Red Dragon's Roar - Fall of the Kuroinu!

by King Traegodia

On their way to Hammerfell, The Dragonborn and his friends get swept up into a storm only to end up in the land of Eostia. Upon arriving, they are pulled in the middle of yet another war. But what they don't realize, is that things aren't all they seem, and they will soon be forced to make some hard choices.

45. Chapter 44

With Volt and Beasley's departure, the people in safety and most of the kuroinu's capture targets secure, ensuring the surrender of Feoh is the last thing, but will the queen do it? and what's to happen after? find out now :)

Disclaimer: Warning...Heavy smut later in the chapter, you've been warned...

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Chapter 44

The Spoils of Victory...

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The Rainstorm had finally stopped, the sun peaking out of the clouds as if a new day had returned, with the excepting of it setting...The battle was long and Grueling, but the Dark army prevailed in driving them out...Even when the sun shines, Bodies upon bodies lay upon the streets, decorating it in blood...Volt with his current injuries wouldn't be a threat to anyone for a while, Victory was surely around the corner...But as all good things, there were a few loose ends to tie up...and in Traysek and Greil's case...

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Feoh throne room...

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Traysek stood over Reynold with his arms Folded, the General also giving a disapproving look while over him...

"I'm going to ask you one. more. time, Rey...are you...in any way connected to this...High inquisitor?" He asked him.

Rey gave him a hard stare back, "No...for the one-hundredth time! She came to me for an offer and I didn't take it, I don't know where you two got that from," struggling in something, turning out to be sickly green webs, held by the Redguard, "Now, could you get me the hell out of this?!" with gritted teeth, "Who the hell are you to ask me questions anyway? you're the criminal, that's not how this works!"

"You have ambitions... which is good." Greil nodded, "But the captain was sure that you weren't glowing... none of your comrades were. That begs the question; what proof do you have to discredit the letters we found?"

Rey was about to retort until he remembered that he wasn't glowing, he looked around and noticed his guys weren't glowing, "I...I don't have anything to discredit that...I do not know of that parchment...as for the glowing, you saw she treats me, Captain, do I need to explain that?"

The Redguard studied him for a minute, narrowing his eyes, slowly nodding, "No...I don't think you do...and she did seem to know you back there too...You guys have history, don't you?" with a raised eyebrow.

"Something like that, we've known each other since we were kids... Me, Troy, Alicia, and Jenelica came up together...and she does...hate me..." Rey admitted with a sigh...

Traysek slowly nodded, "I see...hmm..." going into thought about something...

"The question is why does she hate you?" Greil asked, "According to Raymond, she doesn't hate someone without a valid reason."

"Right...assuming I know who that is...and I don't...We hate each other, and she greeted me after a while of seeing her with a dagger to the neck... But it's more about what she does to nobles here and at Ken...the bad ones anyway..."

The Redguard frowned, "That's right...you're a noble, aren't you? Well, that could explain why...and for all I know Rey, your family might be tied into shit..."

"We're besmirched...our family name was tarnished recently, by my dumbass older brother, Troy!" Rey shouted, "He got caught using blood magic at Lord Swain's estate and my family paid the price for that...assuming he's even still in the family...which is why the high Inquisitor came to me about the deal to get my family's name clean and I needed to...find someone to do it...a man named Lorley...We've met too, but... I Didn't know if it was the right thing to do...I know what the high inquisitor has done to people, word travels fast in the holy army..."

"But what is the reason she hates you?" Greil asked again, his eyes narrowed, "Raymond is a noble, yet they're in a good relationship. I know some other nobles that also have good relations with her... and yet, she hates you to a personal level... so I'll repeat my question for the last time... why does she hate you?"

The Redguard gave him a look of warning, "Come on kid, get it off your chest...what did you do...?"

Rey sighed in defeat, "Fine...it goes back actually...way back actually...We used to have this mentor, but he was meant for Alicia and Prim...Jenelica liked him too, and even I fell for him...He was a kind man, a good man...lots of energy...addictive even," eyes darkened over..."But I was ordered by King Eos to spy on him... He didn't trust him and believed that he preached heretical teachings...that how learned about you, General Greil..." pausing.

Traysek frowned at that, remembering something, "The teacher that got killed, is that who we're talking about here? I heard a bit about it from her...but..." a realization clicking in his head, "Rey...you didn't have anything to do with that...did you...?"

"Yeah..." He finally admitted, "I...was the one who blew the whistle on him...It...it was me..." in a low tone, "Thing is...for awhile...I didn't consider doing it...until he told me...the reward for it..."

The Redguard stared at him, eyes hardened "And what were you promised, Reynold...? What would make you sell someone out like that? You liked him even, so I'm not understanding..."

For a minute he hesitated, unsure of what to say, taking a deep breath, "It...it was for the hand of...lady Prim...if...we were come of age...he would...help in that regard..."

Traysek was completely shocked, "I'm sorry...WUT...?" he blinked twice, shaking his head, "So let me get this straight, you saw something this teacher did and took it back to the king, for martial rights? A man died for something that had a 50/10 chance of happening... You can't be fucking serious... Really!?" His dragon voice booming out, hair going bright red for a second, before taking a calming breath, hair back to normal, "Hooooo~ hoooooo~"

"Look, thinking back on it now, it was shitty to do, but you wanted to know, and that was the only thing I could think of, okay?" Rey defended with, "But ever since, yeah, she hates me..."

"Can you blame her, fuck nugget?" The Redguard said in a high pitch, "By the gods...She doesn't hate you for being a "Noble" or the fact that you actually backstab, see? we do that...even she does...And knowing that term has more than one meaning, I think I know what's meant by that now...She hates you because you're a backstabbing love-struck idiot," He shouted, "Who wanted it so bad, he sacrificed someone to do it...A good man at that... One she was close to...there's a word for guys like you...A nasty one..." narrowing his eyes on him, "And what's a shame is, that even though you did that... it still didn't bring you any closer to that dream..."

"What the fuck do you mean by that captain?!" Rey asked, now feeling offended.

Greil gave him the most disappointed stare as he said, "It means...That was cowardly and despicable... that old man was one of the best healers in this world, he lived for over 200 years, accumulating knowledge to help create peace between humans and non-humans... he learned every tradition of every race within the Seven Kingdoms... Esteban was the kindest human who NEVER took a life... and yet... you betrayed him!" his voice raised slightly as a Dark Elf scout entered.

Traysek shook his head, with an almost disgusted expression, until he noticed the scout, "Hold on, heads up Greil," nodding his head towards the dark elf.

"Sir! The Lightbringers are here with Commander Niall and Knight Sylla!" the scout called as the gates opened again.

The Redguard frowned upon that until he heard a hum coming from his pack, reaching into, finding the tarnished orb going off, "So the light-bringers are here...and it looks like they've got a Tarnished with them...I know Niall, but who's this Sylla?"

"Oh...that charmer! By the goddess...I know her and this is going to be annoying...you might like her though, those types seem to flock in your direction," Rey said, already feeling the headache.

"I'm sorry, right now, Rey...you're still on gimp status, don't talk to me..." Traysek said, holding a hand out to him, not bothering to look, "Disgustingly so too..."

When the four reached where Traysek and Greil stood, the older Lightbringer walked forward with a serious look.

The former grinned, eyes cold, "Well, hello there~ You must be one of the light-bringers...I'd ask for a handshake, but you look ready to take it instead," raising an eyebrow.

"Which of you is in command of the army that defended Feoh?" she asked, narrowing her eyes.

Traysek folded his arms, "Oh~? Well, I believe that this lovely Gentleman right here," he motioned towards Greil, "But what are your intentions here?" narrowing his eyes.

"I already received a simplified explanation." she replied, "I just wanted to meet the one who commanded those who defended the city against the traitors... as well as to see if there's anything that I can take to study the case of this attack." her face still stern and serious.

The Redguard thought on that for a second, nodding, "Alright, I believe ya~ no need to be so tense..." he chuckled, "General, you have an audience~," stepping out of the way.

As Greil began to talk with Valery... Both Niall and the knight clad in black armor walked toward Traysek.

"How're you, hangin' lad?" Niall asked.

"Getting tired, but still managing," Traysek chuckled, "What about you? You get Kolne home okay?"

Niall nodded, "Aye, got her some people who could look after her." he then looked toward the dark knight, "That lass is Sylla, a former member of a deadly group of knights from back home."

Traysek nodded with a smile, "Ah~ I remember you~ you were tearing it up out there on that strange horse, and what's more..." holding up the golden orb that was going nuts, "You're a Tarnished, aren't you~? Old man Iji said I'd find one you eventually,"

"Iji?!" the knight exclaimed, "As in big, mirrored helm, enjoys reading, damn good smith, and someone you'd enjoy being with?!"

"That's right! The very one," He grinned, "I did a favor for him a week ago when we needed repairs for our weapons... He's near the Ulak Area, also met a half-wolf named Blaidd there, wonder how he's been..." The Redguard wondered.

"I'll be damned... those two are here?" she sounded shocked.

Traysek raised an eyebrow, "You sound surprised by that...did you know them from another place...?"

Sylla chuckled "We were servants of the Moon Princess Ranni, Empyrean daughter of the Elden Lord, Radagon, and the Queen of the Fullmoon, Renalla. Didn't hear of them ever since that Recusant killed me..."

"Ah, I see, so you were murdered...Not sure what a recusant is, but I'm sure I'll run into one if I've found you..." Traysek nodded, "Well, it's nice to meet you, Sylla, you have a pretty voice under that scary helmet, wonder if the face matches~"

Rey rolled his eyes, 'Oh by the goddess, just stop.. we can ALL tell you're flirting...and with HER of all people? hope she kicks your ass the same way she did me...'

"I... I doubt that's the case... I may not be an Omen... but that doesn't mean that I'm a pretty person..." she sounded uncertain as she was looking down.

The Redguard stared at her for a minute, frowning, "Why's that...? You're worried I'll judge you based on what I see...?" chuckling softly, a smile returning, "Sylla, you don't have to worry about that... your face could be riddled with thousands of scars, and you could have all or no eyes, and that still wouldn't deter me..." pointing to his facial scars, "Besides how am I gonna judge you, when half of my face looks like it was used for a lion's scratching post...?" he laughed.

Sylla giggled as she said, "It wasn't to mock you, but if you saw how Lion looks like in the Lands Between, you'd have a strange feeling." she then removed her helm, revealing a young woman with fair skin, long braided auburn hair, and a large scar over her left eye. However, the striking difference was her void eyes with blue pupils for the right one while it would seem as if she has a gem inserted in her left eye.

Traysek had a look of awe, giving an approving nod and grin, "Oh hello there~ the way you were talking, I expected way worse...Not a one-eyed beauty~...that's not bad, Sylla, not at all..." leaning closer, "I like that eye~ what's it made out of...?"

"And more importantly, why were you so shy showing him?" Reynold's voice added from the background, with a tickmark on his head.

