671 Jack Got Caught... (1/2)

'Who is it?' Jack sent out a general telepathic message, like sending a chat for the world to see.

'May I come in?'

Recognizing the voice, Jack chuckled, 'Hurry up while there's still food!'

Raztol then entered the private abode and bowed before saying a word. 'Please, let me thank you for protecting my people.'

'There's no need to--'

'Jack, I must do this,' insisted Raztol, keeping his head and torso bowed. 'With humility, please accept my gratitude as the hydra head for the security and peace you've allowed my people to maintain during the visit of deities. It is something that we could never accomplish while so many deities have arrived to possibly threaten our existence.'

'Mom, did you get him worried too?' Jack asked.

Raztol continued, 'No, I'm doing this of my own accord. If there is anything that I can offer you in return for your aid, please make it known. No matter the cost, I must thank you for keeping my people safe.'

'Hurry up and grab a platter!' shouted Jack. 'If you don't join us for some food, then I'll kick you out.'

'... Very well…' Sighing, Raztol sat on the opposite couch as the only one in hydra form. Despite his size, he began to carefully select small portions of a few dishes.

'That's it?' Jack laughed. 'I'm a human and I eat more than that. Come on! Fill up! If you're so happy about peace at the moment, then be happy and enjoy the moment!'

Taking that to heart, Raztol chuckled and allowed himself to indulge in his hunger.

'Hey Mom, did you know we're friends now, me and Raztol?'

Looking at her daughter, Lunara was surprised. 'Really? And why's that?'

'When you challenged the elders, Raztol kept everyone from trying to bother me and crowd around me,' replied Lina. 'He may be old but he's a good guy.'

'Thank you, Raztol. I appreciate you helping Lina like that.'

'N-no, Lunara, there's no need to thank me for that,' Raztol nearly stammered. 'Why wouldn't I care for her as such?'

'What do you mean?'

Realizing what he had said, Raztol backtracked, 'Well… as the hydra head how could I allow Lina to be mistreated? She may be hiding it, but she's still a hydra, after all.'

Sensing the strange tension of the room, Jack wanted to know more. While Lina was distracted with food and Lunara was busy either chewing or conversing with Raztol, he saw an opportunity.

Silently, white illusory energy glazed over Jack's eyes. He inspected Raztol closely for only a moment but nearly dropped his jaw on the floor as a result. Forgetting to disband the energy in his eyes, Jack was motionless as he stared and blinked at Raztol.

'Jack? What are you doing?'