Hi, I want to start thanking everyone that has read and left a review, mainly to those constantly providing encourage and interesting opinions. Thanks for your kind words guys. I am so glad you like the story and that is keeping your attention and interest. I have missed some of the reviewers in the last two chapters but I understand that there are a lot of things to do on the life out of the FF, however I hope these new chapters will bring them back.
We are close to the end and hopefully you will find this and the few upcoming chapters exciting. I am on working to keep the pace and don't having you waiting long. I have to confess that if you are finding this story thrilling is because I have the great fortune to have a wonderful and brilliant muse. She triggers my imagination to the sky. Danke! Longobard
Also, I have no words to thank AtlantisLux enough the help commenting, reading and correcting this story. Any, any mistake (grammar or orthography) still remaining in this chapter, is my God damn fault.
I will take some time before the end to check, review and correct the previous chapters…just in case some of you want to stop by and refresh in preparation for the final!
That said, there it is. Thanks again for reading.
CORE: acronym for 'Control for Remote-Materializing Equipment' it is the ultimate Otome control system and there are three on them to guarantee extra-planetary materializing and communication among the Otomes in the known universe. It also allows other materializing technology to work as the Portal technology for transportation, all the imperial communications and data transfers.
ECCO: acronym for 'Enhanced Classified Communication Object' is an advanced steganographic device attachable to an Otome GEM to allow encrypted and secure communication and messaging. In the Dune universe, that was the function of the Distrans bats. In this case, the device allows the Otomes on the ECCO network to hear or to communicate with other Otome user securely. It works through the CORE system as all the Otome's materializing capabilities.
PMT: Portal Materializing Technology, based on the Otome's CORE allows the portal activation opening the gateways for interstellar transportation. These gates are commonly known as "portals".
Note: This story is rated M. It contents intimate encounters between two females as well as other sexual content, strong language or violence. If you dislike, please don´t read.
Disclaimer: Sunrise owns Mai Hime and Mai Otome characters. Dune is owned by Frank Herbert legal heirs. I only own my imagination
Tears of Warriors
by GaladanChapter 13. On the Verge.
"If you believe certain words, you believe their hidden arguments. When you believe something is right or wrong, true of false, you believe the assumptions in the words which express the arguments. Such assumptions are often full of holes, but remain most precious to the convinced."
The Open-Ended Proof from The Panoplia Prophetica, Bene Gesserit.
Children of Dune
Aasgard, Hazakura House Planet & Imperial Capital. Imperial Palace
The best tool in any war was misinformation. Confuse the enemy, make him doubt of everything and then hit when he less expected. Sakura knew that rule perfectly and now, looking at her brother and the confusion reigning around the Throne room, she knew someone was applying over them perfectly… someone who wanted them driving out with despair, someone who wanted them making a terrible mistake. For Sakura, the worst thing was their enemy, whoever it was, was succeeding with that target.
Nobody knew what was happening and the only they had were the emergency request calls from three main Noble Houses. The Noble council was already alerted about that and demanding explanations and an emergency reunion with the Emperor. Anri was yelling at Jin and their subordinates for not having more information and Sakura had to face with sudden deception and pain that Anri had no clue about what do to with the situation. Maybe hundreds or thousands of people were dying while the powerful Emperor was desperately trying to decide what to do but without deciding anything.
"Silence! Everybody… " The Emperor finally screamed to the men and women reunited in the room, tightening his fists with anger and frustration. "I need reliable information. How is possible we cannot get any more reports from Aries, Cartago and Ealdgyth?"
"The communication system was behaving erratically since the SOS came but suddenly all communication stopped my Emperor. We have planetary communication but interstellar communication with the attacked planets has failed." Jin was trying to explain the problem without trembling. "There is really no explanation for what is happening. The engineers…"
"Oh, yes there is a reason Counselor, it's amazing you can't see it."
Tomoe was standing a bit away, crestfallen and with her arms crossed over her chest, looking really reviled and disappointed. The Ambassador raised her hear slowly, fixing her gaze with Anri for her next sentence.
"Sabotage."
A wave of reverent murmurs extended for all the room.
"That's very dangerous to say, Ambassador," Sakura intervened at last, "Whatever this poisonous rat is thinking will be bad for everybody."
"Hazakura-san, with your Otome wisdom, can you recall ANY situation like this?" Tomoe made the question with cold quietness, with the confidence of who already knew the answer.
Anri's gaze was looking desperately on Sakura's support but she couldn't give him the release he was expecting.
"No, Ambassador. I can't, but that is not enough reason to claim for a treason or sabotage."
"Treason yes, but not from inside Hazakura House, if that's what you fear powerful Emperor." With every word Tomoe was getting closer and closer of Anri as a snake charming its prey before attacking it. "Who was the last visitor we got before all these unfortunate events started?"
"The Kruger's spaceship." Anri himself gave the answer. He was like a statue of ice when asked to Jin. "Where they are now?"
Gulping, Jin reported the Kruger situation. "The Krugers were confined at the Imperial Guard meeting rooms…"
"Emperor," exasperated with Jin, Ayane interrupted him with disdain for explain, "By a direct request of Ambassador Marguerite, I took the decision of restrain them at the Imperial Otomes chambers. They have been under extreme surveillance since they arrived."
"Bring them to my presence… immediately." Jin ordered finally with the feeling of recovering some control.
An assistant came in hastily whispering at Jin's ear while wringing his hands nervously.
"My Emperor, the Noble Council is reunited and requests the Emperor presence at the Noble's Hall. Also, at the emergency channel we have an urgent request from Garderobe's Headmistress to talk with your Highness." Jin informed at the Emperor with nervousness.
Anri felt cornered by all his sides.
Baron Nagi D'Artai, who was silently watching, saw the best chance for his purpose.
"My Emperor, if I may request you permission to talk," said approaching and standing by Sakura's side.
"Speak freely Baron," Jin was internally praying for a escape and he would have heardanyone who could offer an option.
"The Empire will need all the support from the Noble Council; however I understand the critical importance to talk with the Kruger House representatives mainly if we have no communication either with Countess Kruger or Skáneland. I will suggest sending Imperial Counselor to the Nobles Hall and informing them what we know now and your majesty will join immediately after gathering the last pieces of information."
