We Live with Regret
You would think that finding rebels would be hard but it's really not. It's simple really. You just gotta put on a cloak and hood that most shady individuals wear, asking a couple of questions, and then flash a little sliver to help put the pieces together. I've heard the rumors from the traveling merchants, paid for the gossip from vendors, listened to the unhappy poor, and saw signs of their meetings during my rides out. I threw on my cloak and hood then rode out yet again to Sheri Castle, a little north of Boan, into my land and past by my castle. Now that I have a castle the surrounding area belongs to me as a Thane. I've a couple settlements on my land. I still can't help but grin at this fact.
I'm a thane of a castle settlement. I'm above that of a knight. I'm not a lord, technically. I have a castle that doesn't stand tall but I can rebuild and remodel. If need be I can make a hall in the place of the castle and just have it as a formality. The area I was given isn't that big, being mostly open plains with a small bit of Rocky terrain to the west. Probably going to be using this area for horses and livestock. There's a lot of room for crops as well like potatoes and corn. With the small bit of wheat I noticed to the east this could work out well enough if I though the potential with half a brain.
I should be among everyone as well to see how things are anyway. If I can scope out the people and follow the trail to rebels I'm hitting to targets with on arrow. The settlement I was directed to was full adults but not that many children. Riding up on my horse with my face covered I looked around the settlement from one building to the next until my eyes landed on a small pub. Pubs are places of gossip and commerce for all locals and travelers. There's always talk passed around in a pub, but only if you have the required incentive to open a man's lips. I hitched my horse on a post and pat his back before walking towards the building.
I can see the yearning in the eyes of the commoners around me. There're not the many horses out here after all and one can feed a family for a good month if preserved right. Though if anyone tries to kill my horse and succeeds, I will drop my vow of mercy and kill the bastard that did it. Damn the reasons or consequences. I don't wish to go against my vows though. They help keep me level headed.
Once I left the prefect's room I noticed that I have a lot of time between now and dinner. I might as well spend it figuring out this rebellion stuff. The last thing I want in this country is battle, strife, and father's burying sons.
I walked in the pub with my guard up for almost anything. I found it quite empty other than a couple men at a few chairs and one or two at the bar. No one gave me a second glance despite the suspicious nature of my clothing like I thought would happen. Most believe that you have to look innocent to appear innocent. No, you just gotta look the part and stick to it. My part is a suspect character hiding his face. In rural areas like this my look isn't strange. If I walked in with my sword showing and normal clothes on it's a big indicator that I don't belong.
I walked to the bar and sat down with my arms resting on top of the counter. The man behind the bar walked up to me.
"Wha ye' ave?" He asked in broken illiterate words.
"Milk with a dash of ginger."
The man looked at me like I grew a second head. "Eh?"
"You heard me unless that's an issue," I looked up to the man with my highly practiced death stare. The man winced and shook his head before I could finish the rest of my scripted intimidation tactics.
"Com'n ri' up." The bartender took hold of a small handle and pulled it down. Milk came out and it looked fresh. "Ere," he slid it towards me. I picked it up and chugged it down. Goat milk by it consistency and tastes pretty good.
I dropped the cup to the counter and smiled. "That was good." I threw him a silver. This was only worth two or four coppers at the most, but I gave him a silver instead. The man's eyes widened for a moment but that quickly faded away for a grave expression.
He leaned in towards me for some reason. "Ye one o' 'em?" He asked quietly. I rose an eyebrow at him and nodded. I'm admittedly curious about what he's talking about that my favorite drink and good payment can get me. "Ta meetin?"
"Where is the next meeting," I asked back instead. The man looked around the bar and snagged the silver.
"Soon at the wee hours. House with 24 on the do'r." He spoke with this country accent but without breaking his words like before. I looked up to him and nodded. Deciding to go along with it I had to find out more.
"How did you know?" I questioned.
The man leaned back up and took my cup and held it up. "Them always ask fo' milk… The ginger be new tho'," he said quietly. So 'they' always ask for milk and then pay much more for it to get the meeting time. That's good to know.
I stood up from the seat and walked out of the pub. I noticed a body next to my horse and blinked in shock at the man on the ground before me. He had a hoof indent in his chest from a kick from a horse. I looked at Odin but he ignored me to drink from a water bucket in front of him. I pulled his reins from the post and climbed up on top. I leaned down to check on the man. He had a strange mask over his face that caught my interest same with a ornate sword and medallion around his neck.
