A/N

A juicy-sized chapter for your patience. Enjoy! (starts with a flashback)


"Come on, boy. Move your arse and get those scraps delivered to that fat pig farmer before I close, I'm gonna need those buckets back."

Finn grabbed the rope handles and hefted them with a grunt, "Yes, sir."

He watched as the young boy struggled with the loaded cargo and he gave him a shove out the door, "Sometime before I die would be nice, boy." Finn just nodded and made his way down the alleyway, "And don't forget to collect the silver or I'll wring your little neck!"

"Yes, sir."

Finn trudged along as he did his best to ignore his fatigued limbs as they pleaded for a few minutes of rest. It had been another exhausting day at the tavern and Mick was just as prickly as ever. The work had never slowed thanks to these cold months and the fact that it was the only tavern in the area only made it an even more attractive destination for the hard-working miners who lived in this part of town. The food was barely edible and the inside was filthy enough that eating on the floor was probably more sanitary but most of the clients didn't care about any of that. They came for one thing and one thing only: The booze. Mick might not have been the best cook but he knew what the miners wanted and he made sure to always stay stocked up on whatever kept them drunk and in his seedy tavern. The young boy had run himself ragged while serving all the thirsty customers that stumbled through the door and by the end of the day the soles of his feet were numb and would no doubt be painful to the touch in the morning, just as always. He didn't have much of a choice, though. There weren't many places for orphaned children to get food around here and even though Mick worked him like a dog, at least he kept him fed and watered.

Finn grit his teeth and picked up the buckets as they scraped the floor for a brief second and he looked up at the stars to distract himself from the pulsing weariness in his shoulders. They were bright and beautiful and were always there to see him off to the stinking grounds that made up the end of his nightly routine. He stepped past the town outskirts and spotted the large kingdom walls that surrounded Castle Stonewood and wondered if the king and queen ever felt the cold chill of a winter's night, not that they probably ever had, of course. The royal family was no doubt cozy in their comfortable beds beside a warming fire, though there had been rumors that the princess had been visiting the local towns these past few days.

Princess Bonnibel was quite the elegant beauty and had a caring heart, or so he had heard. It was rare to see a royal of her age who was interested more in the people than in the dolls and celebrations that other princesses indulged in. She had earned the nickname 'Candy Princess' since she often offered sweets to the many orphans and misplaced kids that wandered the streets. His mouth began to salivate at the thought of a nice chocolate bar but he shook his head to clear it from his mind and his stomach growled to remind him of just how hungry he was. He silently prayed that Mick would let him have some of the leftover steaks instead of the usual gruel he got. It only took a whiff of the pigpens to stifle his hunger and he let out a breath as he set the buckets down just outside of the breeder's door. He knocked a few times and stuck a finger through the new hole in his ragged shirt while he waited and it opened to reveal a rather large man, both in height and waist size.

The barrel of a man clasped his hands and his face split into a wide grin, "Ah, looks like it's dinner time for the pigs." He reached down and picked up the buckets with ease and Finn followed him to the pens as he distributed the food evenly, "How's ol' Mick doing? He still being a crusty bastard?"

Finn watched as two plump pigs fought over what was left of a mutton chop, "Yeah."

Robert gave him a prod on the shoulder, "You can always come work for me, and I'll even give you a place to sleep. It'll get colder in the coming weeks and it beats living in an alleyway."

Finn seriously considered his offer, just as he always did whenever Robert mentioned it. The winter months were long and brutal and he no longer had the shelter of the kingdom infirmary to protect him from the harsh elements. It was a tempting proposition but a small breeze wafted in and he remembered why he kept declining this new employment. He closed his eyes and once again found himself standing in the middle of a burned down village as the scents of death, destruction and decay filled his nostrils. The young boy knew that working here would remind him of that terrible week, hence his constant declination.

A shiver traveled down his spine as the memory became vividly real for a few seconds and he felt a hand squeeze his shoulder, "You okay, son?"

Finn nodded and picked up the empty buckets, "Yes, sir. I should get going before Mick gets angry again."

Robert gave a knowing grunt and reached into his pocket to produce a bag holding the tavern keeper's payment, "Here ya go. I'll see you tomorrow."

Finn slipped the bag into his pocket and brushed a finger against the hilt of his mother's dagger, "Thank you."

"And think about my offer!"

He hurried back the way he came and readjusted the tattered jacket he wore as the cool air began to nip at his cheeks and ears. The young boy listened to the jingle of silver in his pocket as he traveled the dirt streets and wondered if he would be stuck in this endless cycle for the rest of his life. He didn't want to be hauling other people's leftovers but the sad truth was that he was an orphan now and his chances of ever leaving that cold alleyway were slim. There was always the military but he still had a few years left before he was old enough to join and he wasn't sure if he would survive that long at this rate. His feet no longer sent him any signals of sensation and he knew he would have fresh blisters atop the ones he already had and he dreaded having to pop them later.

The ground suddenly sprang up to meet him as he tripped over a rock and he landed with a grunt as the buckets went rolling a few feet away. Finn spit out some dirt and sat up to look at the fresh scrape on his knee as a small trickle of blood began to flow down his leg. He let out a depressed sigh and felt the cool air touch his toes and he looked down and realized he had torn one of his shoes, exposing his foot to the elements. Finn clenched his teeth and fought down the pressure building in his throat as he crawled over to the buckets and he noticed that one of them was sporting a brand new crack at the bottom.

The young man sat back on his legs and began pounding the dirt in frustration, "Fuck! Mick's going to kick my ass. Dammit, why?" He gazed up at the stars and raised his fists, "What did I do to deserve this? Why do you hate me?" Tired and cold, he fell on his side and felt the fresh tears as they rolled down his cheeks, "It's because I let them take Fionna, isn't it? I couldn't protect her and get her to safety, even after my mom sacrificed herself. I guess I do deserve this…"

"Why are you crying?"

Finn cleared his throat and faced away from the feminine voice as he wiped his cheeks, "I wasn't crying."

"You most definitely were."

He picked up the buckets and began walking away without so much as a glance back, "Leave me alone."

Finn heard steps behind him as the person began to follow, "There's nothing wrong with shedding a few tears every now and again."

He quickened his pace, "Shut up and go away."

"I'm not trying to poke fun at you. I just want to help-"

He whirled around and felt his anger rise, "What do you want?"

The tall girl stopped abruptly and her chestnut curls bounced in response, "I want to know what's wrong."

Her light brown eyes seemed to bore into him and he looked away, "Nothing, I'm fine."

She smiled and there was something reassuring about it that helped to settle his heart, if only for a moment, "That's what people who aren't fine say."

"I'm fine." The buckets creaked as he continued forward but he noted with dismay that the sounds of footsteps behind him seem to get closer instead of going away. Finn ignored her and unconsciously brushed a hand against his pocket for the reassuring touch of his mother's dagger. The town outskirts came into view in the distance and he rehearsed what he was going to tell Mick when a figure popped into his peripheral vision, "What? You're still following me?"

The girl brushed a strand of hair behind an ear and gave a shrug, "We just happen to be walking in the same direction."

"Seems more like the former to me." he mumbled.

"Are you always this bitter?"

Finn let out an exasperated sigh, "I usually don't have someone tailing me like some stray dog. And sorry, that position is already filled."

She placed a hand against her chest and her mouth opened slightly, feigning shock, "Did no one ever teach you to be nice to young women?" He didn't feel like responding so instead he snuck a glance at her out of the corner of his eye. There weren't any rich folk in this area so he immediately knew that she wasn't from around here just based on her attire. Her dress had more frills than he could count and her green earrings sparkled every now and then as they caught the silvery moonlight. The constant tick of her footsteps meant she was probably wearing some elegant footwear that no doubt cost more than whatever coin he was currently carrying in his pocket. It wasn't until he really started paying attention that he realized that she was one of the prettiest girls he had ever seen. Her long eyelashes complemented her gorgeous eyes and her small, upturned nose was something he didn't think he was into until now. Finn quickly looked away as her smooth lips spread into a smile, "What is it? Is there something on my face?"

He shook his head, "No, it's nothing."

"You're not much for conversation, are you?"

"Nope."

"Are you going to tell me what's wrong?"

"No."

"You're about as stubborn as a mule."

