Another chapter for my awesome readers! Feel welcome to keep voting in the poll over on my profile as well. I'm eager to see which of the girls you would like to see visit Michael's world at some point in this story.

...

Henrietta casts judgement on Felix for his crimes against Tristain.

Later that day, before leaving Tristania, Louise and Michael share a tender moment.

Tristania - Part VII - Trial

I awake to the sound of a heavy, insistent knocking at the chamber's door.

My eyelids snap open and I bolt upright, a small flame sparking to life in my palm. My head spins as I try to get a grip on my bearings.

I'm on the floor, slumped by the wall of the princess' bedroom. And the sun is up, its warm rays streaming in through the windows and bathing the room in a soft, golden glow.

The door to Henrietta's chambers creaks open, and Miranda's head pops in. She looks to the bed, then to me, and frowns, her brow creasing in concern.

I push up to my feet and give the woman a tired smile, then extinguish my flame and brush myself off.

"Morning."

Miranda nods and steps into the chamber, her expression grim and her eyes dull and heavy. She looks as though she hasn't slept a wink.

"Good morning," she answers, her tone flat. "The prisoner awaits his judgment, and Her Highness must be awoken."

I nod, my smile fading as the gravity of the day ahead settles in.

"...Right."

With that, the woman steps fully into the room and walks over to the princess' bed. She then places her hands on the footboard, leans forward, and speaks in a gentle, soothing tone.

"Princess Henrietta, it is morning," she tells the young royal, her voice calm but firm. "You must wake."

Henrietta stirs, a soft groan escaping her lips as her eyes slide open and she pushes herself up from the sheets. Sitting upright with something of a morning struggle, she rubs her eyes and yawns before stretching her arms above her head.

"Thank you for waking me, Miranda," she says, her voice soft and sleepy. She then turns to her attendant, her eyes widening in surprise as she takes in the woman's dishevelled appearance. "Goddess, did you sleep at all?"

Miranda sighs and shakes her head.

"No, but that is not of import," she answers, her tone flat and her expression stoic. "I have come to tell you that the prisoner awaits your judgment."

Henrietta's features darken and her lips sink into a thin, determined frown.

"...I see, thank you, Miranda," she says, her tone low but firm. She then pushes her duvet away and, with a tired groan, rises from the bed. "I will be down shortly."

With a small bow, Miranda turns around and walks to the door. Here, she flashes me a small frown before stepping out and bringing the doors closed behind her.

Henrietta, clearing her throat, glances over to me and offers a small, almost apologetic smile.

"You may stay as long as you like, Michael," she states, her voice quiet but sincere. A moment passes between us, and then her cheeks pinken the smallest bit. "...Though I would ask you to close your eyes whilst I get out of bed to change."

I nod, my face flushing a deep red. Then, doing as asked, I shut my eyes.

"...I can just go if that'd be easier," I tell her, my tone soft and even. "Just say the word."

A pause, then a gentle sigh.

"No, no, it is quite fine, you may stay," Henrietta replies, her voice quiet but kind. "What's more, Louise is still fast asleep, and I am sure she would like to see you waiting there when she awakens.

A nervous flutter passes through my chest and I swallow hard.

"...And supposing Miranda has an issue with that?"

Henrietta lets out a small chuckle and, from the sound of it, begins to undress.

"She can take it up with me," she answers, her tone firm and unwavering.

I hear the rustle of fabric as Henrietta slips out of bed, then the soft patter of her bare feet against the stone floor. Several extra moments pass, and then what feels like a good few minutes more.

"...You may open your eyes now."

I do as told, my eyelids sliding open to reveal Henrietta, who is now dressed in a formal white dress with a purple sash and an embroidered black cloak.

Girl's really pretty, even though I know I shouldn't be thinking it!

Yep, best I change course.

"...How in the world did you change into all of that in just a few minutes?" I ask her, my tone incredulous. "I mean, that's some crazy quick changing."

Henrietta giggles softly at this, a small smile tugging at her lips.

"Magic," she replies with a wink, her voice light and playful. "And a fair amount of practice."

I nod, a grin spreading across my own lips. But then I remember what she's about to go and do, and my smile falters, my features falling into a more serious expression.

Henrietta's eyes narrow, her smile fading as she too remembers what lies ahead.

"You alright there, Princess?" I ask, my voice gentle but firm. "You look pretty nervous."

Henrietta sighs and shakes her head, her shoulders slumping.

"...May I confess something to you, Michael, if only here, in private?"

I nod, my expression softening as the young girl's face fills with worry.

"Of course."

She takes a deep breath, her eyes fluttering shut and her hands clenching into fists at her sides.

"I am scared of what I must do today," she confesses, her voice soft and shaky. "And, in truth, it is only my second time doing it."

I raise a curious brow, giving the young lady a quick nod.

"Your second, hmm? When was your first?"

The princess' features darken, her eyes narrowing and her lips sinking into a thin, tight frown. She takes another deep breath, and her voice grows even quieter.

"...When you laid recovering from your injuries at the hands of Fouquet. When she sought to steal the Staff of Destruction, I passed judgment upon her," Henrietta explains, her voice soft but filled with a quiet determination. "I sentenced her to imprisonment in the tower."

Her eyes open, and she looks up at me with a sad, weary gaze.

"And now, I must do so again," the princess continues, her tone low but firm. "Only this time, the sentence shall be far harsher: The gravest punishment of all, Michael."

I swallow hard, my heart thudding heavily in my chest. And, for a long, tense moment, the two of us just stare at each other in silence.

And it's here, in the depths of those sincere blue eyes of hers, that I see a deep, intense sadness. The kind that comes from having to make a decision you really, really don't want to.

