A/N: Chapter 24 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 24: Partner Hunting
Beyond the walls of the Fortress...
As the bell continues ringing throughout the Fortress, alerting every and all members about the approaching raid, from beyond the ridge a couple of great white-furred wolves made their presence known with Barbarian riders upon their backs. The lead wolf, with a young Barbarian on its back, padded forward with the lips curled. Its rider carefully notched an arrow surrounded by a threatening aura in her bow and took aim, drawing her arm back till the ends were inline with her ear. With a smirk she lets the arrow fly true, watches as those who were on guard were blown away in an instant, an explosion occurring above the walls that left a large hole in its wake.
She began yelling orders and the rest of the squad immediately spurred into action now that there was an opening for them to abuse, more Barbarians rushed from beyond the forest and entered the Fortress. The Morgue members engaged with the savages, some wounded by either spears or the jaws of the wolves while the Barbarians sneered. Some of the female raiders however, instead of killing like their male counterparts, ended up ensnaring a couple of members to take back to the tribe with nooses around their bodies...no, both male and female Barbarians kidnapped whoever they could get their hands on alive, letting out whoops and hollers as they stampeded through. There were plumes of black smoke that could only mean that they have set the cotton fields ablaze so now Baskerville and Morgue were scrambling to reduce the damage, but it was clear to me that there was turmoil due to this surprise attack.
Soldiers were dying, fires were raging, and countless slaves were being dragged alive back to wherever the raiders were planing to return to. I arrived at the bottleneck of the fight, watching as the wolves rushed past me without their riders given me a glance. Or so I thought. Two female barbarians turned their eyes to me and chattered with one another, perhaps debating on whether they want to capture me or kill me. Nodding their heads they threw their nooses, watching as the ropes tightened around my neck.
"'Not a bad catch.'"
"'May not be worth anything to us, but many men would like her.'" My ears focused on their language and I learned that some Ballack females took the opportunities of raids to hunt for potential husbands or waives or partners, whatever it is that they want. That led to questions of this type of tactic is to get a higher chance of producing better off springs.
"'Let's get out of here.'" The two females kicked their wolves' waist like they're horses and attempted to ride off, but found that the wolves couldn't run. They turned to see that I haven't moved an inch, looking at them with an unreadable expression. The wolves growled and whimpered as they tried to move me, but they ended up panting and sitting down.
"Sorry." I spoke and grabbed the rope. With a strong pull I yanked both females off their rides, causing them to fall to the ground before two males. The wolves panicked and ran off, not looking back as I removed the nooses and approached the four Barbarians. "I am already engaged to another."
"'An enemy!'"
"'Fire!'" The males pointed their weapons at me and let their arrows fly, the tips encased with aura so that they flew at tremendous speed.
Hugo told me several times not to engage in combat before we meet up with the main force. So I should wait patiently for them. I placed a hand on my sword and in one slash that was faster than they could blink, demolished the arrows like they were flimsy toothpicks. The sword was lightly coated in aura, but it was just enough to radiate a very dangerous presence to send shivers down the Barbarians' spine. But that doesn't mean I cannot defend myself against their aggression.
"Hey, why aren't you killing them?" A fireball exploded underneath the Barbarians' feet before rising up into a column of flames, engulfing them in an inferno as they wailed in pain. As the corpses burnt away into black crisps I glanced behind me as Camus approached, her eyes glowing much like the embers as she directed her attention elsewhere. "Die, Barbarian bastards."
"Had to turn this entire area into a sea of fire didn't you, princess?" I asked as she came up to my side, lowering my arm so the sword was pointing downward, but kept the grip tight. "If you wanted to steal the spotlight all you had to do was ask me."
"Don't be so stupid. Besides, you used liquid aura to deflect those arrows right?" She smirked at me with a knowing look, there was a light in her eyes that exuded pride and excitement. "Why didn't you tell me you were a graduate?"
"...because you never asked. Who would ask someone of their levels anyway?"
"Hmph! Regardless, you're the only partner I can accept, so be grateful!" She tosses her hair with a hand and I just rolled my eyes in response. "Now answer my question."
"The clan head told me not to engage in combat with the Barbarians until we meet up with the main force. So what I'm doing is either defensive measures or countering without killing."
"If that is what the Baskerville's clan head has ordered his pups to do," Camus began to conjure up her quadruple casting, smiling as she poured as much as she can into them. "then they can just take a step back and let Morgue magicians take over! I'll obliterate them all!"
She definitely got stronger since I've seen her, and she's better with her casting. I stood a bit behind her as she let her spells fly about, feeling the immense heat blow past my face. The daughter of Morgue didn't relent, even casting three circles of magic of rock, ice, and lightning that pounded the entire field. She's truly a menace to behold. The Barbarians quickly directed signals between themselves as the wolves were pushed back by the exploding flames.
"I'll make you pay for what you did to Rose. She didn't deserve the ending that she got, she still had so much life left to give." The crimson-haired princess growls as she prepared to throw another fire spell, her eyes narrowing at the retreating figures. "Come here and accept your death with honor!"
PTOOH!
Something whizzed through the air and embedded itself into her neck, almost like a mosquito pricking the skin. Camus' body stiffened up as she felt a tingling sensation blooming from the nape of her neck. Frowning she thought it was an arrow at first, but if it was an arrow then she'd die upon impact. Slowly reaching up a hand, she pulled out the item and looked at it, recognizing it as a cactus needle. It was thin enough to squeeze between the shields. Suddenly her head began spinning and she fell over as though she had been hit by paralysis.
"I...I think I got hit with a paralyzing poison...ah ha ha...this isn't good..." She gasped out, laughing a bit as I looked at her. "I can't...move my body..."
What a high-maintenance girl...well, if a needle were to be thrown at me it would just break due to my strengthened skin so I'd be okay...Sighing at her hopelessness, I glanced over to a male barbarian who was pointing and jumping up and down with glee, immediately targeting him as the culprit who shot the anesthetic needle. Swinging the noose in hand, he lets it fly with the intent to capture her alive, but as Camus' betrothed I cannot overlook such blatant action of disrespect. Stepping between the two and reaching out a hand, I intercepted his attempt and held the rope taut when he tried to pull back. The male barbarian and I stared each other down as our power struggle begun, the wolf he was riding had to dig its paws to keep from slipping.
"Nice catch!" Camus spoke as I pulled the Ballack barbarian off the wolf's back, forcing him to hit the ground with a loud 'thud'.
"We should think about retreating for now." I told her calmly, taking my eyes off the male barbarian for a second. "Joining up with the main force will give us the advantage."
"What about the farmlands and hostages? You can't be serious about abandoning them now." She frowned at me, her brows knitted together. Deep down she was conflicted because from a rational point of view it is better to step back. But losing Rose whom she cherished caused her to be biased towards her emotions and delayed judgment. Her fists tightened up as she said, "No, I cannot let them run alive! Rose struggled with pain and fear until she died."
