So now, we move on the what's to happen now that the battle of Feoh has passed...what does this mean for the Red Dragons? Will we see more of the Tarnished Sylla? And what's in store for Reynold and his new knights?
Find out now!
Chapter 45
Moving up...
The Next day
8:30 am
Feoh Region...
A new day had set on the horizon, after the great battle, most of the city had gone into repairs, fixing up the damaged homes from the black dog's assault...The bodies that there were littered on the streets, were cleaned and removed... for those belonging to the monster army, were being prepared for the arranged funeral that was to take place later once the news of their fall had made it back to Yamakhroz...For the Traitor holy knights, black dogs, and their dead savage monster allies...? Their carcasses were thrown into the charnel pits, burning them away, not as kings, but as diseases that needed to be quelled... As for those taken as prisoners, their fates are yet to be determined...
All in all, it was a new day for the Grand city of Feoh, and for those within its commander's fort...even more so...
Niall's Fort...
A knock was heard from Sylla's door as Ladish called, "My lady, Breakfast is about to be ready, please prepare yourself."
Instead of a woman's voice, he heard a deep groan and yawn...
"Thank you Ladish...we'll be down..." Traysek's tired voice rang out.
"R-right..." the one-armed worker was surprised as he added, "W-well, I'll go wake the others." he then walked away.
Back in the room, The Redguard lay in bed, shirtless from the top up, stretching with a yawn and turning to the Sleeping Sylla, smiling with a sigh, leaning over to her, "Sylla...? Sylla wake up, they're calling for us," he gently roused...
"A few more minutes..." the Tarnished mumbled.
Traysek pursed his lips in a smirk, "Gonna be stubborn, eh? Okay..." looking around in the room, until he spotted a feather knocked over on the floor near her things, 'Bingo...' getting out of the bed and fetching his pants, sliding them back on, fixing the buckle and grabbing the feather, going over to her, 'Let's see how long she sleeps through..this...' with a smirk, gently brushing her exposed sides with the feather, watching her face contort.
She waved the hand off with a small giggle.
He gave something between a sneer and a smug grin, "Really... you're making me work for it...?" looking down, 'Good thing I know where the other spots are...' moving his hand down to gently but rapidly graze the feather on her inner thigh, chuckling himself, "Wake up...!" he playfully growled.
She moaned with a giggle before mumbling, "Stop it..."
Traysek narrowed his eyes with a smirk, 'Okay, time to take it up a notch...' relenting the tickling, just to push a bit of magic into it, making it vibrate, 'Now if she stays sleep past this...? I'm convinced she's TRYING to stay in bed...' slowly dragging the vibrating feather over her thighs.
The giggles turned to laughs as the gem in her eye began to glow, lifting Traysek with gravity magic, "Geez, you really didn't want to stop, huh?"
The floating Redguard blinked twice, sighed, and brushed her cheek with a smile, "Now~ as much as I wouldn't mind a morning helping of that~ Ladish did just leave from the door, and I think I can smell," taking a sniff, looking around "Breakfast? You smell that too?"
"I can smell something else." Sylla said with a grin, before bringing him closer, "How about a quicky?"
Traysek chuckled, "And you talked about me not wanting to stop..." with a flirty smile, "Eh...If we have the time, I can't see why not~" brushing her nose against hers, going for a kiss until...
Heavy knocks were heard, as well as heavy breathing.
That stopped them before they could go, The Redguard annoyingly turned his head to the door, "Yes?" he answered.
A heavy sigh was heard as the clanging sound of the knights sounded as he began to walk away.
"Welp, that's what Banished Knights are." Sylla sweatdropped, "All skill, and no word..."
"Those large knights right?" Traysek confirmed with a sweat bead, "To me, they're like bigger, armored, dark blades, That's pretty intimidating...I can't imagine having to fight one..." in a chuckle, sighing in defeat, getting up, "That said, we should probably get down there...There will be later for round 2, especially if we'll be seeing more of each of each other," with a wink.
"Is this an invitation?" Sylla asked with a grin as she leaned toward him "Does that mean that there's a place for me next to you?"
Traysek sighed with a smile, "Into the crew? Possibly...but romantically deeper...?" pausing for a second, taking a deep breath, "Because I like you, I'll be honest with you, Sylla... I'm not the latching and locking-down type, nor am I looking to settle down with anyone at this point of my life, not...not just yet..." With a sad smile, "That doesn't mean I didn't enjoy what we did last night... or that it didn't bring us closer...True me, it did..." placing his hands in hers, "But I'd rather tell you what it is, now... than lead you on with something deeper and when it's time for us to go after the war...that won't be fair for both you and me..."
"I feel like things won't be easy from here on out." Sylla sighed, "I have a bad feeling about what's going to happen... still, that won't change how things will be between us." she brought him down.
The Redguard hummed with a smile, "Well~ I'd hope not, because we're just getting started there~" with a wink, "And...I wouldn't word it like that, I sense good times ahead, but if the bad does come...We'll welcome those challenges with open arms, cold steel, and Dragonfire~"
"Don't forget all the skills I got as a Night Cavalry." Sylla smirked, "You would be surprised by them."
"Exactly!" He laughed, "And if they're just as impressive as what I've seen out there, coupled with last night and just moments ago~ I'm more than eager to see what you can do on those days...even more interested in sparring against it...later perhaps," turning to the door, "That said, do you need anything, a washout? I know for a fact I couldn't pull out..." with a nervous chuckle.
"I'm going to bath before eating, that's a certainty." Sylla pointed, "Niall's bath house is just too good to pass." she sighed dreamingly.
Traysek chuckled, shaking his head, "No what I meant, although a bath does sound nice right now..." he admitted, "No, what I meant was a remedy for after our "fun", I know you've told me what you are...I don't know how that all works, I'm just being safe than sorry..."
Sylla laughed as she said, "I'm not human, and even if I was, it wouldn't be useful since it doesn't work like that in the Lands Between."
"It doesn't huh? Geez, now I feel goofy for asking," Traysek sighed smiling, "And I think we're in the same boat there, what you see here is as human as it gets for me...I have a dragon's soul and blood place of a human...Lot's of similarities there, hun~" he chuckled, hearing the movement outside, "Ok being serious now, we do need to get going, I hear them rumbling out there, and I don't want Niall to be the next one at the door, I'm already getting the feeling, he'll just walk right in..." with a sweatdrop smile.
Sylla only chuckled nervously.
10 minutes later...
In the dining room
The crew was at the table with Niall and his wife, followed by Sylla and Ladish...The plates were full of pancakes, including a massive breakfast platter of eggs, hash, biscuits, sausage with raspberry jam, the drink of choice being lemonade, traditionally made...
Everything seemed to be tame for the most part...however, the seating...the seating said otherwise...
Traysek cut a piece of pancake and ate with a hum, "Gotta say, Niall, not bad for today's breakfast~" with an approving nod.
Niall laughed before replying with, "That's just the regular breakfast here!" he then drank a mug filled with juice.
"Still, I wonder what those shockwaves were," Kolne said with a concerned voice.
The Redguard blinked twice, eyes wide for a second with a smile locked, "Shockwaves huh? That's funny I would've heard them," he shrugged off, hearing a snickering khajiit.
"I did feel a lot of magic colliding along with this weird shaking last night too...I wondered what those were..." Lucien said, going into thought, getting a twitch from his captain.
"Really? You guys felt that too? I thought I was the only one! what was that?" Yuriana asked with a frown.
"You know... come to think of it...I think I felt those too..." Inigo said innocently, but smugly grinning, looking in The Dragonborn's direction, "It was strange...I thought storms were normal here, but those quakes were REAL strong last night... magical... nearly...GRAVITY pounding..." getting him to choke on his lemonade, "One could even say...thunderous~ but...if you didn't hear anything my friend, you didn't hear anything...no problems from me~" with a Cheshire-style grin.
Niall thought of that before saying, "Maybe I should ask for someone to see if something happened yesterday... The last thing I'd want is to have something bad to deal with."
Traysek recovered from his coughing fit, "N-no- I mean...I'm MORE than certain there were no dangers around last night...causing those..." he waved down with a small sweat bead.
"Honestly, I was still in the bath, so if anything was shaking I thought it was bubbly waters..." Recorder shrugged.
Erik frowned at that, "And I went to sleep, which was the nicest sleep I've had in a while..." rubbing the back of his neck.
Inigo nodded with a grin, "Uh-huh," turning to Sylla, "So, Sylla! How did you sleep last night~?" with an innocent grin, "You look happy this morning~ I trust the dreams were good?"
The Tarnished almost choked on her food as she said, "I-I don't remember what I dreamed about." she then laughed nervously.
The rest of the crew blinked at that with hard frowns, as Inigo giggled quietly to himself...
"Ahh~ I see..." He simply responded with, before going back to eating; His smug grin remaining per chew.
"I thought that the Nightfolk don't need to sleep." Niall frowned as he crossed his arms, "Well, that's what I remember."
"W-Well, yesterday was a busy day, y'know," Sylla replied as she was sweating bullets before using her gravity magic to cause Inigo to fall from his chair.
"Oof!" He grunted out, slightly chuckling from below...
Yuriana glanced down from the table with a narrowed look, "Inigo~ are you okay down there?"
"Never better!" he laughed, still down there.
Despite Traysek's cheeks feeling scorching hot, he managed to pull himself together, clearing his throat, "S-so, Niall! I remember you mentioned a ceremony that's supposed to be taking place, today, who's all going to be there, exactly?" attempting to change the conversation.
Recorder and Yuriana shared shocked expressions, before glancing at each other, then Inigo who had just "Mysteriously" hit the ground...and then back to their captain and Sylla, the former smirking while the other had an impressed grin.
As for the other remaining two men of the crew, both were confused as hell.
"I'm sorry...what's happening here?" Lucien questioned with a hard frown, "Why is the tension in the room so thick?"
Erik frowned at that, before looking at how close Traysek and Sylla were at the table, "I...think I know...but I don't know if it's accurate..."
Niall hummed a bit before saying, "Well, Swain is going to come, no questions about it. There will also be the old Raymond and a lass that controls a small city 'round the capital of Feoh. 'Course, there will be others, but those are the most important people."
"Think I've heard the name "Raymond" before... Greil mentioned him during our...interrogating..." with an annoyed expression at that last part, "But it'll be nice to see Swain again, this other person...well, I'll have yet to meet them," Traysek sighed, smiling, going back for his food.
"Think you know who's going to be there too?" Inigo asked, getting back in his chair.
At that, Erik rolled his eyes, "Oh for the love of gods...His name is not a damned curse! You meant Reynold, right? I hope he does show up...I do..."
"With some luck, he won't do anything stupid." Sylla sighed, "Seriously, I've never met someone as bad as him, even during his examination."
