Mystical Eye of a Savage Hound Chapter 22: A United Front, a manhwa/korean comics/만화 fanfic

A/N: Chapter 22 of Mystical Eye of a Savage Hound. Enjoy!

Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters except my own OCs. Revenge of the Sword Clan's Hound belongs to the rightful owner.

Chapter 22: A United Front

Inside the dungeon...

I kept my grip on Cindy Wendy's chin before intensifying my stare into a glare. The woman flinched in response, trembling slightly as she couldn't tear her eyes away, looking into two red orbs that seemed to be going on forever. She looked like a scared pray to me, like a rabbit. It was quite cute. I removed my grip and walked back to the chair, turning it around and sat down properly, folding one leg over the other and looking at her in a smug manner. Her expression was one of confusion, unsure what I was about to do or say to her; I mean she for sure thought I was going to devour her alive.

"I'll hear you out about how I'm doing this wrong." I told her. "Don't hold back. Spill everything you have bottled up inside out onto the table."

"For example, in the disciplines of kingship, the virtues seen as the most important for a consul were 'good deeds'." Cindy Wendy began speaking after she had calmed her nerves down a bit. "By using brutal laws to capture trash criminals, you raised the people's respect for you, but in the future, these laws would hurt and kill many. So in the long term, it would make people harbor resentment and anger. On top of all that, the Baskervilles won't like that you now hold more power over Underdog City than the clan head."

"So resentment from the citizens in the long term, and a threat to the Baskervilles." I repeated, mulling over the words in my head. "Then what do you think I should do going forward?"

"...You must hand over all your authority to Baskerville, and attribute the honor you received here to the clan head. Once you've down that, go to a place fitting for your age. The wilderness of Mt. Le Rouge Et Le Noir is beautiful I hear, or the Academy at the center of the empire. These two places will give you the opportunity to not stand out in front of others while polishing your skills. Around that time, the clan head will receive the criticism meant for you."

"What you're saying...is just like telling a hunting dog to rip off its own master's neck." The aura around me intensified once more and Cindy Wendy noticed the change instantly. However, this time she didn't cower in fear and steeled her expression to stare back, almost like she was prepared to bite back if necessary.

"As that hunting dog, this is the only way for you to evade that anger." She replied with a steady voice. I waited a bit, observing her before I smiled.

"I like it. That was some good advice." Her eyes widened at my words and I clapped my hands, standing to my legs and putting the chair away. Digging into my coat pocket I produced the key that would release her from her shackles. "It aligns mostly with what I think. As promise I'll free you."

"Are you really letting me go?" She asked once the chains were removed, rubbing her wrists for a bit. "No traps or having the other members of the hounds waiting to get the jump on me?"

"Always keep my promises, why do you think the citizens continue to sing my praises as their Vice-Consul?" I laughed.

"Then," Getting to her feet, Cindy Wendy brushed past me with an intent to leave. "I hope the day I'll regret today will never come."

"One question, do you know of the Messimadrano Clan?" Immediately she stopped short, her back ramrod straight. Sensing that she wasn't going to talk, I continued speaking, "The seven clans of Underdog City weren't all of their native clans. Among those that settled here, there was a mercantile clan. They were the eight clan, the Messimadrano Clan. However, a very unfortunate incident befell this clan."

"..." Cindy Wendy didn't talk but I took note of how quickly her hand clenched into a trembling fist by her side. This story must be very personal to her and I intend on confirming my suspicions.

"The time was when the youngest son of the clan head of Messimadrano, during his birthday banquet, was showing off the swordsmanship skills he learned. As the demonstration began the members of Baskerville in the audience couldn't hide their disbelief."

"...stop."

"This was because the swordsmanship skill the young child showed was the Baskerville swordsmanship skill kept secret to everyone outside the clan. That news soon reached the main house and the conclusion was that a top military secret had been leaked."

"Stop please...don't say anymore."

"So Baskerville unleashed their hunting dogs to correct that mistake. On that day, the Messimadrano Clan became extinct."

"Wh-Why are you telling me this?" Her voice came out as a whisper after pleading for me to stop talking. "Everyone knows it...this story of the eighth clan...you're wasting your breath."

"Ah ah, be patient I'm getting there. Just sit tight." I told her before continuing, "However, the ones who instigated this incident were somewhere else. The young demons of the seven clans had stolen the swordsmanship manual from the Baskerville Clan, and they were the ones who taught the child of Messimadrano."

"So what does this story have to do with me?" She turned to look at me, trying her best to shield me from her actual emotions.

"There was a survivor of that extinct clan. Because the one year old girl at the time had been stolen by the seven bastards. Due to her excellent appearance, those demons had to undergo all sorts of brutal and shameful torture, even resorting to things that even I have difficulty saying out loud."

"I won't hear anymore of this nonsense. Good riddance!" Cindy Wendy swore angrily, turning her back to me and began to walk away.

