A/N: Insert usual disclaimer stuff here. This is the sequel to Penance and Pursuit of Merit.
Again, I went back and chopped this fic up into chapters. If you want to read the thing straight through, with no chapter divisions, just head on over to my site, vejiitasei.com. Because I chopped it up, some of the chapter transitions may be strange. Sorry about that.
Reviews are always welcome and encouraged!
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Lecia immediately started to wail upon rematerialization in his extensive chambers. He set her down on her changing table and deftly removed her diaper, just as Filia had shown him. Discarding his cloak on a nearby chair, he quickly cleaned her, and in a few moments the child was smiling once again. He picked her up and cradled her in his arms, rocking her this way and that as he sat down on the satin coverlet of the bed. The girl giggled and swatted at his hair, and he set her down on the thick comforter, picking up a ribbon from somewhere and dangling it above her face. Lecia squealed and tried to grab it, and the child's laughter was so infectious that soon he was laughing as well. For a strange moment it felt as if he was human again, as if he could once more feel emotion. A genuine smile graced his face and he cooed at his human daughter, laughing when she tried to imitate his sounds. You're a little wonder, he whispered to her. I don't see how anyone could not be amazed by you.
I agree, a voice said behind him, and he turned to see the only being allowed in his chambers without his permission.
he said, moving to stand.
Xellas replied, leaning over the bed and picking up the baby. She truly is a beautiful child, for a mortal.
Thank you.
And what of the mother? The infamous Lina Inverse?
Xellos felt something inside him slide and shatter. I do not know, Mistress.
Xellas sighed and ran her long, tan fingers through the baby's silky hair. Lecia giggled and tried to catch the bracelets jangling at the Greater Beast's wrists, and Xellas smiled just a tiny bit. Why don't you just go claim her and bring her back here?
It's not that easy, I'm afraid.
Why not? You already marked her body with yours. Your child grew within her body, and you will forever be joined in this child.
She would not come willingly.
Why would she need to be willing? Xellas asked, turning to him.
Xellos looked at her coldly, letting her see the full force of his frigid amethyst stare. She needs to be willing, was all he would say.
Xellas bounced the child gently. As you wish. I will not meddle in this affair of yours. It is, honestly, beyond the scope of my experience.
Xellos didn't trust her as far as he could throw her, but he had no idea what she might be up to. The Xellas he was familiar with would have had Lina killed immediately. I apologize.
No need. You may utilize any of the minions or underlings for whatever tasks necessary to build a comfortable home for this mortal child.
Xellas gently laid Lecia back on the coverlet, where the baby began to kick and squirm, face turning red. Take care of this girl, Xellos. She is probably the only thing you will ever have that is truly yours.
Xellos knelt, placing his knuckles against the floor. Thank you, Mistress.
Xellas smiled, the expression anything but reassuring, and nodded. You will be back on assignment soon. I suggest you find a way to bring the mother here before the end of the season.
I will, he replied, and when he raised his head, his mistress was gone.
