(Chapter 3)

The storage room was less cluttered than Tony would have expected considering the state of the bar. A stack of wooden boxes sat unused in the corner, next to a dresser bogged down with dirty mugs and spare bottles of liquor. Beside the wooden furnishing on the opposite end, a group of barrels congregated. The batch of vats wasn't entirely uniform, one missing its cork. The Kingpin knelt for a closer examination.

The floor beneath it bore narrow grooves, as if it had been dragged outward a large number of times. Giving the container an experimental push, the Cuban was surprised to see the hollow object tilt over to fall. Underneath, a trapdoor was revealed to the blue suited man. With a grunt, Tony grabbed the iron ring anchored to the hatch and opened the hidden door. The light spilled through the entrance, pouring down over the narrow steps leading into the dark.

Pleading could be heard out front, where Alvaro, Luis, and Flaco kept the bartender and two other men held at gunpoint. Tony played deaf to their suffering, just as those very individuals did the same to numerous others in their heinous careers. With only a second of hesitation, the Cuban started down the steep staircase.

Damnit, Angie. Couldn't have picked someplace cleaner to be held hostage?

While his shoes caused the old boards to squeak in protest, unseen individuals held an argument somewhere farther into the basement. The Kingpin slowed, hoping to catch some of the words.

"-t'll all work out. I don't see why you're making such a big deal about this. I thought you'd be happy we got one of the men in flowers for ransom. I mean the rumors have these guys passing out gold and gems like they're handing out candy." The words were muffled, as if something covered the individual's mouth.

The second voice was decidedly less calm if more clear, "That's the problem, you decided to think! Do I pay you to think?!" A brief pause implied the allowance for a retort before the voice continued, "No, you idiot! Did you also listen to the rumors they butcher WHOEVER pisses them off?! Clearly not, since you possibly brought those bastards right to our doorstep!"

A brief pause in the conversation allowed the Kingpin to finish climbing down. Back pressed to the crumbling brick wall, Tony strained to hear more as the angry voice grew fainter. Noises bounced off all ends, making it seem like the conversation was seeping through the very stones the Cuban was touching.

"It's not our fault! That blonde bitch…run all the way around town to get her, how were we supposed to know they were in the city?!"

"Not my problem…this mess up. Or I'll get someone…don't forget you're only where you are because I allowed…council meeting to attend."

"Yeah…blood on your pristine uniform…"

"What was that?" The one in charge clearly didn't like the backtalk.

"N-Nothing." Barely audible, the conversation had concluded.

Both sets of footsteps faded into the distance. When the Cuban peeked around the corner through the doorway his eyes widened in shock. A long narrow corridor with iron bars on one side stretched far into the dark. Quick calculations concluded at least twenty-five jail cells were nestled under the unassuming establishment.

Rummaging through his pocket, the Kingpin brought the golden zippo out, igniting the small lighter. Butane flames didn't illuminate much, forcing him to get closer to the cells. Frightened eyes stared back at him. The sight turned Tony's blood to a boil, he began waving the small torch through each cage passed. They were all young, some elves, others with animal appendages, the majority were human though.

How the hell do you do something like this without anyone noticing?

Step by step, the Kingpin passed children with growing anger in his chest. Halfway down the hall, the man stopped as his gaze met a familiar brown.

"Ya termino mi almuerzo, Jefe?" The light tone clashed with Angelo's relieved expression.

Tony couldn't help but smirk at his number two's smartassery, "Si, es hora de volver al trabajo, vagabundo."

Pale hands wrapped around the bars to Angie's left. A face poked out, thin and angular in shape. The young woman looked at Tony like he was an oasis in an endless desert. He tried to return the smile but it proved more difficult as his eyes adjusted to the dark. Her features told of countless hardships, grime from the filthy surroundings turning her once golden locks into a matted brown mess.

"You gonna introduce your friend?"

Angelo gestured to the neighboring cell, "Tony, this is Tuka Marceau. Tuka, this is the man I told you about."

Her voice was croaky and worn, "Nice to meet you, Mr. Montana. Angelo said you were coming but," The Elf's voice cracked, "I can't believe you're actually here."

The young woman began to smile despite the tears pouring down her face in relief. Tony reached out to pat one of the hands wrapped around the bars, "Well believe it chica, and I'm not leaving without ANY of you."

"Quite correct, in fact, you're not leaving at all." The new speaker made Angelo and Tony tense their muscles. Tuka on the other hand despaired from recognizing the goon she'd bitten in her bid for escape. Tony looked down the hall to two approaching male figures; A quick glance backward confirmed they'd cornered the man from behind as well, the hostile quad steadily closing in.

The Cuban faced the jailer while snapping his zippo shut, "Ah just the cocksuckers I was looking for. Came to beg for your lives? It won't do any good, none of you fuckers is walking outta here in one piece."

"Oh yeah? Bold words from an unarmed welp." The one in charge mocked him. Four short swords were unsheathed by the words.

The Cuban laughed then, "Who said I was unarmed?"

Manifesting both the Scorpion and Walther, both ends of the hall were flooded with lead. Muzzle flashes danced in the Elf's ocean blue eyes as they lit up the corridor. Tuka was forced to cover her ears under the overwhelming din produced in the enclosed space, the screams of their attackers barely audible under the thundering clatter. The chaotic exchange was short-lived, leaving a calm Antonio standing among brass and bodies, gun smoke pouring from both firearms into the air.

The sudden silence drew attention to shallow frantic breaths confirming at least one of their assailants was still among the living. Slowly the Cuban walked over to the bleeding trafficker, delicately avoiding the already growing pool of red at his feet. Bending down into a slav squat, the Kingpin pressed a red hot barrel into his bloodied cheek, "How's that for armed, culo?"

Burning metal sizzled against flesh making the man cry out, "Ah fuck! I-I can't feel my legs!"

"Oh really?" Tony pulled the pistol away, his hand returning with a knife, "let me see if I can help with that..."

The man's gaze followed the sharp blade with growing fear. Just as the Kingpin lowered it out of sight the man cried, "N-No pl-please…stop."

Surprisingly the foreigner followed his request. But that small relief soon turned into horror, "Hey Tuka, this bastard begged me to stop. Should I listen to him?"

The normally kindhearted blonde locked eyes with the defeated jailer. Her icy blue glare cut into the man's very soul, "That depends, where is Vivian?"

His response only worsened the scumbags' chances of survival, "W-Who?"

The tired Elf exploded with rage at this, "MY FRIEND YOU MONSTER! WHERE IS MY FRIEND?!"

Unused to being so powerless, the man tried to look away. Tony grabbed him by the scruff of the neck to smash against Tuka's cell door. The Cuban then wrenched the trafficker back by the hair to look at the Elf, "Answer her, or I take my time, puto."

Faced with one of his many victims, the man could only wet himself in fear under her cool unflinching orbs. Tony passed something through the bars then, and the Elf graciously accepted it. With stiletto in hand, the blonde began her interrogation, "The girl that was in the cell next to mine, the redhead, where is she?"

Describing Vivian seemed to jog the criminal's memory. But the words he spoke were not the ones she wanted, "I'm s-so sorry! S-She had to be punished! Tried to stab us with the bone you left her, so the orders came down to 'make an example'... I h-had no choice-"

The Elf shoved the tip into his jugular, "No choice…? NO CHOICE?! YOU FUCKING KIDNAPPED US! DID WE HAVE A CHOICE?!"

The man couldn't reply as the blood seeped down the punctured larynx into his rapidly flooding lungs, but the terror in his face spoke enough. Having gone the majority of his adult life laughing at the plight of those weaker than him, the tables turning had never been a scenario he could picture. All while committing numerous acts of depravity for his own pleasure and sense of superiority. But now, faced with long overdue vengeance, the jailer chose to throw himself at the Elf's mercy. Tuka had none to give, pressing the entire length into the throat.

Gurgling slowed until the traffickers' pupils rolled back into his head. Pulling the blade out, the blonde passed the knife back to the Cuban with tired vacant eyes, "Thank you, Mr. Montana."

Letting go of the dead weight, the Kingpin brushed his hand over her shaking digits, "No problemo senora, figured you had a score to settle. Now," Tony looked down the hall the jailer had come from, "any ideas where these cono's left the keys?"

"I heard something about 'the boss's office'. My bet Jefe, you'll find them there."

The Kingpin nodded before handing the Walther PPK to his numero dos.

"Anyone shows up that isn't me, you plug 'em."

Angelo checked the chamber before looking back up and nodding to the Cuban. Satisfied they would be okay while he searched, Tony ran down the hallway. Reaching the corridor's end, the Kingpin was faced with a locked wooden door and an adjoining hall. The SPAS-12 chewed through the brittle frame, causing the entire slab to cave inwards. On the inside, it was filled with records.

The tightly bound scrolls were packed into various honeycomb nooks instilled in the walls. Curious about their contents, the Cuban uncurled one. While the native language remained a mystery in written form, Tony deduced from context clues these were profiles of their prisoners. The scale of this heinous operation was staggering, only further solidifying the Kingpin's hatred for whoever ran it all. A partially completed entry caught Tony's eye on the table in the center.

Tuka's face was roughly sketched, alongside text he couldn't decipher. Stuffing the page into his pocket, the Cuban decided it could be analyzed later when he wasn't in a literal dungeon of misery. The second hallway was nicer in quality, earthy flooring changed to light gray tiles. Candle sconces started appearing on both walls leading toward a well-lit room. The office was nice, with fine art and bookshelves lined by leather bound volumes; One davenport took up most of the space, a cushioned chair sitting behind it.

Tony made his way behind the large desk. Locked drawers were no match for point blank buckshot, and before long opened. After enough rummaging, a clasp of iron keys was found beneath a false bottom next to a small stack of letters. Tugging the bundle free, a mechanical ticking started to emanate from the furniture, above his head, a small red crystal began to glow brightly.

Oh, you gotta be kidding me.

Not chancing it, the Cuban dove out of the room just as the fire magic ignited everything into a scorching hearth. Getting up from the floor, Tony was given no time to rest as a string of crystals began to light up all the way down the hall. That same ticking began to echo through the entire complex. Breaking into a dead sprint, the Kingpin outran the flames beginning to consume all in their ravenous hunger.


Lelei thought she was hearing things when the first explosion rang out. The second detonation changed that. Lati, Rory, and her had gotten through the remainder of lunch without further incidents. The Mage and Reaper had even bonded over a few glasses of wine, their previous animosity replaced with giggling gossip over the Cuban. So senses weren't the sharpest as light tremors shook the ground beneath them; Distant booms drew the attention of everyone inside the restaurant.

While the bluenette craned her neck to see the commotion brewing at the front of the business, the Apostle closed her eyes and took a deep breath. When she reopened them, rose pupils were filled with excitement. The raven-haired woman then turned to address Lati, "It's Antonio isn't it, Goddess?"

Santa Muerte swirled her partially filled glass of maroon, "Yes, and it seems he's stumbled onto quite a secret. Que decis, senoras? Care for a post-lunch stroll? I have a feeling Antonio will need us before long."

Sliding out of the booth, the trio made their way through the gawking crowd before stepping out onto the street. Instead of sunlight assaulting their senses, black columns of smoke rose in the distance. Plumes obscured the sky as smells of burning wood filled nostrils. A growing unease manifested in Lelei's chest at the sight. Without looking away from the growing darkness, the Mage addressed the Apostle to her right, "Rory, just what exactly did you smell in the air that told you it was Antonio?"

The short woman's smile grew, "Simple really if you've lived as long as I have, the scent of bloodshed is hard to forget. Even harder when it's bathed in so much evil."

Quickly the women navigated full avenues as they approached the city's center. Arriving at ground zero, they were surprised to see the council building already partially consumed by fires pouring out of the structure's windows. Onlookers now numbered in the hundreds watching the grisly sight. Getting closer to the front, familiar floral patterns could be seen between the throng of cramped bodies. Ernie saw Lati first, being the tallest of the three.

"Patrona, eres tu? Que estas haciendo aqui?" The sicario shouted over the quickly rising voices as he pushed back the people to maintain a protective perimeter he'd been tasked with enforcing before their leader had gone silent.

"We could ask the same of you Ernesto. Donde esta Antonio?" While the words left her full lips, people around them stepped back to allow the trio through. Lelei noted the dazed expressions as they passed the line of soldados. Ernie's mustachioed face wore anxiety while catching them up on the events that had transpired during their visit to the metropolis.

"...all split up to look for the joint. Finally, after some searching, Alvaro and Flaco located La Yegua Loca then we-"

"Espera un segundo," The Mage hoped her ears had misheard him, "did you just say The Crazy Mare?"

"Si, senorita azul. One of the kidnappers had a coin with the bar's name on it."

Coming back to the table, Antonio avoided looking into anyone's eyes. He spoke about meeting up with Angie to discuss some business that had come up unexpectedly. Luis chose then to present the coin in a casual manner, and requested Lelei to tell him what it said. After giving them the name, the two left in a hurried manner. The arrival of their food prevented further thoughts on the strange behavior right then.