"Ha! You should know that people usually decide on beauty by comparing one to Queen Marika." Niall pointed with a laugh.

"Right...assuming I'll ever meet her and she does sound pretty, but for now, I'm convinced," Traysek nodded.

"Sir...what are we witnessing...?" One of Rey's knights asked him quietly...

"I don't know, but I hate it..." The young knight commented, shaking his head.

"That reminds me, the old Swain said that he'll be here for a ceremony that will be held tomorrow." Niall pointed as Sylla was blushing deeply, "You should come as he does want to have a long talk with you."

Traysek raised an eyebrow, "Does he...? You know... it has been a while since we've spoken...Not since We fled from Ken... alright consider me there," He grinned with a nod, "My men and I will be up first thing, for now...I could wind down with good food and drink tonight..."

'Lord Swain wants to talk to him...HIM?! WHY?! I was the one under him, this guy fucked off for two weeks!' Rey mentally swore, gritting his teeth, "Excuse me? is anyone going to let us out of this?" he asked.

"Once he gathers the others, he'll get you an audience," Niall pointed, "He seems very interested in both your mentality and your skills."

The Redguard once again raised an eyebrow, "Is he now? Honestly, he shouldn't go that far...This was just another day for me and my crew, A big one, but one regardless... We were glad to help out today, " with a smile.

"By the way, have you met the Lightbringer Emily?" Niall asked as he waved to the young woman to get closer.

Traysek gave an overall look, "I don't believe we have...until now...hello there," he greeted.

Emily looked embarrassed before saying while bowing, "T-Thank you for saving the city! If it weren't for the Monster Army... it would have been taken,"

He waved her off with a smile, "Hey now, it wasn't just me, I'm sure you did your part too and," glancing at Greil, "Big guy there is the one who sent everyone here, we just acted on the plans... regardless, happy to help out," with a wink, "But...where are my manners...? I'm Traysek, Captain of the Red Dragons and Dragonborn, nice to meet you Emily... and you too Sylla,"

...

"I see..." Valery nodded, "I understand."

"Glad that we could solve this misunderstanding without bloodshed." Greil smiled.

"Once I get back, I'll have a word with the High Priest." the old Lightbringer narrowed her eyes, "As for what you asked... I did hear his name circulate in the church as someone who could help them deal with someone who was a thorn in their side."

"I see..." Greil narrowed his eyes toward Rey.

The young knight frowned back at him, 'Why he's looking at me like that...? I already answered his questions,' hearing the laughter and turning back to the other group, 'And there's THIS guy...who's still got me in this web...' looking at the hand it threaded from.

"For all your help, you're welcome with your boys to my house tonight!" Niall said as he was tapping Traysek's shoulder a little too hard.

The Redguard gave a pained grunt, but chuckled, "Hehe...Sure... that beats finding a room at an inn for the night, we'll be happy to and the crew would enjoy that..." until he remembered something glancing at Reynold, "Speaking of which..." snaps his fingers, the webs disappearing, "Almost forgot he was there,"

"Commander...? How do you know him? And what do you mean by "help?' what happened?" he asked Niall with an eyebrow raised, standing up.

"Bah! Those questions are pointless!" Niall laughed before turning to Traysek, "Remind me to get you a little something, heh? A weapon I kept from my days in the Lands Between." he chuckled.

The Redguard thought back on this, especially to those black flames Volt used, how they burned him even through his heavy mail, nodding at an idea, "You know what? I might be looking for something... why not? And it gives me a chance to check out more weapons from there," with a grin.

"Something like Volt had...?" Rey asked with a frown.

"I don't know, possibly," Traysek answered bluntly, "It's not like I'm gonna use it on you...even though I should, and you know why... but then that robs two people I'm friends with of that chance, so no thanks..." he waved off with an eye roll.

"You're already familiar with them, huh?" Niall laughed before adding, "The Tarnished who used to wield that weapon had a more... physical kind of Ashe of War."

The Redguard nodded, "I see, it should be something nice later, and yeah, I've had a bit of practice with them, even this spear here has one," motioning to it on his back, "With that said though, what happens now?"

"Yeah...good point, Volt, and Beasley have fled from here and most of the black dogs are rounded up..." Rey nodded in thought.

"First I need to organize the funerals for those who lost their lives." Niall replied, "Especially contacting their families to come here..."

"Okay, while you do that, I'll get the guys here, in the meantime," Traysek paused glancing at Greil, "I'll speak with him, figure out what we're doing for the end of this...but after, I'll look you guys up," giving a slight bow, "Ladies~ I'll talk you both later, until then~" he left with a wave, heading to Greil.

"I'll do my best." Valery nodded before walking away.

The Redguard approached Greil as the other sister rejoined Emily, "Well...I can see that went well for you...Learn anything new?"

"Indeed," Greil nodded, "Even about our friend here... and relations to the church. Still, it would seem that their historians manipulated quite the events to make the monster army look heartless and barbarian."

Traysek thought on that, "Hmm, so they used propaganda against us...that's not exactly new, or at least to me it isn't...history is often manipulated to suit the winner or soon-to-be winners..." glancing at Rey, "But what have you learned on him exactly?"

"From what I was told, he did get in contact with the church of Ur to get rid of someone who was killing nobles that were allied with them... and he showed a lot of enthusiasm in it..." Greil replied.

"Oh...?" Traysek, raising his eyebrow.

"If you're talking about that mission at Luckwarden and Ur, I was under Regis to track down that murderer, NOT the church...I just asked them if they had any leads and got nothing... that's...a sordid affair I'd rather not go into about..." Rey grumbled, shaking his head at the memory.

"She pointed out that you went to talk with a priest in the church and when you went, he said that you were going to bring him to justice." Greil said, "As for now, she holds more credibility than you."

"Once again, I needed a lead, and yes, because I was tasked to find and apprehend the murderer! after they gave me a lead, I left...it felt weird even being there!" Rey defended with.

The Redguard was silent on that for a moment, studying him, "You mentioned a..."Regis" Correct? Assuming that's who sent you on the mission,"

"Y-yeah, lord Ruthven sent me over to meet him, but he was the one who had given me the task...I even had a partner, but we fell out..." The young knight admitted.

"Not surprised there...won't ask into that much..." Traysek nodded, "But what the task? Was it just to find the guy? or find and capture him...?"

Rey frowned at him, "Pretty sure finding a criminal, means catching them too..."

"Not necessarily...Find someone could just be...FINDING SOMEONE, as in locating them, scout them out...capture, is capture, you bring them in, kicking and screaming...which is why I'm asking, what were the orders?" The Redguard said, narrowing his eyes.

Reynold sighed deeply, thinking back, "He said to... find him, and investigate the killings..."

"And...where did capture come from...? where does that say capture...?"

"I...It doesn't..."

"No...it doesn't..." Traysek finally sighed, shaking his head, "I think someone got the objective wrong...on hand, this does rule you out for being a traitor to the city and only because of one reason..."

"And what's that?" The young knight asked with a hard frown.

"You're an idiot...that's what that means...and because of that...you're a most useful idiot to them...because they know what they can motivate you with...and after the other thing, It's more apparent..." The Redguard said in relief, "I'm sure you're going to this ceremony...the only prayer I can hold for you...is that Swain doesn't turn you to dust..." shaking his head.

"I'm going to see when Lady Olga arrives to set this city as our city." Greil stated before adding, "If you need any help, you only need to ask." he then began to walk away.

Traysek nodded, "Alright, I'll hit the balcony and call the guys here, I could use a smoke right now..." with a grin, "Do let me know when she arrives," walking off towards the royal chambers.

With both gone to where they were going, Rey was left with Niall, Sylla, and the two lightbringers...

"Commander." Emily called, "Is it true that the church will be abolished here?"

"Aye." Niall nodded, "The people here were being taken advantage of by the church. Once that is done, we'll begin our advance on Ur."

Rey blinked twice at that, "Commander...you're just going to let them go? even knowing the carnage they caused?"

"Yeah...I know that man too, sir, That's Traysek the Betrayer...he's got over 25 million on his head," Marquel added in, making Rey sputter.

"What a scumbag..." Sylla growled with a hateful glare, "He saved the city and you want to turn on him?"

Valery took a deep breath before saying "I'll stay here for some days to rest and to catch up with Emily. I'll return to Ur after some days."

"Good luck Lass." Niall laughed.

Rey shook his head in disbelief, as one of his other knights went over to him.

"Sir...it's safe to say, they're not going to listen to us...just leave it alone...we're already battered enough as is..." the knight pointed.

The young knight sighed in defeat, "I...No, You're right...letting it go for would be for the better, I suppose...and it's not like we could do anything about it now anyway..." glancing at Sylla's glare.

Marquel raised an eyebrow, "Yeah...good call, no need to upset...admirers..." he whispered

"Care to explain that..." a katana was on his shoulder ready to behead him as Sylla had her helm on and a pitch-black aura around her.

Marquel went blue in the face in a cold sweat, "Oh uh...I meant that in an oh-so platonic way ma'am, no disrespect to you, I'm sure a guy like that, has tons of friends, right boys?" getting nods from the other knights, also in a cold sweat.

The dread knight didn't move a muscle as Niall was laughing with the two Lightbringers while bringing up memories.

Rey raised his hands with a nervous smile, 'By the goddess, I can't wait until this day is over...'

---

1 hour later...

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Traysek leaned over the balcony, smoking a large cigar while looking at the incoming ships, "Looks like the Queen's arrived, that must be her fleet..." taking a pull, "Talk about making a grand entrance,"

His calling stone goes off immediately after, "Hello?"

"Boss, we've made it to the Castle, I even brought the girl as requested..." Erik's voice clicked on, "Where are you?"

"Yeah, no kidding, this place is huge...it feels old," Lucien added.

"That's because it is..." The Redaguard chuckled, "I take everyone's accounted for?"

"Yes my friend, the rescue team had no issues letting me come here..." Inigo voiced.

"Dargo and I are here...not seeing Endra through..." Recorder pointed.

"And Yuriana? where's she?" Traysek asked with a frown.

"Heard something about someone named Alexandros or something like that," Dargo answered with a casual voice.

"I don't think I remember him by name, but I do remember a centaur around Yuri's area, he seemed like a medic too, maybe that's him..." Traysek thought on...

Down on the streets, there was an unconscious woman set on him as he was walking around, searching.

Yuriana woke up to find herself horseback, frowning, "Wha-? Where am I...? Last I checked... I was my way... to the castle..." spotting the familiar centaur, "Oh? Alexandros...? What happened?" she asked.

"W-Well... you collapsed due to exhaustion and I carried you here while looking for the castle..." the Centaur pointed with a red face.

Yuri blinked twice, sitting up and clearing her sight, "I...I remember now...damn, I used a lot of my magic then..." looking around, "And if you're looking for the castle, it's the large skyscraping one,"

"The streets here are very confusing," Alexandros stated before taking a turn.

