You know, I was planning on making this chapter an interlude before deciding against it. Sorry but this one is going to be focusing down on Eclair and another character that I've been dying to introduce into the story.
Big thanks to Qinlongfei for beta reading this chapter, since I totally did borrow a lot of elements from his story and inserted it into this chapter with Eclair.
With that said, let's get it started!
Chapter 39: Fragile Alliances
Contrary to what the gossipers and naysayers in court said about her, Eclair was not some muscle-headed dumb knight who only knew how to swing a sword proficiently. While she will be the first to admit that she honestly preferred acting in the role of a knight or protector than living like a stuffy noble that do nothing to help their people, Eclair was fully capable of acting the role of a proper noble when the situation called for it. Having gone through her many etiquette classes and lessons by her nannies.
Eclair adjusted her collar for just about the third time over the course of the carriage ride since they left Silver Keep. Be it out of uncomfortableness or worry about the coming negotiation.
Still that did not mean she liked wearing the dresses of nobility, how was anyone expected to defend themselves wearing this infernal contraption ? Much less walk in it ?
Eclair was donned in a beautiful strawberry pink dress, with pure white footwear and gloves to compliment it. The dress had actually belonged to her mother who had passed away when she gave birth to Eclair. It was probably one of the only dresses she had at her disposal and she whispered a prayer to her deceased mother for it. She had actually considered going to the negotiation in her knight armor, Chief God knows she feels much more comfortable in it compared to this torture device. But uncle Aultcray advised against it, citing that she needs to act and look the part of the new Lady Seatto. Eclair wanted to disagree with him, saying that during such a dangerous time with bandits and monsters roaming about, but she knew that he had a point.
House Seatto could not afford to look weak right now.
The day of the negotiations with uncle Reichnott and some of the other lords had come upon her at long last after a lengthy assessment of the damage Silver Keep had incurred and the losses they had endured. Eclair knew that she was asking a lot of uncle Reichnott, but she knew that Silver Keep needed more than just the few extra troops the lords could spare. They needed new armor and weapons, wood and stone to rebuild their fortifications, food and medicine, and much more.
She just hoped that she wouldn't come off as nervous.
" Nervous milady ?" Lucatiel gave a comforting smile as she sat opposite of her.
Damnit.
Lucatiel, Aslatiel and some other knights had come along with her during this negotiation, citing that with the recent bandit attacks going around, it would be unwise to leave their lady unattended. Eclair was eternally grateful to them for their loyalty. Aslatiel was the one leading the carriage while Lucatiel sat in it with Eclair.
"...A little " Eclair admitted " It'll be good to see uncle Reichnott again, I just wish it was under better circumstances than this "
" Lord Reichnott was one of Lord Seatto's staunchest allies and comrades, surely he wouldn't deny a request from his friend's daughter ?" Lucatiel countered.
" Its not just that...its the fact that we even need to ask in the first place " Eclair confessed, Lucatiel listening generously " We are the Silver Hands, the protectors of Silver Pass, we are the ones who are supposed to protect people and instead here I am going to negotiate for help during a time of crisis among not just Silver Pass, but all of Melromarc "
Eclair had always admired her father, spent her life watching how he acted and sought to follow his example. Being here now, made her realize that perhaps she had focused too heavily on the 'knight' part of her father and not enough of the 'lord' side of him that tried to lead and care for his people the best he could. She regretted not paying enough attention in some of those lessons in statecraft right about now.
" My lady...do you feel as though you cannot fill the role of your father properly ?" Lucatiel asked.
" Something like that" Eclair shrugged " But its more so I feel...inadequate for this role "
" My lady you aren't-"
" I always knew that I would one day take over the role of my father..." Eclair interrupted, as her expression turned to one of sadness " I just thought...that I would have more time to learn from him "
She thought about all the good times she had with her father, all the things she was taught, the laughter, the smiles, the good times...now all but memories in her mind to keep her warm inside. Eclair glanced up to see Lucatiel giving her a sympathetic look.
" I'm sorry I shouldn't be saying things like these, I'm supposed to be the Lady of House Seatto and here I am complaining about things out of my control " Eclair steadied herself, trying to get back into the prim and proper mindset she was in just now.
Her self-loathing was cut short when she felt a hand touch and hold hers, she saw that Lucatiel had actually reached out and held her hand. An action that obviously would lead to any ordinary knight's dismissal...but Eclair found it comforting.
