Sorry to keep you all waiting everyone, but I do have other stories I like to attend to.
Before starting I want to answer some good questions a couple reviewers asked me. I thought about just responding to them, but I figured it'd be questions many would ask so why not just have them answered here?
Danmaku-Overlord Wang Yu: Jason's age? I honestly didn't give it much thought when I started this story. But if I had to guess? He started as a merc young and he's got a quite a bit of experience in him. So I'd say he's young, but not too young. Maybe 19 to 22. Perhaps I'll make it official in a future chapter.
Mart-kos99k: Sebas is indeed based off that Sebas and I love the Overlord anime! I just wish it was longer. However, my Sebas has a much different background that most won't see coming.
The Storm Master 567: Read the chapter and you'll find out. ;)
To say that everyone was shocked by Celestine's announcement . . . would be a great understatement. No one, not even Claudia, Celestine's right hand woman, saw it coming. The reception was not well received. Alicia and Claudia were the most vocal about. They didn't think someone like Jason should be a part of their organization. Kaguya and Luu-Luu were not entirely against it, but they were skeptical at least. Prim and Maia, while surprised, didn't voice any concerns. They simply remained quiet not adding any opinion good or bad.
Regardless, none of their complaints mattered. Celestine had made up her mind and had already made plans to announce it to the country. All the other Princess Knights could do was grit their teeth and just sigh in defeat.
Jason did not voice anything after being declared the Eighth Shield. He simply put his helmet back on and graciously thanked his employer, who smiled at his thanks. But even then, being made a Shield didn't seem to be anything significant to him. Both Olga and Chloe, who've known him relatively longer, noticed this.
After that they all got to work on the treaty between Olga and the Alliance. In exchange for having all her crimes as the Dark Queen pardoned, Olga would not only participate in the coming war, but also disclose any information of the badlands, Demon Army, and the Black Fortress.
The one they were working on was mostly a rough draft and the real treaty would be made later, but everyone seemed satisfied with the terms of the treaty. Mostly everyone.
Olga stretched her arms up into the air to get them to wake up. She had been sitting down and bending over a table for many hours now. It was no wonder her body was achy from the entire thing. Her large chest bounced as she stretched and she peeked one eye open to look at Jason.
She saw no reaction from him. His arms were still crossed and his stance was rigid and disciplined. He hadn't moved from that spot in hours. Hell Olga assumed he hadn't moved at all. It was almost disconcerting how the human managed to be as still as a statue. And once again she couldn't see passed that damn helmet to see where his eyes were looking.
"Must you keep doing that?" Alicia groaned referring to Olga's showing off of her body.
"What? Are you jealous little girl?" Olga smirked. She leaned forward showing off her breasts.
Alicia blushed deeply and frowned. "N-no! Of course not! I have eyes and it's easy to see you're shamelessly trying to seduce that so-called man there." She accused.
Jason turned his head slightly, as if just now hearing the conversation. "What did I do?"
Alicia pointed an accusing finger at him. "Don't play coy, mercenary. I know you're looking at this harlot's body from behind that visor of yours."
Jason tipped his head to the side in confusion. "What are you talking about?" he said honestly.
"Harlot?!" Chloe shrieked. She looked about ready to attack, but she was stopped.
"Now, now, there's no need for this argument. So let's stop it here before it escalates okay?" Celestine said stopping the fight before it began.
Alicia huffed and crossed her arms, but did as her leader said. Prim just giggled nervously and rubbed her cousin's arm. Olga grabbed Chloe's arm and told her to calm down, which she did.
Celestine grabbed all of the papers and began organizing them. "I believe that is all for today. The rest shall be settled later." Celestine then gave an involuntary yawn.
"It is quite late, Lady Celestine." Kaguya said. "Should we not rest for the night?"
"Yes, Shrine Maiden Kaguya. I have arranged rooms and beds for everyone here."
"I thank you for your graciousness, lady Celestine." Prim bowed her head in thanks. "But, should we not head back to our respective fortresses as soon as possible?"
"Do not worry. It will take Vault some time to get the other demons onto his side. After losing me and Chloe, the orcs will be a bit more difficult." Olga said.
"And it is very late." Celestine added. "I cannot send you all on your wayt so late at night. Please, enjoy your nightly stay here."
Olga then walked up to Jason and latched onto his arm.
"I hope I get to bunk with you, Sir Jason." She said huskily.
Jason didn't miss a beat. "That will be unnecessary, Lady Olga. I'm sure Lady Celestine will have a room prepared for you and Chloe."
"But I wish to stay with you tonight. I know you can keep me safe. You did so plenty of times on our way here." She batted her eyelashes, but, of course, they had no effect.
Even the rest of the Princess Knights were surprised to see Jason acting so calm. They all knew that Olga was drop-dead gorgeous and Jason was just acting like her beauty was nonexistent. Part of them was glad to see that the man had some self-control and another part of them couldn't help but wonder what the merc's type was.
Jason paused thinking over that. "I'm sure Lady Celestine has made certain that no harm will come to you in these walls. But if you are still not sure I can watch over you tonight to be safe."
Olga smiled victoriously, but a deliberate cough interrupted her. The two turned to Celestine and saw her frowning a little.
"That will be unnecessary, Sir Jason. I have placed protective wards over her room. Anyone who walks into her room with the intent to harm will instantly become paralyzed. So I assure you she is quite safe tonight."
"Ah, I see. Then my protection will be unrequired for you Lady Olga."
Celestine smirked at the dirty glare the Dark Elf was giving her.
They all exited the room and Sebas and the two maids led them all to their own individual rooms.
When Jason bid everyone a goodnight, he walked into his room and straight to his bed. Despite his offer to watch over Olga tonight, he was actually extremely exhausted. So exhausted in fact, he didn't even bother removing his armor and just fell face first onto the bed. He was THAT tired.
The door to his room opening woke him up instantly! He jumped out of bed and prepared for a fight, but relaxed when he saw it was his employer, Celestine Lucross.
"Sir Jason." She greeted. She closed the door behind her.
"Lady Celestine, is there something wrong?"
"No, no, I just wanted to speak with you in private." She approached him. "I wanted to thank you for saving my dear friend from Vault and his Black Dogs."
"It's what I was hired to do, ma'am."
She smirked amusedly. "Always so modest."
"It's not modesty. It's the truth."
"Still, I wish to reward you."
"That's unnecessary. You have already compensated me."
"Surely there's something you want?" She pressed.
"No. Money is fine."
Celestine sighed. "You don't make this easy."
"I apologize."
"You're a simple man."
"I'm sorry?"
"Don't be. It's something that I like a about you."
. . .
Jason stayed quiet. Then Celestine's footsteps shuffled toward him.
"Then do you mind if I give a reward regardless. On my behalf."
"Oh?"
"Yes. It's something I want to give you. For all your hard work and loyalty."
Her dainty soft hands grabbed his helmet. She began to lift up the visor, showing his lips and angular chin.
"Lady Celestine?"
Slowly she leaned in and planted her lips onto his. A chaste kiss, but one that still made the High Elf blush.