I picked up the medallion and found it oddly familiar to that of the Royal Family Crest. It was different in a couple ways with extra lines and points, but I know this symbol well enough. I've been around my little sister figure, the princess, long enough to know the similarities.
Must be a rebel and the leader is connected to the royal family.
I climbed atop of Odin and kicked his sides. "Let's go buddy." I gave the man on the ground a second glance before kicking my horse forward. I might as well explore more before I return to the castle for dinner and what happens next.
"You're a busy guy Lute~" Shamsiel appeared next to me with a gleeful grin.
"It's my role as knight to look after these people. If the Prefect won't then I will." I smile up Shamsiel.
"And your castle?"
"I want to turn it into something great. Like my Odin being the finest horse in the land," Odin snort at that. Arrogant four legged bastard.
"I can use my magic for that?" She put on that table. To be honest, I thought about it. I could use some help with building my castle up or a hall like the dwarves did. I've been in one once and it was oddly roomy and comfortable. It felt welcoming as well.
"If you can make rebuilding smoother, I'd appreciate it."
"Even if I brought in some ogres or goblins?" She grinned as mischievous as it was sinister. It's like she's trying to scare me or test me. Either way I'm not easy to scare.
"I would welcome some monster help," I answered without a hint of hesitation.
Shamsiel looked surprised at my admission. "Really?"
"Of course. I'm not racist against anything." My previous lives were the same. They'd classify a monster by their actions not their appearance, and I do the same. Sometimes the real monsters are humans not demons. Like Shamsiel for example. She's not evil or bad. She's killed people but she's done this only because it's her way. It's a part of her instincts to feed on men. It's how she survives. I'm not going to hunt a wolf for killing a lamb. It's needs to eat and deserves the right to live like any other beast. With age comes wisdom and understanding I guess. This notion made me wonder though. All of them in fact. I left those thoughts for later though.
"Do you have any demon friends willing to help me?" I paused for a moment. "Of course I'm not asking for free." Demons and monsters never work for free.
"Hmm," Shamsiel placed a finer on her chin and tilted her head to the side as if this was a difficult thought that require all her attention. "Maybe." She wasn't teasing me this time. She was actually thinking about it. She was even surprisingly serious about this as well.
"I'd take any help for my land. I don't care about their race."
"You don't but what about the humans you're asking they work for Lute~." She made a good point. Just because I don't mind monsters doesn't mean everyone will follow along with it.
"Let me handle that I guess." I tried to sound as confident at possible, but I've never brought demons and humans together before. In my past lives I can remember certain moments when a couple other humans and I collaborated together with monsters. It lasted only so long before conflict ensued. Maybe it could work for a time depending on the monster.
My Paladin Trainer had me study the dark arts and different variations of black magic that inhuman races use. Shaman from gangly races like goblins, trolls, and ogres can sometimes have one intelligent enough to manipulate mana. I
I know that certain races of goblin can work as long as they get shiny shiny or pump rump. Money and things to fornicate. The green sort for sure but definitely not the red. Ogres as well are very dangerous to have around. But like with goblins it comes down to race. The oversized ones are too hazardous to human health. I can still remember the screams and pleas of their victims while they ravaged villages. They'd raped every human in sight, killed them, and sewed their skins into clothing; their clothing. Sometimes not even in that order. If I saw any of them I'd probably drop my vow and hunt every last one of the like I did so long ago. I still don't wish to do that though.
I suppose I just have to wait and see this 'help' that she might acquire for me through.
I found the house that the bartender mentioned before with hitched horses outside of it. I rooted around to another house before doing the same with Odin. I walked to the door and looked it over. I wanted to knock but didn't wanna do it incorrectly. They could have a secret knock or something and once I knock they'll know and jump me. I don't need that right now. I'm fragile and hate to fight without reason.
I can't stand out of her though and do nothing. I have to get in there some how. Well, might as well just go for it.
I walked up to the door and the mask from the man on over my face. I hung his medallion around my neck over my blouse to shine before anyone inside. I took a breathe then knocked three times as is customary. I paused for a moment and knocked one last time. Suddenly the door opened for me to reveal another man with the same mask on over his face like me.
"Uh, am I late," I spoke plainly. That mask muffled my voice and prevented voices from being differentiated between the other I wager.
"Actually brother," The masked me out a hand on my shoulder. "You're right in time. Come in. We have drinks and cake."
