The very next morning Dredgen awoke from his slumber. Slowly opening his eyes he can hear the birds chirping outside as the Sunlight slowly comes from the window. Our Mandaloiran let out a stretch before he sat up from the bed thinking about the events that transpired last night. He still couldn't believe that. Celestine the High Elf Goddess leader of the SHield Kingdom removed his helmet and kissed him and not just a simple one on the lips rather a lustful, and lewd one.
To think Celestine would do such a thing to him but he will not lie to himself that he did enjoy it though. It felt rather enticing to be kissed by the Goddess like that. I mean she has the beauty, the body, and the personality if Celestine went any further than that it would properly not just end with that.
Dredgen stops in his thoughts for a moment before quickly shaking his head realizing he's thinking stuff he shouldn't. He should know better that it would never happen, after all, she's a Goddess and he's just a simple young man trying to make his way through the world.
The thought of having sex with Celestine is highly unlikely to happen and even if it were to happen it'll probably cause an uproar amongst her fellow colleagues and followers. That kind of heat he does not want to add with the one he currently has, after all, he did just pissed out the largest mercenary company who likely be out to get him
But enough about that he got up from the bed. He walked over to a mirror and a bowl of water was present before him. Dredgen slowly places his hand on his helmet and removes it, placing it beside the bowl. He scooped up a handful of water and splashed it on his face.
After drying his face with a towel. Our Mandaloiran took a long look at himself in the mirror. Seeing his own face always felt kinda strange to him. He's been wearing his helmet for so long for he's constantly on the next job for a client or hunting a bounty. Rarely taking it off only when he has to and for certain occasions, he sometimes feels naked without it on.
Our Bounty Hunter lets out a sigh and puts back his helmet and it's time for him to collect the Beskar reward he was promised. Opening the door and on the other side of it was a maid who was caught off by him as she was about to knock on the door. She and he were caught off by each other.
"Ah P-pardon me Sir!" The maid quickly apologizes for her sudden intrusion
"Can I help you?"
"Um Y-yes Lady Celestine has requested me to deliver you breakfast to your chambers"
(Breakfast?)
Dredgen looks down at a small cart beside the maid with a large covered tray. Celestine sends him some breakfast too, how kind of the Goddess. He hasn't eaten anything yet and well he hasn't eaten an actual meal for a while now plus he wonders what kind of cuisine does the Holy Temple makes for the Nobles and such
"Ok, you can bring it in."
The maid nods her head and pushes the cart into his room. She places the meal onto a table and removes the lid revealing the meal to our Mandloiran.
Dredgen eyes widen at the meal. There were sunny-side-up eggs, many sausages, bacon, a small loaf of bread with a butter spread, and some veggies to go with. Overall it looked very delicious.
"Lady Celestine wishes me to inform you must head to the Treasury office to receive your payment. It is down the corridor from your room. There's a sign to it you can't miss it
"Thank you, you can go now.
"Yes sir". The Maids nods her but before she goes our Bounty Hunter did something generous to her
"Also here's this for you "Dredgen tosses the maid a gold coin which she was caught off but manages to catch it
"Huh?" The maid looks down at the gold coin surprise by his action she didn't expect he would but smiled at his kind gesture "T-Thank you Sir I hope you enjoy the breakfast our kitchen staff made."
...
After finishing his tasty breakfast probably the best he had in a while Dredgen exits the room and proceeds to the Treasury to collect his reward. Walking down the halls of the Holy Temple Dredgen couldn't help being in awe of the place it had a graceful and serenity aura as expected it is the home of the Goddess Celestine
As he did he admiring the place he pasted some old noblemen who took notice of him that he overheard them talking about him
"Who's that?"
"That's the Bounty Hunter Lady Celestine hired, supposedly he's also a Mandalorian.
"A Mandalorian? hmph I thought they were wiped out long ago. Barbaric people is what they are"
"Hehe a bunch of savages is what they are just like those Kuroinu"
Dredgen stops in his tracks at what he just heard Savage? Barbaric? Those words hit a nerve to the Mandalorian pride he can tolerate being called a peasant or commoner by nobles and such but a savage, calling his culture barbaric and thinking they're like the Kuroinu? That is crossing a line there
"Don't let them get to you"
Just as our Bounty Hunter was about to do something brash a voice stopped him turning his head he saw the Head Shrine Maiden Kaguya standing next to him. Our Mandalorian was surprised he didn't notice her there.
"Lady Kaguya...Good Morning." He politely greeted
"Good Morning to you also Dredgen Jager." Kaguya turns her head where the nobles went off to "I can see being called a savage bothers you greatly.
"I'm a warrior, not some animal"
"I see….Have you made your decision yet to aid us in our new war?"
Dredgen found her question odd "No, not yet. I'm surprised you want me to join considering what you and others heard yesterday."
"Your skills as a Bounty Hunter and you as a Mandalorian would be beneficial for us and I will admit I was surprised that this Shield Alliance was an Empire long ago but it's like what you said before our Predecessors were your kinds enemy, for us individuals now we are not. And as of now you certainly made an enemy to the Kuroinu for what you did"
"What I did was I had a job to do first and because of that, I ticked off the largest mercenary company in Eostia who now has demons in its ranks and would love to see my head on a pike or worse."
"Does that worry you?" Kaguya asks sounding curious
"It does a bit but this is the life of a Mandalorian would often face This is the way"
Kaguya raised a brow very intrigued at what he said. "This is the way? How you pronounce that sounds very doctrinal."
