Love after Death in a New World Pt. 04

I woke up with a splitting headache, but even after waking up, with my soul torn from my body, it didn't feel this bad. I looked around the room. It was a good size and matched the Lonestar barn I was at when I fainted. I thought this had to be the living area that the barn master told me about when I got here. From the window, it looked like it was now late afternoon. I wonder how long I had been out.

Looking around the room, I saw a chair over in the corner. It took me a minute to figure out who it was. 34 was dressed now in clothes and sleeping. It told me that May had been busy since I had been out. While it was nothing major, she looked good in a light pink button-up shirt and blue pants. I was sure she picked it out just a button-up shirt so it would be easier for 34 to milk when time.

About them, 34 woke and noticed me. She came rushing over and said, with a trimmer voice, "I'm sorry, master. May told me to keep watching over you and fell asleep. I promise I will never do it again."

I could tell that she was scared. I was sure that her behavior was a result of how she had been treated by the stall master whom I had bought her from.

"It's ok, 34. I promise you. The only issue I have is the fact that I keep calling you 34. You're going to need a name, a real name. How about Sarah?" I said.

I could see a smile forming on her face as well as a tear in her eye. It was almost like the fact that some people have on Christmas morning when they find a tree overflowing with gifts.

"It's a very nice name, master. I just don't want you to waste it on me. If need be, I would rather you save such a nice name for the others." Sarah said.

"They will all get their name, and please call me Ivan. The master title makes me feel very odd and shameful. Now, have you all eaten, and where is May? I also take it you all have clothes now from the way you are dressed?" I asked Sarah.

"Yes, we all ate, it was very delicious. She is out getting us some more clothes. After you fainted and we got you to a bed, she went out and got us all food and clothes. Sorry to say not all the clothes fit us right, so she went out to get more. She has been very kind to us." Sarah said. "May said that when you woke up, I was to get with Artsa, who she left in charge, so she could send one other centaur lady out to get her from the shopping area."

At that time, I heard the door open just to see Artsa walk into my shock, still in her full human form in a sleeveless long blue dress.

In just a raised and concerned tone, Artsa went, "Master, you're awake. We were worried about you. 34, I thought you were going to come get me with me when he woke up. I have to send someone out to get May at once. How are you feeling, master?"

Looking at Artsa, I said, "I am fine. I just woke up, but I feel a little weak, so please don't be mad at her. What happened? Are you ok? I see you're still in your human form. You are not hurt, are you? By the way, I have renamed 34 to Sarah. I will be renaming all milkmaids, no one should be just a number. Everyone deserves a name. Please, like I told Sarah, stop calling me master. My name is Ivan."

Artsa seemed shocked, like what I had just said was a foreign idea or so.

"I'm fine, just weak as well, but much better off than you were from the transfer of power. That is why I am still in this form, I didn't have the power to transfer back at that time since I used my skill and not sexual arousal. If you like me better in this form, I will stay this way as much as I can. I didn't know your body would act that way. You seem much stronger, but after what May told me, I understand now why your body gave out. I am sorry for hurting you. She asked me to pass along for you to rest here and not to leave. You will still feel weak for a few more hours. Being in my human form, she left me in charge just in case someone came by, but over she left me responsible for my sister while putting 34- I mean Sarah, in charge of Milkmaids for now. She also said you would be hungry, so we have some food here for you as well. Let me go and send Cora after May. She is the fastest one of us and a fine tracker as well," Artsa committed.

With that, Artsa left the room with Sarah, bringing me a plate of food. It was a cold pizza. I took it from the place that May wanted to go to. Think about it, I wonder if I could heat it using fire magic. Even though it looked appetizing, I was sure it would be better warm. I looked at my status to see if fire skill could heat the plate.

Skill Fire Magic lv 1

The user can throw a small fireball up to 1m or heat up a small object. lv 1

Pulling up Fire Magic stats told me two things: yes, I could heat plate up as well most like as my level of skill went up the area effect would as well. I had not even thought about it when I read my Water Magic this morning. I want to check on Valentino to see if it has gone up since I used it a few times earlier, but I knew now that my body was tired and needed food. The thought of using Fire Magic on top of eating the pizza, as hungry as I was, came first.

As I heated the plate, the smell of pizza started filling the room. It didn't take long before I heard footsteps coming my way.

Both 3 and 21 came through the door yelling, "Master, you're awake."

They both look different from earlier, with 3 wearing a purple button-up shirt and blue jean shorts and her hair up, while 21 had blue jean shorts as well. It looked like they modified the rag dress I saw her wear earlier as a shirt for now. I took it she was one of the ones that those clothes didn't fix right. I was sure May was just guessing on their size for now. They looked great in what she had picked for them, better than I could have.

