Inside the Cathedral, the two could feel the history and culture hit them like a train. All of the walls and ceiling were painted and not a single area was left untouched. Their noses were then overrun by a sweet flowery scent, and in the Altar was a woman in a dark blue starry gown and long shiny silver hair. With the outfit clearly accentuating her curves and the woman's shiny elbow length gloves, gleaming and glittering like her entire ensemble. She knows who she is, her title and rank and position in the Kingdom. With the countless tiny stars on her evening gown, showing the boundless beauty she held and the reach of her hand that spans across everywhere and anyone to the Kingdom, to its Royals and Subjects with unbounded looks that would make even the High Elves feel jealous.
But the one question mark was Being far greater than her. Who shows no tact nor respect, but thrives off the anger and annoyance she feels while looking more elegant and prettier than any Vampire in existence. A creature that is far above even their immortal lives, that walks amongst them with glee and glutton.
“Grrrrrr… it’s that Morgana lady again! Bwehhhh! Annoying woman, though thanks for the cheesecake!”
“Okay, that’s enough. I do not plan on getting beheaded today.”
The General then grabs Bahamut by the arm and they take a seat on a pew that was untaken while he shushes her. The powerful voice of the Bishop could be heard echoing through the Cathedral walls whose ancient age exudes from the concrete pillars and the statues. With the sun roofs letting the rays of the foreign star upon the quiet and calming atmosphere. Its ceiling painted with the birth of there God Angus, his subsequent defeat upon the hands of two other Gods and the birth of the first Vampire created with the help of other divine beings and to the present near the Altar, whose paintings on its wall depict the life of peace and solidarity of all Vampires from the turmoils they’ve gone through.
“Then! Let the witnesses of this contract know! Her Daughter of the Barbineaux family, Marcelle is now named Marcelline Tempest! Second daughter of his truly! Sir Max Tempest of the very House that started the revolt that forever changed our country. Miss Morgana Tempest Voltaire! Please give your blood to the contract and seal the oath!”
With a stylishly blinding dagger, the silver haired woman cuts her finger and smudges her signature with it. Not even a mere millisecond has passed and the small cut was completely gone and the amount of blood that touched the paper was miniscule at best. The paper contract then burns from the potent magical blood of the powerful Vampire and the Bishop claps. “And it is now solidified! Miss Barbineaux, please say the last things you wish to your family as you head off to your new life as a Noblewoman of the Voltaire House, under the name of the Tempest family! May our God Angus forever bless your eternity as a named Noble!” Like foreign tourists, Paul and Bahamut stayed silent. Just watching the entire thing happen right in front of them at the Altar while occasionally looking around to admire the building's design and complex architecture.
Bahamut most of all seeing one part of the painting when a Dragon came after the Kingdom with a human and a party of adventurers and on the Castle was Elizabeth with King Charles, sending their Legions to fend off against the powerful flying creature and some of them getting burned to crisp, with only ashes left on the ground and way before it, was another attack against the Kingdom but the city was smaller and the towns around it only a handful. But the attacker was a massive army led by a General wearing a monocle supported by a four winged Dragon with beautiful white skin. Which made the woman tilt her head in curiosity.
The two’s attention was then taken by a lot of crying and sobbing by a family near the front row, the two parents holding handkerchiefs up their noses and eyes as they bawled out in the open. Dirtying their peasant robes, saddened like their daughter just died right before them, with Paul even being affected by the genuine cries of the family and soon, of their daughter. Unable to accept what was happening, though Bahamut just tilts her head once again. Confused at what is happening.
“Sniff sniff…”
“Master. Really?”
“What? Can’t you see that? No amount of drama TV will prepare me for the real thing. It’s so sad… I wonder why this had to happen. Is being a Noble here that crazy?”
“I do not get crying… I only cried one time in all my years of living.”
“Really? When was that…?” the General sniffs as his eyes waters from the sight.
“It was when you got mortally wounded, Master.”
“E-Eh?”
“It was the first time I cried in my entire life. I had no idea a human form could make me have such an emotion. It was also the first time I truly changed to this form for the long term. I guess sadness is the first emotion that hit me as a human.”
“BWEEEHHHH! BAHAMUT! I LOVE YOU SO MUCH! C’MERE AND HUG ME!”
