A wide platform covered in grass was built around the trunk of each tree of Hossylei Nac. Made of rocks and earth, the structure that blended with nature seemed to have been created by magic. Multiple bridges of roots were connected to each, allowing elves to travel from one tree to another on foot. Those who preferred to use the sparkling waterways beneath directed their boats of stone by controlling the currents. Others moved by air, using sailboats that followed along paths of ropes that linked the massive trees together.
“Move it.” [Riteinia]
“You suck as a tour guide. More like, why is it even you? It should be an elf, damn it. A super hot elf that shows me around the city. Not a grumpy crazy lad-.” [Ryner]
“Riteinia! Start remembering it!” [Riteinia]
Two people were quarreling as they walking around Hossylei Nac and drew the elves’ attention. They were Ryner, the first ever human visitor, and Riteinia, the Matriarch. Mi was also present and stuck close to Ryner, looking rather wary of everything after being defeated by red ants. The two were following behind the light green-haired woman with the cold expression and sharp golden eyes.
“I was asked by the Council of Elders to keep an eye on you. I can’t refuse their request, so make my work easier and follow me.” [Riteinia]
Riteinia said in an impatient tone as she walked in front of Ryner.
“Mmm, so that’s their official name. They sound important. Are they important? More like, is that High Elder that kept screaming about breasts and virginity really important?” [Ryner]
“The Council decides everything for the city and the elves. Four Elders are chosen along with one High Elder who holds the most authority. So, yes, whether he screams about breasts or virginity, a High Elder is very important. If you want to stay in Hossylei Nac, then you shouldn’t anger the Council.” [Riteinia]
As they moved atop the giant root covered in grass, every elf in the vicinity stared at them while keeping their distance.
“I get the feeling you told me something similar before with the green lady.” [Ryner]
“The Gatekeeper is the elves’ protector and holds even more influence. From what I’ve heard, she doesn’t want to get involved with this city’s policies, but every inhabitant listens to her. So between the Gatekeeper or the Council, you’d best obey the Gatekeeper.” [Riteinia]
“Thanks for the warning. It actually sounds like you’re worried about me, which is weird, considering you tried to kill me.” [Ryner]
“Don’t get the wrong idea. I just don’t want to have to chase after you again. It’s more convenient for me if you stay in one place. Also, I don’t really want you dead.” [Riteinia]
Riteinia slightly turned her head and looked back at Ryner.
“… Not yet, anyway.” [Riteinia]
She muttered as she stared at his sleepy-looking face while smiling like a hungry beast.
“Now follow me. We’re almost there.” [Riteinia]
“Where are we going again?” [Ryner]
“You’ll see.” [Riteinia]
“Fine. I’ll tour this city at my own pace another time.” [Ryner]
Ryner said before yawning loudly.
“And I heard that.” [Ryner]
“Heard what?” [Riteinia]
“You totally want to kill me, you crazy l-!” [Ryner]
“Riteinia!” [Riteinia]
Ignoring the countless stares and innumerable murmurs, the two individuals plus one dog made their way through the city composed of giant trees.
“A human…” [Elf]
“It’s a human.” [Elf]
“Is it really alright to let a human in here? What if he attacks us?” [Elf]
“The amazon’s Matriarch is there to stop him. Plus, we can join the fray if needed.” [Elf]
“Yeah, and besides, the human’s really wary, but harbors no hostility. Let’s keep our distance for now.” [Elf]
As they advanced, heads with golden blonde hair turned in their direction and emerald green eyes gazed at their figures.
“Mom, is that a human?” [Elf]
“Yes, it’s a human.” [Elf]
“Why are his ears so small and round? Why is his hair black? Why are his eyes two different color?” [Elf]
“That’s just how humans are. They look more like amazons than us. Now you stay close to me and don’t let go of my hand, or no honey drops tonight.” [Elf]
“He seems tired.” [Elf]
“Hey now! No peeking!” [Elf]
The unusual trio didn’t encounter any trouble since every elf stayed away from them and only exchanged comments in a low voice using the elven language, which the human and amazon couldn’t understand.
“We’re here.” [Riteinia]
After fifteen minutes of walking, Ryner, Mi and Riteinia could see their destination.
“So this is where you amazons live.” [Ryner]
Ryner said as he noticed the group of ten amazons gathered up ahead. The trio was approaching one of the many giant trees in the city. For some reason, the elves around them had disappeared and they were the only ones on top of the giant root.
“This tree is reserved for us. Remember it.” [Riteinia]
Riteinia declared as she pointed at the massive tree.