The Redguard shook his head, "I'm sorry, I'd just rather say less about him, and not lose my appetite...I'm still shunning him after what I learned yesterday...I already said my piece on the matter and I'm done with it..."
"I'm sure it's not that bad," Niall said as a worker filled his mug with juice.
The Red Dragons went quiet at that, each of their eyes shadowed over, some nervously scratching their heads, others just sat in silence...Their leader, whose eyes were shadowed too, cleared his throat...
"I...I used to think so too Niall..." Traysek said in a low sullen tone, sighing, "For starters...Did you used to know somebody by the name of Esteban...?"
"Indeed." Niall nodded, "He was someone I can relate to."
"They were very close." Kolne confirmed, "The fact that they both had a longevity superior to that of a human helped in that."
"We used to drink from time to time." Niall added, "He was the one set by Swain to be lasses, Alicia, and Prim's private teacher. His true mission was to raise them to be the opposite of what the royalty is now... but he got incarcerated and executed for some reason... a damn good man." he was about to lift his mug to drink from it.
The Redguard had a slightly shocked expression, "Oh...Close friend huh...? I see..." eyes shadowed once more, remembering how he blacked out yesterday and then looked around at all the food, "Then... maybe I should wait until after we've all eaten... As I said, I don't want to make anyone lose their appetites over this, and that...that'll do it for certain..." with a smile, taking a drink after.
Niall only shrugged before drinking from his mug.
fifteen minutes later...
Niall's office...
After everyone finished breakfast, true to his word, Traysek met Niall and his wife in his office while the others got their things ready... he closed the door, walked up to the desk, and sat with a sigh...
"Okay...So now that we've eaten, here's what happened..." The Redguard started with...
Moments later...
"He did what!?" a roar could be heard from miles away as a bolt of red lightning struck from the sky.
...
Back in the office, Traysek had a small sweat bead, "That...that was the reason I wanted to wait," looking at everything blown around in the room, "But yeah...I'm sorry, Niall...I didn't know you guys were that close as friends, until...recently..." with a head scratch.
"If I see that brat coming towards me again... I'll throw him in a pool of Deathblight!" Niall roared.
"I find it disgusting that someone would go so low for something like that." Kolne stated with a sigh and a stern look, "Either way, it won't help the spirits that he dies for that. Therefore, you must be patient."
Traysek nodded, "She's got a point... Maybe not kill him, but, I don't think anyone would oppose the idea of you giving him maybe one or two of your kicks... I don't think anyone would mind that at all,"
"If he's never felt what a Banished Knight kick can do, he'll soon learn..." the old man said with a dark tone.
Meanwhile, at the main holy army camp...
After that crimson flash of lightning shined over the camp for a second, followed by the strange roar, Rey with a bandage on his head, frowned while eating something until he felt a chill run down his spine, shivering... 'Oof...what is this feeling...and why do I have the urge to stay away from Niall all of sudden...?'
"Hey!" Marquel ran toward Rey, "I heard that Celestine is coming to the city with the Red Spears! Maybe we can take the city back!"
Rey sighed, turning to him, "I see you're in good spirits, Marquel, but unfortunately, I don't think that's what they're coming for...I overheard things yesterday, there's supposed to be a ceremony in place of that..." finishing off the piece of beef he was eating, "Besides, look at us...all the men here are too wounded or traumatized to press with that...we'd need to wait and regather our strength until then..." looking at all the wounded men in bandages.
Marquel gritted his teeth, "This isn't right! This city belongs to us, not those monsters!"
"I know...and you're right it does, but... at least for us remaining here, we can say that...The rest of us are either dead or taken prisoner due to their ties with Prime Minister Beasley..." Reynold shook his head, "Even worse, we've also lost the support of our light-bringers here, for both Feoh and Ur...It's safe to say it'll be a while before we can bounce back..." with a sigh, "But knowing whose also coming here, things might take an interesting turn...we may even be rewarded for the work we were able to do before..." narrowing his eyes into a glare, "Before him...!"
Marquel sighed, "You're right... but still, this city is the city of my birth, the one where I grew in..."
The silver-haired man slowly nodded, a small smile appearing, "I...know how you feel..." looking around, "It's funny...I went to the knight's academy in this city...before being transferred to the higher school in Ken...I have many of memories in this city...To see it fall like this...Saddens me..." patting him on the shoulder, "But someday, it'll go back to how it was...The place we grew up in, and trained in..." with a grin.
Marquel only nodded as a horn was heard, followed by the coming of various carts that had children, men, and women.
Rey stood up, "They must be getting ready for it now, we should probably get going ourselves,"
All the newcomers were led to a place that had a large brazier below many bodies wrapped in white silk cloths.
Greil walked next to it and took a deep breath, "All of those that are here, have something to grieve; whether it's a friend, a parent, a spouse, a child... the cycle of life and death is like that. Every being is cherished by the Earthmother, regardless of race or gender. And for those who cause harm to others, Fate has her way to punish them..."
In the front row, the Red Dragons stood with many of the Kletzkreig and Niall's men, paying their respects in silence as they listened to the sermon. In a row, a few ways down, a souring group of knights were nearby, dressed formally... The lead one, Rey, glared holes at both Traysek and Griel...
'If I knew it was going to be HIM giving the eulogy, I would've thought twice about attending...' he mused, gazing at the silent praying Redguard, whose head was bowed and eyes closed 'And then there's THIS guy...him and his cronies...is this a joke...? they're not even dressed formally... how were they even allowed here, let alone up there?' narrowing his eyes.
When Greil ended his speech he said, "Is there anyone who wants to say something?"
"I do!" a Holy Knight walked to the front, scowling, "I want to do something... something that must be done."
Traysek opened his eyes, as the rest of the crew focused on the man approaching Greil.
"Uh oh...what we do...?" Lucien whispered, "He looks aggressive..."
"Shh shh...let's just see what happens..." The Redguard hushed, not taking his eye off...
When he arrived in front of the brazier, he took his weapon and threw it there, "All those lies about serving the just cause... only to see it filled with traitors!" he then violently ripped his armor off, also throwing it in the brazier, "I renounce of the beliefs of church!" he then turned to Greil, and then knelt, "Me and some of my friends are ready to aid you in any cause you fight for."
Soon, other Holy Knights approached and began to do the same.
The Red Dragon were in shock, watching more and more holy knights, cast away their armor and swords... Rey along with his group watched in shock and horror of what was happening...
"It...it can't be they're-" Lucien went to say.
"-Defecting...?" Rey said in shock to his group.
"If this is your choice... I will see that some of you join the city's guards, as for the rest of you, you'd be set in posts that are within your skills." Greil stated before adding, "Some of you can even join Niall's men."
"T-thank you!" some of the former knights began to cry as the Golden Knights went to take them to their group.
"That was unexpected..." Dargo commented.
"Tell me about it..." Recorder said, equally shocked.
Traysek grinned watching them go off to their different groups, before glancing back ahead...
"Is there anyone else who wishes to say something?" Greil asked as he looked at the ones standing.
The Red Dragons remained silent, the Captain giving a subtle headshake and smile...Meanwhile, Rey was in so much shock that he couldn't even find anything to say...
Greil nodded and walked away, letting the place to Jenelica who had a piece of paper in her hands, she looked around before mentioning to a little girl Dark Elf to come. Feeling nervous, the child moved step by step until she got to the bard.
"What's your name?" Jenelica asked as she smiled.
"B-Birnec..." the child answered.
"I see, I see." Jenelica continued to smile before taking Birnec in her arms, "How about that you help me sing? I would need all the help possible."
Feeling uncertain, Birnec nodded before singing at the same time as Jenelica while the lute was playing a symphony.
In fields of battle, brave and true,
The soldiers fought, for me and you.
Their sacrifice, their courage bold,
In death, their stories will be told.
We gather here, in solemn grace,
To honor those who bravely face
The foe, with valor in their eyes,
Their memory will never die.
So let us weep, for those we've lost,
Their souls now free, no more to cost.
But let us also celebrate,
Their lives, their love, their noble fate.
To warriors fallen, we sing this song,
Their spirits now forever strong.
In fields of battle, they'll rest in peace,
Their sacrifice, our lives increase.
Most of those attending the funeral had their heads bowed in respect when the song was going, even Rey and his group were quiet through most of it...even if some were glaring...
After that, a Salamander walked to the brazier and ignited it, burning the bodies.
"Take some time to recover, after that, we'll assemble in the castle as there's something that must be done." Greil proclaimed before walking away.
The crowd soon dispersed, going off to the different places, leaving the Red Dragons and a few kletzkreig there...
"Well, that was...quite the funeral..." The imperial commented.
Yuriana nodded, "I agree, so much lost on our angle...hope we don't get too many more of these..."
Traysek shook his head, sighing deeply, "Trust me, they'll be more...every battle fought in a war, there's always going to be casualties... any angle involved...that's the nature of battles like these..."
Erik sighed in relief, "At least I know for certain Zephyr didn't end up in there..."
"That's always good news Erik, it means she got back safely..." Inigo grinned, patting him on the shoulder.
Recorder looked around, "Well, I noticed the crowd has thinned out, what now?" she asked.
"I thought about going to the inn for their special sweet pumpkin pie," Dargo replied.
"Hoping to score some-" Endra tried to tease but was quickly shut with a kick in his side.
Recorder's eyes went wide, "I'm sorry, there what now...?" with a bright smile and childlike blinks.
"Oh no...you pushed the sweets button..." Erik facepalmed...
Traysek sighed, giving her a smirk, "I swear, you are a sugar demon, No...! Sugar Succubus is what I'm gonna call you from now on, gods,"
"I can't help it and you already know why!" She whined.
"If she could charm him, she is a Succubus." Endra laughed before getting kicked hard in the sides by Dargo.
The crew laughed at that, except Recorder who was blushing...
Lucien looked around, "Well to be fair, the inn seems to be the only move now, I don't think we'll have to meet back here until much later today,"
"Yeah, I'm thinking so...I think that's also where most of the crowd's gone, I say it's fair enough,"
Traysek nodded, "Agreed, we'll head there then, let these two sugar demons get their cravings on,"
"Hey!" Recorder yelled out offended.
"Uh-huh, and maybe you can get your second helping of gravity CAKE~" The blue Khajiit smirked, widely, dodging an ice spike from the Redguard, "Hehehehehe~"
He then noticed two blades under his neck, "What did you just say?" Sylla asked with a sweet smile.
He froze with a nervous grin, "Ah! Um...Uh...something about cake! ONLY cake... at an inn that we're going to, strawberry flavored! Yum yum!" He stammered, earning snickers from the Rest of the Crew.
Now it was Traysek's turn to smirk, giggling at him, "Yeah...sure...Change your tune now..." turning to her, "But he's right, we're going there to wait...since the sugar fiends wanted to go," pointing his thumb them.
