "No strings attached, all right? No emotions involved."

    She still doubts it, thinking that it might ruin their plans. But her brain seemed to be not functioning well at that moment.

    "I knew you want it, too," Lord Lycano''s lips curled in a devilish smile as he stepped away only to remove his lower garments.

    Marina also stood up. But it was only to turn over and lean on the headrest.

    She lifted her skirt, and revealed her silken bottoms, making Lord Lycano''s eyes turn red with lust.

    He pointed his swelling manhood on her warm flesh.

    Both of them closed their eyes as they waited for them to be joined together when a messenger cried out from outside the door.

    "Announcing the presence of Lord Varo," Lord Lycano''s servant shouted from outside the door.

    Both of them froze from what they were doing in shock.

    Marina thought that Lord Lycano would pull back. But to her astonishment, he pushed it inside her, making her gasp loudly.

    "But Lord Varo is there. He might have brought news from the royal meeting," she reminded him as she glanced back.

    But like her, Lord Lycano seemed to be in a drunken state too, as his eyes were void of any emotions except for lust. "That can wait," he answered her in a rough voice.

    She wanted to move away. But her eyelashes fluttered as he felt his warm flesh inside hers. She felt like she was lifted to the heavens as he rocked his hips back and forth against hers.

    She couldn''t help but hold on to the headrest firmly as she felt like her knees would give way.

    Marina just decided to just let herself go and just enjoy this moment.

    She would think about what to do later.

    Lord Lycano continued to romp on her until both of them reached their climax.

    ****************************

    Enjoy every moment. Because in life, there are no rewinds. Just flashbacks.. But make sure they are worth it.

 Chapter 119 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 120 - Draft 4

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    *******

    His eyes were blazing as he gazed at her intently.

    They were still at his Manor and Lord Lyon had already left, leaving the two of them alone in his guest area.

    Marina gulped as her heart galloped like horses in her heart. It was already midafternoon. But she felt like a potato in a cauldron.

    ''Silly you, Marina. What were you even suggesting?'' she scolded herself.

    "Well, I thought it''ll be all right for a show in front of your father, so he won''t mess with our plans. That''s it. Don''t get your hopes up, my lord," she rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

    ''Yes, that''s just it. There''s no other reason behind it,'' Marina resolved to herself.

    But it seemed like Lord Lycano didn''t believe her, as he kept on drawing near her, making her step backward until she reached the couch.

    "I''m just making a joke, my lord. Don''t take it seriously. I know you don''t get in a serious commitment with a woman," she chuckled awkwardly as the atmosphere was slowly changing, and she could feel it.

    "But don''t you want that, my lady? There would be no strings attached," he suggested as he gazed at her lips down to her bosoms, which were a little exposed in her gown. "I wanted to remain formal with you, my lady. But I''m also having a hard time controlling my flesh with you," he added as his eyes raked over her.

    Marina drew in a deep breath as her throat went parched. She already had resolved to herself that she would not get intimate with him again. Why is her body going against her now?

    Seeing that she didn''t react negatively, he made another suggestion. "Why don''t we try to do what serious couples do, now? Maybe it will help us both come up with a decision," Lord Lycano took a plunge on her lips and kissed her hungrily, making Marina gasp in surprise.

    At first, she pushed him away as her eyes darted around the room. There might be servants or guards roaming around, and she felt embarrassed at what they were doing.

    But seeing there were none, her hands slowly weakened as she felt his mouth tasting hers with passion, again.

    To be honest, she missed that taste. She even dreamed of it sometimes. Unlike the last time, they were both at a convenient place right now.

    ''Maybe it isn''t so wrong to experience this every once in a while,'' she thought as Lord Lycano''s hands started touching her body.

    She closed her eyes as she allowed Lord Lycano to fondle her silky bountiful mountains in his rough hands.

    Her mind wandered off to the first time that he fondled her, during the King''s wedding night.

    They were both sober now. And her senses were more heightened. Her head tilted back and rested on the headrest of the couch as her chest heaved up and down.

    But Lord Lycano was not content.

    "Oh," a moan escaped from her lips as he put his fingers inside her undergarment and put one of her swollen breasts inside his mouth.

    "Bolos, don''t stop," she cursed after a quick breath.

    Marina felt like every stressful thought was being washed away as Lord Lycano''s tongue flickered on her peaks and his fingers went in and out of her slippery flesh.

    "If we''ll be in a relationship, I''ll do this to you as often as you want," Lord Lycano responded as his hand started to roughly remove her undergarments, almost tearing them apart.

    Marina nodded her head in a drunken state as she waited for Lord Lycano to insert his bulging maleness inside her ready orifice. "No strings attached, all right? No emotions involved."

    She still doubts it, thinking that it might ruin their plans. But her brain seemed to be not functioning well at that moment.

    "I knew you want it, too," Lord Lycano''s lips curled in a devilish smile as he stepped away only to remove his lower garments.

    Marina also stood up. But it was only to turn over and lean on the headrest.

    She lifted her skirt, and revealed her silken bottoms, making Lord Lycano''s eyes turn red with lust.

    He pointed his swelling manhood on her warm flesh.

    Both of them closed their eyes as they waited for them to be joined together when a messenger cried out from outside the door.

    "Announcing the presence of Lord Varo," Lord Lycano''s servant shouted from outside the door.

    Both of them froze from what they were doing in shock.

    Marina thought that Lord Lycano would pull back. But to her astonishment, he pushed it inside her, making her gasp loudly.

    "But Lord Varo is there. He might have brought news from the royal meeting," she reminded him as she glanced back.

    But like her, Lord Lycano seemed to be in a drunken state too, as his eyes were void of any emotions except for lust. "That can wait," he answered her in a rough voice.

    She wanted to move away. But her eyelashes fluttered as he felt his warm flesh inside hers. She felt like she was lifted to the heavens as he rocked his hips back and forth against hers.

    She couldn''t help but hold on to the headrest firmly as she felt like her knees would give way.

    Marina just decided to just let herself go and just enjoy this moment.

    She would think about what to do later.

    Lord Lycano continued to romp on her until both of them reached their climax.

    ****************************

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me.... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

 Chapter 121 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. Im really sorry for this. I''m already getting better and I''m working it out already. :) Thank you for understanding! :*

    *****

    He couldn''t keep count of the number of times that he has visited her since their last conversation at the Royal Chancery.

    "Yes, your Majesty," Rosalia bowed down to him.

    Leandro drew in a deep breath as he pinched his lower lip. It has been a day or two and Lady Aisha was not leaving her Chamber, which was so unlike her.

    He glanced at the closed door of the Chamber, hesitating if he would wake her up or not.

    "Do not worry about milady, my lord. She''s a strong woman. I believe she will be back to her usual self in no time," Rosalia took courage to speak, perhaps trying to alleviate his distress.

    To their surprise, they heard her familiar voice calling out for her servant, "Rosalia."

    Leandro immediately came in with Rosalia to check on her. To his relief, she seemed back to her old self.

    She was pulling her hair up when they came in. But her extremities immediately covered her torso as soon as she saw him.

    "W-what are you doing here, your Majesty?" her wide copper eyes were staring at her in surprise.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips couldn''t help but lift as he recalled that exact response when he also came to her room unannounced.

    "It seems that you''re finally feeling well. I''m relieved. You can dress now. I''m on my way out of the Castle, too," he responded.

    The ministers were waiting for him to discuss the recent situation among the nobles.

    He was just really there to check on her status.

    Leandro was about to turn and walk away when Lady Aisha stopped her.

    "Wait! I would like to tell you something, your Majesty," Lady Aisha said in a solemn voice.

    Then she scurried towards the dressing room and fitted on a gown and washed her face.

    Leandro''s eyebrows knitted as he gazed at Lady Aisha. ''What would she say after being bedridden for a few days?''

    Leandro paced back and forth. He knew that the meeting was about to start. And he was never late. He was usually an hour earlier than the scheduled time.

    But before he knew it, Lady Aisha was back, faced the servants and said, "Please leave us."

    Rosalia and the other female servants all bowed their heads and went out of the Chamber.

    To his astonishment, Lady Aisha jumped to her feet and put her arms around him.

    "I miss you, your Majesty. I just want to feel you again," she snuggled at his chest like a little kitten who saw her master again.

    Leandro wanted to step back as his heart was beating so loudly. Aisha''s eardrums might break.

    To be honest, he longed for this moment, too. He could feel Lady Aisha''s warm soft body and smell her comforting scent.

    He wanted to stay a little bit longer. But he still has to do his responsibilities.

    "Thank you again for taking care of me, your Majesty. I will always be grateful that God gave me a second chance in life here in Gaea. I couldn''t ask for more," Aisha whispered without lifting her head.

    As she said that, Leandro recalled that Aisha''s life was only momentary.

    She was not an immortal and this situation can happen again.

    He slightly withdrew, so he could look at her face.

    She was smiling at him. Every part of her face beamed with serene beauty, calming his weary heart.

    "It is I who should thank you for coming here to Gaea. But I ask you a favor. Please take care of yourself. Do not let yourself get this exhausted again," he said, with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

    Lady Aisha''s lips turned down as she tried to reason out with him. "I wasn''t aware of it, your Majesty. I promise. I used to feel energetic even with little hours of sleep. I don''t know why I got sick all of a sudden."

    Then she turned towards him and bowed her head, "I''m sorry if I cause you trouble, your Majesty."

    With her reaction, Leandro immediately responded. "That is because the climate, atmosphere, and temperature here in Gaea are different from yours. But the physician said you will get used to it. Have you been drinking the medicine that he gave you?"

    Lady Aisha immediately nodded her head.

    "Yes, sir! I mean, your Majesty," she grinned at him. Then she exaggeratedly breathed out a lungful of air.

    "I thought I''m making you worry. Well, is everything okay, your Majesty? You look worn out," she leaned forward and gazed at her with her thick fluttering eyelashes.

    Leandro''s eyes darted away in embarrassment at her straightforward manner.

    To add up to his awkwardness, Lady Aisha''s hand shoots up. "I know! Come on," she pulled his hand and dragged him to her bed.

    He wasn''t used to being dragged. And if it wasn''t Lady Aisha, he would push her away immediately.

    But it was her. And he felt that he liked where it was going.

    She made him sit down on her lap.

    His head was on her warm thighs and his eyes gazed on her sweet face.

    "Now you tell me what is going on while I''m a Sleeping Beauty while I''m massaging your tensed face," she ordered him as her fingers pinched his cheeks.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped at her audacity. No one has dared touch the King''s face!

    If the guards see this right now, they will immediately put Lady Aisha in the dungeons!

    He, too, was astounded at her boldness.

    He was about to stand up, but Lady Aisha''s meticulous fingers were magically softening out the tensed muscles in his head.

    His eyes went heavy, making him close his eyes.

    **********

    "Sometimes you have to give your body a break before it breaks you. I mean, you have to rest your body before it arrests you with sickness. Rest to restart and break to breakthrough."

    ¨D Ned Bryan Abakah

 Chapter 122 - Draft 4

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. Im already working it out. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 123 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 124 - Draft 4

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    *******

    His eyes were blazing as he gazed at her intently.

    They were still at his Manor and Lord Lyon had already left, leaving the two of them alone in his guest area.

    Marina gulped as her heart galloped like horses in her heart. It was already midafternoon. But she felt like a potato in a cauldron.

    ''Silly you, Marina. What were you even suggesting?'' she scolded herself.

    "Well, I thought it''ll be all right for a show in front of your father, so he won''t mess with our plans. That''s it. Don''t get your hopes up, my lord," she rolled her eyes and crossed her arms.

    ''Yes, that''s just it. There''s no other reason behind it,'' Marina resolved to herself.

    But it seemed like Lord Lycano didn''t believe her, as he kept on drawing near her, making her step backward until she reached the couch.

    "I''m just making a joke, my lord. Don''t take it seriously. I know you don''t get in a serious commitment with a woman," she chuckled awkwardly as the atmosphere was slowly changing, and she could feel it.

