Here we are at Chapter 24. Time to see how Fuyumi deals with this newcomer that came to her aid. I do not own Code Vein or Skeleton Knight. They belong to their respective owners. I only own my OCs. Here's chapter 24. Enjoy.
Chapter 24: Aspiring Knight
Fuyumi watches as the female warrior walks over to the commotion, "You heard her. She doesn't want to be with you, and honestly, I can't blame her. Women don't like men that can't take a hint. Now leave," the woman demands.
"Hey, who do you think you are butting in?" the spearman asks angrily.
"Come on now, it's not like we're forcing her to do anything. We just wanted to chat for a little while," the leader says, trying to play innocent.
"I've heard that story before. The tournament will be in a few days. It would be a real shame if you were to violate the rules and end up getting disqualified before the first match even began. Contestants are not supposed to cause any trouble during the time of the tournaments. Get going before I call the local security in," the woman stands her ground.
"Well, well, well. Look who's trying to play the hero, saving the damsel in distress. I don't usually like playing that roll, but I suppose I could have a little fun this time," Fuyumi smiles a mischievous smile.
The men click their tongues when they see that things aren't going the way they want. Even more so when people start staring at them with less than favorable expressions. Deciding to cut their losses, the men leave and the atmosphere calms down.
The woman sighs, "I swear, men these days seem to be nothing but dogs. Are you alright, my lady?" the woman asks Fuyumi.
Fuyumi glances at Umi, who quickly takes to the skies. Now, time for some fun.
"Oh yes, thanks to you, my brave hero!" Fuyumi walks right over and wraps her arms around the woman's left, making sure to squeeze it between her breasts. "Those vulgar men were obviously planning to do nasty things to me I don't know what I would've done if you hadn't shown up. Please, you must let me repay you for your kindness. How can I make it up to you?" Fuyumi asks with an innocent, yet alluring smile.
The woman blushes from the contact and tries to refrain from staring at her exposed cleavage, "I-I was just doing what was right. There's not need to thank me. It's a knight's duty to protect the weak and the innocent after all,"
"Oh, well Ser knight, that doesn't mean you shouldn't be rewarded for your troubles. Come, let me treat you to a nice meal. Let's go," Fuyumi practically drags her away to a spot where they can eat.
…
The two girls end up at a local tavern for a bite to eat, all Fuyumi's treat.
"Allow me to introduce myself. I am Fuyumi Kusanagi," Fuyumi says. She then gestures to Umi who is munching on some cooked fish for her. "And this is my traveling companion, Umi,"
The woman stares in awe at Umi, "A spirit creature. I know of them, but this is the first time I've seen one in person She must trust you a great deal. Ah, ahem, my apologies. A pleasure to meet you, Lady Fuyumi. You may call me Iris," Iris replies.
"Ser Iris. Truly a pleasure. Though, no need to address me as 'Lady'. I'm not exactly one for formalities, so just Fuyumi is fine," Fuyumi waves it off as a waitress brings in their meal.
"Then may I ask you to simply address me as Iris in return. I'm not into those formalities much myself. I'm just glad I showed up when I did. These events tend to bring all types of people around, including the unsavory types," Iris notes before staring at her meal. "You really didn't have to do this for me, you know,"
Fuyumi wags a finger, "Now, now, no good deed goes unpunished, as they say. Besides, I was getting a little hungry anyway, and food tastes better with company," Fuyumi says before digging into her meal. "So, if I were to hazard a guess, you're here to compete in the tournament, correct?"
"Yes. I intend to win and claim the reward for this tournament. This time around, I hear that the prize is that you can make a special request from the duke. A wish granted if it is within his power," Iris explains before eating her meal. "Lad-I'm sorry, Fuyumi, are you here to watch the tournament?"
Fuyumi shrugs her shoulders, "You could say that. I did come here for business reasons, but I decided to see the tournament while I'm here. I've never been here before, so I've never seen any of the previous tournaments. I came here with a few friends of mine; however, they had other things to take care of and so we split up. I was checking out the shopping district when those three morons showed up, and the rest is history,"
"I'm a little curious about those reasons, but I won't pry. All women have things they prefer to keep to themselves, especially when meeting strangers," Iris replies.