But it came as a surprise to her when Jason kissed back. She moaned and her eyes widened as Jason pushed his lips firmly against hers. His mouth engulfed hers and even forcefully pried it open. Their tongues danced and licked each other.
Celestine's mind was going white from the passionate kiss. She tried to grip his attire, but his armor was too smooth and hard to. He grabbed her shoulders and brought her closer to him, making her breasts squish against his chest plate.
As they continued to kiss a white aura engulfed them both. The aura brightened up the room and seemed to pulse mostly around Jason. The merc however didn't seem to show any sign of noticing it.
Finally after what was supposed to be a quick chaste kiss, turned into a long and passionate make-out, Jason released Celestine after she was close to suffocating. A bridge of saliva was between the two for a second. The High Elf was panting and her eyes were watery from lack of air. Her red cheeks on her translucent skin practically glowed in the darkness.
After collecting herself, she voiced a question.
"W-w-where did you learn to do that?" Celestine asked.
"From my old merc band . . . and around."
"I . . . I see."
From the sound of his voice, he sounded calm and cool. As if kissing her wasn't a big deal. His helmet's visor was put back down. She wished she could see behind his helm to see his expression.
"What was that, Lady Celestine?" Jason questioned.
"Hm?" By the look on her face she seemed to still be in a daze.
"That aura. That magic you put on me?"
Finally the high elf managed to snap out of it, but her deep blush still remained.
"Oh! Yes! That! That was a magic spell I put on you. A gift for all your hard work and dedication.
"What was it?"
"I have bestowed upon you the Blessing of The Elven Goddess. It is an ancient spell that only someone like me can give."
"What does it do?"
"Basically it improves your natural abilities. You're stronger, faster, smarter, and it even enhanced your magical powers. You'll find your Flare spell to be much more powerful."
Jason looked at his hand and summoned forth mana. He definitely felt stronger then he was a minute ago.
"But that is only a passive effect. In time and with some experience you'll be able to draw forth the Blessing and become a force to be reckoned with."
"How so?"
"When you learn to harness the Blessing you'll become much more effective against demons and other evil beings. Everything from your armor, to your weapons, to your magic will hurt them much more. Talk to Claudia. I have given her the same gift too, many years ago."
Jason nodded. "Okay, I will. Thank you for this gift, Lady Lucross."
"Jason?"
"Yes?"
"In private you may call me Celestine."
Surprisingly she saw him fidget uncomfortably from that.
"If you are certain."
Celestine smirked. She found another interesting thing about her new champion.
"Yes. I'm sure."
"Very well . . . Celestine."
She smiled happily at him for using her name.
"That will be all. Goodnight, Jason."
"Goodnight, Lad—" She turned to him, "I mean, Celestine." She smiled at him and then left the room. Closing the door quietly with a click.
Jason wondered what all that was about, but he was too tired to ponder or even care. So instead, he fell back into bed and left what just happened for Future-Jason.
Early Morning
Jason let out a deep yawn as he got off the bed. He walked over to his mirror and removed his helmet. A bowl of water was present before him. He scooped up a handful of water and splashed it in his face.
After drying his face with a towel he went over to his stuff to begin his morning training.
He picked up his weapons and his bag. But when he picked up his bag something fell out. He looked down and saw it was a scroll.
"The spell scroll. I forgot I had it."
He picked it up and unfurled it. He sat down at a desk and began to scan over it.
This is a dangerous spell. But powerful.
He contemplated on what use he could get out of the scroll. He could sell it . . . spell scrolls were rare and could be charged for a great amount of coin. However, they contained ancient and powerful spells. Spells that even ancient mages couldn't develop on their own even if they worked on it their entire lifetime.
Would the spell in this scroll be more useful to him as coin or as a weapon?
After thinking about it he concluded that the spell could be more useful to him in his arsenal then in his purse.
Jason began to read the ancient text. The scroll started to glow a dark purple. The letters on the scroll levitated of the parchment and circle Jason. Finally, after reading the final verse, the words exploded into particles. The spell was complete and the scroll was now blank.
A spell scroll could only ever be read once. Once used, the scroll would become just a regular piece of velum. Which is why they were so rare and sought after. They could hold a rare spell that no one else could have.
When that was done Jason went for the door and opened it. The day started off with Kaguya standing in front of him.
!
Jason flinched, startled by the Asian woman's sudden appearance.
"Greetings, Ser Jason." She bowed her head and greeted quietly.
"Oh Lady Kaguya. I'm surprised to see you up so early."
"I'm an early riser. I'll be leaving shortly."
"Oh." Was all he had to say to that.
"I stopped by your room though because I felt a surge of magic coming from it." She explained.
"Ah."
She looked expectantly at him.
...
...
"Well are you going to tell me what it was?"
"Do I have too?"
...
"No I suppose you don't have to if you don't want to. But it does make you suspicious." Her eyes narrowed in an almost accusatory manor.
"I'm on your side." He stated.
"Vault was on our side too."
"I'm not Vault."
"No, but you're a mercenary. You don't fight for honor, justice, chivalry, or even glory. You fight for coin, a meaningless, materialistic desire. Nothing good ever comes from avarice."
"Sure it does. It provides me food and shelter over my head. It can buy and repair equipment. Peasants use it to make their lives better. Money fuels armies with food, weapons, and armor. Without money what else would we trade? Without money we wouldn't have an economy to keep us alive. Without money it would just be chaos."
"Money is what keeps the world as we know it going. What can honor and chivalry do? Nothing except give you bragging rights for being a good person."
Her eyes had suddenly become colder. "Your argument does not help your case. You fight for something base and sinful. Something that gives no moral to your character. Just like Vault and his dogs."
Jason sighed frustratingly. "I am nothing like Vault. If I was I wouldn't be standing here talking to you. I would be raping you and several dozens of girls. Don't be so closed minded. I'm not alone in fighting for personal gain. Not everyone fights for the Alliance out of loyalty or honor. I know plenty of men, who aren't Kuroinu, that only fight so they can be closer to you and the other princess knights."
Kaguya remained silent, unable to think of a response.
"Maybe what I fight for is nothing profound or great, but at least I know where I stand. That is more than most can say."
Though her expression did not change much her eyes were no longer cold. Then she gave him a soft smile.
"Hm, you are interesting. Perhaps you aren't like Vault after all." She bowed her head to him in respect.
"I must leave now. It was nice to meet you Sir Bellum. Welcome to the Seven Shields Alliance. Good luck."
And with that the Shrine Maiden turned and left gracefully.
"Hm." Was all he could think to say. "To training then."
. . .
Alicia yawned. She got up early to start morning practice like she did every day, but that was not why she yawned. She was tired, but not for lack of sleep, but because of how hectic the day was before.
Honestly! First, one of their biggest warriors/heroes/supporters had turned traitor. Then they had recruited the aid of a horrible war criminal and Eostia's greatest threat to help combat the NEXT war against their former greatest ally. The irony was not lost to her on that. Finally, her leader, Celestine Lucross, who she looked up to the most, recruited another mercenary and one that seemed more suspicious then even Vault! She hasn't even seen his face for crying out loud! And from what she heard, no one had.
