NOVEL WEB Chapter 5: Chapter : 5 : The Proposal!
Aiden gazed at the vast blue sky above as they walked through the stone pathway, flanked by towering goblin guards. The cool breeze brushed his face, and for a moment, he lost himself in thought.
"So… The sky is blue in this world, huh," Aiden murmured softly. Even though his past life remained a blur, small fragments like the color of the sky lingered.
Luna's ears perked up, twitching at his voice. "You said something, Master?" she asked, tilting her head with a gentle smile.
"No—nothing important," Aiden replied, his voice distant.
"Okay~" Luna hummed, leaning closer to him, her tail swaying gently behind her.
----
Their path eventually led them to an enormous stone door, towering high above them, its surface etched with ancient goblin runes that pulsed with faint green light. Goblin guards stood tall — well, as tall as goblins could — their weapons clutched tightly, their beady eyes watching the pair with a mix of curiosity and caution.
The goblin leading their small convoy stepped forward, whispering something in the guttural goblin tongue to the guards. Aiden couldn't make out the words — though he figured he probably could if he activated the system again.
He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. These goblins… they're not mindless beasts. They're organized. Intelligent.
The heavy doors creaked open, stone grinding against stone, revealing what lay beyond.
A goblin fortress.
The moment they entered, Aiden's sharp eyes took in the surroundings — high ceilings, towering stone walls, and a bustling training ground off to the side. Goblin soldiers, some scarred and hardened, were locked in combat drills. Others stood in circles, chanting incantations, their claws swirling mana into visible spells.
"Master…" Luna whispered, pressing her shoulder against his as they walked, "they can use magic."
"I see it." Aiden's eyes narrowed. "More advanced than I thought."
Luna leaned in closer, her tail brushing against his leg as she whispered directly into his ear, "Something's off with these ropes."
He blinked, shifting slightly to look at her. "What do you mean?"
"I can't break them. It's like they're… resisting me." Her brows furrowed in frustration, her beastkin strength usually enough to snap any mundane restraint.
System, Aiden thought, summoning the familiar blue screen, what's going on with these ropes?
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[NOTICE: BINDING MAGIC DETECTED]
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So, that's it… Aiden smirked.
Can you nullify it? He asked.
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[COMMAND CONFIRMED. WOULD YOU LIKE TO NULLIFY THE SPELL?]
→ YES | NO
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"Cool! Do it. And include Luna," Aiden commanded.
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[ATTENTION: SPELL NULLIFIED]
You can now break the ropes at will.
----
He flexed his wrists experimentally, feeling the tension loosen beneath the surface. The ropes didn't snap, but they were no longer enchanted.
"Luna," he whispered, "try it now."
She wriggled her wrists, feeling the difference immediately. "Master! It's normal again!" she whispered excitedly, her amber eyes sparkling with admiration. She beamed at him. "Don't tell me… you did something?"
Aiden shot her a smug look. "Of course."
Her heart fluttered. "Master… you're amazing. I swear, you keep giving me more reasons to love you." Her tail swished behind her, betraying her flustered excitement.
He chuckled, "Save the flattery for later."
Luna grinned, though her gaze didn't leave him.
----
In The King's Court
The vast throne room echoed with tension, its towering stone pillars etched with ancient goblin runes, each telling tales of wars, alliances, and betrayals. Torches flickered along the walls, their flames casting dancing shadows that added to the heavy atmosphere. At the end of the hall, upon a grand throne of dark iron and bone, sat King Kragg Grimclaw—the ruler of the Grimclaw Kingdom.
The Goblin King was an imposing figure, his broad, muscular frame commanding the attention of everyone in the hall. His skin was a deep, rugged green, marred by scars that spoke of countless battles. His left eye was permanently shut, a thick, jagged scar running from his temple to his jaw—trophies of a fight long past. Despite the injury, his remaining eye gleamed with authority and cunning. Heavy armor adorned his body, plates of blackened steel etched with tribal patterns. A massive battle axe rested against his throne, its blade chipped yet still fearsome.
Beside him, seated on a smaller but equally ornate throne, was a vision that starkly contrasted the king's brutal form.
Princess Lysandra Grimclaw.
She radiated an ethereal beauty that was almost surreal. Her lustrous, golden hair cascaded down her back in gentle waves, its vibrant color gleaming under the torchlight. Delicate yet sharp features framed her face—a soft, slender jawline, high cheekbones with a faint blush, and full lips. Her emerald-green skin shimmered with a smooth, satin-like luster, her flawless complexion highlighting her radiant beauty. Her eyes, a brilliant amber, flickered with curiosity and intelligence, though a subtle trace of loneliness lingered within them.
She wore a gown, its silk fabric hugging her curvaceous figure—ample breasts pressed against the tight bodice, while the dress flared at her slender waist, emphasizing the soft swell of her hips. Her legs, long and toned, peeked through a slit on one side of the dress, revealing smooth, glistening skin. She sat with elegance, but the moment her amber gaze flickered toward the doors, an unmistakable spark of interest lit within them.
