Author's Note: Hey everyone. Hope you've all been doing well. This winter's been something, but given what week this is, I felt an update was needed. This might actually be my longest chapter for Hearts of War yet, so I hope you enjoy. If you do, please feel free to leave a comment. It's always appreciated. Until next time, remember to stay safe/warm and to enjoy your day. :)
Wrestling Holiday One-Shots
By Jurassicfatt
Disclaimer: I do not own the characters. They are owned by WWE, AEW, Impact Wrestling, and many other promotions. This story is entirely fictional.
Chapter 11: The Land of Club Venus (RoseGold, Mariah May/Mina Shirakawa)
Mariah's POV, Land of Jackson, Evening
Once upon a time, in the land of Jackson, there lived a happy go lucky girl. She was born on an island far away, and decided to stake her claim out in the world by coming to this wonderous place. It was a long, perilous journey to the top, filled with obstacles, but she… Actually no. No, we're not doing that. Let's start from the top.
My name is Mariah May, and I'm a sorceress. I have the power to summon any spell my heart desires. And I do mean any. It is a gift given to me by birth and limited only by my energy levels. The more tired I am, the lower my mana is, and the weaker my spells get. My uncle, King Richard May of Londonia, made it his mission to use my power for his conquests. And since my parents died and I was of age, he has sent me out to hone and develop my abilities, using me as his personal little spy. Bloody bastard.
He has given me nothing. Absolutely nothing! The supreme king of an entire city of riches, and he barely acknowledges my existence. I never wanted to work for him, and I think the only reason he says he cares for me is because he wants to stay on my good side. After my last mission, I stopped reaching out. Stopped supplying him with important information. I found Club Venus, a conjurer's group from the East. I followed them everywhere and tried helping them on their raids. They didn't want me initially, but I took a stab wound to the hand protecting the head priestess. She helped heal me and said I held promise, before finally letting me join. I learned to be more fierce, ferocious and dangerous than ever before under her tutelage. Moreover, it was with Club Venus that I found my soulmate. My one true love, and no it's not a bloody royal. Her name is Mina Shirakawa.
Mina has been my greatest assistant, supporter and partner through everything. She is smart, sweet, loyal, and absolutely gorgeous. At 5ft.2, she's a tiny but mighty sorceress. Her smile is infectious, her laughter can make any person cave and her body must have been sculpted by Gods. Her big brown eyes, long pink hair and sensual lips make her look like a cute mermaid. Her skin is smooth as velvet, and her curves make my mouth water. Especially her breasts…
We travelled the world together and conquered any force that stood before us. No bandit, raider, monster or army could rival Club Venus. We were unstoppable. I was well on my way to capture the most coveted object in the territory. I had the most powerful ruler wrapped around my finger; she would have done anything I asked. Had it not been for a 'temporary' distraction on my part, I'd have been able to usurp my uncle and take over the kingdom for myself.
Instead, my uncle got word of my exploits, and he came swiftly to 'rectify' my 'heinous thoughts'. Blaming Mina for my treachery, he locked her in a magical sphere, using her power to fuel his own mana. Club Venus has vowed revenge, but have gone silent. I've lost contact with them, and they don't fully trust me anymore. To top it off, he locked me in a tower, how cliché, then clamped a pink dress and an inhibiting collar on my neck, and put me under constant guard rotation. I'm sitting in a cell, waiting to be sent home to some good for nothing, stuck-up fucking dick who will be my husband. Utter bullshit. I should be ruling right now, with Mina by my side, and it's all his fault.
The guards begin stirring from their seats, the jingles of keys catching my attention. They stand, starting their rotation, leaving me with nothing but stale bread and beef jerky. And not the edible kind. The bread is a bumpy, crusty husk sitting on a dirty plate. And the jerky, ugh! I literally gagged on the shit and used it to scratch the table in my cell. It tasted like blood and dirt. As the new guards' shuffle in, their dulled armor barely reflecting from the light, I turn to them.
"Hey, can I get some decent food in here?" I demand.
"Did you hear something?" the guard asks his friend.
"Yeah, the prisoner." he responds.
"No, all I hear is bitch." You're lucky I have this collar on.
The other guard turns, giving me a disapproving look.
"Don't give me that look. I'm weakened, not dead. And this food is dreadful." I argue.
"The king has made it clear you are to be treated with respect. But be grateful for what you have and stop complaining, or we'll put you in chains." I hear what seems to be heavy footsteps coming from the door.
"Exactly. You should be grateful. After all, you- LOOK OUT!" the guard yells, before a large boot collides with his friend's face. The other guard draws his sword, but a hand picks him up. The massive hands of the attacker squeeze the guard's arms, making him lose his grip, the sword tumbling towards the floor and clanging against the stone. I stand up and go to the doors, looking at the attacker. The man is large, about 6ft.7. He wears a large red and silver breastplate, red shoulder grieves, bracers and knee guards, along with dark gray pants, and boots. His long dark red braids go to his upper back, exposing numerous tattoos, and he has a large Zweihander sword attached to his side, the black and red handle matching his armor. I recognize that sword…
"Lance?" I ask in disbelief. Lance Archer was my protector when I was younger. He was sent on a mission during my time away, to rid the kingdom of a band of rebels. Uncle told me he was killed, but I'd recognize those tattoos, braids and sword anywhere.
The tall behemoth smashes his fist into the guard's face, knocking him out, before tossing him aside. Turning to me, his darker beard and piercing blue eyes confirm his identity. "Princess Mariah." He bows respectfully.
"There's no need for that. I'm not exactly royalty in this cell. But how are you alive? Uncle told me you were dead." I say in shock, gripping the steel bars.
Lance scoffs. "Your uncle was almost right. He sent our unit to go fight 3 different bands of rebels at the same time. The only reason I'm still alive is because one of them hired me. I tried to keep my distance, start a new life. But when I found out he had imprisoned you, I knew he'd lost his mind."
"How'd you know it was me in here?"
