Red Dragon's Roar - Fall of the Kuroinu!

by King Traegodia

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

44. Chapter 43

Now at the castle, Traysek saved the life of the Queen and met up with Prim...After that, he proceeded to search for Beasley, only to run into someone FAMILIAR, how will this epic meeting go- *Record Scratch* I'm sorry, are you kidding...? We know exactly how this is GOING to go... No point in lying lmao let's get it XD

To OniTenshi500: Oh... my brother of this fandom... You're in for a treat there :D I made sure he didn't hold back...as for the others, it'll fall dominos, My Co-writer and I are still working the details out on that...and how far we let her fall, but it should be satisfying to see either way...enjoy :)

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Chapter 43

The Battle For Feoh - Part 4 (Finale)

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Theme: Et Voici Guts! - Berserk ost

The lead knight gritted his teeth, "How the hell do you know me?! Who even are you? I would remember someone like you if we've met before!" before thinking on something, 'However, this DOES feel familiar...but where have I felt this?'

The armored Redguard sighed, "That's right, It has been a while hasn't it?...You probably wouldn't remember me now, especially with this helmet on...It doesn't matter..." grabbing the floating spear and pointing it at him, "What's more is that you don't have any glow on you...NEITHER of you! I could kill you all right now on that alone...But..." lowering the spear, "I've got more pressing matters...best I not be late...that said, would you be so kind as to move?"

"Never!" Rey barked, managing to draw his sword, "I don't care for that minister, but I'm not going to let you add ladies Prim and Alicia to the piles of bodies you've already amassed here...I don't care how strong you are or if you know me somehow, I'll do everything to bring you down..."

The other knights looked between themselves before drawing their swords.

Traysek deeply sighed under the helmet, "So that's what you think you're doing? "protecting them?" By attacking those doing what you were supposed to be doing...? I can't find the logic in that..." Shaking his head.

"No one asked!" One of his knights growled, "You think this isn't enough to convict you on? Dead nobles? your bloodied blades...? Those are grounds enough to charge you for this!"

The armored Redguard glanced at the knight, who shivered and looked away, before turning to the lead knight, "Huh, was brave before I glanced in his direction...This is who you surround yourself with...? And there were so many holy knights with the same glow I got, yet there's isn't a single one in your group...Why is that I wonder?"

"I don't need to hear about camaraderie from an enemy...You're not going to mess with my head and the reason for that glow is that from the bard and we don't get along...so that should tell you how I feel about it..." Rey pointed with a glare.

Traysek sighed, "That's unfortunate...Truly...I figured you would've understood at least a bit of what was happening here... but you don't know a thing...do you? and you're not trying to either..." shaking his head, "Well, since you wanted to know I was under here, I wanna make a wager..."

"Name it, it'll be your last..." One of the other knights, added in.

"If you can land a single scratch on this armor, I'll unmask myself, should be easy enough for you, correct...?" The armor Traysek cooed, "But if you can't...well, that'll say a lot about you, won't it?"

"Whatever...It's not like I won't see it when I take your head, fine, you're on!" The silver hair knight challenged, drawing his sword.

Battle theme: The Wrath of god part 2 - Berserk ost

The Redguard chuckled deeply, letting his spear float in front of him... spinning like a wheel that generated crystal sparks and left deep cuts into the floor as he neared them.

The other knight circled him and waited for Rey's commands.

Said knight held his ground, as the spinning spear got closer and closer, waiting until it got within range, "Now!" going for a high swing.

Traysek deflected that strike when he grabbed the spear, going for a thrust with the sword which his opponent frantically ducked from, deflecting an upward swing 'Hmm...' easily sidestepping his lunge, watching his eyes widen in shock before spinning and slashing him in the back.

"Arrgh!" The holy knight screamed out, feeling something pulled out of him, as the knights closed in.

"Damn you!" a knight went in with a piercing charge as another flanked him with a wide sweep.

Traysek blocked the sweep with the sword while the flying spear intercepted the other, piercing through his shoulder, going into a wall, and ripping out, leaving a crystallite in place, keeping him nailed there. he pushed the other way, and gave a harsh slash to both his legs, sending him down and another to the knight's abdomen.

Rey was shocked, going for a hard swing, clashing blades with him once, "No!" going into a flurry of swings, going blow for blow, "I will not let you kill these men!" shoving him back, giving a hard swing...

The armored Redguard vanished before the strike connected, ending up over another one of the knights with him...

"Above you!" The young leader cried out.

The knight went for an upward swing, hopping to strike his opponent.

Traysek countered, by grabbing both his wrist and helmet, slamming him into the ground, hard...sending his sword skittering on the ground, "WULD!" He shouted, dragging the knight by his face and ending it with a harsh slam against it, leaving half the knight's body at the throne's base.

Watching his men fall one by one, Rey felt like he was reliving a nightmare, while the armored figure stood up from the smoke, dusting himself off, "Dammit...he's already taken three of us, we'll have to form up!"

The two surviving knights stepped up to Rey as one asked, "What should we do?"

"Going for direct attacks aren't doing it...it's like this guy's got eyes in the back of his head...we'll have to do something about that fly spear, that's the key to his defense...You two will have to go at him," Rey instructed in a low tone, pulling out two flash bombs, "when I'm ready, I'll use these...a creature like him should be weak to it..."

"Are you sure?" someone else asked.

"Yes I'm sure and-" Rey paused, frowning, "Wait...we don't have a female knight with us," turning in the direction of, finding a familiar face up on the chandelier, "Jenelica...? I didn't expect you to be here, if you're here to help with this, great," turning to the two knights, "Go provide the cover, I'll be ready when our friend there's distracted," he told the last two standing knights.

"The armored monkey is planning to do something funny?" Jenelica asked with a mocking tone, "That would be a sigh to behold."

Rey gave an annoyed sigh, while the last two charged at the figure, "Look either help me or don't, either way, I'm taking down this murderer," He said, turning from her and dashing towards the battle, his flash bombs at the ready.

The two knights came close with their yells, as the armored Traysek stood ready, smirking under the helm, 'So that's your game, Rey...in that case...' taking a deep breath, "FAAS RU MAAR!" He shouted metallic, blasting pure fear into the holy knights that charged, forcing them to drop their swords and panic... Still, before they could even run, he slammed his fist into the ground, blowing them away, sending one into a wall while the other went into the table, both out cold...

It was then, that the flash bombs had dropped, causing a blinding light that forced the dark armored figure to cover his eyes, Rey approached him with a stab to the back.

'He's disoriented! good! I've got him...!' He mentally yelled, going for the thrust...

Unfortunately, it wasn't going to be that easy...by the time that blade had gotten close, a crimson eye flashed from the dark figure's helmet, disappearing instantly...

Rey's face contorted to fear when his blade passed through the air, going into that cold sweat once again..." What the-?! Where did he go?!" looking around frantically, immediately checking up first and finding no one...

"How graceful! How honorable to aim for a backstab!" Jenelica proclaimed, "A true knight of honor!" she then looked at him with a smug, "One who even failed it despite the distraction... or maybe that it normally works on those that aren't paying attention to him? A question that needs answers!"

"Shut the hell up! who's fucking side are you on?!" Rey shouted at her.

"Obviously...not yours..." he heard a chuckle behind him.

"Oh son bit-!" Rey tried to utter out, a heavy kick to his back cutting him off and sending him forward, straight into a Clothesline when The Redguard warped in front of him, knocking the wind out of him

While he was gasping for air, Traysek grabbed him and slammed him in a body slam, leaving a deep denting crack into the royal floor...However he still wasn't finished, immediately after, He lifted the holy knight once more, holding him upside down with his head between his knees, and dropped down on his knees, delivering a powerful piledriver, slamming the stars out of his head this time... spinning back up to his feet, Traysek grabbed his legs and went for a spin, swinging him around in circle while the knight screamed, "Time for your Judgement...Reynold..." He said in a low growl, tossing him high up into the air and warping.

While Flying up, Reynold yelled out, trying to figure out a way to counter what was happening, trying to reach for something in his pack...' Dammit, this isn't good I'll lose at this rate!...! I need to see what I have left and then I'll-'

However...before he could finish the thought, The Redguard appeared above him and dove down slamming both of his boots into the lead knight in a drop kick, sending him rocketing into the floor harshly, leaving a large cloud of dust...

Song end...

Traysek landed a few feet away, while Rey lay there face first groaning... the former shook his head, "This...was the best you could muster...?and not a single scratch on me? I think I've wasted my time on you...but I'm starting to understand how you bested my allies now...backstabbing...? really?" breaking out into a burst of deep laughter.

Reynold weakly looked up and towards the deeply laughing figure, turning his gaze back up to Jenelica, "You...you cannot...ugh...be serious...you're just going let us...die...? when this guy is the one...who did all...of this...?! he's going...for ladies...prim and Alicia next...he even admitted it...and you sit there...smiling...do you not...care for lady Alicia...? then help me...kill him...please...!" Rey struggled out, as the figure casually twirled both his spear and sword in hand...

"This is bad..." Jenelica's eyes shadowed as she was trembling, "I need to... I need to..."