Finn whipped around, "And you're annoying as hell, Fionna!" He stopped dead in his tracks with his eyes locked on the girl but he didn't even see her at this point. A lump of lead formed in his chest and sank down into his stomach as he swallowed hard, his throat threatening to clench up. Fighting the mist as it clouded his eyes, he looked away and cursed himself for being this prone to tears at his age. Still, he couldn't deny the fact that he had unconsciously called her by his sister's name. He could feel her eyes staring right at him and he tried his best to look like it hadn't bothered him, "Sorry. I'm going now."

Finn made it a few steps before she asked the inevitable question, "Who is she?"

The boy sighed, "She…she's my sister."

Her voice softened as she caught the frown on his face, "And what happened to her?"

His grip tightened around the rope handles, "She was kidnapped…"

She placed a hand on his shoulder and didn't shy away as he tensed up, "Well you shouldn't give up hope. The day will come when you will be reunited once again."

"Seeing as how it was a group of vampires that abducted her I'm sure that'll only be in the afterlife." He caught a peek of the worry in her eyes and shrugged her off before continuing toward the town, "Hopefully they did her the mercy of killing her already. My father used to talk about the way the Ancients treated the few prisoners they actually decided to take. That was before they killed him too, of course, but such is a soldier's life."

She took an audible breath, "Many of us have lost loved ones to this terrible war but I promise it will come to an end soon enough."

Finn scoffed, "How can you be so sure? We've been at war with those bloodsuckers for over a hundred years."

"My father will turn the tide and send them on the run."

"I didn't know your father was a god." he replied, rather sarcastically. "Seems like most of them are just watching from the sidelines nowadays."

She gave him a disapproving frown, "He's going to lead our forces to victory and give us the peace we've been desperately searching for."

Finn turned to stare into a dark alleyway as faint whispers caught his attention but he shook it off and instead turned left at the intersection of the main road, "You make him sound like some kind of hero. Who is he anyways?"

"My father is the ki-" She was cut off abruptly as Finn stopped in place, causing her to bump into him, "Huh? What's wrong?"

He didn't answer but her eyes soon settled on the two cloaked figures standing several feet away and a silver reflection caught her attention. Her heart sped up by a few beats as a dagger was lifted and pointed in her direction, "You there, with the frills. What was your name again?"

A bead of sweat trickled down her neck as the hairs on her nape slowly stood up. The words struggled to form in her throat at the thought of possibly getting robbed, murdered, or worse. They took a step closer but Finn shot a hand out toward her in a defensive gesture, "We're just some poor orphans. There's nothing worth stealing on us, just look at my shoe." He stuck his foot out and moved his toes as they peeked out of the fresh hole, "See?"

They ignored him and took a step closer, "Little girl, you never finished saying who your daddy was. You mind continuing?"

She looked at the young boy nervously and his eyes darted around for a possible escape route in case things got ugly, "She's the blacksmith's daughter. Leave her alone already."

One of them growled and Finn instinctively raised a hand as something flew toward him and he gasped when he noticed the throwing knife sticking out of the bucket he had used as a shield, "Shut your mouth before I shut it permanently." The hood turned toward the girl, "I won't ask you again, missy."

She took a breath and stood her ground, "Like he just told you, I'm the blacksmith's daughter."

The cloaked figures glanced at each other and one of them nodded, "It's her. She fits the descriptions either way. Let's get this over with."

Both of them charged with daggers drawn and Finn grabbed her hand as he took off down the road. She struggled to keep her balance as he pulled her along and she shot a glance back and let out a strangled breath as one of the figures made a lunge for her throat but he disappeared as Finn took a sharp left into an alleyway and yanked her along with him. The pain in her shoulder called for attention but was buried beneath the spiky feeling in her veins as adrenaline pumped through her body. Too scared to look back, she focused all her effort into keeping up with the young boy as he winded through the various streets and alleyways as he tried his best to lose their pursuers but the constant footfall behind them only seemed to get closer at every turn. She fought for air as the snug attire she was wearing limited her breathing and soon her legs began to burn with exhaustion as she was forced to run in footwear that was meant for fashion and not for sprinting for one's life.

Finn felt her grip slacken and he glanced back just as she fell to the floor and his eyes immediately scanned the darkness behind them as he went to pick her up, "Come on, you really need to get up. I don't know why they're chasing you but we need to go."

She inhaled deeply and he covered his ears as she shouted, "Help! Somebody help us!"

Finn gave her a glare as he placed a finger up to his lips, "Shh! What are you doing?"

"Calling for help of course!"

The young boy lifted her roughly as the sounds of heavy boots echoed from the alleyway behind them, "Idiot! Nobody is going to come to our rescue around here. This town isn't exactly the friendliest place around and our cries of death will be more of a nuisance than a cause for alarm."

He watched as her eyes grew wider and she held her hand out, "Let's go then!"

They both took off once again and she let out a whimper as a throwing knife ricocheted off the wall next to them. Finn cursed and tossed the buckets behind them in a desperate attempt to slow down their pursuers but the cloaked figures stomped right over them without so much as a pause. They rounded a corner and Finn kicked a stack of crates as he passed by, buying himself a few extra seconds. His grip tightened around the girl's wrist as he practically dragged her along and it wasn't until now that he wondered why he had jumped to her defense in the first place.

Damn it all! Why the hell am I sticking my neck out for some girl I just met? I can't just leave her now, either. They'll probably come after me to tie up loose ends once they take care of her. Plus…

He glanced back and got a good look at her face in all its terrified glory, though he could see something familiar underneath. "Why do you remind me of her." he whispered to himself.

She brushed aside a strand of hair that was plastered to her face, "Huh?"

"Nothing. Just keep running or our asses are done for."

Brown hair whipped around as she checked their rear, "But they aren't following us anymore."

His heart skipped a beat as he came to a full stop, "What?" A glance back confirmed her observation and he had just enough time to knock her to the floor as a knife came flying out of the darkness of the alleyway ahead of them. Finn hissed in pain as it sliced into his tricep but he grit his teeth and lifted her up before shoving her in the opposite direction, "Move it!" She only needed to see the two dark figures rushing towards them to get her running once again.

Their feet barely seemed to hit the ground as they ran in panic through town. Finn wheezed as his lungs desperately tried to supply his body with much needed oxygen and he was surprised when the girl tilted her head back and released another cry for help. He was about to tell her how useless that would be but a shout seemed to answer back, though he couldn't make out what had been said. Nonetheless her face seemed to brighten up substantially but she suddenly gasped as she tripped and tumbled along the ground. Finn quickly offered a hand up but everything seemed to flip around as one of the assailants kicked him directly in the chest and he landed several feet away in a coughing heap.

The young boy groaned as he struggled to flip onto his side to face them and he watched as one of the figures planted a boot on the girl's back as she tried to crawl away, "Enough running, sweetheart. Quit your squirming and I might just let them bury you with your pretty face intact."

Finn got his legs under him and stood up as he reached into his pocket, "Get away from her, you bastards!"

A fist caught him in the jaw and he slammed into the wall as the other assailant came to silence him, "Shut up, boy." The wind exploded out of him as the cruel man planted a kick in his stomach and Finn curled into a ball as the pain shot through him, "That's right. It's about time you learned some obedience." Finn stuffed his hand into his pocket as the figure turned to face his partner, "Hurry up and finish this already. Dump her body in that alleyway after you're done to buy ourselves some time to get clear of the area, though I doubt they'll find her soon in this shitty town."

"Yeah, I know. You gonna gut the kid?"

"Well he's seen too much. Not like anybody will miss him."

She began to kick out and yell as he started to drag her away and Finn felt his heart shake as the image of Fionna filled his vision. He shuddered as he relived the terrible nightmare and his chest felt fit to burst with building pressure as his emotions swirled in his head.

Oh god, why? Why is this happening again?

"Help me!"

A chill ran down his spine as she begged him to save her and once again he found himself in that very same position from years ago. Fionna's voice echoed hauntingly through his mind as he cast a glance toward her and he bit into his lip when they locked eyes, the desperation in them a silent plea. His fingers tightened around a familiar weapon as a sudden anger surged into him.

No. Not again. I…I won't let it happen again! Not again! Not-

"-again!"

He fought past the pain in his stomach as he let out a throaty scream and his dagger found purchase in the cloaked figure's thigh with satisfying ease and he toppled over from the surprise attack. Finn dodged the fallen assailant's outstretched hand as he reached for him and ran full tilt toward the other. The captive girl saw this and managed to sink her teeth into her captor's wrist and she fell to the ground as he let go with a grunt. Finn crashed into him seconds later, landing on top, and he punched him with all his might but the man quickly recovered and grabbed his fist before landing a punch of his own, knocking the young boy off of him.

