Cyclo’s Proposal

This chapter is part of "The Small Town Magic Arc." Links for prior chapters in this storyline can be found here: https://www.theprose.com/post/746871/the-small-town-magic-arc

"He is a hulking cyclops that calls himself Cyclo, and he has horrifying strength, and powerful magical abilities to boot." Tamma explained as their call continued. "He destroyed the art park that is the center of our town in less than a minute with his fists. He then restored it instantly with a healing spell, smirking at those of us that were looking on."

"So he has the capability to help others with his talents, but is using them to bully your home and your people?" Rick asked in an attempt to sound objective, but only revealed his anger.

"That sums him up pretty well." Tamma replied sadly. "He also once fired a laser out of his finger, and reduced my favorite cafe to ashes instantly. He then restored it right afterwards, and told us he owns Aplonica, and will only let it and its people live if we give him whatever he wants."

"Not that any of this is ok, but just to clarify, he has only asked for money so far, right?"

"Yes Mitch." Tamma answered, now starting to tremble. "But on his last visit to collect, he told me that I have blossomed into a beautiful woman, and that he was considering talking to my father about claiming me as a bride for a future payment."

"How horrible!" Essie cried out. "Surely your father would never agree to that!"

"I honestly don't know." Tamma said as her tears returned. "He is so terrified of Cyclo, and he knows that he has my father in the palm of his hand. I would like to think my father wouldn't agree to such a thing, but he wants to protect everyone else in Aplonica too. He probably would turn me over to the monster to save everyone else. And if I'm being honest, I would agree to it to protect them."

"Oh Tamma, I am so sorry." Cerissa said tenderly, wishing she could hug Tamma through the monitor.

"This is what ultimately prompted me to contact Hugh to ask for your help. I'm sorry for the selfishness behind this. I want to protect my people, but I don't want to be with that demon either!"

"No need to apologize Tamma, you aren't selfish at all." Mitch said warmly. "Besides, a monster like Cyclo wouldn't stop there, he would probably demand others from your town after he gained you. My crew and I are ready and willing to fight Cyclo for you, your father, and everyone else in Aplonica."

Rick, Essie, and Cerissa all smiled and nodded at Tamma through the monitor, warming her heart in the process.

"Thank you all so much, I am so grateful for each of you. I will let you go so you can finish the drive here, but I can't wait to meet you all in person. I will send you the address to the cafe I mentioned earlier. Let's link up there, and then I will give you a tour of Aplonica."

To be continued....