I woke up feeling better than ever. After asking some of the other people in the dorm, I found out there was actually a bathhouse here! Recalling the fact that last night they forced me to bathe with a damn bucket, I couldn’t help but curse at this hotel. Cunts. Following the instructions, I made my way further down the hall and entered a changing room that had a few numbered cabinets. Finding my bed number, I went to remove my clothes. Unfortunately, it slipped my mind that I had spikes and a tail, tearing the already punctured tunic and pants to ribbons. Staring for a moment, I shrugged and tossed it in the trash. I found a large towel in the cabinet and a tiny, white brick. Raising a brow, I sniffed and felt genuine surprise. It was actually soap. Going inside, I found the stalls and froze at the sight of men and women taking showers.
‘Well this is a first...’ I thought, staring at a lady’s bare ass. I couldn’t help but feel some heat in my face. Averting my eyes with a light cough, I went to an empty stall, noticing that everyone kept their eyes to themselves. Whose idea was this? Thinking about all the things that could possibly go wrong, I shook my head and enjoyed my shower instead. The water was actually coming out of a crystal of some sorts. Feeling a sharp tug on my neck and wrists, I cursed in annoyance and dried off.
Seeing I had nothing to wear, I tie the towel around my waist and leave the bath. My damp hair stuck to my neck, a smug smile plastered on my face. I felt good for once. Though I was sick and tired of having my clothes tear, might as well leech off that bastard. Wondering if they had magical clothes, the idea almost made me laugh. I found it silly but it might as well exist in this world.
I was practically waltzing around naked as I left the Slave Quarters and entered the main hall of the Golden Swan. Disapproving glares fell on me instantly, both nobles and employees gaped in silent outrage. Stunned whispers surrounded me, making me grin.
One of the employees walked over hesitantly, a deep frown on his face, “Have you no shame?!” he asked furiously as he waved his arms at my lack of attire.
I shrugged and fixed my towel, “Not really.” I say with indifference but was pleased inside. I felt the tug on my neck intensify, making me hiss. The bastard was probably doing it. The employee took a step back, glaring from a distance and looking for the noble. I joined in, frowning as I waited for those asswipes to show up. Ignoring the glares, I made myself comfortable on the big, soft sofa, nearly flashing the entire hall, it was unfortunate I couldn’t lean back lest I ruin the stupid furniture. Just as some mean looking humans headed my way, the four stooges appeared.
They were coming down the stairs, giving me intense glares. The collar began choking me, however, I didn’t let it show how much. Managing to keep a calm smile on my face, I stood and fixed the towel again.
Clay’s eyes widened in surprise as I saw the man laugh lightly before clearing his throat and putting on a straight face. Patrick’s face was purple in anger and shame, his signature smile nowhere to be seen. I waved with a smile, “Hey there bossman, I gotta say, they have some nice facilities here.”
Step one, embarrass the shit out of him.
I don’t have anything to be ashamed of, he on the other hand, does. It was hard to breathe but I was getting used to taking shallow breaths. It helped with keeping up the facade.
“Where are your clothes?” he practically whispered the words through gritted teeth.
“They tore.” I say innocently, showing off my tail and pointing a thumb at my back. Although the innocent act did not suit me at all, it was fun seeing his eye twitch in response. He was pissed off as he looked around in embarrassment as some people laughed, “Are you purposely trying to make a mockery out of me!?” he hissed.
I dramatically put a hand on my chest as I made a wronged expression, "Bossman, how could this possibly be my fault? I didn’t do it on purpose. Regular clothes are just too inconvenient, they tear so easily. It’s not like I have money or means of getting myself some better clothes." Grinning inwardly, I dodged his question, telling him the honest truth. This way, he shouldn’t be able to figure out my intentions.
"Do you think I'm stupid, smartass?" he snorted in disdain.
Deciding not to answer that one, I shrug indifferently and cross my arms, “It’s out of my hands.” I was getting good at avoiding the ‘you can’t lie to me’ rule.
He looked me up and down as his frown suddenly turned back into that nasty smile. Seriously, why does he always smile like that... it was disturbing. I could tell some plot was brewing in those calculating eyes, his next words making me slightly worry, “Heh, I suppose you're right. We'll go and get you some nice new clothes immediately.” his eyes squinted as he turned to the mages, “Feel free to relax for a couple of hours, my dear slave needs some proper clothing, I can’t have people thinking my pockets are that shallow, no? Ah, and please tell those two nitwits to prepare the carriage for travel.”