"I don't give explanations Baron… I know how to handle my Empire." The last thing Anri wanted was to face the Nobles and have more things to be concerned of.
Closing the distance and touching Anri's shoulder, Sakura asked, "Anri, the Baron may have reason. This is not a common situation. Something really dangerous is treating us and we will need all the support we can."
"Your sister is very right your Majesty, please remember that fear is a very adverse counselor. The Noble Houses have to be sure the Empire will protect them." Nagi felt more confident. His hunch was right; Sakura will back of his proposal in a last desperate intent to help her brother.
"While Jin is talking with the Nobles, Headmistress Shamrock can tell us what Garderobe knows."
"That's another issue your Majesty. I will suggest having the conference with Headmistress Shamrock while the Kruger representatives are present."
"Why is that Baron D'Artai?" Anri wanted to know.
"If I am correct… Kruger House made a stop before arriving Aasgard. Where it was, Emperor?"
Tomoe gave the answer with innocent satisfaction. "Wallach IV."
Sakura didn't like the way she did it but it was the truth. "Damn woman, hope Uma has a very good argument for that."
After weighting Nagi's suggestion, Anri ordered Jin to proceed as Nagi suggested.
"Let's hear what Headmistress Shamrock has to say."
Wallach IX, Garderobe´s Chapterhouse Planet
Uma Shamrock was sitting in her desk not even bothering to lighting it up the room a bit. She was almost as frustrated as Anri but not that defenseless. After setting up the maximum security protocol for the Otome's COREs, Garderobe under her command distributed her forces. For Uma, Shizuru and Natsuki were somehow safe in Kansai or at least out of the attackers' reach. Now her maximum and only priority was to protect Aries. And that was her worst mistake.
The information was flowing intermittently and erratically but Garderobe had an advantage the Empire didn't? They were internal users of the CORE system and through the GEMS the Otomes at the attacked planets were providing as much information as they could. It was like slowly building a puzzle only with fragments, a puzzle of reality. The few images they were getting to assemble this puzzle coming from Cartago, Windbloom and Aries were very concerning and disturbing. Entire cities were covered by smoke, dust and blinding blasts. Otomes combating the same kind of materializing warriors they faced at Skáneland. They barely stopped them in Skáneland; Uma couldn't imagine what Mai, Haruka or Arika could do to face them with minimum forces.
Despite Yohko's suggestions and without hearing the other Otome's advices, Uma ordered Yohko to depart to Aires taking with her a whole group of the best Otomes still in Garderobe leaded by Sara Gallagher. In this way, Uma Shamrock was the only Column and the most powerful Otome remaining in Wallach IV. Even when the other administrative Otomes like Miss Maria and Yukariko stayed and were deadly and skillful, the rest with them were the advanced students and the novice Otomes. It was a risk Garderobe will have to take.
Maya Blythe's last report said Nao Zhang was arriving or close to arriving Cardair. They knew for sure he was one of the traitors and conspirators but they need to know the name of the others desperately. It was crucial that Nao could get control of the Krauxeku as soon as possible.
"Headmistress, you communication request with Emperor Hazakura is ready," Miss Maria announced with dark tone entering the office and setting up the holographic communication as Uma instructed her.
Unlike the other intents of communication from the Empire, this channel with Garderobe was proving to be clear and direct. Anri felt suspicious since the very first second due that.
Since Uma's office she was also getting a clear image of Emperor Hazakura, his sisters flanking him, that venomous Tomoe and someone that she never expected to see there: Baron Nagi D'Artai.
Recovering quickly, Uma greeted the Emperor. "Majesty, thank you so much for taking my request so promptly, I appreciated it due the very serious situation we are facing. I imagine you also got the emergency calls from Tokiha, Armitage and Windbloom Houses."
Anri felt angry at Uma's tone and attitude. If she was feeling anything due the situation, anything in her voice or pose betrayed indecision or fear. He felt outraged just by that. "She is almost giving me instructions!"
"I see with surprise the communication channel with Wallach IV is close to perfection Headmistress…unlike the ones we have been trying to set with the attacked planets. Why is that?"
"Emperor, we are also having problems to reach the attacked planets. It should be part of the same attack. That's why is so important to assist them together…as soon as possible."
"What information do you have Headmistress Shamrock?"
Uma suspected the Empire had less information than Garderobe had but Anri's prompt question told her that maybe they had nothing. It was a priceless opportunity to make them do what she needed. Already prepared for that request, she waved Miss Maria to play some selected images.
When the transmission ended, the air felt heavier at the Throne room. "Such destruction!" Sakura felt downtrodden. "And we are wasting time here!" Barely containing, she looked to Anri.
"Emperor," Uma's image talked from the holographic device, "Garderobe can provide support during this situation. As you know, the Noble Houses haven't enough Otomes to face an invasion like this."
Standing up extremely angry, Anri pointed his finger towards Uma, yelling. "No, Headmistress, I don't know! And the reason of that is because Kruger House and Garderobe have been keeping strategic information away of the Empire. That can be considered an act of treason and I want to inform you that those Kruger representatives, Armbrust Kruger and Chie Hallard have been placed under Imperial custody."
At the Emperor's words, Meister Chiharu, another Imperial Otome under Ayane's command, stepped in the holograph dragging Chie and Armbrust to be shown to Uma. The vision of the two Kruger warriors froze Uma. They had restraining metallic handcuffs, kinetic muzzles and goggles and security collars with tracking and self-destruction devices. Not even the worst dangerous criminals had so many security devices on them. Chie and Armbrust couldn't see, talk or even move. Any mindless movement will increase the pressure of the kinetic devices on the prisoner.
"Emperor…that is no way to treat a Noble House's member, Meister Hallard is…"
"I haven't finished Headmistress and I didn't say you could speak. If you are going to say anything, make that the whereabouts of Countess Natsuki Kruger. She was supposed to be here! And explain why so critical and important information like the one we are seeing now was not delivered to the Empire before!"
Uma didn't imagine the situation for Chie and Armbrustwas so delicate. It was definitely a masterly movement achieved by the traitor at the Empire and she had strong suspicions on who could be, however Chie and Armbrust had a role to play to protect Natsuki and Garderobe's interest. Uma couldn't help them.
