With the Black Cidital in the hands of the Kuroinu, they all celebrated raiding the wine cellar and kitchen eating and drinking like there's no tomorrow. The Bounty Hunter however didn't celebrate for he didn't complete the job yet. A few hours have passed most of the Kuroinu were either passed out drunk or just idling about
Getting away from the party the Mandalorian enters an empty bedroom. He walked over to the bed and sat pulled out the tele-stone it's time for his report his success to the Goddess
"Lady Celestine are you there?"
"Dredgen!" Celestine's voice came on she sounded surprised "What brings you to call me at this hour"
"Well, I have good news, your Highness I have captured Olga Discordia and I will be returning with her soon."
There was a slight pause until he heard joy from Celestine
"That is marvelous news, Dredgen!" Celestine couldn't believe it "I knew you were able to do it as expected from the Guilds Top Bounty Hunter.
"Thank you, Lady Celestine. I'm also bringing along her Handmaiden Chole as well
"Her handmaiden?" Celestine sounds surprised "You manage to capture her too?
"Yes. Olga agreed to come quietly if I bring her Handmaiden with us"
Celestine on the other line was shocked to hear Olga would come quietly, perhaps because Dredgen is a Mandalorian and respects their warrior culture.
"I see that is wonderful news. To capture both Olga and Chloe You will be awarded a bonus for your great effort!
"Thank you, Lady Celestine. Vault will likely send a messenger group to the White Citadel soon to notify your Alliance about their success in taking over the Black Citadel. We will tag along with them and we will be there in a few days perhaps.
"That is good. I will wait for your arrival Dredgen until then I wish you well."
"You as well Lady Celestine."
After getting some rest, The Mandalorian decided to explore the Black Citadel. It's not everyday he gets the chance to roam around a fortress this large.
The first door he opens The Bounty hunter sees many columns of bookshelves almost high to reach the ceiling. This is the Grand Library of the Black Citadel he figures. Walking through the library Dredgen was in awe at the sheer number of books he has never seen so much in one place. So many books, so many sources of wisdom he may find.
Walking around the library he noticed a door slightly open. There was a red glow emitting from inside. His curiosity peaked and decide to take a look. Opening the door the Bounty Hunter noticed right away a vast array of books, flasks, potions, and scatter notes all over the place. This was a laboratory but what caught his attention the most was the giant red crystal standing 30 feet high.
(So this is it?) Dredgen said in his head
He approaches the red crystal in awe of it. He heard stories that this crystal was the start of the Dark Queen's reign. From what he knows from the stories that this crystal was erected during a storm and what caused the land around it to become a wasteland.
Observing the giant crystal It's still emitting its glow, still alive from what he sees but thought of it as strange. For something that is the source of Olga's power and her Demon army and creating a wasteland. It felt...off, weak.
"Ah, I didn't expect to see you in here."
Just then he heard someone getting his attention. Turning his head the Mandalorian sees the mage Kin approaching him.
"Kin."
"Fascinating isn't it?" Kin asks, looking at the giant red crystal. "This is what made the Black Citadel. What powers Olga and her army but I'm sure you weren't aware of that."
"I already know what this is and what it can do."
"I see. "
Kin then glanced at the black scepter on the Mandalorians' back he's been holding on that ever since Kuroinu took over the fortress and won't let anyone else touch it.
"It's a shame you won't let me examine that staff of hers. I'm sure I can learn many things from it."
"Her staff is mine, not yours." Dredgen said
"Truly you don't intend to keep that staff for yourself as a trophy?" Kin asks " It would be a waste in your hands unless you give it to someone who can use it properly."
Dredgen blankly stared at the mage "Is that your attempt of saying I should give you the Dark Queen staff because you're the only mage here? If it is, you are a moron."
The young mage twitched and his face became all flustered "M-moron!?"
"I'm not handing you this staff, it belongs to me now." Dredgen said "I've earned it"
Kin grits his teeth for this brute peasant dare to call him a moron and keeping the powerful staff to himself
"You can't be serious. You Mandalorians are warriors, not mages, your kind doesn't even know how to use magic!"
Dredgen quietly groans at that remark for someone who considers to be the top mage in the Kuroinu is truly ignorant about the Mandalorian culture. It is true that Mandalore is a group of valiant warriors but they do not brush off magic for they see its usefulness and versatility to help create, or enhance some of their iconic weapons, gadgets, and armor
In his creed, some of his Mandalorian brethren and even some foundlings are adept at magic but they do not stray from their warrior culture.