Sighing tiredly, she let it go. As her cousin, Prim, would say, "You'll get wrinkles for worrying so much."
The thought of her adorable cousin saying that made her smile and wipe away some of her stress. Perhaps training would help get rid of the rest of it.
Opening the doors to the training room made Alicia start to have doubts about that. In front of her she saw, the newest Shield swinging a greatsword in the air, doing practice strikes. He was decked out in his old crappy armor. Alicia couldn't help but wonder why he didn't upgrade it.
She walked in and grabbed a practice sword. The merc hadn't even bothered noticing her or maybe he did and just ignored her. It was hard to tell behind the helm of his. Well she ignored him in kind; such a man was beneath her.
Alicia walked up to a training dummy and began to wale on it with both skill and vigor.
"Yah!" She yelled out. She struck the dummy a few more times before turning her head slightly to the mercenary. He was still ignoring her!
Alicia groaned in annoyance, her cheeks were red with frustration.
After finishing with the dummy, she decided t confront the merc.
"Hey, you!"
Jason gave one final swing with his sword before turning to Alicia. "Hm?"
That noncommittal response made Alicia bristle. "What kind of a response is that?!"
Jason's shoulders straightened.
"Ah! My apologies, Lady Alicia. I did not know you were in the room."
She had been in the room for over half an hour and he hadn't even acknowledged her presence that entire time!? The nerve of this man! Alicia practically growled. She was even angrier then before!
"Do not think for a second that just because you were made a Shield that you can get cocky." She pointed a finger in his face. "Lady Celestine gave you an honor you are unworthy of, so be grateful."
"Yes. I am."
She felt like grinding her teeth. This man was so callous it was irritating. She wondered if he could ever be angry or happy? She looked at his sword and then looked at her own sword. A smile spread across her face as she got an idea.
"Sir Jason, would you honor me with a spar?"
He was silent and she saw the barest hint of his head tilting in confusion. "A spar?" He asked.
"Yes. Since you're new to the Shields I thought I'd test out your mettle."
"Very well."
Jason got in his stance and readied his greatsword. Alicia also readied her blade and got in a stance. The two stayed still like statues until Alicia lost her patience and quickly attacked.
Jason raised his sword and blocked her incoming attacks. Their blades clanged throughout the room. Alicia let out a short battle cry as she swung her sword. Jason just kept blocking and backing up. He had never once attacked, staying firmly in his defensive position.
"Is this it?" Alicia mocked. "This is how you fight? I'm not impressed. Maybe Celestine was wrong to choose you to be a Shield."
Jason remained silent, appearing like her taunts meant nothing to him. Alicia glared and just continued to attack.
"Come on! Fight me, mercenary! Give some inkling on why you should be on the same level as the rest of us."
Jason still stayed quiet, but his action spoke loudly. He tripped Alicia, making her stumble forward. The merc then grabbed her by her hair and spun her around and let her go to tumble to the floor.
Alicia panted from all the swinging she had done. She got up and turned quickly to face Jason and just barely avoided getting hit by his greatsword. But because she felt tired from swinging around her sword, she didn't have enough strength to bring it back up, leaving her open. Instead of going in for another attack though, he instead reached for her skirt and pulled it down.
Alicia shrieked in embarrassment and tried to pull up her skirt, but Jason tripped her, kicked the sword out of her hand and then pointed his sword at her neck.
"I win."
Alicia stared wide-eyed. She grit her teeth, her cheeks were tomato red in both anger and embarrassment. Her sapphire eyes could bore through a fortress wall.
"Your win?! You cheated. There is no honor in pulling down a lady's skirt or pulling her hair! If anything what you did was cowardly and shameful. Even Maia had never done anything like that in battle. Men like you have no chivalry whatsoever! "
Her shoulders rose up and down as she breathed heavily in fury. Jason just stared at her and let her rant to her hearts content. When it seemed like she was done he answered her with an analysis.
"You have good footwork."
"Huh?" She said dumbfounded.
"Footwork. It's good. Also your stance and the way you hold your sword. You had very few openings, which was why I stayed in defensive position." Jason put his sword down. "I tried tiring you out before facing you head-on. Overall you are a good swordswoman."
Alicia blinked, her blush stayed but for a different reason this time.
"Oh well, thank you. I guess—"
"But you have one fatal flaw. A flaw that Vault and his Kuroinu and demons will exploit to its fullest."
"What?! What do you—!"
Jason approached her then he lunged at her, pulling out a knife and bring it within a centimeter of her eye. Alicia stood straight as an arrow with shock and fear being her expression being so close to death.
"You think everyone will play by the rules. That everyone is honorable and chivalrous, but they're not. Mercenaries are not knights. Vault and his army especially so."
Jason brought away his knife from her eye and slowly backed away.
"Vault and his army won't play by the rules. They will lie and cheat and corrupt everything just to win. They have already and they'll keep doing so because they know none of you Princess Knights have the capacity to be anything less than chivalrous."
She glared at him and his audacity. "So what do you suggest? Cheat and lie like you and them? I'd rather die!"
"So be it."
Alicia balked at him. "WHAT?!"
"This is the way I see it, Princess Arcturus: you have only three options laid before you. You can fight, you can die, or you can get fucked."
"What kind of options are those!?"
"The only ones."
Having heard enough of his nonsense, Alicia stormed off. She shoulder bumped him on the way out.
"I know your type, Lady Alicia." She paused at those words. "A protective attitude, a chivalrous nature, and great pride. More often than not your type is the first to fall . . . and they always choose option three: to get fucked. Do yourself a favor. Choose to fight even if it means throwing your life and others lives away to do it."
Alicia stared at his armored back for a few seconds longer before leaving the room. Jason stood still as a statue until he heard the doors slam shut. He went back to training before deciding that it was time for breakfast.
Prim Fiorire walked through the halls of the Castle Church. She was heading toward the kitchens where she could break her fast. Normally, the host would have a large breakfast prepared for all their guests, especially guests as powerful as the Princess Knights. But, their leader, Celestine Lucross was too busy dealing with their current predicaments, as well as gathering information from Olga Discordia. So Lady Celestine told them all that if they were hungry they were to simply go to the kitchens and ask the chefs to make them something.
So Prim walked toward the kitchen with elegant strides. She usually ate with Alicia, after her morning training, but she could not find her cousin. Which was strange because Alicia never missed spending time with her.
"No matter." Prim said. "I'll just save her something. No doubt she will be hungry after working so hard."
Before getting to the kitchen she smelled something heavenly. She followed the aroma and wound up in the kitchen. There were no cooks when she scanned the room, but she saw Jason sitting at one of the servant tables. In front of him was a plate full of tarts.
As she walked to him, she quirked an eyebrow when she saw him stuff a tart through the holes of his visor. She had never seen anyone eat like that before. Not even her knights. It was strange. Though from what she saw yesterday, perhaps that was his thing.
"Hello." Prim curtsied.
He turned his head slightly to her. "Greetings, Princess Knight Prim Fiorire."
"Please, you may call me Prim, since we'll be working together from now on." She smiled.
