9. Koda
CHAPTER 9
KODA
I wake to sunlight filtering through the woven branches of my treehouse, casting dappled shadows across Mia's sleeping form.
For a moment I think I am still dreaming... but then it all comes back to me. Surely the gods have favored me, to bestow one such as her into my care and protection.
And last night.
I feel my manhood stir at the thought. She is incredible.
But I must push away such carnal desires. Surely, she needs to rest after the fierceness of our connection.
Her copper hair spills across my chest, her naked form pressed against mine. Even in sleep she radiates a wild, untamed energy. She does things to me I have never experienced. Never.
The contentment I feel watching her breathe softly against me is... unsettling. I haven't experienced anything like this since Shellyn. Different, but just as real. Yet somehow this tiny hurricane of a human has worked her way past all my carefully constructed defenses, leaving a kind of freshness and joy in her wake.
"Morning, Fur baby," Mia yawns, stretching like a cat.
I almost reject the pet name. It has been so long since I allowed such intimacy.
But the warm feeling that arises in my chest stops me. And the way she moves against me... there's something addictive about her touch, her scent, the way she makes me feel both powerful and powerless at once.
“You will never call me that in public, but here, it is... acceptable.”
“It better be,” she pulls herself close and snuggles into my chest again.
Oh boy.
I feel my sex swelling again as she presses her breasts against me.
Her naked flesh is mesmerizing... but more than that, her warmth... just her presence at my side...
I can’t help but pull her in close against me, planting a kiss on her forehead. But even as I do I feel her little hand begin to rub and caress at the growing hardness of my shaft...
Mia...
“Yes, my big teddy bear...”
Before I can form another word – let alone another thought – she brings her other hand to caress and massage my balls. Instead of words all that escapes my lips is a sigh.
Instinctively I begin to press into her hands as she begins to stroke my aching cock...
Surely, I am still dreaming. This woman is too good to be true...
And just as that thought enters my mind, she squirms her way lower, kissing her way down my belly, through the softer, finer belly fur toward the object of her desire...
“You don’t have to–”
“Have to? Of course I don’t have to do anything. Are you kidding, I want to.”
“You are correct. Gods, but I do need to thank the witch.”
“Hope you don’t mind, but I kinda like the morning sex thing. Is this going to be a problem?”
“No. Nope. No problem at all.”
I let my body relax completely, surrendering to her ministrations, relishing in the feel of her lips and tongue, sucking, licking, and seemingly savoring my rigid manhood.”
No sooner than I begin to feel a delightful pleasure building in my core and she is climbing up on top of me, positioning her sex over my pole.
In an instant I feel her driving her slick wetness down onto my thickness. I almost explode in that moment, but hold back, wanting her to revel in her own pleasure to reach her satisfaction first.
“Yes, my love. You are divine. Gods, but it is like your sex was made for me, and me alone.”
This seems to only spur her on, as she spreads her legs even further and sinks into her straddle over me, taking me even deeper as her hips grind back and forth, her sex spreading to take me to the hilt.
My breath catches in my throat and I emit a grunt in spite of myself as she slams down on top of me faster and faster. Pressing her hands against my chest, she begins to buck and ride until I find myself unable to remain still. Grabbing her hips I thrust back.
“Yes baby, oh yes. Come inside me Koda. Give me your seed...”
That’s all it takes. I feel the ecstasy of my hot burning cum shooting from my core deep inside her...
For the second time we both bellow out our passion in unison. I can see her chest flushing a deep red as she bucks and moans against me, her sex clenching and convulsing even as she finally collapses on top of me.
“Your words, I have never had a woman like you.”
“I told you I like to talk.”
But I had no idea she liked to talk like that.
“Is it okay?”
“It is more than okay my little stormshower. More than okay. You are perfect.
We lay like this for a little while, again, just basking in the afterglow of our connection, until she finally speaks.
"Please tell me there's breakfast in this magical treehouse of yours. I'm starving after all our recent... activities.”
I feel my sex stir again at her suggestive tone, but we can’t stay up here all day.
Could we?
No, Whisper will be returning from Monstertown in a few hours.
"I suppose I could arrange something."