Rey raised an eyebrow, 'Hold on...is she really about to start helping...? About time, guess that bit with Lady Alicia was enough which means...' a smirk forming, 'For once I get to see her eye-ripping song and not have to worry about being the target of it...this IS a win after all...' Sighing in relief, "Thank the goddess your starting to come around, I was worried for a-"

" I need to... hold myself longer!" Jenelica then burst into a hysterical laugh, "I can't! I can't hold it!" she was rolling and still laughing, "You look so pitiful! You even said once that you'd never accept my help! And look at you now!" tears began to appear on her eyes.

And after some seconds, she began to calm down from her laughing crisis.

Rey's smirk wilted, turning to anger, "Oh no...Don't you be that person right...we're literally going to die...!" getting the figure to laugh again, "And he's even laughing at us like you are right now..." sweating when he struggled to stand, "This...has to be one of General Greil's top soldiers or commanders...no other Kletzkreig gave us issues like these..."

"I'm no Kletzkreig, but I do help them out from time to time...Been a great relationship so far~" The armored Reguard added in.

"Not...talking...to you!" Rey growled, using his sword to stand himself up.

"C'mon, baby step by baby step." Jenelica teased as she was twirling around Rey, "Mommy believes in you! You can do it!"

Rey did his best to ignore her... Managing to get back into his stance though shakily and huffing and out of breath... He stumbled his way over to the Armored Redguard, going for a swing, being the weakest, as the other's gauntlet caught it... the dark knight gave a gentle push, easily sending him to the ground, out of it. The fully armored figure sighed deeply, "This is both pathetic and sad...you still wanna go? look at yourself, you can barely hold that sword right, let alone remain standing and your entire party is down...you've lost this Reynold, Admit...defeat!"

Jenelica shook her head as she said, "What a sad display..."

Rey breathed heavily, angry that he couldn't get back up and fight, "Dammit...dammit all...this isn't supposed to happen..." narrowing his eyes on the bard, "And you... you're still making jokes...knowing...where...he's going next...knowing...what he'll do...and you're okay with it...?"

"Or maybe...just maybe...she can tell friend from foe...something you're having a hard time doing it seems..." Traysek narrowed his eyes on him, "As for the Ladies...they're doing fine, I came from there moments ago before bumping into you..." shaking his head, "This whole time, Reynold...You've been embarrassing yourself for no reason..."

"The moment I heard his voice, I knew who he was." Jenelica smirked before appearing behind him, "Long time no see! How're doing!" she greeted him, "You may fool him, which is easier than lifting a book to put it on a table, but my musical ears can't be fooled. So, how are things going."

Traysek blinked twice, able to be seen through the helmet, before closing his eyes with a metallic sigh, chuckling, "Nothing gets past you huh, even with this voice? Hehehe...fair enough..." snapping his finger, the helmet dematerializing into his glowing horns, "I could say the same to you, Jen! been awhile!" with a friendly smile.

Rey dropped his sword at the reveal, shaking and convulsing, "N-no...it...can't be...No no no..." clutching his head..."How...? Why?!"

"Nice armor! Wondered why you weren't wearing it last time." Jenelica stated with a grin.

Traysek laughed, "I wanted to keep it new when I got it, it was perfect for today! That said, were you the one who cast the glow earlier? it made finding enemies so much easier,"

"It's more about knowing how everyone thinks." Jenelica pointed out, "Only those who want to protect Feoh were affected by it."

'Wait...that was for those who WANTED to protect Feoh...? Then why am I not glowing? this doesn't make sense...!' The young leader mentally cursed.

"I see, that makes sense..." Traysek nodded, "The unglowing knights have been the only ones I've been dealing with today...and now..."

"You...YOU...Traysek!" he heard someone angrily, turning to find a fuming Reynold harshly gripping his blade, "How could you? it's one thing to expect Volt to betray us! but you?! YOU?! explain yourself!" he shouted with tears in his eyes.

The Redguard hummed, giving him an unamused look, "And what happens if I don't...? You'll cry...?" in a cold tone, smirking, "By the Dragon's teeth, you already are...Gods...what is this...? This makes me wonder what the hell you were doing with Swain all this time!"

"Shut up...SHUT UP! you don't get to use his fucking name! not after this!" Rey snapped, shaking his head, "You know? after how crazy things have been turning out, I figured you and the others would've at least remained...sure, you were freelancers, maybe even pirates, but you were good people! Sure you were rough, but that wasn't unpleasant...you've made the cut to join us and we could've changed so much! instead... you sell out to Olga and the monsters! I should've known that day you two met that this would've happened..."

Traysek was silent...Then a small chuckle followed soon after, "So...what? am I supposed to feel bad here...? for a dream you cooked up in your own head? Let me guess... You expected me and my men to geld ourselves and dress in Victorian-themed armor as your second? It Sounds like a lovely dream~ Wished it came true... except reality had different plans as did your commanders...the fact you're even asking me "Why" tells me you've learned nothing..." with a cold stare.

Jenelica began to falsely sob as she said, "A tragic story~ I'm so moved that I could... that I could..." She stopped before saying, "That's right. What could I do?" she then turned to Traysek, "Any ideas?"

"I mean... Considering that he's already doing that bit, I don't think we can make him cry any more than he is..." The Redguard sighed, "To be honest, I really need to get past them and straight to Beasley, he's the one who slaughtered these nobles, and Volt's on his way with reinforcements,"

Rey gritted his teeth, "And why should I believe you now? you've been beating the shit out of us! look what you did to my men!"

Traysek growled, eyes slit, "And if you had just let me pass as I asked, you wouldn't have had that happen to you...this is what happens when you play stupid games, guess what? the prizes are even stupider...So I'm going to make this quick...Do you want to win this battle? be the hero you want to be?"

"The hell kind of question is that...? of course I do!" Rey snapped back, "What do you think I've been trying to-" he tried to finish, before the Redguard rushed up to him, face-to-face...

"Then help me find the minister responsible for this mess...help me end this battle, because right now, all you are is just an obstacle to that and I don't need one...so make a choice, help me, get out the way or die...which is it?" Traysek's eyes baring into his.

Reynold thought about it, glaring down, thinking about it...

'Someone who never took action will never take any action.'

'You never took action, right? Always hoping to get something without earning it.'

In the torrent of those voices, Rey sighed in defeat, nodding slowly to himself, "Fine...I'll call a truce and postpone this until the traitorous Minister has been dealt with," taking his hand, giving it a tight grip, "But know this.., after he's been taken care, it'll be your turn to answer, so don't expect to run away after,"

Traysek chuckled, "Didn't plan on it...very well," with a nod, "Now, we need to get going, those branches were taking me to him..." spotting where it went...

"Right, those... that's why they were coming down with you...makes sense," with a nod, "Well, Better the devil I know, so let's get to it, "Devil" narrowing his eyes on him, getting started towards the chambers.

Traysek flipped him off, "Whatever piss-knight! And there he goes," turning to Jenelica, "Well I'll need to get started on my way up, it was nice to see you again Jen, and you'll find ladies Prim and Alicia with the General at the command room, he's looking out for them up there,"

"I just got back from there." Jenelica pointed, "They said that I have to search for some important information in the office, some sort of letters that were sent from Ur that could help in deducing if there's any hideout that must be snuffed out."

"I see, that would be good to have...Okay, Imagine it's near the same place we're going, alright then, let's go! best get to the minister and those files, before the sour knight does," The Redguard smirked.

"You two done flirting down there?!" They both heard a yell from up the stairs.

Traysek threw a hand up with lighting charged in it, a loud thunderous boom going off where Rey was...

"Nevermind...!" He shouted back down, "I'll wait..."

"You know, When the commander's child is born, there will be two parties, you know?" Jenelica pointed as they were walking, "The first one will be to welcome the newborn, while the second would be to congratulate the newborn for the given name."

"Oh really now? I didn't know about that, different than how we celebrate ours... I'll have to make it to both of those and I've never seen Niall party before, that'll be something to witness..." The Redguard grinned, as they both neared Rey, who was waiting by the charred floor.

"The commander inviting you? The only thing I see him doing to you is impaling you once he gets here..." Rey spat venomously.

Traysek had a face of mock shock, "Oh? so...you know our relationship then? The commander and I? right?"

"You're a fucking traitor...what relationship would he have with you? why would he even waste his time?" The young knight growled.

"That's not what I asked..." Traysek leaned in "I said...do you. know. our...relationship?" raising an eyebrow.

I...uh...no...no I don't..." Rey admitted with a defeated tone.

"Then be quiet," Traysek said politely, "We're thin on time and we don't have enough to waffle with you, keep moving..."

"But you have time to waffle to her..." The young knight narrowed his eyes until he got pushed forward by a kick the Dragonborn.

"Yes, but unlike you right now, she's not bitching at me about me being a traitor," pushes him into the hall, "You are..." The Redguard pointed with an annoyed expression.

Jenelica hummed before saying, "Gotta need time to think for two songs... one for each party..." sighed with a smile, "Oh well! It's not like it's going to be that difficult."

Traysek chuckled, following the roots into the halls "I'm sure you can think of something, and if you do need help, do ask, just because I don't like singing, doesn't mean I don't know my way around a lute...I'll just need a bit of time to practice what's being played..."

