The Monster King's Legacy

Chapter 55 Planning

"This isn't going to be easy," Rynne said, her tone blunt as she leaned over, studying the crude map of the surrounding region. "Before anything, how do you even understand this? It doesn't make much sense to me. Plus, when did you learn to write? Last I checked, you could barely speak common." She protested.

"This isn't exactly common, but then again, you don't need to understand it, not yet at least." Lance replied, looking at the crude map on the makeshift table inside the meeting house he had ordered to be built. The was able to get writing materials from the beastkin traders the last time they met, and after a bit of practice, he was able to figure out how to write using the older model of ink and feather.

The beastkin traders did mention that there were better materials, but of course, those were more expensive. Also, Lance could have just gotten a simple map, but even the cheapest of maps was far over what he could afford, so he settled on bringing the ideas and putting details to paper himself.

He was also able to get new information from the beastkin merchants, and surprisingly, they didn't attempt to hold off any information from him either. This alone, helped a lot. Even though Tharok provided his fair bit of knowledge about the surrounding area, it was at a larger scale compared to the beastkin who knew the surroundings well. Not to mention, Tharok wasn't from around there, so he could only say what he had seen and heard.

Continuing his explanation, Lance pointed to an area on the map. "There are a few beastkin clans scattered through this region. They're small, isolated, and struggling to survive. If we approach them carefully, we might be able to bring them into the fold. Well, that is what I would like to think anyway. For now, it will be more difficult than easy to accomplish such a thing. Precisely because there are a lot of factors that go into convincing other races."

"So you're saying they might refuse. And if they do?" Lia asked, her golden eyes calm but probing.

"Then we leave them in peace," Lance replied. "This isn't about conquering or forcing anyone to join us. It has to be their choice. That goes for the other races and tribes as well."

Rynne grinned, her golden eyes lighting up with anticipation. "I know how you and Lia fancy your diplomacy and all, or whatever you call it, but you'd better believe we'll need to show strength too. If we come off as weak, no one's going to take us seriously."

Lance nodded. "Agreed. That's why we will take our powerful warriors with us, just enough to show that we're capable of defending ourselves without looking like we're trying to intimidate them."

In agreement, Rynne nodded her head with a smirk on her face.

"I'll come too," Lia added. "Having a shaman with you might make a better impression. Not only does it show strength, the beastkin respect spiritual leaders. At least, so I've heard."

"Of course. Tallies with what I know."

"While you're gone, I'll keep the camp fortified," Kaeli said, her tone confident. "If anyone comes sniffing around, they'll regret it."

As her hands rubbed his arm, going over his muscles and flesh, she stopped for a moment. "Your muscles are tense, I bet their sore," she said, running her fingers over his palms. " You even have some bruises. Let me help."

Rynne snorted, crossing her arms. "He's fine. A little bruise won't kill him, it shows desire to get stronger. What's the point of training and still have a smooth skin anyway?"

"Yes, but it's better if he doesn't carry unnecessary stress." Mira replied, her tone sweet but pointed,

Before Lance could respond, Zarra appeared, her sharp green eyes dancing with mischief. She perched on the edge of the log beside him, leaning in close enough that her breath brushed his ear.

"Looks like I'm late to the party," she said, her voice low and teasing.

"More like you were waiting for the perfect moment to interrupt," Lance replied, smirking.

Zarra grinned. "Guilty as charged. But you know me."

Her hand trailed lightly across his arm as she leaned in for a kiss. Just them Kaeli emerged, her arms crossed as she surveyed the scene, her eyes landing directly on Zarra. "What's this?"

'Argh!! Kaeli!' Zarra screamed internally, as Kaeli had sullied the mood she had set up, if it could be viewed so.

"Seems like I'm being left out of something important here."

...

As the evening deepened, the group settled into a quiet moment of connection.

As the fire burned low and the night grew quiet, Lance felt a deep sense of relief and relaxation as they all shared moments of affection. Lance felt the weight on his shoulders lighten, if only for a little while.

'Looks like my magic ability will have to clutch for me again.'