Negotiations Continue

“Why didn't you wake me up!?” Marie asked, blushing and upset.

She had just woken Mac up herself, and they were washing up.

“Sorry, you were sleeping, and I know you've been feeling unwell.”

Marie blushed further. “It was my night to have you! You can't have gotten tired of me already...”

“You know that's not it,” Mac replied, giving her a kiss to reinforce this. “We can some other night.”

Marie cleared her throat. “Very well. I am holding you to that.”

They went into the main room, where the Arkantans were already waiting.

“Good morning,” Queen Haliya said, standing up as they came over.

Saphoa smiled at Mac.

Mac and Marie went over, and the four of them sat down again.

Queen Haliya jumped right into it. “Have you made a decision on accepting my offer of a marriage with Saphoa? Even if conditional, I believe we need to make a decision on that before we can continue negotiations.”

Mac nodded, “I have, but I believe I also have a way to simplify the negotiations.”

Marie raised an eyebrow as he turned towards her.

“I meant to ask you earlier, but does this world have anything like personal unions?”

Marie's eyebrow rose further. “Unions? Like marriages? Or of different countries? I can maybe guess what it is, but we don't have anything like that,” she shook her head.

Mac sighed, “Okay. I'll try and explain, then. Basically, a personal union is when you have two separate countries, but they have the same ruler, or in this case rulers, running them.”

Queen Haliya frowned, “Are you proposing I give my country to you?”

Mac quickly shook his head. “No, not exactly. What I am proposing is this: Saphoa and I would marry. As part of the arrangement, once you are ready to step down, you would hand the country over to Saphoa and me.”

Queen Haliya seemed to be struggling with the concept. “So once I abdicate, you would be King of both Ositania and Arkanta?”

“And Saphoa would be both a Queen of Ositania and Arkanta,” Mac added.

Queen Haliya nodded. “I follow along so far. But how does this benefit Arkanta, other than getting to have Saphoa as Queen?”

“With our countries in a union, any decisions made would be with the goal of benefiting both.”

Queen Haliya seemed suspicious again. “How do I know you won't just use Arkanta to benefit only Ositania?”

Mac understood her concern. “I wouldn't do that, although I understand if you don't just take my word for it. That is why Saphoa is there. Do you think she would let us take advantage of Arkanta?”

Queen Haliya quipped back, “But how do I know you won't just overrule Saphoa?”

Before Mac could respond, Marie jumped in. “Mac runs Ositania a bit differently than a country ruler normally does.” She leaned forward, crossing her arms. “Mac makes decisions, but he defers and delegates to others. Me, his wives, his military leaders...Saphoa would be running Arkanta, but with the benefit any resources Ositania has to offer. I imagine metal is in short supply in Arkanta?”

Queen Haliya did a slight grimace. “It is as you say. We struggle to get any that doesn't rust, we have only a small amount of heaters or other metal objects. Long lasting, rust-resistant metal is worth it's weight in pearls. Maybe twice so.”

Mac chimed in, “One of my fiance's is an expert dwarfsmith. I'm sure we could get you at least a decent supply of rust-resistant metal as part of the agreement. And of course more would come in over time. The pipes in the engine you saw were made of rust-resistant metal.”

Saphoa, who was now blushing heavily, looked at Queen Haliya. “Mother...”

Queen Haliya smiled at her. “Saphoa...” she turned to Mac again. “What would happen in the future? Is Arkanta taken over by your children with Saphoa?”

“Potentially, yes. I'm not asking you to commit to anything permanently now, it would more so depend on future generations. If both Ositanians and Arkantans want it to continue, eventually they would do away with the last few distinctions and merge the countries together fully. If they decide not too, they could unwind the countries and go their separate ways.”

Queen Haliya nodded. She leaned back into her chair, and sighed. “I understand the benefits of this, but it is no small thing to agree too.”

Mac nodded. “I understand.”

Saphoa looked back and forth, seemingly keen on the idea. “Mother, I think this is for the best.”

Queen Haliya smiled. “I am still a bit worried about the specifics.”

Saphoa looked to Mac. “What if we started off with just an alliance, and we can move further in the future?”

Queen Haliya nodded. “I agree with my daughter. Would you agree to an alliance and trade arrangement? I would like to rule a few more years, but if I think you have benefited Arktana duly, we can more forward with this 'union'.”

Marie smiled, “That should be fine. I think slowly integrating together would be for the best anyway. That said, I think Saphoa should come with us now, to help start the process.”

Saphoa smiled, “I would like that as well.”

Mac nodded and smiled back, and looked to Queen Haliya, “So, are we in agreement?”

Queen Haliya nodded. “Yes, I agree to your terms. Truthfully, I wished to both marry Saphoa to you to gain an alliance with Ositania, but also wanted her to run Arkanta in the future, so I am happy. I believe Arkanta will be in good hands even after I step down.”

Saphoa hugged her mother, who hugged her back.

As Mac and Marie watched the wholesome moment between mother and daughter, Fawna and Charlotte burst into the room.

“So-sorry! I didn't realize you were already negotiating again again,” Fawna said, and Charlotte nodded in agreement.

Mac chuckled, “Don't worry, we just finished.”

They explained the results (and trying his best to summarize the complicated explanation of a personal union) and they were both in awe.

“That's amazing!” Charlotte said. “And an interesting concept.”

Fawna ran over and hugged Saphoa. “I'm sure everyone will love you.”

Saphoa laughed and hugged her back, “Haha, I hope so. In truth I am worried about fitting in with the established family...”

Fawna shook her head, “I was too! But everything turned out fine.”

The Arkantan's went back to their rooms to prepare, so Marie took Mac aside.

“Did you seduce Saphoa? Or the Queen? How did you convince them to just hand their country over?”

Mac blushed, “It's not set in stone yet. And you know I wouldn't do something like that...”

“I wouldn't be upset if you seduced a woman to gain a country,” Marie responded, shaking her head. “In any case, you know as good as I that she would be insane not to agree with everything eventually. Unless we fumble incredibly with the immigrants or the metal they need, or somehow manage to upset Saphoa, the union will go through once she steps down.”

Mac nodded, “I think so too, but we need to be vigilant.”

Marie seemed to be thinking. “I wonder if we could use this in the future...”