"I'll keep it in mind." Jenelica grinned before smirking, "Although, I heard of what you did... you know how to pick the right friends, huh?"

"Hm? Oh, you're talking about the situation with Kolne earlier, eh...I just owed a due on that one...nothing more," Traysek sighed, "I figured it was only fair to return that kindness, he came through for my men and me during our time at that inquisitor's fort..."

"Nasty situation there." Jenelica nodded, "Heard that was bad... but I didn't get all of it... How was the situation in the fort?"

The Redguard took a deep breath, "As bad you imagine it to be...bodies stuffed in a fire hole, the smell of burning decay was we smelt before getting to it...and then bodies in the cages, bodies crucified, bodies that are hung by the neck, human, monster or elf, I could continue...even my crew could tell you more, they saw worse shit there...we had to rescue someone from there though, the daughter of the village guardian...we succeeded in that, but met the inquisitor after that...gods I can still smell that place..." he shivered.

"Places like that are why I don't like the Holy Army... well, one of the reasons." Jenelica pointed with sadness and anger, "That fort... was nothing compared to the true darkness that lurks beneath your feet..."

Traysek frowned at that, looking down and clicking his scanner, eyes going wide when he could see what the signals were doing..."You're talking about sub-level on this castle right...? I see something going on down there too..." clicking it off, "Guess that's gonna be next-go to once this minister's dealt with,"

"That if we do find him." Jenelica pointed, she then regained her smile before adding, "Gotta work on a few songs once I get back. Especially about a backstabbing rat..."

The Redguard raised an eyebrow, "Backstabbing rat huh?" Glancing at Rey walking in front of them, "Come to think about it, Rey was spouting some bullshit about killing plenty of my Kletzkrieg brethren...and some I know can turn men larger than them into sliced cheese, and considering what he tried to do earlier..."

"The backstabber struck again!" Jenelica proclaimed with a high voice, "And now! Ideas of songs just flooded my mind!"

Traysek laughed as Rey glanced back with a groan, already dreading this decision...

'By Celestine, they think they're being so quiet back there...just be patient Rey...we're getting close to the end of this and once Beasley's been taken care of...' gripping his blade in front of him, 'He'll be next...'

The trio finally reached the doors to the royal chambers, The holy knight sighed..."Well we're here...let's get this over with..." attempting to open the door and finding it locked, "Doors are locked...? They're never locked..."

"Don't need you to tell me that, step aside..." The Redguard said, moving to the door, and crouching bringing out lockpicks and going to work on the door, hearing a click, "And we're in~" slowly pushing the door open to a lavish chamber, hearing the voice of someone distant from another room, "I can hear someone talking...looks like hasn't left yet...good..."

Jenelica smirked, tending an ear, as she said, "Beasley and Volt... looks like it's your lucky day." she grinned toward Traysek

"A two in one, you're right today couldn't get better, I figured Volt was just on his way..." The Redguard grinned, "In that case..." using a hand to rematerialize his helmet, "I think it's appropriate to meet him in kind..." cracking his neck.

Rey narrowed his eyes at the two men's voices, "To think I'd catch him conspiring with him...lead the way, captain...this...this I have to see..."

"Look at how cute and obedient he became~" Jenelica cooed, "So tame~"

Rey was about to snap, catching himself, "I'm not...! just...I'm hearing Volt and Beasley both on a day like this...yeah I want answers...and maybe...just maybe..." cutting his eye at Traysek, "Depending what I see...I may be willing to...Uh...we'll come to that bridge when we cross it..."

"Good enough for me..." The Redguard nodded, heading towards the room with him following behind.

"Monkey activated his braincells~"Jenelica walked past the knight with a mocking smirk.

He rolled his eyes, being the last to follow...

Upon entering, the trio couched as they listened in on Volt and Beasley, along with someone else...

"Hold up...I know we could go guns blazing...but I wanna hear this first..." in a low metallic whisper, as they looked in...

"We... are losing!" a knight officer slammed his hand on the table, "I thought that you two knew what you were doing!"

Beasley sneered, "My portion of the plan has worked perfectly, which was being rid of the nobles and rulers, as for the field, no one expected the monster army to show up today! they're even invading the castle walls as we speak!" turning to Volt, "And you, this was your plan! what's been happening out there!"

"It would seem that someone's been busy here." Volt replied, narrowing his eyes, "But I have a plan to save our hides in case we get cornered,"

"Oh? something finally good I hope, your last three plans proved to be a failure so far...but what is this countermeasure you have?" The old minister inquired.

"A new toy that was made for me to turn the tide off the battle." Volt grinned while pointing to his new sword, "Apparently, it can slay gods. And the best part is that no one else besides me can use it."

Traysek frowned behind the helmet, 'A god-killing weapon? where did he get one and more importantly...who'd make it for him...'

"A god killer...? is he serious?" Rey whispered, "Who's he plan on using it on...?"

"Still! You know how dangerous those are!" the knight officer pointed, "It may be too taxing for your body!"

"It asks for quite the amount of Focus to be used." Volt stated, "And if what I was told was true... this blade may be the first in the line of godly weapons that we can get."

Beasley had a hand on his chin, "Hmm, I've heard of weapons like this...I had heard one of Niall's owned it, black flames from what I heard, if it's that same weapon, looks like you've got yourself a new toy indeed~"

"But the problem remains...has it ever been used? tested if you will? how will you know what the drawback will do?" Another knight officer added in.

"Yes... maybe I should use it..." Volt began to think before swiftly drawing the sword and leaping forward on the officer who spoke. After a second, a wave of black flames emerged from the landing spot, "Anyone else has something to say?"

Beasley laughed, clapping, "Good show~! And don't mind him, he was a disrespectful officer, was going to have him disposed of anyway..." he waved off, "But this does give something over our enemies, let's hope it works"

At the hiding place, The Trio's eyes went wide at that...

"Holy...shit..." Traysek whispered, "You all saw that right...?"

Rey shakingly nodded, "Yeah...burnt to an instant crisp...oh no...oooooh..." hand over the mouth.

"I heard something!" an old knight officer grabbed his sword, "Is someone here!"

Volt narrowed his eyes before turning to Beaseley, "You should go. take that tunnel, a few of my boys, and get to Ur, our friend can help you get in contact with people to reinforce our might."

Traysek turned his head towards, Rey, "Gee so much for the element of surprise...by the gods..." turning to Jenelica, "Well, since we gotta show ourselves now, feel like making them dance~"

"Reminds me of that time~" Jenelica cooed, "I wonder what to sing~" She then smirked as her lute began to play by itself, you'd better be ready.

The Armored Redguard drew his sword and spear, "More than ready...let's do this...!"

Rey already had his blade at the ready, "just make sure you don't add me to that mix, alright? go for it..."

"You'll have three minutes." Jenelica pointed with a smirk.

Now you all know

The Bards and their songs

When hours have gone by

I'll close my eyes

In a world far away

We may meet again

But now hear my song

About the dawn of the night

Let's sing the bard's song

Combat theme: Jester's music - Darkest Dungeon ost

And everyone but Traysek and Volt began to dance.

The Armored Redguard got up from the hiding place and started towards both Vault and Beasley, "Thanks~" twirling both weapons menacingly...

Rey found himself dancing along with the men in the room there, "Goddamn it Jenelica!" he swore at the top of his lungs.

Beasley found himself in the same kind of dance as the other officers in the room, "What...is the...meaning...of...this...!?" struggling out, continuing to sing, until he noticed the dark armored figure approaching who was chuckling, cutting down one officer already...

"You!" Volt roared, "How did you get that crazy bitch to help you!?"

The Armored Redguard stopped a couple of feet, "Oh~? You know it's me? Well then, that makes this easier..." deforming his helm to horns, "Hello, to you too, prick..." he said venomously, a smirk coming after, "As for Jen there? at this point, she's a friend~ like the many I've made...over these. past. two. weeks..." finalizing it with a narrowed stare.

"And you'd turn on them like how you betrayed us!" Volt yelled, drawing his sword, "Once a backstabber always a backstabber!"

"Hm, Nah, I don't think so...I actually bonded with my new friends!" Traysek grinned, "And you really can't pull that card after we just witnessed you killing that officer... As for the "backstabbing" bit, that's him back there," pointing his thumb at Rey.

"I FUCKING HEARD THAT!" Rey swore at the top of his lungs, still unable to stop

"I hope you did!" The Redguard laughed, before pointing his swordspear at Volt, "That said, let's do this...I wanna see what this new "GOd kIlleR" you've got can do," snickering as he let his spear float.

"You're going to regret that!" Volt rushed with a volley of calculated and careful moves, aiming at Traysek's vital points.

Traysek casually lept back away from him, having the spear deflect most of the blows aimed there, grabbing it himself and giving a hard outward swing, sending him reeling back with a crystal wave, going for a thrust with the sword after...

Volt gritted his teeth before striking the sword away and leaped forward.

The Redguard narrowed his eyes, 'Dammit, he's going for that same move...!' quickly backstepping away, throwing up a crystal wall when he stabbed the ground.

Volt grinned before taking a stone, knowing that Gideon struck with this shackle.

---

Flashback...

---

Gideon has the sword in front of him, glowing.

"So... what's this weapon?" Volt asked, his arms crossed.