Finn crawled toward the terrified girl and helped her up, "Hurry! Now's our chance!"

She nodded but just as he turned a hand clamped around his throat and he felt his feet leave the floor as he struggled for air. He met the wounded man's eyes and realized with terror that he had fangs and did not look pleased, "You little shit. I'm gonna rip your fucking throat out!" The vampire cringed as the girl kicked him in the shin and he backhanded her before slugging him in the stomach. Finn choked out a breath and his vision dimmed as his body was robbed of oxygen but he used what little strength he had left to pound on the vampire's arm. The assassin didn't even flinch and Finn watched as his own dagger was waved a few inches from his nose, "Maybe I should gut you in front of the lady, huh? Won't that be fun?"

It happened in a flash. Something wrapped around the vampire's neck and then there was a sickening snap and the fingers around his throat loosened instantly, allowing him to take in a gasping breath as he fell to the ground. Finn stared in shock as a heavily armored man stepped up to him and offered him a hand up but Finn pointed behind him as the other vampire snuck up for an attack. He whipped around and caught the dagger with his sword and went for the killing blow but the slippery assassin dodged and disappeared into the darkness.

Finn turned as the man he had now realized to be a knight went to the aid of the young girl, "Are you harmed, my lady?"

She rubbed her aching cheek but shook her head, "No, I'm okay."

The man sighed with relief but the frown on his face was apparent and she smiled nervously in response, "My lady, I know you are very passionate about getting to know the local populace but you cannot go out on your own like this, especially in the middle of the night. You were almost killed!"

She hung her head and twirled a strand of hair, "I'm sorry, Sir Mathers. I was just a little restless at the inn and wanted to get a bit of fresh air, that's all."

The aging knight gave her a stern look but his face softened, "I know. Next time please inform me of your departure. After all, I'm supposed to be protecting you." She nodded and he turned to look at the boy sitting off to the side, "Did you help the princess, young boy?"

He glanced first at the knight and then at the smiling girl in utter disbelief, "Uh…er…huh?"

She giggled and stood up before straightening out her frilly dress, "I am indeed Princess Bonnibel. I owe you my life…um…I never got your name."

He just blinked a few times and got up, "It's Finn."

"Finn, I can't thank you enough for helping to save me, even though it was my fault that you got into this mess."

She bent down and retrieved his dagger before returning it to him. He wiped the blood off and shrugged, "We're both alive so that's a plus."

Sir Mathers coughed, "It would be wise to head back to the inn. From what I saw it seems the vampires are getting even bolder as to attack a member of the royal family in town."

Bonnibel nodded and held out a hand for his weapon, "Your sword, please."

"Princess?"

"It's important." Mathers obliged and pulled his sword before handing it to her and Finn eyed it warily. She held the tip toward him and he leaned back as his instincts kicked in but she smiled, "Don't worry, Finn. I just need you to kneel." His gaze shifted between the sword and the princess and eventually on the knight and he gave him a curt nod, indicating that it was reasonably safe. Slipping the dagger back into his pocket, he kneeled on one knee and waited nervously as she placed the tip on his left shoulder, "For services rendered during my time of need, I hereby knight you into the Princess' Order, to serve me exclusively, faithfully, and with the promise of land and title upon my succession as ruling monarch of Rogaria when the time should come." She lifted the sword and briefly placed it across his right shoulder before handing it back to Sir Mathers, "Rise, Sir Finn."

He stood up but felt nothing different, "So…what just happened?"

The steel-clad knight placed a hand on his shoulder, "Looks like you've been tasked with serving the princess, son. It's a great honor, and responsibility."

Finn scratched his cheek, "That's what it looks like. Are you part of her order, too?"

"No, I serve her father. Actually," he turned to face her, "I've never even heard of this order, princess."

She smiled happily, "That's because I just created it. You're the first member, Finn. Congratulations!"

Sir Mathers just chuckled and shook his head, "Good luck, son. You're gonna need it."

The young boy sighed, "Thanks…"

Bonnibel strolled up and planted a kiss on his cheek, "I can't reward you properly as my knight right now since I'm still a young princess but consider that a token of my appreciation." His cheeks warmed and she looped an arm through his, "One day, I'll be able to pay you back for the bravery you displayed tonight."

Finn just shrugged and stared at the fallen vampire at his feet.

And to think I was hauling scraps to pigs earlier. I really did think we were going to die here, butchered by some damn vampires like…like…

He swallowed and clenched a fist, "Princess, I don't care much for fancy titles or lands or anything of that matter. There's just one thing I want right now and that's to become a great swordsman, one of the best…no…the best. I'm not old enough to join the military but maybe you can grant me this one wish."

She was silent for a few seconds, "If this would suit as a reward then I can make it happen." She turned to the watchful knight, "Sir Mathers, do you recommend any trainers? Preferably someone skilled, of course."

"Hmm, I may know someone, an old comrade of mine who is quite the devil with a sword. Although nowadays he just spends most of his time cooking but I'm sure I can persuade him."

The princess clapped her hands together and smiled, "See? All done. By the way, why do you want to become the best swordsman?"

Finn closed his eyes and for once his mind wasn't clouded with uncertainty or fear, just a sense of clarity that was a welcome relief. He now had a direction and a goal, one that would allow him to repay those who had harmed him and his family, "No reason in particular. I just want to kill some vampires." The knight quirked an eyebrow at his response and the young boy stretched out his hand, "By the way, you got any chocolate?"


"So, what is your answer?"

Finn thumbed the handle of his dagger as Marceline looked at him expectantly, "I, uh…I have a feeling that I can't exactly decline this offer, can I?"

The vampire revealed her fangs in a wide smile, "If I remember correctly, you did say that you were willing to pay any price."

The scout felt the sting as his words came back to stab him in the back, "Yeah, I guess I did say that."

I don't regret it since Fionna is safe now but…

"Then you will serve me?"

"I already serve Princess Bonnibel, things could get rather conflicted. And that's not to mention what would happen to me if it was known that I was serving the Vampire Queen, our enemy."

She crossed her legs and stared at him intently, "Am I your enemy?"

Finn sighed, "I'm still trying to figure that out, but I doubt we could ever become true allies."

"Does your hate for my kind burn so deeply?"

He made a show of clenching and unclenching his new appendage, "It's not without reason, Marceline. Vampires stole everything from me and it was only through spilling their blood that I've managed to get some of it back. I'm not some genocidal lunatic like Marshall, but your kind still have plenty of dying to do before I'm satisfied."

The queen pursed her lips as she trailed a finger down her neck, "I'm not foolish enough to say that I had nothing to do with your family's death or Fionna's abduction, since we are technically at war and such things tend to happen, but I will say that those were acts orchestrated by the Ancients, a radical splinter group. My armies don't commit such atrocities against unarmed civilians."

"No, they just slaughter our soldiers by the hundreds and call it 'war'." Finn was starting to get a bit angry so he took a breath and settled his nerves, "Marceline, I don't hate you. I don't entirely trust you, but hate is too strong a word to describe how I feel about you. Let's just say that you make me uneasy."

The sexy woman leaned down slightly, showing only the smallest amount of cleavage but enough to be tantalizing to any man alive, "Well you didn't seem so uneasy those nights we spent together."

Finn blew out a quiet sigh and rubbed his head, "What do you want me to say? You're a beautiful woman. Besides, you were the one who made the moves on me every time."

She chuckled, "You know there's a two letter word that you could have easily used to stop me, but you never did."

"Oh, like I had a choice the first time?"

The queen focused on her nails and gave a small shrug, "I'll admit that was rather rude of me to do but you can't deny that it was a very passionate night."

"The way you say that makes it sound like the males of your species are less than fulfilling."

Marceline quirked an eyebrow, "I'll have you know that vampires are some of the best lovers around. You were decent, for a human."

Finn scoffed and showed her the fading bite mark she had left on him, "Yet you came by for seconds, thirds, and even fourths. Decent, huh?"

She rolled her eyes but couldn't hide the beginnings of a smirk, "Young men are always so cocky."

The scout gave his dagger a twirl with his new hand and was happy to see it move as easily as his original, "Nah, just confident."

