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#but she's only got eyes on the blade of Frontiers baby
mokeonn · 4 months
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I started an honor mode playthrough with probably the cutest tiefling in bg3 and I fuckn got killed during the Phase Spider Matriarch, so I decided to continue my save with dishonor because my character was just so damn cute. Well for some reason or another the game didn't?? Switch it to custom mode?? It's still honor mode??
So I'm either going to get those golden dice in the most dishonorable way possible or the game is just pulling on my leg and It's just honor mode without the reward.
#simon says#the character btw is a pink tiefling fae warlock/bard named Poetry#she's wearing purple and yellow clothes until I find pink dye#and she's wearing the volo bard reward clothes which make her look absolutely adorable??#i just gotta draw her soon#she's also a Wyll romance. because I have yet to romance Wyll and I think warlock/bard is a GREAT combination to romance him with#it's funny because so far Astarion has been my main romance (i think 3 times now)#and he fuckin HATES her#Poetry is a little goodie two shoes who is not using those Illithid powers so everyone else loves her kindness and whimsy#and Astarion thinks she's the world's biggest pinkest killjoy#legit got angry at her and asked if it's her life purpose to ruin his fun#it's gonna take him a while and a lot of silly responses to get him to warm up to her#and i dont think the mild annoyance at her goody goody antics will go away#but yeah i just... love her so much#the other playthrough is another goody goody no illithid playthrough but he's a half-drow druid saving himself for Halsin#it's pretty funny as Poetry though because Shadowheart is already ready to start something together and Gale has started flirting#but she's only got eyes on the blade of Frontiers baby#oh and Poetry is also a dark urge playthrough who is avoiding her urges as much as possible#unless it's an unavoidable event she is surpressing that#Bhaal somehow spawned the world's cutest murder machine#anyways im gonna keep playing today because im tired (i drank last night) but I gotta draw poetry soon she's so cute
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pedrostylez · 3 months
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How The Crow Flies - pt. 6
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Javier Peña x fem!reader x Frankie Morales crossover
Word count: 3k
Chapter Summary: The Triple Frontier crew gets the information they need to raid the house; you ignore Javier's calls
Chapter Warnings and Disclaimers: 18+ only. I am not responsible for what you read on the internet. You have been warned! Locations and descriptions of places may be inaccurate in comparison to each story (Narcos and Triple Frontier). Timelines are obviously different between the two stories, so we are going to meet in the middle and say we are in the early 2000s. These are not necessarily canon characters in regard to how they act, how they treat people, and their current relationships. DUBCON, Mentions of SA, SMUT!!!! oral f receiving, dirty talk, Frankie is struggling with addiction and you're it, baby
A/N: I realize that this is a very Frankie-heavy few chapters; do not worry, Javi makes a return eventually. You're not ready for the next chapter okay I'm just saying
Taglist: @thevoiceinyourheadx @suzdin @survivingandenduring @bariskaplans @inept-the-magnificent @casa-boiardi @paleidiot @darkheartgatita @missladym1981
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Sweat sticks in between your shoulder blades, walking down the now familiar path to the back of Lorea’s home. A smile comes to your lips, unable to hold it back as you recall that just moments ago he was in the car passing yours. His window rolled down during the checkpoint to let you through, and he nodded as he drove by. 
He nodded. 
He has no idea who you are. 
It gave you confidence to know that you were at least tricking the highest man of authority in this part of the jungle. Your ears perked at the sound of the otherwise still jungle rustling with movement. 
It reminded you that you couldn’t trick the man lurking in the trees, smirking at you when you made direct eye contact before entering the home. His brown eyes somehow shining in the darkness, the flutter of his eyelashes hitting his cheek as he winked at you.
He hadn’t done more than say he knew you weren’t a whore, but what else he knew was still a mystery. You had to remain careful, quiet and unassuming. 
Beat him at his own game. 
“Come here, bonita.” One of the guards calls, reclined in one of the living room seats with his friends surrounding him, laughing. You’re shaken out of your thoughts, turning to him with a sly little smile that you have perfected during your time here. “I’ll give you a stack of American money this time around if you do a good job.”
The term “American money” peaks your interest, the distinction between that and what you had been paid previously. Was this the money that everyone was talking about? You sink to your knees in front of him, tilting your head and giving him the biggest smile you can manage. “What do you mean?”
His breathing has picked up, chest rising and falling in anticipation as his fingers are trying to undo his pants as quickly as possible. “I’ll get you a stack from the safe.”
Bingo. 
You nod, lowering your eyes to the bulge in his jeans, thinking over how you will follow him to the safe itself. “Only if you’re allowed?” You ask quietly, trying to remain as innocent looking as possible. You don’t want him to get in trouble, afterall; he’s your most frequent customer. You can’t for the life of you remember his name. 
He nods so quickly and aggressively you think that his head will fly off his neck. “Boss won’t mind.”
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Frankie feels much calmer than usual, watching you walk into the house this time. A silent understanding that what you’re doing won’t affect him, and if anything you’ll be giving him information too. At least, that’s the impression he is under after you sucked him off again in the shower the other day. 
He thinks it is sound reasoning. 
He sits back against the tree, listening to Santiago over his ear piece. “Was worried she wasn’t going to last.” He grumbles, clicking off the microphone after a sigh. 
It’s silent for another moment before he hears Redfly question, “Got scared of the security guards?”
“Not sure…was told she ditched early a few weeks ago, but she seems to have figured it out.” Frankie can hear Santiago’s shrug through the ear piece. He thinks of Yovanna whispering in Santiago’s ear most nights, likely in his bed or hers, and he rolls his eyes. 
Then, Benny’s voice. “‘Saw she had a bloody lip the first week. I would have left early too.”
Frankie’s stomach clenches, remembering the first couple days that you had stumbled out of the back of the house with that fresh cut. He remembers how he saw it and didn’t say anything, because at the time it didn’t seem worth it to mention. Not worth bringing attention to something that wouldn’t matter in the long run. But now, suddenly–
“Fish, you got eyes on her?” Santiago rings in his ear again, snapping Frankie out of his thoughts. He looks to the door, your figure shadowed but prominent near the back entry. 
“She’s still inside.” He says quietly, squinting to try and see better when you twirl and your laughter reaches his ears. “Talking them up.”
“I’m gettin’ real tired of waiting. When are we raidin’ this place?” Will chimes in. 
“When we have some actual information.” Santiago spits.
You step out of the house, your purse over your shoulder and a large smile on your face. You’re holding a paper bag with both of your hands, looking in the trees briefly before stepping into the path. 
“Boys, she’s got a bag.” Frankie whispers, hoping you don’t call for him before he can send the information out. “Paper–can’t see in it.” You step down the path out of Frankie’s sight. You’re not stopping for him today, disappointment roiling through his blood. He shakes his head at himself, thinking he should have known better than to get too attached. “Anyone got eyes on her?”
“Yeah I’ve got–” Will says quietly through the ear piece, cut off before he rushes. “She tripped, paper bag is full of money boys. Hundred dollar bills.”
“She trafficking?” Redfly whispers. 
Frankie rolls his eyes again; Redfly always assumes the worst. Understandably, of course, but not with the context that Frankie has, and with the knowledge that Yovanna is the one in charge of the money, he shouldn’t think that. He goes to correct him, but Benny beats him to it. “She must have given them a show. Proves the money is there, boys.”
“Meeting tonight. All done for the day.” Santiago says, clicking off without another word. 
Frankie sighs, wondering what it was that you did for the money. His chest tightens at the thought, pushing it away in the hopes that you would be at his door when he returned. 
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The steam off your coffee rolls up to your face, watching the motel quietly in the corner of the cafe. Calculations in your head tell you that you have 52 hours until you have to return to your post back with Javi. He’s been calling you nonstop, not leaving messages or text but calling twice a day. 
You roll your eyes when you feel the tell tale vibrations coming from your pocket. The idea that he would be calling you more now was almost laughable, but after the last conversation you had with him, you're not surprised. Begrudgingly, you pull out your phone, surprised to see Yovanna’s name on the caller ID. You scan the road in front of you, pressing the receiver to your ear. “Hello?”
“Hey!” She chirps over the speaker. 
Your eyes remain on the building in front of you, watching the cars. “Hey Yovanna, what’s going on?”
“Just wanted to tell you that you are absolutely loved by the guys. Andres can’t get enough of you.” She sounds happy, suggestive in how she uses the man’s name. That must be who you sucked off this morning. 
She prattles on, saying they are going to give you an advance of money in the hopes that you will stay for a few more days. “Oh, I can’t stay, I have to go back for a little while. But I’ll be back in a week or so?” You say calmly, continuing to survey the road in front of you. 
It goes silent on the phone, and your focus comes back to the phone in your hand. Yovanna takes a deep breath, “The uh…the lease is up at the end of this week and...you won’t need to come back next week.”
You frown, confusion racing through your brain and how to ask what exactly is going on. “The lease? I would stay an extra day if I could–”
“It’s not you!” She says quickly, a faux laugh reaching your ears. “Just, I’m not going to be around next week, with the lease ending. I don’t want you here if I’m not here…I’ll have to find a new place for you to stay!”
You watch a car filled with men-Frankie in the passenger seat-pull into the parking lot across the street and you shake your head. “You don’t have to find a place for me, you gave me the job.” Something feels off in the pit of your stomach. “Why didn’t you tell me the lease was going to be done so soon?” 
Through the speaker you hear a car door slam just as Santiago gets out of the car. You freeze, straining to listen. “Just don’t come back, okay?” She says quickly, waiting for your quiet reply of of course, sorry Yovanna before she says “Don’t apologize. Thank you…for all your help.” and hangs up the phone. 
As you hang up and watch the men pile out of the vehicle, each nodding to each other and glancing at their watches as if they have agreed on a time, the gears in your head begin to turn, and you look down to your phone again to call Javi. 
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“Tonight, Fish. No staying in and avoiding us.” Benny calls from his door, looking through the openings of the metal stairs up to Frankie. 