"...Henrietta, mind if I ask you something?"

The princess nods, her expression softening.

"Of course, Michael, anything," she answers, her voice quiet but sincere. "What would you like to know?"

I take a deep breath, my heart still pounding in my chest as I steel myself for what's to come next.

"...Now, don't feel as though you need to answer this or anything, but... do you ever feel the urge to just turn and run away? From all those duties, I mean," I clarify, my tone lower and a little more cautious than before. "The expectations, the responsibilities, the weight of the whole damn world resting on your shoulders?"

Henrietta blinks, clearly taken aback by my question. Then, after a moment, she smiles and lets out a small chuckle.

"You could tell, could you?" the princess asks, her cheeks reddening and a shameful look crossing her face. "That I sometimes wish to just... run away, and leave it all behind?"

I nod, my features softening into a warm, sympathetic smile.

"My ex, Anna, always had that look when something hard came knocking," I reveal with a small shrug. "It's not a hard thing to notice, especially if you know what to watch out for."

The princess nods and sighs, her eyes dropping to the floor as she runs a hand through her hair.

"I have felt it many times, Michael. The urge to flee, to leave my responsibilities behind and live a life free from duty and obligation," she explains, her voice soft and tinged with sadness. "But then I think of those who depend on me, and of how much good I can do for them, and it passes."

That shameful glint in her eyes fades, and her expression grows firm and determined. She lifts her head and meets my gaze with her own.

"I am the future ruler of Tristain, Michael," she states, her voice steady and resolute. "Thus, I would have you promise never to reveal my doubts to another," she implores, turning back and glancing at her sleeping best friend. "...Especially my dearest Louise Françoise."

"Only if you can keep a secret too, Your Highness," I say with a small smile.

Henrietta nods, her eyes narrowing as she gives me a serious look.

"I shall keep any secret you ask of me, Michael," she promises, her tone firm and unwavering.

Nodding, I hang my head and force out a hefty exhale. Then, with a small sigh, I raise it again and look the princess straight in the eye.

"...There's a part of me that misses home - the life I had and all the people there," I confess, my voice low and quiet. "And, no matter how comfortable I'm becoming with life here in Tristain, I just can't shake it."

Henrietta nods, a small, sympathetic smile tugging at her lips.

"Meaning that, if the chance came, however small it may be, you would consider leaving, yes?" she asks, her tone gentle and understanding. "Returning home, to your world?"

My throat grows tight and my eyes grow hot, a heavy lump forming in the back of my mouth.

I swallow hard, and a single tear slides down the side of my cheek.

"...A part of me still wants that, yeah," I admit, my stomach jittering a bit.

Henrietta looks back to her sleeping pink-haired best friend, my mistress.

"I see," she whispers, her voice soft and gentle. "And, if you were to leave, what would become of Louise?"

I swallow again, and the lump in the back of my throat grows even thicker.

"I...I mean-"

I push out a deep, almost painful sigh and shake my head.

"...I don't know about that," I whisper, my voice hoarse and strained. "But there's one thing we can both be sure of," I continue, forcing a thin smile and looking the princess straight in the eye. "...She'd never forgive me if I just upped and buggered off, would she...?"

The young royal's eyes narrow, and her lips curl upward into a small, knowing smile.

"...No, I do not believe so."

I sigh again, and my shoulders sag as a wave of exhaustion hits me like a truck.

"Called it. But hey, it isn't as though that'll happen, so we're fine," I tell the princess, my tone light and nonchalant. "And besides, Louise is a tough girl, she'd get by without me."

Henrietta nods and steps forward, her expression soft and sympathetic.

"Yes, she is indeed strong," she agrees, her voice quiet and sincere. "But do not be so sure about that, Michael."

I raise a brow at this, my eyes widening in surprise. Then I chuckle and shake my head.

"Louise's strength, this newfound conviction she carries the likes of which I haven't seen in her until very recently, is because of you," Henrietta explains, her voice gentle and kind. "And, should you ever leave her, I fear it will be shattered."

My smile fades and my chest tightens. My eyes grow heavy and hot.

"Figured you'd say something like that," I whisper, my voice hoarse and strained. "Guess that means we'll need to keep our secrets safe and sound, huh?"

The princess smiles and places a gentle hand on my arm.

"Indeed."

A moment passes between us. Then, with a small sigh, Henrietta turns away and walks to her bedroom door.

"Good day to you, Michael, I shall see you at the trial."

I nod and watch as she leaves, the chamber doors clicking shut behind her.

"See you then, Your Highness."

...

Here we are again, back in Tristania Palace's seriously lavish throne room. At the end of the hall sits the smaller of two iron thrones, the larger and fancier of the two probably belonging to her mother, the queen. Light beams into the room from several large glass windows at either side of the chamber.

Louise, who has been sitting silently at the side of the room, bed hair and all, stands up and walks over to me. She looks nervous, her hands clenched tightly at her sides and her eyes wide and anxious.

The air is thick with tension as the trial begins. Henrietta, seated on the throne, looks regal and composed, but her eyes betray her anxiety. The accused, Felix, stands before her, his head bowed in deference. He is flanked by two guards, their swords drawn and ready to defend the princess at a moment's notice.

I stand toward the back of the room as Louise falls in at my right. To my left is Kirche, who joined us on the way to the throne room earlier. The Germanian wears a long, flowing red gown with frilly white trim and a plunging neckline that accentuates her ample chest.

Henrietta clears her throat and begins to speak, her voice steady and commanding despite the tremor of fear in it. "Felix, you stand accused of the manipulation and blackmail of a royal servant, attempted abduction with presumed intent to commit murder, and conspiracy against the crown," she says, her eyes fixed on the hooded figure before her. "Do you have anything to say in your defence?"

