Healing The Beastworld

CH 12: a new suitor

Days turned into weeks, and the anonymous gift-giver became a constant source of intrigue for Karee and Rontu. Every morning, they would discover a new basket filled with the freshest fruits, vegetables, and occasionally herbs each offering a reminder of the unknown male. Curiosity and a longing to express her appreciation consumed Karee. She would often venture into the edge of the village looking into the forest, hoping to catch a glimpse of her secret benefactor. But the man remained elusive, his presence like a whisper carried by the wind.
One night as Karee drifted into a deep slumber Rontu carefully stood and left the comforts of their home. As the moon cast its ethereal glow upon the forest, Rontu, guided by his scence of smell, followed a faint trail deep into the wilderness. His keen senses led him to a secluded clearing, where a single man lay on a fallen log in the shadows of the surrounding trees. Hesitantly, Rontu approached the man his senses on high alert. The man was tall and muscular, his skin darker than Rontus, with a rugged face etched with small scars that you could easly overlook spoke of a life lived in solitude. A tense silence hung in the air as Rontu and the man exchanged silent gazes. Slowly, the man broke into a mischievous smile, his eyes shining bright a large contrast to his rugged exterior.
"I am called Kaden," he said in a voice cold as white season, a mischievous grin on his face. "It is my honor to provide for your mate."
A silence hung between them, thick with unspoken words. Rontu, his fingers tightening into a fist finally spoke. "You have been leaving gifts for Karee. Why?"Rontu asked, his voice raw and untrusting.
"I have lived in seclusion for many years," Kaden said, his voice soft. "My life has been one of solitude, a fight just to survive, my only company the whisper of the wind and the rustle of leaves. But then..." he paused, his gaze softening, "Then I saw her with you. She has a warmth that I didn't know existed. It was a kindness, a compassion... something I had never seen before. Especially from a female."
"You have no right to speak of her like that," Rontu said, his voice a low growl. "Karee is my mate not yours."
"I know that she has chosen you. But I cannot help but wish... that I can offer her the same devotion, the same protection that you do. If she would take me i would like to become her mate."
A surge of anger coursed through Rontu's veins. He wanted to believe he himself to be enough for Karee but he knew how this world worked but still the thought of another male vying for her affection sent a surge of jealousy through his heart. Rontu hesitated, his mind torn between his protective instincts and the understanding that Karee will one day take more males as mates. He knew that Karee was an independent spirit, and he could not deny her the right to make her own choices. With a deep sigh Rontu began to speak, "I will allow you to speak with Karee," he said grudgingly. "However, I will not tolerate any attempts to force your will upon her. If she wants you gone you will leave."
Kaden bowed his head in acknowledgment. Together, they stood and began the return to the village. As they entered the village the sun had already come up, many villagers already out and about getting a good start to the day. Some stopping to glance at the unknown male who's beast mark was above that of Rontu's. As they approach the hut the two men see Karee awaited Rontu's return. As she saw Rontu she smiled and ran to him embracing him in a hug. "Where have you been, I woke up when it was still dark and you were gone." She asked before she looked to the right her eyes landing on Kaden standing before her, a mixture of curiosity and shock at the unknow male. "Oh hello there, Who might you be?" Karee asked politely. Kaden bowed, eyes fixed on Karee. "It's a pleasure to finally you, Karee. You are even more beautiful up close. I hope you have been enjoying the gifts I have left for you."
Karee met his gaze, a flicker of curiosity dancing in her eyes. "You were the one sending the gifts? Thank you so much, they have been amazing." She smiled brightly at him
Kaden nodded, his voice soft, "Im glad you have enjoyed them. I wanted to earn your attention, to show you how much I admire you. I hope you didn't find them... intrusive."
"Not in the slightest, it was very kind of you to give them to me." Kaden smiled looking down at the short female, "I'm glad you liked them," Kaden replied, his voice gaining confidence. "I've been watching you from afar for quite some time now, Karee. You are... captivating. I believe I could offer you much more than just gifts. I'd like to court you."
Karee was shocked but considered his words, her heart pounding with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. She had never considered taking on another mate, but Kaden's genuine admiration and the beauty of his gifts had piqued her interest, plus if Rontu brought him to her he must know his intentions but she will ask him in private later.
"Court me?" she questioned, a playful glint in her eyes. "And what makes you think I'd be interested in such a proposition?"
Kaden took a deep breath, his eyes filled with earnest longing. "Because I would cherish you with ever fiber of my being. I am a strong level 4 beastman, I am a great hunter and craftsman, I'm also a strong fighter who could assist in keeping you safe and I believe that together, we could create something truly extraordinary." Karee looked back to Rontu trying to gage if he approved or not. Seeing her apprehension Rontu placed a hand on Kaden's shoulder. "He wants to Court you, Karee. And I think you should give him a chance. If you end up not being interested I can always make him leave." He said giving her a reassuring smile.
Karee's smile was slow and thoughtful as she looked back at Kayden. "Well, Kaden, I must admit, I've been enjoying your gifts. Maybe... maybe I could get to know you better."
Kaden's smile widened. "I would like that very much."
Rontu watched the exchange unfold, a small smile on his face. He knew Karee was a woman of discerning taste, and if Kaden truly had the potential to be her equal, Rontu would welcome him with open arms. Karee and Rontu started to go inside, Karee waving at Kaden to join them. Kaden felt his heart pounding in his chest, felt a spark ignite within him. He began to fallow her inside. He was ready to share everything, his hopes, his dreams, and his love for the woman who had stolen his heart. The adventure was just beginning.