Lelei didn't understand this feeling of hurt from being kept in the dark. Why didn't you tell us, Antonio?

Turns out she'd get her answer sooner than expected as the radio clipped to Ernie's belt sprang to life. The voice was instantly recognizable, even masked with digital static. Tony's uncharacteristically frantic tone barked orders,"-uck fuck fuck! We gotta move man! Angie, get those last cells open now! Tuka, what's wrong?! Tuk-"

Interference drowned out the next words, not a second later jets of fire shot into the sky from beneath the street to the rear of the council building. Debris rained down on the gathered masses who began to swell with panic from the continued blasts. When the signal came back, the Kingpin's words were muffled and interspersed with coughing, "-o damn thick *kguh* I can barely see anything! Hold on rubia, just a little longer…"

Garbled noises stopped them from determining the remainder of the Cuban's words. Then it went dead. Disturbed by what they had listened to, both Rory and Lelei asked the same question of Ernie, "Where is the tavern?"

Pinned under the contrasting but no less intense set of eyes, the soldato numbly pointed toward the street the spikes of fire had originated from. Without further instruction, the pair bounded off toward the large source of smoke. Santa Muerte followed at a more leisurely gait. Rory was naturally faster, reaching the partially demolished alley first. With assistance from novice wind magic, the bluenette was right on her heels.

Flames covered every inch of the building, in Lelei's horror her mind still picked up how the orange tendrils failed to spread to the equally flammable neighboring architecture. A loud crack sounded from the front door, which proceeded to split in half as a very disheveled Angelo crashed through it with two children curled in his arms. Behind the Henchman a literal flood of youth and three other sicarios poured out onto the street. Black with soot as they coughed up the ashes, the kids began to cry in relief.

Angie was just setting down the small thin bodies as Lelei came up beside him, "Angie, where is Antonio?!"

While a shaky arm covered his violent hacking, the man pointed back toward the inferno with a blackened finger. Pupils shrank to a needle point in the Mages eyes as her fear reached a crescendo. Without thinking the bluenette began running toward the entryway, the thoughts in her head a battle between logic and instinct.

I gotta get inside!

He's already dead.

No, there's still time!

Smoke inhalation happens in minutes.

I don't care!

But would Antonio want this?

He promised!

Promises can be broken.

"NOOOOOOOO!" Unaware of her own outburst, Lelei was almost upon the door frame.

Luckily or unluckily depending on one's perspective, the Mage's mad dash was halted as an iron grip clasped around her wrist. Looking back in bewilderment, her blue eyes met the Reaper's sympathetic rosy orbs. Any attempt to extricate herself was pointless, the Apostle's grasp was solid, "WHAT ARE YOU DOING?! THERE'S STILL TIME! I CAN-"

Those same arms brought her into a tight hug, pulling the young woman further away from the crumbling ruins. Thin fingers stroked through her blue locks as adrenaline faded from Lelei's veins, her struggles growing weaker. Rory's whisper deflated the rest, "I can detect life, there's nothing there… nothing, Lelei."

Her black uniform became damper as the Mage stopped fighting Rory's hold. The two women just stood beneath the heat, Reaper swaying side to side as she combed through the bluenette's hair. A shadow cast over them, causing the two to look up toward Lati's soft smile.

Lelei could only sniffle before hiding back inside the ravenette's wet shoulder. The Apostle's own gaze held similar droplets, though they'd yet to spill over as she stared into the fire, "I'm sorry Goddess…Antonio didn't get out..."

"Of course not Mija, he took the other tunnel after all."

"W-What?" Rory didn't feel the tears sailing down her cheeks as she whipped her head toward the Saint.


It was fortunate only half the cages were occupied. With how quickly the magical flames spread over the walls, Tony wouldn't have had time to open every cell. But freeing Tuka and Angelo helped his efforts. The Henchman took over with the ring of keys while the blonde used his knife. While her technique could use refinement, the Elf's actions sped up the process immensely.

Anxiously the Kingpin glanced back, confirming the magical fire was still very much in hot pursuit,"Fuck fuck fuck! We gotta move man! Angie, get those last cells open now!"

The Henchman did as he was told, sweaty hands twisting the locks with haste. A high-pitched scream from the Elf drew Tony's focus, "Tuka, what's wrong?! Tuka?!"

The Elf didn't respond, a blank stare looking right past him. Knife still in hand, Tuka could only stand in place as another crystal began to glow above her head. The tackle carried them both out of the blast zone just as the ceiling collapsed. Angelo began raising the kids into the waiting arms of Luis and Flaco; The stairs had been destroyed by a delayed destruction hex. Distant gunfire confirmed Alvaro had made an impromptu decision regarding the two men and bartender before joining his brothers in lifting the little ones.

Together the four got them all out before Angelo was pulled up as well. Rising from the dirt floor with Tuka's arm draped over his shoulders, the Cuban hastily dragged the limp woman toward the hatch while the incessant ticking mocked him from all sides. As they reached the smoldering trap door, a piece of the tavern fell crushing the very spot they'd just been laying.

It's coming down too fast, we don't have time. The thought came as Tony looked into Angelo's brown eyes. His numero dos extended a hand through the hatch, "C'mon Jefe! This place is really starting to fall apart!"

A second hallway was revealed under the staircase, no longer hidden by shadows. With only seconds to decide, Tony Montana gave his order, "Get the fuck outta here! I'll find my own way!"

Angelo tried to argue but his signature glare cut off any complaints. With a somber, "Si, Jefe." Angie's face disappeared.

Left with no alternatives, Tony limped down the new hallway as fast as his bruised and battered body could handle. Air became thick and soupy as the smoke began to fill the chamber. His companion started coughing violently, throwing off the Cubans' balance. The blue jacket was removed and draped over Tuka's head before scooping her up into his arms. As he struggled forward step by step the Kingpin began rambling from lack of oxygen.

"So damn thick *kguh* I can barely see anything! Hold on rubia, just a little longer…don't quit on me yet chica *kguh* I never talked to an Elf before and I *kguhsskdl* I'll be damned if I die before I get the chance…"

Fortunately, the hallway curved around a bend to reveal stairs. Seeing the steps brought about a second wind inside the exhausted man. The Kingpin stomped up the steep incline with renewed vigor. As he ascended the environment around him changed, turning from a forgotten crypt into regal polished stone with intricate engravings. An unlocked door led him into some kind of administrative building, discarded reports and letters covering the floor.

This new place was also burning, just not as quickly as The Crazy Mare had capitulated. Growling through the pain Tony began to search for an exit when his hearing picked up muffled cries for help. Following the faint sounds of begging the Kingpin came to another large intricate door. By the panicked banging, it could be surmised it had been jammed in all the chaos. Placing the unconscious Elf down on one of the vacant benches, the Cuban yelled for the inhabitants to get back before he punched a hole right through the lock with his pistol.

With nothing holding the stampede back, a massive crowd of toga sporting individuals ran out of the smoky room. None acknowledged him as they made their way past.

Assholes could've at least looked at me. Pinche bureaucrats.

Retaking the blonde into his arms, the Kingpin followed the squirrely politicians. Tremors began, large cracks starting to race across the walls and floor. Chunks of masonry fell from the high concave ceiling, crushing those unfortunate enough to be underneath. At last, sunlight was revealed as the fastest of the lot threw open a large door leading out into the city square. As Tony passed through the exit a backdraft occurred, forcing a raging wave of flames to pass over him while he shielded Tuka with his body.

Baptism by fire, the Kingpin felt his exposed hands and neck blister in the intense heat but refused to pull away from the Elf's covered form. When the torrent stopped, the Cuban could only take a few more steps before collapsing to his knees. His white button-up hung in tatters on the man's frame. Gently the woman was lowered onto the cool cobblestone as Tony removed his ash-covered jacket from her face, "Okay rubia. Time to get up. Ride's over."

The blonde's sleepy expression didn't change. Alarm bells began to ring inside the Kingpin's head. Wasting no time, he pressed his raw ear against her still chest; the Lack of a heartbeat shoved Tony back into the mindset of a soldier. Checking to make sure her airway was cleared, his hands centered on the Elf's sternum before pressing down firmly to the pace of an old disco song. After thirty reps, one hand pinched the nose shut before Tony covered her mouth with his own, two breaths were passed along before the compression's started again.

Unaware of the mob quickly forming around him, the Cuban prayed while transitioning between the two actions. Right as he lowered his lips a third time to pass along more air, Tuka's blue eyes shot open. Twisting away from him, the Elf began violently retching the contents of her stomach onto the ground. Black soot was found mixed with blood. After gulping in several large desperate gasps of air the blonde returned to her original position; The ringed hand at the back of her skull provided temporary cushioning.

"M-Mr. Montana?"

"If that's your idea of a joke, you need to work on your material, Tuka. Because that shit wasn't funny." Even burned and battered, his smile emanated control of the situation.

"You saved me?" Her face was filled with awe.

"What's that supposed to mean? I said I wasn't leaving without ANY of you. Got only two things in this world chica, my word, and my balls. And I don't break either for no one."

Tuka didn't mean to start crying, his words just had that effect. Without thinking the woman sat up, wrapping her arms around the Cuban's torso. Laughter bubbled up from her chapped lips as the tears cascaded down his exposed chest. The Kingpin rubbed her back as the Elf let it all out.

Pulling away, the two locked eyes and shared a warm smile. Relieved shouting of a certain Mage interrupted the moment, "Oh, gracias al cielo que estas bien!"

Tony turned to the source of the voice, only to have his lips crushed in an impromptu kiss as a second pair of arms ensconced him in Lelei's embrace. Even uncoordinated and desperate, the energy put into the bluenette's ministrations earned a groan from the man. Pulling back, her puffy red eyes narrowed into a glare, "No vuelvas a hacer un truco como ese, Antonio."

"Secundo que." Was spoken from his opposite shoulder. Turning again, Tony's head was anchored in place by Rory's strong hands while she devoured him. Powerless to stop it, the Kingpin allowed the Apostle to dominate his tired tongue. Satisfied, the ravenette pulled away before draping herself over his back while Lelei relocated to tightly gripping his arm, as if afraid he'd vanish into thin air otherwise. Given time to sit and recover, the Cuban began to notice the colorful shirts of his men around him, each sporting smirks of certainty as if they'd never doubted his survival.

Surrounded by unfamiliar faces, and embarrassed by the public displays of affection, Tuka extricated herself from her tight hold on the Cuban's midsection while avoiding everyone's eyes. Together the pair began to stand, helped by numerous tanned arms. On their feet, the ashy jacket was forgotten by all but the Mage. Noticing the odd lump in the discarded article, the bluenette crouched to pick it up. The collection of papers was slightly crumpled but otherwise unharmed; Unfolding the first parchment, Lelei began to consume its secrets.

Outside the group, a commotion could be heard brewing. Someone was trying to shove past the perimeter. Getting progressively more annoyed at the whining, the Cuban waved for his men to let the person through. Initially sporting a scowl at being denied an audience with his savior, the council head changed expressions when the line broke to reveal not only the strange man but a blonde wood elf.

Quickly the man tried to hide his surprise, "My good sir, thank you for rescuing us from the council chambers! How fortunate, another moment and we might've been cooked geese. How can I ever repay you?"

The Cuban stepped forward while extending his hand, "Well there is one thing I'd like…"

Grabbing his outstretched palm, the politician wasn't ready for the Kingpin's sucker punch with the opposite appendage. Hitting the cobblestone, the short man slid for several feet from the momentum provided. As he struggled to get up amidst the gasps of the surrounding citizens, Tony made his way toward the wretch, leaving the protective bubble of his men. A kick was delivered to the exposed ribs, eliciting an 'oof' from the council member. While continuing to beat the man, the Cuban's short-term memories played on repeat.

"Not my problem. Just clean this mess up. Or I'll get someone who can. Don't forget you're only where you are because I allowed it. Now if you'll excuse me, I have a council meeting to attend."

The Kingpin's next words were laced with disgust, "I want you to hurt. I want you to know what it's like to be small and helpless." A second kick was given, "How do you like it you piece of shit?!"

"HALT! What has transpired here?"

Looking up from the focus of his wrath, Tony was greeted by a horde of polished knights, all adorned with the crest of Rondel upon their breastplates as they aimed swords at him. His sicarios responded in kind, surrounding their boss with weapons pointed. The leader of the knights came forth draped in a royal blue cape, helmet held at his side, "When I got reports of fires running rampant in the council chambers I expected a few things. Bodies? Yes. Smoke? Yes. What I didn't expect is a foreigner beating chancellor Klepsteen right in the middle of the street. Have you anything to say in defense of yourself?"

Tony stared him down, "Yeah, the fucking cockroach had it coming for all the terrible crimes he's committed."

A subordinate of the captain asked to the chagrin of his leader, "What terrible crimes?"