Felix lifts his head and meets Henrietta's gaze. His eyes are cold and calculating, and a smirk plays on his lips. "Your Highness, I plead guilty to all charges."

The room falls silent at his words, and Henrietta's face pales. I'm guessing she expected a denial, an attempt at justification. But instead, Felix had admitted his guilt without hesitation.

Henrietta takes a deep breath, steadying herself before she speaks again. "Very well. I hereby sentence you to death by hanging, for your crimes against the crown and the people of Tristain. The sentence will be carried out in three days."

Louise gasps at the pronouncement, her eyes widening with shock.

Before anyone can say anything further, However, the throne room's doors are heaved open. All of us present turn back to face the noise. A tall man with sharp features, piercing eyes and long grey hair, strides into the room, flanked by a group of Tristanian guards. He's decked out in a flashy purple cloak and wears one of those old-timey cavalier hats I saw in the old English History books in school.

Henrietta rises from her throne and approaches the newcomer. He then removes his cavalier's hat and kneels respectfully before her.

Louise gasps beside me. Her eyes going wide, she links my arm around hers and holds me.

I lean down and whisper, "Who the fuck is this?"

"It's Lord Wardes!" Louise hisses back, her voice tinged with shock and unease.

My stomach drops a touch as the realization hits me.

"The guy you're betrothed to...?" I whisper back, a sense of foreboding creeping over me.

Louise gives a tiny, almost imperceptible nod, her eyes never leaving the scene before her.

Wardes rises from his kneeling position and takes Henrietta's hand, pressing his lips against her knuckles. Henrietta's expression is unreadable, but her body language speaks volumes - she is clearly on edge, her shoulders tense and her posture rigid.

"Forgive my lateness, Highness, I was away on urgent business," Wardes says smoothly, his voice calm and collected. "I only arrived this morning upon hearing of last night's dreadful events. I trust you have sentenced this knave?" Wardes' gaze flicks to Felix, who is still standing before the throne, his expression almost gleeful for some reason. Then, with a small chuckle, he turns back to the princess, who nods in response.

Henrietta's eyes flash with anger as she regards Wardes. "Yes, Lord Wardes. And I must say, I am quite displeased that you were absent during such a crucial moment."

"Again, I can only offer my sincerest apologies, Princess," Wardes replies, his voice dripping with insincerity. "However, I believe I have information that may shed more light on this situation, information which could prove useful in securing your kingdom's future," he adds, his eyes glinting with something that makes me uneasy.

"Is that so?" Henrietta inquires, her curiosity piqued despite her irritation at his late arrival.

"Yes," Wardes confirms. "If Your Highness would be so kind as to grant me permission, I believe I may have the means to uncover further conspirators... provided I can take this man for interrogation at Fort de la Rouge."

Wardes gestures to Felix, who remains motionless, a smug grin on his face.

"But I had already decided that his punishment would be death," Henrietta states, her voice losing a hint of its edge and her expression becoming a bit strained.

Poor girl's feeling the pressure: I can really see it in her eyes.

"Indeed, Your Highness, but what of others who might still conspire against the kingdom?" Wardes presses, his tone persuasive. "With his further interrogation, we may uncover other traitors in our midst and bring them to justice."

The air in the room, already tense as Hell before Wardes arrived, seems to grow even heavier as everyone waits to hear the young royal's response. Henrietta hesitates, clearly conflicted by Wardes' argument and the thought of further interrogating Felix.

And, as if sensing her mistress' conflict, Miranda steps forward from her place beside the throne, her voice firm and resolute. "Your Highness, do remember that this decision is yours to make, and in light of your mother's absence from court, all present here today will respect your decision as law."

Henrietta, whose expression had grown more conflicted by the second, looks at her attendant and breathes something of a relieved sigh.

"...Thank you, Miranda. You are quite right."

And, with a final glance toward her advisor, the young royal turns to Wardes, who is still watching her with that same unsettling glint in his eyes.

She then takes a deep breath, squares her shoulders, and meets his gaze head-on, her resolve evident in her expression.

"My mother has granted me full power to make all necessary decisions in the name of the crown," she states, her voice calm and composed, betraying none of the turmoil she must be feeling. "Therefore, I will continue this trial as I initially sought to before concluding."

Wardes simply bows, though he looks a little irked now. "...As you wish, Princess Henrietta."

Louise, who had been holding her breath beside me, pushes out a relieved sigh as the tension in the room seems to dissipate slightly. I too feel my muscles relax a fraction as I watch the proceedings unfold.

Henrietta, who seems to have gotten her stride back, looks to one of the royal knights posted by the door. The man regards her with a respectful bow.

"Shall I bring her in now, Your Highness?"

The young ruler nods. "...Please."

The knight bows again and opens the chamber door, allowing another to lead Elisa, who wears a simple purple linen skirt and has her hair down loose, into the room. The poor young maid, looking pale and shaken, keeps her eyes lowered as she's brought before the princess. The second guard takes up a post by the wall while the first resumes their post by the door.

"Elisa, I would have you repeat everything you told the guard captain last night, about the man Felix, and the things he intended for you," the princess instructs, her tone gentle but firm.

Elisa, trembling and frightened, glances nervously around the room before returning her gaze to the floor. "Y...yes, Princess Henrietta," she whispers, her voice barely audible in the hushed room.

