Author's notes: The first time I wrote this back in 2012 I struggled and had to rewrite it because I lacked the skills to make it into what I wanted. This time around, I definitely have more skills, but I also have a mind who have too many ideas! Needless to say, it was a recipe for a epic struggle, hence the long wait -_'-
Warning:
This chapter contains sexual content (Though as tastefully as I could write the content in question) If you're sensitive, you can skip that part, I'm sure you'll know which one when you stumble on it, I've build it so you have a fair forewarning of it.
Anyway, sorry for the long note! Happy reading and I'd love feedback :)
The last part in the preparations had been to memorize the map of the castle. Since the wars the interior of the castle had changed quite a bit. The old ball room had been rebuilt into Calista and Zael's private wing. The depths had been converted into the prison, and the Military wing now housed the Knight's quarters. The old prison still housed the interrogation chamber, but also offices for high ranking knights, judges and inquisitors.
Dagran's goal was to sneak down into the old prison and plant something from his childhood home, inside Edward's office. Tifa was to work her charms on the corrupt Inquisitor in the Great Hall, where balls nowadays were being held.
Chapter 10: The Grand Ball.
The three men were already dressed and waiting in the living room. The two women were inside the bar owner's bedroom, getting ready. Dagran had forgone his usual hunters outfit, and was sporting a white guardsmen's uniform. He only had a long dagger for protection, which he kept hidden beneath his coat. Lowell and Yurick wore their formal attire, simple black suits, with silver trimmings. Both looked very dashing, when looking at them it was hard to believe they had one been mercenaries.
''What's taking them so long?'' Yurick complained for the umpteenth time that hour. ''They have been there for hours. We'll be late for sure if we don't leave soon!''
''Don't you know? Beauty can't be rushed.'' Lowell teased his friend, not being able to resist agitating him further. ''Or is it someone else who you're anxious to see?''
''Who is there to be anxious to met? The only one I haven't seen for a while is Therius...'' Yurick coldly dismissed the notion.
''Therius, you say? I never thought you to be that type.'' Dagran flashed him a wolfish grin, barely evading the fist aiming for him.
''Lowell I get, but you too? Even children are better company that the two of you...'' Yurick grumbled and glared at the both of them. He took a deep, calming breath before slumping down onto the worn armchair. Determined to ignore his two snickering companions.
''Oh, stop teasing the poor boy!'' Syrenne announced as she walked into the room. Her hair was put up into a tight bun, with a few slings framing her face and she wore a lavender coloured silk gown. Made for a loose, flowing fit, and her growing stomach just made the look even more charming.
''You look lovely, Syrenne.'' Dagran flashed her a warm smile as she did a little twirl in front of them.
''Don't you go, flirting with my girl.'' Lowell replied playfully and pulled Syrenne into an affectionate embrace. ''But he is right, you do look lovely.''
''Oh shut it, both of ya.'' She shyly answered, blushing a little. Her green eyes trailed over to the sulking mage on the sofa. ''Don't sit there sulking like some brat. You have to learn to live with a little teasing.''
Tifa took a deep breath to calm herself before walking slowly into the crowded living room. She kept her gaze fixated on the floor, to nervous to look at anyone. She felt sick to her stomach and her nerves were all messed up. Her heart felt like it would beat itself out of her chest in any moment. ''Please, let's just go and get this over with...before I lose my nerve completely.'' she murmured softly.
Three set of eyes immediately landed on Tifa and their eyes widened in surprise when they took in the site she made. Instead of the dress looking ridiculous, seeing as it had been such a big monstrosity on the manikin, it looked lovely on her. Over the big crinoline and various layers of underskirts, she wore a silver gown, made of rich silk. It looked like it was floating as she moved. Because of her scars, the dress had a modest, round neckline and no sleeves. The bodice was decorated with red and white pearls which helped enhance her breasts, without the need of a deep cleavage. She also wore a pair of white gloves, specially customized for tonight. They looked like any other fashion gloves, but they were made out of the thinnest possible leather instead of the usual lace or silk ones. They would offer her knuckles protection from bruising in case she had to use force tonight. Her hair had been dyed a pretty red shade for the night and curled. It had been forced up into a high ponytail, with delicate curls cascading down her back, and a few stray curls framed her face. Her make-up was harsher than she normally would do it, but it complimented the entire outfit well and made a stark difference to her usual self. The only jewellery she wore was a pair of stud pearl earrings.
''I did a pretty good job, eh guys?'' Syrenne asked and laughed in delight at the look on Dagran's face. ''I think her looks alone should be able to charm the old man.''
''I'll take good care of her, Dagran.'' Yurick teased as he rose from the armchair. ''No need for you to worry...''
''Now get that plump booty of yours, under her skirts.'' Syrenne nudged Dagran closer to Tifa. Almost making him stumble into the nervous woman. ''It's high time to get our arses over to the castle. We have a creep to humiliate!''
