Here we are at Chapter 40. Time to take a closer look at the capital of the Dragon Alliance, and maybe have a little fun along the way. I do not ow Code Vein or Skeleton Knight. They belong to their respective owners. I only own my OCs. Here's chapter 40. Enjoy.


Chapter 40: The Entertainment District

The next morning came soon enough. Fuyumi and her friends were given a room at one of the nicer inns in the capital, free of charge at the princess' request. It is quite luxurious. The night before, Fuyumi helped herself to Iris's blood to keep her thirst in check. Once they've had something to eat and finished getting ready, the group made their way to the front door of the inn. However, as soon as they come outside, a large, elaborate carriage came to a stop in front of their inn. Several dragonewt guards flew down and landed around it, with one opening the door. A familiar face stepped out. Once more, Fuyumi finds herself frozen in place. Out steps Hikaru in a new outfit. The dress is east Asian in design, in a shade of red so dark it nearly looks black, with gold dragon images sewn throughout it. The dress has slits on the side with short gold tassels, exposing her legs that are covered in long stockings of a lighter shade and black high heels. The upper back of the dress is exposed, should Hikaru need to spread her wings, and her tail swishing in the back. The front has one section of black mesh in the center that would normally expose quite a bit of cleavage. She has on shoulder-length, fingerless gloves that end in a gold ring on the middle finger; the sleeves the same color as the stockings. Hikaru has a fur arm wrap around her arms in a grayish color. Finally, a pair of ruby earrings in her ears to match her hair. All-in-all, she was stunning in Fuyumi's eyes.

"Good morning, Fuyumi, Elane, Iris, and Umi. I trust that you all slept well," Hikaru greets them with a light bow.

"U-Uh, yes, quite well. The inn is very well maintained," Fuyumi stutters.

"Splendid. Now then, as I promised before, I'll be showing you all around the best parts of our capital. Now, if you'll all come with me," Hikaru says as a second carriage joins them.

"Huh?" All three women utter in confusion.

Apparently, the second carriage was for Iris, Umi, and Elane. Somehow, Fuyumi ended up in the first carriage with Hikaru; the two of them alone.

"You planned this, didn't you," Fuyumi deadpans.

"I have no idea what you mean. However, I did want to take this opportunity to get you to uphold your end of our little deal. We're alone now, after all, and I've done my part of the deal," Hikaru says, eyeing Fuyumi almost like a predator and its prey.

Fuyumi was kind of hoping Hikaru would forget about that, but her gut told her it was unlikely.

Fuyumi sighs, "Well, a deal is a deal. You were right in your assumption. I am not human, though I used to be one, once upon a time,"

Hikaru rests her chin in her hand, "Oh, and what are you now, exactly? You're not human, dragon, or a dragonewt. You're not beastkin, or an elf. I highly doubt you're an undead or a vampire. Undead would have the scent of corruption on them, which you don't. And vampires wouldn't survive out in the sunlight like you do. You're far too pretty to be a lizardman, orc, ogre, or goblin. A type of spirit would be one possibility, but you are too corporeal for that either. Quite curious indeed. A human who became some completely new species. Won't you share your little secret, Fuyumi?" Hikaru teases her.

"Now, now, where's the fun in that? Wouldn't you like to figure it out for yourself and bask in the glory of your efforts bearing fruit?" Fuyumi decides to play Hikaru's little game. "I don't know how she'll react if she figures out what I really am. Best to play it safe for right now."

"Oh, that's no fun, but I accept your challenge. The winner gets to make one request of the loser," Hikaru says.

"As long as it's within reason. Nothing too outlandish," Fuyumi counters. "Who knows what she'd have me do if she were to win that bet."

"Oh, and there you go, spoiling my fun again. Don't you trust me, Fuyumi?" Hikaru asks with a mock pout. However, a second later, she's suddenly right on Fuyumi, her face inches from hers and her sharpened claws aimed at her stomach. "Or maybe... you're hiding something far more nefarious from me?" her teasing manner from before is gone, replaced by the cold eyes of a hunter ready to kill its enemy. "Well, Fuyumi?"

Fuyumi had barely any time to react. Had Hikaru decided to kill her then and there, Fuyumi probably wouldn't have been able to stop her. No wonder dragons are considered to be at the top of the food chain in fantasy worlds such as this one. However, she is not without her own bag of tricks. Hikaru's eyes widen when Fuyumi disappears in red mist, only to reappear in her seat a second later.