They both sat quietly for a few seconds as the soft patter of rain claimed the silence. Although there was no strong indication of it, the vampire knew that he was having trouble accepting her price but for her it was a step closer to claiming him as her own. With the man who killed Marshall serving at her side, her hold on the throne would be secured for the centuries to come should any challengers present themselves. Of course there was the undeniable fact that he was mortal and would perish sooner rather than later but she was confident that she could turn him into a vampire with enough persuasion, though she had an ace up her sleeve should he resist the transformation. The only threat to her plans came in the form of his sister and she would no doubt thoroughly object to him serving a vampire, especially after having been Marshall's prisoner for so long. The vampire always got what she wanted in the end; sometimes it just took a little more work than usual. The queen took pleasure in knowing that soon she would have a worthy mate and new lands to rule over now that the Ancients had been dropped from the equation. All that was needed was an instrument to give the ball a little push, and she was staring right at it.

Marceline's mouth curled into a smile, "All things considered, you really aren't in a position to decline my request."

Finn reluctantly nodded, "I know, but I'm going to tell you right now that I will not hurt those I care for nor will I obey your orders should they bring danger to the princess or her kingdom."

"Yes, I understand." He noticed her smile darken a bit, "I shall never order you to betray your prominent ruler."

The scout studied her and couldn't shake the foreboding feeling in his gut.

Marshall is dead. The Ancients have been destroyed. Fionna, Shoko and Stephanie are safe. It should feel like I've left the fire but now it seems like I've stepped right into the heart of it. She was good on her word with Fionna so I see no reason to suspect her but words can be twisted or worked around. I'll have to be cautious from now on.

He placed his dagger on the table next to him and sat up, "Guess it's settled then."

"Excellent!" She made sure to show plenty of thigh as she stood up, "Glad we could get this matter worked out so quickly." Finn watched the alluring woman as she made her way to leave, "This 'partnership' can be a rather promising one if you want it to be. We can both profit greatly from it and, perhaps, it can develop into something more. Much more."

She put extra emphasis on her last words and it didn't slip by the scout, "You'll have to excuse me if I'm not as excited as you are. Serving the Queen of Vampires wasn't exactly my dream job. I'm not sure I'll be much help anyways."

Marceline didn't even turn as she left, "Oh you are, Finn. More than you believe."

The human sat on her words for a few minutes before sighing and standing up to stretch his legs. His body gave out several creaks and pops as he continued stretching and the bandages wrapped around him fell to the floor as he checked on his wounds. They were mostly healed and he knew he'd be sporting a few new scars but he was glad just to be alive. He began going through the motions to get himself back into the daily routine of working out again but he felt a small pain in his ribs and decided it would be better to wait a bit until he was fully recovered.

A relieved voice called out to him just as he sat back down, "Finn!"

He turned and spotted his sister as she all but ran up to him, "Hey sis." He caught her in a big hug and for the first time he noticed something firm pushing against his waist and he realized what it was. Several emotions passed through him at once but eventually settled down into a sense of happiness at being able to see her again.

Merina says it's only been a week but I can definitely feel her bump now. It's…a strange feeling…

His sister pulled away and wiped a tear before smacking his arm, "That's for scaring me half to death."

Finn chuckled, "Sorry."

She studied his wounds and frowned, "You should be resting, Finn. You're still recovering and the cuts haven't fully healed yet."

"Ah, I'm fine." He noticed her staring at his new arm and ruffled her hair, "It's nothing, Fionna."

"It was Marshall, wasn't it?" Her brother confirmed with a nod and she closed her eyes briefly, "Shoko told me that you killed him. It's still hard to believe after all I've seen him do but I'm glad it's true."

"He can't hurt anyone now. The bastard is dead and the best thing we can do is forget he ever existed."

The young woman looked down as she placed a hand gently over her emerging bump, "That's…going to be a little easier said than done."

The scout mentally slapped himself and avoided her gaze, "I'm an idiot. Sorry." She smiled sadly and it hurt him to see her like that, "Fionna…what do you want to do?"

Uncertainty shone in her eyes as she stared at the floor, "I don't know. To be honest, it still doesn't feel real. Sometimes I can go a few hours without thinking about it and then all of a sudden it comes rushing out to me and it's all I can think about. It gets so bad that I feel like I'm drowning sometimes and my mood flips all of a sudden. I get depressed and furious and lonely and anxious because I don't know what to do. What am I supposed to do, Finn? If it had been a child from someone I loved then it would be different but it's…it's his. Even though I know it's not the baby's fault I don't know how I'll be able to look at him or her without seeing some trace of Marshall."

A popping sound caught her attention and she noticed Finn tightly clenching his fist to the point where his fingers had turned white, "Fionna, I'm sorry. I didn't save you in time…no…I should have kept you safe all those years ago but I failed you. None of this should have happened to you but I…" his voice caught as a few tears rolled down his cheeks, "I'm sorry. I can't say it enough but I truly am sorry. Forgive me for not being a better brother."

Fionna bit her lip as her eyes misted but she kept strong and squeezed his arm, "Finn, I'm going to tell you this one more time and then I don't ever want to hear it again: It's not your fault. We were just kids when they attacked and there was no way you could have fought off those vampires but even then, you still tried. At the end of it all you ended up saving me and now here we are. Don't you ever say that you're not a great brother. How many sisters can claim that they have a brother who killed the Vampire King?"

Finn blinked a few times and stared at her, "Wait…what? Marshall was the Vampire King?"

She shrugged, "He kept proclaiming it and his followers always treated him as such but I always wondered why the other nobles never acknowledged him as their king. He always ranted about reclaiming his stolen throne and that a certain woman would pay once he got into power but it seems he never counted on a human showing up to slay him."

"He deserved it." Finn stored this information for later and held her hand, "I know it's hard, but I'll support you with whatever you decide to do. You're not alone anymore. Family has to stick together."

"Thanks, Finn."

He let go and gave her a playful poke in the ribs, "Were you okay while I was out?"

"Well the first day, yes. The following day I was stopped by a guard who didn't recognize me and the next thing I knew I was being questioned as to why I was in camp and what my motives were. It was actually kind of scary."

Finn rubbed the back of his head, "Shit, sorry. I knew I should have told General Mathers but I didn't know how to explain that my sister had suddenly shown up out of nowhere, especially so close to the enemy line."

"Luckily Shoko noticed and persuaded the guards that I was her, um, partner." Finn let out a laugh and she flicked him in the head, "Now everyone thinks we're together but the fact that everyone easily accepted it is a bit surprising. Is she…you know?"

"Yep. Definitely."

Fionna quirked an eyebrow, "How can you be so sure?"

"Because I rejected him a few years back and he's wanted a piece ever since."

Finn rolled his eyes as Shoko and Maya stepped into his tent, "Oh shut up already."

She chuckled and laid on his bed before sensually running a finger down her thigh, "You know it's true."

The scout shook his head, "You ask a girl out once and it goes to her head."

Shoko grabbed a pillow and chucked it at him, "Sorry, bud. My chances of going straight are slim, even for you, Finny."

"Yeah, yeah. Thanks for looking out for my sister."

"It's no problem. It'd be a shame if a pretty lady like her got kicked out."

Fionna blushed and smiled shyly as Maya came over to sniff her belly, "You and Huntress have been very helpful, though Huntress never talks to me. Is she usually quiet?"

Shoko nodded, "She doesn't talk to anyone and for the time I've known her it's always been that way. The short and silent type, that one. I'm actually surprised she even made any interaction with you."

"Well I came to visit him late one night and I found her in here by herself. She stared at me like she was about to pounce until I told her that I was his sister and I guess she noticed our likeness and ever since then we ended up taking turns watching him. She came and woke me up so I figured it had something to do with Finn."

"Well looks like our stud here has a secret admirer. Who knew the wizard would like a fool like you?"

The young man just shrugged and smiled as he remembered their passionate kiss from earlier.

I hope she likes me. Although, she did kinda leave rather quickly after I told her how I felt about her.

"Phoebe's gonna get jealous." she teased.

Finn grabbed the pillow off the floor and covered her face, "Quit talking."

His sister eyed him, "Who is Phoebe?"

Shoko escaped from underneath the pillow and dodged a strike, "You remember the tall redhead with all the armor? She came to see him once."

Fionna's face light up with realization, "Oh! Yes, I remember now. She might be too much for you to handle, Finn."

The scout waved a hand dismissively, "Can we just change the subject please?"

Besides, I already "handled" that.

Shoko wretched the pillow free and was about to belt him when a sudden voice called out to them from the entrance, "Sir Finn?"

He stood up and saw the pale man standing just outside of his tent, "What's up?"

The butler bowed slightly, "Princess Bonnibel has asked to see you."

Shoko whistled, "Damn, Finn. Even the princess?"

