Chapter 13: Kiona
The darkness in the room was palpable as everyone awaited the lioness's reply. Her next words would decide their future, after all.
However, instead of answering, she posed a question of her own, "Why subordinates instead of leaders?"
Kael shrugged, "You should know better than anyone what happens when an organization has too many leaders."
After a moment of silence, the lioness sighed, "Very well then. I will become your subordinate. I want to see if you can accomplish what you are aiming for."
"You are in for a surprise," Kael smiled and said. "But I'll tell you one thing. You guys hate cowardice and all that, but I'm different. I only care about one thing, and that's winning, no matter what means I have to use."
The lioness let out a self-deprecating laugh, "Pride led to the downfall of my family. So, while I may not engage in these practices, I will not question them."
"Good! That's exactly what I want from my subordinates," Kael got closer to the lioness and asked, "I will name you first."
He thought about it for a moment, considering what name he should give her. It had to be something cool and easy to call...
"I've decided!" Kael smiled and said, this time his voice burning with authority. "From now on, you are Kiona!"
The moment those words left his mouth, his body staggered forward as a burning pain assaulted his head before returning to normal.
He rubbed his forehead and looked forward at the lioness's body, which was glowing brightly in a crimson glow. Mana from his body was directly being transferred to her body, changing her whole being in the process.