Another chapter, I liked this one, mainly because we get Olga, Reginald along with all the Shields in a single room to glare at one another. I particularly like this one because this also reveals the current state of things for the story and how they are developing.

Not going to reveal anything else, I am mainly just going to let you enjoy the chapter and see how things happen.

The Hand of Suffering

Chapter 18: They Never Learn

Ken

The city was bustling with activity, it usually was on the main road to the Palace. The last time Olga moved down this road she was a prisoner, although not truly, but now she rode down the streets as a leader of a congregation. Behind her was a force of nearly a hundred, garbed in dark robes and armour, imposing and more daunting than even the Dawn Templar.

To her left was Chloe, Tykus and Glan, they could almost be considered her direct subordinates, as they often took order from her or never left her side. It caused her some amusement as Chloe would argue with Glan over his role in protecting her. He brushed off her words and simply followed his duty, and while Chloe may appear antagonistic at time it seemed a dynamic had formed between them. Perhaps it was their professionalism, the soldiers under Glan's command were dedicated and no nonsense, although she could say the same for any other company in the Hand of Suffering.

While to her right was Reginald and August Ballantine. Ludo and Clarissa had wished to accompany her but they had to maintain control over their cities and territory. Geoff and Feoh being under their respective control while she was away. But apart from them and her soldiers another had joined them, sitting between Chloe and Reginald was Alicia. While not far behind was a few of her Knights.

The Princess had come along to try and speak with Celestine, likely to try and gain support in retaking her city. After a month of futile negotiating and threats the Arcturus family had lost nearly all forms of support in the city, its people would rather serve the Queen of Thorns than the Knight of Iris. It was laughable, although she held her tongue, it appeared that the woman had become unhinged in the weeks since the mass executions of the traitors.

One poorly chosen word and she might snap, what happens after that is a mystery, and she had made a promise to Reginald not have her killed or harmed. In spite of that he didn't seem to care about the rest of the Royal Family, tragedy had struck only a few days before their departure.

Prim had disappeared.

That had been something that had taken even Olga by surprise. She had ordered the soldiers to search the palace and city for her, the people were still vengeful against the Arcturus family and Prim was still a close relative to Alicia. Harming her was the easiest way to harm Alicia, and in spite of everything even Olga couldn't bring herself to see harm befall the frail little girl.

But her attempts had ended before they began, Reginald had reported that she was not missing, but part of a group of refugees that have departed the city. Olga was surprised, not only because she had voluntarily left but because it seemed hundreds of others had as well. Without her knowledge, there was no word given as to where they were going but it was believed they were heading east, to the Untouched Valley.

Alicia had tried to force an answer as to where they were, even Olga questioned this at the time, but she never got an answer. All she could do was speculate, but even she didn't know if it was true or not.

"The people look scared." Chloe said.

"People fear what they consider dangerous and unknown, they know not who we are but they know Olga Discordia, it is expected that they would be afraid of our presence." Glan stated.

"Yes, it is true, I do possess a unique kind of infamy amongst the humans of Eostia. It is to be expected they fear me, even if they do not know me as the Dark Queen but as just a Dark Elf, I am feared all the same." Olga mused.

"That is not something to be proud of." Glan replied.

"Who says I am proud?"

"The smile on your face."

She laughed at that, there was no denying it really. If the enemy feared you it worked in your favour, although she would have liked it if they feared the retribution she would deliver onto them rather than the drivel they often feed the people to demonise her. They were terrified of the exaggeration the church drummed up rather than the truth, looking at her as if she was some dark deity that was coming to invade and conquer their city.

But considering the stupidity of these humans it was not surprising that it might happen. Who knows how this day might end, she may actually conquer this city and then lay claim to the rest of Eostia. For now she enjoyed the peaceful ride.

Coming to the steps of the palace she dismounted and walked up the steps, only stopping when a squad of Knight's barred their way. At least twenty were there, all had drawn their swords and were ready for a fight.

"Hold! You will disarm yourselves, we will not allow you to enter the palace so heavily armed." The Knight said, she was the same one that Olga recalled had tried to detain her when she first set foot in this city several months ago.

"No." Olga replied, making sure she was obnoxious with how she made the delivery and feeling some satisfaction with how they bristled. A few words and they were angry, it was so hilarious how easy it was to rattle their chain.

It made her worried that her wit might become dull if she didn't sharpen it against more intelligent adversaries. But what could you do? It seems only the stupid wanted to trade insults with her, and usually they were no fun and ended up repeating the same thing and over just to try and get a point across.

"You have no choice in the matter."

Claudia Levantine stepped forward, imposing as always and glaring down at her. Olga could do nothing but smirk haughtily up at the senior Knight, as if her being there was going make a difference. Honestly she herself would never wish to be this close to such a seasoned Knight, in fact she was preparing to leap away just in case the woman tried anything. Although she likely wouldn't need to do anything to defend herself, she had backup. The Hand of Suffering could take these Knights easily, and Reginald could end this vaunted Knight as well.

"I see no reason to do so. Now move aside, and take your glorified Knights with you." Olga said, waving her off as one would dismiss a servant.

"You will…" Claudia started, clearly not liking how she was being treated as a minor nuisance, before she stopped and drew her blade.

"Stop this stupidity." Reginald growled, stepping forward and standing before the Knight. "This is a summit, if you cause any incident that breaks down talks, you are doing more harm than you realise. Your queen gave you express orders, and us safe passage, do you wish to defy her?"

He looked down at the Knight, who seemed to back away, she was cautious and likely unwilling to face him and his potent power. When he had cowed Dawn Templar enough he turned towards her, and for a moment Olga believed that he was giving her a disapproving glare. How dare he do that to her in public, ruining that air of supremacy she was constructing.

"Hand your staff over to our soldiers, we go in unarmed." He said, drawing his scythe and passing it Glan who rested it in the saddle of his death steed.

The rest followed his example, although she had to give Chloe the command to follow it. But like her shadow she was hesitant to actually leave behind her weapon. Glan stepped forward and held out his hand, and with a sigh she gave up her stave to him.

All of Reginald's acolytes stepped forward, along with Captain Tykus and Chloe. They would be part of the routine, and their guard detail, not much of a guard detail when they were unarmed. Although perhaps they would not need them to fight, she was certain Reginald could keep them all safe regardless if he was unarmed or not.

Reginald nodded, before turning back to Claudia.

"My soldiers will remain here, lead us to the summit."

Celestine patiently waited, word had reached her several minutes ago that Olga had entered the city at the head of a hundred armoured warriors. That along with them were the werewolf and Alicia, she was glad to know that she was alive and well.

Word had reached them three weeks ago of Feoh's fall, having been conquered by the Black Dogs. But what truly surprised her was the message from Olga herself stating she had taken the city from Vault and now was ruling it. The news had shaken the Alliance, to know that two of the great fortresses of Eostia was now in the hands of Olga Discordia.

Claudia had all but begged to go to Feoh, leading an army to retake the city.

But she had forbidden it.