"Ladies, I hope you're both ok. As I told Sarah, please stop calling me master. Call me by name, Ivan," I said while pointing at Sarah.

"How did she get a cool name? I want one!" said 21 in a sassy voice.

"Me too. It wouldn't be fair if my sister got one and I didn't," said 3 in a sad, pouty voice.

Just then, Sarah walked over and said to them, "You two girls know better than to act like that. Ever since you two were born, you have been a handful. Now, Ivan needs his rest. If both of you are well behaved, maybe he will give you names as well after he is better."

With that, the two girls were off.

"Forgive those two, please. It did help that they were separated from their mother at such a young age, but then again, she was young when she had them. She was not even old enough to go to the market stall and ended up having twin girls. The rest of us tried our best to raise them. To be honest, they are both good girls but a little mischievous at times."

I had to ask after hearing her last comment, "Sarah, what age do Milkmaid end up at the market stall? How did you know she was not coming back? What do mean rest of you what about their father?"

Sarah looked at me with sadness in her eyes and stated, "May told Artsa and me that you were new to this world, so you wouldn't understand something and to help you when we could. We go to market at 18, but their mother was just 17 when she had them. On top of being very beautiful, she also produces large amounts of milk, more than I have seen anyone else produce. As soon she left that day, everyone knew she catch a high price. As for father, I'm not sure who their is but I was too guess it was one of stall master that had their way with their mother. It is a very common thing that happens to us, they called their breeding program. Except for a few of us that might come from a farm, all our fathers are one of the stall masters."

Taking a moment to relax, Sarah continued, "To tell you a little about all of us. It was 56 first day at the stall when you bought us, she is very shy. She is not sure of herself yet. It will take some time before she feels safe here and opens up. As far as 3 and 21, beyond what I've told you, any time someone would try buying one without the other, they would go crazy, and the buyer would back out of the deal. They both receive a lot of lashes due to that. 69 was still there, even with a high milk production due to her skin color. Most farmers want a Milkmaid with fair light skin color. She keeps to herself a lot but is a good girl overall. For myself, there's not much to say between my low milk production, blonde hair, which is seen as a birth defect to the stall masters, and lastly, my age since most are sold young, around early mid-20s, and I just turned 37. Because I have been there so long and have taken care of just about everyone, I am seen as a mother figure to girls, even if I don't have any of my own. Just so you don't have to worry that none of the other girls have had offspring yet, either. Unless you need something else, I will leave you to rest and check on the other."

"No, I am fine for now. Thank you, Sarah." I told her.

Her last sentence about her and other Milkmaids put me at ease to a degree, at least I was not taking them from a young one of their own. Think of what today has been and what might be coming. Then it hit me that now I had other people's lives in my hands. The thought alone felt like a ton of bricks hitting me all at once. I knew that just meant that I couldn't panic. I thought this would be a good time to look at my skills. Looking them over, I saw some had leveled up, as well as a few new ones to look over.

Valentino lv. 3

User can learn to turn on or off the ability to produce offspring at their choice.

Boost sexual skills through the aid of God(s) and Goddess (s) of love lv.2 (10%)

Gives advice to user to assist with opposite sex. lv 2

Let the User talk to and influence interested sexual partners more easily. lv 2 (4%)

Spoken Language lv 2

Can hear and speak the language of any species. lv. 2 (25% mastery)

I could see that two of my skills had gone up. Valentino between influence Astra and blowjob she gave me. I took it. Spoken language was do talking to her, she did say no one else under what they said so me speaking in their language must of done it. Then I looked at the new ones.

Border lv 1

User can influence how much they buy an item, produce, meat, livestock, or slaves for lv 1 (1%)

User can influence how much they sell an item and produce for lv 1 (1%)

Master lv 1

Can command up to XX slaves lv 1 (10)

Can assign X to control slaves in user stead, given a simple task lv 1 (1)

Can assign X slave to control over Y amount of slaves lv 1 (X:1)(Y:5)

Leader lv 1

User can see that the best option for his people is increased by X lv 1 (10%)

User ability to recruit people to their community is increased by X lv 1 (5%)

User to encourage his community to build building faster is increased by X lv 1 (2%)

I could definitely tell that new skills were most likely brought on by today's action. Border was an easy one to figure out, I did find odd differences between what I could buy and what I could sell. Master, on the other hand, sounds like between how it read and the way May acted early, there had to be something to it. Leader sound useful in the long run, but I was not sure how it could be now.

I lay there in bed for what seemed a while. For the first time while here, I thought about who had attacked me and why. What could be the reason? Was it something I did or would do, or was it something else altogether? Just then, I could hear voices coming towards my room.