He ignored her over the nagging suspicion that he had seen that man before but he just couldn't place where. Finn dismissed the thought and nodded, "I'll head right over." The butler bowed once again and left while the scout put on a shirt, "Be back in a bit ladies, and Shoko." She reared the pillow back and he held up his hands, "Would you really assault an injured man?"

Finn ran out of the tent as a pillow came flying towards him and he heard his sister giggle as he made his way to the princess' tent. A warm drizzle fell around him as he followed the torches leading to the main grounds and wondered when Bonnibel had shown up during his weeklong nap. The stars were barely visible in the night sky as scattered clouds dropped their watery load and it finally hit him that he had no idea where he was going. He passed a tent with four guards out front and he stepped back as someone came out at a brisk pace, nearly running into them.

The personal guard stopped abruptly when she spotted the scout, "Finn?"

"Hey, Phoebe." He noticed her wiping some blood off of her hands and looked back at the tent, "You okay?"

She moved the stained towel out of sight and nodded, "I should be asking you the same question. Are you fit enough to be walking around?"

"Well my ribs hurt a bit and I'm still kinda tired but other than that I'm all good."

"Good to hear. The general was worried that perhaps the injuries might have put you out of commision."

Finn flexed his left arm, showing off some bicep, "It'll take a lot more than losing an arm to keep me down."

Her gaze shifted to his new appendage, "I didn't believe them when they said that you had single-handedly defeated Marshall but after seeing that room…" She stared straight ahead, "That is quite a feat. Never before has a Vampire Lord been defeated in single combat by one of our kind. It's a shame what happened to your arm, though."

"There was no way I was making it out of there without at least a scratch." The scout cracked a smile, "Maybe now you might actually have a chance of beating me."

Her chin lifted the barest inch, "It's considered cruelty to beat a lame animal. I would not have my reputation belittled in such a way, though it would be seen more as a mercy than anything."

Finn laughed, "Didn't know I was a horse with a limp that needed to be put down." He motioned toward her hands, "What exactly was going on inside that tent?"

"Just having a polite conversation with one of our vampire friends."

"Got a feeling that 'polite' is a rather soft word for what was happening in there. Learn anything?"

She tucked a strand of hair behind an ear, "I learned that I'm apparently the equivalent of a female dog in heat that loves the act of procreating with several men at once."

"I bet his jaw hurt after that one, huh?"

The tough woman made a fist, "He'll be feeling it for a while, that's for sure. Of course he didn't do much talking, just like the other prisoners, but one thing they all kept denying was the attack during the night of the engagement party. They insisted that they had never done such a thing since provoking a response from us would have been detrimental to their plans. We gathered that they were going to destroy the Queen's Hand first and once they had taken the throne then they would have directed their newly combined forces against us. That could explain why they were caught completely by surprise when we launched our full-scale attack and why we were able to drive them to their defensive line so swiftly."

Finn pondered over the collected information, "Makes sense, but they could always be lying."

"That's always a possibility but what would be the point? Their group is disbanded and most of their forces killed so they have no hope of freedom. Their choices now are either being put to the sword or life in a dungeon. Most have chosen the latter."

"Our kind was never offered such a choice. Death was a guarantee."

Phoebe gave a grunt in agreement and the scout found himself wondering just what had really happened on that eventful night.

So if, if, we are to believe what they said then that means the Ancients never attacked us. The only thing is that they were wearing full Ancient gear and were obviously vampires, not to mention the fact that they were spouting off their usual nonsense. Any sane person would rightfully assume the vampires were who they said they were. Perhaps a group of them got impatient and decided that humanity needed to be wiped out that very night but that would be unlikely, given the fact that they were also trying to avoid a battle on two fronts.

Finn slowed as his mind raced.

Now that I remember, the armor and weapons from the Ancient attack in Widow's Forest had suddenly disappeared without a trace and the evidence I found after the attack at the party points to those being the same vampires from that night. It's possible a few of them lived and decided a little revenge was due but the chances of any of them having survived Stephanie's spell were very slim. That only means that their equipment was scavenged after she took me to the healing pond and that it was used to fool us into believing that the Ancients had assaulted us, thus moving us into action against them. Whoever planned it wanted us to tear at each other's throats until-

"Finn!"

The scout snapped out of his trance and stared at the guard walking alongside him, "W-What?"

"I asked you what you were doing out here."

He rubbed his head as his thoughts settled, "I've been summoned by the princess but I don't even know where her tent is. I was going to ask but I got a little distracted."

"I'm going to report in with her as well. I suppose I can show you."

"Thanks."

The scout followed her as they passed through several campgrounds and despite the light rain there were groups of soldiers settled around campfires with drinks in hand. Their rowdy chatter and laughter filled the night as they exchanged tales of valor and showed off looted treasures, compliments of Marshall. Spirits were certainly high in the camp and Finn was happy to see that both armies were getting along rather well. The clacking of mugs was making him a little thirsty and he was tempted to join them for a few rounds of mead but remembered that he had something to do first.

They rounded a corner and came across four soldiers huddled around a small fire and one of them glanced up at Phoebe and Finn could practically see the dirty thoughts on his face, "Hey sweetheart, how about keeping a cold soldier warm tonight? Don't you wanna sleep with the man who defeated Marshall?"

The guard didn't respond but the look she gave him out of the corner of her eye was enough to send most grown men running but alcohol tended to offer false courage, even in the face of impossible odds. One of his buddies smacked him upside the head and hissed, "That's Phoebe, you idiot! And the man next to her is the one who actually killed Marshall!" The soldier met Finn's gaze and quickly looked away as his buddy smiled sheepishly, "Sorry, he's just drunk. Don't pay him any attention."

The scout chuckled and they continued on as Phoebe blew out an irritated huff, "Men..."

Finn's mouth curled into a grin and he couldn't help himself, "Why didn't you tell him?"

"Tell him what?"

He braced himself, "That you already slept with the man who killed Marshall?"

Injured or not, his reflexes were still just as fast and he dodged her angry swipe with a smirk, "Mention that one more time and you better hope you can find a replacement for your head."

"Yikes."

The guard produced a low growl that rivaled one of Maya's and increased her pace as he tried to keep up. They eventually arrived at an elegant tent surrounded by several guards and they were allowed inside once Phoebe gave their reason of visit. Bonnibel was sitting in a chair with a book in hand and she smiled as they stepped through the flap, "Hello, Phoebe." Finn nodded politely as their gazes met, "Finn! I didn't expect to see you so suddenly."

He lifted an eyebrow, confused, "But you were the one who summoned me."

Her brows scrunched up in thought, "Well I was under the impression that you were still unconscious and recovering." She clapped her hands, "Oh, well! Since you're already here why don't you join us?"

The princess motioned toward a few seats and he sat down as Phoebe bowed, "Your majesty, I have unfortunately been unable to extract any new information from the prisoners. They're a tough bunch and I'll need a bit more time."

Bonnibel nodded, "It is understandable. These fanatics will be devoted to Marshall even after his death but time will loosen their tongues." Her attention shifted to Finn, "Once again you have done a great service for my kingdom, loyal knight. I don't know how I could properly repay you for such a deed. I know you'll decline but are you sure you don't want a proper title and all that comes with it?"

The scout shook his head, "No thanks, Bonnie. Offing Marshall was the best reward I could ever get."

She glanced at his arm and smiled, "This may be a large camp but news does travel fast, especially about a pretty, blond woman who has recently shown up in camp. Anything you want to tell me?"

Finn rubbed his head and smiled sheepishly, "That's, uh, my sister."

"Is this the same one you told me about years ago?"

"Yeah. She's…finally back."

"How the time has passed…" The princess gave him a comforting look, "I told you, didn't I?" Finn nodded and she smiled, "I won't ask any prying questions as to how she ended up in camp but know that she'll always have place in my kingdom."

The scout felt another small amount of tension roll of his shoulders, "Thanks, princess."

She quickly sat up, "My, how rude of me. I never offered you any beverages."

She lifted a tiny bell from the table next to her and gave it a few rings, summoning the butler he had seen earlier, "How may I serve you, your majesty?"

"Tea and cakes for our guests here."

The pale man bowed, "Of course, your majesty." He disappeared and they sat in silence until he reappeared once again with tray in hand. Small plates containing several pastries were handed about and he poured each of them a large cup of tea, it's fruity scent tantalizing to the scout. However, he couldn't shake the uncanny feeling that the butler was trying to avoid his gaze as he shifted about and the fact that he looked eerily familiar only made him want to stare. Finn couldn't place where he had seen him before and it was driving him a bit crazy as part of him seemed to scream that it was imperative that he recognized the man handling their refreshments. The loyal servant left the kettle near the small fire in the tent and faced the princess before bowing, "Anything else, your majesty?"