"That sounds like fun." Sylla said as she sheathed her weapons, "Maybe a good cup of wine with it wouldn't be a bad idea."
I wouldn't mind either way~" The Redguard smiled, " We've already got Dargo and Endra here, why not?"
Yuriana narrowed her eyes with a smirk, "Right..." with a slow nod, turning to Sylla, "If you're bringing enough, do share~ I do enjoy chatting with new friends," with a friendly smile.
Recorder grinned widely, "Agreed~ I think it's time, WE got to know you...since the guys took most of that time last night..."
"You can't pin that on us, she's good company!" Erik laughed.
Lucien nodded in agreement, "I have to agree there, great for conversation,"
"Same~ even if it is funny to tease about... I had no problems with her at dinner..." Inigo shrugged with a grin.
"Unfortunately, I ended my last bottles last night." the Tarnished sighed before shrugging, "Oh well, I can always buy one from the inn."
Traysek shrugged, "Then I see no other reason why we're still standing here, let's go already," he chuckled, "Now where's this Inn everyone's meeting up at?" with a frown.
"Follow me, I'll show you." Sylla then guided them through the city.
When they left, Rey and his group of knights remained, the former blinking twice...
"Can...anyone tell me what the hell just happened...?" He asked, in a daze.
"I don't know..." Marquel shook his head, "All I'm hoping for... is that I wake up from this nightmare."
"Aren't we all...guess the only thing to do, is either go back to the camp or...stop by the Inn, but..." one of the other knights pitched in.
Rey slowly nodded, "We run the risk of running into trouble, especially if that bard's going..." shaking his head, "Let's try to find another first, and if we can't...we won't have a choice, let's go," leading them towards the town...
Red Scales Inn...
The group had arrived at the inn, finding many citizens and soldiers, both monster and human gathered, with pints of ale, mead, or most likely something harder, the entire tavern despite the battle, was in a decent mood, some more down than others...
"That's new..." Sylla commented as she was looking at a young Dark Elf waitress who had a few Salamander traits; some red scales on the shoulders, fully scaled hands, and a red lizard tail with crimson flames on it.
Lucien looked around, "Looks like they remade the tavern into a salamander-based one, I like what they did in here,"
Traysek nodded, "Yeah, it seems a lot of the refugees ended up here too... Was this the tavern you were talking about last night?" he asked.
Recorder sniffed around, "And what...is thy holy smell...?" Smelling the bakeries...
"Nope, it's still the same." Sylla pointed, "It's just that I never saw that waitress before when I was staying here."
"Oh, so it's always been like this? Must be someone new then," Yuriana nodded, "Either way, it's still nice in here,"
"The guy who owns the place is kinda nice." Sylla replied, "Once he knew I was with Niall, he offered me a discount."
"Guess he and the old commander have history," Erik nodded in thought, "Still...I wonder if he'll do the same for friends,"
The Redguard spotted the empty bar seats and tables, "Only one way to find out, let's find a table, there's plenty here..."
Once seated, the man noticed them he went to Sylla and said, "Roasted meat with wine if I remember."
"You got it." Sylla nodded.
"And for you?" the man turned his attention to the crew.
Traysek grinned, "I'll take crab legs and butter with a bottle of rum," he ordered, "And if you have any sundaes, I'll take the strawberry chocolate..." he quickly added.
"I'll have the apple pie, and a mug of mead with roasted beef," Erik added.
"Roasted fish and ale please!" Inigo called out next.
Yuriana had a nervous grin, "Eh...just a steak and wine for me please, still a bit full from breakfast," she chuckled.
"I'll go light, I'll take beef stew with apple or orange juice if that's for to drink, otherwise water will do," Lucien ordered next.
"I'll take a few slices of pie that cranberry pie with milk, please!" Recorder happily ordered.
"I don't think that they have it..." Dargo sweatdropped, "The nobility keeps crabs..."
"That's true." Sylla nodded, "They pay private fishing boats and tax any inn or tavern that has it with a huge amount."
"Unfortunately." the owner sighed, "But I can replace it with chicken if you wish."
The Redguard sighed, slightly annoyed, "That's...wow...yeah, I'll take the roasted chicken with rice and rum then, thank you..."
"Alright..." he then looked at the two Dark Elves.
"The Pumpkin pie... whole..." Dargo stated with a blank face, "With any sweet drink that comes with it."
Endra simply sweatdropped at that before saying "If you have something super spicy and a mug mead-"
"Half a mug." Dargo interrupted, "We're not going to have another one of your scenes today."
The owner sweatdropped before taking note and went to the kitchen.
Meanwhile...
En route to Feoh...
A dark carriage was going down the road with a large convoy of red spears...Inside, Celestine sat, looking out of the window...
"Meine Dame, geht es Ihnen gut? (My lady, are you okay?)" Ophilyana asked "Du scheinst unglücklich zu sein... (You seem like you're unhappy...)"
"Do remember that the people are waiting to see you smile, no matter how you feel." Swain pointed as Del served him a cup of tea, "If they see you unhappy, they might take advantage..."
"I'm okay...I'm just...thinking..." Celestine said calmly, "I don't usually get a chance to be in my thoughts...but since I'm seeing Olga after two weeks...that's all I can do..."
"You do remember that if someone tries to manipulate you to fight... you should consider him as an enemy." Swain stated before adding, "Stay vigilant."
She nodded, "I do remember, but with all that's happening now...still getting used to the idea that those are no longer holy knights out there even...makes wonder what I'll see when I get to Feoh..."
"Knowing Olga, she either put an act to make her look like the bad person or went straight to the point..." Swain sighed, "But one thing is for sure... she took action to help the city."
She smiled at that, "I can only hope...but, it also feels like I'm going to run into someone else familiar...I hope I'm wrong...but if it's who I think it is...I don't know how I'm going to react...I may end up hurting him...especially after what his master did to you..."
"Du hast das Recht zu fühlen. (You have rights to feel.)" Ophilyana pointed as she put a hand on Celestine's, "Was auch immer der Fall sein wird, ich werde niemals von Ihrer Seite weichen. (Whatever the case will be, I will never leave your side.)"
The Goddess sighed, "Thank you Ophilyana..." glancing back at the window, "But...depending on circumstances, I may also be willing to forgive too...We'll see..." in an odd tone...
"Let's hope no one would be stupid enough to start any trouble there." Swain sighed, drinking from his cup.
Back at the inn...
Traysek had just finished his food, when he felt a chill run down his spine, making him shiver up, 'By the gods...What was that chill...? Who's got beef and where are they?" looking around frantically.
"Are you okay, my friend? You look pale..." Inigo asked with a raised eyebrow.
"Yeah! yeah, I'm okay...something just felt...off...something tells me this ceremony is going to be interesting...in more than one way..." He said rubbing the back of his neck with a nervous expression.
"If you got a Night Cavalry watching your back, you won't have to worry about anything." Sylla pointed with a smile.
He nodded with a slight smile, "That's...Reassuring~ but it's not like I'm in danger or anything, it's... just a weird feeling...probably nothing to worry about like you said," with a shrug.
"Then again, we are seeing Swain soon, and remembering that he helped out, it could be that reason..." Inigo commented.
Lucien had a perplexed expression, "Yeah, it could be...I'm still wondering what's supposed to happen during...and why we were invited,"
"Eh...what's the worst that can happen?" Erik asked, "If he's coming, it's not like he's bringing Claudia or Celestine with him...Right?"
"That remains unknown...for one, we don't know that whole dynamic there, and from what Recorder and I saw, he didn't seem that close..." Yuriana added in.
Recorder had a nervous smile, "Yeah...but if you remember how things went in their council room during the planning, she does value his opinions more...so it's up there,"
"I'll be with you." Dargo said, "If anything happens, I'll buy you time."
"Assuming it does, I'll appreciate that...but we should be fine," Traysek waved off, 'Still...despite it not being a mortal danger...it doesn't help that feels off enough to be one...'
A horn was blown as Endra looked back.
"Seems like they're calling us." he said "Everyone's going to assemble in the castle,"
The Redguard stood up, "Yeah, I heard that earlier, let's not keep 'em waiting, shall we?"
They all got up, paying the bartender before they left, heading to where they needed to go...
At another tavern...
Luckily for a certain knight party...There was another place that was opened, but the holy knights had that one... Using it as the place to drown their losses...when the horn sounded, Rey and his boys heard it...
"Sounds like it's time, I'm hoping things go well here...and maybe in our favor..." The former said standing up and stretching, "Let's go..."
At the Castle...
Throne room...
Standing near the throne was Prim with Greil and Gronik on her sides. In front of her were Niall, Ruthven, Jenelica, and a young woman with long red hair and wearing a regal blue leather coat over a white shirt and brown leather pants with black boots. On one side, Olga with her Deathbringers and some Kletzkireg, while both Valery and Emily were standing on the opposite side with some of the former Holy Knights.
The Crowds were all gathered there, the civilians gathered in the back or upper pews witnessing the ceremony, while the soldiers, be they holy or dark stood in attendance.
In the middle, the crew waited until they began, noticing some notable faces in the front...
"Wow...they've got quite a gathering here...I know most of these people..." The Redguard whispered, "All except two, that older guy by Jenelica and that red-haired woman..."
Lucien nodded, "This is going to be interesting...still no sign of Swain though...Expected him to be here..."
"Must be just now arriving...I'm sure he'll turn up..." Erik added in with a whisper...
nearby with the standing holy knights, Rey shot Traysek group an annoyed glance, "By the goddess...you can't even change clothing for this?" he harshly whispered to him, getting his attention.
"Shut the fuck up...!" He snapped back in a whisper, "I don't need to hear that from a whipped knight..."
"What did you say...?" Rey growled.
At that moment, a Kletzkrieg entered and said, "Lady Celestine and Lord Swain have arrived."
He then let the two named people come in as they were with two other people; one being a Dark Elf maid and the other an elven warrior.
Traysek blinked twice, sweat beads forming, "I'm sorry...who now...?" in a slightly shaken voice," cutting his eye in the direction of...finding her and Swain entering the room.
Rey picked this up and smirked, "Oh~? what's the matter huh? you look...scared..."
"Shut up...! If anything you should be scared...given what you did out there..." The Redguard shot back, "By the way, how's your head? I know I slammed the stars out of you... you seeing purple...?" in a harsh whisper, cutting his eye back to him.
"You son of a-I'll get my payback for that someday..." The young knight growled.
"Keep dreaming..." Traysek growled back, facing the front.
A gust of wind was felt as some hair fell from the young knight's head.
"My hand slipped..." Dargo glared at Rey with his hand hovering above his sword.
Rey went wide-eyed, blinking twice, checking his hair, eyes shadowed, getting quiet...'The hell...I didn't even see him move...and what with that look? it's like he knows me...maybe I should just get quiet...before I lose my head during...' straightening himself and facing the front.
