(AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES: Hi everyone yet again another TBWC update , this chapter would have been up for mother's day weekend but like many I was busy, I received this chapter Friday night from good editor and partner in writing crime dragonwriter24cmf. But I have not gotten time to upload until now. Chapter nine from what my editor sent me as a little teaser and spoiler for me is 40% to 50% done at the moment we are only one more chapter away from getting into my current 7-8 chapter special scenario that will happen right after chapter nine [^.^]
I'm so excited about it I could almost burst![^.^] what writer doesn't have a favourite part, scenario or chapter[s] within their works they like the most of all in their the stories that makes it what it is, their favourite!. That's all I'm about to say for so prepare yourselves for more action to come within this chapter which been long over due since the last action packed update, be warned though this chapter might with it a few new surprises ad things added to the mix. Again I have to say thanks to all those whom are still supporting and commenting on TBWC and still are liking it, I am to pleased and happy after seven chapters go onto eight now that everyone is still tightly seated into reading this story.
So without much further or do, I bring you chapter eight enjoy, read an comment mon public [^.^] adios for now on amigos.
DISCLAIMER:All rights to Trinity Blood was created and © by late Yoshida Sunao, the anime directed by Tomohiro Hirata and produced by the studio GONZO, as well as a manga drawn by Yoshida Sunao's friend Kiyo Kyoujou. All © rights revered by their respective owners. I own nothing except © to this story, it's plot and it's OC's that will eventually show within later chapters.
Special thanks to one of my editors and co-partners in helping finally get this story off the ground and back burner dragonwriter24cmf check her own TB stories on which are awesome. Additional thanks to my second co-partner for also participating in helping with this story KinReynard check out her own TB story 'Devil His Due' whom I'm her beta for when possible. When one of my co-partners/editors are unable to continue the other will take over both are involved with this fan fiction as time goes on with it's updates. Currently right now dragonwriter24cmf is helping with the current chapters and drafts for the stories plot and outline.
Warning:This fan fiction is rated (M) AKA Lemon. This story is ABSOULTLY NOT suitable for children or teens below the age of 16 [So if you're under the age limit turn back now, come back when you old enough to read this. I'd rather not get flamed nor sued by parents whom are just looking for trouble in places their underage children should not be looking nor reading for that matter. This story contains strong explicit adult themes and sexual ones such slight foreplay - as in hand sex, one-sided yuri, bisexuality, Attempted Rape, Explicit Sex or anything else mild to hard core kinky for that matter!, references to violence, and strong coarse language. If this disturbs you, do not read any further.
Notice:Trinity Blood War Continuum takes place one month after the events from the anime's finale episode 24 along with some elements, characters and things that will be used and taken from both manga's Rage Against the Moons (RAM), Reborn on the Mars (ROM). In adttion to some spoilers from stories untold notes left by Yoshida Sunao which he intended to finish off the manga series supposedly. Basically 50/50 will be used on both the anime and manga to those whom are more familiar with manga then others will see this implants as the story develops. Trinity Blood is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the Roman Catholic Church/the Vatican is portrayed as a military and spiritual power. The series also strongly implies major and controversial changes in the Church of present reality, such as women being bishops, cardinals as well as romantic relationships and marriages between members of the clergy. If this disturbs you of form or shapeof or on imagination then do not read this story.
Trinity Blood: War Continuum - Chapter Eight: Plan of Attack
Esther sighed, staring at the paperwork on her desk. She'd finished daily business hours ago, and had decided to look into the criminal activity reports that Abel and Mary had been working with for the past month.
The result was depressing. There was more reported violence from each quarter of the city. Even the Underground was showing more unease, fed by rumors that appeared to have no source, and no reason for spreading.
Esther knew there were members of the Order in the city. Vanessa and Virgil had apprehended three during the way-house renovations. One had been posing as a repair-man, while trying to sabotage things. Another had come in off the street as a supply carrier, then tried to enter the Ghetto. The third had actually had the audacity to claim to be an Imperial inspector. That one had been immediately caught and taken to Ion, who claimed he had no idea who the man was, and had never seen or heard of him.
Colonel Spencer was working with the city forces to quell unrest in Londinium. At Esther's request, she'd taken a gentle hand with the city, allowing the policemen to make more of the arrests. To those who were simple working men incited to riot, she spoke calmly, and soon released them after giving them time to cool their heads. The instigators she kept under guard, as security for Esther. Abel, working through the paperwork on his guard hours, had taken to spending two of his off nights in the city, and two in the Ghetto. His help had netted them a half a dozen more ringleaders, some of whom bore the mark of the Fleur du Mal.
Esther sighed and buried her head in her hands. It wasn't enough. Nothing they'd discovered led back to Rosenkreutz, not directly. And of the dozen men they'd captured that they were certain tied back to the Order, none of them were talking. They were quick to spit insults, and in some cases, had given their name, but there was nothing else they would say. Mary, along with some of the Council, had advocated using stronger methods than simple questioning, but Esther and Virgil had voted against it. Though he wasn't permitted in the Council, and Mary was taking public credit for everything, it was Abel who pointed out how any sign of force, beyond arrest, would spark anger among the people. Mary respected both his words and Esther's feelings and only made the suggestion once. Esther was grateful for that. She'd seen the interrogation methods some of the rougher Vatican inquisitors used. She didn't think Mary was anywhere near that brutal, but the memories made her too ill to even consider applying similar methods. Besides, there was always the possibility that one or more of them were under Dietrich's control, which meant they weren't responsible for what they were doing.
No matter what they did, they couldn't seem to get any leads. Abel, she knew, was working on something, but he hadn't seen fit to reveal the details. Knowing him, he was trying to sort things out for himself before presenting the information. But all other leads had come up with nothing. Even Tres was having trouble. Esther sighed. She'd called a meeting of the group this evening, to go over things, but she wondered if it would do any good.
Two minutes later, there was a knock on her door. Virgil entered, followed by Mary, Vanessa, Tres, Abel and Ion. The small group greeted her, then seated themselves in a loose semi-circle around the desk. Virgil was the last to settle in. He waited until the others took their seats, then bowed to her. "Majesty."
"Good evening, everyone." Esther smiled, and ran a hand through her hair to straighten in. She looked down at the reports on her desk. "Thank you for coming." She sighed, then decided to get straight to the point. "I've been noticing a great deal more disturbance in the city lately, and I know you have as well. I thought we might discuss how much of this is related to the Order, and what we can do about it."
Mary spoke first. "It's not uncommon to have unrest in large cities." She leaned forward, her hands folded in front of her with a thoughtful expression on her face. "A part of the increase is simply the increase vigilance within the city grounds. Things that weren't reported before are turning up. However, it troubles me the number of rumors we're hearing on the streets. Everything from subtle slanders to outright lies. It's not uncommon for such things to happen, but there're too many instances where the source or the basis for the rumor just vanishes into thin air. And I've heard some disturbing stories. Some of the people I've spoken with say they heard things from a 'well-dressed gentleman, who looked and sounded important'.
Esther flinched. "You mean…one of the lords?"
"It's possible." Virgil spoke up. "However, it could also be someone who is simply very good at pretending to be a lord." His eyes were thoughtful. "It is not impossible for someone who attended school at a University to pretend to be an aristocrat. For that matter, a wealthy man of the merchant class can also do such." Mary looked at him. "Do you think that's what happened?"
"Possibly." Virgil looked at his notes. "I have heard very little dissatisfaction within the royal and noble circles. That does not mean there is none, however, it's rather low key. Too many of our nobility still remember the Queens actions during the attack on our city." He leafed through the files on hand, then stopped. "Our records of the Order members indicate that several of them are, or were, members of upper class. Von Lohengrin, for instance, is the name of a family of German nobility that disappeared recently. And the records from the Vatican also indicate that the man known as Isaac was once a student at our university."
"Do you think they're here, in this city then?" Esther felt her stomach clench.
"I think it is possible. However, if such is true, then there is virtually no way to track them." Virgil set the papers down, his face grave. "Well then, the best we can do is maintain a watch on the city." Mary sighed and settled back. "Father Tres, any suggestions?"