"City's big enough for that...I'll probably need a map after this..." She tiredly chuckled, scanning around until she spotted a large castle in the distance, "There, that's where we need to go...And uh...thank you, Alex..." with a heartwarming tone.

"W-Well... I-it's nothing really." the Centaur stated with a red face while scratching the back of his head.

She smiled and relaxed the entire way, not wanting to make him pass out further...going for her call stone...

---

Castle lobby...

---

As Olga was walking in the castle, the various members of the Dark Army knelt and bowed their heads down.

"The castle is prioritized over the people..." the Dark Queen narrowed her eyes, "So many useless things here... I need to make some changes."

Lucien was nearby studying a statue when he noticed her passing by, "Ah, Lady Olga~ I didn't expect you to be dropping by," with a bow.

"And you are...?" Olga asked with confusion.

The imperial sighed, "Right...it's been a while... I'm Lucien, the scientist working with the Red Dragons..." Frowning at himself, "Traysek's apprentice..."

"I see..." Olga slowly nodded, "So... what can I do for you?"

"Me?" he asked, with an eyebrow raised "Uhctually wondering that for you, your Highness...I'm just studying the history in these walls, I assume you're here for General Greil, correct?"

"Indeed." Olga nodded again, "Since we took Feoh, we'd need to be ready to take Ur."

Lucien nodded, "Of course...Well, for one, I don't know where the general is, we haven't all met up yet...But... You could try asking The boss, he does know and he's either with him or in the main royal quarters...which is around that the left corner there," motioning his head towards it, "Just make sure to watch the mess, you general made quite a big one," with a nervous chuckle.

"He was always playful." Olga commented smiling, "As long as the walls are intact, it's not a problem."

"I mean, they are...even with these weird roots in them, it should be fine either way," The imperial pointed, "I'll...let you be, your Highness...Don't want to keep you, and there's plenty in here to keep me occupied, I'll see you around," going back to his notes.

Olga continued to walk until she heard a sword being drawn.

"Hoo? Are you sure about this, boy?" she asked, eyebrow raised.

Rey had a glare trained on her with sword drawn, "I never thought I'd get the chance...Dark Queen..." he narrowed his eyes, sighing in defeat, sheathing the sword, "Is what I would like to say anyway...and if your looking for your Lead "Conquerers", they're past there," motioning his head towards the entrance.

Olga only laughed as she continued her way, "What a funny little boy."

He snorted at her retreat, "Whatever..." heading down the halls...

---

Throne room...

---

Once she entered, she saw five kneeling people whose heads were in a bow.

Olga took a deep breath before walking toward the throne, and once she got to it, she sat on it.

"Go bring me, Greil, now." she ordered as one of them ran to search for the General, 'One step taken, only a few more...'

At that moment, a Dark Blade appeared with a Crystal in her hands, "My lady, a call from the Goddess Reborn."

Olga raised an eyebrow as she took the crystal, "Yes?"

"I've heard of the battle happening at Feoh, where are you now...?" she asked.

"At the throne room..." Olga pointed, "But honestly, it looks more like a museum than a throne room..." she sweatdropped.

There was a deep sigh from the other line, "So I take it, your forces have taken over...okay...And what of the Princess Alicia? Is she alright?"

"Both her and her mother are alright. Unfortunately, the king died." Olga replied, "How about you? Are things good over there?"

"For now...The red Spears are starting to crack down on a few things here, uncle swain left me this crystal to contact you, but Claudia will be back soon, she doesn't know I have it either..." Celestine's voice sighed, "I'm sorry to hear that about the king...I'm sure Aurora and Alicia are in grief..."

"For now... they are still asleep." Olga sighed, "My forces are taking down any remnant of the church's power here, which means that it would cause those in Ken to push you to go on the battlefield to reinforce them..."

"I see, thank goodness they're safe when they wake up, do put them on...I've heard things, and I need to know how true those are..." Celestine said in a low tone, "I've talked to uncle, we'll arrive at Feoh in a few days...Claudia wasn't happy about this, but checking on one of our cities is of importance, especially a city like Feoh..."

*knocks at her door*

"And that seems to be her now... just call me back, once they're up... I'll keep in touch," The goddess said in a hushed tone.

"To each own problems." Olga chuckled as the glow went away, "Well, it would seem that the true war will start now..." she gave the crystal to the Assassin who disappeared in the shadows.

At that moment, Greil entered.

"My Lady, I see that you've arrived safely," he said as he bowed.

"Let's skip the formalities for now." Olga sighed, "How are things going?"

"The Masson Guild began re-building all the buildings that were either damaged or fallen during the battle. As for the prisoners, they were taken to the dungeons." Greil answered, "We managed to keep the dead to a small number, but there's still those who died; whether they're civilians or soldiers."

"What about our forces?" Olga asked as she narrowed her eyes.

"It would seem that most of our dead are due to a backstabbing knight." Greil replied, "We've contacted their families, they'll be here for the funerals."

"I see..." Olga took a deep breath, "Make sure to add their families to those who'd receive financial support... it's the least that we can do."

Greil only nodded to that.

---

Meanwhile, at the Royal chambers...

---

Traysek was at a painting, tracing a dagger over the edges carefully, until he completely cut out the portrait, rolling it up, "And this would make number twelve, that's enough for now...two for each..." putting the roll in his backpack, sticking out of it, grabbing the stack of silk before shoving it in, 'I may not be able to take the any of the gold here, but priceless paintings and silk? I'm not missing out on that,' with a smirk and chuckle, closing it up.

After closing it up, he noticed Udemi staring at him.

He blinked twice, frozen in place, "Uh...Hi... Udemi...long time no see..."

"The queen is awake and the General is about to begin the talk with her about the city," Udemi stated, as cold as ever.

"Ah, I see...Very well, thank you, I'm on my way," Traysek sighed in relief, shouldering the backpack, and leaving for the exit...

"If you're wondering, I'm not judging for what you did," Udemi stated before disappearing into the shadows.

He closed his eyes with a grin, "And I'm glad you don't..." heading towards the meeting room...

---

Council room...

---

Standing in front of the throne, Queen Aurora didn't know how to feel as she was looking at Olga, sitting on her husband's throne, and Greil, standing by Olga's right side.

"I hope that your wounds doing alright," Olga stated taking a more comfortable pose on the throne.

The Queen nodded, "They are, strangely enough I woke up to the pain fading, though...I don't know who healed me...? I was certain I was dead..."

The "Culprit" behind that one, was chilling at the table, gulping wine and shot a quick eye, before glancing back forward.

"Now... I take that you're going to ask for the throne to go back to the Royal- I mean, ex-Royal family?" Olga asked.

The Queen's pleasant expression turned serious, "Ex-Royal family...? Our family's rule didn't end with the death of my husband, we knew if such a day were to come...that I would rule in place of him...and my daughter still lives...And knowing her, I'm sure she didn't surrender..."

A snicker came from the Redguard, quickly returning to his wine, "Sorry, I think I choked a bit...*cough* don't mind me..."

"Is that so?" Olga had a smug grin, as she leaned forward, "I take that you know how your people are feeling, hmm?"

"I...To be honest, I haven't seen the city since all that chaos happened and I was stabbed along with...Eos..." Her eyes went dark, before regaining composure, "Unless you have claims to prove otherwise, I have no reason to surrender our Family's city..."

Traysek sighed deeply, sitting up in the chair, "If I may, Queen Aurora?" her attention going to him, "Your daughter was witnessed surrendering to the enemy by shield princess Prim and the nuns taken hostage and that's not counting those who were all there to help them after it...By that point, Lady Prim didn't have a choice but to resume command..."

"And do you have evidence to prove that claim...? If not...Beasley's head isn't going to be the ONLY one rolling..." Aurora said in a pleasant but threatening tone.

Olga began to look around, "I take that you have some sort of army to... help with that little threat?"

She gritted her teeth, "That for now..." narrowing her eyes, before glancing back at the Redguard, taking a calming breath, "Listen...I have nothing against you...but unless you have actual proof of this, that's the only way I'll believe it..."

He grinned, pulling out a calling stone, "I'm glad you asked, one sec," activating it, "Hello? does anyone have the incident recorded? I know someone does..."

Record's chuckle could be heard through it, "I do~ I was with Dargo when we encountered them, why? do you need it?"

"Queen's asking for proof of the surrender, I would like to oblige her with it..." He grinned.

"Hehehehe~ it's coming to you..." She chuckled through the crystal, as it lit up brightly, dying down, "Done~ let me know if you need anything else...and tell the General I got that body, it's waiting encased in ice at the parlor, we're all there now the with the commander, I'll see you when you're done..." hanging up the call...

The Redguard laid the crystal and cast a spell, making it project on a wall, "Feel free to take a look..." The scene starts with Alicia on the wall.

Everything from the captured nuns to Alicia's rage toward Recorder, passing by her surrender.

"Oh my~ that's what I call proof that can't be counterfeit," Olga said as Greil shook his head with disappointment.

"Giving up is a sign of a weak will..." the General sighed.

Queen Aurora watched that scene with horror and disbelief, not believing how her daughter was acting in this situation...It wasn't like they were too close, but even knew of Alicia's unwillingness to surrender...But now, this ugly truth hung here...Ending when Traysek deactivated the crystal.

"I'm...sorry you had to see it like that, I honestly didn't know one of mine had something to do with those rescued women, but you needed to know the truth on that...Even if you claim that you haven't surrendered, your daughter has...and it was also witnessed by her knights..." Traysek explained putting away the crystal.

"By the goddess Reborn...Alicia..." Aurora said in disbelief, eyes shadowing over...

"Now that's settled, we need to talk about you." Greil stated, "For Alicia, she will be placed under Niall and will follow strict and harsh training. But you... we don't know what we should do with you..."

She was silent with her eyes still shadowed over, until she glanced up at the general, "Running this kingdom...it was my husband's, king Eos's duty...but now that he's gone...and Alicia has already sold out our city to the enemy...there's no way anyone will trust our name again...I have an estate, the Arcturus family's, I can go there and live in peace...I'll need time to grieve and after today...I don't think I can be in these walls anymore..."

Greil took a deep breath before saying, "Are you sure that's what you desire... or are you acting under the impulse of your emotions?"

Olga sighed as she said, "If you truly wish to do that, you should wait until we clean the kingdom from the monsters and those who would hurt you."

"Although... I may have a proposition for you..." Greil stated after thinking.

"And that is...?" Aurora raised an eyebrow.

"To join a newly established council as a member of the said council." Greil answered, "Of course, your identity will be masked by a new one to protect you from anyone who would like to harm you. You have knowledge that can help people, and that can be a key factor in saving yourself from the flames of their hatred." he then added, "You will receive a temporary guard until we find you a better one. Meanwhile, you can either live in the castle or the city... that's my offer."

