The first wife, Hethress, looked at the second, Meikosil, with a look of apprehension. The two were sitting on the porch, the afternoon sun painting the sky in shades of blue. The silence between them was fraught with tension.

"Meikosil," Hethress began, her voice low and apprehensive, "we need to talk."

Meikosil, her eyes fixed on the garden of the Great House, took a deep breath. "About what, Hethress?"

"About her," Anna replied, referring to the future fourth wife. "We need to find a possible candidate who is worthy of our husband."

Meikosil raised her head, a cold look in her eyes. "I do not know what you expect of me, Hethress. You know that this is our husband's decision and choice, and from the short time we have been together, he is an impulsive creature."

"I know," Hethress agreed, "but she will be part of the family. And more importantly, as his wives, we can advise him on the choice of his fourth wife and those who come after." Meikosil stood, hands on her hips. "He needs more wives. He already has two, but that's not enough, Hethress. Two who can't even take care of a husband properly. At this point, I think he needs quantity more than quality. Too much energy and he doesn't sleep, which means too much free time. By the gods, I think I'll need a week to recover." "That doesn't matter now," Hethress said, standing as well. "We need to act, come up with a plan, a guide for choosing future wives, what we want and what's best for him." Meikosil frowned. "What do you suggest we do? You saw how easy he was to get along with, even when he disappeared into the river for hours. I don't care, Hethress, I really don't care who he chooses." "We can't do that," Hethress insisted. "We need to work together. If he chooses wrong, we'll have to live with that choice, and I'll blame myself if I didn't do anything to stop it. And if we don't find her, he might just bring someone else to take her place." Meikosil was silent for a moment, considering Hethress's words. She knew the first wife was right. They needed to select the best candidates, not just for his sake, but for their own. "Fine," Meikosil said finally, her voice still cold. "We'll look for her. But don't expect me to like it." Hethress nodded, a ray of hope shining in her eyes. "Thank you, Meikosil. Together, we can do this." The two women looked at each other, each one's gaze carrying a mixture of fear, distrust and, perhaps, a little hope. They were not friends, not even close. But, at that moment, they needed to be allies. And together, they would do everything to find the best possible wives for their family.

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Meanwhile, in the great hall, Lord Crixus, illuminated by the moonlight. Hiutotiaco, dressed in shining armor, enters with a determined expression. Lord Crixus is sitting in a large chair, watching her expectantly.

Hiutotiaco. "Lord Crixus, I come to bring news of our expedition!"

Crixus. "I look forward to hearing, Hiutotiaco. Was the mission successful?"

Hiutotiaco. "Yes, my lord. We crossed the forest to the ruins that Meikosil indicated. They found the skeletons a day's journey from the ruins, facing the mantis tribes. We hid and when the battle was over, we attacked the remaining forces. The D.K.s were a great help. We also found a Hag during the journey, which was easily dispatched by the D.K.s.

Crixus. "What about the combat? Any problems?"

Hyutotiaco. "No, my lord. I led the attack, with the support of the D.K.s. with ease. Our enemies were taken by surprise. With my holy sword and the protection of the Goddess of Fury, we defeated their forces and dismantled them completely."

Crixus. "Impressive! Casualties? Wounded?"

Hyutotiaco. "No, my lord. None of my men were injured and we lost no one."

Crixus. "Excellent news. Your bravery and efficiency are an example to us all. Any other important information?"

Hiutotiaco. “Yes, we have found signs that the tribes are gathering strength again. We must prepare ourselves, for the peace may be temporary.”

Crixus. “I understand. We will meet with my wives later and decide on the best course of action to take. I am counting on your military experience and advice, Hiutotiaco, and then we will inform the village leaders. This time we will not be unprepared. Your loyalty and determination are admired, Hiutotiaco.”

Hiutotiaco. “I thank you, my lord. Together, we will face any challenge that may come our way.”

Crixus. “Together, Hiutotiaco, I feel we are ready for whatever comes. “May the Goddess of Fury guide us!”

Hiutotiaco. “So be it!

Crixus invites Hiutotiaco to sit down and have some wine and food while they wait for their wives.

A short time later, they enter the great hall. It is already late afternoon when this happens. Through the link I tell Hethress to dismiss all servants from the great hall and close the doors until further notice.

