"We need to set up a proper defense," Casein said, his voice still a little raspy from the battle. "We can't just rely on our strength and luck every time."
Kelvin nodded thoughtfully. "We'll need to scout the perimeter and identify any weak spots. We can use the trees, build wooden palisades and set up traps."
"Agreed," said Ken, his voice firm. "And we should train the villagers in combat. They need to know how to defend themselves."
Dustin spoke up, his eyes shining with excitement. "I can teach archery, and Kelvin can handle the close combat training."
"I am thinking to mate Ken tonight," announced Katrice in her steady and firm voice, making everyone in the room go silent. The question hung in the air, charged with a tension that was palpable. Her eyes swept the table, taking in the expressions of her mates—each one a mix of shock, confusion, and anticipation.
Kelvin and Dustin exchanged glances, knowing that this was not a decision to be taken lightly. The implications of mating with a four-star dragon were vast, and the potential for more powerful offspring could be the key to their survival. Yet, they also knew the risks involved. The process of mating could be taxing, and with the rootless beasts still out there, they were all aware of the precariousness of their situation.
"We're with you, Katrice," Kelvin said finally, breaking the silence. "But we must ensure the safety of the village first."
"Indeed," Casein added, his expression serious. "We can't leave our new allies defenseless."
"I understand," Katrice said, her eyes never leaving Ken's. "But we must also consider the future of our alliance. If we are to stand against the rootless, we must be united in all ways. The peacocks are strong and skilled. Their loyalty and protection would be invaluable."
The room was tense as the implications of her words sank in. Ken and Henry exchanged glances, their expressions unreadable. Kelvin was the first to speak up. "Pablo is a wise leader. He would make a strong ally, and his warriors are some of the best archers in the sky."
Dustin nodded, his eyes thoughtful. "It would be a powerful bond, one that could solidify our alliance and bolster our numbers. The peacocks have always been skilled in the art of war."
"But we must tread carefully," Henry added, his voice a low growl. "Pablo is a proud creature, and we cannot simply demand his allegiance."
Katrice nodded solemnly, her gaze never leaving Ken. "I will approach him," she decided. "I will appeal to his sense of duty and the threat that we all face."
The giant beastmen knew the weight of her words. Having a flyer among their ranks would indeed bolster their defenses. With a creature that could cover great distances and survey the land from above, they would be much less likely to be caught off guard by the rootless beasts.
"We will need to earn their trust," said Kelvin, stroking his chin thoughtfully. "The peacocks are notorious for their pride. They do not align themselves easily."
"And we must be mindful of the dragons' role in this," added Dustin. "They are the guardians of the skies. Their respect must be earned."
The idea grew into a plan, one that excited and motivated them all. Katrice's vision of a united city, with the deer, wolf, and peacock clans standing together, was a beacon of hope amidst the looming threats. The males nodded in agreement, their smiles reflecting their admiration for her wisdom and foresight. They knew that such an alliance would require more than just strength and strategy; it would demand mutual trust and understanding.
Katrice stood, her golden eyes burning with determination. "We must send emissaries to Pablo at once, to extend the hand of friendship and propose this alliance. We will show him the danger we face and the strength we can offer together."
The males nodded in agreement, their expressions a mix of excitement and trepidation. Kelvin spoke up, "I will lead the delegation. I know the peacocks and their ways. We will bring gifts, show them that we come in peace."
"Dustin can you ask Ken to visit me please." Said Katrice.
Dustin nodded and left to get Ken. Ken walked into the room with a hint of nervousness in his step, unsure of what was to come.
Katrice looked up from her bed, her eyes softening as she saw him. The room was dimly lit by the early morning light, the gentle glow casting soft shadows across her fluffy mattress made from the finest wool and cotton. She patted the spot next to her, inviting him to sit. "Ken," she began, her voice tender, " Please come inside the room. Why are you out?"
" I should bot enter your room. Have you accepted me as your mate?" He asked confused and shocked.
Katrice sighed heavily and patted the spot next to her on the bed, her eyes never leaving his. "I have made my choice, Ken. I trust you, and I believe in your strength and courage. Now, come, sit with me."
Ken hesitated for a moment before approaching the bed, his heart pounding in his chest. As he sat down, the mattress sank slightly under his weight, and he couldn't help but feel a strange sense of comfort at being so close to the dragon he had come to care for.
Without a word, Katrice shifted, straddling his lap with her legs on either side. Her warmth and the scent of her fur were intoxicating, and Ken felt his body respond despite the fatigue weighing him down. He looked into her eyes, searching for any sign of doubt or hesitation, but all he saw was a fierce determination and a gentle care that melted his fears away.
Her hand reached up, her fingers gently tracing the line of his jaw before tilting his head back. Her soft snout brushed against the nape of his neck, sending a shiver down his spine. "Let me take care of you," she whispered, her voice a siren's call in the quiet of the morning. "You've been through so much. Let me be the one to ease your burdens."
Ken's eyes closed, his body instinctively leaning into her touch. The warmth of her breath against his skin was soothing, a stark contrast to the chilling fear of the night before. He felt the weight of his exhaustion lift slightly, replaced by a warmth that spread from her touch through his entire body.
"I'm okay," he murmured, though his voice betrayed his weariness. "I just need a moment."
Katrice's eyes searched his, understanding in her gaze. "You've been through so much," she said, her voice a gentle purr. "But I'm here now, and I will give you all the moments, every second of comfort and love that you need."
Ken looked up at her, his own eyes brimming with emotion. "My whole life?" he murmured, the words barely audible.
Katrice nodded, her gaze never wavering. "Forever, if that's what you wish," she said softly, her voice a gentle rumble.
"I want love and care that you give to other mates. I want your attention. I feel so jealousy when you look at them with your smile. I question my worth sometimes?" Said Ken with sadness filled eyes.
Katrice's eyes widened, and she felt a pang of guilt. She hadn't realized the impact her actions had on Ken, but she knew she had to fix it. She leaned in closer, her snout nuzzling his cheek, her warm breath against his ear. "You are my equal, Ken. You always have been. I care for you all deeply, but I must admit, I have been blind to your needs."
Her words seemed to wash over him, and Ken felt a knot in his chest loosen. He wrapped his arms around her, burying his face in her soft fur. "I'm sorry," he mumbled. "I shouldn't have doubted."
Katrice leaned into him, her tail swishing gently. "There's no need to apologize," she said softly. "We're all feeling the weight of our new reality. But we're in this together."
Her words brought a small smile to Ken's lips, and he tightened his arms around her. "Make me yours, Katrice," he murmured. "I want to be a part of your life, to protect you and our family."
Katrice leaned back, her gaze locking onto his. "You are already mine, Ken," she said, her voice thick with emotion. "You just need to accept it."
With those words, she brought her mouth closer, and Ken felt her warm breath against his lips. He closed his eyes and leaned in, feeling the softness of her muzzle as they kissed. It was a gentle, tender kiss, filled with the promise of a future together. It was a moment that seemed to stretch on forever, a moment of peace in the storm that was their lives.

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