"Nothing much, only the enslavement and exploitation of innocence to line the pockets of a select few. But, perhaps your boss already knew that." Lati quipped while gliding onto the scene, and the liberated youth followed her into the spotlight.

Together the children stood clustered near the Saint, afraid to venture away from her protective aura. Seeing the state of the kids started a whirlwind of hushed whispers among the crowd. The knight captain only seemed to frown at the sight, not as surprised as he should've been.

Using the momentum garnered by his Patrona, Tony continued, "As she said, this rat has been selling women and children to sickos for who knows how long. Had a whole 'Lil shop of horrors' vibe going on right beneath the Crazy Mare tavern. Luckily our friend Tuka," The Cuban beckoned for the shy blonde to come forward, "here was able to escape from their latest batch. Caught the attention of my right hand, " Angie stepped up to stand beside the Elf, "who in trying to save her, was captured himself. But we found the rat's nest. When I went underground I heard this, " An accusatory finger was pointed, "waste of fucking space talk to one of his goons about covering it all up."

Attempting to save face in front of his soldiers and the stirring mob, the captain began disputing the claims, "Those are some hefty allegations. Do you have any evidence to back them up? Can you show me this establishment?"

The doubt angered the Kingpin, "Show you?! Look around, you're breathing it mano! The damn thing went up like a Christmas tree, and apparently ran under city hall as well considering how fast it fucking crumbled! Whole place was booby-trapped to burn away any trace!"

Pretending to contemplate the man's story, the knight captain allowed for a pregnant pause to quiet the restless citizenry. When it felt like tensions had lowered enough, he began damage control, "That is quite an entertaining tale you've woven stranger. Unfortunately, without any hard evidence, I can't believe a word of it. Now step away from Jessie Klepsteen or I'll be forced to arrest not only you but your companions. The children will come with us, the city guard should be able to find their families."

He stepped forward wrapping his fist around Tuka's bicep while finishing the statement. Still laying on the ground, the council head smirked at how his subordinate had derailed the vigilante's justice. Even uncontrolled and volatile, the fire crystals had done their job in covering up the tracks. Jessie would even be able to recover his latest stock, only having to wait for nighttime to transfer the brats to a new more secluded location. Then Lelei began speaking into a megaphone, Lati readjusting her robes beside the Mage.

"Year 685

Month of Sun

Day 15

Theo,

I've noticed a significant decrease in our profits for the month. I don't care if you and the boys play with the toys, but break enough of them and I'm forced to put my foot down. If I have to bring this up again I'll put you in a cell right next to the brats. Some of my associates were also intrigued by the idea of having the knight captain run security for their 'gatherings' so keep your schedule open. From what I hear, the entertainment is snow elf twins, so it should be fun even if you have to contend with the scraps. I guess youth doesn't translate to endurance.

Jessie Klepsteen

P.S. Stop making such a mess, the walls still have blood on them from your last tryst."

To call the letter incriminating would be an understatement. All the color flushed from the council head's face, a similar effect occurring for the knight captain. A select few of the soldiers began glancing around nervously. Knowing the jig was up, the captain pulled Tuka to him before drawing a familiar blade, "You come near me and the long ears die! Form up!"

Those in on the reveal began attacking their colleagues. In the confusion, a collection of twenty knights broke away from the main force. With practiced ease, they formed a phalanx around the outed criminal. Angie could only seethe in anger, "That bastardo has my sword!"

Golden blade gleaming in the sun, the man pressed it tightly to the Elf's pale throat. His thoughts were scattered, his escape plan more a rough idea than anything else. If the goons could make it to the outside walls they had a chance. He just needed to deter these meddlesome foreigners long enough. The knight captain was so focused on their immediate surroundings, he failed to notice the rapidly growing shadow directly above.

That's what Rory was counting on, landing in the pit of vipers while breaking both his sword arm and hold. The blonde didn't react, a frozen look of terror plastering her features. Given only a small window of opportunity, the Apostle secured her target before leaping back out of the crowd. Seeing the ravenette make her escape, Lelei cast a gravitational rune below the corrupt knights. Armor and weapons became unbearably heavy, causing a few to collapse on the spot from the strain.

Crushed to just eleven able-bodied fighters, the captain held his shattered appendage. Tony spent this time relaying orders to his men. When finished delegating, the Cuban walked toward the remaining traffickers with a handful of soldados, "You got two options pinche cucarachas. Surrender now peacefully, and you'll just be shot. Resist, and I'll have Ernie skin you like he's peeling a potato BEFORE we light your asses on fire. The choice is yours, plomo o fuego?"

Imaginations ran wild in the cornered rats. In the span of a few hours, their group had gone from a shadowy hand controlling all from the dark corners of Rondel to public enemy number one. Fearing the promised torture, Theo's men threw down their arms and raised hands in defeat. Quickly the Cartel moved in, zip-tying hands behind backs. Disgusted with the cowardice around him, the knight captain drew a dagger before rushing toward the unflinching Kingpin.

Tony allowed the crook to close the distance. As the blade came forward the Cuban executed a textbook Seoi-nage or 'shoulder throw' forcing the air from the captain's lungs. Being flipped onto his back, the trafficker was helpless to stop the two rounds that ripped through his kneecaps. Knife forgotten in the agony, Theo's cries were halted by the polished boot on his throat. Laying there, he watched in horror as those that had surrendered were being stripped of their clothes alongside the ones that had tried fighting; Any that resisted were shot in an arm or leg before being undressed.

"B-But you s-said-" The boot came down harder.

"I bet it don't feel so good, being lied to. You know what you are? A haza, a pig that don't fly straight. But don't worry, we know what to do with hazas. Don't we Ernie?"

One of the sicarios came from the throng of colorful shirts, his white apron ready for desecration. A collection of sharp wicked objects poked out of his front pocket. Stopping in front of the wounded criminal, the soldado's eyes never left Theo's as he answered, "Si Jefe. Hacemos tocinos."


Wine splattered the wall of the royal dining room, its container being thrown in anger. Molt crumpled the latest status report in his clenched fist. While able to hold onto Italica, Pina's forces had been worn down from the constant night raids. It was estimated if something wasn't done soon, the city would fall within a fortnight. Even more distressing, word of mouth had delivered the news Rondel was no longer under Imperial rule.

Although the rumors described calculated barbarism that churned more than a few stomachs at that morning's senate meeting, the reaction from Rondel's people was more terrifying. They'd welcomed the invaders as liberators and harbingers of justice. While burning flayed men alive in the city square, treasures were handed out to the peasantry. All those loyal to the crown were forced to flee for fear of persecution, despite the men in flowers never showing hostility to civilians.

The war in the north raged on, moving slower than projected. Zorzal had sent word that his forces were preparing for the siege of the warrior bunny's capital. Molt hoped a swift victory would deter the senators from acting on any delusions of grandeur. He couldn't afford an insurgency alongside the losses accrued by the failed attempts at Alnus. Alone, the Emperor allowed himself a moment of weakness as he buried the heavy crown in his hands.

It had only been a few weeks ago, the Imperial army was the most feared force on the continent. Now, a bloated mess of cities, villages, and towns was tearing apart at the seams without any forces to keep them in place. He'd debated the prospect of conscripting from the prisons. But the situation wasn't that bleak, yet. Sightings of a flame dragon near the Elbe kingdom were just the cherry on top of all this.

At least that will hinder the foreigners as much as it does us. With a heavy sigh, the tired Emperor sat up from his ornate empty table. The walk to his chambers was a lonely one, plagued by nervous glances into the dark corners of the hallway. These walls no longer felt safe. This rule no longer felt assured.


Tony wished he'd found out what the document said before giving it to Tuka. Confirming she was the only survivor from the attack only seemed to increase what Lati had called a "freeze stress response". Flooded with anxiety and adrenaline from her traumatic memories, the Elf's body was torn between fight-or-flight responses and pushed into inaction from the conflicting instincts. While infrequent, the Cuban knew they'd only get worse if untreated. Fortunately, his Patrona knew not just of the condition but also its cure; Now the Kingpin just had to believe it himself.

"Revenge?"

The Saint played with Tuka's hair; La rubia slept peacefully, head in Lati's lap, "Doesn't even need to be cold. Room temperature should do just fine."

He snorted at her comment before turning to look out the window. Below, in the same courtyard where Lelei and Arpeggio had battled, now stood several temporary huts. A smile graced his lips at the sight, sicarios watching over the little ones as they played. With the last few days devoted to hunting down everyone named in Klepsteen's letters, it was nice to have a moment to breathe. Their cushy rooms in the Magician School were certainly a step up from the cots everyone had gotten used to.

Still gazing outside, Tony voiced his doubts, "Okay, but what if we kill the dragon and it doesn't stop? What then? It's not like we got a therapist on call out here. I mean fuck, that first time we fought it was lucky. If any of you got hurt…"

The Saint stared at his black-suited back, "It's commendable how you want to protect everyone, but didn't la arandano y gatita already make it clear how they feel about you making decisions for them without their knowledge?"

Mentioning the Mage and Apostle caused a small blush to spread across the man's features. Eyes focused on the ravenette participating in a game of tag before glancing at Lelei sitting on the front steps comparing notes with her sister. The memory of being chewed out for his reckless behavior was still fresh in Tony's mind, alongside the events that transpired afterward.

(Several Hours After the Fire)

"Didn't want to worry us? WORRY US?! YOU ALMOST GOT BURNED ALIVE! HOW WOULD THAT HAVE MADE US FEEL?! MAKE ME FEEL?! YOU PROMISED I WOULDN'T BE ALONE! YOU WOULD HAVE BROKEN YOUR WORD!… I thought you were smarter than this…" Lelei had never shown this much anger before, her face covered in tears as she glared at him.

Rory was calmer in her criticism, but no less cross or hurt, "I can regenerate entire limbs if needed. I've been in more battles than you can imagine. I'm strong enough to crush rock and bend metal. I'm not afraid of getting injured, pain, or death. But when I thought you were gone, I was more scared than I've been in over nine hundred years. What does that tell you, Antonio?"

Immobilized as the two rubbed burn cream on the skin, Tony could only stare at his shoes while taking the verbal beating. A small part of him was thankful they'd waited until the men had gone to bed before starting their beratement in the privacy of his room. Any attempt to justify his actions was snuffed out by the hurt in the two's eyes. So, Tony did something he'd never done before in his lifetime; Breaking a personal rule, the Kingpin apologized.

"You're both right. I fucked up, so many things could've gone differently and I'd justa been a pile of bones in the rubble. I…I didn't… no I couldn't risk repeating my mistakes…not again…never again. I'm sorry I put you through that." One tear slid down the man's stubble-ridden cheek. A beautiful curly-haired brunette smiled at the Kingpin from the recesses of his mind.

Unused to the vulnerability displayed, the two girls pouted in concern. His Hazel eyes glazed over, unfocused and unmoving. The desire to scold was slowly being replaced with the urge to comfort. Rory decided to pry further, "Repeat what mistakes? A quien perdiste?"

The Cuban stood up from the plush bed leaving their touch before making way over to lean against the window; Moonlight descended through the parted curtains. Bathed in a pale glow, his heart played tug of war with the mind. Would this be too much? Would they hate him? Tired of holding it all in, Tony made a decision.

"Mi Hermana…Gina. She's dead because of me." Quiet as they were, the words echoed through the large bedroom.

"You remember when you asked if America was a land of opportunity?"

Both could only nod, enraptured by the mourning etched into Antonio's features, "Well I had the opportunity to live a simple life, and I spat in the face of that chance. I wanted money, power, respect, and I was willing to kill for it all. Mama… she saw what was inside me, and bless her heart, tried to keep my sister away… But I still found them after involving myself with contrabandistas. Started to really make a name for myself, even if it was just from peddling maldito veneno."

Voice rising as the truth came out, Tony didn't care anymore, "But-" A ringed fist smashed into the wall.

Lelei sprang up, crossing the wood floor in an instant; Rory followed. The Mage's cool hands rested on his tense shoulder blade, "But what? What happened?"

Laughter bubbled up from his tight chest, hollow and cold, "Alejandro fuckin Sosa happened! Promised to help me build my own empire. So I cut out my boss then took it all over. For a time it was everything he said it would be. My house was a palace, businesses everywhere with MY name on 'em, and more money than I even knew what to do with."

For a second he smiled, as if remembering an old joke, "…Then I underestimated the other guys' greed. Got caught skipping taxes by the government; They were gonna send me to prison again. Alejandro…Alex promised to help sweep it under the rug if I helped silence someone making his own work difficult. Would've done it but, FUCK," The Kingpin struck the same spot harder leaving a dent, "his wife and kids were in the pinche car with him! I tried to cancel the hit but Alex's man wouldn't listen to me, so I shot the pendejo. Sosa didn't like me too much after that, promised a war."

Sweat slid down wiry muscles as the man bore his soul within the dim space, "When I got back in Miami, Mama called. Said Gina ran away from home and gave me an address. When I knocked on the door, M-" The name stuck in his throat, right before strength abandoned Tony's legs.