The atmosphere in the room soon changes and becomes dense, filled with a mixture of anxiety and horror. Crixus, the champion, changes into his true form, and his body begins to contract, then one of his mouths begins to expand in a horrific way. In front of him, Hethress, Meikosil and Hiutotiaco watched the scene with wide eyes.

Hethress looks at her husband in wonder at what she is seeing, her husband, the one who conquers death and controls life, is once again performing a miracle, resurrecting a being from the age of the Gods,….to…be….his…servant. Pride fills every cell of his being.

Crixus. (coughs with his two other mouths) "The copy… big… my mouth hurts. Disgrace."

Meikosil, leaning over Crixus' mouth, which is expanding more and more. "Incredible. So that's how my lord made me, beautiful, how powerful, to be able to bring back to life someone who died thousands of years ago!"

Crixus. "He... Damn, if one giant hurts this much, imagine when it's two dragons. Does anyone know any magic to take away pain?" He asks looking at his wives.

"There are certain herbs with that ability, husband, but I don't know if they would work on you." Xena says, with her voice like the rustling of leaves in the wind.

The three looked at the body, the giant, naked, lying on the ground, the fire giant, with his 3.06m tall and compact build, similar to that of a dwarf, large torso, long arms and short legs, is an imposing figure. His long orange hair, almost like flames and a thick and also long beard, reaching the middle of his chest, contrast with his coal-colored skin, giving him a unique look. Weighing 4000kg, he is strong and powerful, he has a young appearance, not traditional for someone with the title of patriarch of his religion.

Hiutotiaco, still not used to the copying process, looks disgusted at the pool of fluorescent blue slime with the smell of cinnamon, his hand on the hilt of his sword ready for any aggression coming from the giant.

Meikosil. “But...how is that possible? The copy...is really the patriarch Akaos, sorry, husband, of course it is. That smell, now I remember, was the smell I felt when you made me.”

Crixus. “I don't know why it smells like cinnamon, but rather cinnamon from bile. Maybe...Akaos, do you understand me? How do you feel?”

Hethress, looking at the giant's naked body and thinks, “thank goodness it's not a female.” Is everything okay, husband?”

Hiutotiaco, looks at the whole scene and wonders how no one is finding all this absurd, crazy, this level of power only Gods have or should have. Meikosil snaps her fingers near the giant, who reacts by turning his face toward her. “At least he’s not deaf or blind. Could it be that he’s weakened because he’s a copy of someone who died a long time ago? He looks at Crixus and then at Hethress curiously?

Crixus. “No. He needs some time. He’s still disoriented, but his thoughts are coherent. Isn’t that right, my beloved son?” With two tentacles, he helps the giant stand up.

Hethress, looking at Crixus with admiration. “You’re right, as always, husband.” Her eyes shine with pride for her husband.

Hiutotiaco. “Sir, Ladies… may I leave and go get him something to cover himself with?” She looks at Hethress.

Akaos speaks in a language that has not been spoken for over 35,000 years, only Crixus understands due to the telepathic link. “Thank you, father. I'm a little disoriented... he looks down at his private parts... a little cold.” He looks around, analyzing the environment, then looks at the three women curiously. “I don't know this race of lizards, and what is a slave doing here and on top of that looking at me so cheekily.” The almost reflexive thought of punishing such an impertinent slave with death is paralyzed by his father.

“No!” Crixus says. “Akaos, I don't know... yet... why do you think Meikosil is, as you said, a race of slaves, but she is my wife and you would never raise your hands to my wives and your future brothers.” Crixus says in his mind. Akaos, feeling deep regret for the scolding his Father gave him and also for having disappointed him, bows first to his Father and then to his Father's wives.

“A thousand pardons, my ladies.” But they don't understand anything he says.

Crixus. “What do you remember? Do you remember who you are?”

“Yes. My name is Akaos and I am the Patriarch of the Empire...” A moment of panic takes hold of him, he doesn't remember the name of the empire, he doesn't remember where he was born, he doesn't remember his mother's name... His father interrupts the spiral of doubts and panic that begins to consume Akaos.

“Ssshhhh...sshhh. It's okay, everything will be okay. What matters is that you are safe with me now! Okay?”

“Okay, Father.” Akaos, visibly calmer.

“Do you remember your spells? Asks Crixus.

The author's narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.

“Yes, Father, all of them.” Akaos says, feeling great pleasure in meeting his father's expectations.

Hiutotiaco returns dragging something that looks like a tent. It was the only thing I think will fit him.

