"Prince Kongpob,"he asked "What was the first rule I laid out for you?"
Kongpob lifted his gaze, looking at Arthot, his lips trembling, the words gurgling in his throat, not ready to come out. Yet, seeing Arthit's knitted brows, he forced himself to whisper " To not call you master? "
" Yet, you called me that, in every sentence." Arthit simply stated, but Kong took it as chiding. His face fell further. He bit his lip. " I..I am sorry. What is my punishment for breaking the rule ?"
"First of all.... Sit on the bed " Arthit instructed, signalling Kong to take the side towards wall. " I would like to know something before deciding your punishment"
Kong obediently followed , instantly claiming a small space on the bed. Sitting with his arms hugging his knees, making himself small unconsciously to pacify the bear alpha. Kong looked at Arthit, both curiosity and dread marring his features.
Arthit sat beside him, he held Kongpob's trembling, cool hands in both his palms and stared at his omega, full of curiosity.
" Prince Kongpob, tell me," Arthit gently addressed the omega rocking himself back and forth, going in to panic mode anytime soon. "why did you do it? There must be some reason right? "
" I...I don't know. " Kong thought a little. " I think I..feel safe. I feel taken care of."
Arthit was genuinely surprised. " By calling me master? Do you not feel huminiliated by calling yourself a slave? I know I wouldn't tolerate anyone calling me their slave. "
Kong looked in to General's eyes, it somehow felt necessary to him that the General knows how sincere his next words were. "When I call you my master, it feels like you are responsible for me. It makes me believe that you will not leave me here..." Kong said.
" Did I not promise that I will take you to Rasina ? "
" Yes, you did, " Kong nodded .
" But, you did not believe me ?"
Kong bristled at the accusation " You promised that to slave Kongpob."
Arthit nodded " But, originally I came to take the prince Kongpob of panthara, with me . Did I not? "
" You did. But, the prince Kongpob deceived you. He...." Kong fidgeted with the hem of his sleeves, searching for the right word " He put ypur and your soldier's life in danger. it won't be a big deal if you break a promise to him. It will be a lesson taught."
Arthit realised, Kongpob's biggest fear was being left alone back in panthara. And he and his beast, were unconsciously making sure he gets taken along to Rasina. To a better future prospect. Komgpob was running on his survival instincts. It was same as kind of fight or flight reaction in soldiers.
It also warmed Arthit's heart that Kongpob sees him safe , seeks comfort in him. That Kongpob's wise spirit side sees Rasina as better prospect for Kongpob.
" Prince Kongpob," Arthit took Kongpob's ice cold hand in his Pam and rubbed the fleshy pad of his thumb over back of Kongpob's hand. "while I do want you to feel utmost safe. And I do not find it in my right to censor any word that makes you feel safe and assures you that the promise made to you will be fulfilled. Having said that , I want to request you something. Can I ? "
Kongpob's eyes widened in shock. The general wants something from him?
He nodded " I will try my best to be useful to you in any way, shale or form ..."
" Can we choose another word? "
Kongpob nodded. Happy to obey. " What do you want me to call you? "