Dropping to his knees, the Cuban buried a wet face in the ringed palms, "daMNIT MANNY YOU DON'T FUCKING LISTEN! I TOLD YOU, I FUCKING TOLD YOU TO STAY AWAY FROM HER!"

Too distraught to see how he'd affected the bluenette and Reaper, Tony continued sobbing. Each felt a harsh tug in their hearts remembering the name of the friend who'd followed the Cuban to America. Taking a shuddering inhale, the Kingpin finished confessing, "…They'd fallen in love. I hadn't seen it coming, too fucked up on yayo and power; I was blind. So when I saw him, saw her, I just saw red. Came to, and the gun was smoking in my hand. Manny…Manny was on the floor. Gina said they'd just gotten married; Wanted to surprise me."

With a deep breath, the Kingpin stood before wiping away the evidence of anguish. Turning around, he passed between the two before sitting down on the loveseat facing the hearth; The heat felt good on his face. Leaning forward, he rested his brow on clasped hands, back facing them. "The king of Cochabamba wasn't one to bullshit; Threw everything he had at me after I got her home. Was in my office getting high and numb trying to forget what can't be forgotten when Gina came in and tried to kill me. Shot my leg, I wish she'd finished the job."

A small gasp escaped the bluenette's mouth at the declaration, "Ella no me habia matado, me cai detrás de la silla. One of Sosa's men came in then and sprayed the whole damn room. I threw the pinche gusano over the balcony, but when I got to her it was already too late. She was gone. My baby sister was gone."

Raising his head, the former Drug lord stared into the embers, "I wasn't supposed to get outta that house. I know it in my heart now. It always tells the truth… even when I lie. Lati picked me because I'm already a dead man walking. A storm, destroying everything in its path before withering to nothing."

"So get away from me, antes de que el legado de Tony Montana tambien te arrastre. Before I get you killed too." Eyes closed, Antonio, laid against the back of the seat, his head aimed toward the ceiling. Nothing left to say, He waited for the sound of the door.

It never came, leaving nerves to fester in the Cuban's rib cage. A sniffle escaped the silence, emanating from behind. Warm hands framed Tony's face. The Kingpin expected Rory was getting ready to snap his neck. Preparing himself accordingly, the man opened his eyes.

What greeted his sight was not a vengeful messenger of death though but an enchanting woman on the verge of tears. This confused the Kingpin, who'd fully expected to be treated with loathing and contempt for the confession. Even upside down Rory's beauty mesmerized him; Her face came closer. Together their lips connected as the surface tension broke covering Tony in her sorrow. Clutched together, the kiss carried a hint of salt.

A warm body climbed to straddle his lap, small palms holding against the hairy chest. Letting go, Rory started around the furniture. Free to move his head, the Cuban looked down. Lelei's pained expression stabbed at the heart while leaning forward. One pair of lips covered another, the Mage raked her nails down the wall of muscle earning an animalistic growl.

Eventually, the need for air caused Tony to pull away, giving the bluenette the chance to slap him across the face. The sting brought the Kingpin back down to reality, "Don't you EVER say you should have died!"

Lelei's glare was offset by the pink blush dusting her face, "If you weren't here things would be worse, much worse."

"Yeah, how so?" Tony replied with a sarcastic tone while rubbing the point of impact.

Smart as she was cute, the bluenette answered with another question, "Do you regret saving me, Antonio?"

"What? Of course not!" Mind entertaining the thought, his arms unconsciously wrapped around her small waist.

Rory pressed into his side, head resting against the muscled shoulder, "Do you regret saving the villagers?"

"Hey that was diff-" Lelei cut off the excuse.

"Te arrepientes de salvar a las ninos?"

"..."

"Or Tuka?"

Debated into submission, his eyes traveled between the two sets of pupils challenging him to speak. Rory pressed their viewpoint, "If you weren't here, everyone you helped would be gone too. What you describe isn't a noble desire to atone but a selfish request to escape. If you die, so does any chance of redemption; Then you'd really be what you think you are, a monster. Trust me, I've accumulated enough regrets of my own to last lifetimes. We can't change the past, but the same cannot be said for the future."

(NSFW WARNING/Beginning SMUT)

The Reaper's features were soft, her stare bore directly into the Cuban's heart. Torn open by her words, Tony captured the violet lips in a desperate kiss. Together the tongues wrapped around one another. No dominance was sought, the extremities preferring to dance in harmony while the Mage drew a trail of pecks down the left side of his neck. Stopping for a moment, Tony heard shuffling before Lelei's bare chest pressed flush against his own.

Whimpers leaked from the bluenette, sensitive to the rough texture of the thick curly hair against her hardening buds. Warm calloused hands slid up and down her back before squeezing the rear. Breaking the kiss, Tony's turned to bite the Mage's exposed shoulder; A lewd moan poured from the scantily dressed girl. Rory began undoing the ties to her outfit. Standing up, she made eye contact with the Cuban before letting the clothes hit the ground.

Framed by the fire to the Apostle's back, the Kingpin ran eyes over pale flesh. Not one blemish resided against the petite form, a small patch of black hair rested between her hips. With a hazy lust, Rory slid onto the Cuban's thighs behind the squirming Mage. Hands snaked underneath Lelei's arms before pinching and rolling her hard nipples. Screams never escaped the bluenette's throat, smothered and muffled as the Cuban dominated her mouth.

One of the ringed paws pulled from kneading the Mage's sensitive ass. It tangled itself in short blue locks with a tight grip. Rory's kisses danced across Lelei's back, occasionally leaving marks where she'd lingered to bite and suck. In all the excitement it was Tony's next move that broke the camel's back. Sliding past the damp fabric hanging on her hips, the Cuban buried his middle finger to the knuckle inside her.

Shudders vibrated between the three sweaty bodies, Lelei twitching in place as she rode out her first orgasm, ever. Removing the digit, the Kingpin licked at the juices left over. Recovering from the overwhelming sensations the Mage watched with curiosity rising, "What does it taste like?"

The Reaper slid her hand down the slick navel, before plunging back inside the Mages' weeping petals. The digits pressed against hot walls. Finger fucked to oblivion, the bluenette cried out before cumming hard across the Cuban's lap. When done soaking her fingers, Rory brought them up to taste.

"Mmmmm, yummy. You should try." Lelei felt her chin being turned before the Reaper's tongue began swimming in her mouth.

Tony alternated between punishing the Mage's perky breasts in his teeth and watching the Apostle overpower her lips. Released from the kiss, Lelei could only pant as she ground her hips against the Kingpin's trapped member. Groaning in frustration, the man lifted her small body off to the side before looking at Rory. His eyes said it all, causing the Reaper to smile widely before reaching for the belt buckle. After some fiddling, the restrictive garments were tossed leaving the erection to stand tall under three sets of eyes.

Intimidated by the large appendage, Lelei glanced away with a bright red face. Rory on the other hand lounged like a cat over the Cuban's bare thigh as she wrapped her small hand firmly around the base. Tony sucked in sharply at the confident action, before emanating a low groan as the Apostle stroked up and down the entire length. The impish smile on her face grew as the bulbous head started to leak down the shaft. Gathering nerves, Lelei turned around before reaching for the rod herself.

Together the women rubbed up and down, leaving the entire length shining from a thin precum coating. Lying on their stomachs, the Reaper and Mage were vulnerable to rough fingers descending between their cheeks. Rubbing up and down the wet slits, Tony coaxed in two fingers, then four, and finally six. Locating the g-spot, the Kingpin began a relentless tapping against the bundles of nerves. Rory gave her praise in the form of a shrill cry, and Lelei chose to mumble incoherently between pants.

The bluenette began tentatively licking her side of the member. Before long the Apostle joined in, their tongues occasionally seeking out each other as they slobbered across Tony's dick. This proved too much for the Cuban, who dug his nails into the supple cheeks as he came. Thick white ropes splattered across their mesmerized faces. Despite the release, Tony's Lil friend stood at attention, ready for more.

Wiping some off the bridge of her nose, Lelei sniffed the gelatinous material before putting it in her mouth. Eyes widened in surprise before descending into a lecherous haze. On autopilot, the Mage leapt onto the unprepared Apostle before dragging her tongue across Rory's features. Once all collected, she lowered to deposit the cum in the Reaper's unprepared mouth. Again, those rosy pupils went from shocked to falling under the spell.

Too busy making out, the girls didn't notice the Kingpin lining up between their joined entrances. Sliding into the hot puffy lips, a low grunt fell from his throat. Moaning into the Mage's embrace, Rory could feel the Cuban's shaft dragging up and down her swollen clit. Lelei pressed against the Reaper harder, sandwiching the appendage in her dripping slit. After several prolonged minutes, both women came along the blistering cock.

(WARNING/Ending SMUT)

Needing more room to move Tony leaned down to throw the two over his shoulders while they lay there recovering. Lelei made an eep while Rory giggled at the rough handling. Tossed onto the mattress, the Mage clung to the Reaper as the cold sheets gave their sweaty bodies goose flesh. The throng of smooth legs was cornered on either side as Tony climbed to tower over them.

Feeling a pang of nerves over what would come next Lelei whispered, "Por favor, se amable, Antonio. Eres mi primera…"

"Puedes ser mas dura conmigo, Antonio. Me gusta el dolor."Rory proved her point by biting Lelei's collar bone.

Riding off adrenaline, lust, sadness, joy, and even a little fear, Tony lowered the front; For but a moment no wall stood between the three souls, "Te amo tu ninas. You're right, let's see the future, together."

The tears came this time with a smile, warm droplets cascading between the valley of breasts. Together the trio drove off the loneliness of their own hearts. In the hallway, a flash of yellow retreated from the keyhole, disappearing down the dark hall. Outside, a lone Saint sat upon the tiled roof gazing at the stars through a monocular, she wore a smirk.

(The Present)

"Yeah, you could have warned me about my mojo and how potent it is. Girls nearly rang me dry."

Santa Muerte didn't look up from the Elf, "Figured you'd learn that on your own. Besides, tus chicas didn't look like they were complaining. It's not my fault your lust knows no limits."

Whipping around now, the Cuban attempted to keep the blush from crawling up his neck, "Fine, but Arpeggio didn't need to see that. Your 'prank' nearly got me incinerated!"

Being reminded of Arpeggio's rampage caused the robed woman to stifle a laugh; After all, it had only taken the smallest of nudges to convince the brunette to seek out Lelei for a rematch. Walking in on an estranged sibling in a menage a trois certainly sped up the process of lowering their respective walls of isolation. Poor Lelei nearly had died of embarrassment; Tony just nearly died, having to dodge the protective big sister and her fireballs. But after some clothing for decency and tense explanations, the two magicians came to some kind of understanding. The elder must have finally seen a sister where once there was only a rival, and all it took was the burn of shame to snap her out of it.

Things had grown less frigid between the two women afterwards, even if Tony still couldn't look the brunette in the eyes. Nothing had been said between the scandalous trio since then, each too busy with the cleanup of the trafficking ring to discuss the change in their dynamic. It didn't stop the Cuban's eyes to linger on either as they went about their daily tasks. Distracted by these thoughts, the Kingpin didn't hear the arch-mage until she was right beside him.

"Uhm, Mr. Montana? I hope I'm not interrupting anything."

Turning, the Cuban gave a curt nod, "Not at all, Senora. What's up? You need something? Angie try to hit on one of your students again?"

Mimoza shook her head with a smile, "No nothing of the sort Mr. Montana. I'd just thought to inform you we've been able to locate the majority of the little ones original homes through the use of memory spells."

Tony's dark navy blue arms crossed over his suited chest, "Good. I take it our presence is no longer needed for protection?"

Her lips twitched slightly, "Well, that's where the issue lies, we may still need it."

"Que estas la problema?"

The words confused the high-ranking magician, "Huh?"

"Sorry, bad habit. What's the problem? You said you found all their homes, so why you need us?"

The older woman looked down at the ground, "It's already impossible to repay you for all you've done for the city. But I humbly request your assistance one last time. I'm afraid only a force of your caliber can help this dilemma."

Tired of the ass-kissing the Kingpin waived off the compliments, "Enough brown nosing. Just give it to me straight. What dilemma?"

As the woman rose to ask for the impossible the Saint beat her to it, "It's Italica, isn't it? Some of the little ones live there, no?"

Surprised at the robed woman's accuracy, the arch-mage bowed her head lower this time. Tony felt like the only one outta the loop, "Okay, so why do you need us to take 'em to this Italica? You probably know the way better than us anyway."

"That may be true but we'd never make it inside the front gate." The grim prediction caught the Cuban's full attention, "For the past week Imperial forces have repelled bandit attacks outside the city defenses but there is a rumor they can't hold off the horde for much longer. I know you're currently in conflict with the Empire but if nothing is done all those within Italica's walls will suffer, including those awaiting the return of their children. Several of the ones you've already saved once." Mimoza laid it all out, putting faith in a man she'd initially considered cold and rude. Afraid to look up at the scarred man's expression, she kept her head down.