"You are the perfect man. I mean, beast. Man-beast?" She plants a kiss on my chest before bouncing out of bed, already humming as she wraps herself in one of my fur throws. "Oh my god, the view up here is incredible! We must be like three hundred feet up! This must be an incredible place to grow up! Do you have a treehouse playground for the kids here somewhere? If not, we could build one! I can already see it, a treetop slide, and a-"
"Mia," I cut in, trying to strike the appropriate tone – not that I know what that tone should be. I have never encountered anyone like her. She lightens my heart, but she does not know our ways. "You've been here less than two days. Maybe slow down with the renovation plans?"
She just grins, doing a little twirl that nearly dislodges the fur throw. "But there's so much potential! Relax, we’re just talking... we don’t have to start construction until tomorrow.” She laughs.
Gods, but she is a handful. A delightful handful.
I feel that stirring again.
Down boy.
An hour later, we're making our way into town. Well, I'm making my way - Mia's practically dancing down the path, greeting every creature we pass like a long-lost friend. Several young sasquatch peek out from behind trees, drawn by her infectious energy.
"Did you see that?" she whispers excitedly, pretending not to notice as two more younglings emerge from the shadows. "They're doing that peek-a-boo thing again! Just like when we first met!"
I watch as she somehow manages to acknowledge them without directly looking their way - a little wave here, a melodic hum there. It's like watching someone tame wild birds, and despite myself, I feel a surge of something between admiration and pride. Given the circumstances of our hidden village, nestled as it is within the wider human world, these sasquatch children are taught from birth to be wary of strangers, yet here they are, trailing behind us like she is some sort of pied piper.
As we near town, our following grows. At the corner by Fizz’s Magical Playthings, a small orc child peeks out, then scampers over to join our growing band. Near the fountain, a young centaur colt practically prances into our midst.
"Look at you all!" Mia whispers in delight, though I note she keeps her voice soft, respecting their game of stealth. The younglings beam at her attention, even as they pretend to hide.
By the time we reach the town square, I'm amazed, if not a bit perplexed, at the collection we've gathered - trolls, pixies, even a tiny minotaur barely tall enough to reach my knee. Mia turns, and her eyes widen at the sight of our impromptu following.
Where did all these little younglings come from?
They’re practically coming out of the woodwork.
But while Mia shows some delight, she doesn't look particularly surprised, as if this is the most natural thing in the world.
"Look at all of you!" Mia spins to face them, her dress swirling in the morning breeze. "Hey, do you guys play kick the can?"
"Mia," I try to interject, "we really should get to the Bullhorn. There are some things happening in town you need to know about..." But she's already launched into explaining the rules to their blank but eager faces.
I should insist we keep moving. There are council matters to discuss, not to mention the growing tension about humans in Fablewood. But watching her somehow know exactly how to draw out each child's unique nature gives me pause. "Oh my goodness, what an amazing jump!" she gasps as the centaur colt shows off. "And that roar! I bet you're the scariest little troll in all of Fablewood!"
The children beam under her attention, becoming more animated with each passing minute. It's wonderful to see them letting their monster nature shine through play rather than aggression. When the game begins, they throw themselves into it with unbridled enthusiasm - leaping, growling, and yes, even roaring.
At least it was wonderful at first...
Oooffff!
The little centaur kid just took a nasty spill.
Okay, but at least he’s smiling.
Ugg!
Down goes the troll kid. Oh... I think that little orc just scared that donkey half to death.
This is getting out of hand.
Kind of impressive that one so small can reek such havoc so quickly.
But also, rather alarming. I need to rein this in. I notice Mrs. Thornberry, the ogre, shaking her head as she passes.
Nine Hells, but now they’re into the chickens.
Annnnd the chickens are free.
Old Gruff the Troll stops in his tracks, muttering something about "proper monster behavior." But before I can respond, Madame Thistlebloom's shriek pierces the air as she bursts from her seamstress shop. Her usually immaculate display of enchanted fabrics is now splattered with mud and chicken feathers.
"My spring collection! She gestures wildly at the ruined fabrics. "Do you have any idea how long it takes to weave moonbeams into silk?"