Besides, Olga Discordia was coming here, to begin negotiations. Nothing was said on what was to be discussed or brokered but she hoped to reclaim their lost territory or at least rescue the people currently being ruled over by the Dark Queen. She dreaded to think what kind of treatment they were being forced to endure, there was no telling what she might to do them.

The doors opened, and Claudia stepped inside alongside Alicia, both of them making their way to this side of the room. Celestine rose up from her seat to greet them, she was glad to see the young princess was alright. Although it gave her a start to not see little Prim by her side, she hoped that nothing had happened to her.

"Alicia, I am so relieved you are alright." Celestine said, clasping her hands and smiling.

The Princess returned the smile, although the pain in her eyes and smile were hard to miss. She had endured much heartache, the loss of her city and its subjugation at the hands of the Black Dogs and Olga Discordia would have broken anyone spirits.

"Thank you… my goddess…" Alicia said.

Celestine turned to the door, and her joy turned to anxiety. Standing there was Olga and the werewolf, along with an assortment of dark armoured knights. Composing herself she gestured to the opposite side of the table.

"Please take your seats." Celestine said.

Turning she moved to her seat, sitting down and to her side she regarded the Shields. Aside from Prim all were in attendance, a miracle in of itself, only achieved thanks in no small part to the knowledge that Olga was now ruling over Feoh. After news of this had spread Maia and Kaguya had come to Ken with all haste, fearing the possibility that their own fortresses might be in the path of this new and dreadful enemy.

But the division was still there, Maia and Kaguya sat far apart from one another, and while the latter did not show any ill will, the mercenary queen was not so considerate. Only glaring ahead at the arriving delegation, something that was not so uncommon as the majority of the nobility present were doing.

Olga ran her hand over the head seat, whoever takes that seat will lead the negotiations for each party. Their eyes connected for a moment, a flicker of amusement passed through them before she moved. To her surprise Olga passed the head seat and took the one next to it, smirking widely as she looked her in the eye. Then the werewolf took that seat, intertwining his claws and regarding her with cold glowing eyes.

The action alone spoke volumes of the situation. There were some quiet murmurs from her side of the table, none had expected the werewolf to take charge of the meeting.

Many suspected that Olga was leading this invasion, that the werewolf was a minion of hers. But it was the opposite, from what was done just now, this werewolf was the master and she was serving it willingly. How could I have done that? Gain her loyalty? What had it offered her?

That question was one of many that flew through her mind, but in truth she dreaded negotiating with this beast. It was intelligent and very cunning. She doubted that she could outwit something that had done it several times already with ease. She had to keep her guard up. The last few weeks she had done everything in her power to remain objective, burying her emotions to try and be pragmatic.

This werewolf had shown her how easily someone can control her, and this being before her was the one thing that could break her will with only words.

"Lady Celestine, you seem to be in good health and sound of mind. Have you learned your lesson?" He greeted, even with the harsh grinding of metal that came with his words it almost sounded casual as he asked her that question, no different than asking about the weather or how your day was.

However, those words were a heavy blow, one that she felt no small amount of shame over, already he had forced her to show a crack in her defences. Others seemed to take it as an offence, Claudia looked ready to leap from her chair and the nobles behind her were already spewing foul things from their mouths. They cursed and shouted, vulgar words left their throats, but they did not even blink as they were bellowed at. Olga looked amused, her smirk widening as she listened to them bark like wild dogs.

She raised her hand and calmed them, a few words and the chamber was quiet again.

"Did you do this on purpose? Incite me to attack just to shame me? To shame the Alliance?"

"Shame indicates guilt, the fact you acknowledged it means that you have learned. I am pleased to know that." He said.

"Your actions caused more harm than your realised, it nearly shook the very foundations of the Alliance apart."

"No. The pride and ego of your Shields did that and more." He responded, and she had no argument to give. "But let us hope that in these last few months that they have learned the tenants of humility. Otherwise, they might run afoul a similar fate as Alicia and her family."

Celestine didn't like his tone, but she would need to speak with Alicia. There was no way of knowing what the Princess had endured, what her family had been through under the yoke of Vault and Olga. She almost dreaded to know the details.

"But I am here to prevent such tragedy, this negotiation is not about past misgivings, it is about dealing with the Black Dogs and Vault." He said.

"Bullshit."

Celestine turned to the mercenary queen, the entire meeting she had been glaring at the werewolf and Olga Discordia. She had been like this since her arrival three days ago, she had been segregating herself from her fellow Shields and anyone else. She still held onto her disbelief at the idea that Vault had turned against Eostia, most of the nation believed he had turned.

Some groups were still sceptical, considering the source of the claim, and one of the spokespersons behind this movement was Maia. She had been vocal in preaching Vault's innocence, trying to make others see her side and believe as she did. It had done more harm to her reputation than before, the only reason she was still a Shield right now was because Celestine didn't wish to let her go.

If she did that it would mean the loss of the Rose Company, that mercenary company accounted to more than half of their seasoned soldiers. They outnumbered the Knight's of Iris, Dawn Templar and Samurai of Rad combined, they were a large force and they were skilled. If they lost them it would be a huge blow to their remaining forces, not even the levies they had brought on could match up to the skill and experience of the Rose Company.

"Vault isn't a traitor, more than likely when he found a way back Alicia attacked him and he defended himself." Maia said.

There was a short silence that followed. None wished to speak up, Maia was a volatile woman at the moment, so it was best to keep silent and not draw her ire. Many times she had tried to convince her but to go any further would result in her leaving, both the city and maybe the Alliance. Celestine couldn't have that, she needed her to remain, even a loose alliance would be better than separating from them. Because likely loosing them would also mean that Rad would be cut off from Ken, that couldn't be allowed to happen.

"I also suppose that him allying with orcs and pillaging the entire countryside can be explained away." Olga said aloud, obviously challenging her. "Please, enlighten us all as to why that man is innocent, I am so eager to hear what logic you will spew from your mouth."

"Lumping him with orcs, with monsters, he is many things, but he is not like you." Maia replied, glaring at the Dark Queen.

"But unlike him I am not a disgusting swine that enjoys raping woman at every given opportunity. I may have controlled those demons, but I never practiced what they did, Vault seems to have one upped me in that department." Olga said, smiling coyly.

"Lying bitch!" Maia yelled, slamming her fist onto the table. "I will not have you drag his name through the mud!"

"From what I hear you tend to step in before anything bad is said about the Black Dogs, how many times have you protected them and ignored all those twisted little things people call them?" Olga asked, smirking widely and taking extreme pleasure in riling up Maia. "I have heard so many bad things about the Black Dogs, they are not as heroic as you obviously think, that is if you actually are stupid enough to believe what you say."

"I know those men, I know Vault, for years I have been by his side and fought with him. I won't let some witch tarnish his name or that of the Black Dogs!" Maia yelled in response. "He is the best this nation has to offer, and now everyone wants to see them dead. I won't tolerate anyone speaking ill of him, especially you."