"Leaving so soon, aren't you a bit curious to know about the sequel of the story? If you still wish to walk away, you'll regret it." I watched as she paused again, the heel of her right foot slightly off the ground. Stuffing my hands into my pockets I continued my tale, "Very well, I'll tell you about it since you're interested. After a long time passed, the city received a new Vice-Consul. The new individual dragged out all the old evils from the underbelly of the city and punished them. The trigger of this incident was the seven ruffians.

"The new Vice-Consul tortured them harshly, and even while they were dying, she forced them to confess to all their sins. Then she heard their last words: 'Sorry for committing sins deserving of death'"

"Sorry?! Sorry?! That group of apologetic cowardly bastards!" Cindy Wendy snarled as she whirled around to face me, tears in her eyes as she shouted. "Who the hell are they trying to apologize for!"

"Who else if not I?" I walked up to her, observing how tears continuously fell down her face. "The one wearing the false name of 'Cindy Wendy Sen Rose', sole survivor of Messimadrano Clan."

"How can I trust that you aren't lying? That you're just saying those words to make me feel things!" She questioned me, not at all doubting my words that she is indeed the sole survivor of her clan. "How can I trust that you captured, tortured, and made those noble bastards apologize to me?!"

"How? Why don't you check with your own two eyes." Grabbing a nearby torch I closed the distance and held the flame out to the cell beside us to cast a light into the darkness. "Take a look. Burn it into your eyes."

She turned her head, eyes widening at the amount of blood that covered the whole area. Even more disgusting than that, seven headless corpses left in a kneeling position, their bodies covered with all sorts of inhumane wounds that depicted the torture. In front of each one were written words, the blood still covered their fingers that they used to write with, worn down till they were just nubs; no, based on the amount of blood all ten fingers were reduced to nubs as the sinners wrote out words repeatedly.

We were the ones who destroyed the Messimadrano Clan. Please forgive us for this sin...

I sincerely apologize to Cindy Wendy. We deserve nothing less than death.

I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry I'm sorry

I don't want to die... I don't want to die... I don't want to die...

I'm scared I'm scared Mommy please help me

I'm fine even if I die I'm fine even if I die I'm fine even if I die

"Hurgh...!" Cindy Wendy covered her mouth and cried some more, etching those words into her eyes and into her memory; it's one experience that she will truly remember until her death. Then the stench of the decomposing corpses and the scene of horror as a whole became too much to bear so she hunched over on all fours and threw up, emptying any content in her stomach onto the floor. "Hurk...!"

"You know, just because they suffered as they died, the revenge of the Messimadrano Clan still hasn't ended." I spoke to her, striding to stand before her. "There's one clan left you have to take revenge against. Resent Baskerville, Cindy Wendy Sen Messimadrano. You have the right."

"Urgh..."

"Hmmh, apart from that, I will speak on behalf of all the clan members." I slowly bent at the waist, bowing to the green-haired secretary before me. "Sorry."

"...You're a Baskerville. Why are you helping me?" She asked as her tears fell at my words, quickly wiping her mouth with the back of a hand.

"A foolish question." I commented and due to her quick-wittiness she understood what I was saying. The hatred and hatred of the Baskervilles are the same whether they are inside or outside.

"I understand." Cindy Wendy got to her feet, shedding the last of her tears and scrubbing away the stains before she could look me in the eye. "Viktoria 'van' Baskerville, I will repay you for this debt." She began to walk away before stating over her shoulder, "No matter what you do in this life, I will never let you lack money."

"Heh, an interesting girl. But with this I found a strong sponsor in her." I chuckled as she disappeared out of my sight, her footsteps disappearing as well after awhile. "Those words, I'll remember them." Seeing as there's nothing else left to do, I made my way back to sleep. I don't remember much after my head hit the pillow after working overtime, but Chihuahua soon barged into the official residence all cheerful to rouse me for the morning.

"Vice-Consul! You're still sleepy? The sun has already risen!" The office manager took a step into the room, unaware of the situation but continued speaking, "You should start getting ready...waaaah?! What the hell happened in here! Why is there so much blood and dead bodies around here?!"

"So eager in the morning aren't you, Chihuahua?" I sat up sleepily and rubbed my eyes, indicating that I had been sleeping before getting roused by Chihuahua's shouting. My nightshirt was blotched with blood, even the walls behind the bed were painted. I glanced to look at the window and said, "Hmmm, you are correct, the sun is already up."

"Like I said Vice-Consul, what the hell is with the corpses all over your floor?"

"Don't remember. Must've killed them in my sleep." I shrugged my shoulders, not at all bothered before covering my mouth to yawn.

"R-Really? Are you serious?"

"It's just a joke. Do get the cleaning staff to get rid of them won't you?" I changed out of my nightwear and threw them into the hamper for cleaning. Going through my morning routine before donning my normal suit and pants, I strode out of my bedroom with Chihuahua on my heels. "Besides, wouldn't a fifteen year old be this mischievous?"

"What kind of childhood did you have in the main house?" He asked me out of curiosity. "Based on what I saw I can only infer that you had one riddled with assassins."

"Was that joke not funny?" I questioned him.

"No, this isn't a problem with the joke..."