"It is."
The Shrine Maiden hums at this. "How interesting. I've never met a Mandalorian. I've only read the stories about your kind. I find your warrior culture...unique than most. "She said as she turns her attention to the Beskar pauldron on his shoulder
"I'm honored to hear that from you Lady Kaguya and I will say yours as well."
"Oh?" Kaguya was surprised by his words " You find my Far Eastern culture interesting to you?"
"Yes. I've read some books about the Far East, that you have warriors with a similar code of honor to the Mandalorians the Samurai and some of their weaponry I'm a bit fond of"
The Shrine Maiden stared at him "You are the first person to seem interested in my culture most people here would find it ..strange to them first"
"Most find my barbaric right away"
Kaguya stared at him before she let out a small laugh "Hmph...but you don't seem barbaric at all.
"Why thank you."
Kaguya stared at him before she made a small smile intrigued even more in our Mandalorian. "I am starting to see why Lady Celestine is interested in you. You are different from most bounty hunters from what I expected."
The head Shrine Maiden then politely bows her head. "It was nice speaking with you Sir Dredgen but I must attend matters elsewhere. I hope we will meet again soon"
"As do I Lady Kaguya"
The Shrine Maiden went off in the opposite direction. So that was Kaguya, Dredgen thought she seemed very enigmatic but friendly in a way to him.
As she was walking away our Bounty Hunter got a full view of her Kaguya big round ass. He wonders why that is the traditional wear for Shrine Maidens in the Far East? But that is their way and Dredgen will admit she does have a nice round ass to look at even though he shouldn't be staring at it!
Shaking his flustered helmet head he should just get his payment and think over what he should do next. Our Bounty Hunter spots the sign pointing to Treasury up head
Dredgen opens the door to it and right away he sees many big stacks of paper on a large desk there are rows and rows of them, some open books and many used feather pens and empty ink bottles. A lot of paperwork for someone here to do. Our Bounty Hunter laugh at little that he is kinda glad he doesn't have to do this kind of work often
Our Mandaloiran then noticed an elder Nobleman, maybe in his late 40s or so. He had light dark skin, an elegant short gray hairstyle, a gray mustache, and dark brown eyes, He wore a fancy light green coat with a light brown necktie, light brown pants, he had a small light green hat, and a pair of glasses. He was looking through a large open drawer. It seems he didn't notice our Bounty Hunter entering the office
"Hello there" Dredgen calling for his attention
"Ah! Ow!"
The man was startled by his voice that he jumped hitting his head inside the drawer. The elder backed away from the drawer rubbing his head, he saw our Mandalorian standing by the door.
"Oh forgive me I didn't hear you enter. Can I help you?" The Noble asks before he got a good look at our Bounty Hunter and realize who he was speaking to
"Ah, you must be Dredgen Jager, the Mandalorian bounty Hunter. Yes?"
"That is correct.
The Noblemen smiled and he respectfully bowed his head to Dredgen which he found odd to see "It is a great honor to meet one of Eostia's Greatest warriors, I've heard so much about you from my wife!"
Dredgen tilted his head. "Your wife?"
"Oh! Where are my manners? I haven't introduced myself. I am Klaus Laevateinn, son of the Laevateinn household and husband of Claudia that you've already met.
"Wait..your?"
Klaus just playfully laughs at Dredgens dumbfounded expression even though he can't see from his helmet but can tell "I know it's surprising a woman like Claudia is married to a Noble like me but we both dearly love each other."
Dredgen was well shocked by this; he knew Claudia was married but to this person, it's quite unexpected.
"So you're a Laevateinn? I thought Laevateinns were a bloodline of knights and well..you don't look the part no offense."
"Ah yes."Klaus didn't seem offended by it and brushed it off as if he was used to it " I'm not much of a warrior like my father or my wife or the rest of my family. I prefer to read books, use magic rather than swing a sword but enough about that you are here for your payment?"
"That is correct Sir Klaus"
Claus just playful laugh at Dredgen politeness " Oh no need to be so formal with me you can just call me CKaus"
Dredgen seemed off by this, most Nobles he had to deal with; most were old clients who were typically rude, Egotastic, telling him he should know his place; it's rather odd yet nice to be treated fairly by one, especially by a Laevetien.
"Alright Claus it is then"
The Noblemen smiled to hear that "Lady Celestine has already informed me what kind of payment you'll receive I am glad that the Beskar will go to proper owners and will make use of it
Just as he said the door behind Dredgen open and entering the office was Claudia
"Oh! Claudia dear!" Claus smiled happily to see his wife "Please come in."
"I see you've already met the Bounty Hunter." Claudia said entering the room she then turns her gaze to Dredgen
"Lady Claudia"
"Sir Dredgen."
Both the Shield Knight Commander and the Mandalorian mutually greeted each other
"Yes dear, we were just having a friendly chat. Can you keep him company while I go receive his payment?"
"Of course."
"Klaus nods his head and heads to the back room of his office leaving the Mandalorian and SHield Knight Commander alone
"Your husband seems nice." Dredgen said.
"Thank you."
"So why are you here?" Our Mandaloiran ask feeling that she wasn't just there to see her husband
"I wanted to have a word with you Bounty Hunter before you go."
"Oh?" Dredgen raises a brow underneath his helmet " Trying to pressure me to take the job of aiding in your new war against the Kuroinu? Or is it that you don't want my aid anymore after hearing the news that our predecessors were enemies long ago?
Claudia didn't seem annoyed at his question but he was right about one thing. "Actually...I still do want you to join in our new war."