"Well, we're not strangers now. So, maybe we can be friends," Fuyumi winks.
Iris returns it with a smile, "I guess that wouldn't be a problem," she says. By this time, they've finished their food. "Well, I don't want to take up too much of your time. I'd best get going," Iris stands up.
"Oh, that's a shame. I was hoping to chat a little longer. But, you do have a point. I'm sure my friends might be looking for me. I'd best get going too. Well, I wish you luck in the tournament. I'm sure we'll see each other again soon. Come along, Umi," Fuyumi leaves some coins behind for the food and is the first to leave.
Umi flies up to land on Fuyumi's shoulder. Fuyumi turns back to Iris, blowing her a kiss which makes the woman blush again, before walking away with a giggle.
"Oh, serious types like her are so fun to tease. Teasing Anelia is fun too, but this is a different kind of teasing, and a different kind of fun. It's also a bonus that she's really pretty too, and righteous," Fuyumi thinks as she goes to find her friends.
She finds her friends soon enough and they decide to talk back at an inn. Once they find some suitable arrangements, they go over what they find that evening.
"So, did you guys find anything of interest?" Fuyumi asks, petting Umi all the while.
"Not much on our end. There's so much traffic during these events, that it would be easy for those bastards to sneak their way through here with my people. I just wish we had more information to go on," Elane shakes her head.
"I didn't find much on my end either. Unfortunately, I got tangled up with some men who wanted to get alone with me for some 'quality time'. They were dealt with quickly enough, though not with violence since they're competing in the tournament. But, if unsavory types like that are coming around to the arena, we might find a few clues there," Fuyumi suggests.
"Okay, so you think someone who is involved in the slave trafficking might be involved in the tournament as well?" Anelia asks.
"I can't say for sure. I doubt they'd be a competitor. But, ultimately, the tournament is a show. If those involved with the slave trade are here, they may watch the tournament for any potential candidates for their business, whether as slaves or bodyguards that they can buy off. No doubt they'll turn their eyes towards me if I compete. We draw them out and then when they come after me, we strike. We'll need them alive in order to get some information," Fuyumi says.
"Well, I know you can handle yourself, so I got your back. I'm an archer. I have great eye sight. I'll keep an eye out on the stands," Elane goes for it.
However, Anelia gets quiet, which doesn't go unnoticed by the others.
"Anelia, is something wrong?" Fuyumi asks, but Anelia doesn't respond.
Elane sighs, "I'll leave you two alone for a while so you can talk. Come along, Umi," Elane takes the bird and leaves the room.
Fuyumi moves to set next to Anelia on her bed, "Anelia, what's wrong?"
"I know you're strong. I know you've been through worse, but... I just don't like the idea of you being used as bait, even if it was your idea. We don't know who we're up against this time, or where they are. You going out blind like that scares me," Anelia voices her worries.
"Anelia..." Fuyumi caresses her cheek to coax her to look at her. "I'm not going in like this is a game. I know the stakes here. But, you want to know something?"
"What?" Anelia asks.
"I have a reason to succeed. You. You and Emilia. You are my reason for fighting and succeeding. I have a home to go back to, which is more than some will ever have. That is why I won't fail. The only ones who are allowed to have me are those that have my heart. And as of right now, you and Emilia are the only ones who have such a rare commodity," Fuyumi says, kissing her on the forehead.
"But, what if others join that circle? I know I'm not the most beautiful, or a noble, or the strongest," Anelia starts to look gloomy.
"You have your own beauty, Anelia, and you are strong. Beauty can come in many forms. Yes, there may be more that join our circle. I won't deny it or lie about it, but that won't change that I still love you, and I will always have time for you," Fuyumi inclines her head, touching her forehead to Anelia's.
"Really?" Anelia mutters.
"Really," Fuyumi smiles.
"Then... prove it to me. Right now," Anelia demands.
Fuyumi knows what she asks, and she's more than willing to oblige for her love. Fuyumi gives Anelia a deep kiss. They remain like that for a few moments, simply kissing one another, until Fuyumi gently pushes Anelia down onto the bed. Their fingers intertwine as Fuyumi straddles Anelia. Their bodies press up against one another. Fuyumi will prove it alright, with every ounce of her being.