Frankie grunts in acknowledgement, ignoring any other comments being thrown at him and unlocking his room door to slide inside. He glances around briefly, all items still where they were left the night before, taking off his hat and setting it on the coffee table. 
He’s conflicted, desperately wanting to see you again before the inevitable raid and fleeing they will be doing. He also doesn’t want to disappoint himself, knowing that nothing can continue with whatever is happening between the two of you. 
Lying, fucking, pretending; all things he’s experiencing with you. Craves with you. 
He could just leave you to whatever it was that you were doing–he didn’t actually have to know, did he? You dropping that bag of money in front of his team proves that what you’re doing doesn’t affect them. 
Lost in his thoughts, he’s letting his boots slide off and a sigh leave his lips, before he hears a soft knock at his door. He’s too quick to open it, holding his breath when he sees you in front of him. He inhales as subtly as he possibly can when you slip past him into the room, shutting the door behind him. 
“‘You have a habit of falling?” He asks, watching as you take off your own shoes like you plan on getting comfortable–plan on staying. 
“Nice trick, wasn’t it?” You giggle, batting your eyelashes at him. “I figured someone would be watching.”
“How did you get paid that much?” He grinds out, trying to hold himself back. He doesn’t want to focus on this nagging thing in his chest, something he could potentially identify as jealousy. No–he wants to focus on the mission he was sent here for. 
You smirk, shrugging. “I have my ways. Don’t tell me you’re jealous?” You call him out, tilting your head as he runs his hands through his hair, huffing out a heavy breath. 
“Where was he keeping it?” Frankie presses, fingers tapping anxiously against his scalp. Maybe if he focuses on the facts, on the mission, he can stop this feeling in his stomach bubbling up into whatever he was afraid of it being. 
You watch him, curious. “What do I get if I tell you?”
He freezes, watching for a second longer before a switch flips. Frankie can’t help himself–like his body is working with a separate mind, watching himself from overhead as he kneels in front of you. His knees crack, thudding on to the carpet and looking up at your body. He hears your gasp, watches how your eyes widen and darken, watching him before you. 
Frankie licks his lips, feeling his cock twitch in his pants. “My mouth. My hands–whatever you want.”
You stand silent, mouth slightly opened as you breathe deeply. 
His hands reach forward, pulling you by the hips closer to him. His mouth waters, at eye level with your belly button and he swears he can smell you. The want that is in his own pants, reflected in yours. “If I feel you right now, will you be wet?”
When he looks up again you’re already staring back at him, nodding silently. He moves the skirt of your dress out of the way-changed from what you wore into the jungle, and moves the palm of his hand over the front of your panties. 
Warm and humid under his fingers, sliding down to where the fabric thins and becomes wet, he smiles. “Where was the money, hermosa?”
You swallow roughly, hands on his shoulders and digging your nails in. “A-A safe.” You close your eyes as his fingers move your underwear to the side. He notices how you shuffle your legs apart as slowly as possible, as if to not scare him away. 
He lightly runs his first and second finger over your slit, exposing your clit and letting the wetness he had gathered on his fingers to circle around you. “Where was the safe?” He doesn’t recognize his own voice, feels like he is looking at himself from the ceiling instead of being in front of you. An out of body experience that he can relive over and over again.
The bite of your fingers at his shoulders has him suddenly back in his body, listening to your moan. “The master bedroom.” You close your eyes, throwing your head back to expose the column of your throat to him. He wants to plant a kiss there, bite down on your collarbone, but he remains on his knees. “There’s a cabinet in the way. I-It was like a secret door.”
Frankie hums happily, letting his other hand wrap around the back of your thighs and squeeze to maneuver that leg over his shoulder. “What a good girl, telling me that.” He growls out, leaning his mouth forward and suctioning around your clit. 
It’s quick, how you wrap his hair around your fingers and tug. How you sigh happily and do your best to not lose your balance, but have to reach behind you to hold yourself up against the back of the couch. 
Frankie devours you; he feels dizzy with how hard he is pushing his face into your heat and consuming your scent and taste. He closes his eyes, blissfully letting himself get lost in the addiction of you.
The only thing that may be better is that now he is convinced he will have a full bank account when he leaves Colombia. 
When you come, Frankie doesn’t even realize you had been warning him. Your calls of “Frankie, honey–” And “Oh fuck–” hadn’t penetrated his concentration, his dedication to tasting you. 
When he pulls away, looking up to your heaving chest and half glazed over eyes, he realized why he had devoted the time to you. Looking up at you he’s not sure he can go without you. He stands, still close to you but rests his hands on either side of the couch behind you. “When can I see you again?”
You huff, blinking until your eyes go wide and you laugh. “I am only here for a couple more days–”
Frankie shakes his head, knowing Santiago. The next two days will be full recon work, not just observing but notating down times that the family leaves. “Let me see you in three days.” 
You pause, pushing the skirt of your dress down and frowning. “I have to get back to–”
“Please.” He breathes, bringing his lips close to yours. He knows you can smell yourself on him, but you don’t seem to care as your bottom lip brushes against yours. Frankie thinks he will never see you again. 
He takes the chance, pressing himself against you and letting his mouth engulf your own. His tongue peeks out, dancing with yours briefly before he groans. 
You pull away quickly, confusion threading through your features. You shake your head, putting a hand on his chest to push him away. He wants to push back against you, but he obliges, taking a step back. 
Frankie thinks he’s fucked up now, sure that you’re going to leave without saying another word. But you don’t move, looking at the ground and thinking through something. You finally nod, stepping around him to the notepad that sits on the bedside table. 
You write an address, setting it down gently and looking back at him. “I’ll only be there for a couple more days.”
Frankie shakes his head. “I’m telling you the truth, I can only be there on the third day. Santiago will–” He stops himself, pressing his thumb and forefinger to the bridge of his nose. He smells you again and feels himself twitch in his pants. “I have to tie up loose ends. I want to see you again.”
You watch him, eyes wide and unmoving. “I don’t know that I can stay that long.”
Frankie feels like he might have to get on his knees again. He doesn’t reach for you, holding his hands wide, pleading. “Just one more time.”
You swallow, furrowing your brow and looking away. He can see how your eyes get glassy, confusion clear in your expression. When you shake your head, it's like you’ve cleared your thoughts and put up a wall. “You can come by and see if I am still there.”
Frankie nods, heat rushing to his cheeks in embarrassment. The fact that he begged you, makes him question if he should even bother showing up. 
But when you head for the door and he follows to open it, you turn around and lunge yourself at him, kissing him and pulling him by the shirt closer to you. His arm wraps around your back, keeping you close to him. 
His lips pull from yours, a smirk unable to stay down as his other hand reaches up to rub softly at your cheekbone. No words are further exchanged, you slipping out the room and across the street while he holds the door open to watch you. 
Frankie glances to the stairs, the metal holes making it easy to see to Benny’s door. It too is wide open, watching him with a knowing smile on his face. 
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berfometalpha · 4 years
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Legacy of Eternity Chapter 5: Unravel the Mystery Part 2 - One step at a time
It was an early day for the young knight like any other but today was different as it was the first day that he a knight would walk the path of a civilian. Though his army had participated in many military operations the knights were eager to go back to the front lines but due to the awakening of one of the legendary angels that guard the dragon-wolf they had been suspended as the angels may have killed the young knight if not careful.
As he got his gear together the young knight made his way down to the living room to see Chimera was finished eating breakfast with Emilia Redridge.
Emilia Redridge or Emilia Swordtaker was a former of the Sword taker clan and had been exiled long before that for saving a baby dragon-kin and a village from the fury of their Father. She had long bright red hair that reached down to her waist, Red eyes, pinkish fair skin, and had a tattoo on her back of a broken blade meaning she was exiled from her clan.
She normally wears a white dress with a black lining and had several blood rose designs on the side of her top. She also wore a red and black belt cape with a pair of brown leather belts, with black and silver lined boots with black stockings.
Emilia is the current wife of Chimera Redridge only by name until further notice during the war for Ren’veil’s freedom she had a major role of providing key information of the defensive lines of the fort Mianola far north of the capital.
She openly helped Chimera and the Crusaegrums in the Northern conflicts and bringing them into the fold of the Free kingdoms. In exchange for her help all she asked was to serve Chimera but instead Chimera offered her to be his wife only by name until certain rights are approved.
“Big Bro, you heading out this early? Wont you have breakfast with us.” Chimera growled.
“Hmm I got time... sure... Miss Emilia good morning to you as well.” Kent bowed.
“Good morning as well mister Anthony... By the way Chimera I am heading to the Bastion Hope base I saw a job posting their for a sword instructor. I’ll be heading their to apply for the position.” Emilia said.
“I will be cheering for you Emi.” Chimera smiled.
“You do realize that I am the general and lord of the Strike Fleet and Bastion Hope is technically my base? So with one snap of my fingers you can get the position right away.” Kent said.
“Thank you for your kindness but Chira has already given me so much and I want to earn the right to stay with him.... If It’s okay Mister Anthony I would like to earn it rather than be given another gift.” Emilia said.
“Okay then... I will honor your request and at least you are a lot better than your former.” Kent added.
“I am no longer a part of that family what happens to them is up to them. I want to live my life as I see fit.” Emilia said with pride.
“I understand Miss Emilia... Still I raise a glass to you miss Emilia for becoming independent..” Kent said as he raised his mug.
“Here here brother here here.”Chimera said as he placed his hand over Emilia’s shoulder with pride.
After eating breakfast Kent left the Manner with Emilia since the young knight had some immediate business at Bastion hope. While Chimera had to settle somethings with the Farmers union in New Hope after that he will meet Emilia again in the base.
They passed through the local market when one of the merchants who first met the young knight in person called his attention and tossed a pair of apples to the two. 
