Page 27 of Scales of Time

“I don’t have as much extra strength as Harwin does. Plus, stuff burns and melts if it isn’t sturdy. It’s an actual issue.” She touched her clothing. “This would go up in a heartbeat.”

“Clothing is easily replaced.” He smiled. “I believe enough selections have been made today.”

She looked around, and the room was empty. “Where did they go?”

He hissed softly and got to his feet, extending his hand to her. “I gave the signal while you were daydreaming.”

Kris took his hand, and he helped her to her feet.

They walked out of the hall and through the pathways, heading toward his private wing.

“So... you mentioned that Yorness sold my contract?”

“She did. I have taken it on.”

“Why? How?”

“Well, you were supposed to be offered to me on arrival. If you had, that couple would have met their end as they were swamped by mud.”

“You would have gotten them out.”

He shook his head. “No, I wouldn’t. I was told the resort was evacuated. It wasn’t until Yorness called me that I headed out to assist.”

She nodded. “I remember seeing you, but then, I was just getting my ride to fly, and that took all of my focus.”

“How did you do that?”

“Heat rises, and the bird was strong, so I just had to help a little, and up we went. Why didn’t you let me get back to Yorness’s?”

“Because I was irritated that you had taken a risk and wasn’t sure why.”

“Why?”

“Why was I irritated? I developed an interest in you and wanted to pursue it, but you emptied your body of everything, and it needed immediate assistance, so I gave it. That bound us in the same manner as a more enjoyable method.”

She frowned as they walked. “What do you mean?”

“First, the nanites are introduced to your system, and then, the control is added that reshapes you. The first was done during injection, and the second was a simple bite. You taste enthralling, by the way.”

“Wait. Where is the bite?”

“You didn’t notice it?”

“Um, no. Where is the mark?”

“The mark is gone. It was seasons ago.” He squeezed her hand.

She sighed. “So, what happens now?”

“Now, we read your contract, and then, I seek to prove that our attraction is mutual and that your future is not arduous.”

Kris glanced at him. His face showed concern. “You don’t look convinced, Overlord.”

“I normally consume what I need and release my servants when they are depleted.”

“But, no release for me.”

He smiled. “You will not leave the planet without me, but your release is of primary importance. I can also consume the energy you output when you burn.”

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