" My lady, if I may be as bold to say so, its okay to feel the way you are now " Lucatiel said softly " Things are changing quickly and not all for the better, its understandable if you feel a bit overwhelmed with everything that's been going on...I just want you to know that all of us at Silver Keep will follow you to the end."
Eclair was touched by the words Lucatiel was giving to her, having to hold tears back since it would mess up her makeup.
" You need not try to emulate Lord Seatto perfectly...its fine just to be your own person milady..."
Eclair needed a moment to compose herself as she rubbed Lucatiel's hand" T-Thank you Lucatiel...thank you..."
" My pleasure, milady..." Lucatiel smiled for the first time in a long time.
They travelled in peaceful silence for another few minutes, before a voice called out to them from the driver's seat.
" My lady, we are approaching our destination " Aslatiel called out from the front of the carriage.
Eclair coughed and got herself ready, going through all the mental motions she had to before she felt as though she was ready. Straightening herself out and falling into the posture expected of nobility, instead of trained knights. The carriage eventually came to a full-stop and Eclair took a deep breath, reminding herself that she is now the Lady of honorable House Seatto.
She took a deep breath as she heard Aslatiel and Lucatiel get out first, holding the door open for her. Eclair stepping out to see that the carriage had been parked directly in front of the manor of uncle Reichnott.
As expected there was a welcoming reception, with Eclair seeing that uncle Reichnott had come outside with a happy smile along with some guards and servants.
" Lady Seatto...it is an honor to see you well again " Uncle Reichnott gave her a comforting smile as he bowed.
" Please uncle, there's no need for bowing. I am certainly not royalty " Eclair stopped him " It is good to see you again uncle "
" The feeling is mutual my lady, it has been too long...far too long..." Reichnott looked almost tired as he struggled to keep his smile on " But please come inside, I hope your journey was-"
" ECLAIR !" A loud voice interrupted, enough to make Aslatiel and Lucatiel almost go for their weapons when they saw a blur of pink run out of the manor and hug Eclair.
It takes Eclair a second to realize that Cute hadn't seen her in so long. The young girl almost made Eclair fall over on her behind in an undignified manner had Lucatiel been faster and helped keep her steady.
" Its been so long ! I was so worried about you and and-"
" Cute ! Don't bother Lady Eclair " Uncle Reichnott scolds his daughter gently.
" Its fine uncle, its good to see you again too Cute " Eclair gently patted Cute on the head.
" Where did you go ? Father wouldn't tell me anything " Cute asked worriedly.
" I just got injured is all, but the King helped me get all better again " Eclair explained in simple terms.
" Wow ! You met the King ? I always wanted to meet him and-"
" My lady, perhaps you should give Lady Eclair some space " Cute's bodyguard, Jean suggested gently. Eclair had remembered training the young man on some of his forms and while he was a bit slow on the uptake, the boy had potential.
" Oh right ! Sorry father..." Cute stepped back.
" I promise we'll talk again later " Eclair promised with a smile." And maybe I will show you some new moves I learned from the King "
Cute squealed as she happily went away with Jean.
" Anyway...shall we speak inside ?" Reichnott cleared his throat as he invited them in.
" Yes, that would be most appreciated " Eclair nodded as they all walked back inside the manor.
Eclair felt most nostalgic coming back to Uncle Reichnott's mansion, she had come here many times in her childhood with many fond memories. She remembered training with her father, playing with Cute while father and uncle talked. The old manor not having changed much in the short months since she last visited.
The realization was not lost on her that she was now the one about to have those meetings behind closed doors and likely more to come. It did little to sooth her nerves, but she tried her best to keep her cool.
Uncle Reichnott led them to one of the meeting rooms of the manor, Eclair requesting Lucatiel and Aslatiel stand guard outside so she and Reichnott could have a more private conversation. While Lucatiel and Aslatiel didn't look happy about it in the slightest, they respected their lady's wishes and waited outside. Eclair could see that uncle Reichnott had a servant prepare tea for them and setting it down on the fine wooden table. As they took their respective seats with Eclair sitting on the couch opposite Reichnott and he doing the same.
The servant gently poured a cup for the two people and placing it in front of them.
" That will be all, thank you " Reichnott kindly dismissed the servant, who professionally bowed and left the room.
Eclair took a sip of the tea and she found it be quite relaxing " Uncle Reichnott this tea is delicious " Eclair complimented.
" Thank you for saying though it isn't anything special..." Uncle Reichnott waved it off as he took a sip of his own tea" So Eclair...I take it this isn't a social call " Uncle Reichnott easily deduced as he set down his cup.