"Really?"
"Yes" Claudia sounded very firm about it. "I've been thinking a lot about what happened last night. The news that this Kingdom I cherish was once an Empire was a shock and the one responsible for the great purge of the Mandalorians is disheartening to me. I have many questions about it and I'm sure Lady Celestine can answer them, but as of that now I cannot let that distract me with a new war on the horizon."
Claudia then looked directly at Dredgens eyes through his visor. "As a commander, I have to make the hard choices in war and with us forming an Armistice with the Dark Queen and her Handmaiden I know that still won't be enough to win against the Kuroinu. If you accept the contract to join us you will receive a high annual fee for your service and if any other of your people are willing to do they will receive the same benefit"
Dredgen quietly stares at her; he's actually surprised that the Shield Knight Commander Claudia herself is going out of her way to try to make a compromise to convince him to accept the contract to aid their new war. In fact, he's impressed by her although he does not know if the Tribe is willing to join sides with the Shield Kingdom.
"I respect that you're willing to put aside our difference in values for the survival of your Shield Kingdom and mine as well but I need time to think it over"
Claudia looks conflicted by his answer but also respects his choice of the matter. "I understand"
Klaus finally comes back holding a large case he sets it down onto his desk and opens it. It revealed many stacks of shiny silver Beskar ingots to the Mandalorian and to his wife.
"Voila, Here you go young man Beskar from our main treasury It is good to see this Beskar is returning to its proper owner"s"
Dredgen stared at his reward and he will admit he was in sheer awe at the number of Beskar ingots in front of him right now; he has never seen this much so was Claudia too. He gently picks one up, what many things the Armorer can do make, this will do well for his Tribe.
"Also here is another part of your payment young man."
Klaus places a bag of coins upon opening it. There were bundles of platinum and gold coins mixed together, a lot of money from one simple bounty contract. Alongside the Beskar and the money this job did certainly had a substantial reward for our Mandalorian, this is almost 10 times the pay he would usually get from other bounties
Klaus smiled that the Bounty Hunter looks pleased with his reward "It was a pleasure meeting you Dredgen Jager, I hope we can do business again in the future." He offered our Mandalorian a handshake
Dredgen accepted it and both shook hands "As do I Claus."
The Mandalorian took his payment and Claudia escorted him to the exit.
In the Training area of the Holy Temple was Alica she was doing her daily morning practice alongside of her fellow Shield Knights. Many of them were practicing with swords, spears, bows, and whatnot.
"Haaa!" The Blond Knight swings her wooden training sword at a dummy with vigor
"Ooo nice swing Alica." Luu-Luu standing on the sidelines watching, so was Primm too.
The Blond Knight didn't say anything she was too focused on the training but the Halfling and Pink haired princess noticed she seemed off right now
"Is there something on your mind Alica?" Primm asks sounding concern
Alicia didn't reply, she sighed obviously from what happened yesterday.
"It's about that Bounty Hunter?" Primm asks feeling it was
The Blond knight twitch her cousin was spot on
"Oh come on Alica what do you have against him?" Luu-Luu asks, jumping in " Celestine seems to trust him, without his warning we would've been caught off guard by Vault's betrayal!
Alicia sigh she has a point "That is true Luu-Luu but I'm still not okay with the idea of us having a man who follows such a barbaric culture and is considered to be the greatest warriors in Eostia"
"You're not being fair Alica." Primm said frowning that her cousin not giving the Bounty Hunter a chance
"I'm just concerned Primm," Alicia said " if that man accepts to aid our new war he has yet to prove himself to me that he can be trusted.
Just as the Blond Knight said that the Shield Princesses noticed the Knights around them were slowly focusing their attention on a pair passing through the training area. It was there Shield Commander Claudia and beside her is our Mandalorian Dredgen.A few of the Shield Knights were in awe at the Bounty Hunter for what they've heard what he's done
"Ooo there he is Alica." Luu-Luu said as she admiring the Mandalorian
Alica just snapped her tongue in disapproval of the Bounty Hunter
Luu-Luu just stared at Alica until a fun idea popped in her head. If you want to see what kind of man that Bounty Hunter is, I know how Alica!
The Blond Knight raised a brow " Oh? How?
"I've read that Mandaloiran can see what kind of person they are through combat. Why don't you do a little spar with that Bounty Hunter? I'm sure he'll be honored to do so against a Shield Princess like you!"
Alica brushes the idea right away. "Pff...I wouldn't bother doing such a thing with him"
"Ooo afraid you can't take him?" Luu-Luu asks with a smug look "He did after all beat Olgas Handmaiden."
Alica twitched at that claim it kinda hit a nerve to her pride as a Shield Knight it is true he did beat the Dark Queen's handmaiden in combat and she saw a glimpse at what he's capable of but hasn't fought against a Shield Knight, not someone like her before
As the Blond Knight was pondering in her thoughts Primm can see what Luu-Luu is trying to do. She sighed that knowing her cousin she will likely do it in the name of her pride
"W-Well I suppose if he wants to then I might give him the honor to spar with me."
Luu-Luu smirked at her answer. This will be fun and interesting to watch she always wanted to see how a Mandalorian fight in person "Good then I'll ask him right now"
The Halfling playful running towards them as she was waving her hand getting their attention
"Oooh, Claudia! What are you doing with this Mandalorian?" The Halfing eagerly asks as she stops in front of them
"I am escorting Sir Dredgen to the exit Luu-Luu"
"Is that so? Luu-Luu then turns her attention to the Bounty Hunter. "So! Dredgen, have you decided to join our new war against the Kuroinu?"