Just then, May came in with Astra and Sarah, but I could tell there were others out in the hall waiting.

"Well, someone is an overachiever. I said take it easy on your first day. I was thinking you get one or two livestock today and not any wild ones either. Well, you end up with a small herd and 5 slaves. I guess, if anything, you are the lucky one to get a perfect match without knowing it. Most species can't understand most wild languages. It's a good thing Milkmaids know most languages. It is part of their engineering to be able to service everyone. This is something you need to keep in mind going forward: there is a chance that some of the people under you will not understand each other unless you can do something about it. So I think we should have a small wrap meeting of the day going forward, it will help give an overview of everything," May said.

She continued, "I have the housing situation taken care of, but it will take two days before preparations are completed. I have gone ahead and rented this place till then. It is much larger than I suspected it to be, with 8 large stalls, a kitchen, living area, and 4 bedrooms. Tonight, why don't you take time to get to know the girls. I have Hanah coming with some clothes for some girls to try on, as well as Molly. She can speak some wild centaur, so I thought that maybe she could help them feel a little more comfortable. Maybe you can properly think or hear later."

Sarah was next. "We like to thank you for taking us in. I think goes without saying that the five of us know we could be in a worse situation than we seem to be in. The twins are excited to get names, but I also told them not to bother you about it. 69 seems to be in high spirits and would like to thank you in person. Not sure how you feel about it, but because she most likely wants to physically show her appreciation to you. 56 is still a little torn up today, please forgive her. I think the shock of even going to the market, let alone being bought her first day, is getting to her."

Next, Astra was up. "I have to thank you as their queen for saving us. All of them are fine. If still not how to feel with everything going on."

It was a lot to take in. The fact that they kept thanking me for buying them made it feel worse. May's words also came to mind that Astra had surrendered herself and her tribe to me? Also, I didn't want people to think that I had to sleep with me. Now, 69 was ready for me to take her. I just want her and other milkmaids and centaurs to feel safe, as well as anyone else I would come to own, not to feel like they owe me sex.

"Ok, well, the first thing I don't like is to keep calling Milkmaid numbers. Number 3 is now Rose, and 21 is Lilly. Now, the names for the last two girls are Maria for 56 and Alice for 69. Now, Astra, I have not fully met your sister, but I know I hear the names Zoe and Cora. What are the other two names, please?" I said to them.

They seemed happy with the name choice for the other Milkmaid. I just hope the girl likes them as much as they like them.

Astra said, "As for my sister, Zoe is my second and the oldest of us. Even if she is just a few days older than me. She hates me calling her an old lady. She gets upset and reminds me that we are just 32. Cora is the redheaded girl, she is the fastest one among us and strong, and she will make a great general one day. Eliana is the brown-haired girl and the brains of our group here. Even at a young age, she shows promise of ending up as an adviser when her time comes. Last is Sophia, the blonde-headed girl and the youngest of us. This was only her second full hunt with us, being she turned of age 18 just six months ago. Overall, she seems okay, but it is still too early to tell how she going to turn out in our tribe."

Looking at Astra, I said, "Thank you, Astra. I do have a question for you. May said early that your 'bend' yourself was surrendered yourself and tribe to me. What does that mean?"

"Being from an all female tribe, males are severely looked down on except for breeding. The queen is the only one who can make the tribe surrender to a male by way of 'bend.' Cause all in tribe bend to the will of their queen, the bend has been queen's way of given power over to a male and it is not taken or given lightly either. If any male that has not had a queen 'bend' to them tried to command any one in tribe, all in our tribe know punishment is death. If we hadn't been ambushed, we would have killed all the slavers who caught us, even if we did make them pay a heavy price for taking us. I know I took down four of them myself before they captured me. After what I heard that stall master say about us being beasts and the collar, I knew I had to make a decision. It was either most likely split us up and who know what would happen to us or stay together and take a chance with you. At least with you, if you end up not being who you said, I was sure we could have taken you out. Yes, this technically means you are in charge of our whole tribe, even if only we five here know it. Now, my sister will not cause you problems, and I had a feeling that if you can, at some point, you can that you will free us and let us go." Astra stated while looking at the floor.

As crazy as what I just heard would sound not too long ago, I understand her reason for what she did. I just had to make sure I lived up to that level of responsibility. At same time I had alot of that to do now. The question was, could I live up to that level?

Just then, May spoke up, "I am sure this is a little overwhelming for you. Why not go for a walk to clear your head? There are still a few stalls open here in the barn area if you want to look there, and most shops in the market area stay open till late. Don't think of what we need but what you might want."

I liked that idea, just to breathe and think. I wanted to return to the market area to look around more.