Mac shook his head, “You can only form one if the royalty of both countries agree. And it will only work out if the people of both countries agree.”

Marie smiled. “Well said,” she then sighed, “I can't say I'm looking forward to helping run a completely second country, though.”

Mac chuckled, “Haha, it hopefully shouldn't add too much to your plate. Saphoa should be taking care of most of it.”

“Did you call for me?” they heard from behind them. Saphoa was walking up, “Sorry, I didn't mean to intrude, but I needed to ask something.”

Marie smiled and shook her head, “We were just discussing the future.”

Saphoa smiled back. Turning to Mac, she said, “I am going to briefly return to Arkanta now to pick up some of my belongings before I leave with your party. Would you like to join me?”

Mac was taken aback. “I can? I mean, I can swim, but I can't breathe underwater.”

Saphoa smiled, “That is fine, I cannot either, we can only hold our breath for a long period of time. If you can hold your breath for twenty seconds, I can get you there.”

Mac turned to Marie, who smiled at him. “Go ahead. I'll spend the time your gone talking with Queen Haliya on some specifics.”

Saphoa took Mac down to the docks, where a boat with several Arkantan's had docked. “I didn't know Arkantan's had boats, too.”

Saphoa giggled, “Why would we not?”

“Since you can swim without air for a while, right?”

Saphoa thought for a moment. “True, but you used a carriage to get here even if you could have walked, right? It is the same concept.”

Mac blushed a bit from embarrassment. “Sorry, I'll just keep my mouth shut.”

Saphoa shook her head, “We are just learning about each other's cultures, it is not something to be embarrassed by.”

The Arkantans manning the boat all bowed as they walked up onto the deck. A large man, shirtless and blue, with scaly skin scarred in several places, came forward. “Princess Saphoa, are we returning now?”

Saphoa nodded. “Yes, my future husband and I are going to grab some items from the palace, then come back so I can travel with him.”

The man looked over Mac, “Future husband?”

“Yes, so protect him with your life.”

The other sailors did a salute, while the large man reluctantly saluted as well, before going to the ship's helm. The others all went to the sides, sitting down on benches and grabbing oars that jutted out into the water.

Saphoa saw Mac looking at them, “It might not go as fast as your elf-wife's boat, but we do have an anchor,” she explained, giggling at the last part.

Mac chuckled, “That's fine. I think this is probably safer until she works out all the kinks, anyways.”

They headed off from the dock, slightly rocking up and down on the waves as they cut through them, going perpendicular from the shore.

After a while, Mac asked “How far away is your palace?” He felt okay on ships, but he didn't particularly like being too close to the railing, and was leaning/clinging to one of the masts in the middle of the ship.

“About twenty minutes or so at this speed.”

“Really? That's it? I didn't...nevermind, you did say there was only a certain range.”

Saphoa nodded. The palace is built on the widest band of land our ancestors could find.”

Suddenly, there was a call from the sailor in the crow's nest. “There's something to the starboard bow. Maybe two hundred meters.”

The muscled helmsman shouted back. “Something!? What kind of call is that?”

“I don't know what it is, sir. It's getting...” he trailed off.

Mac looked over at where everyone else was. After a moment, he recognized the scales, “Oh, it's that sea serpent! Or at least, it looks like the same one.”

Saphoa's eyes widened in surprise as she looked back at him. “You've seen one already!? And you're sure it's the same?”

Mac nodded. “Yes, on the way to Ludout, we saw one off in the distance at sea. It roared at us twice, too.”

“It roared at you?” she repeated.

“Princess, what should we do?” the helmsman asked.

“Just...just leave it be...”

Mac was confused. “Aren't you sea serpent-humans? Why are you worried about it?”

Saphoa shook her head, “It is true, that may be one of our ancient ancestors, but it's not like they come over for tea and visit. The last time one showed itself was on my mother's coronation day.”

The sea serpent was swimming at the same rate as them, still a hundred meters or so away. It was easily multiple times longer than the boat.

“It's so beautiful...” Saphoa said as she watched in awe, leaning against the railing.

Suddenly, the sea serpent roared. It felt the same as last time, as if just exchanging a friendly greeting.

Mac did like last time, waving at it.

The sea serpent dove into the water, causing a small wave to hit them.

“Was it acknowledging us? I don't understand...”

Mac shrugged. “We theorized it might be able to sense I'm an Otherworlder. That's just a guess though.”

Saphoa nodded. “That could be...”

Everyone spent the rest of the short trip in silence, a bit unnerved by the sea serpent sighting and roaring.

Luckily, they soon came upon a small dock, floating in the ocean. There were several other similar ships roped to it.

“Is this to help keep track of your boats?” Mac asked.

Saphoa nodded. “Yes. It also shows where to drops our anchors, so we don't accidentally hit our own houses.”

That's a weird problem to have, but makes sense.

Saphoa came up and wrapped an arm around Mac, getting a few smirks from the sailors. “Are you ready, my future husband?”

Mac blushed a bit, With those muscles, she feels like a taller Daisy. “What are we-”

He barely had time to take a deep breath as Saphoa plunged into the ocean, arm still strongly wrapped around him. Mac was left breathless at the sight below him. A large palace sprawled just below in the water. Instead of stone, it seemed to be made of some sort of white building material.

Mac didn't have a lot of time to take the sight in, as they were swimming quickly down, following the anchor until the reached the sea floor. Two Arkantans were securing the anchor to a solid stone in the middle of the clearing it was in. Saphoa clenched her arm and slightly changed directions towards a small opening in the side of the clearing. Heading through it led to a flight of stairs, which they climbed up.

Suddenly, Mac's head was free of the water, gasping for air in a lit room. It looked somewhat like an entryway.

Saphoa let go of him, wringing out her hair, before grabbing a towel from a cupboard at the side of the room and tossing it at him. “Usually we don't bother with towels, as we wear water-resistant clothes, but we have them for the rare occasion of a non-sea serpent-humans visiting.”

Mac caught the towel as she was explaining, rubbing his face and hair. His tracksuit and undergarment were also soaked, but he wasn't going to worry about it for now.

Several sea-serpent human maids came out. They weren't the same as the maid outfits in Ositania, but he could still recognize them as such. One of them stepped forward, “Princess Saphoa, I am glad you returned safely. Who is this?”

