AN: In this fic, Alfonso is the Queen's nephew. I know in the game he is merely an Admiral with noble blood from a family of aristocrats, buuuut.. ive changed it just a tiny bit.

Chapter 1

She gasped for air. With her hands tied behind her, it was almost impossible to struggle up into a kneeling position, from the floor where she had been ungraciously thrown. The impact had winded her, leaving her breathless, and utterly helpless.

"Alfonso, what is that?" The voice was cruel, low and husky. It was clearly used to talking down to those it thought to be scum.

Aika felt her anger flare. The old bat! How dare she!? It was not exactly her choice to be here! She wasn't sullying the floor of her Throne Room because she wanted to!

"It is an Air Pirate. I managed to kidnap it, despite the fact that her and her allies outnumbered us."

"Ass-hole! I was fishing, alone!" She shouted from her undignified position. "Don't lie you bastard!"

A solid kick to her ribs knocked the wind out of her for a second time.

"As I was saying, Majesty, I thought you may be able to use it as an example to the other raiding, pillaging filth that are polluting our skies." He finished.

Aika wriggled furiously, trying to elevate herself to at least her knees. At least that way she would be able to see more than just the Queen's slipper clad feet, sticking out below her billowing skirts. However, a timely boot pressing between her shoulder blades, pinned her down effectively.

She opened her mouth to deliver a colourfully worded tirade, when a new voice cut across her.

"Mother, how do we know she is an Air Pirate? She said she was merely fishing."

A new pair of feet had appeared within her line of vision on the Royal dais before her. She hardly had time to register that this must be the Prince of Vaula, however, before the pressure on her back increased dramatically. Her captor had evidently leaned forward in anger. Perhaps he had forgotten that his weight was upon her, or perhaps he merely didn't care.

"Cousin, I hope you are not prepared to believe the word of this pirate whore over my own!"

"Of course not." Came the calm reply. Aika thought she felt the weight life ever so slightly, as a little more oxygen reached her starved lungs. However, the feeling was brief as it became even heavier at the next words.

"I take no one's word. I merely examine the evidence and draw my own conclusions. I believe the girl is speaking the truth."

"Enrique! Explain yourself" Snapped the angry voice of the Queen.

"Certainly Mother. My dear Cousin claims he and his crew were greatly outnumbered. Yet, here they all stand. Not a scratch on their armour, nor an injury to show between them. What is more, our previous experience with Air Pirates, Blue Rogues at least, is that not only are they formidable opponents, but they are fiercely loyal and honourable, and would never leave one of their own in the hands of the enemy without fighting to the death. I say again, not my cousin, or any of his men show signs of having recently been in a struggle." There was a small pause, then;

"Alfonso soon you will have killed your so-called pirate before my Mother can pass a judgement."

A moment later Aika was gasping mouthfuls of air, and deciding that she liked the Prince a whole lot more than his pompous Mother.

"Aunt Teadora." Came Alfonso's voice, dripping with respect. The lack of any kind of formal title told Aika, that the man was about to play the ace card he had against her. "Let me present the flag she was flying from her vessel."

Fingers clicked, and Aika heard a soft thudding of material beside her.

"If that is not proof of her piracy, then look at her garb! Who, other than a pirate, would dress in such a gaudy and ridiculous array of items?!" The sneer in his voice was clear, and made Aika clench her teeth in fury.

She knew that the flag proudly boasted the emblem by which all Blue Rogues swore. There was a clatter, and she winced, seeing the remains of her beloved boomerang out of the corner of her eye. The foppish bastard had snapped it! She had to bite her lip against the colourful words, fighting work their way out.

"Classic pirate weaponry; shabby, badly made and crude. What more proof do you need Your Majesty?"

"May I enter my opinion, Your Majesty?"

This new voice sent chills all over Aika's flesh. It was powerful, and dark, it hid malice and cruelty behind its velvet smoothness.

"Ah! Galcian! You have impeccable timing, as always! I was beginning to think my son and my nephew would spill blood over this worthless little urchin."

"With all due respect, Majesty, I believe your nephew's reputation for over exaggeration, may have gotten the better of him."

Alfonso shifted uncomfortably beside her, but didn't speak back. The name Galcian was familiar to her, she had heard of him, but couldn't remember precisely who he was. He must be important though, she thought, to silence Alfonso.

Galcian continued speaking.

"I believe this creature could be an Air Pirate, or else a fool trying to play a little joke. I think it is clear, as the Prince stated, that she was indeed alone, something of a rarity, especially among Blue Rogues, suggesting she is not a pirate. Even so, if this is the case, displaying the banner, is still a punishable offence. We cannot be sure, but either way, the girl must pay for her actions."

Aika had the impression that the Queen was somewhat infatuated with Galcian, she had sat through his whole succinct explanation. It then struck her! She knew where she had heard his name, and Alfonso was quite right to fear him. General Galcian! A pitiless man. She had heard horror stories about him; his evil eyes which could strike a man dead. His monstrous sword which was stained with the blood of women and children was as tall as he… Her blood turned cold at the Queen's next words.