"There's a ton of flies buzzing around me these days, especially the past three days. It's been quite the annoyance." I remarked before telling Chihuahua about what I had to deal with. "Poisonous arrows not once but twice. Four attempts of poisoned drinks. Sulfuric acid in the face, snipers, arson... ran over by a carriage, and so on..."

Vice-Consul, are you some kind of super human? Chihuahua deadpanned as I released a tired sigh. Anyone who went through what you did they'd already be dead ten times over.

"Clearly I've endured a lot of things, does it mean that I'm getting a lot of attention? If that's the case then this attention seeking is way over the top." After digging a finger into my ear to relieve an itch, I turned to the office manager with a look of wonder on my face. "What do you take from all of this, Chihuahua?"

"I think you're quite shameless."

"Aren't you being a bit rude to your boss, Office Manager?" I just laughed at the response and continued walking, letting the sun hit my skin. Deep down I was actually testing out the new skill Beelzebub obtained after consuming the danger creature from the illegal auction. It was quite the catch, the 'Tenacious Life' skill took over the second slot, leaving the first slot to Cerberus' skill and the third slot to the hell hound's skill. Pretty effective, so partnered with the blessing from the Styx River, not even assassins at the graduate level can hurt me, even with an ambush.

"But it still bothers me with so many flies left to exterminate, so I should uncover the one behind this facade and kill it at the core."

"A great idea, Vice-Consul." Chihuahua said before noticing a carriage parked at the front entrance of the consulate. It wasn't just any carriage, it was a huge black-colored carriage. "Hmmm? Were we expecting guests today?"

"Not that I'm aware of." I replied, stroking my chin in thought. Who'd come here at this hour? I'm sure I didn't see anyone marked down on my calendar...

"Wait...those flags on this carriage." Chihuahua pointed with a finger to the objects hanging from the front. "That's the mark of Baskerville, someone from the main house has arrived."

"Well, look alive Office Manager." I spoke as the door swung open, reveling the special guest. Chihuahua snapped to attention while I kept my appearance somewhat slack.

"It's been awhile, young master." John Barrymore spoke as he disembarked from the carriage, a weary smile upon his face.

"Butler Barrymore, you're looking better than ever since the last time I saw you." I said in response.

"Haha, do I? Thank you for your kind words." He laughs before walking to us. "From the moment you left the main house, I knew you'd do well, young master."

"I'm just lucky in some aspects. Others not so much." I told him and we fell into comfortable small talk, Chihuahua observing us with a still shocking expression on his face.

The man serving as the head butler with perfect conduct for the fourth generation in a row, where one mistake could end up with heads flying. The greatest butler of the Barrymore Clan...! Head butler John Barrymore...! The Office Manager's eyes sparkled like the stars in the night, truly awestruck that even his cheeks were slightly red from blushing. To meet the idol of all retainers who serve the Baskerville Clan...it's truly an honor!

"Well that's that. If you're here it could mean..."

"Yes, it is as you suspect. The clan head praised your accomplishments and asked me to call you back." Butler Barrymore nodded his head. "He was very joyful as he gave that command. You should've seen it, it through me off for a loop before I could pick my jaw off the floor."

Hugo? Joyful? That's preposterous if I've ever heard...I've never seen that man crack even a smile. I frowned as I tried to imagine it. What came back was something truly tragic and I waved a hand to dispel those nasty thoughts.

"I suggest we head out, you know how the clan head hates to wait." John Barrymore insist, gesturing to the waiting carriage. "Don't worry about packing your bag, it shouldn't take long and you'll be back here in no time."

"Very well. Let us get going then." I walked to the carriage and started to climb in. Then I turned to look over my shoulder and said, "Officer Manager Chihuahua, do look after the place if you will."

"O-Okay, Vice-Consul! You can leave it to my capable hands!" He assured me and I took a seat inside. John Barrymore also moved to get in but paused and moved to stand before Chihuahua.

"Office Manager Chihuahua Baskerville, I've heard great things about you and am thankful for all you've done in supporting the young master." He bowed briefly to a slack-jawed Chihuahua before stating, "Continue to do what you're doing." With that he snapped his fingers at the driver and closed the door. The carriage rolled out and disappeared back to the main house, leaving a malfunctioning Chihuahua still standing by the gate.

To say that the man was happy for the rest of the day would be a massive understatement. In fact he was downright elated to have been praised by his idol. Slapping his face and putting on a focused expression, he tightened his tie tight and strolled back with a bit of a pep in his step to get to work.

Inside Hugo's Office...

"Hmm..." The clan head mused as he stared at the latest issue of the news in the form of a newspaper. There were scrawled words along with a photo of me. The words included polls such as People loved by citizens of Underdog City 1st place: 'Victoria'. Other polls included other nomination ran by merchants, farmers, children, intellectuals, and even greatest assassination target by murderers. I was their number one pick. "With this opportunity, you were able to refute the image of 'Baskerville Clan can only use their swords, not their brains'." Butler Barrymore and I got back in good time and immediately made our way to Hugo's office. He didn't necessarily greeted us upon our entry so we waited for him to say what he wanted to say. He put the report down and smiled, "Well done, my daughter. You've performed excellently and way beyond what I could imagine."