Aurora thought about that, slowly nodding, "As much as I would stay here, after dying in these walls, all I'm getting is bad memories, the estate is still within the grounds of the kingdom, I'll stay there, my mind's made up...but as for your offer, I'll take you up that...Because I won't be in charge anymore and I can't leave it to my daughter, she's proven I can't...So, I'm thinking of leaving Commander Niall in charge of the city...I always did find him responsible despite what Eos always claimed..."

"However, we would like that stay within the city for a few days." Greil said before adding, "We still need to clean the surroundings."

"I've seen enemy camps outside of the city, it's not safe for that right now, they have a point...but, it won't take as long to do it..." Traysek added in.

The Queen took a deep breath, "Fine, very well...I'll do my best to remain here...and I'll accept that offer of yours...in one condition..."

Olga raised an eyebrow as Greil nodded.

"I...Want that traitorous minister brought to his knees before me...I want to look him in his eyes, so I can understand why he chose to do this after so long...if I get your assurance there...I'll have no problems joining you...Are these terms acceptable?" She asked, with flames burning in her eyes.

Greil nodded again as he said, "Once we capture him, We shall take you to him. From there, we'd let you do as you wish with him."

"That'll be enough..." She answered without missing a beat, "And as for Alicia...when I announce the end of this battle, I'll need to speak with her...once she wakes anyway..."

"Remind me to sharpen a dagger for you later..." Traysek whistled.

"Right now, she's in the jester's house as she said, and I quote 'I shall begin with our honeymoon right now.' and we have yet to see both of them..." Greil stated.

"Ah, I see, well that should- Wait...WHAT?!" The Queen shrieked at the realization, "You mean to tell me... you just let a stranger take my daughter out of here without me talking to them?"

Traysek winced with Gritted teeth, glancing at Greil...

Greil sweatdropped as he said, "It's... the same Jester you appointed to look after her... the one called Jenelica."

"I...I didn't appoint her, my husband did, I do know of the singer, but I don't truly know her..." Aurora sighed, "If...she's serious about taking Alicia's hand, she needs to see me first, Queen or no queen..."

Greil nodded as he said, "That's true... well, we still need to talk with her about something." he then added, "With that being said; you shall be escorted by one Dark Blade as your shadow and one of Niall's knight for the moment. If you have any request..."

"None for now...We concede...Officially..." The Queen bowed her head, "

Traysek smiled, standing up, "So with that out of the way..." turning to Aurora, "The Name's Traysek, your highness, I'm the one who brought you back...the only regret to that, is that I couldn't get to the king in time, apologies..."

"I...See...Thank you...and don't worry about that...I can't put that on you...I didn't even see that coming myself," The Queen waved off with a smile.

"Now that's done, how about discussing the wrongs of your family in the past..." Olga said with a frown, "After all, these lands belong to the Lycans... not the humans."

The Queen had a nervous smile and a small sweat drop, "Oh...I figured that was gonna come up...Very well..."

---

30 minutes later...

Feoh castle balcony...

---

Greil walked out of the balcony and took an ivory horn ornamented with various inscriptions. After Blowing into it, a green wave was felt through the entire kingdom.

For the monster forces around, it meant they were victorious...For the holy army...Well, their spirits were more than down...that sound heralded their defeat...As for the black dogs that had surrendered...Were detained and taken in chains, being shoved into a carriage, along with few monsters allied with them...To where? no one knew...Although most of the ...And with the Queen's surrender, The battle had truly ended and now at the parlor of the castle...

---

Castle parlor...

---

"To Victory my friends!" Inigo cheered, holding up his tankard.

"CHEERS!" the others shouted, clacking tankards together and taking gulps out of them.

Traysek laughed, setting his down, "I heard you guys we're killing it out there from a few members of the Rescue teams," noticing Lucien's torn shirt to the front, "And...it looks a few got some war scars, eh?"

The imperial blushed at that, "Oh how embarrassing..." covering it up, getting chuckles from the crew, "I nearly got skewered during one of my runs, weird guy in a bone mask... still, Endra came through,"

"That Reminds me, did you know he had an older daughter boss?" Record asked him.

"No...but...now I do, something tells me we'll meet soon..." The Redguard nodded, "And you said, Bone mask? Lucien...?"

Reynold walked in, finding the group celebrating and talking at a table, narrowing their eyes, 'I bet they're happy...look at em...no no, focus Rey...you're here for someone else...' looking around the area, spotting Niall at the bar table, 'There you are commander...' approaching him.

"Yes! I need a new armor now!" Niall said with joy, "If only you were here to celebrate with us!"

"As much as I'd want to, humans don't tend to... enjoy my company." someone, a man, answered from the crystal set in front of him.

"Also! Add a Banished Knight Halberd to it! She's gonna need it!" Niall laughed before gulping down the mug of ale.

"Simple enough." was the answer he got before the glow died.

"The lass' gonna be for one hell of a training regiment!" Niall laughed again as he was given another round of ale.

"Hail Commander! mind if I join you?" Rey asked.

"Sure kid!" Niall laughed before downing his mug.

He took a seat next to him, "So, I just heard that horn...means the battle's over, So, What happens now, Sir?"

"Now we celebrate!" Niall proclaimed as his knights cheered with him, "Feel like I can take an Elden Lord with how happy I am! Hahahahahahaha!"

"You're the best, sir!" a knight claimed loudly as the others followed him with that.

Rey looked around at the cheering knights, he couldn't help but smile, "I see...I heard on my way over, are we getting a recruit?"

"Something like that..." Niall answered.

"Besides, it's none of your business." a knight walked up to him, "WE are getting one, and you aren't a part of that 'we'."

"Right!" another knight joined him, "You're a filthy Holy Knight who can't win!"

"Now now, no need to be like this." Niall waved his hand, "The boy made a few mistakes, nothing that makes him the worst human here."

"But sir!" one of the knights tried to argue but backed down before going with the others to get food.

"Anyways, I'm going to get the lass as a member of my boys before working her to become my second." Niall then finished with a laugh.

Rey slowly nodded at that, frowning at the gold knights, "The Lass? As in the princess? I had wondered where she had gone off to, but...after losing like that, not sure if it's wise speaking to her at the moment,"

"Swain's orders." Niall shrugged, "Besides, I wouldn't mind training her personally." he then laughed again.

Reynold thought on that, "You know? Knowing how she is, it's not gonna come easy...but until then, I hope it works out for the best," with a nod and smile, turning to Traysek's table, who were all laughing about something, "Just not understanding...how you came to be friends with...them...No disrespect on your part, but why them...?"

"Best kids I've ever met." Niall laughed as he downed another mug of ale, "They know what to do, that's a fact!"

The young knight frowned, "Right...I've met them too...they seemed alright...in the beginning...But after earlier..." shaking his head slowly, "I don't know now...So, where are we going after this?"

"Me and my boys are going to set things right here by becoming the main military force." Niall responded, "For you... I don't know."

Rey blinked at that, "Wait...what do you mean...? I'm out...?" he asked with a worried look.

"Why the question?" Niall asked as he was given another mug of ale, "You're not one of my boys. They're pretty recognized when presenting themselves; no need to say who they are to be known."

Rey was taken aback by that, now feeling like he'd wasted time with them, as the gold knights were snickering nearby...If he didn't feel embarrassed before, being slammed on his head was a mercy compared to this...he wanted to get angry. Still, knowing the strength of the commander, he dared not test it...sighing in defeat, "I...I see...maybe not...Thank you for at least the shot sir..." spotting one his knights at the doors, "Good day, commander..." getting up with a bow and heading towards Marquel.

"What should we do now?" Marquel asked when Rey got to him, "Can we turn the situation to our advantage?"

Rey sighed, "Not by attacking anyone here, it's safe to say we're done for now...let's just attend the ceremony tomorrow...besides," glancing at Traysek's table, "They can't be getting it no better anyway...how's the men?"

"Our healers said they'd need a few days of rest." Marquel answered sighing, "But thank the Goddess, we didn't lose anyone."

"That's a relief, it means they'll live to fight another day," Rey smiled, "As we will, for now...I need to talk to you somewhere, let's go," heading out the doors.

Once they were about to get out, they bumped into two Dark Elves and Sylla.

"Oh...it's you Sylla... we're just leaving," Rey sighed, frowning at the other two elves, "New friends I take it?"

"None of your business," Sylla replied as she walked past the two Holy Knights as one of the Dark Elves sent him a cold glare.

Reynold shot him a hard frown, blinking twice before walking past them with Marquel, 'Wonder what his problem was...?'

Once inside, Sylla and the two Elves headed toward Traysek and the rest of his crew.

Traysek glanced up and noticed them coming, "Hey guys~ You made it~ and I see you brought company with you! Hello again Sylla~" he greeted tankard in hand, as the rest of the crew turned to them.

"Hey~" Sylla greeted back, "How're you doing?"

"Now? Having a good time after a long day," Traysek laughed, "And this is my crew here, guys, this is the tarnished I was telling you all about, do introduce yourselves~"

Inigo raised his tankard, "Hello Sylla! I am Inigo~ the first mate and best marksman of the crew! It's nice to meet you, I've heard things," with a friendly grin, transforming into an approving smirk, "I'm also known as Inigo the brave to the ladies~ and I happen to be very much single~ if you're wondering that is," getting snickers from Record and Yuri.

"Uh huh, nice to meet you." she smiled before turning to Traysek, "It's funny how he tries to impress me."

"Now that's just being hurtful..." Inigo's ears playfully drooping low, "The rejection..."

The Redguard laughed, "Nah, he's just a way of meeting new people, he's someone you can trust, good heart, just a bit nuts... and can you blame him for trying...?" raising an eyebrow.

Lucien stood up, giving a bow, "Hello there, I'm Lucien Flavius, scientist, scholar, and negotiator of the crew, it's a pleasure to meet you, Sylla~"

"Hoo~ an intellectual, huh? Nice to meet you!" Sylla greeted with a smile and a greeting nod.

The imperial chuckled with a slight blush, "Oh...I wouldn't word it like that, I'm just passionate about what I study...And I am still learning different ways of fighting...Had plenty of time before this,"

Erik glanced up from his thoughts, "Uh hi, I'm Erik the Slayer, you must be Sylla, it's nice to meet you," with a smile.

Sylla narrowed her eyes and said, "You... you feel like you lost someone... or nearly lost someone..." she then smiled, "I hope that everything goes alright for you."

"Could tell huh? You're right about the latter, but I know things are going to be okay, especially if she got back to the medics...just wishing she was here celebrating with us..." The Nord pointed.

Yuriana gave him a sympathetic smile, "I made sure to heal her to the best Erik, she may have to go back to the city, but she'll be fine..." Turning to Sylla, "Hello, I'm Yuriana, the healer and bruiser of the team, charmed to meet you, Sylla," she introduced.

"Nice to meet you! Especially for someone who's both appealing and strong." Sylla grinned, "Bet that you can keep up with Godfrey for a good while."