With a smile he thanked the merchant and will return later to his stall as they passed the central district Kent and Emilia parted ways for the mean time. He entered the Ayekawa estate though some of the guards are very suspicious of the young knight since during the battle for Ren’veil Kent was not that recognized by the Vai’len despite his stature as the knight lord of the Strike Fleet.
With a hefty knock on the door he waited patiently for someone to open the door just before he could knock again the door opened.“Hey quit knocking twice... already I heard you...” Aisha shouted with a surprised look on her face.
“I am sorry my Lady I will not knock twice next time.” Kent said with a smile.
Aisha’s face immediately turned red when she saw the young knight right at her door step. To her surprise the young knight was at her door step the young knight could openly see how she spends her early morning with her hair tied to the side and wearing nothing but a very alluring violet dress.
“Wait Kent why are you here?” Aisha asked.
“I Believe I owe you a date my lady... Was i not correct my Lady?” Kent said with curiosity.
Though flustered and a bit astonished thinking that the young knight heard her whisper despite being asleep. Kent was asked to wait at the living room while she got prepared Alisyha prepared tea and toasted bread for their esteemed guest and exchanged stories while they waited.
“Interesting so you and an entire fleet of about 2 million souls say that you only spent a day in this apocalypse? and many say that your fleet had been gone for almost 2 weeks?” Alisyha asked.
“Yes my Lady, Some marines and knights volunteered to stay behind to study the ship and see what we can learn from such a relic.” Kent explained.
“Truly magnificent child and you say that this ship is as big or even bigger than the New Dawn Moon?” Alisyha asked.
“Maybe even bigger we cannot say for certain but we shall leave it for a later time.” Kent replied and took a sip of tea.
“And you’re fleet was given a temporary suspension order to recuperate the fatigue that must have built up during such a journey... I must say that is a very interesting tale... You could become a story writer if you keep this up my dear?” Alisyha said with great joy.
“When my duty ends maybe I shall my Lady thank you for listening to my tale.”Kent bowed.
“It is a great pleasure of mine to hear stories tall or short, be it truth or not... It has always been a great passion of mine to hear the many tales of my people and others with a feathered pen you can wield a very powerful weapon my dear... ” Alisyha asked.
“Indeed I love how you described the Wind Runner who ended a thousand year conflict between two great kingdoms despite having nothing to start his life with...He had no obligation to stop the fight and yet he did the saddest truth about it all he simply sat at the cliffs edge and watched the last part of his life end in the embrace of the setting sun... It is a great inspiration to me and many of my men who had taken a liking to your books my Lady.” Kent replied.
“Thank you my dear...Their is an old saying...  We can have a different start in life sure you can have a silver spoon or nothing at all. I love how people who didn't have anything but strive to get to where they are now...They are the real heroes of tomorrow and I am happy to stand with them now and forevermore.”Aliysha said to the young knight with a smile.
The two talked for a few minutes when Aisha went down the stairwell to greet the young knight formally now that she is dressed. Just before they left Alisyha gave her blessings to the two and with a smile and a kiss on the cheek to her daughter.
“Now go and have fun you two... and Aisha please... Bring me a grand child on your way home.” Aliysha winked as she closed the door.
“MOM!!!!” Aisha shouted in her embarrassment.
“““slight laugh”“ I believe Lady Alisyha only desires for your well being my Lady?’ Kent asked.
“Mom... she is... just...”“Sigh”“ come on Kent lets go...” Aisha said.
Though frustrated with her mother despite her intentions Alisyha is well in good terms with the young knight and simply jokes around every now and again. Kent sighed and gave her an encouraging head pat saying he will treat her to her favorite strawberry desert in town. 
Her mood picked up as they reached the town square many of the Zerrohnian marines who are part of the suspension were out with their family and friends or discovering romance despite being a part of the greatest military in the Frontier space.
They made a quick stop at the local cafe called Due Rigovalto which is famous in the famous as it can make all sorts of sweets and pastries including but not limited to what you can usually find in a regular cafe. The cafe is also well known for its support for the beast folk despite the hate and discrimination before the war for the Free lands ended in the far north of the Core kingdoms. 
They sat down at the table near the open view area of the Flower garden as one of the beast folk waiters who was a close friend of Aisha. 
“Hey, hey Isha good morning to you... I can see you and a special boy-friend here early in the morning...” Kitia said with a smile.
“““blush”“Ugh... Kitia he is Kent Redridge... The Knight hero of two worlds.”Aisha said while flustered. 
“Well look at you... Finally hooking up again after that ass boyfriend of yours cheated on you back in the day... But I am tots happy for you and your seemingly handsome friend here... Though a bit skinny... I think I got the perfect menu for you two.” Kitia happily said to Aisha.
“It would seem your lady friend is very happy for you.” Kent said.
“Yeah Kitia is my good friend back when I was still studying in school and I trust her and all but sometimes she can...” Aisha said when she facepalmed and pointed to the bar.
Kent looked at the bar and saw Aisha’s friend pull in the work of 5 people at once and at the same time talk with no point of stopping.
 “I can see but friends are many but true friends are hard to come by my Lady.” Kent stated.
“Thanks Kent.” Aisha said as they held hands.
Katia brought to their table a strawberry mist sundae dew berries shaped as a heart with a pare of chocolate flavored straws. it was enough for the two of them though a bit early in the morning to have a sweet tooth but well worth it. 
They indulged on a sweet treat meanwhile at the other side of the street a group of escentric people who barely made an effort to disguised themselves.
“And why am I dragged into this again?” Rex asked.
“Boss Cap, this is our one opportunity to confirm if whether Boss Man prefers Mage Lady or Priestess Lady!” Genji said as he hid behind a newspaper article.
“I have to agree with my bro here... The Boss Man has always taken a liking to Mage Lady even though she tries to be tough but she is actually a softy right Marky?” Clayton asked.
“Hey man I am just here for the bet and the tea here... But have you seen the things they call the General here... outrageous!” Marky stated as he put down the newspaper.
They were served coffee and biscuits when Lily and Willow disguised themselves as waitresses at the coffee shop on the other side of the street.
“I want to support Kent here but why did you have to drag me and Willow out here?” Lily asked.
“We need a sexy spy lady to help us not get spotted!” Genji replied as he drank some coffee.
“I have to agree I want to help Kent with his love affair since he saved my life twice now... and I am loving these maid outfits... They are so smooth and easy on the skin I hope I can keep it are they machine washable?” Willow asked.
“I think they are but I don’t think you can wash them in the laundry but more of hand washing it... and don’t use hot water it could ruin it too.” Lily added.
“How am I even dragged into this is beyond me... This is Kent’s private time for crying out loud!” Rex sighed.
“50 credits say that Boss man will get Lady Aisha.” Clayton added.
“Your on!” Rex replied.
Lily shook her head and facepalmed thinking how did they live through so many dangerous and down right suicidal military operation with a group of escentric people. 
“Um guys where’s the boss?” Genji asked.
“Wait Marky I thought you guys were keeping an eye on them?!” Clayton asked.
“Their on the move south they already have a few blocks head start!” Marky replied.
“Which way?” Clayton asked.
“Um... that way... No wait... um damn this tracker... um we go... left!” Marky pointed.
“Okay, drop the mugs, trays and that apron Willow... Wait on second thought you two keep it on! we move now.” Rex ordered.
The team were about to leave when the priestess and a few of her sisters stopped them as she smiled at the captain. 
“Rex, good day to you and where are you all going?” Arra asked.
“Lady Fullvrink... Um good day to you um we were just.” Rex said when Arra stopped him.
“Tisk tisk captain... You lot should be ashamed of yourselves... following Aisha and Kent on their date! Though I want to follow them but I will honor my best friend’s wishes and no one shall interrupt them!” Arra said as she snapped her fingers.
“Everyone book it! I mean scatter!!!”Rex shouted.
The team ran in separate directions Arra was displeased as she asked her sister guards to lead them away from the areas where the two will go on their date. Meanwhile the two exited the village through the northern entrance just as they passed the security check point the two made their way to the northern part of the flower gardens where the wild roses grow. 
Walking through the park Aisha tried holding Kent’s hand despite how he looked his hand was warmer than it seemed.
They passed through several rose archways and made it to the grass fields where the children and their families come out to enjoy the fruits of the land.
Kent took off his jacket and offered it as a cushion for Aisha to sit on and simply relaxed the day away.
“Hey Kent.” Aisha said.
“Yes my Lady?” Kent asked.
“Thank you... I know that I said it before but... It’s for real this time.” Aisha said.
“No thanks is needed my Lady... I owe you and Lady Arra everything for welcoming my people and opening a future for all to bare.” Kent replied.
“Maybe but I can feel that that isn’t the case here is it?” Aisha asked.
“What do you mean my Lady?” Kent asked.
Aisha sighed and seemingly asked about the young knight if he had seen or came to Ren’veil long after the war of the Demon lord. The young knight simply smiled and said In a way my Lady for the past several years before the rebellion I had dreams of a world with two moons much like Ren’veil has two moons. I cannot make the visions clear but I feel like I was being called to this world as if a child crying for help.
“But you came none the less to our aide?” Aisha asked.
“I guess I cannot deny it anymore my lady... But Yes I was the one who came to your world alone so long ago... After I came to your world and aided your party in defeating that lesser demon... I had no recollection of what else had transpired.” Kent explained looking over the distance.
“Whatever the case maybe we all get a chance to see a brighter future... so again thank you.” Aisha sincerely said with a smile.
The young knight smiled as the wind gently blew upon his skin Aisha stood up for the first time in a long time was sincere with the young knight. She stood up and leaned up on the young knight inviting him to a game of tag getting a head start before him.
He laughed and chased after her meanwhile at the top of the northern wall of the village. The team managed to regroup after losing the Priest guard sisters somehow though exhausted they were very persistent.
“So how is it Clay?” Rex asked.
“I can barely see with this binoculars... Who has a better scope?” Clayton asked.
“Here take mine!” Marky said.