''Do you have to make it sound so dirty?'' Tifa murmured and blushed even redder. ''I'm nervous as it is...''
Dagran only smiled and winked at her when she glanced up at him. The red hair made her already distinctive eyes stand out even more. He could not find words to describe how she looked. No word seemed to be enough, and he did not want to make a fool out of himself by blurting out random crazy ramblings from his mind. In the past he have had a few, short affairs with women, but not one of them had gotten close to conjure up any feelings inside of him, aside from short lived flares of lust. One thing that's for sure, she effected him like no other woman had ever done before. He was beginning to understand why Zael changed after meeting Calista.
''Good luck.'' He settled on saying before he used the Transform materia. In a matter of seconds he shrunk in size and then slipped under her skirts. Feeling uneasy in this situation would be an understatement. Nothing about being a few inches tall and being beneath a giant dress was normal. It did not help matters much that the view of her bare legs in front of him was distracting him, but the view above him almost made it impossible to think of little else than her. ''Damn it...''
The short walk from the Coliseum bar to the castle had a calming effect on Tifa. The fresh, cool night air had been like a soothing balm on her nerves. Thanks to her idea to use the Transform materia, she did not have to worry about accidentally stepping on the man, who was currently hiding under her skirts. Since the dress was so wide, they had decided that he would walk behind her, so he had full control of where her heels were at all times. She had thought the castle looked nice on the outside, but the interior was breathtaking to her. In her world Castles did not exist, except for in fairy tales, so seeing one, yet alone be inside one was very exciting for her. Never had she seen such pillars, bannisters, golden chandeliers and polished marble floors, and definitely not matched with stone walls and wood panellings. The whole concept was so beautiful and so different from the overdone, imposing, wealth oozing architecture of the old Shinra Building.
''This is amazing...'' Tifa whispered to Yurick. Her eyes wide in wonder of her new surroundings.
''That's one way to put it, I suppose.'' Yurick's eye softened a bit when seeing the excitement in her eyes. ''I sometime forget you aren't used to our architecture. For us this is just one of many fancy castles through out the world, which the privileged live sheltered from the normal hardships the poor endure.'' he told her, but felt bad when noticing some of her previous excitement fade. ''What I meant to say, we take our surroundings for granted, but it's nice to see a different view through your eyes.''
''You're right, Yurick.'' Tifa flashed him a smile, some of her excitement awakening once again. ''I guess the same could be said from where I come from, had the situation been reversed, although, your surroundings are far prettier than ours.''
Dagran's patience was already gone, along with his common sense it seemed. Not only did his current surroundings appeal to him, they were also suffocating him. Had they forgotten that he wore a full guardsmen's outfit? He did not exactly have much fresh air under here, aside from the small blissful wafts that found themselves beneath the swaying skirts when Tifa moved around a little. It was hot and stifling under all those layers of fabrics, and for his friends to stop and admire the view, did not help the situation. The air could be compared to when one slept under the covers, but with a far more intoxicating fragrance. All he could do to occupy himself with was to shamelessly admire the view and breath in the rose perfume that he'd come to associate with the beautiful fist fighter. He now understood why Lowell had pushed so hard for this plan because he knew what this would do to him. How this would affect him, but he was not going to let him have the satisfaction of seeing it. Moments before he had been complaining about the warm guardsmen's outfit, but now he was glad for it. The coat perfectly hid the temporarily tightness of his pants. I'll repay you one day Lowell, you can count on that...
''Enough loitering, guys.'' Lowell interjected while scanning the crowds of people for their remaining friends. He found Mirania and Therius conversing by the open terrace doors, which lead out into the newly made gardens. The hosts for the evening had yet to arrive. ''Time to split up. Yurick go with Leonie to drop of your 'package' while me and Syrenne keep our friends company.''
''Leonie?'' Tifa gave Lowell a puzzled look. ''I though we had settled on...Elena?''
''You're playing a cousin to me, and my family always have names with special meanings.'' Lowell answered her with a grin. ''My name means little wolf, and your name means lioness. Which fits you perfectly, deary.''
Tifa only had time to flash him a bright smile before the pair disappeared into sea of mingling guests. She and Yurick wasted no more time and gracefully manoeuvred themselves across the hall. They took the right set of stairs to the next floor just as the Zael and Calista descended on the left side, managing to postpone meeting the young rulers of the island. Guards surrounded the other staircases and the exits, so they took refuge inside the empty library. Yurick stayed near the doors, keeping a look out as his friends got ready.
''Finally!'' Dagran all but stormed out from hid hiding place, immediately casting the counter spell as he went. He returned to his normal size and tore off his helmet briefly, and took several gulps of fresh air. Loving the feel of being free once again, while making sure to keep his flushed face down. In hopes of avoiding brining more attention to him. Never am I doing that again!