"I do not know if it is infatuation that is making her slow or if she was simply born as such." Olga said, giving a titter. "Honestly, you are an even greater fool than the princess if you believe such stupid reasoning."

"Shut it you damn witch!" Maia growled, rising from her seat and looking ready to lunge across the table.

"So easily provoked, I suppose whenever someone pokes holes in your love crossed fantasy you get scared. Afraid to see that perfect little lie of yours come crashing down. I only got to see the aftermath of it in Feoh, but to see it before would be interesting." Olga said, smirking, but she stopped when the werewolf glanced at her.

It was a silent exchange that had Olga look uncertain for a moment before she huffed in annoyance. He seemed to hold a great deal of control over her, enough that she was cowed into silence. He had control over his forces, she had to do the same, appearances were important and if her Shields were running around like children it spoke volumes. He may know already that the Alliance is in tatters, but if she can present a strong front maybe they can take charge of this summit.

At least she hoped.

"Maia, that is enough." Celestine said, being firm with her words. "Take your seat, I do not want another interruption."

The Mercenary Queen did so, after much internal deliberation and a few glares towards Olga and the werewolf, along with one towards Alicia.

"We do not know the details of what occurred in Feoh, what can you tell us?" Celestine asked.

"The details can be explained by Alicia after this meetings conclusion, as of now we need to discuss the impending battle ahead." The werewolf said. "Vault and his forces have been pushed back to the border fortresses, from there he will make his next move."

"What is his next move?" Celestine asked.

"Ansur."

Again Maia looked ready to say something but Celestine beat her too it, silencing her with a hasty question. "I can only assume he would wish to incite the people to fight for him, possibly also gain support from Zelindo."

"In part yes, most of his army was destroyed in Feoh, but in truth he is attempting to take Ansur so he can have access to the southern regions." The werewolf said. "The northern frontier has no viable farmland left, or any resources he can use, his only choice is to head south and take the breadbasket. With Feoh razed and the Untouched Valley no longer producing, the northern frontier is worthless. Also since you have broken trade with the majority of the other cities there is only one option left. Head south."

That made sense, a lot of sense, it just reminded her of how intelligent and dangerous this werewolf was. It was a cunning creature that had manipulated her and others, and was a strategist on par with some of her best commanders. But it also had command over a force that rivalled anything they had.

But what he says might prove to be valuable, if the Black Dogs are trying to get to the south it means that they are low on resources. If they didn't have food or provisions to survive for a long period of time they could be starved into submission. Even if they didn't have the numbers to fight them off she can force a surrender.

"If we stop them at Ansur, we can end the war."

"Correct."

That was good, if they could prevent the Black Dogs from breeching Ansur they could end the war in a few months. All it would take is a little time, and they could see the end to all conflict and finally have peace.

"You came here to broker an agreement with us. I assume that your army, The Hand of Suffering, will fight beside us against the Black Dogs?" Celestine asked, she received a nod from the werewolf. "I am not against such an agreement, but there will be some stipulation."

He inclined his head.

"First, Feoh will be returned to the Arcturus royal family, and will return to Alliance control. Second, Olga will be handed over to face justice for the many centuries of conflict and chaos she has inflicted upon this nation and its people. Finally, those of the Hand of Suffering will be given amnesty for their actions if they swear loyalty to Eostia and to fight for the sovereignty of this nation and its people." Celestine said.

She knew that this was a hard sell, as much as she knew that there was little to be gained for the people, she knew there was no other choice. Many had demanded that Feoh return to Alliance control and also that Olga be executed for her crimes. They had made no other stipulations, no other agreements to entice or sweeten the deal, it had been up to her. Given that Olga had already been put to death, on her orders no less, if she was to go back on it than there would be trouble. But she had been forced to be careful with her words, because the Hand of Suffering were people of the Untouched Valley. That alone made it tricky negotiating with them, because not only did she have to be careful not to offend them but also the nobility that still persecuted them.

Many within the Court still considered them traitors and heretics, to show them even a small amount of favour or even hint that they were not in the wrong was risky. She could not pardon these people based on nothing, not unless they made up for their 'supposed' actions against the crown and church. This was a way to solve that issue, and hopefully get the nobility to back down with any action they may take against them.

"I suspect that these requests were made by the men standing behind you. Is this your attempt to appease all parties involved without having to spur anyone? Not only is it horrendously impractical, it is also the height of stupidity." He said, the words were scathing and delivered as an insult, the way many bristled at its words showed it had the intended effect.

He saw through it quite easily, if it was Olga likely the deal would be thrown back in her face, but the werewolf was different. He liked to make you squirm and look at the mistakes in every little thing you did so you felt small and insignificant. She was certainly feeling that now, that the crown she wore and the authority she wielded meant nothing. Sad to say, she didn't think he was wrong.

"I have a counteroffer." He said, before gesturing towards the human beside him. "This is Guard Captain Tykus, formally the lieutenant of the City Guard of Feoh, having been promoted following the capture of the city from the Black Dogs. He will explain why I cannot agree to your demands."

Celestine was surprised, this human was part of the Feoh city guard? She had suspected he was part of the Hand of Suffering, but now she saw the familiar colours and crest upon his chest plate. He was of Feoh, born and raised. If he was part of the city guard why was he on that side of the table? Why was he on the side of the werewolf.

"When the Black Dogs invaded from the north, they destroyed everything, our military and production farms are all but nonexistent." Tykus said, rising from his seat to address them all. "The army that had been marshalled has been nearly completely annihilated, most of that army was composed of farmers from the frontier, as of this moment most of Feoh's population that hasn't been killed or captured has retreated to the Fortresses."

Looking to Alicia she confirmed it, giving a solemn nod. Then it was worse than she imagined.

"We lost most of our forces when the Dogs attacked, as of now only a few hundred of us are left, barely enough to police the city. What food and provisions we had were taken by the Black Dogs and spoiled." Tykus said. "With all the farmers dead, the villages destroyed, and not enough soldiers to protect the surrounding regions Feoh cannot sustain itself without outside help."

Celestine knew that the loss of all the farmland in a nation was devastating, while they usually didn't provide all the food for the cities and fortresses they certainly lightened the load. Feoh was the worst of the three nations, as the path to the Southern regions was longer than the rest, and getting food from the south was a long process.

"As of now the Hand of Suffering has thousands of troops in Feoh, they are the only source of protection we have against further attacks from the north. Along with being our only source of food, if not for them, Feoh would be defenceless and likely starving." Tykus said.

"That can change, food from the south can be brought in bulk. We can supply Feoh and Geoff easily. Troops can be brought in as well." Claudia said, quickly jumping in to likely try and give relief and try to convince the man that they did not need to rely on the Hand for protection. "We can have two thousand soldiers to you in a month, and the food in a weeks time."

It shouldn't be hard to get the needed conscripts to reinforce the cities. Even some of the Dawn Templar can help reinforce the Knight's of Iris. In a few short months Feoh might be back to being what it once was.

"Unless you can match the numbers of soldiers provided by the Hand of Suffering, along with the skill of their soldiers and the kind of aid they provide us daily, we cannot accept that proposal." Tykus said, rejecting the offer without any hesitation.