"That'll be all, thank you." Finn watched him as he bowed once again and turned and there was a split-second where their gazes met and he had to fight down the urge to grab him by the arm and ask him where they might have met before. The flap closed with the scout still in his chair and he sighed before taking a sip from his cup. Apple and a hint of cinnamon graced his tongue as he drank and he downed the cup in one go as his body suddenly reminded him of its dehydrated state. Bonnibel watched with curiosity over the edge of her cup and held out a hand when she noticed his cup go dry, "Shall I pour you some more?"

"It's okay, I'll get it myself."

"Nonsense." She rose and plucked the cup out of his hands before turning to her guard, "And you?"

Phoebe looked down at her empty cup and blushed, "Please don't worry about me, your grace."

The princess giggled, "You've always been as straight as an arrow. We're amongst friends here, Phoebe. No need for such formalities."

"Yes…of course."

Bonnibel took her cup as she walked over to the fireplace and poured a second round, "Finn, I'm curious to know just how exactly you managed to defeat Marshall all by yourself. You are widely considered to be the best swordsman in the kingdom and I've witnessed your prowess on several occasions but, no offense, a vampire of Marshall's caliber should have been an impossible opponent to best alone."

Finn nodded as she handed him his cup, "Well, to be brutally honest, I wasn't expecting to make it out of his mansion alive. The best I was hoping for at the time was to have somehow taken him down with me before I died but in the end I'm alive and he's not." He lifted his new arm, "Looks like he was the one who ended up taking a piece of me before he went down but," Finn paused as his head began to spin but he quickly shook it off, "I definitely got the better end of the trade."

He could feel Phoebe's gaze on him as he took another sip and the princess nodded, "Huntress had some hand in your recovery and I personally made sure that our best medicines made their way to you. I'm truly glad to see that you pulled through. There were times when it seemed like you might have passed away at any moment."

He finished his drink and set his cup on the table, "Well maybe the Great Judge has other plans for me."

"Hmm, indeed." The princess stared at him intently and he found himself staring back as a warm sensation passed over him briefly like a wave. He blinked a few times and the odd sensation occurred again and he noticed Phoebe brush away a bead of sweat on her forehead as she tucked a couple fingers into the lip of her chest plate in an effort to cool off, despite the fact that the tent wasn't considerably warm. Bonnibel placed her cup down and eyed him, "Finn, is it okay if…I see your arm?"

It took a second longer for him to respond than he thought was necessary and he began to grow slightly worried, "S-Sure."

She stood and strolled up before taking a seat next to him and his arm lifted up as she studied his hand. Her fingers lightly grazed his own as she traced the vines that made up his new digits and he couldn't help inhaling her scent as she leaned in close to him. The thoughts of strawberries filled his mind as her fingers traveled across his forearm and he watched with fascination as they seemed to explore every inch of his arm and he noticed the slight change in her breathing as she continued. A metallic snap caught his bewildered attention and he spotted the guard as she began to loosen her armor for no particular reason and her chest piece fell, revealing a tight cloth shirt underneath. Her chest rose enticingly with each drawn breath and his ever-perceptive eyes noticed a few beads of sweat as they ran down the tan skin of her collarbone and he got the sudden urge to explore their whereabouts, much to his confusion. Soft skin met his own as Bonnibel's fingers found their way to his shoulder and he relished the smooth texture of her hands as they began to caress his shoulder and he felt his heartbeat quicken as she looked up at him, her small lips not that far from his own.

A small alarm went off in the recesses of his mind as he fought down the urge to claim them for himself and he backed away slightly as she pressed closer, "Finn, I'm really glad that you're okay. Really, really, glad."

Her breasts began to rub against him and his libido cried out in protest as he held up a hand, "Uh, princess? Are you okay?"

She graced him with a beautiful smile, "Just a…bit warm, but other than that…"

Finn could see the allure in her brown eyes and the room rose in temperature by a few degrees as her hand traveled down to his pelvis, "Oh…uh…wait up…"

He fell back onto the floor and she came along for the ride, giggling all the while. She landed on top of him and her hands wandered his body as she bit her lip, "I can tell that you've…mmm…still been training."

The scout swallowed.

What the heck is going on? Why is she hitting on me all of a sudden and why do I feel like holding her and running my hand through her…hair and kissing those…lovely…lips…

He didn't understand what he was feeling but his body seemed to know what it was doing as he slipped a hand down to her butt and she leaned in to kiss but a hand suddenly stopped her and he saw Phoebe holding her back.

Ah, thank goodness she showed up. Maybe she'll-

The wide-eyed scout sat in shock as she stole the first kiss and the guard slipped him a bit of tongue as he quickly returned it. Bonnibel let out a jealous huff and he broke off the kiss to find the princess' lips seconds later. He spent a wonderful, and just as equally confusing, minute trading kisses and caresses with the two women and soon enough the princess felt a bump grow beneath his shorts and she looked at him with hungry eyes before signaling to Phoebe, "Please tell the guards to take a break for an hour or two. They have no reason to hear this."

The guard gave his bottom lip a sexy pull with her teeth before breaking off the kiss, "Certainly, your highness."

She turned to deliver the news and Finn noticed that she was now down to her shirt and panties and his brain struggled to rationalize this erratic behavior through a fog of growing lust and it became harder and harder for him to concentrate on what was around him and not on how Bonnibel was rubbing herself against him. There were voices behind them but their heated breaths drowned them out as their kissing intensified and he began to lose himself to whatever was happening. His voice of reason gave one final effort and he stopped mid-kiss and tried wriggling free but she held on tightly as she began to suck on his neck. He shivered as her tongue left a hot swath down his skin and he gently pushed her off before getting up and heading toward the exit.

I…have to get out of here…before things…get worse…

He made it several feet before stumbling across Phoebe as she returned and he sidestepped her as he made his way to leave but she gave him a rough push back and wrapped her arms around his neck before giving him a steamy kiss once again. The young man's libido went haywire as the guard slid her toned thighs against his member and any thoughts of leaving were tossed out the window as she led him back to the princess, where she in turn led them to her bed. He fell back amongst a group of pillows as both women stood before him and the guard then proceeded to help the princess out of her frilly dress. Little by little the dress slid down her body, revealing the woman underneath to the fascinated scout. Fair skin and a plentiful form emerged from within and it was once again reaffirmed that she was the most beautiful princess around.

The scout's mouth went dry as he stared and he lay motionless as she climbed up onto him, her eyes blazing. She reached back and plucked her bra off with a flick of her wrist and her breasts presented themselves to him, to which he quickly introduced his mouth. Bonnibel sighed as he sucked on a nipple and he felt movement near his pelvis and heard the unzipping of a zipper as Phoebe pulled off his shorts with great haste. The princess shuffled forward and he felt his boxers get pulled halfway down before a hand coiled around his piece and started to massage him. The guard had a nice grip on him and she pumped him vigorously, causing him to groan appreciatively. He suckled the princess as she went for his shirt and it was tossed aside, giving her eyes something to feast on. Her fingers trailed the outline of every scar on his chest as he switched to her other breast and he gave her a sudden bite as something wet and warm enveloped his pole completely for a few seconds, followed by the wet pop of the guard releasing him. She slid her tongue across his tip as he buried his face between Bonnie's breasts and he slipped a hand down into her panties before giving her button a tease, drawing a pleased gasp. The princess climbed off of him and removed her last article of clothing before taking a spot next to her guard and joining her.

Finn ran a hand through his hair as the duo licked his shaft from top to bottom and he bit down on his arm as their soft lips left kisses in their wake. He was riled up beyond belief as he watched them share him and he actually pinched himself to make sure he wasn't hallucinating or dreaming. The scout could do nothing but enjoy it as their tongues danced across his member and he let out a heavy breath as the princess took him into her mouth while Phoebe continued stroking him. She sucked him generously and the guard's firm grip only enhanced the feeling as he felt himself rocket toward the edge at blistering speed and they were in the middle of switching when he released unexpectedly. Bonnibel caught some on her cheek but they both quickly licked him clean before Phoebe took her turn, not even giving him a chance to recover. She sucked on his tip and Finn groaned as a fresh wave of lust washed over him and soon his body began to demand more as the beautiful women pleased him. A haze filled his mind as these feelings intensified and he grabbed a handful of red hair as he guided her at his own pace.