“This man is King Mac of Ositania, he is to be my husband. I am going to live with him in his country, but came to collect my things.”

The maid looked between her and Mac, then dove into a hug with Saphoa. “Saphy, I'm so happy for you!”

Saphoa seemed a bit embarrassed. “Thank you, Mazzy, but we mustn't keep him waiting.”

Mac shook his hands. “It okay, as long as we get back by sundown the others shouldn't be too worried.”

Mazzy nodded at him with a smile, before turning back to Saphoa “I will help you pack.”

As they started off down the hallway, Mac asked, “Do you want my help?”

Saphoa turned around, “That's okay, please just looked around if you'd like.”

Mac awkwardly stood there as the other two maids stayed. They waited a minute in silence. I would rather have just helped...maybe she wanted to talk with that Mazzy, she seems close to her. After thinking a moment, he asked, “Is there anywhere I could get a nice view?”

The maids looked at each other, then nodded, before motioning him to follow. They wound around a few corridors until hitting a set of stairs. Climbing up, a couple flights, they stopped in front of a door. Opening it, they showed him inside to what looked to be a reception room, with a couple paintings and a tea table set up.

However, there was one glaring difference from a normal, abovewater one – the entire back wall was made of glass. Looking through it, he could see the seabed sprawling below them, with colorful coral shining in the midday light that streamed through the water. The seabed seemed to be declining gradually, as if they were on top of a hill, until it disappeared from sight in the distance.

“Thanks, this is a nice view,” Mac thanked the maids.

“Would sire enjoy a cup of tea to go along with it?” one of them asked.

“Ah, sure, thank you,” he replied, sitting down at the table.

Mac looked around, and the entire room seemed to be made of the same material as he had seen from the outside. It looked kind of like concrete, and was as solid as it, but it seemed more porous this close up.

“Can I ask something?” he asked the maids as he sipped his tea..

The maids looked at each other, before looking back at Mac. “About the princess?”

Mac shook his head. “No, about the building. What is it made out of?”

“It is Arkantan stone. I don't know how it's made, but our craftsman have perfected it over centuries. It is lightweight, but also doesn't erode quickly. It does break down in choppy waters, though.”

Mac nodded, “I see.” That could be useful. Not that we have a large need for water-resistant buildings. I wonder if its mass producible enough to make roads?

Seeing Mac was thinking, the maids asked, “Would you like us to fetch a craftsmen, sire?”

“No, no, that's okay...” he responded quickly, taking another sip of tea.

He sat in silence for a while, watching the occasional fish swim by. This is kinda amazing, just sitting thirty meters underwater drinking some tea. I guess not as weird as some things that have happened recently, but still...

After finishing his cup of tea, he heard a commotion outside the door. “Princess, you must let me...”

“Mazzy, we cannot...”

The door burst open, with the maid from earlier, Mazzy, stomping, before kneeling in front of Mac. “Sire, you must let me accompany Princess Saphoa. She cannot even get dressed without my help, let alone-”

Saphoa, who had followed in after, pulled her up. “Mazzy, you can't just invite yourself. Sire already has several maids, we cannot impose another.”

Mac was a bit confused. “Um, that's actually fine. We're short on maids, so if you're bringing your own, that'd be great.”

Mazzy smiled, and Saphoa blushed a bit. “Are you sure? It would not be an issue?”

Mac shook his head. “Definitely not. Tillie, our head maid, will be ecstatic, especially getting one that doesn't need trained. Plus, I'm sure you'd feel more comfortable having someone else you know around.”

Saphoa blushed a bit deeper, before leaning over and hugging Mac. “Thank you, my future husband.”

“You can just call me Mac,” he replied, blushing slightly and scratching his cheek.

“Please just call me Saphoa then, Mac,” she replied back with a smile.

The other maids looked away, while Mazzy seemed to get excited at the tender moment. She leaned over and whispered, but not quiet low enough that Mac couldn't hear, “Did you two already do the deed?”

Saphoa lightly slapped her shoulder, looking away.

I'll just pretend I didn't hear that.

After waiting a bit longer for Mazzy to pack herself, they grabbed their two trunks. They looked a bit odd, seemingly made of some tightly woven fiber. “Are these waterproof?”

Saphoa nodded. Mazzy grabbed both of their trunks, while Saphoa wrapped her arm around him. “Are you ready, my-...Mac.”

Mac nodded, “Whenever you are, Saphoa.”

Saphoa blushed a bit at him saying her name, squeezing him a bit tighter. She then jumped into the water.

Swimming up to the boat was easier, as Mac was kicking his feet in sync with her to propel them quickly up to the side of the boat, before climbing a rope ladder back on. Saphoa stayed in the water to help Mazzy get the trunks up into the boat.

“Princess, Mazzy,” the helmsman said. “Shall we go back to the land?”

Saphoa nodded, and the sailors started raising the anchor.

After they were ready, they turned the boat and headed back for shore. Since they were not that far off shore, he could still easily see the mountain range they had crossed in order to get to Ludout. And he might even be able to see the coast in the horizon.

“Where are we heading?” Mazzy asked, seemingly excited, but barely being able to keep herself composed.

“To Mac's palace,” Saphoa simply said.

“I know that. I mean, where is the palace?”

Stolen story; please report.

Mac pointed to the mountains, “It's over the other side of those, and down a bit. The capital Pearie is at the base of the mountain, and the palace is a bit up it.”

Mazzy nodded in understanding. “Do you have other beast-human maids?”

Mac nodded. “Yes. Several, in fact.”

“Mac also has several beast-human wives,” Saphoa said to her.

Mazzy nodded again, seemingly satisfied. “Do any of your administrators or other vassals like beast-human women as well? I had been waiting until Princess Saphoa was engaged, and if we're going to be living in Ositania, I may as well find myself a husband and settle down there, too.”

She looked at Mac expectantly, and Saphoa also seemed invested. Well, I can understand. He thought for a moment, I guess La Hire would count, but I don't know if I want to put that on him when he already has Fiona and Kelly. And maybe Kylie too. I'll bring it up with him first. Or his wives. “I can try to set you up, at least.”

Mazzy seemed content at that, giving a smile and a nod.

