When Worlds Collide (MxM)?

Chapter 32 - Is that a Yes?

"If that's how you feel, then you don't know him at all." Kade grimaced.

"I've known him since we were children."

"And yet you don't understand why he's horrified that his reputation as an innovator will now be stained in blood."

"I guess Toca's people are typically soft. What do you think about making something else to overshadow his bomb?"

Kade glanced toward the two new inventors in the lab, slaving over blueprints to bring back to the Terran Kingdom. "That's...Actually a good idea."

"You've thought of something already?"

"You could say that."

"Hah. Exactly what I'd expect from you. Are you certain you don't want to join my consorts? You get along well with them anyway."

Kade denied his request and went into the lab to go over his idea with someone less flirtatious.

It was a lot of work getting the flashcards written up for the humans to study. Since his fellow humans now considered him a traitor, he had to educate some of the carnivore guards on how to read them in his stead. Things would go faster if they allowed Kade to teach them personally, but he also didn't blame them for their hatred of him.

The scientists were smart, so if they were anything like Kade, they'd pick things up quickly. The soldiers were a lost cause though.

Since Aino had become reclusive again, Kade spent extra time working with the two inventors to create something that would brighten up his mood.

It was great that he had two more intelligent Terrans to help him discover chemical compounds with, and once he started understanding the mixtures, he grew excited.

Aino, meanwhile, was given a leave of absence. In leu of his efforts in battle, everyone agreed he deserved a proper rest. But whenever Kade tried talking to him, the spark of enthusiasm he once held seemed faded.

Kade worried that the man might quit inventing at this rate. And thus pushed to get his latest project finished in time for their departure.

"You realize you are allowed to rest as well." It was Toca showing concern for Kade this time, as he groggily worked overnight in the lab.

"We're leaving soon. I need Aino to see this before we leave."

"Why not just finish it back home? You'll have more Royal scientists to work with there."

The two Kade had been working with had decided to remain in the carnivore kingdom to help introduce better technology to Nyx's people. In return, Nyx agreed to export more of their luxury goods like beds and quilts. Ultimately, the citizens of both kingdoms were warming up to the idea of intermingling now.

"Trust me. This is something I need to happen before we get home."

Toca sighed, shook his head, and left the overworked human to his plans.

A few days later, they were ready, and Kade spent the whole time in the lab to make sure everything would work.

The carriages were pulled up out front early in the morning. The red sun hadn't risen yet, leaving the land darkened for another thirty minutes.

Aino got into his carriage but hesitated to close the door when he realized he was alone. Glancing around, he called to one of the soldiers. "Where is Kade?"

The soldiers asked around, wondering why Aino's Mate was not departing with him. A few minutes later, Kade came running from the castle and climbed onto the carriage looking exhausted.