chapter 5

Morning arrived Can stirred awake, their fingers still entwined from the night before.

He gently slid his hand away from hers, kissed her forehead, and quietly got up to use the bathroom.

After finishing, he heard voices tense and rising from the main room. Curious and slightly uneasy, he made his way toward the sound.

Rheya and solvian stood facing each other, locked in a heated argument.

Solvian: I know what happened wasn’t okay.. but our daughter started torturing someone for no reason.

Rheya: I know But he beat her half to death, Solvian!

Solvian: I get that but he held back. If he wanted to kill her, he would have.

Solvian lifted the bullet with magic, holding it in front of Rheya.

Can’s eyes widened it was the same bullet he’d hidden in his jacket the day he went to rescue Zenara.

Solvian: He still had this bullet. If he truly wanted to kill her, he couldn’t have. And...

I hate to say it, but he could’ve killed me.

Rheya’s glare didn’t waver.

Rheya: Then why did you let him stay here?

Solvian: Because this was my fault. I never asked Can if he truly wanted to marry her.

Before you get even angrier Xyriana lied to me.

saying He’s doing fine now, eating in the main hall.

But when I entered the castle and saw Can... he was in a rough state.

Just then, Solvian turned and noticed Can standing nearby.

Solvian: Can, come here.

Can walked over slowly. Rheya's eyes locked onto him.

Rheya: So... you hurt our daughter?

Can took a deep breath, his voice strained but steady.

Can: I didn’t have a choice. She attacked me when I tried to save Zenara.

She mocked me, taunted me… you think I wanted to fight her?

I just wanted to stay home and hold Zenara close. But that night, I lost that chance.

I didn’t sleep until I knew Zenara was safe.

Solvian nodded.

I understand. But she’s furious because she believes you didn’t hold back.

Can turned toward Rheya.

I did hold back.

I could’ve kept attacking, even when i froze time but i didnt.

also if I truly wanted to kill someone that day, I would've used that spare bullet.

But I hoped I wouldn’t have to. I’m glad I didn’t. I hate fighting.

Rheya stepped forward, her gaze intense.

Rheya: Look at me, Can. I want to hear it from your exact words. What happened?

Can spoke making eye contact

Silas wanted me to break up with Zenara. I refused, stood my ground. Then,

I noticed we didn’t have food, so I went to the store and while I was gone... they took her.

jaw tightening.

I ran to a base officer for help. He responded, and help me board a plane to the U.S.

It was daytime when I landed. Roxton met me an old friend... but he brought something I never wanted to see again.

Can swallowed hard.

My rifle.

Solvian silently lifted the weapon with magic. a scratch up rifle.

solvian: this is the rifle

can:(didn't glance long at it) yes

I won’t go into too much detail about my rifle incident it’s probably public knowledge now. But I keep going. When i arrived at the mansion and enter the main hall,

I saw Zenara

locked in a cage, gagged and bound.

Her eyes was widened when she saw me.

He looked down.

But Xyriana... she lashed me attacking me.

Can look at Rheya and what she was doing but she was using magic as a screen watching the events.

can: Wait—if you were using magic to see all this... why did you even want my side of the story?

Rheya stood calm.

To know if you were lying. You left out parts. You said things… harsh things. But she shouldn’t have gotten so offended either.

Still I heard a lot.

Just then, Zenara entered, rubbing her eyes and blinking at the tension in the room.

Zenara: Why is everyone being loud?

Can stepped forward gently.

can: it’s okay.

Rheya, voice sharp: It’s not okay. You left our daughter bloodied and bruised .

Solvian lifted his hand, conjuring an image with magic a projection of Zenara’s state before she was healed.

Bruises, cuts.

Solvian turned to Rheya.

Does this look normal?

Rheya looked at the magical projection of Zenara’s injuries she was wide eye

solvian voice low and strained.

Those wounds, do they really seem normal to you, they shouldn’t be there. Bruises like that they shouldn’t exist, where do i go wrong.

Rheya turned toward solvian, startled by the raw weight in his words.

Rheya: Solvian, stop. Don’t show me her old wounds anymore.

The image dissolved with a flick of his hand.

Solvian: I know Can went too far. But look at it from his side he had no choice. He fought for someone he loved. You would've done the same.

Rheya stepped back, struggling to process the truth.

Rheya (quietly): If you say so, I believe you. But Can next time we won’t be so merciful.

