Chapter 1070
The ocean was calm today, a soft wind carrying salt and warmth across the sand. Waves rolled in as Iratus walked along the water's edge, his paw-like feet leaving prints behind. The sun reflected off his blonde fur, making him look as if he were glowing.
Days were passing, and no monster, warlord, or vile plot was besieging Lionhearth. He took a deep breath before the laughter of his four loves drew his attention.
Resonantia was the first to reach him, giving him a playful wink.
Resonantia: "Planning on conquering the lands beyond the sea next?"
Iratus gave a subtle laugh.
Iratus: "I mean, we haven't seen monsters rise from the sea yet. Maybe if we take a boat and see what's out there, we'll find another hostile force to fight."
Resonantia grinned, showing her sharp teeth.
Resonantia: "I'm down for a fight in the middle of the ocean. You'll be the king of both land and sea!"
He groaned.
Iratus: "King. Is that what I really am?"
Resonantia: "Every time you ask, anyone in Lionhearth will say yes. You're in charge."
The shark girl nudged him playfully.
Ignis came next, wearing a broad-brimmed hat that looked far too fancy for a beach. She adjusted it like a crown, her tail flicking lazily behind her.
Ignis: "Once, in my land, a child genius nearly revolutionized a primitive monarchy. If only he had learned to take breaks, he wouldn't have died from overwork. In other words, enjoy your day off, love."
Iratus: "I'm trying, but I've got four wives to give my all to."
Ignis winked.
Ignis: "Then perhaps you should be the consort and we'll take the job. You'd be free for us then."
Victoria followed, carrying a basket full of dried meats and fruit.
Victoria: "Pass. Iratus can lead, and we'll handle our own projects. We must be in perfect spousal balance."
Iratus: "The only way to be complete, lovers acting as one."
Victoria: "Except for when you go off to oversee the construction of another six fortresses."
Iratus: "To be fair, they're meant as rest stops for our patrolling forces."
Victoria: "Sure."
The last to join them was Aestus, carrying a jug of something cold and sweet. Her fur glistened in the sunlight.
Aestus: "If you four are going to talk about future projects, at least sit down and have some drinks."
Everyone found a spot near a cluster of sun-bleached rocks. The five of them sat together in a small circle. For a long while, they didn't speak. It was enough just to exist there.
Ignis broke the silence first.
Ignis: "I bet the Anguis Marinus is still down there, sunken to the bottom, but close enough to swim to."
Resonantia laughed.
Resonantia: "Maybe with some scuba gear. What, you want to go exploring that old wreck?"
Victoria handed Iratus a piece of fruit.
Iratus: "We've come far, the Gray Masks, the battleship, that rabbit warlord… Despite how many adventures or threats we've faced, I still remember the old ones the best."
He took the fruit, gazing at the water.
Iratus: "I think that's because our early years in the Nexus Prime were full of mystery, and the most personal. They stand out from all these recent wars and monster incursions."
Aestus leaned against him, resting her head on his shoulder.
Aestus: "And now I think the worst the Nexus Prime had to offer has finally passed."
Ignis hummed in agreement.
Ignis: "If our region is free from most threats, maybe we could build a second home right here. A beach retreat, no monsters, no councils, just the five of us and the waves."
Iratus: "Tempting, but we'd still need some walls or security out here. You never know when one of the monster factions might try something dirty."
Resonantia took a drink before speaking.
Resonantia: "How about just some hammocks instead?"
Victoria raised an eyebrow.
Victoria: "And who's building those hammocks?"
Resonantia pointed at Iratus without hesitation.
Resonantia: "Him."
The group burst into laughter. Even Iratus couldn't help but smile. He leaned back on his hands, the sun warm on his fur, the sea breeze carrying the scent of salt.
Iratus: "Sure, we could make a little something here, just for us. I wouldn't mind."
Ignis laid back on the sand beside him.
Ignis: "You've earned a special place to relax, with your four wives."
Victoria reached for his hand, threading her fingers through his.
Victoria: "We all have."
After some more time on the beach, the group began packing up as the sun started to set.
Iratus: "What a shame. I guess it's time to head back home."
The four rose with him, their laughter trailing into the dusk as they walked together along the golden shore—their story, for now, complete.
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THE END
For now.