Her head bobbed rhythmically as he made out with the princess and he slipped two fingers into her warm entrance and got a sexy sigh out of the royal woman. She began to grind against him as he worked his magic and he released the guard as he grabbed a handful of Bonnie's ass and she mewled in his ear as he nibbled on her neck. Every touch and rub was amplified as the trio fell further into the heat of the moment and soon the scout found himself on his back as the princess presented her honey pot to him and he wasted no time in accepting his gift. She reached down to rub one of Phoebe's nipples as she continued to give him head and Finn felt her lips tighten around him in response, spurring him on even more. He explored the princess with every swipe of the tongue as he bucked into the guard's mouth, causing her to quicken her pace. Nails dug into his stomach as Bonnie moaned spectacularly and she pressed herself onto him even more as she sought the bliss of release.

However, Phoebe beat her to it and soon had a mouthful of his seed as he spilled in long ropes, grunting favorably. She swallowed the load and slid next to them and both women began to make out as the scout slipped a few fingers into the guard to warm her up as well. Their sultry gyrations had the bed rocking and the lustful group didn't even notice as the drizzle outside became a downpour. The royal purred as he began to lick her button and she nibbled on Phoebe's lip as she felt herself near the edge in grand splendor. A hot flash shot through her system as she climaxed and she leaned against her personal guard as Finn kept at it, throwing her into an electrifying haze. Phoebe kissed her neck as she let out sexy groans but she couldn't suppress her own as the scout continued to finger her without pause and soon she found herself on her back as he looked down on her, his frosty eyes scanning her athletic body like a predator on the prowl.

He spread her wide before rubbing his tip across her sensitive opening and she wrapped her legs around his waist before forcing him into her. Finn growled in approval and didn't even consider starting off slowly as he thrusted deep inside her without pause. She let out throaty sighs as his member slid through her folds and Bonnibel gave her own breasts a massage as she watched with growing anticipation. The guard squirmed underneath him as he kissed her lovely tanned skin and she led him over to a nipple, which he quickly captured between his lips. He gave her a few loving bites as he hit a sweet spot and, noticing her reaction, continued to pound her in that same position. She reached up to pull on his hair as a wave of euphoria washed over her but he pinned her arms down and pumped vigorously as her walls held tightly to his length. Her hot sex felt absolutely amazing and he suddenly felt two soft mounds press against his back as Bonnie settled behind him.

He let go of Phoebe's arms as the horny princess pulled him into a kiss with plenty of tongue and her nails razed his skin as she tried to get a piece of the action herself. Finn obliged and licked his fingers before toying with her button and she smiled mid-kiss as she marveled at his ability to pleasure both women at once. Phoebe let out a surprised gasp as he plunged to the hilt and it pushed her past her limit, eliciting a satisfied moan from the honorable woman. The scout found himself caught in an iron-like vice as she wrapped her long legs around him in reflex but he was too busy riding out his own wave as he spilled deep inside of her. His member still throbbing against her walls, the redhead caught her breath as sweat dripped down her powerful figure and after a few moments she finally released him, only to have him immediately claimed by the princess.

Finn was practically tackled as the royal pounced and she grabbed a handful of the scout as she gave him several pumps to reignite his libido. Riled up once again, he grabbed her by the waist and scooted back against the headboard before settling her into his lap. The princess smiled seductively as she held his hand and sucked on a finger, much to his enjoyment. He stared at the royal he had known for years and wondered where this side of her had emerged from. Although he knew that she was more laid back than most people believed, he had never seen anything alluding to this sensual side of her.

Despite this, however, he couldn't stop himself from encouraging her as she slid her wet mound against his staff. She locked lips with the scout as she guided him inside her and she squeezed his shoulders as her honey pot adjusted to his size. Bonnie descended one inch at a time and he was expecting to see some sort of pained reaction but soon he was buried to the hilt.

There was a small look of surprise on his face and she giggled before leaning in to whisper in his ear, "Don't look so shocked, Finn. I may be a princess, but even we get a little hot and bothered every now and then, too."

The young man knew that he should have been alarmed for some reason but the only thoughts he could successfully put together were about what he was planning to do to her next. He ran a hand through her chestnut locks as she grinded on him in spectacular fashion, her lean figure hypnotizing. The fair-skinned woman sighed as he bucked into her and she wrapped her arms around his neck for better support. She quickly got into a crouching position and the claps of their lovemaking soon filled the tent. Finn reached over and toyed with one of Phoebe's breasts as she settled down next to him and she planted a kiss on his shoulder as she snuggled up next to him. She trailed a few fingers down his new arm as he squeezed the princess' ass and the scout felt a familiar urge rise in his loins as her cheeks jiggled with each descent. Bonnibel suddenly felt herself get lifted and he flipped her over before getting a firm grip around her waist in preparation for what was to come.

She clutched the sheets in eager anticipation and she bit into the mattress as he plunged into her awaiting honey pot, stifling a groan. There was little resistance as he pounded her from behind and thunder rumbled outside as the duo did some rumbling of their own. He gave her cheeks a few slaps as he forwarded his assault, drawing a lustful wail from the woman. Each impact shook her to the core and her face was pressed into the bed as he put his weight into every thrust. Blood running hot, he raised her bottom higher and plowed away as a fire burned between them. Phoebe watched with utter fascination as the young man gyrated his hips and she took a seat behind him as she studied his hardened body. The scout had more scars than she could count, a testament to the rough life he had been exposed to, and she ran her fingertips across the long scar on his back and felt the dragon seal she harbored react in kind, warming noticeably. She slid her arms around his mid-section and got the sudden urge to bite him, which she shyly did.

Finn turned as the unexpected sensation sent a shiver down his spine and he gave her an encouraging kiss before focusing back on Bonnie. The guard continued leaving her mark across his shoulders, neck and back as he serviced the princess and she let out a heavy breath as he reached down to rub her tender button, threatening to send her over the edge. The royal rocked back into him as she teetered at her peak and he gave her a particularly hard thrust, finally sending her into the blissful haze she was searching for. Bonnibel moaned at the top of her lungs and if there was one thing Finn couldn't resist it was the cries of pleasure from his sexual partner. His body began to tingle from the released endorphins as he climaxed and he squeezed her cheeks tightly as his seed filled her core. Phoebe nibbled on his earlobe as he finished with a sigh and he brushed her long hair aside as he briefly kissed her lips, enjoying the afterglow.

"Bonnibel, I've returned earlier than expected. The rain stopped my inspection of the camp with the general and-wait…what the hell is going on here?!"

Finn turned around at the sound of this unfamiliar voice and felt his heart skip a few beats when he realized who it was. Despite his thoughts being scrambled and mind feeling fuzzy, he instantly recognized the man standing several feet away.

Fuck…oh, fuck.

Bonnie's fiancé took a menacing step toward him as his hand hovered just shy of the handle of his sword, no doubt ready to draw it should the scout decide to do anything besides breathe. Finn could see the fury in his eyes and he couldn't blame him; after all, his soon-to-be wife was facedown on the bed and he was still squeezing a considerable amount of her ass. Not to mention the fact that he was still inside her. Both women didn't seem to notice the extra person and Bonnibel actually purred as he slowly pulled out, drawing a snarl from the prince. Finn tried to shake the cobwebs clogging the thought processes in his head, all the while expecting a sword to come swinging for his neck at any moment. He let go of the princess and spent a few seconds prying Phoebe off of him before grabbing a pillow and standing up.

Saying the air was tense between them was an understatement. Bubba didn't move an inch as he locked him with a glare and the scout knew he was waiting for an explanation. Finn gave a small bow, "Your…highness."

Steel sang brightly as the prince unsheathed his weapon, "Your head. I shall have it."

Finn raised his hands but quickly caught the pillow before he exposed himself, "It's…not what you think, I swear."

"What did you do to them? What threats or blackmail did you promise to deliver if they didn't go along with your dastardly scheme?"

"W-What?"

Bubba took a step closer as he raised his voice, "You forced them! There is no way Bonnibel would have slept with you otherwise! We are engaged!"

The scout could see the veins popping out of his neck as his anger grew and he knew he had to get a handle on the situation and fast or else he would be in a very bad bind but he still had no idea why things had happened as they did. "Listen, I know this is a bit much to take in but I'm just as confused as you are. Why don't we take a seat and talk this out. Calmly."

"You bedded my fiancé and even her personal guard as well. Do you really expect me to stay calm?"

Finn grit his teeth.