    "But don''t you want that, my lady? There would be no strings attached," he suggested as he gazed at her lips down to her bosoms, which were a little exposed in her gown. "I wanted to remain formal with you, my lady. But I''m also having a hard time controlling my flesh with you," he added as his eyes raked over her.

    Marina drew in a deep breath as her throat went parched. She already had resolved to herself that she would not get intimate with him again. Why is her body going against her now?

    Seeing that she didn''t react negatively, he made another suggestion. "Why don''t we try to do what serious couples do, now? Maybe it will help us both come up with a decision," Lord Lycano took a plunge on her lips and kissed her hungrily, making Marina gasp in surprise.

    At first, she pushed him away as her eyes darted around the room. There might be servants or guards roaming around, and she felt embarrassed at what they were doing.

    But seeing there were none, her hands slowly weakened as she felt his mouth tasting hers with passion, again.

    To be honest, she missed that taste. She even dreamed of it sometimes. Unlike the last time, they were both at a convenient place right now.

    ''Maybe it isn''t so wrong to experience this every once in a while,'' she thought as Lord Lycano''s hands started touching her body.

    She closed her eyes as she allowed Lord Lycano to fondle her silky bountiful mountains in his rough hands.

    Her mind wandered off to the first time that he fondled her, during the King''s wedding night.

    They were both sober now. And her senses were more heightened. Her head tilted back and rested on the headrest of the couch as her chest heaved up and down.

    But Lord Lycano was not content.

    "Oh," a moan escaped from her lips as he put his fingers inside her undergarment and put one of her swollen breasts inside his mouth.

    "Bolos, don''t stop," she cursed after a quick breath.

    Marina felt like every stressful thought was being washed away as Lord Lycano''s tongue flickered on her peaks and his fingers went in and out of her slippery flesh.

    "If we''ll be in a relationship, I''ll do this to you as often as you want," Lord Lycano responded as his hand started to roughly remove her undergarments, almost tearing them apart.

    Marina nodded her head in a drunken state as she waited for Lord Lycano to insert his bulging maleness inside her ready orifice. "No strings attached, all right? No emotions involved."

    She still doubts it, thinking that it might ruin their plans. But her brain seemed to be not functioning well at that moment.

    "I knew you want it, too," Lord Lycano''s lips curled in a devilish smile as he stepped away only to remove his lower garments.

    Marina also stood up. But it was only to turn over and lean on the headrest.

    She lifted her skirt, and revealed her silken bottoms, making Lord Lycano''s eyes turn red with lust.

    He pointed his swelling manhood on her warm flesh.

    Both of them closed their eyes as they waited for them to be joined together when a messenger cried out from outside the door.

    "Announcing the presence of Lord Varo," Lord Lycano''s servant shouted from outside the door.

    Both of them froze from what they were doing in shock.

    Marina thought that Lord Lycano would pull back. But to her astonishment, he pushed it inside her, making her gasp loudly.

    "But Lord Varo is there. He might have brought news from the royal meeting," she reminded him as she glanced back.

    But like her, Lord Lycano seemed to be in a drunken state too, as his eyes were void of any emotions except for lust. "That can wait," he answered her in a rough voice.

    She wanted to move away. But her eyelashes fluttered as he felt his warm flesh inside hers. She felt like she was lifted to the heavens as he rocked his hips back and forth against hers.

    She couldn''t help but hold on to the headrest firmly as she felt like her knees would give way.

    Marina just decided to just let herself go and just enjoy this moment.

    She would think about what to do later.

    Lord Lycano continued to romp on her until both of them reached their climax.

    ****************************

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me.... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

 Chapter 125 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. Im really sorry for this. I''m already getting better and I''m working it out already. :) Thank you for understanding! :*

    *****

    She didn''t just disobey him. She also caused him trouble.

    Another issue added to it, which was the food poisoning of the guests during their wedding ceremony.

    It was better if it was just an accident. But it was done on purpose and someone has tried to manipulate the situation, bringing fear, doubt, and mistrust in everybody''s heart.

    Now she was involved in it. She couldn''t help but nuzzle her head in his chest. She wanted to be of help. But it seemed like she was just creating more trouble for him.

    "I''m sorry," Aisha apologized. "I should have listened to you from the start."

    King Leandro just inhaled a lungful of air. He must have wanted to scold her for being such a nuisance. But he didn''t. He just said, "Just be strong. Things will get rough. But you have to be stronger than ever."

    As he said that, he almost squeezed her with his tensed masculine arms.

    Aisha nodded her head as she felt that way, too. She felt like things would start going downhill once they left her Chamber.

    But what was surprising her right now was King Leandro being nice to her in spite of what she has done.

    ''is he on my side? Doesn''t he think like how the other royal ministers think about me, too?''

    Aisha glanced up and asked, "If I stay strong, will you be with me until the end? Will you not leave me?"

    She recalled the last words of Lady Marina; that he would throw her away like a piece of trash when she became a hindrance to the throne.

    With what''s happening, the Gaean people who opposed her might use this to their advantage, making her look like she was ruining King Leandro''s leadership.

    Aisha was expecting him to answer a no. Or a maybe. But he just stayed silent. Though he didn''t remove his arms off her.

    "I will do my best," he finally responded after what seemed to be a year for Aisha.

    That was enough for her.

    She felt alone and helpless at that moment. Even though she was naturally a

    happy-go-lucky person, she still doesn''t want to be the cause of other people''s demise.

    And even if she has Rosalia by her side or Martina, Estella and Diana, King Leandro''s report far outweighs them all.

    "Thank you," she smiled and glanced up at the King. She gazed at his eyes, and she could see that he was still searching inside her soul, wondering if he was doing the right thing.

    Aisha understood, since she knew the King before they became close. It would be impossible even for him to embrace her around his arms right now.

    But he did. And that alone made her feel elated, numbing the fear that was strangling her heart.

    She decided to tiptoe and kissed the King''s plum lips, surprising him.

    Aisha didn''t just want to forget her demise for a moment, But she wanted to savor the last moment that she could be with the King.

    She put her slender arms around his broad shoulders and did it again, saying, "Whatever happens, I will never regret that I married you."

    King Leandro pulled Aisha away for a few seconds and gazed at her face. His tense and face turned soft as he uttered, "Forgive me for putting you in such a situation. If you are an ordinary lady, you wouldn''t have to go through this."

    At that point, Aisha could see that King Leandro''s eyes were full of regret.

    But Aisha smiled at him and replied, "If I am given the chance to do this again, I will choose to be your wife and help you in any way I can, Leandro."

    Leandro''s eyes widened as he heard her speak his name without the salutation. She knew she understood what she meant as she pulled her in his arms and she kissed her passionately.

    Aisha responded back with the same ardor as a tear falling from her cheeks. She didn''t know why she felt that it could be the last time that they could be intimate in that way.

    Without her lips leaving him, she stepped forward, leading him to her bed.

    She continued to take possession of his well-sculpted mouth as she quickly unbuttoned his robe.

    "Wait," King Leandro tried to stop her. But a corner of Aisha''s lips just curled up in a smile. "This will just be quick, your Majesty."

    She knew that she was about to face the Supreme Justice, and she may be rightly or wrongly accused.

    But before all that happens, she wanted her last moments with the King to be something she could cherish forever.

    King Leandro wasn''t that hard to please. It didn''t take long for his manhood to get erected as Aisha''s soft, silky hands caressed and played with it.

    She massaged the hot, smooth column of flesh between her fingers then leaned down and began licking the swollen head

    "Ahh," he groaned as Aisha put it in her mouth, her lips encircling his throbbing manhood.

    This was the first time that Aisha did that. But her girlfriends told her before that it brings pleasure to a man.

    She continued the slow and steady motion, sliding up and down his engorged flesh, making King Leandro shiver in delight.

    After a few repetitions, King Leandro must have lost control, as he turned Aisha over until he was the one on top and Aisha was underneath him.

    He immediately lifted her skirts and pulled out her undergarments. And Aisha even helped him out.

    With one quick move, his swollen flesh was already inside hers, thrusting in and out of her, making her body quiver in ecstasy.

    She pulled him closer to her and while they both reached their peak, she whispered in his ear, "I love you, your Majesty."

    **************************

 Chapter 126 - Draft 4

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. Im really sorry for this. I''m already getting better and I''m working it out already. :) Thank you for understanding! :*

    *****

    He couldn''t keep count of the number of times that he has visited her since their last conversation at the Royal Chancery.

    "Yes, your Majesty," Rosalia bowed down to him.

    Leandro drew in a deep  breath as he pinched his lower lip. It has been a day or two and Lady Aisha was not leaving her Chamber, which was so unlike her.

    He glanced at the closed door of the Chamber, hesitating if he would wake her up or not.

    "Do not worry about milady, my lord. She''s a strong woman. I believe she will be back to her usual self in no time," Rosalia took courage to speak, perhaps trying to alleviate his distress.

    To their surprise, they heard her familiar voice calling out for her servant, "Rosalia."

    Leandro immediately came in with Rosalia to check on her. To his relief, she seemed back to her old self.

    She was pulling her hair up when they came in. But her extremities  immediately covered her torso as soon as she saw him.

    "W-what are you doing here, your Majesty?" her wide copper eyes were staring at her in surprise.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips couldn''t help but lift as he recalled that exact response when he also came to her room unannounced.

    "It seems that you''re finally feeling well. I''m relieved. You can dress now. I''m on my way out of the Castle, too," he responded.

    The ministers were waiting for him to discuss the recent situation among the nobles.

    He was just really there to check on her status.

    Leandro was about to turn and walk away when Lady Aisha stopped her.

    "Wait! I would like to tell you something, your Majesty," Lady Aisha said in a solemn voice.

    Then she scurried towards the dressing room and fitted on a gown and washed her face.

    Leandro''s eyebrows knitted as he gazed at Lady Aisha. ''What would she say after being bedridden for a few days?''

    Leandro paced back and forth. He knew that the meeting was about to start. And he was never late. He was usually an hour earlier than the scheduled time.

    But before he knew it, Lady Aisha was back, faced the servants and said, "Please leave us."

    Rosalia and the other female servants all bowed their heads and went out of the Chamber.

    To his astonishment, Lady Aisha jumped to her feet and put her arms around him.

    "I miss you, your Majesty. I just want to feel you again," she snuggled at his chest like a little kitten who saw her master again.

    Leandro wanted to step back as his heart was beating so loudly. Aisha''s eardrums might break.

    To be honest, he longed for this moment, too. He could feel Lady Aisha''s warm soft body and smell her comforting scent.

    He wanted to stay a little bit longer. But he still has to do his responsibilities.

    "Thank you again for taking care of me, your Majesty. I will always be grateful that God gave me a second chance in life here in Gaea. I couldn''t ask for more," Aisha whispered without lifting her head.

    As she said that, Leandro recalled that Aisha''s life was only momentary.

    She was not an immortal and this situation can happen again.

    He slightly withdrew, so he could look at her face.

    She was smiling at him. Every part of her face beamed with serene beauty, calming his weary heart.

    "It is I who should thank you for coming here to Gaea. But I ask you a favor. Please take care of yourself. Do not let yourself get this exhausted again," he said, with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

    Lady Aisha''s lips turned down as she tried to reason out with him. "I wasn''t aware of it, your Majesty. I promise. I used to feel energetic even with little hours of sleep. I don''t know why I got sick all of a sudden."

    Then she turned towards him and bowed her head, "I''m sorry if I cause you trouble, your Majesty."

    With her reaction, Leandro immediately responded. "That is because the climate, atmosphere, and temperature here in Gaea are different from yours. But the physician said you will get used to it. Have you been drinking the medicine that he gave you?"

    Lady Aisha immediately nodded her head.

    "Yes, sir! I mean, your Majesty," she grinned at him. Then she exaggeratedly breathed out a lungful of air.

    "I thought I''m making you worry. Well, is everything okay, your Majesty? You look worn out," she leaned forward and gazed at her with her thick fluttering eyelashes.

    Leandro''s eyes darted away in embarrassment at her straightforward manner.