''Oh, Dagran, are you all right?'' Tifa immediately rushed to his side, gently touching his face. Her fingers feeling cool against his forehead and cheeks. She ignored how he tensed, and fished out a handkerchief from a small pocket on her skirt and cleaned off the small layer of perspiration from his skin. ''Do you need anything?''
Yes! You, right here on the table... A voice echoed in Dagran's head, a voice he knew quite well and also feared, but in this instant he was inclined to agree with it. He wondered what she would think about that proposition. Shudders ripped through him at the feel of her hands on him, and he forcefully grabbed them and removed them. ''I'm fine!'' he snapped harshly, and a moment later guilt immediately stabbed his heart at the hurt look on her face, ''I'm sorry...I did not mean no snap at you. I'm fine, only a bit hot and I did not want to risk ruining your dress...''
Calista's voice interrupted any further discussion as she started her welcome speech. ''Welcome to my home, It is a great pleasure having you all here tonight. The war almost destroyed not only my home, but the whole town...''
The three friends edged closer and looked down on the people below them. Calista and Zeal stood on the small platform in the middle of the staircase. The two chairs from the old ballroom where now placed there, under the small balcony. ''Tonight's ball is to celebrate our survival, and to honour those that were lost to us, and what better way to honour them than to celebrate life? I choose to honour the people I lost by moving forward and I do that with this man beside me.''
Dagran took in the sight of his old childhood friend. Zael stood proud before the crowd in a black knight captain's uniform. The golden details on the armour had been polished to perfection. Gone was the lost looking man from two years ago, and in his stead stood a proud and confident man. The innocence that had once shone in his deep blue eyes had been replaced with wisdom. Beside him stood Calista, as regal and pretty as ever: dressed in a similar gown to the one she wore back on their first guard job. Black with gold details, but with a more modest neckline and short sleeves.
''I must however, shamefully admit that we have already married, but we wish to make it a formal affair too.'' Calista smiled at their shocked gasps, and slid her hand into Zael's strong hand. ''I'm pleased to invite you all again, when we renew our wedding vows.''
''We spoke of losses that comes with wars, and I lost someone very dear to me. He was not only my friend, but a brother and a father all rolled up into one person. He taught me all I know and I would not be here today if it weren't for him...'' Zael spoke up for the first time. An air of authority rang out through his voice and he met the crowd's gazes head on. Never faltering, ''and I want to honour him by renewing our marriage vows on the anniversary of the day I first met him.''
''The wedding will be held exactly three weeks from today. '' Calista announced, her eyes finding her friends' amongst the crowd. ''Now let the festivities begin!'' she raised a delicate hand, signalling to the musicians to start playing.
Dagran's whole body was tense as a bowstring. Guilt was mercilessly eating away at him. Yurick had been right, it was wrong to go behind Zael's back like this. He deserved to know what was going on and that he was alive. He was about to go out into the open, without his helmet on, but was yanked back by Tifa. Her hand firmly clasped around his wrist. ''Let me go, I must speak to him. He needs to know what's going to happen.'' He whispered harshly.
''No, complete what you came here to do, Dagran.'' Yurick simply told him, and walked out into the deserted hallway to wait for Tifa to join him.
''You can't...if you show yourself now, then it's all over. We have to prove that you did not kill the general in cold blood...'' Tifa spoke calmly, but fully knowing how hard it was for him. She gently tugged him further away from the doors. ''I know you care for him, but you have to think about yourself right now. Clean up this mess first and then you can stand on equal grounds again.''
Unable to keep his temper in check, he harshly shrugged off her hand. ''I don't simply care about him, he was my family...'' Dagran spat out while giving her a icy glare. ''an I don't need advice from someone who can't even follow the advice she gives to others.''
''If you care about him so damned much, then stop this nonsense and do what you came here for!'' Tifa snarled back, shoving him back against the oak table with enough force to rattle the helmet left there. She gave him one last hard glance before presenting him with her back. ''Perhaps not, but you and me are alike in that regard. We both need to learn how to think more about ourselves, so why don't you start so I can follow your example, hmm?''
Before Dagran could respond, she walked over to Yurick. His eyes followed her a few moments as she gracefully headed towards the stairs. Her curled hair bounced playfully against her back despite the stiff posture of her body. He shook his head, clearing his thoughts. She was right, he needed to see this through. Without his freedom, he had no future and if he had no future he could not hope to fix his friendship with Zael. He put on his helmet and walked calmly towards his destination. His mind was set, he had a mission to complete.
Lowell listened to Syrenne speaking with Mirania about what kind of food they would be serving. He was not remotely surprised about their topic of choice, the young mage was famous for her appetite, and it seemed his pregnant lover was hoping to become her apprentice. Therius was politely answering their many questions about the menu, despite him clearly not knowing much about it. His blue eyes was immediately drawn towards the pair walking towards them. Yurick would always stick out in a crowd, with that eyepatch and silver hair of his, but Tifa was definitely turning heads this evening
''There you are! I was wondering if you guys split or something,'' Syrenne greeted them cheerfully. ''This is, Leonie Balfour, she's a cousin to Lowell and is here on a short visit.'' she gestured towards Tifa. ''Leonie, this is Mirania a very good friend of mine, and this is...'' she trailed of awkwardly while looking at the stoic knight. ''I don't know what to say about him, his name is Therius and he's just here and I don't know why.''