"Make a logical decision here." I kept my voice neutral, knowing that she was acting out due to her emotions.
"Please reconsider!"
"Hmmm?" Hearing a sharp piercing sound, I instinctively tilted my head back as an arrow grazed past where my head originally was and pierced the fortress wall. Looking at it for a moment I turned to lock eyes with a female warrior mounted on the back of a large wolf. She had black hair with silver hair interspersed in various places, and a black face with ash applied to the tips of her pointed ears. There was also a black collar with spikes around her neck. Something somewhere within my mind was telling me that she looked vaguely familiar but there was a more pressing issue than trying to figure her out, I noted that the male barbarian had gotten back on his wolf watching and waiting for my next move.
"What are you thinking?" asked Camus.
"That you hang on to me and don't let go." Turning my back to the savage female, I squatted down and hoisted the Morgue daughter till she was draped over my shoulder. I tightened my grip on her as I faced the two Barbarians, my sword held confidently with my left, I couldn't risk using Beelzebub in this fight. "Although if they do manage to separate us with whatever tricks they have up their sleeves... then we'll have to rethink our plan."
"How come you haven't once relied on using magic? You could easily defeat them within minutes."
"Because I haven't shown anyone in Baskerville that I can do such a thing, and I don't plan to."
"'What do we do? That female swordsman doesn't look like she'll give up the red-head easily.'" The Ballack male asked his female counterpart, gnashing his teeth with some frustration. He was so close to capturing his prize had I not stepped in and threw him off his wolf, no other enemy has come close to doing that and he planned on keeping it as such. "'And I really want that pretty red-head for myself.'"
"'Then you have to work hard to win her from that sword girl.'" came the response.
"'Won't you help me? If we tag-team her together, she'll slip up and release her hold.'"
"'...okay, then leave it up to me to get her attention. When you see your chance, get the girl.'"
Someone's about to make their move. I blinked as the savage girl rushed me, her bow in hand. We fell into combat, her swinging her bow as though it was a club while I blocked her attempts with a sword one-handed. She was gaining the upper hand, pushing me back a bit, but I kept my mind clear and cool. When the bow wasn't getting too much results, she brought in her hands and feet.
"Victoria!"
"I'm fine." I grunted, deflecting the bow before squatting low to avoid getting kicked in the face, jumping in the air when she attempted to sweep. I could feel a sheen of sweat on my face, my breath coming out in small puffs. The last time I was pushed like this was perhaps my sparring match with Delta. This girl, she's very skillful...!
"B-Behind!" I feigned left at Camus' voice, watching the cactus needle flew by and looked to see the male barbarian making his move. So now he's made his move when I was focused on the girl. They were coordinated, with the female savage making most of the attacks while the male stayed in the rear, using opportunities to try and nail me with a needle. Honestly I'd let him nail me because I believe in my strengthened body, but I had to keep Camus in mind because she couldn't possibly take another hit. In fact I was absolutely sure he was aiming at red-head just for her to say something, thus splitting up my focus.
This turned out to be misjudgment on my part for trying to take on these two.
"Watch out!" Camus suddenly wiggled in my hands and managing to wiggle out, she placed her hands on my back and shoved me as hard as she could. I turned briefly to see the noose from the male barbarian sail through and wrap itself around her waist in a heartbeat. Before I could retaliate I was struck by a back kick from the savage girl who had darted between us. The female savage turned on her left foot to gain strength and speed before snapping her right foot back, the sole of her foot and heel colliding with my stomach with a loud crack.
Shit..! Time slowed down as I watched the crimson-haired princess get pulled away from me, the noose thrown around her waist only tightening further until she was in the hands of the Ballack male barbarian who had charged in at that moment. I crashed to the ground with a grunt, rolling over to see the wolf run off and Camus shouting for me with her arms outstretched. In the original time line, Camus Morgue was kidnapped by Barbarians during her teenage years. But she returned not long after destroying her kidnapper's clan and was labeled the 'Queen of Le Rouge Et Le Noir'.
"Viktoria!"
I still must do what I need to do! Because this is still a strategic alliance with Morgue Clan! Hurrying to my feet and rubbing my stomach for a second after receiving the kick, I ran after them with my eyes laser focused on the male in particular as he adjusted his hold on the prize. If I can slow down that wolf, he'll have no where to go!
"'S-She's absurdly fast even after taking that kind of kick!'" The Ballack male frowned as I approached before yelling loudly for his companion, "'What are you waiting for?! Give her another one of your kicks and make sure she stays down this time!'"
Sensing danger appearing from above I hopped to the side as something slammed into the ground, the female barbarian had swung her bow as though it was a club, throwing up a whole punch of debris and smoke into the air. But I wasn't deterred by her sneak attack as I continued my pursuit, prepared to fire off the Second Fang. I took aim at the wolf's legs to stop it, however a well placed kick to my spine knocked my aim off and I ended up pinned down as a result.
"Kyaaa!" The wolf yelped as my slashes hit its body with one slash opening a deep gouge along the lower back near the tail and the other right behind the left thigh; definitely not where I was aiming but I did manage to slow it down. The animal slightly limped out of the hole in the fortress wall, but continued running like its life was depending on it. It left behind drops of blood on the ground and I saw the male barbarian grinning wildly at me, tauntingly as he disappeared with Camus back into the forest.
I stared in their direction before making a swipe with an arm when I felt a pressure pressing down on my back. Flipping over I now focused on the individual before me, a sneer on her face because she knew I will no longer ignore her, she has my undivided attention. She wiggles a finger, daring me to attack her. And I took the bait to rush her.
It was fast-paced as we dance around, sparks flying as our weapons collided with each other. When she threw a punch I responded in kind, our knuckles slamming each other but we barely flinched. No Beelzebub and no magic, it was simply a sword against a primitive bow with a few fists and kicks thrown into the mix. Somehow deep down I felt the girl holding back when it was just her and I, so I took the time to observe and get some insight about my enemy. This female barbarian was quite agile and flexible, able to use her bow as it was intended or swing it like a club when I came too close while also firing off arrows just as quickly. She constantly kept me on my toes because I don't really know what her next moves would be; compared to her who I couldn't quite read very well yet, Camus was basically an open book that I can easily read. There was a playful grin on the savage girl's face as she continued to play with me, enjoying my reactions to her.
"Tch." I grunted as one of her long legs lashed out when the distance between us were too close, collided with my sword as I moved to block the strike before it could connect with my stomach for a second time. The collision sent a tingling sensation through my arms and up my vertebrae, this unbelievable sense of weight that told me that she used her aura in her moves. Deflecting the strike I somersaulted backwards, putting some distance between us and got back into a lower stance, preparing to rush her. This particular Barbarian moves differently from the others which is why I was weary of her to begin with, ever since she fired her first arrow at me. However, because Camus got kidnapped in the scuffle I ended up ignoring her and went after the male instead. A mistake in judgment on my part since she insists on being a pest.
