Wandering Pilot

by Mercaba

Waking up in an open field a weary pilot finds a trio of shapes moving in the distance, following them a whole new and adventure awaits them all

21. Chapter 21

Standard Disclaimer

Man work's been really kicking it up a notch lately, lots of extra work for me and people looking at me to lead the thing a bit more than wanted. Passed up on the house, liking apartment life to much at the moment. And as for the question of writing at work…if I've no work to do while on shift I'll write a little, that is NOT the situation right now.

X-X

Wandering Pilot

Chapter – 21

Maybe it wasn't Shinji's smartest decision, but he stuck by the evening revelry anyway. He wanted to share in Leina's victory over Nanael, even if it meant Nanael had to be placated to keep her from turning on them. The battle had been quick and elegant, just as Leina always was, and it left Shinji dazzled by her increased skill. Whenever Shinji thought he'd seen the apex of Leina's prowess she showed him not to underestimate her. Aside from wanting to be with Leina to shower her with deserved praise, Shinji also wanted to praise Alleyne for her successful thwarting of the Crimson Lady. Since it had been a team victory, that meant more than just Alleyne wanted in.

So Shinji's initial plan of a nice evening of celebration with his elfin wife and soon to be human wife, it became a party instead. Nowa heard about it when Shinji asked Alleyne after Leina's victory. It was best to get Alleyne to accept it before asking Leina about it. Well of course Nowa wanted to go to after hearing. Nowa's boisterous voice reached Tiina's very keen ears and the mermaid princess wanted in on the action. But Tiina wouldn't want her allegiance to Menace to end with subterfuge so…Tiina invited Menace. So much for a romantic evening and the hopeful burying the hatchet between Leina and Alleyne.

"More wine! This is my victory party, and only two more to go until I'm in the running for being the new queen!" Leina was already three sails to the wind. Men and women let out joyous cheers at Leina's boast, and more than a few of them tried stealing peeks through the armor. Wrapping an arm around Shinji's neck, the drunken noble rubbed her cheek against his, "Have to admit though, Shinji, that fighting Nanael didn't really burn off my energy. You'll have to give me a private party tonight."

Never one for public displays of affection, Shinji gingerly pushed Leina back a little bit. Oh he was intoxicated by her scent, and her mood was infectious, but others were watching! "Leina-san, you shouldn't say things in places like this. You'll upset the owner," Shinji didn't want his part-time boss upset with him. They had been at the inn/bar for over an hour now and the party didn't show any signs of slowing down. Spotting something he defiantly didn't like, Shinji gasped out, "Alleyne-sama, is it alright for Nowa-san to drink?"

Her barrette on the table, her hair tossed over one shoulder, Alleyne had a rosy gloss over her own cheeks. "She will be fine, as long as we keep tabs on her intake. It is a celebration is it not over our destroying that slaver organization? A tournament is one thing, but to take down the most notorious slaver lord is something else," now it was Alleyne's turn to tug on Shinji. Pulling Leina's hand off, Alleyne lead him to a chair to sit, "And with the reward money I was given, we have no need for funds for a long time."

"That bitch's sister escaped though. Going to hunt down that scum for trying to sell us royal sisters into bondage. The only bondage that is allowed is with us in control," Menace flanked Shinji's seat at the large round table. One hand going to his thigh, one of her bandages wrapped around his ankle to keep him from fleeing. "You still didn't pay me for my services that night, servant. Tiina and I worked hard in saving these two. You should work equally hard in repaying us," oh how she tittered, going so far as to kiss the head of her mace seductively.

Maybe he should go to the kitchen and help Nyx make some food. The inn wasn't that populated, most were out at more lively bars, but it was a nice excuse. "Menace-sama, I thought you wanted revenge for what they tried to do to you. But I will…do what you request of me, if it's within reason," Shinji flinched while looking at Leina. She was downing her third full bottle, and didn't seem to notice Menace's open flirtation. Thank god for that, Menace was an unknown element, and Shinji didn't want to get on the royal bad side. And while he found her quite ravishing, Shinji hoped she was just teasing.

"This is so yummy!" Nowa waved her arms about frantically. One hand had a large mutton chop and the other a flagon of hard cider. Weaving back and forth in her chair, across the table from Shinji, she hiccupped and got a wide smile. "I'm so glad you thought of this, Shinji! We can all be friends, and I don't have to worry about that odd spell anymore!" Nowa's head wobbled like doll with loose strings.

Yes they were going to hunt Tomoe down in the morning to remove that terrifying conditioning. "That is first thing in the morning, Nowa-san. I think we all hate seeing you like that," Shinji did for sure as did Alleyne. But in seeing Tomoe, what would Shinji do? She was so devastated at the perceived death of Shizuka, who Shinji knew was alive still! Hell he was tempted to invite her along after things went straight to hell, but thought better. Fewer peopling knowing about the shinobi were better. Leaning forward, looking past Menace…who kept thrusting her bust further out in an odd game, Shinji asked the last member of the group, "Are you having fun Tiina-sama? Not to loud for you is it?"

Opting to sit on her ball of water and utilizing her human legs, Tiina had been staring at Leina for a good five minutes. "Oh I'm quite fine Sir Shinji. This drink is quite good and the food unique. Living on fish for most of my life its rare to have mammal flesh. And I just adore more time with my royal sister here. I look forward to the day my father's kingdom signs a pact with the restored Amara," she batted her eyes and was ever the diplomat. But she turned back to Leina, "Is she going to be alright, she seems…unfit for you."

"W-what you mean unfit for him? Shinji is MY man before any of you…you harpies came about. Nights on the road, small inns, and just enjoying a good talk! Now you're all horning in on him…but I'll be the bigger woman and not get angry," Leina didn't sound happy. Moving around the table, setting her bottle down between Menace and Shinji, she wrapped her arms around his neck. Bucking against him as her legs started to give out, "He's to nice. Needs to be more dominant to keep others from coming. And…" she sat on his lap, "and he makes a great seat."

Rolling her eyes, Alleyne moved her chair away from the amorous Vance and her kicking legs. "Yes we know your opinion of the matter. I found a nice missive in my bedding this morning from Echidna about just HOW much you like our company," Alleyne's neutral tones lanced the air. The table silenced quickly, all eyes falling on Leina and therefore Shinji. Taking a light drink, the amber liquid spilled down her lips and onto her tunic without resistance. Grabbing the twin braid, Alleyne took it off and set it on the table, "Accusing him of duplicity, throwing his fears in his face, and all because you can't have all of what you want. A child unwilling to share her most cherished toy. And that is what you think of it isn't it…a toy."

"Alleyne-sama, it was an accident. A heated conversation with Echidna-san, you know how she can be," Shinji didn't want to think about that fight yesterday. Yes Leina said things that stung Shinji deeply, one of his bigger fears, slapped across his face. What if all these women liked him was actually only due to his powers acting without his want. Unconsciously changing them and forcing them to like him when they'd never would otherwise. It'd be like being in Tokyo-3 again, surrounded by people that only cared for him because of something he could do and not himself. Lowering his head, his face full of Leina's exposed flesh he did not get a thrill from it, "C-can we not talk about that and keep things happy?"