“I was told that amazons were nomads. Guess it’s a secret that you’re all staying in Hossylei Nac.” [Ryner]
“This city holds many secrets. You’ll most likely learn of them during your stay, so the elves expect you to keep your mouth shut. Also, you’re half right. We are a tribe of nomads who wanders around the world.” [Riteinia]
“Huh? Then why do you have your own giant tre-oh. So that’s why.” [Ryner]
Ryner nodded in understanding when he saw the answer to his question.
The amazons that were standing guard at the other end of the bridge were in their late teens to their early thirties. However, as he approached their home and they made way for him and their leader, he saw the rest of their tribe.
On the circular platform, many middle-aged women and young girls as well as a few elderly were present. They had different hair and skin color, but every single person possessed golden irises and black tattoos at the corners of their eyes. Unlike the elves that wore clothes that fluttered in the wind and possessed a certain luster, they were dressed in what resembled ponchos of dark colors and had accessories made of polished stones and feathers.
Most of the young were improving their archery or sparring with each other while the adults watched over them. Some of the little girls were fighting against the grownups in a group. They suffered bruises and cuts, but not a single person cried or complained. They got back up on their feet, picked up their wooden swords, shields or spears and resumed their training with ferocity.
Ryner stood on the root bridge and silently observed them for a moment with his half-closed eyes that had dark circles underneath.
“I’ve been wondering why I didn’t see any kids or elders in your tribe each time we met.” [Ryner]
“Because we leave them here. The elves have agreed to shelter the old and young ones in Hossylei Nac while we travel the world with full-fledged and able-bodied warriors.” [Riteinia]
“Aren’t the women teaching the kids full-fledged warriors too?” [Ryner]
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“They’re not young enough to bear children anymore.” [Riteinia]
“Riiight.” [Ryner]
Once they reached the platform, Ryner, Riteinia and Mi were quickly surrounded by the amazons. The pup ended up being held by her master since it looked like she was going to get stepped on like an ant.
Young or old, the amazons respectfully greeted the Matriarch. But, when their attention turned to the male accompanying her…
“Matriarch, is he the one you told us about yesterday? The man you’ve personally chosen that will give us children?” [Amazon]
That was what they all thought while staring at him as if he was a piece of meat. The human in question wasn’t unsettled by their predatory gazes and was instead rubbing his eyes after yawning loudly.
“I’m surprised that the elves really allowed a human to enter Hossylei Nac…” [Amazon]
“Perfect timing. The next generation should be conceived soon.” [Amazon]
“He doesn’t seem too strong, but if the Matriarch herself brought him here…” [Amazon]
“We should gather the young ones and have them get started.” [Amazon]
“Hmph, I don’t want to have a child with that human. He looks weak.” [Amazon]
“Good. You’re still too young.” [Amazon]
Riteinia looked around and frowned. Hearing her people talk about how they should quickly put Ryner to use annoyed her a bit since she had told them yesterday that she planned on having him first.
“Enough. Where is the Predecessor?” [Riteinia]
To her question spoken in a cold voice, everyone turned quiet while an old woman stepped forward from the crowd. She had long grey hair as well as wrinkles that deeply carved her face. Despite her old age, her gait was firm, her back was straight and her golden eyes were sharp. The passage of time did not give her an air of fragility. She was like an experienced veteran, hardened by countless battles.
“What is it, current Matriarch?” [Predecessor]
The old woman asked in a deep and slightly raspy voice.
“I want to hold a Blood Trial. Give your consent.” [Riteinia]
“A Blood Trial? With this man?” [Predecessor]
“That’s right.” [Riteinia]
The Predecessor raised an eyebrow upon hearing the Matriarch’s intention and examined the sleepy-looking man she brought.
“Beauty, beauty, cute, beauty, beauty, cute, cute, cute, old, old, old, old, young, young, young, but still cute… There really aren’t any ugly or plain girls here. Truly a race made to kidnap men.” [Ryner]
“What’s that? Are you ogling our bodies and fantasizing about conceiving children? Know your place, weak man.” [Amazon]
“… What’s with this precocious brat? Are you lost? If not, you mind getting lost?” [Ryner]
“Insolence! I’ll have your head!” [Amazon]
“Pfft! Really?! You seriously talk like that!” [Ryner]
“Wha-?! Are you asking to be killed?!” [Amazon]
“Insoleeence~! I’ll have your heeeaaad~!” [Ryner]
“I-I-I’ll kill yooouuu!!!” [Amazon]
He was making fun of a little girl around nine years old without minding his surroundings.
“… He’s… Different, from the other men… I guess?” [Predecessor]
“Despite his looks, he easily beat me. We’ll be performing the Blood Trial in the forest. The Council has arranged transportation for us.” [Riteinia]
“The Council did…? Did you ask them beforehand?” [Predecessor]
A cold smile appeared on Riteinia’s face before she answered the bewildered Predecessor.