. . .
. . .
. . .
. . .?
Jason sighed somewhat in annoyance. "Okay."
Prim had no idea what that unsettling pause was about, but she let it go, thinking it was just another strange quirk about the mercenary.
Prim took a big whiff of the food on his plate. "What is that wonderful smell?"
"Strawberry tarts."
"They smell so good! Are the chefs near?" She looked around, seeing no one but Jason in the room. "I'm hoping they can make something similar for me."
"Sorry, I told the chefs to leave. I wanted to make my own food." He shoved another tart into his helm and into his mouth.
She blinked at him. "You made this food?"
"Yes. Cooking is a relaxing hobby of mine."
. . .
. . .
Jason caught her eyeing his food. He suspected if it weren't for her etiquette training the pinkette would be drooling.
"Would you like some?"
She snapped out of her stupor and began to wave her hands negatively. "No, no, no! I could never ask to steal your food."
"You're not stealing, I'm offering. I made plenty." He slid the tarts over to her. "Help yourself."
Slowly, almost hesitantly, Prim picked up a tart and took a small bite. The second she did, her eyes shot open, a happy blush came over her cheeks, and then began to eat the tart in fervor. When she was done she had another. Then another.
"These are so good!" She said delightfully. "The strawberries are so sweet with the cream filling and the bread makes sure that the sweetness doesn't override the taste. You have a gift."
"So I've been told."
Jason grabbed a napkin and reached for Prim. She blinked and blushed when he wiped off some cream from her cheek and nose.
"T-thank you!" She squeaked.
He simply nodded his head. "So . . . Prim, what do you think of this war?"
"Huh?"
"Other than me you were one of the least talkative people in the room."
"Oh! I think it's quite awful really. I couldn't believe Vault just turned on us like that. In the end we just traded Olga for someone with more of an advantage over us."
"Hm." Jason hummed thoughtfully. "You didn't seem all that upset."
"Mm, I'm not upset, more worried, I suppose. Though I guess I don't look like that either." She laughed nervously. "Alicia's always been the strong-minded one. Always wearing her emotions on her sleeve. She's angry enough for the both of us. Whereas I know how to control my emotions and keep a level head. The Court has served me well and I've learned much."
"The Court?" Jason asked.
"Ah, yes! Sorry! I forget that not everyone knows about my cousin Alicia's and my positions. Alicia handles everything military and I handle the nobility. She battles on the field and I fight in the court rooms."
"I see."
"Yes! We work so well together that we decided to share a City-Fortress. Though it's also because Alicia wants to protect me." She smiled sweetly at the ground.
"So you don't fight?"
Her head shot up. "W-well, not quite. I-I know a little fencing, but I've always had a pair of good eyes. Some have called me an expert markswoman."
"Who?"
"Oh, some nobles who invite me on hunting trips."
"I see, glad you're capable with more than just talking."
She felt that sentence pierce her delicate chest. "T-thank you for the . . . kind words."
"You're welcome." He replied sincerely.
Prim looked down at her plate and saw that there were only two tarts left.
"Would you like one?" Prim offered.
Jason shook his head. "No thank you. I'm full enough."
Prim looked at the tarts in thought. "Maybe, Alicia would like one. We usually eat together, but for some reason I haven't seen her."
"I saw her at training."
"You did?"
"Yes, she seemed upset about something."
"About what?"
"Don't know. I gave her some sound advice and she left in a huff."
Prim had a good idea what set her cousin off, if her conversation with the new Shield was any indication.
Prim gave him a smile. "Don't worry, Alicia has always been easy to rile up, please don't think bad of her."
"I don't. She's stubborn. I like stubborn."
"Heh heh, good."
Jason got up from his seat. He intended to leave. "It was nice meeting you officially Prim. I look forward to working with you. If you ever need work of a mercenary, just send me a message."
Prim looked at him with a beaming smile. "Thank you! Perhaps a job could be making me more of those tarts?"
Jason shrugged. "As long as you pay me."
Prim giggled. Jason left and Prim grabbed the plate and went out to find Alicia. After some searching she found her blonde cousin in the massive gardens. She sat on a bench seeming to try and glare a hole through the puffy clouds.
The wind blew and the aroma of the tarts wafted over to her. The smell instantly drew her attention to Prim.
"Prim." Alicia greeted kindly. "That smells good." She eyed the tarts hungrily.
"I didn't see you at breakfast. I saved you something."
Alicia looked saddened at those words. "I'm sorry, I got . . . sidetracked after practice."
Prim smiled. "It's okay." She sat down next to her beloved cousin. "Here, we can eat these last ones together."
Alicia grabbed the tart and began eating it. As soon as she took a bite, she moaned in satisfaction.
"My word, this is delicious!"
"Isn't it?" Prim said happily.
"I must give my compliments to Lady Celestine's chefs before we go. This is so good!" She took another bite.
Prim kept up her wonderful smile, with her kind eyes closed. "Actually, Sir Jason was the one who made these."
For ten minutes, Prim was brought to the brink of fright and worry when she tried to save her cousin from choking to death on the tart.
Jason decided to head to the library to do some research. From what he heard about the Castle Church's library it was vast and plentiful.
They weren't exaggerating.
"This place is huge." Jason mumbled. Before his eyes were rows upon rows of books. Shelves that went so high they almost touched the ceiling. "It's as big as Olga's library."
Jason strolled in. After doing a little searching he found what he was looking for. An old hardcovered book with leather binding. After he took a seat near a window, he began flipping through pages in search of his target.
"The Demonictionary by Sir Halvard Goosebury. Excellent read."
Jason turned and saw a kindly faced gentleman. He had dark grey hair, a mustache, and spectacles. He wore a green shirt with a red vest, tan pants and brown boots. He wore a dark brown berette on his head.
"Yes it is."
"Forgive me, where are my manners." He bowed his head. "My name is Klaus Curtis. A scholar."
"Jason Bellum."
"Ah! The new Shield. I've heard a bit about you."
"How so? It hasn't been announced yet."
"My wife, I believe you've met a few times already. Claudia Levantine."
It took Jason a moment to put the pieces together. "Ah, that's right. She's the only Princess Knight to be married."
"Correct." He smiled. "Since you two will be working together, please look after my wife on the field."
"Of course." Jason nodded.
"Much appreciated. So, what is it that you are doing exactly?"
Jason turned back to his book. "Merely doing research. Demons and the like. Since I'll be fighting them I want to be prepared as much as possible."
Klaus chuckled a bit. "Better safe than sorry, yes? Halvard Goosebury was quite the researcher. He's the only one in history to have lived among the orcs and study the gremlin works."
Jason turned the book and saw the author's portrait. "He was a big man with dark skin. It's easy to see how he could fool the dumb orcs. Still don't know how he got close enough to the gremlins without him getting gutted."
"Luck. The man was blessed with it. He was lucky to see firsthand of how the orcs lived, plus many other demonic species."
"Yet unlucky to witness it firsthand."
Klaus frowned. "True. True." He said dejectedly.
"Klaus?" A woman's voice called.
"In here dear!"