They had enough to be worried about, he didn't want to bring the evening down. Cattleya and her son were held captive. The other sister from those twins was still off and plotting who knows what. More battles were needed to be fought, Melona was holding everybody hostage. More troubles than they had boons right now, and Shinji didn't want to add to their issues. Alleviating problems and making things better, that's what he wanted to do.

"Sir Shinji is correct!" Tiina happily jumped off her ball and pulled a shell off her belt. Pinching her throat a few times she let out a few wordless sounds escape her mouth as she readied her voice. Sauntering over the Nowa, Tiina nuzzled the girl that was impossible not to love, and locked eyes with Shinji. A bashfulness that suited the mermaid princess perfectly encased her, "I-if you'd like. I-I might sing for all of us…for you." It wasn't a question of who was her audience.

Her legs stopped kicking, but Leina hugged Shinji tighter. Softly so he could be the only one to hear, "I'm sorry…I fuck everything up. All I'm good for is fighting and causing trouble. Princesses and high elves…what chance do I have against them? Second daughter to a Duke…not even that attractive. Do you…regret your promise to me?" Leina was a child sitting on her father's lap, legs curled up and head down, hugging on for dear life. "I don't know how you couldn't…but I'm glad you don't," she just hung their.

"Sure you can sing for all of us, Tiina-sama. Something happy," Shinji felt his heart icing over. Leina was just like he was still, so worried and afraid of rejection. Even after his promise to marry her, and her acceptance, they had fears. Shinji knew he wasn't much compared to other men. All he had going was his powers that he hadn't asked for, story of his life, and yet these powerful and brilliant women cared. As Tiina's song started, emotion rich and heavy as if it could be plucked from the very air, filled his senses, Shinji hugged Leina back. They were all mesmerized by the song, yet Shinji replied to Leina, "I'll never regret it, Leina. I love you…you love me…we need to trust each other."

A hand went over Shinji's and Leina's as well, Alleyne didn't look at them but she had heard him all the same. "I have no qualms with you Vance, when you think with your mind and not your arrogance. Many have I fought before, and you be among the top. Just you think to little and act to much. My husband trusts you, I shall do the same if you trust me as well. Let us have no more of this business as we almost had," Alleyne gave both a squeeze.

Listening to Tiina sing, Alleyne holding his left hand and Leina his right Shinji just basked in the beautiful melodies. "I wish it could always be this peaceful for us. I doubt either of you do, you'd be bored. But times like this…I can forget the bad and just," he closed his eyes and enjoyed. Truly magnificent in tone and pitch, Tiina's song was soulful and nurturing. Soon the whole bar was listening to her.

The mermaid sang directly to Shinji while gently embracing Nowa as a friend. Menace, likely feeling either left out or emboldened joined making for a rather unique duo. While Tiina was soft and melodic, Menace was rich and powerful of voice yet the complemented quite harmoniously. Though as Tiina just serenaded Shinji with voice, Menace was more of the up and coming type. Sensually caressing Shinji about the neck and shoulders, more than a few catcalls for her to do the same to them were ignored.

When the song ended, Shinji found he had a tear in his eye. "Music where I come from doesn't compare to either of you. T-thank you for letting us enjoy i…" Shinji quickly found himself on the ground. Menace sitting on his chest, Leina spilled off him and rolling. Whatever power the music had on others, it made Menace hungry for something not food. Savaging the prone lad with deep and probing kisses, all of which tasted of wine and meat, Menace had to be dragged off him with her hands grasping for him.

"Not yet I need a little more from my servant! It's been so long since I felt this good! With Setora gone I've been so lonely, with my life back in my veins and not at the mercy of that witch I…I need more!" Menace whined as Alleyne and Nowa each took an arm. She pleaded with her eyes yet latched onto Shinji's legs with her bandages and drug him with her. "I can't stand another night alone, you understand?" she batted her eyes at Shinji and Tiina who was helping him up.

Pressing herself to Shinji's back, Tiina helped herself to a little caress of the firmness of his chest. "It is hard for noble born to be alone for long. I too have missed companionship of my sisters and father. Though…if it were with Sir Shinji I think we…if you'd be so inclined," she babbled until she couldn't speak further. Just hugging him from behind, the twin royals begged the assembled.

"Take Nowa with you to keep an eye on them. Vance and I need to have some words between us. This standing grudge will not stand, husband. I know not why she has become so somber in her victory, yet I will discover it. Though save some of your vigor for the morning spar. I shall not give you all away," Alleyne kissed Shinji's cheek and helped Leina up. The two wives nodded at one another, Leina re-affixing the band of hair to her waist. She appeared ready to say something, but Alleyne held her hand up. "In the morning, you shall meet us both at the Vance apartment. Until then, do not pamper them to much," Alleyne lead Leina out of and into the night.

What the hell were they thinking! Shinji wanted to know, but had no idea why Alleyne would just LET this happen?! "Um…so what would you three like to do now?" Shinji could tell with Menace but not the others. Nowa was still so innocent and pure, it made Shinji worried going further with her would change her nature. He hardly knew Tiina enough to think she'd want anything other than more conversation and maybe a card game. Menace…Menace wanted to be pampered to the extreme and beyond. Shinji wanted to show his appreciation, but this was a bit more. Life had become so odd with his new romantic complexities, he wasn't complaining but it was hard to fathom.

Thankfully Nowa kept the group playing and enjoying one another for most of the night. A band kicked off after Tiina got the musical ball rolling and Shinji taught them a few of Tokyo-3's dances, well what little he could remember and actually do. Menace did the same for ancient Amara, though they looked like strip-teases…and Shinji realized just how much Menace truly wished to make love to him. Sadly the motions of Tiina's mermaid dancing was enough to knock over tables and make a mess of things.

They retired to a large private room upstairs, Nyx had stopped to chat with them for a good hour. She was getting better with opening up to others, it helped that she knew Shinji, Nowa was a bastion of warmth, and Tiina was polite and almost as shy as Nyx was. Booze took Menace out after she all but demanded Shinji make love to her, alcohol's blessing was on Shinji's side for once. Tiina and Nowa took a bed themselves, Tiina was to frazzled to sleep in Shinji's, thankfully. And Shinji took to sleeping next to Menace, who's wandering hands found themselves in his pants within twenty minutes…it was a long night, but a good night.

X-X

"How could I have lost to a human female of all things!" Nanael yelled as she downed yet another tankard. On the other side of the bar she could hear a party going on, she hated it! When she was unhappy, everybody should be unhappy as well. Nobody deserved to be in a good mood when a nearby angel was sad. "Give me another, girl," Nanael dropped another of the gold coins on the table. Nyx had been keeping her supplied with the lovely intoxicant since she sat down.