"Emperor, Garderobe has never hid any sensitive security information from the Empire. Ambassador Marguerite was in Skáneland when we first saw an attack like these. What you saw in the images resembled perfectly to what happened some months ago. The Ambassador had all the information with her when departed Skáneland." That was the truth and Uma told it with strong confidence, she needed Sakura support and Sakura without being a Truthsayer, had a strong instinct of truth. Uma's next phrases were going to be the hardest ones, if she could convince them, she will gain at least some time for them: Natsuki and Shizuru in Kansai and Yohko in Aries.
While Anri was staring and glaring furiously at Tomoe, Uma's voices diverted him from that task.
"I can't talk on behalf of Kruger House, Emperor, so before saying anything I would like to kindly ask you if you have talked with Meister Hallard and Kruger-san there… or at least, if you have heard what they had to say."
Anri felt a strong flush caused by his own anger, despair and shame. He couldn't answer Uma without looking like a stupid fool.
"Due security reasons, they have been restrained. They arrived late than expected and then this entire situation showed up." Ayane was saying defiantly to Uma, only Jin knew for sure she was lying to protect Ambassador Tomoe, the Kruger spaceship was always on time and Ayane and Tomoe were the ones showing late and never let them talk. The other person at Aasgard knowing Ayane was lying was Sakura. Even if they weren't twins, Sakura would have known Ayane was lying but Sakura had her hands tied, she couldn't do anything either to help Chie and Armbrust.
A dense silence could be felt through the communication. Uma felt Miss Maria, standing aside her, tensing and gritting her teeth. Ayane's lie was so flagrant that even they could feel it through the channel. So, it was no other option. "It seems I will have to play all my cards now."
"Emperor Hazakura, members of the Court, with great displease I have to inform you that Garderobe Intelligence field teams have detected some participation from Noble Houses in this shameful attacks. You are very right Emperor to be furious. It has been an act of treason but not by Kruger House."
Uma should be very careful; she could not give them yet the main information. Nao was still working on the Krauxeku and they urgently needed to know the others.
"The reason of why Countess Kruger is not at Aasgard is because she got a serious threat against her security in case of traveling there. Also she found recently some crucial information left by her father, deceased Count Kyler Kruger alerting her on the identity of the traitors. As the respectful leader of a Noble House she is, and in right duteousness, she is now confirming all this information to provide it without any doubt or chance of error to the Emperor."
Tomoe's regularly ironic features, tensed after Uma's words, "Could it be possible? There is no way they could know about me!"
Jin Hazakura had to make his best effort for not trembling too visibly.
Nagi was the only one who remained completely calmed and cool. "They suspect of course, but they are not sure. That woman is trying to gain time but your time is over Dear Headmistress."
"Why wasn't I informed about this Headmistress?! This is unacceptable. Neither Garderobe nor Kruger House have the authority to run this kind of activities without the Empire consent and approval!"
"I understand you rage Emperor, but it was a powerful reason to keep this in the highest secrecy."
"Please Headmistress; I have a very urgent meeting with the Noble Council waiting for me."
If the Emperor was so eager to hear, Uma was pleased to throw the bomb for him.
"One of the traitors may be right there in Aasgard… and could be even a member of the Imperial Court."
Kansai Stellar Space, Kruger Cruiser "Blue Wolf"
Natsuki was in fire…hovering in a dark blue immensity, with her hair floating around her beautiful face. Her green eyes were also in fire. Natsuki was an angel of white fire getting brilliant and brilliant until it was impossible to see her, until she jump from falling angel to supernova…
With a deep inspiration but keeping her body under control, Shizuru woke up in the cabin she was sharing with Natsuki at the 'Blue Wolf' Cruiser. She kept her red eyes closed as she used to do when those weird dreams came after her, making controlled breathings to ease her spirit and calm her heartbeat. This dream for once, was a new one, but for some reason, was way more disturbing than any other she had before.
The Kruger big spaceship still spent a good time orbiting Kansai running several scans and hiding any trace of their way through the portal that could be used to track their position. After that, Natsuki sent to the planet surface a first outpost leaded by Ray while she and Shizuru stayed at the spaceship. Natsuki was perfectly able to land the Cruiser at Kansai surface once everything was ready, despite Shizuru's assurance for being well, she wanted to give her more time and even when she will never voiced aloud, enjoying some private time with her.
When Shizuru finally opened her eyes, she found a pair of intense green eyes fixed on her and the owner of the eyes, standing aside the bed. The gaze on Natsuki was serious and a bit concerned.
"It seems my Countess is having too much spare time since she is spending it staring at me when I am asleep."
Natsuki's cheeks blushed very slightly but she kept staring at Shizuru without saying a word.
Natsuki suggested Shizuru to have some rest before they get landed. Once in Kansai they will have a lot do and little time for resting enough. While Shizuru was asleep, Natsuki could see Shizuru's anguish during the dream.
"Are you Ok?"
Smiling warmly, Shizuru raised up her body a bit, motioning Natsuki to get closer. "Of course I am. I told you, I can bear anything if Natsuki is by my side."
Natsuki sat at Shizuru side at the bed, admiring the beautiful features on Shizuru's smiling face. Now she looked different than a couple of minutes ago.
"I thought Natsuki was so impatient to get into the planet." Shizuru said with a playful tone cherishing Natsuki's face, shaking away the remaining of the dream.
While Shizuru was asleep, Natsuki was reviewing the last technical reports about Kansai and collating them with the first readings they were getting from the spaceship scanners, so her small work table was crowed. Since the attack twenty years ago, few studies were carried over the Planet. It wasn't anything to do and no one was really interested. The little existent information was gathered by Garderobe.
"I am but it will be better if some job is done before we get there…besides I wanted to have time to talk with you."
"Ara…Is it really only for talking? Seems that Natsuki is getting into 'that mood' and her real motives to stay alone with me are very different." Shizuru tried getting closer to Natsuki.
"Shizuru!..." This time Natsuki blush was full.
"We are all alone," Shizuru said smiling. Deep inside, even when it seemed her regular teasing to charm Natsuki and despite her seductive behavior, Shizuru needed to feel Natsuki in a whole different way. Shizuru needed to feel that Natsuki was really there; she needed to feel her flesh and held her tightly against her body. She wanted Natsuki taking her but not only for a sexual reason but to be in the most intimate contact with her. It was a strong and overwhelming need to be forged with Natsuki and burn with her…like in the dream.