    To add up to his awkwardness, Lady Aisha''s hand shoots up. "I know! Come on," she pulled his hand and dragged him to her bed.

    He wasn''t used to being dragged. And if it wasn''t Lady Aisha, he would push her away immediately.

    But it was her. And he felt that he liked where it was going.

    She made him sit down on her lap.

    His head was on her warm thighs and his eyes gazed on her sweet face.

    "Now you tell me what is going on while I''m a Sleeping Beauty while I''m massaging your tensed face," she ordered him as her fingers pinched his cheeks.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped at her audacity. No one has dared touch the King''s face!

    If the guards see this right now, they will immediately put Lady Aisha in the dungeons!

    He, too, was astounded at her boldness.

    He was about to stand up, but Lady Aisha''s meticulous fingers were magically softening out the tensed muscles in his head.

    His eyes went heavy, making him close his eyes.

    **********

    "Sometimes you have to give your body a break before it breaks you. I mean, you have to rest your body before it arrests you with sickness. Rest to restart and break to breakthrough."

    ¨D Ned Bryan Abakah

 Chapter 127 - Draft 2

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 128 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. Im already working it out. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 129 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. Im already working it out. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ***********

    She didn''t just disobey him. She also caused him trouble.

    Aisha knew how distressed the King was simply because of the complaint of the Gaean people because of starvation and lack of their staple food. Another issue added to it, was the food poisoning of the guests during their wedding ceremony.

    It was better if it was just an accident. But it was done on purpose and someone has tried to manipulate the situation, bringing fear, doubt, and mistrust in everybody''s heart.

    Now she was involved in it. She couldn''t help but nuzzle her head in his chest. She wanted to be of help. But it seemed like she was just creating more trouble for him.

    "I''m sorry," Aisha apologized. "I should have listened to you from the start."

    King Leandro just inhaled a lungful of air. He must have wanted to scold her for being such a nuisance. But he didn''t. He just said, "Just be strong. Things will get rough. But you have to be stronger."

    As he said that, he almost squeezed her with his tensed masculine arms.

    Aisha nodded her head as she felt that way, too. She felt like things would start going downhill once they left her Chamber.

    But what was surprising her right now was King Leandro being nice to her in spite of what she has done.

    ''is he on my side? Doesn''t he think like how the other royal ministers think about me, too?''

    Aisha glanced up and asked, "If I stay strong, will you be with me until the end? Will you not leave me?"

    She recalled the last words of Lady Marina; that he would throw her away like a piece of trash when she became a hindrance to the throne.

    With what''s happening, the Gaean people who opposed her might use this to their advantage, making her look like she was ruining King Leandro''s leadership.

    Aisha was expecting him to answer a no. Or a maybe. But he just stayed silent. Though he didn''t remove his arms off her.

    "I will do my best," he finally responded after what seemed to be a year for Aisha.

    That was enough for her.

    She felt alone and helpless at that moment. Even though she was naturally a

    happy-go-lucky person, she still doesn''t want to be the cause of other people''s demise.

    And even if she has Rosalia by her side or Martina, Estella and Diana, King Leandro''s support far outweighs them all.

    "Thank you," she smiled and glanced up at the King. She gazed at his eyes, and she could see that he was still searching inside her soul, wondering if he was doing the right thing.

    Aisha understood, since she knew the King before they became close. It would be impossible even for him to embrace her around his arms right now.

    But he did. And that alone made her feel elated, numbing the fear that was strangling her heart.

    She decided to tiptoe and kissed the King''s plum lips, surprising him.

    Aisha didn''t just want to forget her demise for a moment, But she wanted to savor the last moment that she could be with the King.

    She put her slender arms around his broad shoulders and did it again, saying, "Whatever happens, I will never regret that I married you."

    King Leandro pulled Aisha away for a few seconds and gazed at her face. His tense and face turned soft as he uttered, "Forgive me for putting you in such a situation, my lady. If you are an ordinary lady, you wouldn''t have to go through this."

    At that point, Aisha could see that King Leandro''s eyes were full of regret.

    But Aisha smiled at him and replied, "If I am given the chance to do this again, I will choose to be your wife and help you in any way I can, Leandro."

    Leandro''s eyes widened as he heard her speak his name without the salutation. She knew she understood what she meant as she pulled her in his arms and she kissed her passionately.

    She wanted him to know that her feelings for him was not because of his kingship, but because of who he really was.

    Aisha responded back with the same ardor as a tear falling from her cheeks. She didn''t know why she felt that it could be the last time that they could be intimate in that way.

    Without her lips leaving him, she stepped forward, leading him to her bed.

    She continued to take possession of his well-sculpted mouth as she quickly unbuttoned his robe.

    "Wait," King Leandro tried to stop her. But a corner of Aisha''s lips just curled up in a smile. "This will just be quick, your Majesty."

    She knew that she was about to face the Supreme Justice, and she may be rightly or wrongly accused.

    But before all that happens, she wanted her last moments with the King to be something she could cherish forever.

    King Leandro wasn''t that hard to please. It didn''t take long for his manhood to get erected as Aisha''s soft, silky hands caressed and played with it.

    She massaged the hot, smooth column of flesh between her fingers then leaned down and began licking the swollen head

    "Ahh," he groaned as Aisha put it in her mouth, her lips encircling his throbbing manhood.

    This was the first time that Aisha did that. But her girlfriends told her before that it brings pleasure to a man.

    She continued the slow and steady motion, sliding up and down his engorged flesh, making King Leandro shiver in delight.

    After a few repetitions, King Leandro must have lost control, as he turned Aisha over until he was the one on top and Aisha was underneath him.

    He immediately lifted her skirts and pulled out her undergarments. And Aisha even helped him out.

    With one quick move, his swollen flesh was already inside hers, thrusting in and out of her, making her body quiver in ecstasy.

    She pulled him closer to her and while they both reached their peak, she whispered in his ear, "I love you, your Majesty."

    **************************

    Find someone who knows you''re not perfect

    But treats you just as you are.

 Chapter 130 - Draft 4

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. Im really sorry for this. I''m already getting better and I''m working it out already. :) Thank you for understanding! :*

    *****

    He couldn''t keep count of the number of times that he has visited her since their last conversation at the Royal Chancery.

    "Yes, your Majesty," Rosalia bowed down to him.

    Leandro drew in a deep  breath as he pinched his lower lip. It has been a day or two and Lady Aisha was not leaving her Chamber, which was so unlike her.

    He glanced at the closed door of the Chamber, hesitating if he would wake her up or not.

    "Do not worry about milady, my lord. She''s a strong woman. I believe she will be back to her usual self in no time," Rosalia took courage to speak, perhaps trying to alleviate his distress.

    To their surprise, they heard her familiar voice calling out for her servant, "Rosalia."

    Leandro immediately came in with Rosalia to check on her. To his relief, she seemed back to her old self.

    She was pulling her hair up when they came in. But her extremities  immediately covered her torso as soon as she saw him.

    "W-what are you doing here, your Majesty?" her wide copper eyes were staring at her in surprise.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips couldn''t help but lift as he recalled that exact response when he also came to her room unannounced.

    "It seems that you''re finally feeling well. I''m relieved. You can dress now. I''m on my way out of the Castle, too," he responded.

    The ministers were waiting for him to discuss the recent situation among the nobles.

    He was just really there to check on her status.

    Leandro was about to turn and walk away when Lady Aisha stopped her.

    "Wait! I would like to tell you something, your Majesty," Lady Aisha said in a solemn voice.

    Then she scurried towards the dressing room and fitted on a gown and washed her face.

    Leandro''s eyebrows knitted as he gazed at Lady Aisha. ''What would she say after being bedridden for a few days?''

    Leandro paced back and forth. He knew that the meeting was about to start. And he was never late. He was usually an hour earlier than the scheduled time.

    But before he knew it, Lady Aisha was back, faced the servants and said, "Please leave us."

    Rosalia and the other female servants all bowed their heads and went out of the Chamber.

    To his astonishment, Lady Aisha jumped to her feet and put her arms around him.

    "I miss you, your Majesty. I just want to feel you again," she snuggled at his chest like a little kitten who saw her master again.

    Leandro wanted to step back as his heart was beating so loudly. Aisha''s eardrums might break.

    To be honest, he longed for this moment, too. He could feel Lady Aisha''s warm soft body and smell her comforting scent.

    He wanted to stay a little bit longer. But he still has to do his responsibilities.

    "Thank you again for taking care of me, your Majesty. I will always be grateful that God gave me a second chance in life here in Gaea. I couldn''t ask for more," Aisha whispered without lifting her head.

    As she said that, Leandro recalled that Aisha''s life was only momentary.

    She was not an immortal and this situation can happen again.

    He slightly withdrew, so he could look at her face.

    She was smiling at him. Every part of her face beamed with serene beauty, calming his weary heart.

    "It is I who should thank you for coming here to Gaea. But I ask you a favor. Please take care of yourself. Do not let yourself get this exhausted again," he said, with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

    Lady Aisha''s lips turned down as she tried to reason out with him. "I wasn''t aware of it, your Majesty. I promise. I used to feel energetic even with little hours of sleep. I don''t know why I got sick all of a sudden."

    Then she turned towards him and bowed her head, "I''m sorry if I cause you trouble, your Majesty."

    With her reaction, Leandro immediately responded. "That is because the climate, atmosphere, and temperature here in Gaea are different from yours. But the physician said you will get used to it. Have you been drinking the medicine that he gave you?"

    Lady Aisha immediately nodded her head.

    "Yes, sir! I mean, your Majesty," she grinned at him. Then she exaggeratedly breathed out a lungful of air.

    "I thought I''m making you worry. Well, is everything okay, your Majesty? You look worn out," she leaned forward and gazed at her with her thick fluttering eyelashes.

    Leandro''s eyes darted away in embarrassment at her straightforward manner.

    To add up to his awkwardness, Lady Aisha''s hand shoots up. "I know! Come on," she pulled his hand and dragged him to her bed.

    He wasn''t used to being dragged. And if it wasn''t Lady Aisha, he would push her away immediately.

    But it was her. And he felt that he liked where it was going.

    She made him sit down on her lap.

    His head was on her warm thighs and his eyes gazed on her sweet face.

    "Now you tell me what is going on while I''m a Sleeping Beauty while I''m massaging your tensed face," she ordered him as her fingers pinched his cheeks.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped at her audacity. No one has dared touch the King''s face!

    If the guards see this right now, they will immediately put Lady Aisha in the dungeons!

    He, too, was astounded at her boldness.

    He was about to stand up, but Lady Aisha''s meticulous fingers were magically softening out the tensed muscles in his head.

    His eyes went heavy, making him close his eyes.

    **********

    "Sometimes you have to give your body a break before it breaks you. I mean, you have to rest your body before it arrests you with sickness. Rest to restart and break to breakthrough."

    ¨D Ned Bryan Abakah

 Chapter 131 - Draft 4

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 132 - Draft 4

    Please don''t open unless the title has been changed! Thank you for understanding!

    ***********

    ''This is it. I will now face the villains in my story and lock horns with them.''

    Aisha will not allow herself to be falsely misinterpreted for her own sake and her relationship with King Leandro.

    With her head lifted, she walked towards the throne room where the meeting will be held. Her female servants walked behind her, secretly supporting their master.

    "I have no ill intentions against anyone. I just want to help. It just so happens that I was at the wrong place at the wrong time. But even with that, it is still with my honest and sincere desire to alleviate the sufferings of the Gaean people. That''s why I did that," Aisha practiced before facing the wrath of the royal decision-makers of Gaea.

    As she neared the throne room, she could hear a loud commotion going on, making her footsteps freeze.

    "Where is the King? Why isn''t he here?" One of the royal ministers said, making Aisha''s eyebrows squint together.

    She was in the inner court of the Castle''s throne room, where the other lords and ladies, especially servants, weren''t allowed to enter. At that point in time, even Rosalia wasn''t there.

    The throne room was uniquely designed in such a way that it was enclosed in another room, separated by an outer court and an inner court.