After getting back to Ludout, they introduced Mazzy to the other maids so she could go prepare with them. The carriages were already being loaded up and preparing to leave.

“We discussed everything we need to start working together, and Queen Haliya wants to get back and talk to her staff,” Marie explained.

“You pick capable woman as your negotiators,” Queen Haliya said, with a smile.

Mac blushed, “Actually, Marie came with the Kingdom when I got it.”

“Haha, the Spirits favor you then,” Queen Haliya responded.

Mac smiled, knowing that at least one did.

“What did you think of your brief visit to Arkanta?”

“It was beautiful. Hopefully we can come back and stay for a longer trip at some point.”

Queen Haliya nodded. “You will need to bring my grandchildren to visit, at the least,” she explained, causing Saphoa to blush slightly.

They loaded into the royal carriage, Saphoa in tow after giving one final hug to her mother. Charlotte and Fawna were bombarding her with questions, which luckily Saphoa seemed more than happy to indulge them in.

“Do you sleep in the water?” Fawna asked.

“No we have dry rooms we sleep in.”

“Can you talk with fish?” Charlotte asked.

“No, we only hunt them for food, or keep them as pets.”

This continued for a while, until they seemed to have exhausted themselves asking things about Arkantan culture and the sea serpent-human race, and passed out on the bed.

Charlotte and Fawna are really cute together.

When they had finished, Marie was using the time to grill Saphoa on her administrative and noble knowledge.

“Do you know how to count taxes?”

Saphoa nodded. “Yes, I've worked on that with our administrators before.”

“Are you up to date with current political situations in neighboring countries?”

“Yes. Probably more so than Mother is, actually. I was always the one gathering knowledge from our traders. I know you had a terrible war a few years ago. I know Provent is having financial issues. And I know there might be an uprising in Catlan soon.”

Marie did a double-take. “An uprising in Catlan?”

Saphoa nodded, “Yes. Our traders say things are bad there, and many have been avoiding it.”

Marie nodded. “You'll need to speak with Kay when we're back.” She thought for a moment, “What about mustering troops?”

Saphoa nodded. “Yes. We've been attacked by the Azoran empire several times before, and had to fight them back, so we practice mobilization often.”

Marie blinked a few times, trying to think. “Azoran? I don't think I've ever heard of them. Are they across the sea?”

Saphoa shook her head, “No, they are underneath it. They are a squid-human empire that marches up from the depths, attacking our villages and trying to enslave us.”

Mac and Marie looked at each other. “That's terrifying.”

Saphoa nodded at Mac. “It is. Because of the spread out nature of Arkanta, we have to be able to muster quickly and send troops along the border to where the incursion is, so mobility is a well-studied topic in our country.”

Marie nodded slowly. “I'll have to get you to talk with some of our military leaders, as well...”

They stopped again at the inn at the crossroads, being warmly greeted again by the old tanuki-human couple.

“Oh my, you have a seafolk with you!” the old lady said. “It's nice to meet you.”

Saphoa smiled back, “It is nice to meet you as well. I am going to be marrying your King.”

“Oh my, congratulations!”

Mac grabbed his forehead, Is it okay to just announce it like that? And 'seafolk'?' He looked at Marie, who shrugged, so he asked Saphoa. “Is seafolk supposed to refer to you?”

Saphoa nodded. “Yes, it is common for the people along the coast to call us such. We often refer to you as 'landfolk', though I can see now that is probably too general of a term in most circumstances,” she added, looking at all the different races assembled in the small tavern area.

Saphoa waited while the others sat down for dinner. The others looked at her, then looked at the seat next to Mac, then took a different seat. Eventually, she was the only one left standing, so she sat down in the empty chair next to Mac.

Across from her was one of Mac's other fiances. Fawna, a deer-human. She gave her a cute smile, then ravenously started piling the roasted fish that was being served onto her plate.

Saphoa followed suit and piled her plate as well. She generally preferred freshly caught fish, but she was willing to give this a shot. She was pleasantly surprised as the taste of the warm fish in her mouth. Instead of the normal texture, it was very flaky, and had a note of citrus. I might get called a heretic at home for suggesting we cook our fish, but this is just magnificent! She got slightly worried that she would seem weird enjoying the fish so much, but everyone else seemed to be devouring it as well, so she was confident she wasn't bringing undue attention to herself.

After three platefuls, Saphoa was leaning back in her chair. Fawna mirrored her, and started giggling, “We both ate a ton.”

Saphoa smiled, “It was marvelous cooking.”

Fawna leaned forward a bit, “It was really good, but Tillie's is even better.”

“Tillie? The head maid at the palace, right?”

Fawna nodded. “When I helped her in the kitchen she tried to instruct me to cook as well as her. I improved a bit, but it was a bit depressing comparing myself to her.”

“You were...a maid?”

Fawna blushed, “Yes...” and trailed off, holding her cheeks.

Why is that something to blush over? The rumor was that the King of Ositania had a penchant for seducing his maids, and then it changed to that he was collecting all the beautiful woman of his realm.

She looked around Mac at Marie, who had a confident, mature beauty that reminded her a bit of her mother. I think they said she is already with his child, so he must be into women like that.

She then looked at Charlotte, who was staring into a small cup of wine in her hand. She had an elegant, yet cute aura. A bit short, but with long golden hair, and a small chest. Hmm, she is very different, but I could tell from the way they interacted they are very happy together, so he must be into her as well.

She then looked at Fawna. She was average height, but with a rather large chest (probably the same as her own) which was accentuated by her cute deer-human features. Of all of them, she was the closest to the classic definition of 'sexy' (or at least what Saphoa thought it would be). It's no wonder Mac claimed her as his own.

She then looked at herself. He had already said he had no issues with her being blue. Her green hair was almost as long as Charlotte's. Her chest was the same size as Fawna's. Her confidence was easily on par with Marie's. Her webbed, multi-pointed ears were a bit unique, but that could be a selling point. Yes, he should definitely be into me! I have all the tools necessary.

Mac had gotten up at some point, and was talking with some of the guards while drinking wine.

Fawna looked over at him, then at Saphoa. She leaned over and whispered, “Do you want to sleep with him tonight?”

Saphoa blushed a bit. “Sleep? You mean like, in his room?”

Fawna shook her head. “No, like have sex.”