"I still have friends and acquaintances. A few connections in the kingdom, princess." he asserts, then showing some cash stuffed in his bracers. Ever the joker.
"You've been more of a family to me then my own flesh and blood. I'm glad you're still alive. Do you have the key to get me out of here?" I ask quickly, desperately wanting out of this cell. This fucking collar prevents me from doing what I want and I hate it.
Lance looks around, grabbing the set of keys from the guards. Trying every one of them, we realize none work on the door. "The king must have kept it for himself. But I don't need it." he argues, tossing them down and pulling his sword from the hilt. "Stand back, princess."
Doing as I'm told; I go to the far side of the cell. Lance hacks and slashes at the door lock, the metal hinges cracking and shattering from the force of his hits. Finally, Lance kicks it off it's hinges. The metal door slams down, shaking the dirt around it. I casually walk over its remains, staring at my former bodyguard.
"Thank you, Sir Lance."
"You're welcome. You look unwell, princess. Have you eaten?"
"No. They fed me garbage I refused to eat. I'll satiate my hunger on power." I state, bending down to grab the guard's sword. Suddenly, I hear what sounds like war trumpets in the distance. "What is that?"
"Judging from the sound, most likely combat. The kingdom is under attack."
"What? By who?"
"The Khans. The Dark Order. The Family. Take your pick, they're all here. Emperor Khan sent the Elite in, along with several other warlords and their armies. Your uncle is nuts. He started a fight with every known rebel group and kingdom since he arrived. They've all come to destroy him." Lance explains.
"If I can get to full strength, I can make our kingdom ally with the Khans." I argue. "Can you get this damned collar off me?"
"What?" Lance questions, grabbing the metal collar and starting to squeeze it. I grab my neck instinctively, the metal's rough ridges awkwardly scratching my skin. "Are you crazy? Those Elite have their own agenda."
"When I was a spy for uncle, I was working for the Khans. Their empire was growing, but has since steadied in recent months. They'd rather work on peace than war. The only exception is uncle, but he's too stupid to realize his mistake. I can use this to my advantage."
"I still don't know why he bothered trying." Lance questions, as I feel the steel begin to bend. Grabbing a knife from his belt, he slowly saws at the opening, the vibration and movement making my head bob. "Nobody cared if he fought the rebels, why take on so many people?"
"Because he's an old fool with no brains, balls or guts. He questioned every decision I ever made, and he will pay dearly for it. I'm the Queen. I'm the rightful ruler of this kingdom!" I mutter angrily, my hands clenching tightly around the rough sword handle. He better not have hurt my Mina. Taking a deep breath, I continue. "I can do it, but I need the army and the nobles on my side." I look at him with big eyes. "And I need Mina."
Lance's expression is emotionless, studying my eyes for a moment. "I haven't seen that look that since your father ran the kingdom. The 'informal' head of the army is currently fighting a losing battle. He's married to the highest noble in Jackson, and my sources told me she's being held hostage to keep him loyal."
"Deonna." I exclaim.
"Exactly. If we can get to her and the other nobles, the soldiers will come to our side. And your uncle will have no way to challenge your authority." Lance tells me.
"Where is she?" I question.
"No idea. I lost contact with my allies a few days ago." Finally, I hear a click and the collar falls to the ground. A puff of smoke rises from it, and I rub my neck in relief, massaging the sore spots. I can already feel my magic returning, albeit slowly, my fingers glowing orange for a brief second. I turn to one of the soldiers. Concentrating, I try to use my magic to wake up the knocked-out guard. But no matter how hard I try, he stays silent. Groaning in frustration, I give him a sharp kick, which seems to do the job.
"Oh… *cough, cough*." the guard wheezes, holding his sides.
"Lance, pick him up." My loyal guardian grabs the soldier by the scruff of the neck and slams him against the wall.
"Ah!" he groans, wheezing again and staring at Lance. He brings an arm up to grab his wrist, but it barely fazes Lance. He stares at the guard in hatred, teeth bare and eyes locked with his. I slowly walk up to him, tapping him on the shoulder.
"Did you have a nice rest?"
The guard stays silent, his eyes shifting between myself and Lance.
"Listen, I need information. I was told that the highest royal in the land, Deonna Purrazzo, the Virtuosa, is being held captive." I tap the sword against the guard's leg, then his side. "Can you tell us where she was taken?"
He pants in fear, still looking between us. Lance shakes him a bit, making him gasp again. "I… I can't."
"You can't? Can't what? Help us, you mean?" I ask, stabbing the sword into the ground. "This is much too large. Lance, may I borrow your knife?"
The taller soldier looks at me, before smiling evilly and nodding. The guard's breathing gets louder, his eyes becoming larger as I slowly pull the knife from its sheath, touching a finger to the tip of the blade.
"I-I don't… I can't. King Richard would have me whipped. 1000 lashes." he argues. I give him a frown.
"Oh, so you assume my uncle is worse than I am?" I murmur, walking straight up to the guard's side. "Lance, open his mouth."
"What?" the guard says, panic-stricken as Lance grabs his chin. He tries, vainly, to keep it closed, but as Lance squeezes his neck, he's able to slowly pry the mouth open.
"Doing as the Queen says." Lance argues, still smiling.
"Good." I state, putting my knife on the guard's tongue. I can seem him shivering in fright. "Listen very carefully, you little shit. I am not my uncle. I want the information, and I want it now. If I don't get it…" I shrug and purse my lips, before looking him dead in the eyes and pushing the knife against his gums, drawing some blood. He hollers in pain and shakes to get free, but Lance holds him firm. I snarl and continue poking the gumline, just under his pre-molars, making tiny incisions here and there. "Tell me where or I'll start cutting deeper." I warn, slitting a piece of the flesh under his right canine, a river of crimson leaking down the fresh wound.