"And what punishment would you deem appropriate for the girl?" The woman asked eagerly. Definitely infatuated, Aika concluded. Why else would a Queen hand the privilege of passing sentence to one of her subordinates?

There was a brief pause, then..

"I do not believe a death sentence is wise my Queen. In the eyes of Vaula's citizens, it may make you appear rash, not to mention unnecessarily cruel.. Perhaps something.. else."

Aika could scarce believe her ears. Galcian was supposed to be ruthless and evil, why was he suggesting anything less than death?

"Like what Galcian? What?"

Perhaps the Queen was just brain dead, the Blue Rogue summarised. She was sat before a room full of her subjects, asking a man of lower rank to make her decisions for her.

"Give her to one of the men. A soldier, who, perhaps, has recently excelled in his duty."

Aika went cold. A pleasure slave?! She almost preferred the idea of execution! Galcian couldn't be suggesting her for himself could he?!

"Your Majesty, as it was I who captured the girl…"

"Silence Alfonso! You lied to me, and I shall not tolerate that! She shall not go to you." Her captor must have cast a glance at Enrique, for she laughed scornfully.

"Nor to the Prince. He is far above her, and I would not permit my son to sully our royal bloodline with her. No… a soldier of merit, a tricky thing to find. But, ahh yes! Captain, I did not see you there. Galcian, your man has proved himself unflinchingly loyal, and efficient on all counts. I can't think of anyone better!"

"Come forward Ramirez." Galcian commanded.

Footsteps echoed on the marble floor, sending tiny, clicking vibrations through Aika's prostrate form, as whoever this man was, approached.

"With all due respect." The voice was as cold as ice, and hard as flints, yet it was also rich and deep. Aika shivered as it's sound, why, she could not say.

"I am not in any need of such a ..." she could almost feel his eyes sear into her back. "gift."

"Nonsense boy!" Galcian said quickly, only a slight trace of anger in his voice.

"The Queen has lavished her generosity upon you, now show your gratitude."

"My thanks, My Queen, I accept your offering gratefully and feel honoured you should chose to think of me, over others far worthier." He said, retracting his earlier words smoothly and without hesitation.

"Now my Queen, me and my Vice Captain must discuss our plans, I will inform you of what we think would be the Armada's best move before two hours have passed."

"Very well General. Ramirez, shall I have it sent to your quarters?"

"The Captain will be leaving port for a few days at dawn. Perhaps have her stationed in the Harem till then, with explicit orders for none to touch her." The General's words were posed as a suggestion, but they may as well have been an order, for Teadora consented immediately to Galcian.

Aika heard the general excuse himself and Ramirez, then man who now held claim to her. When their foot steps had faded, she was left lying on the cold floor while a few more orders and summons were given, then, she was hauled in a daze to her feet, and led out of the Throne Room, and into a new life.

Ramirez sat in silence on the bridge of the Monoceros. Why him?! He didn't want to share his bed with the pirate wench! Why would he? Women were only ever complications and annoyances. When he was seventeen, Galcian had presented him with a beautiful young woman. A seasoned prostitute, to, as Galcian had put it, welcome him into manhood. He had bedded her, as ordered to, however he had not found lying with her an especially enjoyably experience. It seemed that the position of Galcian's Vice Captain in the Armada came with it a ruthless and dangerous reputation. These things, Ramirez knew he was, he had not, however, wanted them reciprocated in bed. She had shrieked and moaned, asking him to be rough, and to hurt her. She had dug her nails across his back, thinking the pain would appeal to him. It did not. The sparse few other women he had lain with seemed the same, and he had no particular longing to take a permanent bed partner now.

He had voiced as much to Galcian the moment they were free of the Throne Room. He had been silenced instantly.

"Boy you will accept the girl, and use her accordingly. I will hear no more of the matter. The whore will be sent to your quarters when you return from your mission. Do not shun a gift from the Queen, not yet, when we are so close."

Ramirez had immediately nodded his obedience. General Galcian was the best of men, and Ramirez would always serve him faithfully, whatever his orders may be.

He sighed inwardly. No doubt the girl would be much like the others he had taken, and would enjoy a few 'rolls in the hay' with a powerful man like him. Rough and brutal. He was growing tired of women's expectations, and it bored him witless.

It irritated him that he had not even seen the face of the girl. She could be hideous. Not that it mattered, orders were orders. All he had been able to see were her slim legs protruding from beneath her short yellow skirts. He thought she looked to be slender, but had no idea of her facial or bodily assets beyond that. He did not even know the girl's name. All irrelevant details. He would do his duty. She did, however, have a certain amount of courage. He had to admit, for he had heard her swear loudly at the fool, Alfonso. He almost smirked at the memory.

Ramirez pushed the girl from his mind as his Captain approached him.

"Sir, there is no trace in this sector."

The young man nodded.

"Then we move on."

"Sir, if I may be so bold. Are you sure the new radar works? It has not detected any of the other vessels we have sighted."