Torn between serving Nanael and something else, Nyx quickly set the drink down and backed away quickly. "W-will you need anything else right now, miss? I have other d-duties to do on the other side of the café you see," she looked over at a large group of people. The girls red dress and purple accents flared out magnificently as she twirled about.

Waving her hand off, Nanael didn't want the company of females right now, "Get going. I'll help myself if I need more." Bad timing! She had lost thanks to bad timing! Her jar had been nearly empty at the time thanks to her vassal being dragged off for some reason. Didn't help that rather than let Melpha fill her up with reserves Nanael had the woman bathe and massage her. Grabbing the bottle Nyx left, Nanael bit the top off and drank straight from it, "He better be at the church today though. I hurt all over thanks to that woman of his. Why does everybody else get to use him and me his owner doesn't?"

That's what Shinji was right? He was something to be owned and used. Those other women seemed to fawn over the opportunity to use him. Nice man, Nanael preferred her men to be docile and subservient. Shinji was close to perfect, yet he denied her from time to time. Cooking, cleaning, and mending her clothing was great, and his duty keeping her jar full was his all important task. However he still hadn't utilized those finely honed tasks he worked on that elf and Leina on her yet. Why was he being so difficult! Weren't all these human men and women supposedly lead by their crotches?

"But no! I have to have the one human that is shy when perfection is given to him!" Nanael tipped her head back with the bottle. Sweet amber drained down her throat and washed away more of her care. Then a song was being sung on the other side of the café, a lovely and memorable song. "Not as good as the angelic choir," she muttered bitterly. How long had it been since she had heard her peoples holy melodies? Long, much to long, and a powerful sense of homesickness washed over the forlorn angel. "Going back to the chapel," Nanael dropped more of her betting winnings on the table and flew out.

Using a window rather than the door, a second voice joined the first in song, Nanael stopped for a moment to listen just a little longer. "It's not fair," she felt that stupid stinging in her eyes. Maybe she should join those humans that were singing, they'd welcome their better wouldn't they? But no, she'd not show weakness to these lesser creatures. Driving through the air towards the church, Nanael's mind was flooded with intoxicant and remorse. She had failed her duty, the other angels would mock her even more now! They'd not be content to just tease her and ridicule Nanael for her uneven wings, they'd remind her of this failure to.

"But I at least have my two servants! They don't have that!" Nanael was emboldened by that. She knew humans had good uses, Leina being a good example of heroic humans. Shinji and Melpha proof that humans knew there place and could support her as they should. The other angels simply thought humans were good only for praising them and nothing else. Dipping lower over the city, Nanael saw them moving about in their short lives, these humans. Men, big and strapping, were moving about making her mouth water. Yet she wanted practice with her servant before she went out to bring more into her sway.

It wasn't fear of intimacy or anything like that, well that's what she told herself anyway. Just seeing what Shinji did to Alleyne and Leina, Nanael wasn't above spying on her vassal, made Nanael want to experience it too. "Well if he's at the church now he's going to have to do what I say or I'm not helping him get to this Tokyo place! If he's gone, Melpha is going to scrub me however I want!" Nanael threw the doors open to the church and left them ajar. "Shinji! Melpha I need you now!" and it hurt Nanael to realize she truly did need them. Some angel she was, beaten by a woman and now needing humans to ease her troubled brow.

"Holy angel I'm in here!" Melpha almost screamed from her private chambers. A panic was present in that voice, uncertainty and fear that countered her natural bashfulness and shyness.

Oh-ho? What was this? Was Shinji finally giving in to his human nature and attacking that busty woman? Well Nanael wanted to see that! She'd been trying to get the two of them to have at each other since that first night they almost did! Having her two vassals serve her together would be the ultimate treat! Flying towards the woman's room, a few poor women and children woke up to watch her move. A child giggled as one of Nanael's feathers molted and the child grabbed it as a holy token. "Whatever, they'll grow back," she left the feather glowing in the main chapel. Pressing her ear to the door she listened for the moans to start, those delicious moans Shinji worked out of those others. Yet they didn't come. Did they fail again? "And what are you two up to now…something perv…who are you?" Nanael was astonished to see a stranger in Melpha's room.

Rushing away from the man, Melpha fixed her hair and readjusted her bodice, clasping onto Nanael's hands, Melpha smiled in relief. "I have waited your return Holy Angel, we both have. This is the holy father of our church, and he wishes to speak to both of us. But as you weren't here…he was wanting to talk to me of other matters that I have been failing in," her head dipped into her ample support cushions. Leading Nanael back towards the intruder, Melpha gave Nanael her chair without hesitation.

"Ah yes the angel, it's an honor to be in your presence," the Pope said with a dismissive hand gesture. Crossing his legs and rearranging his frock, the man kept his eyes on Melpha. "We will talk of your lack of progress later, I might need to insist you take my training lest we lose the opportunity. For now we can discuss something more relevant. The queen," the word came out as a curse.

Talk about gaudy and presumptuous! Wasn't the pope supposed to be the extreme leader of this church that praised her kind, so why the attitude? Nanael didn't like the man instantly, old men weren't really useful. But the matter of the queen was important, "Ah yeah, that fallen angel! I haven't had any real time to tell you Melpha, but your queen has been corrupted. I saw in her inner sanctum signs of angelic powers tainted with the dark." Maybe she could still salvage this horrible debacle she found herself in! The Head Angel wanted her to watch for the Swamp Witch and learn why the queen was so steadily winning. Maybe just maybe this wasn't a wash!

"A-a fallen angel!? We can't have that! We-we must save the city. The unfortunates need this place to live happily. I cannot abide something so wicked running afoul here," Melpha's eyes light up with divine righteousness. Standing at Nanael's side, Melpha rubbed her arm buckler with a hint of apprehension. She wasn't a warrior, but she wasn't letting down either by appearances.

Grabbing hold of one of Melpha's breasts, Nanael gave it a massive hoist and earned a yelp from the woman. Not the first time she'd felt up the priestess and it wouldn't be the last, yet Nanael still felt that all-consuming jealousy. "Calm down or you'll get yourself hurt. We need my other vassal before we can go after something like a fallen angel. We'd need holy milk, as much as we can get. Maybe we can get some of those insufferable fighters that flock around him to help too. Leina would be a great start, she'd do anything he'd ask. Same goes for you to I bet," Nanael continued to sample the wears.

"It is as the angel says. We need holy milk, that boy will need to do what we need. And that is why you must follow my orders. Yet you let yourself be accosted by women. Is that why you don't do what is needed to get him under thumb?" the pope leaned in and observed Nanael's work. Rubbing his forefinger under his nose, bits of beard moved about wildly, he was quite entranced. Rocking back, he tilted his head back and forth, "As for these other fighters, that is a good idea. You can send them after that foul being, wave after wave of them. And when the queen is weakened we can strike the final blow."