The tension was palpable.
The goblin ministers stood tall on either side of the aisle, their hunched forms draped in ceremonial robes. Each one bore an expression of worry, their murmurings filling the hall.
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[GOBLIN MINISTERS MURMURING]
"We need someone strong… or this kingdom is doomed."
"Humans are unreliable… but what choice do we have?"
"The princess… I can see it already—she's curious about whoever they brought."
----
The grand wooden doors creaked open with a deep rumble, the sound echoing across the vast stone hall. All eyes turned toward the entrance, where a lone goblin minion walked in, his small green feet slapping against the polished floor. He marched to the center of the room and slammed the butt of his spear against the ground.
"All hail the Goblin King!" the goblin announced, bowing deeply with unwavering respect.
King Kragg Grimclaw. He lifted his heavy head and spoke in a gravelly voice, "You may speak."
"My King, the scouting party has returned… and they've brought strong outsiders with them."
King Kragg's interest piqued, a subtle glint in his eye. "Send them in."
The minion bowed again. "As you wish, my King."
He scurried out, and moments later, the doors opened once more. Aiden and Luna were led inside, their hands still bound with thick ropes. The goblin guards tugged them forward, holding the rope ends tightly. The entire hall was filled with goblins—warriors, ministers, and even a few curious nobles—all of whom bowed deeply toward their king as the captives approached.
The goblin in charge stepped forward. "We believe we have found the ones you spoke of. This man holds immense Mana within him, and the Beastkin at his side… she is equally formidable."
King Kragg leaned forward on his throne, his tusks protruding further as he studied the pair. "Bring them closer."
The goblins tugged the ropes, guiding Aiden and Luna toward the throne. Aiden's calm gaze met the King's, while Luna's tail flicked irritably, her ears twitching at the murmurs filling the room.
"Welcome to my kingdom," the King boomed. "I am Kragg Grimclaw. If my subjects have been… rough, I apologize."
Luna's blue eyes burned with irritation as she pointed at one of the goblins who had poked her earlier. "That one had a lot of guts," she growled.
The goblin In question tried to shrink into the crowd.
Aiden chuckled before looking back at the king. "Can we break out of these ropes now? I'm guessing you didn't drag us here just to kill us."
Gasps filled the room.
"Insolent fool! How dare you speak so casually to our King!" one minister barked.
"Rude!" snapped another.
But the King merely laughed, a deep, booming sound that filled the hall. "I like this one." He gestured at the guards. "Release them."
The goblins hesitated, but before they could move, Aiden smirked. "No need."
With a single pull, Aiden snapped the ropes binding his wrists as if they were paper. Luna followed suit, easily tearing through her restraints. She rubbed her wrists, a triumphant grin spreading across her face.
"My hands were itching," Luna declared proudly.
The entire hall went silent, the goblins wide-eyed with disbelief.
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[GOBLIN MINISTERS MURMURING]
"They broke a Level Five Binding Spell—"
"Impossible! Not even our elite could do that!"
"Is that man a mage? No, that was pure strength!"
"Or… are they blessed by the old gods?"
"Such power… it's unnatural!"
----
Even King Kragg's eyes widened before an amused grin overtook his features. He burst into hearty laughter. "You are the one I've been searching for."
Aiden crossed his arms. "Mind telling me what this is all about?"
Luna, still fuming from earlier but softening near Aiden, added sweetly, "Yes, what Master said!" Her tail wagged gently behind her as she pressed a little closer to him.
Before the King could answer, Aiden's gaze drifted to the side—where a striking figure sat in silence.
She was unlike the others—tall and graceful, her long golden hair cascading down her back in soft waves. Her green skin shimmered faintly under the torchlight, her features both fierce and delicate. Her emerald eyes met Aiden's briefly before she shyly turned her head away, a faint blush spreading across her cheeks.
"Well," Aiden smirked, "who's the beautiful lady sitting next to you?"
Luna's jaw dropped. "Master!" she hissed, puffing out her cheeks in a jealous pout.
The King chuckled. "That is my daughter, Lysandra Grimclaw. My most precious treasure."
Lysandra's hands fidgeted in her lap, her face flushed, though she dared to glance at Aiden again.
"Hmm," the King continued, "if you can help my people, I will grant you her hand in marriage."
Luna's jaw dropped again. "WHAT?!" Her ears shot straight up, her fur bristling in disbelief.
"Luna…" Aiden warned with a soft chuckle.
She crossed her arms, pouting harder now, her tail swishing aggressively. "This isn't fair! I don't even get a say?!"
Aiden shot her a playful grin. "We'll talk later."
Lysandra, meanwhile, bit her lip, hiding a growing smile. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity, clearly interested in the human before her. Even the goblin ministers weren't oblivious.