Solvian: Same here.

Can stepped forward.

Can (coldly): I don't want to fight. But I will, if I'm forced to. And no one in this room will be able to stop me when i stop time.

the room fell cold

He paused, softened slightly.

Can (gently): But I'd rather talk

Solvian stood firm, voice steady.

Solvian: Xyriana has something to say.

The room fell silent as Xyriana stepped in. Her movements were slow she had not a single burse was on her.

Zenara tensed, her body instinctively shifting into a defensive stance.

Can noticed and stepped in front of her, protective.

Solvian (reassuring): She won’t attack.

He turned to Xyriana.

Solvian: Do you have anything to say?

Xyriana lowered her head, her voice trembling.

Xyriana: I’m sorry. It wasn’t okay for me to attack you… or to harm Zenara. I was wrong.

I was overwhelmed with grief after losing my mother. I… I just wanted to take your power.

can step forward

Rheya’s hands began to glow with magic, her instincts flaring.

Solvian raised a hand calmly.

Solvian: Rheya.

She hesitated, then let the magic fade.

Can got close to Xyriana, his voice gentle but firm.

Can: I forgive you. I know how grief can change people. But please don’t let it control you.

Xyriana nodded slowly.

Xyriana: Okay.

Can walked over to Solvian, his expression shifting.

Can: Hey, Solvian.

Solvian looked up, sensing the concern.

Solvian: What do you need? You seem a bit worried.

Can: Did you guys grab my rifle I'm hoping no one touch it?

Solvian shook.

Solvian: No. The police took it, but I managed to get my hands on it.

can: okay i was worried because that rifle isn't a toy it could harm someone

Rheya face went dark

Rheya made her magic screen bigger she pause at the helicopter and she points at the symbol on the helicopter and then everyone face gone cold except for can

Can: Wait… what about the symbol? I don’t get it.

Solvian turns toward him, voice low and grim.

Solvian: That’s the Oni Dominion’s crest.

Rheya: The pig skull their cruelty. The demon their power.

Solvian: And the dark blue outline? It means war.

Xyriana: They shouldn’t even exist. They were wiped out.

Rheya (shaking her head): The Onis are pure evil. They crave the world’s corruption, and they’ll always find a way back.

They want every nation under their rule and they will kill whoever is in their way

Solvian: That makes them more than an enemy. They’re a global threat.

Solvian: they were wipe out a long time ago due to only have swords and bows trying to raid and take over they didn't last long

Rheya: We’ll need to reestablish the mansion’s defenses. Reinforce everything. And I’ll need to contact the old council.

Can looked between them, tension rising in his chest.

can: What can we do to stop them

Solvian: we have to stop the king to finally get his people to surrender but now with them with helicopters i don't it be easy anymore

Zenara: Then are we in danger.

Solvian nodded.

Solvian: yes i am going to ask for a meeting with ally country's for help on the matter.

so we are going to need the mansion for a meeting.

can: okay but this better not be not you lying so you both can act like rabbits

Solvian with a serous face then busted out laughing.

Solvian: Don’t worry we aren’t.

Rheya (laughing too): Rabbits? That’s funny.

Xyriana (groaning): Mom, Dad… you’re both gross. I’m going back to my room.

Solvian: okay no serous i am going to speak to allies so we are going to need the mansion

solvian hand can a huge stack of money

can wait what is this for

solvian: we are going to need the mansion for a while so and we don't want anyone walking in if we have the generals and presidents talking

Solvian: You’ve both got a fresh pair of clothes waiting and hey you might as well spend some time with zenara i you both going to get branded soon

so why not take zenara out some where, have a great time

can: Okay

can was about to head in the shower and touch zenara centaur frame

zenara gasp

zenara: what's wrong my love

can: oh well i just wanted to feel your Coat before you shower that's all

can: i love you

zenara i love you too

zenara and can kiss before headed to the showers, they got cleaned up, and changed into the fresh outfits.

Moments later, they returned, dressed and composed. they went to the main room

Solvian: You both ready?

Can and Zenara (together): Yes, we are.

Solvian raised his hands and teleported them.

Can and Zenara vanished reappearing moments later at a dock where roxton and Helena was located at.

Roxton and Helena (startled): Where did you both come from?

Can (grinning): It’s a long story. But how are you both doing?

