User blog:ExdeathsBagel/The Lamia pit (WWYD by Repter)

WWYD by Repter: https://monstergirlencyclopedia.wikia.com/wiki/Thread:905060

“That’s enough, all of you!” A voice called from behind the Lamias chasing me. Above me, the Medusa and Shirohebi turned, both turning incredibly pale. I looked behind me and saw the Lamia looking up, her eyes widening in shock.

“M-mom! Good timing! I just found this man and-”

The Shirohebi was interrupted by the Medusa next to her, “Bullshit! Mom, I found him first!”

The Lamia behind me tighten her coils, holding me close. “What’s the deal, May? Didn’t you say we could share him after you lead him to me?”

May, the Medusa turned back to the Lamia, her face a mixture of confusion of anger. The Shirohebi on the other hand looked hurt, “May, is that true?”

“What?! Hibana, don’t listen to Aria. She’s just making shit up again!”

“Well in that case since I have him, he’s mine!” Aria said as she pressed herself against me.

A sudden rumbling caused us all to jump, the Lamias returning to their pale complexions. From the ledge appeared an Echidna, she shot her three daughters a glare.

“Take this man back to our house. And no funny business along the way.”

“Aw come on, mom! You’re always harping us on finding a man, and look, I found one!” Aria whined.

“You did not! I found him first!” May whined back.

The Echidna slapped her tail on the ground, causing the very earth to rumble once more. “I don’t want to hear it! You two were supposed to be doing house work while Aria was supposed to be hunting! I’ll be sure to discipline you three when we get back. Now, Aria if you’d be so kind?”

“Y-yes mom!” Aria suddenly chirped up. She leaned in close to me, “Sorry about this.”

With a sudden thwack to the back of the head, I was out like a light.

When I came too, I was sitting a massive dinner table. The orange light from the setting sun shined through the windows, giving an almost inviting, calming aura to the room. And yet the guest were anything but. To my left were Hibana and May. Hibana, the Shirohebi, was regularly shifting her eyes to me and back to an empty seat at the other end of the table. May, the Medusa, was nervously twittering her fingers. Only Aria, the Lamia, and Basilisk I had not met, both sitting to my right, appeared calm.

<p class="MsoNormal">“So…is one of us going to tell him?” Hibana whispered.

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria smirked, “If I were you I’d keep my mouth shut. Mom didn’t seem too happy you two skipped out on your house working to chase a man, leaving poor Yuri here to have to clean most of it herself.” She draped her arm around the Basilisk shoulder.

<p class="MsoNormal">May slammed her fist on the table, “You’re one to talk! You completely skipped out on hunting! Now we don’t have a big feast to welcome the new husband!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Husband?!” I say in shock.

<p class="MsoNormal">“That’s right!” The Echidna says as she slithers into the room. All the other Lamia’s immediately stiffen in their seats. “Oh relax girls, let’s just enjoy our dinner while I go over what’s going to happen. By the way, human, my name is Sheryl.”

<p class="MsoNormal">She slowly slithered her way to me, gently placing a plate of some sort of cooked meat and vegetables to me before doing the same for the rest of her family. While they began to, albeit nervously eat, I was hesitant.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Please, eat, human.” Sheryl said, “Once you begin, I’ll be more than happy to explain the situation to you.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I paused for a moment, noticing all eyes were on me. I was not bound to this table sure, but I had no idea where I was. Certainly a ways away from home. So odds are fleeing was out of the question. If they had any intentions of truly hurting me, they’d have done something by now. Perhaps it’d be best to simply stick around and see what they wanted, though if the sisters arguing was any indicator, my fate was clear.

<p class="MsoNormal">I began to eat, which pleased Sheryl, “How is it?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Good.” I say, still worried.

<p class="MsoNormal">To my left, Hibana blushed.

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria rolled her eyes, “You know he’s just saying that because he’s scared, right Hibi?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“T-that’s not true! You think my cooking’s good, right, human?” Hibana asked nervously.

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl cleared her throat, “I’ll just cut to the chase, human. My daughters need a husband to carry on the family line, and you happen to be the one they found.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sherly let me take that in, as if waiting the question she knew I had, “I guess…I guess this means were far out if I’m the only man you’ve come across.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sherly nodded, “Indeed. But please, don’t worry. Who you marry is entirely up to you, and when you do decide, I will guide you back to your town.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“…okay.” I say solemnly.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Wow, that was easy.” Aria said in shock, “So who’re you gonna marry?”

<p class="MsoNormal">The entire table glared at her. Sheryl took a deep breath, “Come, human, I’ll take you to your room.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I wordlessly followed her throughout the house, now realizing it was more of mansion than a simply house. “By the way, what’s your name?” Sheryl asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Thomas.” I say as we stepped into my room.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Well, Thomas, I know this is all certainly a shock, but please know that we are in desperate need of a husband right now.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Where’s yours?” I ask.

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl goes quiet, “He…ran from us.” I resisted the urge to scoff, though Sheryl still noticed, “Please, Thomas!” She a position I could only assume was akin to kneeling, “You must continue this line! I wish we had met under better circumstances, but I assure you we will provide the best for you! All I ask is that you continue our line!”

<p class="MsoNormal">I felt weak in the face of her sudden sincerity, but what she said next sealed it for me, “If, for whatever reason you don’t choose within a year, I will take you back to your village.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I took a deep breath and sealed my fate for the next year, “Okay.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl suddenly embraced me, “Wonderful!” As we parted, she then reached into her robe before handing me what looked to be some sort of belt. I felt pale as I realized what it was.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I will know you’ll have chosen a wife when you’ve blessed her with your seed, but being mamono, I’m sure you know they might not always be willing to wait for your approval. The combination is ‘1579,’ okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I did the combination, and the belt snapped open. I snapped it back into place and swallowed, “Okay.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Good! Now, get some sleep. You and I will be chopping wood tomorrow.” With that, she turned to leave, but not before a quick “Good night.” I doubt I was going to sleep well that night.