"True I'm no mage of sorts but she handed me the staff not to you" Dredgen said before looking directly Kin in the face "And if you try to take this from me. There won't be a place for you to hide from me."
Kin staring back at Mando until he snaps his tongue in annoyance
"Tsk Fine." The young mage went off in the other direction leaving Dredgen alone.
…
"Asshole"
Dredgen left the library soon after, there's no way in hell he's gonna hand Olgas staff to Kin but speaking of it. The Black Scepter as much he wants neither of Vaults Men or Kin to have possession of such a thing he can't lugg around this thing all the time. The Dark Magic from it is slowly starting to weigh down on him. The Bounty Hunter thinks he should put it somewhere safe where only he can obtain it and no one else. The Armory may be a good idea he could store in a safe.
The Mandalorian went straight to the armory and upon opening just as he expected and there were a vast array of weapons, armor, and supplies, enough for an army here. It's a sight to behold for Dredgen if there wasn't this one thing. Our Bounty Hunter slowly turns his to see a guard one of Vaults men napping on a chair while having the armory keys
Dredgen blankly stared at the sleeping merc. Like really? He sighs in annoyance at this. Vault having only one guarding the main armory and the guy is sleeping on the job, not very professional and safe. Just because they took over this castle doesn't mean they can laze around! Vault really needs to be more selective to those who want to join his band of misfits
Our Bounty Hunter walked to the napping guard and took the keys no problem. He didn't bother to wake the merc up if Vault or anyone who is important in Kuroinu finds him like this, it's his own fault.
The Mandalorian then processed to look around in the armory to find anything that he can store Olga staff in. After passing row after row of weapons, armors, and supply at the end he spots a door and was locked when he tried to open it, good thing he took that mercs keys
After managing to find the right key he unlocks the door and enters the next section of the armory and this room is completely different from the first one when he enters to see weapons, and armor on a rack. This room had many glass display cases inside of each were weapons but unlike the ones, he saw from earlier they were all different
There were some he had never seen before. Approaching one display looking inside was an array of swords, double-bladed staff but unlike ones he had seen before, the blades of these swords were a crimson red color. It looked very ominous but it had beautiful craftsmanship he'll admit.
Dredgen then looks at the case and notices a magical aura emitting from it. Right away he knew it had a protective barrier around it. The Bounty Hunter knows this because he has encountered some before, the only way to open the case is by a special key. Any idiot Trying to smash the display will only result in getting hurt or knocked back
The Bounty Hunter backs away from the case. This must be where Olga keeps more of her exotic weapons in here he figures. This is good for him because he has the keys and he can stash her staff in one of these cases and doesn't have to worry about Vault men or even Kin at the matter from stealing it.
The Mandalorian scans the room for a case big enough for Olga's staff to put and in the middle of the room he spots the obvious place where it should be. In the middle of the room, there is an empty display case. This must be where Olga keeps her staff in, fitting it would.
He opens the display, stashes the Dark Queen staff in there and locks it in. The Bounty Hunter then took the only key to that display and put it in his satchel. With that lock and secured Dredgen returns the rest of the keys to the guard who was still napping and left the armory as if nothing happened.
Back in the massive hallways, Dredgen thinks once he returns to the White Citadel the creed could make use of Olga's staff. If not, he knows a Grandmaster Witch would buy it off from him for a hefty price or maybe the Shield Knight. It would be better in their hands than that Kuroinu Mage Kin
After doing some exploring around, Dredgen needed to check on his prisoner Celestine did say bring Olga alive and well. He had a tray of food he managed to scourge up in the kitchen whatever the Kuroinu didn't take. When he arrived at the dungeon he found 3 of Vault's men leering at the Dark Queens cell.
"So that's her, the Dark Queen!"
"Damn, she's way sexier than I imagine."
"Not so strong without her-"
"Care to explain why you 3 are here?"
The 3 mercs jumped in fear when they heard the Mandalorians' voice. They quickly turn around and put up an innocent front to him.
"Uh H-Hey Mando! We're j-just um uh…"
"Guard your prisoners!"
"Y-Yeah We're here to guard them!"
"Guard my prisoners?" Dredgen tilting his head
"Y-yeah Vault thought you could use some help and send us."
Dredgen can tell they were obviously lying; they wanted to see Olga after all she is a sexy Dark Elf he'll admit. He also noticed they had an eager and impatient look on their faces. They wanted to do something but what is it is unknown to him and frankly he doesn't care. He's annoyed that Vault didn't tell him first that he sent his own men to guard his bounty without his say.