Elisa takes a shuddering breath and begins to speak, her voice wavering with emotion. "...This man kept me as his unwilling accomplice for many moons under the threat of killing my father, who he had abducted from Tristania's streets some time ago," she begins, her eyes fixed firmly on the floor as she recounts her harrowing tale. "...I was forced to spy on his behalf," she trails off, tears welling up in her eyes.

Henrietta's expression hardens, and her eyes flick back to Felix. The man in question lets out a nasty chuckle and smirks.

"And what a good job you did of it, too," Felix taunts, his voice dripping with mockery. "A shame you couldn't hold your nerve until the very end though."

"Silence, scum," Wardes barks out, giving the guy a small, warning kick Then, he glares at Felix.

Felix snorts, and Henrietta returns her gaze to Elisa. The princess' expression is filled with sadness and regret. And I can see why, the maid served her since they were both children.

"...Do continue, Elisa," Henrietta prompts gently.

The young girl swallows hard and nods, her shoulders slumping. "...I do not know who he works for, but I do know one thing: Those he works for wish to see the Holy Order rise again," Elisa continues, her voice growing stronger despite her tears.

Wardes frowns and steps forward, his arms folded.

"Surely this peasant jests, Your Highness," Wardes says with a dismissive snort, glancing at Henrietta. "She cannot be trusted. She has no doubt been coached by this cloaked knave, a man loyal to the Albionian cause," the silver-haired cavalier declares with an index pointed squarely at Felix, his voice filled with contempt.

Elisa shakes her head, tears still streaming down her face, and looks imploringly at Henrietta.

"Please, Your Highness! I know what I have said must seem mad, but it is true, I swear it!"

Henrietta's eyes narrow, her expression thoughtful.

"My father sought to destroy the Holy Order during his reign," the princess begins, her voice steady and firm. "And he believed that he had done so, yet..." She pauses and then sighs heavily. "...If the man Elisa has spoken of still walks free and is in fact a member of the Order..."

"Then the war between Albion's royalists and nationalists takes on a whole new meaning," Miranda adds with a nod of her own, taking her place at Henrietta's side. "One far grimmer."

"I must agree," Henrietta says with a solemn nod.

"With all due respect, Highness, do you think it wise to trust the very woman who sought to abduct you?" Wardes asks incredulously, his eyes widening as he regards Henrietta with disbelief. "The Order was crushed, and its members were scattered to the winds."

This Wardes guy, the vibe he gives off and the way he's acting here, really puts me off.

I mean, sure I have a bias over Louise and all, but still... This guy's bad news.

I can't put my finger on the reason why, I just feel it.

"I trust Elisa, Lord Wardes," Henrietta states simply, her voice calm and sure. Then, smiling at the pigtailed warmly, she kneels and places a hand on Elisa's shoulder. "...And, while I may be inexperienced and foolish in the eyes of many, I will not cast out those I hold dear."

Henrietta leans close to Elisa's ear and whispers something. The maid's eyes well with tears and she bursts out crying and throws her arms around Henrietta, who responds by returning the embrace.

Louise sighs at the sight, a small smile forming on her lips. I feel a weight being lifted from my chest, too. On account of poor Henrietta looking far more at ease with everything now.

And, with the royal's resolve seemingly rekindled, Wardes' demeanour seems to shift.

The noble's expression darkens, his eyes narrowing.

For a good couple of seconds, it looks as though he's going to say something. Then, his expression falling into neutral, Wardes lowers onto hand and knee and bows his head for Henrietta. The young royal regards Wardes for several more tense seconds and then stands up.

"Thank you, Lord Wardes. Your counsel was much appreciated," Henrietta thanks him, her tone level. "And, in light of Elisa's revelation regarding the Order," she continues, raising a hand to her chest, "I have likewise considered your proposal."

The young royal's gaze hardens as it falls back upon the still-smirking Felix.

"I will be taken to Fortress de la Rouge on the Galia-Tristain border for further questioning," she states, her tone resolute. "...Though not by your hand, Lord Wardes. I require your services elsewhere."

Wardes' eyes widen in surprise. Then he nods and stands up, a small smile on his lips.

"I see," he murmurs. He bows and takes Henrietta's hand once more, his eyes meeting hers. "As you command, Princess."

Henrietta's eyes remain fixed on him for a long, tense moment. Then she sighs and looks back to Miranda, her brow furrowing in thought.

"Miranda, have a dozen of our finest royal knights oversee Felix's travel," Henrietta orders, her tone calm and collected. "Once there, he is to be guarded day and night."

Miranda bows her head respectfully. "As you command, Princess," she replies, her voice filled with respect and loyalty.

Felix lets out another snort of amusement, and Henrietta's gaze returns to him. The princess' expression hardens, and she regards him with a cold, bitter stare.

"Felix the Swift, I hereby sentence you to life imprisonment at Fortress de la Rouge for your crimes against the crown. Guards, Take him away."

Felix is grabbed by the shoulders by two of the guards flanking him and led toward the exit of the throne room, his smug smirk remaining fixed firmly on his face. As he passes Henrietta, however, he stops and glances at the young princess, his eyes twinkling with something sinister.

"...Stopping me means nothing in the grander scheme of things, little princess," Felix taunts, his voice filled with malicious intent. "Your family's end draws near, and you are next in line. I would be prepared for that."

"Silence," a guard barks, smacking the back of Felix's head with a mailed fist. Felix winces, then chuckles darkly, allowing himself to be pulled toward the throne room doors.

Before clearing the threshold of the doors, he looks back at me and gives me a malicious stare, one that sends shivers through me.

Then, as quickly as it comes, he's gone.

My stomach lurches, my chest constricting. My breath quickens as my heart rate skyrockets. I swallow hard and grip the wall for support.

"Are you okay, Michael?"