“Wait since when did you have the time to get your sniper rifle? and how did you get that from the Night Hawk Armory!” Clayton asked.
“I left it in my room and this is not my sniper rifle... It’s just the scope!” Marky stated.
“Um guys where’s Lily and Willow?” Rex asked.
“I think they said they will distract the sister priestess ladies for us... I think...” Genji said.
“Right... so we are on stakeout duty... Reminds me of my days as a policeman on shard...” Rex said while spying on the two.
“Wait I thought you were a mercenary?” Clayton asked.
“I was a Mercenary long ago then I join the Shard police force in Troah to help support my Family I was a Captain at the time with more record arrest than anyone in the precinct 69... Those were the good old days but its all in the past.” Rex explained.
“Oh wow... Damn if it means anything to you Boss Cap... It really is an honor to work alongside someone who is experienced in the enforcement of law and order.” Genji mentioned while handing him a bottle of water.
“It means a lot coming from a Promethian warrior...It’s all in the past now... So if you guys want to continue snooping I’ll go and keep a look out for the sisters.” Rex replied.
Rex got off the wall when Marky mentioned that their was a hint of sadness in the captain’s voice he and the sergeant realized that their captain hid something from them. 
Some time later the two were spotted heading to sea city’s coast line view since it was recently built not many people have taken the liberty of checking the tourist attraction. 
It has an underwater observation deck and even an enviro-dome observing the underwater life had been a dream for many Zerrohnians after the destruction of Requiem it had left a partial void in the hearts of the new generation.
Slowly but surely the children will learn of how to appreciate where one of the building blocks of life had come to pass.
“Wow this place is pretty!” Aisha said in astonishment. 
“Yes it truly is.” Kent replied looking at Aisha. 
“Kent I never knew that you can make a barrier of glass it truly is an engineering marvel... Eva would be so happy to see this!” Aisha stated as she looked onward the deep sea. 
Their were even sea-folk who come to pass near the observation dome some Knights had fully adapted their bodies to the sea through natural evolution as a hybrid warrior species. The Zerrohnians take great pride in sharing with others their culture and take pride of learning new ones. 
One of the younger sea folk code name mermaid-folk waved at the two the young knight waved back as a sign of respect. After their visit they went to the small house east of Sea city it was the silent shack since the young knight secretly built it during his spare time.
They sat down on the wooden bench and enjoyed the sunset to Aisha’s surprise the bench was well built with some wool cushions nailed in it was not luxurious but it was enough to set the mood. 
“Today was a good day.” Aisha whispered as she rest her head on Kent’s shoulder.
“Indeed my Lady... Indeed...”Kent replied.
“Hey Kent... If this means were dating... Then officially you are ours right?” Aisha asked.
“I believe so... Wait... what do you mean by us?” Kent asked.
“Um You belong to me and my sis.” Aisha said.
She quickly explained the main reason why the priestesses are so few in number and are well protected by the mages of Ren’veil and the citizens of Ren’veil. Aisha also stated why she calls her sister by name since the two grew up together as childhood friends and had a sister like bond to one another.
 She stated the main reason some families have 2 wives as one child represents the goddess Su-tharma the goddess of the Earth and fertility, the other represents the goddess of the Moon and stars Ishtarhka and the Priestesses of the Wolf Father Shadow the aspect of Justice and balance.
Kent was surprised to hear that he not only belongs to Aisha now but to Lady Arra as well. The young knight stood from his seat and knelt down before Aisha and held her hand. He looked deeply into her eyes with a gentle nod the young knight stood firmly and accepted this as a blessing.
“I am a knight of Ren’veil I had taken an oath to protect and honor your world’s rules, customs and traditions...  I would be honored if you two shall have me for I am yours now and forevermore.” Kent asked.
“It’s kind of embarrassing if you put it like that Kent... But Yeah... I am the happiest girl on Lashurta right now.” Aisha said happily.  
“Then so be it... I belong to both of you now and forever more...” Kent bowed.
The young knight as stated by Knight Wolf Champion Umbral Volka, a knight can take many roles in life as he or she serves the Maker and Faith herself. They have honored the bravery and sacrifice of the knights who had fought and bleed beside them during the 1st and 2nd war for creation. 
As part of their great passage a Knight may have the option of falling in love and having a family to establish. But they must make their oath of honor and fidelity to their lover or in this case loved ones. Their oath must be made upon the open sky where the land, sea and stars are in view in honor to their deity Faith the goddess of balance and justice. 
She stood up from her chair and asked the young knight to stand with her as she too made her oath to be true.  The made their oaths that day of September 14, 4118 and sealed it with a kiss. The wind suddenly picked up and surrounded the two they could feel a gentle breeze wrap around their wrist. This was a great sign as Faith and the three gods recognized the oath to be true and gave their blessings upon them.
The Wolf Father recognized the oath of the young knight to the Mage daughter of Su-tharma the mark placed upon his left hand began to shine in recognition to said oath to Aisha.
Meanwhile at the temple of the Wolf Father when she felt a gentle wind caress her cheek and wrapped around her wrist. The oath of the three gods was made that day as her birth mark shined alerting the sisters of the entire temple.
“A suitor for Sister Arriandale had been found... SISTERS A SUITOR HAS BEEN FOUND!” One of the elder priestesses shouted.
“I believe I know who it might be...” Arra thought.
At the same time the Temple Idol of Faith on New Dawn where the knights and citizens come to pray on the last day of each week to give thanks to their deity. As the Knight Father was giving his usual sermon and praise to Faith. It was a rare sight to see the palms of the goddess’s statute to move as the Eternal knight her champion had taken his oath of loyalty to serve and protect the people of creation. 
This caused a massive uproar in New Dawn as the Statue of Faith had began to shine greatly signalling great promise for the people of the Dragon-wolf. Not only in New Dawn was this great event seen each and every ship and household on New Dawn or the fleet that held an idol of Faith had shined meaning the new chapter of their people starts that day.
The two returned to New Hope village with a renewed vigor and a refreshed look on their faces ready to face tomorrow. They returned to the Redridge Manner quite late but it seemed like the Knights and police marines were in an uproar and their moral was at an all time high. 
This was quite a great news when Kent asked Aisha to come in when his Parents and Aisha’s parents even including Arraiandale’s parents were present. Some looked confused others excited and others were simply out of words to say.
After a much needed explanation and several scoldings from Charlotte and praise from Alisyha. 
“So Let me get this straight... What my son did was the oath of loyalty which is basically locks my son’s ability to date others than Miss Ayekawa and Miss Fullvrink correct!” Victor asked.
“Indeed, The oath of the three gods is to be made only when one is absolutely certain of the other party and yes it is basically a great oath to take when one wishes to be with another on Ren’veil.” Alisyha explained.
“I do not permit my Baby girl to be whisked off by another man!” Aliysha’s husband shouted.
Aliysha then pinched her husbands ear and asked themselves to be excused after a minute or two. They returned but her husband had several smack marks on his head.
“Now where were we? ah yes I approve of Kent as our daughter’s protector and lover! right dear?” Alisyha asked with a frightening voice.
“Yes... Dear...” Her husband cried.
“Well I don’t have any complaints... After what had happened to Arra with some hooligans who faked her mark... Regardless Mister Redridge, Miss Ayekawa... I beg for your pardon.” Arra’s Father pleaded.
“Father it’s okay... I am happy that it is Kent that I got paired with.” Arra said as she comforted her father.
“But this humble Farmer is...”“sniff”“ so proud of my humble daughter... Finding love!” Arra’s Father cried heavily.
“Mister Krosta It’s okay...” Alisyha said.
“Kent a word please in private?” Victor asked.
The two moved to the back yard of the manner he handed a drink as they finally had a serious talk.
“My son... Ever since you were born your mother and I had been very worried to all three of you... Ever since you were little you were the youngest to enter the training of the knights at the age of 3 and enact ability to stand up against a fully trained knight at the age of 5... Your brother had an unparalleled knowledge of politics and nature despite his power and being a dragon-human hybrid... While your baby sister is a psycher the strongest one in the history of the Dragon-wolf second only to Tallis... You three are our greatest treasures... Are you sure you are ready to handle such a burden?” Victor asked.
“Father... You told me a long time ago that Faith presents each living being with a mission and a challenge that we must overcome in order to be come stronger both physically and spiritually... I wish to care for them... I believe the emotion is called love... This yearning that my heart beats for battle in every aspect... I will not break this oath even if it kills me!” Kent vowed as he slammed his right hand over his heart.
“I know... Take this time to get to know them better since your fleet is suspended from military activity.” Victor said.
“Thank you Father... I know this isn’t Requiem I wish to see our original home world but I know it is gone now... But Ren’veil is our home now... and I plan to make a better tomorrow for everyone this I swear.” Kent said wit hpride.
“So it is my son... So it is....”Victor happily said.
“father if it is okay... may we go back inside it’s getting a bit cold.” Kent asked.
“Well said my son...” Victor replied.
They went back inside while the others had a chat about what to expect and what is to be expected between the three families.
In order to make the oath complete according to Aisha the young knight must repeat the oath in front of Arra. Kent mustered the courage to repeat the oath in front of the priestess the two were given some privacy as they performed the oath taking in front of the two moons at the second floor balcony. 
“This is a bit embarrassing is it not?” Arra asked.
“I cannot see it my Lady...”Kent said as he held Arra’s hand.
“Kent... If you do this... Balance must be maintained between you... Aisha and myself...It would feel like you are engaged to us... Are you prepared for such a responsibility?” Arra asked.
“I am My Lady no matter the risk... Though I am no Hero.” Kent answered.
“Kent... you risked your life to save us but I am worried that I may not be worthy of such powerful love that you possess... Even if you say that you are not a hero... I can feel it in my heart... that you are one... But are you certain that you are willing to go the distance for us?” Arra asked with a gentle sadness in her voice.