In came Claudia, decked out in her enchanted silver armor. She eyed Jason as she walked over to her husband, but stopped when she came to give him a chaste kiss.
"Klaus, we'll be leaving soon. You still haven't packed yet."
"Oh! Silly me. I'm sorry dear. I came in here to do a bit of light reading and found Sir Jason. We were having a delightful conversation, weren't we, Sir Jason?"
Jason just nodded. Claudia stared at the mercenary.
"I'll go pack. You let me know when we leave." He kissed his wife on the cheek. "Sir Jason, it was nice to meet you." He extended his hand.
Jason grabbed it and shook. "Same to you, Klaus."
With that Klaus left, leaving the two warriors alone.
"Your husband is nice." Jason said.
"Thank you. What were you two talking about?"
Jason showed her the book he was reading. "Just brushing up on my knowledge of demon kin."
She nodded approvingly and gave a little nod. "It's good to be prepared. A sharp mind can be as strong as a sharpened sword."
"Your husband's words?"
"Yes. How did you know?"
"They seem more like his then yours."
Claudia's eye twitched a little. She felt like that was a jab at her intelligence, but it just didn't come off as an insult. Even in that low indifferent tone of his, so she stayed quiet.
"Still they are wise words and I agree with them."
Claudia hummed in thought gaining Jason's attention again.
"What is it?"
"I told Vault those words once. He laughed them off, saying "Only one can slice through flesh and bone.'" She had a peeved look on her face.
"Technically he's not wrong."
Her eyes snapped at him with a glare. "The rest of his men called my husband's words a "coward's excuse to avoid real conflict." Like a bunch of Neanderthals. Do you agree with that?"
"No. And you didn't let me finish. It's true you can only use a sharp sword to kill someone, but it takes a sharp mind to use it properly and effectively. Most of the Kuroinu are just a bunch of morons who just swing a sword instead of using it right. If you want to be a great fighter, then you need both your body and mind honed."
Claudia's eyes widened. Respect soon filled them and she gave him a warm smile.
"It's nice to know you believe that. Thank you for agreeing with those words. Even Klaus' father has a hard time accepting them. He's a good man, but a hard one to impress with actions of the mind."
Jason just nodded.
"Goodbye, Sir Jason. I wasn't sure at first, but I look forward to working with you in the future."
"Wait." He called. "Before you go, I have something to ask."
"What?"
"Lady Celestine rewarded me last night with the Blessing of The Elven Goddess. She told me to ask you for more details."
Claudia's eyes widened in stunned surprise. "Lady Celestine . . . gave you the Blessing?"
"Yes. As an extra reward for helping her. You wouldn't mind giving me some pointers on how to control it?"
Claudia didn't answer right away. She was still looking at the mercenary with astonishment. She couldn't believe that her leader would bestow a gift like that, especially to someone so new they were mostly a stranger. Celestine trusted Jason that much.
She shook her head and remembered to answer Jason's question. "It's quite easy to summon it. I assume Lady Celestine told you about the passive abilities?" He nodded. "Good. You won't need to use the much stronger powers until you face against a greater more dangerous force."
"But how do I bring it forth?"
She smiled. "You'll know how when the time comes."
Jason grunted in annoyance. "Can't you just tell me?"
Claudia giggled. "I just gave you the same answer that Lady Celestine gave me. Trust in her, like she trusts in you."
Jason didn't say anything to that. He stayed silent because he wasn't sure what to say.
Claudia took that moment to leave. "Goodbye, Sir Bellum. I shall see you on the battlefield."
Claudia exited the room. Jason closed his book and decided that he did enough studying. He left the library and went out of the castle and into the town.
"I need to get some things in town here before I go." He mumbled to himself.
The sellsword made his way through the hustle and bustle of the town. Merchants were yelling loudly trying to get peasants to buy their wares. Jason looked to his elft and saw children playing. To his right women folk were cleaning clothes and gossiping like usual.
Something felt off.
Jason kept moving. Still heading toward his destination, but when he round the corner her stopped and quickly ducked into an ally. He waited. He heard footsteps, light and subtle, but not too subtle. When it sounded like the footsteps were close and a shadow peered over the corner, he lunged.
He shoved his stalker against the brick wall and was greeted by tangerine eyes and reddish pink hair.
"Maia?"
The female mercenary glared at Jason. Her hand gripped his arm and she struggled to free herself.
"Release me, you bastard!"
Jason did just that. He gave her a moment to recuperate before asking, "Why are you following me?"
"I don't have to tell you anything!" She said defiantly.
. . .
"Fine." He kept walking.
Maia blinked twice before going after him. "H-hey, wait!" She ran after him. "That's it? You're not going to demand me to answer? Or force me?"
"What for?" He said evenly. "You're not a Kuroinu spy or any kind of enemy of mine in general. You're no threat to me."
That made the redhead grind her teeth. "I'm plenty threatening." She said in a low tone that only he could hear.
"Sure."
"And don't talk badly about the Kuroinu! I still don't believe what you said about them."
"Oh?"
"Yes. I'm sure of it. I don't know what's going on, but no way would Vault and the others ever go down this path. There HAS to be a reason."
"The reason is simple. They're a bunch of cutthroats who turned their backs on their employer and country. They're scum, plain and simple."
"They are not!" She roared. She grabbed his shoulder and forced him to look at her. "You watch your tongue knave or I'll cut it out myself and feed it to the dogs."
Jason could see that arguing with the fiery girl would do nothing and solve nothing. She was too engrossed with the enemy to admit the truth. If she weren't a woman Jason would think she was a spy. But Vault and the Black Dogs have it out for ALL women, and he didn't see any reason why Maia would be an exception. Unfortunately, she'd be one of those types that need to see it to believe it.
"Perhaps Alicia will not be the first to fall." He mumbled under his breath.
"What was that?"
"Nothing."
The female merc glowered at him. "So, if you aren't worried about me following you, where are we going?"
Jason continued walking. "We're almost there. You'll see."
After a minute of walking they arrived at the destination.
"A weapons shop?" Maia questioned.
It was a real hole-in-the-wall place. It was right smackdab in the middle of the city in between alleys. It had a sign hanging over a wooden door that literally said "weapons Shop" with the image of a forge hammer and a pair of tongs crisscrossing each other. Unless you were looking for it, you wouldn't even know there was a shop here.
"Have to get some new weapons. Also need to stock up on a couple things." He explained.
Jason walked in. Announcing his arrival was the ringing of a tiny bell.
"Welcome! Welcome! Welcome to my shop." The Proprietor said. "Ah, if it isn't the odd soldier of fortune."
"Hello." Jason nodded.
"And who have you brought with—GRMPHPUH!" The man sputtered, jumped back, flinched and fell down all at the same time. "Y-y-y-you're Maia of the Seven Shields Alliance. A Princess Knight!"
Maia folded her arms and leaned on one leg. "Yes, that's me." She sighed.
"Ooh, you humble this fine Proprietor with your presence. Please, peruse my wares to your liking."
Maia sweat-dropped. "Thanks."
The Proprietor looked at Jason. "If you're with her then that must mean you have some coin on you now. Perhaps you'd like to look at my finer stock?"