Morgana then turns to look at the crowd after hearing such a noisy sound, distracting her from the ceremony. Her face makes a grin, seeing Bahamut and a highly emotional human General trying to hug the Dragon who is just taking it while sitting straight up and looking back at her. She stood out like a sore thumb wearing a fancy black crown with a veil with a man wearing an intimidating black leather greatcoat and an intimidating black cap patting and hugging her. “Hmph, if it isn’t the Vulgar Lady and Lord Jackson! I knew we’d meet once again!” pointing at the two all the way in the back of the large room.
Bahamut then stands up, obviously offended by being called out in the open. Though the people in the back didn’t even hear what the Duchess said with how far she was. “WHAT?! I TOLD YOU TO CALL ME BAHAMUT! NOT VULGAR LADY! BOOB WOMAN!”
“HUUUH?! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE?! THIS IS A CEREMONY OF THE VOLTAIRE FAMILY! WHO DARETH THEE ENTER THE PREMISES AND MAKE NOISE?! HOW DID MY KNIGHTS LET YOU IN?!”
“AHEM AHEM, I’M WEARING A CROWN! SOMETHING YOU’LL NEVER GET BWAHAHAHA! IT WAS MADE AND SMELTED FROM THE ETERNAL FIRE OF THE DRAGONS! Though thanks for the Cheesecake! It was delish!”
Seeing Bahamut becoming more and more unladylike, the General had to pull the plug and cover her mouth while apologizing. “I’M SORRY! PLEASE FORGIVE HER! SHE’S A BIT ECCENTRIC!” All the while, Bahamut was kicking and performing punches in the air.
“Good. Keep your woman in check Lord Jackson, I have you know that my patience is running dry with that Goddess of yours! Know how to control her or I will do something about that stupidly loud mouth of that woman!”
“O-of course Lady Voltaire, I’ll be sure to keep her quiet! I thank you again for the free food and the cheesecake! Please forgive her, she has been… more emotional than usual!”
“What!? Is this her first time in human form?! Begone!”
The General then drags the Dragon God to the East Wing of the Cathedral where an open museum lay for the public to visit and see. And like a rowdy child, Bahamut crosses her arms while visibly pouting. Ignoring the General and every attempt he makes to talk or interact with her. Paul just sighs and takes a breather. Taking his time to think of something while he looks at the artifacts scattered around him. “Hmmm… would Bahamut’s chin still be her weak spot?” The man then turns around and walks to the pouting Dragon, lifting his hand and starts scratching the lady’s chin. And just like that, her body visibly relaxes and her facial expression, showing a smile instantly.
“Hah! So that’s still your weak spot, ehy?”
“Hnnnggg… I can resist these hands. Scratch below my chin Master, and to my neck… grrrr… I hate how weak this body is to your touch.”
“Alright, alright. Calm down... There, is that good?”
The silver haired woman then comes blazing in through the hallway and sees the human and the dragon god having a fun time. Getting her chin scratched and as she shivers from how good it feels.
“OY! Bahamut!”
Bahamut, who was enjoying her time, just lifts her hand up and silences Lady Voltaire who even became more enraged at the Dragon God not taking her seriously.
“You're pretty ballsy, Morgan. You do not call out a Dragon's name in such a tone, that’d be asking for a challenge.”
“Huh? If you were to challenge me, then you would be basically asking for a declaration of war against the entire Kingdom.”
“I’m General Paul Jackson, pleased to meet you. I live in Chiba District in a decrepit apartment, though my company gave me a room at the Imperial Hotel Tokyo. I prefer to live in a small apartment by myself as I’d feel less lonely. I am originally from another country but my company is expanding so I chose Japan to be my best branch thanks to its now halved population and the businesses that’re in need of people which my country has a lot of. I also have a background in the military, serving in-”
“Shush… just… shush.” She then collects herself. Breathing in heavily as the witnesses just stared in fright of the powerful Noblewoman trying to negotiate with foreigners. “I did not understand even a portion of that sentence. Are you even speaking Romanz? Or is this some dialect of Dragonian that I do not understand? As Bahamut and you have the same accent.”
“No. I just thought me spouting random crap would stop the both of you. And it did.”
“Tsk. Your getting good human. Nonetheless, why’re the both of you here? Of all times, it's at such a crucial moment for Marcelline.”
“Why? What’s happening there?”
“I have run out of time. I was supposed to bear a child as of any Noblewoman. But I have been unable to find a proper husband. To fill in the rank, we accepted a Peasant woman who showed enough potential to enter into the family as one of our own.”
“R-Really? That’s allowed? Wouldn’t she be not fit though?”
“Hence why she’ll be going to University and a hard course through Etiquette class.”