    The outer court was the place where the other lords and ladies that wished to talk with the King could wait, while the inner court was where those who the King wanted to talk to could enter. In the inner court, loud voices from the throne room could be heard.

    The people that needed to hear what was going on but were not allowed to enter the throne room yet could also wait. That is where Aisha was.

    ''Where could the King be? How can I face this? He said he''ll be there,'' Aisha bit her lips in fright.

    She was already used to being alone and defending herself if necessary. But this was another realm. And besides, Leandro made her trust him that he will not leave her.

    At that point in time, she wanted to run away. But she still decided to stay, as she resolved to herself that it would not end if she didn''t do anything.

    Her hands clenched and unclenched, as she pondered whether she would go inside or just stay there and wait for the King.

    As she waited for the right opportunity, the voices of the royal ministers inside the throne room became too loud for her to unhear.

    "Could the King be persuading Lady Aisha to retreat and make a different statement from the witness? Is he perhaps helping her deny that she was there and colluding with the criminal, so she won''t be banned from Gaea?" A royal minister, with a rough tone, voiced out his opinion, making Aisha''s eyes narrow at the door of the throne room.

    If it wasn''t for the rule of never opening the room from the outside, she would have barged in and defended herself.

    "King Leandro didn''t do such a thing!" she thought out loud, knowing nobody''s around to hear her.

    But if she would rush things, for sure they would again say something negative about her. It is probably best to wait for the King.

    She just held her breath as she unintentionally listened to the ongoing conversation between the royal ministers without their King.

    "I indeed saw him walking to her Chamber. They must have been coming up with a plan so she could escape the punishment for her," one of them replied.

    "Of course not. That''s why I''m here, you -" Aisha pressed her lips to prevent herself from cursing them. They were still royal ministers after all.

    Fortunately, one of the royal ministers seemed to be in his right mind as he stated, "But what if Lady Aisha wasn''t the culprit? We could be putting an innocent lady in the dungeons."

    Aisha couldn''t help but pull up her sleeves as she stated, "That''s what I''m telling you, man. You can''t just blame it all on the newcomer."

    Her shoulders shrugged up as she suddenly had the strength to stand up and face them again.

    She drew in a deep breath, knowing that King Leandro wasn''t inside. She might be risking herself, alone, like a sheep going to a pack of wolves. But she couldn''t sit still knowing that her name was being dragged down.

    Aisha pulled up her sleeves and walked towards the door of the throne room itself.

    She could give a signal to the royal guard and let them know of her presence, and they would open it for her,

    But she heard a voice that made her step back again. "Do not worry. If we see the King siding with Lady Aisha even if she was clearly guilty, we would ask him to step down from the throne since he was no longer capable of distinguishing right from wrong."

    Aisha''s jaw dropped at the sudden revelation. ''Who has the power to do that to the King?''

    Her heart pumped in a frenzy, losing confidence in her innocence. If he can make the King give up the throne, then he must be a very powerful man.

    Besides, Aisha knew how King Leandro loved the throne, not just for himself, but so Gaea could have peace and prosperity for centuries. It would be devastating for him to even consider stepping down from the throne. And it was just because of her.

    Aisha''s shoulders dropped, as now her desire to fight was weakened. She was fine if they would just fight with her. But with the King? And is it because of her? That thought was too heartbreaking for her.

    ***************

    "The acquisition of power is a challenge, the consolidation of it greater still, but the mettle and method of testing power''s boundaries ultimately decides if it is fed to excess or starved to extinction."

    ¨D Stewart Stafford

 Chapter 133 - Draft 2

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. Im already working it out. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 134 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. Im already working it out. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ***********

    She didn''t just disobey him. She also caused him trouble.

    Aisha knew how distressed the King was simply because of the complaint of the Gaean people because of starvation and lack of their staple food. Another issue added to it, was the food poisoning of the guests during their wedding ceremony.

    It was better if it was just an accident. But it was done on purpose and someone has tried to manipulate the situation, bringing fear, doubt, and mistrust in everybody''s heart.

    Now she was involved in it. She couldn''t help but nuzzle her head in his chest. She wanted to be of help. But it seemed like she was just creating more trouble for him.

    "I''m sorry," Aisha apologized. "I should have listened to you from the start."

    King Leandro just inhaled a lungful of air. He must have wanted to scold her for being such a nuisance. But he didn''t. He just said, "Just be strong. Things will get rough. But you have to be stronger."

    As he said that, he almost squeezed her with his tensed masculine arms.

    Aisha nodded her head as she felt that way, too. She felt like things would start going downhill once they left her Chamber.

    But what was surprising her right now was King Leandro being nice to her in spite of what she has done.

    ''is he on my side? Doesn''t he think like how the other royal ministers think about me, too?''

    Aisha glanced up and asked, "If I stay strong, will you be with me until the end? Will you not leave me?"

    She recalled the last words of Lady Marina; that he would throw her away like a piece of trash when she became a hindrance to the throne.

    With what''s happening, the Gaean people who opposed her might use this to their advantage, making her look like she was ruining King Leandro''s leadership.

    Aisha was expecting him to answer a no. Or a maybe. But he just stayed silent. Though he didn''t remove his arms off her.

    "I will do my best," he finally responded after what seemed to be a year for Aisha.

    That was enough for her.

    She felt alone and helpless at that moment. Even though she was naturally a

    happy-go-lucky person, she still doesn''t want to be the cause of other people''s demise.

    And even if she has Rosalia by her side or Martina, Estella and Diana, King Leandro''s support far outweighs them all.

    "Thank you," she smiled and glanced up at the King. She gazed at his eyes, and she could see that he was still searching inside her soul, wondering if he was doing the right thing.

    Aisha understood, since she knew the King before they became close. It would be impossible even for him to embrace her around his arms right now.

    But he did. And that alone made her feel elated, numbing the fear that was strangling her heart.

    She decided to tiptoe and kissed the King''s plum lips, surprising him.

    Aisha didn''t just want to forget her demise for a moment, But she wanted to savor the last moment that she could be with the King.

    She put her slender arms around his broad shoulders and did it again, saying, "Whatever happens, I will never regret that I married you."

    King Leandro pulled Aisha away for a few seconds and gazed at her face. His tense and face turned soft as he uttered, "Forgive me for putting you in such a situation, my lady. If you are an ordinary lady, you wouldn''t have to go through this."

    At that point, Aisha could see that King Leandro''s eyes were full of regret.

    But Aisha smiled at him and replied, "If I am given the chance to do this again, I will choose to be your wife and help you in any way I can, Leandro."

    Leandro''s eyes widened as he heard her speak his name without the salutation. She knew she understood what she meant as she pulled her in his arms and she kissed her passionately.

    She wanted him to know that her feelings for him was not because of his kingship, but because of who he really was.

    Aisha responded back with the same ardor as a tear falling from her cheeks. She didn''t know why she felt that it could be the last time that they could be intimate in that way.

    Without her lips leaving him, she stepped forward, leading him to her bed.

    She continued to take possession of his well-sculpted mouth as she quickly unbuttoned his robe.

    "Wait," King Leandro tried to stop her. But a corner of Aisha''s lips just curled up in a smile. "This will just be quick, your Majesty."

    She knew that she was about to face the Supreme Justice, and she may be rightly or wrongly accused.

    But before all that happens, she wanted her last moments with the King to be something she could cherish forever.

    King Leandro wasn''t that hard to please. It didn''t take long for his manhood to get erected as Aisha''s soft, silky hands caressed and played with it.

    She massaged the hot, smooth column of flesh between her fingers then leaned down and began licking the swollen head

    "Ahh," he groaned as Aisha put it in her mouth, her lips encircling his throbbing manhood.

    This was the first time that Aisha did that. But her girlfriends told her before that it brings pleasure to a man.

    She continued the slow and steady motion, sliding up and down his engorged flesh, making King Leandro shiver in delight.

    After a few repetitions, King Leandro must have lost control, as he turned Aisha over until he was the one on top and Aisha was underneath him.

    He immediately lifted her skirts and pulled out her undergarments. And Aisha even helped him out.

    With one quick move, his swollen flesh was already inside hers, thrusting in and out of her, making her body quiver in ecstasy.

    She pulled him closer to her and while they both reached their peak, she whispered in his ear, "I love you, your Majesty."

    **************************

    Find someone who knows you''re not perfect

    But treats you just as you are.

 Chapter 135 - Draft 2

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 136 - Draft 3

    Please don''t open unless the title has been changed! Thank you for understanding!

    ***********

    ''This is it. I will now face the villains in my story and lock horns with them.''

    Aisha will not allow herself to be falsely misinterpreted for her own sake and her relationship with King Leandro.

    With her head lifted, she walked towards the throne room where the meeting will be held. Her female servants walked behind her, secretly supporting their master.

    "I have no ill intentions against anyone. I just want to help. It just so happens that I was at the wrong place at the wrong time. But even with that, it is still with my honest and sincere desire to alleviate the sufferings of the Gaean people. That''s why I did that," Aisha practiced before facing the wrath of the royal decision-makers of Gaea.

    As she neared the throne room, she could hear a loud commotion going on, making her footsteps freeze.

    "Where is the King? Why isn''t he here?" One of the royal ministers said, making Aisha''s eyebrows squint together.

    She was in the inner court of the Castle''s throne room, where the other lords and ladies, especially servants, weren''t allowed to enter. At that point in time, even Rosalia wasn''t there.

    The throne room was uniquely designed in such a way that it was enclosed in another room, separated by an outer court and an inner court.

    The outer court was the place where the other lords and ladies that wished to talk with the King could wait, while the inner court was where those who the King wanted to talk to could enter. In the inner court, loud voices from the throne room could be heard.

    The people that needed to hear what was going on but were not allowed to enter the throne room yet could also wait. That is where Aisha was.

    ''Where could the King be? How can I face this? He said he''ll be there,'' Aisha bit her lips in fright.

    She was already used to being alone and defending herself if necessary. But this was another realm. And besides, Leandro made her trust him that he will not leave her.

    At that point in time, she wanted to run away. But she still decided to stay, as she resolved to herself that it would not end if she didn''t do anything.

    Her hands clenched and unclenched, as she pondered whether she would go inside or just stay there and wait for the King.

    As she waited for the right opportunity, the voices of the royal ministers inside the throne room became too loud for her to unhear.

    "Could the King be persuading Lady Aisha to retreat and make a different statement from the witness? Is he perhaps helping her deny that she was there and colluding with the criminal, so she won''t be banned from Gaea?" A royal minister, with a rough tone, voiced out his opinion, making Aisha''s eyes narrow at the door of the throne room.

    If it wasn''t for the rule of never opening the room from the outside, she would have barged in and defended herself.

    "King Leandro didn''t do such a thing!" she thought out loud, knowing nobody''s around to hear her.

    But if she would rush things, for sure they would again say something negative about her. It is probably best to wait for the King.

    She just held her breath as she unintentionally listened to the ongoing conversation between the royal ministers without their King.

    "I indeed saw him walking to her Chamber. They must have been coming up with a plan so she could escape the punishment for her," one of them replied.

    "Of course not. That''s why I''m here, you -" Aisha pressed her lips to prevent herself from cursing them. They were still royal ministers after all.

    Fortunately, one of the royal ministers seemed to be in his right mind as he stated, "But what if Lady Aisha wasn''t the culprit? We could be putting an innocent lady in the dungeons."

    Aisha couldn''t help but pull up her sleeves as she stated, "That''s what I''m telling you, man. You can''t just blame it all on the newcomer."

    Her shoulders shrugged up as she suddenly had the strength to stand up and face them again.

    She drew in a deep breath, knowing that King Leandro wasn''t inside. She might be risking herself, alone, like a sheep going to a pack of wolves. But she couldn''t sit still knowing that her name was being dragged down.

    Aisha pulled up her sleeves and walked towards the door of the throne room itself.

    She could give a signal to the royal guard and let them know of her presence, and they would open it for her,

    But she heard a voice that made her step back again. "Do not worry. If we see the King siding with Lady Aisha even if she was clearly guilty, we would ask him to step down from the throne since he was no longer capable of distinguishing right from wrong."