“No. They asked me.” [Riteinia]
----------------------------------------
“Sooo… What am I doing here again?” [Ryner]
Ryner asked as he stared at Riteinia with half-closed eyes after yawning. He was standing in the forest on the other side of the lake, outside of the city. There were no trees in his immediate surroundings. Forming a glade, the grassy terrain with no obstacles was about a hundred meters in radius. Ryner and the amazons, along with Mi, had travelled by large rock platforms controlled by elves. Only the warriors of the tribe that currently traveled the world were present while the elderly and children stayed in Hossylei Nac.
“We’re going to hold a Blood Trial here.” [Riteinia]
Riteinia said as she smiled arrogantly.
“What the hell’s a bloody trial?” [Ryner]
“Blood Trial!” [Riteinia]
Her expression quickly changed into anger.
“It’s a trial seldom used to accept worthy outsiders into our tribe. The challengers battle every amazon warrior alone in a death match. No magic is allowed, but we amazons can use weapons. If any challenger emerges victorious, then he will be considered… Our lover, you could say.” [Riteinia]
“Huh? Death fights to make kids with you? Isn’t that already what happens when you capture people, or when desperate idiots show up because they mistake you psycho-*cough cough* amazons as a harem?” [Ryner]
Ryner unnaturally coughed and changed his wording when over thirty women glared at him murderously at the same time.
He secretly felt like he was right on the mark, though.
“Those who pass the Blood Trial will be allowed to move as they want, eat as they want, sleep as they want and even choose who they partner with. Their lives are also guaranteed, unless they betray us. As for the other men that we ‘kidnapped’, they are but trophies, breeding tools used to keep our bloodline alive.” [Riteinia]
“… Ouch. Now I feel bad for any idiots seeking amazo-no wait, I don’t since they’re idio-wait a minute! We’re holding a Blood Trial… Then, the challenger…” [Ryner]
“It’s you.” [Riteinia]
“Don’t wanna be your husband it’s a pain come back in a hundred thousand years bye.” [Ryner]
After quickly spouting some words of rejection in a monotone voice, Ryner turned around to walk away, but Riteinia swiftly caught his wrist.
“You can’t refuse. The Council of Elders wants you to undergo the Trial as well. In fact, they asked that of me along with keeping an eye on you.” [Riteinia]
“The what now wants me to what?” [Ryner]
“If you don’t believe me, then you can ask him yourself.” [Riteinia]
Riteinia jerked her chin to the side and when Ryner looked in that direction, he saw two individuals approaching him from amongst the amazons.
“Don’t go too wild, okay? It’s hard work fixing the forest.” [Rosaminta]
One person was Rosaminta, who walked while seductively swaying her hips and speaking in a carefree manner.
“You heard the Gatekeeper. Fight without destroying this place too much.” [High Elder]
The other was the High Elder, who raised his hand to chest level and waved at Ryner with a friendly smile on his face.
“The sexy green lady and the High Elder?” [Ryner]
“Hello~.” [Rosaminta]
“My daughter’s savior! How are you?!” [High Elder]
“Mhhh, not bad, just… I’m being forced into marriage by a crazy la-!” [Ryner]
“Riteinia! Start rememberi-!” [Riteinia]
“My dear child.” [Ryner]
“… Dear child…?” [Ritienia]
Riteinia’s angry outburst was cut short when she heard the words Ryner said in a strangely gentle voice. Puzzled, she stared at him questioningly as he faced her with a benevolent smile on his face and a warm light in his eyes.
“Who the hell cares about your name?” [Ryner]
He declared like a saint.
“Wha-!?” [Riteinia]
Ignoring the stupefied, speechless and trembling Matriarch as well as the shocked amazons around him, Ryner looked at the High Elder in the eyes. His gentle expression returned to one of laziness.
“I’ll keep it short, forced marriage by a bunch of amazons and you guys are behind it. Is that true?” [Ryner]
He said as he pointed at Riteinia, himself and the High Elder in turn.
“Uhhh well, it’s complicated.” [High Elder]
After gazing worriedly at the golden-eyed women and the human alternatively, Meirith’s father scratched the back of his head and hesitated a bit before speaking.
“I managed to get the other four Elders to relent and let you stay in Hossylei Nac because you safely escorted our brethren back home, but they don’t want you to enter the Forbidden Tomb. If everyone disagrees with me, then I can’t give you permission to go there, even as the High Elder.” [High Elder]
“How is that related to this?” [Ryner]
Ryner asked as he pointed at his wrist that was tightly held by the silently shaking Riteinia. The High Elder lowered his head, hunched forward and hung his arms limply as he looked despondent.