"A sword made by Marpersia's private blacksmith." Gideon answered, "It was infused with Black Flames. Not only that, but I managed to blood link it; which means that only you, or someone who shares the same blood as you can use it. And if someone tries to force it to work with ANY kind of magic, the weapon will be forever lost."

Volt whistled, "I take that those flames are powerful."

"They're flames so powerful that they can melt gods within seconds." Gideon rectified, shocking the Black Dog leader, "As for the Ashe of War, it's one that took me months to make it; the Earthquaker of the Black Lion Claw. I had to mix an Ashe of War and an Incantation; a forward somersault and a wave of powerful Black Flames."

Volt chuckled, "Feels like I can take on everyone now."

"Don't be stupid." Gideon interjected as the glow died, "It consumes a lot of Focus, don't use it brainlessly."

Volt scowled as he took the weapon, "I know what I'm doing."

"That better be true." Gideon's golden eyes focused on Volt, "Also, I have something that can help you against that troublemaker that you want dead." he then handed him a black stone with a red aura on it, "This is a Shackle; a stone made to imprison Demi-Gods that were deemed to be unworthy of the Elden Throne. It's strong, but not impossible to escape from."

"I'll keep that in mind," Volt smirked before walking away

---

Flashback End...

---

Volt smirked as the flames were melting the crystal and going for the Dragonborn, 'Now, to test it.' he then focused on the stone, before slamming it on the ground.

While Traysek did much he could to enforce the crystal wall against the flames, he soon found himself trapped in unknown magic that held him down, unable to move, "Arrgh! What the hell is this?!" struggling and fighting with the magic.

Volt's smirk grew wider as the flames reached Traysek.

"I have to admit, I didn't know that would work." Volt held his sword in front of him again and prepared to jump again.

Rey who had been witnessing their entire fight had a face of horror, knowing what Volt was about to do while the former was fighting as the flames that had leaked through the thick wall, "Hey, HEY Jenelica let me out this! He's gonna kill him!"

"Time to shake things up!"

Traysek and Volt found themselves on a stage as the others were dancing to a new song.

In days of old, when knights were bold

And maidens fair danced in the fold

The merry minstrel's song did ring

And brought joy to every king

With lutes and lyres, they did play

In taverns and in fields all-day

Their melodies so sweet and bright

Filled every heart with pure delight

So raise a mug and sing along

To the merry tune of the bard's song

For in these times of joy and mirth

We celebrate the wonders of the earth

So let us dance, let us sing

And let our voices loudly ring

For in the music of the past

We find a joy that will forever last

Huzzah! Huzzah! The bard does play

And fills our hearts with joy this day

So let us revel in the sound

And let our spirits be unbound.

"Damn her..." Volt growled as the Dragonborn was no longer shackled.

The magic faded, while he batted the flames off with his eyes shadowed over, a dark smirk forming and eyes now aglow...

The Crystal wall had completely crumbled with a large heap of smoke...once it cleared, he was no longer in the same spot...coming at Volt from above with a battle cry.

While Jenelica was singing and looking at Rey with a huge smile, Traysek and Volt exchanged blows with their weapons.

Said Holy Knight had a blush and annoyed pout, 'I mean it's fine...I guess... at least he's out of...whatever that was...Just wish I wasn't stuck in this...' he muttered...

Traysek gave Volt a harsh kick sending him crashing to the stage floor, leaping and stabbing the sword into his pauldron, pushing into his shoulder and draining the lifeforce and stamina out of him, ripping it out with a splash of blood that flowed into the sword... He then wound up another blow and swung downward with great force behind it...

Going for a side strike, Volt feinted for a stab that left a deep dent in the armor.

Traysek winced at the impact, sliding back as the black dog leader got himself up... 'Shit...that almost went through...!'

"Need some help in locking him down?" Jenelica asked as Volt was glaring at the Dragonborn.

"Nah, you're doing plenty keeping them busy, no need to push it for him, and besides," Traysek grinned, "I think he's just about tapped out..." sheathing the sword, holding the spear with both hands now...

"Don't mess with me!" Volt broke a blue stone that gave him a blue aura, "Now, you'll pay..." he then held his weapon in the same stance, preparing to somersault forward.

Already seen this twice before, Traysek took a low stance with his sword spear, "This again...Go for it then, come on!" building up a charge into it.

However, instead of somersaulting, Volt quickly struck the Shackle on the ground.

"Or not...!" The Redguard growled, getting restrained by the magic, this time going down only one knee, "Okay...Now, I gotta ask, what the hell are you using?!"

Volt smirked as he twirled his sword, "That's... let's call it a professional friend. And it was made especially for you." he then stopped a few feet away, "If you stood by our side, you'd have the same toys to use on anyone you desire, but you decided to turn your back on your fellow men to follow a dark bitch and her monster."

Traysek was silent for a minute, a low chuckle coming after, "It's kinda funny ...how you think...that I would need that to control someone...anyone... You don't know me, not one bit...and here's the thing...bending a mind to my will? That's child's play to me..." in a cold tone

"Heh, say that to the God of the Dead when you see him." Volt got into position before somersaulting.

The Redguard watched unfazed as the blow neared him...

"No can do little puppy~" A clang was heard as Jenelica was in front of Volt, daggers stopping the weapons, "Pretty strong~ but flawed." she grinned before pushing the weapon away, "If you want the flames to appear, friction with the ground is the catalyst."

Traysek blinked twice at that, narrowing his eyes, "So that's how it works...get it now...That's why you didn't care if I dodged..." eyes shadowing over, "Jen~ when this is over...if you have any performances...consider me there, I'll even bring the others..." the swordspear starting to glow, "That said, could you let me out...? I've got one new move to try out with this spear...and it's only fair since he showed me his..." with a grin.

"What should I do~ Should I free him?" Jenelica smiled while playing with her daggers while looking at Volt, "Considering that it's soooooo easy for me."

Volt looked at the brightly glowing weapon before returning to her, "What?! no! Don't free him! Either get out of the way, or you kill him! come on! This is your chance to get rich and he's got 25,000,000 on his head right now, you're really going to let that pass? Join the winning side and I'll boost that Career...you'll have the money to..." a smirk forming, "All you gotta do, is just turn those daggers on him and we're square..."

"Hah~ what an offer~ it's really hard to resist it~" Jenelica sighed dreamily before turning toward Traysek, "He's sooo convincing, that I'll have to do this." she then raised her dagger while sending the Dragonborn a hidden wink.

Rey who was still in the middle of the dance, spotted what she was doing, 'Wait...is she about to...no no no no! Stop!'

Meanwhile, The Redguard understood the wink and let his head sulk, seemingly defeated, looking like he was shaking but in reality...

He was trying his damnest not to laugh...

"Oh well~ goodbye~!" and she brought the dagger down... but, struck the sigil instead, "Oh no! My hand slipped!"

The spell started crumbling as Volt's eyes went wide with fear, "WHAT?! You Bitch! You had one chance to live a life of luxury..TRUE LUXURY...and you let it go? You're Just as much of a fool as he is!" he angrily spat.

"Really?!" Jenelica had a shocked face, "I didn't know!"

Another version of her appeared standing on top of his head, "You speak like you know what I desire, now that's hilarious."

A third one appeared sitting on a chair, wearing a rather revealing swimsuit, "I have other aspirations, other ambitions... ones that you don't know their meaning."

A fourth one was juggling throwing knives, "When a bard sings, the aim is to the people who are in need to hear the hope, the happiness."

The real one shook her head, "And here you are, acting like you know what a bard really needs; which isn't singing sex songs about you."

The second one added, "But you know what they say, to each his own~"

The fourth one continued to juggle the knives, "And my aim is simple.

"LADY ALICIA!" all the images screamed with joy.

Volt's eyebrow twitched, "Then it would've been a win-win! You could've had her right after the minister! She hates this dumbass anyway And Now THAT'S been squandered!" As Traysek and Rey laughed in the background, "Shut the fuck up!"

All the images disappeared as the real Jenelica had a dark red aura around her, "... You wanted to do what...?"

The Minister Coughed a rough cough, "I have no inkling on what he's talking about! I only wanted her to be safe!" he lied.

"Ooooh~ bad move Volt...Baaaaad move~ Way to get two blades at you..." Traysek said, rising and popping his neck and shoulders, "That would've gone better if you didn't mention that...Oops~" innocently blinking at him, grinning.

Rey shook his head while dancing, "Yeah I agree...oof!"

Still, with the aura on her, Jenelica smiled, "How about you meet one of my dearest friends? He's big, strong, and loves to play"

---

Somewhere unknown...

---

They all found themselves transported to a green field with green pipes, but the sky was pitch black and the sun had a creep face on it.

"What the-? where the hell are we?!" Volt swore, confused, looking around, until spotting the creepy sun, "Hey...I don't like that face he's got..."

Traysek looked up at the sun and winced, "I don't think he likes You too much...maybe that explains the face..."

"Now... considering what you were about to do Lady Alicia... I figure that you all need to have some fun..." Jenelica smiled, "I'll take those two to continue their talk somewhere else." she disappeared with Traysek and Volt.