The knight turned noble let out a sigh " No, I'm afraid it isn't..." Eclair steadied herself as she put on her most professional tone and face " I have come to formally request aid from House Reichnott, as you are likely aware Silver Keep endured massive casualties during the 1st and 2nd wave."
" What...kind of help would you require ?" Reichnott asked slowly, needing to process the situation.
" Troops, weapons, armor, food, medicine...anything you can spare Uncle Reichnott..." Eclair did her best to keep the sadness out of her voice, but it was hard to do so. Thinking about the many honorable knights they had lost " Silver Keep may not last another wave uncle..."
Uncle Reichnott's expression was one of genuine sympathy, Eclair could see a hint of somber grim in it as well. Some part of her already knowing what he was going to say next.
" While you have my sincerest condolences Eclair...I'm afraid I cannot spare anything right now " Uncle Reichnott with much sadness in his voice. It was with those words that Eclair felt her heart drop.
" But why Uncle ?" Eclair questioned, perhaps sounding more aggressive than she intended to " You are one of father's bannermans, his accountant, I thought you of all people would be able to help us "
" I know that Eclair...but things have not been easy for my House either since the start of this wave " Uncle Reichnott explained " My own forces have taken considerable losses during these months...and on top of that, we've had to deal with recent raidings by the Hound Lord "
" The Hound Lord ? That new bandit chief ?" Eclair had heard some whispers and rumors about a new bandit lord making raids, but she had no idea this Hound Lord was that bad.
" The very same...he and his band of ruffians have been terrorizing my lands since the wave started, so not only do my men have to contend with monsters from the Wave but they are also stretched thin trying to protect my people " Uncle Reichnott's head drooped " Things have gotten so bad, I've had to borrow from some...wealthy merchants "
" Who uncle ? "
"...The Schnees..."
Eclair winced in sympathy for her uncle, she had heard all about the famous or rather infamous Schnee merchants. Utterly ruthless,greedy and cutthroat as merchants come, well-known for using demi-human slaves and reportedly human as well, taking just about anyone they can get to fill their mining camps.
" Uncle.."
" I didn't have many other options okay ?" Uncle Reichnott defended, perhaps assuming her judgement." They were the only ones who were willing to lend me the money and supplies I needed, I even had to give up the mining rights of silver that was located under one of my villages "
" Why didn't you ask father...or even Aslatiel at Silver Keep for help ? " Eclair questioned.
" Your father was deceased after the first wave and you were away at the capital suffering from battle injuries, I couldn't have very well have just gone to Silver Keep without even knowing if there anybody still alive there " Uncle Reichnott let out a sigh " I'm truly sorry Eclair, but I cannot do much to aid you "
Eclair let out a gentle sigh, she knew there was a chance she would be turned away from some of the northern lords when she requested for aid, but tried as she might to mentally prepare for it...it didn't soften the blow of knowing that Uncle Reichnott couldn't help them.
" It is fine uncle, perhaps Lord Ascart would be able to help ?"
" I'm afraid I may have already beaten you to the punch there Eclair " Uncle Reichnott shook his head " I spoke with Lord Ascart not too long ago about requesting aid and I got turned away, despite their wealth they seemed to be focusing on consolidating and protecting their own lands, buying up weapons and armor last I this was more than a month ago and perhaps you will have more luck with you now being the Lady Seatto "
Eclair considered it for a moment, she had heard good things about Count Ascart, on how he had been the Queen's advisor before Luigi Claes. But she was unsure about asking for aid if uncle Reichnott was already unsuccessful just a month ago. The Ascart was not a minor noble family, but they were hardly powerful or wealthy since most of their imports are wood and farm produce. And their army wasn't especially big either, which did not encourage high hopes in Eclair.
She wondered whether it would even be worth the trip to Ascart County, just to be turned away. A possibility that was all too high.
" Lord Ascart aside... I may know of somebody else who can help you Eclair " Reichnott's words helped lift Eclair's gaze back to him " His lands have not been hit as hard as the rest of us, so he may be willing to spare some supplies and men to aid you "
" That's great uncle ! But who are you talking about who can help us ? " Eclair asked and Uncle Reichnott's expression fell.
" Count Rabier..."
" Oh no...
Eclair was deafeningly quiet during the trip to the next county over, which was only about a few minutes ride from Uncle Reichnott's but might as well have been hours. Lucatiel, Aslatiel and the other knights from their escort was quiet as well as they made their journey to Rabier county to meet with the lord there.