Celestine was surprised, he didn't even consider it, it was a flat-out no. It was at that moment she realised something, but she had to confirm.

"Why are you sitting on that side of the table? Why are you not standing with your Princess, and the Alliance?" Celestine asked.

"I sit here because the Hand of Suffering and Olga Discordia are better alternatives than the Arcturus Royal Family and the Alliance." Tykus replied.

The admission shocked them, the nobles hissed under their breath and spat curses at the man, but Celestine couldn't believe her ears. How could it be possible that they were more content to allow the Dark Queen rule over them rather than a family that has led them for generations.

"Explain yourself! What treason is this!" Claudia demanded.

"This isn't treason, I am following the will of the people along with keeping them safe." Tykus replied smoothly, scowl deepening as he glared at the senior Knight. "The Arcturus family has fallen from favour after the sacking of Feoh. The actions of the nobility along with the inaction and sheer stupidity of the royal family, especially the Princess over there, has led to them to siding with someone they trust over her."

"Because the city was conquered the people turn on the royal family? What madness is this? They are a proud people, they would not forsake the family that had led them for generations with dignity and honour." Claudia said.

"Maybe Olga put a spell on them all, turned all that menace onto someone else." Maia muttered.

"The people accept Olga because unlike the Princess she liberated the city from the Black Dogs. Alicia Arcturus willingly surrendered it to the Black Dogs, gave up without a fight!" Tykus barked. "Because of her thousands more died when they could have been saved, she failed the people and did it for her own sake rather than theirs!"

"I did so to prevent further loss of life! Had I not surrendered the entire city would have been brought to ruin!" Alicia shouted, jumping from her seat to yell across the table.

"It did nothing you fool! Me and Beatrice begged you to fight! And you ignored us! Like you always do! And look what happened! The city was pillaged without a fight! Had you fought we could have rallied the people, but you were too concerned with protecting your own family over everyone else!" Tykus yelled.

"…it failed because you didn't obey. Had you surrendered alongside me! Had you put down your swords instead of swinging them we could have negotiated! Vault broke the deal because you and Beatrice betrayed me! Ursula as well! Siding with the Dark Queen! It is all your fault! All of it!" Alicia yelled, her hands coming to her face as she smothered herself and fought back a sob.

Celestine could see the Princess was nearly on the verge of breaking down, tears were already in her eyes, but she fought them back with all her strength.

"Always blaming someone else." Tykus snarled. "Feigning innocence when is truth this only happened because of you. Corrupt nobles plotted with impunity because you ignored the truth. Many told you to root out the corruption, you ignored them, sent them away or outright threatened them to be silent. You knew that there were traitors in Feoh, you knew they were aiding the Black Dogs! You knew this entire time and did nothing! You cannot deny that anymore, we know the truth. Everyone knows the truth."

Celestine watched as Alicia fell into her seat, her eyes were distant but held in them was terror. She was breaking under the pressure, there was no way to know if what was being said was true but a part of her believed there was truth to it. Alicia believed it, but a part of her desperately tried to denounce it.

"If the Hand of Suffering leaves Feoh and Geoff the cities will descend into chaos, with no adequate protection or food there will be a massive exodus. If the Alliance or Arcturus family does regain control there will likely be open rebellion, without us there to quell such actions Feoh will be toppled. The nation will end up fracturing and likely ending up similar to Ansur." The werewolf said.

Celestine did not wish to think of the possibility, if Feoh collapsed the entire Alliance would be in turmoil. Even if Feoh no longer had the numbers to enact a similar rebellion as the Ansur Uprising it was still likely that the turmoil caused by the chaos would throw the Alliance into collapse. With the war against the Black Dogs looming they would not have any time to fix it, and then the Black Dogs could retake what they lost.

"Guess Feoh isn't as high and mighty as you say Alicia, and those people aren't so loyal anymore. Can't blame them, after knowing you for a few years it is no surprise they got fed up with a half rate Knight and Princess." Maia said, giving a mirthless smirk as she glared at the fragile Princess.

Alicia bristled, but before she could make a rebuttal Celestine stopped it. They were on the back foot right now, if Olga and the werewolf realised just how fragile this meeting was it could spell doom for them. Most of the Shields were not here by choice, having to be ordered or begged to come, this alliance was fragile.

But she doubted she could hide that anymore, it was widely known that the Alliance was in shambles following the Untouched Crusade. Having the Shields here was nothing more than a gambit to try and hide the truth of the matter, that they didn't have the strength of unity as they once did.

"With the fall of the Arcturus royal family, Olga Discordia has taken over the mantle of ruler of Feoh, both the city and nation. While Geoff has not fully accepted this, the city-state of Feoh has. If the Hand of Suffering or Olga Discordia were to depart, regardless if we were forced from the city or not, there will likely be open rebellion should anyone from the previous government or nobility try to take power." The werewolf said. "Given the hostility towards the royal family, which has resulted in several assassination attempts, it is unlikely that reintegration with the Alliance is possible at this time."

Celestine truly found it unfathomable that Feoh would side with Olga, that she herself would rule over them. Humans were her enemy, yet somehow, she had earned the trust and respect over the Alliance. If Tykus was an example of that, a dedicated soldier, who would turn to Olga for protection. Then the situation in Feoh was worse than she realised.

"Then I have no choice but to rescind my offer." Celestine said, she then looked to Tykus. "Are the people being treated well? Are they safe under her rule?"

"The people have food, shelter, and are being given proper care to cope with their loss. Olga has made efforts to keep the people calm and safe, she has not had to do anything unwarranted." Tykus replied, his words sounded sincere, but Celestine did not believe for a moment that anyone but herself could see that.

Despite that she nodded, if the people were safe than she could at least accept that. Even if others didn't believe it, a part of herself didn't either, than she had no choice but to accept the inevitable and leave things as they are. It was not like they could do anything else either, if they tried to take back the city they would waste resources and time fighting an enemy she didn't wish to face or know if they could defeat.

Their only option was to step back and not disturb the peace.

"Good, then we at least have nothing to worry about on that front." Celestine said, quickly going over the information in her mind before continuing. "You may remain in Feoh, to protect its borders and people."

She knew that everyone around her was shocked, their gasps and indignant cries were heard but she ignored them. There was nothing she could do without causing an incident that would see to the collapse of her entire nation. If Feoh fell, they were doomed. If Olga and the Hand of Suffering remained it at least allowed them to gain their support, if the Hand was willing to work with them then maybe this will earn some favour from them.

"If you help us defeat the Black Dogs, provide support to our forces, amnesty will be offered. Not only to those in the Hand of Suffering, but to Olga Discordia." Celestine said, that was the best deal she could give.

If Olga was making a good impression on Feoh than she couldn't risk upsetting them. If Feoh rebelled Eostia was finished, Ansur was already breaking away, and as of now they had no choice but to rely on the Hand and Olga for support. The werewolf was in charge, and right now he was definitely the most powerful military leader on this continent. As much as she values all her Shields abilities, she knows Vault is more powerful then they were, and this werewolf is mightier than he.