Saphoa blushed further. Already!? But we just got engaged today! “Err, should I really be-”

Fawna cut her off, “He made me wait a bit, but I eventually seduced him,” she nodded confidently.

Saphoa's eyes went wide. She seduced him!? I was wrong, she is the confident one! Not the other way around... “Errmmm, I don't know if I'm ready...”

Charlotte, who seemed to have been listening, chimed in, “Mac and I waited a while before we did. You don't need to force yourself. I seduced him once I was ready.”

She also seduced him!? Saphoa turned to Marie, who also seemed to have been listening in. Marie scooched over into Mac's unoccupied chair. “You can have him tonight if you want, but Mac will probably try to stop you.”

“Stop me? What do you mean?” Saphoa asked.

The three of them looked at each other. “You weren't planning on seducing him tonight?”

Saphoa blushed again, “No!” she said loudly.

Everyone looked at them.

“Umm...are you being mean to Saphoa? Please don't-”

Marie held up her hand and shook her head. “Just a girl's talk.”

Mac sighed and nodded, while the guards around him roared in laughter.

Saphoa said quietly, “Why do you think I was going to do...that?”

The other three looked at each other again. “We all did at one point.”

Saphoa just blinked. What did I get myself into?

Charlotte tried to reassure her. “You don't have too. You can sleep with me tonight. I am interested in hearing more about your culture.”

Saphoa smiled, “Thanks, I would like to learn more about elves, too.”

Fawna and Marie looked at each other.

“Please, Fawna, we didn't do anything last night.”

Fawna nodded, “Okay, I understand. I'd be the same way.”

Marie smiled, before standing up and walking over to Mac, grabbing his hand and dragging him down the hall.

“Are they...” Saphoa started.

Charlotte blushed and smiled, nodding.

“Don't worry, once you're ready, we'll add you to the schedule! Actually, I guess we still can, even if you're not having sex yet...”

Marie pushed Mac down onto the bed, quickly stripping off her top and bra, sticking her breasts in Mac's face.

Mac chuckled, “Are you okay?”

Marie started tearing up a bit, “No, I just...I just want you...”

Mac held her hands, giving her a gentle kiss. “If something is bothering you, you can talk to me about it. Of course.”

Marie bit her lip. “I'm worried I won't be a good mother.”

Mac was taken aback. “What brought this about?”

“When I was talking with Queen Haliya, it was obvious how much she cared about her daughter. It made me think about our child, and having to raise them, and...I just...”

“Do you not want one? We kind of already-”

Marie shook her head, “Of course I do. Especially with you. I just...don't know if I'll be able to raise them right. And if I can make the same decisions Queen Haliya did. Marrying them off for the sake of the country...”

Mac chuckled, “That's a bit ironic considering one of the first things you talked with me about after coming here was...going over marriage offers.”

Marie smiled, slightly embarrassed. “I know. I still feel bad about that sometimes...I think we should come up with something better than the Introduction Ceremony.”

“Well, it did turn out okay, since I met Eleanor...”

Marie giggled and nodded. “That's true.”

Mac was glad to see her mood turned around. “I think you should feel comfortable relying on others. Especially me. I love you, and I want you to be happy.”

Marie teared up again, but this time with a smile. “You're too good to me Mac,” she said, leaning over and giving him a kiss. “I'm sorry...”

Mac kissed her. “You don't need to be sorry.”

Marie giggled, “No, I'm just sorry I wasted time on something besides making love with you,” she said, kissing him back. She put her hand down Mac's pants and grabbed his mostly-erect member.

She started rubbing it slowly as they made out, while Mac slipped a finger down her pants and rubbed her nethers.

“You're not sore, right?”

Marie shook her head, pulling off her pants, then Mac's. She straddled on top of him, putting her hands on his chest and bouncing up and down.

Mac grabbed her breasts flopping in front of him, squeezing just enough to elicit a soft moan from Marie.

After going a few minutes, Mac felt himself coming. He grabbed her and pulled her against him, squeezing them together, and kissed her as he emptied into her.

Marie kissed him some more, before giving off a satisfied sigh. “What do you think of Saphoa?”

Mac sighed back, “Why are you all of a sudden asking about her?”

Marie poked his chest as they laid next to each other cuddling. “I can think better now that my mind isn't fogged with thoughts you.”

“But I'm right here...”

Marie blushed, “Sorry, the the thought of wanting you...”

Mac smiled and held her close. “I like her. I feel like I have a nose for woman at this point, and she seems like a good catch.”

Marie was confused. “Smell? Catch? Are you saying she's like a fish?”

Mac shook his head, “No, no, it's just a saying. I mean, I think I can tell when a woman is a good choice at this point.”

Marie seemed interested at this comment. “Hmm...so you got that with all your fiances?”

Mac winced a bit. “Well, er...mostly...I guess with some it was quicker than others. But I feel like I can tell when I'll get along well enough with a woman that having them as a Queen would be fine.”

Marie nodded. “That's a valuable skill for a King. I'm curious though, isn't it usually just because the woman is interested in you?”

Mac blushed, “I mean...yes, that helps, but it's more than that. Look at Lady Sophia.”

Marie was thinking, “But what if we hadn't warned you about her? Would she have ensnared you?”

Mac shook his head, “I feel like you're forgetting how I used to be. Remember when I turned down Melissandra? Lady Sophia turned me off with her personality. Although, she seems a bit better, now...”

Marie thought for a moment. “That's interesting. Was I the same when I first summoned you?”

Mac shook his head. “No, you seemed like you had my best interest at heart, if a bit pushy.”

Marie giggled. “That's a fair assessment. I'm curious now, what else turns you off from a woman?”

Mac thought for a moment, then grimaced, “Well, if they're immediately hostile to me...”

“You mean like Gabriella?”

“Yes, like Gabriella.”

When Mac isn't Home

Gabriella was in her room, sharpening her sword again. She had sparred with some of the guards earlier, but it didn't feel the same, as all the best guards (including the Captain) were away on a trip with the King.

She hadn't been invited to come along this time. Which made sense, since they were negotiating with a different country, and she was...nothing, at this point. Not part of the Ositanian royal family, since she refused anything even close to a courtship with King Mac (and he hadn't seemed interested in her, either). Technically she was still part of the Provental royal family, being the niece of the current King, but she had been given away in the name of peace. She was no longer an officer, unless Ositania tried to recruit her. No chance of that happening, and she wouldn't even accept if they did (or so she told herself).