"They're my responsibility, not yours, now leave." Dredgen ordered
"Oh come Mando!" One of them pleaded " We're just tryin-!"
They all stop when they realize they are talking to the man who defeated Chole, Captured the Dark Queen and that he's a Mandalorian, he could kill them all if they continue to poke at him
"Um R-right okay we're leaving! Come on boys!"
They ran past him and left the dungeon
Dredgen sighs when they are gone any longer he has to deal with the Kuroinu it's gonna affect his mental health. He turns his head to the Dark Queen who had an amused look on her face.
"That was a wise move of them, I was getting tired of their lecherous eyes on me"
"They giving you trouble?"
"Nothing but rude and lewd remarks from them but something I can tolerate"
"I see..."The Mandalorian then looks at the blonde dark elf who had her head resting on Olga's lap quietly napping "How is she?"
"Other than her wounded pride she is doing well." The Dark Queen replies as she's gently rubbing Choles hair "Thank you asking Mandalorian"
"I see... I've bought something for you to eat your Highness and for your Handmaiden as well. "Dredgen sets the meal down near the cell bars close enough for them to reach and eat.
The Dark Queen looked at the meal before looking back at the Mandalorian with a teasing smile "You didn't spike it to make us go into heat did you?"
"No. That would be against my code." Dredgen answers
Olga chuckles she heard the annoyed tone of his voice "Hehe..I'm only joking I know you wouldn't do such a thing"
"Right."
"I must ask when are we returning to the White Cidital?
"In a few days after Vault and his men are rested he will likely send a messager to the Shield Knights to give the news and we'll tag along with. Until then I will watch over you both for the time being."
"Acting as our personal Warden are you?" Olga asks "Worried those dogs will do anything to us?"
"If they try to they'll be eating through a straw"
"Oh? "The Dark Queen was surprised by that but laughs at it "To go so far to harm your companions to protect us from them how callous of you."
"They're not my companions, they are... a mutual asset." Dredgen corrected her "My job is to bring you alive and well to Lady Celestine if any harm were to happen to you it'll be on me. I will be your protector and caretaker"
"A Mandalorian as my protector?" Olga asks but smiles at the thought " I can tell I'm in good hands."
Dredgen seems to notice the Dark Queen awfully knows a lot about the Mandalore creed and its culture than Goddess Celestine seems to know as well she did commissioned our Bounty Hunter with Beskar after all.
"I must ask your Highness, why did you invoke the challenge for 1 on 1 combat? You and your Handmaiden could've easily killed me and got away."
The Dark Queen just smiled at his question "It's like I said before in the throne room, it's because you are a Mandalorian. If it was a Shield Knight or one of those dogs I would have never offered my surrender to them in a duel."
"You have more respect for us than the Shield Knights?"
"Indeed I do Mandalorian, unlike some of them your kind are great and honorable people. But Since the Great Purge long ago I never thought I would see one again. It is actually comforting to see your warrior culture still lives on"
"I take it you knew some before the purge?"
"Some I did and all were great warriors."
Dredgen smiled underneath his helmet to have a High Elf Goddess and Dark Elf Queen both having high respect in his culture especially that both of them are very powerful people in Eostia it's a great honor to him and his creed.
"Still, I'm surprised you would do such a thing you could've gotten away"
Olga raised a brow "Oh? Were you perhaps hoping to do a battle against me?"
"To be honest...yes. It's not every day I get a chance to battle a dark elf sorcerer of your caliber. I'm a little disappointed I didn't though but I had a job to do first."
Olga chuckles at him he sounds like a Mandalorian always wanting a worthy adversary to battle as expected of what they are but there was something she was aware of
"There is something I just realized. I cannot keep calling Mandalorian to address you. I would like to know who you are."
"You can call me Mando instead."
Olga instantly made a pouty face at him which looked rather cute and unexpected to see from the Dark Queen.
"I said I want to know who you are."
The Bounty Hunter was taken back by this Olga seems pushy about it almost like Celestine he lets out a sigh
"Dredgen. Dredgen Jager."
Dredgen Jager? Olga smiled at that " Hmph...please to meet you Dredgen"
"You as well Lady Olga"
A few days have passed and the Kuroinu has pretty much searched the whole castle. During that time our Bounty Hunter spent most of his time in the dungeon with Olga and Chole. He brought them food, keeping them company, and made sure Vaults men aren't bothering them.
The Dark Elves were more pleasant to be around than the Kuroinu for the Mandalorians. Unlike the Dogs, they actually had some manners.
