Imara Diversifies The Beastmen World

Chapter Eighteen: Days at The Leopard Tribe Castle II Forming A Bond

Curious about Queen Memi's plans, I posed the question, "What are your plans for the day, Queen Memi?"

To my surprise, her response was unexpectedly warm as she encouraged me to address her informally by her name. "Please, call me Memi," she invited.

She shared her intentions with a fond smile, her words painting a picture of her relaxing in a serene corner of the castle, surrounded by her mates. "I plan to sit in my favorite area at the back of the castle, enjoying some fruits my mate got for me."

The simplicity of her plans and the comfort they conveyed were inviting. "You can join me," she offered with a genuine smile.

"Thank you, Memi," I replied gratefully. "I would love to join you later," though I felt we should attend to our priorities for the day first. "Before that, we need to get in touch with the guys who helped carry Parker here."

Memi nodded, understanding, and went her own way. As she departed, I considered the blend of friendship, support, and cooperation gradually forming within the castle walls.

On our way to the front of the castle to find the guys, I noticed the curious stares from the leopard guards. Their awe was understandable, but I avoided lingering on any one guard too long; I didn't want to give the impression of interest where there was none. I was aware of the unspoken dynamics, especially the potential for Harvey to face challenges here due to his lack of stripes. The guards' watchful looks hinted at this, and I knew some were already considering ways to test him.

I felt the need to make our relationship clear, to leave no room for intimidation. Walking alongside Harvey, I decided to show small displays of affection, grounding our bond in plain sight, sending the message that I would tolerate no harm coming to him.

Outside, I turned to Harvey, asking with a gentle smile, "My love, could we sit under that tree by the pond?" He agreed immediately, his warm smile matching mine. With playful expectation, I raised my arms to be lifted in his embrace, bridal style, savoring the closeness. As he held me, I couldn't help but murmur, "You're so pretty, my love," before pressing a tender kiss to his lips. His startled reaction and blush were endearing, and I caught the leopards' envious and curious stares.

Once we settled beneath the tree's shade, I voiced my thoughts about Queen Memi's proposal. I spoke just loud enough for nearby leopards to hear, letting my words travel to both seen and unseen onlookers.

"Queen Memi's idea of helping me select mates—I like it. What do you think?" I asked Harvey, allowing my excitement to come through. I knew our conversation was no longer private, but I wanted my position clear for both of us.

"There are hawks among the alliances here," he replied, his tone thoughtful. "You mentioned wanting a flying mate. This could be a good opportunity."

I nodded, my gaze sharpening as I looked directly at the leopards around us. "Don't worry, my love. I will pick mates who blend well with our family." I paused, letting my voice grow colder. "I will not accept anyone who would harm you simply because you lack stripes."

Each word was deliberate, heavy, and unwavering. My gaze swept over the onlookers, landing briefly on each one. If looks could kill, some of them might have faltered. Audible gasps rippled through the gathered beastmen, their expressions shifting to a mixture of surprise and unease.

I could guess what they'd been thinking: ideas of dueling Harvey for my favor, testing his worth. But as they looked into my eyes, a shiver seemed to ripple through them, warning that I would not be trifled with. Here, mate selection meant power plays and displays of dominance, but I had no interest in tradition and really didn't give a damn if it meant putting Harvey in danger. I was ready to challenge anyone who dared to undermine our bond.