"Hahaha~ Aren't we flattering~? I could say the same for you that eye of yours, adds to your appeal~," Yuri said with a wink.

Recorder sighed shaking her head, before giving Sylla a larger Grin, "And I'm~ Recorder! Aspiring assassin and black widow of the crew, it's nice meeting you, hope we see more of each other~"

"Assassin, huh? Nice~" Sylla grinned before adding, "Kinda remind me of that Black Knife Tarnished I worked with. Well, miss Recorder, nice to meet you~"

Record nervously chuckled, "Well, if those black knives are like the dark blades, I don't wanna meet em'! But they do have those cool knives..." going into thought.

"That's the last thing you need in your possession, gods," Traysek laughed, "So now you've met our little family, and those two are honorary, even if they don't accept it," with a smirk.

"We're not that important." Endra pointed with a smirk before adding, "But this guy here might already be part of the family."

Inigo smirked, "Oh yeah, Recorder's future hus-" he went to say, until he was cut off with elbow to ribs by her, "-Oof, nevermind...!" he groaned out, earning some chuckles, while she was red-faced.

"Shut up! We're not even thinking on that level!" She squeaked.

Traysek laughed, shaking his head, "Don't sell yourself short, Endra, you've been coming around as much as Dargo has, it's more than fair," he waved down.

"I'm just a guy who is happy to help his friends." Endra pointed with a smirk.

"Aren't we all...?" Yuri answered back with a smirk, "I could even say that for the centaur who carried me here, but he had to rush off somewhere right after dropping me off, not sure where though,"

"I'm sure he'll turn up, we'll be here for a while," The Redguard assured, "That said, We'll be heading to the commander's house when Greil and Olga finish up with a few last things with the Queen...turned out to be nicer than Alicia, I was surprised...What about you guys? where are you all going?" Asking the trio.

Dargo thought for a moment before saying, "I think that I'm going to get a little souvenir for my siblings."

Endra looked at his left as a familiar curvy Harpy approached him, "As for me... I'll be very busy."

Traysek raised an eyebrow at Thely's approaching, smirking, "Ah~ I see, don't have too much fun now Endra~" he chuckled, "And Dargo, there's plenty left, even after my..." glancing at the overstuffed backpack, "Bonus run, I'm sure you'll find something," turning to Sylla, "And what about you, Sylla? Where are you going after this?"

"I'm going to buy a good bottle of wine with the gold I just received before heading to see the old Niall to ask him about something," Sylla answered.

"Oh~? Might as well take your chance before we leave, he seems pretty chatty, He's done talking to Rey so I'm sure he'll be up for it," The Redguard smiled, "And...if you can't find any good wine to buy, I've got some stuff from Erdora I wouldn't mind sharing...It's never hit the shelves, and it's pretty strong for wine, but that's up to you~" he smirked.

"It's a private matter that I need to talk with him about." Sylla pointed, "As for the wine... I know my way around them. Enjoyed drinking some good ones when I served under Lady Ranni."

Traysek chuckled, "Of course~ don't let us keep ya, and if you're that good with wine, do let me know if you find something better, alright?" he joked, "I'll see you around, Sylla,"

"Bye~" she waved before heading away.

"Well, I have something to do," Endra said cheekily before heading toward a room with Thelys, leaving only Dargo standing there...

Yuriana chuckled, "Geez, he ran to her rather quickly..."

"The duties of a husband...more daring than an adventurer..." Inigo said dramatically, "It's almost as beautiful as poetry,"

"Like claiming a warrior's heart~?" Lucien added in, singing.

"Exactly! See? you know how this works!" The blue khajiit laughed.

"That...That should summarize every reason why you two are single right now..." Erik sighed with a smug smirk.

The rest of the Crew laughed at that as the two had embarrassing shades of pink, save Inigo, but the expression nonetheless was the same...

Meanwhile, Dargo was frowning before mumbling, "That's what he's planning?"

"I mean in his shoes, who wouldn't be doing that?" Traysek smirked, "To be fair, that's sounding like a mood right now if I just had to be honest,"

Recorder grinned at him, "Oh~ Like you and Sylla, boss...?" Making him sputter his drink, "We saw that energy, what was all that? huh? And you wanna talk about me and Dargo, I told you this was coming back!" she laughed.

"Alright, Look here," He started with, trying to be as serious as possible, by slamming his hands on the table, "It's been weeks for me, okay? WEEKS... I have two bloods in me that are hotter than the sun, so think I've done a pretty damn good job restraining myself during said time..." with a wide-eyes and a smile, "I will not pursue it, but if she comes at me with that action...I don't think I'm saying "No" and that's the end of it..." getting chuckles from the men in the crew.

Dargo went to Traysek and tapped his shoulder, "You need to listen to this... while they're still talking..."

He raised an eyebrow and turned to said direction, focusing his hearing on the conversation by clicking on the scouter...

"This plan is... kinda risky." it was Marquel's voice, "And that traitor can end it quickly since he's in love with the monsters."

"Who? Traysek? I don't think there's much worry there, Besides, If he wanted us dead, he would've done it back in the throne room...the fact that we still live is evident enough he won't get in the way of us starting our new unit..." Rey's voice came next.

Traysek frowned hard, "What the fuck...? You've been hearing this Dargo...?"

"I can hear that too my friend, including that conversation he had with the commander...not sure what you did to make him hate us.." Inigo frowned.

"Don't let that get to you, with what I found out about him, I don't care what he thinks at the moment..." The Redguard sighed, shaking his head, "And yes, to answer your question, that was Reynold if you ran into him on your way in... It sounds like he's trying to start a private unit with those other weak knights," taking a gulp, listening in.

"Well, I still need to thank you for saving me from that pink-haired Dark Elf that had glasses... so I will try to work on some contacts to help you."

Dargo only widens his eyes.

Meanwhile, Traysek and Inigo had the same expressions, glancing at each other, before back in that direction...

"By the gods...he stabbed who...?" Inigo asked in a hushed tone.

Erik blinked at that, "I'm sorry, what did you hear?"

The Redguard took a deep calming breath, "Gods...Uh...Erik...? I think I know who left Zephyr like that...and thing is...I suspected it, but that was Reynold..." taking a hard gulp out of the tankard.

"Are you fucking serious...? That little shit did that?" The Nord in a harsh growl, "Hoooo~ hooooooooo~ and I saw him too, and he fucking walk out of here...oooooh~ Why the fu-?" feeling anger boil up, "Mara give me mercy... Arkay give me patience...I need both, I need both right now...!" his tankard cracking his hands...

"About those who died... were they..." Dargo tried asking while looking at Yuri.

The Redhead wench sadly nodded, taking a deep sigh, "They were...ran through from the back...those that died, straight through the heart...I can't believe it...

Traysek bitterly chuckled, "Huh, so me beating his ass as badly as I did earlier was legit, and I was still playing with him...I should've broken him in two..." shaking his head.

"Oh no sir, I'm glad you didn't, I can get right to that!" The Nord stood up, until The Redguard forced a hand on him, sitting him back down, "But Sir... you just heard all that, he's right in there! you're telling me to let this go?!"

"Not at all, Erik... But I am telling you to pick your battles better...Right now, you're acting off anger, justified anger, understood anger, but anger regardless... You're not going to focus as well as you think you are...and I believe there have been enough corpses today..." easing the pressure off his shoulder, "I understand how you feel... and it surprises me you found someone, you're crazy for..." with a smile, "But Erik, we've already won this battle and according to Yuriana... she's going to make it...There's no reason to go vengefully hunting him down, for it now... enjoy yourself, man, enjoy your victory and pour one for her... and who knows? after the ceremony... If she does go back to the city, I'll take you back to her, deal?"

The Nord thought on this, wanting to hurt him, but then looked around at everyone having a good time, sighing in defeat, slowly nodding his head and sulked, "Okay...okay you're right...I'm sorry, I don't want to ruin anyone's mood here...and it would be like beating a wounded dog now...I'll refrain from hunting him...for now..."

Inigo patted his shoulder, refilling the Nord's tankard "Tomorrow is a different day, Erik, let him choke on his fake Victory, while we enjoy our real one..." handing it back to him.

Erik blinked twice at that, taking two large gulps and coming back up for air, "Thank you guys...seriously, It's just...why? She was defending the city, he had to have seen the glow..."

"It's because he wasn't glowing, Erik..." Traysek answered, "That's why so many of ours got cut down like that...I told him, that if there's any mercy in this world, it'll be that Lord Swain doesn't turn him to dust...and I mean that..." clicking the scouter back on.

"I would like that, and that helps because the commander is just about done with me, and I will need people to count on..." Rey's voice hummed, "Now, let's withdraw from the castle, it's not safe here now... the men are back at the camp..." The sounds of footsteps leaving and opening a door.

Dargo took a deep breath before sitting with the crew, "How long are you going to let him do whatever he wants? You know who is coming, right? You can't expect her to stop because you said so."

The Redguard nodded with a sigh, "I know that... I'm aware I can't stop that storm of destruction... But it's not about me letting him do as he pleases either, in fact, it's quite the opposite," setting down his tankard, "More than anything, I would let Erik rip his arms off, but that...that needs to be it's own day...it's own time...There are already too many bodies, Dargo... This has to die down a bit...and not to mention, knowing he was supposed to be under Lord Swain...This kid might be more screwed than you think...enough to the point, your general relented killing him when we found what we found out about him..."

"What did you find out?" Dargo asked as he raised an eyebrow.

"Let's just say he's got a low self-esteem, so low he got one of Greil's old friends, a former teacher here, killed with it because he was promised prim's hand when he got to a certain age..." Traysek was annoyed by the memory.

The Crew Grimaced, immediately understanding what was implied, Recorder Recoiled...

"Oh Eww...wow...my opinion couldn't get any lower... No wonder you didn't want to kill him...Gross..." She said with gritted teeth, "Did he at least get a handjob for doing that? honestly? because if he didn't...what the hell...?

Yuriana sighed, shaking her head, "Not a chance...you can already tell the answer to that, don't lie for him..."

Dargo had an empty stare as he said, "Pathetic..."

"You're goddamned right..." Traysek said with an equally empty stare.

---

Commander's office...

---

Niall took a deep breath before saying, "Now... did you figure it out? weaponizing the last Scarlet Aeonia that bloomed recently."

Sylla nodded and said, "Unlike the one made by Malenia, this one is mutated." after saying the confusion on the commander's face she added, "Normally, that Incantation causes only Rot. However, the most recent one had something else... Poison worms..."

"What are you talking about?" Niall asked, "What do you mean by worms?"

"We did find some people who tried to survive... but it was late for them." Sylla answered, "The only one who survived died with a giant worm exiting his body."

"Those worms..." Niall began before getting cut short by the Tarnished.

"They seem to develop at the base of the Aeonia and try to find a host to grow." she explained, "Whoever did it... must be stopped before doing something worse..."

Niall nodded before replying, "We need to find a way to get my men to have the skills to combat whoever does this."