I'm at a dead end... she thought. She had been struggling to keep a positive outlook lately, having to stop herself from the pits of despair, being cooped up in the palace. She hadn't enjoyed being associated with the King, but the times she had been allowed to accompany them with the guards outside were welcome breaks from the monotony.

As if answering her inner desire, a knock came at the door. She quickly sheathed her sword and put it next to her bed, and walked over to the door. Opening it, outside was Queen Melissandra, one of the few people who occasionally came over to talk with her.

Gabriella always felt a mix of emotions when talking with Melissandra. Distaste at the Queen of a country she hated. Guilt for knowing her country was responsible for the deaths of her family. Jealousy at the effortless grace she exhibited (even when over six months pregnant). Annoyance that she had come to talk to her again out of perceived pity towards her. And relief that she had something to break her away from her own thoughts, if only for a short time.

Suppressing the surge of emotions, she asked, “What do you want?” trying to keep an even tone.

Melissandra smiled, “I was wondering if you'd like to join me for a walk in the yard.”

Gabriella looked at Melissandra's protruding stomach. “Should you really be walking?”

Melissandra giggled, “Thanks for your concern, but Tillie said it's good to get a moderate amount of physical activity. I was hoping I might speak with you a bit. It always makes it go faster when I have someone to talk with.”

Gabriella sighed, “I'll accompany you.” It beats spending the rest of the day sharpening again. She followed Melissandra down to the yard, then walked slightly behind her as she walked along the inside of the wall.

Melissandra looked back at her. “It's hard to talk to you if you're like that.”

Gabriella begrudgingly moved next to her. “What do you have to say to me?”

Melissandra took a moment, then asked, “I just wanted to make sure you were okay, mainly. You stay locked in your room whenever you aren't sparring with the guards.”

Gabriella smirked, “And what else is there to do?”

Melissandra looked down and away, answering, “Well, you could takes walks like these. Or you could talk with people. Most of us enjoy a good conversation over tea.”

“'Us' being your King's women?”

Melissandra giggled, “Yes.”

“I'd rather not.”

Melissandra gave a barest hint of a sigh. “Do you just not like talking to people?”

“I like talking to people I like.”

Melissandra smiled, “So you like me, at least?”

Gabriella winced, Shoot...do I like talking with her? No, I'm just bored... “Its better than sitting in my room. I mostly just talked with family back in Provent, or other military commanders.”

Melissandra nodded. “You can send them more letters, if you like.”

Gabriella gave a 'hmpf'. “Why, so you can intercept those, too? I'm surprised you even allowed the one letter to get to me.”

Melissandra seemed confused. “I'm not sure what you mean. Marie did screen the letters you wanted to send, but all of them were passed along. The only one we received in the months you've been here was that congratulations from your Mother and Father.”

Gabriella winced again, “Congratulating me on an engagement that hasn't happened. There's no way you haven't stopped their letters.”

Melissandra sighed, “We really haven't been.”

Gabriella felt a quiet rage building. Not at Melissandra, but at her parents, and her uncle. She seems to be telling the truth. So my own parents have abandoned me!? Or did Uncle tell them to leave me here as part of his agreement with Mac? Gabriella stopped talking and went into her own thoughts as they walked.

I feel so bad for her, Melissandra thought. Gabriella had seemed to realize she was telling the truth about the letters, and now seemed to be thinking about the consequences. I don't really understand either. Maybe they're waiting on an engagement announcement? It doesn't seem like she expected to just be abandoned.

Melissandra waited a while, as they walked in silence, while Gabriella still seemed to be thinking.

After a few minutes, Melissandra was about to ask if her opinion on Mac had changed, but before she could, Gabriella fell to her knees, tears streaming down her face.

Melissandra was momentarily stunned, not expecting the sudden change in demeanor, especially from Gabriella, who normally tried to keep either a stoic or condescending personality. After a moment, she put her hand on Gabriella's shoulder. “Um, it'll be alright...”

Gabriella looked up at her, eyes red, “How? How!? I'm stuck in this stupid palace, everyone here hates me, no one from home cares about me. I'm just a pawn piece to be used for a short peace between countries before I'm thrown to the wayside.”

Melissandra realized the pent up emotions Gabriella had were coming forth now. She got down, and carefully sat down on the grass next to her, patting her back.

Gabriella, stopped crying, looking over at her. “What are you doing?”

“Trying to comfort you,” she replied, continuing to pat her on the back. “You're obviously upset.”

Gabriella seemed unsure how to respond, instead just getting off her knees and sitting next to Melissandra.

“Oh, and just so you know, I don't hate you. I don't...appreciate your comments about my husband, but that's not enough to make me hate someone. I see you're just upset over your circumstances.”

“You do?”

Melissandra nodded. “Yes, I can relate. After my family died in the last war, I was stuck as a maid in the royal palace for years. A palace with no ruler, and no prospects of finding a husband. And no family to return too.”

Gabriella looked down. “How did you get by?”

“Well, I made friends with Marie. And the other maids. And I planned.”

“Planned?”

Melissandra nodded. “I had multiple scenarios planned out. The goal was to become the summoned King's concubine.”

“How did you end up a Queen then?” Gabriella asked, wiping her tears.

Melissandra giggled, “Mac liked me a bit too much to have me as just a concubine. He's very big on feelings. Well, that and if you can be useful in some way...”

Gabriella nodded, already knowing about the King's penchant for delegating tasks from her trip.

After sitting for a few moments in silence, Melissandra carefully stood back up, patting her dress. “Are you feeling better? I should probably get going, I have a check-in with Tillie in a bit.”

“Yes...thanks...” Gabriella muttered.

Melissandra smiled, “Of course. If you ever want to talk, you can send for me. I'm often busy, but I always try to take tea breaks now and then.”

Gabriella tried to force herself to smile. “Maybe I will take you up on that...”

Daisy was down at her forge, hammering away. Since Mac was on one of his trips, she could more easily work on her gift for him.