''Tactful as always, Syrenne...'' Yurick rolled his eye at her. ''Pay her no mind, Leonie. Therius, is also a friend of ours, but those two don't play very nice together.''
''Hello, I'm pleased to met you both.'' Tifa greeted them with a small smile, which Mirania returned while Therius merely inclined his head in a curt nod. She took in their appearance and she was impressed by the in depth descriptions she had gotten about them. Mirania wore a dark blue gown, with white pearly details, and her black hair was put up into an elegant bun on top of her head. Therius she guessed was wearing his usual formal knight's uniform, he looked very majestic in the white and grey suit of armour. The waist cape fluttering down his legs was a dark grey, which made a stark effect compared to the silver, white and soft greys. ''It's nice to finally have a face to go with the stories I've been told about you all.''
''I sincerely doubt that the she-devil have portrayed me in a favourable light.'' Therius commented frostily, his cold gaze resting on Syrenne. ''Please take what she says with a grain of salt, if you'd be so kind, miss Leonie.''
''Oh, dear...'' Mirania complained softly, her brows furrowed slightly, ''We must all be on our best behaviour tonight, for Zael and Calista's sakes. A lot of important people are here tonight, they can't afford any trouble from their old mercenary friends.''
Lowell nodded his head in a silent agreement. Tonight was important for their noble friends, and even though this night would not go they way they hoped, it would not be because their best friends could not behave themselves. He would make sure of that. His eyes narrowed when seeing Syrenne getting ready for a nasty retaliation, which he knew would draw unwanted attention towards them. He slid his hand firmly over her mouth, while bending down to whisper in her ear, ''You've had your fun, love, now drop it. This night will have enough issues later without us adding even more to it.'' he warned her with a slight squeeze of his hand.
''We appreciate that, Mirania.'' Zael spoke up behind them, after having heard a bit of their usual playful banter. He flashed them a nervous but warm smile as they turned towards him. His distinctive, differently colored blue eyes landed curiously at Tifa and Yurick. ''Who's your date, Yurick? I have not seen her around before.''
''She's not my date.'' Yurick immediately countered, which got Therius eye's to sparkle with new-found interested. ''She is Lowell's cousin from out of town.''
''Ah, Zael, my boy! Let me introduce you.'' Lowell cheerfully nudged Tifa forward. ''This is my cousin, Leonie Balfour, pretty lass, isn't she?'' he noticed the slight suspicion in the other man's eyes, which was understandable considering that he did not know much about his past. ''She's from my mother's side of the family. She left the family like me, and remembered her old cousin and wanted to pay me a visit.''
''That explains why she looks nothing like you.'' Zael joked and shrugged off the odd feeling he had felt a moment ago. He struck out his hand and gently shook her gloved hand. He was surprised by the firmness of her grip, but made no comment of it. ''Welcome to Lazulis island, Leonie. I'm count Zael Arganan, I hope you'll enjoy your stay.''
''Thank you, It's been lovely so far... '' Tifa answered politely, hiding her dislike behind a lovely smile. ''I hope your marriage will be blessed with prosperity.''
Tifa could not put her finger on why, but she did not like Zael and Calista. It was something about them that she felt uncomfortable with. She did however find it odd that she have had no trouble with any of Dagran's old friends, except them. Perhaps it was because she was protective of Dagran? Zael was the one who hurt him the most during the wars, and Calista was the sole reason for them growing apart. Might she be judging them before hand, based on their actions in the past? If so, then she had to stop, being petty did not become anyone.
''As do I.'' Zael replied in the same polite fashion. He gave his friends another warm smile before schooling his features back into a mask of reserved calmness. ''I best be going back to Calista's side, so I can escort her to the dinning table, please enjoy yourselves.''
Syrenne waited until he was out of earshot, ''Bloody hell, I don't envy his new life. Being forced to be all stiff and proper all the time...'' she gave a shrug of disgust. Her eyes widened when seeing a servant walk by with a tray of food. One the plate lay a stuffed grilled chicken with its feathers arrange in the most disturbing fashion. ''Even the food is all stiff and proper!''
''That's not surprising, you weren't made for such a life, love.'' Lowell patted her back lovingly, winking at her when she glanced up at him. ''Though I'm pretty sure, Calista makes it worth his while...if you catch my meaning...''
''You pig!'' Tifa chuckled and playfully hit his arm.