"Oh really?" That's a surprise. For a secret meeting of rebels against the crown and government I didn't expect any one of them to be this welcoming.
"The cake is yellow because this country's wheat is stained but it's good." The man showed me into a furnished room with seats around a rectangular table and a single luxurious couch at the end of the table. About seven other people occupied the room already, some standing and chatting and others sitting comfortably at the table.
"The tea and ale is over there," the door man pointed to a table with said stuff on it. "Candy bowl over there same with the cake."
The cake did look pretty good. I can't say no to some candy as well but I wish they had some white bread or milk at least.
"Oh, and encase you don't have a sweet tooth there's white bread and milk in a pitcher over there." The door man pointed out.
"That's nice." And I meant it. It's a surprise but a welcoming one as well. I haven't had some white bread for a moment and I can't say no to some milk. It's good for the bones, good in coffee, makes cake and many treats possible, and tastes really good.
"I'm surprised you knew the signal," the door man pat me on the back.
"Signal?"
"Yeah. To knock three times and wait four counts before knocking again once. Most of our members seem to forget something so simple!" The door man rose his voice I think for the others in the room.
He's got a loud voice as well.
"Calm down and have a pint Loger," one of the masked man #1 at the table said.
"Yeah we're all here now, now that the newbie is here." Masked man #2 with Masked man #1 at the table reinforced.
"We have a system for a reason outside else anyone can walk in you idiots," the door man now named Loger yelled. "And stop using names you idiots! We've code names for a reason to I protect our identities."
"Yeah yeah," one masked man at the bread waved off without a care next to two of his fellow masked friends.
These guys are really serious about their threat or are a threat in anyway. But even sheep can be dangerous when provoked in numbers. They don't listen to Loger which they should. He makes a lot of good points. I'm a prime example of this. I'm a knight that's infiltrated them and now have a name for one. I wonder if I can get the others.
"Hey guys," I waved to my masked brethren. "I'm Lortis, I'm new, and it's nice to meet you all."
"Damn it newbie what did I just say," Loger pointed a straight hand at me and poked my shoulder.
"Hey new guy I'm Lothian," masked man number one waved at me from the table. "This is my twin Lorick," he pointed to masked guy #2.
"Nice to meetcha new guy," Lorick greeted with his own pint up. "Wanna drink before we start the meeting?"
"Of milk and some bread on top, sure."
Lorick laughed from my answer and turned back around. No surprise there because milk and bread is more of a kid's meal than a man's.
"I'm Lonnie," One masked man on the other side of the table greeted then went back to his cake.
"I'm Lookie." An upbeat man said with an upbeat wave of his hand.
"I'm…."
"Enough names!" Loger commanded.
"Come one Loger we're more than half way through the roster. Might as well finish.
Loger growled but relented.
"Loudoun, Lopis, and Lapp." A man near the couch pointed to himself then two. He presented a cup of warm milk and plate of bread to me. "Eat at the table." The man instructed.
"Can do." It's nice to get a treat before sitting in he midst of a traitorous gathering. I sat down at the table and ate silently. I watched this men converse, joke, and laugh together. They seem like alright guys, but none of them are the leader. Loudoun was the serious sort and very neat. Lopp seemed like the sort of man that'll kick you in the back just for looking at him wrong.
"Hey! Stop staring at me bastard!"
CRASH
"Uh damn! Why'd you do that?" Lopis barked at Lopp who has his leg still out from his horse kick into Lopis' chair.
"Tssk. I don't like people staring at me." Lopp scoffed. When he turned my way I turned to the left to pay more attention to the milk and bread than him. I really don't wanna get kicked. These guys are a lively sort though. I'm eager to get to know then, their plans, and work to completely demolish them from the inside out in a way in which I can take all the credit and maybe appeal to the king for favor. Like that would ever happen though. Though if they decided to send Royal Knights to deliver a warning here then it's of notable importance. Might as well see this through.
"Alright cut the chat. Our leader is here," Loger announced before pointed out where we had to sit. I sat down with a plate of bread and milk in a cup. I munched on my treat quietly while everyone else relaxed in their chairs. It took a moment, but the leader arrived and my jaw dropped at who it was. The leader of the growing rebels against the crown wasn't who I expected, but If I play this right I'll end up ahead in more ways than one.
I sat back in my chair as the fat bastard himself walked in. A lollipop was in his mouth and an armed escort behind him. I leaned back in my chair waiting for the meeting to begin and my operation to follow.