"Shizuru…I…" Natsuki was trying to make a point but she wasn't moving away of the bed.
"This is also part of resting and getting prepared." Shizuru said pulling Natsuki gently to lay at the bed at her side.
"How is that?" Natsuki saw her hand taken by Shizuru and guided to Shizuru's waist.
Amazingly, Shizuru's face was now very close. "Yes, you can improve your focus highly if you are not distracted thinking about…other issues," by saying that, Shizuru closed the distance to kiss Natsuki gently at the beginning but with increasing passion.
Natsuki didn't pull away; rather she embraced Shizuru and responded the kiss with equal passion. If that was the way Shizuru needed to be comforted, then Natsuki will make her love with all her hearth and all her soul.
Shizuru was nicely surprised to feel Natsuki response and more to feel her embrace getting tighter and tighter on her body. Shizuru hold her breath when felt Natsuki moving to get on top of her.
When Natsuki broke the kiss to see her, Shizuru was the one feeling the flush on her face.
"Seems that I was right about your intentions Countess Kruger," she said with a bit broken breath.
"You have no idea, Archmeister Viola."
This time Natsuki took the lead, undressing Shizuru and setting the pace, feeling her desire growing with each cherish and kiss on Shizuru's bare skin, with the feeling of Shizuru moaning and arching with pleasure while she explored and kissed her.
Natsuki removed the rest of Shizuru's clothes and then, in a very daring gesture moved back to admire the naked woman, as an arrogant painter who will be admiring the most beloved master piece. Looking at Shizuru the whole time Natsuki took her own clothes off, blushing with shyness but standing proudly and defiantly.
That simple gesture and the possessive glance on Natsuki's eyes leafing through her body made Shizuru burn for more. Both of them were breathing deeply and Natsuki's hands, like feathers, traveled over the skin of Shizuru's legs, her eyes stopping in the dark golden hair between Shizuru's legs.
The anticipation dried Shizuru's mouth suddenly, when Natsuki's hands on her knees opened her legs to slowly expose her core. Natsuki not even had touched her but it was no doubt of her arousal. As Natsuki got closer and closer, spreading soft kisses in her inner thighs, Shizuru felt her wetness flowing and skin electrifying. Natsuki's mouth closed over her mount with her tongue caressing Shizuru's clit softly, making her scream and squeeze the sheets.
Holding Shizuru's tightly, Natsuki was licking and tasting while her hands roved over Shizuru's hips, legs and abdomen. When the younger woman felt Shizuru's hips trembling and lifting, she introduced her fingers slowly and deeply inside Shizuru; Natsuki kept penetrating her and devouring her clit until she heard Shizuru screaming uncontrollably with an overwhelming climax.
Very slowly, Natsuki moved up to hold Shizuru tightly while she recovered her breath. Shizuru responded entangling all her limbs with Natsuki's and kissing her passionately. Their naked bodies were tightening each other closely while kissing. Shizuru regained her breath slowly but it didn't calm quite enough.
"Having Natsuki like this is not helping my breathing, you know?"
Natsuki smiled between kisses, she was more than satisfied with herself for having Shizuru like that in her arms. She felt the most powerful woman in the universe.
"That's the idea," was Natsuki husky response.
Almost an hour later, they were still naked and still at the bed recovering, when the communication channel claimed Natsuki's attention. Reito from Kansai base was trying to get in contact.
Shizuru groaned in disappointment when Natsuki moved away from her and watched the naked Countess walk to her control panel to answer Reito.
"Reito, is everything ready? Where is Ray?"
"Errr…, Ray is with the Horus girls, Irina and that, Miyu. She asked me to inform you our status in the campground. Seems that we are ready but there is some kind of problem with the communication. Ray thinks you and the Archmeister Viola should come here…well, as soon as you can."
"What kind of problem?"
"I am not sure Natsuki, seems they are in the way to determine that."
Natsuki didn't like that uncertainty in Reito's voice. And it wasn't Ray's style to do the things that way. Something concerning should be happening.
"We will be there soon. Send me the navigational coordinates for the landing Reito."
After ending the communication, Natsuki stayed aside the panel thinking what could be happening down in Kansai.
"Natsuki is really beautiful; my countess shouldn't frown that much."
Realizing she was standing naked in the middle of her room, Natsuki felt the heat of a blush spreading on her and fought the impulse to cover shyly.
Instead, she glared Shizuru but only got an amorous smile back.
"Do we really have to be there that soon, Natsuki?"
Cardair, Krauxeku House Planet.
After so many years, Nao was finally coming back home. But this time she wasn't the prey running away; this time she will have to be the hunter.
From the space and as her commercial space ship was getting closer to Cardair the planet looked still dark and industrial. Exactly as it was when she left it so many years ago. The historical references said that Cardair was a fertile and green world hundreds of years ago when the Noble Council was founded and the Noble Houses got their manors. Krauxeku family never liked to be farmers. They were always running to chase progress and advance as fast as possible and the lowest cost possible. That's why they never got the high technology level Viola House reached or the expertise in manufacturing like Tokiha family in Carthagos. They wanted everything easy and fast. And more, they always wanted more.
Kazuya's father, Katsuyuki Krauxeku, was nonetheless worse than every Prince before him. And made sure his son was worthy of his heritage. Nao still remembered seeing Kazuya together with Akane as very young kids. Kazuya might have a chance then.
The Krauxeku family kept the people in the basic conditions possible, applying with an iron hand a 'reward and punishment' conditioning where the rewards were wild and addicting distractions. The way you got them was by being extremely loyal to the royal family, consenting any wish from them, betraying your fellow citizens and neighbors that were asking for stupid things like education or health for their children and fair living. The last ones, got no rewards but punishment. Like Nao's family.
She was old enough to remember but now it was no time for it. The spaceship was getting closer and closer to Kraxko City space port and she had to be ready. She was a Meister Otome in a official diplomatic mission to Cardair. More than that, she was a Column. Let's see how Kazuya will handle the fact that he couldn't lay a finger on her but she will do with him as she wanted.
At the spaceport, when Nao Meister Akane Soir was waiting for her. They barely knew each other when kids. Akane was a noble and she was, well only another possession in the Krauxeku manor. It was until they meet at Garderobe years later that Nao realized that all of them were simply possessions with more or less value at the Krauxeku's eyes.