A resigned sigh wafted from the Cuban before he chuckled, "Fine, I wanted to finish unlocking all my toys anyway. Lati," Tony turned to address the Saint, "I hope you got plenty of canvas, cuz I'm gonna splatter paint all over it."

"Sounds like a masterpiece in the making." Santa Muerte's smile was all teeth.


Yao Haa Dushi was not someone you'd normally associate with the word helpless. The dark Elf had seen much in her time on this mortal plane; Bad luck had hardened Yao to loss over the three hundred years of her life. Being both an expert in archery and swordplay helped the Dushi tribe to win numerous invasions from outsiders. Proud, noble, and relentless, her skills as an ambassador put even the shiftiest of Empire nobles to shame. And still, all this talent proved useless in driving the flame dragon from her home; Truly, now she felt helpless.

The beast came from the north, sporting a dead eye alongside a tongue cut to ribbons. While unusual the wounds didn't stop the lizard from torching all it could find. Forced underground to survive, the village elders knew it was simply a matter of time before the monster starved them out. Running out of options, it was decided as a desperate last move to seek outside help. Being the oldest daughter of the tribe and its most seasoned warrior, naturally, the task fell to Yao to find that aid.

With a diamond, the size of a melon in her knapsack, a trusty blade at the back, and a fierce determination the dark Elf made her way from the dry canyons of the Elbe Kingdom. Despite never taking much stock in the gossip of passing merchants and travelers, it was one tale that had caught the silverette's attention. Rumors of strange dark skinned men in colorful fabrics waging a guerrilla war against the almighty Empire certainly sounded promising; This hope only grew with confirmation they had a penchant for helping those in need. So Yao set off to the place the merchant had come from, Italica. Prepared to do anything to save her people, the dark Elf walked briskly down the road.


War had looked different in her head. Call it naivety or inexperience but Pina had pictured some kind of order to take place during conflicts, unspoken rules to be followed, a code of chivalry to adhere to. Surrounded by bodies and bloodshed, the redhead now knew the truth. Standing in the aftermath of the battle, it took all the young woman's strength just to stand. Muscles ached beneath her battered armor, all energy having been spent repelling the incursion.

With laborious breaths, the redhead looked around at the carnage. Spotting a familiar face, her hand rose to stifle a horrified gasp; Grey Co Aldo returned her stare with vacant unfocused eyes. The mentor and friend stayed in place, anchored to the wall with several crude spears. Pina choked down a sob at the sight, fighting the urge to cry for the departed soldier. From behind the clanking of armor could be heard approaching.

"Your Highness, we've successfully stopped the attack at the northern gate." Bozes Co Palesti carried several scrapes and cuts along her once pristine armor but was otherwise unharmed.

Pina sheathed the blade as she tried to reign in the overwhelming emotions. Wiping the sweat from her dirt-covered forehead, the redhead spoke, "Our forces, how many remain?"

A frown fell over the blonde's features, "Including the volunteers from the citizens? I'm afraid less than a hundred."

"Damnit!" Pina kicked a stray helmet in frustration across the debris-strewn cobblestones. Beginning to walk in circles, the Princess mumbled to herself with increasing distress. Their short list of options seemed to be entirely made up of bad ones. Retreating now would resign all those in the city to death or worse. But the current strength of the Rose-Orders forces couldn't be relied on to repel so much as a stiff breeze now.

Burdened by the weight of leadership, the redhead wracked her brain for a solution. Eventually, desperation forced Pina's hand. Turning to her companion, the Princess forced a smile to appear more sure of herself, "Bozes, I need you to return to the capital and gather our remaining reserves."

The Captain gave her friend a look as if she'd been told to pick something nice out for Pina's funeral, "Y-Your highness? It takes a day's worth of sunlight to reach the capital, by the time we return the city could already be overrun!"

Swallowing the desire to agree the Princess continued on, "It may be our only chance. I will stay and delay them for one more day. You will bring reinforcements so we can finally put these animals to heel." The young woman walked forward to clasp her hand on the blonde's shoulder, "It will work. It has to."

Bozes tried to steer her friend from the suicidal course. But a manicured finger buttoned her lips, "Please BZ, have faith in me."

The childhood nickname had its intended effect, stopping the argument before it started. Pulling away, the Captain let out a frustrated huff, "No fair, that's playing dirty Pina."

"Do you trust me?"

Shaking her head in exasperation, the blonde rose her eyes to meet the redhead's, "Always, your Highness. But will it be enough?"

"It has to, otherwise we'll need a miracle."


Angelo wasn't one to get jealous. The emotion rarely suited him. But, the sight in the backseat tested that belief as the miles flew by. Eyes assigned to the road, the Henchman still occasionally stole glances at the rear view mirror. Each time, the Kingpin filled the reflection accompanied by the two beauties sitting in his lap.

Lounging in the back of the Eldorado, Tony leaned against the soft leather enjoying the clear sky above. Lelei occupied his right thigh, nose buried in something Arpeggio had given her before they departed Rondel; When inquired about it the Mage became flustered and refused to divulge the book's contents. Rory took up the Cuban's left, fists balled up in the black blazer while snoring against his shoulder. Lati was absent, having decided to ride in the BTR carrying their VIPs, one little boy and girl bound for home. That left Tuka to sit quietly in the front passenger seat, staring at nothing.

Angie glanced over at the silent blonde, whose freezing spells had only worsened. Sometimes it would catch her in the middle of a sentence; Other tasks like eating, sleeping, and walking were also affected. Lati and Tony had assured him they had a plan to help the Elf, but remained tight lipped on the exact details of the scheme. Even now, the only sign she was aware of the world around her was the violent twitching at the tips of her ears. It wasn't bad enough that his friend was hurting, being powerless to help only intensified the sting.

With time the grassy fields were replaced by farmland. Rows of crops waived to the travelers as they passed, assisted by the light breeze. Not a single soul was spotted toiling in the fields. In the distance, an incessant chittering scratched at the back of everyone's senses. Growing louder as they crested a long gradual incline, the five were greeted with the source of their annoyance.

Blackbirds studiously circled the abandoned battlefield. Watching as one swooped down to pluck a dried eyeball from a corpse, Tony began to see why it was called a murder of crows. As they drove, the Cuban realized with disgust that a good portion of the defenders were female, the engravings of a rose marking their armor. Behind the fallen warriors, castle walls stood tall signifying they'd arrived. Pulling up to the gate, the Henchman killed the engine.

This woke the Apostle up who yawned before extricating herself from Tony's warm body. Lelei placed a bookmark in the tomb as she slid off the Kingpin's leg. Tuka blinked back into existence, trying to piece together the change in her surroundings. "Thank you for choosing Angel Taxi! We hope you enjoyed the ride, and remember," Angelo turned to cock his elbow around the headrest while delivering a beaming smile, "the road to hell is paved with poor tippers."

The Cuban rolled his eyes with a snort, "Okay, wanna tip?"

Angie extended his hand eagerly. Tony gave it a slap, "Don't eat yellow snow. There's a real tip for ya."

"Oh ha HA fucking HA." While his own laughter was forced, the banter drew giggles from all three girls.

Out of the vehicle, the five took a moment to look around at the destruction. Broken siege ladders scattered across the entire length of the wall. Puddles of cold oil pooled near the base, burnt cadavers floating face down in them. Arrows prickled across the large wooden gate like thistles in a brush. No sound came from over the barrier, the wind whistled through the gaps.

Sicarios disembarked the APC's. Lati came forward, each hand occupied as she led the two little ones through the morbid environment. Eye's bunched up tightly, the girl asked with a whine, "Can we open them yet Aunt Lati?"

"Not unless you want the surprise I promised. It's not much further now, so be patient, Clara. Thomas, that goes for you as well. Keep your eyes closed until I tell you to open them."

The little boy nodded his head, hand tightly gripping the Saint's. Feeling someone watching them, the Cuban gestured for Angelo to go knock on the door. Taking care to step around the collection of bodies, the Henchman made his way to the imposing entrance. Angelo tightened his fist, ready to strike the wood. Surprisingly, the wood struck first.


"What?" Pina slurred while attempting to blink away the cold water from her eyes. Groggily sitting up in the bed, the Princess rubbed at her damp features.

"It's as I've said your Highness, a caravan was spotted outside the northern wall. But they don't appear to be with the bandits." The maid relayed the findings with a dry tone, an empty pitcher still in her hands.

Getting up from the wet sheets, a growing turmoil protracted from the Princess's chest. "What makes you believe that?"

"They have no horses for one thing, but the carriages still move. There are also women in the group, one appears to be an apostle of Emroy if the report is to be believed."

The news put the redhead more at ease, certain an apostle would never side with lowly highwaymen. Quickly getting dressed, she rode from the reagents palace at the center of the city. Along the way, Pina pondered whether the gods had answered her desperate prayers from the night before or sent more calamities to hasten her defeat. Peaking over the parapet down at the assembled group, fear took hold as she looked upon the stranger's attire. A cold chill ran down the Princess's back as she scanned over the various colorful and intricate patterns all aligned by a common theme, flowers.

What are the invaders doing here?!

Dread fell over the redhead, who spotted the apostle of Emroy beside a magician wearing Rondel apprentice robes. How did they convince Rory Mercury to join them?! Are they being held under a spell?

Wild theories ran through the woman's head as she spied on the foreigners. Watching the group dismount, one individual caught Pina's attention, being the only one dressed in black with white pinstripes going down his ensemble. . Arms crossed against the broad chest, his gaze looked back toward the green metal carriages. The redhead was confused when the scarred man flashed a warm smile and followed his line of sight.

She's so beautiful…

Caught off guard by her own thoughts, the Princess watched as a dark woman in an elaborate shawl walked toward the rest with two children in hand. A pang of sympathy bore from her heart, understanding why the kids had their eyes closed.

No one that young needed to see what lay around them. Stopping beside the rest, the woman bent over to kiss each tiny forehead before standing again. She could hear their giggles. Apprehension somewhat subjugated by the appearance of the little ones, the redhead made way down to the gate. Deciding to follow this feeling in her gut, the Princess unlocked the door before shoving it open.

Stepping outside, Pina was forced to shield her eyes from the sun's harsh glare. As her sight adjusted to the brightness the young woman tried to sound calm and authoritative, "You have entered a live battlefield. I am Pina Co Lada, active commander of Italica's militia. Please state your purpose for being here."

Blinking away the spots, the redhead was uneasy as the party didn't acknowledge her words. Instead, each wore a look of shock while staring off to her lower right side. Having a sinking feeling, the woman turned to be greeted by her own handiwork. Laying in a heap, Angelo could almost see the little birds flying around his head. The sight was mortifying.

Oh gods, now they're gonna hate me!

Face beet red with embarrassment, the Princess bent down to try and pull the dazed man back onto his feet. The Henchman wobbled unsteadily as he was pulled up, rubbing the top of the skull. Her palms swatted at his front, freeing the dirt from the fabric.

"IAMSOSOSOSORRYIDIDN'TMEANTOKNOCKYOUOVERPLEASEPLEASEFORGIVEME!" The words came blended together as her lips did an impression of a hummingbirds wings. Extremities began to shake as Pina continued to apologize. Close to the verge of tears, her pupils stayed locked on his buttoned front until the man finally recovered enough to speak.

"Hey, it's okay."

Angelo's words fell on deaf ears, and the strikes continued. Growing tired of the repeated slaps, the Sicario reached out to grab her hands, "Mi dios! I said it's okay mujer!"

Trapped in his larger palms, the frazzled royalty looked up. Like a live wire, a feeling coursed through their locked eyes. Angie's mouth suddenly felt dryer than a martini in the Sahara. Pina could swear her legs weren't made of jelly, but that didn't stop said appendages from becoming formless. Angie noticed the decline in the redhead's stature, grabbing her waist to hold the Princess up.

The Henchman attempted to untie his tongue, "H-Hey there."

"Uhm, hi…" Pina was having just as much luck unknotting her own. Feeling scorched by his deep brown pools, the redhead looked away while grabbing the Sicarios arm, "I'm sorry for knocking you over. It wasn't my intention."

The taut muscles bunched up tightly beneath her soft grip as the man laughed, "That's alright, probably ended up saving me time."

His mirthful bellows implanted butterflies in her stomach, "W-What do you mean?"

Rubbing the back of his head with the free hand, Angelo stuck his foot in his mouth, "Cuz you're so pretty I would've hit the floor anyway."

As it left his lips the Henchman wanted to grab the sentence. Pina was grateful her face was already the richest shade of pink so the man couldn't see how his statement made her cheeks burn. Frozen in bashfulness, the pair was eager for outside intervention.

"Todavia estas en el reloj, Angie. Conquetea mas tarde, perro." Despite not knowing the language they spoke, the Princess understood by her victims scowl they were being teased. Quickly breaking apart, the two gave each other a generous amount of personal space while trying to get the runaway heartbeats under control. With a shaky exhale the woman lifted her head trying to salvage what little dignity she still possessed, "Again, my sincerest apologies for hitting your soldier. I had no intention of harming him."

