Imara Diversifies The Beastmen World

Chapter Thirty: Days at The Leopard Tribe Castle XIV It's The Principle

Memi looked at me with the wide-eyed admiration of a devoted fan, and her mates mirrored her excitement, their eyes fixed on me as if I were a rare treasure. I felt my cheeks flush under their collective gaze, shy but warmed by their genuine enthusiasm. Before I could say anything, one of her other mates approached to inform me that Harvey was waiting outside.

I couldn't hide my excitement. "Harvey's here?" I beamed, eager to see him. Practically floating on air, I stepped out of Memi's room and saw him waiting, his familiar figure instantly calming and thrilling me.

"My love, are you finally done?" Harvey asked, his warm smile making my heart flutter.

Without hesitation, I wrapped my arms around his waist and peppered his face with kisses. "Yes, I am," I said between kisses, feeling his body relax into mine. "Are you ready to go?"

He melted into my embrace, his voice soft with affection. "I am. But before we leave, I have something to share with you."

I tilted my head curiously, my smile widening. "Me too! I have some good news for you."

Before I could turn back to bid Memi goodbye, she burst out of her room, her energy spilling over like an eager cub.

"Imara, are you leaving already?" Her eyes glistened with the beginnings of sadness, and I couldn't help but laugh at her pouting expression.

"Yes, Memi. I've completed everything I needed to do, and now that Parker is awake, it's time to head home. But don't worry," I reassured her, pulling her into a tight hug, "I'll be back to see you soon. I promise."

Her voice was soft, almost childlike, as she clung to me. "You'd better. I'm really going to miss you."

"Do you pinky promise?" she asked with a mischievous grin, her eyes sparkling with playful sincerity.

I chuckled, extending my pinky to hers. "Yes, Memi. I pinky promise."

As we separated, I turned to Harvey with excitement bubbling over. "My love, I have some amazing news! I spoke with Memi about helping you gain your stripes, and she agreed to have one of her mates train you!"

His brows shot up in surprise, his expression quickly shifting to awe. "She did? Really?"

Memi stepped forward, her regal demeanor laced with warmth. "Yes, Harvey. I've asked James to be your trainer. But let me warn you—he won't go easy on you. Both Imara and I agree that you need a challenge if you want to earn your stripes."

Harvey turned to James, who nodded firmly. "When do you want to start?" James asked, his tone even but commanding.

Harvey considered briefly. "Would it be alright to begin in about eight days? Also, will I need to travel here for the training, or will you come to Camel Hump?"

James laid out his plan. "It will be a combination of both. You'll need the endurance from traveling between locations, but I'll also accompany you back home after each session. Training will leave you drained, and it would be unwise for you to make the return journey alone. I'll arrive at Camel Hump within the week to get started."

Harvey nodded in agreement. "Understood. Thank you, James. I'll see you then."

With arrangements settled, Harvey turned back to me, his familiar, tender smile lighting up his face. I lifted my arms toward him, wordlessly asking to be picked up. He obliged without hesitation, wrapping me in his strong arms. My heart swelled with affection.

"Goodbye, Memi," I called over Harvey's shoulder, waving at her. "See you soon, bestie!"

Memi grinned, folding her arms in mock sternness. "Don't you dare forget our promise, or I'll come find you myself!"