She had no choice but to rely on him.

"But the Alliance needs to face this as one, as a whole, divided we will fall." Celestine said. "Vault is a powerful foe, and if the Alliance and its people are divided, if our fortresses are divided. Against him and his orcish allies. There may be no hope."

"I have two demands for this alliance." The Werewolf said. "Given that Olga Discordia now commands two of said fortresses, and given that we will be working together in the future. Make her a Shield in place of Alicia Arcturus."

Celestine felt her heart skip at the suggestion, her eyes were wide and the entire room was silent. It was quiet, so dreadfully quiet. Then there was shouting, threats and vile language thrown about the room.

"Like hell that will happen!"

"Monster! That witch doesn't deserve the honour!"

"Kill this thing already!"

Celestine called for quiet, but looking around she could see the venom in all their glares. Even her Shields, those who stood with her and the others that were threatening to leave, were united in their shared anger at the suggestion of making Olga Discordia a Shield.

"You said so yourself that with your fortresses divided that you are divided, given that Olga now rules over Feoh is it not logical to make her a Shield and reunify the seven Great Fortresses of Eostia?" The werewolf said, he was playing with her words and using them for his own benefit.

There was no way it could be allowed, she had stepped far enough by offering amnesty to them and Olga. But to do this, before she has done anything that can prove she had paid for her crimes, it would incite rebellion here instead of Feoh. Goddess or not she would be looking at infighting and likely a fracture in the Alliance. Not to mention her Shields would abandon her if she accepted the request.

She couldn't do that, she needed them, more than ever. Even if the Hand of Suffering was her best option of success she needed her Shields and their strength at her side to stand a hope of maintaining this nation. For she did not believe that this werewolf would honour his word, that after the Black Dogs had been dealt with that they would turn their blades upon them and conquer this nation. In a way they were using the Black Dogs as a means to show themselves as liberators and heroes, while showing how weak the Shield Knights were in comparison.

Sadly it was working, and if she capitulate, it would end badly for them.

"I cannot in good conscience do so, not without good reason." Celestine replied.

"Then let us move on. The second request: supreme military command will fall to me." He said.

Now that caused an uproar, louder than the previous outrage. Claudia had shouted at him, rising from her seat and reaching for her sword, barely contained was her anger. The demands of the nobility behind her encouraged her to kill the creature and Olga. To end this once and for all.

Why was he doing this? He came here to start these negotiations and now he was breaking them apart? He was after something, this was a ploy of his. Whatever he was after was not an Alliance with them. But if he was serious than those demands were simply too much of a price to pay, it would see to the end of everything she built and likely the end of this nation. Maybe even herself.

"Until you can calm yourselves there is nothing more to discuss. We will part here for now." He rose from his seat.

"You are not going anywhere!" Maia said, reaching for her swords and moving to confront them, Claudia was not far behind.

"This will be your only opportunity, surrender yourselves. I will not ask twice." Claudia said, moving in front of the door and pointing her sword at the werewolf's chest.

"The sheer arrogance and pride of your people is astounding, how quickly you forget how outmatched you are. How vulnerable. Because even without my scythe, you should know you have no chance of winning. None of you do." The werewolf said, turning he looked at Celestine. "Why do you surround yourself with the inept and foolish, do they not think beyond the moment? Can they not see the consequences of their actions? I am sure you know what will happen when the blade descends."

She knew, by the gods she knew what would happen in the next moment and what would happen in the following few weeks. Everyone in this room would be dead and then this entire city would be razed along with all the others.

"Claudia. Maia. Stand down, let them pass." Celestine ordered, rising from her seat.

"You can't be…!"

"Maia. Move aside, now!" Celestine ordered firmly, before looking to Claudia. "Lady Levantine, do as you have been ordered."

She watched as her greatest Shield tensed, never before has she spoken to her in such a way, never said her family name before her first. Claudia backed down, lowering her sword and marched away, there was tension in her features. She did not wish to back down but her loyalty won out over her anger.

Maia was another case, her anger kept her there for a few moments before she backed off. But unlike Claudia, whose loyalty she could never question, she knew that a rift had been formed. One that had forced the mercenary queen further away from her than she would have liked.

"I will provide accomodations for your delegation, I will send a servant to guide you." Celestine said, she had to try with all her might to keep the frustration from her voice, but it was a losing battle. She openly glared at the werewolf and Olga, they had made a mockery of them and now were flaunting their strength.

"You have till tomorrow to give us your answer, we depart after." The werewolf said, exiting the room.

There was silence there, festering anger, much was directed towards the werewolf and Olga. But she knew not all of it was for them, some of it was certainly for her.

She had called her Shields to a private meeting, they were still fresh from the previous negotiations with the Hand of Suffering and Olga. Tempers had not settled, but there was little time to waste now, they had a deadline and they could not waste it. They had to figure out what to do, where everyone stood and then try to figure out a way to make this work for them.

Even if all of it seemed impossible.

"I know many of you are angry, at Olga, at the Hand, at each other. But please, we need to discuss this, we are the unifying force that keeps this empire together. We fight one another and we are doing more than tearing at each other, we are tearing people and nations apart." Celestine said.

"Tearing apart? You gave Olga my city! You believed them and that traitor when they said that the people venerate her! She is manipulating them! They are forced to obey her because there is an army of heretics roaming the streets with a monster at their head." Alicia said. "My people need their rulers back, people that can protect them! Who are honourable and just."

"I bet the people have that now. That Tykus guy only joined her because he hated you more! I bet he was raised to hate Olga Discordia like every good boy should, and in the end, he hated you more. I can understand that. I hate you more than her!" Maia said.

Back to arguing again, barb was traded, but unlike Maia whose fire never seemed to die Alicia slowly crumbled under the verbal barrage. Insulted and belittled, her beliefs challenged were tearing down what was left of her likely fragile sanity at this point.

Claudia came to her pupils rescue, forcing Maia to back off, while giving the Princess some support.

"You need to consider this carefully, at the moment the Hand of Suffering is likely the most powerful military force on this continent. Along with highly experienced. If they are responsible for holding off orc attacks for the last five years in the Untouched Valley, they may be on par with the Black Dogs." Kaguya stated, calmly analysing the situation and coming to the same conclusion Celestine had.

"Yes, if the entire Valley is part of the Hand there has to be at least twenty thousand soldiers, even if it is half of that it still makes them more powerful than what we have on hand." Celestine said, their own army was small and fresh, inexperienced troops and conscripts that have never held a sword in their life or seen battle.

That was slow to change, they had been trying to raise an army and get it battle ready. But Claudia had revealed that she doesn't believe they could reach a level where they could be considered reliable soldiers in only a few months. Not unless they were given some intense training, something that Celestine believed would be their only choice soon.

The Hand was far from an ally, they had to be prepared to fight them when the time came. Because in the end the Alliance didn't have the strength to oppose them, they could likely invade this city with ease and conquer them without much effort. The thought scared her, that they were that powerful, and they were created because of her.