"AHH! Okagh! Okagh!" he stammers, blood and saliva starting to stain his tongue. I slowly pull the knife away, admiring the little red mark on the tip. Taking several deep breaths, he turns. "The magistrate's mentioned something about the great hall. Ms. Purrazzo should be there. I'm telling you the truth! *cough* Please, no more. I beg of you-ack!" he begs, his eyes watering before Lance squeezes his throat. His face turns different shades of red as I look over my nails, making sure no dirt specks remain from the terrible jerky.
"Lance, let him go."
"Are you sure?" Lance asks, and I nod. He releases his grip, dropping the man into a heap on the ground. The guard immediately clutches his jaw, swallowing and spitting as he checks his mouth for the damage. I hand Lance back his knife, before looking down at the guard.
"You're lucky I didn't cut your tongue." I snarl again, causing the man to look up at me. The minute he does, I give him a sharp kick to the jaw. He crumbles to the floor, clutching his face and wailing. Dusting my hands and turning to Lance, I point to the exit. "We're done here."
Slowly making our way down the building and taking down any remaining guards, Lance and I go outside. Despite the horses and guardsmen running towards the towers or bringing supplies, the town is silent. Most people have boarded up their houses, or, most likely, have left the city while they could. This is what happens when the wrong people lead. Chaos.
Sticking to the shadows and alleys, I follow Lance to the castle, passing by several patrols of soldiers headed to the front. Watching as our people run into a losing battle. The men's eyes are tired and shocked, shuffling their feet to the carts and carrying the wounded towards the hospital. The smell of torched wood and rotting flesh permeates the air, making me nauseous.
"Come on. The castle is on the other side of this street." Lance whispers, showing me an area filled with horse stables and mounds of manure. Wait, are we seriously-
Lance grabs my arm and yanks me down, jolting me from my thoughts. A group of soldiers pass by us, yelling out orders and mounting their steeds. That was close.
"Focus, princess. We're going to sneak around those stables and get in from the side. If we can get Deonna, we're home free."
"Fuck, it had to be bloody shit, didn't it?" I murmur angrily, fixing my hair. It's going to take me forever to get that manure off my boots. You know what, fuck it. Once I'm queen, I'll just get another pair.
Lance waits a moment, keeping an eye out for any other patrols, before nudging me. We run towards the piles of horse excrement and crouch, moving slowly through the green-splatted hay and dirt. Oh God, the smell… It's like walking into a damn barn. I hold my breath for as long as I can, then hoof it to the back entrance of the castle, ignoring the splattering sounds and squishy feeling beneath my feet. *Shivers*.
Finally, I lay eyes on it; my uncle's new castle. A crude wooden wall has been built to surround the building, it's high pointy red roof visible in the daylight. The castle itself is made of red brick and light gray stone, intricately carved symbols across the windows. Several guard perches to the front and back. A half dug-out moat around the left side. Obviously, uncle took this from someone with brains. We move to the side and Lance bends the knee, listening.
"No more than one patrol inside. Can you detect any magical barriers?" he asks.
I put my hand out and close my eyes, concentrating on the building. I can feel my magic getting stronger, but I'm still not at full strength. But even in my weakened state, I can feel an enormous energy mass in the right-hand side of the building. I even recognize who it is.
"Mina." I murmur. What is he making her do? Oh, when I get my hands on that decrepit old bastard. "There's no barrier around the castle, but somewhere deep inside there's a huge amount of energy. And if I'm right, it's Mina who's conjuring it." I tell him.
"That's good to know. Now maybe we can kill two birds with one stone." Lance whispers to get my attention. Folding his hands together palm side up, he bends down to give me a boost. Climbing up onto his shoulders, I can see inside the grounds. A handful of guards at the front and one at the back. Easy. Lance grabs his sword, but I hold up my hand. Relenting, he sheathes the weapon as I climb over the wall and land on my feet. Lance jumps up, hoisting himself over the side and landing beside me. We slowly walk through the makeshift garden, carefully tiptoeing past the small pond and apple trees.
A large guard at the back paces slowly, holding a large black mace in his hand. His armor looks scuffed up, parts of it duller than others. He has my uncle's crest on his back, meaning he's part of the inner circle. Sticking to the wall, we move closer, until we're just a few meters away from him. Lance hands me his knife, and he grabs his Zweihander, removing it from its sheath.
"I'll go high; you go low." he whispers. I put a finger to my lips and try to use my magic. I'll start with something simple. Slowly, I focus, a tingling sensation returning to my fingers as I try to make the mace 2x heavier.
The guard shakes the thing, suddenly having problems holding it. He swears and grabs it with both hands, trying to get a better grip, before the weapon falls to the ground. As he goes to pick it up, we move quickly, the guard noticing us before we can reach him. Lance goes to gut him, but the guard moves. I aim for his thigh and land a hit, making him groan in pain. Lance follows up with a quick slash across the throat, slicing through his weak armor and flesh. The man tries to call out for help, gurgling as blood leaks down his neck and armor. He collapses, Lance and I catching him to stop his heavy armor from making too much noise. Fuck, he's a fat shit, isn't he? Slowly moving his body towards the wall behind a bush, we search through his pockets.
"Hey, where did you learn to do that?" Lance asks, pointing to the mace, still sticking straight up on the ground. He uses a handkerchief to clean the blood off his hands and mine.
"Club Venus. They were much kinder to me than uncle ever was. They prepared me for everything." Finding a key, I use it to unlock the door, it slowly creaking open for us. We go inside, feeling the heat of a furnace and the sound of busy chefs preparing food. Silently tiptoeing around their work area, we use the clanging of pots and equipment to mask our footsteps. We see a sign that reads great hall, with a large guard stationed in front.
"Now what?" I ask.
Lance watches his movements, before turning to see a chef sitting on the wall some feet away, huffing and puffing from exhaustion. His eyes look tired as he wipes the sweat off his brow. Lance smiles wickedly again, pointing him out.
"How good are your sleeping spells, princess?" he asks.
*A few minutes later*
As we drag the under chef into a closet and close the door, I smooth out the chef uniform now covering me. It's a bit too large for me, but I can manage.