Olga would sometimes make teasing remarks to the Nomad about being a little sweaty in the dungeon being a bit humid, partly showing her body earning a bother sigh from him. Even though she can't see his face for a reaction she can tell he seems a little embarrassed by it
Chole on the other hand was brash to our Bounty Hunter at first even though he spared her life she would remark that she won't lose again to him. Dredgen told her he looks forward to it which surprised the Handmaiden. He told her after their duel she has earned his respect as a warrior; she displays excellent combat skills, a worthy opponent to a Mandalorian.
The Handmaiden was shocked that she managed to impress a Mandalorian and deem worthy as an opponent to them. Because of that remark she slowly got used to him
But despite spending some time together Dredgen senses something off Vault hasn't sent a messenger to the Shield Knights yet. He should have done that a while ago! He shouldn't leave his Employer in the dark like this
Dredgen would've made the trip to himself if it wasn't the wasteland he had to cross and was smart enough not to travel through that alone especially that he has 2 dark elves he has to watch over.
The Mandalorian leaning against a wall with his arms crossed together standing across from Olga and Chole's cell. They watch Dredgen tapping his foot feeling uneasy.
"Hey Mando!" Just then a merc grunt came getting his attention "Vault needs to see you for something!"
Dredgen didn't say anything; he looked back at the Dark Elves who were looking back at him. What does Vault want with the Bounty Hunter whatever it is, he better had a good reason why he hasn't notified the Shield Knights of their victory. The Mandalorian stood up
"Dredgen. "Olga sounding concern
"I'll be back Your Highness." The Mandalorian assured her.
Dredgen followed the merc leading him to the throne room
"What does Vault want with me?" The Mandalorian asks
"Look Mando, the boss ordered me to get you so that's what I'm doing."
Dredgen didn't say anything but sense the atmosphere is different. In the past days Vaults, men were getting impatient, eager for something but something tells him it wasn't their payment from the Shield Knights
The Mandalorian and the Merc grunt reached the throne room door. The grunt opens the door to and on the other side of was an Orc staring back at them
!
Dredgen immediately backed away from the door. Why is an Orc out here!? He reaches for his weapon
"Whoa whoa! Stop Mando!" The grunt merc stopped him "T-these Orcs are on our side!"
"What?"
"Y-Yeah V-Vault manages to 'convince' them to join our side!"
Dredgen didn't say a word he still had his hand on his weapons but when he looked at the Orc it didn't show any signs of aggressiveness towards him and the merc. It's probably annoyed that the Mandalorian attempts to pull out its weapon at him.
The Bounty Hunter couldn't believe it. How did Vault manage to convince them to join his gang of mercenaries and Why? Dredgen enters the throne room and right away he notices other creatures from the Demon Army standing along with Vault's men! They were Imps, Goblins, and many others something isn't right here both sides tried to kill each a few days ago but now they're all standing side by side like nothing ever happen. He's got a bad feeling about this.
He pushed his way to the front to see Vault sitting on Olga throne. He had a smug look on his face like he claimed her Throne.
"Ah Mando!" Vault greeted the bounty Hunter when he saw him " Just the guy I wanted to see!"
"What's this? You and your men suddenly became allies with the Demon Army?"
"Hmph Yup I made a deal with them"
"A deal?"
"Yeah, and they'll serve under me from now on!"
Dredgen stared at Vault, he sounded proud that he convinced the Demon army the ones he was paid to kill are now under his control. It didn't make sense at all
"Your men said you needed to see me"
"Yeah, I do! There was something important I had to ask you."
"Ask what?"
"In our line of work we do dangerous jobs no one wants to do or can't do and we get paid for them right? Does it sometimes bother you that men like us are out trying to earn a living, putting our neck on the line while some elitist cunt lives in a luxurious castle?"
"What does it matter?" Dredgen asks "You and your men will get a large reward for taking over the Black Citadel for the Shield Knights and help put an end to their war. Plenty that will last you."
"But that's the problem for us." Vault points out "This war is over meaning my men and myself include our services will no longer be required. The reward they'll give us will only last for so long but not forever.
"Get to the point already Vault!"
My point is WE! The Kuroinu ended this war, not the Shield Knights! We fought and bled in their war for years without us, the Shield Kingdom would've been long gone by now. History will remember this as the Shield Knights took over the Black Citdial, Capture the Dark Queen, and ended this war but no one will believe that in actuality it was a band of mercenaries and 1 Mandalorian who actually did it, not them!"