Rey scratched his head, now able to move again, 'I can finally move but...why did she leave me here with these guys?' he mentally complained, looking over at the remaining officers and the minister.

"Where in the world are we? it doesn't even look like Eostia anymore!" Beasley yelled, looking around, "And what surprise is that jester talking about?"

"S-S-Sir..." one of the officers was looking somewhere, "Who's that?"

Nearby stood A normal-sized man was wearing a green shirt under a red overall and green shoes. Moreover, he's also wearing a red cap that shadows his eyes and has a sick green mustache.

DO YOU WANT TO PLAY A GAME?!

A dark and deep voice asked.

Reynold was sweating at the voice, stepping back "Uh...I don't think I should,"

"I-I don't know...must be one of the beggars of this place..." The minister managed to stammer out, "You there! what's the way back to Feoh!?" getting no response from the mysterious figure, "Did you not hear me? I demand you tell us how to get out of here as the new lord of Feoh!"

"Oh suuuuuure~," YELL AT IT" Because that's going to help us with the voice it just made..." The silver-haired knight shot back with, unamused...

DO YOU BELIEVE THAT YOU HAVE ANY AUTHORITY HERE?!

The voice asked again.

"O- of course I do, who do you think you are?!" The minister nervous stammered out.

At this point, Rey and the other officers were stepping away, "Beasley...I don't think that's a good-"

There was a dark and unsettling chuckle from the figure as he began to change...

Growing larger, his skin turning white, his eyes void of anything, a scary and wide grin, his mustache pitch black, and his shirt dark red.

It laughed again, louder and darker.

INNOCENCE DOESN'T GET YOU FAR!

WAHOOOOO!

And it began running toward them.

"HOLY FUCK!" Rey and the five officers screamed, running their asses off along with the prime Minister who screamed...As this was happening, The silver hair knight only had one thing on his mind...

"Goddamn you Jenelicaaaaaaaa!" He yelled at the top of his lungs and into the void sky...

---

Meanwhile, at a strange circular tower...

---

Traysek and Volt appeared on top of a boundless tower with a dark theme decorating it, the sky darkened and evil-looking...a chilling laugh in the distance that could be heard around them.

"What the...?" Volt asked, looking around, "Where have you taken us now you crazy bitch?!"

The Redguard scratched his head, and turned to her, "Yeah...that's a good question, are we jumping dimensions right now? I'm not sure if we're even in the same plane of existence anymore..."

"To be more precise, the moment we left that office we were all here." Jenelica pointed to her head, "All of you were trapped in my brain. Well, I invited one and trapped the rest." Smiling at the last bit, "Here, I'm the master, I'm the alpha, I'm the one no one should cross... I do hope that you understand what that means..."

Traysek nodded at that, "Of course, and the fact that I couldn't even tell I was in mindscape is both impressive and scary enough...still... as scary as this place is...I still say no ONE wants to go in mine...no exaggerating either," he shivered, "It is a twisted place though...Not something to be trapped in..." with a sigh turning to Volt "And that also means...that also no outside help, for you...Volt" clenching the sword-spear tightly...

"As if!" Volt slammed the Shackle again... but nothing happened, "What the fuck!? Work damn you!" slamming the Shackle again.

"Did I say that you could?" Jenelica asked cutely and innocently.

The Redguard sighed with a grin, "Awwww~ that little toy ain't workin' for you anymore...? poor bastard..." he laughed out shaking his head, "And since that was the only thing saving your ass in this...I Believe it's now to take it..." with a deathly glare "And since you stopped me from my new trick the last time...I'd like to see how you will now..." taking a low stance

Volt growled before taking a more defensive stance, 'Why the fuck is this happening!? It should work! I'm the best Black Dog! The one who bested that bastard old man and took over! I won't let a crazy bitch, nor a bastard like him humiliate me like this!'

Traysek narrowed his eyes, Impaling the spear into the ground and discharging a floor of crystal toward Volt...

Volt tried to leap, but instead of striking the ground to counter the coming crystals, the parcel of the ground that should have been struck disappeared as Jenelica was signing a 'No' with her index while smirking.

"Shit!" Volt began to sweat as he had no time to do anything.

At this point, the Redguard quickly closed the distance with a dash, holding his weapon like a sword and taking a wild spin, slashing him upwards twice with it, leaving large cuts going across his torso, however...Traysek was far from finished, the next thing he did was put the spear into a deadly spin over his head, generating a large gout of wind, as well as hundreds of Crimson and blue shards from below him, surrounding them both in the tornado of crystals that grew and rose the more he spun it...

Volt's mind was going wild until he remembered something.

"I'll give you this dagger." Gideon's voice sounded in his head, "It cannot damage a bug... but has a powerful Ashe of War renowned for it's maneuverability; Bloodhound Step. Use it well."

Volt crouched down, it was like he vanished, appearing a few feet away.

"Gideon... I'm ready to give you any virgin you ask for..." he mumbled while looking at the dagger, 'Those Ashes of War... he even had some like this one! I must make sure that he stays on my side!'

Despite Volt's distance, there was still a problem... a growing one, from within the tornado, a wide smile on the Redguard's face within, 'Dumbass...I knew you'd try and leave...good thing I came prepared...' taking a deep breath, "VUL, TOZ DINOK!" entering into a fast frenzied rapid spin, drawing the all surrounding winds in a rush into the center point...

Volt planted his sword into the ground, resisting the pull, but gritted his teeth due to the sharp debris that was starting to shred him.

As the spin continued, the winds there got denser and denser as the pulling increased, seeming to move towards him now...

'Fuck! I need to do something!' Volt put all of his might in the sword.

At that moment, the landscape began to shake.

With the winds gathered and enough momentum, Traysek slowed his spinning down enough and gave one last hard thundering thrust, "EEEEEEEEYYYYYAAAAAH!" discharging the built-up hurricane of shards towards Volt in a rushing hurricane...

Volt found a safe place and drew out his sword before using the Bloodhound Step to get to safety.

"Well, it seems like it's coming to an end..." Jenelica began to hold her head as she was feeling a huge headache coming.

Traysek moved the spear slightly towards him, guiding the winds with air magic in his hands, gritting his teeth at the heavy force.

Widening his eyes, Volt used Bloodhound Step again, but not without having his left arm ruined and the dagger in pieces when the sharded gusts blew over it, nearly him in the process, exploding in a large gust of wind, dying down soon after.

"Damn you..." Volt swore as his hand was heavily bleeding and his metal arm cut to shreds, "Damn you!"

The sky now had raining remnants of the shards, gleaming as they came down like snow... giving the scary arena a bit of charm.

the huffing and puffing Redguard, looked up at the bleeding man, stabbing the weapon into the ground, pulling himself up.

"Not...looking so good Volt...Godsdamn..." The Redguard panted, leaning the on spear, "That...took...more...out of me...than I thought...it would...needs works...lots...I see..." regaining his breath, "Just...like...you do...with your...new..."Toy"..."

"Well... it was fun." Jenelica painfully held her head as the scenery was shaking.

Traysek and Volt stumbled as the tower began to crumble beneath them all, sending them in a fall before all three vanished midair...

---

Feoh...

Castle Royal chambers...

---

Victory theme: Farewell - Devilartimis outro (Produced by Mel)

When Traysek and Jenelica arrived back with downed Volt, they found the officers dead, the Redguard raising an eyebrow...

"They're...dead...? in gruesome ways... but how...? Did Rey do this...?" he asked in a low tone, finding Jenelica clutching her head, "Jen...? you alright? That looked rough on our way back..." checking on her.

"Just that it's the first time I had this many people in." Jenelica pointed before noticing the dead officers, "It would seem that they were caught."

"I see...still," The Redguard paused, looking around, "Where's Beasley and Reynold...? I figured they would've been amongst those bodies...Must've avoided what was chasing them,"

Jenelica looked around before seeing them unconscious near the desk.

"They're there." she got to her feet, "I'm gonna need a good night's rest."

Traysek tiredly laughed with an agreeing nod, "I can agree with that...But not without a cold drink and good night...best way to go to bed...hell, kind jealous they're beating us to it..." glancing at the unconscious duo, until he heard a groan, turning out to be Volt lying a pool of blood, "Oh Right...almost forgot about you..." narrowing his eyes on him, "So...I only have one question for you...how does it feel to be a Dragonborn's bitch...? three times over?" shouldering his spear.

"I'll fucking kill you..." Volt groaned, "I'll make you feel despair... ya hear me..."

At that moment, a man in pitch-black armor with a skeleton on it walked in.

"I find it very Ironic that you're this angry, and here I thought you were into mass penetration," Traysek laughed, "Now... how did you word this again...? Tell it to the death god..." Traysek recited, drawing his sword, with a blow over his head, bringing it down...

However, a glowing stone was thrown, exploding in a bright flash of light in Traysek's eyes, blinding him.

"Arrgh my eyes! what the hell is this?!" He yelled Cover them from the light.

There was a strange sound as the light died down, revealing Volt had fled.

After a minute, The Redguard regained his vision, finding that not only had Beasley fled, but so too did the nearly mangled Volt...making his eyebrow twitch violently, "No...no...you gotta be shittin' me I had him...I had him right here..."

From within and outside of the castle...