Many members of the Hand, their leadership especially, were people that had history with her or the other Shields. Disgraced nobles, silenced priests and nuns, former knights, criminals, even former magistrates and military officers. Each and every one of them had some sort of connection to her or the Shields, to say she was responsible in some respects would only be denying the truth.

"They proved their strength by driving out the Black Dogs and orcs, along with capturing Geoff. No small feat." Kaguya added. "If you agree to their terms the Hand will all but assure you victory. Along with security for the entire nation."

"You sound like that Tykus bastard, you want to hop into bed with the Dark Queen too?" Maia said.

"No, I am giving my honest opinion of the matter, but most of all. I am telling you it is your only option to survive. If you don't accept this deal, Eostia is finished. And I will not remain here to watch this nation burn to ashes." Kaguya said.

Celestine felt her stomach turn into a knot, what she was saying was clear as day.

"You would abandon us?" Celestine asked, she knew she should have expected this, but couldn't help but feel betrayed.

"The emperor has heard of what is happening here, he is displeased that this nation has not improved since your rule. He has demanded my presence back in the Capital, I am likely to face him and explain how this oversight was not discovered in the years I have been here." Kaguya said, she sounded both angry and scared, as if this fate that was befalling her was the fault of another and the punishment was terrible to endure.

"It you leave, everything will collapse. Ansur will descend into chaos. The Alliance will crumble." Celestine said.

Ansur was maintained and governed by three major cities, Rad, Zelindo and the city of Ansur. Zelindo was originally meant to oversee the acquisition and distribution of food from the Untouched Valley, following its defection it has become a city of criminals and traitors. Ansur was too far south and isolated by the Beast Swamps and Forests to really be an authority on the northern-most parts of the region.

But Rad was the only form of law and authority in the region now, they were the only force that could truly keep the region under control and maintained. If they left, the entire region would be up for grabs, Zelindo and the Black Dogs would have nothing in their way in taking over the region and all its villages.

"It will collapse regardless if I stay or not." Kaguya replied. "You catered to the nobles, allowed them to do as they pleased. Most of them are corrupt, and like Alicia you ignored the signs or simply did nothing. Now you have traitors surrounded you on all sides."

Kaguya stepped forward and stood before her. There was steel in her eyes, a reproachable glare that even made Celestine falter.

"You know that you cannot win. Take the deal." Kaguya said.

"What?" Maia said.

"You expect us to grovel and obey them?" Claudia said, shocked and horrified.

"You have no choice, there is no other way. The Rose Company will not raise a single sword to fight the Black Dogs. The Iron Legions of Thorn cannot head north of Ken, as the nobles have prohibited such actions due to their prejudice. The Dawn Templar have not the numbers to repel the enemy and can only defend this city and Ur." Kaguya stated. "You have nothing left to fight with, nothing to bargain with, take the deal, hope for the best. Because right now, they are a better alternative than having Vault and the Black Dogs conquer you."

Maia stormed from the room before Kaguya could finish, her opinion on the matter was decided and Celestine knew that she would do exactly as Kaguya has said. There was no way that she would raise a sword against Vault, even if they crossed blades it was likely she would not have the will to face him head on.

"She hasn't changed, just as stupid as always." Alicia said.

"And neither have you changed, Princess." Kaguya said, turning and departing.

That was it then, they had just lost Kaguya and the Samurai of Rad, they had no one left to fight for them. Luu-Luu had promised to go and try to convince Maia to remain, it was a futile gesture, there was no way her remaining here would change things.

"Alicia… what happened in Feoh?" Celestine asked.

She needed to know what happened there, before and after the Black Dogs took the city.

What she learned was heartbreaking, for all the effort put into ensuring the defence of Feoh it crumbled under a single glaring flaw. Alicia never suspected or even attempted to learn of the nobilities crimes, to confront them, instead she ignored it. Because of that Beasley had been able to counter every plan, and because she never doubted the border fortresses and the nobles that protected them it allowed the Black Dogs and orcs to enter her nations borders.

Along with Geoff falling to infighting and herself being drawn the city to combat orcs that rampaged across the countryside, the battle had been lost. Eventually when she returned to Feoh she found the city in flames, its people at the mercy of the Black Dogs and Orcs, only when reaching the palace did she learn of Beasleys duplicity.

He demanded her surrender, threatening that violence would fall on her family and the rest of the city if she did not give in.

She surrendered.

But in the end her mother and aunt were still raped, the people were tormented through the night by rampaging mercenaries and orcs. Thousands died, her family torn apart and her aunt raped to death while her mother now lies in a catatonic state.

"And Prim?" Celestine asked, dreading the thought that something foul had befallen the bright young girl.

"She was unharmed, but she suffers still, and now she has fled the city, along with refugees to places unknown. Carted off by that demon." Alicia said.

She was so weak now, Celestine never would have thought such a proud Knight could become so timid and defensive. Everything she knew was falling apart around her, the state of the city was worse than they realised.

The mass execution of the traitors in the city, she spoke in detail how they allowed the people to carry out the slaughter. Giving them weapons to murder these men, hacking and tearing them apart, driving the men and woman mad with blood. In the end when all was said and done, the blood of hundreds littering the plaza, the people wanted more.

She herself nearly was killed, a man charging her, and other following, to try and murder her. They demanded her head, her families, every one of the nobles.

Alicia had gone quiet then. Celestine could not begin to imagine the turmoil within her heart, even she baulked at the idea of justice that had been carried out in Feoh. How could the people do such things? How much pain and suffering had they endured to make them commit such savagery.

"Did I do the right thing?" Alicia finally asked, looking up at her.

"What?" Celestine asked, her throat started to go dry and her heart hammered in her chest, she was afraid to say anything else.

"Did I do the right thing. Should I have sacrificed myself? Would it have changed everything? I know that, but what do you think? Do you think I should have kept fighting?" Alicia asked. "I know that I made the right choice, innocents were in danger, I had to do everything I could to save them. But Beatrice and Tykus, they are to blame, had they not disobeyed it would have worked."

She was muttering now, saying one thing but arguing with herself the next.

Claudia came forward, taking her protégée by the shoulder and leading her from the room. Whispering words of encouragement to her, trying to bring her back from the brink. Doubt tore away at the young Princess and Knight, it was only a matter of time before she succumb.

"What do you plan on doing now?" Phelorna asked.

"I could use some advice, what would you do?" Celestine asked.

"Even I would be unable to give a definite answer, where you stand now is upon a wall so high you will have no chance to scale it once you descend. You must pick a side, for good or ill you must choose one." Phelorna stated. "You cannot escape the consequences that come from either, all you can do is make sure that whichever you choose has a future where there is a bright ending."

She couldn't see it.

There was nothing but darkness ahead of her, and she had no way of choosing which side she should fall on.

He was up to something.

Like usual she was being left out of the loop, why was he so untrusting of her? Or more why was he not revealing his plans until they were hatched and causing mayhem and destruction all around her. More times than not she was caught unaware of what was going to happen.