The Proprietor motioned to some of the stuff behind him. Armor and weapons abound sat on shelves and sparkled and shined like they were fresh off the forge. Some of the items Maia saw actually looked of good quality and even considered buying the pair of daggers on the top shelf. Surprising really, considering how out of the way and dingy the shop was.
"No thanks. Where's you're bargain bin again?"
The Proprietor gave an annoyed sigh. He leaned an elbow on his counter and rested his head on his hand.
"Over there in the back." He waved.
"Thanks."
Jason walked over to a bunch of barrels on the far side of the store. The barrels held weapons of all kinds from swords, to axes, to maces, and more. They looked alright, but most had rust on them and looked like they would not last long. Same could be said for the pieces of old armor that were displayed on a shelf. The amount of dust on all of the items said they hadn't been touched in a long time.
"Seriously?" Maia said in disbelief. "He has money. I saw Lady Celestine pay him handsomely, he can afford better than that."
"Tell me about it. Guy's just cheap. Doesn't want to pay for anything high quality."
"Why?"
"How should I know?! He's just weird like that. He's come in here twice already. First time was for simple armor repair and second time was to get a new weapon and some other things."
After Jason was done rummaging through the bargain bin he walked back to the Proprietor.
"I'd like to buy this sword and whetstone please."
"Aye sure."
Jason then set down a crossbow on the counter. "This too and these throwing knives."
"You know this crossbow will splinter and break after a few times of using it right?"
"Yes."
. . .
"Okay, so long as you know what you're doing."
"And do you have any more lamp oil in stock?"
"Aye, I do. You know you can buy that stuff at the shop a few blocks down, yeah?"
"I know, but I can get it cheaper here and you make some extra coin."
The Proprietor hmphed. "Only because you refuse to actually spend any real coin in my shop. Alright, I'll head in the back and get'em. How much you need?"
"Three jars will do."
"Jeez, what you need that much oil for anyway? Gonna do a lot of sightseeing in the dark?" The Proprietor headed to the back.
"Not exactly."
The Proprietor left the two alone. Maia had her arms folded and she was eyeing her fellow mercenary. Jason just stared forward, paying no mind to her staring.
"So is this all you're getting?"
"No. I need to stop at a potions shop and get my hands on some healing potions. Maybe even a mana potion too just in case I need a boost in magic."
"Ah. Is that why you're spending so little? You're saving up for potions. Those are damned expensive."
"Yes and no. I'm cheap. I prefer to only spend on the essentials and when it's necessary. The potion I will definitely need later. Who knows what the future holds, best to be prepared."
"And the lamp oil?"
"Good for slicks and burning things that don't burn easily."
. . .
"You're a strange one." Maia said.
"Am I?"
"Yep."
"Hmm."
The Proprietor came back and he brought with him three jars filled with yellow lamp oil. After paying for everything the two left.
The two walked in silence until they entered the Potions Shop. All around them were glass cases containing several flasks of multi-colored potions. Some big, some small, some looked so odd neither one knew what they did.
"Welcome! Welcome!" A redheaded girl greeted. She was the owner of the Potions Shop. As stated she had long red hair that she kept tied in a long ponytail. She had bright green eyes, olive skin, and a perky sweet smile. Her figure was curvy and covered in overalls. And she had a very noticeable bust, a E-cup.
"Greetings, Alchemist."
"Hello!" She said nicely. "And what may I do for you today?"
"I heard you have a sale on health potions today."
"Indeed we do~! Would you like to purchase some?"
"Yes, please. And a mana potion too if you have any."
"We just brewed a new batch this morning. I'll go get some for you. Wait here please." The Alchemist hummed as she went into the back.
Jason then took that time to look around at the other items on sale. As he did he heard glass tinkling from beside him. Maia was shuffling through some of the products and even picked up a few flasks.
"What are you buying?" Jason asked curiously. He saw she picked up two colored flasks. A purple one and an orange one.
She lifted up the purple one, "A Noxious Cloud Potion." Then she lifted up the orange one, "A Firestorm potion."
Jason nodded. Those were offensive potions. Unlike the potions he was buying, which were used to aid the user, those potions were meant to damage enemies.
"Interesting choices." Jason said. "One creates a cloud of poisonous gas, the other creates an explosion of fire."
"Why don't you buy some? I know you can afford it."
Jason shook his head no. "It's not in my budget. I save money in case of emergencies."
"Judging from the equipment you use I bet that's a lot."
"Not as much as you'd think. I may be cheap, but another word I use is prepared. It is always best to have a plan to fall back on. Think two or three steps ahead. Same applies in my battle strategies. If it looks like I'm losing I have a strategy to fall back on and turn the tide."
"Did you have one when it came to Olga and attacking her fortress?" Maia asked.
Jason sighed. "No, unfortunately. There was only one way through. Everything that happened there was a one way gamble. If I failed once it would've meant death. I should be fortunate that I managed to survive. In fact the only hindrance to my plans ended up being the Kuroinu themselves."
Maia glared at Jason and looked like she was about to defend the enemy again, but the Alchemist came back with the items he requested.
The two paid for their items and left. Maia chose that time to split and go their separate ways.
"Well this was interesting, but I really should get going. Thanks for letting me tag along."
"It was no trouble."
She smirked, but quickly the smirk turned into a small frown. "I still think Vault and the Black Dogs are being set up. I want you to know I will get to the bottom of this."
"Mm-hmm."
Her brow furrowed. She knew he didn't agree with her words, but chose not to argue.
She turned and started walking away. "So long, Eighth Shield. I look forward to fighting by your side on the battlefield."
Jason watched her leave before turning in the other direction heading back to the Castle, but before he could get there something got in his way.
*CRASH*
A man flew through a window and landed in a heap in front of Jason.
The merc just stared and blinked before looking up and seeing that it was a tavern. The Frothing Mug as it was called. Cozy and straightforward. He liked it.
Another man crashed through the other window and so the irregular soldier decided to see what all the commotion was about or more precisely, just to get a quick drink.
The bar was mostly empty. A few patrons sat here and there. A barmaid was cleaning a mess of shattered glass that was caused by the men being thrown. Looking closely, Jason found the likely suspect of who threw the men.
Here's a hint: she's very short.
Luu-Luu sat at one of the farther tables. She set aside her heavy battle-axe, which was leaning against a post, and placed her green hat on the table. In front of her was a big mug, easily half her size, of beer, frothing at the head. She grabbed it and took a big gulp. When she set it back down she finally noticed him.
"Jason!" She squealed and waved at him like a child.
Jason walked toward her.
"Barkeep! A pint for this man here." The dwarf called.
Jason took a seat across from her.
"You are old enough to drink right?"
"Yes . . . and you of all people should not be asking that."
She giggled childishly with a cocky smirk. "Careful, those guys made the same mistake." She nodded over to the mess.
He made a fist and stuck his thumb out, using it to point to the shattered windows and the two unconscious men outside. "You?"
"Yep!" She popped the p. "Many are reluctant to drink with dwarva. We look so much like little girls that taverns are worried to open their doors to us and serve us." She looked at her drink. "Well and for another reason."