The relationship between House Rabier and Seatto had always been cordial, the two had of course collaborated during the Great War against Siltvelt like many other noble houses. And the relationship had remained cordial both before and after the war was over, even with the switch of the Head of House Rabier. But Eclair still could not shake the personal anxiety that had built up in her chest over the course of the carriage ride.
Eclair had heard plenty of stories about House Rabier's 'slave army' after the Great War. The thought alone rubbing Eclair the wrong way and made her want to avoid this place.
She felt it almost sad in a way too, before the Great War House Rabier was well-known of being one of the more responsible slave owners, treating their demi-human slaves...while not quite like equals like House Seatto but better than most other slave owners who worked their slaves to death and abused for no other reason than petty cruelty. While Eclair would never agree with the enslavement of anybody, she could not deny that by comparison, House Rabier was one of the 'better' slave owners.
But after the war, like many other things, this had changed with the new Head of House Rabier. He was known to be a ruthlessly efficient man who had no qualms about using demi-human slaves to fill up his cannon fodder army so that his own army would not have to endure casualties. The thought alone speaking volumes about how much House Rabier had changed in such a short time, from when they were once known as an honorable family who ruled with temperance...to now.
The now Lady Seatto took a deep breath as she tried to stow any opinions about Lord Rabier to the back of her mind, she needed to remain professional for what was going to happen next.
Eclair looked out the window of the carriage as they passed through the gate that led into Rabier city. The land House Rabier possessed was much bigger and had a larger army compared to Uncle Reichnott, having a small city under House Rabier's control that put it almost on par with Port Harp at the height of its glory. Though Eclair questioned whether the reason for its large army was because of House Rabier's slave army being used as cannon fodder in most battles.
It was honestly impressive considering the substantial losses they endured during the Great War, where most of the members of House Rabier were killed by the Siltvelt invaders. Leaving only the current Lord Rabier as heir...
As she looked out the window, she could see the common folk go about their lives in peace and harmony, but even that sight could not ease Eclair's nerves as they proceeded to the home of the Lord Rabier. Eclair almost feeling like they were walking straight into a trap and instinctively her hand went to the sword that wasn't at her side since she couldn't possibly wear a dress like this and fight.
All of that and more, just served to make Eclair feel more tense during the ride there.
As if the world was mocking her, the recently Lady Seatto felt the carriage once again come to a full-stop and she knew that the time had come. Eclair took a deep breath as she looked up to Lucatiel who likewise also looked tense.
" Tell the men to stay on stand-by and only engage if absolutely necessary, stay away from the guards if you must but we are here to negotiate, not pick a fight with House Rabier " Eclair ordered.
" Understood milady " Lucatiel nodded as the door to the carriage opened and Eclair got down from it. The carriage having been parked in one of the designated spaces for carriages and stables. Eclair looked up at the home of House Rabier, looking closer to that of a fort then a proper home.
They were approached by a group of...demi-human knights ?
No wait, they were a mixed group of with actual humans among them. The demi-humans wore proper plate mail similar to the humans, with the emblem of House Rabier on their shoulders. This surprised Eclair since she did not expect Count Rabier's slave army to be this well-equipped, some part of her had expected them to be dressed in basic rusty old equipment. But they looked similar to that of professional soldiers.
But what caught her eyes what that there was a thick red scarf tied around the demi-human's arms. What it signified was unknown to Eclair, but she had a feeling it was meant to show their status as slaves.
" Our lord has asked us to escort you to him " The commander said with a tone of professionality " Please come with us "
Eclair simply nodded as she and her escort made their way into the manor, Eclair could not shake the oppressive and choking air around here. Her eyes glancing up to the archer on the walls, seeing that they were of the rabbitmen clan armed with bows, as Eclair's group were passed by a group of dogmen and raccoons. It almost reminded her of Silver Keep...but all the demi-humans wore blank and solem expressions. It was like all the life and happiness that was within this fort had been sucked out long ago.
The walk was quiet to say the least, with nobody speaking a word during the entire length of the trip. As they made their way into the manor itself, Eclair was amazed at how beautiful the mansion actually was, the hallways were clean without a speck of dust, the red carpets were perfectly level with the floor, decorative pieces of art and candlelight hanging from the walls.
Eclair glanced out a nearby window as they passed, looking down into what seemed to be the training yard where she could see demi-humans and beastman being drilled like soldiers.
It didn't take them long to reach what appeared to be a meeting room, similar to the one from Uncle Reichnott's mansion. One of the commander's men went inside and after a minute, he came back out and whispered something to his commanding officer.