"Negative. The enemies' movements and current goals have not been verified. Therefore, there is not enough information to form an effective battle plan."
"I see." Esther paused, then turned to Abel. "Father Nightroad, do you have anything to add?"
"Well, as a matter of fact, I do have a few things. However, I'm afraid they aren't very helpful." He sighed. "We've managed to isolate the codes for Ghetto access, and we're trying to create a lockdown program that will prevent any other codes from gaining access. Unfortunately…" he leaned forward, his eyes dark and unfocused. "If we lock the system, then all they have to do is learn the codes. However, a system that gives us more freedom also gives them more room as well. But, I did find one more thing." He removed a few sheets of paper from his stack, and set them on the table. "Information on the Order of Rosenkreutz, and on the Fleur du Mal, which seems to be their hire of choice for operations." He pointed to the paper. "There's no specific correlation to anything on the Fleur du Mal…but all the major players from the Order are Germanic, or deep European at least. I've been looking into that. People with familiar ties, with common histories tend to work together." He pulled another paper from his pocket, and laid out the map of Londinium. There were a few spots circled in red.
"These places, they are all in the less reputable sections of town, but also where a great number of foreigners come to stay. I think the men we want are using those places to hide themselves. A needle in a haystack, if you will." He grimaced. "The problem is, you can't simply hold everyone with foreign connections as a possible terrorist. There are far too many innocents. I've tried to narrow down the search but…" Mary sighed. "People in the less well to do neighborhoods are extremely suspicious. Even if they have nothing really to hide, they may have friends they are protecting."
"Exactly." Abel sighed. "I am a priest, but I still met with a rather cold reception. One man even pulled weapon on me...I took off, I'm afraid."
"Well then, it's an impasse." Mary made a face at the table. "We can guess who they are, where they are, what they're trying to do…but we can't reach them."
"Then we should bring them to us." Ion spoke up. He leaned forward. "When you hunt prey that is otherwise hard to corner, you must offer them something to bring them into the open." His hand touched the map. "Our Empress used this technique recently, to flush out the traitors in Her court."
"Oh lord." Abel groaned. Esther knew how he felt. She, Ion and Abel had been the bait to draw the traitors out. She and Ion had fared worse than Abel, but even he had been wounded, burned in a final conflict with Dietrich, using Radu's body. Mary on the other hand, sat forward. "Exactly what did you have in mind, Earl of Memphis? I hope you are not suggesting we send Her Majesty onto the streets again."
"Not at all." Ion sat still. "What we need is to create enough interest to make it worth their while. For instance…Esther. You've been on the throne for about five, almost six months. Would it not be reasonable to celebrate such a thing?"
Virgil blinked. "Usually, rulers celebrate years rather than half years. However, given the turmoil of recent times…it might not be unreasonable. Especially given the changes her Majesty has brought." He looked at the map of Londinium. "That is also the time the new way-houses and the new Embassy should be ready to open. That would certainly be cause for celebration."
"Positive. However, there is no guarantee that the Order will mobilize for this." Tres spoke. "I estimate no more than a fifty percent chance that such an event will be significant enough for the Order to take action. And since, as my lord points out, the celebration of a half year is unusual, they may suspect a trap."
"I see. Do you perhaps have an idea as to how to increase the odds, Father Tres?"
"Positive. However, I will need to speak to Her Eminence, the Duchess of Milan, and to Her Imperial Majesty."
"To Lady Caterina and the Empress?" Esther blinked. "But why, Father Tres?"
"Your Majesty recently signed a treaty with Cardinal Sforza and with the Empire. However, if my information is correct, there has been no formal recognition of that event." Esther saw where he was going. "You think if we arranged something to formalize the signing of the treaty, that the Order would act."
"Positive. It is my calculation that the Order is seventy-eight percent more likely to attempt to prevent such an event than any other possible plan." Mary frowned. "I see your point. However you're asking us to jeopardize, not one, but three major rulers." She frowned. "The risk is too high."
"Negative. With proper precautions, I am certain we can maintain protection of the potential targets."
"He has a point." Esther spoke softly. "Besides, we're all at risk anyway. We were all targeted the day the original peace document was signed. In that case, wouldn't it help to unite our forces? If Lady Caterina and the Empress will agree."
"That's the other point. We don't know that either of them will agree to such a plan." Mary frowned. "Well then, I suppose the only thing we can do is call and ask them. Lord Walsh…would you be willing to place the call?"
Virgil sighed. "I'm not entirely sure I like this idea, however, if it is what Your Majesty wishes to attempt, then yes, I will call. Perhaps the Earl of Memphis would be willing to place the call to the Empire. I believe he might get a faster response." Ion rose from his seat. "Of course. I'll do that right away." Mary also stood. "Lord Walsh, I recommend you use the channel here, in Her Majesty's office. I'll take the Earl of Memphis to my office and use the communications channel there." Virgil nodded his head in agreement, as did Esther, and the two of them left. Virgil activated the console. Esther brushed her hair back and tried not to feel nervous. She'd called Caterina before, several times, and surely this was no different. She knew Caterina was well versed in battle tactics and strategy. But to ask her to put herself at risk….A soft sound distracted her.
She turned to see Abel, moving away from the desk. She stood and moved toward him. "Father Nightroad?"
He stopped, but didn't turn to her. "I thought perhaps I ought to take my leave. I don't have anything else to say, and this call…"
"But Father…" She hesitated. "You are going to help, aren't you? I mean, if Lady Caterina and Seth agree to this plan…"
"I will assist you, of course. But…" He sighed, leaning his head against the door, his hand touching the paneling. "I…I'd rather not speak to Caterina about it. And I…I'm not sure I want to be visible. After all, Caterina will have to bring some protection with her, as will the Empress. And I…" He stopped and his voice was soft when he spoke again. "I'm still not sure…"
She wanted to tell him it was all right, but she wasn't sure he'd believe her. She reached out, laid a hand gently on his wrist. "You don't have to speak to them if you don't want to, Father. But I'd like it if you would stay here, and at least listen. After all, you should know what our plans are. And if you feel you need to adjust them…you can tell Caterina and Seth then." After a moment, he gave a slight nod, and turned back to the office. Virgil was typing in the calling code, and Tres was simply watching. Esther knew both men had witnessed the exchange, but neither of them commented on it. The console came to life, revealing Caterina. For once, she wasn't dressed in the full regalia of a Cardinal. She looked as if she'd been relaxing. Esther flushed slightly. "Good evening, Lady Caterina. I'm sorry, did I disturb you?"
"It's no problem, I was simply taking an evening off. However, I don't mind speaking with you." Caterina took a sip of tea and set the cup down. "So, what is it you wished to speak to me about, Esther?"
"Well, it's about the order of Rosenkreutz." Esther stopped, putting her thoughts in order. "We haven't seen much of them lately but…there's evidence that they've been causing trouble in the city. Gang violence, and rumors being spread on the streets. We think we might have located some of their bases in the city, but we can't really get to them." Caterina sighed. "I know what you mean. We've been having similar troubles ourselves. Rome itself is fairly safe, between the Inquisitorial department and City Special Police however, beyond the walls of the city…things are getting rough." She tapped a set of papers on her desk. "I had the reports from Leon and Hugue last week. Leon's in Hispania at the moment, and he stumbled across some Fleur du Mal membership information. He says the recruitment has gotten higher, as has the violence.
And Hugue's so busy in the Amsterdam region that he's actually left off his personal crusades to still the troubles." That was big news. Hugue de Watteau was an invaluable agent, but he had issues with the Amsterdam Methuselah community. Some of them had once been hired to kill off his family, with the result that he'd been mutilated and left for dead, while his sister was abducted. He'd never forgiven the conspirators or his attackers. He'd been known to go off on tangents, whenever news came about one of the perpetrators. If the problems were serious enough to get him to set things aside, then they were getting pretty bad. Caterina sighed. "We've been looking into things, however, we can't seem to predict their next move."