The mages seemed to nod awkwardly and left. Turning to Clay, Patrick clapped his hands, “Shall we then? Miss Daisy must have heard I was here by now, let’s pay her a visit. Seeing as how our dear Atkozott loves to prance around naked, he will definitely get along wonderfully with ol’ Daisy.”
I got a bad feeling when the usually expressionless Clay paled at the mention of this woman. Who the fuck was Daisy? Snapping out of it, Clay actually growled in displeasure, “With all due respect sir, that woman is sick in the head. Why must we go there?” the mercenary seemed uncomfortable even talking about the woman.
The bastard waved a hand, walking out of the hotel with the two of us in tow. Dismissing the insult, he shook his head as he walked, “Don’t worry Clay, I will not force you to be inside. Just be sure to guard the entrance. I'm sure Atkozott won't do anything stupid, I’m guessing he’s not that much of a masochist. I'll make sure he doesn't hurt her.” laughing like he heard a great joke, he glanced at me with squinted eyes, playing with the dirty sanchez on his lip, “I’m not a fool boy and I will not be taken for one. There are more ways to torture someone than just physical pain, haha.”
He grinned evilly as his eyes flashed with animosity. My gut feeling worsened, making me unnerved. I followed the bastard with an uneasy pace, getting a lot of stares as we walked down the bustling street. I didn't think I would actually get some appreciative stares from ladies. I was just not used to such things. It was both surprising and flattering at the same time.
I wasn’t expecting to get off scot free, I anticipated there would be a few lashes, maybe some electrotherapy, but not a visit to a Tailor Shop. We stopped in front of a workshop labeled ‘Daisy’s House of Cloth’. Clay stopped next to the door with an odd expression, leaning back and crossing his arms, “I’ll wait here then.”
Patrick gave a court nod and looked at me with creepy eyes. The corner of his lips lifted in a sneer, “Now Atkozott, be polite to Miss Daisy, don’t you dare lay a finger on her or hurt her in any way. She is very a special old bird.” he chuckled and, once again, the bad feeling I got earlier deepened.
Entering the shop, I saw an elderly, chubby woman who looked like someone's grandmother standing behind the counter. She had puffy white hair and a colorful dress with flowery patterns. All kinds of flashy accessories twinkled on her wrists. She seemed to be in her late sixties but was surprisingly lively.
The shop itself looked very trashy, decorated with expensive-looking artworks of cats, trinkets and other odds and ends. All kinds of clothes were neatly folded on shelves and hanging from coat hangers. A red rug with violet patterns lied on the ground, making it a real eyesore. Was this hag for real? The whole place screamed out ‘crazy cat lady’, I thought as my eyes locked with the porcelain white cat on the counter. It looked so dopey with wide, round eyes and an overly large head. The smell of strong perfume nearly made me sneeze.
Daisy was scribbling something behind the counter with a weird look on her face as she looked up. Her eyes widened in clear joy and gave Patrick a welcoming smile. Her eyes moved to me, checking me out from top to bottom with wide eyes as her smile became... odd. The way her blue eyes sparkled sent chills down my spine. No old lady should have a look like that. I was disturbed as fuck.
“Hello, Patrick! It’s been so long! How have you been? What can I do for you?” she rattled off like a machinegun, lifting the wooden partition and walking over to shake his hand enthusiastically.
“Hello, Daisy. My dear, it has indeed been a while. You will excuse me as I unfortunately don’t have the time to catch up.” he said with a genuine smile and gestured at me, “I got my hands on a very unique slave you see. The bugger destroys everything he touches so I've come to buy some special clothing for him.” he explained while smiling politely yet giving her a crafty look.
Seemingly understanding, the old lady giggled excitedly. She nodded and motioned to come behind the counter, “Oh, it’s been so long since you’ve brought me a treat like that! Come, come. Tell me, Pat, are you selling?” she asked with a pep in her step, staring at me with squinted eyes. She winked at me and licked her lips.
I visibly cringed, feeling disgusted beyond words. What. The. Fuck. The seductive tone and perverted intent were clear as day. Now I understood why this bastard had been so lenient when faced with my provocations. He brought me to a perverted, old tailor who had strange fetishes to do God knows what. Glancing around the shop in slight panic, I nearly gagged from the thought of what those might be. Thinking about myself wearing cat ears and tied to a bed while an old lady jiggled her wrinkled flesh made me want to slap myself into unconsciousness. Why brain?! WHY?!
While I was dying inside, Patrick sighed, “Sorry Daisy, but no can do. That one is a bit too unruly so I can't let you play with him like with the others, for your own safety. I’d rather not risk it, considering what he’s shown me of his capabilities. You just have some of your usual light fun and make him some proper clothes, ones that won’t tear that easily. Some small enchantments should do the trick.” he said while scratching his chin, “Feel free to pick the design yourself, though I would appreciate it if you used more neutral colors. He’s enough of an embarrassment as is.”