“I am... I made my oath to both of you that day... I will never leave you... I will protect you both... On or off the battlefield.. I make my oath to you as well my Lady...I Kent Redridge present myself to you as your protector and lover... I am prepared to take the risks... i wager my life for you two... No matter the cost so long as I can stand with you two I am happy... Should my words utter a single lie I offer my life as the price for my insolence... I pray to the Wolf Father to bless our oath should I be worthy of you...” Kent said.
“KENT NO!” Arra shouted.
They were immediately taken into the astral realm or the forest of the Wolves the final resting place of the priestesses who fell in battle and awaiting rebirth with no memory of their past life. 
The Sisters stood around them watching as the Wolf Father himself looked at Kent Arra stood in front of her Father to prevent the young knight from facing his fury. With a wave of his claws her astral form was forcefully sent back to the physical world. 
She saw Kent’s body was frozen solid holding her hand Arra tried to go back to the forest of Wolves but she was blocked out. For the first time in her life she was at a loss to save him from the wrath of a god she had to force her way back. 
Arra called out for help watching his body started to show wounds made claw, fang and blade. His veins started to scream out while the young knight battled in the Astral realm realizing that the trials of the Father is suicide she tried to stop the oath taking.
Many minutes later the mark on her body was sealed with a crown of roses she looked at the soul mark left by the blessing on Kent’s left palm as it also showed the same markings the trial was complete. 
The young knight turned pale sweating endlessly as he tried to open his eyes when a scar appeared over his left eye. Though his injuries were severe yet not life threatening he tried to get his feet under him. Arra helped him on his feet as he looked at her the priestess cried knowing that facing the Wolf Father is suicide regardless as he is the aspect of Justice and balance on creation as she mentioned.
“KENT YOU SHOULD NEVER DO THAT AGAIN!” Arra cried while embracing him.
“I did not mean to worry you my Lady...”Kent coughed heavily.
Arra held him tightly as she heard the Wolf Father’s voice in her head He never ceases to amaze me child of mine... The two goddesses had seen his mettle and had chosen him to be a worthy suitor... Let him prove his worth to you... I am sure he will not falter...
Despite nearly killing the young knight the wolf Father despite his intentions to protect his daughters and ensure they end up with someone worthy of them. 
The young knight excuse himself as he was tired and closed his eyes resting upon her shoulders. Though the day may had come to an end their was still much needed to be done. 
The next morning after a long night Kent woke up in his room with little memory of what had transpired last night. He then tried to get off the bed when he felt something very soft he looked to his side to see Aisha was to his left and to his right was Arra sleeping next to him and barely with any clothing.
Instead of panicking he simply smiled and got off the bed silently and covered the two with the comforter since it’s still a bit cold in the morning. He then made his way down where the entire family to his surprise was present even Coralline who was always in her study on New Dawn.
he grabbed some food for the two before he returned to his room Charlotte put her tea cup down and smiled at her son.
Kent grabbed a cup of freshly squeezed juice and a piece of toasted bread he grabbed some food for the two before he returned to his room Charlotte put her tea cup down and smiled at her son.
“So my son... did you have a fun threesome last night?” Charlotte winked.
“““spat out his drink and coughing heavily”“ WHAT?!” Kent shouted.
“Shush child you might wake those two up... But still how did it go?” Charlotte asked.
“Wait big brother what does Mother mean by having fun and a threesome?” Coralline asked.
“It would be best if you don’t know it my sister... and No mother we did not do that I barely have any memories of last night...” Kent stated.
“Well, After your battle with the wolf Father which exhausted you mentally according to Arra she and Aisha needed to perform a ritual to heal the damage to your mind and soul...That is why they are in your room right now.” Charlotte explained.
“Don’t worry brother this will not get out publicly Lily and I are already on the case... Lady Aliysha and Mister Vulcan aka miss Arra’s Father had agreed to let them stay here for a time... So you have two new room mates big brother... Good for you and I am impressed.” Chimera said sarcastically.
“By the way my son Mister Vulcan and Miss Alisyha had agreed to allow them to live under the same roof as you so it will be very easy for you lot ot get to know each other.”Victor said as he drank his coffee.
“Okay then... I am okay with them staying in my room but I will need to order a lot of things if that will be the case. Mom I am going to need your help!” Kent asked.
“Sure my son what do you need?” Charlotte asked.
After a few minutes of explaining and preparing breakfast Kent went back to his room with food for the two. 
When he got back to his room Aisha and Arra were slowly waking up though they had a fairly long day much was still ahead of them.
His left arm split off into two sub arms and prepared a healthy and fulfilling breakfast for the two. 
“My oh my Kent... You should not have prepared such a delightful breakfast?” Arra asked in astonishment.
“This is our first day together my Lady this much is little to what you and Lady Aisha had given me... This is but thanks for accepting me as your protectorate and Lover...” Kent bowed.
“It is a good gesture Kent for you to go through so much effort this day... As you say we three have a long road ahead of us... But what should we do this day since our schedule is practically free for a day or two?” Arra asked.
“Hmm I was going to Bastion hope to see about the trainer selection results and greet them... I believe one of them is your friend Emilia free lander.” Kent explained.
“I am surprised that Emi is here... Let’s go meet her after breakfast...” Arra asked.
“By your will Lady Arra.” Kent bowed.
She drank her morning chamomile tea and to her surprise it was natural blend of herbs that she preferred before and during her time in the Temple of the Wolf Father.
Arra was surprised that Kent learned of her favorite morning tea when he told her that Vulcan told his mother how to prepare it and showed her the way. Kent repeated the process as if the tea was made by her father in the flesh.
Aisha was surprised to hear of their conversation as she took a look in her coffee it was made from the refined cocoa bean found only in the Trigor mountain located at the far north east of the free kingdom and only a few of these beans had ever been exported out of the area.
Along with the refined honey from extracted from the giant honeysuckle bees located at the Forest of Bree where the elfen use it as a natural export product. The cream was mixed into the coffee in the shape of a heart despite how it looks its taste was beyond imagination for the taste buds. 
“Kent how did you?!” AIsha asked.
“Same thing I told Lady Arra my Lady... Lady Alisyha passed a note to mother about what your favorites are and I had to prepare them I hope they are to your liking?” Kent asked.
“Well... “”flustered”“Its okay... I guess...” Aisha muttered.
“At least Sis here likes it very much Kent... I will say thank you on her behalf.” Arra mentioned.
“SIS!!!” AIsha shouted.
Kent snikkered to see the two argue over such a trivial matter but one thing seemed to puzzle him why did Aisha and Arra call each other sisters. Arra giggled at the young knight’s curiosity and explained to him that they are not sisters but they grew up together being friends since they were but babies and up to this day they had stood side by side as sisters. 
Through thick or thin and even any battle they will have each other’s backs even during the battle for the freedom of the people against the demon lord. Arra was the one who took the spear hit for Aisha while Aisha stopped the Thunder judgement spell used by the demon lord against Arra and barely able to protect her friends at the time.
After their talk and a hot shower for the first time since having hot water in homes at the village is considered as a luxury. The two received a fresh pair of clothes left by their respective families before they left Charlotte gave them a very stylish belt filled with an assortment of gadgets like a micro plasma field, grappling hook, an emergency bio-med gel kit, a tachyon beacon and a atmospheric field projector when trapped in deep space.
The gadgets on the belt were built specially by Charlotte basing it off from her own experience during the 2nd Great War.
“Okay you kids be safe now!” Charlotte shouted.
“Thank you for the great gifts miss Charlotte.” Aisha said as she looked at the belt.
“Oh these are nothing at all oh and they can change color and styles when you place your palm over the belt buckle. Now off you go kiddies and have fun now!” Charlotte said as she shooed the three off.
Arra looked at Kent while he looked through his arm pad while they walked to Bastion hope. To his surprise many marines and Knights had been saluting him on first sight.
They entered the base when the knights immediately lined up and offered their praise to them.
“Hail Lord Anthony!” The knights shouted.
“WOW is this a regular thing you do Kent?” Aisha asked.
“Not really only when theirs a special occasion... But the only occasion today is the Trainer welcoming ceremony.” Kent stated as they entered the main hall.
Upon entering they saw over 3 dozen applicants who passed they all stood side by side with their robes as swordsman before entering the fort. Aisha noticed Emilia was part of the successful applicants the two ran towards her and congratulated her success.
Before they could congratulate her Emi asked the two to sit next to her as Chimera was at the stage Kent took to the stage with Rex and Fenris by his side.
Hello Everyone I am Kent Redridge of Strike Fleet New Hope... I congratulate you all for passing the application process for the sword trainers I know it has been a difficult challenge to face off against a Venerate ranked knight but you all had proven your stride and mettle against a knight who had fought a godly class demons of old. 
From this day on wards you 36 swordsman are now ranked trainers and shall be part of molding the hundreds of Zerrohnian Marines and Recruits in sword combat.
I can see much potential in all of your future career as part of the Knight Kingdom I hope that faith and the three gods may shine fortune upon all of you.
Now let us end this welcoming ceremony and enjoy for this day does not belong to you alone for it belongs to the future of our people. 
Kent raised his fist and howled much like a wolf many knights followed their lord as they are a part of the Iron Wolves Legion. With the ceremony at an end the mercenaries now turned trainers united with their families with smiles on their faces as a new chapter will start for many of them.
Chimera and Kent’s team approached the newly recruited trainer to congratulate her on succeeding the trials. 
“Emi congratulations!” Chimera said as he lifted her up.
“““blush”“CHIRA please not in front of my friends.” Emilia said with a flustered face. 
“Sorry but I am very happy for you!” Chimera said as he embraced her instead.
“Regardless of the situation miss Emi I am honored to have a free lander to be in the Base... I look forward to your achievements miss... I mean Sergeant Emilia Freelander.” Kent said proudly.
“Thank you Ken... I mean General Anthony!” Emilia saluted.
“Now then enough of the formalities we have a feast to attend to.. Oh yes I forgot to get something in my office you all go on ahead... I’ll catch up...” Kent told them as he walked away from them.