"I've only done what was needed and nothing more, clan head." I crossed a hand over my chest at his praise, noticing how the front page of the paper showcased a lot of signs with a heart and my face plastered all over; clearly the citizens of Underdog City were loud and proud of their Vice-Consul. The most important topic though was Hugo sporting a smile like Butler Barrymore told me about. That's the clan head's joyful expression? How disgusting...

"Good. Rewards and punishments must both be given out when needed." He stroked his beard in thought and said, "In fact you'll be the one to enroll into the academy this year."

The reward I expected. I didn't blink as I thought about what this entailed. The greatest academy in which the elites of the empire gather, 'Colosseo'. Since children of high status like those of nobles and royalty enroll here, it is run as a boarding school for internal security's sake. And with this, I now have time to grow and harness my skills while evading Hugo's eyes.

"Hmmm, I'm thinking of sending a few additional hands with you, but I haven't decided who those few will be yet." Hugo mused as he kept his eyes on me, "Do you have anyone close you want to go with?"

"The triplets and I are somewhat close." I spoke without hesitation, knowing that those guys would be acting as fodder or shields when I need them to act. "Along with Delta and Dagda from the nobles. Those two would be my first two choices to accompany me."

"Unfortunately those two girls are already sent out on their assignments so they cannot go with you." That got my attention and based on my expression Hugo explained, "The captains of both the Pitbull Order and Doberman Order came to them while you were in Underdog City, asking for them by name."

"Pitbull and Doberman?" Immediately I am reminded of Uncle Boston Terrier and how he expressed his interest to me back at the auction tent. The other captain, Isabella La Baskerville, was a woman I have yet to meet in person but she's one of great prowess from what I remember about her. Out of all the captains she's the only one who's female, so she's quite the role model. "So? Who went to who?"

"My brother Boston Terrier took a liking to Delta, perhaps for her raw strength and knowing no mercy to whatever was placed in front of her. He noted that it may take some time to train her to follow his orders, but he didn't want to give her up to anyone else. Isabella liked Dagda for her smarts and analyzing situations, making her perfect for the Doberman Order. They excel in espionage as well as gathering intelligence."

"Understood." That's too bad, I could have used those sisters well...guess those triplets will have to do. The two Captains won't be disappointed, I know what those two sisters are capable of.

"Those two youngsters did ask for you to come and visit them from time to time when they come back from their assignments, been itching to get at you since you left." Hugo told me to which I responded that I'll make a trip to the main house when I find the time, which hopefully wouldn't be any time soon given my busy schedule. "Now that that's out of the way I will let the other tree go with you."

"Beggars can't be choosers I suppose." I decided to cut my loses and deal with having the triplet brothers along for the ride.

"Do you remember the plan you created when you were eight years old?"

"At the joint training with Morgue? I remember the plan was the lease the Ruby mine and use their members to eliminate the Barbarians." I said before looking at Hugo. "Why do you ask?"

"It worked." Hugo's eyes flashed with glee. "The Morgues gave an offer for a joint subjugation, with a submissive attitude at that. So, how about touring the territory before going to the academy? Of course you'll need to check if the laws you made are holding up well. It'll be a good experience for you."

It's been awhile since I've seen Camus, this is also a very nice chance to see how much she's grown... "If that's what you command of me then I will not refuse."

"Off you go then, my daughter. If you make it now, it'll be sundown with enough light for you to see." With that Hugo dismissed me and I hopped into a carriage to go back to Underdog City. Chihuahua greeted me at the gate and I spoke to him about what was ordered of me. He looked at me with a sad expression before rushing around and getting things ready for my departure. I made my round around the consulate, the staff members also saying their own goodbyes for now and expressed that they can't wait for me to return.

Once that was done I went out with Chihuahua by my side, gazing at the smiling and happy citizens who either waved their hands at me or made small talk. When we reached the checkpoint and the drawn bridge lowered to the outside, I could see a carriage loaded with supplies and a couple of foot soldiers waiting for me, my own horse prepped and ready for the road. I patted Chihuahua on the shoulder once before making my way to the front and mounted my ride, gently pulling on the reigns to signal the of my small party to move out.

"Vice-Consul! Please have a safe trip!" The office manager shouted and waved his handkerchief like a flag while the guards stationed by the walls saluted as I began my journey. "I will managed things here until your return! You don't have to worry about a thing! This Chihuahua will make sure of it!" I glanced back once, hoping that maybe if the fates allowed for it to be true, that I'll see Chihuahua again and the city I've been put in charge of. But for now, I bid farewell to Underdog City.

Along the dirt path...

We continued our journey, Underdog City long behind us and the only thing that seemed like a constant element was nature and a bunch of mountains. Once we were in the clear, I pulled my horse to a stop and the others behind me also stopped. The wind blew briefly around us but I was unbothered by it.

"You may come out now." I spoke seemingly to nothing, as though I was just speaking to myself. Immediately hooded figures appeared behind the carriage at my summoned. I turned to address the one who landed closer to me, his face hidden by the cloak. "It seems I made you wait, didn't want to leave in a disorderly fashion."