It was night time by the end of the meeting for the next move. It was late by the time I got back to the castle. When I reached the castle I noticed the smell of food in the air. A lot of food. Apparently, a feast was being held. I'd assume it was to welcome the royal guard from the capital. I removed my cloak and rebel stuff before making my way to the Main Hall to join the fun. Looking at the large amount of food and drink, actual food and not the usual slop we get, I could only shake my head. This was the most lavish treatment I have seen since coming here and yet, by the literal cringe I noticed from him, Motaire is perturbed. I guess the soup and bread wasn't up to his standards.
I walked into the main hall and a couple guards noticed me. They greeted me loudly announcing my presence to the entire hall. "Sir Lute!" The entire hall looked towards me and I received greetings left and right from the guards of the city. I waved for them to relax and looked around.
"Evening. I see you're all eating well." I looked down to the feast. I've eaten a fair amount at the Rebel meeting but I can eat still.
"Join us Sir Lute."
"Sure." I dropped my knapsack down on a chair next to me first then sat down. The soup is good and the bread is still dark, but I'm not going to complain just yet.
"Sir Lute," one guard called for me. I looked up from my goblet of wine to him. "I heard just now, but is it true that you were classmates with these royal guards?" Looking over to the direction of Isis and Motaire I nodded. I couldn't help but let my eyes linger on Isis a bit longer than I should have. She's so beautiful and yet so far. I hate the fact that I have a schoolboy crush on such a cold and harsh girl but… I can't help it. She can do so much better. If she would just smile or be a little more relaxed she could be so cute. I've seen her smile before and I found it amazing. I love smiles from beauties, and I love so few simple things in this life. The smile of a pretty girl, large breasts, and a good opportunity to get ahead are a few of the "Simple things" I cherish in this life.
"Yeah." I finally answered.
"Wow, so it's true then." The guard to my left said.
"Amazing. I certainly don't have any friends in the royal guard." The guard to my right said next.
"But," the guy to my left's expression turned grim. "That guy, he's very unpleasant. Are all the royal guards like that?"
"I don't like at all," the guard to my right admitted.
"He's so arrogant. He looks like he thinks he's the only one supporting this kingdom." The guard to my left continued.
That's Motaire in a nut shell. He can be a bit of a tit at times and not the good kind.
"Did you say something?" Just in time to catch these two guards talking about him Motaire walked and stood in front of us with his hands on his hips.
"Eeek!" The man to the right yelped.
"I heard some nasty words, but perhaps it was my imagination?" Motaire pressured the two poor guards. Said poor guards were starting to panic as well. "Do you know what happens to those who offend members of the House Platine?" Motaire sounded gravely threatening. Time to defuse him.
"You make them wear a bra right?" I answered in their stead.
"You!" I stared at the guy as he turned his attention to me.
"Don't threaten them. It's unbecoming of the son of House Platine." I reminded him.
"What?!"
"These guards," I placed my hand on their shoulders. "They're my subordinates, so give them a break."
"That's even less of a reason to forgive them." I opened my narrowed eyes to him. His eyes twitched when I did this because he knows what's coming.
"What if the Prime Minister was here?"
"Ungh…!" He let out a disgruntled grunt.
"This is a feast for you and Isis," a girl a guy like you really doesn't deserve. I kept this to myself though. "So try to relax and enjoy it 'kay."
"Silence!" He roared at me and looked around at the food served. "How can I enjoy this disgusting food and drink!?" It seems this won't be defused so easily but at least he's not threatening my men. I guess now I have the task of averting his attention away from me.
"Well, how about some gambling?" I suggested.
"Gambling?" His interest was perked.
"Ah, yes. Madoise, the short one, likes to bet when he plays chess. You're good at chess, right Motaire?"
"And you think he could compete with me?" Motaire smeered.
"Only one way to find out. Show him who good you are."
"Hmph." Motaire's expression turned sly with a smile the creeped to his lips. Good.
"Madoise!" I called out with a shout, and Madoise came over.
"Aye, how can I help you?"
"Motaire here is super good at chess. He was undefeated in the knight academy."
"Ohh… That's quite something." Madoise grinned.
"Want to bet on a game?" I looked between the both of them.
"I would be honored. How about it, Sir Motaire?" Madoise challenged in his own way.
The smirk on Motaire's lips couldn't be matched by even the most evil of men in the land. "Alright," he sneered. "I'll take you for all you have."