    Aisha''s jaw dropped at the sudden revelation. ''Who has the power to do that to the King?''

    Her heart pumped in a frenzy, losing confidence in her innocence. If he can make the King give up the throne, then he must be a very powerful man.

    Besides, Aisha knew how King Leandro loved the throne, not just for himself, but so Gaea could have peace and prosperity for centuries. It would be devastating for him to even consider stepping down from the throne. And it was just because of her.

    Aisha''s shoulders dropped, as now her desire to fight was weakened. She was fine if they would just fight with her. But with the King? And is it because of her? That thought was too heartbreaking for her.

    ***************

    "The acquisition of power is a challenge, the consolidation of it greater still, but the mettle and method of testing power''s boundaries ultimately decides if it is fed to excess or starved to extinction."

    ¨D Stewart Stafford

 Chapter 137 - Draft 1

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. Im already working it out. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 138 - Draft 2

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. Im already working it out. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ***********

    She didn''t just disobey him. She also caused him trouble.

    Aisha knew how distressed the King was simply because of the complaint of the Gaean people because of starvation and lack of their staple food. Another issue added to it, was the food poisoning of the guests during their wedding ceremony.

    It was better if it was just an accident. But it was done on purpose and someone has tried to manipulate the situation, bringing fear, doubt, and mistrust in everybody''s heart.

    Now she was involved in it. She couldn''t help but nuzzle her head in his chest. She wanted to be of help. But it seemed like she was just creating more trouble for him.

    "I''m sorry," Aisha apologized. "I should have listened to you from the start."

    King Leandro just inhaled a lungful of air. He must have wanted to scold her for being such a nuisance. But he didn''t. He just said, "Just be strong. Things will get rough. But you have to be stronger."

    As he said that, he almost squeezed her with his tensed masculine arms.

    Aisha nodded her head as she felt that way, too. She felt like things would start going downhill once they left her Chamber.

    But what was surprising her right now was King Leandro being nice to her in spite of what she has done.

    ''is he on my side? Doesn''t he think like how the other royal ministers think about me, too?''

    Aisha glanced up and asked, "If I stay strong, will you be with me until the end? Will you not leave me?"

    She recalled the last words of Lady Marina; that he would throw her away like a piece of trash when she became a hindrance to the throne.

    With what''s happening, the Gaean people who opposed her might use this to their advantage, making her look like she was ruining King Leandro''s leadership.

    Aisha was expecting him to answer a no. Or a maybe. But he just stayed silent. Though he didn''t remove his arms off her.

    "I will do my best," he finally responded after what seemed to be a year for Aisha.

    That was enough for her.

    She felt alone and helpless at that moment. Even though she was naturally a

    happy-go-lucky person, she still doesn''t want to be the cause of other people''s demise.

    And even if she has Rosalia by her side or Martina, Estella and Diana, King Leandro''s support far outweighs them all.

    "Thank you," she smiled and glanced up at the King. She gazed at his eyes, and she could see that he was still searching inside her soul, wondering if he was doing the right thing.

    Aisha understood, since she knew the King before they became close. It would be impossible even for him to embrace her around his arms right now.

    But he did. And that alone made her feel elated, numbing the fear that was strangling her heart.

    She decided to tiptoe and kissed the King''s plum lips, surprising him.

    Aisha didn''t just want to forget her demise for a moment, But she wanted to savor the last moment that she could be with the King.

    She put her slender arms around his broad shoulders and did it again, saying, "Whatever happens, I will never regret that I married you."

    King Leandro pulled Aisha away for a few seconds and gazed at her face. His tense and face turned soft as he uttered, "Forgive me for putting you in such a situation, my lady. If you are an ordinary lady, you wouldn''t have to go through this."

    At that point, Aisha could see that King Leandro''s eyes were full of regret.

    But Aisha smiled at him and replied, "If I am given the chance to do this again, I will choose to be your wife and help you in any way I can, Leandro."

    Leandro''s eyes widened as he heard her speak his name without the salutation. She knew she understood what she meant as she pulled her in his arms and she kissed her passionately.

    She wanted him to know that her feelings for him was not because of his kingship, but because of who he really was.

    Aisha responded back with the same ardor as a tear falling from her cheeks. She didn''t know why she felt that it could be the last time that they could be intimate in that way.

    Without her lips leaving him, she stepped forward, leading him to her bed.

    She continued to take possession of his well-sculpted mouth as she quickly unbuttoned his robe.

    "Wait," King Leandro tried to stop her. But a corner of Aisha''s lips just curled up in a smile. "This will just be quick, your Majesty."

    She knew that she was about to face the Supreme Justice, and she may be rightly or wrongly accused.

    But before all that happens, she wanted her last moments with the King to be something she could cherish forever.

    King Leandro wasn''t that hard to please. It didn''t take long for his manhood to get erected as Aisha''s soft, silky hands caressed and played with it.

    She massaged the hot, smooth column of flesh between her fingers then leaned down and began licking the swollen head

    "Ahh," he groaned as Aisha put it in her mouth, her lips encircling his throbbing manhood.

    This was the first time that Aisha did that. But her girlfriends told her before that it brings pleasure to a man.

    She continued the slow and steady motion, sliding up and down his engorged flesh, making King Leandro shiver in delight.

    After a few repetitions, King Leandro must have lost control, as he turned Aisha over until he was the one on top and Aisha was underneath him.

    He immediately lifted her skirts and pulled out her undergarments. And Aisha even helped him out.

    With one quick move, his swollen flesh was already inside hers, thrusting in and out of her, making her body quiver in ecstasy.

    She pulled him closer to her and while they both reached their peak, she whispered in his ear, "I love you, your Majesty."

    **************************

    Find someone who knows you''re not perfect

    But treats you just as you are.

 Chapter 139 - Draft 2

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. Im really sorry for this. I''m already getting better and I''m working it out already. :) Thank you for understanding! :*

    *****

    He couldn''t keep count of the number of times that he has visited her since their last conversation at the Royal Chancery.

    "Yes, your Majesty," Rosalia bowed down to him.

    Leandro drew in a deep breath as he pinched his lower lip. It has been a day or two and Lady Aisha was not leaving her Chamber, which was so unlike her.

    He glanced at the closed door of the Chamber, hesitating if he would wake her up or not.

    "Do not worry about milady, my lord. She''s a strong woman. I believe she will be back to her usual self in no time," Rosalia took courage to speak, perhaps trying to alleviate his distress.

    To their surprise, they heard her familiar voice calling out for her servant, "Rosalia."

    Leandro immediately came in with Rosalia to check on her. To his relief, she seemed back to her old self.

    She was pulling her hair up when they came in. But her extremities immediately covered her torso as soon as she saw him.

    "W-what are you doing here, your Majesty?" her wide copper eyes were staring at her in surprise.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips couldn''t help but lift as he recalled that exact response when he also came to her room unannounced.

    "It seems that you''re finally feeling well. I''m relieved. You can dress now. I''m on my way out of the Castle, too," he responded.

    The ministers were waiting for him to discuss the recent situation among the nobles.

    He was just really there to check on her status.

    Leandro was about to turn and walk away when Lady Aisha stopped her.

    "Wait! I would like to tell you something, your Majesty," Lady Aisha said in a solemn voice.

    Then she scurried towards the dressing room and fitted on a gown and washed her face.

    Leandro''s eyebrows knitted as he gazed at Lady Aisha. ''What would she say after being bedridden for a few days?''

    Leandro paced back and forth. He knew that the meeting was about to start. And he was never late. He was usually an hour earlier than the scheduled time.

    But before he knew it, Lady Aisha was back, faced the servants and said, "Please leave us."

    Rosalia and the other female servants all bowed their heads and went out of the Chamber.

    To his astonishment, Lady Aisha jumped to her feet and put her arms around him.

    "I miss you, your Majesty. I just want to feel you again," she snuggled at his chest like a little kitten who saw her master again.

    Leandro wanted to step back as his heart was beating so loudly. Aisha''s eardrums might break.

    To be honest, he longed for this moment, too. He could feel Lady Aisha''s warm soft body and smell her comforting scent.

    He wanted to stay a little bit longer. But he still has to do his responsibilities.

    "Thank you again for taking care of me, your Majesty. I will always be grateful that God gave me a second chance in life here in Gaea. I couldn''t ask for more," Aisha whispered without lifting her head.

    As she said that, Leandro recalled that Aisha''s life was only momentary.

    She was not an immortal and this situation can happen again.

    He slightly withdrew, so he could look at her face.

    She was smiling at him. Every part of her face beamed with serene beauty, calming his weary heart.

    "It is I who should thank you for coming here to Gaea. But I ask you a favor. Please take care of yourself. Do not let yourself get this exhausted again," he said, with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

    Lady Aisha''s lips turned down as she tried to reason out with him. "I wasn''t aware of it, your Majesty. I promise. I used to feel energetic even with little hours of sleep. I don''t know why I got sick all of a sudden."

    Then she turned towards him and bowed her head, "I''m sorry if I cause you trouble, your Majesty."

    With her reaction, Leandro immediately responded. "That is because the climate, atmosphere, and temperature here in Gaea are different from yours. But the physician said you will get used to it. Have you been drinking the medicine that he gave you?"

    Lady Aisha immediately nodded her head.

    "Yes, sir! I mean, your Majesty," she grinned at him. Then she exaggeratedly breathed out a lungful of air.

    "I thought I''m making you worry. Well, is everything okay, your Majesty? You look worn out," she leaned forward and gazed at her with her thick fluttering eyelashes.

    Leandro''s eyes darted away in embarrassment at her straightforward manner.

    To add up to his awkwardness, Lady Aisha''s hand shoots up. "I know! Come on," she pulled his hand and dragged him to her bed.

    He wasn''t used to being dragged. And if it wasn''t Lady Aisha, he would push her away immediately.

    But it was her. And he felt that he liked where it was going.

    She made him sit down on her lap.

    His head was on her warm thighs and his eyes gazed on her sweet face.

    "Now you tell me what is going on while I''m a Sleeping Beauty while I''m massaging your tensed face," she ordered him as her fingers pinched his cheeks.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped at her audacity. No one has dared touch the King''s face!

    If the guards see this right now, they will immediately put Lady Aisha in the dungeons!

    He, too, was astounded at her boldness.

    He was about to stand up, but Lady Aisha''s meticulous fingers were magically softening out the tensed muscles in his head.

    His eyes went heavy, making him close his eyes.

    **********

    "Sometimes you have to give your body a break before it breaks you. I mean, you have to rest your body before it arrests you with sickness. Rest to restart and break to breakthrough."

    ¨D Ned Bryan Abakah

 Chapter 140 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 141 - Draft 3

    Pls don''t open unless the title has been changed. Thank you for understanding! :* I''m really trying my best to make it up with you guys. Huhu

    **************

    "Now that you have seen what I can do for the sake of Gaea, I hope anyone would not even think about betraying me. If I can do that to my wife, just think about what I can do with you," a look of scorn flashed over Leandro''s face as his eyes blazed on them.

    His nostrils flared as he resolved to himself that it would not take Lady Aisha, even just a day in the dungeons. He will find the real culprit, and he will make him pay for the trouble that he caused her with his life.

    "Glory to the Great Theos for choosing a benevolent King such as Your Majesty," one of the royal ministers trumpeted, leading the others to say the same thing, too, which they did.

    It seemed as though everything was settled in the throne room, making Leandro finally breathe in properly, somehow. The High Priest, the other royal priests, Lady Marina, the witnesses, and the other royal ministers were also readying themselves to leave the throne room.

    However, a royal guard came rushing to the throne room and breathlessly reported, "Your Majesty, we couldn''t find Lady Aisha. She was not in her Chamber, and the other royal guards were now looking all over the Castle for her."

    The royal guard''s trembling hand was on his stomach as he dreaded the King''s wrath. His eyes widened all the more as he saw the cracks on the golden floor, guessing that it came from the King''s outrage just a while ago.

    The others in the throne room gasped in surprise. They must have thought that everything was already stable, too.