Her jolly expression fell as she glared at Patrick with displeasure, "Then I'm not giving you the usual discount." she muttered, visibly deflating as she waved me over on a small podium. Feeling the collar tug me when I refused to move, I heard Patrick snicker, “Go before I change my mind and let her have her way with you. Or is it that you fancy Miss Daisy?”
I could tell he was enjoying the situation immensely. The granny was glowering as her foot tapped impatiently. Finally getting on the podium, I watched as she took a meter and glanced at me out of the corner of her eye. Standing in front of me, she stroked her chin before making a roguish face. Reaching out, she tore the towel off my hips with a quick tug. Unprepared for something like that, I gaped in stunned silence.
As she openly stared at my groin and, for the first time, I felt uncomfortable with my nudity. I honestly felt like a piece of meat under her creepy gaze. Was this how women felt when men ogled their breasts? No, I think this is much worse. I had the urge to cover myself up, but I didn't want to give them the satisfaction of seeing exactly how effective this humiliating tactic was. Okay, think of something else. How great would it be if I could kill Patrick right about now, huh? Or just anything for that matter. Murder is fun. Yes, go to your happy place. I spoke inwardly, keeping my eyes locked with the ceiling.
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“Ohoho, you’ve brought me some nice eye candy this time, Pat. What a tease.” she squeaked and pinched my ass. Nearly jumping off the podium, I stepped back and growled at the bitch, “Keep your dirty hands off me you whoring hag.”
The collar tightened, completely blocking my windpipe and making me almost trip off the podium. Gasping and growling, I glared at Patrick who looked disinterested. Daisy narrowed her eyes and stepped back with a frown, “Hmm, I see what you mean now, Pat. Alright, lay off him, I’ve got work to do.” her eyes gleamed while I sucked in a big breath. Seeing I was on guard, she lifted a finger at me and giggled mockingly, “Stop growling at me, boy. Come, let me fix you some clothes, haha.”
I couldn't help but tense when she came closer, standing on a small step ladder. First, she wrapped the measuring tape around my neck, then moved on to my shoulders, making me grimace in disgust when she took any chance to grope me. Shortly, she had reached my waist. I was going to scrub the skin of my flesh at the first opportunity. The vile stench of her arousal made my stomach churn. How the hell was someone so old not a damn Sahara yet? I cursed my good sense of smell and held my breath.
My tail jerked irritably as she pressed the side of her face against my bare chest with a blissful expression. My claws itched with the urge to rip that head off. Glancing at the bastard with a hateful glare, I saw him make a knowing smile while looking around the shop in boredom. When she started to measure my thighs, I nearly kicked her away. I was shaking in rage at this point. I wanted to snap her in half and rip out the bastard's groin then stuff her pig-like face with it!
She was crouching, her face so close that it almost pressed against my crotch. I endured and gritted my teeth while my body strained to the point of creaking. I couldn't stop the annoyed flick of my tongue. Unfortunately, she saw it happen and licked her lips ‘seductively’. I shivered, barely containing myself from kicking her away.
She slowly got up and walked around me to measure my tail at the tailbone. At this point, the bloodlust that I hadn’t felt since the farm began radiating off me in spades. When she touched my tail, I violently tugged it out of her hold and snarled at her. It was unfortunate the lucky whore wasn’t sliced open.
She jumped back, glancing at the bastard irritably, she pointed at me, "Do something about that."
“Hmm, Atkozott, stand still and don’t move a muscle, this is your final warning.” he said casually while holding some green fabrics in his hands. With those words, the contract basically locked me in place for the next 10 fucking minutes. That's how long it took her to finish measuring as she took her sweet time. Once she was done, I felt the pressuring pain lessen. I covered myself with the towel and stood as far away from her as physically possible. I really wanted to skin her alive, I thought as I glared daggers at her in hate. This place... I’ll remember it.
Daisy dusted off her hands and was smiling in satisfaction, “He must be the best one you’ve brought me so far, damn shame he so wild. Though it’s your lucky day, Pat. I actually have some enchanted clothes in the back that would suit him. They just need some modification. Wait here, I should be done in about an hour.” she said with an odd glint in her eye and left with quick steps.
Deciding not to think about this horrible experience anymore, I sighed with a heavy heart. Hopefully, the clothes won’t make me look like a complete clown. The hag was true to her word and was as quick as she had promised to be. I relaxed when I saw black and grey fabric in her hands.