"No, you may not be so bold." He replied and the soldier winced. "I designed the radar myself to detect one ship, and one ship only. It stands to reason that as we have found nothing, it should remain inactive. Do not question it again."

With a snap of his heels, the man saluted and turned away, barking orders which would carry the huge flagship to the next sector to search. With his mind unoccupied Ramirez sank, again, into thoughts of his new pleasure slave, and how quickly he could politely put her aside, without insulting the Queen.

Aika groggily came to. Surprisingly, she could remember instantly the circumstances which led to her being unconscious. She sourly reached around and felt the tattoo now present on the back of her neck. She had seen it on various flags and motifs around the palace and Vaula, and of course, on the hull of Alfonso's flagship when she was captured. Now she gazed at it in a tiny mirror. The crest of the Armada, and a small but elaborate 'R' beneath it. It branded her forever as the property of a man she had even met. In order to apply it to her skin properly, they had been forced to cast a heavy sleep spell over her, after she had broken two noses and crushed her knee into another man's crotch. But they had won. Calling down the Blue Moon, they had forced her into submission. Thinking hatefully of the ink, she released her hair from its customary pigtails, hiding it from view.

Sighing, she took in her surroundings. A simple unadorned, stone room. The air was dry and clean, and an empty wardrobe stood ajar against one wall. A small vanity table, supporting a small framed mirror was opposite, and there was one door, so she assumed she had no washroom.

Rising, she took a moment to find her feet, knowing that sleep spells could often cause the mind to abandon the limbs upon waking, then made her way to the door, wondering what lay beyond it. When she pulled it open, she was struck by a wall of warmth, light and the chatter of feminine voices. Overlaying it all was the soft aroma of lavender. Her eyes fell for the first time on the Harem.

The huge room was circular, and entirely beautiful. At its centre was a large fountain which doubled as a pool. Several women already sat naked, talking animatedly to one another in the clear waters. The rest of the floor consisted of a marble of the palest indigo, shot through with veins of iridescence. A massive fireplace, which could easily hold three men standing upright, was set opposite to a set of huge double doors on the far off wall, gilded with gold leaf. Around the hearth there were many cushioned chairs and sofas, and there were other such arrangements at strategic positions around the room. Two large book cases stood like guards on each side of the fireplace, and Aika could see many woman stretched out like luxurious cats, reading.

Out of a doorless archway, women came and went. Those who emerged often boasting wet hair, and nothing but a fluffy towel. This, Aika guessed, was the communal washroom. The rest of the wall space was taken up by around thirty small doors, much like her own. She could see through some, which stood open, that not all were as dull as hers, but were decorated to their owner's tastes. Perhaps aided by regular patrons, in order to purchase more expensive items. There were three storeys to the room, each one shown by a delicate golden balcony which ran around the circumference. Each was connected by a gilded spiral staircase. The lavender burned continuously in gold braziers, suspended from the undersides of each level. The high ceiling was merely a gigantic skylight. Unfortunately, this seemed like more of a draw back, considering the perpetual storm clouds which swirled over Vaula.

Aika gazed over the room from the second storey, where her room was located, her hand resting on the gold rail. All this?! Just for whores? She supposed that if the women were happy, they would perform well, and thus keep the men happy.

"You new?" Came a voice behind her, "You look new."

Aika turned to come face to face with a girl around her own age. She wore what most of the Harem girls wore, an outfit as flimsy and provocative as the Vaulan armour was think and impregnable. The material was gauzy and practically transparent. Only the most frugal amount of thicker material was used to cover the most alluring of female organs, the buttocks and the breasts. The belly was left bare, as were the legs. Plain sandals were worn on the feet. The outfit was made to be easily removed, leather thongs tied in bows at the front of the bust and skirt would enable men to strip the woman in seconds.

The outfit seemed to come in different available colours. The girl before her wore one of the palest greens, which went well with her brown hair and eyes.

"Yeah," Aika replied. "I'm new."

"Nice to meet ya, name's Maev." She said, smiling prettily.

"Aika."

"So, you for anyone then?" She asked, starting towards the stairs leading down to the main gallery.

"What do you mean?" Aika asked as she followed, a little confused.

"Had your tattoo yet?"

"Uh.. well yeah I have."

"Lets have a look then." Maev had spun back to face her, indicating her own, displayed on her left hip. "I'm just an everyman's girl, me." She said bitterly.

Aika nodded in a non-committal way, before lifting her sheet of bright hair away from her neck.

"Ohh, so you're personal, eh? Lucky! At least you won't find yourself lying with anyone at all who fancies a quick rut." Maev stepped back, looking thoughtful.

"'R' Hmm? Who could that be? Hundreds of nobles with names beginning…."

"Ramirez." Aika cut in. "A Captian.. or something."

Maev's mouth fell open, and she gaped in astonishment at Aika.

"Ramirez?!" She shouted in disbelief. "You have been claimed by Ramirez?!"

Her voice carried, and it seemed that within moments, Aika was surrounded by a throng of clamouring, curious women.

"What.. what's the big deal?!" She asked over the din. There was a spattering of laughter among them, drawing a scowl to her face.