"Oh, that is unfortunate!" she acknowledges, before adding brightly, "But it’s just a little dirt. Surely it will wash out. Besides, look how much fun they're having!"
Madame Thistlebloom's wings buzz with indignation. "Unfortunate? Did she just really say that! And ‘Fun?’ My livelihood is not some playground for-"
“Oh I am sorry Madame –“ I try to interject, but Mia's already charging ahead with her next idea.
"Oh I know! We could make those fabrics even prettier!" Mia interrupts, her eyes sparkling. "We could have the children decorate them! Like a community art project! Wouldn't that be amazing?"
I feel my fur bristle as the seamstress's face turns an alarming shade of purple. Part of me wants to defend Mia - she means well, and the sight of the children playing so freely stirs something deep in my chest. But watching Madame Thistlebloom's life's work being treated as potential craft supplies is another matter.
"Mia," I say firmly, trying to catch her eye. "I think we should-" "Just imagine what the kids could create! We could make it a weekly thing, maybe call it 'Weavers and Wonders' or-"
"A weekly what?" Madame Thistlebloom sputters, her wings now vibrating so fast they're practically invisible. "Chief Koda, surely you can't allow-" I feel the weight of every eye in the square upon me.
How did a simple walk turn into this chaos?
The seamstress, looking ready to explode. The children, frozen mid-play, watching to see what happens next. And Mia, her face still bright with possibilities, completely unaware of the storm she's brewing.
"Mia, surely you must appreciate how much work went into those fabrics?"
"Of course I do, but come on, they didn't really do any major harm. They're just kids being kids!" But she seems completely oblivious to the pixie's genuine distress, already turning back to the children. And then there’s the Chickens and feathers that are still flying everywhere. But the kids do seem to be having a ball. "They're amazing, aren't they?" Mia says, sliding her hand into mine. "All that natural talent, just waiting to burst out." I squeeze her fingers, torn between pride and concern.
"They certainly are.” I can’t deny it. “Though maybe a little too amazing for some." She just laughs, already seeming to be preparing for her next idea. "I like to think every moment can be amazing."
The afternoon sun streams through the fairy lights in Kalen's new beer garden as I settle at a table in the back with Thokk, Zoe, and Olivia.
It has taken a little bit of willpower, but I have moved past the earlier events, though I still feel a little ill at ease. ‘No one died,” as they say, yet still... I was not prepared for such calamities on my watch.
Kalen's behind the bar as usual, though he keeps sneaking glances at his mate. The place is busy today, with monsters of all kinds enjoying the outdoor space. Still processing the morning's events, I watch as Mia chats animatedly with our friends. The morning's chaos - scattered chickens and trampled flower beds - doesn't seem to concern her in the least as she enthusiastically tells her friends about teaching the kids kick-the-can. Maybe I could learn something from her.
I shift from side to side uneasily though.
Regardless, she has definitely made an impression on Fablewood already.
And this is just day two.
"The younglings did have fun," I admit, watching Mia fidget with her bangles. "Though you did get them pretty wound up." I try to keep my tone light, but I can't quite shake the memory of Mrs. Thornberry's face when she saw her prized rooster being chased by a pack of overexcited monster children.
"They were just blowing off steam. Kids need to be able to run and jump and play!" Mia insists, though I notice she looks slightly uncertain.
I spot Whisper come in, accompanied by Murk. I stand to welcome my son back, but can’t help but notice that while he of course acknowledges me, his father, with a little wave, his eyes immediately go to Mia. And is that a smile? And a little bounce in his step? When did that happen? When did she become the first person he looks for in a room?
"Thanks for taking him over Murk. Everything go well?"
After a few words Murk makes his exit, but Whisper barely seems to notice, already gravitating toward Mia's side. There's an easiness to his movements I'm not used to seeing. Usually he hangs back, uncertain, but with her it’s different.
Mia is just waving to my son, when a flicker of movement catches everyone’s eye - Kalen sliding back a massive wooden panel behind the bar, revealing a hidden flatscreen TV.
Mia practically falls out of her seat, seeming to forget all about the point she was making. "Holy cow! A TV? You guys are kind of ruining the fairytale vibe around here."