"Yes. My advisors and I were just discussing that. Father Tres and the Earl of Memphis have come up with a plan we think might work." She laid out the idea for Caterina, and let Tres fill in the details. Caterina sat back in her chair, frowning thoughtfully. "It's risky, but it should work. Tres is right, they're far more likely to attack a peace conference than any other event. Have you spoken to the Empress yet?"
"The Earl of Memphis is speaking to her on the other line. We thought it would be more efficient this way."
"Of course. Well then, we'll wait to see what she has to say about it." Two minutes later, Ion and Mary came back into the room. Ion's face was flushed, Esther wasn't sure if it was embarrassment or pride. Mary entered behind him and spoke to Esther. "Her Imperial Majesty has agreed to the plan. If you would like, I can redirect the channel, and we can begin discussing the details."
"Of course, please do." Esther turned back. "I mean, if that's all right with you, Your Eminence."
"It's fine." Caterina smiled. "For something like this, I've no objections to being kept up a little longer." They spoke of simple things for a few minutes, chatting about weather and paperwork like old friends. Esther felt a faint surprise at that. She was used to thinking of Caterina as her superior, a rather awe-inspiring woman, not as a friend. And yet, since her ascension, the relationship had changed. Somewhere along the line, they had become equals, and companions in a common cause. It was an odd thought, but a comforting one. Her thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door. She turned, as Ion re-entered the room. "Her Imperial Majesty would like to speak with you." He bowed toward the image on the terminal. "And with you, Your Eminence."
"That's good. Virgil?"
He nodded. "The call is on standby. I can connect the two channels from here." He made some adjustments, and a second image sprang into being beside the first. Esther saw Caterina make an adjustment to her own system, and then smile. The figure on screen returned the smile. "Good evening, Esther, Lady Caterina. It's good to hear from you." The person in the image was masked, but Esther had a feeling it was Seth, not Mirka Fortuna. There was something about the way she spoke, the tilt of the head, that was more like a child than an older woman. "So, Ion told me you have a plan for drawing out the Order."
"Yes. Did he tell you what we had discussed?"
"He did. And personally, I think it's a good idea. But are you two sure you want to do something like that? After all, it is a very risky endeavor."
"It is a risk. However, this is a war, however unofficial it may be. Risks are to be expected. And at the moment, we are achieving very little." Caterina sat back in her chair. "I'm quite willing to make the attempt, provided we take the necessary precautions." She looked off into the distance. "Besides, this could be advantageous for all of us as well. A public declaration of Alliance will give us a chance to see where people stand on the matter." Esther nodded. "I am in agreement with those thoughts as well."
"Well then. I guess we should decide where and when to hold this event." The Empress settled into her chair, leaning against the armrest. "To be honest, I think it would be better to hold the ceremonies in Albion. It's a neutral country, as we discussed in the original Alliance negotiations." Caterina nodded. Esther looked at Virgil standing by the console, and Mary who'd entered the room while she was speaking. "Lord Walsh, Colonel Spencer, can we handle that?"
Virgil nodded. "It would be possible at this time. However if you're willing to wait at least a month, we should have the Embassy for the Empire at least moderately functional by then. That would make it much easier."
"Well, there's certainly no trouble with that." The Empress chuckled. "It's going to take at least that long to get my court organized for the whole thing." There was a note of childish glee in her voice. "I haven't left my country, at least not openly, for a very long time. This should create quite a stir." Caterina chuckled as well. "I know what you mean. While it's not unusual for me to make a progress, I suspect that this particular agenda will have the Vatican in an uproar." The small smile creased the corner of her mouth. "Peace with the Empire. Brother will certainly be up in arms." The smile faded. "In all honesty, I expect he'll insist on sending his Inquisitors with me. With orders to 'protect' me, of course."
"I know what you mean." Seth sighed. "I'll have to decide who I'm bringing as well. The Earl of Memphis is already there, but I'll probably have to bring some other guards."
"Indeed." Caterina gave a nod. "However, I suggest we retire this discussion for the evening. We all need to present the matter to our respective councils. Discussions of entourage and guard details can wait until we get the approval to go forward."
"I agree." Esther smiled. "Shall we agree to reconvene in two evenings then?"
"Better make it four." Seth sighed. "It'll take at least two for the fuss to die down in the Empire."
"I suspect I'll need a similar amount of time to counter Cardinal di Medici's paranoia." Caterina put her head in a hand for a moment. "Very well. I'll speak with you four nights from now." Esther smiled. The three of them went through the customary farewells, and signed off. Esther sat looking at the desk console after the images vanished. She was glad to be doing something, but still…. She was startled out of her thoughts by Virgil's concerned question. "Your Majesty, is something wrong?"
"I…well, I was just thinking. We have a plan but, is it really all right? I feel like I'm putting all of you at a terrible risk." She looked into up at him. "I hadn't really thought to ask you about it but…if this plan works, you'll all be placing your lives in jeopardy. And I don't think it's fair to ask you to do that, not without seeing how you feel." Vanessa snorted. "Our lives were already at risk, Majesty. I mean, if those bastards succeed then everything we've worked for is gonna go up in smoke. And I hate sneaking around, playing spy and waiting for stuff to happen. I'd rather have a straight up fight any day." Virgil sighed. "Vanessa, your language…" He stopped and the clear blue eyes caught Esther's. "Though I have to disagree with her manner of address, I believe I share my sister's feelings." He moved to stand in front of her. "I too, would rather bring them out into the open, even if it means I am at greater risk. It is far better to have your enemy in front of you, rather than in the shadows at your back." A slight smile touched his face.
"I assure you Majesty, that whatever happens, I do remember our conversation. And I will not fail you." He bowed. Vanessa stared at the two of them a moment, then shook her head. "I don't want to know." She turned to look at Mary. "Hey, Colonel Spencer, how about you?"
Mary sighed. "I don't like risking three rulers, particularly not Her Majesty. However, the strategy is sound, and I can't think of any better options. We will simply have to make sure that all three persons are adequately protected." She turned to look at Virgil. "Lord Walsh, if the ceremony proceeds as planned, I'd like to take that item out of storage again. It may come in handy."
"Of course." He bowed. Esther blinked. "I don't understand. Is there something I need to be aware of?"
Mary smiled. "Lord Walsh and I have been associates for a long time. At one point, he was kind enough to make something for me. I haven't used it in years, however, I think I'd like to have it with me." She bowed. "With Your Majesty's permission, I'd rather show it to you than try to explain."
"All right." She turned to look at the others, standing near the back wall. Ion looked fidgety, Tres looked as he always did, and Abel was standing with his back to the wall a faraway look on his face. She rose out of her chair and moved to stand in front of the three men. Abel blinked, and his eyes came to her. She bowed her head slightly. "I hope I can count on your support as well."
"Of course you can." Ion smiled. "The Empress may call me back to her entourage for this, however, I'll still do my best to protect you as well."
"Positive. My first priority is the Duchess of Milan, however, standing orders are to guard Your Majesty to the best of my ability." Her eyes came to Abel. His face was pale, but after a moment he straightened away from the wall and bowed. His head came up, and his eyes met hers. "Well, I did promise, didn't I? That I am on your side?" He offered her a very faint smile. She returned it warmly. "Of course, Father. Thank you." The next day, she presented the plan to the Council of Lords. As predicted, there was a huge fuss over the entire thing. Some lords objected to the idea of the Empress on their soil. Some thought the plan was too risky. Within thirty minutes of proposing it, Esther could understand quite well why Seth and Caterina wanted an extra two days. The chaos the suggestion created was absolutely amazing.
Finally, after two days, she got the Council to accept the idea. But there were conditions. First and foremost, that neither of the visiting groups would have a very large entourage. No more than six people in either group. Esther thought it ridiculous, but Mary said it was actually fair enough, and when she spoke with Ion, he reminded her that his original mission involved two people, and only she and Abel had returned with him. Seth and Caterina also took it in stride when she told them during their next conversation. Caterina only shrugged. "I'd rather expected as much. Fortunately, that leaves me room to accommodate my brother's request as well as my own preference." She considered. "Tres is already there, and Hugue is still on his mission. I need Havel to attend to affairs in my absence." She sighed. "Brother is insisting I bring two of his Inquisitors along. I'll probably have Brother Petros and Paula…they know Londinium and they're the steadiest and most reasonable of Brother's best fighters. From the AX, I'd like to bring Father Wordsworth, and Leon, if I may. They should already be known to your court."