"Hohoho, we'll have to see about that." With that the two of them went elsewhere for a game of chess. I sighed and rubbed my head.
"Phew," the guard to my right sighed in relief as well.
"I was worried there," the guard to my left groaned as well.
"Sorry, he's a little difficult, if a little snappy. He's a good guy though." I swore and I'm saying this a lot nowadays.
"No, Sir Lute. It's nothing for you to apologize for."
"Thank you very much sir."
I nodded and held up my goblet. "Well, how 'bout a drink?" I roared to the hall.
"Alright!" The guards in the all cheered and started to drink as I did the same. I started to pour drinks even at least to fill time and show the men I can have as much fun as them. Looking around a bit I noticed that Roxanne hasn't shown up yet. More than likely she's downstairs assisting the cooks. It must be nice to have a wife with practical traits and skills despite her noble likeness.
I heard a loud gruff suddenly. Madoise had a troubled look on his face as he returned to the hall. The look of defeat. Motaire was behind him with an even wider smile than before. "Hmph, not even worth my time." So its not just the look of defeat but the look of a crushing defeat. Madoise didn't even let out a sigh. He was demolished, no doubt about it. "As we agreed I'll be taking your money… Is what I'd normally say but since this such a pitiful amount I'll return it." How kind of him. So kind that Madoise was still speechless. "You'll need a lot more practice if you want to challenge me." Motaire gloated before leaving back to his seat. He picked up a chalice but didn't drink from it. "Hey, is there any less disgusting wine?" His words were still blunt and sour but his mood was bright.
"There's no wine, but would you like some pudding?" Motaire's eyes grew wide at the sight before him and so did mine. It's Roxanne. The Prefect's wife. She had finally left the kitchen. "I'm the Perfect Irboyne's wife." She said suddenly. I can guess by the look that she's getting from the playboy that she knew what was going through his mind. Maybe this 'new' information will defuse his lust.
"Th-this is… beautiful…" This tactic didn't seem to work and it showed when her smile faltered a bit. "I never thought to encounter such beauty in this backwater town."
"Oh, no…" I rubbed my head.
Motaire took her hand in her moment of bashfulness. She looked increasingly uncomfortable when Motaire broke into her personal space.
"I, um…" Roxanne was at a lost for words which Motaire took in positive way.
"If I was to bet, I should have bet on you." Motaire looked deep into Roxanne's eyes. He was clearly trying to hit on her." That son of a…! I stood up from my seat and pushed in my chair. If anyone is going to do anything to her, its going to be me. This thought of mine is a bit scandalous but for the crime of taking away her amazing smile I think this is the lightest of thoughts I could be having. I walked up to him and her. "How about we talk privately in your room?" He offered in his usual suave tone.
"I-I… that's…" Roxanne stammered.
"I'm afraid that's not possible," I said in her stead. I took his hand in my own and gave it back to him.
"You son of a…"
If anyone can understand being blocked from getting with a woman, it's me. If it's anything like Depravity I'd be on a murderous rampage right now just to have sex with the first woman I see. I never cared about Motaire and his antics or treatment of women outside of one person. Today make it two and Roxanne if off limits. "This is the wife of the Perfect for Boan Motaire." I made sure to say firmly enough for him to understand.
"This has nothing to do you with you!" Motaire warned with a heavy, murderous glare.
"Even if it didn't, I believe that's called adultery where I come from. You do know what the penalty entrails Motaire," I shot right back at him earning a reaction. "And just what it might do to you and your family's reputation."
"Ugh…!" Motaire glared down at me and I stood my ground and gave him my own glare. I defend my treasures to the last man, and I'll be damned before he tries to put Lady Roxanne any further in this position.
"Even your flirting can have an effect," I waved around. "With this many witness as well this can look bad on you." I pointed out.
Motaire narrowed his eyes but he relented. He gave Lady Roxanne another smile. "My beauty, maybe next time." Motaire gave me one last glare before he turned to walk away. Isis was next to him and laid a hard haymaker to his stomach. Motaire doubled over and groaned with his hand on his stomach. "Idiot," she growled. With that she pushed him out the room with her right behind him. Even as that daughter of defected nobles, she still has her pride. It can't be easy being engaged to a womanizer like that. He doesn't even hide it and was shameless enough to flirt with another woman in front of his fiancé. I sighed and rubbed my head for the third time today.