<p class="MsoNormal">My sleep was disturbed by the sensation of being squeezed. In the darkness, I saw May wrapped around my arm. I would’ve jumped out of the bed had she not coiled herself around me.

<p class="MsoNormal">“What are you doing?!” I whispered in shock.

<p class="MsoNormal">Even in the darkness I could see May blush, “I…I got cold. I had to go out to…you know… and you’re room was the closest so…” I felt her hand rub the chastity belt,

<p class="MsoNormal">As trace amount of moonlight crept in, I was May was naked. “You know…I heard if you sleep nude with someone you share body heat more efficiently.”

<p class="MsoNormal">With a sharp tug, the chastity belt suddenly sprang open. I realized I had never scrambled to code before, mentally cursed myself for that stupidity.

<p class="MsoNormal">May smirked and positioned herself so she was on top of me, her hands slowly tracing downwards to my pants, but she stopped. While her face was beet red, her hands were cold and clammy.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Y-you can do this May. J-just take it out and p-put it in and…and…” May whispered, her voice and body shaking before falling next to me and wrapping herself around me again, “I can’t do it!” May whined.

<p class="MsoNormal">The following hours were awkward to say the least. May sniveled and apologized well into the night before we finally drifted off. I awoke to light tapping on my door, and I opened my eyes just in time to see Sheryl slither in, her warm smile turned to surprise upon seeing who was in my bed.

<p class="MsoNormal">“May!” She shouted.

<p class="MsoNormal">May got up with a jolt, “Mom! Uh, this isn’t what it looks like! I-I couldn’t even-”

<p class="MsoNormal">“I can see that! May, this is Thomas’ choice, I raised you better than this. Now get out so he can get dressed.” May quickly slithered out.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hah! Called it!” I heard Aria say from down the hall.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Shut up, you told me to do it!” May shouted back.

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl rolled her eyes and poked her head down the hall, “Both of you are doing all the housework for this! You need to give every girl here a fair chance!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“But I had a bet with Hibana that if May had the guts to sneak into Thomas’ room I’d get to do the hunting today!” Aria said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I don’t care about your bets! And after yesterday you really expect me to let you do the hunting today?!”

<p class="MsoNormal">I could hear Aria groan as Sheryl fully slithered in, holding a bundle of clothes. “They normally never get like this, I assure you. It’s just that this is the first time we’ve ever had a man around since their father, so they’re a little anxious. Please, get dressed and meet me downstairs. Don’t worry about the belt today, it’ll just be you and me.”

<p class="MsoNormal">By some miracle I managed to not get lost making it down the stairs and back to the dining room were bread and water awaited me. As I had the simple breakfast, I saw Hibana and Yuri exiting the front door with bows and spears, Sheryl giving them both a hug before they left.

<p class="MsoNormal">While May was waiting next to her mother with a bucket of water and some towels, Aria was nowhere to be seen. Sheryl tapped the tip of her tail impatiently against the hardwood floor of the house, “Aria! Thomas and I are leaving! Come down and help your sister with the chores!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Coming!” Aria said as she soon made her way to the steps.

<p class="MsoNormal">As soon as she made her way into view, Sheryl rolled her eyes followed by May whining, “Oh come on!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria was dressed in what could only be described as a sexy maid outfit, and as she slowly slithered down the steps, she never broke eye contact with me. Her saunter was broken when May shoved the bucket of water in her hands and threw the towels on her head. May’s face was a deep red.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Forget this! I’m doing the dusting! You can clean!” May pouted as she snatched the feather duster from Aria and stormed to a nearby room.

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria however seemed fine with this calmly removing the towel from her head and shrugging, “Well, you two have fun logging.” She smiled at me, “By the way, think you can help me with this bucket of water? It’s a bit too heavy.” As if to emphasize this the bent her back down, placing the bucket hard on the floor and giving me ample view of her cleavage, smirking the whole time.

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl was quick to grab my arm, and take with her outside. The first thing that hit me was the sheer cold of the morning. I knew the temperature had been dropping, but this felt more like winter then autumn. Were we high up in the mountains? Sheryl motioned me to help her with the empty cart for the wood, and I did so. Walking through the forest, and the wind, unhindered by the now numerous tree stumps seemed to bite through my furred clothes, a thought suddenly entered my mind.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Are you all okay up here? With this cold I mean.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl smiled at me, “We’re a bit more resilient then we look, as long as we have enough food and wood we can last through the winter without much difficulty. I can only recall one time we ever needed to go to a neighboring village for help, granted that was when Michael was around…” Sheryl’s smile faded to a somber expression.

<p class="MsoNormal">I tried to change the subject, “So, Hibana and Yuri are out hunting?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl perked up once again, “Oh yes! Hibana might not look it, being a Shirohebi and all, but she’s a skilled huntress, probably the best of my daughters. Figures, as she’s the eldest.” She giggled, “Don’t be too shocked if you see her covered in blood after a hunt, let’s just say she’s not afraid to get dirty.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Never thought a Shirohebi could get so violent.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Violent? Oh sweetie, it’s not so much that she’s violent, but rather the beast around here are pretty tough to put down. When you go out hunting with them, be sure to be careful, okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I shuddered. “I will. And what about Yuri?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yuri’s the second eldest. Don’t tell Hibana I said this, but I think Yuri’s the better huntress between the two. While the beast here are thought to put down, she does so with effortless grace. While Hibana might be slick with gore after a hunt, Yuri comes back with hardly a scratch on her.