Traysek sighed, "Thank you, Dargo..." in a whisper.
Erik shook his head, glaring at him, "I'd've taken his head..." he said in a low tone.
"It would have been painless..." Dargo pointed loud enough to be heard, "It wouldn't be a good thing to give him that mercy."
Rey narrowed his eyes on him, but didn't utter a word, 'I'll show him painless...'
"Gotta say, his speed is something." Sylla whistled, "He walked to him, drew his sword, gave him a new haircut, was about to cut his head, stopped, and then returned to his place."
"Yikes, and I didn't even see you leave to go do that..." Record whistled.
Traysek smirked, "Can't disagree there, and I don't think he even realizes just how much of the top he's lost..." snickering after.
Prim coughed lightly to get the attention of everyone, "Today, we're assembled to congratulate these four key factors that gave us an edge in the last battle; Lord Raymond, for your implication in defending the west and north sides, you shall be claimed as the Lord Defender of the northern lands."
There was a loud applause from the crowd, the Crew turning their attention to a bearded older man with a scar over his left eye, decorated in silver and gold plated armor in a royal blue surcoat, with a large blue-furred overcloak.
The Redguard nodded in thought, 'So this is Raymond...seems to be in a pretty good shape for an old man...but I didn't see him out there...odd...'
Rey on the other hand had a slightly horrified expression, 'That's Ruthven...so Raymond is his real name then? But why...? Why keep that a secret...? the high inquisitor didn't even mention him...'
"Commander Niall," Prim called, "For staying the shield defender of both Feoh and Ur and for your loyalty to the people, you shall be called Lord Defender of the East."
There was another applause this time, the crew joining in giving nods of approval and grins...
Prim then looked at Jenelica and they both smiled at each other, but the atmosphere was something else.
While the crowd was confused, Traysek knew what it was and sighed to himself with a headshake...
"Now... Jenelica the bi-bard, you'll become Lord Defender of the southeast and your name will be Jenelica Voicegiven." Prim stated with a dark aura.
"Thank you, br-Prim," Jenelica replied.
Even though the crowd applauded, the crew had sweat drops, seeing the deadly aura emitting...
"By the gods...I know people are cheering, but you can tell, they wanna rip each other apart..." Recorder whispered, getting nods of agreement from the others.
Inigo lowly snickered, "I think I almost heard, "Brat" and "Bitch" just now... or was it just me?" in a whisper.
Traysek shook his head with a sigh and smile, "No...I heard it too...dear gods...at least they kept it back..." in a low tone...
As they kept smiling, Gronik cleared his throat, "Continue" in a whisper
Prim continued at the last person, "Lady Jannet Windblade, thanks to your reinforcement, we managed to save a lot of lives. Therefore, you shall be called Lord Defender of the southwest."
The crowds once again, applauded, as Traysek raised an eyebrow...'So that's HER name, okay...she'll be worth meeting later...' he mentally noted.
"Now, let's go over some of the people who helped us." Prim then began to call over some monsters and former Holy Knights began to walk forward.
Reynold turned to their group and narrowed his eyes, as they seemed to be receiving small or large sacks of gold handed to them...
Swain then walked up and stood next to Prim, "Captain Traysek of the Red Dragons, step forward." he called.
Said person looked surprised as the crowd they were in part to give way...
"I uh...think he's calling you my friend, show time~" Inigo grinned.
Traysek chuckled, a slight blush appearing, "Indeed he is..."
"Now not the stage fright, sir, this your moment," Erik added in, with a shoulder pat, as the others walked up and gave theirs.
"Gods...If I didn't feel embarrassed before..." He chuckled, shaking his head, before approaching Swain and Prim...
Rey who had been watching, raised an eyebrow while Marquel grinned, expecting the worst...
"Firstly, you have been recognized not only by saving the queen's life but also by being a key piece in disrupting the plans of the enemy..." he stayed silent for a little while before adding "Therefore, you're officially invited to join the Birds of Prey. Of course, the details can be discussed later."
Traysek grinned and bowed his head, "And I accept~" getting loud applause and cheers, as Rey and the rest of his knights were appalled...offended even.
"How's that even possible?!" Marquel yelled with anger.
Rey gritted his teeth, "Dammit...and if he's in now, that means he can't be touched..." clenching his fist.
Inigo's ears picked that, causing him to snicker, "Uh-oh...somebody's mad~" to the rest of the crew.
"In addition, you'll also receive a title once forgotten by the people; Sword Defender, I hope that you'll live up to that title," Swain added.
Traysek gave a genuine smile, "I aim to do so... it's truly an honor, thank you, lord Swain," in a polite tone, 'Sword defender...? I'll have to ask what that is later...getting the feeling there's more to it...' he mused, as the audience applauded once more, his crew even going nuts with the clapping and cheering.
Meanwhile, the holy knights either barely clapped, or were sweating bullets...Reynold and his group were going pale...
"Oh...Oh by the goddess...No!...That means he outranks us...And we can't do anything about it!" he whispered completely horrified.
"We need to do something now!" Marquel harshly whispered.
"And that is...? We can't...Especially with him glaring at us..." Rey uttered in a low tone, nodding his head towards Dargo, "We just need to wait and see who's going next..."
Inigo sniffed something, chuckling, "Ohoho~...they're soooo scared right now...I smell so many soiled trousers..."
"Good~ they should be after how they ran us out of Ken..." Record smiled venomously.
"However... I... want to ask Rey for something..." Prim said with a nervous expression, having difficulties with her words.
Rey blinked out of his fear, as the knights gave a path for him to get through, despite still sweating their asses off...
Prim looked at him in the eyes and blushed before looking away.
Without question, he made his way to the front, while Traysek was walking back, giving him a smirk when they passed each other...
"Good luck Rey~" The Redguard cooed in a low chuckle, getting him to snap a quick glare, before reaching the front...
"What do you request of me, Lady Prim?" He asked taking a knee.
"Well... um... I don't know how to say this... but..." after taking a deep breath, "Would you be interested in exchanging your reward with a historical fort?"
Rey blinked twice with a nervous smile, "I'd be willing but what is the name of this... historical fort, Milady...?" he raised an eyebrow.
"The Hröka Fort!" Prim beamed, "Owned by a war hero in the past! Sir Glüthren Genish!"
"I heard of him..." Marquel stated out loud, "Saved a lot of people and was reputed to have never lost any defensive battle..."
Rey beamed up at that, "I remember him... I studied his tactics during the academy... I didn't know that was the very fort..." he slowly nodded, "Okay, and what was the reward?"
"Around 6,000 pieces of gold," Prim answered with a warm smile.
Rey thought about that, "Okay, yeah, I'll exchange that for the legendary fortress!" he announced, getting a few claps, some sarcastic, the rest were just staring at him...
"I feel like I'm going to puke," Sylla commented.
"I feel like that name is familiar..." Dargo pointed.
Erik's eyebrow twitched, "So he does all that backstabbing and then ends up with a damned fort? Check that, a legendary one?" with widened eyes.
"Hold on Erik, we don't know the exact state of that fortress...it could be a luxurious one, or...it could be way less," Lucien whispered, calming him down.
Yuriana frowned at that, "Still, the idea of him even getting that would be pretty upsetting..."
They heard Traysek chuckling as he rejoined them all, "Oh wouldn't worry about that at all guys~" with a shit-eating grin, "You all seem to forget something...what was his reward again?" with a smirk and raised eyebrow.
"6,000 in gold which is weird for a legendary fort, historical even... which is more than he deserves..." Recorder shook her head.
"I would certainly agree~ but you're still off hairs with the point, Recorder..." The Redguard said, smirk widening, "The question you should be asking...is why was that amount exchanged...?"
"Exchange...yeah I heard that, as in trade in or..." Inigo's eyes went wide at the realization, "A transaction...by the gods..." hand over his mouth, trying to keep his laughter in and shaking.
"Yeah-huh, glad you got that inigo~" Traysek grinned, "For the rest of you...our cheapest house was 9,000 gold coins...for a fortress? that's rather low don't you all think...?"
Their eyes went wide in realization, going into snickering and giggling fits...
"Yeah...we just witnessed the world's greatest scam~ and he doesn't even realize it..." The Redguard chuckled.
"I remember now." Dargo said, gaining the attention of the others, "That fort was nearly destroyed 400 years ago. The owner tried to fight the Panderans... but ended up losing big time..."
"Wait, he lost to one of them? How strong was this guy and the panderan he fought?" Lucien asked with an eyebrow raised.
Dargo shook his head and answered, "I don't know the details... all I know is that the commander of the Panderan forces was a wise woman named Mei Ling... and crushed his forces with such ease that the humans never tried to attack the west."
"I see, must've been quite the battle, that's probably how they can live peacefully over there too," Inigo commented.
Traysek nodded, "Now, if they let that ancient fortress go for that much? how much are you all willing to bet that the fortress, it's still as much of a wreck then, as it was 400 years past...?"
"Must be." Sylla replied, "If they suffered a crushing defeat, they'd wish to leave it alone, never have to remember it again."
Yuriana whistled, "Forget "screwed over" he got straight-up shafted..."
"Oh prim~ you have a sense of humor it seems..." The Redguard snickered, "I almost want to go to see it when he does..." turning his attention back on him.
"My thanks, Lady Prim~" Rey bowed his head, a gagging sound heard in the distance.
"Now that's done! Let's enjoy ourselves with a party set to congratulate my new title!" Jenelica said with a vigorous tone, "You're all invited to my new domain!"
As the crowds quickly began to disperse, Rey walked back as he came across the snickering crew, narrowing his eyes on them, "What are you guys laughing at?"
"Oh nothing~ congrats on you and your..."legendary" fort! hope you enjoy it!" Traysek said aloud, getting some laughter from not only his crew but a few other soldiers who picked up on it...
"Oh you fu-" Rey went to say until he corrected himself, "-Whatever, it's fine...it's a new day for us holy knights anyway, so I will enjoy having a relic, a strong one mind you!...that's more than what I can say for you, Sword defender..." baring his teeth at that last bit.
"Oh I'm sorry, does that make your blood boil...?" The Redguard asked, innocently fluttering his eyebrows.
Reynold narrowed his eyes, "The fact that someone like you has that title? Yes...!"
"Especially since you're just a disgusting and ugly heretic who knows nothing of our history!" Marquel added, "Besides, we gained a fort that has a great history for us!"
"You dicks must be quite small to overcompensate with that." Sylla pointed nonchalantly.
Rey turned a glare to her, "I wasn't talking to you Sylla, and why are you defensive of him anyway? You've barely known him a day...and you're that close to him?" frowning hard, "Do I even want to know or ask?"
"Why does it matter to you? it's not you're going to do anything about it, but get your ass-kicked if you do..." Record pointed out, smirking.