Gasping aloud, and falling backward after to much stimulation, Melpha collapsed to her knees panting. Between her deep droughts of air, "You can't mean to-to kill her can you? What if the queen is merely possessed? We should try saving her first, and it sounds as if you wish to sacrifice those brave souls to this cause. Your eminence is there no other way?" Melpha knee-walked closer to the man and took his hand in hers pressing it to her forehead in penitence.

"Stop doing that! You're my vassal not his! I am the embodiment of your faith am I not? Praise ME not him," Nanael grabbed Melpha and literally lifted her into the air. Holding Melpha against her like a child, Nanael's eyes were blazed with holy righteousness. Mixture of loneliness, depression, and the wine left Nanael not willing to part with either of her servants. "This girl is mine, and as your superior you will NOT take liberties with her. Only my other servant can touch her as I do. And you WILL let him won't you? I want a show from the two of you…bet he'd love to play with these disgusting things," Nanael poked her tongue out at Melpha's growths.

Standing up and stomping his foot, the pope raged and swiped out at Nanael, "You can't do that! Do you know how long I've been tending to that one? All her simpering and wavering, the constant poking and alluding? I almost…" And like that the man straightened up and was calm again, the rage a moment ago vanished like early morning dew. "Apologies. Of course the h-holy angel is correct. Melpha is your thrall as is…the boy. Yet we must still use him to purify the queen of her malady. If you excuse me…I'll go and…" the man tried fleeing but Nanael grabbed his shoulder as he tried escaping.

"You were hoping to get into her pants weren't you old man," Nanael's smile was wicked. It made perfect sense now! He was a man, Melpha was his subordinate, and unlike her vassal this man didn't mind taking things that didn't belong to him. Setting Melpha down, Nanael flew about the pope and hovered right before him. That haughtiness that left the others feeling sick in Nanael's presence was streaming from her, "Admit it, you wanted to puff-puff those tits of hers didn't you? Have her show you those holy poses she makes me practice with her. Bet you've been watching. She's mine, male, and you'll not touch her. Only those I deem worth can, and right now it's just my little jar filler."

Stumbling backward, fear etched into his face, the pope back peddled to the door. Stammering as he worked the door open, "I don't know what you speak of. All I wanted was to insure she had the proper skills to manipulate and control the boy. Normally such male healers are destroyed, not milked. We have a need for him now, and can't let him flee. I only wished to insure we weren't losing something important. That is…all." His head lowered in humility, the pope held his left hand to right shoulder in humility.

"Get going, I know what you wanted. You humans are just lead by that little rod aren't you," Nanael dismissed the man. She felt a tiny tug at her side, but when she turned to see if the pope had the gall to touch her, the door was already shutting. "And you!" Nanael yelled at the blushing priestess, "you wouldn't really have let that old man touch you would you? If you want a man just tell Shinji to. He's smitten with you and can't deny anybody! You should see what he gets up to with some women! I need to press harder too!" Nanael yelped as she found herself encased between Melpha's breasts.

Hugging Nanael in her clevage, Melpha just waved the angel about wildly. "I am so happy you think so highly of my Holy Angel! Truly you were sent to be a boon to my faith, and I feel so blessed by it!" Melpha continued to sway about. Nanael resisted, air was needed to breath and Melpha's hold while pleasant deprived all of oxygen. After a lucky hit on one of her peaks, she yelped cutely and let Nanael go free. "S-sorry about that. Just a little overwhelmed to hear you say such praise of me. A-as for his holiness and S-Shinji…do you really think those things?" now was her turn for embracement.

Fixing her tunic and hair, Nanael was lightheaded from near hyperventilation. "Yes I meant it. That old man would have fucked you rotten. And I can't have that. I want my vassals together and with me, not off having side flings. As for Shinji, he's just a tool isn't he? Just have to use proper leverage on him and he'll do what you want. I could teach you if you wanted, but you'll have to bathe me first," Nanael suddenly wanted Shinji there. It had been so long since she felt good, very long, and her mood was deepening. Fallen angels, that pope, her jar that she'd learn was missing in little under an hour, and her eventual ridicule from her peers…she needed something to weaken the blow.

"Of course your grace, and we can discuss our plans for saving the queen with the help of those other women! I heard from some of the patrons today of a fair haired 'monster' woman in the woods. Mayhap she can help us as well," Melpha took to gathering supplies instantly. It was late, but the church had powers of control over the city. If the high priestess needed a late night bath, she got what she wanted. Melpha however rarely if ever flexed that muscle, and the woman at the counter was more than happy to assist the woman most saw as a saint. Nanael was soon whisked away in small scrubs with a brush and the bliss of having her plumage tended to with gentle hands.

She'd teach Melpha the finer points of seduction later, how hard would it be to teach something like that. Surely humans were easy to goad right? And when she was ready she'd go to the woods, that monster woman sounded like Melona. Shinji mentioned something about that slime, Nanael couldn't remember what. But if the Swamp Witch was the queen's enemy, she'd be an ally right?

X-X

After seeing to Elina's condition, still sleeping from a long night of angry drinking, Claudette fancied herself a small walk around the family grounds in the capital. Well manicured yet small gardens with some unique and rare trees. In her hand were the small dolls of her sisters. Elina had celebrated Leina's victory the other day with some revelry of her own, since she didn't know Leina's location. Sadly being without Leina left Elina sad and her mood deteriorated to a less than agreeable state. Claudette carried her sister to bed that night and slept along side her to keep her safe.

Now she was wide eyed and feeling something she was not oft to, unease. While waiting for Elena to wake, she found something she hadn't prepared herself for, a certain document. "So he took me as his wife. I will have to leave here, leave Elina and stay with her husband now. It was a pain in her heart she'd not wish to bear with, but knowing she'd be able to live with Leina made it bearable. Though what would be expected of her as a wife? Would she be like the women her father kept in the keep, a lady in waiting? Well tended and cared for, provided she spread her legs when the man wanted?

"From what I remember of him though," Claudette doubted she'd be at his beck and call. Picking a rose off of the bush, a thorn pricking her finger, Claudette winced and watched the bead of blood form. Blood…would she bleed down there if he did choose to claim her? It was part of the ceremony of matrimony for many religions, maybe his would cause it. "I never thought of myself in that way," her hand traced to just over her womb and paused. What would it be like? Did she care? What if she wasn't good or he was TO good?

Such thoughts plagued her as she thought of what to tell Elina. "Maybe she'll insist on living with us," Claudette liked that idea. One big family again, where she could stand in the darkness and watch over her cherished sisters, and tend to her fathers wish. "I will honor your desire, step-mother," Claudette clenched her fist and made her finger throb. Placing the rose in her hair just above her circlet, she felt silly. She wasn't supposed to have pretty things, she was a warrior and an assassin when needed. Leina was more suited for wedding dresses, and Elina the finer things in life. Who was she? The bitch of a maid that forgot the poultice to prevent pregnancy, hardly fitting her rank.