“Cool... I thought my dad was the only one with Satellite TV!” Whisper exclaims, equally entranced and momentarily distracted from Mia.
"Shhhh..." Kalen glances around before replacing the panel. "Keep it down! The Elders would be less than pleased. But maybe some time we can do a movie night. I have a pretty good collection of old DVDs stashed away now."
"Really? Can I see?" Whisper is beyond excited now.
"He's kind of a movie buff..." I add, in answer to Kalen's perplexed look. "But, you know the Elders definitely wouldn't approve."
"I won't tell if you won't," Kalen says with a wink, as he lifts a big wooden crate out onto the bar.
"Fair enough," I say with a laugh.
Whisper instantly heads over to check out Kalen’s collection.
"Watch out," I chuckle. "Your place will be overrun with younglings if you're not careful. I practically have to fight Whisper for control of our TV on Friday nights."
"See, that's what I'm saying," Mia interjects, "don't kids play here? You know like run around from sun up to sundown whenever they can? You saw how they took to it."
"Well, yes, the younglings seemed excited, but their parents were less than thrilled," I reply. “Whisper, how was everything with your cousin over in Monstertown?”
"It was fun..." Whisper says, downplaying the trip he had been so looking forward to before. Instead, he returns to Mia's side, quickly adding excitedly, "but I hear Mia taught everybody a really fun game?"
The way his face lights up when Mia turns her attention to him - like she is some magic ingredient he has been missing in his life.
Mia's energy shifts instantly to match his, taking on that gentler, focused quality she seems to reserve just for him. At least it sure wasn't evident at the marketplace. "I did! I'm sorry you missed it, but don't worry, there are always more games to be played! Maybe you can help me learn some new ones?"
Watching them interact, I feel what is fast becoming a war within myself – joy and pride, and even some relief as my son seems to be emerging from his shell, mixed with a growing unease about where this might lead. Of course, it fills my heart to see him opening up. But the thought of Whisper acting out like those children earlier...
"We could make up our own games!" Whisper suggests, his voice carrying a note of enthusiasm I rarely hear. He catches himself, glancing at me before continuing more quietly, "I mean, if that's okay?"
Before I can respond, my attention is drawn to Elowen settling at a nearby table. The old witch is completely absorbed in some old book, muttering to herself as she turns its pages.
"Who's that?" Mia asks, clearly intrigued by Elowen's ethereal presence.
"That's Elowen, our town witch," Olivia explains.
"A real witch!" Mia's eyes light up with what I now identify as a dangerous sparkle.
It’s the same sparkle she had when she suggested the kids play kick the can.
"Is that a real spellbook? Wait, so you are the one who cast that m-"
"Actually, it’s blank," Elowen replies, still consumed by the leather-bound tome. "But there's something here, I can feel it. Like a riddle waiting to be solved."
Suddenly she looks up, noticing Mia for the first time. "Oh! You must be our latest arrival. Most curious timing..."
""Curious timing, curious rhyming!" Mia responds in an almost sing-songy, slightly exaggerated tone, turning her words into a mini-melody. "Maybe it’s a journal?”
I notice Whisper shift almost imperceptibly, a little smile curling his lips. Seeming to notice, Mia adds, “A little musicality makes everything better!”
At the same time, Elowen glances down at her book, her own head cocked to the side. Her brow furrows for just a moment - as if she'd seen something. But when she looks again, her expression clears.
"Hmm," she mutters, “No, just imagining things I am,” and returns to studying the book.
Now that she has her attention, Mia repeats herself. “Are you the one who cast that mate summoning spell my Furb-”
I nudge her leg. Maybe a little harder than intended, but if my friends heard her call me “Furbaby” I would surely have to move.
“Heh hem, the one that Koda keeps talking about?” Mia is practically bouncing in her seat. "This is soooo cool! I freaking loooove this place. Oh my God, I have so many questions about magic and-"
"Yes, yes," Elowen brightens, setting her book aside. "Oh my dear, I've been hoping to meet you! My apologies, that book does have me intrigued. But it is amazing, that you, yet another human, has found her way to us! And you, Thokk, and you too Kalen, said it had not worked!" She lets out a little chuckle. My two friends just shift uncomfortably in their seats. “And what’s this I hear about some sort of temple?”