"It may be a hard bargain, but if you can get your hand on another Tarnished, you can get them to share their knowledge of the spells that they have." Sylla pointed.

"But the question is 'Is there another Tarnished besides you?' which I'm sure that the chances that the answer is yes is near inexistent," Niall stated.

"Then... there's another way to go for it..." Sylla narrowed her eyes, "We need to ask the Gods of this place to show us where the Erdtree is. This way, we can see if we can't have someone gain its blessing to become stronger."

"That's true." Niall nodded, "To fight this mysterious enemy, we'd need something stronger than elite soldiers."

"That's if the Elden Lord who has the connection with the tree allows it." Sylla sighed, "I did hear that someone in the kingdom south of here performed a spell compared to Law of Regression... but I need to investigate it before being certain."

Niall took a deep breath before saying, "Let's do it after taking the city of Ur."

Sylla only nodded.

---

Later outside of Feoh...

Niall's Fort...

---

When Olga and Greil had finished their deal with the queen, the crew along with Dargo left with the commander to his fort, joining him and his men over for Dinner...It was a decent walk to the outskirts of the capital city, but when they got there, the crew's eyes went as wide as dinner plates...

Traysek whistled, "Damn Niall...you live like this?" with an approving grin.

There was a fort with five towers around it and covered with snow. As for the guards they were a bit bigger and had a different armor than the Free Knights.

Inigo grinned, "Look at the size of this fort, and that's just outside...!"

"Those guards are even more intimidating, larger too...wonder what they've been eating...?" Lucien wondered with an eyebrow raised.

Yuriana looked around the grounds, "It's beautiful here, Plenty of space here too, you got one hell of a place Niall,"

"I can agree there, and we've been to nice castles...how much did this place cost?" Erik asked with a frown.

Recorder looked around with a bright grin, "No idea...but I'm getting a very winter wonderland feeling and I'm loving it!"

A that moment, a one-armed young man with short orange hair and green eyes walked to them. He's wearing a fur coat and some fur boots.

"Um... are you the Commander's guests?" he asked nervously.

Traysek gave a bow, "Why yes we are, is the commander inside already?" with a smile.

"The Commander is working on some papers right now." the young man answered, "He asked me to escort you to the reception room."

"Of course, lead the way~" The Redguard nodded, following the young man with the crew behind, still marveling at the view...

Some Free Knights were training either with close-range weapons or by using great bows.

Once they arrived at the main gate, the young man opened it for them.

They stepped inside the fort, the gate closing behind them as they looked amongst the military barracks there as they passed...

'Quite defensible here... from top to bottom, his guards are covering it...' Traysek mused, narrowing his eyes on the corners they were in, 'Even the corners are locked down tight, they know their shit...To say this is very well guarded is an understatement...' with an impressed grin.

"Lately, a lot of attacks led by the Dogs were pushed back, so don't be surprised if the guards are a bit tense." The young man pointed before adding, "Where are my manners? My name is Ladish."

"Nice to meet you, Ladish~ The name's Traysek and this is my Crew," The Redguard introduced, "And no problems there, we just had to do a day of pest extermination ourselves, we understand," with a chuckle.

Once he got them to a spacious room filled with fur-based furniture he told them, "I'll go see if the Commander is done with his work."

When they took a seat on the furniture, Inigo gave a relaxed breath...

"Ah~...finally off my legs..." The khajiit hummed, relaxing on the couch.

Traysek looked at the theme around them, feeling warm and quite familiar sitting on the same couch..."It feels homely in here...almost like..."

"Lakeview manor in one room?" Erik answered, sitting on one of the chairs.

"Almost, until you remember the rest of the fort..." The Redguard answered, "But close enough...it has that air here...it's pleasant..."

"You'd think as cold as it is outside, it wouldn't be...nice to know some things are different," Record said, shuddering at the memory of Windhelm.

Yuriana nodded, "Still to be invited here after today...I know many that would find an honor in this...I know I do..." with a smile.

"It's fair enough to say it's even more decorated than that manor, more protected too, could've used this against the 8th bandit attack..." Lucien murmured.

After some minutes, the door burst open as Niall walked in, ginning, "Nice to see you here, lads. Had somethings to take care of."

"Nice to see you as well, Niall~" Traysek greeted, "And don't worry about that, I figured we were late getting here," with a chuckle.

"Heh, you're not that late." Niall laughed as he sat on a large chair, "Now, why not chat a bit until it's time to eat, eh?"

"I don't see why not, we didn't during our time chilling there," The Redguard shrugged, "And besides, it looked like you and Sylla had something important to talk about, a shame she's not here,"

"She stays at the inn." Niall replied, "She likes to be in a city rather than outside."

Traysek nodded, "Ah, I see, would've done so myself, but we haven't seen the state of it since the attack...nice to know one's still open,"

"If the inn's been damaged, she may come here." Niall pointed, "Wanting to look at her, huh?"

The Redguard chuckled, "If I'm being honest, she has a pretty face, I have yet to see what under the armor to make that call,"

"You'd better know how to smooth your way, lad." Niall laughed, "The last one who tried found himself hanged using his intestines from a high point. and his body mutilated to a scary part."

At that moment, a knock was heard as Ledish entered, "Sir, someone is here to see you."

The Redguard smirked, "Honestly, as scary as that sounds, our world's women are scarier...at least to us..." he chuckled with men in the crew, "But I'll keep that mind, didn't seem to hit off bad back there though... we'll see what happens,"

"There's a song even made about it, a guy named Ragnar the red, who became Ragnar the headless thanks to a shield-maiden..." Erik added in.

"Let them in!" Niall proclaimed with a grin.

"Right away sir." Ledish nodded before walking away to do as he was asked.

Traysek smiled, "That said Niall, you've got yourself one hell of a headquarters and home," looking around, "I'm impressed~ I don't see anyone getting in here,"

"Or getting out, just in casethey make it that far," Record chuckled, "Scary thought, but that's comforting in a way too,"

"That place was taken from a group of Dogs who accepted a generous offer from me." Niall said with a laugh, "Either they take their stuff and go away, or they become part of the decoration."

"Generous huh?" Traysek said with an eyebrow raised and smirk, "I've seen that "Generosity" alright...you were Generously about to tear Volt a new ass!" he laughed, "Understood though, Understood, If I or any of the guys here had a wife as pretty yours, he wouldn't have been left as pretty as I left him...that's for damn sure," getting agreeing nods from the men of the crew.

"And seeing as we didn't see any skulls, I assume they were smart enough to take the first option?" Lucien added in with an eyebrow raise.

"After stomping their boss at the time, they ran away like little girls," Niall replied with a laugh.

At that moment, Sylla walked in, carrying three bottles of wine.

"I wouldn't have bothered you if-" Sylla began before noticing Traysek and the others, "Well hello there~"

The Redguard turned to her, surprised, "Well well~ Hello again Sylla~ and the commander just told me you checked in an inn at the City, what happened?"

"I did try to stay there, but there were a lot of people who lost their homes." Sylla pointed, "So, for tonight, I thought of asking to crash here."

"Ah, I was wondering what happened to the refugees of this battle, nice to know they have somewhere to lay their heads," Lucien grinned.

Traysek smiled, "I'm surprised there's even Inns standing after all that...Regardless, glad you're here, now we've got ourselves a party~" he chuckled, noting the bottles, "And I see you've brought plenty of party favors too, good time~ the Commander and us we're just shooting the shit, feel free to join~" offering her a seat.

"You're talking about memories?" Sylla asked as she sat down, "I wonder if he told you the promotion day of Ekkyes..."

Niall stiffed a little before saying, "C-Come now, there no need to talk about that."

"Oh~?" Traysek asked with a Cheshire grin, glancing at Niall, "We haven't gotten there yet, what's this "Promotion day..." Commander~?"

Recorder sniffed the air, "I smell embarrassment~ come on, tell us," With a wide grin.

"I'm sure it can't be as bad as the boss's, nothing was as bad as that..." Yuriana added in with a smirk.

"You...you hush...! Don't even bring that sordid tale up, I still don't remember half of that night! ugh!" The Redguard groaned.

"Ekkyes is Niall's adoptive daughter." Sylla replied, "Well, one of his two adoptive daughters; one became commander like him while the other joined the Black Knives. Despite both of them being appealing, even if Ekkyes was a Draconian, no one dared to court them." Sylla laughed before adding, "Everyone was afraid to get on Niall's bad side."

"I see, so it was over attractive family... oh gods, you don't get a break do you?" Lucien asked with a chuckle.

Traysek nervously laughed, "Their fear is pretty justified there, I've seen firsthand what that looks like...but that does explain that story, congrats on that Niall, I know you had have been happy for her..."

"He was so happy that he drank every ale in Leyndell, which caused him to be scolded hard." Sylla giggled as Niall groaned.

"And the fact that I started fights left and right..." the old man added with a facepalm.

"Yup, the capital wasn't the same that night." Sylla nodded.

The Crew laughed at his reddening face, Record taking a calming breath.

"Geez, you know? even with that...that's still rather tame compared to what he did when he got blacked out drunk..." She giggled.

The Redguard groaned once again, "Must I retell that story...? Once again, I still don't know how true that is..."

"Oh come on, he did share his, It's pretty fair sir..." Erik smirked.

"Fine...How do I even start this...?" Traysek sighed, "So here's how this happened...I met this Daedric prince and then..."

He had regaled the entire story about the night with Sanguine and what he had to do after his drunken night, and where it had all led him...

The Reaction was obvious...

Sylla was laughing hard as she was rolling on the floor while Niall only walked to him, put a hand on his shoulder, and nodded with a smile.

Despite the dark skin, a visible blush could be seen on Traysek's face, trying to retain a smile, "Yeah yeah...Alright, get it over with..." he waved down, as the crew laughed with her, "Least I got a decent staff out of it, I can't complain..."

"I told you it was gonna be worse!" Recorder giggled, "I think I see some pink on those cheeks too,"

As they were laughing, Ladish entered and said, "Commander, dinner is ready."

The laughter died down while the Dragonborn took a breath of relief...

'Thank gods...you're a lifesaver Ladish...!' he mentally thanked.

They were led to a vast dining room with many armor and weapons displayed.

Lucien marveled at the displayed armory, "Oh my...I've seen the guards here in these, they seem old, and yet...not at the same time...The craftsmanship on them is otherworldly even, I'd like one to study on if I get the chance,"

"Study" huh? don't you already have some weird weapons from here? like those glintstone sword and dagger?" Erik asked.

"Which I still have yet to use...I didn't bring them with me during this battle, but maybe tomorrow we can head back and pick them up, I still have my stone to Yamakhroz," The imperial nodded.

The crew took a seat at the large dining room table. the smells of food filling the halls...

"All those spices...now you've got me eager for Dinner commander," Inigo sniffed, earning some chuckles.