" Our lord will see you now..." The commander said simply.
" Thank you commander " Eclair expressed gratitude as she made her way into the meeting room.
A middle-aged man, perhaps just a few years younger than father had been was seated at the meeting table. He had a big belly, but was dressed in formal clothing reflecting his status as a count. He had cleanly combed blonde hair with a handlebar mustache of the same color.
" Well this is a most unexpected visit..." Idol said simply, his voice lacking of any emotion " But I welcome you to my home, Lady Seatto "
Eclair stood firm, reminding herself that she is no longer in the presence of a family, but a noble that is neither friend nor foe. Knowing full-well that the outcome of this discussion could decide which it would be in the coming days.
" Lord Rabier...thank you for inviting me into your home" Eclair gave a half-bow, one of courtesy, not quite one of submission.
" It is no trouble Lady Seatto...you have my condolences for your father " Idol said so calmly to the point where Eclair couldn't tell if he was being genuine or was just pretending to care.
" Thank you Lord Rabier..."
" Though I am curious as to the purpose of your visit " Idol quickly deduced " I would offer you some tea and cakes but I doubt that would do much to ease the atmosphere in here, so perhaps we would both be better off if you cut to the chase "
No point beating around the bush then.
" I have come to formally request House Rabier's aid in reinforcing Silver Keep, any supplies or men you can spare would be much appreciated " Eclair made her request blunt and clear.
" Is House Seatto not a martial house ? Are you not the ones who possess one of the largest armies in Silver Pass ?" Idol's tone was neutral but the way he phrased it almost sounded like an accusation.
Eclair kept her calm as she spoke next " Yes, that is true...but we have endured heavy losses during the last two waves and are in need of aid "
" And as one of your father's bannerman I am expected to render aid...there are others you could have gone to like Reichnott or even Ascart, why me? " Idol asked again, the last part he almost sounded surprised by.
Eclair thought her next words out carefully "...I merely wanted to try my hand with you first, before going to the others " She said, trying her best not to reveal her hand. The truth was, she already knew that most of the other northern lords weren't big enough or had the resources to spare like House Rabier did.
Idol stared at her for a brief moment before letting out a chuckle " Then you must be truly desperate if you've come to me for help..."
Eclair tried to keep a neutral tone, but she couldn't deny the stinging feeling at knowing that he was correct.
She was that desperate if she came to this place for help.
Idol was silent for a few moments before answering " Well, to tell you the truth Lady Seatto, I unfortunately don't have the men to spare to reinforce the Keep...but I do have the slaves to spare "
Eclair couldn't stop her eyes widening as she listened to Rabier's proposal.
" I just got a fresh batch of slaves come in for training, so I am willing to part with perhaps half a company worth of demi-human soldiers that have already been drilled and trained " Idol explained " Under the express condition that they will be returned to me when they are no longer needed and that their seals are not removed of course. They may be used however House Seatto wishes...in return for a favor "
" You want me...to participate in slavery ?" Eclair breathed out.
" I like to call it service to the community and country at large, but I don't want you to do anything you don't outright agree to " Idol shrugged but Eclair got the message.
While even half a company of soldier would be enough to get the Keep back on its feet...the thought that it would be demi-human slaves didn't sit right with her. And that is when Eclair realized what Idol was really doing.
He was trying to make a mockery of House Seatto, as if to prove some kind of point. She could hear the gossipers now...
How ironic that the great House Seatto who supports treating both human and demi-human equal resorts to using slavery when the odds were against them. They were no different from every other noble house who boasts about righteous ideals but can never fully commit to them.
It lit a fire in Eclair's heart and fueled what she said next.
"...Thank you for the offer Lord Rabier, but I'm afraid I must decline " Eclair said firmly " House Seatto will never use slaves as cannon fodder, that would be a disrespect to what my father stood for and what my family stands for "
Idol cracked a smile at that " The vultures and gossipers at court are wrong about you, you're a lot smarter than you look...but you still fail to see the bigger picture "
The knight lady raised an eyebrow at that " What do you mean by that-"
Eclair was cut off when the door to the room opened and a raccoon knight walked in.
" May I not have a moment to discuss business with Lady Seatto ? " Idol said with annoyance in his tone.
