I stared at the human as he tried to mask his fear. "Tell me all about your village and your people. My sisters will want to know your past."
The human picked up food and closed his eyes before taking a bite. He swallowed and then spoke, "Why am I to be your mate?"
I laughed and the human flinched. "My sisters believe you are a sorcerer and the only way to keep you alive is to make you my mate. Specifically, my sister Dola wants to kill you." The human took another bite of the food with his eyes closed, "Why do you keep closing your eyes? The food is not poisoned as I have stated." My anger flared for a second and I watched as his arm hairs stood on end.
"I…I…I have not had a proper meal in a few weeks and want to savor the food."
I sighed and stood. "I will let you enjoy your meal in peace. The Yanas will make you more if you desire. I will send my servant Cedar to fetch you for a bath. He will also show you to your new room. You will join me tonight for a mating ceremony."
The human's face turned red and I saw the horror behind his eyes. "Mating… mating ceremony?"
"It is not as bad as it sounds. I just have to announce you to the demons as my mate and my sisters have to bring us gifts. You will have to make a speech about your unwavering desire for me. But that is for tomorrow. Tonight we will share a bed."
The human turned redder and stuffed his face with more food. "If I…decline."
"Dola will flay you alive and let you burn for any sorcerers left alive to see. She can extend your life while you burn. So you;ll be on fire for at least 81 moons. " I told him the truth in order to ease his mind, but his face was washed of all redness. "Is this information adequate for your compliance? You are an innocent. I would rather see you alive than burned for no reason."
He nodded and proceeded to continue to eat. "Cesar and Cedar, you may enter." Cedar entered first ignoring the human and Cesar looked at me with hatred. No doubt he was listening to our conversation on the other side of the door. "I need this human cleaned and prepared for the first night of the mating ceremony. He will need a room and a servant of his own."
Cesar snared. His face contorted with rage. "Are you saying this sorcerer is to be your mate? I must make a…"
Cedar bowed and left to start the preparations for the ceremony, while I rounded on Cesar. "Do you question my decision again? You, Cesar, are not protected as a mate for Dola. I will not tolerate another outburst." I stepped closer to Cesar and felt his fear and loathing.
"Yes, madam. I will let your sisters know immediately." He bowed and left the room.
I looked back at the human who was staring at me with fear. "I will see you tonight. Enjoy your meal and bath. If you encounter any problems. I need to know immediately."
The human nodded.
I left the room and Dola was waiting for me.