"Sir Lute," Roxanne pulled down on my sleeve.
"Yes Lady Roxanne?"
"Thank you," she smiled truly stunningly up to me. I couldn't help but smile softly as well. I could almost get lost in her beautiful eyes. Before I could commit the same mistake as Motaire I cleared my throat and cleared my thoughts.
"C-can I have some of your pudding milady?"
She smiled and nodded causing her to giggle a bit. "Sure." Roxanne walked to a small cart and grabbed a small bowl and spoon. She handed it to me and I took it. I took a taste of it and felt my body shiver. By My Ancestors! This is damned good. "I'm pleased you think so." Crap, I was thinking out loud again. Well I have the perfect counter for a woman laughing at my expense.
"I'm pleased to see your amazing smile again milady." I didn't mean for that to come out but it did.
"Teehee, thank you Sir Lute." The woman smiled at me. Those eyes from before returned. I gulped as chocolate brown eyes stared into my soul.
"I'll… I'll give some of this to… everyone. Roxanne, why don't you take a break and chat with the others?" I recommended and hoped she'd go along with it. She saw through my escape attempt and giggled a bit before saying "thank you," and left me alone in the middle of the hall. I sighed and looked towards my men. "Pudding! For everyone!"
"AHHH!"
Once the party ended I couldn't sleep so went out to patrol instead. This was my fourth patrol for the night to ensure the castle was secure same with the grounds. I walked around the main hall once more and found many of the guards still asleep. Some of them were even snoring already. If history speaks, when the castle was built the liege lord and his soldiers would eat and sleep together in the main hall. However now, the liege lord recluses himself in his own room and leaves the soldier in the hall. How the times have changed. I made sure to help clean and make sure they're comfortable before I did anything else. I've yet to see Shamsiel since before the meeting. I think she went off to look for that help we talked about before.
I did one more sweep of the hall before I started to head out to the stable house to sleep with Evelyn. I don't have the will or desire to have sex and a nice warm bed with a beautiful woman sounds nice right now. As I moved away from the center of the hall, I saw a familiar figure in the darkness. Isis was leaning on a pillar by the looks of it. Someone is having trouble falling asleep as always. I remember during those restless nights I'd wander around and find her staring up to the moon at odd hours. I never questioned it but I'd always stop and watched her basking in the silver moon like. Her blonde hair glowed and unearthly color in the moon light and her eyes became like diamonds glistening like the stars above. I thought back to the first time I might have fallen for her and it was at night, watching from afar.
I never approached her before, but I felt I could now. I walked up to her quietly without her noticing. It's easy to do since I have leather boots on. I stopped to her left with her eyes looking directly at the moon. It was like I didn't exist, like always. So I decided to get her attention. "What's wrong? Can't sleep?"
Isis let her eyes drift towards me and almost instantly, she scowled as me. "No," she snapped. I rose a brow at her and equipped a knowing smile.
"You sure about that?" Isis didn't answer. From what I know about her, silence is almost a definite yes.
"My stomach is just upset from that awful wine." She made up a terrible excuse. Sort of childish almost. "This place is the worst."
"The worst this, the worst that," I sighed at this typical response she'd give about everything surrounding her situation outside the luxurious norm. "Why don't you stop it with that? The capital isn't the standard for the whole world you know."
"You think I have to listen to your opinion?"
"The fact you responded means you are." She glared at me again but said nothing. I walked to the pillar across from her and leaned on it myself with my arms crossed. "Listen, if you keep flaunting your status as a royal guard around like this no one will come to your aid when it really matters." History is full of men and women of high position abandoned by their subordinate because of their demoralizing attitude. To be honest, I'd rather follow under Motaire's lead tham Isis' and that's saying something. Montaire, while a noble pain with a twisted personality from a spoiled lifestyle, can be a bit hard to deal with the man is a genius in this own right. He's better than me in sword skills, strategy, debating, business management, and many more skills because of his noble heritage. He's not the best leader but I've seen him in the academy lead his classmates many times to complete tasks. He's the highest marks not because of his noble lineage but because it all came natural to him.
"I'd follow Motaire over you," I admitted, and it hurt to confess this to her in such a way. I know his faults and experienced the worse of him firsthand. If not for that man he might've become good friends. Isis on the other hand that's much more difficult. I think I may have struck a nerve with my words because she went completely silent. Even her glare faded away to a downcast expression. I might have said my part too much. I have a habit of doing that after all. I felt a bit of shame for my insensitive words and pity for this young woman's poor combination of unfair circumstances and her shaky betrothal. I looked away to the side.