" My lord, I'm sorry for the intrusion but we have an emergency " The raccoon knight said " Our scouts have reported in that they've seen a large group of the Hound Lord's men moving toward Silver Keep, we believe they mean to stage a raid there and wipe out the remaining forces "
" Silver Keep ? That's my home !" Eclair practically shouted as she stood up " My apologies lord Rabier but I must go immediately "
She walked outside, hearing Rabier following behind but she ignored him as she turned to her escorts " Lucatiel, Aslatiel, Silver Keep is under attack, we must return immediately "
" Wrong move Lady Seatto " Idol cut in.
" Have you lost your mind Rabier ? I must go help my people !" Eclair shouted.
" How ? " Idol questioned which made her pause " Your escort is barely comprised of little more than a squad of knights and you aren't even equipped to run into battle. If you run straight back then it may very well be the end of House Seatto..."
" Lord Rabier has a point, if bandits are bold enough to attack Silver Keep then they no doubt trump our numbers " Aslatiel agreed.
" Then what are we supposed to do ? " Eclair asked desperately.
" Perhaps I may be of some assistance ? " Idol interjected " I have my own bone to pick with the Hound Lord's men and well...I wouldn't be opposed of coming with you and bringing some men along to help fight "
Eclair wasn't sure she liked the tone or how Rabier viewed the situation, but she could not afford to be picky right now.
" Very well, House Seatto accepts your aid in this situation Lord Rabier " Eclair nodded.
Idol smirked as he turned back to his commander and men.
" You, get Lady Eclair some armor and weapons. Commander, get the lizard, rabbits and dogs ready for battle " Idol ordered to his commanding knight.
" Yes, sir !" The commander quickly run off to assemble the battle groups.
" Just hope we're not too late by the time we arrive " Idol said to her.
" I hope so too"
?
He watched the battle rage on from his vantage point on a tree branch , there was something almost enjoyable about watching his men slaughter bastard traitors who turned against their own kind. The Silver Idiots had come out of their grand castle to try and beat them back, but they quickly found themselves outnumbered and currently in the midst of being slaughtered.
He smirked as his men easily cleaned up the fools, his bear men and dogs outpacing the slow and lanky fuckers in full plate mail. Archers in the trees taking shots at the easy pickings. The demi-human knights tried to make peace and order a ceasefire, but those idiots were quickly killed by a stab or arrow to the eye. He and his men had no sympathy for the foolish demi's and beastmen who swore their lives to a bunch of rich humans just because they threw them a few scraps and pretend to treat them like equals.
They were no different from slaves in that regard, only difference is that they were slave material since they actually gave themselves to their owners.
Silver Keep was just the beginning, if they could wipe out these self-righteous sorry excuse for knights, then they could take over the whole county and potentially beyond ! Then they could finally wipe this pathetic country clean of the filthy greedy assholes who have to gall to call themselves 'nobles'.
His master would be proud.
As he watched the knights twittle down one by one, he decided it was about time to join in on the fun. The Hound Lord was not above doing the dirty work himself.
He held out his hand and focused the power, in the next instant he felt his body transverse from the tree branch to the ground with his men. He smirked as he felt his body transverse.
He felt energized. Awake. Alive. He felt the power of the Void itself coursing through his veins, fueling his movements.
" Cut them all down ! Take no prisoners !" He shouted to his men, who had no trouble following his orders.
He charged forward with his sword out towards a band of knights, feeling the bloodthirst fill his body, giving him a taste for blood. He delivered a good slash to one of them in their sides, purposefully aiming for the weak spots.
" AAAAHHHH !" A dog knight tried to charge at him which would have made him laugh if he had the time for it. Instead he quickly transversed behind the dog, grabbing by the back of his collar, slitting his throat.
When you're fighting an opponent in heavy armor like platemail, go for the weak spots in their armor. The sides, the unprotected arms, shoulders and such.
" Take down the Hound Lord ! Don't let him escape !" Some of the knights shouted to try and focus onto him. He could see most of them were bloody and injured from fighting his men, some had even lost their helmets leaving their heads and faces unprotected.
Easy pickings.
He reached to his side and pulled out his handheld crossbow, a fine piece he had bought straight from Faubley itself. He didn't need much time to aim as he shot one of the knight's square in the forehead, the crossbow automatically reloading another bolt but by that point the remaining knights had already tried to engage him in close quarters.
" Die !" The knight swung his mighty sword at him- but he was no longer there.
Instead he transversed behind the mouse knight and stabbed him in the side, before delivering a quick cut to the head decapitating him.
He fired off his crossbow again, nailing another knight in the neck with the bolt. By this point, more than half the knights were dead and they had the advantage.
" Push into the Keep ! Don't let a single one of these traitors survive !" He shouted.