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[GOBLIN MINISTERS MURMURING]
"She's blushing… she likes him!"
"Impossible—our princess has always rejected suitors."
"Is this human really that charming?"
"That Beastkin looks jealous!"
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"Sir, may I ask your names and who is she to you?" King Kragg rumbled, his deep voice echoing through the hall. His sharp eye focused on Aiden, but there was a flicker of curiosity when it briefly landed on Luna.
Aiden paused, his gaze thoughtful as he considered his answer. Then, with a confident smile, he spoke, "My name is Aiden Nightshade. I am a Beast Tamer."
The room fell Into a stunned silence.
"And this," Aiden continued, tilting his head toward Luna, "is Luna Nightshade. My precious beast… someone I deeply adore."
Luna's ears twitched, her heart skipping a beat. Her blue eyes sparkled as she stared up at him, the corners of her mouth lifting in pure joy. "Master…" she whispered, her voice trembling with emotion. Her tail wagged uncontrollably behind her as her cheeks flushed pink, her feelings for Aiden growing even stronger.
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[GOBLIN MINISTERS MURMURING]
"A Beast Tamer?!"
"One of the rarest classes!"
"Legend says they can form unbreakable bonds with powerful beasts."
"He must be insanely strong to have a Beastkin so loyal!"
"Not just loyal… look at her! She's completely devoted to him."
"And the way he called her precious… Is there something more there?"
----
King Kragg's single eye widened, and even Lysandra, seated beside him, straightened in her chair, her emerald gaze locked on Aiden with newfound intrigue. Her soft blush deepened as she studied him more intently.
"A Beast Tamer…" the King muttered, then slammed his fist onto the armrest. "This is perfect!"
Lysandra clutched her hands to her chest, her breathing quickening. Her gaze drifted to Luna, noticing the Beastkin's flushed face and sparkling eyes. A sly smile formed on the goblin princess's lips as she caught on to Luna's growing affections—though the Beastkin was clearly too caught up in Aiden to notice.
"I beg of you," King Kragg continued, his tone turning serious, "please save our people!"
The heavy atmosphere in the hall shifted. Ministers, who moments ago had scoffed at Aiden, now lowered their heads in sorrow. Even Lysandra's proud composure cracked as her eyes filled with tears, shimmering but refusing to fall.
Aiden, however, let out a sudden laugh.
It echoed through the hall, sharp and unexpected.
Gasps of disbelief followed.
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[GOBLIN MINISTERS MURMURING]
"He's laughing?!"
"Disrespectful human!"
"How dare he laugh at our suffering?"
"Arrogant fool!"
"Wait… the Beastkin is laughing too?!"
----
Luna giggled beside Aiden, covering her mouth but unable to hide her amusement.
"Rude!" one minister hissed.
"Typical humans!" another spat.
But Aiden, wiping a tear from the corner of his eye, finally calmed. "Relax. I'm not laughing at your pain." He smirked, his eyes drifting toward Lysandra. "I'm laughing because this all sounds too easy."
Lysandra gasped, her hand instinctively brushing her cheek as her blush deepened. She wasn't used to this kind of boldness. Her heart raced.
"I don't really care about saving kingdoms or winning favors," Aiden continued, "but I can't stand seeing a beautiful maiden on the verge of tears."
Luna's ears flattened as her heart sank, noticing how Lysandra's eyes gleamed at Aiden's words. The goblin princess bit her lip shyly and tucked a strand of golden hair behind her ear, clearly flattered.
Aiden smirked wider. "So I'll do it. Ready to marry me, Princess?"
The hall exploded into chaos.
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[GOBLIN MINISTERS MURMURING]
"He just… proposed?"
"The princess is blushing! Look at her!"
"She's into him… isn't she?"
"Even the Beastkin looks furious—look at her ears twitching!"
"Is this guy charming both of them?"
----
Lysandra's face lit up as she hesitated, then gave a soft nod, her quivering lips forming the faintest of smiles. Her golden hair cascaded over her shoulders as she dipped her head in silent approval, her green skin now tinged with pink at her cheeks.
Luna's tail thumped against the ground as she clenched her fists at her sides, trying not to explode. "Master… this is getting out of hand!" she grumbled.
But when Aiden glanced back at her, a soft grin on his face, her frustration melted. Her heart raced at his next words.
"I've already got my precious girl," he said softly, causing Luna's ears to perk up again, "but what's the harm in gaining one more?"
Luna's face burned red, and despite her earlier protests, she smiled. "Master…" she whispered again, her heart overflowing.
King Kragg burst into laughter. "I like you, kid. Bold and strong! If you succeed, my daughter is yours."
Aiden crossed his arms. "Good. Now tell me—who am I fighting?"
King Kragg's face turned grim. "The one you must face is a—"
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END OF CHAPTER : 5 : THE PROPOSAL!