A/N Yes I know I know. I am late but in my defense I had no electricity in my house for the entire weekend since last Friday. That really sucked. Anyway I shall not stall this anymore So HAVAAT THEE my readers and please read and review.

"Talking" - Talking

Thinking - Thinking

"Dialogue" - Zavier's inner Dialogue

*Action* - An action done

"Spell Chant" - Spell Chanting or heard conversation (context)

"Attack" - Attack name

Chapter 6

A Princess' Approval and A Thief's Trap – Part 1

I, Darmond awoke with a sudden fury before looking at my surroundings. I am clearly in the infirmary of the academy. To my right sits my imouto Louise in a chair sleeping soundly, while still wearing her uniform. To my left is seated Tabitha in her performance outfit and she is staring at me intently.

"I am guessing the culprit got away then?" I ask her immediately.

"Mn" she answers with a brief nod.

"Tch she only got away because I was not at full strength for that fight …*sigh* no point dwelling on it" I say quietly to myself. "I figured as much," commented Tabitha "You will get her next time."

"Oh I fully intend to," I say darkly. "So how long was I knocked out for?"

"A couple of hours" she answered with a slightly concerned tone of voice. Hearing it I smile at her and say, "I am fine just exhausted my mana or like you would say here my willpower ran out."

She looks at me with her stoic face and says "Good" before hopping up on the bed, sitting on my lap while facing me and embracing me warmly. "I was worried" she said while tightening her hold on me.

"Well that makes me feel like more of a failure. I shouldn't have wasted so much of my mana on the performance but I wanted to win for Louise. That made me vulnerable to that Earth mage's attack," I say in self-depreciation.

Tabitha looked up at me and quickly shook her head and said "Your performance was beautiful."

I understood what she meant and it made me smile.

"Well I had to compete against a dragon and her beautiful riding princess so I had to pull out all the stops," I say with a teasing smirk.

Tabitha's cheeks dusted pink at my statement before she buried her face against my chest.

Geez could she be any more adorable but I won't let her get away that easily. Blackmail me for cuddles will you… hmph. I may like cuddling her but she should know better.

"Hoh is my dragon princess being shy because I called her beautiful?" I said in teasing again.

She looked up at me and then back down before asking almost hesitantly "Am I really beautiful?"

I literally fell silent at the almost despondent tone her voice made at that question. Does she think she is not? Why would she think otherwise? I really have to find out about her family. Something tells me that Charlotte has suffered a lot before becoming Tabitha.

I gently lift her face up by her chin and tell her with much conviction and a serious face, "You are beautiful Charlotte. Don't let anyone make you doubt that you are."

Tabitha cheeks were fully pink now, as her eyes watered slightly, before she smiled her first genuine smile I have seen on her normally stoic face. "Mn" she said with a brief nod. I looked into her eyes and saw how happy my statement made her. I felt a warmness inside at seeing her so happy, and then as if by some strange outside force, I started to move my face closer to hers.

Her eyes widened, but she made no attempt to stop me, and seemed mesmerized by my approach. Her cheeks' color seemed to deepen with every moment I came closer to her. Her head tilted up more making my approach easier and her hands tightened their grip on my clothes as I hugged her body closer to mine.

Her breathing seemed to increase, as her pupils dilated. Her heart beat increased and her alabaster skin gained a pink flush. Her lips parted in anticipation as I mine moved closer…. and closer…and closer…until…

"Munya Munya…Mmmm…. Ta-bi-tha haaa-s Daarrr-mooond-nii woooo-keeeen up yet," said a sleepy Louise while rubbing her eyes.

And just like that, whatever invisible force was captivating Tabitha and I vanished, and I pulled back suddenly while Tabitha turned her face away from me, and muttered quietly *Sigh* "Couldn't you wait for a few more moments."

By the time Tabitha looked back, her face was once again her stoic mask, and she briskly removed herself off of me to sit back in her chair. Feeling her disappointment via her mana, I quickly grabbed her hand causing her to look back at me, before I kiss it lightly and whisper softly to her, "Maybe next time my beautiful Dragon Princess."

Her eyes widened at my statement, then she smiled softly and nodded her head while looking away quickly, to hide her reddened face. Louise finally looked up from rubbing the sleepiness out of her eyes, to see I was awake. She quickly leap at me and hugged me exclaiming out "ONII-CHAN, I AM SO GLAD YOUR ALRIGHT!"

I quickly let go off Tabitha's hand, to catch Louise in her enthusiastic embrace, "Of course I am fine it'll take more than some measly Earth Elemental mage to take me down." Louise looked up at me with teary eyes and cried out, "I was so worried… I am so sorry that my spell distracted you…. I am a horrible master…. I am a failure… I couldn't even do a damn fireball spell… And worse I helped that mage… I am truly the worst…."

I pat Louise on the head which caused her to stop her self-pity parade and I say, "No Louise you are not a failure. Like I keep telling you, you are amazing, after all you summoned me. If anyone is to be called a failure it is me for letting the culprit get away."

"No you were magnificent, the way you fought that giant earth golem was just amazing. It was because of my distraction that the mage got away," she said as more tears built up in her eyes.