"She's new!" Called Maev. "How's she to know?"

"Tch! You don't have to be in the Harem to know of him!" Aika caught sight of the speaker. A woman, perhaps in her mid-twenties. She was tall, with straight black hair almost to her hips, her striking features and attractive, dark eyes were somewhat ruined by the disgusted sneer she wore.

"Nor even a citizen of Vaula! Ramirez is second only to Galcian, and his reputation proceeds him!"

Aika blinked, this woman was speaking about the Captain with positive adoration.

"Well, I had never even heard of him before today." She said. The woman's face turned ugly as she glared at Aika.

"A simple, uneducated creature like yourself? I'm not surprised! How did an unworthy little thing like you manage to catch the eye of such a man?"

"I-I was given to him, b-by the Queen." Aika said, almost choking on her anger. How dare this woman speak to her like this?! Her response, however, caused the lady to throw her magnificent head back and laugh.

"Ahh, I see!" She said once she had composed herself. "He had no choice but to take you. No wonder! Poor Ramirez!"

Aika didn't realise how red she had gone until someone else said:

"The colour she's gone clashes horribly with her hair!"

Laughter resumed.

"Leave her alone Celeste! You are only jealous he did not select you five years ago!"

Celeste's eyes hardened to flints, and she backhanded Maev across the cheek. She was quivering with rage.

"How dare you! I brought the Vice Captain to manhood! I gave him something no one else could!"

Aika caught hold of Maev's hand, seeing the girl was about to shout something back, regardless of the pink bruise already swelling on her face.

"Please, its alright. Really, let it drop."

"Pathetic!" Celeste jeered at the younger woman's withdrawal. "Ramirez will hate to bed one such as you! Someone who doesn't even know the meaning of the words danger, power and passion. He likes a woman who can take a beating and if you can't, he'll toss you aside very quickly."

For a moment, Aika bit her tongue. Now was not the time to make enemies, although… by the looks of it, it seemed a little late. She couldn't help herself.

"Well, if he is used to you, then he'll probably just appreciate bedding someone who isn't already past their peak."

With that, Aika turned and tugged Maev with her through the tittering crowd of whores, Celeste's screams and insults ringing in her ears.

She paused with Maev by the fountain and turned to her, expecting to hear that she had 'gone too far', an apology waiting on her lips.

"I'm sorry Maev, I…"

"That was brilliant! I've never seen that cow angrier!" Maev cut across, beaming. "She is always so high and mighty, because Ramirez was ordered to give her his virginity on his seventeenth birthday. She seems to think it was some divine spiritual providence that brought them together." The girl chuckled. "but he never came back for more! Ha! After five years he hasn't wanted a second taste!"

Aika managed to let a smile tug at her lips.

"Hasn't he taken anyone else from the Harem?" She asked.

"Oh yes, but not many. In five years I believe he has taken around six or seven others. He had them once, and sent them on their way as soon as he was done with them. Not one, in five years, has ever seen out the entire night in his bed." The girl shook her head. "They all seem to think of themselves as 'the elite' among us, Celeste is the worst. She wears the man's virginity like a medal."

"No wonder she looked like she wanted to tear me apart." Aika said with a chuckle.

"She's the Head Bitch around here, because she had him first. You, especially after standing up to her, are a serious threat to her, if Ramirez keeps you. Still, even if he doesn't, you are the only one bearing his crest, a big bonus."

Aika managed to smile again. This was all very well, but she had no desire whatsoever to be 'Head Bitch' and no desire to give her virginity to Ramirez, as he had to Celeste, merely because of orders. Soon she sunk into her thoughts, and although she met and spoke to several of the other girls (all congratulating her excessively), her mind was far away in gloomy solitude. Soon she claimed tiredness and retreated to her plain little room. Someone had placed a Harem outfit on her bed. The thicker material was dark blue, the gauze that made up the rest was yellow. She glared at it for a moment, before stuffing it in the otherwise empty wardrobe. That done, she threw herself onto the bed to contemplate her future, and to mourn for her past.

"It's like her Vyse. She's done it before. She goes off alone for a while to cool off, then comes back herself again, you're panicking over nothing."

Dyne's words did little to soothe his young son, who stood before him in the wooden panelled meeting room.

Vyse felt ill at ease. She had left in a rage like he had never seen, flying their flag defiantly despite the dangers of doing so alone. If the Armada caught her, they would probably have her executed without a second thought.

"Now," Dyne said, drawing Vyse's attention again, "in three days we are going raiding. We have been watching the Armada, and a flag ship is scheduled to be patrolling an area of sky close to here. You are coming along, I trust?"

The thought of a raid forced concerns for his best friend from his mind, and cheered the young man immensely.

Aika growled to herself, and plucked angrily at the flimsy outfit. Early this morning she had been ousted from her rough little bed, and removed from the Harem. This is it, she had thought in horror. However when, around half an hour later (she had no idea how huge the palace was), she arrived in the Vice Captain's lavish apartments, she found them mercifully empty.