    Due to the length of the meeting, it took them until the evening before everything went back to normal. The night lamps were already lit by the Castle servants, signaling that darkness has already taken over the land of Gaea.

    Indeed, Leandro''s heart almost stopped as he heard the news. His lean and sturdy legs went limp, making him fall back on the luxurious jewel-studded throne where he was previously sitting.

    With his eyebrows drawn together in a frown, he recalled the last time he talked with her so he could guess what she was thinking.

    As he did so, he remembered her serene and ethereal beauty, her raven hair sprawled on her snow-like white pillows, her creamy skin under him as he made love to her. He promised her that everything will be alright because he was there. And she replied with words that expressed her heart. "I love you, your Majesty."

    ''Could she have known?'' His sullen face glowered as he placed it inside the hollow part of his palms. "What have you done, Leandro?" He growled at himself as he scrubbed his face with his cold hands.

    Unlike before, where she escaped out of fear. Now it seemed like she did so out of a broken heart. A heart that was broken because of him.

    ''She could not have left the Castle,'' he thought in denial. He glanced outside the window nearest to him and the darkness outside it.

    It is the night of the new moon and the only bright places are the warm mansions or cottages lit with lamps. The rest including the mountains, the forests, the rivers, and the valleys are all as dark as nothingness.

    His cold fingers held on the side rails of the throne as he thought of where Lady Aisha could be right now.

    Determined to win her back, he stood up and bolted to her Chamber. Her female servants were all lined up outside her door as if it was just another normal evening. But one could feel the coldness and the emptiness of the room, even from outside.

    "Good evening, your Majesty," they all bowed down, trembling, as they saw their great King marching towards where they were.

    Their tails cowered down, fearing that the King would snap his finger and kill them all. Fortunately, the ruler''s eyes were set on what the room contained or not contained as he just passed through them, making them breathe again.

    Still, their shoulders were caved inward, ready for the fury of the great and powerful King once he learned that what he was looking for wasn''t inside the Chamber.

    Undeniably, the room was as frozen as death. There was no sign of life that even birds could not perch by the window, fearing that its coldness might suffocate the life out of them.

    Everything seemed to be clean, neat, and orderly. It appeared as if the room was prepared in case the owner of the room would retire soon, and she could have a good night''s sleep.

    But his fast beating heart was telling him otherwise.

    He tumbled over her bed, her dressing room, and even her bath area. But there was no sign of Lady Aisha at all.

    It was like an arrow just pierced his heart at the moment. He hadn''t thought about how it would feel with Lady Aisha gone out of his Castle because of the presence of the others in the throne room.

    But now he was starting to feel it. And Leandro doesn''t like it.

    She was his sunshine. The Castle only felt warm when she stepped foot in it. And now that she is gone, it has gone back to the lifeless infrastructure that it was.

    Leandro dashed outside to where the poor female servants waited in fear. He clenched his fists as he controlled his power from killing them right then and there. He still needed information from them.

    Their arms flailed in the air as they immediately kneeled down and put their foreheads to the ground. Then they all wailed in unison, "We deserve to die, your Majesty!"

    Their terrified voices echoed through the hallways.. But Leandro didn''t pity them. "Tell me where she is, and I''ll let you live!"

 Chapter 142 - Draft 4

    Pls don''t open unless the title has been changed. Thank you for understanding! :* I''m really trying my best to make it up with you guys. Huhu

    ********

    "Thank you, my lady, for helping me out," the royal kitchen servant bowed down to her with his pressed fingers on his smiling lips. "Indeed, they would grant me pardon if I tell them the truth

    They both walked out of the throne room with the other royal ministers after the King disbanded the meeting. It was already late in the evening and everybody seemed to be hungry and ready to have their dinne

    ''It was actually two-way,'' she wanted to say, but she kept it to herself

    Finally, her dream has, at last, come true. She was successful in casting the female human out of the Castle. And it is not from her own hands, making her as clean as white linen cloth

    They were already outside the Throne Room and in the Inner Courts. Some royal ministers were already outside

    She was smoothing her gown with a satisfied look on her face, when one of the royal ministers approached her and bowed down to her

    "We are in debt to you, my lady, for finally solving this problem. If it weren''t for you, the real culprit wouldn''t have been found," his face lifted in a radiant smile as his hands formed in a steeple in front of his chest

    The other royal ministers who noticed that he was talking to her stopped and eavesdropped on their conversation. They all nodded their heads and said the same thing as if they were now winning her favo

    One of them even stated, "Our humble apologies for suspecting one of the members of the Tribal Council. Lord Lycano is a great man and has done great things for Gaea. We should have known better

    Marina couldn''t help but give them one of her sweetest smiles. She loves being the center of attention, where Gaeans treat her as an important person who deserves to be adored and put to the pedestals

    She was about to bid her farewell because she wanted to talk to King Leandro. It was already getting late, and she knew that he would be busy imprisoning his favorite wife

    But Lord Lycano was still in prison, and the King hadn''t dealt with it due to the focus of the meeting on the female human

    Fortunately, Lord Varo handed her a letter with a twinkle in his eyes. "Here is the approval of freedom for Lord Lycano signed with the King''s seal, my lady

    Marina was stunned for a few seconds as she gave Lord Varo a glance. It seemed as if he knew what she was thinking about at that momen

    She took the scroll and read it. Indeed, it was a pardon for Lord Lycano stating that he was granted freedom because he was found innocent by the Royal Ministers and the Kin

    "We managed to ask the King before he left. He must have known that Lord Lycano would not cause that great trouble, as he signed the letter before he left," one of the Royal Ministers explained to he

    With her heart fluttering, she gazed at each one of them with gratitude as she felt elated that the Royal Ministers'' trust was finally back to the Tribal Council because of her intervention

    Now that Lord Lycano''s name was cleared, she was more confident to express her connection with him and stopped hiding her friendship with hi

    She straightened her spine as she bowed down to them in a demure manner, "Thank you for putting your faith in the Tribal Council. We will do our best to serve Gaea and its people and protect them from all sorts of evil

    After leaving the Castle, she then went straight to the dungeons where Lord Lycano was. It was already late in the night. But she wanted to share with him the good news of his freedom and their victory

    With a grin that could not be contained, she almost hopped as she walked to where Lord Lycano was. He was facing the wall away from her, so she had no idea if he was resting or staring into nothingnes

    She cleared her throat and called him out, "My Lord.

    Her slender hands clutched in front of her chest as she was excited to share with him the news

    Lord Lycano immediately stood up as he heard his name being called out. Then he turned his back and saw her

    At a flash of lightning, he bolted to the iron bars of the dungeons. And with his bare hands, he held on them with his acid-green eyes wide open in anxiety

    "Did they imprison Lady Aisha?" his brawny neck corded as his jaw clenched, erasing the delight from Marina''s pleasant fac

    A cold wind seemed to enter the dungeons from the dungeon windows and separated the two of the

    Marina''s expression went pinched as she stated, "I came here to bring the good news about you and not her

    Then she sighed with exaggeration, "Are you still worried about her?

    She didn''t want to be hypocritical. Both of them were in love with other people before they decided to level up their relationship

    But she felt an aching tightness in her throat as her chest felt constricted, making it hard for her to breath

    Her arms crossed over her as she gazed at Lord Lycano

    Her words seemed to bring him back to reality from his overwhelming concern for the female human that he replied in a softer tone, "It''s just difficult to be here in the dungeons, even for me like a supernatural creature of Gaea. It could be harder for her. She is not just a woman. She is also a human

    As he said that, he swallowed hard before his head lowered down. He appeared as if he couldn''t bear to see her suffer the same way that he did, making Marina drew in a deep breath and bit her lip

    *********************************

 Chapter 143 - Draft 3

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. Im really sorry for this. I''m already getting better and I''m working it out already. :) Thank you for understanding! :*

    *****

    He couldn''t keep count of the number of times that he has visited her since their last conversation at the Royal Chancery.

    "Yes, your Majesty," Rosalia bowed down to him.

    Leandro drew in a deep  breath as he pinched his lower lip. It has been a day or two and Lady Aisha was not leaving her Chamber, which was so unlike her.

    He glanced at the closed door of the Chamber, hesitating if he would wake her up or not.

    "Do not worry about milady, my lord. She''s a strong woman. I believe she will be back to her usual self in no time," Rosalia took courage to speak, perhaps trying to alleviate his distress.

    To their surprise, they heard her familiar voice calling out for her servant, "Rosalia."

    Leandro immediately came in with Rosalia to check on her. To his relief, she seemed back to her old self.

    She was pulling her hair up when they came in. But her extremities  immediately covered her torso as soon as she saw him.

    "W-what are you doing here, your Majesty?" her wide copper eyes were staring at her in surprise.

    A corner of Leandro''s lips couldn''t help but lift as he recalled that exact response when he also came to her room unannounced.

    "It seems that you''re finally feeling well. I''m relieved. You can dress now. I''m on my way out of the Castle, too," he responded.

    The ministers were waiting for him to discuss the recent situation among the nobles.

    He was just really there to check on her status.

    Leandro was about to turn and walk away when Lady Aisha stopped her.

    "Wait! I would like to tell you something, your Majesty," Lady Aisha said in a solemn voice.

    Then she scurried towards the dressing room and fitted on a gown and washed her face.

    Leandro''s eyebrows knitted as he gazed at Lady Aisha. ''What would she say after being bedridden for a few days?''

    Leandro paced back and forth. He knew that the meeting was about to start. And he was never late. He was usually an hour earlier than the scheduled time.

    But before he knew it, Lady Aisha was back, faced the servants and said, "Please leave us."

    Rosalia and the other female servants all bowed their heads and went out of the Chamber.

    To his astonishment, Lady Aisha jumped to her feet and put her arms around him.

    "I miss you, your Majesty. I just want to feel you again," she snuggled at his chest like a little kitten who saw her master again.

    Leandro wanted to step back as his heart was beating so loudly. Aisha''s eardrums might break.

    To be honest, he longed for this moment, too. He could feel Lady Aisha''s warm soft body and smell her comforting scent.

    He wanted to stay a little bit longer. But he still has to do his responsibilities.

    "Thank you again for taking care of me, your Majesty. I will always be grateful that God gave me a second chance in life here in Gaea. I couldn''t ask for more," Aisha whispered without lifting her head.

    As she said that, Leandro recalled that Aisha''s life was only momentary.

    She was not an immortal and this situation can happen again.

    He slightly withdrew, so he could look at her face.

    She was smiling at him. Every part of her face beamed with serene beauty, calming his weary heart.

    "It is I who should thank you for coming here to Gaea. But I ask you a favor. Please take care of yourself. Do not let yourself get this exhausted again," he said, with a hint of apprehension in his voice.

    Lady Aisha''s lips turned down as she tried to reason out with him. "I wasn''t aware of it, your Majesty. I promise. I used to feel energetic even with little hours of sleep. I don''t know why I got sick all of a sudden."

    Then she turned towards him and bowed her head, "I''m sorry if I cause you trouble, your Majesty."

    With her reaction, Leandro immediately responded. "That is because the climate, atmosphere, and temperature here in Gaea are different from yours. But the physician said you will get used to it. Have you been drinking the medicine that he gave you?"

    Lady Aisha immediately nodded her head.

    "Yes, sir! I mean, your Majesty," she grinned at him. Then she exaggeratedly breathed out a lungful of air.

    "I thought I''m making you worry. Well, is everything okay, your Majesty? You look worn out," she leaned forward and gazed at her with her thick fluttering eyelashes.

    Leandro''s eyes darted away in embarrassment at her straightforward manner.

    To add up to his awkwardness, Lady Aisha''s hand shoots up. "I know! Come on," she pulled his hand and dragged him to her bed.

    He wasn''t used to being dragged. And if it wasn''t Lady Aisha, he would push her away immediately.

    But it was her. And he felt that he liked where it was going.

    She made him sit down on her lap.

    His head was on her warm thighs and his eyes gazed on her sweet face.

    "Now you tell me what is going on while I''m a Sleeping Beauty while I''m massaging your tensed face," she ordered him as her fingers pinched his cheeks.