"AAAAAAAARRRRGGGGGHHHHHHH!" a very frustrated scream echoed loudly shaking the ground...

Song ends...

"My head..." Jenelica whined as she was clenching her head.

He bit down to stop himself, "Sorry, Sorry Jen!...It's just...it's frustrating because one...he got away...again..." eyebrow madly twitching, "And two he got away with something he can use to screw with me and possibly Griel and Master Gronik with..." taking a calming breath, "For the next six kingdoms..."

"They probably went to the Kingdom of Ur." Jenelica stated as she patted her head, "That, or went somewhere nearby."

He closed his eyes with a sigh, "Right...I remember Prim mentioning that to me...that's why I didn't mind too much with him fleeing, and with him gone, I think this battle's won..." a smile coming back, turning to her, "Thank you for your help, Jenelica... I wasn't expecting it, but thank you...But do you need help with the headache? I've got potions on me that soothe that kind of thing,"

"Trust me, my body isn't like any human" Jenelica pointed with a smile, "I'm not human... which makes things very difficult when it comes to healing potions and spells."

Rey groaned, holding his head as he woke up, "By the Goddess...I'm back...? What the hell was the thing-?" he started to question, until his sight cleared, not finding Beasley or Volt anywhere, but the dead officers.

Traysek laughed tiredly, "Neither am I...but I understand, I just hope it wears off...I know how...STRAINING...those headaches can get..."

"Hey, HEY! Chatting kathys!" they both heard out, turning to Reynold, giving them both a tired glare.

"Reynold~! Rise and shine, I almost thought you bit it in that dimension," The Redguard greeted him, turning to the officers, "I can see they didn't..."

The young knight narrowed his eyes, "That supposed to be a joke?! I know what took THEM out! It was that damned monster she left us to!" baring his teeth at her, turning his glare back to him, "But YOU...? Where's Volt...? Where's Beasley? why are they not corpses right now...?"

"The fuck you want me to do?" Traysek harshly questioned, "Someone dropped a light bomb, it blinded us and now they're gone! someone came and got em'"

Rey let out a bitter chuckle, "So it is a joke..." getting himself off the table, glaring at him, "You gave me your word, you would end this here...and now they're gone...with dead officers to show for it..." sarcastically clapping, "Great Job, Dark knight... letting the enemy escape, that's a new one! I'll have to remember that one!"

Jenelica had an unamused look.

DO YOU WANT TO PLAY A GAME?!

The same voice as before just sounded out of nowhere.

"AAAIIIIEEEEEEE!" he screamed, dashing with holy energy, going through the chairs... "He can't get me here, he can't get me here, he can't get me here..." muttered out from under it.

Traysek on the other hand had a worried look on his face hearing that ungodly mad voice, heart having skipped a beat... "Um...who the hell was that...?" with a nervous smile with small sweat drops.

"Just a really good friend." Jenelica pointed with an innocent smile, "He's super friendly." she then turned to Rey, "As for you, you'd better change your pants, the stench is impossible to live with."

"Super friendly huh? sure...I'll remember that," Traysek said, blinking and checking over his shoulder.

However, Rey had a bright blush on his face, "Are you mad?! that's NOT from me!"

Upon hearing that though, the Redguard sniffed around, holding his nose after, "Ugh...! Are you sure you didn't? That was a rather loud scream...the highest I've heard from you...then again..." looking at the corpses, "It could also be them...bodies do release waste when they die...it's entirely possible..."

Jenelica only pinched her nose as she said, "Nope, that's definitely from you. Guess that you enjoyed the game you played with him~"

Rey blushed even harder, made worse by Traysek's laughter, "I did not! Why did you leave me with that thing anyway?! by the goddess..." shaking his head.

"Well, whether you did or not...you're at least alive to complain, they didn't get that chance..." The Redguard pointed.

"Yeah, I know that's gotta be the biggest turn-on for you and your monster friends..."Dead holy officers, mmmmmmm!" Are we done with it now?" Rey asked unamused.

Traysek rolled his eyes, "Like you can comprehend what those are...and speaking of done..." turning to Jenelica, "I do believe it's time to let our friends in the command room know the good news,"

"I'll go pass the message." she disappeared into the shadows.

Traysek sighed, and sheathed the sword and spear, yawning and stretching, turning towards the door "Gods, for once I'm beat...guess I better join them...unless you're still hung up about the earlier mood..." cutting his eye back Rey.

"I'm...I am...but at the same time...after hearing what I heard..." Rey said, with his eyes shadowed over, gripping the handle of his sword harshly...sighing in defeat and taking his hand off, "I... Can't fault you...No, I don't like how switched to them...And I truly think, that you aren't giving humans here enough chances...but...I could understand at least... what led you to it..." eyes to the ground, "Gives me much to think about...A lot...go ahead, make your report...I won't stop you, and besides I think we've already lost this battle..."

The Redguard was silent, until he sighed, "You haven't seen nearly as much to make statements like that, Rey...but I'll accept the apology... for now..." heading towards the doors, stopping short..."By the way...that new "Retinue" you've got...I'd get to know those guys before trusting them...that's my last advice to you..."

"I already took it once and it got me hated, you can keep your advice..." Rey spat with, thinking about it, "Although...I'll...give what you said some thought..."

Traysek nodded, "That's all I'm asking...Good day to you Rey..." leaving the Royal office...

---

The Command Room...

---

Greil and Prim looked over the papers Jenelica brought, while that very Bard was lying on a bed next to Alicia.

"For once, I'm happy to have a headache." she smiled as she rolled to face the unconscious Alicia, "You sure that she won't wake up?"

"I cast a spell on both of them." Greil nodded, "They'll be asleep until the last of the enemy is pushed from the city."

"Therefore, more lovey-dovey time for me and Alicia~" Jenelica giggled, hugging Alicia, "I'm in heaven~."

Meanwhile, Prim had a dark aura over her, trying to work while ignoring Jenelica.

"I... I take that your plans are going smoothly?" Greil asked with a sweatdrop, "I'm sure you can't wait until you get the power, hmm?"

Prim said nothing as she was reading the papers.

'Anyone... please, I need help!' Greil took a deep breath before returning to the papers.

And as if there was an answer to his prayers, there was a sound of heavy metal boots approaching that got closer and closer...

'Is this the captain?' Greil narrowed his eyes.

The slow clomping of the boots reaches the door, and an armored silhouette shambles in, revealing a battle-worn Redguard, groaning like a zombie as he walks in.

"Hey, Greil...Hell of a day huh?" Traysek tiredly greeted with a smile, heading to a shelf that contained bottles of expensive liquor, grabbing one, "I trust...the news has been passed to you...?" sitting at the table.

"Indeed." Greil nodded, smiling, "Now that we took control over the main gate and the castle, all that's left is the west side. Commander Niall said to leave it to the Lightbringer Emily since she's experienced enough in leading charges."

Traysek sighed in relief while cracking the bottle open, "Lightbringer huh? I remember fighting one of them during the caravan job...the one near Geofu...Weirdo with blue hair that had a thing for Fiorie...He was even putting up a decent fight until one of your deathbringers showed up...He ran off pretty quickly after," taking a gulp, "Ah~That said, if Niall trusted this to her, then I can kick back for bit until I hear from my crew..." relaxing in the seat, noticing dark aura coming off prim, "What's gotten into her...?" he asked, pointing his thumb with a raised eyebrow.

Greil only pointed at a happy slumbering Jenelica who was hugging Alicia.

He turned his head to find them there, frowning with a slight smile, "Oh! Oh... she wasn't kidding about all that back there... Can't complain on my end...she did help out in that fight...and considering this is all she was gaining, can't say it's unfair..." with a shrug, taking a gulp.

Even while she was in her papers... Prim's eyebrow twitched upon hearing that, the dark aura increasing...

"Considering the letters, we found something interesting..." Greil said as he narrowed his eyes, "There's an individual who's signed as a potential candidate for the position of Inquisitor."

The Redguard glanced up, "Oh? And who's the lucky guy or girl?" with an eyebrow raised.

"Someone called Reynold Von Musel." Greil pointed, "And seemed to be eager to join."

Traysek frowned sitting up, "Oh him? I know him, and so do you...he was with me the day we first met..." his frown hardening, "And he's in this castle now, I just came from talking to him in fact...He fought me on my way to Volt and Beasley, it was hardly a challenge..." he laughed.

"It also mentions that he was to infiltrate the Birds of Prey as a hidden agent of the church," Greil added.

Traysek hummed at this, "Huh...well that could explain the new retinue with him... He wasn't even glowing come to think of it...still, I'd think him too Naive to be pulling big boy stunts like that...and with the truth, he's witnessed? he'd be a fool..." thinking on something, "But then again, the temptation for power for the powerless is ALWAYS going to be more than tempting..."

"Lord Raymond did mention that little Rey met the High Inquisitor before." Prim pointed.

"Hmm, but for what reason...? Not defending him, but do we know WHAT was said during that meeting?" The Redguard asked, "For all we know, it could be something else behind it...because if memory serves correctly, he was supposed to be under Swain, was he not?"

"He was sent here to pass a test, but failed it." Prim replied looking away from the letters, "In fact, instead of helping the people and adapting to the situation, he ignored it and decided to help the nobles."