"No I have not Lady Luu-Luu"
"Awwww you haven't? Luu-Luu looked disappointed at his answer that she was pouting like a child
"Sir Dredgen needs time to think it over Luu-Luu." Claudia said
"Is that so? If it's about money I can surely give you a nice contract with big pay and many benefits too Mando!" Luu-Luu promising him such a deal
"I appreciate the offer Lady Luu-Luu but money isn't a priority to me right now"
Luu-Luu was surprised by that, most would take the offer right away to have a contract with the Shield Kingdom with a promising big payout but not this individual. She kinda likes that part of him
"Is there something you need from the Bounty Hunter?"
"Why yes, I was wondering if he had time to do a sparring match with Alicia?"
The Mandalorian and the Shield Commander blankly stared at the Halfling just said.
"Alica wishes to spar with him?" Claudia asks
"Yup. So Dredgen, what do you say? You think you can take her?"
Our Bounty Hunter turns his head where Alica and Primm are. Both of them are looking back at him Dredgen can feel the detest stare from the Blond Knight, not surprising to him given what happened from yesterday as for Primm she still had a timid look but not as much from last time.
Dredgen gave it some thought. It's not like he's in a hurry or anything, he's already got his payment, and, well, facing a Shield Princess in a sparring match is something he doesn't get a chance to do every day.
"I can spare a few minutes to do one."
"Haha!" Luu-Luu cheers in excitement "Come on follow me!"
The Halfing escorted the 2 to the training area.
"Alica, Primm." Claudia greets her colleagues as they got close
"Claudia." Alica and Primm replied back with a nod
"Here he is Alica!" Luu-Luu shouted "The Mandaloiran!"
"Hmph."Rather than a polite hello Alica just rudely acknowledge him however that didn't bother Dredgen
"Alica..."Primm said as didn't like what her cousin is doing
"Lady Luu-Luu informed me you wish to spar with me, Lady Alica." Dredgen said
"That is correct Bounty Hunter" Alica said standing firm in front of him " Since you are a Mandalorian I want to see how well I fare against one's kind who is considered to be the greatest warriors in Eosita
"I'm honored you want to Lady Alica I am willing to spar with you for a moment
Alicia smirked at his answer. Good, I will show the way how a Shield Princess fights their battles!
"Looking forward to it."
Dredgen picked up a training sword off the racket he had dealt with a few Ex-Shield Knights in the past who had bounties on them for the Guild and brought most of them alive but never actually fought an actual one. For our Mandalorian knows if he did it would draw a lot of heat on himself and bad for his reputation but to think he would have a sparring match with the Shield Princess Lady Alica herself! He's kind of excited about it.
He stood across from Alicia in the training arena as everyone watched intensely, this is an interesting matchup for all even for Claudia she will finally witness how a Mandalorian fight in person. Alica feeling determined she will show everyone here that a Mandloirian is no match against a Knight of the Shield Kingdom.
Both stood ready with their stances. The 2 stared at each other for a moment waiting to see who would make the first move.
…
...
Alica was the first to lose her patience and quickly charge at him
She raised her sword and swung at him. Dredgen readies himself; he blocks her strike and her incoming attacks. The sound of her wooden swords colliding throughout the training area. Everyone watching was enraptured by their display.
The Blond Knight going on the aggressive she constantly keeps swinging her training sword applying pressure on him not giving this Bounty Hunter any room to do anything. But with the Shield Princesses going on the offensive she noticed she hasn't exactly landed a blow on him.
The Bounty Hunter kept blocking her swings with his training sword and sometimes his vambraces too. But not once he tried anything to attack just being on the defensive.
The Blond Knight grits her teeth in annoyance. Is he not taking her seriously!?
"Come on!" She shouted, "Show me what you're made of!"
Dredgen didn't say anything; he just stared at the Blond Knight observing her. This only made Alica more agitated at him. She lets out a battle cry and charges at Bounty Hunter.
The Mandalorian blocks her attack but feels her strikes are more furious than before and she is going on the offensive on him. With 1 final heavy swing Alica knocked the training sword out of his hand.
Everyone watching was shocked to see a Shield Princess such as Alica manage to do so. The Bounty Hunter looked behind where the training sword landed he was surprised by this
"Ha!" Alicia smirks confidently as she points her training sword at the unarmed Mandalorian. "You lost your weapon, Bounty Hunter yielded and admitted defeat!"
Dredgen blankly stared at her "…..No.
"N-No!?" Alicia's face became flushed at his answer "You lost your weapon!"
Doesn't mean I will yield that easily. With a flick of his wrist, Dredgen fired his rope launcher at the blond knight. The rope wrapped around her wrist.
Alica was caught off by it as the Mandalorian pulled her towards him. As she got close Dredgen moved to the side he grabbed her wrist twisting causing her to loosen her grip on the training sword.
Before Alica could let out a groan she felt a leg sweep causing her to trip and fall to the ground. Her eyes and everyone else watching was widened to see that the Bounty Hunter has her own training sword point near her chest.
"I win."
Dredgen lets go of her and back away. Everyone was in awe or disbelief the Mandalorian managed to defeat a Shield Princess Alicia Arcturus herself who disarmed him a moment ago but still won in a matter of seconds.
"Ohho!" That was so cool Mando! Luu-Luu in awe of that display "I can't believe you managed to win without a weapon!"