"That sounds fine." Esther looked at Virgil, and he nodded. "Lord Walsh informs me that those choices will be perfectly all right." Seth sighed. "To be honest, there's not that many people I'd really want to bring with me on something like this." She sat back. "The Earl of Memphis is already there, and I'm afraid I'll need the Duchess of Moldova as my stand-in here. She's really the only person I trust in that capacity." She tapped a finger on the arm of her chair. "Baibars is a good man to have, but really, I need him to watch things while I'm away, and he'd probably make everyone nervous." She snickered a little, and Esther and Caterina both smiled. She was right after all. Baibars was a good fighter, and a perfect gentleman, but Esther could think of half a dozen people in her court who would be terrified of him on sight. Seth considered a moment more. "I think I'll ask the Earl of Memphis to join me when I arrive. Beyond that, I'll limit it to the Duchess of Kiev and a couple of my trusted personal servants."
"That sounds fine." Esther stopped. "I…well, this might be a delicate question but…what of Father Nightroad?" She flushed. "I know he's protecting me at the moment, but he was originally part of the AX, working for you, Lady Caterina. And I understood that you also have a connection to him, Empress." Seth pursed her lips and made a soft, discouraged noise, almost like a sigh. "Abel is a problem isn't he?"
Caterina sighed as well. "Technically, he's no longer a member of the AX, not unless I reinstate him. He's no longer officially under my control."
"And I certainly can't do anything with him. He's not my subject, and even if he were, I don't think he'd really listen to me."
"Your Majesty." Virgil spoke up. All three of them turned to look at him. Virgil bowed. "If I may…it would be wise perhaps to leave him on standby. We don't know for certain if this plan will work, beyond the actual formalization of the treaty signing. It is best, in uncertain times, to have a weapon or two that is hidden in case of need. I would recommend leaving Father Nightroad in a standby position."
"That's true." Esther thought. "I think he'd actually prefer that. He seemed very reluctant when I spoke with him about it."
"I'm not surprised. He still hasn't given me permission to reveal to the AX that he's alive. Though most of them know already, I don't believe Leon's been informed." Caterina sighed. "I know what you mean. I haven't told Astharoshe yet either." Seth nodded. "I'd say that Lord Walsh's plan is a fine idea. However, I would make one addition to it." Seth sat forward. "I can tell you from experience, you're going to be stretched a little thin, yourself. If you want to protect your people, then it's going to take a lot of resources. So if you can, keep Abel as your guard. He's a good one to have at your back."
"She's right." Caterina nodded. "All right. I'll tell him that. Thank you." They made a few more plans, and then went back to their separate tasks. She told Abel of their decision the next evening, when he arrived for guard duty. Abel heard her out, then nodded. "I agree. It is probably best for me to remain in the background at this time. However, if you have no objections, I would like to return to the Ghetto while they are here." He saw her confusion, and gave her a faint smile. "Miss Astha and I were friends, and Leon has been my partner more than once. I…I'm not sure how I can face them." He reached out, then stopped and withdrew again. "I assure you, if anything happens, I will do everything I can to protect you, Miss Esther."
"Of course Father. I'm counting on you." She offered him a smile. "I'll tell Lord Walsh and his sister what you intend." The formal preparations after that, including the greetings, formal discussions, and the actual ceremony for the signing, were tedious. Esther sat through them, and voiced her opinion when required, but these events really weren't her forte. Virgil and her official steward were far better at them, so she let them get on with it. Finally, after an additional three weeks of planning, everything was ready. The formal Embassy for the Empire was pronounced useable, and all the plans were in place. They'd decided to have both the Vatican and the Empire representatives arrive in the same evening. It had to be evening, for the sake of the Imperial servants, and everyone thought it better if the two were met at the same time, so there could be no claims of incorrect precedence. It was also a good time to see if they were going to have trouble with representatives of either party.
That night, Esther found herself waiting on the landing area. She could have waited in the Palace reception room while Virgil and Mary went to greet the guests, but she'd decided to come herself. After all, both of her guests were extremely important. They were also friends of hers. Esther sighed, and tried not to fidget with the fabric of the formal gown she wore. She would have preferred to wear something more casual, but appearances had to be maintained. Behind her, Virgil and Mary were also wearing full formal Court dress, though Mary had very conspicuously tied the hilt of her sword, an old symbol of peace. At Esther's right and left, Ion and Tres stood at full attention, also in dress uniform. They'd decided that since both men were already here to represent their countries, they would walk to meet the emissaries, and make formal introductions.
Finally, after what seemed like forever, they spotted the dark shapes in the sky. One came in from the East, the other from the south-east. Esther watched as both ships, the Empress' cruiser and the Iron Maiden drifted to the landing pads, then settled to the ground with a whir of cooling engines. Tres and Ion both marched up to stand just in front of the ships, as the doors opened and the ramp extended.
From the right hand ship, Caterina emerged, wearing her full robes of a Cardinal, as well as the tokens of her rank as Duchess of Milan. Behind her walked two men in the black of the AX uniform, followed by a man and a woman in the red, gray and gold of the Inquisitors department. From the other ship, a small gliding chair emerged, with a figure in green, gold and white seated on it, her face veiled. Beside the chair walked a tall, slender figure in whites and purples, and behind them walked two more figures, both in the plainer clothing that denoted a servant, rather than an ambassador or ruler. Both groups stopped in front of her. Esther bowed, along with her advisors. "Good evening. On behalf of the people of Albion, I would like to welcome you to my kingdom."
"Thank you." Ion stepped forward and bowed, then held out his hand. "Your Majesty, Queen Esther, please allow me to present Her Majesty, The Empress Augusta Veradica of the New Human Empire. And with her as her assistant, Lady Astharoshe Asran, the Duchess of Kiev." Astha bowed. The Empress offered her a nod. "Good evening Queen Esther. I look forward to my visit here, and to what we are about to do." The artificially enhanced voice still carried a trace of warmth and friendship in it, and Esther smiled. "I look forward to that as well." She turned slightly. "Welcome to Albion, Lady Astha. I hope we can be as good a host to you as you once were to me." Astha flushed slightly, then bowed. "Thank you for your kindness, Majesty. I am honored by your compliment." Esther turned to the Vatican group. She could see Petros and Paula were both tense, and Paula had one hand on her weapon, but neither of them looked as if they were about to start trouble. She met Caterina's eyes, and both women smiled before the Cardinal dipped her head in a nod of greeting. "Good evening, Your Highness."
"Good evening, Excellency." Esther smiled. "It's good to see you again."
"Indeed. I believe you already know my assistants, but for the sake of formalities, allow me to introduce you." She turned. "Father Leon de Garcias, and Father William Walter Wordsworth are accompanying me from the AX division." Both men bowed, but there was a glitter of mischief in Leon's face. Caterina gestured to the two standing behind them. "Also, I've brought Brother Petros and Sister Paula, from the Department of the Inquisition. They'll be serving as my guards and escorts."
"Good evening to all of you. Thank you for coming." Both the Inquisitors bowed as well, murmuring polite thank you's. Esther turned, gesturing to the two behind her. "I'd like to introduce all of you to my principal advisors. Lord Virgil Walsh, Count of Manchester, and Colonel Mary Spencer, Head of the Albion Army and the Palace guard." Both of them bowed politely to the group. Esther turned to face her fellow leaders. "Now then, I'm sure you've all had a tiring journey. My advisors and I have had some refreshments set up in the Palace. Please, feel free to join us. Or if you prefer, we have rooms ready for you." A half hour later, Esther joined the others in the reception room. Petros and Paula had elected to stand by the doors, but everyone else was within, sipping wine and nibbling on snacks. Leon looked up as she entered. "Hey, Red."