"How's this going to work?"
"Your uncle hired some local chefs to cook for him. He wants a 'diversified' palate. If there is anyone here who knows you, they won't remember you, anyways. They probably haven't seen you in years." Lance tells me. As much I want to protest, Mina needs me and I can't waist anymore time.
"I'll have to take your word for it." Heading into the kitchen, I try to look inconspicuous, noticing multiple plates of chicken, fish and steak being prepared by the fire. Before I can locate the food I need to bring, I bristle as the head cook immediately points at me. Shit… I knew this was too easy, Lance.
"Hey! You!"
"Um. Yes, sir?"
"Yes. Where's Spaulding? Are you taking his place? I knew he was taking too long out there. We have orders ready here!"
Wait, he doesn't recognize me… I don't recognize him either. Or anyone in this kitchen, for that matter. Lance was right; my uncle hired a bunch of locals. Straightening my back, I answer. "Yes. I am. Spaulding said I was needed to wheel out the afternoon tea and dessert for the king and his court."
"Good. That fucking Spaulding. Always sleeping on the job. Here," he barks, pushing a large cart towards me, the wheels hitting my feet, "this is the tea and pastries the king ordered. Go bring it in with Mariana. And quickly! The king has a large appetite." Tell me something I don't know. Bloody pig.
I push the door open with my back, then bring the cart outside, the raven-haired Mariana following me. Peering behind me, I can see Lance hiding behind one of the walls, watching me. I bring the cart near the closet, pretending to be winded, which angers Mariana.
"What are you doing? The great hall is in the other direction." she asserts.
"Sorry. I was just trying to get a better handle on it." I state sheepishly, feigning innocence. "Can you check the wheels? I think one of them may be broken."
Mariana sighs loudly, wiping her face with a manicured hand and rolling her eyes. She bends down, checking on the cart. I grab the knife Lance gave me and bash her on the back of her skull, knocking her out. Bitch. She tumbles down, unconscious but still breathing. Lance moves silently towards me and we shove her into the closet with Spaulding, closing the door and resting on it for a second.
"Can't believe that actually worked." Lance whispers, chuckling. I give him a look of disbelief.
"You doubted me?"
"No. I doubt people's stupidity, and I'm always proven wrong." Lance argues, lifting one end of the tablecloth covering the cart and getting underneath it.
"Can you fit?" I ask.
"Barely. I'll have to kneel and crawl the whole way, but it'll be worth it once your uncle's gone." Grabbing one of the cloth napkins, I wrap a small bandana around my neck, hoping to obscure my features. Keeping my head down and following the signs, I slowly make my way to the banquet hall. The guard from earlier stops me on my way, inspecting my cart.
"This from the kitchen?" he asks. No, it's from the bathroom. Where the fuck where you born, a field?
"Yes. Freshly brewed tea and biscuits for the king." I hold my breath, giving the guard a doe-eyed look. He takes a deep breath, before opening the door and letting me inside. I pull the handkerchief up, covering my mouth to pull off the disguise. "Thank you." He grumbles, urging me in with a head tilt. And a fuck you, too.
We enter a large banquet hall, numerous frescoes from the old country strung across the walls. The wooden roof is held up by multiple support beams, all of them engraved with our family's crest. That familiar eagle killing a falcon with its talons, surrounded by the lilies and chrysanthemums which grew in our gardens back home. We used to be respected by our peers and feared by our enemies; now, we're just hated by both. And that's all uncle's fault.
Sitting around the center table are a bunch of different nobles and powerful traders. A dozen king's guard patrol around them, silver armor and heavy steel broadswords in their hands. They mock lunge and laugh at the captives, trying to intimidate them. The wooden floor creaks with their footsteps, their breaches jingling with every step. The windows are ornately decorated, with stained glass and red velvet curtains. The high chair, where the king would sit, is vacant, the gold leaf on it shining from the sun streaming in. Most of the nobles sit quiet, nervously tapping their feet or rubbing their faces and wandering eyes. But one of them looks disgusted, the anger evident in her almond shaped eyes and furrowed brows. Her purple dress compliments both her honey tan skin and dark hair, her black eyeliner giving her a fierce look. She stands to her feet, causing the guards to turn to her.
"Hey, where is this so-called king? I am tired of sitting here waiting for the jackass." she declares, her soft voice cutting through the silence.
"Mind your tone." a guard asserts.
"Mind yours, you disgusting pig. You have no right to tell us what to do." I continue wheeling the food cart in, careful not to let my presence known. God, Mina I can feel your magic, but where are you?
"Deonna, please sit down." one of the nobles speaks up, his red robes swishing from his hand grabbing hers. She pulls it away.
"No. My husband is out there, fighting a war against multiple enemies while the king, what, sits in his throne room? He dragged us from our homes and forced us to come her for what? A feast?" she points to my food cart. "Do you really think we can win this? Our army is going to fucking lose because he decided to piss off every ruler in this country. We'd be better off with the Khans." Deonna puts forward.
The doors of the throne room fly open, the loud wham jolting the nobles and making them jump. The room falls silent, but Deonna remains strong, her back up and gaze pointed toward the doors. The magical power of whoever is in the chamber is immense, resonating throughout the hall and causing goosebumps to form on my arms. I can feel Mina in there, but her mana is definitely weaker than when we last saw each other. I have to stay calm and not blow our cover. This may be my only chance to get rid of him.
Seconds later, I hear something familiar; the footsteps of a size 11 boot. A figure comes waltzing through the doors. His armor, a mixture of white and cream with gold and black trimmings, sparkles in the light. His long blond-greying hair cascades down the top of his shoulders, covering his broach and the hilt of his silver sword. A baron of Britannium and the ruler of Londonia, King Richard May of Essex. I hate how much we look alike. He likes calling me his daughter. I call him Satan.