She took a huge big gulp of her giant mug. Seconds ticked by as she kept gulping, by the time she stopped Jason's drink had already come.
"HAAAA! That's the stuff. Wanna have a drinking contest?" She asked excitedly.
Her cheeks were red from drink, but she wasn't entirely drunk yet. The foam had stuck to her lip giving her a "moustache" It was funnily adorable.
"No thanks." Jason responded quickly. "I've heard how strong of drinkers dwarves are."
Her cheeks puffed up in a pout. "Boo, you're no fun."
Jason just shrugged and took a drink. The liquid fell through the holes of his visor and you could audibly hear his gulping. When he was done, he saw Luu-Luu giving him a look of disbelief.
"What?"
She burst out laughing, clutching her gut and kicking her legs in the air.
"You really don't take off your helmet! Just like Celestine, Claudia, and Olga said!" She laughed.
Jason remained silent. He kept drinking from his mug waiting for her laughter to subside. When she was finally done, she wiped away some fallen tears and went back to gulping down her drink.
"So tell me, what's it feel like to become a Shield and the first male one at that?"
Jason took a moment to give it some thought. He shrugged.
"It's just another title. Even if I didn't become part of the Shield Alliance I'd be doing something to participate in the war."
"You don't feel honored or anything? Not even a little?"
He hummed in thought. "Perhaps maybe a bit, but not as much as one would think. To me the only thing that matters is tomorrow and the next mission."
Luu-Luu studied the armored man as best she could. Trying to discern his tells and judge his words. After a moment she smiled.
"Interesting. I think I see why Celestine chose you." Luu-Luu chugged down the remainder of her drink. When she was done she let out a satisfied sigh and slammed the mug onto the table. She wiped her mouth and hopped out of her chair.
"We could always use more experience in the Alliance." She grabbed her axe and headed out. "I look forward to fighting alongside you, Eighth Shield."
The tavern's door burst open and in walked the guys that were gracefully tossed out through the windows. Along with three other buddies of theirs.
"Uh-oh, I smell trouble brewing~." Luu-Luu said in a sing-songy tone.
"That may just be the next round of ales."
"Hey you!"
The thugs stomped their way over to their table.
"Didn't you guys get enough of a beating? What are you some kind of masochist? Hahahahahaha!"
"You little bitch!" One of them growled. "You're gonna regret messing with us. You may be strong but you can't take on all of us." He motioned to the rest of his gang.
"Do yourselves a favor." Jason cut in. "Turn around and walk out of here. You don't stand a chance against a dwarf. Especially not the most elite dwarf in the country."
"You stay out of this, you cunt! Or we'll fuck you over just like this brat." He and his buddies snickered at those words.
Luu-Luu glared at the men. "Threatening someone like me?" She smirked evilly. "Big mistake."
"And now you're all dead." Jason mumbled.
"Oh shut up!" One of the thugs went for Jason.
Jason got up from his seat and raised his mug. The thug smashed his fist against the metal mug, denting it, but hurting his hand too. Jason then swung his mug and smashed it against the thug's face.
Luu-Luu charged forward at a fast speed, headbutting the main thug in the gut and knocking the wind out of him. Luu-Luu then used the broadside of her axe and smashed it against the heads of the rest. They didn't die, but they left some rather nasty bumps that made them cry as they hit the ground.
One thug went to help his friend against Jason. The merc got into a fighting stance and got ready to brawl. Jason ducked and jabbed. He launched his fist getting in some good hits. When the thug came in to strike Jason countered making the thug stumble back. Jason then went in close and gave him an uppercut.
The thug flew and landed hard onto a table. An occupied table. Drinks went flying and the patrons sitting at the table grunted in anger and annoyance as they shot daggers at both Jason and Luu-Luu.
The two looked at each other as they got ready for a good old-fashioned drunken tavern brawl.
Sometime Later
Luu-Luu was laughing her cute little butt off. The two were walking back to the castle full of bruises and scuff marks.
"That was fun!" She yelled excitedly.
"That was not how I wanted that to go." Jason grumbled.
The dwarf's face never faltered. "Oh quit whining. You wore armor. Your attackers hurt themselves more then they hurt you."
"I just got this armor oiled and repaired." He added annoyed.
"Wa! Wa! Wa!" Luu-Luu imitated a baby's cry to make fun of him.
"Careful. With your appearance, many will assume you to be an actual child crying like the baby you appear to be."
Luu-Luu then gave him an adorable glare. She waved her arms around in a tantrum. "Don't call me a child! I'm older then you by more than decades you little brat."
The sentence and her appearance didn't make it any less cute in his eyes. Jason chuckled.
"Okay. Okay. I'm sorry." On instinct he reached his arm out and rubbed her head.
Luu-Luu stopped her shouting and froze. She leaned her head against the man's hand in response and smiled pleasantly. She liked how his hand felt against her hair.
Jason quickly retracted his hand just as she was getting used to the contact.
"Sorry. I forgot you don't wish to be treated like a child."
Luu-Luu blinked before she puffed up her cheeks in a pout.
"Hmph! That's right and don't forget it!" She did an about-face and marched off in the opposite direction. The shaft of her axe rested on her shoulder.
"You're not coming back to the Castle?" Jason asked.
"I've been away from my fortress long enough. I have to prepare my people for the coming war. We'll need to churn out more weapons and war machines to combat the demons and Black Dogs. I just came back with you because I wanted to talk a little more with you."
"I think you're very interesting curiosity. I think I see why Celestine chose you."
. . .
"Should I tell Lady Celestine that you left?"
"No need. She's known me long enough to know I don't stick around too long. Well, so long, Jason. Bye bye!" She waved as she ran off.
Jason silently stared at her retreating back before walking back to the castle. When e walked in through the large doors, he was met by Sebas.
"Master Bellum, I'm so glad I found you." The Butler bowed.
"Something the matter, Sebas?"
"Not at all sir. Lady Lucross and Lady Discordia wish to see you in the laboratory."
"Did she say why?"
"I'm afraid not, Master Bellum. The Mistress just wanted me to tell you when I saw you."
Jason nodded in thanks and headed to the laboratory after getting directions from Sebas. When he got there he saw Chloe standing outside the door. Presumably guarding it, possibly on Olga's orders. Her brow was furrowed, her arms crossed, and her back straight.
"Where've you been?" Chloe questioned.
"Doing some shopping before I leave.
She sniffed near him and recoiled. "And some drinking."
"Just a little buzzed.
"I'm not sure I should let you in there as you are."
"Relax, I'm focused enough."
"Fine, but don't make trouble for my mistress."
Chloe stepped to the side and let Jason enter the room. It was a laboratory very similar to Olga's at the Dark Fortress, just less sinister looking.
He kept walking until he saw Celestine and Olga sitting near a table. Celestine had her hand out toward Olga, it was glowing with magic. When she was done that was when the two powerful elves noticed him.
"Jason." They both greeted him with a pleasant smile.
"Lady Celestine. Lady Olga." He acknowledged.