"Hmmm?" I blinked once now that I was able to look at the female standing before me, stopping myself for a minute to observe her. There was a strange sense of incongruity that overwhelmed me in that moment. "You are...?"
"I. Said. Before." Her words are a bit choppy when she fell back to speaking the imperial language, but I can understand her. Her eyes were glowing a bright blue as she smirked at me. "You and me. Will meet again."
"You're from back then...at the slave auction." A memory of our encounter flashed in my mind, the way she looked back at me before disappearing behind the cloth. She was destined to be turned into human flesh by perverted aristocrats had I not intervened. I looked at her with what I can only express as mild disappointment. "Repaying good with evil."
"I. Slave. Revenge for being captured." She shook her head at me with a frown at my words, unsure as why I would say what I said. "Morgue. It has nothing to do with you."
"Is Morgue Clan the reason why you were captured by the slave traders in the first place?" I asked her and her eyes widened which only solidified my thoughts. In the past Raspane Morgue had a constant dispute with the Barbarians over the development of the mine. So this large raid was retaliation for this one's misfortune. I watched for a second and came to the conclusion that this woman holds a fairly high status in her tribe.
"As much as they suffered." She jerked her chin in the direction that the male Barbarian disappeared to, no doubt talking about Camus with her next words as she hopped onto the back of the wolf, "We pay them back. We too. Women. The next leader. Take them." She signals for the wolves around her to begin their retreat before adding, "Come with me. If you want your woman back."
"Of course I want her back. She is the daughter of Morgue and its future leader, but she's also my partner." I increased my aura to the point where the wolf backpedaled a couple steps, crouching low with a warning growl. The others looked over their shoulders with worry as I stared at them with hostility, small amounts of red liquid oozed out of my body and also seemingly crawling around the ground. I could hear Beelzebub lowly buzzing in my head but I held it back, this should be enough intimidation for now. "If I find a single hair on her head out of place, or heaven forbid you give her additional wounds anywhere...you better hope and pray that the Ballack Tribe live to see the next dawn."
"Such power. Threatening us." The girl muttered nervously, looking between me and her retreating members. "You're very dangerous." However, I sensed many others approaching and immediately rid myself of the murderous intent, waiting for them to show up on the scene. There will be too many eyes to casually reveal my power as is, but with what I did I could see the Ballacks shivering and some of the wolves cowering.
"Camyu!" Adolf's voice rose as he and his group of magicians entered the stage, he had ran out upon hearing of the ambush so I could see how hard he was breathing. He looked older than I remembered, but then I snorted because it has been awhile since I've seen him. He shook his fists at the retreating Ballacks, a vein throbbing on his temple. "Give her back you bastards! Return my niece!"
"Wait, Sir." I held out a hand before he could fire off his massive spell, watching the Ballack warriors retreat back into the forest. "Those warriors are quick and skillful. The way they guide the wolves, they will avoid your spell like child's play. Don't waste your energy like that."
"You are..." Adolf frowned as the lead group escaped and those that were trailing dispersed in numerous directions to confuse anyone who dares to pursue. Soon the battlefield fell into silence, as both Morgue and Baskerville stared at the devastation with slightly open mouths.
To finish this raid three minutes after the ambush signal...compounded with Camus' lack of real experience this is perhaps the worst scenario. Shaking my head I asked, "What is the status of the field?"
"All the fires had been snuffed out thanks to the quick thinking of the magicians, there were some casualties to the land but we'll be able to restore it to health in no time." One of the soldiers answered me immediately.
"Any other casualties?" I dipped my head in gratitude as High Bro approached me with a larger-sized spare coat in hand. I lazily put the item on but didn't bother buttoning it up.
"Not much, just a few that'll be cleared in no time."
So it didn't matter if it's slavery or crop damage, they were determined to kidnap the next head of the family. That causes the biggest incident, and they succeeded for now. I thought to myself as the magicians crowded around Adolf, awaiting his next orders. The older magician was scratching his head trying to decide what to do, but one thing's for sure he wanted to get his niece back as soon as possible.
"They retreated to the unexplored area of the mountain," One of the magicians was saying, updating Adolf with what little intel he had. "that's a terrain that no one's ever been to. If we send troops through there, there were reports state that no one has ever returned. Of course, even if they did survive we have to believe that they have been damaged by whatever lives in there."
"The unexplored area?!" Adolf exploded before gazing at the distance with a worried expression on his face. It's dangerous and we still don't fully know what awaits us...it's dangerous to follow at night, we'll surely die. He curled his fingers and squeezed his eyes, feeling completely useless. Is there truly nothing I can do even after my niece was kidnapped...! What would Raspane do when she hears that I lost her daughter to those barbarians?!
"We can still chase them. If we take the opportunity while the light's still in the sky, we'll be able to catch up to them." I spoke up, getting his attention. The others quieted down as I continued speaking, "I've explored it at a young age." That's only half a truth because I investigated, did some reconnaissance and subjugated the area before regressing, Vikir did more because he was always sent out there, but he'd tell me about it. Thanks to that I know the general outline.
"Is what you say true?!" The older magician rushed over, clasping my shoulders harshly but I barely flinched. The rest of the magicians were making varying levels of absurd expressions at my words. I ignored them of course as I kept my eyes on Adolf as he stood before me. "You better not lie to me! This is my niece's life on the line you know!"
"Why would I lie about this?" I stared him in the eyes almost challenging. "She's my beloved partner."
"Ummm, High Representative, going into the mountain at night is suicide..."
"Those who wish to leave can. I will not make it a problem for you." The older male interrupted a magician without turning around, keeping his eyes on me. He has been aware of my extraordinary talent to some extent ever since our interaction when I was only eight years old. "Please. Help me save my niece."
"Then I don't have any objections from the delegation team?" I spoke and the rest of the Baskerville members stood at attention behind the magicians.
"No ma'am!" They spoke in unison.
"Very good." I nodded as Adolf tended to his own members, taking a head count of those who wish to venture forth and those who wish to stay behind and keep guard of the Fortress. Maybe this is an opportunity to escape from Hugo's control and go underneath his radar. A perfect chance to sharpen my fangs before he knows what'll hit him...
"I believe this is as much as I'm able to give." I turned my attention to Adolf who nodded to a good number of magicians behind him. It was not a bad group, just enough for a raid of our own. "Then if you will."
"Time to head out." I raised my voice to capture their attention. "This territory is dangerous so please stay as close as possible and don't use too many flashy moves, the dangerous creatures are quite sensitive; in fact, Baskerville hounds are more suited for fending off danger creatures with the swordsmanship so most of you will help shield the Morgue magicians. If you really want to fire a spell and be useful, my only thought would be defensive spells for now. Absolutely no fire until we reach our target. Follow my lead and don't act out by yourself otherwise you risk everyone involved. Let's go. I'll take point."