''Speaking of pigs...look at that!'' Mirania's blue eyes widened and her stomach made a loud growling sound. A huge plate was just put down on the table by two servants. On the plate lay a big, roasted pig on a bed of green salad leaves. Its skin glazed a perfect brown color, one could practically hear the young woman's mouth watering. ''It smells so lovely...''
''Better go take our seats before a flood wave of drool drowns us all...'' Yurick muttered and offered Mirania a clean handkerchief before he gently steered her through the crowds. Towards the table and awaiting servants who would show them their seats.
''May I escort you, miss Leonie?'' Therius kindly offered his arm to her. His normally cold eyes had softened somewhat. He had been instantly drawn towards her, to him she was the most beautiful woman he had ever seen. Her aura was so gentle and soft and it felt calming to him. ''And if I may be so bold, would you consider saving a dance for me after dinner?''
Tifa smiled and accepted the offered arm, by placing her hand gently on top of his strong forearm. She may have a daunting task a head of her, but this man was a nice surprise. He was not so bad as Dagran and Syrenne made him out to be. ''Let's us first eat and I will carefully consider your very bold request...'' she winked at him.
Since Dagran had been a knight in training once, he had learned their posture and how to walk, so being in a guardsmen's uniform made his mission too easy. It was like taking a walk in the park, no one questioned him, let alone gave him a second glance. He was completely free to roam wherever he pleased.
''Good evening, sir.'' He greeted a knight, who was on his way somewhere. The nonchalant curt nod he received in return did not surprise him. Zael may have been able to select better men for training, but as long as a change did not happen, knights would continue acting like they were more superior than people around them.
The layout of the old prison was still there, the round tower, with torches and lanterns giving off a soft light. Wood railings hugged the open middle of the tower, so fools would not accidentally fall to their deaths. The old cells had been converted to offices, meeting rooms and training facilities. He knew the door he sought were closer to the interrogation chamber, yet he was drawn to another door; Lord Commander Therius' door.
He took a look around, making sure no one was watching him before opened the door. He smirked as he removed the key from the lock. This mission really was too easy. The small key chain he had picked up at the guardsmen's dining room. From one of the sleeping guards he had found there, the man had been drunk, so he had plenty of time before he needed to give back the keys. The room looked at first glance to be unused. A book case stood against the right wall, books standing neatly in lines. A large desk in the middle of the room, with two chairs in front of it. A low, wooden archive took up the left wall, and paintings hung above it. Behind the desk was another door, which was probably his bedroom.
He quickly searched the office, but found nothing of interest. It seemed to be like any other office, so he ventured into the bedroom. Nothing was found in the closet, and the large bed dominating the room was of no interest either. The only light source came from the closed balcony doors, but that was enough. A small black leather book caught his interest as he opened a drawer next to the bed. He picked it up and opened it, and did a quick read through of a few pages. It seemed to be Asthar's old journal. His eyes widened from shock when he came across a entry concerning him. What have I done?
Tifa was thankful that dinner was over. She had been too nervous to enjoy the food, and she was anxious to finish what she came here to do. Some progress had been made, so dinner had not been all a bore. She had been lucky enough to have the Inquisitor across from her, and she had made sure he took a notice to her. It was a balancing act. She could not afford to give him too much attention in case others took notice, so she had been discreet. She had conversed with him, and Therius and an older lady to her right through out the meal.
She was so determined to succeed that all of her shyness where blown out the window. All she focused was her mission, and her new friends watched her closely. Therius seemed to be taking a liking to her, he did not leave her side for long, which was both a blessing and a curse. It made her flirting with Edward a bit more tricky. After sharing a drink and some jokes with the Inquisitor, she had left him with a dazzling smile as Therius had swept her off to the dance floor.
''Do you enjoy being a knight, Therius?'' She asked him softly as she followed his lead. She noticed that his posture was a bit stiff, but he was easy to dance with.
''If I didn't I would not have continued being one.'' Therius answered seriously while admiring the woman in his arms. Her eyes sparkled as he slowly twirled her around. ''What do you like to do?''
''I like being with friends, and I love cooking.'' She answered and giggled softly as she accidentally bumped into him when he twirled her. ''As you can see...dancing is not my strong suite.''
''I think you're a lovely dancer.'' He replied and planted a soft kiss on the back of her hand, as the music stopped playing. ''I will be back for another dance...soon.''
''I look forward to that, sir.'' Tifa smiled up at the knight. She watched him walk away from the dance floor, towards a group of knights before glancing around the room. She found Yurick watching her, he stood with his back against a wall not far from her. He gave her a small smirk and bobbed his head at her.
''May I have this dance?'' Edward asked her as he stepped in front of her. His offered her a hand and his small eyes stared down at her. He was a fairly tall man, with unattractive light grey eyes and a very long nose. Thin, dry lips sat above a carefully trimmed goatee. His brown skin took away a little of the unhealthy glow he had around his eyes. The small amount of brown hair he had left, was but a small tuft on top of his head. He wore a black formal suit with a dark grey shirt.