"No problem at all, young master. I will guide you to the Morgue's fort now." He stood and removed the hood, reveling himself as none other than Staffordshire Baskerville, a member of the Pitbull Order. The other hooded members silently lined up behind the carriage, not whispering a word as they've been trained to follow unspoken commands.

"Is Uncle Boston Terrier well?" I asked Staffordshire.

"The Count is the same as always. Except that after the slave market incident, he's been going on and on about needing to bring you in."

Of course he wouldn't stop talking about it. Makes me uncomfortable because I don't know how to deal with him. "And any word on Delta La Baskerville? I heard she was scouted to join."

"Oh that wild girl who wouldn't calm down and refused to listen to orders until the Count had to step in and wrestle her into the dirt? She's a monstrous beast I tell you, almost made the Count forget about recruiting you!" Staffordshire explained as we began to continue our journey, now armed with a good amount of Pitbull Knights walking behind. "Just for a minute though, then he was back to raving about you. Sadly she isn't here among us, the Count has her assigned for another situation that demanded more of her attention."

We continued to make small talk during our journey so when we reached the destination I was supposed to tour, the sun barely began to set. Nearby pointy rock structures that loomed in front of us at a steep angle were cast in a warm orange color. Beneath it was a broad flat basin that spread out to make the mountains stand out even more impressively. Staffordshire tells me we have reached the territory leased to Morgue and continues to tell me that the tributaries that ran into the river dumped rich sediments that make the land fertile.

"Doesn't seem like there's anything illegal going on." I mused, observing a couple of hard working individuals from Morgue tending to the crops, not bothering to greet us as we continued to walk through. Among all the other basic crops that were grown here, the main products of Baskerville's estate consist of sugarcane, cotton, and tobacco. Simple forts built out of wooden fences and stones could be seen, used by those who were stationed to tend to the fields. There were a couple of cross-sections that peeked out across the land, due to a massive earthquake that exposed it. This red light is known as a ruby vein and is quite important.

"We're currently moving in name as a group here to observe the territory..."

"I know. We're here as the advance scout party for the Barbarian subjugation." I said to Staffordshire.

"From what I heard, the Morgue Clan has summoned two representatives, thirty administrators, and even about a hundred unranked wizards as well." The Baskerville male said impressively. It is a fact that the Barbarians who do not know that a large number of swordsmen and wizards from both families will gather and plunder crops and capture slaves. Thus Baskervilles send armed groups into Morgue's domain under the disguised as ordinary territory inspections while the Morgues send their members in disguised as miners and farmers. "If you ask me, the Morgues are betting their life and death on this."

Compared to that, we only have one congressman in me, and a few dozen foot soldiers. Not as impressive. I thought to myself, silently glancing behind me at the hooded members; they were trained not to complain so they have been keeping up at the steady pace without a peep. The troops aren't here but are lying in ambush on the other side of the mountain. Well, as Hugo said, if I can leisurely scout out the Barbarian's habitation, it'd be better for the both of us.

We continued onward, leaving the farmland behind and coming up to a fortress tucked within the mountain. The fertile grounds were soon replaced by acidity, indicating that we were crossing the minefields. Coal mines that had been mined everywhere were visible, and large spiked fences towered over our heads. I wrinkled my nose for a minute at a particular stench and slowed the horse down, those behind me slowed down as well.

"What is it, young master?" Staffordshire questioned, pulling up beside me.

"Smells like something's burning." I mused, eyes gazing around. It was like the smell of meat that has been grilled to the limit and is charred when the time to eat has passed. Then the horses came to a stop without us telling them too and they pawed the ground nervously, ears lying flat against their heads.

"There, young master." I gazed at what Staffordshire was looking at. Sure enough there were weird sculptures extending from the ground, climbing vertically as though to pierce the sky. I urged my horse forward, much to its hesitation, and we came close to inspect. The sculptures were huge skewers made completely of iron, and can only be constructed by gathering trace amounts of iron elements within the soil.

"These can only be conjured by magicians, not by nature." I mused. Then my eyes caught the horrendous sight of something dangling from the top. Skulls and charred flesh. Corpses strewed on top after being skewered and left to burn. There were a mix of human and monster corpses that littered the top, even as the wind blows the corpses that have been laid out the longest turn into black power dust and crumble. "How grotesque."

"It's a brutal warning. One that none would dare take lightly, be it monsters or the Barbarians." The older Baskerville male spoke as we made our way to the front gate.

Seeing these skewers reminds me of Camus back in her prime... I got lost in my memories for a minute, remembering how the crimson-haired princess would summon the iron rods to pierce anyone who dared defy her without a second thought. I want to know and see just how much she's grown since the last time we've seen each other.

"Who goes there?" A voice spoke from above, getting our attention and we all tilted our heads up. There were three girls descending from the top of the watchtower, walking lightly down the air as though stepping on it like stairs. "You can't get past this Fortress without our permission!

"Our permission!"

Dear god, tell me it isn't so... I immediately felt the energy drain from my body and resisted letting out a grown of anguish. I was having a fairly great day, by Baskerville standards, but that flew out the window when I heard the repeated words. I remembered that these individuals clamored for Camus' attention and training back when I visited at ten years old; now they look to be sixteen and bloomed like flowers. If it wasn't the voice that triggered my memory, then it was the hairstyles that did.