He and his men were slowly pushing the knights back into the Keep, once they were inside, they were certain to swarm them and take the remaining knights out. Perhaps they coul-
The Hound Lord's thoughts were interrupted when his ears picked up the telltale sound of something coming towards them.
He turned around just in time to see a force of dozens or more knights and soldiers arrive on scene, surprising his men and surrounding them from behind.
Shit! Where did these assholes come from ?
" Take care of those bastards from behind ! Forget the Silver Hand, they are mostly dead anyway ! Kill them all !" The Hound Lord changed his order.
" You heard the boss, slaughter these basta-!" One of his men was promptly cut off when an arrow hit him right in the eye and through the brain.
The Hound Lord looked up to see archers in the trees, those who had rabbit ears but they weren't the ones he had brought with him to this attack ! He watched as the enemy rabbits rained arrows down on his men, even taking out the archers on the opposite the tree. The two sides almost evenly matched in terms of sharpshooting skill.
The army that had come up from behind them was also made up of mostly demi-humans and beastman, but they were donned in knight armor. Charging forward like a tidal wave and coming upon his men, the element of surprise being used against them this time around.
" Surround them ! Do not let them escape !" A loud voice called out and he looked towards the source of the voice. A fat human man dressed in armor that merely made his fat that much more obvious
The piggy of House Rabier came himself. It seems like it is his lucky day.
Without a second thought, he charged straight at the pig, transversing around the brawling and battling men. Before he even reached the bastard, he was already imagining the 15 ways to gut the pig and make him beg for his life.
" YOU !"
The Hound Lord was cut off guard when felt a blade stop him just short of reaching the pig, he quickly jumped back and saw a bitch with strawberry hair standing in his way, dressed in knight armor.
" Are you the Hound Lord ?" The knight breathed angrily.
" No, I'm the fucking courier, what do you think bitch ?" the Hound Lord couldn't resist the urge to roll his eyes at this human.
" How dare you attack my home !" The knight shouted at him, rage in her eyes.
Your home ? But that's...
It took only a few seconds for him to figure out who this knight was.
" You're the bitch of House Seatto. Some fucking honorable nobles pretending to care about us...I'm going to enjoy this " He smirked viciously as the two looked ready to tear each other apart.
The two charged at each other, but the Hound Lord had no intention of actually trying to meet this bitch halfway. He instead transversed behind her in an attempt to go for a backstab, but she was quick ! She instinctively delivered a slash at him, which pushed him back. The Hound Lord could tell that this noble bitch was formally trained...and he had no chance of beating her in an outright fight.
It was a good thing, he had learned long ago how to fight dirty. So he did something the bitch did not expect.
He held out his hand to her and a green force of energy suddenly started pulling the noble bitch to him.
" What the-" She tried to fight against the force of the Pull, but it was no use, she was coming close enough for him to stab her-
" GET AWAY FROM HER BEAST!"
His focus was interrupted when he caught sight of two figures trying to run him through with their blades on both of his sides. Quickly transversing away, he could see two knights coming to the rescue of their lady.
" My lady ! Are you alright ?" The female mouse asked the bitch.
" I-I'm fine but that bandit..." She pointed a finger over to him.
" So...these are the honorable demi-knights of House Seatto. Tell me how many scraps did old fuck Seatto have to throw to get you to lick his boots ?" He asked derisively.
" Our loyalty to House Seatto is much deeper than you could possibly understand fool " The two rat faced fucks charged at him, forcing him to blink back.
The Hound Lord grunted as he teleported away to get some distance, there was no way he could deal with all three of those assholes at once. He needed to regroup and get his men organized.
Those plans were thrown out the window when he heard the bloodlusted laughter and turned to see a lizardman tearing through his men.
" AHAHAHAHAHAHAHA! ALL OF YOU ARE LAMBS FOR THE SLAUGHTER FOR MY GODDESS !" A crazed lizardman armed with shotels tore through his men as if they were wheat on the field.
" RUN AWAY ! RUN AWAY FROM THE LIZARD !" Some of his men decided to turn tail and run from the lizard, and he honestly couldn't blame them.
The Hound Lord feared that this may not be a fight they can win. For now.
" Damnit...everybody fall back now !" The Hound Lord shouted loudly at his men as he quickly transversed away. The rest of his men following behind quickly.
The army tried to go after them, but his men quickly deployed smoke bombs to cover their tracks. The smell of the smoke enough to make the knights cough and prevent them from pursuing them.
As he ran away with his men in toe with him, he swore to his master that this was not over.