"Your new master will be arriving sometime today, depending on flying conditions." She was briefly informed by a serf. Serving girls were summoned, and over the course of the next few hours, she was stripped, washed, dressed and pampered. Some kind of substance had even been combed onto her lashes, making her eyes wide and innocent looking. Her hair had been brushed and left to dry. Out of its pigtails it became wavy, almost curly. Her old battle dress had been removed, when she asked after it, she was told it would be returned to her, after it had been cleaned. This she was sure, was a lie. She doubted she would ever see it again. She sighed miserably. Evening was approaching, the setting sun was sinking slowly, staining the skies a vivid orange that became pink, then violet, then finally indigo as night crept in on the opposite horizon. The clouds seemed to have cleared briefly, as if in tribute to the glorious view. Although, every now and then, a far off blaze of lightning flashed in the distance.

She was beginning to entertain hopes that perhaps he would not arrive today. The vista she was afforded was ablaze with the lights of the Upper City, and she could only see a tiny sliver of the huge gulf over which the incoming ships flew to dock. She had no idea if his flag ship had come in, and even if she did have a better view, she had no idea what the craft may look like. She supposed it must be a fearsome vessel, much as its master was meant to be. From the stories of Ramirez she had heard, she had built up an image of what the man must look like. She saw a tall, broad man, bulging with muscle and sinew. He would have big hands, rough and calloused; perfect for inflicting harm. He would have small, dark eyes, brimming with malice, sallow skin, and black hair. He would probably have scars, she envisioned an ugly mar on his face. Not a mark of heroism like Vyse's was, but a hideous score, bearing as a reminder of some battle, or some evil or past cruelty. She had envisioned this image so fiercely, that she could no longer believe that he had any other form. Thus, every time the apartment doors opened, she would investigate the individual, searching for any resemblance to her vision.

It was always a maid or a serf, entering to bring something, do something or take something away. One woman came in to turn down the sheets of the bed, in preparation for the night's coming forays. Aika glared especially hard at this maid until she left. Another entered bearing a bright, silver sword, its blade rippled and its edge was keen, which was hung over the large fireplace. As the day was drawing to a close, she was becoming more and more nervous and jumpy. Now she stood before a window seat, watching the sunset. The door had not budged now for almost an hour, to her estimations, and she was convinced that the next time it did, the dark haired man of her fears would enter.

Suddenly, without warning, the ornate handle was slammed downwards from outside. Gasping, she spun from the blazing view to see the door open, and finally, Captain Ramirez step into the room.

Ramirez cursed quietly. He had been delayed. Not only had the ship had to fight against a strong headwind, but Galcian had demanded an instant report. The General was a very thorough man. He had wanted a detailed account of almost every hour that the two day patrol had lasted. Ramirez admired this 'perfectionist' quality in his master. The General left nothing to chance.

Now, finally, he was almost back in his apartments. It didn't show physically, but all he wished for at that moment was to fall into his bed. But he knew that in an hour he would have to make the customary report to the Queen, and officially debrief Alfonso. Fool though the man was, he had done the same patrol many times and knew the procedure. It was more a formal ceremony than anything else. He thought grudgingly that he would not have to suffer it for all that much longer.

He decided he would eat and bathe. He couldn't afford to close his eyes, lest he sleep too deeply. Tardiness would not be tolerated by the General. Rounding the last corner and approaching his doors, Ramirez almost collided with a young serf, bearing a platter boasting an array of fruit and a bottle of dark wine.

Upon seeing the Vice Captain, the boy fumbled, nearly dropping his burden in his nervousness.

"Fool, what are you doing?!" Snapped Ramirez impatiently.

"Sir, I-I was ordered to deliver this to your rooms, Sir, before your arrival." The man stammered, clearly very familiar with the rumours concerning Ramirez's character.

"Well, on that count you have failed." Said Ramirez, snatching the tray from the boy. "As I returned before you had delivered it. Now get out of my way." With that he moved past the terrified serf, towards his doors and longing for a little relaxation and privacy. Without hesitation the serf bolted, not wanting to anger the dangerous man further. Ramirez had not noticed the presence of two goblets on the tray, so intent was he on getting inside. Upon entering, a gasp alerted him to the presence of another person in the room. His eyes swivelled and met instantly with those of the figure standing at the window. His first, ludicrous thought, was that she must surely be a Goddess of Fire, for she was wreathed in flame. With irritation, he flicked that notion aside. It was not fire, but merely the last blaze of the dying Sun, reflecting on her locks of auburn hair. He had not seen much, when she had lain on the Throne Room floor, now he did. Her shining hair, when not tied in those ridiculous pigtails, fell to her mid-back, and was wavy. Her skin was ivory, and smooth, and across her chest it dove down into the valley between her breasts. She wore the uniform of the Harem, and he mused that he had never thought it looked remotely enticing until now. With a small, but surprising surge of effort, he dragged his gaze back up to her face. Her eyes were deceptive. They seemed both dark, and light at the same time. They were a rich maroon, or where they lavender? Some sort of cosmetics had been applied to her lashes, making them dark and longer than they would be. Her nose was small and straight, lips smooth and pale. Hers was the sort of mouth that would curve easily into a smile.