There's no way I'd forget those braids. Morgue Clan's Three Flowers, much like Baskerville's Hugo's Tridants, are insane and annoying, but they were masters in their own right. They also had tremendous synergy whenever they battle together, which is why they always stuck together. I should be pleased that they haven't changed a bit, but I couldn't help but feel absolutely annoyed. Not those girls! Why the hell are they here?!

"Well? What do you have to say?"

"What to say?"

"We're the delegation from Baskerville. Let us through into the Fortress." I spoke up to them, ignoring the way they were asking so arrogantly. "We're here to observe the territory and to deepen friendly relations."

"You can't right now." The one talking, High Sis, says with confidence, shrugging her shoulders nonchalantly. "We sent a report to the person in charge, so wait here. We'll probably get an order tomorrow."

"The owner of the land wishes to enter, what reason do you have to stop us?" Now I can see the arrogance show on their faces as if they know something I don't and plan to use it against me.

"Oh my, are you ignoring us because we're only the tenant? Don't you know the tenant protection law? It's yours to begin with."

"Tsk. If it's that law, I've revised it." A headache was showing itself and Staffordshire could see the annoyance and anger rising from within. "So the true owner can kick the tenant out." I glared up at the three as the ominous power of Beelzebub seeped out. "My last words to you before you force my hand, engrave it in memory. Open. The. Gate."

"Kugh...! I heard some young brat got appointed to Underdog City...! It must have been you!" Magical circles appeared underneath each of their feet as they swallowed down their fear against me; I know their plan and I was ready for them to strike first. "But we've already dealt with young brats a lot!" With guided hands I danced around the magic spells that came at me, my horse prancing at the tips of my fingertips. Seeing as their spells weren't going to hit me and that they were wearing themselves down they stopped attacking and decided to just resort to verbal assault instead.

"Just wait when we tell you to wait! Like the damn dogs you are!"

"Damn dogs!"

"How dare you stupid sword wielders threaten us! You can't enter Morgue's land as you please!"

"As you please!"

"Words won't work against them." Staffordshire told me as he slowly unsheathed his sword. He was itching to have a go but waited for me to issue the order. "Fighting is the only thing that will allow us to go through."

"You bitches dare speak nonsense in front of us!" A voice from the back of the delegation line roared out before anyone else could do anything.

"In front of us!"

"What dog soldier dares to insult us! Speak up!" High Sis spat back.

"Then are you saying you're better than us?" Middle Sis added.

"You don't even know how to use fractions! Little baby puppies!" Low Sis taunted.

"Not us!" The three hooded figures that spoke up now appeared before me, engaging with the enemy.

"Us."

"Us." They removed their hoods to reveal themselves as the triplets of Baskerville, Hugo's Tridents. They proudly proclaimed together while pointing their fingers at me, "She's the face of our Baskerville Clan, so she must be protected! Show some damn respect to our Lady!"

"Damn respect."

"Leave~"

"This~"

"To us~" They turned and winked, hoping to get my good graces and put my faith and trust in them. But I found this act to be absurd more than anything.

Oh for fuck's sake...! This embarrassment makes me want to obliterate everything... The annoyance I felt rose dramatically and I am squarely pissed off with this stupid stand off. It was bad enough that we had to run into Morgue's triplets but now these yapping brothers couldn't hold themselves back and rushed forward to engage in a pissing contest.

"I'll repay you for recommending us to the academy, so leave this mess to us, Viktoria."

"Leave it to me, Viktoria. I'll repay you."

"Leave it to me, Viktoria. I'll repay you." They spoke with determination, their eyes now on the three sisters.

I see...it's because of what I said to Hugo back in his office when we talked about the academy. That decision of choosing them must have been quite moving to these guys. I kept my mouth shut because if I dared to say something it wouldn't be very nice; these triplets will grow to be very useful murder machines in the future. They're dumb and can't move or decide for themselves, but because they can perfectly complete any mission given to them, I must make sure they'll be okay...to a certain degree. Delta would have thrown a tantrum not being able to accompany me while Dagda would say that it was unfortunate.

"Okay. I'll put my trust in you guys." I spoke after a moment of composing myself, throwing up mentally for saying such a thing. But the expressions on the triplets brightened, even more joyous at my praise than they do when Hugo gives them praise. "Do what you like."

"You're like idiots who only know how to do things in groups of three." Middle Sis spoke up from where she stood side-by-side with her sisters.

"Idiots."

"Takes three to know three. You're the idiots."

"Idiots."

"Idiots." The Baskerville triplets shot back, each of them sticking up their middle fingers for extra measure. That surely pissed off the magicians as they prepared to engage, promising to educate some unruly mutts. As spells and sparks from blades flashed in the air I got the chance to fall back into my thoughts. The Morgue triplets were known for their mastery over water, earth, and grass attributes, no other magicians came close to them in that regard.