Roxton: Good. Me and Helena were just chatting.

Can: roxton you reach third Base yet?

Zenara lightly slapped the back of his head.

Can: Ow okay, I was joking!

Helena blushed, trying not to laugh.

Roxton (grinning): Better to see someone else get hit than me.

Helena (smirking): Do you want me to hit you?

Roxton (quickly): No ma’am.

Just then, they spotted a food truck parked nearby.

Roxton: I need to talk to Can for a bit. Here grab us something before we start the day.

He handed money to Zenara and Helena.

Zenara and Helena: Okay.

They walked off toward the truck, chatting casually.

Roxton turned to Can, placing a hand on his shoulder.

Roxton (quietly): You planning on getting branded?

Can: Wait how do you know?

Roxton: Solvian told me.

Can: (thinking)Damn… at least that saves me the trouble explaining it.

Can: Yeah, me and Zenara plan on it. Was it painful?

Roxton: Not bad. Just burns a lot.

Can: I don’t mind the burning.

Roxton: Also word of advice. Don’t slap a centaur butt.

Can: Wait, why?

Roxton: They might not like it… and kick you.

Can: How do you know?

Roxton: Funny story…

Helena and Zenara were listening nearby.

Roxton: I spotted Helena and couldn’t resist. Crept up behind her and made my move. It was reckless I barely made it out alive. Her instincts were fast. I ended up with a broken arm.

Can: Damn… I was kinda—

Roxton: Wait. You’re not thinking about trying that on Zenara, are you? She’s a powerhouse.

Can (grinning): I was kind of thinking about it…

Roxton: Don’t. It isn’t smart.

Can: So… would it be better if Zenara saw me do it?

Roxton: I mean… I haven’t thought about that. Centaur instincts are… horsey.

A throat cleared behind them. They turned.

Helena (dryly): So, Zenara… it seems like our husbands are being perverts. Should we teach them a lesson?

Zenara (blushing): I believe we should

can sprinted away fast roxton: wait for me

can got halfway away when he heard hooves behind him he look behind him while running zenara was chasing him

zenara: i hope you know your not gonna outrun a centaur my love

can kept running

but she was slowly gaining on can

zenara:(scary but loving voice) i just want to chat a bit my love

can ran as fast as he could

then he hear roxton screaming can got scared and ran even faster can:(yelling while running) zenara I'm sorry please don't hurt me i was joking

Zenara laughed as she chased him

can runs into a warehouse

can relies that he enter into a ware house that has no exit he was cornered

zenara entered the warehouse blocking the exit zenara slowly walk to can

her hooves clocking on the concreate

can try running around her but she block his path with her centaur frame getting closer then he try to run around her but she block his path again

zenara: come on don't tell you your getting trap by a wife

can was backed in a can stop time but zenara grab his wrist

zenara:(in a voice both terrifying and tender) i can move in your time stop my love

can resume time

can:(scared but a bit thrilled) sorry please don't hurt me i was joking

zenara: calm down my love I'm not going to hurt you but i loved how you let me chase you

Can: You’re evil… but I love you. So what now?

Zenara (smirking) I believe after chasing you, I deserve a reward. So I’ll take my reward.

She released his wrist and kissed him

can was taken a back form the kiss but being back in a corner made him and the intensity of this scenario

can lean into the kiss at first

then

he started lean even more the into the kiss pouring passion into it

zenara got surprise before she could react

helana enter the were house carring roxton in her arms zenara broke the kiss fast

roxton: i missed when you use to carry me

helena: dont get use to it

zenara seeing Helena carrying roxton in her arms she pick up can into her arms

can: woah zenara what are you doing

Zenara (playfully): Carrying you bridal style.

Can (grinning): Don’t you think we’re moving fast?

zenara blush

can: um zenara

zenara look down at can

Can: You’re carrying me like I’m some kind of prince.

Zenara (embarrassed): Sorry…

She started to set him down.

Can: Wait you don’t have to put me down. but also Let’s all get out of here before we get fined for trespassing.

zenara and Helena nodded carrying can and out the werehouse can: you can put me down zenara roxton said the same thing to Helena Helena and zenara put down there

husbands letting them wandered toward the food truck, they were both drawn by the scent of grilled meat.

Helena: i heard you and can will be getting branded soon is that true

but zenana didn't answer

Zenara stayed still in the same spot a hand resting lightly against her lips, she remember the kiss can gave her.