Olga frowned a little. "Now Jason, what did I tell you?"
"To just call you Olga." He sighed tiredly.
"Yes and?"
"Hello Olga."
"That's better."
Celestine looked between the two a few times before coughing to get their attention.
"If you are calling Olga by her first name, then by all means don't feel discouraged to use mine too." Celestine said.
"Even in her presence?" He pointed to the sole dark elf.
"Of course."
Another sigh. "I understand Lad—Celestine."
The two elves smiled seeing how uncomfortable the merc was using their names.
"Sebas sent me up here." Jason quickly changed the topic. "You needed me for something?"
"It's Olga." Celestine said.
"What's wrong?"
Olga sat on a chair, her legs crossed and her arms folded. She seemed very troubled, but she kept quiet.
"Olga told me you know about her magic going haywire. So I thought it best to bring you here since you're already involved."
"Shouldn't Chloe be in here then?"
"I can inform Chloe of my condition whenever. You will be leaving soon and therefore you needed to be told." Olga answered.
"So what's wrong? Did you discover the reason for why her magic is acting up?"
"Yes and no." Celestine answered. She picked up an item that sat on the table. It was a crystal, a black one.
"That looks familiar." Then it hit him. "That's the crystal that was in Olga's laboratory. Or a smaller version at least."
"They are dark crystals. Powerful and very rare minerals that can enhance the power of black magic."
"And as I'm sure you're aware, dark elves specialize in black magic." Olga said
"I am aware. But you said they are rare? But Olga has—"
"A giant one. Yes." Olga spoke up. "I found that crystal centuries ago. Using its great and massive power I managed to construct the Black Fortress with ease and used my enhanced powers to subjugate and command the demons of my ar—former army."
"That's impressive." Jason complimented.
Olga smiled at his praise. "Thank you, but I'm afraid that may have been a foolish thing."
"Why?"
Celestine was the one to answer. "While relying on a dark crystal can improve your powers dramatically, using them for long periods of time can have adverse and negative effects on the user."
"I have been using that crystal for centuries. Without it my magic has dwindled and weakened, like muscles that have only been relying on drugs instead of exercise."
"But wait, your powers were weakening while we were still close to the crystal. Perhaps once we were away from the fortress, but while we were still in it?" Jason deduced.
"That's a keen observation, Jason. And exactly why we think the crystal is not the sole reason for my decrease in magical power."
"Olga told me just before the Kuroinu attacked she felt her powers waning, but it was only barely noticeable." Celestine said.
"And when I was held captive I could feel my magic slowly fading, but at the time it was hard to tell with the anti-magic manacles on me."
"I could feel that too, the magic energy fading, just barely. But that still doesn't explain why?"
"I suspect someone within my stronghold sabotaged the connection between me and my crystal just before the Black Dogs attacked so that it would be easier for me to be defeated."
"Foul play." Jason finally answered.
"Yes." Olga said darkly. She had her brow furrowed. She didn't like that someone managed to find a way to weaken her to the point that simple mercenaries would easily beat her. Whoever it was that betrayed her would feel her hateful wrath tenfold.
"Do you think the Kuroinu had something to do with it?" Jason asked.
"They must have." Olga nodded. "It's too much of a coincidence that the crystal would be acting up just as my fortress comes under attack."
Both Jason and Celestine could agree to that.
"The problem is: I have no idea who it could be or how they did it, but when I do find them I'm gonna—"
"Now, now, calm down, Olga." Celestine eased the dark elf. "No negative thoughts or stress of any kind. Not until we tend to your body, mind, and spirit."
"Do not treat me like a child, Celestine!" Olga bit off the high elf's head.
"Or what? You'll attack me?" She challenged. "You're in no condition too. We need to run more tests on you and then we must recuperate your body until it is ready to fight. Which won't be until some time."
Olga was practically growling at the leading Shield and her mortal enemy/friend.
Jason put his hand on her shoulder. "She's right, Olga. You need rest. Only until you've recovered can you get your revenge. So for now, let the Alliance deal with the Black Dogs."
Olga looked at Jason and then shifted her gaze to his armored hand resting on her shoulder. The leather and metal was cold on her hand and should have been uncomfortable, but instead it sent a tingle down her spine.
"Heh, okay." She relented.
"I'm glad we are in agreement." Celestine interrupted. "For now you and your protégé will stay here at my castle. We'll run some tests and get your magic back to the way it was. It'll be a little difficult since you've relied so long on the dark crystal, but with both of us working together I'm certain we can do it." She smiled.
Olga smiled too. "Just like old times." Olga said almost sadly.
The two elves seemed to share a happy moment. Perhaps remembering times when they weren't mortal enemies. Jason just stood straight letting them have that moment.
"When will you be leaving Jason?" Celestine asked.
"Immediately. All the other Shield's left to strengthen their defenses. I must do the same."
"So you're leaving for your new fortress now?" Olga asked.
"Yes."
Olga seemed a little sad about that.
"I have set up an escort to deliver you to your new home Jason. The city-fortress will be under your command and protection." Celestine told him.
Jason just nodded in confirmation.
"Be prepared Jason." Celestine warned. "For once we face an enemy that knows our strengths and weaknesses and he will use both against us. Do us proud and do not fail."
Jason thumped his breastplate over his heart and bowed respectfully. "I do not intend to fail, Lady Celestine. I will either win or die trying."
Celestine frowned, but nodded nevertheless. "I prefer you try and live then try and die."
"Hmm. Goodbye, Lady Celestine. Goodbye Lady Olga."
The two frowned at the merc and then flicked his helmet.
"Ah! Forgive me. I meant Goodbye . . . Celestine . . . and Olga."
Jason then quickly shuffled out of the room before he was made a fool of again.
"For such a stoic man he sure gets agitated easily." Olga chuckled.
"Yes." Celestine smiled. "But that's part of what makes him interesting. He's so dedicated he's completely floored on how to act anyway else."
The elves looked on at the receding back of the new member of the Seven Shields Alliance.
"What a straight back he has." Olga ogled.
"The back of a man who works hard." Celestine sighed.
Jason exited the castle, his bag hung from his shoulder. He saw his escort waiting for him near the stables. These were the same men that walked him through the city when he first arrived
"Sir Jason." The captain of the escort greeted. "Are you ready to head off for your new duties?"
Jason nodded and entered the stables to get his mount. When he opened the doors he saw his hell horse blowing fire at the stable boy, who was cowering in the corner trying to get away from the flames.
"Knock it off." Jason said sternly.
The hell horse snorted soot from its nostrils in annoyance. It didn't like that's its new master was ruining its fun. Jason walked over to the stable boy and gave the poor kid a gold coin.
"For your troubles."
The boy looked at the gold coin and tried to smile at the armored mercenary. The boy got up and tried to leave, but quickly ran out when the hell horse screeched at him.
The hell horse chortled deeply at the scaredy-cat of a kid.
Jason let the horse out, put its saddle on and mounted the demonic beast. "You're a real prick you know that?"
The horse just snorted.
"Alright, I'm ready." Jason said to the escort.
"Okay then, onward to the fortress-city of Ansur!"