Somewhere in the mountain's unexplored area...
Within this sea of the mountain, all kinds of monsters and poisonous grass traps infested and made their home. Bone-sucking mosquitoes, thorny vines with deadly venom, silent walking spiders, and narrow deep cliffs that a lot of hounds or unsuspecting adventures have lost their footing due to the fallen leave cover. There are a bunch of other aspects that ordinary people cannot survive even a few hours in this flood...no they wouldn't last even an hour before seeking death; it was called the 'Life-eating Forest' for a reason. Furthermore, when night fell the area becomes deeper and darker that even the Barbarians tribes are reluctant to pass. Because of all these dangers even the bravest warriors of Morgue would not dare to venture into dark waters.
However, weaving through the foliage at astonishing speed and destroying through all these killers with a sword, I made sure that the path for the others were smooth sailing. Relying on past experiences I was able to burn blades of grass to drive out poisonous insects, stamping out the fire afterwards, crossed cliffs hidden under dirt and leaves before signaling that everyone can move forward by fallowing my exact steps; this is why I asked everyone to help each other because one misstep meant instant death. I even went so far as to rub animal excrement on my clothes to hide my body odor and presence.
"...are all the young ones of Baskerville like her?" Adolf asked Staffordshire out of curiosity, the Baskerville triplets running not too far behind. They have taken it up upon themselves to protect the Morgue representative.
"Not at all." The older hound replied calmly. "Our Vice-Consul is particularly special as you can tell."
Hmmm, this is just an old tracking technique, nothing special about it. I thought as I easily sliced through a couple of insects with only the Second Fang. Swordsmen in those days weren't just good at swordplay, they excelled in other areas that increased their chances of survival. Herb gathering, reconnaissance, search, stealth, ambush, assassination, medicine, treatment, cooking and the like. There's nothing they couldn't do.
"Cool."
"Cool."
"Cool." High Bro, Mid Bro, and Low Bro all gasped with admiration when they witnessed my skills at exterminating the creatures.
We continued trekking through the dark forest until I noticed a faint glowing appeared in the distance. Because I was walking ahead I stopped and checked the direction of the wind. Then I looked at the bare footsteps left on the damp mud floor, and slowly circled behind a bush before lowering myself till I was kneeling on a knee. I raised a hand to stop everyone else and they inched closer, lowering their bodies till we were only about a foot or two apart so I don't have to raise my voice to speak to them.
"They're just up ahead." I gestured to the glowing red and orange light, indicating that it's most likely a bonfire. The Ballacks have set up camp to possibly rest, they've been running for quite some time, but I'm proud of myself that we managed to catch up so soon. "However it's rumored that their hunters spread dry leaves around to hear approaching pursuers. From here on out we must be much more careful to not startle them."
"That won't be an issue. I have just the solution for our predicament." Adolf smiled as he held out a hand and uttered a spell in a whispered breath. "Silence."
"Oooh, what's this?" I watched as a couple rings of magic encircled my legs and feet, permeating my foot in a translucent aura.
"As the name states, this spell will prevent you from making sound while walking." He quietly signaled the other magicians to apply the same spell not only to themselves but also to the Baskerville hounds. "We'll inch our way closer to get a grasp of the situation. We can't be going in blind or give our enemies a chance to jump us."
I nodded my head and moved forward carefully, stepping on the dry leaves but noting that there was no sounds thanks to the spell. The others moved afterwards, keeping their eyes on my backside as we inched closer. Indeed there was a campfire that had parts of it covered with ashes with a couple of the hunters standing or sitting around chatting among themselves, unaware that they've been come prey. There were also a few wolves lounging around but they had their backs to us and I made sure everyone was down wind so our smells wouldn't alert them.
I pinpointed my targets thanks to the light of the lingering flame, the barbarian girl who stalled me and acted like the leader of the group. The male who shot the anesthetic needle and noose to capture Camus was grumbling under his breath as he followed the girl's instructions. Most of the individuals here were around seventeen or eighteen if I had to guess, but knowing their age isn't exactly worthwhile information.
"Hey...over there." Adolf pointed and I saw Camus on her knees near the center, stripped out of her clothing and left to be naked in front of her captures; I couldn't see where they discarded her clothes so I assumed her captives just burned them in the fire. Her hands and feet were bound to the stakes behind her and a dog collar was fastened around her neck with a chained leash hanging from it. I quickly put a hand on Adolf's shoulder because I knew he was visibly angered to see his niece in such a compromising position, and motioned for him to not be tempted into his emotions. "How dare those animals..."
"She doesn't seem to have any signs of beatings or other abuses. That's good news." I murmured and removed my hand once I knew he had controlled himself enough to not do anything stupid. "Keep your emotions in check."
"You barbarian bastards! Untie me this instant!" Camus could be heard shouting, glaring at everyone around her if they dare to make eye contact with her. "I'll burn you when I do!" Those around her merely scoffed and sneered, not at all intimidated by her curses, however most were two busy lost in their own conversation to care. Two of the female hunters not too far away from her seemed to be talking about me and almost lamenting that I easily got away from their nooses.
God damn it, they aren't even scared since I'm tied up like this. And to think they'd have me remove my clothes and tied in such a position... The daughter of Morgue panted after yelling so much. The most she got out of the conversations around her were mainly about 'husband hunting' or 'wife hunting'. It seems like the targets didn't matter to them, it could be other tribes or traitors who crossed the borders of the empire. The reason was quite simple, they wanted to avoid genetic diseases caused by incest as well as bring in fresh blood from the outside. Therefore most warriors who go out wanted to find mates with superior genes.
If their kidnapped person of the opposite sex are judged to be useful, then the child making process will begin. If they are judged as useless, then the kidnapped person is either enslaved or killed. Apparently they especially welcome the women because women are more important than men in increasing population. Was that the reason they ambushed us? Or is it something much more complex?
"'Since I caught such an excellent female,'" She turned her attention to the male barbarian who was leering at her with devious eyes and a vicious smile. He was the one who shot her with the cactus needle and tied her up with his noose. "'All the men of the tribe are going to be jealous.'"
"You damn pervert!" The crimson-haired princess gnashed her teeth because she understood what he said, directing her anger to him. "Asking me to bare the seeds of barbarians? I'd rather die!"
"'Don't understand what she's yapping about but,'" He moved to cup her mouth shut, pulling out a single arrow just to lick the tip with a seemingly long tongue. Then he trusted the object under her chin, gently tapping it against her skin. "'she's got quite a rebellious streak going on. Shall I educate this arrogant slave till she's nothing more than a docile lamb?'"