The man in black snickered, "Water under the bridge chica. I know it's hard to believe but Angie's tougher than he looks."

"HEY!"

The Henchman's outcry was ignored, "So, you gonna let us in or we gonna just stand here with los muertos? Got something needing delivered, priority numero uno."

The Kingpin gestured with his head toward the patiently standing children. Her awkwardness disappeared as she was reminded of their presence. Looking over the small faces, her empathy only grew. Glancing between the little ones and the Saint, the Princess fought the sudden urge to flinch as the woman's black pupils settled on her. Cold eyes picked her apart like a bored child flipping through an uninteresting book.

Under the suffocating stare Pina felt as if every secret she ever held was brought into the harsh light of day for examination. With beads of sweat breaking through the surface of her brow, the redhead conceded so she could escape those dark orbs and their pull, "Yes! Pardon my manners! Come inside, come inside!"

Stepping back the redhead allowed the crowd to file past her into the city. The Saint entered last, bringing the children through the gate. The robed woman spoke gently as they walked over the sill, "Alégrate, porque tu rebaño se ha salvado. Así lo digo yo, la reina de los lobos."

Looking up, they made eye contact. Then the robed woman's skin was gone, replaced with a bleach white visage. The sleep addled Princess backed into the large door, alarmed and frightened. Then the demon was gone, replaced with a tender smiled unreasonably beautiful priestess of some kind. The girl wanted to chalk it up to stress, but this cold feeling in her stomach wouldn't disappear as they started into the streets.


Having dreamt of a woodpecker, Maria was unsure if what she was hearing was real at first. But the steady stream of knocks continued. With a dejected sigh, the peasant woman slid out of bed. Passing down the dimly lit hall, she stopped briefly near a closed door. In her mind, she knew all that resided beyond it were two small beds gathering dust, but still, she peeked inside just to make sure.

Abandoned toys sat patiently, waiting for owners that would never return. Swallowing the growing lump in her throat, Maria continued toward the racket coming from the front door, but it didn't sound like rioting; It almost sounded like...music? Nearing the entrance, the woman was perplexed by the strange upbeat noise.

What kind of bandits serenade you before they start setting the buildings on fire?

Opening the door, Maria pulled a hand up to her mouth. It was a trick. Or an illusion. Most certainly a lie. Much as she wanted to believe what was in front of her, the woman's fragile heart couldn't take another blow.

"MAMA!" Clara and Thomas fell apart as they scrambled forward to bury their tear-soaked faces in the young parent's apron.

Shocked into silence, the woman reached down to gingerly touch the back of their necks. The warm flesh snapped Maria out of her frozen state. Dropping to her knees, the woman sobbed in relief while tightly gripping her kids, "Oh Gods, my babies! You're home, you're home! I never thought I'd see you again! Oh, my babies!"

All three cried while clinging to one another with fierce intensity. Blind to the outside world, together they basked in relief and joy as their sobs transformed into hysterical laughter. Like church bells ringing on a Sunday morning, the happy chimes filled the air of the small street. It carried until their bellies ached and their lungs burned. Pulling back to look at her son and daughter, Maria felt whole once again.

Thomas turned toward the open door, "This is the bestest surprise ever, Aunt Lati!"

"I'm glad you think so, what about you Clara? Do you like the surprise?"

The little girl just clung tighter to her mother. Maria looked up to the source of the concert that had shrouded her reunion with the two most important things in her life. A line of colorful shirted men stood across the street, playing instruments she'd never seen before. Directly in the doorway, the Saint smiled down on the woman. Maria became slightly defensive, "Aunt Lati? Who are you? How did you find my children?!"

"She sent Mr. Montana to get us Mama!" The two spoke in synchronization. Their small hands pointed to the door.

"Allow me to introduce myself," A dark suited man stepped to reveal himself just behind Lati, " my name is Tony Montana. I stumbled upon the cockroaches that took your little ones. Dealt with them myself, now I'm just returning what's yours."

Maria was confused, "I-I don't understand? The guard said my children were lost to wolves in the forest?"

A subtle twitch passed on the corner of the mans angular mouth. Before he could say anything, the Saint shook her head. Instead she stepped forward herself. The mother felt pinned to the ground where she stood.

"What matters most now is you keep them closer than before." The Saint rose both hands to cup the woman's frozen face. Maria felt a fierceness take hold over her heart, and her eyes saw what her babies had seen. Then she wept, and lowered to hold the children tighter. The music slowed, and finally petered out.

Out in the street, the colorful trio watched the reunion. Through each passed various feelings. Rory smiled at the sight, feeling her Patron looking down with approval on the act. Lelei squeezed her staff tightly, thinking of her Mentor. Tuka cried quietly, not wanting to draw attention.

Behind them Angelo stood silent beside Pina. She'd watched the events with a a guilt, feeling like she was intruding on truly private matters. The Cuban lowered himself to ruffle the boys hair, "You watch after your sister and mama, okay chico?"

Thomas nodded his head, standing up a little straighter under the strong gaze. The Kingpin opened his arms and the girl broke away to give him one tight hug. Pulling away from her steel grip, the man turned her around and she ran back into her mothers side. Standing back up, Antonio reached into his pocket and pulled out a cloth sack. Maria looked at the outstretched bag, "Take this, to help with the coming months."

Already feeling an unpayable debt, the young mother tried to refuse but his glare grabbed the words in her throat. With a sweaty palm she felt the heavy bag lower into her fingers. Satisfied with the exchange, the pair stepped outside the door back onto the cobblestone. Without looking back they began walking in the direction of the palace. The others followed, and as they filed past Maria realized the identity of her heroes. The men in flowers whistled that strange music as they marched past.

Lati acted as if she'd lived in Italica all her life. She idly picked up fruit and looked through empty merchant stalls as they moved deeper into the city. Getting closer to the palace, Pina didn't know what to think of the group. After so much wild imagination, the men in flowers were failing to live up to the depiction in Pina's head. She'd expected barbarians, disorganized, cruel, and bloodthirsty.

The men following behind them didn't display any of that. Instead, their cadence reminded her of veteran soldiers. Their leader carried himself like a king, and was clothed in such a way she'd take him for a merchant or high noble in the streets of the Capital. Yet he shadowed the priestess with bodyguard professionalism. Flanking either side, the Mage and Apostle kept up with his constant pace.

Tuka was just behind them, looking around at the tall buildings in wonder. Seeing an opportunity to improve their rocky relations the redhead approached her, "Quite magnificent aren't they?"

Pulled from admiring the architecture the Elf returned the Princess's smile, "Yes, I'm in awe at the sheer size of everything. Are all human settlements this large?"

Pina gave a short laugh while waving off the notion, "Not all, no. Some make Italica look like a little village in comparison though. Is this your first time in a city?"

The blonde's dark blue eyes lowered for a second before refocusing, " Not really, but never mind that. Are you saying you have places even bigger than this? What does one even do with so much space?"

"Parades, for one thing."

"What's a parade?"

Pina faltered in her step. Glancing at Tuka, the Princess was surprised to find the blonde's words weren't a jest, "Uhm, well… It's kind of like a gathering of friends and families. You know, to celebrate stuff. There's a long line of people with instruments or flags, and they march through the streets bringing cheer and hope."

This only increased the Elf's curiosity, "So we're in a parade?"

Being put on the spot, the redhead tried salvage the explanation, "Like birthdays! Yes, parades are used to honor things of that nature. In fact, I remember one year my father filled our entire main street with butterflies for mine," She giggled at the memory, "oh the look on BZ's face was priceless that day. Citizens were finding baby caterpillars in the city for weeks after that."

Pina's laugh found no companion. Worried she'd only confused the Elf further, the redhead turned to elaborate and found her walking partner gone. Looking back she saw the cheery Elf had stopped in the middle of the street. Beside her, the robed woman gently brushed away the tears sliding down Tuka's blank face. The blondes body was shivering like she was cold.

The Kingpin paid no mind to the Princess's questioning gaze as he approached the catatonic woman. With little difficulty, Tuka was scooped up into the Cuban's arms. Her eyes didn't blink or shift at the change in position. Not one noise escaped the girl. Tenderly the Saint brushed aside her golden locks before placing a set of soft lips against the Elf's forehead. Slowly the frightened irises disappeared behind heavy lids and her breathing evened out.

Pina inquired with worry, "Was it something I said?"

Idly combing through the silky blonde hair, the Saint spoke softly, "Yes, and no. It seems our pequita rubia's condition is getting worse, Antonio."

"Shit, how much time do you think we have?" His hold tightened on the young woman.

"No mucho. All the more reason to finish this business quickly. We're close to the ones on the list"

"What condition? What list? What's wrong with the elf" The Princess was ignored and that only angered her more. The Mage and Apostle appeared at her sides.

"Her name is Tuka." Lelei corrected with a sad lilt in her even voice.

Rory interjected, "As for what's wrong, Tuka's simply…seen too much."

"No thanks to those Imperial bastardos." Angelo spat the words out like a curse. His harsh tone put ice in Pina's veins. Together, all those close to the blonde scowled in solidarity.

"What do you mean, how could the Imperial Army have anything to do with this?" It had come out more defensive than the Princess had intended. But her pride as a Knight outweighed her growing discomfort.

A snort escaped the Kingpin, "You really wanna know? Could've asked los ninos. They probably saw just as much as Tuka during their time in Rondel's slave market."

"Wait, you don't mean the children that accompanied you? But they're citizens of the Empire! That's an outlawed trade in these lands!" There was a growing pit in her stomach.

Tony's thumb rubbed against the Elf's forearm to stem his growing anger, "The knight captain and council head didn't see it that way, nothing but cattle to the greedy cocksuckers. Even got orders from high up to build the cages right below the fucking city square they ruled from during daytime. They'd been selling people for years, women, children, it didn't matter, not to those monsters."

"Orders? Who would order such a heinous act?" Pina was short of breath, her chest beginning to constrict tightly.

" You tell me chica, they're your people. Lelei, show 'er." Finished with the conversation Tony began toward their destination. Tuka curled toward the the warm solid wall of his chest, feeling more tranquil than before.

A tied scroll was pulled out of the bluenette's satchel. It was handed to Pina's quaking digits. The crowd began to move, parting around the redhead like a stone in the stream. She paid them no mind, eyes fixated on the information held within her grasp. Slowly, the Princess's vision grew blurry as the truth cut deeper and deeper.

Hands clenched tightly around the parchment, crumpling it. Below the extensive list of prisoners that included the children's names, the one who'd ordered this signed his work. A small part of Pina hoped it was an impressive forgery. But somehow her heart knew better. Beneath the Princess's gaze, the signature of her oldest brother stared back at her.


At the palace, no further attempt's were made to socialize. Tuka was deposited in one of the many empty rooms to sleep off her latest attack. Any questions pertaining to the validity of the list were put on hold as Pina tried to focus on the survival of the city first and foremost. Now, standing around a large schematic of Italica, the Rose-Order and Montana Cartel leaders discussed strategy.

"We have four gates into the city. North, south, east, and west." Manicured fingers pointed to each wall, "To the east lies a river, while the west and north are all farmland. They've so far avoided the southern gate, probably because it's a natural choke point with cliffs on either side turning it into a narrow valley. Normally this would be a favorable setting for defense, but with my current forces I can only cover one side."

The Kingpin didn't seem all that concerned as he leaned over the map, "That's okay, cuz los banditos are in for one nasty surprise. Where do you want mi hombres?"

Inside she held doubt their measly forty men could make any significant difference to the odds, but the redhead held her tongue. It wouldn't be wise to spit in the face of help, adversary or not. In the end, all that mattered was holding out until the coming dawn. A malicious idea emerged as she contemplated their chances of survival.

Perhaps the bandit's could help us in thinning their ranks before this temporary alliance is through. Pina's skin crawled at the thought, feeling it was both underhanded and beneath her station. Still, a daughter of the Empire she remained, even with newly formed doubts putting that blind loyalty into question. Swallowing the shame, the Princess made her move.

"Would you be willing to hold an entryway by yourself Ms. Mercury?" The Reaper gave a nonchalant nod, "Then we only have two holes in our defenses. If your resolve is as strong as you claim, it shouldn't be difficult for your men to occupy the northern and eastern doors, no?"

Tony lifted his head up to stare into her eyes. For a second she feared the scarred man had seen through the ruse. Fingers began to inch toward the hidden dagger at the Princess's back. A door opened behind the redhead stopping the action. Several sets of sharp clicks against the wooden floor signaled someone's approach.

Stepping into her peripheral vision, Angelo carried a tray of glasses accompanied by a pitcher of an unknown substance. Oblivious to the dark thoughts of the woman next to him, the Henchman whistled jovially while filling the cups with the golden liquid. With a smile, the Sicario extended one of the beverages, "I hope you like lemonade. Luis wanted to make OJ but the kitchen didn't have oranges."