Sylla stared down at them and said, "Yup, it's small."
The rest of the crew broke out into loud laughter, unable to hold it, while Rey and Marquel blushed with gritted teeth...
"Whatever you'll never see it," Rey huffed, "Marquel, let's get back to the men, it might be time to talk about that new idea of yours," being the first to leave with a scowl.
"I would say that you're running with your tail between your legs, but I doubt that it's that long," Sylla added as Marquel put his hand on his sword.
Traysek chuckled, "Aw look at 'em go~ Heh..."
"Anyway, forget those souring losers," Inigo interjected, giving him a nudge, "Let's talk about you, Mr. Birds of Prey and Sword Defender~ Congratulations, my Friend, you've earned it~"
"I'll say, saving the Queen at the last minute was a daring move, sir, and it paid off well," Erik added, giving a pat on the back.
"And you get benefits with that shiny new title, I bet," Lucien nodded in thought, "I'd speak to lord swain about it more if I were you, that's something that needs to be discussed,"
"Tell me something I don't know," The Redguard nodded in agreement, "I was going to seek him and Greil out, maybe get to know the others I'll be working with within the new group, I hate to leave you all though..."
Recorder gave him a grin, "Nah don't worry about it, go handle that, we'll mingle with the guests and other soldiers,"
"It's fine boss, just find out where we're supposed to get our payment from, we'll make do out here," Yuriana commented, glancing at Alexandros nearby.
Traysek nodded, "Alright, I'll let you all know how that goes, and Sylla..." getting her attention, "When I'm done talking to the older members, there...might be a proposition for you that you'd be interested in~" with a grin.
"I'll be waiting then~" Sylla winked at him.
He laughed, "Not that kind, although I wouldn't mind that again either~ You'll see~" Turning to the others, "As for the rest you, do enjoy yourselves today! If you need anything or if the knights bother ya, You know where to find me... that goes for you too Dargo and Endra, I'll see you guys~" waving and walking away, heading towards Swain and Prim.
"Now that Feoh is officially out of their hands, we can begin discussing Ur," Swain stated.
Prim giggled before saying, "It wouldn't be a problem. All we need is to get rid of those that would help them... and the rest."
"You're ruthless, aren't you..." Swain commented with a sigh as Prim giggled
They heard a chuckle, as Traysek reached the front of the stage, "I can't disagree, especially the "Reward" Rey just got..." snickering, clearing his throat, "Lord Swain~ I couldn't say it before, but it's good to see you again," with a smile, "Thank you for the opportunity, do you have somewhere we can talk?"
"Of course," Swain nodded, "Let's go to an office I own in the castle. Quite useful when I'm here."
The Dragonborn nodded with a grin, "Alright, following you," heading off with him.
Nearby in an upper pew, Celestine watched him being led off with a shocked expression, 'It's...it's him...Traysek...I can't believe it...I didn't think I'd see him again...'
It was hard to describe what she felt...on hand, she was happy, happy he was alive, and happy about his new position, and possibly a chance for them to reunite... and yet...There was a slow but rising anger that she also felt...Which caused her to narrow her eyes... "Del...Ophilyana...where's that office located...?"
The maid looked at her and said, "I can guide you there if you desire."
A small smile graced her lips, "That'll be most helpful, thank you, Del,"
The maid bowed before leading the goddess and her guard.
At Swain's office...
The door opens with Swain and Traysek walking in, the former looking around at the lavish office...
"Nice office~ I was wondering why this room was sealed off with a barrier," He complimented, taking a seat at the desk, "Didn't know they'd let you have one here, and given what I know about the king and how he was,"
"Once I met him face to face, he was very cooperative." Swain pointed, "Now, before beginning the discussion of your new position, do you have any questions that you want answered?"
Traysek thought about it, "To be fair, It was mostly going to be on that, but one of mine was wondering where they would have to go to pick up their pay, other than that, how's Celestine these days?"
"A bit better than how you left her, that's a certainty." Swain answered, "A little bit of work there and everything will be good... for now."
The Redguard took a deep breath, rubbing the back of his neck, "Yeah...I saw her come in too...just not where she ended up...Gods, I don't even know what I'm going to say for that reunion...I know left waaay angrier than I should've..." with a sullen expression, shaking his head and regaining his composure, "Well, at least I know on that front... and that's always good," with a smile, "So, about my position?"
"As the Sword Defender position says; you'll be a step above the Holy Knights. You can command them as you like. Of course, it means that the military leader of the kingdom recognizes you as one." Swain explained, "Those whose words are stronger than you are the Lightbringers, the Shields, and the Inquisitors. On the other hand, you aren't part of the Holy army, meaning they can't order you around."
"Okay..." He nodded, "So I am above the usual holy knights, and can ask anything of them, except for the mentioned positions...But I'm willing to bet, that they can't just arrest me so easily or call for it without probable cause, correct?"
"They'd need to have some concrete proof, and a good reason, to try it," Swain answered.
The Redguard nodded, "Okay okay, sounds a lot like the thane title back home or the sword-saint title from my homeland, just with a bit more benefits, I like that...I do," with a grin, "But as good as this position sounds, I did notice that you said it was, "Lost" to the people...meaning there was another before me...what happened to him or her?" raising an eyebrow.
"It was owned by a Holy Knight who not only fought against the Dark Army, but also the Holy Army itself." Swain replied, "The people loved him, but not the nobles... I think that you get the type of person."
Traysek nodded his head, "Yeah, An actual good guy, someone with a fair sense of justice, and enough to see past the war and fight real enemy... knowing how corrupt things are currently, I'm afraid to ask how they got rid of him..."
"They sent a false request to a secluded place and killed him." Swain replied, "They knew that he couldn't be framed... so they used his sense of justice against him."
"Hmm...I figured as much and most likely either went alone or worked alone...gods..." The Redguard breathed out, "Well, it's a good thing that I'm as strong as I am and smart enough not to do that, near-death experience there..." shivering at the thought, "Well, thank you for telling me the benefits and dangers of this job...gives me plenty to work with...and with the idea I had, it'll come in handy..." With a nod and smile, "Speaking of which, my position in the birds of prey...what goes into that?"
"I take that you've already met the Dark Blade." Swain stated, "I plan on increasing the military forces of the Birds of Prey to help in de-rooting the church in all the Seven Kingdoms. As much as I enjoy the multitude of cultures, I don't think that having a religion that looks down on others is a good thing to have..."
"I see, so you've been looking for worthy people from either side to join the cause... that's a clever way to do it..." Traysek nodded in approval, "And I have to agree on the church going...Much as I've been taught to be open to all religions and other beliefs, this is one is rather...Toxic...not just to the people here but...to EVERYONE...including the goddess it's based on..." With a hardened look, "I've seen what they've done to the economic status here...The fishing boats are shut down and hunters are forced to give up their game in the name of those churches...Everything in the general markets is priced beyond where they should be...not to mention their petty down-look on men in general...which was the catalyst to Volt betraying them and me and my crew deserting them..." slowly nodding, "Yeah, it's time for them to go...this has gone unchecked for too long...800 years long...and with my new guild idea, I think we make some dreams come true~" with a knowing smile.
"As long as you don't go over the top, I'm willing to aid you with that." Swain pointed out, "Do remember that this world doesn't respond to the same things as your world."
Traysek nodded, "I do, in fact... I've already made contact with the death god here...He... was quick to show me my..." sighing deeply, "Past kills...both deserving and undeserving...as such, I cannot start an assassin's guild here, or at least in Yamakhroz, because there's already a legal guild that handles that...and that would put me and Udemi in conflict...Not something I want coming after me," with a sigh, Smirking soon after, "But~ There's no type of thieves guild anywhere...is there...?"
"If you believe that a thief is well seen... well I'm not going to judge." Swain said as he took a quill and a piece of paper, "Do know that people tend to... distrust thieves as they tend to steal... which isn't something well seen by itself."
Traysek slowly nodded, "I agree, many would be wise not to trust a thief, a thief will steal, a thief will lie, and a thief will kill... even the master one in this very room," with a smirk, "But...that's why I asked if there was a guild or a group out there...Starting a traditional thieves' guild wouldn't be a wise call here, the name alone is enough of a problem...and their motto is chaotic, they're not too picky about targets... No, while we'll be thieves, this guild will be a more revised and controlled variant with most of those elements melded in, meaning the jobs and rules, along with a few other elements from other guilds I've been to..."
"I see..." Swain wrote something on the piece of paper before it burned in bright crimson flames, transforming into a red badge that depicts a bird, "This will be your official badge. And... I'm willing to offer my full support on one condition..."
"Of course, name it," Traysek simply answered.
"For your second, You'll have a woman who goes by the name of Rela," Swain stated as a shadow began to appear near him.
The Redguard raised an eyebrow, "A second to the guild huh, and you say her name's Rela? Well, if those are your only conditions, then by all means I'll take her in," with a grin, noticing the figure, "I assume, the person in question is that shadow standing next you, right?" smiling at it.
The shadow revealed a busty Dark Elf with long black hair and blood-red eyes. Her attire consists of a black corset, black leather gauntlets, and black leather boots. However, her most striking feature is a pair of demonic horns on her head.
"I do hope you won't see a problem with her..." Swain stated.
Traysek gave her an overall look, "No...No problem at all~ In fact, I welcome it, open arms~" With a genuine smile, turning to her, "Hello there, Rela~ I'm Traysek, it's nice to meet you, and your stealth ability is quite nice, I have a similar one to it...I can tell we're gonna get along, hope you feel the same," offering a handshake.
Rela looked at it for a little while before shaking it.
"Don't mind her... she has some issues." Swain pointed, "Thankfully, the fact that you aren't a noble means that she won't hate you, it will make her working with you quite easily."
The Redguard nodded, "I see, bad past with nobles, eh? I can understand," he smiled, "That said, She's a right to be a little nervous, we're a rough and rowdy bunch, and times raunchy~ but, we're also honest and merry, she'll feel RIGHT at home, that I can assure~ But knowing how those guys CAN get, especially who the mentors will be...if you do have any complaints about some of the things they or I do...do share your thoughts, that is all I ask of you, Rela"
She simply nodded before saying, "I'll do..." with a soft, lonely, and cold voice.
Traysek's smile wilted, feeling his heartbreak a little at the tone, exhaling out with a smile, "Thank you~" turning to Lord Swain, "She'll do well as my second...I know a certain blue khajiit is going to be pouty, but he'll be fine..." he chuckled, "Was there anything more to this?"
"There's also something that you need to witness." Swain added, "A little later in the evening, I'll call for someone, and I want you to be the one who'd escort him into this office."
"Oh~? Sounds interesting, who's the lucky guy?" The Redguard asked with an eyebrow raised.