"Nao-san, we are pleased to have you in Cardair, please be welcomed." Nao went to medium alert to full alert at Akane's welcoming. Garderobe's Imprinters had a secret ways to communicate between them. In this case, a warmest welcoming will mean a higher danger for the addressee. "You will meet Prince Kazuya immediately but maybe you will like to stop by your accommodations and refresh after your long trip."
It was something Akane wanted her to know before meeting Kazuya and the answer was at her room. "Oh, please Meister Soir. I am eager to meet the Prince and I certainly want to cause him the best impression. Refreshing and changing my clothes will be perfect. Thanks"
"Oh, I prepared a special outfit for you my dear. I left it in your room and I am sure the Prince will love it."
Nao and Akane were driven from the spaceport to the main palace by a whole brigade of the Krauxeku guards. During the way they were innocently chatting about thePrince and those people close to the Prince. It was only worthless gossip at the ears of the guards but crucial information for Nao. They never left them a second alone until Nao was standing in front of her room.
"A couple of guards will wait for you Meister Zhang to escort you to Prince Kazuya. I will be waiting for you there as well. Please don't hesitate to communicate with me in case of any need." Akane's smile was angelical while tapping her GEM.
"So, not even the GEM. They must have the whole place covered with devices. Poor Akane and the others, they have been really kidnapped here by this maniac." Nao thought while getting into her room with all her senses in maximum alert. After a quick review of the place, indentifying possible treats, she looked for the outfit Akane told her.
Over the bed, it was carefully placed a vaporous outfit in shades of green and gray that if was well covering the whole body, it didn't left much to the imagination. "So the maniac doesn't want to take the risk of any hidden weapon."
Nao didn't need any other weapon anyway. Examining the small metallic applications on the outfit, Nao found one was different to the others. Since Akane had been so careful about the spoken communication, maybe they will have to be careful also about visual surveillance. Kazuya was perfectly capable to have hidden cameras on her room.
Taking her time, Nao removed her clothes very carefully and slowly, walking naked around the room all the time while getting ready. However who was watching will be a lot more interested in her body than what she was doing.
For the time, she was dressed; her luggage arrived, surely after a detailed revision from the guards. Nao removed a few items to complete her attire, using then for her hair and makeup while with the same movements, she implanted the small micro device on her GEM. She was about to leave when noticed a small bottle over the table. It was the only item additional to the outfit Akane left in the room for her so it was something she had to check up.
Her vigilant had to be sure she was impatient to see Kazuya, so with carefully hastily movements she got the bottle. It was an exquisite flagrance. Nao's extremely sensitive senses also told her it was something else. Something very dangerous. "Let's hope I don't have to use it."
While pouring a small drop on her finger and spreading at her neck sides, Nao also feel an light engravery over the crystal, running her finger as she were cherishing the bottle while perfuming herself she read the message in Garderobe code for her. There were two names with Garderobe's symbol for traitor next to them. "Tomoe Marguerite and Nagi D'Artai"
Aasgard, Hazakura House Planet & Imperial Capital. Imperial Palace
The news Uma Shamrock gave to Anri were devastating for him. After agreeing to assist the attacked planets together Garderobe was ready to provide immediate assistance to Aries while the Empire will take care of the Carthagos and Windbloom. They had no time to waste and a frantic activity was on the move. Anri was delaying and delaying the meeting with the Noble Council until he could offer the best impression that the situation was under control.
The Imperial House was the only one with five Otomes but Anri wasn't willing to give any of them for the aid purposes.
"My Emperor, that is the best decision you can make," Tomoe was arguing vehemently. "Above all, we have to guarantee the safeness of the Empire. Send the Imperial Guards as you plan, but keep the Otomes here. The Noble Houses already have their own."
"But you hear Headmistress Shamrock, Ambassador! They don't have enough to face the attacks we saw!" From the five Imperial Otomes, including her twin sister, Sakura was the only one trying to send at least one more Otome to the attacked planets.
"Ambassador Marguerite has reason this time Sakura, quit that. I won't approve. Jin keep on the plan, I have to meet the Nobles as soon as possible," was Anri's last word on the subject.
Unexpectedly, Baron D'Artai made his new move.
"My dear Emperor, there is a point have would like to disclose that has been concerning me since your call with Garderobe's Headmistress."
"I am all hears Baron, I didn't like either that woman attitude, I will appreciate your opinion."
"I wonder why Garderobe has so much interest in aiding Aries. As you know, Windbloom is far closer to Wallach IV than Aries and Windbloom House is a long term Garderobe's ally. Why are they abandoning Windbloom now?"
"For sure an interesting question Baron." Anri fixed his gaze with Sakura. Her sister didn't tell him that small detail.
"By other hand, the Headmistress knows you have your hands full now. She offered help but she decided where to put that help. She decided to go to Aries, now with your approval and under a perfect veil of being helping the Empire."
With every word from Nagi, Anri's frown was increasing, as well as his angriness with his sister. Maybe Sakura was too loyal to that woman. Maybe she was more loyal to her than to him.
"Finally my dear Emperor, the Headmistress throw on your lap a serious concern with that revelation of a traitor in your Court but she didn't tell you where Countess Natsuki Kruger currently is and more important, what is she doing." Nagi was deeply looking at the Emperor. His speech was flawless. The Emperor was exactly where he wanted him.
The last nail was hammered by Tomoe. "Baron D'Artai is very right you Majesty, maybe we should reconsider how our forces are being organized and distributed."
"Yes, we should do that… And it's a shame that neither you Ambassador, nor you 'Imperial Counselor' would see anything before the Baron mentioned. Maybe that's another mistake I am making but you have my word that I will fix it soon."
Anri was furious towards everybody, Tomoe, Jin, Sakura…he felt lost and nobody was helping but this man.
"What do you suggest Baron D'Artai? There is a reason why you are telling me this when ALL my advisors have failed to."
"Wait Anri…" but a severe gesture from Anri towards her, silenced Sakura. She didn't like the gaze on her brother eyes.
"It is only my desire to be useful to the Empire. During generations, D'Artai House has had a shameful fate. Let me show you the real nature of the things Emperor. Please, let me go to Aries as representative of the Empire and the Hazakura House. I will take my men and army forces with me, of course and provide the aid. In the meantime, the Empire can focus to help at the Tokiha and Windbloom Houses."
