Thanatos always considered himself to be a tall, powerful and all-round large Thanatian, but even he was dwarfed by the size of the Banikan king he was secretly meeting. This Banikan, Lek’Ril of the united Water Tribes, was so huge, Thanatos did not understand how he was capable of standing. Five and a half metres tall, twelve metres long, dark grey skin with dark blue stripes down his back, and those unusual black triangular markings around his eyes.
“Thank you for agreeing to meet me,” Lek’Ril growled. Even his voice seemed menacing. Thanatos was certain that he didn’t mean it though. After all, all Banikans were terrifying to most.
“The Thanatians and the Banikans have been allies for many a year,” Thanatos spoke slowly. “Though our forebears may have neglected our relationship, we strive not to do the same.”
Lek’Ril snorted. Again, it seemed intimidating but that was probably unintentional.
“Perhaps. No harm has been done. I do not believe that your… parents would agree to what I am about to suggest.”
The Banikan’s reply confused Thanatos. What sort of crazy thing was Lek’Ril about to say? Banikans weren’t known for their craziness unless they were reacting to a threat.
“I sense your unease, Thanatos…” Lek’Ril sighed. “Yes, my idea is… unconventional? Crazy perhaps? But it is also beneficial to at least consider.”
“Very well. What is your idea?”
Lek’Ril leaned back, an amused look on his face. “My suggestion is that we merge our territories and become one nation – a union between the Banikans and the many Thanatian sub-races.”
“Interesting…” Thanatos tried to find something else to say, but couldn’t think of anything. Part of him was afraid of insulting the monstrous Banikan. “Um, I assume we would all be treated as equals? Or how would this work?”
“I have not considered the details, but I would like to assume that all would be treated fairly.”
“What about territories? Would we share all our lands across multiple worlds? Would Thanatians be allowed in Banikan territories and vice versa? What about currencies and produce? Or herding lands and hunting grounds?”
“As I said, I have not considered the details.”
Thanatos’s shoulders dropped. The idea of solidifying the partnership between Banikans and Thanatians was a strong proposal, but a union? That seemed a little too far.
“Do you have any details? Have you got anything more than an idea?” Thanatos asked.
“Are you insulting me?”
“Not at all!” Thanatos spoke quickly. “I just wish to get a better look at your idea, find out more about it before I take it back with me and share your idea with other Thanatians.”
“Oh. Not in particular, no.”
“Have you discussed this with other Banikans?”
Lek’Ril growled. “I discussed this with my tribe. They have a fondness for the idea. Other tribes of other elements, not so much.”
Thanatos sighed. This was almost a waste of his time. Then again, none of his siblings had been willing to do this. Even terrifying warm-blooded reptiles like the Thanatians were scared of Banikans.
“Very well. Perhaps it is worth working out some sort of plan with other tribes. I too will do the same with other Thanatians. I will discuss this with my siblings and get back to you if they are willing to take this idea further.”
“That is all I ask, consideration,” Lek’Ril smiled, showing a mouth full of teeth. He then awkwardly turned around and hopped away, leaving heavy footprints on the ground.
Thanatos waited until the Banikan was out of earshot, then breathed a huge sigh of relief. Hopefully everyone would think Lek’Ril’s idea is stupid, and he could put this silliness behind him…