…
Labored moans can be heard from their room. The sun has already set, and luckily, Elane took Umi and went to a different inn for the night, giving them plenty of time to themselves. Fuyumi lays on the bed, with Anelia on top of her, her back to Fuyumi's exposed breasts. Fuyumi nibbles on one of Anelia's earlobes, while her left hand fondles one of her breasts, and her right is in between her legs. Anelia's hands grip the bed sheets, and her hips buck in tune with Fuyumi's fingers, which are already drenched by now. Anelia happily gave Fuyumi her virginity, and Fuyumi made sure she was properly gifted in return with a night she'll never forget.
"Fuyumi... Ah!" Anelia moans as Fuyumi goes deeper inside her.
"You're so wet, Anelia. I guess you've been waiting a while for this. Don't worry, I'll make sure the wait was worth it," Fuyumi then sinks her fangs into Anelia and starts sucking her blood.
Anelia gasps as the euphoric feeling she was feeling a moment ago goes up to another level. Their actions pick up pace, and Anelia even starts squeezing the one breast that Fuyumi doesn't currently hold. Fuyumi's thumb starts stroking and playing with the bud over her lower lips, making Anelia real close to reaching her peek. Fuyumi releases her neck from her fangs and heals the marks, but then picks up speed with her fingers. Anelia's moans get louder and more fervent. When she feels it, Fuyumi jams her fingers in as deep as she can go, making Anelia squeal as she climaxes. Her back arches above Fuyumi; her insides squeeze Fuyumi's fingers. Once the high comes down, Anelia falls back down onto Fuyumi.
"You seemed to really enjoy that, Anelia," Fuyumi smirks as she pulls her fingers out, seeing them soaked in Anelia's juices. "Here, why don't you have a taste," she makes Anelia suck her fingers, tasting her own essence.
Anelia moans on her fingers before she pulls them out, only to pull Anelia's chin around for another kiss. Fuyumi's tongue enters her mouth, twisting around Anelia's while tasting her lover's juices. The action only makes Anelia wet again. Fuyumi rolls, bringing Anelia under her again. Once their lips separate, Fuyumi looms over the gasping Anelia, her face completely flushed.
"Fuyumi..." Anelia moans.
"You're so cute, Anelia. But, I still don't think I've proven how much I love you yet. Luckily, the night is still young," Fuyumi's fingertips slide just on the edge of Anelia's skin, making her shudder from the sensation. "I won't let you sleep tonight, my love," she leans down to take Anelia into another kiss.
Their fingers intertwine again. Fuyumi and Anelia have the night all to themselves, and they don't plan on wasting it.
…
Soon enough, the combat tournament in Calipso city begins. The smaller arenas are where it begins first. Many competitors have signed up for this tournament, which will take place for the next several days. In one of those arenas, Elane and Anelia with Umi sit in the stands, waiting for Fuyumi to begin her match, which won't be for some time. In another arena, one of the first matches gets underway.
"Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the Calipso combat tournament. For those who are new to these events, these matches are one-on-one elimination matches. Killing is forbidden, as is poison. Mages who can use healing magic and medics will be on standby should the need arise. The match continues until one fighter either submits, is unconscious, or is deemed unable to continue. Without any further ado, let the first match of the second arena commence. In one corner, we have a mercenary. Skilled in sword and shield, and capable of using magic, and leader of a small mercenary party, I give to you... Daniel Myres!" the announcer yells.
From one opening into the arena, the same armored individual who Fuyumi met before walks out, a confident grin on his face.
"And in the other corner, her history is unknown, as is her family name. But, she seems like a knight on the rise. Gifted with a sword and light magic. Let me present... Iris!"
Iris walks out into the arena, paying no mind to the crowd as they cheer or boo to the fighters.
"Huh, well, this must be my lucky day," Daniel notes.
"What gives you that impression?" Iris looks uninterested.
"If it weren't for you, I would've had that hotty in the palm of my hand. But, now I get to have some payback, and teach you a lesson," Daniel looks her up and down. "I'll admit, you're not too bad on the eyes either. Maybe, if you submit without a fight and apologize, I can show you mercy and take you out sometime,"
"This is the problem with you men," Iris looks disgusted as she simply draws her sword.
"You had your chance for a real good time, sweety," Daniel readies his shield and blade.