She ran a finger over the ceremonial dagger Mac had made for her, a smile coming to her face. That hunk better like this. Well, he probably will, he likes everything I do for him. It was customary to give a gift back at the wedding ceremony. Often, it was a dowry from the woman's family, or sometimes a new forge. Even positions in companies had been given.

Daisy, however, had something special in mind. With a bit of help from her soon-to-be sisters (mostly in a monetary way) she had everything she needed.

She just needed to finish forging it.

Well, we have another month before my wedding. I can finish it in a month. According to my fiance, I'm the best dwarfsmith in the country. She chuckled to herself, the face of Mac coming down to hers for a kiss after he received his gift coming to her mind.

With that extra motivation, she went back to hammering.

Emma was in her office, equal parts excited and scared.

Excited, because her husband have given her her very own fief. After Lord Arpitan had been arrested, his assets and titles had been confiscated. As part-reward for helping out (even if she herself felt she played a small part) she had been given the fief. Mac had told her it was also something for their children. They would need a place for their family in the future, and Mac needed someone he trusted to look over the city and land, so it was a win-win.

She was scared, though, as she felt way in over her head.

Marie said she would help me out, but she isn't even here! She sighed, moving to the next paper. Arpitan's fiances were a mess. She knew math, and Marie had taught her some basic administration skills, but that didn't stop her from feeling overwhelmed.

No no no, Mac believes in me! No, he's counting on me! Taking a deep breath, she grabbed her pen, and began signing orders to send.

Felicia and Eleanor were sitting on Eleanor's veranda, drinking tea. They were both in coats, as the weather was turning for the colder, although the hot tea helped.

Felicia was sewing more baby clothes, while Eleanor was going over some reports she had received from the Cartegna estate, a slightly troubled look on her face.

“Is something wrong?” Felicia asked, setting her sewing down and sipping from her mug.

Eleanor shook her head. “Thankfully no. Father has just asked me to hire more scouts to patrol our estate, since he's worried.”

“Worried about...”

“He's worried about security. Navar has been patrolling on the outskirts of our estate that abut their country. And the betrayals of Lord Oran and Lord Arpitan have him worried about internal plots.”

Felicia nodded. “Hopefully it will be okay.”

Eleanor nodded, “Of course. Father and Mac will take care of it.”

Felicia giggled, “For sure.”

Eleanor sat down the papers, and took a sip of her own tea. “Have you thought of a name yet?”

Felicia nodded, “If it's a boy, we're going to name it Fred, after my father, and if it's a girl, Florence, after my mother.”

Eleanor smiled, holding her hands together. “Aww, that's so wonderful!”

Felicia blushed a bit, “Thanks. Mac was struggling, so that was my idea. Didn't you already have one?”

“I gave Mac a list of names I liked for a girl, and he liked 'Elana', so we're going with that.”

Felicia smiled, “That's a pretty name.”

After finishing their tea, Felicia went back to sewing.

Eleanor sat down her pen, having finished writing a set of orders. “I'm really glad you're here, Felicia.”

Felicia blushed a bit, “You sound like Mac”

Eleanor shook her head, “No, I mean it. Having someone I trust help raise kids so I can keep working on what I need to is invaluable. I'm sure Melissandra and Kay feel the same. The others will, too, once their babies come.”

Felicia blushed a bit further, “I like kids, so it's fine.”

Eleanor got up, walking over and hugging Felicia from behind.

Felicia giggled, “Why are you so affectionate today, Eleanor?”

Eleanor giggled back, “I guess I just miss Mac, so I have to throw my affection at you, instead.”

Felicia smiled, standing up to hug her back. “I miss him too.”

Kay sat her in study, reading over a letter she had just finished writing to her Father.

Father,

I hope this letter reaches you well. I and the baby are coming along nicely, Tillie said everything looks good so far and there are no abnormalities. Mac and I have not picked out names yet, but I plan on giving him a list to choose soon. He is currently away on a trip negotiating with Arkanta on a potential trade agreement.

As you know, Mac is marrying Daisy in Stromvurk in a month. I don't have any contacts in Stromvurk, so I was hoping you might be able to put me in contact with one, or have one established.

Please give Mother my love.

Your cute daughter,

Queen Kay of Ositania

P.S. You may be receiving another marriage request soon!

She nodded as she finished re-reading it. Father should be fine to trade the info on Mac for a contact in Stromvurk. She had been able to leverage information on Mac to good effect so far, for info that had come in handy multiple times already. The bandits, Lord Arpitan...and things Mac wasn't aware of yet.

Her father had floated to her in passing that he might hand over the entire Gascon estate to her, depending on how Mac's rule went over the next decade. Obviously, Kay wanted nothing more than to be able to hand her wonderful husband one of the richest estates in the entire country, but she (and he) would need to work hard before that came to pass.

For now, she was focusing on one thing at a time. Not the easiest task when said wonderful husband seemed to come up with a new idea every week that had her scrambling. Of course, based on the results so far, whatever Mac's grand plan was (assuming he had one), seemed worth following.

She smiled, rubbing her stomach, despite not really showing through her dress yet. Hmm...I'm thinking Ken for a boy and Khloe for a girl. Maybe I should just have Rhea tell me the gender once she's back...

Side Stories

Too Many Catgirls

Before the trip to the negotiations with Arkanta, La Hire was sitting in his small apartment, his wife and fiance at his side. They had originally planned on staying in their separate palace rooms (the maid quarters or barracks) until they had gotten the payment for Kelly's wedding and bought a house. However, they had decided they wanted to be able to do couple's activities away from prying eyes now, even though his and Kelly's wedding wasn't until the month after next.

Of course, their 'couples activities' was mainly just having sex. As such, the only furnishings in the apartment was a bed, a couple chairs, and a table.

Today though, they were sitting on the bed, fully clothed, looking over at a fourth person.

“Nyahaha, I should have expected this,” Kelly giggled at them.

Kylie, the fourth person, blushed and looked down. “I'm...I'm serious! Even if I'm just a concubine...” she looked up at La Hire, tears in her eyes, “...please make me yours!”

La Hire blushed, not knowing how to react to this proclamation. Since his marriage to Fiona and the beginning of their nightly activities (including with Kelly, of course) he had gotten much more comfortable around women (or at least, the two of them). But this...this was an entirely different situation.

“When you caught me in your arms, saving me from that evil magistrate...” Kylie went on.