Geez her self-worth is really low. Well time to bring it back up

"On the contrary Imouto your spell distracted the culprit and saved me. I couldn't defend against her golem's attack due to my technique. I would've been seriously injured by its attack at that moment, had you not intervened. So you are not a failure Louise you saved me, even when I failed to protect you."

Louise looked up at me her tears stopping. "I saved you?" she asked in wonder and hope.

"Yes you did Imouto-chan," I answer with a proud smile.

She started to cry again, and buried her face against my chest, to sob uncontrollably. As I comforted her by rubbing her head and embracing her, Tabitha got up and walked towards the window. She opened it and whistled then looked back at me with a small smile. Framed by the window and with the sun setting behind her, all I could think while looking at her was… "Beautiful."

She looked at me with something in her eyes that I couldn't place, then jumped out the window and onto a waiting Sylphid. As I saw her fly away all I could think of, was that something had changed between us once again, as has been the pattern in our growing relationship.

And I honestly didn't seem to mind it

.

As Tabitha flew away on her familiar she couldn't help the smile that kept blossoming on her face. "Onee-chan you seem to be in a good mood," said her familiar Sylphid, who was an extremely rare rhyme dragon which possessed human level intellect and the ability to talk. "Mn" she answered with her smile still there.

"Hmm it wouldn't have anything to do with Darmond-nii would it," said the female dragon slyly.

At the mention of his name Tabitha's face flushed a red color, before she admitted happily and almost proudly, "Yes."

The dragon giggled cutely before saying, "Tell me everything and you better not leave out any details Onee."

If someone had told Tabitha that she would've met her storybook worthy prince after summoning her familiar that day, she would never have believed it, but now…Tab…no…Charlotte had something she thought she had lost some time ago…hope and maybe…just maybe…

.

I hug my Darmond tightly with no intention of letting go. I felt so relieved seeing that Darmond is okay. When I saw him collapse earlier, my heart literally stopped and I broke down. It was really undignified, but it showed me the depth of my emotions for him. The Princess was kind enough to gather her guards around me, so I could break down without any public witnesses. She ordered them to help me carry him to the hospital wing, when his armor vanished. Seeing Darmond, someone who seems so invincible being in such vulnerable state...it made me feel really guilty, because I had realized it was my fault, considering the effort he put in during the pageant. These thoughts really dragged on my mind, until my best friend saved me once again.

-Flashback-

"It's my fault," Louise says with a guilt ridden voice as tears pour down her face. Henrietta immediately refutes, "What Louise it wasn't your fault!" "Yes it was," Louise screams, which cause Agnes and the other guards to tense. "Listen to me Louise Francoise Le Blanc de La Valliere," Henrietta states with sudden authority. This causes Louise to immediately sober up and straighten up reflexively. Henrietta then walks up to her and hugs her tightly. This action causes Agnes and her guards to once again flinch in tense readiness.

"Lulu, you are not responsible for this. That thief Fouquet, the Crumbling Dirt is the one responsible for your Familiar's current state," Henrietta stated in a soothing voice. "But he pushed himself to win the pageant for me. It must have made him less than ready for a fight against her," Louise refuted with conviction. "And whether that is true or not, it was his choice to fight in such a weakened state, thus it is still not your fault." "But I distracted him with my spell during the fight…"

"Lulu," Henrietta interrupted suddenly. Louise was cowed into silence.

"From the description you gave us of the altercation your spell may very well have helped him, and while yes it inadvertently helped Fouquet, it does not change the fact that your Familiar was saved by you. Furthermore, from what I understand Fouquet gave their typical warning that they were targeting this academy. However, due to my selfish request to be here, the academy had to adjust their security to accommodate me. Thus if anyone is at fault it is myself for giving that thief an opportunity to strike."

Louise eyes widened in shock, "No Princess it wasn't your fault." "Maybe or maybe not, regardless you need to stop beating yourself up Louise," Henrietta said seriously. Louise seemed conflicted but eventually acquiesced. "Ok…but I still think Darmond-nii is going to be mad at me."

"If your Familiar is half the man you have described him of being, I somehow doubt that," Henrietta said with a teasing smile. This caused Louise to blush profusely while Henrietta giggled secretly at the fact, that she had successfully stopped Louise from brooding on darker thoughts.

-Flashback End-

It was just like Henrietta-hime said. Darmond didn't blame me. He didn't beat me down. He even thanked me. The warmth in my chest that has been growing since Darmond entered my life, has grown even more now.

I don't care how proper or improper it might be anymore. I am definitely falling for Darmond. I can only hope that when I finally gain the courage to tell him how I feel…he will return my feelings…because I think it may break me if he rejects me.

I have never felt this way about anyone. Not even for 'him.' And I have had a crush on 'him' since I was younger. But what I am beginning to feel for Darmond is a lot more intense than 'him'. Is this what love feels like?

I am pulled from my introspection by Darmond asking me, "So any idea who that thief was and what they were after Louise?"

.

Louise thinks about my question for a moment before saying, "Well he is called Fouquet 'The Crumbling Dirt.' He is a rather infamous thief, who has been robbing many nobles of their valuables. He is suspected of being a Triangle Mage given his skill with earth golems and his ability to turn walls into dust which earned him his current by-name."