"Ahun." They turned to see the savage barbarian girl who led the raid party standing there, looking at them with a frown. "'Release my slave.'"
"'What do you mean by that, Captain Aiyen. I – ouch!'" The one known as Ahun flinched as Camus managed to sink her pearly white teeth into one of his fingers when he slowly moved his hand. He swore something colorful when he noticed the trickle of blood and went to gag the girl so she wouldn't do it again. Then he turned his attention to the other female. "'As I was saying, I was the one who caught her so it's obvious she's mine to do as I please.'"
"'Don't be loud with your bullshit. It's clear that you're just bullying our prize.'" Aiyen replied.
"'I was the one who darted and netted her! You were there to witness the whole sequence!'" He yelled at her, getting a bit angry at how the other Ballack was treating him.
"'And who made that feat possible?'" The female was pretty calm as she stared at Ahun without flinching at his tone of voice. "'If I hadn't stopped that sword girl, you wouldn't even dare to throw your noose. Your head would have been sent flying within minutes.'"
"'So you're already claiming this woman as your property?'"
"'Obviously.'"
What are they arguing about? An internal conflict? Camus observed them closely, listening to their bickering to try and gain some more information. He dropped a name several times in their conversation, Aiyen...that must her and she is their leader.
"'But you're a girl!'"
"'Why does that matter?'"
"'I won't let you be stubborn just because you're the captain!'" Ahun shouted, clearly angered that the red-haired Morgue girl was going to be taken away from him. "'You don't even know what to do with her! She's wasted on you!'"
"'You can challenge me whenever if you don't like it, Ahun.'" A frightening sharp blue aura covered Aiyen's fists as she glared at him, cracking her fingers to show that she was serious. In fact the aura was emanating from her entire body. "'I'll turn you to pulp that no one else will recognize.'"
That's...! Liquid aura, a symbol of a graduate. Camus widened her eyes in surprise to see this from a member of the Barbarian Tribe. It was a bit weak, so the Morgue girl deduced that Aiyen was probably a lower graduate. But possibly only at seventeen years old, it appears there was other genius in the world besides her and I; she shook her head at the thought, it would be naive of her to assume there were only two geniuses in the world, it's such a wide place that she herself has not experienced yet. Skilled enough to face Victoria who is currently at a graduate head on, and now I know why. I don't know if I can escape unscathed if I have to deal with her...!
"'Tsk.'" Ahun shivered at the display of power and held up both hands in surrender. "'Fine, I don't like it but I give up. Do whatever you like.'"
Looks like Aiyen won this verbal bought, so I'll belong to her instead of the one who caught me. Camus watched as the blue aura disappeared. She was going to release a breath before she noticed Ahun approaching her, coming to a stop before her with an unreadable expression on his face. There was an unknown feeling that settled in the pit of her stomach, almost warning her that something will happen. The most she can do is just glare at him since she clearly couldn't yell or bite, almost as though she was communicating her thoughts with her eyes. Ballack bastard. Scumbag. I'll kill you!
"'Don't just stand there standing. Unless you're regretting letting me assist you in capturing her.'" Aiyen spoke to him, folding her arms across her chest.
"'It is true that you helped me fetch this beautiful woman. However, I still need to pay this little girl back for her insubordination...and giving me this unnecessary wound.'"
"'Ahun, what are you –'"
"Kuek!" Camus found herself yanked up by strong fingers curling underneath the dog collar, quickly forcing her to get her feet underneath her and her arms straining against the ropes since they were at limited length. At first she was looking into Ahun's glowing eyes before she found herself looking at the ground and pain exploded from her unprotected stomach; he had thrown a knee her way, even pulling down on her collar for extra damage and dug his knee deeper. Her eyes nearly bulging out of their sockets from the impact and a mouthful of saliva lightly laced with traces of blood dribbled from between the gag and her teeth.
"Cam–" Adolf Morgue was beyond angered seeing his niece receive the startling hit, almost making his own palms bleed.
"Shhh. Don't compromise us so soon by giving away our position." I quieted him, watching as the daughter of Morgue collapsed at the Ballack male's feet as he let her go, her body curled up in pain and sounds of muffled coughing could be heard; Ahun then had the nerve to strike her some more while she was down, a harsh kick to either the ribs or stomach again followed by the face, her head snapping back from the force. I looked at Adolf and whispered quickly, pushing down my own boiled anger when I saw what was happening. "Get ready on my signal, you can release fire spells but have some magicians on standby to put them out. The last thing we need is an uncontrollable fire. Baskerville hounds, go on high and wait for Morgue to make their entrance. Be wary if they have some of their members in the trees too."
"Where are you going?" Adolf asked as I began to circle around the camp, the Baskerville members immediately disappearing into the trees above under the lead of Staffordshire.
"I'm going in closer to get her after you and the others capture their attention with your entrance." I looked over my shoulders to the rest of the Morgue members. "Remember, on my signal."
"I will never forget this favor, niece-in-law." Adolf whispered before turning his attention forward, waiting for my signal once I was in position. I made my way over to where I had a clear view and path to Camus who was trying to catch her breath with small wheezes, her body trembling from the unsuspecting beating she endured. Most of the other Ballack members had their backs to me, solely focused on the conflict that was happening with a mix feeling of uncertainty in their eyes and body language.
"'Have you lost your damn mind, Ahun?!'" Aiyen was shouting, fiercely forcing Ahun back by jabbing the end of her bow into his chest. Soon she was standing between him and Camus, absolutely enraged by what she just witnessed while the others watched them in silence. "'Why the hell did you have to hit her so hard?! Even when she's down and can't defend herself, have you no pride as a Ballack?!'"
"'The look of disgust in her eyes pissed me off. Unruly and an iron will that I will not be able to temper since she's under your care. So I couldn't help but go a little further in my discipline.'" Ahun replied after mulling over his options, taking a few steps back. "'Not to mention she bit me quite hard enough to draw blood. I thought it would be wise to give her a small taste of your leadership. Since your hits aren't as kind as mine.'"
"'She's got wounds now no thanks to you. Should've left it alone while you did with your pride intact.'"
"'So what if she does? It's just some bruising that'll heal, that's nothing to cry over. We had to deal with worst injuries when we were younger.'" He scoffs nonchalantly as though getting a little injury warranted a death sentence. "'She wouldn't fold so easily to that, I know how tough her guts are.'"
"'If that sword girl were here to see you do that, we'd all be dead within seconds! She kills indiscriminately.'" At those words some of the other Ballacks murmured to themselves, giving Ahun a weary expression. He looked at them in confusion because he definitely wasn't there when I threatened them about harming the Morgue girl.
"'Seriously? You're afraid the lousy pursuit party will dare to follow us all the way out here?'" He looked around at everyone, arms out wide as though he was trying to sway the masses. "'We're way deep within this forest that no humans dare to cross. There's no way they will, they don't have what it takes!'"