"Are you thinking about Motaire?"
"It doesn't concern someone as pathetic as you." It does though. I care for Isis even though it's not reciprocated. I couldn't help the feeling of envy welling in my chest that made my hands tingle. I took a couple breaths to calm down despite how sharp her words cut into my soul. That's what I was talking about. Her attitude. As far as I knew, Isis and Motaire were supposed to be engaged. Motaire though has other women. He got around and he'll likely continue his relations with them. I don't understand at all why she would get engaged to such a man, but I can guess. Isis should have the right to choose but maybe situation dictates; being from a fallen noble family and all.
"Haaa…" She sighed from exhaustion. I can tell she's been awake for maybe a day or two now. I can relate to this at times and why it happens.
"Are you the type that has to sleep in your own bed?" I questioned.
"So what if I am?" Finally, some honesty. She's uncomfortable with sleeping anywhere but familiar territory. A bad habit to have for a Knight but it's part of her character I find a bit cute.
"I can help you get to sleep." I offered.
"What could you possibly do?"
"I'll show you." I pushed off my pillar and approached her. She didn't reach for her sword, but she was wary. "Trust me," I said calmly. "Just stay still." Slowly, I stretched my hand toward her head.
"Don't touch me with those filthy hands—Hyaa!" As I placed my hand on her head, Isis when stiff and trembled. My spell worked pretty fast. She already has a drowsy look on her face. "W-what did you…do…?"
"A spell." Her eyes shimmered at my answer but slowly closed. She wobbled a bit, but I caught her by the shoulders.
She weakly grasped my collar. "If you do anything weird to me… I won't… forgive… you…" She warned me with her last bit of energy before falling against me. Her eyes closed the rest of the way as she made her way to dreamland.
"Sweet dreams… princess." Isis said nothing for she was in a deep sleep. I picked her up in bridal carry and made my way to Roxanne's room. I kicked her door a couple times to simulate a knock and waited for her to answer. When she did she instantly perked up when she saw me. Then her eyes fell down to a sleeping princess in my arms. She was still in her normal attire. It looks like she hadn't even undressed yet.
"Sorry to bother you so late but…" I looked down at Isis.
"Heehee," Roxanne giggled. "She surely must be tired after her long trip from the capital."
"Yes… trip." I just went along with it. Not really a lie but not the truth either. Roxanne shifted back and waved for me to enter. "Thank you." I walked in and she quickly shut the door. Roxanne led me to her bed. Normally I'd be ecstatic over something like this but sadly we aren't alone.
"Lay her here." I'm relieved she's so willingly to surrender her room in such a way. Even her own bed. Her husband would never do the same, selfish bastard. As I laid Isis down, Roxanne chuckled. "This girl needs to be more honest with herself," Roxanna said pitiably.
"I've been saying that for years," I acknowledged Roxanne's perfect read on Isis.
"Really? I feel she doesn't need to always hold up that angry shield of hers. Women are women, after all." She's right. I remember a time when Isis was quiet. She was a great girl with massive boobs. Sure, she had some complications with her personality, but she was a good, tolerable girl. I straightened out Isis' legs and placed her hand together over her navel. I pulled the covers over her body and made sure to fuffy the pillow before letting her head rest into it. Isis' beautiful sleeping face almost entrapped me. I felt I could just watch her sleep for hours, but that'll be sort of weird. I did ensure she was tucked in before anything else.
I felt Roxanne watching my every move carefully. I pushed off the bed and walked towards the door. "I'll be going." I announced and reached for the door.
"Wait," Roxanne said quickly. "Why not stay for a bit?"
"Are you sure," I asked back with a glance back at her. "A man alone in the room of a married woman isn't all that good."
"We're not alone though. There's three of us," Roxanne pointed out with a clever smile. I liked that she had this much of a naughty streak but still…
"Are you sure?" She looked at me with those damn sad eyes! "
D-do you… dislike me?"
You… she's doing this on purpose I just know it. Almost immediately I shook my head. "I can stay for a bit." As I said that, Roxanne relaxed with a quiet laugh. I felt myself die a little inside. I pressed my hand against the door and felt out for a moment. I focused to feel any vibrations or changes in the nearby area to nothing. I didn't feel Madoise anywhere so maybe I can indulge… Just a little.