The Redguard sighed upon hearing that, "I...see...so when we left for the fortress after talking the last time...damn...he squandered that chance, didn't he...?" eyes shadowed over, "thinking on it, he said something about my "Advice" failing him after trying it...he claims...Am I the reason he failed perhaps...?"

Greil chuckled before saying, "Your advice was the road, not the way he walked the road. You didn't tell him to fail, nor guide his every action during his time here."

"That's true." Jenelica interjected, "He made his own choices here, and instead of assuming them, he pushed them onto you. He believes everything that happened to him is your fault, which isn't the case."

Traysek slowly nodded, "I know, I'm not blaming myself for his Mistakes...I can't when I don't know how he made them...and judging from the disappointment in your voices...I know he didn't take the full meaning of it..." shaking his head, "By the way, how was your nap?" smirking at Jenelica.

"I still need to snuggle more~" Jenelica looked happy while Prim wasn't so happy.

"I bet you do after all that," The Redguard chuckled, taking a sip, "Getting the feeling a certain knife is being twisted here though...I don't know why, but it feels weird..." glancing between both the fuming princess and grinning Jester, shaking his head.

"I don't know what you're talking about~" Jenelica innocently, enjoying her time with the sleeping princess.

"Right...So there is..." The Redguard replied unconvinced, noting Greil's uncomfortable expression, clearing his throat "On the report though, if you wanna go press Rey on this, Greil, we can, he's reviving his downed men as we speak, and I don't think he'll be so willing to fight after the piledriver supreme special I gave him...and it would give our friends here some...quality time..." with a knowing look.

"I agree." Greil nodded.

The Redguard stood up and grabbed the bottle, "Alright Ladies~ Prim~ Jen~ we're steppin' out, you guys need anything, eh, you know to call, right?" with a smirk.

"Good luuuuuck~" Jenelica replied.

"Appreciate it," Traysek grinned, turning to Greil, "Let's go," being the first one out.

"Right behind you." Greil followed suit.

Outside of the room and a good feet away...Traysek wore a smirk, "You can breathe now, Greil, we're away,"

"Thank the Earthmother..." Greil sighed with relief.

The Redguard chuckled, "Honestly, the air of jealousy just felt awkward back there, but not new... but to see you choked up, that's a surprise...how long have you been like that up here...?" with an eyebrow raised.

"Longer than I should have been there," Greil replied.

"I can see that, you look like you needed a break yourself," Traysek nodded, glancing back there, "Gotta say though, out of all the princesses, I didn't expect Prim to be the dark princess amongst them, if anything I expected Maia to be secretly on our side..."

"Princess Maia did ask to meet me, but I have yet to answer." Greil told him, "It could have been a trap, so I have chosen to stay silent to keep her men alive."

Traysek nodded, heading down, "Good call, you can't tell which side of the pendulum she falls on at the moment, we don't know if she's with the shields, the dogs, Us, or herself to be honest...a bit of wildcard there...and if she saw what I did to him this time, I don't think she'd believe me...I Took his other arm and wrecked that metal one..." with a nervous chuckle.

"Which is why I refused to meet her." Greil took a deep breath, "Maybe later when things are calmer and more certain."

"That for sure, but either way, we'll know when we get around to it," The Redguard noted...

---

The golden Canary

Jewelry store...

---

Erik and Anders arrived at the abandoned store... Making sure no one was around before going up to it...

"I'm surprised no one else has been by here yet..." The Nord commented.

"They already stole everything." Andre pointed, "Of course, once they emptied the place, they didn't set foot here again. They're too easy to read."

"That's not the only thing, they're pretty dumb...excluding you... " Erik said with a chuckle, going to the doors and opening them, walking in and finding it ransacked, "You weren't kidding about everything being stolen, but gods, not even a crumb of gold left?" with a hard frown.

"They're so blind that they don't know how to search for the real hidden gold." Andre walked to a wall and opened it, revealing a hidden staircase, "Let's go, she's downstairs."

The Nord whistled, "A Hidden room, eh? That's pretty convenient, and a good way to hide..." following him down.

Once they got down, they found a sleeping little girl with blue hair and wearing a green dress.

"Damn... she's fast asleep." Andre pointed.

"I can see that, well it at least answers if she was safe or not, glad to know it was the former," Erik sighed in relief, "The question remains if she should be moved or not, on one hand, I probably should get her back to her father, but on another, she's already safe enough here given that no one's come back to this, and have the minister himself pick her up after the chaos..."

"That's if he's still alive." the Dog stated, "Apparently, he knows where a sacred treasure of the royal family is hidden."

The Nord nodded, "That would explain why they would be looking for her, let's just hope he is," Going for his call stone, "This is Erik, I have found the daughter, over...she's in a safe place already, hidden behind a secret door to an abandoned store...what are my orders?"

"If she's already in a hidden place like that, then leaving her there is the best option, we still don't know how many of the enemy forces remain," Traysek's voice clicked on, "You've done enough finding her, don't move her but stick around, I'll let you know when to move...if it's that urgent the Rescue team will recover her..."

"Okay, so I can remain here, alright no problem," The Nord nodded, "Also there's something else, There's another guy here, who looks like one of the dogs but isn't...he has the glow and he helped me find the girl,"

"Must be another ally then, most likely a double agent, and if he's helped you...he's worth meeting~ Yeah stick around there with your new pal, with what you went through earlier, you probably need it..."

Erik sighed deeply, "Thank you sir, and I appreciate the concern...I'll take it easy here, Erik out," he said, disconnecting the line and turning to Anders, "Guess we're hanging out here until the rescue teams come for her, even my boss doesn't want her moved and...he wants to meet you after this,"

"Depends on my orders." Andre shrugged.

"Of course, but either way, you'd like him, unlike Volt, he's a much better leader and a better man, to be honest..." Erik praised, "So while we wait around, I have some chilled mead on me, want one?"

"Why not?" Andre stretched his arms, "Been running north and south for quite a while."

"Haven't we all? before coming here I was helping the rescue team I was with," The nord smiled, going in his bag and coming out with two bottles, handing him a cold one, "Here, had these chilled on enchanted ice, I was gonna save them until this was over,"

"Reminds me of that special drink that the chief makes." Andre said after taking a swing, "It's usually a bit sweeter and warmer than normal mead."

Erik raised an eyebrow, "Chief" as in bandit chief? didn't know you were affiliated with a clan of them...Not going to judge though, one of us used to be one...and still kinda is," he chuckled, "Sounds like your chief knows how to brew some damn good mead,"

"People think of us as bandits, but we are warriors of own our village," Andre said, "The only reason we're called bandits is because the chief refuses to bend the knee."

"I get that, trust me, seen and been a part of that treatment in that regard," Erik nodded, thinking back "The second anyone refuses to kneel they have the worst opinions about them..." shaking his head, taking a swig.

"If only you knew things are with them..." Andre took a deep breath, "One of them rarely goes out to fight, they prefer to call for mercenaries and sometimes bandits to avoid taking any blame."

The Nord nodded, "Like sending you all to the dark fortress for Queen Olga, right? Yeah...we're the last group they had as an attempt on that," Erik sighed shaking his head, "And like many before it didn't go well...Still, it's not like it could've gone any better either...met better people after...haven't regretted it since..." his mind going to Zephyr, taking another swig...

---

South roads...

---

While the Harpy was trying not to get overwhelmed... The knights there attempted to breach a wind barrier as two strange knights held Recorder and Dargo away from the rest.

Record sidestepped a charge of lightning rippling at her, rushing at her with the blade sheathed and unsheathing it, clashing blades with her opponent, "Goddamn it...they're tougher than the usual!" gritting her teeth, the lightning starting to eat through the sword.

Dargo was busy slashing down multiple large rocks that were thrown toward him.

"This is annoying..." Dargo mumbled, narrowing his eyes, "It's like they know our moves... otherwise, they'd charge blindly."

"You're probably right!" she shouted back, sweep-kicking the female knight, sending her to the ground, slashing at her with both hands with a large water wave.

The knight made a burst of wind that got her out of the way.

"We need to finish this quickly." Dargo said as he noticed the Harpy getting slashes on her, "Or we'd have to face an angry Endra..."

Recorder nodded, "In that case..." Pulling out two smoke bombs, she tossed them at the storm user, causing them to explode in dense smoke, moving through it...

The knight emitted a wave that cleared the smoke.

Meanwhile, Dargo tried to get close to his opponent, only to see him getting away, "They're wasting our time on purpose... Maybe I should get serious..." as he sheathed his sword, fire dancing around him.

Once the smoke was cleared, Recorder was nowhere to be seen by her opponent who looked around... As she did this, Record stuck the sword in the ground from a nearby corner, sending a wave of water that trapped the knight, smirking and sheathing her blade for a deadly draw...

Dargo planted his sword on the ground as many blades made of ice and fire pierced the knight.

Record unsheathed her blade in a blinding speed, leaving the entire bubble riddled with thousands of visible cuts, while her blade slid back in... With a click, the ball of water exploded in slashes and left the knight covered in wounds, lifeless..."My god...that was annoying...this must be those first dawn you were talking about..." she panted.

"Something about them was off now..." Dargo mumbled before that he shook his head, "Let's go help Volya."