The guards clasp their arms to their chests, as he walks in Deonna's direction. Golden crown atop his head, with dazzling jewels sewn within it, you can see the disdain in his eyes as he makes his way towards her. My uncle walks right up to her, a faint orange glow surrounding his hands, before he grabs her by the throat. Deonna immediately grabs his hand with both of hers, glaring at him.
"I'm sorry, did I hear dog's breakfast speak?" he mocks in his snobby accent, throwing her into her chair. Her back slams against it, hair flying back as she breathes heavily, rubbing her throat. "Bind her to the chair and gag her!"
The guards do as their told, Deonna fighting and pulling her arms vainly from their grip.
"Get your fucking hands off me! I'm the Virtuosa! When my husband finds out-mm! Hmm! MMM!" she yells, before a cloth is shoved crudely into her mouth. The guards hold her, using the rope to bind her to the chair. Seconds later, my uncle admires the handywork.
"My, isn't that better? Does anyone else have a problem with my ruling?" Uncle asks, staring at the other nobles. They remain silent, bowing their heads in submission. He turns to Deonna, staring at her. "Perhaps if I had you stripped in front of your husband's men, you could encourage our soldiers to fight harder." he argues. Deonna stands firm, staring daggers at him. I've seen uncle do worse to our enemies. I'll give Deonna credit; she's standing her ground against his pompous ass, and I know it's wounding his ego. I pour tea into the cups on my table, handing them to the captives while avoiding eye contact with him. Just then, General Dodgson, his closest ally, comes into view. "General, what news from the front?"
"Sire… They've broken into the South of the city. Commander Henry and Lieutenant Maclin have been holding them off, but it's only a matter of time before we're overrun."
"Bloody fools. What do I pay them for? No matter. Victory will be at hand soon." My uncle says nonchalantly, with a brush of his hand. The general's jaw clenches, a look of confusion and anger painting his blue eyes. My uncle turns to him. "Something the matter, general?"
"We are losing. Sire, it is important that we begin evacuations-"
"Psst! We will not be retreating anytime soon. These Elite are nothing but amateurs. Now that I have her, we will be quite safe." he argues, pointing towards his throne room. A couple of guards come into view, dragging a woman out of there, her feet scratching against the floor. I turn and immediately my heart drops. Mina! Her soft pink hair is messy, clinging to her face from sweat. Her eyes, once filled with wonder, are sad and tired, the bags under them showing she hasn't slept. She looks pale, as if all her mana has been drained. My uncle sips his tea, adding multiple sugars to sweeten it. The soldiers bring Mina to him, her face bearing marks and bruises. What did you do to my girlfriend, you bastard? I can feel my blood boil and my fist clench, but a hand taps my foot twice. The plan. Need to remain calm… no matter how much I want to pour this tea into his eyes.
"Ms. Shirakawa." uncle states mockingly.
Mina spits in his direction, the saliva hitting his knee. He takes a deep breath, before punching her in the gut and yanking her hair.
"Ah!" Mina cries, staring at him.
"Listen to me- the only reason you are still alive is because I have use for you." he bellows, wrapping a gloved hand around her throat. "You, you disgusting, immature, unsophisticated whore, took away my favorite daughter. Convinced her to no longer work for me, when up until that point, 'I' was the only one who ever loved her. Who supported her. Who raised her. We are blood. You are water. You ruined my relationship with my daughter, Mariah, and you will pay for that… We would have ruled together, as equals. This territory and any other would be in our grasp. Our bloodline is pure, and I would be grateful for whatever grandchildren she and her husband Gerald would bear. But instead," he smacks her across the face, causing her to cry, "your filth poisoned her mind. Filled her head with doubts and insecurities, like the good for nothing wench you are. So much so, she's planning to kill me… Isn't that right, Mariah?" he argues. My blood runs cold as he turns his head to me, still grabbing Mina by the throat with one hand as he sips tea from the cup in the other.
I exhale hoarsely, pretending to clean some spots on the cart.
"I know that's you. I raised you, so I know how you think, my dear. Is that what I taught you?" he lets go of Mina, the poor girl collapsing to her knees and panting for air. He tosses the cup, causing it to shatter into pieces as it collides with the wall. "TO be a servant!"
The nobles of the table all look at me, Deonna included, as I glare at him. I take off the face covering, revealing myself. The echoes and gasps ring around the room, people beginning to recognize 'princess Mariah'. The king's guard move closer, drawing their weapons.
"You taught me nothing, uncle. You used me, just as you use everyone else."
"Is that what you think? My sweet Mariah, you've been poisoned for too long." His hands glow orange, the mana getting stronger. My own hands do the same, the tingling sensation returning to my fingers. "Ah, I see your mana is regaining strength. As is mine."
"This ends here, uncle. We can't win this war and you know it."
"Oh, but we can. With you by my side, and my newfound powers, we can take anything we want. Come," he tells me, outstretching his hand, as magical bindings strap all of the nobles to their chairs, "we can rule this land together. Just as our family has for generations in Londonia. We don't need these so-called nobility. Our blood is pure; don't let filth cloud your judgment."
"DON'T call her filth." I say through clenched teeth, my eyes focusing on Mina. She looks up at me, her teary eyes both sad and hopeful.
"She's not yours." Mina declares weakly, before coughing.
"Hush! You are nothing. Mariah and I are blood. She is my daughter, and always will be. My own sons failed to do a measly task. Mariah has surpassed them in every way, just as I always knew she would." Uncle argues. "Come."
I tap my foot twice, then cast a smoke spell at my uncle and the guards. He easily dodges it, but the momentary distraction allows Lance to hoist the cart above his head and throw it at the guards. He grabs the nearest one and stabs him, before screaming:
"Everybody dies!"
As Lance grabs the attention of the general and most of the soldiers, slashing at them with his Zweihander, I grab my knife and fight the guards surrounding Mina. They have bigger weapons, but I'm much nimbler without armor. I aim for their throats and exposed sides, slashing them from time to time.