"A Holy Knight you know too well." Swain replied as he took out sealed scrolls from his coat, "It's time to see what he did when I sent him here."
"Ah~ him...I see, well from what Greil and I found about him, there's no way he can disappoint anymore than he ALREADY has..." Traysek with a head shake, "But I'll get him here when it's time, much as I'd rather not talk or be seen talking to him..."
"Well then, a little bird told me that you got close to someone, might I ask if you plan to get her in that new guild of yours?" Swain asked as he raised an eyebrow.
Traysek blinked twice with a slight blush and smile, "Little bird, huh...? Willing to bet that "little bird" was an eagle..." with a smirk and sneer, "Gods Niall...Well, on that note, I did mention that to her before coming to see you, Sylla's quite strong from what I've seen during battle, a tarnished is they call her kind, very rare too...and she's got plenty of skill, we could use that on our side, and I don't she'd oppose said proposition,"
"Niall knows nothing of that." Swain pointed, "Let's say that I have my sources." he then added, considering how... intimate you've become, you do have the perfect opportunity."
"I see...well, I won't ask how that came to be, but, you're right about the timing, it would be..." The Redguard nodded, "I don't plan on making that a method though, it wasn't even meant to be one...but I can't complain either, so..." he shrugged, "She might end up joining the official crew and could be a mentor that way...we'll see what she chooses...The only thing to worry about now is where to hold the guild,... I Can't do an airship because they'll shoot us down if they find it...And Yamakhroz is not going to want us operating there,"
Swain thought for a moment before saying, "How about a manor that I stopped using? It's a little close to Ken and is spacious enough to hold your new guild."
Now it was Traysek's turn to think, slowly nodding, "A manor...? Okay, sure~ I wouldn't mind that and it helps that it's around the main roads...but would I also have to trade in my reward money for it as well?" with an eyebrow raised.
"Of course not." Swain answered, "You're a member of the Birds of Prey, we help each other. Which reminds me, I need to include some workers to help out with the cleaning and the other tasks."
"I appreciate that, once again, thank you for the chance...Our reputation in our world has nothing to do with this one... It truly helps to get that kind of support in a world...far from mine," Traysek thanked with a slight bow, "More than what even my patron god can provide, outside of divine weaponry...so I'm hoping and praying he hasn't pissed anyone off...because I'll be the one paying for it..." he finished with his eyes closed and a deep sigh...
"I doubt that praying can help in this situation." Swain stated, "Especially with how Celestine now feels about him."
Traysek's eyes opened wide in horror, "I'm sorry...what now...? he already did something...?"
"Why don't you ask her directly?" Swain said with a calm tone, "She's been listening to our conversation for quite a while."
The Redguard broke in a cold sweat, feeling himself go pale, as that same feeling he felt before was even more intense now... blinking twice, "H-heard everything...? As in every-? oooooh noooo...is she the one responsible for this aura...? I can sense that..." turning to the door, as the knob started to slowly turn, eyes going wider.
The Dark Elf opened the door and made way for a smiling Celestine.
Traysek blinked once again, as she walked into a room, gently smiling, but it wasn't a good one and he knew, 'Ooooh oh shit...that...that's not a good smile... what did you do...? what did you do, Lord Satakal...?' he gulped, offering a nervous smile, "W-well...this is...quite a surprise...um...hello Celestine..."
"I do desire to catch up with you~," Celestine said sweetly, "More to know about that woman you got close to. As for what that god of yours tried to do... it will be a discussion of its own."
The Redguard felt the breath leave his body, "Oh...oh that...uh..." looking away for a second, "W-we don't need to go into that...explicit detail...I'm interested in what my master did first... The Redguard waved off with a nervous smile, as she got closer and closer... "R-really..."
'M-master...I need you right now...and I can't defend myself, and I think I've been disabled, where are you?'
'Uh...yeah no...you two need to catch up, I am not to involve myself in mortal affairs..." Satakal's voice beamed back to him, holding a bit of chill.
'What do you mean?! you were talking shit, whatever you DID... get down here and fix it!'
Traysek you are my strongest champion, my bravest soldier ...my advice to you now is to stay strong...!'
'WHAT?! No no no no...don't you fucking leave me with this! Master? MASTER!' he mentally sobbed out.
"No no no, I want to know every little detail." Celestine stated, "Every. Little. Detail."
Traysek gulped, trying to regain his composure, fixing his collar, "S-sure, but, maybe when we're done...? I was in the middle of discussing important details about my new position with lord swai-" turning to face him, going completely pale when he found him turned away, marveling at something at the window... 'Oh by the gods...he's left the situation! and Rela's not helping...I'm cooked if I don't say anything...and I don't think I could play off it tough either...Not with all that "kill me" aura coming from her...!' glancing back at her glowing green eyes, "Okay, okay...I-I'm not going anywhere...this time...not that I'd get the chance with how close you are...But...I may... have met someone after the battle and we hit it off pretty well, and hung out later at Nialls...it went pretty tame for the most part, until later... one thing to another...and we got intimate... it was just something casual, nothing deeper than...we even... talked about it after," he finished, doing his best to remain calm.
"Hooooo~ please, say more." the dark aura around Celestine grew more.
Traysek let a sweat drop with a smile, 'If I tell this woman about that... Gravussy... Sylla's going to be done for before she even starts in our crew...!' clearing his throat, "Uh, I don't know what else to tell you there, Celestine...we just partied and had an intense hook-up, that was it, really," he waved off, with both hands this time.
"So you won't mind that I go ask her, huh?" Celestine tilted her head cutely, "Besides, I'm sooooo eager to know her more."
"I mean sure... I guess? I'm Not sure why that matters, but fine... Sylla should still be in the lobby with the others..." The Redguard informed with a shrug.
"Well, I'll go see her right away." Celestine then turned, leaving the office still having that dark aura.
The Redguard blinked twice at her departure, "Ok, you go do that..." watching her leave the room, "Oh by the nine, what was all of that...? Was that jealousy? Yikes...I hope she's serious about meeting her and JUST that..." with a shook expression.
"I doubt that's the case," Swain said calmly while drinking from a cup of tea and seated in his place.
"Has she been like that since I left...? What exactly did Lord Satakal do to get her like that?" Traysek asked, "I tried asking him, but he "disconnected" as soon as I asked for him to be here..."
"Let's say that sometimes gods tend to forget that they aren't all-knowing," Swain replied.
The Redguard was confused about that, until he remembered something, that made him groan, and facepalm, "By the gods...He attempted one of his..."pep" talks, didn't he...? Those have left me hotter and angrier than I was initially when he was done...but this feels too deep towards him, what else...did he do?"
"He didn't like that I spoke against him," Swain answered.
Traysek nodded with a narrowed stare, "Uh-huh, and knowing him and how he is about disrespect... he tried to punish you for it, thinking you were a lesser mortal...gods...I'm... astonished you even want me working with you after he tried that...Damn... I'm sorry about him, as his devotee that's upsetting to learn...he didn't tell me anything about this and I'm starting to see why..." shaking his head slowly.
"His actions aren't yours." Swain stated with a stern expression, "And you aren't him, you're you. Besides, I dealt with worse in the past."
"I can't argue that... He's the god, not me..." Traysek concurred, "Still this further solidifies my statement from earlier, valuing your support over his will probably be better for me...and the gods here would be less inclined to think I'm an invading conqueror for it... I'll use his power but that's it...and get my sword, he does have that...but for the rest of it, I don't think I'm taking any more advice from him involving here...and knowing your knowledge of this world, I know who to lean on for that advice and I WILL need it," with a genuine smile, "Hoping I can count on you there,"
"Of course," Swain nodded, "If you have any questions, my door is open."
"Alright then, I look forward to our partnership, may it benefit us both," The Redguard grinned, offering a handshake.
"Indeed." Swain accepted the handshake.
"That said, does this manor come with a key?" Traysek asked.
Swain looked at the maid, who got her hand deep in her mouth before bringing a heavy set of keys.
The Redguard inspected the keys to ensure nothing was dripping off them, before taking and pocketing them, "Thank you...I'll figure out what these do in time, not that I won't have anyone to ask," nodding his head towards Rela, "Okay, Anything else? If not, I'll track down Greil and Gronik for our payout, AFTER I stop Celestine and Sylla from killing each other..." facepalming in the pinch of his fingers.
"Good luck with that." Swain sighed, "You'd need it."
"Tell me about it, I'll let you know how that goes," Traysek chuckled, "In the meantime, Rela? Would you like to meet the others?"
The Dark Elf looked at Swain, who nodded, before replying, "Very well."
He gave a warm smile, "Alright, let's get going~" being the first to head out with her following behind...
Castle lobby...
The Rest of the Crew along with Dargo and Endra with Sylla were chilling at two different tables, one for the guys and they were in the middle of a card game, and one for the ladies, in the middle of gossip...all waiting for Traysek to finish with his meeting, Inigo yawning...
"It shouldn't take that long, I wonder what the hold up is?" The khajiit noted, shuffling the cards.
Erik shrugged, "It could be a lot of recession that goes into his new position, that does take a while..."
"That doesn't explain this feeling of dread that's approaching us though...maybe it's just nervousness, but something feels off..." Lucien added in.
"If it's not toward you, don't worry about it." Endra pointed with a grin, "Enjoy your life and always be ready to take away in case of troubles. It's not cowardly if you have no wish to deal with a headache, am I right?"
The men of the crew looked amongst themselves, slowly nodding in agreement...
"That...holds some truth to it," Inigo concurred, dealing out the cards, "If not us then..." glancing at the girl's table...
...
Recorder and Yuriana were sharing a bottle of wine, the former being the last to pour herself a drink before sitting the bottle back in the center...
"So~ Sylla, how are you finding everybody~? seems like you've gotten used to us," She said with a smile.
"You are one hell of a group, that's not a lie." Sylla pointed with a grin.
Yuriana nodded, "You know, given what the proposition the boss might make to you, you might be joining us, and we'd like to have you," with a smile.
"That being the case, if we are...we need to start with honesty..." Recorder said with a knowing smirk, "We know what happened, Sylla... and fur ball's implications did not go unnoticed, and given how close you were up on him, that made it even worse..."
"We're just letting you know, we're not jealous or angry about it, we know how he is...and the fact that he doesn't kiss and tell... unless severely pressed about it...we can respect him for it...and you for not bragging about it," with a wink.
"Geez, and here I thought no one would have picked it up." Sylla groaned, "Well... to be honest, I felt kinda human back there... despite not being one..."
Recorder chuckled, "Yeah, he has that effect...I take it you had a good time, then,"
"And you're not a human...? I wouldn't have guessed that...you look close enough to one," Yuriana frowned, "If you're not, then...what are you? if don't mind me asking,"
"I'm a Nightfolk." Sylla replied, "Even if I appear human, that's just my skin." she took a knife and cut her palm, revealing silver blood, "Beings created us to be superior to humans, Our primitive form is the Silver Tear, which can turn into anything and anyone it sees."