''I would be delighted, sir.'' Tifa replied sweetly and shoved the feeling of disgust down her throat. She laid her hand in his, and felt his other hand rest on her lower back. Already she felt constrained and uneasy and they hadn't even begun dancing.
''Something on your mind?'' Edward squeezed her hand, making her focus her attention to him. He gave her a small smile when she looked up at him. He guided her carefully into the first parts of the dance, moving slow but with grace.
''Oh, I was simply thinking how easy it was to dance with you. You dance very well, sir.'' she quickly lied and titled her head to one side, returning his smile with one of her own. She noted that his way of dancing was not very enjoyable. He was far too dominating and guiding, it was easy and monotone dancing with him. She had no playroom at all, all she had to do was do as he wanted and to watch her steps. His grip on her lower back was hard, his fingers digging into the back of her corset. ''As an Inquisitor you must really be an expert of the law, right? Learning more about our laws have always fascinated me.''
''You are most kind, Miss Leonie. It has been a long time since I danced with someone as lovely as you.'' He replied flirtatiously, while letting his gaze wander down to her chest. ''Yes, it is required to have a vast knowledge of the law to become an inquisitor. That's not something one hears everyday, I would be delighted to share my knowledge with you.''
Is that supposed to make me feel special? You old corpse. Tifa thought to herself as she moved together in harmony to the lovely tune playing. She managed to repress a gag when he lifted her in a twirl, his hands too close to her breasts for her liking. ''You certainly know how to make a woman feel special. '' she replied and let out a fake giggle. His eyes turned slightly predatory, which told her that she had succeeded with her mission, and it was time for the finale. ''Oh, how wonderful! I'd love to hear anything you might want to share, but first I need to freshen up, please excuse me.''
''Of course, but only If you promise to dance with me again.'' he bowed and planted a disgustingly lingering kiss to the back of her gloved hand.
''I'll save a dance for you.'' Tifa replied with another forced smile as she withdrew her hand from his tight grasp. ''It would be lovely with a bit of fresh air, would you mind waiting for me on the terrace. It's a perfect place for such an interesting conversation.''
Edward gave her a curt nod and watched her go towards the double staircases. She paused briefly to say something to the young mage Yurick before continuing on her way. He turned and looked up towards two guards standing on the second floor, overlooking the Great hall. A smirk playing on his lips, something which was missed by all the former mercenaries.
Tifa took a deep breath as she checked her make-up in the mirror. The face staring back at felt foreign. After a few moments she felt her nerves calming a little. It was time to for the final act and all she could hope for was that she pulled it off. Time to spring the trap on the Inquisitor and play a distraught damsel in distress. She rolled her shoulders and gave her reflection a nod before stepping out of the bathroom. She only managed a few steps before a hand covered her mouth, stifling her surprised cry. Then she was harshly pulled into the library, her attacker holding her in an iron grip. The voice which whispered in her ear made her blood freeze.
''Make one sound and I will kill you...''
''She's been doing great tonight.'' Lowell murmured to Syrenne as his fingers drew circles on her back. He noticed Yurick by the open terrace doors, waiting for Tifa to return from the ladies room. ''It's hard to believe she's the same, awkward lass from before.''
''Tell me about it! She even managed to charm Sir Hoity-Toity.'' Syenne grinned as she observed the stoic knight closely. His eyes scanned the crowds, looking for the pretty red head who caught his interest.
''Be nice, he is a friend now...'' Lowell mumbled into her ear, so the knight who walked towards them would not hear. Therius looked like a man on a mission, with confidence and determination. ''What can we do for you, mate?''
''I'm looking for your lovely cousin, do you know where she is?'' Therius asked as he stopped in front of the pair. A smile played at the corner of his lips, at the mention of Leonie. ''I wanted to dance with her again.''
''She'll be back soon, just powdering her nose.'' Syrenne answered surprisingly polite. Her civil answer made the knight blink in surprise. ''Though, I have to say she's taking her bloody time...''
Therius ignored her last remark and simply nodded his head. He had learned long ago to take Syrenne as she was, no questions asked. ''I plan to have her occupied now that sir Edward has retired for the evening.'' He told them and noticed how both of them tensed. He became curious when they frantically looked around the room, as if looking for someone. When panic arose in their eyes and they shared a silent nod, his curiosity changed into suspicion. ''Do I even want to know what is wrong?''
''No, I think not...'' Lowell answered with a distant look on his face. He did not know what to tell the other man without it sounding suspicious. ''Nothing is wrong, we were simply reminded of something we need to check. Wait here for my cousin, and tell her we'll be back soon, all right?''
''Yurick! Get yer arse over here, NOW!'' Syrenne bellowed, not bothering to wait for a reply. She and Lowell pushed through various groups of people, towards the stairs. She'd never been more grateful for her old mercenary life as in this moment. Just one shout was enough to for her old comrades to know something was up. Both Mirania and Yurick stood my the stairs.