I speak up immediately. "I’m not sure it’s a ‘temple’ exactly, but yes, that’s where she arrived. I bet it’s linked to that secret society of Zoe’s Aunt Charlotte. Based on the wall art at least.”
“ Great Aunt Charlotte.” Zoe sits up a little taller, prouder than ever at her connection to the mystery.
“But it is located on our Sasquatch sacred grounds," I explain before Mia can launch into the full story. "As such we have not yet fully explored it."
"We need to get in there right away!" Olivia interjects excitedly. "I bet there will be all sorts of clues about the society.”
"Can we go now?” Zoe is as excited as Olivia.
"What part of 'sacred grounds' did you not hear?" I say firmly. "I'll need to clear it with the council first." The words come out sharper than intended, but there are protocols to follow.
"Sacred grounds or not, we need to investigate," Olivia insists, but she's interrupted by an excited squeal from across the beer garden.
"Miss Mia! Miss Mia!" A young troll child breaks away from his mother, bounding toward our table. I remember him from earlier. I’m pretty sure he let the chickens out too. "I have this great game we can play. It’s called “Claw and Catch..."
I notice Mrs. Bramblewood's tired expression as she hurries after her son. She's still wearing her apron from the bakery - clearly just finishing a long shift.
“Rowan, don’t bother her!” she calls apologetically.
"Now Rowan," Zoe says gently, quickly coming to her friends aid it seems. "Miss Mia needs a break too. Maybe tomorrow?"
"But she promised to teach us another game! Something called ‘Red Light Green Light’" the youngling protests, practically vibrating with excitement.
And probably more than a little sugar.
Probably cupcakes.
"Perhaps we should let everyone rest a bit," Olivia suggests carefully. "After this morning's, um, excitement ."
Mia looks from one face to another, seemingly unsure of what to say, but seeming to get the message that there have been enough games for one day. But if I saw her face fall for second, she quickly masks it with a bright smile.
Rowan, oblivious to the underlying tension, perks up. "Can we play just ONE game? Please, Miss Mia?"
For a moment, Mia hesitates. If I saw a look of momentary rejection, it seems child's earnestness breaks through. "Well..." Her smile returns, this time softer, more genuine. "If it’s okay with your mother, then maybe one quick game. 'Red Light, Green Light,' okay?"
Both Whisper and Rowan let out a little cheer, but I am sure I still catch the fleeting vulnerability in her eyes. The group questioning her definitely sparked something. Her smile is bright, but there's something underneath, a fragility she's working hard to mask.
"Probably just one game," she adds, a little more of her smile returning.
Whisper glances at me before making to follow.
I nod my assent and in a moment the group are heading outside, Mrs. Bramblewood trailing along behind. Through the window, I soon hear children's voices already gathering, somehow drawn to her.
Like moths to flame.
The thought enters my mind in spite of myself and I chuckle.
"Chief Koda." Elder Faelar's stern voice makes me turn. He stands with Luminara and Oakenheart, all wearing expressions of concern. "About this morning's incident ."
Fan-tas-tic.
Just what I need.
Through the window, I watch as Whisper and the other children all gather up on one end of the little square outside. He’s laughing, and interacting with the other kids. But more than that. He's smiling - really smiling. Meanwhile, while the Elders blather on, listing their grievances about proper monster behavior and ancient traditions. My chest tightens, caught between pride at my son's emerging confidence and some lingering unease. I focus on taking slow, measured breaths, even as another peal of laughter draws three more children into the mix.
Probably away from their afternoon lessons.
Koda, relax. It’s just a game. Youngling’s play games.
But how many games can they play?
There must be some balance.
My jaw tightens slightly as I notice a few more parents chasing after children as they lobby to join the rapidly growing “game.”
"Of course, Elder Faelar," I hear myself say evenly. "I understand your concerns."
I understand them a little too well.
I just wish I knew what to do about them.
Still as I gaze at Mia, my heart swells.
Despite my own “concerns,” though, there is no denying she is my mate.
I let out an audible chuckle.
Seems fate does have a sense of humor.