The Redguard nodded, noticing someone not there, "I notice the wife's not around? Couldn't join us for dinner?" with a raised eyebrow.

"She ate early." Niall replied before going to his thoughts, "She's feeling quite tired these days..."

"I can understand that, we've all had a long day," Traysek chuckled, "That said, give her my condolences,"

At that moment, High Elves and Human workers entered with plates of grilled ribs and fried potatoes while there was one large covered plate.

The crew's eyes matched the side of the plates there, looking over each platter...

"By the gods...I'm glad I saved up before coming," Inigo gulped, getting agreeing nods.

When the cover of the large plate was removed, it revealed a grilled lamb with chicken legs around it.

"Have at it, lads! No need to hold back!" Niall laughed as he took a chicken leg.

"Well, you all heard the man..." Traysek grinned, taking off his gauntlets, "Frankly I don't know why you all still have those on," He laughed, while plates were being passed around, "Now...where to start first?"

...

And they did just that, enjoying the food as the platters got emptier and emptier while hanging out with the commander and his men along with Sylla... laughing and regaling old stories and adventures...some more embarrassing or exciting than others, but either way...it was a great time for everyone to come down after a day of violence like that...They knew it would be far from over, but for a first battle, it was good enough...

This lasted until later at night, Eventually, the platters and tankards were empty as everyone was relaxed on their chairs, stuffed and tired...

"Gods...that was a feast..." Inigo happily groaned, holding his stomach, "I don't think I could eat or drink anymore..." he tiredly chuckled.

"I don't think any of us could...I think I lost myself in those ribs and sauce, I know I'm going to pay for that..." Recorder yawned out.

Yuriana snickered, "Honestly, as much running as we've done today...you would need this much..." noticing everyone's stares, "What? I learned that from my wrestling instructor, it's about gaining back what you burned off,"

"I can agree on the body replenishment, but it feels like I've done too much of that," Lucien tiredly laughed.

"He did say not to hold back," Erik laughed, finishing the last of his drink, "Ah~ now I'm completely popped..."

Traysek laid back on his chair, holding his mug, feeling the weight of his armor kicking in, "I'm glad everyone had fun, so did I...Niall, you've been a fantastic host, thank you~" he grinned, "But now...I'm starting to feel how heavy this armor is, I'm willing a few of us are too...got somewhere we can change?" rolling his shoulder.

Niall laughed as he said, "I prepared a room for each one of you. Well, except for one..." and Sylla chuckled with embarrassment.

"Hm?" The Dragonborn hummed, looking over at Sylla, "Oh, that's right...he wasn't expecting you to pop through...Ah, don't feel bad, I'm sure one of the ladies will let you bunk with them..." flashing a flirty smirk, "Although~ I wouldn't mind sharing mine tonight~"

"Smooth boss man, smooth~" Recorder teased in a low tone, chuckling, "But...he does have a point, if you do need a room, you could bunk with me or Yuri, either of us wouldn't mind,"

"Not at all~" Yuriana added in.

"Don't worry, I can have her stay in one of the other rooms." Niall pointed, "All I need to do is to ask Ladish to guide her somewhere."

Lucien went into deep thought, "You know...out of respect most of didn't want to ask, but...what happened to his arm? Your man Ladish's?"

"Yeah...good question...I wondered that myself," Inigo added in.

"Let's say that he reached somewhere he shouldn't..." Niall answered after taking a deep breath before continuing, "There was a girl who walked into town as he was a merchant with his father. She kept popping in their store daily, and something began to sparkle between them. One night... what happened, happened... and it was revealed that the girl was the heir of a noble of Feoh. The business went to nothing, the father was executed due to false proofs of treason and Ladish was captured and forced to witness the girl being raped by a noble who wanted to marry her. They then cut his arm as he stole her from her family and the one she was promised... he was then beaten to death's door before being thrown out of the city. Some of my boys found him and brought him in, healing him."

The Red Dragons were rendered silent...

"Gods...Poor that man..." Erik uttered in a low tone...

Inigo snorted, "The more things I hear about the nobles and holy army, the more and more I detest them..."

"Nobles tend to be the jealous type, it's in their nature to be...doesn't mean we gotta take or like it..." Yuriana said with a slight scowl.

Recorder nodded, "I agree on that...Fuck...so this noble had everyone pitch in on his jealousy, that's...wow...Yeah I don't feel bad for giving them the Thalmor treatment back there"

"You know boss? Thinking about it, there were guilds back home that prevented this kind of thing...Right the thieves guild? Dark brotherhood? Even the Companion's taught "lessons" here and there," Lucien thought on, "I'm thinking if a guild like that with those principles mixed in was started...those nobles wouldn't be as bold to do something like that...even with guards," he finished with a hand on his chin.

Traysek thought on this, "Good point...The thieves guild did keep certain people in check and the companions were known to be the best hired mercs despite claiming to be better than...I know I can't be an assassin, but another thieves guild with that, added with some of the companion's methods...that'd be a scary guild...that's for sure...Add spy work to it... and scary isn't even the word..." he whistled...

"I take that you have some people in mind for this... new guild that you wish to create?" the commander asked, raising an eyebrow.

"Well for starters...if I did want to start a guild like that here, these guys would be helping me run it as mentors...As for the recruitment...well, that remains to be seen..." Traysek shrugged, "A lot of people are in their pride here, it could go either way..."

"I see, I see..." Niall nodded, "However, do keep in mind something; don't force others to go against their culture and customs. Dark Elves are either born warriors or mages, not thieves or assassins. You might need to learn more of the races here before doing it."

"Which I find odd, they're normally not like that, but somehow and someway there's a group of assassins, that just happen to be a dark elves Sect...Then we have the assassin, Cloe...I don't wanna say it's Self-contradictory but..." Lucien frowned.

The Red Dragons thought on that for a moment...

"Good point...in it way it kinda is, but then again...we don't know what all goes into them becoming one...That process could be darker than anything we could think of..." Traysek thought, "Put it this way, I've had a couple of run-ins with their leader...what I can feel from that presence alone...That's...that's uncomfortable...that's the nicest I can put that..."

"If you have ever felt despair and hatred toward your enemy, you kinda want to go to any extremes to deal with them." Niall sighed, "Those Dark Elves sold their emotions and souls to allow themselves to become assassins without feeling guilt. Besides, they don't have the right to call themselves Dark Elves anymore as it goes against their culture." he then took a deep breath, "As for the Dark Queen's guard, she trained with both a Deathbringer and with the Dark Blades to be an effective protector to Olga, of course, she doesn't have the right to use her skills to do some sort of assassination mission, only to protect Olga Discordia no matter what... even if she has to sacrifice herself..."

The Redguard rubbed his chin at that, "Endra said something like about them once...I can feel that emptiness too...a deadly empty, but one regardless..." with a sigh, "That said, on Cloe though, that would explain how she's how she was able to outdo three of my guys... can't imagine how stifling that's gotta be though...having all that talent and can't put it to use..." shaking his head.

"She was the one who wanted to be like this." Niall pointed, "To be the protective shadow of the Dark Elf Queen... there was also some sort of accord between her and their deity... but I don't know the truth."

"Interesting...Well, it's not like we can ask any of them, but this does give us a perspective on the matter," The imperial nodded, "It normally so against their culture to be like that, that they have to take a pledge to not feel guilty...that's rather poetic...and very sad...when you think about it..."

Recorder nodded, until she sniffed herself, "Not that this isn't nice or anything, but I reek to high hell and would like to do something about it,"

"Same here," Yuriana added, sniffing herself as well, "Hot water is calling me right now..."

Traysek laughed, "I think that's a general calling at the moment, that said...thanks for the further insight on them, but maybe we should get the ladies to some water,"

"Especially you, Yuri, you tend to kick up and I mean kick up bad..." Erik added in, fanning his nose, getting chuckles from the others.

Niall laughed as he replied, "I'll ask for the bathhouses to be ready, you can all enjoy it to the fullest."

The Redguard smiled, "Thanks~ We could all use that right now," with a chuckle, following him with the crew behind.

---

30 minutes later...

---

After the crew had their relaxing baths at the bathhouse, they were guided to their rooms courteous of Ladish...Now in their own rooms, while many of the crew were tuning in for the night, Traysek had changed into his black and gold pirate threads, hair semi-wet, exploring the fortress, the guards either not caring or didn't mind him walking the halls...

During his exploration, he saw many strange weapons besides the banished knight's weapons hung up and displayed on walls, including a twin-blade with a curvy blade on end and a twisted blade on the other, 'Wonder what this is...?' staring at it with a frown, 'Strange looking twin-blade, never seen it curve up like that before...I'm almost scared to ask how it's used...' continuing his way through...

More weapons and magical staves were also displayed such as an iron halberd that has some sort of wax on the blade, some sort of a great curved sword that's covered in black dragon scales, and many others...

'These are nice weapons...that dragon blade especially...I have no doubts these are replicas, but still, the idea that weapons like this exist...makes our world's weapons look like children's toys...' he mused, exiting out of the armory and heading straight to the dorms...

When he was back to the main dorm hall he passed a few rooms, until he spotted someone bent over with familiar red hair, pulling him to a stop when he passed the room, frowning hard, 'Hold up...was that...?' backstepping and finding her with a bottle of Wine, "Sylla...?" with an eyebrow raised.

"I wonder what would happen if I end up meeting her again." she wondered out loud, turning and sitting up, revealing a black tank top and black panties, "Geez, with the number of victims I claimed during my time as a Night Cavalry, I shouldn't think bad of what she did..."

Traysek sighed with a grin, gently knocking on the door, "I thought I saw somebody, Hey there Sylla~ didn't know you were still up," with a smile, leaning against it.

"Hey~ whatchu doing up this late? hoping to get a look at this body~?" she asked teasingly.

The Redguard chuckled lightly, "Heh~Well~ I was just exploring fortress since most of everyone's turned in or still bathing, but~" his smirk turning flirtatious, "-If you're putting it like that~ I could change my venturing course~" with an "innocent" shrug.

"It's not like anything is appealing on this body." Sylla sighed with a smile, "I doubt that anyone would want to be with a Nighfolk who drowned in the blood of people."

Traysek gave her a hard frown, looking her up and down, "Uh...you sure we seeing the same thing here, right now...?" in a chuckle, "I know what you're saying, and I can't agree with that statement..." giving a knowing smirk, "And you've got some bodies to your name, don't we all? I've seen my list of those here already, and it's rather extensive..." thinking back to the list of his kills, "So...I can't find that unappealing, but...That means you were also strong enough to say it, and I do find that factor, Attractive~"

"Does that mean that you'll really accept me as I am?" she asked.

"Absolutely! Is that even a question?" The Dragonborn asked with a smile, " Honestly, If I accepted anything other than who you are, it's not really you that I'm accepting is it? Besides...we're an honest crew and we like that in people...despite us being pirates ourselves, it's kinda ironic actually..." with a chuckle, "And you've given me no reason not to trust you...I say you're winning much with me so far...especially now~"

Sylla laughed as she said, "When people learn that I used to be a member of the Night Cavalry, they either avoid me or try to use me to their advantage... it's nice to see someone besides the commander being this nice to a monster like me."