"Even if I approve you to do that, I won't have enough resources Baron. I was going to ask your forces for the aid of those two planets. Despite her lack of efficiency as my advisor, Ambassador Marguerite is right. I can't unprotect Aasgard. Is very important I keep my main forces here."
"Carthagos is very close to Cardair, my Emperor. I am sure Prince Kazuya Krauxeku will be willing to help as well. Krauxeku House has a well trained and equipped army and enough Otomes. Prince Kazuya also likes action, maybe he will go there personally."
Anri had very bad references of Kazuya but Nagi was right about something, the Krauxeku were wild. He got some invitations for those coliseum fights Kazuya liked so much to use as celebrations. For Anri, that was a barbarian and vulgar habit but Cardair people and several of the Noble Houses seemed to like it. In any case, that will be a perfect reason for Kazuya to release his bloody instincts and be useful.
"That's a great idea Baron, as always." Anri was smiling for the first time in this unfortunate day.
"But Baron D'Artai, may I ask who will go with you to Aries? Don't you think that even with your army it will be too risky for your House?" Tomoe sound almost truly concerned but Nagi knew her better. She wanted something and he suspected that this time, it was the same he wanted.
"It's worth to take that risk Ambassador," was his only cryptic comment.
"What you mean Baron?" For the first time, Nagi didn't answer the Emperor's question.
"Maybe it's a bit hard for the Baron, Emperor. But let me answer for him. D'Artai House has no Otomes. It is forbidden since…"
"..Since the Dark Ages ended, my Emperor." Nagi finish trying to close the subject.
Anri took a look on the people surrounding him. Even if D'Artai proved to be helpful the last days, his House was a fallen one. Maybe that's why he was trying so hard. Four Imperial Otomes was still a very good number to handle any treat.
"Sakura."
"Yes brother?" At Anri's call, Sakura approached. His next words left her frozen in her place.
"Go with Baron D'Artai to Aries. Provide him any help he need. You will also be the official representative of Hazakura House while the Baron will be on charge of the diplomatic talks and the armada."
Sakura just opened her mouth but nothing came out. Having Sakura speechless was an opportunity Nagi was not missing.
"I am very grateful Emperor. Having the support of Meister Hazakura will be instrumental, I can guarantee you a success," Nagi said making a deep reverence towards Anri.
Sakura was glaring alternatively to Anri and to Nagi but both of them were ignoring her.
Anri was for once feeling happy and confident. Now he could go and kick those Nobles asses for behind such a burden for him. Forgetting completely about Sakura, he gave his lasts indications to Nagi and then focused with Jin and Tomoe in the rest of the strategy. Ayane was behind the Ambassador as usual but her tenuous smile was wicked. Sakura felt sold as a merchandise or worse… as a cow. Her inner voices were making a revolution inside but it was nothing she could do. She was the one who didn't want to lose any time, isn't? Nagi's voice whispering very close of her ear took her out of her thoughts.
"Are you ready for departing Sakura-chan?" Nagi was grinning, it was nothing Sakura wanted more at that very moment than hit him at the face but that will have to wait. "We don't have any more time to lose."
Nagi was smiling widely while standing very properly at her side; his eyes were brilliant with satisfaction.
"Give me ten minutes Baron…I will meet you at the space port by then." Without looking back at him, she walked fast to leave the room. She didn't say goodbye to anyone.
Walking behind her, Sakura heard Nagi asking. "Do you know what Cruiser you should take? I wouldn't like you to get missed, ending who knows where… away from me."
"Don't worry Baron, that's easy," Sakura said increasing the speed of her walk, "I will pick the ugliest one."
Nagi let her go with a smile, heading to his space ship. He has some calls to make. It will be plenty of time for sharing with the tough Meister Hazakura later.
Cardair, Krauxeku's Palace.
When Akane guided to her room, her first word regarding Kazuya was 'immediately'. The only pending issue for Nao was activating the new device on her GEM. She wasn't sure but she would have to take the risk. On her way to the court room, escorted by the gigantic guards, Nao discretely activated the device whereas was pretending to accommodate her hair.
'Enhanced Classified Communication Object'
Status: Activating…
Validating Subject: Break String Spinel
Authorization: Granted
Level: Maximum Priority, Column IV
Status…ECCO On-line
Yggdrasil System…On-line
Recording and Transferring on demand…
"Wow, so cool!…this has to be Yohko's new toy. Irina mentioned they were working on it. This will make this a lot easier. Be ready Headmistress."
They were finally at the court room. Nao, looking stunning with her new attire walked inside Kazuya's court with confidence and calculated coldness. The room was spacious and insanely luxury. It hasn't the minimum sense of good taste.
Since the very first time Nao appeared, Kazuya straightened on his lavish chair looking at her with a hint of curiosity and a lot more of other darker intentions. He didn't even bother hiding the lust and some resentment towards Nao.
"So…look what the cat brought: Meister Otome Juliet Nao Zhang." He said mockingly with a cruel grin in his face.
Nao didn't answer the brash affront, just stood keeping her green eyes fixed on him.
"You look a lot different than those years when you ran away from home like rat." Now Kazuya was serious. He liked to cause an impression and Nao wasn't showing any.
Approaching him a bit more, keeping her face immutable but her voice seductive she finally greeted him.
"A lot of time has passed since then. You also look very different…my Prince."
Standing up from his chair, Kazuya walked towards her examining her body from head to toe. "I really missed your red hair and green eyes. My father did his best effort to get you back but those Garderobe whores always succeeded keeping you away. Now, you are one of them."
"Indeed." Nao smiled dedicating a suggestive gaze to him.
"And what bring you back now? Did you suddenly miss me after all this years?" Kazuya walked back to his chair, moving with slow disdain.
"I am here to talk my Prince."
"And what makes you think I am interested to talk with you?"
"Well, I may have information you may find useful."
This time she got his real attention.
"Tell me and we will see if I am interested or not."
As she kept talking, she was approaching him a bit with each phrase.
"Not so fast my Prince. Nothing comes for free. Would you have something to exchange in return?"
Kazuya's guffaw resounded at the big hall and even his lackeys dared to join him at the mockery. When he saw her again, it was a dangerous glimpse on his eyes.