"Hmm I see. Another question, why are you saying 'he or him' in your description? This Fouquet was obviously a woman." Louise looks at me in disbelief, but before she can say anything another voice interrupts.

"Is that so Familiar-san?" says one Princess Henrietta as she enters with the blonde girl, who interested me when she first arrived yesterday, as well as several of the female bodyguards. I look at the Princess briefly before the blonde girl curtly says, "Answer the Princess' question, Familiar."

"Well aren't you rude," I say dryly to the blond girl.

"What…why you…," the girl answered with a growl. "That's enough Agnes," the Princess demands calmly. Whatever this now named Agnes was going to say was swallowed as she said, "Yes your Highness," before glowering at me with obvious hostility. I deign to ignore her and focus my attention on the Princess.

"As to your question Princess, yes this Fouquet is obviously female to any competent person who fought her."

"Hmm well many accounts of persons who have fought Fouquet have said that he was a man." I scoff and say, "Well then they are both incompetent and/or too prideful to admit being bested by a woman."

"You did not seem to fare any better for one who calls themself competent," Agnes said with a smirk of derision. I look at Agnes then turn to the Princess, thereby ignoring her, which causes her to flush in anger. The Princess looks at my action. "Are you admitting you were bested by this supposed woman?" she asks as if searching for something.

I look at her with raised eyebrows and say, "Well seeing as I am the one in bed recovering, then the answer should be obvious. I won't make any excuses, but I can guarantee that if we meet again this Fouquet will learn that a 'prepared me' is a much tougher meal to handle than an 'unprepared me'."

"Some Familiar you are. Had Fouquet been after your Master she would be dead by now," Agnes mocked with a dark smile.

"Ho this bitch is so on the list," said Zavier.

"Hn, I am almost tempted to agree with you"

Despite what I say to Zavier, I show no outward reaction to her words, as I keep my attention on the Princess causing Agnes to snarl. "Does your bodyguard always speak out of turn in front of you?" I ask calmly. This causes Agnes to fume, before the Princess puts a hand on her shoulder calming her instantly.

"While my bodyguard has spoken out of turn, what she says is valid. Had Fouquet been after Louise then she may have succeeded in whatever nefarious plot she carried out. Don't you agree?" the Princess asked pointedly.

I look at the Princess in her eyes.

"I do not know what you are trying to find out about my character Princess, but if you are worried about the safety of your childhood friend under my care, then speak plainly instead of using your bodyguard as a devil's advocate to test me," I say finally fed up of this Princess' obvious attempt to get a rise out of me.

"Hoh… well at your request, plain words then. After witnessing your less than stellar performance as a Familiar, what's to stop me from ordering your death so my friend can summon a more, appropriate Familiar?"

Louise gasps at her friend's cold tone, but I put a hand on her shoulder and answer calmly, "Well if my performance is so lackluster, then you must have some unrealistic expectations of those under you. I acknowledge that Fouquet caught me unprepared, and as such the fight was in her favor, but if you think for a single second that Louise was in any danger under my watch then quite frankly Princess, you can go fuck yourself."

This causes the room to go completely silent as everyone, including the Princess, looked at me in shock.

The Princess then giggled sweetly before saying to Louise, "I approve of him Louise." Louise blushes profusely. The Princess then turns to me with an approving smile and says, "I apologize for my rudeness but like you said I needed to test the character of my best friend's Familiar. It seems that she is in good hands. You were a wonder to watch during your performance earlier, which I imagine left you exhausted and if what I saw of your ability in battle is you exhausted, I can only guess how powerful you are at full strength."

I acknowledge her compliment with a slight nod of my head.

She smiles even more at my action before adding, "As to your information it seems we will have to update our information on Fouquet. Hmph, to think that because of some incompetent male egos, we have been looking at the wrong suspects for Fouquet's identity. It's no wonder we could never find her."

"I told you Princess that there may be a possibility of Fouquet being female," said Agnes

"Indeed, but now that we have solid proof from someone who actually fought her, those incompetent males can't keep insisting on their 'It was a man' statements."

"As you say Princess."

Henrietta then focused on Darmond. "Well this meeting was most illuminating Familiar-san. I hope that you will continue to look after my little Lulu."

Louise faced erupted in immediate embarrassment, "Ahhh Princess don't call me that in front of everyone." Henrietta giggled with a coyish smile before leaving without another word; her retinue was quick to follow, leaving the still bedridden Darmond and a red faced Louise.

"So... Lulu-Chan huh?" enquired Darmond with a cat-like smirk.

"Nooooooo you are not allowed to call me that Darmond-nii."

"Oh and why not Lulu-Chan?" He teases as his cat-like smile intensifies. He suddenly leans forward and says with a rather husky voice, "I think it suits you my cute and adorable imouto."

Louise stammers out gibberish before too much blood goes to her head and she faints away.

Darmond looks at, the fallen body of Louise with fondness before his mind begins to replay the previous interaction with that Princess.

Hmmm she seems to be quite the character. Well that is fine as long as she does not put Louise in danger I shall reserve judgment, but if she puts Louise in danger...

Darmond's face darkens ominously. ...then I will make sure she suffers a death most torturous.

.