“Alright Big brother... If their are any hot wings Ill save some for you!” Chimera shouted.
Kent walked away to his office he made sure first that no one was following him as soon as the coast was clear he uttered.
“I got that weird feeling again...” Kent said as he entered his office.
“I am sorry father...” Kyvash said with a serious look in here eyes.
Kyvash turned the chair around but it did not stop spinning her care taker Sword masters stopped the chair for her. Though nauseous from the spinning she instantly recovered the young knight was about to laugh but he held it in surprisingly well. 
“Kyvash what can I do for you and why are you hiding?” Kent asked.
“Yes I am here because Astaroth and Tyrannox managed to follow the trail where Willow’s brother was taken in this flash drive holds the data you will need to mount a rescue mission and also rescue the Vailen...” Kyvash said as she placed the flash drive on the table.
“Thank you yet I feel a but is coming in...” Kent stated.
“Yes their is... I wish to have a brand new Hive built on Ren’veil a royal guard Hive that will serve as additional security for our people... They will follow only your orders of course.” Kyvash stated.
“I might agree to that but I need my Father’s Approval and I am curious how the High Glaives produce such powerful warriors like the Sword God masters that always protect you and the Blade god masters that aided us in our escape on Vega?” Kent asked.
“I will explain in due time but this data drive will hold all the information you need, the number of people being held and the locations of possible planets for resource conversion or colonization... Think of this as my investment to the people’s future...” Kyvash said.
“I will consider this as a gift my lady... And I will talk to father soon about this.” Kent saluted.
“Very well I will talk with Father as soon as I get home... Would you like to join the party?” Kent asked.
“I wish I could but for now I need to settle a few more things with your permission I would like to go to the Redridge manner this evening?” Kyvash asked.
“Then it would be an honor for you to visit our home... But I need to get something from my desk if that is fine?” Kent asked.
Before they went on their seperate ways Kyvash told the young knight of her new Apex Prowl Hunters and gave him over 50 of these monstrous hydras they are independent thinkers but they will listen to orders of the one assigned to them by their queen. 
The young knight was free to use these new Hunters should the need arise all he needed to do was think and they will hear him. 
The young knight thanked the queen for her generous gift he placed his palm over his desk when a massive blade rack appeared out of the wall next to the door. 
He looked at the assortment of blades each one of the weapons emitted a powerful aura that the Sword Masters were being pushed back as if they were facing a world ending typhoon. 
Kyvash quickly snapped her fingers projecting her own aura field to protect her children as the blades domination field was stronger that their protection auras. 
He grabbed the double edge sword measuring 3 meters in length with a eight crowned cross as it’s sword guard with the pommel shaped like budded flower. The young knight excused himself from the room as Kyvash watched her father act the same way she remembers him long ago. 
“My Lady now that Lord Anthony agrees to your request should we not tell him of the Hunter killer’s status.” The Sword Master asked.
“He will not do anything unless he is provoked my child... For now let us head home I am a bit tired today I still need to meet Grand Father and Grand Mother later on.” Kyvash said as she opened a portal to home.
Meanwhile at the party all members of the strike Fleet including the Admiralty, the Iron Wolve’s circle of elders and the Commando teams who participated in the recruitment and selection process. Emilia was somewhat isolated as she did not go through the standard trials instead was recommended by Chimera to be a trainer but she participated in the trials where many Venerates had approved her skill as a trainer.  
Though some of the fellow trainers did not even bother to befriend her as she was a part of the clan that nearly destroyed Ren’veil and wiped out the Priestesses and mages though it was kept secret but those who knew the truth would prefer not to acquaint themselves with Emilia.
Emi looked to her glass of wine it was a solemn reminder that she was not meant to befriend anyone else but Chimera showed her another path. He tapped her shoulder and  tapped her cheek snapping her sadness out of reality.
“Miss Emi don’t look sad it will spoil your appetite... I got you your favorite... Hammer shrimp with sauce butter on the side.” Chimera said with a smile.
“Thanks Chira... You always know how to bring a girl up.” Emilia said as she took the plate.
“Emi don’t worry no one knows who you really are here... You are Emilia Freelander and soon to be Redridge so lighten up this is your day!” Aisha stated.
“I agree Miss Emilia your family’s crime is not yours to bare... It was their choice to set their path to ruin... You only did what is right and no one can hold you accountable for such an atrocity.” Arra added.
“I know Arra but It was my fault why my brother turned out like that... I should have brought him with me when I was exiled maybe things would be different if I did that...” Emilia said as she shook off the memories of her past.
“Emi always know that I am here for you... Through thick or thin I will stand by you as your shield and sword... I am your partner for life...” Chimera said with a proud growl.
“I know Chimera and I would not have it any other way...” Emilia said as she kissed him on the cheek.
With the party well underway the young knight met up with his friends and brother at their table. They were curious as to what was the broad looking sword he was holding the young knight sat down and told them it was his gift to Emilia.
It was one of the first of the 6 blades he forged on New Dawn it was called the Star Strider a blade specially built from purified star Xerromite a sub rare class ore used as a catalyst for making the strongest blade or the toughest armor. 
It can absorb heat and heal the wielder’s injuries simply by absorbing sunlight it can generate heat strong enough to turn a mountain into a lava pit. The young knight was infamous in the Forge works for making blades that are extremely powerful and may not require a weapon heart. Although the weapons he crafts are alive in their own way and will only require a small sacrifice from it’s would be wielder in order to seal the bond.
Emi pulled the blade out of the scabbard and cut herself with the blade as it absorbed her blood the blade glowed a bright warm light and transformed into a claymore blade.
“Congratulations the sun strider is now yours miss Emi... use it well.” Kent congratulated her.
“Thank you... I really appreciate it Kent.” Emilia said as she attached the scabbard on her belt.
“Thank you also big bro for giving her a chance...” Chimera said.
“Hey Faenrir wanted a challenge so he was the one who volunteered to test the trainer’s mettle so its all well and good.” Kent answered as he grabbed a carbonated drink.
“Wait Faenrir as in Primal Knight Elite Captain Faenrir Claw breaker? THAT FENRIS!!!” Chimera shouted.
“Oh no...” Kent said as his brother showed his anger.
“Chira what’s wrong?” Emi asked. 
“I WANTED TO FIGHT HIM!!! AND EMI GOT A CHANCE TO FIGHT HIM I AM JEALOUS!!!”Chimera cried.
Captain Faenrir Clawbreaker is the biological older brother of Fenris Fellfrost Captain Faenrir is one of the few knights who participated in the siege of the World ender citadel at the final battle during the 2nd great war. 
The Primal Captain is one of the rare few to see the Legendary Archon Wodan “Thunderking” Redridge and Keith “Hunter Killer” Aliucard against the demon champion Guision the thousand hands. Faenrir also earned many achievements and an impressive kill count of 5000 mid level demons under his belt.
Many aspirants and Archon candidates like Kent and Chimeara wishes to fight Faenrir it is considered a great honor for one to fight against the few Elites of the 2nd war in a duel of prowess. But Faenrir does not entertain duels unless he specifies it to be so as Elites are always needed in the front lines and have no time for pleasantries.
And when they do they will only use their free time at their own accord not even the great nobles of the Dragon-wolf can request an audience from them.
“It was a sudden request from Faenrir brother I couldn’t do anything... Besides he was only pulled out from the Border patrol because of his fleet needing resupply.” Kent explained.
“Right I wanted to have a duel with him though!” Chimera cried.
“If it means anything Chira... He gave me a tough time when I fought him.” Emi said as she comforted him.
Chimera was saddened as the elites of the 2nd war were so few and are always away from New Dawn it cause him little pain knowing that he could not even fight him. At the same time he was very proud of Emilia for being able to fight a great warrior like him. 
Kent laughed at his little brother when Aisha came up to him with a couple of drinks as well with a plan of her own. 
“Hey Kent here!” Aisha said while handing him over a very cold can of carbonated drink.
“Thank you my lady... I needed one.” Kent replied as he opened the can.
“Big Bro... I am concerned about your obsession with those carbonated drinks dont they have enough sugar to make a small marble?” Chimera asked.
“Yeah the virus inside my body converts the sugar into usable biomatter while the rest of the contents are being converted to water... I only drink it for the taste...” Kent explained.
“I know that brother but you should calm down with those drinks... Its 9:30 in the morning big bro!” Chimera added.
“Sure after this I wont drink for the mean time.” Kent said as he savored his drink.
“SO Kent... After this do you want to go to the mages temple with me?” Aisha asked.
“Very Well my Lady I would love that.” Kent replied.
“After your visit Kent please fetch me from the temple I just remembered that I am needed at the local orphanage.”Arra asked.
The young knight nodded when one of the marines approached him requesting for his assistance. The marine reported about some incidents in the mage temple about humans turning into monsters in broad day light. Many knights and marines had already been injured and the surviving knights are requesting for immediate assistance from any Crusader class or above for assistance.
Kent agreed to go when Aisha over heard the situation at the temple and wanted to go as well.
“Okay, Brother I will leave the management of the party to you... REX Get the team ready!” Kent ordered.
“YES SIR!” Rex saluted.
The team along with some marine and knight venerates boarded their respective gunships and made their way to the Mage temple at shion. 
On their way Kent and the other captains listened on the reports from the on site guards who first saw the incident and from knight aspirants who responded to the alert.
“Okay so something is turning the mages into monsters... But according to the reports the mages still have some shred of their humanity but over time they lose it... Interesting...” Kent said.
“General If I may how many casualties so far?” Captain Yurfa asked.
“So far over 50 wounded 5 critically injured 3 aspirants incapacitated and several civilians wounded from the initial explosive magic used on the aspirant sergeant treko.” Captain Ignus reported.
“Okay... Set up a perimeter 3 miles around the tower have knight elites perform routine patrols around the area make sure no mage escapes using the underground tunnels and sewage system. Have the science and medical teams set up a isolation zone so we can study the thing that caused all this.” Kent ordered.