I look up and see Kirche and Louise standing in front of me. Both girls have looks of concern etched onto their pretty faces. I nod weakly, and they both reach out, taking one of my arms each, steadying me.

"Fine, just lost my footing for a second," I reassure the pair.

Kirche chuckles. Louise doesn't look convinced, but she nods.

"...Okay," my mistress says, reassuringly squeezing my hand.

"With matters of state concluded, what task do you have for me, Highness?" Wardes asks, his voice ringing out in the room, loud and clear. "How shall I be of use?"

The young royal turns to face him. She looks him up and down for a long, silent moment, as though sizing up the tall cavalier in front of her.

Then, she takes a deep breath and straightens up.

"Lord Wardes, you are hereby tasked with ascertaining the location of Prince Wales, my betrothed, on behalf of Tristain and myself," Henrietta states, her tone resolute and unwavering. "I shall send you all the details by letter as soon as they have been prepared."

Louise shudders at this, gripping my hand so hard it hurts.

"Ow," I hiss under my breath, "easy there, Princess!"

"Oops! Sorry!" Louise utters, letting me go and then giving my reddened palm a gentle pat.

"You are sending me to Albion? Alone? With its current political climate, is this not somewhat reckless?" Wardes questions, a frown creasing his features.

The princess glances Louise's way and then back to Wardes, her eyes filled with steely determination.

"It is because of your skill and renown that I present this task to you, Lord Wardes, and none other," Henrietta states firmly, her gaze unwavering as she meets his. "My marriage to Wales is all that stands between Tristain and an all-out war with Albion, and he must be brought home at once."

Wardes bows in submission. "...As you command, Highness. I will make haste at once."

With that, he turns to leave the throne room.

But not before his eyes fall on Louise, a sly smirk tugging at the corner of his lips.

He then gives the pinkette a nod of respect and a tip of his hat. My mistress, for her part, returns this gesture with a forced, nervous smile. And, with that, he makes his leave.

The moment the door closes behind the viscount, Louise breathes out a heavy, shuddering sigh. She places a hand on her head, her cheeks flushed, her breathing laboured. Kirche and I share a concerned glance.

I reach out and place a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

Louise glances at me, her expression worried and gloomy. She looks down, avoiding my gaze.

I give her shoulder a reassuring squeeze.

"It's alright, Louise," I say, trying to comfort her. "No way am I letting you marry that guy," I add with a whisper, smirking. "He's as grey as all fuck, and that hat's way too tacky."

Louise's expression lightens up a little at this, and she gives me a small, thankful smile. She looks down at the floor and lets out a small chuckle, the sound of her laugh warming my chest.

Then, after taking another, deeper breath, she straightens up and squares her shoulders.

"And now for your mission, my dearest Louise Françoise," the young royal begins, her tone lighter and a shade warmer as she turns her gaze toward the pinkette and me.

"A mission?" I ask Louise in a hushed tone, raising a brow.

"Mmm-hmm," Louise confirms with a small nod, her cheeks flushing and her eyes glinting affectionately. "...Henrietta requested I carry out a task for her the other day."

Okay, something about Louise's sheepish expression has me both interested and a bit worried.

"And you didn't think to mention this until now...?" I question my mistress, quirking a brow at her. Louise flushes an even deeper shade of pink.

"Oh, just be quiet, you idiot," she hisses, poking her index playfully against the tip of my nose. "You're about to hear it now anyway."

"Clear the chamber of guards and visitors please, Miranda," Henrietta requests. She then approaches her best friend with a soft, warm smile. "What I intend I wish to discuss is between myself, Louise, and Michael. You may stay, however."

"As you command, Princess," Miranda replies with a respectful nod. At this, she claps her hands sharply. "You heard Her Highness, everybody please clear the chamber!"

Beside us, Kirche pouts and lets out an all too loud, deliberate sigh.

"I shall be in the palace gardens then, I suppose," the red-haired beauty declares with an air of disappointment. She then turns and leaves, the sound of her heeled shoes clacking in the now nearly empty chamber.

With a sigh and a shake of my head, I turn my attention back to my mistress.

The room now emptied save for Miranda, Louise and the royal princess, I look between the two girls with a quizzical look.

"So...? You gonna fill me in on the secret, or what?" I inquire with a hint of sarcasm in my voice. Henrietta smiles mischievously, and Louise looks a little embarrassed.

"The marriage certificates have been penned and approved with my seal, Louise," Henrietta begins. Her smile widens, her expression becoming a little more impish as she does.

What in the world is the princess talking about...?

I look at my mistress, whose face is as red as a tomato. She avoids my gaze and clears her throat, fanning her face.

Oh, come on! Seriously!?

I take a step back and raise an eyebrow.

Henrietta simply chuckles and places a hand on Louise's shoulder.

"You haven't told him, I take it?" the princess inquires with a wry smirk on her lips. Louise sighs, shaking her head. Henrietta laughs, and then looks at me, her expression warm and kind. "Well then, allow me to elaborate," she says. She then takes a step toward me and smiles.

"You and my dear Louise are to carry out a top-secret mission on my behalf, Michael..."

...

I step through the door to mine and Louise's shared chamber here in Tristania Palace. Having kept her arm linked firmly through mine the whole walk back and her cheeks still tinged red from embarrassment, my mistress walks inside the room beside me, a small smile on her lips.

She closes the door and sighs.

"...So," she says, turning and leaning against it with an expectant gaze.

I let out an awkward cough and scratch my cheek.

"...An undercover mission to find some corrupt tax collector in Lenore, huh?" I say, avoiding eye contact. I take a seat on the edge of the bed and stare at the floor. I can feel Louise's gaze on me.