"Don't hurt Mariah!" my uncle bellows. "Lay one hand on her and I'll skin you alive. We need her!"
Ignoring his calls for me, I use my magic to shock and disarm the guards. They fall to the ground, wounded, as I grab Mina and help her to her feet.
"Are you okay?" I ask.
"I'm… It hurts…" she cries, her eyes looking at me. She's so cold.
"Take some of my mana." I tell her, grabbing her hand as a rose light shines between our palms. I can feel myself get a little weaker, but I see the gratefulness in Mina's eyes and colour returning to her face.
"What are you doing?" uncle yells, grabbing Mina and shoving her to the ground.
"Hey!" I scream, punching his face a few times. He blocks them easily.
"Is that anyway to treat family?" he questions, using an orange shield spell to stop my attack. I shoot a red mana arrow at his chest, but his shield is too strong. "Mariah, you disappoint me. Letting this pretender get between us."
"She is more my family than you ever were!" I scream, shooting arrow after arrow at him, levitating off the ground to get away from the guards. Uncle follows, levitating as we fly around the support beams and avoid the chandeliers. "You used me! For my power. And because you're afraid of failing our bloodline."
"That isn't true!" he argues, shooting a blast to hit my leg. I narrowly move it, the blue energy beam smashing into the ground. Fuck, that was close. "My sons failed us in every way. I protected you. Raised you. Prepared you for this world." he spits, using his magic to try to catch me. "I cared for you."
"You never cared for me. You used me as a spy for your own ambitions! A weapon to be used and crudely tossed aside as you saw fit!" I state, blocking his magic and firing quills at him. He deflects them with his hand, but one breaks through, cutting him.
"Ah! I'm not hurting you. Everything I did was to make you stronger. I did that because I trusted you- when no one else would!" he calls, flying towards me at top speed. I try to fly away, but he grabs my arms. "Stop this madness! Come home."
"Get off me!"
"Think of it, Mariah! This land is powerless against us. We can rule it together!" I continue yanking my arms, trying to get free.
"You underestimate our enemy's power. And overestimate your own! You know you can't win this without me, and I'm done working for you!" I shout. His eyes go wide, his mouth blowing out a deep breath. He spins us around in a circle, picking up speed, before tossing me into a wooden beam. I feel a sharp pain in my back as I collapse onto the table.
"OW!" I yell, holding my back.
"Mariah!" Lance yells, trying to get to me before being blocked by the guards. Uncle levitates down, hovering over me. I clutch the table, lifting my head and trying to push my weight up. I can feel bruising on my lower back, but I try to get up anyways. Yet I feel a weight on my body, as if someone is standing on top of me. I notice an orange light surrounding my body, the energy emanating from my uncle's glowing hands.
"You were meant to be my successor. My equal. But now, you've chosen to turn your back on me. On our bloodline." He lands on the table, grabbing me by the scruff of my neck. His hands glowing, he throws me across the room, ripping my chef coat and making me roll across the hardwood floor. I roll over to my side, the pain shooting through my arms and back as I stare up. My uncle's cream and white armor shines brilliantly in the light, making my eyes close and wince in discomfort. "Perhaps its time for another lesson." he yells, before kicking me sharply in the ribs. I wheeze, the hard boot colliding with my ribcage. I grab it immediately, panting for air as I try to crawl away. "You have allowed this whore to twist your mind. Just as your father twisted your mother, my sister's, mind. I was never more disappointed when she chose your father over the suitor I chose, General Dodgson. And it seems the apple has fallen too close to the tree." he asserts, kicking me again.
"Ow! Fuck…" I say, my voice hoarse.
"When will you learn that we are destined to rule!"
"Not… by your side." I spit with venom. "I will never, ha, rule with you."
My uncle stares down, his brown eyes filled with anger. He lifts his hand, a fireball forming in his palm. As the ball gets larger, a tangle of red thorns wraps around him, crawling up his leg to his arms and constricting them to his chest.
"What? What is this?!" he screams. I turn and see Mina, both hands palm-side down towards the ground, red mana flowing from her hair.
"Now, Mariah!" she states, collapsing on the ground but still holding him in place.
"Mariah- ack! Stop!" uncle orders, pulling at the bindings, the orange glow from his hands getting brighter. I stand, holding my side and grabbing a beam for leverage.
"He… doesn't own you. You are better than him!" Mina states.
"She lies! Raahh!" he screams, tearing through the thorns. I lift my hand up and fire quills at him, slashing his armor and magic shielding. "Don't listen! I can give you everything! You can a hundred of her! AN ENTIRE HAREM OF WOMEN AT YOUR FEET! All ready to worship you!" He finally breaks the last of the bindings, firing his fireball at Mina. Her eyes widen, unable to move out of the way in time. Using strength I didn't know I had, I use a spell to contain the flames and push it towards the roof. The fireball blasts a hole in it, broken pieces of flaming wood falling to the ground. I use my mana to protect Mina and the nobles, all while Lance duels with the general. Uncle turns around, watching as I fire a tendril at him. The tendril grabs his arm, constricting it and crushing his armor. "AHH!"
"Fuck you, you bloody prick!" I scream, aiming for his head with my free hand. He undoes the straps on his gauntlet, letting the tendril pull it off his body, before levitating away as I shoot my magical blast. It blows another hole through the roof, which he flies to, attempting to escape. "Oh no you don't!"
I levitate off the ground and follow him. My side and back hurt, but all I see is red. He tried to kill Mina and he won't live to talk about it. I shoot my own fireball at him, albeit much smaller. It hits his shoulder, causing him to grunt as he passes through the exposed roof. He smashes across the brick tile, grabbing onto them to avoid rolling to his death. I levitate above, staring down at him as he did to me. As he pulls himself over the edge and pushes himself to his knees, I fly straight towards him, crashing my knee into his chin. He moans in pain and rolls, but grabs the tiling for dear life, holding it with one hand.