"I say my men and I deserve more than just a large sum of gold coins! We deserve to be remembered! We deserve power! In fact, we earned it! I want the Shield Kingdom to know I refuse to cast as some cannon fodder to send to die in their war while they take the credit in our victory!"
Dredgen stood there, he can tell the way how Vault is acting the tone in his voice. He was doing more than just ranting about he was trying to spark something.
"You're planning to do a revolt against the Shield Kingdom?"
Vault cracked a smile at his assumption "That right you catch on quick Mando. This castle is mine with its vast resources and power, we can destroy the Shield Kingdom!"
"We?"
"Yes we, I want you in on this little revolution of mine, I know you Mandalorians always want a war to fight in so here's my deal to you. You and any other Mandalorian friends you got work for us and you'll have a war against those Shield Knights. Of course, I'm not asking your kind to do it for free you'll all be paid in a king's ransom plus you can have any woman you like to fuck"
"You...want Mandalore's aid for your conquest?"
"Think about it, Dredgen working for me, I can help restore your kind's glory. Let the world see that Mandalore will rise again! Let history know they help defeat the Shield Knights to create a world where men are in power. Letting any man to live like a king to have everything take what they want and have any woman they want and fuck with no repercussion"
Vault stared out at his men. "And the same goes to you all as well! Right here, Right Now I declare the beginning of this new nation. The beginning of Kuroinu Sex Empire A Cuntry! Where all men are the rightful rulers as Kings. And it will begin with that Dark Fallen Queen and her little bitch. So what do you say, men?"
Everyone in the throne room was silent before slowly one by one became enraptured by Vault's speech. Some were practically drooling at the thought of this Sex Empire. The thought of having any female they wanted, no repercussion. One by one gave a roaring cheer and chanted Vaults name, their...new King
"So what do you say Mando?" Vault asks our Bounty Hunter for his answer "We got a deal?"
…
...
"Where do we start?"
Vault grinned before letting out a laugh of joy at what he hears but some of his men especially Kin at first were skeptical at his answer but soon they all cheered as they got a Mandalorian on their side. One of the greatest warriors Eosita has seen! The Shield Knights won't stand a chance against.
"This is perfect, The Shield Kingdom will fall but first, it's time to take the first step of building my Sex Empire!" Vault motioned for someone to come forward
From behind a pillar, out from the shadows, a single orc approach
"Alright, big guy, a deal's a deal, bring us that Blonde Dark elf and your kind can rape her until she sumbits. Enjoy it while you can."
The orc nodded and his tusked mouth grinned slightly. It processed to head to the Dungeon where the Dark Queen and Handmaiden are
Dredgen watches the Orc and soon he follows it
...
"Hey Dredgen what are you doing?"
"I don't trust Orcs." Dredgen said " I'm gonna make sure it doesn't screw up a simple task."
Vault waved it off "I'm sure you don't need to do such a thing. It can handle it
"You wanted to make an example of her. Right?" Dredgen asks "What better way is to see the look on her face that I handed her to you?"
"Oh ho! I like that!" Vault let out an evil grin at that idea. "Alright, go follow that dumb brute and bring that Blonde elf bitch here."
Dredgen nodded and chased after the orc
The Bounty Hunter manages to catch up with the Orc. It didn't seem to care for his presence one bit. Probably thinking what the joy it'll receive raping that sexy Dark Elf.
They reached the dungeon. Olga and Chole stood up when they saw came an orc come followed by the Mandalorian.
"Dredgen? What are you doing?" Olga asked, confused
The Bounty Hunter ignored her and looked at Chole. He motioned his head.
"Get her"
The Mandalorian orders as he opens the cell door. Chole saw the demon staring intently at her with lust in its eyes. She quickly became defensive.
"Get away from me you brute!" The Handmaiden shrieked backing to the wall
The Orc chuckles at her; she's all defenseless 's gonna enjoy raping her. It went inside the cell
But as soon as it took its first step it felt a powerful electric shock from behind. It screamed in agony falling onto its knees it then felt a pole pulling against its neck
The two dark elves stared in shock as they saw The Mandalorian using his spearbolt to help him choke the Orc. Dredgen tossed and turned to prevent the Orc from escaping his hold he kept pulling harder as he could. The orc gasping for air tried to break free but with the electric shock it felt earlier it lost its strength to fight back.
The orc continued to struggle for a while longer and Dredgen kept pulling harder and harder until.