"And we're married now, as part of our disguise," she reminds me with a nod, a slight nervousness in her voice as she sits beside me. "It's... it's all rather sudden, but it is an important mission," she adds, trying to keep her voice level. She shifts closer to me on the bed, her warmth pressing against my side.

"And I'll hazard a guess, too: You sure as heck didn't fight her suggestion that we pose as newlyweds," I remark with a chuckle, resting my head against Louise's. "Am I right, Princess?"

Louise nods again, and I can hear the slight hitch in her breath as her arm brushes mine. The bed dips beneath our combined weight. Her body leans into mine ever so slightly, her leg touching mine.

"Figured as much," I reply with a nod. Then, sighing, I turn and meet Louise's gaze.

Time seems to freeze between the two of us.

Louise's face burns bright red. She bites her lower lip, a small, shy smile gracing her features. She moves closer to me, her leg brushing mine again. She looks into my eyes, a hint of anticipation in them.

"Dammit, girl," I murmur, my heart hammering in my chest. My hand moves up to rest on her cheek. My thumb brushes against the corner of her lip, and her breath catches. "You're a piece of work."

Her face is so close to mine. She smells like roses, and her lips part slightly as she gazes up at me.

"Kiss me," she whispers. "...As a good husband should."

My heart skips a beat and I feel the blood rush to my cheeks. Her lips are mere inches away from mine. Her breath, warm and sweet, brushes my chin. Her hand, warm and soft, slides into mine, intertwining our fingers.

"Michael... kiss me..."

Her voice, barely audible, is full of desire, longing, and anticipation.

My lips meet hers, and it feels as though the world around us is fading away. The softness of her skin beneath my fingers sends shivers down my spine. The taste of her lips on mine sends a jolt of electricity through me. The feeling of her fingers intertwined with mine, the sensation of her warmth pressing against me, it all feels so damn good, and so damn right.

She kisses back, and the world is perfect.

For what feels like forever, the kiss is pure, passionate, and sweet.

Louise pulls away, breaking the kiss, her cheeks burning red.

She leans her head against my shoulder, her breaths shallow and rapid, and looks at me.

My heart is still racing. I'm still lost in the moment, still in a state of euphoria, and I know Louise is too.

"...There are still a couple of hours before the coach Henrietta prepared for us leaves," Louise breathes out, her eyes shining with emotion. "...So, maybe... maybe we could do that a bit longer..."

My chest feels tight, my throat dry. I swallow hard. My voice is a low murmur when I finally speak.

"...I'd love nothing more..."

She moves in close to me, her breaths coming faster, her body trembling slightly. My hand finds her waist, pulling her in even closer, her body pressed flush against me.

And then her lips find mine again.

She lets out a soft, contented moan. Her mouth opens against mine, inviting my tongue to enter and explore her own, and I accept the invitation. Our tongues entwine in a dance of passion and longing, the two of us melting into the moment. Her hands roam my body, exploring, feeling, and finding places I never knew could be so pleasurable.

As we continue to make out, the heat in our bodies rises to a fever pitch. It feels as if time has stopped, and the entire world is focused on us. We are two souls intertwined in a passionate embrace, our hearts beating in sync.

Louise breaks the kiss, panting softly. She stares into my eyes with a gaze of longing, desire, and a deep, unspoken need for me.

"I need you," Louise says, her voice barely a whisper as she breathes heavily.

"We can't, Louise," I reply, my heart pounding. "Certificates or not, you're still engaged to Wardes," I explain, shaking my head in refusal. "I we do this, and you get pregnant..."

"The box on my bedside table, the one with the heart etched into its front," she says, pointing to it. "Open it and you'll understand."

I glance toward the box and raise a brow.

"The one that appeared the other night, before I came back from-"

"Just get it, dummy, don't kill the mood with foolish chatter...!"

"Alright, alright! Just a sec..."

I break off the embrace, grab the box, and bring it over to the bedside table. Sitting beside her, I pop open the lid to a mid-sized glass jar sitting on top of a velvet cushion.

My eyes widen when I realise, despite how disturbingly fleshy-looking the item in the jar is, what it unmistakably is.

And, from the way Louise's face turns redder than I thought humanly possible, there's no mistaking it.

"...So this is Halkeginia's version of a," I begin, my words dying in my throat. Then I shake my head, chuckle, and give my mistress a sly grin.

Louise bites her bottom lip, and her breathing picks up pace.

"...It is," she confirms in a hushed whisper. "...Now please, Michael. Don't deny me..."

"Are you sure, though?" I ask, turning my gaze toward her. "I mean... I want to, believe me. But..."

"Shh," she says, pressing a slender index to my lips. Her other hand moves up to gently caress my face, her eyes shining with determination.

"...Let's undress and be as husband and wife, while we can..."

Louise then leans in close to me, her breath hot against my skin.

My heart swells and my mind races. My body tingles, my heart beats fast.

"Sure thing, love..." I murmur, as I slowly begin to undo my shirt, letting it slide down my arms, revealing my bare chest. She breathes in, and her hands move up my torso, exploring every curve, every line of muscle, as if committing it to memory.

Her eyes flicker over my body. She takes a shuddering breath, and her gaze fixes on mine.

She leans in closer. Her hands slide down, and she slowly, hesitantly, unbuckles the clasps on the fronts of her shoes. Then she slides them off and kicks them off the side of the bed, her bare feet resting atop the covers. Her stockings come next, sliding off her long, slender legs with ease.

I watch her as her skirt comes off and her shirt is unbuttoned, and I take in every moment, every inch of her perfect skin as she strips before me.

Noticing how attentively I'm watching her, Louise lets out a soft purr.