She didn't know about the mass execution that was going to be carried out, well she did, but not that it was going to be a slaughter carried out by the people. That had been something she was terrified of being a part of, she was right in the middle of the slaughter when it was going down. If there were any people that wanted her dead as well there was little chance she could have fended them all off.

Along with taking Prim Fiore from the city, with hundreds of others. Whom he had told no one where they were going or what they were doing, so many were concerned.

Now he wanted to commence negotiations with the Alliance but breaks them down by making outrageous demands that he knew would be rejected on the spot. Although she could say that Celestine and those Shields were being unreasonable, the Alliance made some very stupid calls as of late. They wanted her head and to kick the Hand of Suffering out of Feoh so they could take it back. While offering amnesty to people that were wronged rather than had done the wrong thing.

It was hilariously hypocritical. The Alliance didn't have a leg left to stand on, right now they were trying to appear strong but it only made it more obvious just how weak the had become. Instead of capitalising on that Reginald had decided to egg them on to the point that they backed out just to spite them.

He was doing this for a reason however, he never made stupid mistakes or bad calls. There was more to this than he was letting on, and she couldn't figure it out. What kind of angle was he playing right now, truthfully it had almost become a game to try and figure it out before he surprises you. Sad to say these last few have not been so much fun.

"Why did you do that?" Olga asked, sitting on the lounge and looking at the werewolf who leaned against the windowsill.

The room they had been given was spacious, a nice large bed and several adjoining rooms so the rest of the party could rest in comfort. She had joked on which side of the bed she was getting with the guest, she did so love trying to rattle those Captains in the Hand of Suffering, it never worked however. They were as interested in her as anyone was attracted by the shade of paint on the wall.

At least Chloe became flustered by the remark, along with Tykus. Although Glan had to make a crack at how the men would sleep in the next room, saying that her lecherous advances ran the risk of tainting them. He did a gender flip on her and made it sound like she was some prevented man attempting to steal a maidens virtue, it had annoyed her as much as it made her laugh. She would have loved to keep going but he had scurried off before she could get a word in.

Now she was left in the room with Chloe and her new 'master'. Who was sitting there looking out over the city like nothing was wrong. She still didn't know what was going on or what was going through that werewolf's head. It was starting to annoy her being left out of the loop.

"To get it out of the way." Reginald replied, not bothering to look her way. "When they are desperate for my support, next time I offer this up they will have no choice but to accept. If I suggest it when they need it more than ever they will reject my proposal. They need to know it is the only option they have to gain my support and protection."

"You think they will do that? These humans are too arrogant to even consider asking help from an enemy. Also Celestine will never agree because those nobles have her wrapped around their finger, she doesn't do anything without consulting them and that is why they won't do it." Olga said.

"Those nobles will do anything to survive, but I am not betting on them to make this decision. Not when I have Celestine, I want her to accept the decision, make her decide for herself that this is what is best for the Alliance." Reginald replied. "I gave her a single avenue of success, submit or be conquered, she had no other choice but to accept my proposal or she will lose everything."

She knew for certain that Celestine did not make the decision lightly, no ruler should honestly give up their nation on a whim. But she wasn't even a ruler at this point, not when others were making the decisions for her. That girl was nothing more than a mouthpiece that did as the nobility wanted, she wasn't a Queen that led, but a figurehead that did as she was told. She might have been spurred into action once but that was out of anger and she did what the nobles wanted in the end.

"Besides, even if she accepts the Alliance is torn apart, actually torn apart mind you. She is afraid of that, if she agrees everything she has done until now is in vain." Olga said.

She knew that Kaguya and Maia were on the precipice of leaving the Alliance, Celestine knows she cannot risk them leaving. Even if their departure would mean absolutely nothing in the long run, she held them close because they were the symbol of an ideal she had created. That they represented the different people, ideologies and classes together into a single unit.

"The damage is done, there is no way she can repair it. But I can fix it. And bring them all together again. You see I know exactly what is going to happen, and I know how fragile the Alliance is right now. But I plan to unify them all again. When Celestine sees that, she will not only accept my proposal, but also support it." Reginald said, turning and looking to the door. "Enter."

Olga turned to the door and raised a brow, she had not heard a knock.

The door opened and Glan stepped inside, behind him were three soldiers, all woman and wearing the colours of the Rose Company. Now why would some of Maia's own soldiers come here? Assassins? No, they wouldn't have come with so few and unarmed. Besides she suspected if the Mercenary Queen wanted Reginald dead she would have come herself and with a lot more soldiers.

They stepped forward and stood before the werewolf, their wariness was apparent but the leader of the group looked up at him with steel in her eyes.

"Is it true, is Valeska serving with you? A leader of an army under your command?" She asked.

"Correct, she is one of my two generals leading the majority of my soldiers. I assume your received her letter." Reginald said.

"Yeah, we did." She said, for a moment she took a breath, she stood up straight and the next words out of her mouth actually surprised Olga. "You have my support and my men, along with theirs. What do you need us to do?"

Olga smiled, it seemed that not everyone in the Rose Company was so loyal. Maybe this was what Reginald was really after.

"I need a way into Ansur."

Celestine's expression was that of tranquility.

Nothing blossomed upon her face, she kept her emotions in check, it was a more benevolent mask in comparison to those worn by the Hand of Suffering. This was a serious matter, she could not let it grow out of control. The majority of the nobility were present, all of them waiting for her to make the declaration. To either accept aid from the Hand of Suffering or to reject their offer.

Between the two crowds of nobles were Olga Discordia and her entourage, she had taken the roll of the delegation leader. It would seem that the werewolf wanted to keep its own importance a secret, a poorly guarded one mind you, but in truth she knew it didn't matter if they knew or not. Going against someone like that was going to end horribly for anyone. Yet it seemed that people didn't give it much attention, instead focusing on Olga and glaring at her with varying degrees of disdain.

"Olga Discordia." Celestine said, looking at the congregation before her.

The werewolf and the rest of these acolytes that served him stood not far behind, she knew not his name and that was something that truly irritated her. The illusion that Olga was in control of this situation was being played, and she seemed to be soaking up the attention with the way she smirked. It was all a game to them, they played it as if they were simply out to enjoy themselves, and the laxness they displayed was truly difficult to tolerate.

The safety of their nation was at stake and these people were waging war and behaving as if it didn't matter.

"I have heard your words and you have offered your demands, but I cannot agree to them." Celestine said. "To surrender onto you and give you power over this nation would be no different than surrendering to the Black Dogs. I will not do so, and neither will anyone in this chamber agree to it."

She couldn't risk the Alliance crumbling, if she accept even a single demand the entire nation would be torn apart by infighting. Likely they would rebel against her rule and also try to fight the Hand of Suffering, that would end everything. Her only choice was to try and gain an advantage to level against theirs, so that they had an even playing field should they negotiate again.