Meikosil, always practical, says, "We have to find accommodations for him, husband, you're thinking of copying the King, the Queen and the four Cardinals, right?"

Akaos uses the tent to cover himself, he doesn't hide his disgust at having to use an old and used tent as clothing, but he understands that being naked in front of his father is a greater shame.

Crixus. "Yes. At least ten accommodations." Meanwhile, he connects all his copies via link so they can talk better.

"Father, I don't want to be disrespectful, but this place, I have no idea where I am, but this place is not worthy of your presence." He says this with an expression of disgust and even puts a finger to his nose.

Hethress is hurt and takes it personally, after all, she is now the lady of the Big House. “Do you have a better idea or any suggestions, Akaos?” Crixus asks sincerely.

“We can use the winter palace. It’s not very big, but it’s ideal for a few elite guests.” Akaos says in a calm voice.

“Akaos, I think that’s difficult. I brought you back to life, but you died thousands of years ago. This palace must have turned into ruins.” Crixus says calmly.

“So much time, it shouldn’t be possible to bring me back to life. Father, you are truly powerful. But father, the works of the kingdom of giants are not affected by time. They were made to be eternal. The palace must be there, at least its structure intact, regardless of the time that has passed.”

“But do you know where this palace is?” Crixus asks with some disbelief.

“First I need to know where I am. Even thousands of years later, I believe the geography hasn’t changed much. With that, I can locate the palace.” Akaos concludes.

Through the link, I send aerial images of the village, the ziggurat, and the surrounding region.

“AAAhhhh. It’s about 5km from here, by the way, this village was where a village of fishing slaves was.” Akaos as he tries to adjust the tent to his body.

“Giant slaves?” Meikosil asks.

“Of course not, not that they didn’t exist, giant slaves were used in the arenas, for the joy of the masses, or as sacrifices to the Gods. The fishermen, and all other types of inferior work were done by slaves of their race, after all, that’s what the fleshbenders created them for.” Akaos says with a professorial air.

“Were the dark elves created by the giants?” ask in unison and surprise, Meikosil and Hethress.

“Yes, they were created by the fleshbenders of the cloud giants, we fire giants created others, a smaller humanoid race, a smaller and weaker copy of ourselves.”

“You’re talking about the dwarves, are you?” Meikosil asks, even more surprised.

“I don’t know what you call them, but they are a short and stocky race, their height reaches about my knee, with wide and compact bodies that look robust. The males and females are very similar, only differentiated by their reproductive organs, they are a resistant race, but very stubborn, needing a firm hand to work properly. We call them nanoj.” Akaos, answers Meikosil.

“You said that these fleshbenders created the dark elves, what did you call us?” Meikosil asks with legitimate curiosity.

“Longajoreloj. In your language it would be something like long ears.” Says Akaos.

“Fascinating.” Completes Meikosil thoughtfully.

“Father, from the vision you gave me, I saw that the palace and the city around it were taken over by the forest. Before it could be worthy of your use, I would have to perform a miracle and make the place fit for your presence, your wives and your future subjects. Do you allow me?” Akaos asks as if he wanted to know if Crixus would like to drink water.

Crixus looks at his wives, who nod in agreement and then looks at Akaos. “Yes, do it.”

Akaos begins to chant the magic while making gestures with his hands, his eyes turn white and a red flame covers his body. In a few seconds it is finished. “There, it is done, Father. I can take you now if you want and allow me.”

“Let’s go then.” Crixus says excitedly.

“Please, everyone touch my hand.” He extends his huge, coal-black hand.

Crixus, Hethress, Meikosil, Hiutotiaco and the six D.K.s approach and in the blink of an eye we are on top of a terrace, we are on top of a building about 20m high, the floor is enameled in a watercolor blue, smooth, but not slippery, the front of the complex of six buildings that are part of the palace, stretches for several kilometers ahead, the palace is at one end of a walled city, the walls are the same height as the palace and surround the entire perimeter of the city where the palace is located. And the city is at the top of a rise that is over 60m high.

The city is in perfect condition, free of any trace of vegetation or marks of the temple's passage.

"It is beautiful, what is the name of the city?" Hethress asks.

"...I do not remember the name, milady. But it would be an honor if your new Lord baptized it." He looks at Crixus, still in his true form.

"I am not very good with names. Hethress, what's the name of that river over there?" Crixus points to the river that splits into two branches and runs alongside the walls.

"Trosex." She answers.