Pina couldn't look up, feeling guilty under his gaze. Knots began forming in her abdomen again. Light tremors passed through the woman's hand as she took the offered refreshment. Satisfied with the transaction, Angie made way around the rest of the table, depositing the remaining drinks in front of the others. Each varied in reaction to the bitter-sweetness.

Lelei examined the glass first, taking in the sight and smell of it before having a small sip; The sky blue irises widened at the unusual pairing of flavors before she took a second larger gulp in approval. Rory was decidedly not a fan, having puckered her face with just a taste. Lati happily downed the cold water, the crazy straw in her glass gradually emptying the cup. Only the Cuban abstained from touching the lemonade, still staring at Pina with critical eyes.

Needing a break from the intense hazel, the redhead pulled the glass quickly to her mouth. Sugar assaulted Pina's taste buds, followed by the harsh bite of the lemon itself. Emptying it's contents down her throat, the Princess released a chilled breath. The redhead had never drank something so refreshing before in her life. Peeking at the now seated Henchman, she buried the desire to request more.

Finally, the Kingpin's silence was broken, "Okay, sound's like a plan. Just one more thing, you got somewhere around here with empty bottles? Preferably wine sized."

"Yes? There's a vineyard warehouse not far from here. But why do you need them? There will be more than enough time to drink if we survive the night."

Tony shook his head, "No, not for me, Roja. But our visitors. Wanna give the culo's a little taste of home."

The Saint leaned forward with her hands steepled, understanding the Cuban's intentions, "Is that so, Antonio? Can I presume cocktails are on the menu?"

"Si, Patrona. A la molotov."


Watching the setting sun, Lelei enjoyed what would be their last quiet moment of the night. Beside her the Cuban kept his arms firmly wrapped around the Mage and Apostle, using body heat to drive off the evening chill. Behind the trio the city appeared deserted, any remaining citizens having already been relocated to the palace grounds. There Tuka helped Lati keep everyone calm and comfortable while distributing supplies. Angelo had gone off on his own to pray before the battle, promising to meet Tony at the northern entrance before things kicked off.

All preparations had been completed. Using the glassware provided, the Cartel was able to make more than enough improvised explosive devices to keep any ambitious vagabond off the walls. The northern field was thoroughly booby trapped using a mix of Molniya tripwires and OZM-3 or 'bouncing babushkas' as Tony's demolition instructor had called them. Likewise, the eastern bridge had been rigged with C-4 in case they couldn't hold it. Their BTR's were split into two groups, with three moving to barricade the eastern gate while the remainder covered the north.

The vehicles carried only drivers and gunners, the rest of the men occupying the upper catwalk. Seeing the last glimpses of orange disappear behind the horizon, Rory reluctantly pulled away from the Kingpin, "It's time, I should start heading to the western gate."

Her momentum toward the stairs was stopped by a large hand around the Apostle's small wrist, "What? No good luck kiss?"

A smile formed on the Reaper's violet lips. Turning around the ravenette allowed him to pull her near. Bodies melded together as they tested how long the other could go without oxygen. Conceding defeat the Cuban pulled back with a small gasp as he rubbed her chin between his thumb and forefinger. Before they could bask in the aftermath a sharp nail jabbed into Tony's side.

Releasing the Apostle, the Cuban turned to see an unamused Mage with arms crossed and foot tapping. Trying to rectify the situation the Kingpin released Rory before attempting to embrace the bluenette as well. A dainty finger stopped his lips trajectory before the Mage sidestepped the man. The Apostle squeaked as Lelei wrapped her arms around the pale neck before plunging her own pink appendage into the Reaper's mouth. Watching with amusement, Tony settled for lightly groping their vulnerable rears as the two tangoed the tangle of tongues.

Finally running out of air, the Mage pulled back with heavy panting. Rory giggled while softly stroking the bluenette's warm red cheek, "What was that for, Blueberry?"

Having regained her faculties, Lelei answered in her signature deadpan tone, "Good luck, Pussycat."

"Much as I'd like to watch you two some more, we got business. Lelei, how about you go with Rory. Keep her outta trouble."

"Are you sure? What if-" He smothered the sentence reducing her to a whimper with his experienced lip lock.

Giving one last pinch, the Kingpin released the plump flesh before extricating himself from their touch, "Yeah, tranquilo. I got my boys, and Angie to pull my ass outta the fire if need be." Rory approached the stairs and turned, giving a flirtatious wink before descending the steps; Lelei followed carrying her staff. Not long after the girls' exit Angelo arrived.

"Talk to God?" Tony stretched, popping various joints back into place.

Anxiously rubbing the hilt of his sword the Sicario answered, "Yeah."

"Better have put a good word in for me."

"I would've but it's a sin to tell a lie, Jefe."

Tony laughed, "Smart ass."

Going prone behind the stones, Kingpin and Henchman pulled out their binoculars before beginning to scan the dark purple horizon. It was forty minutes later they began to see the glow of torches. Starting as a few small pricks of light, they were soon followed by more and more until the outer countryside looked ablaze.

Swallowing at the sight, Angelo spoke more to himself than his superior, "Maybe I should've asked God if we win."

"No point." grunted Tony.

"Why you say that, Jefe?"

"Because this fight isn't in God's hands anymore. It's in ours."

Small tremors vibrated beneath their feet as the first set of traps were triggered. In the distance, occasional bursts of light put holes in the carpet of orange and yellow. Once they'd begun trudging into the firezone, the sharp crack of high powered rifles joined the explosions. The BTR's began opening up as well, slashing a beam of lead through the charging mob. Then, the real attack began.

To the south, aided by tar covered carriages, and a few sacrificial horses, a hole had been punched through the Rose-Orders barricade. Now a snake of malicious intent was attempting to slither inside. Rapidly losing ground under sheer numbers, the weakened force was knee deep in corpses trying to stem the flow. Pina stood at its center, fighting for every inch of air. Cursing her shortsighted scheming, the redhead called for a messenger as her blade arm found rest.

"SEND WORD TO THE MEN IN FLOWERS! THEY'RE TRYING TO BREACH THE SOUTH GATE! MAKE HASTE!"

The messenger turned to begin his journey, and the arrow jutted through the back of his neck. The arterial spray temporarily blinded Princess as she blinked away the gore in shock.

Isn't that unfortunate. What do you think, Mijo? Should we help them? Even after they set you up to die? You saw her reach for the knife, just like me.

But she didn't pull it.

True, or maybe she just didn't get the chance.

Looking away from the high powered lenses, the Kingpin was faced with a choice; Forgive or forsake. Tapping the shoulder of Angelo, the Cuban asked while watching the diversion get cut down, "So, what do you think of la pelirroja? Seemed awfully eager to give her limonada, does our lil angel have a crush?"

Still looking through his goggles Angie spoke in a flat tone, "Nothing like that Jefe, she just looked so tired, scared you know. Reminded me of the street kids back in my village. I can tell she's not used to the killing. I thought maybe just a little kindness would lessen the bags under her eyes, I don't think she's slept for days."

"That's nice, but don't forget they'll try to double cross us as soon as this is over."

"I don't think so, Tony." This caused the Cuban to raise an eyebrow.

"Why you think that?"

Angie put down the binoculars to look at the Kingpin, "I saw how much that letter affected her. Something tells me it was big news to her what the Imperial Army was involved in. I don't know, like she was personally betrayed or something. Besides, anything they throw at us would bounce off our armor like rain on glass. We can just leave after we're done here, these people have seen enough death. No need to add to it when we take care of these banditos."

Tony trusted his number two's assessment. Pulling out the walkie-talkie he gave his orders, "Big T here, they tricked us. Pendejos are coming from the local's side. Mop up the diversion, Norte. As for the bridge, leave a skeleton crew; All others, por la sierra donde voy. Rapido, vas tigres."

Angelo sat up to a crouch, assault rifle cradled in his arms. Tony followed his example while checking the submachine gun's chamber. Descending the stairs, the two hopped in the parked car. Four soldatos followed them, taking up the backseat.

"Hey, I said stay here and mop up."

"Lo siento, Jefe. But we're not letting you pull a stunt like Rondel again, la mujers gave us orders." Luis spoke evenly. Ernie, Alvaro, and Flaco nodded their heads in agreement.

Rolling his eyes, the Cuban turned the key with a chuckle. On route, the clash of blades could be heard as their tires squealed in the streets. Angelo anxiously checked the banana magazine, the Kalashnikov's wooden grip growing sweaty in his hands. Swerving around the corner, the Cuban's foot hit the floor. Head on into a tidal wave of bodies.

The first few managed not to bleed all over the paint job, but that didn't last as the crowd grew thicker. Behind Tony, the backseat spat automatic fire at anything that raised to stab at the car. Angie kept his bursts even, making the punchy recoil manageable. Using his Scorpion the Cuban took potshots at those near him while the other hand stayed anchored to the wheel. Near the hole in the barrier with back against the wall, the Princess was spotted.

"I see her, Tony!" The Sicario stopped to point before having to grab the windshield as the Kingpin drifted through the throng of combatants.

As the messy Ford came to a halt, the passengers jumped out while laying down hate on the seething masses out for their blood. The submachine gun's barrel grew hot in the Cuban's hands, needing reloaded every few feet just to make progress. Finally punching through the hostile bubble containing Pina, Angelo was the first to shout over the screams and clatter, "Are you hurt?!"

With heavy breathing the Princess shook her head. The growing red stain in her side said otherwise. Tossing aside any notion of discomfort or etiquette, Angie approached the injured redhead. She didn't protest as the Sicario went to drape her free arm over his broad shoulders, his hand hooking around her armored waist. Tony went to reach for another magazine only to feel his hand empty inside the pocket dimension.

Ten clips already? Fine, time to make some breathing room.

With a scowl the Kingpin sidestepped a wild sword swing before pulling back the vagrant's loose clothing and shoving a grenade down his pants. A swift kick to the ass knocked the attacker down face first into his friends. Pina flinched violently as the explosive went off, showering them in wet slimy bits. But the reprieve provided was quickly overshadowed by more bodies coming to take their fallen comrade's space. The Kingpin shouted between racks of the shotgun, "Where the FUCK is that backup!"

Tony could smell their rancid breath and see the color of their eyes. Angelo's bursts were more erratic and wild, forced to sandwich the AK's stock between his elbow and ribs while supporting the shivering pale Princess. In just a few seconds they would simply be crushed to death. A sea of hate waited to drown them. Then the Reaper joined the fray.

A halberd slammed into the center of the horde. Following the heavy blade, Rory dropped into the throng and began cleaving a path through the bandits. Looking up to where she descended from, the Cuban couldn't hide the smirk on his face. Standing with back to the moon, Lelei chanted inaudible words as she raised her staff. Above the Mage the sky grew dark with clouds as lightning began to skitter across the foreboding blackness. Raising the scepter with absolute focus, the bluenette brought it down swiftly.

Random bolts of electricity smashed into the street. Those unfortunate enough to be hit burst into ash and bones. The efforts of the crimson and azure women brought the fight to a standstill. Then the sounds of automatic fire emerged from further down the street, the soldatos had arrived. Through their efforts, the group began pushing the invaders out of the broken barricade through sheer firepower.

With the original perimeter retaken the Kingpin shouted above, "Quickly make a barrier, Lelei!"

Before his eyes the entire doorway became covered in thick ice. Allowing the exhaustion to catch up with him, the Cuban leaned against the cold wall. After a few deep inhales Tony turned to address the others, "Bueno trabajo. But it ain't over yet. Angie!"

The Henchman was snapped out of his worried haze. Pulling eyes away from the shallow panting redhead, the Sicario answered with conviction, "Si, Jefe?"

A ringed bloody hand pointed to the palace, "Take la pelirroja to Lati," something sailed through the air forcing Angie to drop his rifle and catch it, "The girl's at her limit. She's outta this fight."

Angelos fingers closed around the car keys. With a grateful nod the Henchman made his exit with the barely conscious Pina. Walking over to the Sicarios previous position the Cuban picked up the familiar firearm with a small sense of nostalgia.

Ah, cuerno de chivo, the only thing the commies got right. Pulling back the heavy charging handle, the Kingpin was glad to see cartridges ready to go to work. Tony pointed to the stairs leading onto the upper catwalk, "Arriba, hombres. It's time we rain fire on these fuckers."

Delicately handling the crates of rattling bottles they'd brought, the soldatos made their way up to the battlement. Rory shook the blood off her divine weapon before following Tony up the steps. At the top they were greeted by the Mage who'd used a levitation spell to relocate to the others. Chancing a peak over the edge, Luis had to duck from the flurry of arrows that peppered the stone teeth shielding them. Ernie rolled his eyes at the foolish action while placing the petrol filled glass with soaked rags sticking out the top in a neat line.

"So, will you finally tell us what these things are?" Rory pointed to the growing row.