Wheezing and spitting blood from his busted lip, he stares at me, his hair just covering his eyes. "Mariah. Daughter… Don't do this." he states, watching me hover over him. I use my mana to form tendrils around his body, hoisting him up. He tries to shake free, his mana depleting by the minute. "We are blood. You can't-"
I put my hand on his chin, fixing his hair and kissing his forehead. The act causes him to bristle, before a small smile forms on his face. Returning it, I put my hand on his head, getting a feel for his hair, before yanking it harshly. "I don't care."
The look of shock and fear fills his brown eyes, as he tries to convince me one last time. "Mariah, please!"
"I don't work for you anymore. You are nothing to me." I whisper, scowling as I begin to burn his hair in my hand. He yells and screams, pleading for his life. For mercy. I can see the flames catching, crawling up his face, melting his eyebrows and skin into flesh and bone. The smell of blood and burnt meat disgusts me, so I let him go, his body dropping to the ground. I smile as his flaming body splatters on the ground, his once pristine armor crumbling into a smoldering pile of burnt shit.
I spot his crown on the roof, dangling off one of the tiles. I grab the ornate crown, several precious gemstones glimmering in the front. Placing it atop my head, I smirk, before levitating back through the roof. I see Lance easily dispatching the last of the loyalists, General Dodgson lying in a pool of blood. The captives all look up, as does Lance and Mina, as I land.
"Here me now." I state, clutching my side. "The king is dead. And the new ruler, Queen Mariah May of Londonia, stands before you." I grab a knife from the ground, pointing to them. "I will let you live so that you may pledge allegiance to a real monarch, not a tyrant." I walk straight to Mina, grabbing her arm and helping her up.
"Are you okay?" she asks, concern in her deep brown eyes. The sweetie. I caress her face and help her to the table, letting her lean against it, before going up to Deonna and undoing her bindings and gag.
"Fuck." she swears, licking her dry lips. "Your uncle is an asshole."
"Was. But he's irrelevant now. We need to stop this war before they kill us all."
"Can't you fly there?" Deonna asks condescendingly, helping the other nobles out of their chairs.
"I don't have the energy." I state, feeling my side. It took almost everything I had to burn him alive. "I may be powerful, but even I get tired, Ms. Virtuosa."
"Then we'll take the horses. Dodgson said they were breaking through the southern wall. That's where we'll find Maclin." Lance states.
Stopping to consider our options, I look at them all. "I have a plan. Deonna, you ride with me. Mina, with Lance. The rest of you, spread the word that uncle is dead and a new ruler is ordering an immediate end to hostilities. We'll meet them head on and try to convince the leaders. I know Kenny Omega will be leading the charge himself. He's the leader of the Elite, and he knows me. I should be able to convince him to stop his fight. And Lance?" I ask. He turns to me. "I need your sword for a second."
*Several minutes later, southern wall bridge gate*
Galloping on our horses to the southern wall, I can see several legions of men fighting, chief among them Commander Omega of the Elite. Further afield, I see a scruffy beast of a man, wielding a war hammer in one hand and a shield in the other. Deonna immediately screams out behind me, calling to him.
"Steve!" The man bashes aside some enemies, before turning to us.
"Deonna! What are you doing here?" he rasps out.
"Kenny Omega of the Khans! Leader of the Elite!" I yell, stopping my horse. Kenny turns his head, his long dirty blond hair concealed behind his blue helmet and armor. I grab something from the horse and hoist it up, for everyone to see. Gasps and silence rings up among the warriors, who stop their fighting and turn their gazes towards us. "King Richard May of Londonia is dead. And his dream of conquest dies with him." I argue. "I ask for an immediate end to this conflict."
"Hold! Hold your positions. This could still be a trick." Kenny orders, but starts to walk towards me. Getting off the horse, I meet him halfway, ignoring the pain as I hand him my uncle's head and broach.
"Take this to Emperor Khan. I have worked and toiled for him before. I give you my word, now, that I will stop hostilities immediately between our groups. I have no issue with the Khans, Bucks, Danielsons, Dark Order or the Death Riders. All that I ask is you spare my kingdom, so that we can begin negotiations."
"So, you killed your old man?"
"He locked me in a tower and used me for years. He was never my father, and I have no familial or emotional connection to that bastard." I answer simply. Kenny looks over the skull and broach.
"Well, let's say I believe you, Mariah. I guess now it's Queen Mariah May." I nod stoically. "You do know that means you'll have to pay up, right? We're not going to let some other member of the May clan walk away from this unscathed. We didn't start this war, and we damn sure didn't ask for it. You'll have to be a vassal for a bit. Pay restitution. Maybe even join the Elite's ranks, if that works for you?"
"It is better to rule in Hell than to serve in Heaven." I argue, raising my eyebrow. "Plus, didn't we already get rid of one unwanted monarch? A certain Callis? I can always fill that spot if it's unoccupied." I offer.
Kenny chuckles. "You remember? I'm glad. Seems like we share that in common- getting rid of old fools drunk with power. If you're good for it, maybe we'll give it to you. For now, I'll call off my armada and I'll pass it on to the Bucks and Danielsons to do the same. Dark Order's already left, and God knows what Mox is thinking." he argues, shrugging. I sometimes question how such a calm man can lead armies. "Can we get your word to stop taking our shipments of food and medicine?"
"You have my word. If you don't believe me, then strike me down here and now." I taunt, staring directly into the man's eyes. He chuckles in response.
"Alright Mariah. I accept your terms. I hope Tony does too." He takes my uncle's head and broach. "The war's over, boys! We're going home." Some men cheer, while others complain and bicker. He looks at me. "And here I thought this was going to be a long day. Thanks Queen. We'll be in touch." he states, walking away alongside his troops.
"Men, return home. We have work to do. Cleaning up my uncle's mess will require all of us."
"You expect us to take your word, after everything your uncle just forced us to do?" one of the soldiers questions.
"We haven't been paid in months!"