She had kissed Can And he had leaned into it more than she expected. It made her heart flutter.

Helena: zenara ZENARA!

Zenara blinked, snapping out of her thoughts.

Zenara look at Helena

zenara face was red

Helena tilted her head.

Helena: are you okay your blushing a lot?

Zenara hesitated, her gaze dropping to the ground.

Zenara: (trying to keep it cool) oh.. um I kissed Can but this kiss was different he leaned into it really leaned into it a lot pouring passion into it. And I felt happy, but now I’m wondering if I pushed things too fast i wasn't uncomfortable I’m just… surprised.

I always wanted him to kiss me like that… but I never got the chance. The moment was never right. And now that it happened I’m feel happy.

Helena (softly):It’s okay to be surprised by something you’ve wanted for a long time.

Roxton used to kiss me like that too… and the first time I kissed him back with everything I had, he was the one left speechless.

then

Can and Roxton returned from the food truck, the scent of fresh burgers

Zenara perked up instantly, her ears twitching at the smell. Helena lifted her head with mild interest, sniffing the air.

Roxton: There’s a bench nearby. Let’s eat there.

then

Helena and zenara followed can and roxton Zenara reached out instinctively to hold Can’s hand, but paused when she saw his arms full of food.

She smiled softly and fell in step beside him.

At the bench, Roxton and Can took the seats while Zenara and Helena settled on the ground nearby centaur bodies not exactly meant for human benches.

Roxton handed out the burgers, and Can noticed Zenara sitting on the ground and close, her eyes flicking toward him.

He scooted down beside her, careful not to crush the burger in his hand. Zenara leaned in slightly.

Zenara (curious): My love… is it really true that burgers in America are unhealthy?

Can (laughing): Yeah, basically all our food is unhealthy.

Meanwhile, Solvian watched from a distance, his projection spell flickering like static. He scribbled notes on a crumpled piece of parchment.

Solvian (muttering): Good thing the author’s American. He can say this stuff without offending anyone, now back to the story.

Can: Yeah, it’s junk food. Tastes great, but it’s terrible for you.

Zenara took a bite of her burger, eyes wide.

Zenara: This is the best thing I’ve ever tasted!

can: don't speak with your mouth open

She started eating the burger quickly.

Can: zenara calm down the burger isn't going anywhere.

zenara slowed down her eating finishing her burger

can: look at his burger

Can: I used to be fat because of burgers.

he struggled before eating lost in thought

roxton: Want another?

Zenara: Yes!

can notice

Helena chewed slowly.

Can (thinking): Smart she’s pacing herself.

Zenara was halfway through her second burger.

can looked at zenara and notice she eating too fast again

Can: Zenara, slow down!

Zenara (mouth full): Nooo!

Can: Fine. but this is your Last one.

zenara: (mouth still full) okay

helana glance at zenara

Helena: Didn’t know you ate so much.

Zenara: It’s just so good the Sause cheese everything about it is soo good!

Can: Don’t talk with your mouth full.

can: what you and helena plan on doing?

Roxton: we are trying to get Helena transferred, but they refused her.

Can: wait why??

roxton: they heard about what happen at the centaur base when she attack someone

can: oh well that person was me

roxton: what did you do

before can could say anything

Helena spoke up her as looking down

Helena: i.. i was upset that can took zenara drinking because i thought he was going to take advantage of her but i wasn't at the right state of mind when i was talking to can i should have done something better but i didn't and i drew a knife on can

zenara stop eating her burger getting a bit tense

Helena: so me and zenara got into a fight and they kick me off the base

roxton: yeah so i been trying to get her on a base here

Helena: I'm sorry zenara that i did that to your husband and you can

can: oh well i could talk to Solvian and maybe he could help.

Helena: You’d do that?

Can: Yeah. Let’s go.

They finish eating and thew away there trash before walking to the mansion.

Can: Isn’t Solvian’s mansion far?

Roxton: yeah but we could get there fast on horseback.

roxton looking at Helena

Helena(getting close to roxton face): you think your smart huh you think I'm going to let you mount me just yet you have to earn that back

Zenara scooped Can up bridal-style. Helena did the same with Roxton.

can: wait why are you carrying me in bridal style way i didn't do anything wrong

zenara: i know but this feels more romantic

can: oh well

Roxton & Can: We’ve changed our minds.