If it's her, I know she'll show up. It's only a matter of time..."'Get out of here, you already did enough damage. I don't want to see you for the rest of the trip until we get back home. Wait until Mother hears about what you did and let you deal with the consequences.'" Aiyen snarled her order, watching as the male ambled off muttering some more under his breath. Glaring at him till he put enough distance between them, she knelt close to Camus and removed her gag.
"Ugh!" Twisting her head to the side, she coughed out a mouthful of blood that she had to suppress onto the ground with a splat. Her cheek hurt from where she received the kick, her stomach definitely wasn't feeling good, and her head was throbbing from both the kick and hitting the ground. Squeezing her eyes shut and taking deep breaths, she heard the chains rattled before feeling a small tug on the collar.
"Sorry for the mishandling. He has a bad temper that needs fixing." Aiyen spoke in the imperial language when addressing her, gently guiding Camus into an upright kneeling position. She squatted in front of her, observing Camus for a minute before reaching out a hand. "Let me see."
"Mmmmm!" The crimson-haired princess couldn't help but flinch as the Ballack female placed her hand on the toned stomach. Soon Aiyen gently glided her hand over the pale skin upwards, adding small amounts of pressure as though she was checking something, before coming to a stop underneath the breasts where she could see the red welt where Ahun had kneed and kicked her. Camus always felt that the gesture of having her belly touched by another was extremely intimate, so she did her best to suppress her feelings. "W-What are you..."
"No ribs broken. That is good. Perhaps just upset stomach." said the captain of the hunting squad before turning her attention to the face. She grasped her chin between the thumb and forefinger and turned Camus' head from side to side to assess the damage. There was a nice size red mark on the cheek that was hot to the touch. "Good look in the eyes, good physical body. An excellent bloodline for sure, direct descendant. Morgue's next leader. Not too bad, just injury to cheek. You'll live."
"Didn't know you barbarians took the time to play doctor with your prisoners." Camus couldn't help but act snappy once her chin was released. Aiyen wasn't bothered by the light hostility as she just held onto the iron chain, observing the Morgue girl with a critical eye.
"You know I have also been captured and sold as a slave by Morgue before." Lifting up her right leg, the captain planted her foot onto Camus' sternum and slowly applied pressure as though to snap the girl's spine in half. "I would most likely have died in captivity, not seeing the light of day and continuously fight to death in the arena."
Kugh...her foot! The daughter of Morgue recognized promptly just how much weight was being applied, taking note of the aura that was radiating from the appendage. Gritting her teeth, she widened her legs a bit for stability and braced her body to not buckle under the strain. Heavy...! She's fucking heavy!
"However, I was a lucky one. I received kindness. Able to escape my fate. Leave the cage fit for an animal." Aiyen closes her eyes for a moment and seems to think of someone who came to her rescue. When she opened her eyes after reminiscing the memory, she glared at Camus with anger. "Such kindness will not be given to you." She tightened her grip on the leash and pulled tightly.
Camus was already trying to resist the pressure from the foot on her chest, but the collar was digging hard into her neck by the taut leash. She tried to get air into her lungs but whatever she managed to get in was pushed out as Aiyen pressed her foot harder while also pulling the chains in the opposite direction. Small black spots were slowly showing up in Camus' vision as she fought to maintain consciousness, her breath coming out in short puffs.
"I will spend time, slowly, etching it into your bones, and tame even your soul." The savage Ballack female drags the words out slowly, softening the pressure on the girl's sternum just a bit to keep Camus from passing out on her. She kept her eyes locked on the slightly glazed ruby eyes, stating with a growl, "Tongue licking between my toes will soon become a daily routine for you."
KA-BOOM!
Aiyen paused as a large explosion occurred somewhere behind her, turning her attention as the other Ballacks were screaming and running. As the flames were rising, ice shards flew and impaled a few of the hunting birds, their bodies falling from the skies. In less than a second, three or four hunting crew members from the rear lay dead on the ground.
"Die. Damned beast-like barbarians." Adolf Morgue spoke as he strode forward, his eyes glowing as everyone from the pursuit party descended on the Ballacks, magicians on the ground while the hounds pounced from above. "I came to repay the debt from before! For everyone you stole from continuous raids and slaughtered without hesitating."
"Uncle..." Camus whispered quietly as she recognized the voice that rang out through the air. Aiyen released her hold, glancing as the members were trying to escape either a magician or a hound. Gritting her teeth with worry, she rushed off to try and get some kind of control of the situation.
Something's not right...why are they panicking like this? I thought as I watched the chaos that exploded before me. These weren't the same hunting party who ambushed with strategy. Shaking my head I began to make my way to Camus who had been left by herself while the Barbarians were occupied with something else, the crimson-haired princess busy getting air back into her lungs. Well, first thing first I need to get to a certain someone...
"'These idiots! Making so much noise while in the forest!'"
"'They don't know what they're doing!'"
"'We must go quickly! Before something from the forest is awaken by the commotion.'" Some of the female Ballacks swore as they got onto the wolves who had stood up the moment we began our sneak attack. Ahun himself turned his gaze, trembling with anxiety, into the darkness beyond the treetops as swords and magic raged about him. Aiyen quickly kicked sand to extinguished the fire, but the light from the fire spells were more than enough to navigate the darkness.
"Don't let them escape!" Adolf ordered, not at all worried about how strange the enemies were acting. His one-track mind was focused on getting his niece back and paying the Barbarians their dues. "Stop them were they stand!"
"Princess." I whispered as I knelt behind Camus, watching her body tensed up when she sensed someone approaching her but couldn't turn to see. Even her throat bobbed a bit when she swallowed down some worries. "Are you alright?"
"Viktoria!" She exclaimed with relief as I got to work cutting through her bindings with my sword and ripping the stake from the ground, the pieces of rope falling limp to the dirt. As she sat there rubbing her wrists I proceeded to focus on her dog collar, trying to figure out how to remove it. I glanced up for a moment and I saw that she was sitting pretty, her knees slightly splayed with her hands placed in between, almost like she was thrusting her neck out to me willingly, staring at me imploringly with her eyes.
She's like a happy dog wagging its tail when the master returns from an errand. I paused and immediately imagined the pair of red-furred ears on her head and the long fluffy red tail behind her. Smirking to myself at such an outrageous image I held the collar tightly with both hands, slowly willing some of my liquid red aura to coat my hands, and with enough pressure I snapped the collar off.
"Finally! Felt I was suffocating with how hard she was pulling my leash." She gasped out, rubbing her neck once the offending object was removed. She slowly attempted to raise to her feet, a bit wobbly on her legs but no less determined. "Now I can – gah!"
