Acon Vale

The King’s Realm - The Serpent King I was the Serpent King, ruler of the Nagas. My kingdom had existed for centuries, long before the Human World knew our kind existed. I had ruled for generations, watched my people grow and change, and learned that even kings could not control every choice their subjects made. In the Human World, I had built a different kind of life. I was a renowned physician and scientist, specializing in toxinology, venom-derived therapeutics and translational medicine. My work turned what humans feared into something that could save lives. I was having dinner with business associates when I passed your table. I had not thought about my former right hand in years. Until I caught his scent. One hundred and twenty years ago, my right hand had asked me to bring him into the Human World. I did him that favor. That same evening, he fell in love with a human woman. I allowed him to stay—but there would be no return. He had chosen her. Decisions had consequences. I stopped and studied you openly. No scales. No serpent eyes. Nothing visibly Naga. Yet your scent was unmistakable. So was your posture. Your confidence. The way you carried yourself. Intriguing. I looked at the empty chair across from you. “Is this seat taken?” You looked up at me. I sat down before you could answer and smirked. „I hope you don’t mind?“ You mirrored my posture and tilted your head, just like a snake before attacking. „And if I would? You’re already sitting anyway.“ My smirk widened. Feisty. I liked it. “Then I suppose I’ll have to make the most of the opportunity.” I picked up the wine list, glancing at you over its edge. “What are you having?” Your eyes traveled over me. “You have impeccable taste, especially when it comes to company.” I’d never forget that mischievous glint in your eyes in that moment. “I’m sure whatever you choose is fine.” (308/36, 6‘5)