"You're welcome~ and I wouldn't have much use with that, I'm not from the lands between, I'm Tamerielan...and two, if that group of knights, assuming that's what you were together... wore that same armor you wore out there, they sounded like fierce warriors...scary even...would've loved to face one," The Redguard admitted, "But it's even better to know I worked alongside one too...and got to know her a bit~" with a smirk.

"Ho~ it would seem like you'd like to know me more~," she said with a purr.

Traysek raised an eyebrow, his smirk forming a naughty one, "Perhaps~ and maybe on a more...personal level~...I am interested in you Sylla...and I see you got the last bottle~ if you don't mind the company that is~" in a smooth tone.

Sylla smirked before opening the bottle, "You'd better be prepared for an all-nighter."

The Redguard laughed, stepping in and closing the door, "Ooooh~ Challenge accepted~ You're about to find out just how far my stamina can go~" walking up to the bed.

"And You're going to see that Night Cavalry isn't just a name." she grinned as she removed what was left of her clothes.

Love song: I Want to F*ck You Like an Animal - Nine-inch nails

Traysek blinked twice, staring at her large F-cup-sized breasts and wide hips, nodding approvingly, whistling "Godsddamn... Ok~ so it's like that, no further words needed~" undoing the button to his jacket, taking it off along with his pants and revealing the well-cut body in a loincloth and tattoos underneath, gently pulling her to him, face to face, eyes in sparkle "Show me a good time, tarnished~"

She easily lifted him and put him on the bed before sitting on top of him, "Time to enjoy my ride."

Taken by surprise, he had a face of slight shock and awe, "Strong too~? Very well, you can lead~" smiling as he gave a gentle caress from her body, up to her breasts, gently massaging and groping them, pulling mew from her and biting his lips, when she started grinding her hips.

"Mmmf...! Damn..." He groaned out, pulling her down onto him and into a hot passionate kiss, their tongues in a state of battle over the other, going for a good minute, until they broke lip contact, panting.

She then started to kiss down his neck, tracing the patterns of his tattoos, going lower and lower, reaching his lower abdomen...getting a mix of grunt and growl from him, causing him to stiffen and harden under her...

"Ooooh~? you got like this for me? well... let's get you out of that~" She said in a sultry tone, sliding his down his loincloth, expecting something moderate or at least half as much until...

*FLUMP!*

What she got was instead... Was a respectable 11 1/2, possibly 12 inches of his "Curved sword", the owner of said sword chuckling as she marveled at it...

"Something wrong~...?" Traysek smirked at her shock.

"Nothing at all~" She replied, licking her lips, before trailing her long tongue on his inner thigh, moving to his shaft and licking upwards, getting a sharp gasp from him when she got to the tip...licking around the head as he bit down on his lips once more...

Then she engulfed his manhood to the base with a sudden rush that made him gasp out with widened eyes...

"S-sshit...aaaaahaaahaaa...ooooh F-fuck!" He panted out, nearly breathless as she began to bob her head up and down on him with such velocity and speed, swirling her tongue and working her throat on him in a gravity-like vice, his panting turned to screams of pleasure that bounced off the walls, which encouraged her to hum and moan with it, nearly pushing him to an edge... but before that could happen...Sylla abruptly stopped, sliding her mouth off his dick and disrupting the climax, and leaving his face completely flushed and sweaty.

"You thought I was going to let you go like that?" she chuckled, getting a frustrated groan from him, putting a finger to his lips, "We haven't even gotten started yet~"

"I'd hope not...just wasn't...expecting it like that..." Traysek huffed out, somewhat dazed with his smile returning, grabbing her hips as she straddled him once more.

She gave a cute giggle, positioning herself over his manhood, his cockhead pressing onto the entry of her vagina, "If that was something to you, then I wonder how you'll handle this...!" slamming her hips down on him hard, a gravity wave going off, knocking nearby things over or to on to the ground with both moaning loudly.

"By the gods...!" He hissed through his teeth, closing his eyes as she gyrated her hips on him for a moment, going into a full ride, her round ass bouncing up and down on him with a decent pace... Traysek opened his eyes to her large swaying breasts, reaching up, groping and fondling them, getting a mew of pleasure from her while he teased her hardened nipples with a gentle pinch, smirking at her reaction, 'Let's see how YOU handle THIS~' pushing a bit of vibration into his fingers.

Sylla gave a loud crying moan until he stopped grabbing and pinning his arms down over his head, and once again harshly slamming her ass down on him, except this time it was unending, going into a wild frenzy as she rode him hard, twisting and rolling her hips forward while things began to fly around the room... The bottle of wine hit the floor and nearly shattered, only saved thanks to Traysek's discarded pants...

*Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! Boom! boom!*

The gravity slams did not go unnoticed in the fort, at least vibration-wise, nearly shaking it from the relentless pounding...

Eventually, Sylla reached her peek, "Aaah Oh fuck! Oh fuck! I'm gonna cum- Cumming! Cuh- mmngh!" holding her breath until she couldn't take it screaming, gripping his manhood tightly with her carnal walls as she shook and shuddered over him causing both to scream out in ecstasy...Once it was over she remained on top and sheathed on the Redguard, her body glistened in sweat as he panted with his eyes shadowed over...

Song pauses...

"Told you...the Night's calvary isn't only in name~" She huffed out with a sultry smile, running her hands down his chest.

'Damn...I think I might've bitten off more than I can chew with this one...still...' A smile formed as his panting lowered, tattoos glowing in a green regenerative light, 'I'm far from finished...They don't call me the red dragon for nothing...!' his crimson eyes going a glow...

Theme: Song of the Dragonborn - The Elder scrolls V ost

He placed both her hands on her hips, "I will admit, you had me for a moment...but it's my turn on top now~" Traysek purred, before easily rolling her to her back, surprising her, gently caressing his knuckle on her face, "I've given courtesy enough, my dear tarnished~ It's time for round 2 and I hope you're prepared...for this unrelenting force!~" kissing her neck, and shoving himself deeply into her with a loud thundering force, pulling a gasp and loud moan from her.

"Aaaaah! by Lady Ranni!" She cried out, biting her lip.

He continued his onslaught, pounding fast, deep, and hard into her womanhood, the bed rocking harshly once more from the force of it... minus the things blowing around from shockwaves... Traysek in the midst would take his opportunity to grope her breasts, although this time, he was actively using the vibration in his hands to massage her breasts, teasing and even licking her stiffened nipples while his eyes were in an amused glow... His arousal began to show through, dragon fangs lengthening and pupils slitting the more and more he continued to ravage her...

He gave a last one thrust, before pulling out, getting a protested groan, chuckling in amusement when he saw her scowl and blushed face

"Awww~ don't look at me like that... It's not over yet~ I just need you to turn around on your hands and knees for me~" Traysek said in a purring growl.

"Oh?" She giggled as he got up, allowing her the space to turn and bend over, exposing her large and round ass to him, teasingly shaking it, "You mean like this~?" taunting in a sultry way...

Traysek laughed, "Yeah, exactly that~" smacking her ass, "And don't worry~ I'll be as "gentle" as you were~" sheathing himself in her womanhood in with a loud clap, making it jiggle.

"Aaah Aaah Aaah~" She panted high pitch, her breast shaking from the impact, gritting her teeth.

He gave a low chuckle starting on his ferocious pounding, going slow and hard, a loud force coming from each smack his hips would make to her ass, and much like the Gravity slamming from earlier, it vibrated the walls... except this time it was in the form of a thunderous...

*THOOM THOOM THOOM THOOM THOOM!*

He grabbed both her arms from behind and held them in place, increasing the speed of his thrusting, gritting his teeth at her increasingly tightening pussy as he pounded vigorously.

"Yes! Yes! fuck yes! Just like that, just like that! don't stop!" Sylla begged out in a moan, going into a high-pitched mewl and panting under his thrashing.

Traysek bit down on his lip, "Oh you like that?" giving her ass another smack as he pounded into her, "How about this~?"

"Aah~!" she squeaked out, "by the Erdtree! Another!"

"As you wish~" he grinned, obliging her with another ass smack as he continued his relentless pounding, spacing out the slaps between it, and giving one each time...her carnal walls squeezing hard on his dick from each slap given, his thrusting reaching a rapid level soon after...

"Oh fuck oh fuck oh fuck oh fuck!" She rapidly panted, feeling the head of his thick cock repeatedly hammer against her cervix at unreal speeds.

This went on for a few minutes, until the Redguard's manhood began to pulsate, reaching his limit as he gritted his teeth hard grunting...As for Sylla, she could feel his end approaching and her orgasm nearing again...

"You...you're close aren't you?" She huffed out, her breath hot, covered in sweat, "I can feel it about to..."

"Y-yeah...I'm *huff* I'm gettin' close...!" Traysek panted in ragged breaths, grunting as he felt her pussy clamping down on him again, "And...So...are you...again..." feeling the grip tightening even more, "Thinking...of pulling out..."

"Don't... you dare!" She shouted in an aggressive tone, locking her walls down tighter on him, "You can't now...Not... when... I'm so..Clo-nnnnnnnnh~!" throwing her rump back on him hard, encouraging him to keep going.

And she suddenly stopped...tightening to the point he couldn't move, it finally sent him over the edge..."By the gods...uugggghaaaaahhh!~" He yelled out, unable to take it anymore.

"Aaaaaaaaahhhhh~!" She also screamed, her orgasm kicking in and much harder this time...

Their screams echoed loudly, a loud thunderous boom blasting out of the fort with both their voices combined in it...

"Hah hah...! Yeah...I'm not in the rush to leave now...gods..." Traysek's voice uttered, earning a giggle.

Song ends...

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Guilty Gear Announcer: DRAMATIC FINISH!

Mission Success

Rating: S+

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Chapter end...

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Talk about ending the chapter on a LITERAL BANGER LMAO! XDDDD For those who made it to this point...I hope you enjoyed that H scene, it took all day to put together and there will be more later on...and for those who are degenerate enough to wonder why I kept certain things out...Use your damned imagination...we have it for a reason XD As for the Omake I promised, we'll uh...wait until we get more Waifus into this, I want a good selection beforehand... For now though, expect more of the funny, epic, heart-tugging, and sexy adventures from The Dragonborn and Crew...lots more ahead of this chapter and I can't wait to dive in...

Now onto the Reviews :)

To guest: I think the reason behind that...before I wrote on Ao3 for the writing format, I was using just the notepad app to get the past chapters out...and I'm guessing that it didn't transfer right...So no, you didn't miss any Author's notes...just a typo from copy and paste.

Well, that's all for now folks, I'll see you all next chapter...Stay healthy, stay safe, and may the gods...watch over your smut ;) have a good day everyone.