"Father Garcias. Your tone is not acceptable for addressing a member of a ruling family." Tres didn't frown, but you could hear the disapproval in that mechanical tone. Esther smiled. "Please, it's all right, Father Tres. I intended for this evening to be rather informal." She took a glass of wine. "Good evening, Father Leon."
"Hey. If we're gonna be informal…" Leon grinned, and draped an arm around her shoulders. "I swear, you get prettier every time I see you. Definitely still the second best woman in the world." He gave her his wolf grin. "Those clothes really suit you. I always said you looked good in dress up." Esther blushed. "Thank you." William stepped up beside her. "He is right, you know Esther. You really do look lovely." He bowed, flourishing his cane. "I trust you've been well since our last meeting."
"Yes. I've done very well. Thank you Father." William's kind smile helped her relax. She spotted Astha standing by the table, and walked over to join her. "Duchess of Kiev, it's been a while."
"Indeed it has, Your Majesty." Esther flushed. "There's no reason to be so formal. It's all right if you call me by name, you know. You aren't one of my subjects after all."
"I see." Astha relaxed a fraction. "In that case, I'd prefer it if you addressed me by my name as well, Lady Esther."
"All right." Esther blinked. "I'm sorry, but I'm not quite sure…I know your name is Astharoshe, but the Father…he called you just Astha." She blushed. "I'm afraid I don't know which you prefer."
"Astha is fine." Astha smiled, but there was a sadness to it. Esther winced. She'd forgotten that Astha wasn't one of the ones who knew Abel was still alive. The Methuselah noblewoman stared at the far wall for a moment. "It's strange. When I first met him, I hated it when he called me that. But now, I find I miss it." Esther wished she could tell Astha the truth. Or simply ask Virgil to take her to the Ghetto, where Abel was staying. But…whatever Abel's reasons for staying away, it wasn't her place to interfere in his affairs. She settled for offering the Duchess of Kiev a gentle smile of her own. "Astha it is then." The gathering lingered for a few more minutes, but Esther was tired, and it was obvious her guests felt the same way. She stifled a yawn, and found Caterina standing beside her. A rueful smile told her that the other woman understood exactly how she felt. "Lady Esther, I believe it's about time for me to seek my rest. However, the Empress and I were wondering if we could have a private word with you, before we retire for the evening."
"Of course." Esther followed Caterina to the far corner. She noticed that the Empress, Seth, had abandoned her gliding chair. She was leaning against the wall, still veiled. The others were maintaining a discreet distance. Even Leon was standing on the far side of the room, sipping his drink and talking in a low tone to the Professor. "Your Majesty?"
The young woman giggled. "Esther…you really ought to know this by now. My name is Seth." Esther smiled. "Of course. Seth. My apologies."
"It's all right." Though she couldn't see the other woman's face, she sensed the departure of merriment. "Before I leave for the evening, I was wondering…how is Abel?"
Caterina sighed. "I confess, I'm rather curious myself."
"He's all right." Esther looked down at her hands. "He…he said he wanted to stay in the Ghetto, unless something happens. He doesn't want to face some of the people here. Father Leon and Lady Astha especially." She looked up. "I imagine if you want to see him, Lord Walsh can arrange for you to visit the Underground."
"Huh. Well, I might take you up on that. However, I think I'll leave him alone for this evening. I guess I can wait one more day to see him again." Seth sighed. "This really is a bit of a nuisance though. I wish he'd just come out of hiding already."
"I'm sure he has his reasons." Caterina sighed. "Abel always has his reasons. The question is whether or not they're good ones."
"Yes." Esther felt a small smile touch her face. "It might not be much but…I had him assigned as my guard, for a few nights of each week. And lately, he's begun to smile again. He even had tea with me the other night."
"Well, that's good." There was relief in Seth's voice. "It's at least a start."
"Indeed." Caterina smiled as well. "And now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'll retire for tonight. After all, the next few days will be very busy."
"You're right. I think I'll go rest as well." Seth straightened. "Night Esther."
"Good night. I will see both of you tomorrow evening." Esther waited while her guests and their entourages filed out the door. Leon tipped her a wink as he passed, and Astha smiled. Esther smiled back, then sought her own bed. She was too tired even to worry as Virgil and Mary escorted her to her rooms, and she stayed awake only long enough to change into her night clothes. The next evening was an informal meeting to go over the signing ceremony, and to do a last minute review of the treaty, to make sure everything was the way they wanted it. Esther wore her relaxed, informal clothing, and was relieved to see that everyone else was doing the same.
Caterina had a less ornate version of her Cardinal's robes, and Seth's clothing looked more like what she would have worn as a tea seller, though she still had a veil covering her face. Colonel Spencer had her working uniform, though the sword she carried was the same as the one she'd worn the night before, and Virgil was wearing a simple suit with his long jacket. They'd just finished dinner when Mary and Virgil both stiffened in their seats, identical looks of concern on their faces. Esther saw the communications unit on her wrist blinking red, and Virgil cocked his head, listening to something that Esther couldn't hear. Then Mary stood. "I beg your pardon. An alarm has been raised."
She strode to the door, but just before she reached it, there was a frantic knock on the other side. Esther stood as she jerked the door open, to reveal a young soldier with the marks of a courier and panic in his eyes. He saluted sharply. "Colonel Spencer! Your Majesty!"
"Yes. Report: Why has the alarm been raised?"
"There are…" The young man gulped. "There are monsters at the walls of the Palace. They're attacking…citizens, guards, everyone…" He took another deep breath. "They're fast, and masked…and they're way too strong! We can't stop them!"
"Pull yourself together!" Mary snapped the order out, and the young man stopped, took a deep breath, then pulled himself into attention stance. "All right. Have the reserve Palace troops mobilized?" The soldier nodded. "Very well, try to clear them from the walls. But make sure they don't get into the city." She turned. "Your Majesty, it appears I may be needed on the grounds."
"I…yes, of course." Mary turned, and was about to leave when Tres spoke up. "Colonel Mary Spencer." Mary turned as Tres addressed her. "It is inadvisable for you to leave at this time. There is risk to Her Majesty, the Queen of Albion." He turned to Caterina. "Duchess of Milan, I request permission to deploy. I believe my skills will be needed in the field of combat, and I calculate that my absence places you in less jeopardy than the Colonels."
"Very well. You may go, Father Tres." Caterina nodded. Tres left the room, drawing his guns as he went. "He's got a point. Earl of Memphis, you should also go." Seth looked at Ion. "In a time of crisis, it is important for allies to guard each other. Therefore, I am ordering you into the field as well."
"Your Majesty…are you sure you'll be safe?" Ion bowed. "I will be all right. Go, Earl of Memphis."
"As you command." Ion stood and buckled his sword. He gave Esther a long look. "Please stay safe, Your Majesty….Esther." Then he was gone, in the blurring flash that marked a Methuselah in haste mode. Esther sighed as Mary shut the door again. "I hope they'll be all right."
"It should be fine. Both Father Tres and the Earl of Memphis are skilled warriors." Mary sighed. "I'm more concerned with what will happen if these creatures that are attacking get into the city. It could create a riot." She started to step back to the table when a second frantic knock sounded. Mary whirled, just as the door slammed open to reveal another soldier. The man staggered inside, then pulled himself to attention. "Your Majesty…Colonel…there are attackers…"
"Calm yourself soldier. I'm already aware of the situation." Mary snapped out. The man fell silent. Then suddenly, an eerie smile curled his lips. "You know, I really don't think you are aware of the situation, just yet." The smile widened, and one hand flicked up in a lazy, insulting salute. "Good evening. And how are you doing, Esther? Or should I call you, Your Majesty, Queen Esther of Albion?" The words were a sneer. Esther went cold. "Dietrich." Mary didn't hesitate. Before the controlled soldier could move again, she tackled him, sending him to the floor with a knife at his throat. "Damn!" She pinned him. "How the hell did you get a hold of my sergeant?"