That was amazing to see. Said Primm who was in agreement
However, the Blond Knight didn't think the same. She couldn't believe a Mandalorian beat her even without a weapon, she couldn't accept that! She got up her anger bubbling inside, that she could start boiling water!
"Y-Your win?!" Alica shouted, getting his attention "You cheated! You used that tool of yours to win! Don't you have any honor or chivalry to use such underhand tactics in battle?!"
Dredgen blankly stared at the furious Shield Knight, a little annoyed at what she said and she's acting like a sore loser now.
"A savvy warrior knows when to use their tools at their disposal." He said back " I thought a Knight such as yourself would know that but it seems you still have much to learn Lady Alica."
Alicia twitched at that feeling insult at her intelligence by this man she was gonna lash out at him for talking her that but was stopped
"Alica that is enough." Claudia stepping in "It is not honorable to display such vulgarity after a loss"
"But!" Alica stop until she realized her colleague is right she is a Shield Princess she cannot show such vulgarity in front of her people she sighs and calms herself
Dredgen looking at back the frustrated Blond Knight
"You seem a good fighter Lady Alica," He said catching her attention "Your form is not bad, and your pride as a Knight is admirable
Alicia stared at him for a moment until her cheeks flushed red to be praise
"Oh? Um..Uh thank you."
"But that pride of yours will also be your downfall"
"What!?" What do you mean by that?
Dredgen just laughed a little at her outburst "Hmph..Take what I just did. You were naive enough to believe that was not a threat anymore because I had no weapon in hand and you thought I would surrender just like that? I am still much of a threat without one. He could've struck me down when you had the chance and won but you didn't that is why you didn't expect my rope launcher
"Because that was an underhand trick you used!"
"That is the way how Mandalorians fight their battles. We observe our opponents, we learn who they are, and we use what we learn against them. It is the same as hunting an animal" Dredgen explains "Take this as a lesson Lady Alica. Sometimes you must put aside your pride for a moment if you wish to survive because Vault and his men certainly will take advantage of you
The Blond Knight didn't say a word she clenched her fist, snaps her tongue and went off the other direction
"Alica." Primm followed her cousin probably to calm her a bit
The Mandalorian,Halfing, and Shield Commander watched the 2 leave the training area
Oh don't mind her Dredgen! Luu-Luu said She doesn't like to lose that's all!
"Right…? What are you doing?" Dredgen asks when he sees Luu-Luu holding a large battle axe in her hand and has an eager look on her face
The Halfing playful laugh "Hehe What does it look? Seeing your sparring match has gotten me excited I wanna go next!"
"I'm afraid you can't Luu-Luu." Claudia stopping the Halfling Lady Celestine has summoned us to continue our meeting from last night.
"Aww? What, now?"
"Yes. Claudia said sounding very firm about it
The Halfling puffed her cheeks pouty that she can't spar with the Mandalorian "Mmmm fine..but next time Dredgen you and I will spar!"
"Lady Claudia!" Just then a maid approach the Shield Commander
"What is it?"
"We cannot find Lady Maia anywhere she isn't in her room"
Claudia placed a hand to her forehead waving and sighing feeling annoyed is Maia still in disbelief at what happen last night? "Where is that woman off to?"
"I am sorry my Lady." The maid bows her head and apoligizes
"It is fine,we can still conduct the meeting without her" Claudia then turns her attention to the Mandloiran "As for you Sir Dredgen this is where we part ways one of my Knight can lead you out and if you made your decision to aid us please come by"
Dredgen nods his head "I will think about it"
Dredgen exited the Holy Temple without any issue and headed straight to his tribe's convert. On his way, their citizens were just going about their day. Merchants trying to sell their wares, cafes, and taverns serving food customers all unaware that another war for their Kingdom is about to start another war just as one ended
But as he kept walking he felt something off, someone was falling on him, he needed to deal with it. He took a turn in an alley up ahead and hid behind some crates.
Shortly after his stalker arrived just one they had a big hooded cloak covering their entire body. One of Vault's assassins sent to kill him or just another dumb thug trying to mug him? Dredgen wonders, either way, he's gonna deal with it.
Just as the stalker passed the crate looking confused,Dredgen grabbed them from behind but just as he did he felt something soft, and big to his hand and heard a girlish moan. Confused for a moment he squeezed again and heard the same moaning sound. It took a second to realize he was groping a woman's breasts!
"Grr let go of me!"
Hearing a familiar voice he lets go of them. His stalker standing in front of him the hood falling down revealing who it was and to his shock it's the Red Queen Maia and she does not look too please right
"Lady Maia...I apologize for...groping you"
Maia didn't accept his apology she had a flushed red face she covers her breast with her arms feeling violated
"Grr.. you dirty perv!"
Dredgen felt a knife stabbing him to be called that what happened even though it wasn't really his fault "Why are you following me?"
"Hmph. What does it look like I'm doing?"
Dredgen blankly stared at her is she still angry at him for bad-mouthing her former company and shouldn't she be at a meeting with the other Shield Princesses? He let out a sigh
"I don't have time for this." The Mandalorian went off the opposite direction from her
Maia blinked once "H-Hey! That's it? You're just gonna walk away from me!?"
"Yes...and shouldn't you be at a meeting with the other Shield Princesses." Dredgen asks
Maia just brushed that off Pfft..."My second in command can handle that for me
"Right...how responsible of you Lady Maia"
"Don't call me that!" Maia sounding a bit annoyed " I may be a Shield Princess but being called that feels weird to me."