As soon as she saw him, her expression changed from fearful, to exhausted relief. She sank backwards into the window seat.

"Bloody Hell! I don't know how much more of this I can damned well take!" She snapped irritably.

Aika felt weak with utter relief. The stress of the day was taking its toll on her energy. The dark Adonis she was awaiting had, again, failed to appear. Instead into the room had stepped another serf. He was young, around half a head taller than her, he was handsome too. His platinum hair was invitingly smooth, his bangs occasionally falling before his intense emerald eyes. She shivered in slight pleasure when that gaze investigated her face and frame. His shoulders were quite narrow, his body slender. His long legs were encased in high leather boots, which surrendered to the rest of his uniform at his thighs. He was dressed richly, but then, most of the serfs and maids here were. The beautiful people of society liked to be waited upon by people of appropriate beauty too. And this man was definitely one of the most physically attractive males she had ever laid eyes on.

"Much more of what?" he asked softly. His voice seemed a little familiar, but she couldn't place it. However, the sound of it had much the same effect on her that his gaze had, and sent a delightful tremor over her skin.

"Waiting for this damned Captain, that's what!" Her arms snaked across her chest, folding before her.

"I've been here all day, terrified out of my mind, and each time that door opens, I jump for the ceiling! But its always one of you serfs!"

She retreated into an angry silence, her baleful gaze fixed on the bed in hatred.

Ramirez could not help the smirk that crossed his lips, while thinking that she seemed far from terrified. His previous longing to be alone had quite fled upon meeting his spirited little gift. It seemed she had an image of him in her mind, and that it did not match his appearance. He discovered he did not want her to know his identity just yet, for whatever it was she thought of him, was clearly not positive. Her fascinating eyes suddenly snapped back to him.

"Do you have a message or something?"

This time Ramirez even surprised himself by giving away a quiet chuckle. He guessed he really did appear to be a serf, after all, he had entered carrying a tray, which he now set down.

"Actually, yes I do." He reached out, picking up the bottle of wine, and the two goblets he now spotted, and started towards her. "Captain Ramirez will not be arriving tonight. He sends his apologies, but has charged me with keeping you company for a while. Here." He said, pouring a generous glass and handing it to her. "I see no reason not to enjoy this time a little."

Aika had barely heard him after his first seven words. Joy leapt through her like a bolt of lightning. She grabbed the wine, taking an impressive swig, as she leaned back into the cushions of the seat.

"Thank fuck!" She murmured, covering her eyes with her palm, a glorious smile spreading over her lips.

"You certainly have a way with words." Ramirez said quietly, seating himself next to her, sipping from his own glass. He took the chance, while her eyes were covered, to inspect how her lips looked when graced with a smile. Wonderful, he decided, investigating the row of exposed, perfect teeth. She truly was a wonderful female specimen. She laughed at his words, opening her eyes.

"What is this?" She asked, looking at the red liquid she was drinking.

"Wine." Came the reply. "Made from fermented grapes." He explained at her blank look. She pulled a face.

"Its not a patch on loqua, but its alright." She said, taking another gulp.

Ramirez raised a brow at her in mild amusement.

"Tell me, what name do you go by?" He asked quietly. It was a question which had been bothering him since he had left on his assignment, but since he had entered his rooms, it had burned like a bullet in his chest. This was why it was so strange, to have his question answered so quickly. This question that had been plaguing his mind for days, put to rest, as her silky voice breathed one word.

"Aika."

His mind settled around that word, and he repeated it, testing it on his tongue. It suited her. When she did not ask his in return, he felt no need to give it.

"And how old are you Aika?" He enquired.

"Almost eighteen." She said easily, she seemed to be enjoying being the centre of his attention.

"What island do you hail from?"

"A small village Isle to the South East of Sailors Island, through the stone reef." She said vaguely after a pause, flicking her hand towards the horizon. Under normal circumstances, she would have been far more reserved with strangers. But the wine was strong, and it was warming her insides, giving her a relaxed sense of satisfaction. His next question, however, served as a harsh reminder of where she was, and exactly what her purpose was to be.

"So tell me, why are you so terrified of Ramirez?"

He wished to know why this vibrant young woman should be so afraid of him. Her wide eyes turned on him in surprise.

"Are you joking?" She asked. "The things I've heard about him from the girls in the Harem are enough to make anyone's blood curdle." He raised his eyebrows for elaboration, trying not to show his anger. What had this girl been told? He had no doubt that Celeste was the main culprit. She shuddered next to him, and the small flame of his anger caught, and blew into a blazing inferno. What falsehoods had been said to repulse her so?!

"I was told that he… he likes to abuse and beat the women he lies with… That he.." At this point she turned and gripped his forearm in her small hand. "That he is rough, uncaring and that he enjoys receiving pain as well as giving it."

She looked pale, and only now did he notice the slight grey shadows under her eyes. She had not been sleeping well, her troubled thoughts of the dreaded Captain keeping her awake at night. He resisted the urge to clench his jaw in fury, and opted to close his eyes so she would not see how hard they had become. This girl, who had never before even heard of him, had already been influenced by this irritating reputation, and she based it on the word of the whores she had met.