"This was made of some special beast hide, an adult Malzok I believe. It won't tear as easily and the stains will come right off thanks to the enchantment." she winked at me and handed me the clothes.
Narrowing my eyes, I clicked my tongue and growled, "How about bloodstains you old bitch?"
She visibly paled when I revealed my sharp fangs, but the collar tightened around my neck before I could say anything else. With a vicious growl, I yanked the clothes out of her hands and just dropped the towel, dressing in the middle of her store. Like it mattered at this point.
My patience was already at the limit.
I put on the grey leather pants, going commando as she didn’t bother to modify any underwear. The pants were surprisingly comfortable and easy to move in. They luckily didn’t chafe since my skin was slightly scaled. A hole was made for my tail in the back and I was glad they weren’t too tight. The metal lining prevented the spikes from ripping the clothes. I wore a black shirt and fastened the leather belt around my waist. Putting on a leather vest, I patted my back to check if the spikes managed to rip it somehow. Seeing everything was in order, I lifted up a black overcoat, the sleeves rolled up and stitched. It reached my knees and split in the middle, allowing my tail to freely move without difficulties. It was comfortable and light.
Finally, I put on some simple, black boots. Rolling my shoulders, I wanted to nod in satisfaction but stopped myself. I refused to give any acknowledgement to the disgusting perverted hag.
Patrick was making conversation with the hag, settling the bill that made my eyes widen in shock. These clothes costed exactly 67 gold pieces, and that was after Patrick haggled down the price! I could tell the price was ridiculous considering how much food and drink cost. A 100 silver was a single gold coin, which meant these clothes were very pricy.
Saying his farewells, Patrick looked at me impatiently, “Done? Good. We’re already far too much behind schedule. Let’s go.” he waved to the hag with a smile and exited. My tail flickered in annoyance as I followed him, noting the exact location of this shop. The hag became the second person on my blacklist, right after Patrick. Sooner or later, I would make her pay.
I could hear her squeaky voice from the shop, "It's always a pleasure, Patrick. Make sure you come by if you ever need anything else.”
Patrick was still frowning about having to pay so much for clothes, grumbling under his breath and cursing the bitch. Without looking back, I walked with a scowl, feeling the pitying gaze the beastman tossed my way occasionally. My disappointment at not snapping her neck was evident. She was obviously known for her sexual harassment. Fucking harlot. The bastard looked displeased while in deep thought as we made our way to the carriage. The four people were waiting for us, Perry and Sen chatting like usual until they spotted their boss. They looked astonished at my new look. Not wanting to appear too approachable, I hissed at them, my bad mood evident. These clothes made me seem civil, which, in an odd way, displeased me.
Patrick gave his people orders as I noticed the cage was actually gone along with the cart. He spoke to the mages courtly, before they bowed and left. He then turned to face me, “Fortunately for you, the mages have important business at the Association so they will not be staying with us. Therefore, I’ve made the decision of allowing you to follow on foot. Damn arrogant mages took the cage back, as unprofessional as ever.” he lamented more to himself than me, “You are not allowed to get on the carriage. I want you to keep an eye out and deal with any trouble that may appear. Do not stray from the carriage. Consider that a strict order as well as an opportunity to earn yourself some positive marks.” he finally shut up, waiting for an answer.
“Yeah, fine. Whatever.” I muttered, in no mood to do anything but fume. Still, I was glad I didn’t have to sit in that stifling cage. I could use some exercise to chase away the creeping stiffness and constant stress.
Everyone got on the remaining carriage as we gradually left the city. I was lightly jogging next to the Raptors that dragged the bastard's carriage. I liked their company unlike those stupid birds. Maybe it was because we were reptiles in nature. The two Raptors kept giving me glances as they ran. Their curious eyes were practically begging for my attention, not scared in the least. For the next few kilometers, I kept playing around with them. Eventually, I grew bored after so many hours of running so I swiftly jumped and straddled one of the Raptors. I wasn't on the carriage so the order that bastard gave had no reaction.
The lizard let out a surprised sound and seemed pleased, happy even. I stroked its neck as it let out a cooing sound, “Gruuu!” It seemed to be rubbing it in into the other’s face. They were seriously adorable. Hearing a gasp, I look back with curiosity. My face fell when I saw Perry and Sen gaping at me like morons.
“Wha?! How the hell did you do that?! Raptors hate being ridden. Hey! How are you disobeying orders?!” Perry was gaping in astonishment, blabbering like a fool. Shrugging, I give a simple reply, “I’m not on the carriage so what does it matter? Besides, these two are really charming.” I say absentmindedly, ignoring the two morons as I pet the other one and give it my attention as well. It seemed to stop moping and enjoyed itself, pushing its head against my hand.