The Princess entered the carriage followed closely by Agnes who ordered the royal guards to make haste to the castle. Agnes turned to her Princess who seemed to be in deep contemplation so she settled herself opposite her and waited for the Princess to speak first.

"What are your thoughts on Louise's Familiar Agnes?" Henrietta finally asked.

Agnes took a moment to think over her answer. "The whole truth?" Henrietta smiled, "I insist upon it." Agnes nodded in affirmation, "Well then to be perfectly honest I don't know what to think. He is an enigma to me." "Oh? Elaborate."

"I couldn't get a read on him. I couldn't tell if he was truthful or not. He is a warrior Princess that much I could gather. Not like those proud arrogant warriors either. He seems to be like a snake in the grass, trying not to be noticed but poised to strike at the most opportune moment. Honestly, I felt that if I had attacked him then and there, I may have ended up losing the fight easily despite his condition. At the same time he seems to genuinely care about Louise while at the same time seems to disregard you Princess, which may I say annoys me."

Henrietta giggled, "Well I personally found it refreshing, I think this Darmond is the kind of person who's respect and trust is like the deepest vein of Wind Stone to mine, Difficult to find, tricky to acquire and a chore to cultivate."

"Well I find his lack of respect and trust disturbing," Agnes said with and angry scowl.

"Well of course you would Agnes-chan. You don't like anyone who is disrespectful or mistrustful to me. Especially if they are a mage… and can use fire… and are male." Agnes' scowl intensified, "Hmph, well excuse me if most male mages, who can use fire are self-entitled assholes. I find it presumptuous of him for you to have to earn his trust and respect. You're the Crown Princess of Tristain for Brimir's sake. He should be earning your trust and respect."

"Well Agnes he has already earned my respect and is well on his way to earning my trust for being so good to Louise. I can see that she is changing for the better. I have always felt bad that I couldn't help her more due to my position."

"Yes you have told me multiple times Princess." Henrietta pouted "Hmph, I have always also told you to call me Henrietta when we are alone" Agnes choked before saying, "Princess I wouldn't dare be so disrespectful." Henrietta pouted even more and remained silent. Agnes sweat dropped before sighing in defeat. "Fine 'Henrietta-hime' satisfied," she said with a red cheeked scowl. Henrietta brightened up considerably, "Yes immensely Agnes-chan."

Agnes cleared her throat in embarrassment before saying, "So back to the topic of Louise-dono's Familiar…" "We should just refer to him by his name, he has earned that right," the Princess said sagely. "Ah yes well Wulfric-san seems to be a competent person with enough pride that any warrior should have, but none of the arrogance that would hinder him in battle."

"Yes and considering the little of the fight we saw, he seems quite powerful." "Indeed Henrietta-hime, but that also means he can be very dangerous if he becomes an enemy," Agnes said gravely. "Well then, we shall seek to not make him an enemy, right?" the Princess responded with a 'that should be obvious smirk.'

Agnes's eyebrow twitched. "As you say Henrietta-hime. It is helpful that despite his brusque attitude towards you, he seems to be someone who is very self-aware and confident. That much I can respect." "Hoh then can I assume you have a favorable impression of him Agnes-chan." Agnes contemplated this before say begrudgingly, "Funnily enough yes, despite my dislike of his attitude towards you I cannot find enough fault in his personality to dislike him wholistically."

"Hmm, Are you sure it has nothing to do with how gorgeous he is?" Henrietta said with a cat-like smile. At that Agnes face vaulted. "I-I di-dnt real-ly no-tice that," Agnes said while turning away quickly. Herietta didn't miss the pink cheeks that Agnes was quickly trying to hide. "Hoh so the man-hating Agnes can notice the opposite sex after all, Hmmm who knew?"

"He i-is not that a-at-tractive," Agnes denied hotly. "You say that but I noticed how you checked him out during his performance and how particularly annoyed you were when he was ignoring you earlier." Agnes choked out, "I admit to have been captivated by his performance but that has nothing to do with whatever physical a-attractiveness he may possess. And of course I was annoyed he was ignoring me who wouldn't." "Right, especially after you 'powdered your nose' before that confrontation," Henrietta said sneakily.

Agnes turned to her scandalized, "I most certainly did no such a thing." "Hoh so the extra shine on your armor and the fact you used my personal products to take a bath is 'no such thing?' Henrietta said with a smug face. Agnes' eyes widened in disbelief before she turned away and denied with a firm "I have no idea what you are talking about Hime." "You know if you want some tips to attracting a man I can give you a few pointers," Henrietta teased ignoring her denial. "I do not need such tips Henrietta-hime," Agnes responded with an almost shout.

"Hmm me thinks the lady dost protest to much," Henrietta said sagely. "I do not have any interest in Darmond," Agnes shouted before quickly covering her mouth in embarrassment." "Oho how bold so not Wulfric-san anymore huh?" Henrietta said in triumph.

Needless to say the ride to the castle became an eventful thing between Henrietta constant giggles and Agnes' shouted insistence in her lack of interest in a certain male familiar. While Agnes continued to argue passionately in the background, Henrietta took a moment to look out at the sunset, missing her significant other and wishing to be in his embrace once again.