''Leonie might be in trouble, she's been gone too long...'' Lowell explained in a hurry, but still careful with his words since Mirana was not in on the plan. He carefully held onto Syrenne's elbow as they started to climb the stairs. One step at a time.
''Shit!'' Yurick cursed and bolted ahead of them. He now understood why she had taken so long, someone had delayed her on purpose. He feared their plan might have worked too well. They had underestimated just how dangerous Edward was. Dagran will have our heads if something happens to her. Please be safe, Tifa...
''I'll help you find her.'' Mirania kindly offered as she fell into step with Syrenne. Her hand resting on the small of her back for extra support. She did not really understand what was going on, but she wanted to help her friends.
''I will give you two choices,'' Edward whispered into Tifa's ear. One hand was still pressed over her mouth, while the other roughly latched onto one of her breasts. Fingers digging into her dress. He moaned hoarsely when feeling her body tensing and she unintentionally jumped, making her press harder against him. ''If you want to live, then simply spread your legs and service me. After I'm satisfied you'll get a small reward in exchange for your silence. Or I will snap that pretty little neck of yours. It's a simple choice really, either you want to live or you don't, no matter what happens, no one will ever know about this.''
Tifa remained still, trying to remain calm. She nodded her head, indicating that she understood his terms. The instant he loosened his grip on her, she stomped on his foot and broke free, but she found herself backed into a corner. She turned to face him, her back pressed against a large bookcase. ''You are right, others needn't to know of this. My friends and Sir Therius is expecting me back any minute now. They will notice I am taking too long and come looking for me...''
''I better do this quickly then,'' a sinister smile broke out on his face before he lounged at her. Her previous reaction told him that she was not unaccustomed to defending herself, so he took advantage of her limited space. He grabbed her flailing arms and pinned them above her head. Arranging so one hand held them still. His fingers digging sharply in her soft flesh, knowing it would hurt her. Pain instilled fear and fear made people more placid. With one hand free, he caressed her back. Gripping her bottom tightly and pressed himself fully against her. ''In case my guards fail to distract your friends...''
''Let go off me!'' She demanded, testing his strength by trying to break free from his hold. Looks had fooled her, he was a lot stronger than he looked, and much stronger than her. Their plan was crumbling into nothing, her outfit was not made for fighting. She would have to play her cards carefully to get out of this one. His hand continued its disgusting exploring of her body, pinching and squeezing harshly. Anger surged through her, he was a monster just like Dagran had said. ''I swear you'll live to regret this...''
''Don't play coy with me, you slut!'' Edward snarled angrily and backhanded her. He smirked when seeing blood trail from the corner of her mouth. He bent down, licking up the blood, hardening as he felt her freeze up under his ministrations. He pressed his mouth against hers, trying to part her lips, but his tongue met clenched teeth. ''Try anything and you'll be the one regretting it...''
Tifa's eyes widened when he destroyed her skirt, and part of her crinoline. He forced her legs apart by pressing his knee between them. The crinoline trapped her legs, making it impossible for her to kick him. She barely managed to swallow the bile threatening to gush out of her mouth when seeing him fight with his pants and underwear with one hand. She desperately looked around the dimly lit room, hoping to see something that could help her. Shit! What the hell do I do?! She thought panicky. All thoughts but fear left her mind when he suddenly thrust his hand between her legs, and into her panties. Rough fingers violating her most private place. She blinked back tears of humiliation and embarrassment, embracing the anger bubbling inside her. She lifted her gaze and looked into his disgusting face and head butted him as hard as she could. He let her go and stumbled backwards, and she immediately shoved him aside, bolting towards the closed double doors.
''Someone help me!'' Tifa screamed as loud as she could. Before she could reach the doors, she found herself being yanked backwards again. She stumbled in her heels, and fell towards the table, hitting her head on the edge of the table. The blow made her see stars in front of her eyes.
''I warned you, you filthy whore.'' He muttered while kicking her, one kick landed right in her ribs. Making her gasp for air. He fixed his clothing before he bent down and punched her in the face. He was furious at her for ruining his fun. It would only be a matter of minutes before someone found them and he had to silence her before then. He yanked her up from the floor by her neck. He snorted when she feebly clawed at his face. Her efforts only fuelled his anger and he pressed down harder on her throat. ''What a pity I have to kill you. I'd much rather fucked you, but I can't let you live after alerting others, it would ruin my reputation...''
The doors burst open and relief surged through Tifa. Edward let go and she dropped hard onto the cold floor. Not wanting to risk her rescuer failing to take him down, she delivered a brutal kick to his leg. Breaking his shin bone in the process. He crashed down to the floor, screaming like a hysterical pig. She inhaled too sharply and started coughing as she desperately tried to get enough air to breath normally. She didn't even notice that she had coughed up blood on herself. The tears streaming down her cheeks were real, she did not even need to play upset like she originally planned. He had managed to completely catch her off guard. He was ruthless and quick, and he really knew where to strike to disable someone.
