The Alpha's Saviour

Chapter 78 - Underestimated

Salvator's POV:

Brick by impenetrable brick, I secure the walls around my mind as my beast takes full control. I seal off the area I caved for Nala and I feel it the moment my eyes glowed red with our unique power. A strong growl of anger and betrayal from my beast and I, force out the presence in my mind with a blast. Like an invisible bomb going off, followed by a shockwave, he was thrown out with force that sent Noah physically stumbling back a few steps.
The guards all gasped in surprise and looked unsure of what had happened or how to proceed. Nala's emotions bounced around, worry and concern morphed into shock, relief and pride.
The deep voice of my beast filled everyone ears as he spoke, and I enjoyed every second of it, willingly handing him the reigns. "It was my understanding we were welcomed here as your guests, to help with our problem. That does not mean I am one of your subjects to overrule and control. Don't assume me stupid enough to think, you solely did this out of the kindness of your heart. You and I both know, you have as much to loose as we do, if this forest ends up destroyed because of Coal shifting and this war. The areas you safely hunt in will become scarce, leaving it impossible to stay in the comfort of your current homes. The same homes surrounded by magical barriers that cannot be moved. You would have to start all over again and risk the safety of your people as well as the centuries of protection magic you have grown accustom to. Those we are rebelling against, wish to use any unique strong creature to breed army's for their control. If one of them discovers your kind, do you really think they would hesitate or treat you different to those like me, Coal or our friends? Their actions have nothing to do with punishment, they seek acquisition of power."

Silence hung in the air, and fearful glances towards their leader hadn't been missed by Coal and I. My rage was still strongly simmering beneath the surface and I was impressed at the level of control my beast was extruding. It's in his nature to deal with threats such as these with violence, however he knew we were in their lands and truly didn't wish to make more enemy's. "I will only say this once. I do not wish your kind any harm, but that doesn't mean I will not defend myself or my friends if attacked or provoked. If you pull another stunt like this again, do not expect me to diplomatically handle it as I have done today. We will see it as an act of war."

When Noah's shock eventually wears off and the silence becomes defining Nala does the unthinkable. She takes a few steps before her leader, effectively shielding Coal and I from his view. They seemed to be communicating telepathically based on the surprised looks on the guards faces. Other than picking up on her emotions, I couldn't tell what they were saying. Not that I tried to. I wouldn't disrespect Nala's privacy like that. I felt her anger at the situation but stronger than that was her will to protect me. My heart swelled at its intensity.
Nala turned her back on her leader and faced us, making those around her stiff and uncomfortable. I knew it was a sign of disrespect, most would have stepped aside. "Come, Rose and I will lead you to your rooms before we go and pick up your generous gifts." Not needing to be told twice Coal stands form the floor and we both follow Nala. To my surprise Rose stand behind Coal protectively, her body shielding him from prying eyes, and curious glances.
As we enter the large castle I notice smooth round logs suspended in mid air leading up towards another platform. They were in place of stairs. The cloaked Rogi's talon like feet, curved securely around them as they walked. Coal and I however, had to focus on our balance, or we would fall all the way down to the lowest platform.
"Care for a lift Coal?" Rose asked watching his slow ascent.
"No.. no I'm good thank you." Coal says Will increasing his pace as an attempt to put some distance between him and Rose. Her amused giggles filled my ears and I felt Nala's curiosity override her amusement.

"What is it Nala?" I asked using our connection so the other two would hear us.

"My daughter rarely laughs or mingles with others of her age. She always has her guard up, however since meeting Coal she seems to have taken a liking to the young dragon. She instinctively shielded him from view earlier, a clear show of protection for our kind. She also hasn't stopped teasing him. It's just.. different to see her this way. It's refreshing."