<p class="MsoNormal">“She’s that good? I though Basilisks were blind.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl laughs, “The things you humans make up about mamono. Basilisks aren’t blind, but their eyes produce a powerful magic that drains spirit energy out from those they see, and as I’m sure you know, you want to keep that in you to prevent any…embarrassments. As such, they keep a mask on almost all times to prevent themselves from harming others, and can normally only see heat signatures and spirit energy.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl waves her hand, “Not to worry though, Yuri is a strong woman, and has no qualms keeping her mask on.” Looking up at the clear blue sky, she smiles, “Yes, while all four of them are my pride and joy, I must say I’m especially proud of Hibana and Yuri. I don’t think those two will have much trouble winning over your heart.” She then turns back to me, “Aria and May on the other hand could use some improvement.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Aria really seems determined to get me, more so then the other girls. Well, except for what May tried to do last night.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl laughs, “May’s still very green when it comes to men, but don’t let her timid nature fool you, she’s probably the most frisky out of my daughters. Probably has to do with being the youngest of the bunch. As for Aria, she’s the middle child, and is a little worried about losing her luster before the other girls. I try to tell that she’s still young and has her whole life ahead of her, but she just can’t help but feel so anxious. Poor girl just doesn’t get it, I was well in my thirties when I met Michael…”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl trailed off, but fortunately it was only for a moment before coming to a stop. “Oh, we’re here already? Times flies when you’re shooting the breeze I guess. Here.” She hands me an axe. “Do you know how to chop down a tree, it’s okay if you don’t. No offense but you don’t look like the lumberjack type anyway.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“It can’t be that hard, right?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Right! Allow me to demonstrate!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl then moved to a nearby tree, sizing it up, before raising her axe and taking a swing. At first I thought she missed, but then with a light push the tree fell with a loud thud. She cleaved it in two with a single swing.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Now you try.” Sheryl said, motioning to the tree behind me.

<p class="MsoNormal">Turning to the tree, I took aim with my axe and swung. It felt like my arms would break as soon as I made contact with the tree. Sheryl laughed as I turned red with embarrassment. “Maybe chopping them while they’re down will be a bit easier for you. Just leave cutting them down first to me, okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Time seemed to fade as we went about chopping. While I went about chopping, Sheryl, without fail, would always fall her trees in a single blow. The cold air quickly became hot as we set about our work, both of us shedding our furred coats, leaving them to hang on the cart. At some point during my second log, and by this point Sheryl assisted in chopping logs of her own, she spoke up again.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I think you’ll make a great father someday, you know that?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“How can you tell?” I asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl smiled, “I’m an Echidna, we’re naturals at seeing parenthood in our mates and others. We see all the hallmarks of good parents. Kindness, patience, humility…”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sounds like things normal good people ought to have.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl shrugged, “Maybe, but more than that, my daughter’s husband ought to be able to…function well too.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Before I could ask her to clarify, she was suddenly coiling herself from behind me, her hands rubbing my shoulders and her long tongue tracing my face, “Maybe I should check to see if you’re able to keep up with my dear daughters? What do you say? Don’t worry, think of it like an endurance test, although I haven’t laid with a man since Michael left all those years ago. Do you know what that does to a woman, to a mamono?” She giggled, her hand tracing closer to over the waistline of my pants. “Come on, they don’t have to know.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I took a deep breath, or as deep as I could with her squeezing me so tight, “If I am to marry one of your daughters, or anyone for that manner, I don’t want an affair to stain my conscience.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh, do you mean that?” Sheryl asked, “Come on, I have years of experience pleasing men. Well, one man, but let’s be real, you all aren’t that different. My daughters are inexperience however, and besides, once you’re married or even have your mind set on who it’ll be, I’d never betray them like that. You’ll get to lay with an Echidna, for purely non-procreation purposes. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity, one many men would kill for.”

<p class="MsoNormal">She then wasted no time plunging one of her hands down my pants, groping my manhood, “Knowing this, knowing how much you’re body wants it, are still going to go with what you said?”

<p class="MsoNormal">My body did crave her. Despite the chill, her hand was very warm, her touch was expertise. I felt my mind beginning to go numb, but I managed to gather enough strength to respond. “Yes.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I was suddenly released, and had to steady myself on the log for support. Turning back, I saw Sheryl, tears in her eyes. Not from sadness or anger, but from happiness.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Very good. Very good, Thomas.” She took a deep breath, “Not only do you have the traits of a good father, but also of a good husband to be so loyal and firm. Yes, you’ll be the perfect fit for my daughters.” She cleared her throat, pointing in between my legs, “Now, if you want to take care of that, please do go ahead and do so. In fact I’d recommend you do, just so my daughters don’t sense any leftover spirit energy and get even antsier. I apologize for getting you that way, but surely you understand.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, I get it. Thank you.”

<p class="MsoNormal">With that I quickly walked past her and a bit deeper into the forest. I didn’t do this to take care of that business she spoke of, because I was already calming down with a sinking thought, one that I really needed some air over. While I was grateful I could be seen as a good husband to these girls, there was one thing I did not see, one thing I was petrified of about myself under these circumstances.

<p class="MsoNormal">I did not want to be a father.