“Those four said that saving our Travelers just isn’t enough to give you what you requested for a reward. I couldn’t make them change their minds at all and in the heat of the moment, I suggested that if you accomplished some impressive feats or something, we’ll let you enter the Tomb.” [High Elder]
“… And?” [Ryner]
“And they said yes. Then the talk about the amazons came up and so did their infamous Blood Trial. One thing led to another and now here we are. Hahahahaha… Ha…” [High Elder]
An awkward laugh and an awkward moment of silence followed the elf’s sloppy explanation.
“Ahhh…” [Ryner]
Ryner slowly nodded before gazing up for a few seconds.
“… Are you serious!?” [Ryner]
He then roared at the apologetic-looking elf.
“You’re making me work some more for my reward?! That’s freaking dumb! Stingy! Cheapskates! You bunch of crabs!” [Ryner]
“Ryner, I’m saying this for your own good. Don’t call us Elders dumb or, c-crab-?” [High Elder]
“Your daughter got enslaved, you golden-headed genius!” [Ryner]
“I KNOW!! I’M STUPIDLY DUMB!!! BRAINLESS!!! JUST TRASH THAT DOESN’T DESERVE TO LIIIIIVVVEE!!!” [High Elder]
Meirith’s doting father fell to his knees and repeatedly hit the ground with his fist while wailing pitifully.
“The others don’t understand how great a feat you achieved! You saved Meirith! But they’re all going on about how dangerous you might be and the safety of the city! Like that Loliana! Always going on about how much of a panty-hungry pervert you are!” [High Elder]
“Exactly! It’s not just me! Men like panties because they’re all perver-!” [Ryner]
“WHAT’S THAT?!! YOU’RE ACTUALLY AFTER MEIRITH’S PANTIES?!! YOU WERE AFTER MY DAUGHTER ALL ALONG?!! I’LL KILL YOU!!!” [High Elder]
“Annoying! Your mood changes too fast! Hey! Stop chanting! I know you’re chanting, damn it!” [Ryner]
“Hahahahaha!” [Rosaminta]
While Ryner was unsuccessfully trying to calm down the High Elder that was muttering in a low voice in the elven language, Rosaminta was laughing on the side. The rest of the amazons were watching them dubiously while feeling restless. Sensing their mood, the light green-skinned woman suppressed her urge to burst into laughter again and put a hand on the High Elder’s shoulder.
“Pfft! … Let’s leave it at that, Itham.” [Rosaminta]
“No! I have to protect my daughter from all perverts!” [Itham]
“Now, now, now. He hasn’t done anything wrong, has he? If we don’t start soon, these children will get mad.” [Rosaminta]
“Huh? I don’t want to have to prove myself again. Just let me talk with those Elders and I’ll convince them with my charms, charisma and good old-fashioned blackma-*cough cough* negotiations.” [Ryner]
Ryner said as he puffed out his chest.
“My, my, my. You want to blackmail the elves’ Council of Elders?” [Rosaminta]
Rosaminta pleasantly asked while putting a hand to her mouth.
“Blackmail?! You planning on taking my daughter hostage?! You want to steal her panties?!!” [Itham]
Itham angrily asked while getting ready to defend his daughter’s chastity and panties.
“I said ‘negotiate’. Not blackmail or panties, genius. The doting father should get his head out of the gutter.” [Ryner]
“Pfft! Although I-I agree that Itham should get his head out of the gutter…” [Rosaminta]
“You too?!” [Itham]
“Fufu, if we don’t start soon, you’ll be in trouble with these children.” [Rosaminta]
“Huh? What troubl-owowow?!” [Ryner]
Before Ryner could finish speaking, intense pain assaulted his wrist. Looking back, he realized that Riteinia, who had been keeping quiet all this time, was tightening her grip until his bones creaked painfully.
“Who cares about my name…? You’re ignoring me…? The Matriarch…? Before the Blood Trial…?” [Riteinia]
She was muttering in a low, scary voice and hanging her head, so Ryner couldn’t quite see her expression.
“Fine then…” [Riteinia]
But, when she raised her head…
“Forget having you first. Forget having your child. I’ll rip your guts out and feed them to you.” [Riteinia]
He saw a bloodthirsty smile on her face and ice cold eyes that wanted to butcher him.
It was the expression of a predator that wouldn’t let its prey escape no matter what.
“… That’s one freaking scary smile, crazy lad-.” [Ryner]
“RITEINIIAAAAA!!!” [Riteinia]
A punch fueled by fury was avoided in the nick of time, and it signaled the start of the Blood Trial as every amazon jumped on Ryner.