"Gladly." Pulling out a cigar, Tony lit the end before giving it several appreciative puffs. Satisfied at the size of the ember held on the end, the Kingpin handed the habano to the still crouched sicario. The soldato delicately touched the orange tip to the molly in his hand. Before the curious pair's eyes the rag ignited before stopping at the narrow glass neck.

Ernie handed the improvised explosive to the Kingpin. The man walked closer to the edge with caution. Looking back at the two the Cuban spoke in a formal tone, "This, mi bonita flores is a Molotov Cocktail. It's a crude, dirty, and cheap weapon. Once, in my world there was a madman by the name of Stalin."

"He believed in the same philosophy that ended up poisoning my home, Communism. At the start of the second biggest conflict history had ever seen, he decided to expand the territories of the already vast borders of Russia. To the west the sovereign nation of Finland was invaded while others were preoccupied with some culo with a funny mustache and a lotta hate inside for one ethnic group. The man Stalin put in charge of the propaganda went by the name Vyacheslav Molotov."

At this new term Lelei couldn't help but interrupt, "What's propaganda?"

Twisting the flaming bottle in his hand, Tony stared into her blue pupils, "Government sanctioned lies. Something that you force on a population through repeated exposure until they can only see it as truth, lest they be taken in the night for believing otherwise. Vyacheslav wasn't very good at his job though. Tried convincing the Finnish people they were dropping food parcels on villages instead of bombs."

Rory interjected this time, "A bomb?"

Tony wracked his brain on how to describe the device, "Uh, think of a metal tube, filled with volatile material. When dropped from a great height, the impact causes a chain reaction inside to make large destructive explosions."

"Ah so you had wyverns to carry these 'bombs' over targets?" The Mage was trying to wrap her head around the complexity of warfare from Tony's home.

"Kind of, but we're getting off topic. Anyway, the Finnish fought hard for every inch the Russians took. Lotta death, and a lot of innocent blood. During the conflict the locals began manufacturing these," The Cuban gave a shake to the bottle, "to fight back. Got the idea to name it a cocktail to go with Vyacheslav's 'food parcels'."

"Did the Finnish win?" The bluenette was enraptured in the story despite the clear and present danger still only a hundred feet below them.

The Kingpin shook his head, "No. But the name stuck. Now watch what it does."

Turning from the girls Tony cocked back his elbow before throwing the bottle over the wall. It wasn't long after that a flash of light and screams began to spill out into the night air. Fearing nothing of arrows the Apostle looked over to see several of the bandits running through the horde as human torches; The flames lingered on the ground where the bottle shattered forcing the others to skirt around the impacted area. Looking away from the display the Reaper found the Kingpin with another lit bottle, "Wanna try?"

Her answer came in the form of a smile as she reached out to take the offered drink. Together the three made a game out of it, seeing who could throw the glassware the farthest. Tony's efforts cleared the men below from attempting to break down the ice wall. Lelei's telekinesis started a pyre toward the middle of the crowd further causing discourse in their ranks. Rory's demigod strength helped close off any chance of escape, having successfully covered the mouth of the canyon in flames. While this morbid competition was waged the men began firing upon the thick crowd. Between the sticky flames and the bullets, the bandits began to panic and turn on each other while trying to escape the sudden deathtrap they'd wedged themselves into. That proved fruitless, with most simply being stomped to death in the confusion.

This continued on for some time until the remaining numbers could be comfortably picked off with sniper fire. Eventually the wounded ceased their cries, and all was silent save for the crackle of wood from discarded spears and shattered shields. Whatever forces remaining in the forest could do nothing but watch in horror as their makeshift army was killed with nightmarish instruments some of them had already encountered before. Needless to say they ran from the slaughter until their feet bled and lungs burned. Unknown to them, the images burned into their minds would only add to a quickly growing legend. The legend of the men in flowers.


The ceiling was familiar to Pina. But not the sensation plaguing one of her arms. Beginning to sit up, the redhead quickly shook off the grogginess as the warm feeling encompassing her hand was revealed to be another larger dark skinned one. Reflexively pulling the appendage close to her chest, the Princess's action earned a grumble from the sleeping Sicario. A blush began to grow across her confused face.

Sir Angelo? What is he doing here? Beginning to look around more, Pina was able to discern that she resided inside the palace room she'd been using as her personal quarters these last few trying weeks. In fact, what am I doing here? Last thing I remember was…

Adrenaline spiked through the young woman's bloodstream as she recalled the malicious forces that had surrounded and crushed her paltry defense at the southern gate. Before the redhead could spring out of bed the door creaked open gently. A waterfall of gold sauntered in carrying something that smelled heavenly. Tuka set the tray down before turning to be surprised by the Princess's unexpected consciousness, "Oh good, you're awake."

The words were followed by a relieved smile. Again, Pina started to get out of bed but an Elven arm pushed lightly on the girl's sternum stopping the motion.

"What are you doing? Your injuries haven't finished healing yet."

The redhead gave a huff of frustration with a small amount of urgency, "It does not matter. If I don't return to the south gate the city will be overrun!"

"Overrun by who? Last I checked, the dead don't have a lot of agency. Well, at least until voodoo is involved." Walking into the room with a second tray, Santa Muerte wore a playful smirk.

Setting the pitcher with tea cups on the bedside table, the Saint crossed the space toward the window. With a tug to the loose knot holding together the drapes, sunlight began filling the formerly dark room. The sudden brightness forced Pina to cover her red pupils for a brief moment while they adjusted. Blinking away the white spots in her vision the Princess became more confused, "It's…daytime? But that means…"

"We fought off the bandits, yes. The siege is over, and I'm certain Antonio killed more than enough to render any future ambitions for Italica null and void. So rest, Nina. You've earned it." Lati approached the dresser where several blankets resided atop it.

Returning to the opposite end, the robed woman gently laid the fabric across Angie's snoring form. Gazing tenderly at the sleeping Henchman, Lati's voice was lower, "When he first brought you back you were in bad shape. Cuts, bruises, exhaustion, and that's not including the wound in the side."

Pina reached for her ribs on reflex. A tender line crawled under her fingers. Lifting the white nightgown the Princess was surprised by what she saw. Instead of bloody bandages crisscrossing her torso, a pale faded scar trailed from her small hip stopping just under the armpit. It looked like it had always been there.

Letting go of the garment, the redhead's previous desires were derailed. An invisible weight lifted off her shoulders. She couldn't believe it. It was over. This horrible nightmare was finally over.

Thanks to them. They saved the city. Even after what I tried to pull, they rescued me…

Sparing a glance at Angie's peaceful expression, a lump formed in her throat. Turning to address Lati, the Princess could feel her guilt manifest in the form of tears. The woman bowed her head in an attempt to hide them, "I don't know what to say."

"Save it for when he's awake then. Now," Retrieving one of the bowls, the Saint presented the dark red concoction to the redhead, "Eat. You need to recover your strength."

Before Pina could protest, her stomach betrayed her with a loud growl. Reluctantly, the girl took the offered dish. While hesitant because of the unidentifiable white objects floating in the broth, the smell proved too enticing. That first taste demolished any remaining doubts. Within mere minutes the contents were consumed with a ravenous efficiency.

The Princess set the empty bowl on the nightstand, "That was amazing, but what do you call this stew?"

"That's good to hear. But alas it's not my place to say. For Tuka made it." Lati gestured to the quiet Elf.

The sudden spotlight caused the blonde to become bashful, "It's called pasole roja, but I can hardly take all the credit. You guided me every step of the way, Lati."

"Don't be so modest. Antonio couldn't stop praising it. I may have helped a little but it's your cooking." The complement and mention of the Kingpin caused the Elves' pointy ears to redden.

Pina redirected her attention to what was quickly becoming a friend, "Well, it's really good. Thank you, Tuka."

The blonde beamed at the praise, "You're very welcome, Pina. If you want more, there is a second helping on the tray."

Examining the smile, Pina felt more conflicted than ever before. Were these really her enemies? Her head said yes, but these feelings in her chest weren't as clear. An enemy wouldn't have defended the city. An enemy wouldn't have sheltered children. An enemy wouldn't have given her lemonade, let alone her own life after trying to push them into a trap.

Torn between duty to the Crown and her own morals, a startling question appeared inside the Princess's chaotic thoughts. One that Pina didn't have an answer for.

Why are we at war with them?

Feeling bolder with a full stomach, Pina took the direct route in confronting her saviors seeing as this may be the only chance to find out their motives, "What are you doing in these lands? What are you even trying to accomplish?"

Lati and Tuka were almost outside the room when the words reached their ears. The robed woman exchanged a look with the blonde, a conversation passed silently between the two. Whatever was said pushed the Elf to turn back and respond. Pina was taken back by the determination in the normally gentle orbs. With eyes gazing into the distance she answered in a fierce whisper, "I don't know why Tony's here, but he found me, and saved me from a life of torment. I...I lost my family, my home, my freedom. I was almost swallowed by the darkness, if not for them. So, wherever he goes, I will follow. The Montanas have good hearts, even if they say otherwise. I think they just want to give the cruel a taste of their own medicine, and I for one approve."

The words struck at the core of the Princess. Reminded of the letter, the redhead suddenly hated the blood that ran through her veins more intensely than when she'd first read its disgusting contents. No more was said as the door shut softly. Before the wave of self-loathing could undo whatever comfort Pina had aquired, a familiar voice broke the silence. One that made her insides tighten.

"Mmmmn what smells so good?"

Stretching his sore muscles, the Henchman shook off the blanket before unkinking his neck. Lowering the tight appendages, Angelo was caught off guard by Pina's fragile demeanor. Looking upon the object of his worries throughout the night, the chatterbox for once in his life didn't know what to say.

"Uh, hey-" She cut off the words by ramming into his torso. Face buried in the musky cloth, the Princess broke down in tears. Initially caught off guard, the Henchman did only what he felt was right, and wrapped arms around the quivering girl. The cries grew louder, and her fists clenched the fabric like he was a rope in a raging sea.

"Shhhh it's okay. It's over Red. You don't have to hold it in." Angelos breath tickled her ear as he rubbed circles into the Princess's back.

Outside the door, Tony leaned away from the wall before walking back to the kitchen. Those two needed some time alone. Some time to break. Some time to heal. Some time to simply feel.


Yao could smell it before she broke through the trees that obscured her vision.

Blood, and a lot of it. Mixed with the coppery scent was something the Dark Elf hadn't encountered before. Unknown vapors lingered in the air, both harsh and stifling on the senses. Drawing her forward, the forest finally receded to show a narrow rocky valley with two towering plateaus on either side. But it wasn't the geography itself that drew her attention but the carnage.

Scattered in various states of decay, the natural corridor held corpses in startling amounts. The silverette's hand rose to cover her nose and mouth in disgust. Some were burnt to a crisp; Others appeared covered in puncture wounds, as if they had been skewered over a hundred times. Walking cautiously through the battlefield, Yao kept her hand resting on the curved shortsword strapped to her back. Approaching the end, the Dark Elf was greeted with a tall intimidating stone wall.

Is that…ice? Placing a hand over the blue material at the center of the structure, her skin felt cold against the makeshift barrier. The woman pulled away to look around some more. With the sun overhead, numerous glimmers caught her eye. Walking closer, she was surprised to find shattered glass strewn about the bodies.

Bending over to pick up a shard, the Dark Elf found that it carried the strange scent that lingered in the area. It burned the nostrils like alcohol but more concentrated. Dropping the fragment, the silverette lowered into a crouch before leaping high in the air toward one of the rocky cliff sides. Lithe steps carried her up the wall with great speed. Feeling the pull of gravity, the Dark Elf leapt away to bound off the opposite side.

This continued until Yao made a final leap over the defensive wall into the city. Further evidence of a great battle greeted her on the other end. While the odd scent was absent it was replaced by a new curiosity. Small tube-like metal littered the upper catwalk, almost obscuring the stone beneath her feet. The same could be said for the opposite side of the frozen gate where evidence of a breach in the perimeter furrowed her brow in concern.

Was this the doing of the men in flowers? I hope I didn't miss them…

"Hey! What are you doing there?" A voice called from behind.

The Dark Elf turned with sword drawn in a defensive stance. Ernie took a step back while raising his Uzi in preparation of an attack that never came. To his surprise, the trespassing woman didn't spring into action like he expected. Instead, an unusual relief flooded her features upon sight of his blue and purple shirt, adorned in pink petals. Then came the tears.

The silverette dropped to her knees all but forgetting the weapon in her grasp. With a choked sob Yao bowed her head in fealty, "Forgive my boldness! I did not seek out your kind to make enemies!"

Offset by the sudden mood swing, Ernie partially lowered the short barrel, "Oookay? What are you here for then, Oscura?"

With a shuddering breath the Dark Elf lifted her head to stare directly into the mustached man's dark eyes, "I come seeking help."

The soldato scratched the back of his head, "Feels like we're starting to hear that a lot around here." Putting away the submachine gun, the man stepped forward to extend his hand, "C'mon, I'll take you to the boss. See what he has to say."