“Sir if I may how certain are we that this is not caused by a virus or an air born infection of some kind?” Captain Mugen asked.
“If it were the case then a lot of people including the marines turned into monsters already... But have the Templar apocrypha’s check the air for any contagions just to be sure. I almost forgot and have any non knight personnel we have right now wear level 5 bio hazard equipment and bio-masks before we land.” Kent ordered. 
“Lady Aisha please wear my helmet... I will be okay without it.” Kent said as he handed her his pressurized mask.
Aisha nodded while the young knight helped her wear his mask it scanned her retina and changed it’s form based on her specifications. the mask that normal covers most of Kent’s face only leaving the left eye to actually see and several sensors on the forehead, sides and the back of the head helped him have a full 360 view of any battle.
Instead the mask’s initial features of heavy protection was removed and replaced with a full indestructible visor with a bio-air filter and several smaller but efficient sensors that can help her see around her.
“Aisha can you breath easy in the helmet?” Kent asked.
“Yeah but it smells like you in this thing... I will borrow it later...” Aisha stated.
“Note to self must wash the inner part of my helmet after each use...” Kent thought.
“General look it’s getting bad down there its getting bad!” Marky shouted.
“Right No time for flirting... Marky and Rex non-lethal rounds only Clayton, Genji, and Miss Willow With me... Lady Aisha please remain on the gunship while we take care of this.” Kent ordered.
“Um boss... she already jumped out!” Clayton said.
Kent looked out the gunship to see Aisha falling from the sky and somehow landed safely on the ground with her magic. The young knight felt a bit stupid for giving an order to Aisha who is a civilian and was an illogical move on his part.
“So boss um should we?” Genji asked.
“Just jump already... I feel very stupid right now for ordering Aisha...” Kent said outloud.
“At least we know your human boss... “”Jumped out the gunship”“ Big bro you owe me 20 credits!” Genji shouted.
“HEY COME BACK HERE THAT DOESN’T COUNT!” Clayton shouted as he jumped out. 
“General if you shall excuse me I will scold those two when we get back.” Willow said as she waited for the gunship to land.
“Right... But Willow please take it easy since this will be your first time in battle with your New body.” Kent reminded his friend.
Willow nodded she was still getting used to the absurd strength her new body has and the new bow that the Forge masters made for her was heavier than her previous bow and more stronger than the first. The young knight tapped her on the shoulder reminding that she will always have a friend to count on. 
He free felled from the gunship and almost immediately he managed to stomp down one monster that was about to escape containment. Though he made sure that the impact was not lethal it was enough to knock out the mage. Kent turned to check on the other knights Clayton was grabbed by one of the monsters and thrown towards the young knight.
Kent grabbed him by the collar and arm saving him from impacting the wall the promethian sergeant got back up he was very furious.
“Thanks boss man... HEY YOU GET BACK HERE I AIN’T DONE WITH YOU PIECE OF SHIT!” Clayton shouted.
“Captain these mages turned monsters are getting stronger by the second we could use some extra muscle... Dread knight class muscles!” A knight shouted.
“ Understood we have already called a few of them in but they are about 5 minutes out.” Rex shouted.
Aisha used her magic and restrained most of the monsters with Earth claw and ice shackles. With her help the knights and marines were able to place the restriction fields on the magemonsters. One of the monsters was able to break through Aisha’s restraining magic and fully lost their minds to their instinctive nature.
It rushed towards the young mage as several knights tried to stop it they were thrown out of the way instead. She needed time to cast a more powerful restraining magic when it was about to crush her. The young knight pushed her out of the way with a deep breath his hands began to flow as if they hand no bones in them. 
With only seconds before the monster could slam it’s massive fist over the young knight he closed his eyes and uttered. 
“Shadow Fire Art... Claws of the raging wind!” Kent whispered.
The shadow fire art enveloped his arms with a strange black and white aura turning his fingers into miniature spears. With a single thrust his arms became a machine gun and struck the monster in the vital pressure points that controlled movement. With each thrust he was able to toss the monster out of harms way from his men and the civilians trying to get to safety. 
With the monster incapacitated the knights applied medical care to it and added a restriction field to ensure no one else will be harmed.
He ran to Aisha’s side and helped her back up asking if she was unharmed aside from the fall and a scrap on her arm she was safe. 
The knights and marines who learned about their founder Blazer ShadowFire he had many books about teaching knights about the different styles of fighting including ancient martial arts. 
Only a few Champion class knights are able to perform and re-create the techniques in the books but only a direct descendant can unleash their true power. If any Zerrohnian or Xer-razh were to see the technique is a great privilege on its own. 
Later that Day with the Mage tower Hazard Knights were sent into the Tower to search for the source of the monster transformation and Apocrypha’s searched the area high and low for any external threats within a 5 mile radious. 
They deemed the area safe and free from any air born contagions Kent asked Aisha and the surviving mages to check if their was any magic involved in the outbreak.
Aisha told them no summoning or transfiguration circles were found in the area something bothered here when one of the monsters Kent defeated spewed out blood. 
The blood of a Vai’len is a bright red despite any health conditions the blood of a Vai’len will always be bright red but it was darker and the blood almost was similar to acid when came into contact with anything that had life.
“This is not much Kent but it has to be something right?” Aisha asked.
 “It is... Lily... Please extract a blood sample from one of the monsters and see if their are any mysteries inside their blood?” Kent asked.
“Im already done Kent and surprise surprise... Their are a lot of surprises inside their DNA... I am sending you the data I have so far but I’ll get back to you once we have more info.” Lily replied. 
The report from the science and medical team was sent to everyone inside the briefing room and the details were confusing. According to the medical report their blood had nano-machine cells fast replicating and primitive type of machine cells. 
It drew in the energy inside the mage’s body and with the right triggering effect the mage’s body will turn into a beast as a result. No knight hermit or scientist on New Dawn or the Entire legion could do such a monstrous thing to their own kin and brother. It would mean death for them if this was to be true but nothing was said and done until more information was found.
It was an absurd amount of machine cells inside their blood that caused the abnormal change. Kent immediately ordered all the personnel of the mage tower to be detained and questioned by the Crusaegrum mind seekers. 
 Aisha was safe because she was at the trainer’s welcoming party several hours before the incident came to be and she was at the Redrdige manner even before the incident transpired.
“Lady Aisha this might take a while but you may want to get some rest in the secure camp... I’ll be with you in a moment.” Kent requested.
“Okay... Just don’t take too long?” Aisha asked as she was escorted to the camp. 
Once she left Kent and the team including some Elite knights nodded as if they noticed something. 
Kent clenched his fist slowly as he smacked the air behind him when they heard a satisfying bone cracking sound. All of a sudden Rex pulled out his vibration knife and started slashing in front of him and the knight elite near the door grabbed something from this air and slammed his fist into the object as its head exploded in a violent gore of blood show. 
“Alert every knight and marine we have infiltrators in the area... Lock down the air space have every ship we have scan for Electro magnetic signatures for any stealth ships...” Kent ordered.
“Yes sir!” The Elites saluted.
“WE are going to need prowl hunters... wait a minute...” Kent stated.
He remembered the Apex prowl Hunters that Kyvash gave him earlier today and remembered that all he needed to call them was a thought and they will come.
With a single thought the ground began to shake as 3 of the Apex Prowl hunters who were taller and have darker scales than their cousin. Their muscles are stronger and their mantis like arms have twin blades that can vibrate intensely causing matter around them to split apart. 
They also have 4 mandible like arms on their backs that can extend for 5 to 6 meters and can puncture 50 inch adamantine reinforced steel walls. The Apex hunters roared as they busted out of the ground and attacked the cloaked assassins with no mercy. 
One of the hunters fired a volley of razor sharp spines from it’s shoulders melting and shredding the assassin into pieces. Another assassin tried to Kill Willow from behind but was easily dealt with by the Hunter’s 4 mandibles that impaled it on the fore head, neck and heart.
With the room cleared the pact leader of the Apex hunters looked at Kent with it’s blood thirsty eyes bowing before it’s master asking what is their orders.
“Kill all assassins within this area that turned the vai’len mages into monsters Do not let them escape no matter what... Protect the civilians near here... that is my order.” Kent said to the apex Hunter.
“By your will Master...” The hunter said as they burrowed into the ground.
“Sir is it right to trust those things?” Rex asked.
“It’s fine... They were given to me by Kyvash and this would be a perfect for them to prove themselves to the legion kingdom... Its about time we gave our allies some credit.” Kent explained.
“Wait boss if these assassins managed to pass our sensor defense grid then who knows how many are in this camp.” Clayton stated.
“Then that means... Oh no... Aisha!” Kent thought as he busted through the door.
Kent rushed to the secured camp site where Aisha stayed in she settled down she used the built in shower. She got into the shower the falling water made it difficult to hear from the outside the young knight rushed to Aisha’s camp. The assassin pulled out his knife in an attempt to stab the mage when Kent opened the door she was not in her chamber. 
Just before the assassin could deal the final blow a blade pierced the assassins chest. Kyvash appeared from the shadows as she leaned towards the assassins ear and open the assassins helmet she partially changed her face into a monstrous nightmare.
“Let’s talk shall we?” Kyvahs whispered.
With a sadistic smile Kyvash placed her hand over the assassin’s mouth and disappeared into the portal. Kent busted down the door looking for the assassin he heard the shower was on as he opened the door to his surprise Aisha was safe and sound.
“KENT WHAT ARE YOU DOING HERE!” Aisha shouted covering herself at the same time.
“Aisha I... Um...” Kent mumbled.
He stuttered  for the first time in his life when he saw a naked girl specially if the girl he was looking at is the one he loves. Aisha’s face turned beat red as she screamed to the top of her lungs and followed with a thunderous slap to the face. 
Later that evening the two went back to the manner when Chimera and Coralline noticed the hand mark on his face.
“Brother... I?” Chimera asked.