"I can assure you, Your Highness, that I am not your enemy. I can understand why you can't trust me. But trust is a two-way streak. I need to know I can trust you as well. We both carry the hopes of our homes, and our loved ones on our shoulders after all. I just want to protect my home and those I care about. That, I promise you, is no lie," Fuyumi replies.

Hikaru stares at her for a moment before her serious expression fades and she goes back to the tease she was before.

"Oh, apologies for that. I just wanted to have a little fun. Though I must say, magic without incantations. Normally, most people need incantations and magic stones for that sort of thing. Only we dragons, creatures who have lived for a millennium, are capable of such feats. You grow far more interesting by the moment, Fuyumi," Hikaru licks her lips.

"I hope that means you'll be less inclined to kill me," Fuyumi scratches her cheek.

"Let's just say that for now, I'd want to keep you around to entertain me for a little while longer," Hikaru replies, making Fuyumi sigh.

The carriage eventually stops and their doors open. As she steps out, Fuyumi gasps slightly at the scene before her. There are dozens of people around, but more than that, there are performers out and about putting on shows for them.

"Welcome to the entertainment district, the most vibrant place in the capital," Hikaru says as the others join them. "Here, you'll find no end of shows, performances, and sights unlike any other. There are also artisans who craft excellent work here to sell to the populace. This place never gets dull. Follow me, I'll show you to the best spots," Hikaru escorts them through the street.

Her guards take to the skies, keeping an eye on threats from above. However, Fuyumi is focused on those around them. They all wear clothing from feudal Japan back in her world, some more fancy than others. People who notice the princess would quickly bow their heads as she walks by, then go back to her business. There's a good chance that Hikaru comes by here every now and then. She sees acrobats show off their physical ability, mages put on a few magic shows for little kids, singers and musicians, and other performances. What's more, there are people of different races here, all living in peace and joy.

"This place certainly seems lively," Elane notes.

"Yeah, this place is amazing. We have little markets like this back home, but nothing on this scale," Iris adds while Umi chirps on her shoulder.

"Hopefully, I can bring Emilia and Anelia here next time we visit," Fuyumi notes.

"Oh, more friends of yours?" Hikaru glances back at them.

"Well, uh, something like that," Fuyumi scratches her cheek with a slight blush.

"They're Fuyumi's fiances," Iris says.

"Iris!" Fuyumi yells.

"What? It's true, is it not? I'm your fiance too, and Elane is your lover," Iris doesn't hold back, which doesn't help Fuyumi.

"Iris, there's no need to say all of that here!" Fuyumi pleads, feeling a little embarrassed.

Hikaru smirks as she looks back, "Oh, multiple fiances and a lover to boot? My, my, someone is especially greedy,"

"It's not what you think, Hikaru! I mean, well, it sort of is, but I'm not some kind of perverted freak!" Fuyumi pleads her case.

"Oh, I'm not bothered by that. Dragons are greedy creatures too. We have hordes of gold, art. Hell, some dragons have even had multiple mates throughout the ages. It's nothing new here. I'm not bothered by it. A close friend of mine has had a number of 'lovers', so to speak, throughout her life," Hikaru waves it off.

"Wait, even more so than Fuyumi?" Elane jokes.

"Elane, please," Fuyumi groans.

"Alright, alright, enough of that. Come, I know just the spot where we can get something to eat. Follow me," Hikaru leads the way.

They come to a restaurant further down the street. Once inside, the owner quickly approaches and gets them a seat right outside the business since the weather's so nice that day. Only the finest for their country's princess. Once at their table, they look through the menu.

"Have whatever you like. It's my treat," Hikaru offers.

"Then I think I want some meat," Iris starts to drool at the menu's options.

"Don't drool on the table, Iris," Elane sighs.

As they figure out their options, a little human boy, girl, and a young elf boy run up to their table.

"Princess Hikaru! Princess Hikaru! Did you come out to play with us today?" the human boy asks.

"Please, come play with us!" the girl asks, bouncing on her feet.

"Ooh, aren't you all just adorable," Hikaru coos as she pats their heads. "Sorry, but I can't come play this time. I have guests that I'm showing around the city. It'll have to be another time," Hikaru replies.

"Aw!" all three groan.

"Now, now, none of that. Go on and play, but remember to stay out of trouble and don't bother anyone," Hikaru instructs them.