“I didn't even kill him though, I just shielded you...”

“Exactly! You were more concerned with my well-being than your own!”

After that, there was a moment of silence, broken by Kelly. “What will father say, though?”

“I'll...I'll run away from the family, if it means I can be with Captain La Hire!” Kylie replied.

Kelly sighed, “I'm right here though...”

La Hire still wasn't sure what to say. Kylie is cute, and she seems nice, but I don't know about getting even more wives...wait, that's it! I'll borrow from King Mac again! “Fiona, what do you think?

“Your limit is five,” Fiona said in her normal stoic manner.

“Five...?” La Hire asked.

Fiona nodded, looking up at him. “Your limit is five wives. You can choose whoever you want, but no more than five.”

La Hire blushed. “Oh...”

Fiona then gave a soft smile, “I don't mind getting extra sisters, but I think we won't have enough room after five, with the house I want.”

Oh, so it's a capacity problem, not because she minds sharing... La Hire thought, sighing internally.

La Hire turned to Kelly. “Are you okay?”

Kelly giggled again. “Are you kidding? Of course!” she said, before jumping up and hugging Kylie.

La Hire shook his head and mumbled, “There isn't a limit on cat-human wives, right?”

Kelly seemed offended. “Don't let Father hear you saying that! You can never have too many catgirls!”

We're the Same

On the ride back from Arkanta, Mazzy was sitting in the maid carriage with three others - two cat-human maids, and a rabbit-human maid. He wasn't kidding about beast-human maids.

Fiona noticed her watching them. “Are you okay? Are you used to carriages?”

Mazzy smiled at the concerned maid, “I'm fine, thank you, just thinking...”

Kelly, who was now watching her, asked, “About?”

Mazzy sighed, Maybe they can help me, actually. “Well, I'm a bit concerned about finding a husband...I don't know if I'll be able to find one while working at the palace.”

Kylie, who was sitting next to her giggled, “Are you kidding?”

“No...” Mazzy replied, not understanding.

“I do not believe you will have any problem,” Fiona said succinctly.

Kelly nodded, “You're very pretty. And...blue...”

Mazzy was still confused. “I figured being blue would be a negative.”

“Maybe for some, but I bet men will be tripping over themselves for you. You have a very...exotic look...” Kylie explained.

Mazzy gave a grimace. “Now I'm worried about being tricked by some awful man. I just want a nice, earnest, hard-working husband.”

Fiona nodded, “We're the same. That's how I got my husband.”

Mazzy gave a smile, “Oh, you're already married! Say...” she looked around at the three of them. “Would any of you be okay introducing me to on of your husbands? I don't mind being a secondary wife, as long as he treats me well.”

The other three looked at each other, before bursting out giggling, including Fiona.

Mazzy was confused again, “What's so funny? Do you all think I'm not worthy?”

Fiona stopped herself. “It's not that. We're just all with the same man.”

Mazzy's mouth opened in shock. “Wh-what!? Is this some sort of maid aficionado?”

“No, it's Captain La Hire,” Fiona explained.

Mazzy blinked a few times, trying to remember. “The Captain? That blonde, long-haired man who was running things?”

They all nodded.

“Is he really a good man? I assumed his type would be a playboy, womanizer-”

She was cut off by an angry Kylie. “La Hire is not like that! He's a valiant man who risks his life to save catgirls across the country!”

Kelly sighed, “I guess that's technically correct.”

Fiona explained, “He is not a womanizer. In fact, we had to struggle to get him to do anything with us.”

“Well, he was interested in you on his own...” Kelly teased her.

“I don't want to hear that, after seeing you two in bed together...” Fiona teased back.

Kylie seemed a bit depressed, “At least he makes love with you...”

Fiona and Kelly sighed. “It's just until Father gives his permission. If you two can't be wed, he doesn't want to mess up your chances with another-”

“If we can't marry, we'll just become secret lovers!” Kylie exclaimed.

“It's not a secret if we know...” Kelly sighed again.

Mazzy wasn't sure what to say at this point. What did I get myself into...

Girls Talk – Charlotte, Fawna, and Saphoa

“What is life in your palace like?” Saphoa asked, as she, Charlotte, and Fawna were sitting on a bed together. While they had two beds, Fawna had seemed excited to be on one together.

“It's wonderful! I spend time cleaning and helping Mac out. And I get to wake him up and help him prep in the morning,” Fawna explained as if listing tasks off.

“I thought you said you went from being a maid to a wife?” Saphoa asked, confused.

Fawna blushed a bit, “I am, but I wanted to continue being his maid in the mean time...”

Saphoa turned to Charlotte, who blushed. “I spend most of my time in my workshop, reading books and working on inventions for Mac. Like that engine.”

Saphoa nodded. “What about the other wives? Are they all as nice as you?”

They both nodded. “Mel, Elly, and Kay are noblewoman like you, so you should get along.”

Saphoa nodded, surprised at the list, “That would be nice.”

Charlotte chimed in, “Daisy is really nice too! She's a dwarf, and really good at making things. She helps with my inventions a lot.”

“A dwarf? Oh yes, I remember seeing her. What about the wedding I went too? Felicia, the rabbit-human?”

Fawna nodded quickly, “Oh yes, she's very nice. And she had a ton of cute siblings! I guess you already met Fiona.”

Saphoa nodded. “Um, how many of you is there?”

Charlotte and Fawna looked at each other. “Well, there's also Emma, she was a commoner, but she's really important now,” Fawna explained. “And you already know about Marie.”

Saphoa held up a hand, “Wait...so at the wedding I went to, was every single woman at that table one of Mac's wives?”

They both nodded, “Besides Fiona and Kelly, La Hire's other fiance, yes.”

Saphoa didn't know how to respond. “You...you're okay with Mac having that many partners?”

Fawna nodded quickly, “Yes, they're all great!”

Charlotte nodded in agreement.

Fawna seemed confused at Saphoa's reactions. “Do you not have polygamy in Arkanta?”

“We do, but that just seems like...a lot.”

Charlotte and Fawna looked at each other. “Isn't that good?” Fawna responded. “The bigger the family, the better.”

“I...I think it might be a problem if it gets too big, but so far, it's been fine...” Charlotte got out.

Saphoa sighed. I guess I will just have to see...