But she would ease her father's troubles as was her step-mother's wish. "The lady Vance was always good to me," she held no ill will for either her real of step parents. But soon her father would strike the city, even now her agents were in key locations ready to aid in the assault. How many innocents would die so Leina could sit the thrown, so her father could rule through Leina? Thunderclap shifted on her back, the guard tapping the back of her head, "Leina is still in the running for queen regardless of the attack." She didn't want to go through with this coup. Innocent lives were at stake for a power grab, one the players involved didn't want.

Taking the rose off her brow, Claudette crushed it in her hand and let the petals scatter. Such beauty wasn't suitable for one as dirty as she. Her hands were soiled, her mind full of nasty secrets, and now her body sold off to the man who loved her sister to gain his support. "But he is a good man, and would do good for her," and maybe herself a nagging thought popped in. Her time with the man hadn't been bad, he had astonished her with his bravery despite his lack of skill. Drawing her cherished blade, "How easily I could have slain him, yet he stood to protect that bandit."

A bandit that robbed her home, stole her father's things, and weaseled her way into Leina's good graces. That was when she saw the summoning master appear before her, its cloak already open and waiting to bring her to her next battle. "Maybe it'll be against her, and I can get satisfaction," Claudette wasn't one for revenge, but this time she'd make an exception. All of her current problems with her sisters stemmed from Risty! It was Risty that put the idea of leaving for good in Leina's mind, gave Leina courage, and made Elina sad.

"Such a nauseating sensation as always," Claudette rubbed her stomach with her free hand. Teleportation left her queasy and lightheaded, and she rightly believed it always would. When her vision cleared though, she nearly dropped her blade as she realized where she was standing. Sticking the blade into the ground, hand on the pummel, "I'm…home?" Claudette saw the familiar spires of the Vance Keep, and the signs of her father's army assembling. They were ready to strike, days away if not shorter!

Standing up on the parapet was the man she knew as father, the man she vowed to obey, and who she was tempted to betray. He was busy organizing the formations for battle, clad regalia fitting a conqueror.

As Risty reached out, ready to call out to the man, her opponent's weapon came into view aimed at her face. A moment of hesitation would have ended the match right there, but Claudette's battle training took over and she threw herself backward. One of the spikes brushed against her cheek as she fell. Thunderclap in her hand, Claudette rolled quickly to the side to avoid the upcoming secondary foot which sent earth flying.

"And here I was hoping for an easy victory," Risty was already circling the recovering Claudette. After her initial attack the view globes came to life and startled the Duke. His plan was being broadcast all over now, Claudette and Risty were in the middle of his army fighting. Slamming her mace against her shield mockingly, Risty's carrion black robe flittered about, "No snake venom in me to slow me down this time, this time I crush you."

The best defense was a better offense had always been Claudette's standing, so she rushed right in. Swinging Thunderclap with one hand, the weapon struck home against Risty's mace and the two mighty weapons cracked like the weather event her sword took its name from. But Claudette hadn't expected her swing to work anyway, so she continued with a spinning backhand to Risty's cheek. A satisfying crunch and pain worked down Claudette's hand to her elbow. First blood was hers. "You talk to much. Is that how you got Leina to aid you, talk?" Claudette continued her spin until she was facing Risty again.

"Oh she would have followed anybody willing to give her the encouragement. With family like hers though, not surprising she didn't have any. An incestuous younger sister and an emotionless husk for an older," Risty spat out blood. The woman's chin was red and marred with the imprint of Claudette's glove. Faking a lunge, Risty caught Claudette's counter attack with her shield and left the taller woman off stride. Rushing in with her shoulder, colliding with the woman's heavy metal chest piece, Claudette went toppling down. "And what do we have here? No faith in either Leina or your strength so you're trying to steal power? Nobles will kill any for their wants won't they?" Risty gripped her mace with both hands.

Rolling backward and kicking out at Risty's face, Claudette's foot connected with the over extended arm of the bandit. "You are…different than when we fought before the gate of the capitol," Claudette could sense it in the woman. That Risty had fought for fun, no real threat to continued life. The same couldn't be said this time, Claudette could feel the bloodlust in her. "And I do not agree with Duke Vance's plans, but a solder obeys," Claudette would not be talked down to by a thief. Spinning Thunderclap around, she lashed out with a wicked under handed side slash.

Chucks of wood splintered off Risty's shield from the force of the blow and the woman's right foot left the ground for a few moments. Righting herself though, Risty just licked her lips as she drew a dagger from her belt. "Was my man going to be your prize then? Don't think my subordinates didn't see the certificate that you turned in yesterday? Taking what doesn't belong to you and claiming you earned it. Pitiful," she hurled the dagger with expert precision.

"I should have known you'd have sided with the queen. Bandits always look for excuses and those who offer power for cheap. And yes, he is mine prize. One you won't know the touch or feel of," Claudette needed to unbalance Risty. This wasn't what she expected, this woman would cheat to win. Having caught the dagger by the handle, just barely, Claudette could see it was coated with some form of poison. Whirling it back at Risty, Claudette used the distraction to her benefit. Both the words and the projectile were enough for Claudette to point her blade skyward. "Thunder-slash!" she felt the prickling electricity course through the blade and then swung it with all her might.

Try as Risty might to avoid it, the arcing bolt found home and in a flash she was down on the ground smoking. "C-cheating…b-bit…" she couched and curled up in a ball. The stench of burnt hair, urine, and ozone filled the air over Risty's blackened patch of ground. And the orbs went still, the battle was over.

Her body to taxed to hold the blade after such use of it powers, Claudette left it as she rushed to her approaching father. It was over, they had to abandon this farce now or many more would die in vein. Grasping out to the man, "Your plan is exposed, a swift and secret attack is no longer an option. The queen will be able to reinforce herself now. Many will die if we continue. St-stop this." She could hardly see, how much had that blow sapped from her!

Holding Claudette at a distance, the Duke's face did not show any emotion of warmth for his victorious daughter. "We had planned on losing forces, but if we have that man on our side it will only be the queens forces that die. You have secured him correct? A tool to our victory," he held his hand up to rally his forces. They cried out proudly, some to Claudette's win and others to the upcoming battle.

"You cannot mean that! I swore to your wife I'd ease your burden, but this will only worsen it. Even if you were to defeat the queen, it will only cause you more trouble," Claudette's feet were wobbling as the Duke brushed past her. He was standing over the downed Risty with a strange look. Couldn't he see it? If he staged this war, win or lose it would just cause him endless problems. What was wrong with what he had? Wasn't it enough? Wealth, land, a populace that he ruled over, and many benefits. "Assassins would come for you, other armies would attack. Without the Queen's Blade, which your wife believed in, we would have anarchy," she didn't wish to see needless bloodletting.

Approaching Claudette, the man almost appeared to be accepting of her plea, but then he slapped her hard. "What would you know of my grand designs? You probably staged this whole thing to expose me to the queen. While my current plan will have to be halted, I've not the men to attack her, now that my lead general is dismissed permanently. Maybe I'll over that healer Elina to join our ranks now that you've proved useless. Leave, Claudette, you are not welcome in my lands any longer," he turned his back to her, rage threatening to overtake him.