"Exchange?! We are not equals to exchange anything! Not with you neither withthose damn whores at Garderobe. You have absolutely no rights in here and you cannot demand anything from me. Be thankful if I left you leave in one piece. So far, your chances are depreciating very fast…Meister Zhang."
"You are a very smart man Prince Kazuya; at least you should hear what I have to say. If you don't find it useful or valuable you still can do what you want at any time. But…if it's valuable, well…it has a price, as everything. Do you think that any noble in the Universe can have a room like this? The more valuable something is, the most wanted it become by many people."
Kazuya pondered Nao's words. During some seconds, he rested his eyes on Akane. She was also an Otome but she was loyal to his House. He owned her and she was different to other women he owned. Maybe Nao was right. Besides…maybe he could end adding a new interesting possession to her manor. Ravishing her with his gaze, he finally accepted.
"Ok, let's hear what you have to say."
"Well, my Prince, I have information you will find very interesting regarding two persons, Ambassador Tomoe Marguerite and Baron Nagi D'Artai. What do you have to exchange?"
As Nao was speaking, all her conversation with Kazuya was being encrypted and delivered using the CORE's network system. Even with the security protocol Garderobe activated, this encrypted information was delivered and stored directly in the COREs and delivered again to the ECCO network users. In this very moment, Uma Shamrock was hearing the names she had beeneagerly waiting to have.
"Your life Nao Zhang, tell me something really important and you will live."
"Unfortunately for me, that is not enough my Prince. I need something that may be useful for Garderobe."
Laughing again, Kazuya advised, "My dear little thing, I like you. I really like that beautiful ass you have and I can't wait to show you. It will be very wise for you to forget about Garderobe and think more about your sake. Garderobe will be old history soon, as well as those unbearable bastards Kruger."
Nao couldn't take a hurried decision, she needed Kazuya talking and exposing as much as possible.
"So, soon you won't have any back up from your precious Garderobe and I will be in a very privileged position. So, also will be wise for you to chose the winners side."
"You are very sure about it my Prince."
"Of course I am sure…I got a call from our beloved Baron D'Artai just before you came in. I will be helping that inept Emperor at Carthagos while D'Artai does the same with Aries. However, this is just the beginning. The real fun will start a bit after."
Nao noticed that Kazuya needed to prove how brave and tough he was in front of everybody. She needed him vulnerable.
"Well, seems that we both have important information to exchange. Maybe I really need to reconsider. Would you mind if we continue this conversation in private?"
Kazuya smile widened at Nao's suggestion. Finally, he will have his red hair green eyed woman exactly where he wanted.
Wallach IV, Garderobe Headquarters Native planet
Light years away from there, Uma Shamrock tensed on her desk. "That wasn't the agreement with the Emperor; he never mentioned Kazuya or D'Artai going to anywhere! If D'Artai is going to Aries, Yohko and the Armitage family will be in great danger."
Her mind was racing as she was thinking in the other Otomes who will be receiving their ECCO devices soon and how to handle the Emperor blindness when a tremor shook her office, seconds before Miss Maria entered with a concerned look on her face.
"Headmistress, we are under attack."
A second tremor, stronger than the first one, shook them again. Deepness detonations were hitting Wallach surface.
"Yukariko is leading the mostexpert Otomes we have but all of them have just recently got their GEMs. We need your help."
A third tremor, it was getting bigger every time. Uma activated all the ECCO systems on automatic and left her office with Miss Maria.
Several minutes after the attack startup, all communications between Garderobe Otomes through the GEMs and every interstellar communication using the CORE system was abruptly interrupted.
Aasgard, Imperial Capital, Hazakura House Home Planet.
Anri was very proud of himself after his meeting with the Noble Council, he handled everything very well. Everybody was now sure he knew how to handle the incident. He was a bit sad after all for sending Sakura away, she had been very close of him in the last days and he missed her. She left with Baron the D'Artai a couple of hours ago. Anri was thinking maybe he was too tough on his evaluation of her, when she entered without announcing at his private room.
It took him a while to realize that wasn't Sakura but Ayane. She was materialized and looking at the brilliant Otome armor left Anri shocked for few seconds.
"Ayane…what are you doing?...You shouldn't get into MY room like that. I am the Emperor remember?"
"Not anymore."
The meaning of Ayane's word took several seconds to reach Anri's brain in it full meaning.
"What?" Anri's eyes were widely opened. Standing up slowly, he was approaching her sister "Are you damn fucking insane?! I AM THE EMPEROR."
Materializing her big double headed element, Ayane threatened her brother chest.
"You need to speak less and listen more… brother; now pay attention. You are no longer the Emperor. Stay quiet and you will survive. I would love to kill you but seem that Tomoe is somehow fond of you."
Anri couldn't believe what he was hearing. He tried to move to call his Imperial Guards but one wild hit of Ayane on his chest using her element threw him away violently.
"Don't waste your time. You guard is not coming. They are too busy taking care of the new Empress. I am here to take care of you."
"What?" Anri gasped; sure he was inside a living nightmare. This wasn't happening.
"Oh, it is happening brother. Due to your negligence, lack of interest in your fellow citizen and proved ineptitude as leader and decision maker, the whole integrity of our civilization is in danger. Someone has to take care and fix the mess you have done."
"Ayane… I was with the Noble Council, everything is under control! I have no idea what are you talking about!"
"That's exactly the reason why you are no longer the Emperor. You have no idea about anything."
Anri was breathing hardly after Ayane's hit and was trying to stand up on his feet again to face his sister.
"The Empire is under attack Anri. Now besides the three planets attacked potentially others are suffering the same fate….including Garderobe."
"Garderobe? Under attack?"
"Unbelievable, eh? The last report we got was Garderobe was being attacked. After some time ago, all communication with Garderobe or ANY other planet has ceased completely. We don't know either if other planets are being attacked or razed by now."
Anri remained silent, looking at the floor trying to comprehend everything Ayane was saying.
"Due those facts, the Noble Council met again and after a detailed analysis of the situation, you have been declared incompetent for the position. For overwhelming majority, Ambassador Marguerite has been declared Empress. All the Imperial Otomes have sworn obedience to her."