"Okay!" all three quickly regain their smiles and run off.

"The people here seem to really like you," Fuyumi notes.

"We may be dragons, but we're not monsters. Some people here, or the generations that came before them, came to this land to escape the stupid conflicts and corruption of their former homes. We've seen what happens when people suffer unjustly. It only leads to more pointless deaths. That's why my father rules the way he does... even if he tries to remain isolated from the rest of the land. If the people love and support you and you return that support with interest, you're bound to have a long, prosperous rule," Hikaru says.

"There have never been times where there were corrupt nobles committing crimes against your people?" Iris asks.

"Sadly, that will happen in any country. Luckily, we've stamped out those threats as soon as they pop up. These are our people, and we must protect them," Hikaru replies.

The rest of the conversation is made with idle chatter over a delicious meal. Once they finish their food and Hikaru pays the fee, the group leave the restaurant and continue checking out the sights. The entertainment district is much larger than they realized and soon the sun begins to set. The atmosphere changes by this point as families and children have already left. Some of the shows ended for the day, only for new ones to take their place.

"Come with me. There's actually somewhere I need to go to take care of a little business. We won't be long. Now, you can see the nightlife in this district," Hikaru says.

"Nightlife?" Iris asks, confused.

Fuyumi has a pretty good idea of what Hikaru is talking about. Hopefully, Iris won't faint because of it.

"You okay, Iris?" Fuyumi asks.

Iris's beet red face is doing little to calm her nervousness. How could she be? Around them, they find courtesans, male and female, around trying to get a paying customer into their business. Some showing more skin than others. Apparently, when the sun goes down, the adults all come out to play for themselves. A few even tried coaxing her into their buildings, both men and women. Fuyumi has had to get them to back off more than once, all while keeping her own blushing cheeks under control.

"Are you sure we should be here? I thought you said you had business to take care of. Wait, don't tell that you..." Iris can't bring herself to finish that sentence.

Hikaru rolls her eyes, "No, I don't do that kind of thing... Though I have partaken a few choice options in the past. It's been a while though. I've had other duties to attend to as princess after all," Hikaru says. "That and my father kept pestering me to stop and find a mate already."

"Okay, but who do you need to see exactly?" Elane asks.

"Let me show you," Hikaru leads the way once more.

They come to one business where a number of courtesans were outside, looking for their next potential client. There were elves and humans as the main ones, but also some beastkin as well. A few of them eyed Fuyumi with great interest. They only stayed their hands because Hikaru was with them. She offered quick smiles and waves to them, making the girls coo like a bunch of fan girls.

"I can't believe I'm seeing some of my kin in a place like this," Elane notes with mild disgust.

"Would you still be disgusted if I told you it's their choice to work here," Hikaru replies calmly.

"What? But, how can that-," Elane doesn't believe it.

"Some of these women were kidnapped from their homes and sold into slavery. A few of them were even betrayed by their own people and sold off so there'd be one less mouth to feed. Not everyone in any race, be they human, elf, or even dragon, are full of noble hearts with good intentions," Hikaru replies.

"Wait, if that was the case, then did you... save them?" Fuyumi asks.

Hikaru smirks back at her, "Quick on the uptake. A number of them were liberated from their oppressors. Not all of them, but some. I, too, am not a fan of being bound in chains,"

"I see... I've been working on saving my kidnapped kin. I met Fuyumi and others along the way who aided me in my quest. Thanks to them, many of my people were saved and brought back home," Elane notes, glancing at the courtesans around them.

"I see we are kindred spirits then. I've had my people look for those taken from their homes as well. For those who are of such backgrounds that work here, we gave them multiple options. If they work here, it's because they chose to work here. And they are paid well for their services. It's not about the sex that drives them. It's the feeling of being in control. Something they didn't have when they were in chains. They decide the tone of the evening, what happens with their guests, and they decide when things must stop. Having control in a setting like this; there's a certain power to it that's invigorating for these girls. You don't have to understand what they do, or even like it. But, you do have to respect it. Now come, the person I need to see is right down here," Hikaru says as they turn down a hallway.