She was stripped of her title and her standing!? Claudette didn't feel the pain of the blow, the man was weak compared to those she fought. But the emotional blow was neigh crippling. "You can't…my only aim is your best interests! This siege would have only caused pain and…" Claudette's voice died in her throat. The patch of black earth was empty, Risty was up again. Had she heard the queen announce her victory? No…no she didn't! The battle wasn't finished! It was all a trap! Rushing after her father, she pushed him out of the way just in time as Risty's mace came down towards him.

"Damn, and here I thought we'd end this little usurper before he tried something again," Risty mocked. Her mace took Claudette swear in the back and the woman went rolling across the ground and toppled her father. "How cute, you think you can protect him as broken as you are," Risty grabbed Claudette's chin hard, "I'll break your sister next. Long live the queen!"

The next thing Claudette saw was the flat of Risty's boot as it came rushing at her. No pain, the blow knocked her unconscious to quickly. When she next opened her eyes, she felt worlds better, in body anyway. She was on a fluffy bed, her body had no traces of the pain she felt before, she could see who she had to thank for that at her bedside. "You…how did I get her?" her husband had healed her. She'd thank him later, after talking to Elina. Her talk with him in the church had been eye opening and heart warming. He wanted her to marry for love, to be happy, and yet he married her. Did he think he could…that they could grow to love one another?

"Leina and I found you laying outside her inn. You were hurt badly, we brought you in as Leina went off to confirm what we saw in that battle. What happened after the globes went dark? They say Risty-san actually won," Shinji was hovering over her with such concern.

Would it be bad to be weak, this boy was weak and yet here he was concerned for her. If only more people were like him, concerned for others. "I shall tell you later, husband. For now let us sleep. My mind is not ready for the task," she saw him go ridged as she pulled him towards her. With none of her plush toys around, Claudette took the first cute thing she could find into her arms and held it. It was a weakness to cry, but she wanted to so bad after what her father had just done. She was abandoned by the man, only Elina was suited now to follow him. Leina was gone, and Claudette didn't blame her. She was exiled…

"Would you…hold me, husband. I am…" Claudette couldn't say it. It wasn't necessary, this boy seemed to sense her distress and hugged her softly. With her headdress off he stroked her hair as she had oft wished to do to Elina, and Claudette clung to him as a lifeline. What purpose did she have now that she was without her command or title? Well she had a new title now didn't she? She was a wife.

X-X

In a daze, Leina walked about the city's trade district without seeing anything beyond her feet. How blind had she been to the world around her, how naive was she in reality? Everybody had plans within plans, an ulterior motive that was the real reason they acted. Well aside from her close circle of friends and fiancé. Now it was up to her to make some of the hard choices that she had been putting off. Her very future was in her hands. What she wanted most of all, what she'd be willing to give up, and what her relationships would be like moving forward. It all weighed heavily on her shoulders as she walked.

A lazy afternoon played on by, merchants sold discounted pictures and caricatures of Claudette. As the loser Claudette's worth dropped substantially in the eyes of the populace. No longer a contender for being the next queen, Claudette was just the general in the now exposed Duke Vance's army. It didn't hurt sales though, many men an women wouldn't mind. They weren't buying the products out of love for Claudette, they bought it as a memento or sexual aid. Same could be said for all the other losers in the tournament. One moment they were lauded in song and fame, the next they were discarded as trash.

"Will that be Tomoe's fate?" Leina hated to think of it. Tomoe was a dear friend, and yet Leina was fated to face her in combat. They were the only two yet to fight in the semi-finals, and Leina had no intention of losing now. Spotting a woman selling large colored paintings of both Tomoe and herself, she was tempted to buy one. Having no money, Leina passed on as a child no older than ten bought one and ran off it with it. After besting Tomoe, Leina would have to fight Risty. Fight her idol, it would be hard.

Bumping into Leina, a man and a woman leaving one of the sellers of losers, collected themselves and their dropped items and blanched. "Hey watch it bit…Leina!" it was a man Leina had seen at her old inn. The woman was an unknown, but dressed in a manner higher than the man did. Grabbing Leina's hand, he caressed it as if he'd done it a hundred times, "How have you been! I haven't heard from you since you changed inn's. Why did you go and do that, the nights are all so much boring now!"

"Are we going to do this? I told you before not to talk to people like this, Erime! Every four years the city gets flooded with would-be queens only to spit them back out again," the woman eyed Leina tiredly. Shrugging as Leina balked, the woman didn't care about her slam. "No offense, hun, but we've lived here for quite a few Queen's Blades, and seen your type come and go. Brains but not brawn. Even if you won, things won't change. You'd just be a pawn of the ministers or something," she took Erime's hand and dragged a little.

Trembling a little in anger, memories of Alleyne and her conversation last night flittered like ashes stoked from a fire. "So what if I'm not the most knowledgeable in the arts of state craft! At least I follow my dreams to this point. C-can you say the same?" she remembered the man a little. He had played cards with her more than once, she beat him most of the time. Not a bad man, he did like to steal peeks but that was it. Not wanting to admit to why she left that dreadful place though, "As for leaving the inn, I found better accommodations closer to the church my fiancé is at."

"Oh that Shinji fellow?" Erime fought to keep his lady from pulling him away, "Nice kid. You two seem good together. Give him my best." And with that the man's arm was given a mighty yank and he tumbled along the way of his companion. Rubbing the back of his head as the departed, "You should have been so cruel to her, love. She's a good kid, and she did get to the semi's."

Watching the pair leave, Leina felt a spike of jealousy. A single man and a single woman in partnership. No ancient mummy queen's, mermaid princesses, elfin rangers, or the like to complicate their relationship. Gripping her hand hard, the imprint of her hilt impressed into her palm. "I promised Alleyne I'd get my answer today. And I will. No more waffling or waiving about. Better to drink the whole medicine in one gulp than spread it out in small sips," Leina muttered.

Finding a nice bench by a fountain, the prideful warrior woman sat down. Leaning forward, chin to palm and elbow to leg, she watched children playing. It was a game using sticks as swords and pot lids as shields. A game she remembered playing in her youth while her trainers weren't around. Mock fighting, a young girl puffed her chest out and proclaimed herself the wandering warrior and fought her friends. They were pretending to be in the Queen's Blade.

"She says she wishes I stay, but…" Leina blew her hair out of her face. Alleyne had taken her out of the bar last night to have a few words with her in private. Of course it was in regards to Leina's attitude while snuggling up to Shinji. Depression had sank in again! Why was she so quick to fall from the high and start doubting again? He loved her! Leina never doubted that, now, but that nagging suspicion always came back. Those others were better, they'd steal more and more of him, leaving her with scraps and not the lions share she had now. Drumming her fingers against her cheek, "Can I live with that if it happened?"