"Does my body please you, Michael...?"

My heart flutters with the way she says that.

Then, with a playful giggle, my mistress reaches behind her back and unclasps her bra. She pauses for a good few moments... and then painstakingly drops it to the floor.

My eyes linger on her tiny, perky tits and those two rock-hard nipples of hers.

"...Someone's staring," Louise hums, cupping her chest with a pleasured sigh and kneeding her assets in her palms.

As she does, my gaze still fixed on her every step of the way, I stand and kick off my shoes. I pull down my jeans, and then, after kicking those away, I slide down my underwear and kick them aside.

I feel a surge of electricity in my body, my meat hard and standing to attention and erect.

Louise's eyes grow wide and her jaw hangs.

I chuckle at this, then lean down, cup her face, and plant my lips on her cheek for a second.

"Girthy, I know, you remind me plenty he's out, I'll be gentle," I murmur, planting a soft, loving kiss against her cheek again.

She smiles. Then she stands and slides down her skirt.

Her underwear comes next, sliding down her thighs and past her knees. Finally, she stands up and looks me in the eye, a shy yet loving smile on her lips.

"You had better be very gentle with me, sir," Louise utters in a low voice. Her eyes lowering, they settle on the small opening to her vagina and the tufts of light pink pubes surrounding her entrance.

She bites her bottom lip, her cheeks turning bright red as she shifts her gaze between her crotch and my rock-hard manhood.

I'm not the longest of guys, and I know it: I'm average, What I was told more than once over my years dating Anna, however, was that I pack some pretty decent girth. And, given the nervy expression Louise has right now, I'm thinking there's some truth to what she said.

"I'll be extremely gentle, Louise, cross my heart," I assure her, taking her hands in mine. My own hands shake slightly, a sign that even though this is far from the first time doing the deed, I'm still very nervous about going all the way with somebody new.

Louise sees my trembling hands, her expression shifts into a knowing one. She leans in, presses a tender, reassuring kiss to my lips, and then breaks the embrace.

I look deep into Louise's eyes, and I can see the love and passion in her gaze. My hands move up her sides, tracing her curves and feeling the smoothness of her skin.

I slide a hand into her silky pink tresses and cup her face, pulling her in closer, and pressing her against my body. She gasps, a sharp intake of breath, and her body arches, pressing against my own. Her body is soft, her tiny breasts pressed against my chest. Her skin is hot, and I can feel the wetness of her womanhood against me, my junk now throbbing between us.

"Fancy a little snuggle... to get things started?"

"Mmm-hmmm," she affirms with a tiny, eager nod.

"Okay, you'd better sit down then."

Louise nods again. She lowers herself onto the edge of the bed and then scoots to the centre. She lays back and stretches out. I move onto the bed beside her and sit. She scoots closer, and I gently bring her back down against the sheets.

She looks up at me, her eyes brimming with love and passion.

My hands slide down her sides, tracing the curves of her body, as I lay beside her. I trace the curves of her thighs, her stomach, her arms, and the sides of her tiny, supple breasts.

I look into Louise's eyes and smile.

"You really are beautiful, Princess," I whisper, my heart pounding. "And, even though I should've been more upfront about it earlier on, I really do love you, y'know?"

Louise's breaths are soft and steady, her eyes fixed on mine.

She leans up and presses a tender, passionate kiss to my lips. She then pulls back and looks into my eyes.

"...And you, Michael, have my heart, body, and soul," she replies.

Her body arches up against mine, pressing into me. Her nipples are hard and pressing against my chest, her skin is soft and hot, and her breath is warm and heavy against my neck.

My hand slides up her body, caressing the side of her small breasts.

My fingers circle her areolas and lightly pinch her nipples, causing her to shiver with pleasure.

"Ah!" She gasps, arching up against my hand, her eyes fluttering closed. Her body trembles beneath my fingers.

"...Like it?"

"Yesss..." She murmurs. Her eyes open and she smiles, looking at me through her lashes.

"Want more?"

"Yes please..."

"Alright then."

I take my hand and place it on the small of her back. I slowly trace circles on her lower back and then slowly, carefully move down, my hands caressing her soft, smooth bottom.

I slowly lean over, my body sliding against hers. My lips meet her shoulder, and I plant a soft kiss there. Then I trail down, kissing and nibbling her soft, supple skin.

"Ooohh..."

I plant soft, tender kisses against her chest and stomach. I slide down, planting kisses on her thighs and hips.

I slowly move back up and look at her. She is flushed, panting and writhing. Her tiny pink nipples are stiff and standing to attention.

Louise bites her lip and smiles at me, a slight twinkle of amusement in her eye.

I smile and nod, then move down. My tongue trails up and down the inside of her left thigh. Then I kiss her right thigh and nibble at the skin there.

Louise gasps, and her body writhes and squirms beneath me, the sheets of our shared bed bunching up as her legs thrash beneath her, her body arching and bucking with each kiss and lick I give to her soft, tender thighs.

My mouth moves lower and lower, until I reach her inner thigh, just above her opening. Here, I breathe in her scent. The sweet and slightly musky smell burns through my senses and fills me with desire and hunger. I feel her body quivering with anticipation.

And, snatching my attention, Louise lets out a soft, naughty purr.

I raise an eyebrow, looking up at her as I give her thigh a slow lick.

"Mmm?"

Louise gives a naughty grin.

"Such a vulgar familiar, like a dog in heat..." She purrs out, a soft giggle leaving her as she does. Her voice is filled with desire and a sense of playfulness as if she wants me to take the bait.

I raise a brow, then smile. My lips curl up into a wicked smile, and my tongue moves up, brushing her womanhood.