"Ok, I think I will. It should do me some good. Hopefully, that one shop I looked at this morning is open. They had a nice pair of boots in the window as well a few other things you were looking at this morning," I said with excitement in my voice.

Astra said," That's fine, but I don't have any knowledge of the city and what it holds. I would feel safer with someone at your side. I just handed my tribe to you, so your safety is key to us now. I recommend Zoe go with you, she a great body gaurd as well it give time to get know her."

Even if I did not like the idea of not being able to go alone, she was right. The thought of getting to know Zoe was not a bad idea, either. Just from her reaction to me last time, I don't think we got off on the right foot.

On the way out, May let me know I could still charge things to the barn from most areas in the city but gave me some pocket money for any food stall selling cooked food. She also warned me not to get carried away any purchase either.

Astra met me at the door with Zoe. Astra said, "Zoe, just remember you are not only a bodyguard, but you need to gather information on the city as well about our new master." Giving her a wink.

Zoe looked very elegant in a forest green top with dark wooden buttons that ran down it. The top shaped to her body very well, showing off a breast shape which I say were about a C cup. Her auburn hair had been put in a French braid with small chestnut brown bows ran down her hair, which end about halfway down her back. She also had her tail done in the same way. As I noticed earlier, she had a scar that ran the left side of her face that, with her hair up, seemed to show more of it. It still did little to detract from how beautiful she was. Her eyes were of a color I had never seen, they looked like rubies that shined bright.

Zoe spoke up, "I will remember you put me up to this. As your second, I should be here guarding you. Cora or Eliana could have done this just as flawlessly as I can."

With a scolding look, Astra said, "Maybe they could, but I trust you more with this most important task. Remember, we need him to stay safe just much you would with me. Try to relax. Who knows what you're will find out there, enjoy yourself."

Walking through the livestock area, it had gone quiet for the most part, with most of the stalls empty at this point except for a few workers cleaning up. It was nowhere as well-lit as the shopping area, which explained why May wanted to get here early this morning. Getting to the shopping area, Zoe remained quiet as well and seemed just a little nervous. I couldn't tell if it was due to being away for Astra or being around me. Either way, I had to do something to break the tension between us. I had to think she looked breath taken as we walked and with moon light behind her.

Just then, she looked at me and asked, "Why are you looking at me like that? Are you looking for the right moment to force yourself on me? Are you making fun of my scar? While my queen said make sure you're not hurt, I will still incapacitate you if need be to protect myself, nor will I let myself be put down by you. You're just a stupid man who somehow tricked and forced my queen to bend herself to you."

What she said shocked me. To think that in her mind I was going to force myself on her. At the same time, she was from an all-female tribe, so that had to play into it as well. Since they didn't have a high opinion of men, I should have thought ahead that this might happen. I was sure she and the other all thought the same, maybe even Astra as well. It was yet another task I would have to do was win their hearts and change their opinion on me.

"I was looking at how stunning you are with the moon behind you. I know the last few days have not been kind to you or your sister. I'm sure between how the stall masters treat you and first time seeing me with Astra was bending herself to me didn't help either. I had no idea what she was doing, and I didn't force her. I am not going to force myself on you or any of the others. I swore to protect you, and that's just what I will do. If anything, I want to learn more about you and them and get to know all of you. I promise that I will do all I can to free you and your sister from that collar you force to wear and set you free. I want you to keep in mind that you're not my prisoner but my guest till then. The only thing I ask is that we work together till we find a solution," I conveyed to her.

Looking around, I saw a weapon show nearby tucked away in an alley right at the beginning of the market area. I thought maybe stopping by and looking at their gear would help put her mind at ease. It also be a good time get supplies for her and others. Being warriors, I was sure they were used to being armed. Think of whoever was out for me, it would make sense for them to be equipped to protect me as well as everyone else. On top of that, I still need to pick up a knife and some other type of firing weapon to go hunting with.

The shop was full of all types of weapons and some armor as well. From the outside, there was no way I thought this shop would have been this big. Zoe's face seemed to light up as soon we walked in, looking at the aisles of weapons. I could tell right away that this place would help her relax. There was so much to see that I was not sure where to start. The closest I had ever been to somewhere like here was when we went to see my grandparents in the US. Grandpa would take me to the store there. I remember the sporting goods section had guns and such. I would have to pass by it to get to the toy section, Grandpa always bought me something from it when we went when I was younger. The only odd thing is that most of the stuff in here had dust on them.

About then, I hear a voice, " Anything you folks are looking for?" It took me a minute to find where the voice was coming from, but from a few aisles down came a short older-looking person. He then went on to say, "All weapons and armor here are of the finest dwarven steel. I only import the best steel from back home to make everything here."