Oh Agnes I am happy that despite what happened to you, you can find a man even a little desirable. But the fact that it is Darmond may pose a problem considering the amount of competition you will no doubt have to face. And who can blame them because even I cannot deny that Darmond has quite the potential indeed. If I didn't have Wales even I might show interest. Sigh, Truly Love is a wonderful thing…but it can be the cruelest of all emotions to suffer.

.

It has been 3 days since the fiasco caused by the thief and we find Seista, Louise, Tabitha and Kirche running around the Academy with incredible enthusiasm.

Sigh it seems that I may be spending a day or night with Seista or Charlotte considering the nightly training that they have been getting from me. Well they can consider it a reward for their hard work. I mean look at Siesta she actually learnt and understood all the laws of Combat Magick within a week. Here I thought she would've gotten confused on the One's Ki Flows as a River Law but lo and behold she is a natural at controlling the flow of her Ki.

And don't mention Charlotte her magic has increased since she started to meditate to find the Laws that govern her Magic. She even managed to find and unlock one of the Laws .She is even looking to see if she can find the Combat Magic laws here in Halkeginia

I look at the bluenette as she runs with perfect form. Ever since that day in the infirmary Charlotte has been even more affectionate than usual and while a moment like that hasn't happened again, I suspect that she wants it to. She has been observing me with an intensity she usually reserves for one of her books, and I can't help but be aware of the fact that I have her undivided attention. And the subtle amorous look she sometimes gives to my lips.

My thoughts are interrupted by both Kirche and Louise collapsing at the same time at the third quarter point of their second lap. I am actually pleasantly surprised by Kirche's diligence, as she not only managed to catch up to, but almost beat Louise. That is not to say that Louise hadn't been working hard the week of their bet. No Kirche's longer strides are what helped her close the distance gap but her stamina is about the same as Louise.

"Hah I beat you Louise-chan I get to spend the night with Darling," stated Kirche tiredly. "Wrong Zerbst-witch I beat you so no night date for you or early morning wakeup calls," said Louise smugly while trying to catch her breath. Kirche flinched.

"Hoh hoh lying just so that you can keep Darling to yourself. How like a spineless Valliere!" Louise's face is crimson with fury at that statement.

"Hah well like a thieving Zerbst-witch you would say and do anything to get your way, even if you have to act like a harlot." It seemed this statement actually got to Kirche as several angry veins popped out on her forehead.

I better break this up before it escalates.

"Actually, you both ended in a draw as you ran literally the exact same length of almost 2 laps." I walk up to them and lift them both of the ground to their feet. "I am proud of both of you." I pet both their heads at the same time. They both turn pink at my action and begin to giggle shyly.

"I am glad that I impressed you Darling," Kirche said as she recovered quickly and wrapped herself around my arm, "I am looking forward to spending a night with you." Quickly Louise embraces my other arm before saying hotly, "My Onii-chan won't be doing anything with you Zerbst, you didn't win the bet." Before Kirche gives a response I interrupt once again. "Neither of you won considering that Tabitha is about to finish her third lap with Seista just in front of her on her eighth lap" (A/N remember that Siesta's first 5 laps do not count)

Both of them gain crestfallen looks as they observe the truth in front of them. Kirche even bites her nail in frustration before a proverbial light bulb shines in her eyes. "Louise-chan can I talk to you for a moment," she says while walking away before Louise can answer. Louise looks at her curiously then follows her.

While they go and talk, I turn my attentions to Charlotte and Siesta. Charlotte has caught up to Siesta in terms of distance, and now it's to see who's stamina gives first. A part of me is really proud of both of them as my students, and while I don't generally show favoritism, I cannot help but admit that a small part of me wants Charlotte to win.

"You cannot deny that you want what almost happened in the infirmary to actually succeed the next time can you Darmond?" said Zavier slyly. "…" "Ha your silence is confirmation enough" he said in glee. I sigh in my mind. "I don't think I should pursue such a thing Zavier" "Oh and why not?" "Because I am a monster" "Pshht please if that is your reason for denying whatever you might be feeling for that delectable girl then I could take over if you want" I glare at him dangerously "Hey I'm just saying, I certainly wouldn't mind pursuing the girl or Kirche and Siesta for that matter. They are quite nice to be around."

I look at Zavier in curiosity. "Why the sudden interest in my love life Zavier?" "Well I find myself liking how honest you are being with your growing emotions for Char"- I growl at him- "Tabitha, as you just demonstrated," he said with a smirk. "I just want you to be honest with yourself more Darmond then maybe you can finally free yourself of these chains of lies you insist on carrying" "Well that is even more reason to not pursue this then." Zavier then turn and looked at me with dangerous eyes. "If you dare try to use this as yet another chain of lies Darmond so help me I will force my way out and take control at whatever the cost."

I blanch at the venomous promise he makes. "So you really think it's a good idea to pursue this?" "Whether I think it's a good idea or not I just want you to be honest Darmond. That is all I truly desire" That was the thing about Zavier, he may be, for all intents and purposes, antagonistic to Darmond but he cares, despite Darmond insistence to the contrary, about Darmond in a way most cannot understand.

It was why after he said what he did, Darmond was silent and deep in thought.

.