"Ready, set, and... Begin!" the announcer starts the match.
"Spirits of fire, engulf my blade and burn my enemies. Flame sword!" Daniel encases his blade in fire.
However, Iris is already on him, making a strike at his legs. Daniel blocks with his shield and counters with a downward strike of his sword. Iris jumps back to dodge it and races around him towards his flank. Daniel keeps his shield in front of her, but Iris kicks off the shield and flies above him. She makes a swing at him, but he deflects it with his blade. He swings his sword around, sending sparks of fire around. Iris swings her sword, batting away the flames as she gets closer.
"Oh, no you don't," Daniel swings his sword into the ground, sending up bits of dirt and stone into the air. "Spirits of earth, form up and shoot down my enemies. Earth bullet!" the gem on his shield glows before he fires off the flying stones like bullets towards Iris.
Iris makes the smallest of movements and evades each one. When she gets close, Daniel is ready to block again, but Iris swings her blade up, knocking his shield arm up in the air. She makes a quick slash at his side. Daniel screams as the blade cuts cleanly through his armor and hits his body. The cut was shallow, but it still draws blood.
"Damn you!" Daniel makes a counter with his sword, but Iris throws a high kick to knock it out of his hand and into the air. "What the-,"
"You're too slow," Iris mutters as her blade begins to glow. "Spirits of light, cut through the darkness before me. Holy Slash!" she makes a fast strike that releases a beam of bright light.
The technique nails Daniel and sends him crashing into the arena wall. When the dust settles, Daniel falls onto the ground, unconscious.
"That is the match. The winner is Iris!" The match ends as the crowd cheers at how quickly Iris defeated her opponent.
Iris does not seem to care much as she makes her exit from the arena. In one of the halls of the arena, Iris breathes a sigh of relief.
"With each victory, I'll be one step closer to my goal. I will get what I worked so hard for... no matter who stands in my way," Iris mutters before walking away.
"Impressive," she hears and turns to see Fuyumi walking up to her. "Though, I had a feeling that sword was more than just for show,"
"Fuyumi, you were watching?" Iris greets her.
"Yes, I was hoping to see you in action. I also got the bonus of seeing you kick that creep's ass in front of a live audience. That was enjoyable," Fuyumi says.
"I see. I remember you said that you might watch the tournament. I'm flattered that you decided to watch my match," Iris notes.
Fuyumi holds her hands behind her back and smiles, "Yes, so far you and one other are the only matches I'm interested in for this tournament,"
Iris cocks her head, "One other? Who is that if I might ask?"
"If you want to find out, then head to the fourth arena. You'll see soon enough. I'll meet you there later," Fuyumi waves goodbye before taking her leave.
This leaves Iris both confused and curious. What kind of future opponent would she see at the fourth arena.
…
At the fourth arena, a few matches have already concluded, but the fans are still so full of energy, chomping at the bit for more action. Anelia, Umi, and Elane wait patiently in the stands. Meanwhile, Iris comes in through one of the crowd entrances to watch over the match.
"And now for our next match, folks. In the first corner, we have a brute of a fighter who likes to get up close and personal with his gauntlets. Please welcome... Silver!" the announcer welcomes the first fighter.
In walks a tall, buff man with silver armor on most of his body, though his limbs remain exposed. He has short, silver hair, and a slightly tanned skin tone. On his arms are clawed gauntlets as his weapons. The man obviously looks like he works out a lot.
"And in the next corner, a female fighter who has been making a name for herself in other parts of the kingdom. She's beautiful, she's feisty, and she doesn't let anyone get in her way. A mercenary with the title of knight in our kingdom. I give to you, the Sword Maiden, Fuyumi Kusanagi!" the announcer calls out.
Cheers erupt from across the arena as the second fighter enters the fray. Fuyumi's friends smile at her, knowing she loves this kind of stuff. She always knows how to make an entrance.
Iris watches in shock and awe, "Fuyumi... she's a knight, and the Sword Maiden?!"
And that's the chapter. Fuyumi makes a new friend in Iris, and gets to have some love action with Anelia. Now, the tournament is underway. What kind of fights will Fuyumi experience? How will Iris react to Fuyumi being a potential opponent? Until then, please Read and Review.