From the back, I heard a female voice, "You made most, but not all of them, you old fart. I might still be newer at this than you, but I am still just as able."

"Very true by your still young in dwarf life. I don't care if you are 115 years old, to human like this one you just in your 20's and have a lot to learn. Now I told you be quit back there, you never know who going to walk in here. Now, make sure you keep working on that sword. Please, you two ask any question on any of equipment you see here," the older dwarf.

Looking at Zoe, she had picked up a few bow looking them over. She went through each one, pulling back on the drawstring to get a feeling of the bow. Still looking around, I saw a few pieces of jewelry as well.

I thought it would be a nice welcome gift for all the girls. I picked a few ears for all the Milkmaids. I got three necklace and two rings. The only one I didn't get anything for was May, but I had a feeling she was not much for jewelry, based on what I knew about her.

Just then, old dwarf spoke up, "You must have a lot pretty ladies in your life if you're picking out that much. Make sure you pick yourself something nice."

"Well, to be honest, I am looking for a knife for myself, either a bow or gun. I'm going to be starting a farm here soon and not sure what all I need yet. I'm also looking to equip my friend here as well as her sister. I'm staying over in the barn area in Lonestar, as they call it. What's your name, by way?" I said to the dwarf.

Old dwarf spoke up, "Perfect. I'm guessing anything you pick up to charge to it, then? Don't worry about carrying anything back. I can have Runna take over for you. It will do her some good to get out of shop. Don't worry about my name most people just called me old man, dwarf, or in case of Runna its just old fart." Laugh at his last statement.

As soon as Zoe heard that, it seemed like a weight had been lifted off her. She went to pick up enough bows for her and the other. She also picked up a spear, a short sword, a long sword, and a battle ax. Finally, she picked up a long, blackened sickle scythe and tapped the dark wooden pole end to the ground.

"That one is one of my best works, I had to take it away from its previous owner. They disrespect my weapon, but I don't let people disrespect the weapons I make. Not to worry, they have been gone for some time now. As much I hate to part with it, it looks really good in your hands, young lady. I even gift it to you as long promise me only use it correctly, keep it safe, and finally only use it for good," the old dwarf said.

Zoe, looking at the dwarf, asked, "Are you sure that I can have it? It looks like master craftsmanship."

"Yea, Runna is working on her last sword now, and her apprenticeship is over. She should be done any minute now. I told her that it was time she moved on, even if she doesn't think she is ready yet. I have not told her yet, but I will be closing up shop tonight for the last time. She found me 50 years ago when I thought no one could find me and asked me to teach her the old ways of blacksmithing. I'm old, and with any time that is left, I like to enjoy if able to. I made equipment for everyone from the beginner traveler to most gods in this world themself, and now my time is coming to an end, I can feel it in my bone. I have plans for some of this, a few of my best works I was looking for a home for. What you have there is one of them. Young man, I have a knife in back that will sute you, I'm sure of it. Leave that long sword there. I have one in the back to give you that much better. The last item will go to Runna, my hammer... Oh, I'm sorry, I got lost in thought, just talking to myself out loud I guess," the old dwarf stated.

"Rest of your equipment I give you a good deal, but those three items I give free as long you keep same promise for all three. I even sweet deal more buy better discount just mean longer for Runna to carry those item. It will give me time to finish my work here," as old dwarf smiled finish last of this thought.

Looking around, I could see some items that would also double as farm equipment. As well arm wraps and a few shields. I also notice a gun over in the corner that looks interesting.

The old dwarf looked over and said, "You can have that. It's just a piece of junk that I never got working. The concept was for it to fire light bullets and be able to adjust the size and power of the shot, but I couldn't get it to work. I made it at same time as other."

We finished up the last of our picks, and we said our goodbyes and thanks. The old drawf said he would be sending Runna right away. As we left, I smelled something delicious, and I thought now would be a good time to grab a bit to eat. I followed the smell up a few streets. It turned out to be a kebab stall. Zoe looked like she was ready to eat as well. I went to order us up a few drinks.

As we were walking and eating, I heard Zoe say, "Thank you for food. Tonight has been nice. I'm still not sold on you, but I can see why my queen took a chance on you."

Just then, a guy walked by, talking to someone else, and I could see Zoe freeze up. Sweat started down her face, she even dropped her drink and hit the foot of guy talking. Just then, the same guy said, "Keep that wild beast in check. You should know better than to let that thing eat while walking down the street, anyway. What type of person even feeds his slave food like that, anyway? It way to good for it."

I pulled her close to me, and all she kept saying was, "Please don't send me back."

"Zoe, what is wrong? Who is that?" I asked her.