"Okay fine...Maia then if you're skipping your Shield Princesses duties to follow me around what is you want from me?"
The Red Queen crossed her arms "I still don't believe what you said back there. Vault would never turn his back on this Kingdom there's no way! He must've been under some spell by that Dark Queen to make him say that!
Dredgen just stared at her like really? "I don't get why you're still in denial and are trying to defend that bastard after you literally saw the truth through my point of view"
"It's a possibility!"
"An unlikely one that is. That asshole sounded very clear when he told me his stupid idea"
"Don't talk bad about him!" Maia shouted " Don't you forget Celestine hired Vault and his Kuroinu because they are the best Mercenary Company Eostia!
The Mandalorian laughed at the remark. "Celestine didn't hire them because of that she had to out of desperation in your previous war against Olga with the sheer numbers they have."
Maia's face twisted a bit she still scowled at him for saying that
Dredgen just looked at the anger Maia she is really trying hard to defend them and can't accept the reality of it
"I get that you don't want to believe it since you were one of them during your time with them but the next time they see you I doubt Vault and the Kuroinu are gonna greet you with open arms they're just gonna rape you non stop until you submit and become their sex slave like any other"
"Vault will never do such a thing to me!"
"He will" Dredgen sounded very certain about it " because Vault and his Kuroinu now are nothing but bandit scum now well they kinda were way before what happened but my point still remains a fact"
Maia grits her teeth at him "And what you think the Mandlaoirans are any better than them"
"Well with them I noticed they'll let any asshole thug with a weapon to join their band of misfits and unlike us Mandalorians, we have standards and are selective of those who want to be indoctrinated to our Creed"
"Ohh is that so?" Maia raised a brow at that claim " If you think you Mandalorians are better than the Kuroinu why don't you show me. "
"Huh?"
The Red Queen just smirked at him "I know you got Beskar as your payment. You were gonna take it to your tribe or clan whatever it is. You're gonna take me with you! I wanna see what is so great about the Mandalorians.""
Dredgen stared at Maia. She looked like she wasn't gonna back away and was determined. To his annoyance our bounty hunter can't really do anything brash to make her go away otherwise he will have to deal with the SHield Kingdom in future
The Mandalorian looked around a bit; he didn't have much of a choice of the matter and sighed in annoyance. "Alright, fine if you wanna see about us I will take you there.
"Hmph. Good."
"Alright keep that hood on I already draw enough attention as it is."
Maia pulled her hood up "Lead the way Manadlaoiran"
Dredgen did, both headed to the lower district of Ken. Reaching to the gate entrance in the alley our Bounty Hunter stopped and turns to Maia
"What?" Maia asks
"Before we go in, don't talk when needed to. Some of my people are a bit ...territorial and a bit wary of outsiders"
Maia didn't seem worried by it "Hmph...I can handle myself"
"I'm just trying to warn you, that's all."
"Will you quit wasting time already and open the gate!"
"Pushy aren't you" Dredgen said as he moved the gate.
Both entered the underground tunnels of Eostia. After a short walk, they finally arrived to the convert
Upon entering the convert Maia was shocked to see more Mandalorians here. They all looked similar to Dredgen with different armor colors and variants. Some were doing weapons maintenance, and the others were playing chess or reading a book. As they walked past them the other Mandalorians turned their head to them, surprised to see an outsider here.
Maia can feel the hostile look from their gazes making her tense up
"Just keep following me." Dredgen said to her
The Red Queen did sticking close as they kept moving forward a couple of kids passed by them playing tag with one another. Maia was surprised to see them down here
"You have kids living down here too?"
"Yes. They're foundlings like I was. Their parents were either killed or they were abandoned by them. We took them in"
"So you guys take children and raise them to be Mandalorians?"
"It's one of the creeds codes. Yes. It's probably better for them than living out in the streets or worse."
Maia was well surprised but that it seemed very admirable of them to do so. Giving these children a home, a family, she can't help but respect that. But thinking of it now, her former company would never do such a thing like this. Whenever they come across kids who lost their parents and homes from demons and such the Kuroinu doesn't even try to help them. They just leave after the job is done leaving the kids alone to fend for themselves.
Back then Maia wanted to help them but couldn't do much about it and is kinda glad these kids have a home in a way to them.
Reaching to the Forge room Maia saw the Armorer was sitting at the small table as if she was expecting our Mandalorian to return. Dredgen placed his spearbolt by the entry he took out the case from the bag and set it on the table. He opens it revealing the many shiny silver Beskar ingots to his Tribe leader. He also placed the dark silver ones he received from the Dark Queen. Both Dredgen and Maia sat down
The Armorer examines the Beskar for a moment she then looks up at Maia which made the Red Queen slightly nervous by her gaze
"You've brought an outsider to our hidden sanctum."
"Yes.
"Do you vouch for them?"
"…I do."
Maia couldn't help but feel tense in this situation. So this is Dredgens tribe leader she thought she seems very enigmatic and threatening in a way
The Armorer nods her head she then turns her head to the Shield Princess. "Very well I welcome you to our sanctum. If this Young One vouches you then you are safe here."
"Um thanks...I'm- "
"I know who you are Maia." The Armorer interrupted her "Known as The Red Queen Mercenary, once a member of the Kuroinu, and now one of the 7 Shield Princesses that leads this Kingdom.
"So you know who I am then ?"
"Why of course I do. It is a pleasure to meet you. What brings you here?