A servant bows and opens the door for them. They walk inside to find a nice room before them. Ahead of them is a large couch with several pillows on them in front of a table with several papers on them. Sitting at the couch is a young-looking woman with a pair of white fox ears. A beastkin. The woman has shoulder-length white hair like Fuyumi's and golden eyes with slightly pale skin. A pair of matching gold hair ornaments with blue gems are seen just under her ears. The woman is wearing blue eye shadow and is wearing a white kimono with furisode sleeves. She has a black obi sash belt around her waist with gold accents. Moving her legs opens up the skirt of the kimono, revealing a pair of dark blue stockings underneath with black sandals. The kimono has a fur collar that extends to her shoulders. Finally, four large, fluffy white tails are seen protruding from her back. The woman looks up from her papers and smiles, opening up a white fan in her left hand to cover half of her face.

"My, my, Princess Hikaru. So nice to see you again. I wasn't expecting you so soon," the woman replies with an elegant voice.

"A kitsune," Elane mutters, getting her friends' attention. "A rare species of beastkin. As they grow older, they grow a new tail until they have nine,"

"Lady Yukio. Always a pleasure. Ladies, this is Yukio Mahotsukai, the owner of his lovely establishment," Hikaru greets her.

The kitsune, Yukio, looks back at Fuyumi's group, "My, such lovely young ladies you have with you. I certainly hope they're here looking for work," the woman notes as she stands up to walk towards them.

"Excuse me! I am a knight, not a courtesan!" Iris blushes.

"Oh, a knight. Well, most knights don't have your charm, my dear," Yukio walks around them as she inspects Elane and Iris. "Hmm, these two are lovely indeed. The elf's backside would catch the eye of most males. As for you, Lady Knight, your hips and glowing hair are perfect. Too bad you're covered in all that armor. Ever thought about a career change. I can pay you quite handsomely if you agree," she offers.

"I refuse. No disrespect, but I am a knight first and foremost," Iris shoots it down.

"I am of the same opinion," Elane notes.

Yukio pouts, "Oh, no fun. I could've made quite the load of money from you two alone. Now, as for you," she stands in front of Fuyumi. "Such beautiful hair, eyes that look like the heart of the ocean, such soft-looking skin. And the perfect curves to match your nice assets. Oh, like a snow princess from the fairytales. You have the whole package, my dear. May I ask for your name?"

"Fuyumi. Fuyumi Kusanagi," Fuyumi replies. "I guess I should take these as compliments, right?"

"Hmm, Fuyumi Kusanagi. A lovely name. It fits you perfectly. If you would please, give me your hand," Yukio raises her hand.

Fuyumi cocks an eyebrow before slowly raising he left hand. Yukio suddenly grabs it and gives it a few good squeezes.

"Hmm the strong, firm hands of a fighter. Yet, they possess a certain elegance and grace," Yukio says, sliding a finger across Fuyumi's palm.

"Um, thank you... I think," Fuyumi mutters.

"Yukio, I believe that's enough playing around now," Hikaru notes.

"Yes, yes, let's get down to business. Are you sure it's okay for them to be here?" Yukio asks.

"Yes, it's quite alright. Apparently, they've been doing the same thing as us before they came all the way to the far east. Perhaps we could exchange information that would benefit us both," Hikaru says.

"Really? That's good to know," Yukio sits back on the couch while the others sit across from her. A servant comes in a moment later with several cups of tea. After handing them out, the servant bows and leaves. "I may be madam, but I am not a monster. It is my duty to not only ensure my girls are doing their jobs well, but also ensure they are safe, happy, and healthy. They are precious to me, so I will protect them no matter what. Now then, let's discuss business."

Meanwhile, outside the capital of the Dragon Alliance, deep in the forests around it, Lady Philine Hawke emerges from the shadows of the forest. A moment later, a second figure approaches, though they stick to the shadows.

"I trust everything is in order," Lady Hawke asks.

"Indeed. Once the time is right, you may send in your forces to deal with the defenses here. Just make sure they don't kill everyone in the city. You can't have a new army aid you if there is no army left," a male voice replies.

"Are there any complications on your end? I heard some of the imperial family members are quite powerful," Hawke replies.

"Most it is the princess who has the greatest combat strength, but I know just how to deal with her," the figure replies before turning to the capital. "The time has come to take back what was stolen from me," he chuckles evilly.


And that's the chapter. Fuyumi and her friends get to know Hikaru and her home better. However, dark forces are at work in the shadows. Will they succeed in gaining an alley of the Dragon Alliance? Or will their chances burn to ash? Until then, please Read and Review.