Crying and speaking at a whisper, "It's one of Hunter. I never got a look at most of their faces, but that voice. I didn't tell my sister, but at night I tried to keep them safe, but to do so I had to do things with him. As long as they were safe, it didn't matter what happened to me."

Still holding her close, I looked the guy right in the face and told him in a stern voice, "Apologize to her now and walk away."

Laughing, he said out loud, "Her, did you say her? That thing there has a collar on, which means it's a slave. Well, it been making nonsense noise while I been standing here, which means it a wild one. Oh, that's right, I remember it now. It was that sweet thing that I used for last week. It took care of me at night. The only shame was that it made it where I couldn't use the others after being done with it. That young one looks like it would be nice to ride if you know what I mean."

I am not sure what next, all I know is I snapped. It was like watching out body experience. I reached back and hit him right in the mouth, sending him to the ground.

The next thing I remember was Zoe pulling me, telling me to run. Looking back, I saw that the other guy was helping the one I had punched up as he tried to push and start toward us. We rounded A few corners, not really paying attention to where we were going. I could hear footsteps behind us, so we didn't dare stop.

All of a sudden, we must ran right into a stable. It was full of horses and carriages. Going to back of the stable, Zoe pushed me into a large orate carriage's close door. I could hear she was trying hide on backside. A moment later, the door opened, and there stood Zoe in human form. She was naked from the waist down due to her transformation. I pulled her down next to me in seat making sure the blinds were closed to the carriage and locking doors.

Just then, I heard a voice say I think they ran in here. I knew the was to stay quiet for now, but Zoe seemed lost again once she heard the voice. I could tell she was freaking out. I needed to calm her down, she was breathing too hard. Someone might hear her if close enough to the carriage.

At that moment, I did the only thing I could think of and tried to kiss her. While I was worried that she could see it as wrong, attending force myself on her. I knew few things at that moment, the kiss would quiet her down, and she had transformed. From what I had learned, any half-human race like centaur unless using magic on transform when turn on and ready for sex. I was not sure what to make of what I had just realized.

As our lip separated, Zoe went, "Sorry between seeing you punch that asshole and the chase I kind of got turned on. I'm sorry please forgive me. I just saw your lips, and they looked good. Then I saw you turn so I leaned in to kiss you."

Before she could say anything else, I gave her another kiss. She ran her hand through my hair and shifted herself on me. Even with my pants still on, I could feel heat coming off her and how much her body was reacting to the moment. Can't say I blamed her. I could feel myself harden with passion kiss she was given me. It was at that moment that she reached down to undo my pants. It didn't take her long to get my pants and boxers down to my ankles.

Just then, she went, "I know the man is supposed to be in charge, but this will be first time I got to pick my partner. I have a feeling that I will enjoy it this time."

With that, she lowered herself on me. I thought that I wanted to take off her shirt and see her nipples, but if that was what she wanted, then she would have done it by now.

Putting her arms on my shoulder, she kissed me real fast and leaned just enough back to look at me. At that moment, she started rocking herself up and down on me slowly. From the stare she gave me, it looked like she was trying to take everything in and truly enjoy this. I had to admit that being inside her right now felt good, there was still just enough light, even with the curtain closed, to see how beautiful Zoe was. I wanted this moment to last forever, and the only thing that made me second-guess that thought was the voices still coming from outside.

Just then, I heard someone try open door. Zoe just leaned in and kissed me to keep quiet while at same time bottom out on me. It was then heard that the one I punched said all carriages back here are locked, with another going I can't find them over here, so lets get out of here.

"I think we are safe now, but if you don't mind, I'd like to finish," Zoe said.

Picking up the pace just a little, she put her head against mine with her breathing starting to harden. I took it as she was starting to enjoy herself now. Not that I say her actions were not enjoyable on my end as well. Most of the time, she only went about halfway down. I guess she was trying to keep from pushing herself too fast over the edge, but the problem was I could feel her body tighten up. At the same time, I could feel my balls tighten up as well, it wouldn't be long before I couldn't hold myself back.

With one last motion, she almost lifted herself off me, then bottomed out on me again, kissing me, letting go over herself. I could tell right away as my tight and balls were now wet. Just then, I shot my load, pouring more of myself into her. I could tell she knew as just staying there in kissing me with pussy trying milk my cock for ever oz of cum in with the constrictions that she was having. It was a guess that part of her was trying to keep a part of me for herself. Unknown to her, my skill was activated right now, so it wouldn't give her what she wanted, at least for now.

Rolling off of me, Zoe said, "Well, that was fun. Maybe we should get a carriage like this for you." She laid her head on my shoulder, cuddling up next to me.

