Imara Diversifies The Beastmen World

Chapter Seventy: I Hate Impulsiveness

Bai Qingqing lay motionless on the bed, her lips and eyelids tinged a faint, chilling purple-blue. The mark on her lip spoke of the struggle she'd endured, a silent testament to the depths of her bravery and sacrifice.

Parker, in his beast form, lay curled beside her, his eyes glazed with grief as he stared unblinkingly at her still face. His sorrow was palpable, a reflection of the ache we all felt.

My chest felt unbearably tight, the weight of my emotions nearly crushing me. Tears had poured freely for my sweet pea. The memory of her shielding me—leaping into harm's way without hesitation—played on a painful loop in my mind. It felt unreal, like a nightmare that refused to end.

I dabbed at her face gently, cleaning away any traces of the ordeal before stepping out to face the Four Kings. They stood waiting, their powerful forms subdued by sorrow, their expressions heavy with regret.

"It is not your fault," I said softly, shaking my head as they began to speak. "You did everything you could, and far more than anyone had a right to ask of you. For that, I am deeply, deeply grateful."

Moved by the enormity of their sacrifice, I knelt before them, bowing low until my forehead brushed the ground.

"Imara, don't," they said in unison, their voices tinged with alarm as they moved to lift me. I raised a hand to stop them.

"I, Imara, offer my profound gratitude," I began, my voice thick with emotion. "You stepped into a battle that was not yours, risking your lives to face a rootless beast—one that could have claimed any of you. You did this not out of obligation, but out of kindness and friendship."

I paused, the gravity of my words weighing heavily between us. "You risked not returning to your families, yet you stood by me, by my family. Your bravery and generosity will never be forgotten. From the depths of my heart, thank you."

Tears welled up in my eyes, unbidden but honest, and I let them fall. The Kings stood there, their faces a mixture of shock and discomfort, unused to such heartfelt gratitude. But I meant every word, and in their eyes, I saw they understood.

This wasn't just about Bai Qingqing's survival or Curtis's defeat—it was about the unshakable bonds of trust, loyalty, and the lengths to which we would go for those we cared for. In that moment, I resolved to honor those bonds, to protect and cherish them with all I had.

As I rose, I met each of their gazes, steady and sincere. Wilbard stepped forward, his expression soft with understanding.

"Imara, there's no need for such formalities. You've suffered a great loss, and it is our duty to protect. Any female can call upon the Kings for help," he said gently, his voice tinged with sorrow. Reaching out, he wiped a stray tear from my cheek.

I offered a small, grateful smile. "I understand, but my gratitude remains. Knowing none of you were harmed brings me comfort. What you all do to keep us safe and provided for is a monumental task, and for that, I thank the Beast God for each of you."

Their faces softened, reflecting respect and gratitude in return.

The Wolf King, standing next to Wilbard, stepped forward. "I am Gallant. It was my honor to assist, though I deeply regret the loss Bai Qingqing suffered," he said, his tone solemn.

"Thank you, Gallant, the Wolf King," I replied, nodding. "While the circumstances of our meeting are heartbreaking, I'm grateful for your help."

Gallant offered a charming smile and bowed respectfully.

Next, the Tiger King approached. His features bore a striking resemblance to what I imagined Winston might look like, only older.

"I am Winfrey," he introduced himself.