She lets out a low, throaty moan and bucks against my mouth.

My lips curl into a smile and I begin licking her, tasting her.

She bucks and writhes against me, her legs trembling. She lets out a series of sharp gasps, her back arching and her body bucking against my mouth, her juices flowing into my mouth, her taste burning through me, driving me on as if it's a drug.

"Mmm... Ahh..."

Louise's voice is breathy and raspy as she writhes beneath my attentive licks.

Just as I'm about to slip my tongue all the way inside of her, though, a sharp knock at the door has Louise gasping and me jolting upright.

"Miss Vallière!" A voice calls, knocking again, "I apologise for the interruption but the coach has arrived early and awaits you in the courtyard," a voice calls from the other side, a woman's voice, sounding apologetic and embarrassed.

Oh, for the love of God...!

I part my lips from Louise's salty-sweet folds and look up at her with frustration and disappointment written all over on my face. Then, before she can say anything, I glare daggers at the door and let out a growl.

"Respectfully, Miss, can you please bugger-"

"Thank you," Louise calls out quickly, sitting upright and placing a hand over my mouth, silencing me. "Tell the coach we will be on our way soon," she says, smiling awkwardly and waving dismissively with her free hand.

"Of course. Have a safe journey!"

The maid, or whoever it was, leaves, and I sigh. Then I stand up and Louise follows, both of us redressing in our now-crumpled clothes.

"You know, plenty of lads where I'm from would've told someone where to stick it in this particular situation," I remark with a dry chuckle, buttoning up my shirt. "They would've just carried on."

Louise rolls her eyes. "Well, they weren't in the service of the royal court, now were they?" Louise retorts with a shake of her head, her cheeks still flushed and her body trembling with pent-up desire. She sighs, then looks at me, biting her lower lip in an adorable, sheepish way.

I let out another displeased grumble and slip my boxers back on.

"Bloody Hell, fine," I mutter under my breath. I slip on my underwear and trousers and tuck in my shirt. "But the next time we're enjoying ourselves, I'm not stopping, even if Henrietta's at the door," I add, grumbling under my breath.

Louise, now fully dressed, looks at me with an exasperated smile.

"A vulgar familiar, just as I said," she remarks, shaking her head and smiling.

"Guilty as charged, beautiful," I reply, finding it in me to chuckle. "Guilty as charged."

...

The coach rattles along the cobbled roads, the horse's hooves clopping rhythmically as they pull the cart along. We sit in silence, the coach rocking back and forth as we make our return trip to Halfway House.

"What took the two of you so long, hmm?" asks an amused Kirche, her voice a teasing purr. She is sitting beside Tabitha, the two girls occupying the seats opposite Louise and I.

Louise's face turns bright pink at the question, her eyes darting to me and away.

"N-Nothing, von Zerbst, you keep out of it...!" Louise snaps, her cheeks turning an even brighter shade of pink. "It's none of your business!"

"Oh?" Kirche teases. "So you're not going to tell us?"

"Of course not!"

A short, sharp pang of disappointment spikes me square in the chest. A gift from Tabitha who I know for a fact felt everything I did with Louise through our magical bond.

Kirche smiles knowingly at this, and her gaze flicks to me.

"Well, something certainly went on," she purrs, smirking. She then leans over with puckered lips as if to kiss me, but Tabitha pulls her back.

"Stop it," Tabitha says, her voice quiet, yet firm. "Not in public."

"Aw, spoilsport," Kirche pouts.

Louise fumes silently, her eyes burning and narrowed on the Germanian noble, her arms crossed tightly across her chest. She looks at me with a cold stare that sends shivers down my spine, her eyes filled with jealousy.

I sigh and give my head a slow, disapproving shake. Then, letting out a second sigh, I fold my arms behind my head, lean back and close my eyes.

"You know, I'm just happy we're heading back to the Academy," I say, a small smile on my lips. "These past few days have felt like weeks..."

I re-open my eyes.

"Mm," replies a nonchalant Tabitha with a nod. "Agreed."

"I can tell," Kirche says, smirking. She looks at Louise, who's still simmering and glaring knives at me. "You really were busy, weren't you?" She asks with a knowing smile.

Louise's cheeks burn red. She huffs, pouts, and crosses her arms tighter over her chest, averting her gaze. "I said drop it, Kirche, or you'll regret it...!" Louise snaps.

Shaking my head, I bring my iPod out from my trouser pocket, unwrap my earphones from around my device, and slip one into my ear. Then, after powering it on, I scroll down to my Nineties playlist and hit the 'Play' button.

If it's listening to Louise's shrill shouting or some classics from back home, I'd much rather listen to Oasis.

As the song starts, I lean my head against the side of the coach and stare at the afternoon sunlight filtering through the window, a soft smile playing on my lips.

The coach rattles and shakes, the horses' hooves clop against the cobblestone streets. The breeze blows gently through the window, a gentle breeze on a summer's day. I watch the scenery go by as we head toward our next stop.

"Awww, what's wrong, Louise? Vexed, are we?" Kirche asks with a teasing purr.

"Michael, defend your mistress...!" Louise demands with a shout.

Yep, it's the Gallagher brothers all the way to Halfway House for me.

"No can do, Louise, sorry..."

Slipping in my other earphone, I close my eyes and turn up the volume.

I'm absolutely getting a room to myself tonight.

And I'm making damned sure the door is locked, too.

As my song rolls on, the lyrics and the melody of the guitar wash over me, taking me to another place and time.

...Not that Tristain is bad at all.

Or any of the girls I've grown so close to in my time here, either.

Nope, not at all.

To be continued...

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