"I know that my uncle ruined our home. He took our money and freedoms, and ruined our ambitions with his greed. And for that mistake, we suffered. But no longer. I will join you in rebuilding our city and the trust in our new allies, the Khans. Once we return to prosperity, every one of you will be given compensation for what my uncle has done to you. That, I guarantee. But here and now, I need your help." I go to Lieutenant Maclin, grabbing his arm. "This man will be the new leader of our forces. I know you trust his judgment, and from what Deonna has told me, I will too. I hereby promote you, Lieutenant Steve Maclin, to Commander. I know my uncle forced your hand, but this time, I ask. Plead… that you help me in restoring the kingdom."
The grizzled man gives me a look, questioning my motives, before staring behind me. I see Deonna's eyes widen as she smiles at her husband. She nods, encouraging him to trust me. Maclin nods, pursing his lips and clasping an arm to his chest.
"As you command, my Queen." he rasps out.
"We will build back stronger. With help, we will build a new and improved Londonia, right here in the Land of Jackson!" Some soldiers cheer, while others remain silent. "Mark my words, it will be difficult and a long, uncertain journey ahead of us. But as your queen, I will not stop until we get what we rightfully deserve! Full pay for workers and soldiers, trust from our allies and prosperity for our kingdom!" My words convince some others, who begin cheering louder.
"All hail Queen Mariah!" Lance utters, many of them soldiers chanting alongside him. I look to Mina, still sitting on the horse behind Lance. I walk to her and grab her hands.
"You make a beautiful queen." she says, playing with my fingers.
"And so will you. I love you, but I know you suffered under that monster. And while I can't change what happened, I can build a better future. One where you're beside me at all times, Mina. And I can show you how much you mean to me." I tell her, making the cheerful beauty gasp.
"Oh Mariah!" she cries, before jumping into my arms and kissing me. I freeze in shock, before melting into it, my eyes fluttering closed. A massive light surrounds us both, and I can hear Lance, Deonna, Steve, and the remnants our army cry out and shield their eyes. Her soft lips pressing mine, I feel Mina's hands comb through my hair, gently massaging my head and neck. I wrap my arms around her waist, pulling her body closer to mine. The act makes Mina moan, rubbing her chest against my own. She smells like a rose perfume mixed with something spicy, and I can't get enough of her.
"*Ahem, Your highness, we have company." Lance cuts in politely, rubbing a hand over his head. I pull back, my head still on Cloud 9, and open my eyes. Mina whimpers, those big eyes and cute pout make my heart melt.
"But I can finally feel you fully. And I like kissing you." she murmurs, before checking behind her. I do the same, the armies of the Elite, Bucks and Danielsons leaving the field, as a horsewoman and her compatriot come towards us. Seeing those multicoloured locks, I recognize them as Queen Mercedes and Commander Camille. She stops just meters from us.
"Why hello." she states confidently, getting off her horse. Camille follows suit, her chainmail armor shaking as she dismounts. "Please say hello, to your new C. E. O. Hahahaha!" Mercedes laughs evilly, holding her cheek. "*Gasp* All this fighting and there's still time for love? How cute. As you can see, my army just decimated your uncle's. And if you can't tell, I have treaties with the Khans, the Bucks and the Danielsons. So as far as I'm concerned, this kingdom belongs to me. As do all of you! Now-"
BANG! I fire an eldritch blast at Mercedes's sword, disarming her. She jumps in shock, her foot catching a rock, causing her to fall on her butt. Camille steps forward, but Lance grabs her arm and lifts her in the air, easily taking both her shield and spear from her.
"I don't care about your kingdom. You can have your stupid territory. Because now," I argue, pointing to the crown on my head, "I am Queen of this mountain. And you are Queen of TBS and Strongdom. The Khans will see things my way, I assure you. So, I urge you to go back to your island of relevancy while I still allow it. Tell your army to retreat or I will make them suffer for their Queen's stupidity."
Mercedes' brown eyes are fierce, teeth bared in a wicked scowl as she growls at me. "You'll win nothing. What makes you th-"
Mina blasts the ground near her with another eldritch blast, making Mercedes roll in the opposite direction. She scrambles to her feet and runs to her horse. Lance chucks Camille easily, Mercedes screaming for her. They mount their horses, before Mercedes turns and yells at me.
"This isn't over, bitch!" she bellows, riding off back towards her army. She blows into a horn, and in minutes, her army begins ascending back up the hill, Jacksonville's cheering and giving chase.
"Oh, I'm so scared. Bloody stuck-up twat." I murmur.
"Mariah." Lance chastises, making me roll my eyes and sigh.
"Sorry."
"Don't let her hear you say that. You know she's only going to get angrier."
"Yeah, she's definitely going to hold a grudge after this." Deonna admits, before smiling. "We'll just have to beat her ass again."
"That's right." Mina agrees, before turning back to me and caressing my face. Her warm touch is comforting, making me smile at her. Her pearly whites gleaming, she batts her eyelashes. "Are we going to leave now? Fix up your kingdom?"
"Yes, my beautiful siren. This kingdom is ours, to do with as we please." I argue, looking around to my friends. "But that'll start tomorrow. Right now, I want my bride. I want Mina."
"Bride?" Deonna questions, while Mina's eyes light up like a Christmas tree. Lance smiles and shakes his head.
"You were never a patient girl, were you prin- sorry, Queen Mariah?" Lance corrects himself, sheathing his sword.
"I can be." I say, twirling a lock of Mina's silky hair between my fingers. "Just not when it comes to her."
"I know where you're coming from, your highness." Maclin states, putting a hand on Deonna's back and pulling her close. The fiery Virtuosa smacks his chest while smiling, before nestling to his side. We walk to the edge of the bridge, standing over the city. Embers of fire and battle simmering down around us.
This place will be my throne. Its ruins will be the foundation of a new era for Mina and I. Let the Khans kill those insufferable bastards. I've played second fiddle for so long… why not use it to get actual power? Uncle was stupid; he thought it was all about him. But, in reality, it is and always has been all about Mariah.