*SNAP*
A loud popping noise erupted throughout the dungeon the orc fell dead on the ground with its neck twisted where it shouldn't be
Dregen breathed in relief as the orc was finally dead. He puts his spearbolt on his back and then looks at the two Dark Elves.
"You both alright?"
Both Dark Elves stared at the Mandalorian shock
"You snapped its neck." Olga said in disbelief
"Wasn't easy but we don't have much time. We need to leave now."
"What's going on?"
"Vault." Dredgen growling his name. "He made a deal with your Demon Army to join in his betrayal to the Shield Knights."
"W-what?!" Olga shock to hear that "H-How did he manage to convince my army to join him?!"
"He promises them to let them pillage, rape any village they want alongside his men. He wants to create a Sex Empire where all women will become sex slaves to all men. And he was gonna start with your Handmaiden. He was going to give her to a group of orcs to be raped as he and all his men watch."
Chloe's face scorn in anger "Those fucking dogs!"
Olga was no better. "So that is what Vaults true goal are. We must leave."
"Agreed." Dredgen nods as he unlocked their chains and led them out
"Wait." Olga stopped him "We can't leave without some weapons...especially my staff"
The Mandalorian stops to think she's right; they can't leave behind that staff but the armory is on the opposite sides of the fortress. It's too risky to go for it now
"Lady Olga I'm afraid we can't. Vault will know something is wrong when they realize that dead orc and I haven't returned yet."
Olga smiled confidently "Not to worry Dredgen."
The Dark Queen passes by him to the brick wall and presses a brick and pops another brick with a rune on it. She places her hand on the rune brick before it lit up as the wall opened up revealing a passageway
"Secret passage" Dredgen said sounding not surprised by it ".….clever of you"
"I have many passageways hidden all over the fortress leading to almost every room "Olga explains " This one leads straight to the armory"
"Okay.., let's get in there quick and get out." Dredgen took the lead as the dark elves followed him
The passageway was dark but the walls illuminated some form of light enough for them to see where they were going.
After a few minutes of walking, they reached what appeared to be a dead-end but Olga smirked and placed her hand on the wall and used a bit of her magic to open the wall revealing the armory.
Dredgen first to walk out took notice this wasn't the armory it was smaller there was a small array of weapons, minerals, and such.
"You said this leads to the armory. "
"It does, This is one of my personal treasures I have hidden that secretly connects to it." The Dark Queen explains. "I keep some of my personal prize items here."
Olga walked over to one of the shelves and grabbed a medium size brown bag. She grabbed a sword stored into the bag without any issue.
"Magical satchels," Dredgen said sounded intrigued "...I gotta get me one of those."
"Indeed it is Dredgen." Olga smiled finding the Bounty Hunter's curiosity amusing " Take what you want I am certain you'll find something useful, especially that you are Mandalorian.
Dredgen sensed the way she said that hinted at something important. He looks around to see an array of potions, scrolls, raw minerals but nothing of interest to him. The Mandalorian then spots a small stack of ingots
He picked up the ingot it was dark silver color but on closer inspection, he realized what this was.
It's Beskar!
The Mandalorian looks back at Olga who had a small smile on her face. So the Dark Queen has Beskar too and she's giving him it. He lets out a chuckle he should've expected that she would have some Beskar
There's not a lot of it but his Creed will be glad to have their sacred iron back where it belongs. The Mandalorian took all of it and put it in his satchels.
Olga and Chole finished grabbing everything in the treasury
"That is everything. Now for my staff." Olga used her magic on another rune brick on the wall opening to the second section of the main armory and there were no guards in there thankfully probably most are in the throne room waiting to see the show they're eager for.
The 3 enters in. Dredgen immediately heads to the glass display in the center where he stores Olga's staff. Still in there untouched all thanks to the magical barrier from the thing he's the only one with the key to it
The Bounty Hunters opened the display and took Olga's staff but upon grabbing it he was expecting the same dark energy overwhelming him when he first held it but it felt lighter than before, more weaken now. Something is off about it but doesn't have time for it.
"This belongs to you, Your Highness." Dredgen hands the Dark Queen staff back to her.
Olga smiled at him she gladly took her staff back. "Thank you Dredgen."
With the Black Scepter back with her again The Dark Queen felt the power from it coursing through her body. Dredgen noticed nothing out of ordinary in her hands now maybe he's imagining it
Now they got everything they need they can now focus on finding a way out of the Black Citidal but The Mandalorian knows Kuroinu will be on lockdown and will be searching for them soon. They need a diversion to confuse them and luckily they're in the armory with most of the weapons ammunition.