Because they had great synergy effects when they fight together, their individuals spells get amplified about tenfold which makes them very deadly. However, Hugo's Trident had a synergy between them too, and even if their clean mastery over the First Fang Swordsmanship couldn't cut through the sisters' spells the first try, they were very tenacious. We've been trained to swing swords over and over and over again until it becomes a part of us; these brothers will stop at nothing until they've hacked their way through.

"Isn't this entertaining?" Staffordshire asked me as we stood to the side, the rest of the hooded members deciding to take a rest while the battle raged on. I gave him a deadpanned expression, clearly showing that I want this little farce to end and get into the Fortress before night fell, so he explained himself to keep me interested. "Magic and swords, the question of which is stronger is as old as time itself. Magic uses mana to control elemental power, while swordsmanship improves the self's mana and life force to increase its explosiveness."

"Uhuh."

"Therefore, isn't it wonderful that we can witness the talents and potentials of the young saplings that will lead the clans of sword and magic in the future?"

"If you say it like that then I'm also a sapling."

"You're already far above playing around at their level, young master." He told me which I agreed but kept up the charade. "If you decided to step in there you'll wipe them all away."

"What a great idea you've given me, Staffordshire." I smiled but he knew I was anything but happy. In fact this was a waste of time when I could be doing my due diligence and continue my inspection. "Should I end their play immediately or should we move past them? I think I should do the former since I'm just so eager to release all this pent up energy."

"Y-Young master I would highly advice against that...!"

"It'd be quicker. We have a million things to discuss with the supervisor."

"What...What are you doing in front of my area?!" A huge inferno flew across the sky just as High Bro was gunning for High Sis, his sword mid-swing while she was perhaps preparing a shield spell. The two of them looked over to see the sea of flames coming at them, engulfing not only them but the other two sets of twins fighting against each other.

Oh perfect! They were incinerated! How lucky am I to witness it! Now I probably had a look of elation on my face, as oppose to the others who just gaped at the explosion with open mouths and slacked jaws. "Staffordshire you best close your mouth, you'll invite flies like that."

"Wh-What? Where did that fire magic come from...!"

"Come from."

"Tsk." I didn't even bother voicing my displeasure when the triplets came back to me, their hair all over the place with the tips charred and fried from the fire. If they were dogs I'd imagine their heckles raised high and on alert but it was clear to me that they were caught off guard with the fire spell. Curse my own optimism...I really shouldn't have been surprised.

"What do you think you're doing! That's very dangerous!" High Bro shouted into the smoke, clearly upset and angry that he was so close to snatching victory. "All of us nearly got burnt to death!"

"I really thought I was going to die...!"

"I would've if I dodged just a little slower."

"Huaaaaaaaaang! Sister, I'm scared!" When the smoke disappeared the triplet sisters, with their hair also messed up and over the place, cried at the situation and clearly frightened and distressed by the vicious fire spell.

"Someone explain to me what the hell is going on here." And there she stood as she waved the fire away, gallantly with her crimson red hair tumbling way past her butt. Camus Morgue, the only daughter of the head of the household, and practically a super nova. The way she spoke was cold but it was somewhat youth, as though she hadn't grown enough to have a mature voice. I remembered her eight year old self but she was all but a memory. Now she stood looking down at me as a fifteen year old. "I won't forgive anyone for messing around in my territory."

"C-Camyu. Your sisters were just trying to stop the intruders."

"Th-Those things messed with us first! They said mean things to us."

"We had not choice but to defend ourselves!" The Morgue triplets attempted to explain as the crimson-haired princess hopped down.

"Camyu? Did you just call me that, sisters?" She paused, glaring at them.

"No way! It was definitely Vice-Fortress Captain!" High Sis quickly corrected herself.

"Be careful if you don't want to become like them." Camus pointed at a pair of corpses hanging on the iron skewers, getting a squeaky apology. Then she turned to the guests, her eyes finding mine and they widened in recognition. She approached me before being stopped by the Baskerville Tridents when they angled their bodies toward her in an aggressive fashion. What a bunch of beaten guard dogs, but I have to give them props for still trying to defend in their condition.

"Stay away from our Lady!"

"Away."

"How dare you speak like that to Vice-Fortress Captain!"

"Have you no shame!"

"Perhaps you need more education!"

"Oi." I had gotten off my horse by now and stood behind the triplet brothers who have yet to get to their feet, my eyes burning holes in each of their heads as they looked up at me. Terrified at my facial expression. "Enough."

"O-Of course. Pardon us." High Bro spoke and gestured for his brothers to follow, getting to his feet and dusting off his uniform with a couple pats of the hand. The three of them quickly moved behind me and got in line with the rest of the delegation, sheathing their swords and waited for further instructions. I swept my gaze over everyone, Staffordshire included, and nodded my head once I was satisfied.

Turning on my heels I approached Camus where she stood, coming to a stop till there was only about an arm's length between us. I never noticed this but at fifteen years old myself I had reached Camus' height, I could stare at her at eye level. I don't have to strain my neck to look at her and that felt satisfying. Taking in her attire I'm reminded of a similar style of clothing that Adolf Morgue wore when I first met him, she probably took a liking to his and mimicked it.