    Leandro''s jaw dropped at her audacity. No one has dared touch the King''s face!

    If the guards see this right now, they will immediately put Lady Aisha in the dungeons!

    He, too, was astounded at her boldness.

    He was about to stand up, but Lady Aisha''s meticulous fingers were magically softening out the tensed muscles in his head.

    His eyes went heavy, making him close his eyes.

    **********

    "Sometimes you have to give your body a break before it breaks you. I mean, you have to rest your body before it arrests you with sickness. Rest to restart and break to breakthrough."

    ¨D Ned Bryan Abakah

 Chapter 144 - Draft 4

    Pls dont open unless title has been changed. I''m sorry. I feel terrible. But I think I also need to take care of my mental health. We''re already nearing our volume 2. Pls pls bear with me... :( I appreciate it so much! Thank youuu!!

    ******

    If it was from her own world, it would look like their Prime Minister''s lofty Dining Hall itself.

    Since Aisha cannot eat with the King anymore, she decided to eat at the Cenatio instead. She really felt suffocated inside her Chamber that seeing the same thing over and over again kills the life out of her.

    And it seemed like she made the right choice. Everything is exquisitely beautiful. Even the people. Since she was outside, she doesn''t feel that lonely anymore.

    "I''m sorry it took me a while, my lady. I thought you were going to escape again," Rosalia panted as if she was a marathon runner who has run a 5,000 mile competition.

    After a few more breaths, she returned back to her previously formal stance as a model chamber lady that she is.

    "Why would I do that? I''m having the time of my life," Aisha answered after gulping a piece of steak from her plate. "Oh, my, this is the best steak ever. Steaks like this cost a lot in our own world, you know. Not unless you get a discount coupon or it is your birthday. But I actually don''t have a problem with that because I have an unlimited credit card. One of the perks of being a rich kid, eh?"

    She babbled on. But Rosalia seemed to be not listening to her as she said an off topic to her.

    This time, she drew near and whispered to her ear. "The other royal consorts were looking at you, my lady. I think it would be wise if you would finish your plate at an earlier manner so you can retire to your Chamber."

    As she said that, Aisha''s surprised eyes darted to the tables around her.

    The ones nearest to hers were a mixed group of lords and ladies who were busy chatting among themselves in a loud boisterous conversation. They seemed to be oblivious of the presence of a female human with them.

    The other table were groups of lords who were ogling around for single women who they might have fun with for the night.

    There was one handsome young man who was gazing at her. But she immediately shifted her eyes away. "It''s too late, my dear. I am married," she whispered in a singsong voice before looking at the other tables.

    True enough, there was a round table a little farther from them which gave service to beautiful ladies who were gathered around with their palms covering their mouths as they talked with one another. Indeed all of them were staring at her.

    Aisha''s eyes narrowed at them as they seemed quite familiar.

    Then they sparkled after she realized that some of them were indeed the royal consorts whom she had talked to a few weeks before when she was not even a royal wife of the King.

    ''They were nice to me then. And I haven''t seen them in a while,'' she thought as one of them seemed to realize that she finally caught on them.

    She waved her hand in the air in a friendly manner, making Aisha smile and wave hers, too.

    To her surprise, she asked her to come over to their table with a wave of her hand.

    Aisha bit her lips as she doubted if it would be good if she went there. Even though they have acted nicely to her from then until now, it might just be a show. Like her friends Melissa and Nadine did.

    Rosalia seemed to see her distress as she came to the rescue and gave her advice.

    "I think it will be all right to not get on their bad side, my lady. It will be harder for you to live in the Castle if the Royal Consorts will be against you,"

    Aisha nodded her head as she understood what she meant. ''This is not my world. I need to learn to cope up with them.''

    She immediately stood up, feeling like it would also be more fun if she would be in their company. If they were genuine, she would feel less lonely.

    "Greetings, my lady. It seemed like you had finished your marriage week with the King. How was it?" one of them commented.

    Her thick eyelashes fluttered as she leaned forward and awaited her response.

    Aisha gulped as she didn''t know how to reply. If she told the truth, they might get jealous of her. If not, they might say negative things about the King.

    Thinking about what Rosalia said, she just decided to go on with the latter.

    "It was okay. It wasn''t that bad. But it wasn''t that passionate either. It was sort of in the middle," she grinned at them, before biting her lips, recalling how she screamed in delight with the pleasures that the King was giving her for the first time in her life.

    To her bewilderment, one of them butted in with a downcasted face. "That is horrible, my lady. The King is a god in bed. He can send you to the heavens just by one quick moment alone."

    "I agree," another one commented as she raised her hand in the air. Her face was flushed as if she was drunk.

    Aisha glanced at their table and it seemed like they were indeed drinking with their cups half-filled with wine.

    Then another one said, "I thought last week was the most pleasurable experience I ever had with him. But I can''t believe that what we did yesterday was even more exhilarating. I literally thought I died and was taken up to the heavens," she giggled making the other ladies swat her arm as they laughed with her, too.

    But Aisha was not laughing at all.

    ***************************

    Comparison is the thief of joy.

 Chapter 145 - Draft 5

    Pls don''t open unless the title has been changed. Thank you for understanding! :* I''m really trying my best to make it up with you guys. Huhu

    **************

    "Now that you have seen what I can do for the sake of Gaea, I hope anyone would not even think about betraying me. If I can do that to my wife, just think about what I can do with you," a look of scorn flashed over Leandro''s face as his eyes blazed on them.

    His nostrils flared as he resolved to himself that it would not take Lady Aisha, even just a day in the dungeons. He will find the real culprit, and he will make him pay for the trouble that he caused her with his life.

    "Glory to the Great Theos for choosing a benevolent King such as Your Majesty," one of the royal ministers trumpeted, leading the others to say the same thing, too, which they did.

    It seemed as though everything was settled in the throne room, making Leandro finally breathe in properly, somehow. The High Priest, the other royal priests, Lady Marina, the witnesses, and the other royal ministers were also readying themselves to leave the throne room.

    However, a royal guard came rushing to the throne room and breathlessly reported, "Your Majesty, we couldn''t find Lady Aisha. She was not in her Chamber, and the other royal guards were now looking all over the Castle for her."

    The royal guard''s trembling hand was on his stomach as he dreaded the King''s wrath. His eyes widened all the more as he saw the cracks on the golden floor, guessing that it came from the King''s outrage just a while ago.

    The others in the throne room gasped in surprise. They must have thought that everything was already stable, too.

    Due to the length of the meeting, it took them until the evening before everything went back to normal. The night lamps were already lit by the Castle servants, signaling that darkness has already taken over the land of Gaea.

    Indeed, Leandro''s heart almost stopped as he heard the news. His lean and sturdy legs went limp, making him fall back on the luxurious jewel-studded throne where he was previously sitting.

    With his eyebrows drawn together in a frown, he recalled the last time he talked with her so he could guess what she was thinking.

    As he did so, he remembered her serene and ethereal beauty, her raven hair sprawled on her snow-like white pillows, her creamy skin under him as he made love to her. He promised her that everything will be alright because he was there. And she replied with words that expressed her heart. "I love you, your Majesty."

    ''Could she have known?'' His sullen face glowered as he placed it inside the hollow part of his palms. "What have you done, Leandro?" He growled at himself as he scrubbed his face with his cold hands.

    Unlike before, where she escaped out of fear. Now it seemed like she did so out of a broken heart. A heart that was broken because of him.

    ''She could not have left the Castle,'' he thought in denial. He glanced outside the window nearest to him and the darkness outside it.

    It is the night of the new moon and the only bright places are the warm mansions or cottages lit with lamps. The rest including the mountains, the forests, the rivers, and the valleys are all as dark as nothingness.

    His cold fingers held on the side rails of the throne as he thought of where Lady Aisha could be right now.

    Determined to win her back, he stood up and bolted to her Chamber. Her female servants were all lined up outside her door as if it was just another normal evening. But one could feel the coldness and the emptiness of the room, even from outside.

    "Good evening, your Majesty," they all bowed down, trembling, as they saw their great King marching towards where they were.

    Their tails cowered down, fearing that the King would snap his finger and kill them all. Fortunately, the ruler''s eyes were set on what the room contained or not contained as he just passed through them, making them breathe again.

    Still, their shoulders were caved inward, ready for the fury of the great and powerful King once he learned that what he was looking for wasn''t inside the Chamber.

    Undeniably, the room was as frozen as death. There was no sign of life that even birds could not perch by the window, fearing that its coldness might suffocate the life out of them.

    Everything seemed to be clean, neat, and orderly. It appeared as if the room was prepared in case the owner of the room would retire soon, and she could have a good night''s sleep.

    But his fast beating heart was telling him otherwise.

    He tumbled over her bed, her dressing room, and even her bath area. But there was no sign of Lady Aisha at all.

    It was like an arrow just pierced his heart at the moment. He hadn''t thought about how it would feel with Lady Aisha gone out of his Castle because of the presence of the others in the throne room.

    But now he was starting to feel it. And Leandro doesn''t like it.

    She was his sunshine. The Castle only felt warm when she stepped foot in it. And now that she is gone, it has gone back to the lifeless infrastructure that it was.

    Leandro dashed outside to where the poor female servants waited in fear. He clenched his fists as he controlled his power from killing them right then and there. He still needed information from them.

    Their arms flailed in the air as they immediately kneeled down and put their foreheads to the ground. Then they all wailed in unison, "We deserve to die, your Majesty!"

    Their terrified voices echoed through the hallways.. But Leandro didn''t pity them. "Tell me where she is, and I''ll let you live!"

 Chapter 146 - Draft 6

    Pls don''t open unless the title has been changed. Thank you for understanding! :* I''m really trying my best to make it up with you guys. Huhu

    ********

    "Thank you, my lady, for helping me out," the royal kitchen servant bowed down to her with his pressed fingers on his smiling lips. "Indeed, they would grant me pardon if I tell them the truth

    They both walked out of the throne room with the other royal ministers after the King disbanded the meeting. It was already late in the evening and everybody seemed to be hungry and ready to have their dinne

    ''It was actually two-way,'' she wanted to say, but she kept it to herself

    Finally, her dream has, at last, come true. She was successful in casting the female human out of the Castle. And it is not from her own hands, making her as clean as white linen cloth

    They were already outside the Throne Room and in the Inner Courts. Some royal ministers were already outside

    She was smoothing her gown with a satisfied look on her face, when one of the royal ministers approached her and bowed down to her

    "We are in debt to you, my lady, for finally solving this problem. If it weren''t for you, the real culprit wouldn''t have been found," his face lifted in a radiant smile as his hands formed in a steeple in front of his chest

    The other royal ministers who noticed that he was talking to her stopped and eavesdropped on their conversation. They all nodded their heads and said the same thing as if they were now winning her favo

    One of them even stated, "Our humble apologies for suspecting one of the members of the Tribal Council. Lord Lycano is a great man and has done great things for Gaea. We should have known better

    Marina couldn''t help but give them one of her sweetest smiles. She loves being the center of attention, where Gaeans treat her as an important person who deserves to be adored and put to the pedestals

    She was about to bid her farewell because she wanted to talk to King Leandro. It was already getting late, and she knew that he would be busy imprisoning his favorite wife

    But Lord Lycano was still in prison, and the King hadn''t dealt with it due to the focus of the meeting on the female human

    Fortunately, Lord Varo handed her a letter with a twinkle in his eyes. "Here is the approval of freedom for Lord Lycano signed with the King''s seal, my lady

    Marina was stunned for a few seconds as she gave Lord Varo a glance. It seemed as if he knew what she was thinking about at that momen

    She took the scroll and read it. Indeed, it was a pardon for Lord Lycano stating that he was granted freedom because he was found innocent by the Royal Ministers and the Kin

    "We managed to ask the King before he left. He must have known that Lord Lycano would not cause that great trouble, as he signed the letter before he left," one of the Royal Ministers explained to he

    With her heart fluttering, she gazed at each one of them with gratitude as she felt elated that the Royal Ministers'' trust was finally back to the Tribal Council because of her intervention

    Now that Lord Lycano''s name was cleared, she was more confident to express her connection with him and stopped hiding her friendship with hi

    She straightened her spine as she bowed down to them in a demure manner, "Thank you for putting your faith in the Tribal Council. We will do our best to serve Gaea and its people and protect them from all sorts of evil

    After leaving the Castle, she then went straight to the dungeons where Lord Lycano was. It was already late in the night. But she wanted to share with him the good news of his freedom and their victory

    With a grin that could not be contained, she almost hopped as she walked to where Lord Lycano was. He was facing the wall away from her, so she had no idea if he was resting or staring into nothingnes

    She cleared her throat and called him out, "My Lord.