"Is it true?" He heard her voice murmur, and suddenly became very aware that her hand was still on his arm. His eyes reopened and met with hers. Was this possibly a chance at redemption?

"Is it true was that say?" She repeated.

"From what I know of the Captain, he has never desired such actions." He replied.

She seemed not to have heard him, either that, or she did not believe him, as she glanced at the door in distraction. That was fair enough, he reasoned. After all, what would a serf know in comparison to the whores who had experienced Ramirez for themselves?

"I never thought it would be like that. I wanted my first time to be something special and worthwhile." She removed her hand from his arm, and without its weight, it felt oddly cold to him. "Now it seems I'll be raped and beaten." She sighed, and emptied her glass.

Ramirez automatically refilled it, surprise rendering him temporarily speechless. When eventually he regained it, she had already drunk half of the refreshed contents.

"You are untouched?"

"Evidently not for long." She growled. He could see her indignant fury. Clearly here was a proud woman, and to be lowered to the position of a pleasure slave… it must be hateful for her.

Ramirez glanced briefly at the window. With a jolt, he realised that the Sun had almost completely set, and the Yellow Moon was glowing above them. He cursed and stood. Where had the time gone?

She glanced at him, her eyes questioning.

"There is a duty I have to attend to." He said quickly, pouring his remaining wine into her own goblet. "Ramirez, as I said, will not be here till tomorrow." He motioned to the wardrobe. "That outfit will not be necessary till then. In there are some clothes, men's, but they may be more comfortable." He scowled as there was a knock at the door.

"A moment!" His voice then was a commanding snarl, and the tapping instantly silenced.

"Wait," Muttered Aika, getting to her feet. She swayed slightly, the wine was stronger than she had anticipated. "Are you coming back?" He glanced at her, he almost looked surprised. "Its just that …you are the only person other than Maev who has really spoken to me."

He paused, looking at her intently. After a moment, a barely discernable smirk twitched at the corners of his smooth lips.

"You will be seeing me again, be sure of it." He turned and strode towards the door. "You are permitted to sleep here tonight, and yes, I will be back soon." He said without turning, pulling the wooden portal open.

"What is your name?"

He heard the quiet question, but pretended not to, and quickly shut the door in his wake.

"Sir, the General sent me to remind you of your meeting with the Queen, I believe they have already begun."

With a silent nod, the Captain turned away from the soldier, and marched quickly towards the Throne Room. His mind swam with the image of the flame haired virgin who had been handed to him. She was proud, very proud. But there was an innocence to her which had reached out to him. In Vaula, something so pure was rare, and to be able to call it his own was a great thing. But she didn't know him. She soon would, then she would lock herself away, hide her true self from him. He had only caught a glimpse of it today, but it had been a refreshing breath of air. She had spoken to him as an equal, honestly, with no preconception of character. Although, Ramirez she hated, Ramirez she feared and repulsed, the young serf she had met today was someone new to her, someone to whom she could speak freely. It did not matter. However much sweetness the girl may possess, he still had to do his duty. Perhaps if he could convince her to trust and become accustomed to the serf she thought he was, it would make the process easier on her.

He shook his head angrily. Next time he saw Celeste, he would have to tell her exactly what he thought of her, and how she disgusted him. Frustration swiftly overtook his anger. Why was he pouring so much thought into this?!

The Air Pirate girl was nothing but a fool, in need of a punishment, which had fallen to him to deliver, and Celeste was nothing but a whore with a big mouth. He should not let either matter concern him.

He found himself before the two massive doors which formed the entrance to the Royal chamber. Without hesitation, he flung them wide and, forcing all thoughts of women from his mind, he entered.

Striding forwards he saw the occupants of the room turn to stare at him. Galcian was angry, he could see it in his masters cool eyes, his heart quailed a little, but he had learned to hide his emotions when necessary. Alfonso stood there also, looking with a mixture of anger, jealousy and disgust. The man was always easy to read. The Queen was her usual self, and her son sat silently at her side. Ramirez had always held a grudging respect for the young Prince, he was level headed, and could always judge a situation well.

As soon as he had drawn level with Galcian, Ramirez made a perfect, sweeping bow.

"My apologies my Queen." He said.

"Goodness Captain, this is the first time you have ever been late. What has kept you?"

"What indeed?" Sneered Alfonso under his breath.

Ramirez disguised his smirk, before raising his head a little and replying.

"The gift you so generously presented me with, took up a little more time than I anticipated, Majesty. She is very… engaging."

The Queen laughed, and he sensed a little tension leave his silent master beside him. Out of the corner of his eyes, he saw Alfonso flick his blond hair in irritation, and bit back a quiet chuckle. The man was irritated that the girl had been given to someone other than himself, and thus, was disgusted by Ramirez's openness.

'What does he think the Harem is for?' The Captain thought to himself. As if mirroring his musings, the voice of the Prince spoke up.