It was a futile thing really, even she could not deny that what was to come would bring ruin onto this nation. But how could she not choose this, they could fight the Black Dogs and possibly win or fight the Hand and Suffering and most certainly lose. Even if they agreed they would still end up fighting them, and the outcome would be the same.

"I ask one last time for the Throne of Feoh to be returned to the Arcturus family." Celestine said, she had been pressured to try and regain Feoh and restore the monarchy, it was a pointless gesture but it kept the nobles from pestering her. "You may remain as well as the Hand of Suffering, but that city and its people are of the Alliance. They are our responsible to lead and guide."

Olga looked on for a moment, her smirk still present and then she let out a small huff. Abruptly turning around to walk to the door, no reply given. Alicia, who was sitting upon her seat amongst the Shields, jumped from it to try and run after them. Words about to leave her lips but before she could Olga silenced her.

"Stay there Alicia Arcturus, you will not be returning with us to Feoh." Olga said, not slowing her stride.

That was something that stopped the Princess cold, and for a moment Celestine felt her heart clench. She couldn't possibly mean to do that?

"You dare bar me from my own city!"

"It is my city now, and its people are mine. You are unwelcome, your family and your Knights are unwelcome, the people have spoken and I am tired of ignoring their pleas. As of now, the Arcturus family and the Knights of Iris are banished from Feoh." Olga said aloud.

Celestine had not expected this turn of events. With her power and the might she had with her there was no way she could challenge it. Shocked murmuring broke out through the hall, this kind of power play was used often to flaunt one's strength. Olga was doing that very well, she was showing her strength against not only the Arcturus Family but against Celestine Lucross as well.

"Is this a childish attempt to hurt us for rejecting your demands?" Celestine asked, frowning at Olga and hiding her true anger towards the Dark Elf.

"No, this is punishment for a spineless and weak ruler who cannot do anything unless she gets the approval of this sorry lot." Olga replied, turning with a flourish and gesturing to the many nobles. "You are surrounded by sycophants and corrupt men who have more sway than you, and your closest allies are inept at their duties and better served as ornamentation than actual leaders."

Shouts and insults went flying, even before she had spoken up, but she only fanned the flames. She soaked it up as if it was praise, smile widening as she basked in the hate. This was her element, surrounded by angry people and revelling in how she was literally untouchable, that no matter how they felt they could do nothing to harm her.

"There they go again, how little you can control them. How weak your rule is that you are afraid to make a decision for fear that someone will not like it." Olga said, laughing as she turned around. "Honestly, it is the same folly that led to Feoh falling to the Black Dogs. She trusted the nobility too much and so do you."

But as she neared the door she stopped and glanced over her shoulder, her words now carrying a dangerous warning.

"You should be careful Celestine, after all, the last time you failed to heed the warnings given to you it led to Feoh, Ansur and Rad abandoning you." Olga said. "Do you wish for more cities to burn because you don't have the nerve to make the hard choices?"

The doors to the palace slammed shut, there was a momentary silence before the room broke out in mewling cries from the nobles. They all argued with one another, speaking their minds and prattling about honour and dignity.

Many of them called out for her to gather their armies, to fight against Olga and the Hand. They wanted to go to war now, to fight and finish what they started months ago in the Untouched Valley. They did not care about the Black Dogs at the moment, they didn't care for the suffering around them. It was just like them, all about what they wanted.

"Enough!"

Her shouted shook the very stones of the palace, her magic unleashed for but a moment and forcing all to stop. Many were taken aback, terrified at the sudden power that had been displayed, she wanted them silent and quiet. They had seen her when she was angry, they would know better now than to question her.

"Gather our troops, every soldier we can, all noble houses will pledge a tithe to the war effort. We will marching to Ansur, to support the city when the Black Dogs arrive. Any Noble that does not pledge their support will be investigated under suspicion of treason." Celestine yelled.

They balked at the ultimatum, she was not going to let them run the show, she was the Queen and she was going to make them remember who they were fighting. If she had any doubts about what to do she didn't anymore, she was making her own choices and not letting anything get in her way. Olga had pushed her, she wasn't angry or vengeful, she was focused and knew what she had to do.

If she didn't, who knows who else would have suffered.

"You can't be serious!" Maia said, rising from her seat.

"Maia, you will mobilise the Rose Company in defence of Ansur, and prepare for an attack from the Black Dogs and Zelindo." Celestine said, eyes still facing forward and looming over the nobles.

"This is wrong. The Black Dogs are not…"

Maia was thrown back, a powerful magical wing slammed into her and threw her back into her chair. She slid back and into the wall, coughing as the air that was forced out of her lungs was greedily sucked back in.

Celestine walked forward, reigning in her power, looming over the shocked and slightly terrified Mercenary Queen. She had enough of this, her actions would lead to Ansur becoming just like Feoh, torn apart and with tens of thousands of people dead. Her attempts to shield the Black Dogs from blame had proven to be a major obstacle that not only threatened Maia's own authority but undermined her own. That could not be allowed to happen any long.

"You are a Shield Knight, I gave you that title and the authority of my sovereignty, I can take it away! If you do not do as instructed, as you are obligated to do, I will strip you of your titles, your standing, your Company and your freedom." Celestine warned, her eyes narrowing. "And your life."

Maia could do nothing but look up like a frightened child, unable to do anything but taking in terrified breaths. This was not a threat, it was a promise of what would happen if she did not do as she instructed. No more defending the enemy, no more denouncing their crimes, she would accept this and do as she was told. If she made another attempt, did anything that undermined the Alliance, she would have her in chains, tried for treason, and executed.

Traitors were abound now, and she could not risk them undermining them now. It was time she focused her energies on rooting out the rogue elements within her own forces. If there were traitors in Ken as there were in Feoh, she would find them and have them eradicated. If she wanted to protect this nation, to do what must be done, than she would, and this time she would do it right.

"Do your duty, protect Ansur and its people. Otherwise you will be replaced. And the rest of this war you will sit in a cell or in a grave."

Maia looked away, only giving a nod and small murmur of agreement, the rest of the Shields watched transfixed in shock. Never had they seen her do such a thing, to lash out like that, but it had to be done.

A firm hand was needed now. She had to wonder if this was also the plan, that werewolf had been able to stroke her anger, maybe he was doing the same now. Not that it mattered, like her anger she was now trapped in this feeling, unable to do anything but follow it to the end.

"Feoh was one catastrophe that can not be allowed to repeat, I will not allow it to befall another city while the strength to stop it remains. There will be no more mistakes, no more failings, we fight the right enemy this time." Celestine said, looking at the nobles, daring them to speak up and challenge her command.

They were cowed, unwilling to do anything that might provoke her, she had been less than merciful on her own Shield, what would they suffer through if they did no obey? That is how it should be, how it must be. This had been a valuable lesson, to her and to these nobles, she was in charge and no one but her was going to decide the fate of this nation.

"Go. Prepare for war."

There you have it. Reginald is moving towards Ansur and Celestine is planning her next major offensive against the Black Dogs and any supporters they have in Ken. She is going full boss mode on anyone that goes against her.