That was the question Alleyne had forced upon her. Leina's attitude shifts were draining and hurtful. Lashing out at Shinji for her own fears was not fair to him or those around him. He didn't do the same to her, he was infinitely patient with her and gave her every liberty. Hell, Leina KNEW he'd have helped her instantly if she'd asked to solve the Jennifer problem. But she didn't ask, her pride wouldn't let her. Yet when she saw him struggling with Echidna's teasing, a woman Leina knew would tease everybody, she attacked him with his most vulnerable point.

'Either accept that my husband will follow elfish law and have additional lovers, or remove yourself from him. This is not a game, Vance, it is all of our futures. We are willing to share, you seem incapable but only almost. Make up your mind if you can suffer us others with him, or you may make your play to try and take him from us, from me," Alleyne's ultimatum had been pretty clear. Not said in anger or jest, just pure and unadulterated honesty. Alleyne even went so far as to say she enjoyed Leina's company when she was thinking clearly!

If only her father hadn't been exposed for the plotting man he was, Leina would have been more able to commit her mind to the task of thinking about this mess. "I had no idea he'd have tried to conquer the city and depose the queen," she wiggled her sword deeper into a crack in the ground. Waking up that morning in a small bed, Alleyne snoring in the adjacent one, Leina rushed off after watching Claudette seemingly win only to learn she lost when she confirmed the view of her father's war machine!

Standing up, Leina heard a man gasp out loudly, "Don't move yet please! I'm…I'm almost finished!" A young man in paint splattered tunic and pants was furiously working on an easel not to far from Leina's right. "C-could you set back down in the pose you were in?" he pleaded, his dirty hair covered half his face.

"You're painting me?" Leina gasped and sat back down as requested. Looking about her, she saw that the afternoon sun had shifted to the gentle red of early evening. She'd been sitting at that fountain for a few hours! The children were long gone, their fake swords discarded where they had played. "Sure, but I don't have a lot of time left," she hoped she didn't zone out again. Watching the man work, Leina took in what she saw of him. A man likely a year or two older than she was. Tall and thin, but not lanky, an attractive man. Could she leave Shinji and be with a man like this? Would this man be sensitive and caring, soft and meek, adorable yet frustrating, would he complete her as Shinji could for her?

Sweat poured down the man's brow as the brush feverously moved across the unseen canvas. A small assembly of onlookers started to pool around him as he worked. Coins tossed at his feet started to pile up into a nice sum, and more people started to actually look at Leina. "Aaaaaaand done!" he drawled out triumphantly! Leaning back, his back popped so loud Leina actually heard it. Spinning the painting around, he held it from the top and bottom with a flourish, "What do you think?"

"Its…I'm…beautiful," Leina gasped as she stood up. Her own body ached from the prolonged period idle. A fighter's body wanted to move and stretch, yet she stood docile so long. What a typical wife would do, stay behind and let the man work. A wife she'd not have to be if she stayed with Shinji and accepted things. Taking the offered painting, Leina couldn't believe it, it was a trick, the man was trying to exaggerate her features to get her to buy his work. "Why didn't you make it accurate? I don't look this…" she shifted it to the side and just marveled.

Gathering up his utensils, the man shrugged as he wiped his stained hands across his smattered slacks. "That is as accurate as I could make it. I'm not an expert so I could only capture some of your loveliness. But why is a woman of your quality sitting alone here when you could be off at some fancy ball or something?" he gathered the coins and pocketed them without hesitation.

A con maybe, after Jessica's subterfuge Leina wasn't so willing to trust strangers. "You're trying to flatter me. But to what end?" did he want to get money or was it something more basic? Flatter her with this illusion of herself to trick her into bed? Handing the painting back, Leina's doubt raised when he gently took her wrist in his hand and pushed back. What was this man's game? "After all your work, you just give it away?" Leina doubted that.

"Well I'd like to ask you out for a meal, but I doubt you'd accept. I'm just a painter. And yes I do paintings for money, I did yours for free. You didn't ask, and its not good enough for what you're used to. But if you'd…I could take you for a nice meal…maybe paint you in a more removed place. I have a studio I work out of with other artists," he rolled on his feet, his shabby hair danced in the wind. Such innocence and light in his eyes made it hard to distrust him.

A test, that's what this was, wasn't it. Shinji had other women, this could be her other man. He was attractive, seemed genuine in his desires, not pushy or hard putting. Maybe this could be the end of one thing and the start of another. Alleyne's face and request flared into brilliant all encompassing light in her mind. What did Leina really want, and what was she willing to do to get it. It time to stop being a child about her relationship. Yes it was odd, yes she wanted ALL of Shinji's love, and she didn't think that was selfish of her.

"I'm flattered you'd ask, and more so for the painting. But…I'm in love with somebody else. We're to be married soon, if I'd stop doubting our intentions," Leina tried again to hand the painting back. When his grip only intensified and his smile lost some of that earnestness, Leina felt bad for him. "I'm sorry…it took me awhile to realize that even if I can't have all I want, I can be happy with what I have," she'd learn to accept. No more doubting, no more switching her feelings on the matter. It was time to accept her relationship with all the good and bad.

Taking Leina's hand, the man kissed the back of it once, "He is a lucky man. And I've no doubt he'll treasure you for the gem you are miss. Enjoy the painting as a wedding gift to the two of you?" With a bow, the man turned on his heels and started walking.

Reaching out quickly, Leina grabbed the man's shoulder and spun him around. She couldn't let it end like that, good men were hard to find and this poor man was one. Kissing his cheek softly, "Good luck to you Mr. Painter. I'm not worthy of this work of yours, I'm not worthy of a lot of things I've been give in life. But its up to me to make myself worthy of it." She let go of the man, her lips felt rough from the man's scraggly beard. It wasn't the same as kissing Shinji, it wasn't as nice.

The painter rubbed his cheek with a faint sense of awe as he walked off, leaving Leina to her own devices. Her stomach rumbled, time for Shinji to cook her something delicious. Time for her to tell him she was sorry. Nothing was perfect, and she was finally willing to accept things whole heartedly. No more going back on herself, doubting his affections, or doubting his honesty. He said he loved her and would always, Leina believed him. It was time to show that in actions and not words as she had.

When she got back to the church to collect him, Leina found Melpha walking to and fro in a huff. Seemed Shinji had been in his old room for most of the day in a funk, and Melpha was thinking of a way to brighten his spirits. Coincidentally Melpha had planned on asking Shinji out for dinner, so neither would have to cook. Leina took her first step in accepting things, and offered to take BOTH of them out for a well deserved meal. Leina could see that Melpha would have offered Shinji something else to ease his mind. She also knew that Shinji would decline, even if he wanted to for her sake.

But would it be so bad if Shinji spread his feelings about with the kind hearted priestess? Leina didn't think so anymore, she had started seeing things from Alleyne's perspective. Emotions weren't a finite thing, they could and should be shared freely. Tomoe…Shinji wouldn't mind if Leina continued to be Tomoe's friend, maybe just maybe…Leina's face burn red with the images in her head. What she had done with Echidna only with Tomoe instead! Sinful, but not dirty!