"So what do you want to talk about Zerbst?" Kirche looked at me combined exasperated and placating look. "Louise-chan look, I know what you may think of me, and I admit that I have not really lent much evidence that I am not as you love to say, a harlot…" I nod in confused acknowledgement to her own self-depreciation. "But regardless of that I am serious in my desire to pursue Darmond-kun, serious enough that I have told my other suitors to go take a hike." I began to fume at this before she raised a placating hand.

"I know this is the last thing you want to hear considering your own feelings for Darmond and your obvious wish to obtain his affections, but just like I am willing to back off if Darmond does in fact share your feelings, I want the same consideration Louise. That is something even you can't say no to because if you cared about Darmond's happiness as much as I do, then you would learn to live with him being with another."

My eyes widen and I grit my teeth in frustration that for once the Zerbst-witch was making complete sense.

"Ah Louise I don't envy you. Look at Darmond, so far he has shown great potential and many have seen it. You know who I am talking about right?" I sigh in resignation. "Siesta and Tabitha, right?"

"Yes that Siesta girl has it for him bad, given how she treats him like the greatest gift from heaven." I can't refute that at all. It was hard not to notice she is always eager to serve him that it seems that she is more a personal maid than one of the academy's.

"Worse yet Tabitha has become pretty determined from what I have gathered from her behavior." Again I couldn't refute that because I have noticed how much time the diminutive bluenette has been spending with my Darmond.

"With the way things are Darmond may attract more attention." I nod in agreement. "As such I want us to bury this ridiculous feud and face each other head on, with respect, as enemies after the same goal. And even if we cannot gain Darmond's love, I would still want us to be friends after all is said and done."

"You expect me to become friends after what you did the other day?" I snarled at her.

"Sigh …Well can you honestly blame me Louise. I am Germanian we are taught to be more passionate and bold in our desires and I want Darmond something fierce. Besides isn't this a case of pot calling kettle black Louise because I have heard exactly what you have been up to early in the mornings and at evenings." She said with a sly smirk.

I feel my face burn as I try to splutter out a denial. "Listen Louise there is no shame in being passionate in your affections for Darmond, despite what your Tristian upbringing taught you, and others may not share your taboos when it comes to pursuing Darmond. So I say that we should become allies in the sense of people who have feelings for him. What do you say Valliere?" She said with an uncharacteristically serious face.

I was stumped. I couldn't believe it. She was being serious with me; no games, no teasing.

"I will give you some time to think about it, but for now we have to make sure that neither Tabitha nor Siesta get too far ahead of the game considering that they are going to win this bet."

I look towards the still running Siesta and the finally tiring Tabitha. Zer…Kirche was looking at me in hope. "Sigh fine but this doesn't mean we are friends. So what do you think we should do?"

I decided to stop considering that Zer…Kirche to be a horrible person (Harlot), but we have a long way to go before I think of her as a friend.

However I am willing to try because thanks to Darmond my confidence has returned…and it might be nice to have a female friend my age.

.

Siesta was feeling a sense of exhilaration. She had made her first steps into becoming a combat mage these past few days. The results showed with the ease at which she was currently approaching her 10th lap around the academy far outstripping what she needed to win the bet with the others. Even Tabitha had given up after her fourth lap. Siesta expected as much considering that Tabitha was getting similar training as her, but thankfully she was still more physically fit than her. Siesta was now thinking about how great her day was going to be with Darmond.

She decided that Ten laps were enough thus she stopped and began to catch her breath. She heard clapping as Tabitha clapped at her with a quiet "Congratulations." Siesta noticed that the noble bluenette seemed disappointed. "Thank you Tabitha-dono, but I am merely more physically fit than most people so I guess this contest was kind of prejudice against you all."

She was cut off by Darmond. "You did well regardless Siesta-chan," he smiled encouragingly. "Darmond is right. Did well," Tabitha nodded in agreement. Darmond smiled and patted her head, "You also improved well Tabitha." Her cheeks gained a rosy colour, "Mn" she answered with a brisk nod and a small smile.

"You both are amazing," interjected Kirche with a smile. Both she and Louise having finished their discussion had walked back to the group. Louise was lost in her thoughts when she came back which was noticed by Darmond. "Louise-chan are you ok?" Louise jumped slightly at his voice. "Huh…oh yes I am fine Darmond-nii." Darmond looked at her with suspicion before seeming to let it go by saying, "Well ok if you say so." Darmond then turned to Siesta. "Well then I do believe that this bet you all made has been settled with a clear winner."

Siesta smiled while Kirche and Louise looked at each other, with the latter sighing and nodding her head silently. Kirche's face lit up before she said, "Actually Darling, if you don't mind we girls need to have a discussion about that same thing because the way how each of our bets are worded, I can safely say that we all kind of won." Both Tabitha and Siesta looked at her with a raised eyebrow and a slight scowl respectively. "You both don't need to worry. As fellow 'Pursuers' of the same goal what I have to say will be mutually beneficial to all of us." Tabitha's other eyebrow rose while Siesta gave a face became more neutral. They both then secretly eyed Darmond before saying at the same time " "Fine." "

"Uhh… but didn't Siesta clearly win?" said Darmond in confusion while Zavier face-palmed and muttered Dense Idiot. This time Louise spoke, "This is a talk among girls Onii-chan so stay out of it." Darmond was taken aback but eventually nodded in acceptance. "Well alright then. Anyways we should move on to…"

"Excuse me Valliere-san," spoke a familiar voice. All turned to see one Guiche de Gramont.