<p class="MsoNormal">I wandered deeper into the forest, trying to collect my thoughts. How would Sheryl and the girls feel when I told them that? It had to be when, right? This isn’t just something I could hide from them. Who do I tell first? Will they tell the others? What will happen to me when the others know? As I walked deeper and deeper into the forest, getting lost in my thoughts, I knew I was certainly getting lost in this forest. But maybe that was for the best, given how my mind was jumping to worst case scenarios with this Lamia family.

<p class="MsoNormal">I felt my foot suddenly make contact with running water. I jump, expecting an icy chill to leak through my boot, only to feel it be surprisingly warm. Almost pleasantly so.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh, what are you doing out here?” A voice called to my left, I recognized it as Hibana’s.

<p class="MsoNormal">I looked to her direction, only to see that she was bathing, and immediately averted my gaze.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry! I didn’t know you were-”

<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s fine, it’s fine. I’m covered, so feel free to look.” Her voice was rather…inviting, as if teasingly daring me to do so. And against my better judgment, I did.

<p class="MsoNormal">She was indeed covering herself with her snake half, albeit with the very tip of her tail covering her womanhood. With her hands behind her back, she made no attempt to hide her breasts. Not that the blood and viscera didn’t provide its own sort of censoring coating, painting her in a combination of red and white that was slowly washing downstream from the river.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Don’t be alarmed by all the blood. I don’t know if mom told you, but I like getting…up close and personal with my prey.” She said with a smirk.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah…she did.” I say, taken aback by how much gore covered her.

<p class="MsoNormal">Her smirk faded when she noticed my discomfort, “You don’t think that’s creepy do you? Please, Thomas, I’m harmless I promise!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“I-I believe you. I knew mamono were strong but it looks like you ripped whatever it was apart.” Hibana smirked and flexed her muscles at the compliment. “What exactly was it?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Hibana shrugged, “Oh, just an Owl-bear.”

<p class="MsoNormal">My eyes widened, “Just an Owl-bear? By yourself?” It took a large group of men from my village just to slay one.

<p class="MsoNormal">Hibana smiled proudly, “Well, like you said, mamono are pretty strong. I haven’t hunted one in a while, thing went down after a few spears.” She pointed to the blood covered spears resting at the water’s edge. She stretched and yawned, pushing her chest out even more, “It was a nice warm up, you know?”

<p class="MsoNormal">My look of shock caused her to laugh, “Just kidding. In all honesty they’re always pretty tough to put down. But hey, it was worth it. Now we can give you a proper feast!” Hibana said cheerfully. “By the way, you’ve been chopping wood with mom all day, right?

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Hibana gave me a seductive look, “Well you must be pretty sore after all that. Why not join me for a moment?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Isn’t the water a little cold?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Hibana smiled, “Not at all. It’s nice and warm in fact. I heated it up with my own magic. Here, let me get it a little warmer for you.” She took a deep breath, then exhaled, her breath visible, yet once it hit the water, steamed erupted from around her. The clear forest was now rather misty.

<p class="MsoNormal">“There we go, granted it’s probably a little too hot for your clothes now. Might want to remove them.”

<p class="MsoNormal">The steam was thick, thick enough that I could only see her silhouette ahead. But that was all I needed to see for now, because the tip of her tail moved away from her, and back down into the water. My head was beginning to feel hazy, and I felt myself taking off my boots.

<p class="MsoNormal">“That’s right. You don’t need to stay for long. Just long enough to help my wash this blood off. I’ll be happy to massage you in return. Your shoulders must be so stiff,” I heard her giggle, “and maybe something else is too.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I practically tore off my shirt at that comment and was just beginning to remove my pants, when she spoke again, “Wouldn’t you love to do this every day when we’re together? After a long day of hunting with the kids safely at home, we’ll retreat to a nearby river for an intimate rendezvous where-”

<p class="MsoNormal">I suddenly collected my thoughts. I remembered why I wondered so deep into the forest in the first place. Amidst the heat, a sudden chill ran through me, and stopped, ankle deep in the water with my hands on my waistband.

<p class="MsoNormal">“What’s wrong, Thomas?” I heard Hibana say, the seductiveness in her voice gone.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I…I should go back to your mom.” I say.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait! We don’t need to do anything serious. We’ll just wash each other, I won’t even look, I promise!” The steam suddenly thickened and swirled, I lost sight of Hibana and even the land I should be feet from. I was quickly becoming disorientated, and Hibana was silent.

<p class="MsoNormal">A hand suddenly shot from the steam and grabbed me arm, pulling me backwards.

<p class="MsoNormal">“There you are.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I looked behind me, seeing the masked face of Yuri.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Good job, Yuri.” Sheryl said, emerging from the trees, “Now get behind me you two.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I grabbed my clothes quickly while Yuri guided me behind her mother.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hibana! You are in a lot of trouble young lady!” Sheryl shouted into the fog.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Wait, let me explain! I was just-”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl swiped her tail across the air with such force the very wind howled, glowing away the steam and even stopping the river flow. As the steam faded, Hibana was in the river, covering herself and shivering. Judging from where she was, she wasn’t too far from where I was before Yuri grabbed me.

<p class="MsoNormal">“S-so c-c-cold.” Hibana muttered.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yuri said you just went to go bathe in the river when I saw her dragging the cart of game back to the house, and while I would normally think nothing of it, because Thomas was going in that direction I had a hunch something like this would happen.” Sheryl explained.