"Careful there, you've been through a lot in a short amount of time." I caught her as she keeled over, pulling her into my arms. Her arms wrapped protectively around her middle, no doubt still suffering from the beating. Another thought that crossed my mind was that she was also suffering from the effects of the paralysis poison needle, so my first thought was to quickly take her back so she could get immediate treatment. Taking the coat off I wrapped it around her bare shoulders and she immediately gripped the ends tight, drawing it around her for protection. "Reminds you of our sparring match huh."
"Mmmmm." She made a noncommittal noise in her throat in agreement. "Except...you were the only one who I allowed to see my body. No one else. But," She bit her lip and leaned into me, seeking some sort of comfort. "But...those barbarians got to stare all they liked. I...I..." I quickly scooped her up in my arms, holding her securely with one arm underneath her knees and one on her lower back. Looking at her I could see that her eyes were filled with tears.
"I'm sorry I couldn't come any faster. Sorry that I didn't try hard enough to keep you from getting kidnapped in the first place." Baskerville hounds are not known for admitting when they're wrong to anyone, in fact they'll just let their swords do the talking before even thinking about doing something as weak as apologizing, but here I was doing just that to her because I was sorry that she had to go through what she did.
"I could be here in your arms and say that you did all that you could, but we both know that'd be a partial lie. But I know why you did what you did because you didn't want the other Baskerville members to know, even if it was complete bullshit; you have yet to give me a legitimate reason why you're hiding your power by the way." She told me, one hand tentatively reaching up to touch my cheek. She smiled sweetly at me when I leaned slightly into her touch, a smile she has yet to know that I like when I'm in her presence. "The important thing is that you came to save me. Besides, I wanted to prevent you from being captured, just like how you saved me back then. Now we can consider ourselves even."
"Not every thing has to be a contest, I'll save you as many times as needed." I smiled as she wraps an arm around my neck, pulling me into a hug. "If we have nothing else, let's get out of here. You're in need of a check up and a health inspection." Turning on my heels I came face to face with Aiyen who seemed to have darted in front to block my way like a silver shadow.
"I knew you'd come. A strong body that can traverse this long distance in a short time. The mental fortitude to pierce through the dense forest in the dark. Hot, pure love to put your life on the line for your woman." She grins at me, planting her hands on her hips. "I won't ask for your past. But I say you pass."
Huh? What did I pass? I frowned at her. As if I have to be evaluated by one particular, high-maintenance girl I'm being subjugated by another.
Seriously? All this just for a stupid test? She's definitely after Viktoria and aiming to make her her wife. Well! Not if I can help it...Camus couldn't help but growl with annoyance, but Aiyen blatantly ignored her...no these two women were obviously glaring at one another. I could see the aggressive sparks going between them, like two females fighting viciously for the attention of the same mate.
I wrinkled my nose momentarily at their rivalry but instead, focused on tracing my memory to try and guess the identity of the savage girl; I don't remember reading about her or even meeting her in my past life. There were a couple points to shift through: Ballack. Uncivilized. Savage. Lives in the highlands. Population between three hundred and five hundred. Ride wolves and shoot arrows. Very low friendship with the empire. Male or female can be appointed as warriors. After pondering numerous ideas a few stood out to me. Because the interaction with this tribe is frequent with the empire, there were a few known personalities known locally.
However, of the few that were known, there were names that spread beyond the borders of the mountains that caught the attention of non-mountain dwellers. The first name is 'Ghost God Adonai', considered one of the strongest warriors throughout Ballack history. He was one of the 'three disasters outside of the world' prescribed by the empire and was the tribal chief who led Ballack's heyday. He single-handedly declared war on the empire and shot and killed five hundred and forty-two graduates during the one hundred day war. A true monster. Among the casualties, the number of ordinary soldiers was uncountable. The empire suffered unspeakable damaged in a short period and ended up classifying the enemy and the mountain as an 'extra territory' zone, thus avoiding an all-out war.
The content of the history books about this event was undervalued a lot, but it can't be anything but great content. But somehow I deduced that Adonai was no longer alive in this life, he is a figure of the previous generation of Ballacks. He disappeared around the time the Baskervilles had just moved to the Western Front and began their pioneering business, so he is presumed to have died around then. Hugo Le Baskerville hadn't even been born yet. This brings me to my second memory of talks about a 'Night Fox' who slaughtered thirty two people in a ten day battle against Baskerville and Morgue.
Among the archers who were prominent in that war, 'Night Fox' showed an absurd strength in marksmanship as a sniper, witnesses could only identify by gender so all we know is that 'Night Fox' is a female. She killed sixteen graded swordsmen in Baskerville, ten 4th class magicians in Morgue, and six 5th class magicians before disappearing. I was young at the time so I couldn't witness the carnage myself but we were taught by the instructors.
Same as in this life. The existence that left scars on the bridge of Hugo's nose and the chest area of Adolf in the recent territorial dispute could only be done by her. I observed the savage girl closely. But if this one is 'Night Fox' she's too young. This women should be at least in her thirties. Aiyen was at least in her late teens. Her skills were great but she is too weak. The history books didn't have any more information of her, I can only assume that she may have continued her bloodline. And if that's the case, then I cannot rule out the one who stands before me.
"You're staring awfully hard. See something you like?" Aiyen mused, taking her eyes off Camus and focused on me. "What's going on upstairs in that head of yours?"
"Nothing you should worry about." I replied, tightening my grip on Camus who noticed the subtle move and took the opportunity to press closer against me; I definitely noticed how Aiyen got mad at that interaction, as if she didn't like the way the red-haired girl was blatantly cuddling me in front of her. Like I said, the crimson-haired princess is high-maintenance and possibly attention-starved. What I am concerned about is how difficult it is to fight her while holding back and carrying Camus at the same time. "And while I'm at it..."
PAK!
FWOOSH~
It was only a tiny magic circle that appeared in front of my mouth, but the fire that erupted from it incinerated a cactus needle that flew at me from presumably a blind spot. Camus blinked as she noticed the black dust fluttering away in the wind. Even Aiyen blinked and possibly rubbed her eyes, unsure what she witnessed.
"'To think you'd resort to the same tricks.'" I spoke in the Ballack language, turning my gaze to Ahun who was hiding in the bushes. He held the bamboo reed in his hand, but he was shocked at what I had done. "'I won't fall for it twice.'" I had taken into account multiple areas that were likely spots for ambush and decided on how to counter attack. Firing off a small fire spell shouldn't have gotten any questionable expressions.
"'How did she... with one spell..'" Ahun whispered in awe.
"Hold on tight to me, princess, things are going to be a bit more difficult." I told Camus, adjusting my grip so she wouldn't tumble out of my arms if I need to dodge attacks. It's time I pay off a huge debt to Morgue Clan. "I'll deliver you to your uncle without fail."
"Yes, ma'am...I trust you." She says and wraps an arm around me. Seeing how she's being polite and cute, it looks like the poison has yet to wear off.
