A new dawn

In the morning, you’re greeted by a rather elaborate breakfast. Trevor chuckles at your surprise. “The kitchen staff are well trained here. Not surprising considering their former employer.”

You nod. “So, what’s the first order of business for the new king?”

“Already done. Halid’s harem has been freed. Those that wished to stay and learn a trade here are welcome. Most left to return to their homelands, however. I have to thank Anna for her assistance, I don’t think those poor girls would have trusted me otherwise.”

Anna smiles. “It was my pleasure. I know it’s what master would have wanted me to do.”

You nod, and she smiles again. Trevor looks to you. “So, the first question I have to ask. What is your status as far as leadership? I don’t presume to lead you, but I don’t expect many would be happy if you consider me your underling.”

You sigh. “I don’t want to be an emperor, or anything like that. Think of me as...an inspector, I guess. As long as you’re acting in a manner befitting a just king, we can be friends. Turn into another Halid...well, I AM your champion, now.”

Trevor laughs. “The last thing I want is to be on your bad side. Regardless, I plan on sticking to being a good guy. I’m a bit too old to change now.”

You laugh. “So, I never asked, but how many kingdoms are in the alliance?”

“Four, counting this one. I imagine that one of them will happily join us, as they are ruled by Queen Sella. She’s half monster girl herself, and she always railed against the abuses of power. The other two...they might take some work, though not like here.”

You nod. “More of a political dance, then?”

“Indeed. I would say leave that to me, and seek out your other allies. The dwarves and elves are more likely to listen to you and your girls than me. If I need you, a message can reach you quickly. One advantage of the old world being so compact.”

Daigo wanders into the room, yawning. You chuckle. “Now I know where Maya gets it from. She sleeps late too.”

He laughs as he sits down. “What can I say, dragons like their sleep. Where is she anyway?”

You blush. “Well, the late sleeper crew of Maya, Lynn, and Sadie went to bed together last night. I expect that they’re tired.”

Yura speaks up. “They were loud.”

Daigo waves his hands. “Ok, ok! That’s still my daughter, I don’t need to know any more. Before this unfortunate discussion, you mentioned how compact this world is. I wanted to correct you. This island isn’t everything. There’s more across the seas.”

Everyone looks at Daigo, surprised. He chuckles. “Advantage of being able to fly a long way. It’s irrelevant to you right now, but I want you to be aware.”

You look at Trevor, who shrugs. “Sailing is uncommon. Large predators roam the seas. Those who try don’t usually return.”

You nod. “Fine. File it under future concerns. For now we have to decide, north to the dwarves, or south to the forest?”

Before discussion can begin, a messenger walks in. “Your highness, I’m sorry to interrupt, but there’s two women claiming to know you at the doors.”

Trevor looks at you, then at the messenger. “I’m guessing a human and a gorgon?”

“Yes, your majesty.”

“Send them in here, please.”

The messenger bows and walks out. You turn to Daigo.