<p class="MsoNormal">“M-m-mom I’m b-being s-s-s-serious!” Hibana shivered, “I-I wasn’t trying anything funny!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl and Yuri looked to me for an explanation, “She’s right. Besides, I was the one who wandered into her.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl looked up at the steam now dissipating in the sky, “Demon magic.” She muttered, her tone laced with disgust, “To tempt him like that!” She shouted, causing us all to jump. Hibana began to tear up. “I have half a mind to leave you out here, young lady!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl then turned to me, “You’re will is strong Thomas, but not strong enough to resist magic’s charms. I raised you better than resorting to spell to catch a man, Hibana!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Why?! It’s how you caught dad! Why do you think he left the moment you broke the spell off-”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl smacked her tail onto the ground, splintering the earth beneath her as nearby trees collapsed.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri grabbed my hand once more. “Hold on!”

<p class="MsoNormal">I had not time to question her as she dragged me off, covering ground at speeds I didn’t think possible. More amazing still, despite wearing her mask she dodge trees effortlessly, even keeping special mind to make sure I was out of harm’s way. In a blur, we were at the front porch, and May opened the door to greet us. Though her expression was initially cheerful, upon seeing Yuri’s melancholic expression and my own one of confusion and shock, she quickly ushered us in.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hibana set her off again?” May said softly.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri nodded, “Afraid so.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Are they going to be okay?” I asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri turned to me with a sad smile, “Its fine. They get like this from time to time. Hibana’s the eldest, of us, and knew our father the most. She took his departure from us the hardest.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Let me guess, Hibana tried to use magic to get into your pants?” May asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Did it work?” May asked

<p class="MsoNormal">Even under her mask I could tell Yuri rolled her eyes, “If it did this mountain side would be a pile of rubble with how angry mom would be. Still,” she turned to me, “it looked like it almost had you.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“It almost did, you came at just the right moment. Thank you.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri smiled, “Of course.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“So that’s two down now?” We all turned and saw Aria leaning against the railing upstairs with a smirk, still in her maid outfit from this morning. “Looks like it’s just you and me now, Yuri. Granted, you don’t seem too interested in him, so you might as well just let me spend tomorrow with him. I’ll be sure to chat with mom about it.”

<p class="MsoNormal">When neither May or Yuri responded, her smirk turned to confusion, “What? Why you are all so solemn? Did Hibana get hurt or something? Serves her right for getting so cocky with her hunting skills all the time.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hibana and mom got into a fight…about dad.” May softly said.

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria’s turned pale, “Oh. Uh… hey Yuri, did you bring the game cart along with you?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri shook her head, “Left it behind to get Thomas and I out of there.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry. This was my fault.” I say.

<p class="MsoNormal">“What? No, don’t say that.” Aria said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hibana just got too antsy and used her demon magic.” May said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“We’ll take care of it when they get back, in the meantime, you ought to head to your room and get some rest. Or, if you like, we have a study with plenty of books to read. I can show you there.” Yuri said, getting up and motioning me to follow her. Saying goodbye to the other girls, I did so.

<p class="MsoNormal">As wandered down hallways, past countless rooms, I couldn’t help but stare in wonder at the size of this mansion, there’s no way this place was meant for just Sheryl and her family. Yuri must’ve read my mind when she spoke.

<p class="MsoNormal">“This place can be confusing at first, but don’t be discouraged, you’ll be navigating like a pro in no time.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Why is this place so big, if you don’t mind me asking? It seems much larger than what you’re family needs.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Indeed. Being an Echidna, our mother was set on having a many children as she could. Also being an Echidna, she’s a very affluent individual, such species are sought after for their magical prowess, and my mother made a fortune selling her wares. She wanted a massive house for all the kids she could handle, it’s not uncommon for them to have children in the double digits, if you could believe that!” Yuri giggled. “It’s amazing how she kept her head straight with just us four alone, not to mention how she managed to raise us all very well.”

<p class="MsoNormal">We both became silent for a moment.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hey, don’t worry about Hibana and her. Like I said, this isn’t their first spat, and they’ll be making up by tomorrow morning. Well, mom will, Hibana’s the type to hold a grudge, so give her a few days and she’ll be back to her old self.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“That’s good to know. And you three? Will you guys be alright?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri looked down, “We’ll just be sure to be extra complacent for tonight. Looks like you won’t need to worry about having May sneak up on you again at least for tonight.” She chuckled.

<p class="MsoNormal">She then turned to large double doors, slowly opening them, I was greeted with the same orange light of the setting sun from massive windows, illuminating the study.

<p class="MsoNormal">“One of us will come for you when dinner is ready, please make yourself comfortable.” Yuri said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Would you guys like any help?” I asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri chuckled, “Know anything about cooking Owl-bears?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I smirked, “No, but I’d be happy to learn. I’d rather not be a burden.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“You got us plenty of wood today, you’re hardly a burden. Besides I’m sure Hibana or I will teach you how to cook. May’s too young and just between you and me, if Aria hands you anything she said she made, it’s probably not edible.”

<p class="MsoNormal">We both shared a laugh.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Now, is there any other question I can answer for you?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I thought back to my thoughts in the forest. Maybe Yuri would be the best person to reveal this with first. Not to mention she seems knowledgeable, I’m sure she could give me a read on what the other girls and Sheryl would think.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Just one thing. Let’s say-”

<p class="MsoNormal">Even from where we were, far from the main hall, the shouting of Hibana and Sherly reached us. Yuri paled and turned to the door.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry, but that question will have to wait. See you at dinner, Thomas. Odd are this goes without saying but don’t bring up what happened today at the dinner table.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Of course.”

<p class="MsoNormal">She nodded and quickly slithered out, shutting the door behind me. Turning around, I saw shelf after shelf of books. Maybe I could find how Lamia’s would react to a father not wanting children here, there looked to be plenty of books concerning Lamia culture after all. I picked the nearest one, and began reading.