We lay there for a few minutes, I started to worry about her. Her body had started to tremble. She started breathing hard and moaning low like she was in pain all of a sudden.

"As much I don't want move, I can tell it time to move. My body is in a lot of pain now. It tells me it is time to transform back to my normal form since I am not pregnant. I don't think I can hold this form but long enough to get out. I hate to transform here. It would be a waste of this carriage and might end up hurting one of us in transformation." Zoe said, getting up and unlocking the door to step out of the carriage.

Get up and pull up my pants, I step out to meet Zoe fully transform back to her normal form. I thought it best to head back to Lonestar now.

It took us a minute to find our way back to the main shopping center. By then, it was dark, and just about everywhere was closed. Heading toward the barn area, I saw someone standing at the end of the alley where we went to the weapon shop. It was a dwarven female standing next to an empty cart, just crying and looking to be in shock.

We went up to check on her. All we could get her to say was, "He dead, someone killed my master."

Looking down ally, the shop was full of Thudheim police at weapon shop. That made me think this had to be Runna.

"Are you Runna?" I asked her.

"How did you know who I am?," getting upset, "The old fart wouldn't let me out that shop for most part and only in dead of night. Heck, this was my first delivery he ever let me do."

"We were in there early and heard him talking to you. He told us that you would be delivering our order. Well, you are standing by a cart," I told her. "What happened?"

Take a breath she said. "After you left, he called me from back a few minutes later and asked if I was done with that sword. He said that I was going to do the delivering this time. He was acting odd."

With big tears in her eyes, she said, "I don't know what to do. I have lived there with him for a long time now. I was just a girl with a dream when I found him when no one else could. A master blacksmith in hiding who could teach me his trade. What do I do now? What if they come back? I don't know anyone here."

Looking at her, and said, "I know you don't know who we are, but why not come with us. For some reason, your master seemed like a good man, and on top of all the gear that he gifted to us. I like to know why, and you are the only one that might hold clues to that. On top of that, you'll be safe there. Zoe and her sister are protecting the place so no harm will come to you."

Runna said, "I not sure if I should, but my master said he had good feeling on you and I trust his judgement. So I go with you for now."

When we got back, I filled May, Sarah, and Astra in on what had just happened. May seemed a little worried about what had happened due to my pass but also let me know she didn't think I was the target but was just glad I was ok.

I tried to omit the part about me and Zoe in the carriage, but Astra was committed. "I am sure it was a pleasant walk. I don't think I've seen Zoe smile that much after a walk ever."

Sarah said, "Maybe the rest of us can have a walk like that here soon." As she giggles, looking at me.

"With that, as far as Runna, I think she could bring us some help. It is always a good idea to have a blacksmith on a farm. If she wants, I think she should come with us. We can speak to her about it tomorrow," May stated.

"I think I speak for all us when we appreciate all the items you go us this evening. All the girls love them." Sarah mentioned.

Astra then said, "I know from my sisters that the weapons they received are all top-notch and will help in keeping us all safe."

I was glad to hear that, my hope was I had won at least part of them over by showing them some humility. At this point, I was tired and ready for a bath. Even if I had to say several times I was going to be taken one by myself. Though the offer of someone washing me was tempting.

After the bath and drying off, I went in and laid in bed. I thought of how different my day had started versus how it was ending now. I thought of what the next day held and who else I would meet. The list May gave me earlier in the day still had a few more people and supplies to get. As well as how my new place would look and if there would be enough housing for us all. Think about just made my eyes droopy.

It wouldn't take long before I was fast asleep.

--------------

Unbeknownst to Ivan and his group, just a little while ago, in the shop where Zoe and Ivan had stopped and met Runna, events were unfolding right after they left.

"Runna, make sure you take your time on this delivery. Just enjoy the nighttime air. I still have a good feeling about those two, and I am sure whoever is with them will be just as nice. Did you see that collar that centaur had on? That is a slave collar, and most slave owners are very progressive and mean. The fact is that, he not only let her look at our goods but also pick some out. Then on top got jewerly for most like her and a few other has to say something about that young man character. Getting to know your customer helps you be a better smith. Make sure you pay attention not just to what customers tell you but to what they don't tell you as well. Know about the social environment around you as well," the old dwarf said.

He couldn't straight up tell her that he could see she would end up with these people in a vision he was having played out. It was the best outcome for her and everyone and everything in it from all the scenarios that had played in his mind for the last few days. The only worry he had was that this one had just come to him this morning out of the blue, but the guy and his group seemed like just the people he could trust her with.

Runna committed, "Are you sure? That seems like a lot you have to remember about people. What's up with you tonight? You never let me do even deliveries by myself. The way you load that cart, it even looks like you load it with things they didn't order. It is going to be heavy to push. Is everything ok, old man?"