Dredgen made his way to the first section of the armory
"Where are you going, Human!?" Chole shouted when she noticed him going the other way
"Buying us more time." He answers "It won't be long when Vault realizes our escape and sends search parties after us."
Chole however thinks differently. We need to leave now Human. I won't allow my Queen to be captured again not by the hands of those dogs!"
"No Chole." Olga speaking up "Dredgen makes an excellent point. "The 3 of us won't make it far while having those dogs chasing after us."
"My thoughts exactly your Highness"
Dredgen enters the first section of the armory the Dark Elves follow him in. Our Mandalorian is certain he can find something in here to cause a big distraction. But before he could do anything he needs to clear it out of guards.
If Vault hasn't changed or added more guards yet in here then this shouldn't be a problem. And to our Bounty Hunters luck, he was right
Near the main door It was the same guard from before still sleeping on the job. Good for them but not for him though. Dredgen draws closer to the sleeping merc he spots his weapon, a dagger holster on his leg.
The Mandalorian quickly chokes holds the merc covering his mouth to prevent him from screaming for help. The merc awake now struggles to break free but it soon felt his own dagger stabbing his neck
Dredgen lets out a breath and gently sets the dead guard on the ground to avoid making noise. He pulls out his temporary dagger but just as he did the armory door opens.
Entering the armory were 2 more dogs and they caught him in the act!
"…."
"..."
"You...you Fuck!" Both mercs pulled out their swords
One of them charged at Dredgen but our Mandalorian is a resourceful one he quickly threw his temporary dagger at the grunts chest into his heart killing him instantly
The other still coming at the bounty hunter Dredgen used his flamethrower on the merc igniting him on fire.
The merc engulfed in flames screaming in agony he dropped to the ground and started rolling to put out the fire on himself but it was too great. The flames slowly consume the dying merc as he continues to scream in pain and dies
"A ruthless display Dredgen" Olga said coming from behind sounding impressed " as expected from one of your kind. "
Dredgen didn't say anything he walked past by her "That noise likely drew some attention. We need to be quick about this."
"Hey!" Chole shouted "My mistress paid you a compliment, Human, Have the decency to at least acknowledge her kindness you swine."
"Chole!" Olga chastised. We don't have time for this. Dredgen is right; we need to quick before more come."
"Ah! A-As you wish Lady Olga," Chole acted obediently, but she glared at the Mandalorian from the corner of her eyes.
The three looked around the armory for anything to draw away their attention. They found a row of barrels filled with black powder and flammable oil. A dangerous mix but good for them.
Dredgen has something to give it a spark he pulled out a handful of small bombs from his satchel he stuck 1 on each stack of barrels. He armed each one and the small bombs all began blinking red.
"Alright, these are on a timer." Dredgen said to the Dark Elves "It'll keep the Kuroinu off our backs for a while."
"How smart of you Dredgen" Olga praising him "not only this will cover our escape this will also destroy many weapons to prevent Vaults army from using"
"We need to leave this place before this goes off."
"Agreed. We can take the hidden passages again for our escape."
"Good then lead the way."
Olga ordered her Handmaiden to lead them back to the second part of the armry. They reached to the door but just as they were about to open it
"There he is! The Mandalorian is in here!"
"He has those Dark Elves with him too!"
"You killed Mark and the others you bastard!"
5 mercs appeared and they all don't look too happy at all.
"Tsk Annoying vermin." Olga waved her staff and out from a dark glyph appeared. from it was a dark energy ball taking form. She can easily wipe them out this.
"Prepare you filth! I will show you no- Grah!"
Before Olga could finish talking she let's cry in anguish surprising the Mandalorian and her Handmaiden. The Dark Queen's body suddenly became heavy, that She fell onto her knees unable to stand back up, she was gasping for air and the dark orb from her staff vanished right away.
"My Queen! Chole immediately went up to check on her. Are you alright?"
Olga catching her breath "I-I'm fine, thank you for your concern, but what on earth just happen?"
Chole picked up her Queen off the ground she puts her arm over her shoulder
The group of mercs looked at eachother confused, they're still alive and unharmed. They all then noticed the Dark Queen out of breath, exhausted Soon they all began laughing, mocking her failed attack.
"Pfthaha! What was that?!"
"I thought the Dark Queen was powerful dark sorcerers Guess not! Haha!"
Chole gritting her teeth in anger at those dogs "Grr Don't you dare laugh at my mistress!"