"Well, it's really quite simple you know." Dietrich grinned at her. He seemed unconcerned about the blade pressed against the man's throat. "But you know, that's not the real question, now is it? The real question is…how many more like this man are there?" One hand shifted. Mary moved as well, but not fast enough to stop the snap of the fingers. Seconds later, there was a cry from the hallway. The possessed man's insane smile widened. "See? I've just given the order for all of my possessed men to attack. Servants, soldiers…they can be anyone, and they'll attack and kill anyone else they meet. And I imagine my compatriot has already started his own sort of fun." The shadows in the door suddenly solidified, forming into a red-black demon that lunged for Mary. She ducked with a curse, pulling her blade free. In that instant, the man she held jerked. Mary snarled as she lost hold of him, rolling to avoid the demons attack. "Crap!"
"Duck!" Astha shouted, and her spear was already in her hands. Mary ducked, and a bolt of ionized energy slammed into the demon, vaporizing it on the spot. Dietrich's puppet lunged forward, a knife in hand, but Petros stepped in his path. "This mockery will not be tolerated!" His spear slammed into the man, throwing him backward into the wall. Petros followed, pinning the man to the floor and raising his staff once more. "In the name of the Holy Father, I will wipe your filthy existence off the face of this Earth!"
"Brother Petros, wait." Caterina spoke sharply. "That man is possessed by another. Do not take his life if there is any other choice." Petros scowled. "Very well." He stuck the man on the temple, just hard enough to knock him out. Then Paula was there, binding him with a length of wire she had pulled from somewhere on her person. Another cry echoed from the hallway. Esther stood. "The Palace staff…they're…"
"Your Majesty." Mary stood, re-sheathing her sword. "I understand your concern, but we must remain safe. We shouldn't leave this room." Esther whirled to face her. "Do you really expect me to stand here and listen as my people are attacked?" She flinched looking down at the bound man and at the ashy smear on the rug, all that was left of the shadow-demon. "I can't simply stay here. Besides, there's no guarantee of safety at this point."
"Red's kinda got a point." Leon folded his arms. "if your opponents can look like shadow, or like everyone else, then how are you going to know who to fight and who not to fight, huh?" He looked at the door. "I know it's not really my place…but I'm voting we take the fight to them. It's better if we can catch them fighting than waiting and hoping whoever comes looking for us ain't one of the bad guys." Virgil sighed. "Both points are valid." Esther stared at him, remembering. "Lord Walsh, the underground must be sealed."
"I understand. I've already called the order in. Vanessa should be mobilizing as we speak." His eyes were dark, and troubled. "What is it?"
"The order to fully seal the Ghetto can only be given by the master of the Underground. Vanessa will do what she can, but I am concerned."
"Then you should go." Esther stood, and looked at the people around her. "I am going to defend the Palace, with the rest of my people. Your Imperial Majesty, Lady Caterina…" She looked both of them in the eyes. "You should stay here. I will send more guards as I can. I thank you for the support you've offered me, but I really can't let you risk yourselves for my country. You're needed with your own people. Colonel Spencer…I'd like to ask you to come with me." She turned to face Virgil. "Lord Walsh…Please go and secure the Underground. I fear that if the enemy enters there, they will be impossible to trace, and we will all be in far greater danger." Virgil stared at her for a moment. His face was still, but she saw the concern and conflicting emotions in his eyes. His voice was tense when he spoke.
"Your Majesty, my place is at your side. However, if you truly wish me to do this…then I ask that you allow me to call someone to stand in my place."
"Of course. You did have someone standing by, did you not?" Virgil nodded, and touched the communications link he wore as a small earring. Just then, the door burst with a ringing crash. Half a dozen dark shapes poured into the room. Esther heard curses from all around her. She drew her gun and fired, striking one man across the chest. But it wasn't a fatal wound, and she could see from the glazed look in his eyes that he was too far under Dietrich's control. She jerked back, raised her pistol to fire again. Virgil was suddenly between her and the attacking force. His body crossed in front of her, just after her second shot was fired. He stepped into the fray, one elbow blocking her attacker, and his hand came up sharply. Esther saw something, glittering and liquid in the palm of his hand, and where it touched, the man gasped and his skin began to blister.
He reeled back, and Virgil hit him again with a kick, knocking him back. Both hands were shining with something, and his eyes were intense. He launched himself forward, spinning into the mass of attackers with the grace of a trained fighter. His next blow took out one of the shadow demons, just as Petros' spear and a bolt of energy pulverized the last two attackers. Virgil turned back to her. "Your Majesty, I have called for the reinforcements you requested. However, I advise that you and your guests move to a more secure location." Mary appeared beside him. "I'll take Her Majesty. You have your orders, Lord Walsh." Her eyes met his. "Can you open us a path, to start with? There's more coming, and I'd rather not be bottle-necked in here." A grim smile touched Virgil's face, and he lifted his hands away from his body. "I will open you that path, my lady." Esther turned to her guests. Astha had her spear, Petros and Paula were both holding weapons. Seth she saw had produced two knives, and was holding them with a practiced grip that Esther remembered from her time in the Empire. Even Caterina had pulled out a pistol.
"It appears that we are no longer safe here. I apologize for the inconvenience, but I'm afraid I'll have to ask all of you to come with me after all." Leon laughed, and she saw him hold up one hand, a silver circle spinning on his fingers. "All right. Then let's get this party started." He cocked his head at Astha. "Say, how about we make this interesting, lady? We'll see who can take on the most. Loser supplies a good bottle of wine for after the fun's over." Astha's feral grin was a match for his. "I'll take you up on that, Vatican priest…but you'd better have something good on hand. I warn you…I'm very hard to impress." Leon laughed. Seth smiled, and lifted a dagger. "We're with you, Esther." Esther turned to her two advisors. "We should leave. Colonel Spencer, is there a place you recommend we go?"
"Yes, Majesty. The central offices." Mary bowed, then turned to face the door, and drew her blade once more. "With your permission, I will lead you."
"Very well." Esther transferred her gaze to Virgil. "Lord Walsh, if you would be so kind." Virgil nodded and spun on his heel, just as another shadow form darkened the doorway. He threw both hands outward, and something dark left his hands in a splatter, to sizzle across the demon, and the door frame. Virgil didn't hesitate. He drove forward, slamming the smoking demon backward. "Quickly. Before the acid wears off." He turned to Mary. "I leave Her Majesty in your hands." Then he was gone. The hallways were in total chaos. Lights had been smashed at random intervals, leaving large sections in darkness while others were brightly lit. People were running about in reckless abandon. Some appeared panicked, some purposeful. Men and women hid in doorways, or lunged out of the darkness. More than once, they passed guards and servants fighting each other.
Esther realized after the first knot of struggling men that it was impossible to tell assailants from defenders. One man ran up to them shouting, "God save Her Majesty!" only to attempt to knife her a second later. She was fortunate that Seth was beside her. A slash of the short knife in her left hand disabled the man's knife hand, and Petros struck him on the head with his staff a second later. Their group organized quickly after that. Esther, Caterina and Seth were in the middle, a loose triangle watching each others backs. Petros and Paula were behind them. Leon, Astha and the Professor ranged to the sides. Leon had silver circles spinning on both hands, and the Professor had drawn a sword from the inside of his cane. Astha's spear was glowing, green light emanating from the crystal embedded in the tip. Esther had no idea what it was, but it was a powerful weapon. Colonel Spencer led them through the halls, her sword in her right hand. As they raced through the darkened hallways, Esther stared at the blade. Mary favored a saber, and this sword was no exception to that rule, but it was completely different from even the regular combat blade she wore.
The metal had the sheen of silver, but it was far, far harder than that. Esther knew that after the first shadow demon Mary cut down. Her sword went through it like soft butter, and cracked the column behind the demon. The sword was also glowing, bright electrical energy that Esther had never seen. She couldn't even figure out how Mary managed to hold onto that fire-lit blade, until she realized the hilt was wrapped in textured leather, and the hilt guard was protected on the underside. Shots fired in the darkened hallway jerked her attention back to her surroundings. She and the others ducked into a doorway. Mary cursed. "Damn! How many guards did that bastard manage to catch, anyway?"