Eclair's POV
Eclair let out a breath as she felt a huge weight on herself get released, her body felt like it was on fire.
The Hound Lord had used heretical magic during their fight. She had heard the rumors that the Hound Lord strengthened himself through the use of the forbidden magic and dark arts...but actually witnessing and fighting against it was an experience she never could have prepared for.
" Are you alright Lady Seatto ? " Lord Rabier asked.
" I'm fine...but my men..." Eclair looked at the mess of bodies that littered the battlefield in front of Silver Keep, the number of dead bodies who wore knight armor outnumbered those who were bandits. They may have beaten the Hound Lord back but the heavy losses they took during this fight made it so it didn't even feel like a victory.
" My Lady, are you alright ? " Lucatiel asked.
" I'm fine Luca...but the others..." Eclair took a deep breath to maintain her composure " I need a headcount of the dead and wounded. Find out who who survived Asla "
" Of course, my lady. Come now, Lucatiel..." Aslatiel dragged his sister away, as he could sense that his lady needed a moment to herself.
The situation at Silver Keep just got even more dire.
" Lady Seatto, it is not too late to reconsider my offer. I think even you realize you cannot endure another attack like this" Rabier commented " If the Hound Lord attempts to strike again..."
Then Silver Keep might be finished.
Silver Keep was her home, it was the place she had grown up in...but could she in good conscience accept a deal that would cost the suffering of slaves ? She wasn't sure.
Eclair looked between the dead bodies of her men and back to Lord Rabier...the same answer on her mind as before.
" While I appreciate the offer Lord Rabier, I must refuse again " Eclair said firmly " As a member of honorable House Seatto, I cannot sully our name by engaging in the practice of slavery..."
To her surprise, Rabier almost looked impressed " Interesting...genuine conviction...I remember that..."
Eclair was confused at first as she listened to what Rabier said next.
" If you are not willing to accept slaves as soldiers, perhaps you would prefer food and medicine. I do have some to spare and it looks like you'll need it" Rabier glanced out at the multiple wounded.
Eclair could not deny that was what they needed...but she could not immediately agree before understanding what it would cost.
She once again put on her professional expression and one befitting that of a noble lady.
" What would you like in return ?"
" You're learning. I like that " Rabier smirked " I think we're going to get along just fine..."
So I'm just going to address the elephant in the room here: Idol Rabier.
I absolutely hate his character from canon so goddamn much, not for anything bad his character did mind you. But because the sole purpose of his existence is to make bitchassfumi look like a 'good slave owner' by comparison. That is literally the sole reason for his existence, like so many others its to just make the dumbass MC look better by comparison.
I'll stop right now before I go on a tangent.
As some of you may have already figured out, I'm borrowing the backstory for the Rabier family from Qin...with my own little twist in which Idol survived Abby's betrayal which has led him to become who he is now. While I definitely wrote him as a villainous character and a downright asshole, I wanted to write him as a more grounded character with a trace of humanity in him.
I hope you all enjoyed Eclair in this chapter especially, since I didn't just want to make her a musclehead knight like she is in a lot of other stories. While she is still in the works, Eclair does have the training of a proper noble lady and is smart in her own way.
This chapter marks the Hound Lord's first appearance, I hope you all enjoyed it because he will be the main antagonist for this next arc. I've been dying to show you all his backstory later, so stay tuned !
Now let's answer some reviews shall we ?
To Caspain123:
Oh definitely. Lana and Titan Storm are definitely going to be participating in the Waves, they actually did participate in the first and second wave but they just weren't shown.
Saying that Itsuki is Jason Todd would be pretty accurate, but I would argue that
I actually already do have a good idea about the League of Villains from Itsuki's world that may or may not get revealed in Itsuki's upcoming interlude which is coming sooner than you think so stay tuned for that !
:)
That actually is a pretty good analysis about Itsuki's character, he certainly isn't as egotistical as his canon self, but to say that his psyche is healthy would be a bit of an overstatement. He certainly isn't a psychopath or sociopath, because he can legitimately empathize with people but he's somewhat emotionally stunted. Itsuki has definitely learn to emotionally distance himself from his target the way snipers do. But you are correct that it is very strange for a 17 year old to know how to do that...as for who taught him, well let's just say that will be revealed in a later chapter.
Ooooohhh, that's a good theory ! And honestly I'm impressed how close it is to one of my original ideas regarding this story. We'll see soon how correct that theory may or may not be.
:P
With all that said, I will see you all in the next one.
Angel Out.