What Ayane didn't tell Anri was that she personally supported the decision of Tomoe taking the place of her brother. She organized all the army forces to get their support and the Noble Council had no other option but accept. The one holding the power of the Army was the one holding the command.
"From now on… you will be confined under arrest Anri."
Kansai, Viola House Planet.
Natsuki landed perfectly at Reito's coordinates and secured the spaceship. After a quick look around and one long glance toward Shizuru, she walked decidedly approaching her group with Shizuru walking two steps behind her. During the short walk in silence with Natsuki, Shizuru examined her inner feeling, glad to find her soul as quiet as the surface of a lake. Natsuki's love was her backwater during this first encounter with her devastated home planet. Because her inner memories she knew Kansai was a beautiful home once. For Shizuru's brain, it was like superposing the image of a desert over one of a paradise. "You will have a lot of time to think about this, now focus. We have a target."
As reading her mind, Natsuki made the first question.
"So what's the problem Ray?"
"Natsuki, the communication system is on but…" Ray looked very disconcerted since it was no explanation for what was happening.
"But what?…Ray?" Natsuki did a quick walk with Shizuru at the surroundings after the landing and it was certainly rare to see the whole group staring at the communication equipment when there was still a lot to do on the campground.
"It's hard to explain, but we can't get anyone." While Ray was trying to explain to Natsuki, Irina with concerned and concentrated face was typing and showing at the digital panel frantically. Shizuru was more concerned by seeing Miyu-san connected to the same terminal also doing something with inscrutable face but without giving any information.
"What you mean we can't get anyone? Maybe Armbrust and Chie haven't had time to set their own equipment. Who knows how the things are at the Empire."
"No, it's not that we can't get them. We can't communicate with Wallach or Horus either and they should be on line." Irina said finally. "Something is wrong Countess, Archmeister. There is no way we can't reach them. I have tried even the Headmistress line and Yohko-san secured channel with no success."
"Maybe our equipment had some bad functioning during the trip?" Shizuru tried as explanation even when something like that was highly unusual.
"No, this is very special equipment and we have everything to make it work in case of an emergency. In an eventuality, Miyu-san and I can fix anything. Our equipment is working perfectly. Did you get something, Miyu-san?"
"Negative, Meister Woods. There is only one explanation left according to my registry."
Everyone keep the eyes on Miyu.
"Only under a massive emergency situation the CORE system will be locked down, blocking all communications. The Garderobe's Headmistress and the President of the Scientific Guild together are the only ones who can authorize the maximum security protocol."
All the Otomes looked at each other with concern.
"And what the hell that mean!? Ray? Nina?" the alluded just looked back at Shizuru. According to Garderobe's codes they couldn't talk about Garderobe security protocols with no one who wasn't an Otome but that was not the reason that was stopping Ray and Nina to explain Natsuki. It was a consideration for Shizuru.
"Shizuru, what is happening?" Natsuki touched Shizuru's arm gently. Shizuru was thinking aboutall the possibilities and Miyu was right. Her inner memories couldn't recall any single occasion when the maximum security protocol was required and still took her a few seconds to put her thoughts in order in preparation for the explanation Natsuki will need.
"The maximum security protocol lock the COREs as Miyu was saying, it's a countermeasure for protection. When they are secured the communication is no longer possible but nobody can take control of them either."
From the group, only Natsuki and Reito didn't know what that meant.
"The security protocol blocks the CORE system but enable one of them for concentrating the functioning of the other two, after running a recovery protocol, all the functions are restored. The only function that remains during the blocking is the materializing system."
"And you think that what is happening right now?"
"Affirmative, Countess Kruger, that's the only possible explanation." Miyu concluded.
"And why Shamrock and Yohko-san would have run that protocol just now?" Natsuki asked still wondering why all of them looked so stressed but Miyu.
"The only reason is a high danger compromising the whole CORE system. The CORE physically should be in danger, so the protocol locked all of them. At least one should be recovered and restored in order to save the whole system. Never ever before that has happened, Natsuki." Shizuru measured her next words but it was no escape, they were there for that reason anyway.
"We have to recover the CORE hiding here as soon as possible Natsuki. If the MSP was executed, only one CORE is enabled for restoration. If that CORE is the one we have here, that will mean…"
Natsuki's eyes opened with understanding while Shizuru was ending her explanation.
"… the COREs from Wallach and Horus are under a great danger."
Natsuki breathed deeply looking alternatively at Shizuru and Reito.
"It will be actually worst than that Viola-san." Miyu specified getting everybody's attention again. "It will also mean that those COREs are not feasible to be recovered."
"But those are the COREs of Garderobe and Horus…that will be…!" Natsuki's mind was still trying to comprehend all the implications.
"Yes, Natsuki," Ray approached Natsuki, she was calmed on the exterior but inside was feeling a claw burying on her guts, "that will mean that Garderobe and Horus were taken aback at the same time by a severe attack they couldn't hold back."
Everyone remained at their places, waiting. They were on a once beautiful and exotic planet that now was strange and desolated, without communication and under the uncertainty. Everybody looked a bit lost with the exception of Miyu. She was there standing and waiting for commands. Looking at her, Natsuki understoodwhat the only option they have left was. They had to find the CORE and know for sure what was happening.
"Reito," his watchful gaze and posture change told Natsuki he needed to get into action as soon as possible. "Have this campground ready now, Nina and Laura, help him out and make sure to get it ready for more time than we were planning. Maybe we will be here for a while."
"Ray, Irina, set the rest of the equipment, we will needed right away. Install more scanning devices, set a strict security perimeter and secure the space ship. I don't want a single speck dust to move here without us to knowing. By the way, do we know something about my father men?"
"We don't know but if they could make it through the portal, we should meet them here sometime soon. They were leaving Horus about the same time we did." Ray explained, happy to see Natsuki taking control of the situation.
"Well, look for them on with the scanners and try to make contact with them using Kruger protocols. Miyu-san, come with us."
Natsuki wanted to analyze with Miyu and Shizuru the best alternatives to find the CORE. The machines they brought were fine but she knew her father was not a naive stupid. Anyone could use advanced devices. No, for sure her father hid the CORE in a way the more advanced equipment will fail to locate it. They will need more than technology to find it.
Well, that's all for now. You can't complain it was a long chapter!
I will see you around for the next ones. Thanks for reading and reviewing.