Page 56 of His to Claim
"Let's go to the village," I say to Torr.
We head toward the village, and I see everyone waving at us. They all seem happy to see me, their leader... their veerha.
"Dhakar, my king... you live," Hexal, my commander, greets.
"Hi, Hexal," I reply.
Everyone else in the tribe comes over to greet me. I smile and shake each person's hand. Some are crying tears of joy. Others are smiling and laughing. I can tell they are happy to have me back.
"Well, let's not keep the others waiting, shall we? Let's eat and celebrate your return," Hexal says.
"Lead on," I reply.
Once we reach the village, people start carrying food outside for us.
"You must be famished after your journey, my king," Hexal says.
"Yes, I am," I reply. "Let's have a feast to celebrate my coming back. Everyone is invited."
I turn to Torr. "Do you want to come?"
"Of course, my king. I would be honored."
Hexal leads us inside the building and ushers everyone into the largest room in the village, which we call the gathering hall. The walls are lined with shelves filled with weapons, tools, and other items. The floor is covered in grass mats. There are also a few tables and chairs placed around the edges of the room.
"All right, let's eat and celebrate our king's return!" Hexal shouts. "And please, if anyone needs anything, just ask."
I look around the room and see people looking at me, but no one speaks.
"Let the dancer enter," Hexal shouts.
A young Zathurian female walks onto the stage and begins to dance.
She's beautiful. Her body moves gracefully, and her face is full of joy. I used to love watching dancers.
The Zathurians are known for their beauty and graceful movements. They only have one set of children per life cycle. After giving birth, they die. Their bodies can only support so much blood loss.
I watch the girl continue to move in front of me. She seems to be singing, her voice soft and soothing.
I breathe in deeply, smelling the fresh air. It smells like Bellaria. How I missed this smell.
I look around the room and smile. Everyone looks content and happy. Even Hexal has a big grin on his face. The dancer comes closer to me, her movement still fluid.
The girl stops dancing and bows. "Your Majesty, I am honored that you requested my presence tonight."
"Please, continue," I say.
"Thank you, my king. I will always honor your wishes."
I nod to her.
The girl starts to dance again. I try to follow along as she twirls around the room, her bare feet moving with such grace. She turns and dances in front of me, her fingers brushing against my chest.
My eyes widen. She's touching me! I find no pleasure in her touch... she's nothing like mu human... my Emma.
She continues to dance. She doesn't stop until she reaches the edge of the stage. She bows and then leaves the room when I signal her.
"Was she not to your liking, veerha?" Hexal asks me.