"Agreed," She nodded and rushed over to the harpy, stabbing into one of the knights who had wound up a blow, stopping him short, and dropping him to the ground, "Are you okay?" Record asked.

"''Tis just a scratch." the Harpy stated... covered in scars.

Dargo jumped before landing behind the knight, as some fell to pieces.

"Are you don't mean, "Scatches?" your dad's going to lose it," Recorder sweated with a nervous smile, looking around, "I don't see any more knights though, looks like we've cleared them out..." turning to the carriages.

"Some ran away." Dargo pointed.

"That's fine, we got what we wanted from them anyway," Recorder sighed, sheathing her sword and going to one of the carriages, opening it, finding a group of terrified children inside, "Oh my god...hey kids, it's okay, we're not with those mean men, you can come out...you're safe now" she assured gently.

"We should get them back to their families." Dargo pointed.

"The question is...where were they taking them? some of them have wounds on their legs," Recorder asked while helping them out of it.

"I heard that they were taken to someone in Ken." the Harpy replied, "An archbishop or something like that..."

Recorder frowned, helping the last child down, "The fuck...? There's a church here we passed it helping out that goofy princess, why would they take them all the way there...? Something about this stinks and it's not the bodies here,"

The Harpy shrugged as Dargo said, "I heard some rumors... but I don't know if it's true..."

"What kind of rumors...? Because Lucien mentioned something weird too, wonder if they're connected," Recorder pointed.

"Disturbing ones..." Dargo frowned, "Some children who were rescued were found traumatized... and broken... until things were seen from their memories..."

Recorder had a grimaced look, "If it's anything like that other time, I...I don't think I need or want to know," throwing her hands up, "Anyway, thanks for the heads up on that Volya, that could've gone bad for these kids,"

"It wasn't hard to find them for someone like me," Volya pointed, "And if I hesitated for a moment, it would have been late for them."

"Yeah, they were nearly out of the outskirts, I know some parents that are gonna be happy, let's get them back, I need to check in," Record smiled, going for her call Crystal.

Dargo went and began to inspect the corpses, "I knew something was wrong... these weren't live soldiers but dead ones."

"That would explain why they weren't talking... but why would the holy army...have zombie soldiers? That doesn't make sense..." Recorder frowned, pausing.

"The General needs to know this." Dargo frowned as he got up, "But first thing first, we need to get these kids home."

"Go ahead and take them there, I'll catch up soon," She nodded, activating the crystal...

Dargo made a cart using his ice power while the kids got in.

"Recorder reporting in! We've found the kids and they're on the way to the rescue camps," She said to the crystal.

"Very good, I was wondering what happened to those kids, nice job Recorder, you and Dargo both..." Traysek's voice complimented.

"Heheheheh to be honest, I thought I was gonna suck at this..." She blushed chuckling, "Still, it's almost no different than our fights as adventurers...glad our lessons paid off..."

"Indeed they did and I'll make sure you're well rewarded for it...All of you... and for our first battle, this wasn't too bad..." Traysek's voice purred.

"Appreciate it, sir," Erik's tired voice chimed in.

"Thank you, My friend, now I'm eager for the celebration!" Inigo's voice chuckled, "We're still finding people, but with the threat fleeing, it's become even easier, lots of buildings are destroyed though..."

"That said boss, how goes the final push to the castle? do we need to regroup and hit at once?" Lucien's voice came through next.

"Negative...the Castle has been conquered already, Volt and Beasley have fled from here entirely, and I think the same could be said for his other allies," The Redguard told them.

"So we've won...? Finally!" Record cheered as the other members on the line did.

"No NO...not quite yet, remain vigilant, we still don't know who's all around...just because the monsters and the dogs have fled, doesn't mean the holy army still isn't a threat, the horn of surrender has yet to blow..." Traysek warned.

"Speaking of that, the holy army is fucking around with undead soldiers now, if you're near Greil, I figure you should pass that on to him...they were first dawn too..."

"What? since when are they messing with the dead? you sure they weren't mind controlled?" Erik's voice gasped.

"Very certain...Dargo even inspected the bodies to confirm they were indeed gone...it's funny they sure felt alive..." Record pointed.

"Can I ask if they were strong physically?" Greil asked.

"Not just strong physically, they still had their magic and abilities...enough focus to give me and Dargo a bit of trouble," Recorder said, rubbing the back of her neck.

"I see..." Greil's voice was full of worry, "Can you check if their eyes have some sort of red glint in them..."

"Sure thing," She grinned, going over to the female first dawn and checking her opened eyes, finding indeed a reddening glint, making her feel creeped out the more she inspected it, "Uh...yeah there's something red in their eyes...it's giving me a bad feeling too...what is this...?"

After a deep sigh was heard, Greil replied, "Some years in the past... we welcomed a strange man in Yamakhroz... claiming that the alliance hunted him. After some time, people began to disappear and an investigation showed that he took people away to do some... heinous experiments which left the victims in an undead-like state, but they were stronger than they should..."

"Didn't think we had a traitor in the past...you think they could be connected? seems like it from what she just told us..." Yuriana's voice asked next.

"He was more serving his own interests..." Greil replied, "He created a drug from it and wanted to test it on our soldiers... but a unit of Kletzkrieg subdued him. He died... we were sure of it..."

"I see, and that might've been for the better...but that doesn't explain how we're seeing it again, even a lesser version of it..." Traysek wondered.

"Maybe he had an apprentice...think about it, Erik and I are both yours...it could be possible this is a student trying to replicate it..." Lucien added in.

"If so...that would explain how the holy army has something like that in their possession... he could want revenge for killing his master, or a child of his might be doing it, never count out family..." Inigo asked.

"If it's alright with you, can you bring one of their corpses here?" Greil asked, "We'd like to study their bodies to see what happened to them exactly."

Recorder nodded, "Of course, and since I've already got one in front of me, this will, Recorder out," putting away the crystal, "Alright, let's get you back..." picking up the corpse and placing in on her shoulders, "God you're heavy...you had to have been a noble when you were alive, Jezus!" she grunted, carrying her back...

---

Meanwhile...

west side of Feoh...

---

Xunaakt was furious as his forces were routed.

"Come on men! We have to win this!" Emily yelled as she beheaded an Imp, "Forward!"

"Volt... Once I get my hands on you... you're dead!" Xunaakt roared as an Imp came rushing toward him.

"Boss! Reinforcements are coming from the south!" he shouted.

"Damn it! Fall back! Head west!" Xunaakt ordered as the monsters began to head toward the west.

The monsters soon fled to further lands that way, the last being an imp taking flight, just barely avoiding an arrow...

"The monsters are fleeing, Lady Emily! Should we pursue?" one of the glowing holy knights asked.

"No." Emily sheathed her sword, "Pursuing them into the lands of the west would be calling for death. Instead we must rest and recover." she then turned to incoming knights, "And I need to talk with my elder sister..."

The knight nodded, sheathing his blade, "Understood, Ma'am, we'll be ready on you," as another group of reinforcements caught up to them.

The lead knight, a brown woman with brown hair, blue eyes, and wearing golden armor walked toward Emily with a serious look.

"L-Long time no see... Sister Valery..." Emily greeted nervously.

The knight, Valery, went from serious to teary as she hugged Emily.

"I was sooo worried!" she cried, comical tears coming out of her eyes.

"B-Big sis! You're in public!" Emily pointed with an embarrassed expression.

Both parties led by both sisters had sweat drops on their heads at the older's balling...

"L-look! There's something that we need to talk about!" the younger sibling managed to free herself, "It's about the church!"

The older sister noticed the seriousness on Emily's face and nodded.

---

In the catacombs near Ulak...

---

Back in those dark ruins, Someone in a hooded cloak walked to the giant skeleton and chuckled.

"So... this is what the old man found... interesting..." lowering the hood, revealing Del with bandages over her glowing red eyes.

After taking a deep breath, she absorbed crimson flames into her hands.

"I feel like Lord Swain would be very interested in this... power." she grinned before teleporting away.

---

To be continued...

---

And with that, the initial battle is over...The Kuroinu and Holy Knights have taken a hard loss today...and with Volt and his critical injuries, he may be out of commission for awhile...but we know he's coming back...Just not too soon...

So to anyone who's made it this far, I've got some news for you...your patience is will be WELL rewarded, for one, we have not completely removed the Lemony hentai aspect from this... And Because they've cleared their first official canon battle, let's just say some are getting rewarded and it will be very much LEMON SCENTED...lmao, the reason we waited on that so long, was because everyone in the crew was going through a grinding period...but now...expect some fun from this point moving forward, as well as decent omake and don't worry you'll actually enjoy this one...it involves all the women in this fic so far...even the scary ones (Looking at you Ashar and Del!) Not gonna spoil what kind it will be...but just know, it'll be worth it ;)

Also my buddy and I run a discord and eventually, we're gonna start posting the AI Arts of the Original characters or outfits up there...if you're interested, hit my PM and I'll direct a link to you...you can chat with us and even add your ideas in and if they're good, we'll go the mile :) you might be surprised...

Until then, may the gods watch over your routers...seriously if they're not protected, make sure they are...internet safety is a must :) Bye now~