Zenara: Race you there!

Helena: You’re on!

Can: wait no that the opposite of what we mean we change are minds...

zenara: quiet down I'm going to be careful

roxton: please don't kill me Helena

Helena: quit your wining not going to now zenara lets go

they 2 centaur ran off with husbands in there arms

they Arrival at the Mansion

Solvian greeted them.

Solvian: You look like you’ve been through something.

Can: being carried by a Centaur at fast speeds is Not recommended.

Solvian: yeah i can tell Good news you’re cleared to bring your guns to Japan.

Can: Finally thank you.

Solvian: yeah well you cant walk in there with a bunch of guns

so they state in this paper Just two guns and one cursed weapon.

Can: a Cursed weapon?

solvian took out a curse bayonet he had trouble holding it then he turn it into a axe

that made him drop the head of the axe to the ground

solvian:(straining) here you take the axe it hasn't responded to me well

can walk over to solvian and pick up the axe with ease

can: huh its lights

solvian:(trying to catch his breath) it has seems like it choose you

solvian:(finally catching his breath) just going to let you know the bayonet has a nasty effect if you use it like seeing and hearing that are disturbing things your not suppose to it feed on intense emotions, The good part is it wont harm people who aren't hostile

solvian handed can a Scabbard

can turn it back into a bayonet before putting it in the Scabbard

can: hold wait you just told me i start seeing and hearing disturbing wait how do i know its active

solvian: well there is no intense emotions like rage anger or sadness or but also it does feed off of non negative emotions so since you seem to be calm its not doing its nasty effect you just feeding it satisfying it

can:(worried) wait why does it have to be satisfied wait does it need to be satisfied

solvian:(calming can down) nope your in the clear oh and one last thing just make sure no one touches unless you trust them

solvian took the bayonet back

Can: wait why would i even need this?

Solvian: To help stop the Oni invasion you know basic weapons run out of ammo fast so if you have this you can act with out ammo and last thing Your revolver and rifle are ready for you going back to japan.

can: damn you must want me gone

solvian: not really if i badly wanted you gone i would have book you on the next flight back to japan

Solvian: also you and zenara have another requirement before being branded it is you and zenara must have a good day before your branding tomorrow since its require so take this blindfold for Zenara’s

zenara blushed

can: what type of-

solvian: don't worry its just for her instincts and also it will make the date better since her centaur instincts.

Can: Thanks. One more thing can Helena be transferred to a base here?

Solvian found this suspicious could this be a hidden meaning could he be trying to help helena get status studied can then nodded.

Solvian: Fine. But also you and Zenara need to be back in Japan tomorrow so who will go with her to the base.

then

A general walked out.

Solvian: Can you enlist Helena?

The general looked Helena over.

General: Yeah, I’ll get her a spot. But along as you don't not pull anything like what happened at the centaur base i allow you.

Helena: don't worry I won’t

She turned to Can and pulled him into a deep hug.

Helena: Thank you. Thank you so much.

Can (awkwardly): You’re welcome… but could you put me down?

Helena (laughing): Sorry.

She gently set him back on the ground.

Can: Solvian…

Solvian turned, waiting for Can to speak.

Can: I know this might sound strange, but… I kind of see you as a father figure and i want you at my branding,

I know we probably got off on the wrong foot, but I want you there when Zenara and I get branded. Silas was never really a father figure to me growing up.

Solvian looked at Can again, skeptical at first. But seeing the sincerity in his eyes, he nodded.

Solvian: Okay.

Helena (teary-eyed): Thank you, Solvian. I’m really grateful you gave me a chance to be with Roxton and work at a base here.

Solvian: You’re welcome.

Roxton: Thanks, Solvian.

Solvian: Anytime. And hey if you need tips about centaurs, head to my library.

With a flick of his hand, Solvian summoned two books one on centaur anatomy, the other on centaur behavior.

He handed the behavior book to Roxton and the anatomy book to Can. Can opened it, flipping through the pages. Zenara peeked over his shoulder.

Solvian (to Roxton): Just so you know, Roxton centaurs—

Suddenly, Zenara snatched the book from Can, her face bright red.

can was trying to take the book back

Can: Hey! Zenara, why’d you do that?

Zenara (flustered): That book’s probably too detailed for you.

Can: It’s just anatomy. There’s nothing wrong with it.