The mercs continue laughing and coming to the front of the group of mercs is the Young mage Kin and he doesn't look surprised at this at all.
"So it seems the Dark Queens power is getting weak, just as I suspected" The Young mage turns his attention to the Mandaloraion
"Kin." Dredgen greeted
"Mando, Taking away our spoils, I see? And You've also given the Dark Queen her staff back" Kin waved his head in amusement "Vault will not be pleased by your actions."
"I'm honoring the job that was intended."
The Young Mage snapped his tongue in annoyance "Vault should've taken my word seriously about your kinds childish code of honor but no matter you all have nowhere to escape. Hand over the Dark Elves and perhaps Vault will let you off easy."
"They're coming with me." Dredgen said sounding very determine
Kin laughs at Mandos bravado "You really believe that the 3 of you take on an army?"
"No...Just giving you something else to worried about.
*BOOM!*
Dredgen bombs detonated, catching Kin and the mercs off guard. The blast knocked them to the ground as the Mandalorians bombs ignited a chain reaction from the black powder and flammable oil shaking the Black Citadel and slowly speared a fire. The explosion destroyed parts of its foundation rubbled began falling from the ceiling crushing parts of armory and the mercs as well
Kin shaken up by the blast managed to get up, debris still falling around him he noticed the Mandalorian and Dark Elves were gone nowhere to be found. The Young Mage couldn't believe it a brute, a peasant got the upper hand on him. He grits his teeth in anger before shouting
"Dredgen! You will pay dearly for this humiliation I've endured!" The last word he said before the debris comes down on him
...
In amidst the chaos The Mandalorian and Dark Elves managed to make it into the hidden passage unscathed. They were catching their breath for a moment.
"You 2 alright okay," Dredgen asks
"Y-yes," Olga answers, still catching her breath. "Thank you for shielding us both from the blast."
"My Lady, what happened back there with your magic?" Chole asks, sounding worried for her mistress.
"I..I don't know." The Dark Queen looks at her staff " It has never done this before."
"You can worry about that later, your Highness. Can you walk?" Dredgen asks offering the Dark Queen a hand up
The Dark Queen smiled a little and took his hand "Y-yes I think I can.
"My Lady you shouldn't push yourself, allow me to help."
"I will be fine Chole. Olga assured her "For now lets us leave this place"
The three made their escape through the secret passage. Finally reaching the outside felt like a blessing to them. They all look back at the Black Citadel in the distance they can see the fire still raging on. That will give them some time, for they got a long and dangerous road back to the White Citadel to tell the Shield Kingdom that their war is over….but another one has just begun.
...
Back in the Black Citadel, it was still utter chaos at the moment the fire was still spreading throughout the castle causing the Demon Army and Kuroinu to run around frantically to put out the fires.
Vault sitting on the throne tabbing his foot repeatedly, the only emotion he's feeling right now is utter was the same but not as much as Vaults
His men and his new demon army looked at him in silence until bursting into the Throne Room was a Merc Grunt with a someone
"V-Vault! We managed to find a survivor in the rubble in the armory! It's Kin he's still alive!
"Was it the Mandloiran who did this?" Vault asks but felt like he knew the answer to that already
"Um uh...Kin said it was him before he passed out A-And he also said took his prisoners as well."
A long eerie silence Vaults men and even some of the demon army looked in fear at their boss; they have never seen him this angry before.
"Dredgen that bastard. "Vault cursed, saying the Mandalorians name made the merc leader more furious. The one that dared tricked him, taking away his spoils of war, and destroying all he hoped to conquer. The one who destroyed a part of his new castle, hurting his top mage and crippling his new army. He took a deep breath and with all his might Vault roared that name it echos throughout the wasteland
"DREEEGGEEENNN!"
(Author Note)
And Done! Dredgen escapes the Black Cital with the Dark Elves and he left the Kuroinu a nice present for them HA! And he got some Beskar from the Dark Queen too Nice!
If you hadn't noticed in this chapter I made a reference to a girl from Kuroinu 2 Astrid Flamel the big-breasted Grandmaster Witch! Some of the girls, not all from that eroge are in this world and will in a way help build out the story
Q/A Time!
Vist-97: Dredgens age? I would say he's 21. Given that he's a Mandalorian he's skilled in the Bounty Hunter profession and does a lot of jobs than most in the Guild
Cosclay: About bringing Grogu into the story? I would have to say no to that. I might make a reference to Grogu in the story but Baby Yoda will not have a major role in the story.
Hope you enjoyed this chapter and see you on the next!