''You're safe.'' Yurick knelt down before her. His blue eye widened in horror when seeing the extent of her injuries. He fished out a handkerchief from his pocket and tried to wipe away some of the blood from her mouth. He hated himself for failing her when she flinched away from his touch. ''Mirania! Your healing is needed!'' He called urgently.
At his call, the others quickly made it into the library. All it took was one look at Tifa, and Therius and Lowell detained Edward. Completely ignoring his pained moans as they roughly put the man in a corner of the room. Mirania immediately bolted over to Yurick and the injured Tifa, gently examining her. Syrenne came walking into the room with Zael and Calista following her.
''Zael, I found the high inquisitor attacking Leonie. He was strangling her, but stopped after I arrived.'' Yurick informed them, his voice laced with contempt. ''By the looks of it, he would have killed her had I arrived a few moments later...''
''Add attempted rape too...'' Mirania interjected thoughtfully as she finished a quick examination. Zael removed his mantle which the healer silently accepted and wrapped around the crying woman. ''The injuries she has sustained are severe. She has been brutally beaten.''
''I met the inquisitor at the dinner table and I danced one dance with him. After learning he was an inquisitor I wanted to know more about his job. I love learning about the law so I asked him to met me at the terrace for a private conversation.'' Tifa calmly explained, her voice hoarse and barely above a whisper. It hurt to talk, but she had little choice than to present a convincing case. She wiped her cheeks free from her tears before continuing, ''After exiting the bathroom, a hand clasped around my mouth and I was dragged into the deepest part of the library...where he assaulted me...''
''Sir Edward, Do you have anything to say in your own defence?'' Calista demanded to know.
''This is ridiculous! I was only defending myself, she was the one who attacked me.'' Edward shouted in outrage, clutching his injured leg with both his hands. ''Lady Calista, you have known me for years now, surely my injuries and my flawless reputation should speak in my defence?''
''She did what? You filthy liar!'' Lowell barked at the frightened looking man, making him quiver pathetically, ''If she did indeed attack you, and you are innocent, then why did you strangle her after you had clearly rendered her defenceless?''
''Her injuries are too severe to be called an act of self defence...'' Miraina calmly offered her professional opinion. She slowly walked over to the inquisitor, grabbing his jaw, checking his small wounds. Except for the leg injury, he only had a few minor scratches and a bloody nose. ''Yours however, are consistent with what kind of injuries one can inflict in self defence.''
''This is getting us nowhere.'' Zael let out a tired sign. Unsure of what he made about the whole situation. ''I think it's best both remain in our custody until this can be properly solved. Our first priority should be to get them healed.''
''I concur.'' Calista nodded at her husband. ''Sir Edward, you will be detained in your chambers under heavy guard until further notice.'' she paused before turning towards Tifa. ''Miss Leonie, you shall be taken to a guest room where you can recuperate and get the care you need. Guards will be placed outside your door, to ensure your safety.''
''I don't bloody concur! Leonie has just been attacked. What she needs is to feel safe amongst friends, not fucking alone in a place she doesn't know...'' Syrenne angrily put in her two cents.
''I'm sorry, but my mind is made up. Both stay here.'' Calista answered politely. She held up her hand in warning, effectively ending Edward's protests before they left his mouth. Putting a firm end to further discussions. ''Guards, please help Sir Edward back to his chamber, and Therius would you be so kind to escort miss Leonie to her to a empty bedroom?''
Therius nodded his head in a silent approval. He walked over to Tifa as the four guards relived him of his watch of the the inquisitor. A worried frown appeared on his face when she flinched away from his touch. Instead of scooping her up in his arms, he and Mirania helped her onto her feet. The healer gestured with her hands to step back, giving Leonie some space.
''Mirania and another healer will see to you shortly. I promise you that you will be completely safe in your room. '' Zael tried his best to sooth the worried looking woman. ''They will be as gentle with you as they possibly can.''
Tifa merely bobbed her head, too tired to argue with them. She did not like the situation at all, but she knew further discussions were pointless. They would not believe her if she told them about the corrupted guards Edward had on his side. She slowly followed Therius, clenching her teeth to bear the pain she was in. Thankful for the slow pace he had set. When passing Lowell, she stopped and placed a hand on his arm. ''Get me out of here, Edward has men loyal to him within the guards...'' She whispered to him.
Lowell and Syrenne was left to ponder Tifa's parting words. They wondered how they would pull off a rescue in a heavily guarded castle, without attracting unwanted attention.
Would they manage to get Tifa out of there before something worse happened?
Meanwhile:
Calista and Zael returned to their engagement party, after all they still had responsibilities to uphold. They both felt torn about the situation that occurred moments ago.