"It's hard to say." Esther took a deep breath. "Dietrich is…very sly." She looked at the glimmering blade once again. "Colonel Spencer…your sword…." A brief smile touched Mary's face. "Virgil's gift to me, a long time ago. Silver titanium alloy, with an electro-magnetic charge on the blade, activated by drawing it from the sheath. He makes one of these for each successive Head of the Palace guard, as a friendship offering." She looked at Esther. "You should ask him to make one for you as well."
"I will." Esther sighed. The firing had died down. She started to stick her head around their makeshift protection, but Mary shook her head. The Colonel ducked out of the room. She took a few steps into the hallway, then gestured for the others to follow. Astha and Leon slipped out, then Esther and Seth and Caterina. Esther took two steps into the dark area when she felt something wrong. "Colonel Spencer!"
Mary whirled, as all around them the shadows began to move. They were hard to see, with the poor lighting, and in between the demons wove shapes that might or might not have been men, her own men. Esther gasped, fired at a dark shape, and ducked another. Seth ducked past her as both knives flashed. Esther found herself back to back with Caterina. All around, their body-guards fought, but the poor lighting made it hard. She saw Leon launch one of his weapons, and heard his curse as it missed, echoed by Petros a second later as he ducked the rebound.
Astha swore. In the darkness and close quarters, she could only use her spear in contact fighting. It was too risky to use the power of it's ionized blasts. Three dark shadows lunged for Esther she fired at one, and at a second, but they were too fast. She drew her knife, prepared to go down fighting. Just as the dark demons reached her, horizontal lightning flashed in front of her eyes. It slammed into the demons nearest her, blowing it apart and vaporizing it. Esther gasped and turned her head. Abel stood at the end of the hall. His face was dark, his silver hair standing around his head. Black wings extended from his back, and his whole body glowed faintly with electrical energy. He stopped only a moment, the blood-red eyes assessing the scene, then launched forward. Leon gasped. "Holy shit! What the hell is that?"
Mary swore, and Esther turned and saw her bracing to charge. She leapt in front of her advisor. "It's all right. It's just the reinforcements Lord Walsh sent." Abel blew through three more demons, and then he was at Esther and Caterina's side. He stepped beside them, dark wings spread protectively. "Are you injured?"
"No. We're all right." Esther looked up at him. "We need to quell the damage to the Castle though." Caterina moved forward. "Father Leon, Sister Paula. Now that reinforcements have arrived, fan out. Lady Esther…with your permission, shall I have my soldiers begin peacekeeping and clean up?" She offered Esther a wintery grin. "This is the sort of thing the AX and the Inquisition are very good at."
"Colonel Spencer?" Mary nodded, her face set in concentration. "I estimate the main attack was focused here. If we can break free, the central offices are just ahead." She looked up at Abel's dark form. "Lord Walsh sent you?"
"He did." Abel's hand tightened, and lightning ran up the wings. "Very well. Can you protect her Majesty and the others?"
"Yes." Abel nodded. He glanced down the hallway. "The central offices are that way correct?" Mary nodded. "Then…I suggest you duck. I'm going to make a pathway." Mary didn't hesitate. She whirled around. "Everyone down!"
She dropped to her knees. Esther and Caterina both went down as well. Esther found Seth right beside them, curled under Abel's wing like a child hiding from a thunderstorm. The Professor dropped as fast as they did. As lightning gathered around Abel's frame, Esther saw Leon curse and dive behind a column. Petros yanked Paula to the floor. Lightning erupted from Abel's body, a great crackling sheet of luminous fire that raced down the hallways. Demons howled as they were disintegrated. Esther noticed with a sick start that some of what she'd taken for flickering shadows of battle were in fact more demons. But once Abel's lightning found them, they crumbled to dust. Here and there, humans gasped and crumpled. Esther hoped Abel hadn't killed them, but there was no time to worry about it.
The lightning died. Abel hesitated, then extended his hand to her and Caterina. "Come. Caterina rose. "Father Leon, Sister Paula, I believe you have your orders." Paula looked to Petros. He gave her one sharp nod. Leon saluted Caterina with a wry smile. "As you say, Excellency." Dark eyes turned to Astha. "Don't think I forgot our bet, now. And you…" His gaze came to Abel's. "I find one scratch on Her Excellency or little red there, and I'll duplicate it tenfold on your hide, got that?"
"I understand." Abel nodded. Paula said nothing, but her eyes were sharp and questioning. Then she turned without a word and strode down one of the halls. Leon separated and went a different route. The rest of the battle for Buckingham Palace passed in a blur for Esther. She was conscious of dark shapes that rose around her group in waves, and that some of them were men and some were demons. She shot them, cut at them with the utility knife she had if they got too close. She was aware of Caterina, shooting and reloading beside her. At one point, she realized the Lady of Steel had Abel's gun, not her own, but it hardly mattered. She was aware of Seth, dancing in and out of the attackers with Astha at her side, silver blades weaving a net of steel around her slender frame. Somehow, in all the commotion, she hadn't lost her veil.
Esther supposed it was due to long practice. Around them, the Professor and Petros were also fighting, the professor with his sword-cane, and Petros with his spear. She winced as one particularly wild swing dug a crater into her wall, but he was pulverizing demons left and right, and she knew at least the walls could be repaired.
Mary was right in front of her, her sword slashing out with deadly accuracy. Shadow demons fell slashed in pieces, burned by the white fire of her blade, and humans fell stunned. But throughout the long fight in the dark hallways, Esther's main awareness was of Abel.
Abel stayed beside her, guarding her as closely as Astha guarded Seth. He helped everyone, but she was very aware of the dark wings that wrapped around her. When a group of possessed men lunged at her from a doorway, Abel yanked her close, his scythe appearing in his hands to lash out at the men. He'd cleared half of them before Mary even got into the group, the long blood-red whip near the blade lashing through the group with the force of a thunderbolt. Blood splattered across the walls, but the wounds appeared non-fatal. Mary stepped in and finished the rest of them quickly and efficiently, while Abel pulled Caterina and Esther behind him. Esther noted with detached amusement that Mary had adapted very quickly to the Crusnik. She and Abel worked so well together that they might have been partners for a long time. As they ducked into the offices, she caught sight of Astha, staring at the darkened face and red eyes. Then another group of demons attacked, and Esther was back on guard, trying to ignore the charred smell as Abel ripped through the attackers like a whirlwind and Petros lunged forward, shouting biblical quotes as he hammered into dark shapes.
Gradually, the tumult within the palace began to die down. The attacks became fewer and further between. Esther found herself pushed to the back of the room, with Seth and Caterina, as their loyal defenders stood in front of them. Seth gave an exaggerated sigh and settled on the edge of a desk. The Empress' clothing was splattered with things she'd rather not think about, and Esther realized with a start that she and Caterina looked little better. Then Seth sighed again, and sheathed one knife to run a hand over her face under the veil. "Whew. Well that certainly was an experience. I have to say, I didn't quite expect such a violent attack. But…your defenders are doing quite well."
"Indeed." Caterina brushed damp and stained blond hair back from her face. Her eyes, however, were on Abel, standing by the doorway. He was in front of the others, so that his lightning would be unimpeded. "And it appears as though Father Abel has learned how to handle his powers somewhat."
"He has indeed." Seth's tone was soft. "But then…he doesn't like to admit it, but Abel really is good at combat. He always was." Esther had no idea what to say. Fortunately she was spared by twin radio crackles from both Caterina and Colonel Spencer. Both women bent their heads to listen. A second later, there was another crackle, and Petros jerked a glove off and put a hand to his head. "Report." Mary looked up an instant later. "Lord Walsh reports that the Ghetto is completely sealed. He and the Underground Guard have begun intensive scouting, but so far it appears there was no infiltration of the Underground." Caterina nodded. "Father Tres just called in. They believe they've destroyed the last of the auto-jagers in the city. He and the Earl of Memphis are organizing search and destroy parties. However, I suspect they won't find anything."