"She wishes to see more of our culture and how we are different from the Kuroinu she was once part of." Dredgen answer
The Armorer hums at this "I see...I can certainly tell you now Lady Maia, we Mandalorians are nothing alike to those Dogs your leader hired and her Shield Knights
"One fights for their desire for money and fame the other fights to create peace and maintain a version of their own justice. we fight for it's our way, our pride, our culture, our way of life. It is the way of Mandalore as it should be. This is the way."
(This is the way?) Maia raised a brow at that
"But I can see words alone aren't enough for you to understand us." The Armorer said as she examines at every Beskar Ingots "If you truly desire to know us Lady Maia then observe and make your assessment."
Maia didn't reply this person is weird to her. The way she speaking it's almost creepy but it had a sense of authority and wisdom to it. The Red Queen did what she was told.
"With this amount, it can be shaped in many ways" The Armorer said to Dredgen
"My armor has lost its integrity I may need to begin a new set again"
"Indeed I can forge you a new cuirass with the Beskar you've would be an order to your station"
"That…. would be a great honor"
"I must warn you, Young one. It will draw many eyes."
Maia watches as the Armorer examines the Beskar ingots. This person really gonna make Beskar armor for this bounty hunter? She couldn't believe that she gonna witness it in her own eyes but as the Red Queen try to process the situation she didn't notice behind them a group of other Mandalorians was watching them
One Mandalorian, a big one enters the Forge Room Dredgen and The Armorer did not acknowledge him as he grabbed an ingot examining it noticing the Shields predecessor's logo imprinted on it he scoffed at this.
"These were cast in an 'Alliance' smelter." The other Mandlaoiran showed the ingot to the others " These are the spoils of the Great Purge long ago. The reason that we live hidden like rats." He tosses the ingot back to the table
"Our secrecy is our survival. Our survival is our strength" The Armorer said as she grabs the ingot
"Our strength was once in our numbers! Now we live in the shadows and only come above ground one at a time." Our people were shattered by an Empire with whom this coward shares tables with!"
The other Mandalorian then eyes Maia " And he dares bring one of their leaders into our covert!"
The Angry Mandalorian reaches out to Maia but before his hand could even get near her Dredgen grabs it, stopping him. The Big Mando grabs our Bounty Hunter by the neck lifting up from his seat Dredgen quickly smacks his arm down breaking free as he quickly pulls out a small knife and so did the other Mandalorian
The Red Queen was surprised at what's happening and to her shock, no one was stopping them as they struggled to fight each other and possibly kill each other! Maia was about to jump in but before she could even stand up she was stopped by the Armorer when she felt her hand on her Armorer didn't say a word to her but Maia could tell by the stare from her visor is let them continue
Dredgen slashes his small knife across his brethren's breastplate armor. He then lugs his small knife but his brethren grabs his wrist stopping him. Both struggle to push each other back and their knives to them. Our Bounty Hunter kicks his brother breaking away from their hold and both lungs their knives until-
"They are no longer an Empire."
The voice of their Armorer made both Mandaloirans stop mid lug their knives near their necks
"And the Beskar has returned"
"When one chooses to walk the of Mandalore you are both Hunter and Prey. How can one be a coward when one chooses this way of life?" The Armorer then turns her attention to Dredgen.
"You remember what I said to you at the beginning?"
"Yes."
"Are you prepared for what comes after?"
"I am"
"This is the way."
"This is the way"
Slowly both Mandalorians lower their knives remembering the ways they've been taught
Maia watching was stunned at what she witnessed, the way everyone acted was almost cult-like but also had discipline among each other to keep things in order. Very different from her time with Kuroinu where a fight breaks out for the simplest and stupids things. The difference between the Mandalorians and the Kuroinu is quite obvious. Slowly she becoming more intrigued by their ways
As Both Mandaloirans holster their knives The Armorer looks at Dredgen armor
"What causes this damage?" She asks
"A Blood Wolf" Dredgen answers
"Then you have earned the Blood Wolf as your signet"
"I….cannot accept" Dredgen declining at such an honor. "It wasn't a noble kill. I was helped by an enemy."
The Armored raised a brow underneath her helmet "By The Dark Queen?"
"Yes and her Handmaiden as well"
"I see. Since you forgo a signet then I will use the remainder to forge you Whistling birds instead"
"Whistling birds will do nicely." Dredgen said feeling honored to receive such a weapon " Reserve some for the foundlings"
"As it should always be." The Armorer agreeing "Foundings are the future. This is the way.
"This is the way."
"This is the way"
The Armorer began working on creating the new sacred armor for our Bounty Hunter. Maia watching the whole thing was engrossed by it at how Beskar armor is created. Her melting the many ingots, forging every piece of armor, hammering its shape, and forging the whistling birds she mentioned earlier
Eventually, after many hours the Armorer was finally done and a new set of traditional armor was created but before our Mandalorian received it the Armorer had a word with him away from Maia
"I can tell Young One you are not just here to show the Red Queen how our ways, you seek another thing."
Dredgen nods his head. She was spot on "Yes...The Goddess Celestine has asked me to aid the Shield Kingdom in a new war that is about to come."
"Against the Kuroinu?"
"Yes"
"I see, you are requesting the Tribes' help then?
"I don't know….but I know doing so will put the Tribe at risk"
"Indeed To request our Tribes to aid the Shield Kingdom means we must reveal ourselves, our secrecy will be no longer, our survival will be endangered, and our endangerment will be our end."
"Then...I must do this quest alone if I accept it?"
"No."