Louise looked at him then quickly looked at Darmond, who had a passive face, before returning her attention to the blond pretty boy. "What do you want Gramont?" Guiche looked a bit miffed at her aggressive tone but answered, "I have been sent by the Principal. He wants you and your familiar to report to his office immediately." Darmond finally reacted and said, "Did he find any clues on the thief trail?" Guiche flinched a little before answering with begrudging respect, "I was not told his reasoning for the summons."

"Hmm let's go Louise, quickly," Darmond said while pulling Louise with him. They walked past Guiche without another word. Guiche was rendered speechless by their apparent dismissal of him. That he didn't notice that the other girls had followed just as quickly.

Truthfully Guiche wanted to apologize for his less than lackluster behavior so he had volunteered to speak with Louise, and thus could voice his regrets. He never expected to be so casually dismissed. "Sigh well nothing ventured nothing gained," he said to himself as he quickly followed the group.

.

I quickly knocked on the Principal's door and heard a voice answer, "Come in." Louise and I entered without hesitation. I looked at the people present which were currently just the Principal himself and Professor Colbert. The Principal, simply named Osmond looked like a typical old wizard with long hair, mustache and beard all grey with age. He wore typical wizard robes, and looked a bit intimidating; especially if this was the first time you met him.

"Ah Valliere-dono and Familiar-san good good I have been expecting you," he said with an old wizened voice that spoke of years of experience. However, having met this old man before, when I gave an account of the fight with the thief, I know better than to just judge him as a competent administrator "Firstly, any news on the location of Fouquet? And secondly I hope your familiar is not trying to do anything that would call my displeasure once again?" I turn to the sneaky little mouse referred to as Chuchu who was seeking to peek under Louise's skirt. Said mouse squeaked quickly before running under the Principal's table.

Colbert just shook his head in exasperation while Louise looked scandalized. However Old Osmond just cleared his throat as if nothing happened and said, "Straight to the point as usual Familiar. I like that. Well as you suspect we have heard a rumored lead to Fouquet's whereabouts. Am I still to assume that your offer to hunt this vile thief down is still valid?"

I smirk. "Oh you have no idea."

"Well then you shall go with my order along with Valliere-dono as well as my secretary." I look at him with a raised eyebrow. "Secretary? I told you I, along with my Master, would be able to handle this alone." "Indeed you said as much, however, the school must be represented in some form in both the capture of Fouquet and the retaking of the Staff of Destruction."

The Staff of Destruction.

When I had asked the old man what was stolen, he informed Louise and I about it. Apparently, when Osmond was 30 years younger, he was saved by a mysterious warrior. Said warrior used this supposed Staff of Destruction to perform this feat. Regretfully, the man died in the process and gave the staff to Osmond saying that the true owner of the staff would come looking for it, and to thus keep it safe. Osmond in a show of respect and gratitude agreed to keep the Staff safe, and buried him after he passed. Osmond reported what happened, showed the staff to the Palace. No one could use the Staff, thus the Palace allowed Osmond to safe-keep it as he promised. Due to the apparent destructive nature of the Staff, it was nicknamed the "Staff of Destruction". All in all it sounds like a very dangerous item that should not be in the hands of a person whose intentions are unknown.

"Sigh, Fine where is this secretary of yours?" I give in quickly, so as to expedite the process of me finding the thief. "Ah well she should be here shortly…" The door swung open as many bodies collapsed in. "Where ever my Darling is going, I, Kirche the Ardent must follow," exclaimed Kirche, with a nod of agreement from both Tabitha and Siesta, who were all in a pile on the floor while Guiche was left standing in the doorway along with an unfamiliar woman.

I looked at the woman. She seemed to be a young woman about 23-24 years of age. She had green hair done up in a simple bun, with some draped across the back of her neck to her shoulders. She is of average height, with a fit build comprising of fair feminine curves. She was wearing the standard uniform of the school administration, and held herself in a fairly demure manner.

"Ah there she is, well then Familiar may I present my secretary Matilda de Longueville." Said woman entered the room. "I am sorry I was late but I noticed these students eavesdropping outside the door and decided to reprimand them." Osmond rose from his chair and said, "Its fine. So I am guessing that you all want to take part in this quest for the vile Fouquet, the Crumbling Dirt." The lot including Guiche spoke in affirmation and began to debate about why it was a good idea to go along with Louise and I.

However, I stopped paying attention when this woman came in. "Kekeke, well Well WELL, looks like our quarry is bolder than we thought eh Darmond?" said Zavier with glee. Knowing what he meant I nodded my head in agreement. "It would seem so." But the more I thought about it the more I realized who would suspect the secretary of the Principal, for being an infamous thief. "Well then Darmond, I guess we can put our plan in motion then." Yes I believe we can. Most definitely.

.

I, Matilda de Longueville a.k.a. Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt, am a thief, and a damn good one at that. I enjoy the thrill of a job, and the more likely I am to get caught the more exciting the job. Even so I have been flawless granted that is because I usually steal from arrogant rich nobles. Now some may ask 'is the thrill the reason you steal.' Truthfully the thrill is just a happy side effect.