"It's been so long since we've seen each other, Viktoria Van Baskerville, and in the span of that time you've grown. Nonetheless I must welcome my partner to this Fortress." She told me, reaching to tuck a strand of her hair behind an ear. Gone was her ferocious attitude when she berated her sisters and it was replaced with what I can only assume is shyness. "Has it been seven years since then?"

"Formalities have never been my forte, those kind of things are befitting of Morgue." I told her and she chuckled at my words. Then I said while softening my facial expression for her, "Princess, I've come to see you. It's been a while."

"Seeing you act this way makes it feel like those years haven't flown by at all. And hearing you call me by that nickname when we were young, it makes my heart swell within my chest."

Her baby fat disappeared so it's starting to show. The beauty of Camyu Morgue that captured the hearts of all the men in high society. I thought to myself, taking in the young woman who stood before me. The freckles that donned her face are all gone, leaving behind unblemished porcelain skin like a doll. Her cheeks had lost their chubbiness while the breasts were slowly filling out; they have not lost their weight which was great but I can only imagine a fully mature, adult Camyu. Perhaps she'll end up much like her mother Raspane in her prime. For now though, the crimson-haired girl before me was still a beauty to behold.

"What are you thinking about, pervert dog? Or rather, what are you looking at? Have I left you speechless with my beauty and splendor?" She asked me when I haven't said anything for awhile, immediately clocking my eyes the moment they started roaming. Then she teases me with a cheeky grin, "Don't think I have forgotten that particular expression of yours. Glad to see that you still act this way in front of me."

"Haaahh, and here I thought you had forgotten all about that. I gave you a great nickname and you still hold onto that one. You wound me dearly." I feigned hurt, putting a hand over my chest. The love letters and marriage proposals that came to Camus were enough to be used as firewood over the winter. And she enjoyed such situation. She caught all the men by the width of her skirt and got involved in many scandals if I remembered correctly. Of course, this was all just a strategic decision. A game for her.

Camus despises men to cling to her beauty, so she ends up playing with their hearts, instigating competition and confrontation between each family. Such a political act where she eventually gave neither her heart nor body to any man. Because of this sort of coldness, all the men longed for her love even more. Camus greatly prospered Morgue Clan and made great contribution in the war against the Demon World.

But that was how that story ended. I didn't hear any scandals or rumors about Camus in this life. She probably managed the fishing grounds for not only the imperial family but also the other six prominent men, at only fifteen years of age. For someone surprisingly quiet the only thing I heard was that she is not dating a single man even though she is of a moderate age. I shook my head, deeming such things as irrelevant.

"What can I help you with since you came all this way?" She asked me. "Surely it isn't just to see little old me, right?"

"Glad you asked. Be a dear and open the gates because your triplets weren't listening to a word I said." I told her in such a straight forward way that she balked at me.

"You know, after all this time apart, you could stand to say some more words to me." The crimson-haired princess puffed up her cheeks much like how she had down when she was younger.

"You want more?" I questioned, tilting my head to her. "Sure I could give you all the words in the world, but we're on a tight schedule."

"Hmm, thirty points for that lame greeting at the door, but I'm giving you zero for attitude against your future wife. Everything is out of one hundred if you're curious." I blinked at her words before the words 'future wife' echoed in my ears.

"Future wife?" I stepped forward and wrapped an arm around her waist, pulling her close till we were touching noses. She let out a squeak but I held her gaze firmly. With a flushed face I would have laughed, but instead I leaned to whisper in her ear, "When did you decide that? Weren't we just going to stay as partners?"

"I-I-I can change the contract as I so please! A-A-And I did say future did I not?!" She squirmed in my grasp but I held tight, not letting her go. "Besides, didn't you say you were okay with whatever we decide to call ourselves as long as both parties are comfortable?"

"Paraphrased that, but I get what you mean. However, without the opinion of the other party you just make a change on your own? What makes you think I'd agree with the terms?"

"Y-You don't get a say in the matter! So it'd be null and void." She growls at me, pulling back a bit to glare. Glad to see that she's still as feisty as ever. "You were absent anyway."

"Eehhh, how cold." I gave her a hurt expression which she promptly ignored. "I have some things to say on the matter as well, don't dismiss my feelings so easily."

"Hmph!" Camus turned her head away from me in defiance, almost sticking her nose up in the process.

She might look like a semi-adult but she's still a child. I held her against me while longer, pondering my options. "Then, how about you open the gate and I'll spend some quality time with you to make up for seven years since you've been lonely without me?"

"I was not!" She interrupted indignantly, her blush becoming even redder. "D-Damn mutt!"

"You can even show me around the territory as Vice-Fortress Captain." I whispered the next words, grinning when I felt her shiver a bit, "Some words are just not allowed for our audience. It's words just for you alone."

"When you put it that way...kind of wished you said those words with a little more sincerity." She sticks her tongue out at me, but she turned on her heels and clapped her hands. Twice. There was a slight rumbling and the iron gate rose, allowing entry. Turning to us, she put on her best welcoming face and said, "Welcome to the Fortress."