“DON’T... Ask!” Kent said when the mark hurt. 
“I can picture what happened big brother...” Coralline snickered.
“SO how is everyone doing today?” Charlotte asked.
“I am doing great miss Charlotte I am going to start tomorrow as a n instructor.” Emilia said.
“And I will be their to support her since I am already done with my civil duties today so I’m free for an entire week.” Chimera added. 
“I found out that their is another race trying to get their hands on the Vai’len mages so I guess that’s a bonus...” Kent said.
“Kent family rules no business on the dinner table... But I can feel what happened to you today.” Charlotte winked. 
“”“sigh”“ Mom please...” Kent begged.
“I’m sorry Kent I just got surprised... and...” Aisha said as she covered her face.
“See what I mean...” Charlotte giggled. 
“I can take a guess to what happened to you today sis and it’s okay... This is one way for us all to get our relationship into some progress.” Arra stated.
“I am confused...” Kent said.
“You are telling me Father...” Kyvash said through telepathy.
 “What” Kent asked.
“Father don’t be alarmed I am only communicating with you... I am about a minute’s walk away from the ancestral home please be ready.” Kyvash asked.
“Oh right... Mother, Father... I have an important guest that wishes to meet you for the past several months... She will be here in a moment.” Kent said as they moved to the living room.
Everyone was surprised to whom was this person as they moved to the living room Aisha suspected it might be another girl that he wanted to introduce to the family. Arra believed it might be a beast folk that he wished to take care of though their guesses were wild and amazing. 
Meanwhile at the gate of the Redridge manner Kyvash and an entourage of her most elite amongst the elite escorted her to the ancestral house of her family.
“Mother are your sure you wish to go alone?” The Sword Master Troa asked.
“I will be fine Troa... Thank you for your concern but this is one of the safest place on Ren’veil but the Assassin we captured earlier please get as much information as you can if he does not cooperate... Extract the information as painfully as possible.” Kyvash ordered.
“By your will my queen.” Troa replied.
She took a deep breath and knocked three times on the door after a brief moment the young knight welcomed the Queen into his home.
What awaited them was just another step into a brighter tomorrow. 
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talvin-muircastle · 5 years
Text
Victory Song
"She has the soul of a Bard," they said, "a pity she lacks the voice."
Passeria loved music. As a baby, music was the only thing that would still her when she was cranky. As she grew older, she tapped, plucked, beat rhythms on anything she could find. She had her first wooden flute not long after she could walk, and her first harp before she was ten summers old. With any of these, she could make a pleasing sound--but no tune could pass her lips without a wince from the audience. Her speaking voice was unremarkable, neither good nor bad, but the gods that had blessed her fingers with music stole it from her breath.
When she had seen thirteen summers, a Queen's Bard passed through their village. This was a rare thing, for they lived in the Marches, a day's march from the foothills that marked the border of the Kingdom, and such a noble personage did not normally risk himself so close to the fell things that dwelt in those woods. He played for them, and he sang, and Passeria's eyes shone even as her heart broke, for it was a delight to hear such music, and torture to know it would never be hers. The Bard saw her little wooden flute and invited her to play with him, an honor that the cheering villagers would not permit her to refuse.
That night, after most had gone to bed, he found her. "Your elders have spoken to me of you. Come with me. You will play. And then you will sing. And we will talk." Shaking, she followed.
He had her play her flute again, and her harp, and he had her try her hands upon his own lute. He listened closely as she beat out rhythms on her little drum, his foot tapping along the while. Then came the dreaded command: "Sing for me, child."
Tears in her eyes, she did, and she hated herself for every note. She knew the words by heart--oh, she could sing beautifully, in her heart!--but the song was that of a sickly crow, not a beautiful songbird. He nodded solemnly, and asked for another song, and she sang it. Three songs he demanded of her, each more challenging than the last, and she hated him for humiliating her so.
Finally, "Enough. Here, drink this. It is watered down, and you must replace those tears you lost." She drank, making a face at the hint of wine in the water. "Mind me well, Passeria, for this is very important: you are a Bard, and let none ever tell you otherwise. You have the talent for music, but more importantly, you have the magic that only our kind possesses." She wiped her eyes on her sleeve and blinked at him, made now uncertain by his words.
"Master Bard," she whispered, "please do not mock me so." In answer, he left his own chair and took a knee before her, his eyes meeting hers.
"Passeria, I do not mock you, but speak only the truth. There is a power in your voice that I can sense. Not all music is meant for human ears, young Bard. The Gods granted me my gift that I might please Kings and Dukes and Knights and Guildmistresses. That is no small thing in this world--but the Gods granted you a gift that can part the waves of an evil sea. You have within you to do something that I cannot--that only a bare handful of men and women in this Kingdom can do. I knew this as soon as you started singing--I only made you sing three songs so I could fully judge the strength of your gift, and it is a powerful one. The Gods only grant such a gift in the time and place where it will be needed." She shook her head, understanding and yet not.
He sighed, and raised an admonishing finger, "Mind me well, Passeria! Someday--it may be soon, it may be when your grandchildren dance around you--but someday you will hear singing like unto your own! When that day comes, you must answer it with your own song! If you do not, many will die. That is your gift and your burden. Will you promise me that you will remember this?"
She gulped and said, "I swear." For the first time since they had played together by the fire, he smiled at her. Then he stood and turned to go.
He stopped at the door. "Oh, yes: the lute is yours now. You are worthy of it. I will tell your Elders." Then he was gone.
The Bard rose with the sun the next morning and rode on his way. The Elders, puzzled but obedient, confirmed that the lute was indeed hers--as was the olive-green cloak permitted only to recognized Bards. He was the King's Man, and his orders carried the weight of the King's Law.
He had also commanded that young Passeria should learn the ways of blade and bow. "She'll need them," he had said.
She wore the cloak, and practiced the lute, and found to her surprise that she was passable with the bow and better than most with the sword. The villagers were more respectful when they asked her to play of a long evening, and she went on the march-rides with the hunters, watching for sign of the evil things from over the frontier.
She never sang.
When she was sixteen, the evil things came.
It was late autumn, and the harvest was almost finished. The herds had been culled for the winter and the meat salted down. Three hunters went out looking for whatever had been savaging the pigs that were left to run wild in the woods. One came back, minus an arm.
The evil things of legend had come down out of the mountains, the evil things that had not been seen since their mother's father's mother's time. They had no names: some had the shape of beasts, some had the shape of men, some had whatever shape they pleased, but they were all bone-white, their blood did not darken as it dried but stayed crimson until the rains cleansed it, and they killed for pleasure rather than need. "Evil" was the only name that fit.
That first day, they sent runners to the garrison a day's travel further in, and they gathered what they could and withdrew inside the palisade.
The second day, they peered over the sharpened stakes of the wall and listened to the screams of the herds as the things savaged them and ran them to death.
The third day was quiet. Evil had sated itself in the night and needed to sleep.
The fourth day they knew despair, for if the runners had made it to the garrison, the soldiers would have arrived by then. They were cut off and alone.
The fifth day, the evil things attacked.
Passeria stood the wall with the hunters and the veterans, loosed arrows until her quiver was exhausted, then another took her place while she gulped down water and replenished her ammunition. They had many arrows--arrows and bolts were as good as coin at tax-time when you lived in the Marches. The Evil things had a sound battle-plan, even so: keep throwing themselves at the walls until they ran the defenders out of arrows. Foolish for any mortal host, but the monsters had the numbers to make it work.
The First among the hunters patted her on the shoulder as he came down for his own water and arrows. "How are you holding up, Passeria?"
"Well enough, I suppose. Most of my shots hit. I just hate that damned song of theirs!"
"Song? Ah, that raucous keening of theirs? Has a rhythm to it, I guess...I suppose a Bard would find it more vexing than most." Another light clout on the shoulder, and he was back to the wall and his work.
She leaned her head against the water barrel and listened to the monsters at the walls. That song...that damnable song. Everyone else seemed to tune it out, but it got inside her, into her bones, and it resonated there. Horrible, ugly, screeching...
She dropped the cup and turned to stare at the wall. What a disgusting sound...like her own singing voice.
She left her bow and quiver at the water station and climbed the short flight of steps to the top of the palisade. Someone growled a warning at her to "be careful with that thing!" and she realized that she had her sword in her hand. She looked out at the screeching, tumbling horde of their foes, and she took a deep breath.
The first note was as painful to sing as it was to hear, but it caught the attention of a thing with the head of a dog and the body of a ram that had been clawing at the logs, ignoring the arrows studding its flanks. So she sang to it, and it sat back on its haunches, staring at her raptly right up to the point that it slid back into the ditch, bright red blood mingling with the muddy pool at the bottom.
She sang louder, and more of them stopped and stared. A few raised their own voices, a chorus of demons in answer. She jumped down from the palisade, voice faltering for only a moment, and scrambled out of the ditch to face them directly.
The first thing died with her blade in its throat, never moving a muscle.
The second was man-shaped, and sang with her even as she slid the sword into its belly.
The third died under the axe of the First Hunter.
The fourth fell to a hammer blow from the smith.
The fifth opened its mouth to sing and took a shepherd's sling bullet in its gullet.
She sang and sang, voice croaking out refrains to every song she knew, and when that failed her she sang wordlessly, scales of death and blood and slaughter. The moon was high in the sky when the business was finally done, and one of the shepherds caught her as she collapsed.
The next morning they loaded her onto the back of one of the three surviving horses, which rolled its eyes at the stink of decaying bone-white flesh and blood that would not turn brown. The hunter's First and the Headwoman's son led her between them, and whenever they encountered a roving thing, she sang to it in a voice that cracked from overuse while it died under their blades. That night they reached the garrison.
The winter was hard, but the King sent wagonloads of provisions, and promised that the spring would see new herdstock sent from his own lands. Other Bards, others like Passeria, dwelt with the garrison, and patrols were pushed out almost to the foothills.
A hard winter, but filled with song.
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