Zenara:(blushing) It’s too revealing I don’t want you looking at it.

Roxton: I can share my book real quick.

Can: Okay.

Zenara showed the page to Helena in the background while Can and Roxton flipped through the instincts section.

Helena: What? It’s just normal.

Zenara: I know… but I want Can to go with a clear heart before we get branded.

Solvian: Can, you should take Zenara out. Enjoy a little time together. I know I said it this morning, but you’re heading back to Japan tomorrow. Let me make it

easier.

Solvian used magic to send the book Zenara was holding to Helena, then turned to Roxton and Helena

With a snap of his fingers, Can and Zenara were teleported to a quiet, empty street.

Can looked around the peaceful street, then turned to Zenara.

Can: Zenara… I need to tell you something. I’ve been feeling guilty for not saying it sooner.

Zenara’s heart skipped. She braced herself, worried he was about to say something painful.

Can: I’m sorry about the warehouse. I know you kissed me, and it was playful… but I leaned into it too much. That wasn’t right of me i know we kiss before but i let

my emotions get the better of me.

Zenara: (sighing softly) So that’s what you were guilty about?

She leaned down, her voice gentle.

Zenara: If I didn’t enjoy the kiss, I would’ve told you. When we kiss… it makes me happy.

She fidgeted with her shirt, eyes flicking away for a moment.

Zenara: That kiss it was everything I’d hoped for. I just didn’t know how to approach you.

can looked up at zenara he felt relieved can: so zenara say how about we spend this money and head to places and hey we can get some burgers zenara lit up

she pick up can bridle style can: please don't go fast or at least let me ride you

zenara: okay zenara put can down and she got a bit low to the ground can mounted her and she rose back up and started walking down the street

can wrap his arms around her

at the mansion

roxton: why did you teleport can and zenara away

Solvian: Because Can hasn’t taken Zenara anywhere. I gave him a stack of money and he hasn’t spent any of it

Roxton: Ah… you’re looking out for my friend.

Solvian: Yeah I think he’ll thank me later.

Can looked around the peaceful street, then turned to Zenara.

Can: Zenara… I need to tell you something.

I’ve been feeling guilty for not saying it sooner.

Zenara’s heart skipped. She braced herself, worried he was about to say something painful.

Can: I’m sorry about the warehouse. I know you kissed me, and it was playful… but I leaned into it too much. That wasn’t right of me i let my emotions in that mommet get the better of me.

zenara: (sighted) is that what you was guilty of

zenara lean down

zenara: if i didn't enjoy the kiss i would have told you when we kiss it makes me happy but this kiss was everything i ask for

can looked up at zenara he felt relieved

can: so zenara say how about we spend this money and head to places and hey we can get some burgers.

Zenara lit up

she pick up can bridle style

can: please don't go fast or at least let me mount you zenara: okay

zenara put can down and she got a bit low to the ground can mounted her and she slowly walk then

can wrap his arms around her

her breath hitched

can: Zenara, before we go anywhere, I want our wedding to be official like on paper. I know we’ve been married for a while, but I want it to be real in every way

zenara touch his hand that was around her waist

zenara: okay also i don't know where we go

can sit up

can: its over there

They both head to the place can dismounted and open the door making sure she can get in

can: zenara this may take awhile are you okay with waiting

zenara reach for his hand interlocking fingers

zenara: i don't mind waiting as long as i can be with you after 30 mins they were officially married they exit the building with can holding the papers

can: wow i expected that to take way too long

can place them in his jacket pocket

they were fast despite the crowd but lets waste this day lets go get something to eat zenara took can hand and pointed at a place that makes fast food

They wandered through a few shops before finally settling on a bench. Zenara was practically drooling, her eyes locked onto the food bag.

Zenara (eager): Can we eat now?

Can checked his phone. They had plenty of time. That was good.

can: yes go ahead dig

He grabbed a chicken drumstick and started eating,

Zenara ate fries and burgers.

After a few bites, Can groaned and clutched his stomach.

can: i just remember why i stop eating fried food my body isn't use to it

Zenara paused, setting down the chicken drumstick she was working on she got up checking on him.

Zenara: are you okay?

Can:(feeling sick) My body’s was never use to eating fried food no matter how much i love eating it

can:(still feeling sick) How are you not affected?

Zenara (smiling): I’m glad you asked. Centaurs have robust stomachs we can eat a lot without getting sick. Well we can get sick, but it’s rare.