I suddenly tense when I sense something approaching with speed. Looking to the side, I spot a huge black bull with three horns in a full charge, actual flames spilling from its drooling maw. It was coming straight for the carriage. Cursing, I sniff at my clothes more closely and groan. No wonder a damn Malzok was so furiously charging at us. The clothes that hag gave me weren’t properly treated and still held a foreign scent. Recalling the information I knew about those creatures, I knew the male wouldn’t be acting like this if my clothes weren’t from the skin of a female of its species. They went batshit crazy when their females were touched and could sense them from miles away. It’s why Malzok skin and materials had to be treated with severe control and properly treated to get rid of the scent.
I flick my tongue out and narrow my eyes, “Did she do it on purpose?” I mutter, recalling the odd glint in her eyes when she handed me the clothes.
Not having the time to contemplate, I quickly jumped off the Raptor that was disturbed by the oncoming beast. I ran toward the bovine creature without hesitation, picking up speed almost equal to it. When it saw me charging back at it, it became enraged and shook its head in threat. I didn't hesitate as I dodged to the right, making the dust lift. The flames and horns missed me. Reaching out with my claws, I hooked them into its shoulder blade, flinging myself up and straddled its raging body. Not waiting for the creature to start kicking about, I grabbed its horns and shouted as I used all my strength to twist its head to the side. With a pained moo, the Malzok lost balance mid run and slammed into the ground before falling on the side.
Its belly revealed and open for an attack, I used the opportunity to gut the beast. My claws slipped into its flesh, ripping out a few vitals and killing the thing. Although it continued to thrash for a few more seconds, it didn’t last long. Thankfully, I managed to avoid drenching myself with blood again. I immediately feel a tug at my neck and reluctantly went back to the carriage.
I walked next to the Raptor with a steady pace, its eyes locked on me. Perry and Sen were practically drilling a hole at the back of my head. My tail twitched in irritation. Turning around, I scowl at them, “What?”
They quickly looked away, but I heard one of them mutter under his breath about me having no honor and how the Malzok hadn’t deserved such a gruesome death.
I raise an eyebrow at his ridiculous statement and pet the Raptor, “Honor? That's something that can get you killed. Honor is worthless." I squint my eyes, "What would you do then, hm? You’d get trampled to death instantly or impaled by those horns.” continuing sarcastically, I grin, “Wow, what an honorable way to die!”
They seemed startled, sharing a look before deciding to just stay quiet. I chuckled, "Hah, you have the bare minimum of intelligence I see. Good for you!" I mocked with a small applause.
The rest of the way was spent in silence.
***
The rest of the journey was going smoothly, nothing else attacked. It was disappointing, being given this bit of free reign, I wanted to let off some more steam. I fed the Raptors fresh meat. The creatures devoured it with pleasure while they ran, tugging on a longer piece to amuse themselves. Since I’d grown fond of them, I decided to name them. No one bothered to give them names which showed just how little they were valued. Treated like tools and nothing more.
The dark red Raptor was now called Kala because apparently, he was a she. Her amber scales glistened in the sun, her short, clawed arms tightly pressed against her chest to increase her speed. The male, I named Thor since he had a lightning colored mane, it suited him. The mane was creating a nice contrast with his dark skin, a deep ruby color. He was far more robust than the female with longer arms that were pressed in a similar way to Kala. Apparently, males had a mane while females didn't, it was how they appealed to their potential mates. Pleased at having read that bestiary, I looked at the two with a genuine smile. They had gotten really attached to me, making whining sounds when I made distance and cooing cutely when I returned. I've also really grown fond of them. They were nothing like disgusting humans. We were kindred spirits in a way.
Time passed as we travelled through many cities and villages, the journey lasting nearly a month and a half. The whole way, I walked without complaint, this body had incredible endurance. Luckily, there were no more incidents and my time was spent avoiding Patrick and his crew as much as possible. The bastard had occasionally tossed certain ‘tests’ my way, however, I kept my cool. I wasn’t in a hurry to test out Clay’s whip nor was I interested in getting choked for no good reason. I was sick of it honestly.
Perry and Sen mentioned we were going to Tallah, a large city only a few days away from Velegard, the capital of Terra Silva. Patrick had his official residence there. Having spent some time eavesdropping on their conversations in the carriage, which were shockingly few and in between, I learned exactly how the noble was planning on profiting from me. He was going to make me fight in the Arena located in Velegard.
Finally, we arrived in Tallah.