I steal because I need to… because I am a fallen noble. I was looked at with disdain when my family fell and even now I lay forgotten. I would've managed to survive regardless but I had to think about her. My best friend and adopted little sister. She is so innocent, so pure, so loving. She is also of noble blood like me… but she is…special. Not 'touched in the head' special but still…special, and unfortunately what makes her special, would cause all nobles to hate her. So I hid her and I provide for her and her orphanage because of course she would want to take care of innocent children with nowhere else to go.

I have no illusions that what I was doing was morally wrong but at the same time it felt so right. I was never a villan. I steal from the rich nobles who gorge themselves on their spendthrift lifestyle to give to my saintly sister and her clutch of orphan children. I was her hero. I was those kids' hero.

At least until 'they' found me. I was always so careful yet they found me. I thought I was going to be handed in and my poor sister thrown to the wolves, but they were interested in my skills. I wouldn't have a problem with it if they just wanted me to steal, but to spy and sabotage as well; that was a bit too much like a villain for me. But these people…they don't take no for an answer. Thus I was recruited against my will, because when they found me they also found her. They use her as leverage against me and I don't have the heart to make her leave her current life so for now.

I do as they ask.

Like stealing this Staff of Destruction. This was the longest job I have been on; over two years now. I had to withstand the perversion of that bastard old man but it all paid off. I even found that I am quite good at this job, so if I could I would want to keep it, maybe even someday boot that old pervert of his chair to claim it myself…but alas I am no more than a minion now. So I shall play my role, use these children to find out how to use the Staff. Especially that boy, who may very well be my ticket to figuring out how to use it considering what he is…

However, such thoughts are for tomorrow my plan is set and my trap is waiting to be sprung…All according to plan. *Yawn* Now for a well-earned rest. I turn the key of my room and open the door while checking all of my safety spells. When all checks out I enter the room and close the door behind me. As accustomed, I turn on my bedside lamp, and sit on my bed.

"So this is what the infamous thief Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt looks like in her down time huh?"

I freeze, then quickly jump away from my bed to pull my wand, only to be trapped by a spell of some sort of shackles, which cause me to drop my wand because they are currently shocking me. "AHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH" IT HURTS SO MUCH. Actual Electric Shackles are you kidding me?"

I am flabbergasted by the fact that these shackles are made from an element that should be impossible, but I am nowhere as shocked as I am now looking at my target, one Darmond Wulfric sitting in a chair looking at me as I squirm in pain caused by these shackles.

"Hello, Matilda de Longueville, or as you like to be called Fouquet the Crumbling Dirt, my name is Darmond Wulfric. It is a pleasure to meet you. We have much to discuss."

I look at him as he stares at me like a predator who has caught their prey, and I knew at that moment…I am so fucked.

-Chapter End-

A/N So hello all you people. I am back. And I shall now answer my reviews from a while ago. *He says quickly to distract you from the fact he left you with a cliff hanger*

Redburning Dragon - Well to find out the fate of Fouquet your gonna have to tune into the next chapter

Guest 1 - I have no illusions that some may not like the fact my story is gonna be a harem but I don't really care because its what I want to write so...thanks for your compliments though they are appreciated.

ShiniD - Yeah I love Tabitha/Charlotte alot so its a no brainer. I like your thoughts on Alisa and Memphis so I might do that. Also I acknowledge I used too many ... so I will have to go back and edit it out. Yeah we saw how her cover was useless here but as too her fate...And no Dahlia didn't do the curse, not at all.

Knorles - Well in Darmond's original setting he was always the underdog so he might be a bit stronger here but I will try not to make him to god-like...but no promises. And Henrietta is listed as part of harem so you can pretty much guess whats gonna happen.

Cf96 - Thanks

Guest 2 - Glad to have you and yeah I have no beta so errors are to be expected but I will try to fix as much of them as I can.

Blaze1992 - Thank you for you compliment and well my plan for Louise is ...for you to read and find out.

Lelouch of Zero - Yeah I thought alot about Darmonds original setting so I am glad you see it. I hope that you continue to enjoy my story.

Guest 3 - Worry not. Ask and you shall receive.

D3F4LT - Yeah I am continuing now. Can't help the ecchi scenes I love them myself so hope I don't scare you away. And sure Darmond can break the world of FOZ but remember he is only an Underlord...imagine what a Dreadlord could do.

2018 Man - Sorry to make you cry so here have a chapter.

Knorles - Well life was generally sucky for a while but not so depressing that I couldn't write. But there were alot of things I had to be responsible for and too many distractions that kept me from writing but they are mostly dealt with now so here I am writing once again. regardless thanks for your support man. Feels good.

kmubarak2001 - Well I don't know if this was amazing enough but please don't come after me just yet I promise it will get better.

Ah universe stop conspiring against my writing. Anyways by my count Tabitha and Siesta sort of tied so they both win hooray harems. Needless to say after the girls have their talk Darmond is gonna have alot of problems on his plate...the good kind of problems. As to Fouquet I hope you all like what I am going to do with her. See you all next time.