"The Palace is ninety percent cleansed of the filth." Petros looked up. "Paula just reported in. They have cleaned out the adjacent wings and are working their way outward. Several soldiers and servants have joined them. She is placing them under protective custody for the time being."
"I see. That's very good." Esther smiled tiredly. "Tell them to meet back here when everything is done. We'll need to decide what to do about the mess then. And I suppose, we need to figure out what to do about the ceremony."
"Hmph." Seth snorted lightly. "We'll hold it as planned, of course. We might have to use a different room of the Palace, and maybe put up a few decorative hangings, but it'll be fine." Esther couldn't see her face, but she could hear the grin in the other's voice. "We'll show the Order how we do things."
"I agree with Her Imperial Majesty. It's imperative we hold the signing ceremony as planned. Especially after an event like this, people need hope that everything will be fine." Caterina smiled. "However, I suspect that no one will begrudge you an extra day to clean things up a bit. Lord knows, I could use some rest, myself."
"There is that." Seth settled against the desk. Movement caught Esther's eye. Abel was edging quietly toward the door. "Father?"
He stopped, but the dusky face was turned away from her. His voice was low and rough. "I thought perhaps I should go help with the clean-up." He stopped a moment. "It appears as though the fighting has ceased, for the most part."
"Even so, you shouldn't leave just yet." Caterina stepped forward. "Esther needs your protection." She moved to stand in front of him. "Do you intend to abandon her?"
"I…no. But…" Even from the side, Esther could see the consternation in his face, the way his hands tightened at his sides. Seth sighed. "You really ought to stay here. Besides…you'll startle people if you go out like that." She grinned at the tall figure of her older brother. Esther stepped forward and laid a gentle hand on his arm. "Please Father, stay here. I'm sure the others are managing. But if Colonel Spencer is needed…I'd rather not neglect the Palace guard, and your presence would be helpful."
"She's right." Mary leaned on the door. Abel looked into their faces, then sighed. "As you wish." The red eyes closed, and then, somehow, he changed, the dark winged form of the Crusnik shrinking inward, the skin paling, until he was Abel again. The long silver hair fell down his back and he absently reached behind him to tie it back, then put his glasses on. His hands were marked with the crosses she had seen once before. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw both Astha and Seth stiffen slightly. "But I'd rather remain in this form, if you don't mind."
"Not at all." Esther smiled, and she saw Caterina smile as well. Seth relaxed, and Astha settled back, though her eyes were dark. "Thank you Father."
dragonwriter24cmf (AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES:Another very long chapter…but I think it's worth it. There's just a lot going on, what with diplomacy and secrecy and such.
(AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES: Well that was quiet an interesting chapter if I do say so myself, a lot of people in action here. Humans and vampires alike. Now to make things more clear on some questions that might be hovering within your minds right now.
[*] - Catherina has Abel's revolver or gun that he used to use when he was with Ax and alive as such, for the time being since Abel has been presumed 'DEAD' by many whom have worked with in Ax and see him die or hisi body anyway. By his request that Catherina not reveal him to be alive just yet. Sooner or later Catherina will have her own personal or given made weapon at a later time and date when I see fit but right for a small temporary time being she is barrowing Abel's gun. "A girls gotta protect her self" and what about for when Catherina doesn't have Ax agent nor Tres around protect her, she's gotta take extra precisions. One can never be too careful.
So far right in TBWC and as when the chapters increase on few more selected people, human and vampire alike will know of Abel's Krusnick/Crusnick form. As you can see so far the only very few people to know about it are Catherina, William whom might have known more about the C. nano's then others depending what Abel might have wanted to disclosed, Peteros, Tres, Ion and Ester. Peteros has so far not disclose this information to his superiors from the anime tells and I want to keep as such for a time being. I figured with Abel having Ion tag along from anime's finale he must been shown Abel's other form not long after he's in traveling with him for while they are still trying to find Cain before they reunited with Esther.
Only Astharoshe and Leon got a look at Abel's Krusnick/Crusnick form and that s far Astharoshe is now aware that Abel is fact alive and well you can see some dark storm clouds hovering over out poor silver haired priest right now fro what about to happen next. Leon in next chapter is going to find out next about Abel being alive but that's all I am going to say for what will come within chapter nine.
[*] - Now for Mary's sword that she used it's something from what my editor created by Vigil, it seems that our good Count of Manchester has hidden talent into making 'present modern day lost technology' as I'll call it or something close to lost technology. This was a surprise for me to see within the chapter it's not entirely similar to what I originally had in mind for Mary's weapon in my own POV but it's something can work with.
dragonwriter24cmf based Mary's sword she using within the chapter and then onward from this link I gave her - http:/ www [dot] army [dash] technology [dot] come / contractors / manufacture / wkc / wkc5 [dot] html [dot]
Based what I originally wanted Mary to have a weapon.
TAKE OUT THE BRAKETS AND SPACES AND YOU'LL SEE HOW THE LINK IS ORGINALLY. IF NOT THEN MESSAGE ME AND I WILL SEND A THE LINK BY VI EMAIL OR MESSAGE.
According to the TB (manga mostly) Colonel Mary Spencer is a 'Master of the sword' so I wanted to give her something more of advantage that can act as a normal sword half the time and while at other times as weapon that can semi rival with lost technology of various degrees. As shown in chapter 8.
[*] - Seth AKA the empress is still veiled so not everyone whom has not seen her true identify before in the manga or anime in Byzantium from the palace knows what she really looks like. Also Seth used two different weapons from her anime and manga counter parts. Having small throwing blades/knifes or shurikens in the anime, while two small short swords possibly Kudachi's or Wakazi's, she'll be using a mix of both from time to time when combat calls for it. I assume all the Krusnick/Crusnick's being once dangerous military commanders and leaders from the UNASF ("United Nations Aero-Space Force.") in their own right with their enhanced intelligence, strength and slower aging rate must have been formidable fighters back in their hay day from Armageddon.
So far Seth has displayed from the anime and manga the most combat skill but I'm sure Abel and Cain are just as good as Seth they jus have yet to display it that is, hence Seth quoted from chapter 8 Abel always been good with fighting. We have seen Abel in action when it came to with standing blows, stabs and even slight speed from the anime/ manga but not as much as Seth.
[*] - Virgil's Methuselah ability/ or vampire power is not something I made up, it's what was shown in chapter 48 - The King and I Of the TB manga. The latest update they have made in English translation. Compared to his anime counter part we finally get to see him with an a ability similar to his sister's from pages 37 & 38 right here -
http:/www [dot] onemanga [dot] com / Trinity [underscore] Blood / 48 /
TAKE OUT THE BRAKETS AND SPACES AND YOU'LL SEE HOW THE LINK IS ORGINALLY. IF NOT THEN MESSAGE ME AND I WILL SEND A THE LINK BY VI EMAIL OR MESSAGE.
dragonwriter24cmf and I decided to add additionally before hand for Virgil seen in either chapters chapter 4 or 5 (I think?) to be good in martial arts or close hand to hand combat. With his Methuselah ability he cannot use it if it endangers Esther or any people he does not want to harm or kill, so close quarters for using his ability would be useless given the situation that is. Now is Vanessa's Methuselah ability in the manga the same as her anime counter part s or cooler?, we will just have to wait and see if that's the case.
Also in chapter 48 we also get a better picture in this chapter for Esther's real legitimate Father Prince Gilbert, her Mother Queen Victoria and most of all her Grandmother Queen Brigitte II. In her youthful days Queen Brigitte is partially a spitting image of Esther only she looks more serious looking, she might have had a similar attitude or personality to Cardinal Catherina to some degree but we can never be sure unless the manga further states and shows in flashbacks how Queen Brigitte II was like. Also like Esther from the anime she took throne at young age of fifteen. Coincidence?, who knows for sure but at least we get a better look at some of the mysteries less known faces of the family sadly Esther never go to know or knew for that matter when she was taken from Albion as a baby shortly after her father and Mother were assonated.