Hell no. I would have started swinging by now if I had been in your position but that's the last thing I want so-

He took in a quick breath as Bubba charged him and he ducked just as his blade came slicing through the air, barely missing his head by inches. Finn rolled away from him and came back up to find the prince now standing between him and the two women who had barely started to notice the fourth person in the tent. The leader of Westeria leaned over to check on his fiancé, "Bonnibel, it's okay now. You're safe."

She stirred as he gave her a light shake but she still seemed affected by whatever had come over them but there was a gasp from the guard when she finally recognized him, "Prince…Prince Bubba!"

He nodded politely and handed her some covers, "Yes, Phoebe. I don't know what this man has done to you but rest assured that he will face the consequences of his actions."

Finn swallowed nervously but she shook her head, "He didn't do anything. It just happened all of a sudden. This…headache. Everything feels hot…"

The scout backed away as the prince seemed to misinterpret her words, "You cast some kind of spell on them? There will be no mercy for you." Finn knew that if he ran then he would definitely sentence himself to whatever Bubba had planned for him but there was no telling when Bonnie would snap out of it so he took a step toward the exit but the prince held his sword out ominously, "Take one more step and I'll remove your head myself."

His gaze darted to the prince, the exit and then to Phoebe as she tried to stir the princess.

Shit. Shit. Shit.

Long seconds ticked by as they each held their ground, the scout still contemplating his situation, when suddenly the royal attacked. Finn evaded the swing and sprinted several feet away, "Stop! This is all a misunderstanding!" He rolled under another slash and once again put some distance between them, "You can ask Bonnibel yourself! Let's just wait until-"

"Enough talk!" Bubba closed the distance and gave out a quick thrust, nearly getting him through the ribs.

The scout dodged the constant attacks but each time he did the next seemed to get an inch or two closer. He kicked a stool and sent it crashing into the prince's shin, infuriating him even more.

Fuck, he's really trying to kill me. He isn't even listening at all! Then again, he probably doesn't want to hear what Bonnie has to say since it could take away his reason to execute me and after catching me with his fiancé it's only natural to be furious. Still, I need to end this without bloodshed. Guess I have to subdue him or at least take his sword away. Great…

Finn shuffled toward an area with plenty of room to maneuver and waited for him to make his move, which he promptly did. Steel came for his life as he made a calculated roll and he came up just shy of the swordsman. Bubba reacted and swung once again but the scout anticipated his attack and caught his arm before getting him into a wristlock, forcing the sword from his hand. Finn rocked back as the prince connected with a surprisingly fast punch and he pulled his arm free as the scout's grip momentarily slackened. The young man wiped blood from his nose and sighed.

So much for no bloodshed…

The royal reached for his sword but Finn kicked it away and strafed left to dodge another punch. Fists continued flying and the scout caught a glance of Bonnibel as she rubbed her temple. Phoebe heard another grunt as the two men fought but she knew that Finn was holding back or else the prince would have already been knocked out, or even killed.

She shook the princess again, "Your majesty, please stop this! Finn and Prince Bubba are fighting over a misunderstanding!" Bonnie shook her head and blinked as Finn went crashing over a table. The guard watched as Bubba gave chase and the scout threw up his hands as he blocked a few more punches before getting a hard hook to the ribs. She turned back to the woman beside her, desperation in her voice, "Princess!"

Finn took ragged breaths as he staved off the angry man's assault and he ducked under a punch before shoving him back, buying himself a few seconds. Pain riddled his midsection from the previous hit and he was rudely reminded that his body still wasn't completely healed yet. He had to fight down the urge to eliminate the threat as he bought precious time and he shot a glance at the naked women and caught Bonnie's gaze, sensing the recognition in her eyes. The scout reeled back as a heavy boot caught him in the knee but he recovered and parried a punch, using the momentum to get behind his opponent. Bubba took in a sharp breath as he felt Finn's arms slide around his neck and his center of gravity shifted as he was dragged to the ground. Both men struggled as one tried to free himself from the other and the royal reached down to grab something out of sight.

Finn immediately released his hold and shoved him off as he produced a dagger and he heard Bonnibel gasp in surprise, "Bubba! Bubba, no!"

Her cry was a second too slow as the prince charged him with blade drawn. Finn once again caught his arm but this time rolled back and placed a foot into his stomach before launching him across the tent. There was a terrible crash as a large vase was knocked from its perch and he sat up to see both women covering their mouths in complete shock. A slight gurgling sound occupied the silence and he felt his blood run cold as he approached the Prince of Westeria. Blood began to soak the floor as Finn ran up to him and he placed his hands around the dagger lodged in his throat as he tried to stop the bleeding but the scout had seen enough wounds to know that it was too late. The blade shook as Bubba fought for his last breath but eventually his struggles halted as the light left his eyes.

Finn sat there in complete silence as the consequences of his actions sank in.

This…this wasn't supposed to have happened. Any of this…

"Traitors!" The scout turned and spotted two guards with their swords drawn staring directly at him and he noted with dismay that they were Westerian. He lifted an arm but the response died in his mouth when he noticed the blood dripping from his hands. One of them looked over to where Phoebe and Bonnie sat and motioned toward his comrade, "Alert our general! Tell them that Rogaria has betrayed us and claimed the prince's life!" The man nodded and sped off while the other brandished his sword, "You'll pay for this!"

"Wait!" pleaded the princess.

Her cry was ignored and she watched in horror as he charged toward the scout. Finn was still too stunned to move but the fiery redhead came to his rescue as she slammed into the guard. Phoebe tried to wrestle the sword out of his hands but she caught an elbow to the jaw and soon found herself in a compromising position as the steel tip swung in her direction. She rolled away as it clipped a few strands of hair and was on her feet in seconds. The Westerian shot a glance at Finn and then at Phoebe before once again trying to reach him.

"Finn, snap out of it!" The man didn't budge and she let out a growl as she dove for the guard's legs. They both fell in a tangled mess with her ending up on top and she quickly pinned his arms down, "You have to listen to Princess Bonnibel! She'll...she'll explain everything!"

The guard simply kneed her in the groin and she cried out in pain as he knocked her off and she felt two hands wrap around her neck, robbing her of air, "Accomplice, huh? I'll take care of you first."

Phoebe grabbed his hands and tried prying them apart but found that her movements were still sluggish and her strength waned. Her head began to pound as the pressure built up and she instead reached for the sword sitting a few feet away but the edges of her vision began to dim, despite the orange glow now reflecting outside the tent. On the brink of unconsciousness, she used the last of her breath to sputter out a cry for help, "Finn…" The scout finally noticed the strain in her voice and was pulled out of the chaotic swirl that was currently his mind as he leapt into action. Phoebe watched as Finn's knee impacted with the guard's jaw and she coughed violently as the vice around her throat was suddenly released. She sat up and found Finn with his back turned as he pummeled the Westerian mercilessly but she crawled over to him and looped her arms through his before locking them in place, "Stop, don't kill him! It will only make things worse."

Finn stopped and stared at his hands to once again find them bloodied.

Worse? How could things get any worse? I…I need to fix this somehow. If I can find the Westerian general and explain it to him…maybe…just maybe…

He shrugged her off and stepped away from the unconscious guard as he looked for his clothes amongst the ruins and he dressed as the sounds of steel clashing and rainfall echoed outside. Finn turned to face his princess, "I'm…I'm sorry for what happened. I was only trying to stop him but...I...I didn't know that would happen. I have to sort this out before it escalates any further."

Bonnibel simply nodded and made a move to stand but he could see the front she was putting up, "Let me get dressed so that I may accompany you. General Stevens might not believe you unless I'm there as well."

Finn shook his head, "No, princess. You and Phoebe should sneak out the back and head to safety until I convince him. I'll come look for you once he's agreed to listen to us."

"Very well." She stole a glance at her fiancé and sniffled, "Bubba…"

The scout felt a sharp pang of guilt and he gave a curt nod to the redhead before making his way outside. His hopes instantly plummeted as cries of agony and shrieks of pain filled his ears and he stared in disbelief as men who had been happily sharing drinks only an hour ago were now spilling each other's blood. Flames licked the night sky and engulfed the camp despite the heavy rain and lightning flashed above as both armies slaughtered one another. Finn sank to his knees as water trickled down his face.

Oh, god. What have I done?


A/N

Shocking? I sure hope so! Let me know if you guys liked the flashback and if you would like to perhaps see more of Finn's past. Hope you enjoyed it and as always thank you for your favorites/follows/reviews! Till the next one!