    Her slender hands clutched in front of her chest as she was excited to share with him the news

    Lord Lycano immediately stood up as he heard his name being called out. Then he turned his back and saw her

    At a flash of lightning, he bolted to the iron bars of the dungeons. And with his bare hands, he held on them with his acid-green eyes wide open in anxiety

    "Did they imprison Lady Aisha?" his brawny neck corded as his jaw clenched, erasing the delight from Marina''s pleasant fac

    A cold wind seemed to enter the dungeons from the dungeon windows and separated the two of the

    Marina''s expression went pinched as she stated, "I came here to bring the good news about you and not her

    Then she sighed with exaggeration, "Are you still worried about her?

    She didn''t want to be hypocritical. Both of them were in love with other people before they decided to level up their relationship

    But she felt an aching tightness in her throat as her chest felt constricted, making it hard for her to breath

    Her arms crossed over her as she gazed at Lord Lycano

    Her words seemed to bring him back to reality from his overwhelming concern for the female human that he replied in a softer tone, "It''s just difficult to be here in the dungeons, even for me like a supernatural creature of Gaea. It could be harder for her. She is not just a woman. She is also a human

    As he said that, he swallowed hard before his head lowered down. He appeared as if he couldn''t bear to see her suffer the same way that he did, making Marina drew in a deep breath and bit her lip

    *********************************

 Chapter 147 - [Bonus Chapter] Almost Caught

    AISHA

    She watched in horror, as everyone who had heard the man who was accusing her darted their attention towards them.

    She was still wearing a cloak over her head, but she could feel the tension in the air as they started to talk about her.

    Aisha''s hands went clammy as she felt like it was only a few seconds ago before she was cornered like that. And now it is happening again.

    "This is why you shouldn''t dare get swayed, Aisha," she scolded herself as she recalled that she had managed to stay hidden for years and that now is her first time going downtown.

    The mother whom she was just talking to a while ago looked at her with her finger on her parted lips.

    "Is it true?" she asked. "I knew it," her face brightened up. "We have been looking for you, my lady," she smiled as she reached out and pressed her hand.

    But Aisha quickly withdrew it away. "No, there is a mistake. That guy is just making it up," she stammered as she slowly stepped backward.

    Her eyes quickly went to the guards that the man was talking to. They seemed to be confused. But now they were slowly walking towards her.

    Aisha didn''t know what to do. "Why are the heavens against me today?" she muttered to herself as her wary eyes looked around for a way to escape. "Is this destiny?"

    Just then, the little boy spoke, "Are they going to harm her?" She grabbed on the skirt of her mother.

    Then he looked up at her with sympathetic eyes and said, "But she seems to be a nice lady.

    As she gazed at him, she couldn''t help but remember her own son.

    ''What would happen to him if I showed myself?''

    "Maybe my  case was already cleared.''

    ''Maybe I can go if they learn that I am alive.''

    The mother must have seen her dilemma and being aware of her situation, the mother spoke out, "You must be mistaken, everyone. She is my cousin, and we''re here to just fill in our barrels."

    Then she put her arms around her and guided her away.

    As they walked away, Aisha''s nervous hand held onto the mother''s strong arm. The smart little boy seemed to know what was happening as she held onto Aisha''s skirt. "Let''s go, auntie." He said with a smile.

    Aisha couldn''t help but smile back at him and say "thank you" as they bolted out of that place as fast as they could.

    She was also in a tight spot. But this time she has someone with her. And she was glad.

    She thought that after what happened she was alone and nobody sides with her except Rosalia. This is the only positive thing that she could see with her situation right now.

    "Do not worry, my lady. Just tell us what you need, and we will try our best to help you," the lady smiled at her, making Aisha desire to reveal herself to her.

    If only they were in a different time and place. She is the second person who knows that she is still alive for real. Even with her difficult situation, she felt somehow glad knowing that someone was on her side at that moment.

    "Wait, not so fast," the guard stopped them from moving further. Aisha froze in her tracks as her eyes darted to the exit that was just near them.

    They were already close to escaping. But she doesn''t want the mother and her son to be affected by the consequences of disobeying the King''s command.

    "Remove your cloak," the guard instructed as they neared her.

    Aisha could see the tension in the little boy''s face, since he was the only person she could see with her head bent down.

    Then her head slightly tilted to see the mother.

    She was also anxious. But she wasn''t saying anything. Maybe she was also confused about whether to help her or not.

    Aisha drew in a deep breath as she thought of how she could escape the situation.

    She knew that she didn''t look like the old Aisha. But would it be enough to conceal her identity?

    If it doesn''t, this mother and son will suffer terribly with her. And she doesn''t want to be the cause of it.

    With her heart in her throat, Aisha removed her cloak just as they said and closed her eyes with the little hope that she had.

    She crossed her fingers, wishing that they would not recognize her.

    The guards weren''t saying anything. But the man pointing to her confirmed his statement.

    "It is Lady Aisha, indeed,"  he said, making Aisha''s shoulders drop in dismay.

    As she did so, her eyes caught on the butyron that she had bought for her son''s birthday.

    Now, she could not just be able to make a cake for him. She also would not be present. Her gift for him would be her absence.

    A stabbing pain seemed to strike Aisha''s heart, making her embrace the butyron snugly. "My poor Magnus."

    Aisha must probably be so overwhelmed at that moment because something bizarre happened.

    Just as the guard was about to touch her arm and hold her under arrest, it seemed like a canopy enveloped her, making the guard jolt back in surprise.

    "What the - " he reacted as lightning seemed to electrify him as he touched that protective shield.

    Aisha was also startled. Her wide-open eyes couldn''t blink as she saw guard after guard trying to touch her. But all of them were electrified by the same energy around her.

    "What is this?" Aisha muttered to herself. This is the first time that this has happened to her.

    But she didn''t marvel for too long. This was her chance to leave this place!

    She quickly bowed down to the shocked mother and gave her a promise, "Thank you. I will repay you for your kindness."

    Then she ran with all her might out of the exit, leaving the stunned guards behind.

    **************************

    God is faithful; he will not let you experience trials beyond what you can bear.. But when you are in it, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.

 Chapter 148 - On Moving On

    LYCANO

    "You have to leave now, my lord. Lady Lysha is here, and she''s looking for you," Lyno whispered to Lycano, hoping that Lady Lymina wouldn''t hear him.

    Lyno was outside the tavern as per Lycano''s instruction to look out for whatever it is that would stop Lycano from having fun.

    But Lycano couldn''t hear him properly. It must probably be the loud music. Or the liquor that he''s been drinking must have blurred his senses, so he made him repeat it.

    "What is that, again?" he asked in a slurred manner before kissing Lady Lymina behind her ear.

    "Stop it, my lord. We''re in a public place," Lady Lymina giggled, but her hands went on Lycano''s thighs.

    Lycano''s lips curved up at her aggressive actions. But his smile didn''t reach his eyes.

    "Lady Lysha is looking for you, my lord," Lyno made it so sure that he would hear it. Unfortunately, Lady Lymina heard it too.

    She stopped what she was doing and faced him hastily with an angry demeanor. "Who is Lady Lysha?"

    "Lady Aisha?" Lycano repeated back groggily.

    Why is it that even no matter how many bottles he drank and how many women he slept with, he still could hear her name?

    "Lady Aisha is my first love," he drawled as he slumped his head on the table, just in time for Lady Lysha to show up.

    "Who is Lady Aisha?" The two women chorused together, surprising them both.

    At that moment, Lady Lysha''s attention went to Lady Lymina. "Who are you? Why are you with Lord Lycano?"

    Her shrill voice interrogated the woman beside him.

    Lycano could feel the tension within Lady Lymina as she answered their unwelcome guest, standing up with her hands on her hips. "Who are you? And who gave you the right to ask such questions? I am Lord Lycano''s woman."

    She glared at her like an angry legal wife, infuriating Lady Lysha all the more.

    "I have all the rights because I am Lord Lycano''s fiancee!"

    Lyno''s palm swatted his forehead as he realized the mess that his lord had made.

    Both of the women were from prestigious families who don''t mind Lord Lycano''s bad reputation as long as they will be connected with the powerful lord of the Lycus Clan and member of the Tribal Council.

    But Lord Lycano couldn''t care less about this and that. He just wants to forget.

    The two women started grabbing on each other''s hair, causing a riot in the tavern.

    "Stop it, both of you," Lord Lycano stood up and was about to stop them, but as he tried to grab one of them, the other one got jealous and pulled her back to the ring.

    "Let''s just go, my lord. They will stop once they know that you''re gone," Lyno said as he pulled him up.

    Lord Lycano gazed at the squabbling women. He isn''t in love with any of them. And he knew that they don''t have that kind of sincere feelings for him, too.

    He was just entertaining himself, and he knew that they just wanted his power.

    They were all just using each other, hoping that they could all have what they wanted. But still don''t.

    "All right, let''s go," he finally decided before he sneaked out of the exit of the tavern with the help of the owner, who seemed to understand where he was coming from.

    They went to Market Town which was just nearby where they knew that both women would not catch up with them and enough for Lord Lycano to sober up.

    It was midday when he went inside the tavern, and now it was near twilight. He looked up at the setting sun with its brilliance starting to fade away.

    From where they are, they could see the streets were already being filled with people coming home from work.

    "If you will permit, my lord, why not choose one between the two women? They were both decent and of marrying age. Any one of them would be an admirable partner for you, my lord," Lyno suggested as he offered a bottle of water to him.

    His brows were wrinkled as he pinched his ear. Then he looked in the direction where Lycano was gazing at.

    He must have been concerned since Lycano has been wasting his life all these years, unmotivated by anything.

    "They weren''t Lady Aisha," Lycano answered before gulping down a lump of water that soothed his dry throat.

    "But she''s already dead, my lord," Lyno tried to reason out with him.

    He knew that. In fact, he didn''t know why he was that attracted to Lady Aisha, too.

    They didn''t have the luxury of time that they spent with one another that would give him the rational reason to be that way to her.

    But just thinking about her, made his heart flutter. And thinking about what happened to her hurts him until now.

    "How about the other women that you''ve been with, my lord? Certainly, there is someone who has caught your heart, even if it doesn''t surpass your affection for Lady Aisha."

    With that, a vision of Lady Marina came to his mind, making him draw in a deep breath.

    Their last personal conversation was in the dungeon. She hasn''t talked with him since then.

    He understood her perfectly because they had entered into a different level of relationship when he decided to assist Lady Aisha in escaping.

    "She could have been it," Lord Lycano muttered to himself, making Lyno glance at him with furrowed brows.

    "Never mind. Maybe I''m just meant to be a bachelor. It''s not so bad because I can have all the women that I want, right?" Lycano laughed as he started walking.

    Just then, his attentive ears caught on to the gossip that made his eyes go wide in surprise.

    "Are you sure it''s Lady Aisha?"

    "Yes, I saw her with my own eyes."

    "But she''s dead! Maybe it''s just a ghost."

    "Or maybe she''s just hiding all these years, so she could escape her punishment."

    With his heart beating wildly in his chest, he went to the gossiping man and asked outrightly. "Did you really see Lady Aisha?"

    "Yes, yes, my lord," the man stammered, "She went that way."

    Then he pointed to the road leading to Sorbus Mountains.

    ***********************************

    Stop looking for happiness in the same place you lost it.