<p class="MsoNormal">Despite combing through numerous books for the subject, I had found nothing concerning the lack of children in Lamia families. By some point the sun had fully and I had lit a few candles to serve as illumination when Yuri entered once more. I followed her back to the dining room, extinguishing the candles before I left. The dining room was even less welcoming then yesterday. Other than the clinking of silverware, no one spoke and kept their heads down. Only Sheryl looked up when Yuri and I came through, and broke the silence.

<p class="MsoNormal">“There you are. Did you enjoy in the study?” Sheryl said, trying to smile.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah. I had no idea it’d be so big, this house in general is massive. Yuri was telling me about it on the way there.”

<p class="MsoNormal">This time, Sheryl made a genuine smile, “Oh yes, this place is rather spacious. A perfect place for your children, wouldn’t you say?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“But I like being able to switch bedrooms when I get bored of one.” May said.

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl chuckled, “May, you can’t just keep taking rooms for yourself. This house will be filled before you know it.”

<p class="MsoNormal">As May and Sheryl continued to chat, I felt something squeeze my ankle. I noticed Aria making eye contact with me. Pointing with her fork, she motioned to the food, then to Hibana, who was staring down at her plate, picking at her food, her expression rather blank.

<p class="MsoNormal">I realized I hadn’t touched even touched my food yet, and was quick to dig in. “This is pretty good.” I said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I know, right?” Aria said, “Can you believe Hibana did the cooking and the hunting?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Weren’t you tired after hunting, Hibana?” I asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, not really. But it’s nice that you like it.” Hibana muttered.

<p class="MsoNormal">“When I was taking him to the study, he said he wanted to help with the cooking. Think you could show him the ropes tomorrow?” Yuri asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">The sound of clanking silverware echoed as Hibana threw hers down on her plate and stormed upstairs. Briefly, I could see tears welling up in her eyes. I don’t think any of us had any appetite to eat after that.

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria stood up, “I’ll go talk to her.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri rose up, “I think we all need to.” She said, facing May who nodded and followed Aria up the stairs.

<p class="MsoNormal">I looked to Sheryl at the end of the table, who simply had her head in her hands. I…I wasn’t sure what exactly to do, but approached her.

<p class="MsoNormal">“It’ll be alright. I’m sure they’ll be able to make up with all this.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sheryl looked up, her face wet with tears, but giving me a weak smile, “Yes. I’m sure you’re right. It’s silly of me to cry over this. This isn’t the first time it’s happened, not just with Hibana but with the other girls as well.” She took a deep breath, “Don’t worry about the dishes, I’ll take care of them. Do you need help finding your room?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“No, I think I’ll find it.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Sherly smiled, “Good. Well, good night then. You’ll be hunting with Yuri tomorrow, is that okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah. Good night, Sheryl.” I say before leaving.

<p class="MsoNormal">Wandering the halls on the upper floor, I knew it wouldn’t be too hard to find my room. I recalled that mine seemed to be close to the girls, so I simply followed the voices of all of them. I wouldn’t lie in also being curious and hoping that they were settling things over.

<p class="MsoNormal">Befittingly enough, mine was right next to Hibana’s, and from her ajar door I could see that the light was still lit. As I quietly passed by, I managed to hear what sounded like then end of the conversation.

<p class="MsoNormal">“It’ll be okay, Hibana.” I heard Yuri says.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, no hard feelings if he chooses you, okay?” Aria said.

<p class="MsoNormal">Hibana sniffled, “Thank you, all of you. Okay, let’s all work our best to win his heart.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I smiled at that, knowing they seemed to have worked passed their differences and are no longer competing for me. But as I was about to close my door, my heart stopped with what I heard.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Uh, guys, what if he doesn’t choose any of us?” May asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">The hallway went quiet.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I mean, he hasn’t tried to make a move on us or anything.” May continued. “What if he doesn’t like Lamias?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Mom will kill him then.” Aria said, her voice edging on panic.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri remained calm, “He has a year to decide, and it’s only been the first day with us. I think he still needs some time to adjust. By the way, I think mom said I’d be hunting with him tomorrow, so I’ll see what I can do.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Yeah, come to think of it, we don’t know much about him.” Aria said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“All we’ve been doing is trying to get into his pants.” May said, sounding embarrassed.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Well to be fair that’s what mom did with dad so we can’t say we learned from the best exactly.” Hibana spat.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri cleared her throat, “Well, I think that’s enough talk. We should all get some sleep. Mom will probably work us to the bone tomorrow since a storm is said to be approaching. Good night everyone.”

<p class="MsoNormal">With that, I heard them all slither out of Hibana’s room and head to their own. And we all drifted off to sleep.

<p class="MsoNormal">Just like yesterday morning, mine began with a knock on my door stirring me right when the sun was rising. Opening however, I was greeted not with Sheryl, but Yuri, who was already dressed in hunting furs.

<p class="MsoNormal">She handed me some and plenty of equipment, “Good morning. Get dressed and ready. Also, sorry but you’re going to have deal with a short breakfast, okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I took the furs, still rubbing the sleep out of my eyes, “Okay, one moment.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Making my way down, Yuri motioned for me to quickly eat the bread on the table before having us go out. Beyond Hibana trying to clean the floors in an almost sleeping state, I had not seen any of the other girls or their mother on the way out.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry for rushing you out. It’s just that with the storm coming, we need to act fast and find some food.” Yuri said as we traversed the forest. Snow was already beginning to lightly blanket the ground beneath us.