Can stood up abruptly and rushed to a nearby trash can, vomiting.

Zenara try to help him but can stop her.

Can (wiping his mouth): It’s okay. You can keep eating.

Zenara: I lost my appetite.

Can: Sorry if it was because of me

Zenara: It’s okay. I just wanted to eat with you.

She looked around, realizing she had no idea to do with the spare food Just then, a glowing hand appeared in front of her Solvian hand

Solvian: I’ll hold onto the food for you. you both Just enjoy your date.

Solvian (telepathically): Damn i guess stopping time cant save you from this right?

Can: Shut up.

Solvian (telepathically): Calm down, I was joking. Here—

Solvian cast a gentle spell to ease Can’s nausea. A soft glow surrounded Can, and the discomfort faded.

Can: Thanks…

Solvian (telepathically): You’re welcome. Now, this is the final time I intervene unless you’re in danger. This day is supposed to be for you and Zenara to have fun.

Oh, and one more thing about branding if i didn't say anything both partners must have the best time of their lives before the ceremony. It’s part of the bond.

since you both be soul bound too

Can: Oh i mean you already told us that but thanks for the rest of the details

Zenara: Who are you talking to?

Can: Nothing. I’m just feeling a bit better.

He stood up, brushing off his clothes and smiling.

Can: Zenara, let’s head to a meadow.

Zenara: Okay.

can and zenara arrive at a meadow can made a spot for zenara to rest at

can: is it okay if i put this blindfold on you

zenara: okay please be gentle

can place the blindfold on her

can: what do you hear

zenara: i heard you i hear the birds and i hear rustling in the bushes she was about to take the blindfold off but can stop her

can: don't worry it was a fox but last thing is it okay if you kiss you

zenara: you don't have to ask to kiss my love

can: i know but your blindfolded and your instincts are there

zenara: okay be gentle

Can got close to her zenara flinch a bit at the sound of the leaves then he kissed her. Zenara squealed the melting instinct was too much but she didn’t pull back. Instead, she pulled Can closer, deepening the kiss. When she

finally broke away, she took off the blindfold, smiling.

Can: You ready to head back to solvian mansion?

Zenara: Yes, my love. Mount me so you don’t hurt your feet.

Can: okay

As Can was about climbed onto her back, he slipped on the wet dirt and tumbled into a strange plant.

Zenara: Are you okay?

can: yeah i just got a bit of dirt on me

She helped him up, until he mounted her.

she slowly made her way back to the mansion

when they arrive

solvian notice can and zenara

can dismounted zenara

solvian notice can neck was red

Solvian (pointing at Can’s neck): Roxton, come here real quick.

Roxton approached, inspecting Can’s neck closely.

Roxton: Can… you’re supposed to be branded first. You can’t just skip the branding.

Helena stepped outside, her eyes narrowing as she saw the red mark.

Helena: Zenara, Can—how could you? You’re supposed to be branded!

Zenara turned to Can, confused.

Zenara: What are you all talking about?

She looked at Can’s neck—it was red and irritated.

Zenara’s face flushed.

Zenara: We didn’t do anything, I swear!

Can: can what are you both talking about Wait… hand me a mirror.

Solvian floated a mirror toward him. Can gasped.

Can: We didn’t do anything! It’s those devil itchy plants!

Solvian: You mean poison ivy?

Can: Yes!

Solvian (grinning): i was joking i knew what it was the moment you got here.

Roxton, Helena, Zenara, Can: You were joking?!

roxton: but also poison ivy doesn't act that fast

solvian: believe me that poison ivy he touch it has magic infuse in it i touch it once it got past my scales and made me itch for hours

also you both should get home remember we got a long flight back to Japan for can and zenara branding ceremony

roxton: okay alright Helena you read

Helena: yes dear Helena pick up roxton in bridle style and took him home

solvian open the door allowing can and zenara to enter got clean up and got in bed

can: zenara

zenara looked at can

can: when we get branded what happen now

zenara: we both will be branded soul bond too

zenara:(scary voice) but... i also don't want you to be looking at other women or cheating or leaving me because

i wont be like Helena who let roxton left her the night of their branding.

can intertwine there fingers

can: don't worry i don't plan on going anywhere without you because your the only one who is meant for me

can and zenara kiss before heading to sleep