"You're burning up, aren't you." I gently tapped my forehead against her for a minute. "Feeling unwell?"
"...I think I might. And yeah I'm still feeling queasy." She whispers to me. I nodded my head in understanding.
"Are you ready?" I directed my words to Aiyen this time who was observing us with an unreadable expression, but I know she was paying attention. "This is a game of cat and mouse. And you're it."
I immediately darted away, running towards where Adolf was currently directing the magicians and hounds. The other Ballack females dared to throw rope nooses in hopes of capturing me. However, I emitted my own reddish aura that slashed through the nooses easily. Because there were too many eyes I only displayed a low-level swordsmanship and kept the aura at the graduate level. It was enough to overwhelm normal warriors so I wasn't too worry. Camus continued to keep a tight hold on me as I breezed through, but her eyes were open to witness my prowess.
"Good grief. I tried to take you away quietly, after all you're the only one I cannot allow to leave..." The savage Ballack girl sighed, rubbing her neck as I continued running and putting distance between us. Gripping her bow she pulled an arrow taut and took aim, the liquid blue aura coming out from her hand and collected near the arrow head. Her yellow eyes flashed dangerously as she locked in on her target, "I'll deal with Morgue's bitch first. Show me if you can save her again."
She released the arrow with precision and grace, the air whistling as the blue object flew effortlessly towards me in a streak of blue fire; if I were explain accurately it was like a powerful lightning crawling on the ground instead of in the sky. My instincts kicked in as I felt the dangerous presence approach and Camus held onto the hem of my clothes as she peeked over my shoulder, her eyes widening at the blue light coming her way.
"I won't let you die." I spoke with conviction, holding the crimson-haired princess tighter. Murmuring words underneath my breath I felt my steps become lighter, as though I was running on air. One step. Two step. On the third step I bunched my muscles tight and jumped into the air with all my strengthen, mere moments from the arrow could have pierced Camus' head.
The timing couldn't be better as the ground rumbled and an explosion cuts the line between Ballack and me. A huge wall of ice formed before anyone could act, enclosing and imprisoning all of the warriors while I continued my momentum to run along the wall's surface. My heart was pumping and thudding against my chest, and I was positive Camus could hear it very well.
"Niece! Are you okay!?" Adolf spoke as I carefully made my way down without slipping, trotting towards him and he met us half way. After I explained the situation to him, he immediately held a hand out over Camus' stomach and cast a detoxification magic spell: Cure Poison. The daughter of Morgue was soon coated in a gentle green light, gazing at Adolf as he proceeded to give his analysis. "It's a severe paralysis poison as you thought, so it'll be difficult to take it out all in one go, but I was successful in removing some. We'll visit the sacred family Quo Vadis upon return so you can begin treatment."
"Let me go for just a second, Uncle." said Camus, moving her uncle's hand away and getting to her feet. In a single leap and bound as though she wasn't paralyzed, she wrapped both arms around my neck and pushed her chest into my face. One of her legs was bent upward, signally just how happy she was. "You saved me again, Viktoria! I'm so happy you did!"
"C-Camyu! Y-Your uncle tried his best as well..." Adolf sulked a bit when he realized that he wouldn't get that sort of affection from the girl. "Won't you praise him too?"
"Why did you come now, Uncle!" She frowned at him a little, stepping away from me to look at him. "I'm gonna tell Mom and let her deal with you!"
Glad to see that she's back to her high spirits. Had I been a second too slow in my jump...I glanced at the arrow captured by Adolf's ice wall, its tail end encased by the ice. I have no doubt Camus would've died upon the impact and I wouldn't have been able to live with myself if that were to happen. The moment I turned my attention back to her, a noose found its way over my head and around my neck, tightening up after a sharp tug; it wasn't like the other nooses, this one felt like a live snake. I looked over my shoulder to see Aiyen on the other end, holding the rope tight. Her glare was a hard expression, however it wasn't specifically not aimed at me but to the side were Camus is.
She's not being dragged? No wonder Ahun and the others had problems nabbing her. What strength...! "It'll be better for you to get caught obediently. We don't have much time."
"You again?!" Camus huffed indignantly, a single eyebrow twitching with anger. "Why don't you take a hint and get lost?"
"Wait a second, princess..." I said, casually breaking the noose with my hands before looking at Aiyen. "What do you mean by your words?" What is the reason for these Ballack to be in a rush? I got my answer in a moment as explosions, bright lights and high-pitched screams echoed everywhere. The forest reacted to the disturbance with the leaves rattling unsettling and the wind began to pick up, bringing with it a stench unknown to me. Something didn't feel right and I'm sure everyone – especially the Ballack warriors – noticed it immediately as they stiffened up and glanced towards the sky.
"'She's coming!'"
"'We're going to die!'"
"'There's no way we'll survive! She'll eat us whole!'"
"'We have to go back and warn our leader! She'll know what to do!'" The savages of Ballack were known to be strong-hearted, whose expressions do not change even in the face of severe torture. However, seeing them trembling so frightened now, it can only mean that the situation is something truly extraordinary.
"Buzz! Buzz!" Even Beelzebub who lurked within the arteries of my right wrists was furiously sending out warnings. I've never experience such a thing as I glanced at my hand, seeing the red tendrils streaking across my skin.
Something's coming this way...! Something so dangerous to get Beelzebub to react. I thought to myself as the Ballack warriors continued to panic around us.
"Damn it, she noticed us in the end...!" Aiyen shook as she glanced at the darken sky, paralyzed and scared with a tremor in her voice. Her facial expression was one of fear and terror, one that she's never shown when she fought against Baskerville or Morgue. "She's here...!"
"Who is she?" I asked her bluntly, knowing that the savage girl no longer has her focus on the enemies in front of her. Whatever this is took precedence above all else, and I was determined to know.
"Madam Eight Legs." As soon as she finished saying the name, a large dark appendage shot into the air, like a huge pillar of flesh only a couple feet away covered in a very wispy purple aura. We all observed it as nothing happened for awhile, but then it split apart into eight long and thin tendrils, slamming into the ground and making the whole area shake.
"That's impossible...!" Camus whispered in surprise and fright as Adolf quickly ordered those who were still able to move to quickly cast healing to those who were injured, ignore the Ballack warriors who seem to have lost their wills to fight; even the great wolves that they ride on all cower in fear, ears flat against their heads and tails slightly tucked. "What the hell...is that?"
"To think a monster like that was hidden in this dense forest...! There was no information about it in any of our books!" The older magician spoke under his breath, as the ominous pressure began to grow. From beyond the horizon as the spidery appendage began to move, something peers from the darkness. A heavier concentration of darkness soon casts its shadow over the area like an ugly blanket. An unknown fear approaches, attracted by the light and turmoil of the battlefield.