<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s alright. I’m used to it. I did a little bit of hunting back at my village.” I say, surprisingly struggling to keep up with her.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri turned back, smiling, “Oh, what did you hunt?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I chuckle, “Not Owl Bears that’s for sure. I think the biggest thing I hunted was a deer, and that was with a few friends.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri chuckled, “Well then, you might have some skill with what we’re hunting today. We’re on the trail of a Grand Mountain Stag. Think of them like really huge deer, with plating all around them, and of course razor tipped antlers.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Great, so how do we take it down?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri motioned to the pack of arrows we had slung over our back with our bows. “These are tipped with hard enough arrow heads to pierce its plating. Once it’s down, we’ll go in for the kill.” Her expression then turned serious, “I know you said you’ve been hunting before, but if you’re not comfortable with giving the final blow, you don’t have too, okay? No need to put yourself in danger or prolong the stag’s suffering.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I nodded, “Okay. Thank you.”

<p class="MsoNormal">She smiled, “Good! Nice to see you’re not some macho type. Mom choose wisely in taking you to us, she just sees the potential in someone, you know?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I turned red, thinking about Sheryl’s little ‘test’ in the forest yesterday, “Yeah. Say, other than Hibana, where are the other girls?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“In the forest getting plenty of wood. Mom said this’ll be a pretty bad storm, so we’ll need all the firewood we can get. Not to mention, most beast will be fattening up to hibernate, so they’ll be pretty aggressive.”

<p class="MsoNormal">That worried me, I had only hunted in the summer. But Yuri wrapped the end of her tail around my hand assumingly, “Don’t worry, you’re with the best huntress of the family. We do our jobs right and neither of us will come back with a single scratch!” Yuri said triumphantly.

<p class="MsoNormal">After some time wandering, Yuri suddenly stopped, raising her hand up at me to stay still.

<p class="MsoNormal">“It’s right in front of us. Do you see it?” Yuri whispered.

<p class="MsoNormal">All I saw was the brown from the trees and white from the snow around us. Yuri probably had an easier time, due being able to see the creature’s heat. Taking my silence as an answer, she gently cupped a hand under my chin and rose it slowly.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Jesus.” I whispered.

<p class="MsoNormal">With most of the vegetation buried under the snow, this thing was standing on its hindlegs to reach was leaves remained on the tall tree in front of us. The brown I was seeing was partially the tree’s trunk, but also the beast’s underbelly. Its plates were pure white, giving it very effective camouflage. But now being able to make it out somewhat clearly, I could see just how muscular this beast appeared to be under its plating, and it’s antler’s, easily enough to impale to men on a single end, it held up effortlessly. This thing was easily larger than a carriage. I couldn’t help but begin to shake.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri wrapped her tail around my ankle, “If you want to sit this out, that’s okay. It might be best for you to watch how it’s done anyway. I’ve hunted these things alone before, I’ll get it done.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I took a deep breath, “No, I want to help you.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri paused, before nodding, “Okay. It’s just like a regular deer alright? Let’s start with pelting it with arrows.” She slowly and silently got her bow and an arrow ready. I was quick to do the same. “Aim for center mass, I’ll hit the leg to keep it from running.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Got it.”

<p class="MsoNormal">The world seemed to hold its breath as we drew our bows. The Great Mountain Stag was still picking at the leaves above, blissfully unaware of its situation. I fired, and heard Yuri do the same.

<p class="MsoNormal">Mine broke on impact, but Yuri’s hit true. I swore under my breath.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Fire another one, quick!” Yuri harshly whispered, already drawing her bow once more and firing.

<p class="MsoNormal">It missed as the beast came down from its position and turned to us. Before Yuri or I could draw our bows, the beast let out a terrible bellow. It was a horrid sound I had never heard before, and even when it began to charge, I was glued to the ground.

<p class="MsoNormal">I felt Yuri grab me as we narrowly avoid the beast. “Thomas, we need to move! Spread out!”

<p class="MsoNormal">We split in opposite directions as the beats turned and charged us once more. I began moving for a tree to climb.

<p class="MsoNormal">I heard Yuri shout, “No!”

<p class="MsoNormal">At first I thought the stag and got her, but then I felt something hit my back, and saw an antler sticking from beneath my arm. Thankfully it only managed to get the fur, but now I was pinned to this beast as it went head first into a tree.

<p class="MsoNormal">I can’t describe the pain of the impact. Only that the world around me seemed to go gray and my ears were ringing. But even above that, I heard Yuri shout at the beast. My world was suddenly a blur as I was thrashed on the stag’s antlers before flying. The snow wasn’t thick enough to break my fall as I landed and rolled not too far from the monster. Yuri was charging from behind, but received a swift kick from its hind hooves that sent her flying into a nearby tree. It then turned to me, and approached. Amazingly Yuri was quick to rise up, but it was clear she was in a lot of pain. The stag was now over me, raising a hoof to stomp me.

<p class="MsoNormal">Only for that hoof to be wrapped around a snake’s tail as it was pulled away. It was May. Yuri wrapped herself around the beast’s body while May and Aria continued with its legs. The last thing I saw before passing out was Sheryl wrapping her tail around its neck, as a magnificent snap drifted me off to unconsciousness.

<p class="MsoNormal">Muffled voices began to stir me awake.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Do you think he’ll be okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I felt something warm surrounded me.