"River Trosex, that will be the name of the city and the palace will be called Trosex Palace." Crixus says, feeling very inspired.

Hethress starts clapping and is soon followed by everyone, including the D.K.s. "It's really an embarrassing scene, but since there are no social networks yet, it's not that much of a problem," Crixus thinks.

"It's a beautiful and well-located city, with access to water, an elevated position, high walls, how many people lived here, Akaos?" Meikosil asks, looking appraisingly at the city in front of her.

"I don't remember, it seems like this is getting repetitive, but I think a city this size could easily support ten to forty thousand. I remember that there were slave villages outside the city, but they probably don't exist anymore, they weren't built to last forever.”

“All the inhabitants of the villages in the region, both the serpent people and the dark elves, could easily fit here in this city.” Meikosil concludes.

“Yes, it's a perfect city in every way, but one main thing is missing: food. There wouldn't be enough time to migrate everyone here and create a support network, how would we feed the livestock and the people? We would have to plant and then wait for harvest time. Everyone would die of hunger long before then. Moving to this city requires detailed and complex planning, which I don't think any of us have that kind of knowledge about. Sorry, husband.” Hethress says with her usual gesture of concentration.

“Waiting for plants to grow from crops, how primitive, that's something for slaves and inferior beings. Dying of hunger, how ridiculous. Father, we only eat Little Balls.” Akaos speaks with astonishment and disbelief.

“Little Balls, explain better.” Crixus asks.

“You don’t know what little balls are?” Akaos looks in disbelief, and then looks at everyone and sees the same expression of curiosity on everyone’s face.

“In every house, in every city in the kingdom, there is an obelisk, made of stone and magic. On this obelisk, there are symbols engraved on them, a column of sixteen by a row of eight of these symbols, pressing a combination of them gives 1024 possible combinations of flavors. After touching the symbols in the chosen sequence, a niche opens in the obelisk and from this niche comes out a little ball, red is for food and blue is for drinks, white is for illnesses and black, only with the king’s authorization. You only need one blue and one red a day to stay healthy.” He says looking at everyone.

“But do these obelisks still work?” Crixus asks.

“Of course they do, Father, as I said, everything the giant race does was made to be eternal. There must be several in this palace, we can test it. Hhuuumm... I feel like eating a little rain cake.” He says with the air of a dreamy child. “Shall we?” He extends his hand towards a staircase that goes down into the building.

Walking through the palace we are amazed by the titanic architecture around us, stone polished like a mirror, red stone floors, multi-colored stone mosaics with historical scenes and more everyday scenes from the lives of giants. Even in one of the various environments we pass, rooms of various sizes. And in one of them we find the aforementioned obelisk, Akaos goes to it. “It’s very simple, you press the symbols, wait and that’s it.” As Akaos speaks, he presses the symbols and soon the niche opens and a “ball” the size of a large apple appears. Akaos takes the ball and offers it to Crixus. “Father, be the first in millennia to try a little rain cake.”

Crixus takes the ball and eats it. “Hhhuuummm... I like wheat dough, sugar, cinnamon and fried in very hot fat. Divine. How many of these can each obelisk provide per day?”

“As many as you want, but more than one per day does cause certain unwanted side effects.” He says measuredly.

“Side effects?” Crixus asks.

“Diarrhea.” He says succinctly.

“Hethress, Meikosil, and Hiutotiaco, what do you want?” Crixus asks.

“Custard Apple pie.” Hethress says.

“Roast boar.” Meikosil says.

“Roast boar, for me too.” Hiutotiaco says.

Akaos turns to the obelisk and begins to press the symbols. Soon three balls are delivered.

The three women eat the “balls” in small bites and soon all three are amazed.

“It really tastes like Custard Apple pie.” Hethress says.

“Impressive.” Meikosil says.

“Delicious.” Hiutotiaco says.

“I advise you ladies not to eat the whole ball, I think it would be like an overdose for you.” Akaos says.

Hiutotiaco, with his mouth full and more than half of the ball devoured and his mouth stuffed, now seems to remember the possible side effects.

“Great, then let’s go back and organize the migration, to the city and then we’ll meet to solve the mantis problem.” Crixus says.

“Mantis, I don’t know that breed.” Akaos says.

“Giant and intelligent insects, similar to praying mantises, they reproduce quickly and are a plague that attacks all living beings within their reach.” Meikosil says.

“I understand.” Akaos says.

“Akaos, take us back."