Record whistled, "Wow...that's kinda metal...and not because that's actual silver blood coming out of you either...But I had no idea, something like you existed, no offense..." throwing her hands up, "okay, that explains the non-human part,"
"Indeed it is..." Yuriana said with an approving nod and grin, "I think you'd fit right in with the rest of us oddballs~" with a laugh, glancing at the guys' table, "And...It would be nice to have another female voice in the crew...we're the only two here...and it's not fair..." in a playful slight sob.
Sylla giggled before saying, "I guess that I need to tell Niall that I'm ready to leave his forces."
"Maybe, but given the title the boss just got? something tells me we're going to be seeing each other quite often," Recorder pointed with a nod, taking a sip.
"Yeah...it did sound like a pretty big deal, not only was he accepted into this "birds of prey" group, but he's also this...what was it again, "Sword defender?" wondering what goes into that myself," Yuriana wondered.
Sylla shrugged and stated, "To be honest, I don't know myself about that title, but I did hear that this group is trying to recruit someone who can bring the dead back to life..."
"Huh, wonder if we can help them out there, that may come useful later," The Redhead woman nodded, "Until then, we'll have to wait and see, much like we're doing with our payment right now,"
Recorder sighed, "We keep forgetting about that...still, either DB'll bring it to us or tell where to go for it, most likely to Lord Gronik, I betting on that," with a chuckle.
Sylla stayed silent, her hand going toward her katana.
Approaching nearby was a sweetly Smiling Celestine, passing right by the guys and their game, putting a chill in all of the males of the crew...
"Hey...did anyone just feel that...?" Lucien said, coming out of his cards shook.
"Y-yeah...it was a deathly cold chill just now...What in the name of all gods is that?" Erik said, in a cold sweat.
Inigo's ears picked up a bad vibration, turning to the direction of, "Is that...Celestine...? Is that coming from her?" with a worried look, "And why is she heading to the girl's table...?" getting them all to look in the same direction.
Dargo looked at her, unaffected, and began to go for his sword.
"Easy there, buddy." Endra caught his arm, "She isn't going for your girl, but another one... and now that I said it out loud, you'll hit me, right?"
Dargo only stared coldly at the other Dark Elf.
Recorder was laughing until she looked up and gasped with a horrified expression, "Uh-uh...S-sylla...? Don't panic, but there's an apparition over your shoulder right now!"
"A-And a familiar one at that..." Yuriana shivered, "H-hello a-again Celestine...you're uh...l-looking well..." with a nervous grin.
Sylla smiled her hand on her weapon, "It seems like someone wants to talk with me."
"Hello again Ladies, no need to worry, I'm having a good day today," She told them, "Meeting familiar faces...and the new..." glancing down at the tarnished, staring for a moment, "You must be Sylla...I've...heard things about you..."
"I'm sure that's the case." Sylla smiled back, hand on her weapon and a black aura around her.
"It isn't...? I've heard how you were in the battle, it is to be commended~" Celestine said with a slight bow, "So in that regard, thank you for Defending Feoh~ I mean that," the aura disappeared for a second.
"I see, well, I had to protect this beautiful city." Sylla replied, also losing her aura, but her hand still on her katana, 'Like hell I'll believe that's why you're here. I already know not to let my guard down... especially around divinities.'
Celestine looked around, "I see you've also gotten close with this lot, despite not being one of theirs...They've taken to you quite well~" with a slow nod, the aura started slowly come back, "Even given the fact, I know how close you got with their leader...Intimately..." in cold grave voice.
Recorder gave a nervous chuckle, "Eheheh...uh...listen, I'm not sure what...this is...about right now...but I'm sure...whatever you heard...I'm sure DB can explain..."
"It's funny you say that...I just came FROM talking to him..."
Yuriana nervously gulped down the wine, 'By the gods, she pressed him on it...and given this aura, I would've caved too...! it's nearly demonic...is this jealousy?'
"So what if that's the case?" Sylla asked with a smile, with her aura also returning, "Last time I checked, it isn't against the law to find a lover, is it?"
Her eyebrow twitched, "Lover...?" a large thundering boom went off outside, making everyone but them jump in the room.
"What else did you think?" Sylla asked, "After all, not even the gods are immortal... And it's been quite a while since I last fought one."
Celestine was unfazed by that statement, "I see...so it's true then..." with a slow nod, eyes shadowed over, "And you're right, there isn't any...But then again...Law's got nothing to do with this..." finishing with a chill in her voice, clearing her throat "Just...what did you do... to get him to you like that...? inquiring minds need to know..."
The Tarnished sighed before saying, "Firstly, I've been myself, not what others want me to be. and secondly... we found some similarities between us... and to be honest, I wasn't expecting to find someone I can relate to."
At that, she blinked out of her anger, taken aback by that, "Huh...And that was enough...?" turning to the girls, getting nods...She stared back at the tarnished for a moment with a hard look, until sighing in defeat with the aura completely dying down this time, "I can't...I can't fault you for that...I suppose...I thought he might've been..."
"Seduced by her?" Yuriana raised an eyebrow, before breaking into a laugh, "Well, I can see why you'd be worried, she does have that energy...but, your Highness, there's no mind seduction going on here...none..."
"Maybe not...but it doesn't mean, I'm not...a bit bitter, that he gave his first away like that..." Celestine admitted, embarrassed.
Recorder and Yuriana looked amongst themselves with nervous expressions...
"Uh...yeah...about that..." Record began with, "You might wanna have a seat..."
...
Traysek and Rela had finally reached the lower lobby, the former finding things to be...oddly normal...
"Okay...? There was an intense aura here and now it's gone...?" Turning to Rela with a frown.
"There..." Rela pointed to Celestine sitting with the girls.
He turned to find them all chatting, seemingly civilly as Celestine nodded at something, "Ah there they are..." going over to them...
"And...that's the whole Gist to it..." Record finished with, "I...didn't know you were interested like that...but yeah, that explains why he hasn't been one in...years...I'm not a fan of that..." with headshake.
"That explains all what happened that night." Sylla mumbled out loud, "Maybe we should do some more... daring things next time..."
Celestine turned to her with a threatening smile, clearing her throat, and glancing back at the other two, "Well, it does explain why he...worded it the way he did...But I get it, every culture is...different...I can't judge him over something I had no control over..."
"You know, if you want to ask him about it, I'm sure he'll tell you more...But...yeah, and in my case? ...It's more screwed up than I like to go into..." Yuriana added with a bitter tone at the end.
Traysek walked up with his new second, "Hey ladies...Everything seems pretty tame in here...I expected half the castle to be destroyed with large noise earlier..." with a sweaty smile.
"Nah, we just had to...clear a few misunderstandings, things almost got ugly though..." Recorder sighed in relief, spotting the strange woman next to him, "Um...who's this sir?"
"Ah! I'm glad you asked!" The Redguard grinned, "This here is Rela! My second to the new guild I'll be opening up here, and...I'll need worthy mentors...I can't think of anyone but you six... "
"Howdy." the Dark Elf greeted.
"New guild?" Yuriana asked with an eyebrow raised.
"And what do you mean six? there's only five of us here," Recorder frowned until a realization hit..."Oh..." turning to Sylla.
"I take that no one of you can keep up with me on horseback," Sylla smirked.
"And before you answer that... No, you can't... not once was she knocked off horseback out there, even with arrows flying at her...I imagine it'd be the same with bullets..." He pointed, "As for you, Sylla, we'll get to the welcoming ceremony later, but you're in... welcome to the Red Dragons~ and you will be a mentor for the guild with the other five," Traysek said with a smile, "For as long as we're here... and something tells me, we're going to be getting quite cozy," getting some chuckles from the crew.
"If that's the case, maybe I should begin using those abilities I got during my time with and after the Night Cavalry." Sylla said before smirking, "I did fight a Glinstone Dragon... which means, I can easily use his Glinstone fire."
"You have dragon abilities as well...? I can't wait to see what that does later," The Redguard laughed, "As for our payment, we'll need to see Greil and Gronik for that and they should still be here...I just came to make sure, a catfight didn't break out...an awful one..."
There were groans from the guys' table...
"Aww, man! And we were ready to place bets!" Erik shouted from the table.
"There's always next time." said a beaten-up Endra.
Traysek winced at his bruises, "Oof, what in oblivion happened to you?"
"I might have fallen due to my mouth." Endra pointed with a chuckle.
"Ah, talking mess, huh? Think I know who got you on that," Traysek chuckled, "Can't judge you for it though..." cutting his eye to a dark smiling goddess, "I've also committed the same crime...which reminds me," turning to her, "Are you okay, now...? I see the castle still stands, so you're calm I take it?"
"Why are you asking the question~?" Celestine asked with an innocent tone.
The Redguard gave her two blinks and a knowing smirk, "Uh-huh, sure~ Can you say that when you're NOT leaking all that divine MURDER energy, then...?" with a sweatdrop, before sighing, "Which I'm not getting, why...?" he asked with a frown, "I thought you wanted NOTHING to do with me...your paladin made that pretty clear when we were in your tower last..."
"To tell you the truth... it... it was her own words, not mine." Celestine said ashamed, "I tried to speak up, but I was weak back then..."
Traysek went quiet on that for a moment, glancing at the girl's table, getting nods from them, and then cut his eye at the guys' table, getting nods from most of his men, before back to Celestine, sighing deeply in facepalm coming out with a slight smile.
"Heh...I guess that makes most of us in here..." He admitted, "You didn't know how your people could be and we didn't know how VAST this world's dangers could be...I say we've both had the time to learn..." placing a hand on her shoulder, "And I hold no grudges over it...I know you're being used...they keep things from you...keep you locked away in that tower...You wouldn't know...I willing to bet Swain even getting you out for today, was a hassle in its own, right?"
Celestine nodded and said, "Claudia wanted to raise an army to fight off Olga's forces... but I knew it would hurt the people of Feoh more than anything. That's why I asked Uncle Swain to make sure, she doesn't come here..."
"Uncle?" Sylla raised an eyebrow as Celestine blushed madly.
"It's- it's just that-" Celestine tried to explain before a raven landed before Traysek.
Traysek sighed, turning a smile to the bird, "Came to make sure no one died down here...?" with a chuckle.
"No," Swain replied, shocking Sylla, "Bring him now. The last one I've been waiting for has arrived."
The Redguard nodded, "Oh it's time? very well, I'll fetch him for you...be there shortly,"
Swain said nothing as the bird flew away.
"D-Did it just talk?!" Sylla asked with wide eyes.