<p class="MsoNormal">“We put all our energy into this spring, if this doesn’t do it…then…”

<p class="MsoNormal">The voices were becoming clearer.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I think he’s begin to wake up!” Hibana said excitedly.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Should…should I tell him that when mom was undressing him I saw his…you know…his…” May stammered.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Grower or shower?” Aria asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I don’t know!” May whined.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri shushed them, “Quiet, he’s getting up.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I slowly opened my eyes. Looking up, I saw stars above me, but steam was catching my peripheral vision. I moved my head down, towards where the voices were. I was in a spring, not far from the back of the house. In front of me were all the girls. It only took me a second to realize they were naked, and I quickly turned away.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Oh don’t be like that. We’ve got no problem having you see us like this. Well, at least I don’t.” Hibana said as I slowly turned back.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Besides, you seem to like it too.” Aria said as she slowly slithered forward, her eyes looking down. I quickly covered myself as Aria let out a low whistle, “We’ve got a shower. How about I take care of it?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri got between us, her mask was still on. “You okay?”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Still a little sore, but other than that, I’m good.” I say.

<p class="MsoNormal">She smiled, “Good. Now, if you aren’t comfortable with us being here-”

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria wrapped her hand over Yuri’s mouth, “Oh don’t pull that crap! Come on, Yuri, live a little! He’s a single man. Surrounded by a bunch of mamono. In a hot spring!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Hibana slithered forward, one arm wrapped around mine while the other moved down my chest. “You know, if you’re sore, I wouldn’t mind making you feel better. I still want too after yesterday even.”

<p class="MsoNormal">May slithered forward, her eyes were glued to mine as she took a deep breath. One of her hands suddenly shot down the water and grabbed my member. May’s face turned beat red as she gripped it. The girls stared at her in shock.

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria began laughing, “Wow, May! Way to take the initiative!”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Indeed,” Hibana began, her hand moving down and also gripping me, “now you just need to gently stroke it, up and down, like this.”

<p class="MsoNormal">I gasped at Hibana’s gentle touched, which May began to mimic.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Girls, wait.” I manage to get out.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Ooh? Feeling pent up with all these hot women around you? Go ahead, let it all out. Once we got a good rhythm going I think we’ll be able milk you dry.” Aria said with a grin as she let go of Yuri’s mouth.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri moved in.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Hungry for his seed, Yuri?” Aria asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri’s tail whipped across Aria’s face, sending her back. “What the hell, Yuri?!”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri then grabbed Hibana’s and May’s wrist, and a chilling cold began to form around my lap. Hibana and May tore their hands back.

<p class="MsoNormal">“No! If it gets too cold you’ll shrink it!” Hibana whined.

<p class="MsoNormal">May simply stared at her hand, her face a deep red.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Isn’t it obvious to any of you that he’s not enjoying this?” Yuri asked in disgust.

<p class="MsoNormal">Hibana, May, and Aria stopped, looking at me, finally noticing my discomfort. “Thank you, Yuri.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“How do you know? Look, he’s clearly up!” Aria asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri put her hand to my chest, “His heart’s going wild. And not in the way dad’s did when he was with mom.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Well, sometimes with mom.” Hibana added.

<p class="MsoNormal">“That’s no fair! You read his heat signature!” May whined.

<p class="MsoNormal">“And what, you girls can’t read his face? He clearly has something he wanted to say before you all started to jump him.” Yuri said, I could feel her glare under her mask.

<p class="MsoNormal">The other girls looked down, feeling it too.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Sorry Thomas, guess we got too excited.” Hibana said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“M-my bad.” May stuttered.

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria looked to the other girls, then Yuri, then to me, and sighed, “Sorry, just wanted to have a good time.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri turned back to me, “What is it that you wanted to say?”

<p class="MsoNormal">I took a deep breath. “Even if I want to be with any of you…I…I don’t want to have children.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Everything went quiet.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Why not?” May asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">I shrugged, “Just…not for me I guess.”

<p class="MsoNormal">May went quiet for a moment, “I’m, uh, getting cold. See you all inside.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“I’m cool with it!” Aria said as she wrapped herself around me, “Yeah, that way we can have all the time to each other! No kids to bother us, no-”

<p class="MsoNormal">“Quit lying to yourself, Aria.” Hibana said.

<p class="MsoNormal">“I-I’m not!” Aria shouted.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Aria,” I say. She quickly turns and looks into me, “You shouldn’t change yourself to fit into a relationship. You find someone who likes you for you.”

<p class="MsoNormal">Aria took in my words, before slithering off, looking somewhat dejected.

<p class="MsoNormal">Hibana sighed, “Well, you seem pretty steadfast in that. So I guess I’ll be going too, someone need to make sure those two don’t tell mom about this.”

<p class="MsoNormal">As she exited the springs, she smiled as she looked at Yuri, “And mom said you’d never find such a man. Have fun, and make it look as convincing as possible.” With a giggle, she left for the house.

<p class="MsoNormal">I looked at Yuri in shock, who was simply smiling, “You too?” I asked.

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri nodded, before wrapping me in a tight embrace. “Mom did choose well, just not in the way she expected.”

<p class="MsoNormal">“So, how are we going to ‘make it convincing’?”

<p class="MsoNormal">Yuri cupped my face with one hand, gripping me in the other. “Well, you’re going to fill me to bursting with the seed I crave, and I’m going to take some special plants afterwards. They grow all over the mountain, so don’t worry. Although I’ll need to pick some every morning now.” She chuckled.

<p class="MsoNormal">“Does that just work for women or can it work for men?”

<p class="MsoNormal">She shrugged and grinned, “We can find out. But don’t worry about that, or about my mother for that matter. We’ll think of something. More importantly,” she removed her mask, letting me finally see her beautiful face, “I know I always carry myself with an air of composure, but I have sex drive that put’s Aria’s to shame.”

<p class="MsoNormal">And so our night of love was spent, under the stars and in the heat of the embrace of our bodies.