"Shinji hope you're hungry! I'm taking both Melpha and you out for…what's wrong?" Leina asked as she entered Shinji's old room. No Alleyne, Nowa, or Tiina. Just a very distraught and frazzled Shinji. First thing that came to Leina's mind filled her mind red with rage and bloodlust, "That bitch found you again? I'll kill her for sure this…"

Shinji grabbed Leina's arm and held it tightly. "N-not that Leina-san. But you'll…you'll be very angry with me. I almost…" he sighed and hugged Leina tightly. Whimpering in fear of reprisal or anger, "B-before Shizuka-san died, she forged my name on the wedding certificate with Claudette-san! I doubt the people here could tell my handwriting from another 'olive', or maybe they just didn't care…but…but…" He was pulsating in agitation next to her.

"It's alright, Shinji. It's fine. We'll…well we won't worry about it. Claudette is my sister, and it'll be odd, but she was denied much in life. Maybe this is a chance for her to get something better," Leina just hugged Shinji tighter until he relaxed. Claudette married to Shinji! But that was to be her place not somebody…NO! STOP! She just went over this. Accept what couldn't be changed, embrace what she liked…even if it meant being in a co-relationship with her elder sister. It was a hard stretch, but she could and would try.

X-X

It would only be a matter of time before she got to fight again, and Aldra couldn't wait for it. Boredom, that's generally what being the queen was like for her. Endless parades of bureaucrats trying to vie for power or promises, back handed deals, or bribing. It was tedious and boring. But sometimes, just sometimes, it was fun. The tournament always made her happy, got her blood up, and gave her something to look forward to! Who would it be, the last of the Hinamoto that escaped her purge, the daughter of the conniving duke, or her newly christened leader of the fang? Oh she got anxious just thinking about it.

"My Queen, I have news of the purge of the heretics the south. Sigui and her patrol have been successful in wiping out the cult of the Swamp Witch. That woman shows great promise," a tired looking man in dirty armor stated as he knelt. After proper respect was given, the man was obviously pained as he leaned back up with his hand over his chest. "They fought hard, a few prisoners have been caught and they are bringing them in now. It will be a few days till they return. We lost a few of our forces though," struggling to stand, the man stumbled yet kept his balance.

Waving her hand dismissively, Aldra couldn't keep her away from the upcoming battle. With a yawn, the man stuttered at her lack of care, "Your continued service to our great nation is always appreciated. The grand church is always in our good graces." Aldra hated the church! How had they gotten so much might without her knowing it! The standing forces of the crusade and inquisition were enough to almost rival her standing army! Had Vance courted the church and gained their favor, his coup wouldn't have to have been a secret to be successful. Shifting in her seat, drawing her blade she traced its edge with her thumb, "Was their anything else? Or did you have word on the little matter I asked you about?"

"Nothing else my Queen. As for your request about the male healer in our ranks, the pope has stressed desire to keep him under observation longer," the man openly bleed on the floor. Soft plinks of liquid dripped from him, not mortally wounded yet he was far from well. His hand fell numbly to his side and it the stream trickled down arm, "I have not been able to see the man. He is kept under strict watch by inquisition forces and Dame Melpha's personal watch." A warmth came over the man as he spoke Melpha's name with such reverence and gentleness.

That damn priestess! Aldra kept a viewing of that woman's sound defeat by the hands of the shrine maiden. "Please tell his holiness that all I want is to have the man moved into the castle. If it is necessary one of your order can move in to keep eyes on him. His lover wishes him to be closer. Inform the Pope that this is very important to me," Aldra leaned forward. What little faux warmth she had was lost in her denial. Filthy peasants getting in her way and denying her. "You may go," she waved off the man.

Two guards rushed to the man's side, loyal agents of the Fang, grabbed the man by the elbows as he sagged. They helped him leave Aldra's meeting chamber and back to the church and a waiting healer. Once the door shut, Risty stepped out of the shadows and stood at the queen's side.

"You heard the man. The pope is being stubborn with your man, my faithful dear," Aldra stood up and fixed her hair. Leading Risty deeper into the keep, towards her cherished room of torment, Aldra didn't like seeing Risty sad. "If we have to stage his death, we will do so to make you happy," Aldra wanted her subordinates happy. If her underlings were happy they performed better, and Risty was very skilled in her work. To lose such a skilled leader of the Fang because the pope held onto that man wasn't acceptable.

But that healer was a threat, so it was better to keep him under thumb as well. Two birds with one stone. Risty would keep the man as her trophy, would make Risty work harder, and would allow Aldra to keep eyes on the man who could produce something that could harm her.

Opening the double doors to the inner chamber, Risty kept her head down. "I understand my queen. But I don't know if I am worthy of him or your good graces. I failed to kill my target. I've progressed into the next round, and will not fail in it, but I didn't do as you wished," Risty shut the door after they both entered.

"Now-now Risty, his plot was exposed and now our spies tell his forces are disbanding. Likely his promises of power and rewards for aiding him are blowing up in his face. If it proceeds further, we might be able to strike him and end the corrupt Vance's hold over that region," Aldra felt her bloodlust growing. Caressing some of the amber statues, the cold touch of them was comforting. An almost complete collection, Aldra did regret some of those that escaped her. She had wanted Menace added to her display. But somehow that man brought the mummy back to life. The power of angels, she had to have it at her command! "Are you sure this man will be happy here?" would she need to entice him with others?

Standing before the statue of Lana and Cattleya, Risty examined the defiant pose the boy had as he was stoned. "Shinji and I have deep bonds of love and companionship. I know he will be happy here with me, once he is free of the taint he is living under now. My women have reports of him constantly surrounded and bothered by people. He will be much happier here with me," she forced herself away from the boy. Clutching her head, wobbling a little as something warred inside her mind, Risty fell against statue of a woman that was captured two Queen's Blades past.

"They are quite taken with you, I am pleased at how well you have integrated with them," Aldra was a little worried about that. The women of the Fang had taken to Risty much quicker and deeper than they had the previous leader. It would be a shame if Risty had to be removed if the Fang turned more loyal to the ex-bandit than her. If it had to be done, it had to be done though. Nobody could challenge her and be allowed to continue living, not until she found her sister. Everything was for her sister, and one day Aldra would find her! "Only three more battles until I am again named queen, Risty. And then we shall purge this place and get what we are looking for. Raise your head, we strive for the betterment of our kind," Aldra wouldn't lose, she couldn't lose.

X-X

Notes

Things are wrapping up at the same time they're escalating. The end is near, and people are finding their drive and needs. This is the last of the 'wishy-washy' Leina, she might have a moment or two of weakness but never to the same degree.

Hope you're still enjoying the story and were its going. I have to admit following the official QB timeline is a bit limiting and restricting. In the first arc it was a lot more open for me to do what I wanted, this is a bit more leading. In the next arc it will be more of my ideas and less forced. Hope you enjoy it all…

Later

Mercaba