"There is a chamber full of whores who would be perfectly willing cousin. Surely you cannot be so crushed, because one young, unwilling woman was given to someone else."

"Cousin you go too far!!" Came to angry reply. Alfonso was red in the face, and his fists were clenched at his sides.

Ramirez's eyes met with Enrique's, however, to his surprise he did not find an ally in that gaze. The young man clearly thought he had had to beat the girl into painful submission. Ramirez gazed back with indifference. Disappointed though he was, whether or not the Prince thought well of him or not, was of little importance.

"You two will hold your tongues!" Snapped the Queen. Both instantly obeyed; Alfonso with indignant difficulty, Enrique with graceful ease. She turned her violet eyes back to him.

"I am glad you found her to be so enjoyable, Captain. Now, we must proceed. First your report, then you must brief my nephew, he is to set off at dawn."

The following meeting lasted around two hours. By the time Ramirez was finally dismissed, all he could think of was sleep. However, his wish was not so easily granted. As he watched Alfonso stride off in the direction of the Harem, Galcian called him to his side.

"Ramirez, I trust that will not happen again."

"No, Sir." He replied dutifully. "It will not."

"On this occasion, it turned out to be beneficial. The Queen was pleased to see that you are not taking her generosity for granted."

Ramirez nodded once, then the General dismissed him, and he was finally free to head back to his quarters.

Eventually, upon entering his chambers, he noticed how chill it was. The window was open, and for a moment the thought crossed his mind that she had jumped… but no. She was curled in a plush chair, her position looked uncomfortable. The wardrobe stood open, but she had not yet changed. The bottle of wine lay empty at the foot of her seat, and he suspected it was this that had impeded her ability to put on a different outfit. She did not stir as he approached, and he heard minute snores erupt from her throat every few seconds. Her smooth skin was marred with goosebumps, she was clearly cold. The alcohol held her a prisoner of unconsciousness all the same. With a shake of his head, he pushed his hands under her thighs and back, and lifted her. She was heavier than he expected. Her body, although curvy, was still slender. He allowed his eyes to investigate her stomach. Beneath the skin he could discern sculpted muscle. Years of sailing, climbing rigging and facing the winds, had worn her lithe body into a coiled spring of sinew and strength, ready to strike. He walked to his bed and laid her down. Now, as she lay stretched out, her snores evaporated, and the steady rising and falling of her breasts momentarily captivated him. He growled and turned away, he could already feel a heat spreading through his groin. By the Moons it had been a while! He strode to the windows and tugged them shut. In his frustration, he exerted too much force, and they banged loudly. His curse died on his lips, when a soft voice reached his ears.

"You…came back…" He turned. Her eyes were glazed by both sleep and wine. Tomorrow she would not even remember waking. The sight of her, laid out on his bed, peaceful and relaxed, as if waiting for him caused an irritating pang of lust to surge within him.

"I said I would, did I not?" He managed to bite out. She nodded languidly, her eyes slowly closing again. He strode swiftly to the bed, and crouched at her side.

"Aika." Her name caused her now pale lavender eyes to slide open again.

"Are you Ramirez?" She mumbled, half in a dream. He nodded.

"Yes, yes I am."

"You look like that handsome man from earlier." Her eyes closed, but her small hand twitched upwards, and came to rest drowsily on his chest. With a groan, Ramirez's iron will broke. Her light touch had filled him with a searing heat. His hand snaked behind her neck, and drew her face towards his. His mouth met no resistance as it touched hers. He barely even registered the weak moan of surprise as his tongue dove within and tasted her own. He was above her in a moment, desire stabbing through him, the hand behind her neck becoming tangled in the fiery halo around her head. When he broke the kiss, ready to begin exploring further, his eyes opened expecting to see a woman equally caught in the net of passion. However, when he took in the sight below him, he did not know whether to laugh or to curse. The girl had sunk back into the depths of unconsciousness. She was totally unaware of the painfully aroused male above her. After a pause, in which he considered the possibility of taking advantage of her, Ramirez rolled off her. Sitting on the edge of the bed, he reached behind him and wrenched the blankets over her comatose form angrily. Pinching the bridge of his nose between thumb and forefinger, he tried to think about what could be done with his exceedingly strong erection. With determination he stood, casting a sour glance down at the girl in his bed, before heading into his washroom to take a very cold shower.

As he stood, naked and head bowed against the icy torrent, a notion came to him, and against his better judgement, it stuck. He would not take her, not against her will. Her simple touches on his arm and chest had alit within him more fire than any of the women with whom he had lain previously. They had not even come close. He could not imagine hw it would feel to have her kiss him, and come to him willingly and smiling. Swearing, he dropped the temperature of the shower as low as it would go. Still, it took a good half an hour before his arousal finally left him, and he was finally able to close his emerald eyes and sleep.

WR: well, it IS an RXA but, it's a little different from my usual set up, as you may have noticed, Ramirez is NICE to her. But then, this IS set at the beginning of the game, and so I'm sure throughout the drama I'm planning, his persona may change just a teeny bit. But yea… anyway, let me know what you think :)