"You're up late," I pointed out.
"You as well Sir Lute," she pointed right back at me.
"I was patrolling the area," I told her.
"Yes… My breasts were a bit swollen and kept me up." That was completely off topic. I'm talking about time and she brings up her breasts. "It's odd. I have no children, but my breasts lactate; so every day, I have to milk them." My heart skipped a beat at the sound of her odd confession. I have the sudden urge to drink her milk shamelessly. "Sorry, it's a strange thing to talk about." Every rational fiber of my being was telling me not to do this. This is a very bad idea. If I'm caught doing anything that can cause us to be charged with adultery will not end well for either of us. Yep, it's a bad idea.
"I don't think so," I said in a polite tone.
"O-Oh?" Roxanne flushed.
"Yeah." I stared down at her chest and felt my mouth dry.
"I usually have a servant milk me, but she's quite drunk and immobile at the moment…"
An open invitation if I ever heard one. This cannot happen. I can't let myself get swayed just yet. Yep, my determination will pull me through.
Roxanne looked straight into me. "Sir Lute." My heart skipped again. I gulped and look a couple breaths. I could already feel my pants tighten. "I'm glad we could meet again," she said gratefully. "After hearing about you declaring you would face the demon, I thought I'd never see you again."
"I'm a survivor," I said lamely. I felt my member twitch a bit from the memory of Shamisel's fabled tit attack.
"I thought your life would be over. But… I'm so happy we could meet again." Roxanne equipped a beautiful smile.
"Thank you," I said averting my eyes away from her. I can't watch her for too long.
"Do you have anyone waiting for you in the capital?" I couldn't see her expression but her tone is dejected.
"N-no, I don't." Its true. I wasn't one for romances back in the capital. Even now I'm not looking for romance. I'd sleep with Evelyn and Shamsiel, but I don't want to fall for anyone right now.
"Oh." Roxanne sounded almost relieved. "If only I had met you at the capital… thank you again for earlier."
"My pleasure," I said smiling at the thought of getting Motair off of her. I bowed to her.
"Will you come by my room again tomorrow?"
"Yes."
"Promise me. I'm really, very lonely, every day." I looked up at her again and she looked back at me. Her eyes… they told me everything I needed to know. What she wanted, how she wanted, and how I could help my lady with her loneliness. I was resisting hard up to this point but those eyes, those breasts, that face, and being wanted so much in such a way was terrible and harsh and unfair and … and…
Fuck it.
I felt a weight leave my shoulders and a sense of weightlessness take to me. I walked up to Roxanne and stopped right in front of her. I gripped her shoulders gently in my hands and smiled. "S-Sir Lute—hmmm!" I placed my lips against her own and closed my eyes. Roxanne shivered a bit in my arms then relaxed. She gripped a hand full of my shirt at my hips and closed her eyes next. Her arms did a rough transition from front to rear grabbing hold of fabric. I feel that words are cheap when it comes to promises. I prefer actions like a pinky promise… or a kiss. I pushed back and licked her neck and kissed to top of her slightly cold skin. I leaned back with a smile on my lips. Roxanne stood in front of me with her eyes close still so I pressed my lips against hers once again in a small peck. "A promise with a kiss milady." I stepped back and walked to the door.
"Sir Lute. I'm sorr...!"
I pulled open the door and walked out the room and closed the door behind me.
"Damn," I cursed myself in the midst of my retreat. I'm running away. I running away from her and her regret and my shame. I have to less it consume me. I can't believe that happened.
The main hall was quiet and I have time to kill still. I need to visit Evelyn like I said I would. I need to take care of this as well. I looked down to the bulge in my trousers before making my way out the main hall. I walked to the stable and the house behind them and knocked on the door. The door opened and behind it stood Evelyn in a sleeping gown. She stood behind it before she wrapped her arms around my neck and kissed me. She pulled me into her home, and I kicked the door closed.
"You're late." She narrowed her eyes at me.
"Sorry. Feast and all. You were there."
"True," she admitted. "But as the man you should take responsibility."
"How do you recommend I do this?"
Evelyn smiled. "I have an idea. Maybe teaching you a thing or two about how to please a woman." I thought on this. She was being coy but she might have inward reason for saying this. She dragged me to the bed.
"Lesson one." She pulled her gown down to reveal her breasts to me. "Be soft with your groping." I nervously rubbed the back of my head. I guess I do need some help.
A/N: After another long pause here's the next chapter.