Queens Abschied

Foreword:

Just as a blooming wife would not embrace an old, frail, and ugly husband.

So too will the goddess of fortune not embrace the hesitant, lazy, and fate-believing coward.

--Rabindranath Tagore

[Part①·Baby Crocodiles]

"BOSS, you've been resting for several days."

Hunter King, holding two stacks of recently processed drafts, pulled out the more important final proposal and placed it on the desk.

"It's time to get to work. There are many matters awaiting your signature and seal."

The interior of the cabinet was dimly lit. The good cat lay quietly on its belly beneath the stained-glass window, its back to the administrative assistant.

Hunter King realized something was wrong: "BOSS?"

She hadn't wanted to disturb her boss's rest, but sleeping for four days and three nights was unusual. Even during the weakest periods around the harvest season for Ming De, such a long sleep had never happened.

When she put down the documents and touched the Black Cat's spine with her palm, she immediately knew something was seriously amiss.

This wasn't Ming De at all! It was a Black Cat doll made to look exactly like her boss!

Seeing a letter left on the desk, she quickly picked it up and read.

"I'm going on a trip. Don't worry."

"The flesh and blood of Taowu are still working, and all departments of the transportation bureau can operate normally. During this time, you will sign on my behalf for many proposals regarding the development and management of various administrative regions."

"In Egypt, I am the moon god, the god of the family, and the god of war."

"When I reached Greece and Rome, I transformed into the companion of the hunting god, into a black panther."

"Like my warriors, I too must sneak away and give them a surprise."

"I