"No?" Dredgen tilted his head
"As of now this Tribe cannot help you on this quest if you accepted it but there are ways for you to gain help from others"
"How?"
"This, you must determine Young One."
Our Mandalorian wasn't so sure about himself "You expect me to search for other hidden coverts and try to convince them in aiding an old enemy of ours?"
"This is the way." Was all the Armorer said to him
Dredgen just stared at the Armorer. She is right this is the way as a Mandalorian he must figure out how to handle this situation on his own. Finding allies won't be easy but he will do his best but before he does it's time to don on his new armor
Back in the Holy Temple in the atrium parts of it. Celestine has officially delivered the troublesome news of the Kuroinu betrayal to the people and that a new war will inevitably ensue against them. Many Nobles were shock and outrage to hear such a thing and others were not so really, for many didn't like the Kuroinu but the most shocking news to them is that the Shield Kingdom has formed an Armiriste with Dark Queen Olga Discordia and her Handmaiden Chole to aid against the Kuroinu.
Obviously not many were too happy to hear that. Some demanded justice for the crimes the Dark Queen has committed against the Shield Kingdom that she must pay with her life but Celestine was firm with her decision. Olga is willing to aid them against the Kuroinu and must work together in order to defeat Vault. Many were skeptical about this but will stand by their Goddess decision...for now
Right now in the atrium, many nobles were still gathered there talking to one another. The Shield Princess alongside the Dark Queen and her Handmaiden looked on the crowd who were discussing what to do now
"I'm sorry about this Olga." Celestine apologizing to the Dark Queen" Not many are too happy with having you aiding us"
Olga just brushed it off "Hmph I do not care if these ignorant nobles of yours not liking me they have no idea what the Kuroinu is now capable of since they have my Fortress in their filthy hands"
Just as Olga said the Shield Princesses noticed the Red Queen entering the atrium being escorted by a few maids. Maia spots them and heads to them
"Maia!" Claudia shouting in anger as she got close "Where have you been this whole time?''
Oh I was out doing something
"Drinking away your sorrows at a tavern?" Luu-Luu asks with a smug look
No I wasn't Luu-Luu- Maia answered annoyed at the Halflings childish act. I was with someone
Who?
Rather than answering the sound of people caught their attention looking at something more particular at someone. The Shield Princess turns their head to see who they are looking at. Walking into the atrium it's our Mandalorian Bounty Hunter, Dredgen but the main reason why he caught so much attention is that his entire armor is made out of Beskar!
Nearly everyone's eyes widened in shock, jaws open in disbelief to see such a helmet is more or less the same design, it's now a shiny silver color. His other pauldron is the same as the other one. The vambraces are a dark silver color with a few deadly upgrades to them. The Chest armor the same color as the vambraces so was his thigh armor and his shin guards are its shiny silver color
Our Bounty Hunter looked around, he almost looked menacing just standing there that some nobles got a shiver to their spines when his gaze passed them. He then spots Celestines and the rest of Shield Princesses alongside the Dark Queen and her Handmaiden he heads towards them.
The Shield Princesses were just in awe at his appearance; most of them had never seen Beskar armor let alone an entire set; it's a sight to behold to them. As the Bounty Hunter got close to them he stood in front of Celestine standing firm
"Dredgen." Celestine greeted him with an elegant smile. The Goddess took a good long look at him. Our Mandalorian was shiny with his new Beskar armor he was looking good and badass almost like a diamond in a way
"I see you acquire some new armor. Beskar armor that is….it suits you well
"Thank you and I did said you might see the full set"
Celestine laughed a little he did say that to her at the beginning a man of his word he is.
"Ahh..You certainly made use of the Beskar I've given you as well" Olga looking please at the Bounty Hunter appearances
"I did...thank you for it, Olga"
The Dark Queen just smiled back to him glad to see Dredgen again
"Oooo! So this is what a full set of Beskar armor looks like!" Pushing to the front was Luu-Luu The Halfling circles around him, getting a closer look. She examines every each piece of Dredgens Beskar armor in awe at the beautiful craftsmanship
Lulu then gasped with excitement as her eyes lit up with stars. "Is this what I think it is!"
She points at what's on the Mandalorians' back, the jetpack This is the device that lets you fly in the air!
"It Luu-Luu"
"Ahhh! So cool!" Luu-Luu cheered " I heard rumors of you Mandalorians having such a thing but it's true! How does it work? Can I try it? Please! Please!"
"Luu-Luu that's enough." Celestine spoke up in a high manner " You are bothering Dredgen please restrain yourself"
"Oh haha sorry." Luu-Luu laughs a little " I couldn't contain myself."
"It is alright Luu-Luu Celestine then turns her attention to our Bounty Hunter "but with you here Dredgen does that mean you have considered my offer?"
"Yes.." Dredgen nods his head "I've given it some thought and I will aid in your new war against the Kuroinu...for a good rate of course"
Celestine laughs a little "Hehe..Of course, you will be paid for your services. The Goddess respectfully bows her head to him " I look forward of working together"
"As do I, your Highness."
(Author Note)
And Done! It's been a while since the last, sorry but our Mando has finally got his Beskar armor some upgrades to his weaponry, and a contract with the Shield Kingdom. Appearances it's basically like Din and it's unpainted so a color with a meaning is certain to happen in later chapters.
The next story arc is obvious I already got an idea to build it out and I will just say this I am bringing 2 or 3 characters maybe, from the Eroge Kuroinu 2
Hope you enjoyed this chapter and see on the next!