The Dread of Dmaned

I slipped out of my silk white clothes, their smooth fabric cascading down my body, embroidered with intricate silver patterns. The cool air kissed my skin as I walked toward the waterfall, my reflection rippling in the crystal-clear water. Stepping forward, I submerged myself up to my waist, feeling the gentle tug of the current as I approached the smooth rocks beneath the cascade. With a firm grip, I climbed up the polished surface, now standing fully exposed beneath the waterfall.

My lean, muscular form stood stark naked under the relentless rush of water. The thrill of the run, the power in my legs, and now the pressure of the water on my body sent a deep pulse through me. My member stirred, semi-erect, the sensation of the water intensifying the pleasurable experience. For a human, the force of the waterfall might have been uncomfortable, even painful if endured for too long. But for me, it felt natural—like a cleansing, primal energy coating my body, refreshing my senses.

I glanced at the woman standing at the edge of the water, her gaze betraying a hunger she probably thought she was hiding. There was no mistaking the desire in her eyes. Perhaps, under different circumstances, I might have entertained the idea of releasing some tension, but she was too unremarkable to hold my interest. She wasn't unattractive, but I craved something more than just carnal release. Pleasure, for me, had to be meaningful, fulfilling—an experience, not just an act. I wasn't some beast rutting with anything available.

More importantly, I had to remain calm for my awakening. Stored emotions could complicate the process, make it painful, or worse. That was why I had given a "Departure gift" to the battered woman before leaving, to keep my violent tendencies in check. I needed to be composed for what was coming.

I stood under the waterfall a little longer, letting the water wash over me before stepping out. My body gleamed as the water dripped from my skin, and I approached the woman waiting by the shore.

I lifted my arms, letting the water stream down my figure. The woman froze momentarily, then scrambled to pull a towel from the bundle she was holding. She started drying me off, her hands moving over my chest and arms with careful attention. When she reached between my legs, she slowed, rubbing my semi-erect member with the towel before fondling my jewels. A drop of white essence appeared at the tip, and she wiped it away, her fingers lingering longer than necessary. She bowed slightly, her deep brown cleavage now more pronounced, as if she thought that might entice me.

She really thought that would work.

"That's enough," I said firmly, my voice steady as she paused. Her eyes flashed with something—perhaps frustration—but I remained unmoved, my gaze cold. She finished toweling me off, then fetched a fresh set of clothes from the bundle, dressing me carefully.

"I'm leaving," I declared before flashing off into the trees, her flustered voice trailing behind me.

"I'll follow after packing the clothes!" she called, hurriedly gathering the garments I had left behind. I glanced back briefly and saw her eyes flicker with feverish excitement as she held the towel to her mouth, licking and inhaling deeply. She rubbed her thighs together, lost in her fantasy.

I reached the carriage, where the man in charge stood, glancing anxiously into the forest behind me.

"She's packing the clothes. She'll be here soon," I said as I boarded the carriage and settled onto the large, soft silk mattress that adorned its interior.

A short while later, I heard a quiet "woosh," signaling the woman's return. Soon after, hushed voices began—too low for most to hear, but my sharpened senses caught every word.

"This was the moment that could've changed everything for us," a man's voice hissed, disappointment dripping from his tone.

"I tried! I even rubbed him with the towel, showed off my cleavage. I practically begged with my eyes!" the woman explained, frustration clear in her voice.

"You couldn't even do that right. Useless! You've ruined our chance at luxury," he muttered harshly.

I didn't bother listening further. I'd heard enough. I wasn't a fool—I knew what they were trying to do. In my previous life, as a powerful businessman at the top of the corporate world, I had fallen for such schemes before. I'd paid the price and learned my lessons well.

I cleared my throat, loud enough for them to hear. The hushed voices immediately stopped, and soon the carriage began moving again. I laid back, enjoying the peaceful ride and the quiet that followed. Feeling refreshed.

A knock woke me from my thoughts.

"What is it?" I asked, sitting up.

"We've arrived," came the man's voice from outside. He opened the door after waiting a moment. I stepped out, and before me, towering over the surrounding trees, stood a mountain. Its peak was shrouded in mist, casting a shadow over the dense forest below.

A figure stood at a distance, approaching as I descended from the carriage.

"Welcome to Noxveil Academy, Your Highness, I am Vasen Aelthor." the man said, bowing deeply. His voice was calm, his posture sharp. His hair was a strange mix of white and gray, and his eyes held an unusual blend of white and black.

"Rise," I said, feeling the excitement stir within me. This was the beginning of something monumental. I was ready for what was to come.