"Not it but a "he" and yes he did," Traysek pointed, "Anyways, I gotta drag an annoying holy brat to Lord Swain, apparently he's got something to show me about him...I still say he can't disappoint me any more than he already has...so on that," giving a quick slight bow, "I'm gonna have to cut this conversation short I'm afraid...Sorry ladies, but...in your case Celestine, Olga is in the royal chambers...Think she's camped out there if you speak to her...if not, feel free to tag along, got a feeling we might be in for a show~..." with a grin.
Celestine thought for a bit before saying, "I'll come with you, I want to see what it's all about. As for Olga... I'll meet her after that."
"Okay...the rest of you, when I come back, we'll head out to our new manor, I'll have our payments as well," He told the others, before frowning at something, turning to Rela, "Uh...Rela? do you know what Village that manor's nearby...?"
"Erdora." the Dark Elf replied.
"Erdora...?" Traysek said with widened eyes, "I know that village too well...We'll be operating there huh...okay, that makes things easier," with a slow nod, "Alright, now to find him..." looking around, "anybody see where the white rat ran off to?"
"I wish I did...but no I didn't see where he went..." Erik added in.
"He said something about a camp." Dargo pointed, "Maybe I should check if he's there..."
The Redguard gave a knowing smirk, closing his eyes, "Dargo...I can't bring him...to Swain...as a corpse..."
"Don't worry, I won't kill him... now," Dargo stated with a dead cold tone.
"There will be the day Swain tires of him, but for now...let's see what happens, you might be surprised," Traysek assured, "And If you're worried about me going alone, I'll be bringing Rela and Celestine to retrieve him, so it won't take long..." turning to the following two, "Alright, let's go, I saw that camp on the way here, I know where it is..." heading towards the exit with them both following...
Meanwhile...at the holy knight's camp...
Reynold sat with Marquel and a few other knights, discussing what to do now that things had ended up the way they ended up...Rey was nodding his head at something...
"I like that Idea, Marquel...and in the long run, I wouldn't have to worry about taking orders from him...and we've got a fortress for it...it'll work," He smiled, "Assuming something else doesn't roadblock us from doing, our new order should take off pretty well~"
"But we need to get some people to help us, some well-placed people who we can lean on, as well as someone in case we need to perform a duel." Marquel listed, "Kinda a lot, but it's for the protection and survival of the new order."
"No, I understand what goes into all this myself, two problems though, we don't have contacts nor any noble names that would be willing to fight for us...and given what my brother did...that's going to be even harder to acquire..." Rey sighed bitterly...
"Is there nothing we can do to get the favors of someone?" Marquel asked.
Reynold thought on this, one thought coming to mind and putting him to a chill, "There...might be someone we can talk to, but...it's who that's the problem..."
"Who're you talking about?" Marquel asked with a nervous expression.
"Do you remember what those two were questioning me for? There may be some truth to that...about the high inquisitor and I...we met a week before the battle started...hopefully we don't have to resort to that...but that option's there...knowing the stories you can see why I dread this..." Rey shivered, "We can check with lord Raymond and see if we can't get anything...I had something going there, so that's our best bet..."
"I remember the stories I heard about him." Marquel crossed his arms, "Not only that but there's also the strength of his family... it might be a good idea."
Nearby, Traysek had arrived with the Goddess and his new second, the former looking around...
"This is where they're resting up at...? gods it's sad here..." He commented, noting the glares and tired scowls he got as he passed through spotting the silver-haired knight, "There he is..." walking up to them.
"With that fort, some men, and support from the nobles, we might rival the Red Spears," Marquel stated with a cheerful tone.
They soon heard clapping near them turning to the source, finding the Redguard smirking and clapping, "Stellar dreams, boys~ Love to see how that works out for you both..." sarcastically clapping.
"Oh fuck RIGHT off!" Rey growled, "You already got what you wanted from me yesterday with your new partner, and today at the ceremony...Sword-defender..." narrowing his eyes, "Not even a day has passed and you're already being a dick with your new position, should inform lord Swain of this...? this is harassment, you here to mock us, that sarcastic clapping proved it..."
"You..." Rela narrowed her eyes into a hateful glare, "I remember you..."
Rey frowned at her, "Do I know you...? I think I would've remembered someone like you...especially with horns like those...that happen to be smoking now..." blinked twice, "Those are real, right...?"
"Very and never you mind that part," Traysek frowned hard, "As for that horseshit you were spouting earlier about reporting me... It's funny you say that, I'm here to bring you to him..."
"What? Lord Swain wants to speak with me?" Rey blinked, "Okay...But did he say why...?"
"Not up for me to tell," Traysek simply responded with, "All you need to know, is that you're being summoned and I'm to bring you there..."
Reynold sighed deeply, spotting the goddess nearby behind, "Lady Celestine...? is he telling the truth about this...?"
Celestine nodded and said, "Un-Lord Swain wishes to talk about something, and I'll be there to see what all of that is about."
"I-I see...very well," Rey sighed in defeat, turning to Marquel, "This won't take long, when I'm back we'll head to Hröka fortress, the men should be ready by then..."
"Don't worry, they'll be ready." Marquel nodded.
Rey nodded back, turning to him, "Well, are we walking or not?" with a frown.
"Nope~" Traysek grinned grabbing his shoulder, "We're taking a quick way there!"
"Wha-?" He tried to respond, but it was too late, he was teleported away with them, leaving the knights in a daze...
Swain's office...
Swain sat with a crystal in front of him.
"How are things in Ken? Anyone tried to get inside?" he asked.
"Some officers tried to force their way in." a young man replied.
"I see..." Swian went into his thought.
"By the way, how's big sis doing?" the young man asked.
"She could be better." Swain answered, "But it's better than it used to be."
"Also, the Archbishop is asking me to attack you." the young man said, "He tried to contact the others, but only the Lightbringer of Ansur showed interest."
"I'll keep that in mind." Swain narrowed his eyes before cutting the communication off and hiding the crystal using his magic.
There was a knock at the door soon after...
"Del, open the door," Swain ordered as the maid did as she was asked.
Traysek walked, followed by Celestine and Rela, "I hope we're not late, nearly left town, but I got your package..." stepping out of the way as Rey was the last one in, stepping forward.
"G-greetings Lord Swain...I'm surprised you wanted to see me..." He said, taking a bow.
"Sit... we have much to talk about..." Swain said with a dreadful tone.
Rey gulped, glancing at a smirking Traysek who motioned to the seat, while the other two remained neutral in expressions...He sighed, Walking up and taking a seat, The door closing with a foreboding echo...
...
To be continued...
Omake
The Rat Vs Fort Godwyn
As the crew was walking toward Niall's fortress, someone was tailing them...
'So...this is where Commander Niall's real fortress is...I didn't expect it to be this...big...' he mentally gulped, watching as the banished knights guided them in...the main castle doors shutting and locking, 'Alright Reynold, you can't shy up now...You came to ask for a loan...and it looks like taking the direct way is out of the question, but...' noticing another way in on the left side of the fort, 'I do spot another way in...' he smirked, quickly sneaking his way there...
Once he turned to get in, he found himself in front of a Banished Knight who had a shield and a longsword.
The holy knight found himself staring up at the large knight, giving a sweet sweating smile, 'This is one of his guards? he's huge...let's see if he's willing to help though...' gulping, "Uh...excuse me? I'm looking for Commander Niall, would be so kind as to-"
The knight silently lifted his foot before violently stomping the ground, generating a gust of wind that sent the young knight flying away.
(Attempt 2)
Now back at a makeshift camp, Rey sat outside in thought on how he was going to get in...until he spotted another entry, one leading to the upper walls, smiling, 'Think I just found my way in...'
Next, he climbed the large ladder, reaching the end of it, now on the upper wall... 'Okay so far so good...looks like no one's around...' crouching and slowly moving along the wall...
He then came upon another guard who had his back to him, smirking and attempting to sneak past...'Too easy...'
A halberd stopped him in his tracks as a knight was glaring down at him.
The holy knight froze in fear, checking back at the place where the other knight was, finding him gone, gulping, "O-oh...it's you...listen I can explain-"
The knight lifted him before throwing him out of the wall with a lot... a lot of force.
"AAHHHGGGGGHHHH!" He screamed, landing hard somewhere...
(Attempt 3)
Back at his camp once again, he slammed his fist into the ground, "Dammit! There's gotta be a way past these guys!" he growled, looking around, until a lightbulb went off, going for his crossbow and dipping one of his arrows in something, 'If being spotted is a bad call...I can always just knock them out...those idiots left a bottle of sleep poison around, they can't blame me for taking it and applying its use...' he mused with a smirk.
Once again back on the upper walls, he was aiming it over one of the other banished knights who chilled on their time off, 'Just one shot...it should be simple enough...' slowly squeezing the trigger.
But before that the arrow could be launched, someone took it in his hand and broke it effortlessly.
Rey blinked twice, turning around to find...yet another banished knight glaring him down, "Ehehehe, now I know this looks-"
Before he could continue, he was bashed hard with a Banished Knight shield.
(Attempt 4)
He was once more back at his makeshift camp, giving a pile of rubble a kick, clearly frustrated, "That's it...! No more sneaking around, no more Mr. Nice Knight...they wanna make it hard...I'll give them HARD!" With a determined tone...
Within the fortress, he was running for his life from a group of them, reaching a strange fogged-up door, stopping to catch his breath when he made it past it, and others unable to get through it..."Haah haah! finally...!"
"The Hell? Reynold...?" He heard a voice call out, turning out to be Traysek who was chilling with Niall at his desk, the former turning to the latter, "You guys are on speaking terms again...?" with an eyebrow raised.
Niall stood up and waved his banner... summoning two Banished Knights.
Boss theme: Old Warriors
Rey waved his arms defensively in a panic, "Whoa whoa whoa...WHOA WHOA! Where's all this coming from?! I just wanted a talk!" As Traysek started laughing...
The two Banished Knights rushed at him with a cold wind behind them.
"No no no no no no...AAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!" Reynold screamed as the knight zoomed in on him...
...
Omake end...
Uh-oh...looks Reynold's actions are about to catch up to him...Just what does Lord Swain have in store and will his reputation amongst the knights ever be the same? And Now as a Birds of Prey member and Sword Defender... what will come of this new guild that Traysek's cooking up? Find out next time!
Also, I hope you all like the omake, it's based on an Elden ring short, (Castle sol is easy) we tried not to take TOO much inspiration from it, but we all hope you enjoyed it... Now on to the Review...
OniTenshi500 - Ohohoho~ if you've made it this far, you'll be in for a treat next chapter... :) Swain will be diving in that ass...and I can't wait... :D Stay tuned
That said, that is all the reviews I have for now...But if want me to answer any of yours or if you have any questions or criticism...Do leave Reviews, just because I snapped at one of them, that shouldn't discourage you from leaving how you feel...Good and/or Bad... let me know your thoughts...That's all everyone, stay safe and I'll see you all next time! :)