"Yea, Yea, I'm fine, but it's time for you to learn things without me. I will not be here forever," the old dwarf said.

"Yeah, but sounds like you think you're checking out soon. You got a long time to go, old man, and a lot to teach me. I will be back after dropping this off," said Runna.

Then he committed, "You think so, but you have learned everything I can teach you at this point without you learning it on your own in the world. Before you go grab my hammer there. You might need it to fix something there, you never know."

In his mind, he thought she had turned into a great smith and might be even better than him at this point. She was surely better than any other apprentice that he had had before by a long shot. He knew the power his hammer held and needed out of shop as well. It was his final gift to her.

Runna looked him right in the face, "I have my hammer. I don't need that heavy old hammer. You made me use it for the last 6 months. I will say it does make stuff a little easier even as heavy as it is."

"Just trust me take it with you. If nothing else, think of it as part of your last training. A smith must always have their best hammer on them while out in the field," was his rebuttal.

"Also, don't cover yourself. I know most of the time I say you have to wear a cloak but a nice warm night. I don't want you to get too hot," telling her.

Thinking all the times she had been told to cover up, he only told her to do that so the ones watching wouldn't know she was there but think it was him instead. He was at least able to block them from view in his shop. At this point, things were in motion now where it wouldn't matter if she was covered or not because they couldn't see the back of the shop since he knew they were on their way.

With that, he walked over and hugged her. "Bye, Runna, and good luck," the old dwarf wished her as he rushed her out the back door, knowing this would be the last time he would see her.

Before he went up front, he walked over to his desk and pulled out his last will and testament. Looking it over, think of young people over at the adventure guild. He loved seeing new ones get a start and let him blend in since no one was close old enough to know who he was. They would get all the extra weapons he had not just sent off, hoping they would be put to good use. The rest of his equipment belonged to Runna now, including his anvil, tongues, and various other sorted stuff. He knew the main item was his hammer, and while it had seen its fair share of making weapons and crushing people's heads, he also knew magic in it. How he and other master craftsmen had used it to make those weapons.

As he walked from the back of the shop to the front, he thought that soon they would be there for him. Looking out the window for the last time, he waved to the old barn master as he walked by. He had suspected that the barn master knew who Old Drawf was but had let it go due to the barn master having to keep his secrets safe as well.

Just then, he started to see a black portal appearing in his shop.

Two figures step out of it. One was a giant rock Golem, and the other was a woman dressed in black and purple dress and head cover with a black mask with only her eyes showing. She had red eyes with black pupils.

The old dwarf spoke up, "I knew you be here now. To be honest, I am shocked it has taken you this long to find me. Well, I just want to let you know that you're too late. They are all gone, including the one that was once yours."

The mysterious woman said, "Well, that to bad to hear Brokkr. You been on run for a while now. All you old smith thought you could just take back what you gave us and not think there would be consequences. I still remember the look that Hephaestus had on his face when life left his eyes. At least he and Ptah put up a fight, unlike it looks like you're doing."

"There a different between given up and set up the long game. I know for a while you been watching here. Using the rest of the magic we did to make them, I can at least see all outcomes to our meeting here now, and they all end the same way. With me dead on the floor by your Golem hand, but what does change is the lead up to my death and what kept those weapons out of your hands. You only came looking for me since Lohtak's version of those weapons failed. If he had been a better apprentice, you wouldn't have needed the weapons we made now. Thankful he was not. Let me take a guess, it only damaged a soul but didn't destroy the soul and end the life of one hit by it, did it? So you can go on somewhere you witch," Brokkr said out loud.

"Witch? What name-calling are you so scared you wouldn't call me by my name?" the masked woman stated.

Brokkr returned with, "Scared, no, I will not give you power to say your name. I will not give you the happiness of hearing your name from me either. Those weapons are out of your grasp. Now, be done with this. I'm tired and ready for the end, and to find out the great question. What happens to gods when we die?"

She waved her hand, and the Golem walked over and grabbed Brokkr by the neck and began to squeeze. Slowly, Brokkr's windpipe and neck began to snap. With that, the life faded from his eyes, and Golem dropped him to the floor.

Brokkr's body lay there lifeless. His neck broke, with a bruise already forming on his neck. His eyes, while still in his head, looked like Golem had squeezed them a little more, and they would have fallen out.

The Masked Woman walked over, standing over Brokkr, and says, " You fool, all you had to do was give them up. You know that I will still find them. It didn't have to come to this, but I was not one who stabs the other in the back. Goodbye, old friend."

As she walked away from Brokkr's body, the portal opened back up, and both she and Golem disappeared within it.