“Oof, that sounds like a pain in the ass. Not going to lie.”
“Hmph, you should try the class in Diplomacy. I barely passed that class. Now, why are you here?”
“Because-”
“SHUSH Lord Jackson. I am referring to Bahamut, I know you are here to be a tourist. But Bahamut, what DO YOU plan to do here?”
“Oy Morgan, I’m getting my daily scratches. Just talk to him. And I don’t want to deal with your tone and voice. I already had enough of it in the cafe.”
She then looks down on the General whose hand was still scratching the area underneath Bahamut’s chin.
“S-so… uhm… we’re tourists as you know. Diplomats and such and we thought of just exploring your capital city. U-uhm… it's super nice. Lots of Gothic architecture but also Victorian ones. It also must be the nicest smelling city I’ve been in. I’m surprised at the huge amount of glass on the buildings and the lack of poop on the streets.”
“Uh-huh… and that’s it? You already told me that in the cafe. Aren’t you aware of the Knights guarding the doors?”
“Uhm yea… that’s it really. We’re just roaming around mindlessly looking at things to eat, check out, or buy. We came here to see the Cathedral and have a peek at your religion. I just thought it’d be good for Bahamut to experience lots and lots of things with me.”
“Heavens…” she just facepalms and turns around. On the top of the open second floor, the teenage Arnheit signals a thumbs up. “Do enjoy the city. Just be mindful of yourself. Mortals are not seen in the same light as us and do not barge into places that are guarded by Knights. Now, get out. A ceremony of Nobleship is occurring here and you are making a mockery of yourselves in front of the families under the Voltaires.”
“Mhm. Thank you. But uhm… did that lady there on the Altar wanted to be a Noble?”
“Her? Do not kid yourself. She’s now a Noble. Though since you are tourists, I shall indulge in your thoughts a bit more and answer your questions. It depends, some want it as they’ll be able to one day maybe bring their family’s name into the Nobility, but others don’t. As it usually means you’ll be locked up in a far away Manor in the countryside where you’ll be overseeing subjects of your own after years of grueling Etiquette class in University.”
“Uh… huh… wow.”
Voltaire merely sneaks a peak at the human man and sways her head up forward and walks back to the altar.
“She… was nice.”
“Really Master? My breasts are totally bigger than hers.”
“WHAT?! Oy, I only stared once. Interesting though, you two were of the same height. Just what is it with Vampires and Dragon kins being so tall? Though I guess Elves can be taller since I remember meeting ones that’re seven foot tall.”
“She’s wearing four inch heels, Master. Like me.”
“Oh yea, heels have inches to them…”
“Oh Gods, no wonder you haven’t mated with a fellow human yet.”
“Hah! Who needs humans when I do it with the ancient Vampire! And with the Bloodrose Petal Alana gave me, I’m pretty sure I’d be able to add an extra hour to our sessions! Bwahahahaha!”
Morgan's head peeks out of the hall, and puts her finger up her mouth. Signaling the two to shut up. Paul just apologizes and then proceeds to check out the museum. Looking at tidbits of information of the God of Vampires. Angus. From historical artifacts and even actual weapons wielded by said God.
“Woah. Do you think if I bring that spear with me, I’ll be able to wield it?”
“Totally not Master. Even if you were to touch that in your armor, you’d die immediately. Even this far I can sense the amount of power needed to wield it. But, I doubt it’ll be as destructive as it was. It’s merely an artifact far over its glory days.”
“Pretty nice of them to write it in Common and Romanz. Though yeah, I’ll probably plop dead if I tried to even touch it. But they need to work on the grammar, that’s totally not how you use Subject Verb Agreement.”
“Do you even know what that is, Master?”
The man then puts his hand up his chin. “... I think?”
“Haaaaah… Master, it's a word that says an action. Like physical, mental or a state of being. Even I know that Master.”
“Yeah yeah yeah, English isn’t my first language nor Common. Let’s get out before you start giving me an English class on a Vampire Church of all places.”
At the end of the Museum was a free gift to the visitors. Which were cute keychains of Angus wearing his Toga and with the Goddess Mors Letum in her dark dress, drinking wine from a cup. Paul takes two and gives one to Bahamut.
“Huh, so Mors Letum and Angus knew each other. Man, these Gods and their art are pretty next level. Interesting though of all things, its Keychains is what the Vampires took from modern society… though I guess it makes sense with how many keys they have.”
The two then return to the main cathedral and Lady Voltaire was just talking to her new sister while the Bishop who was cleaning everything up with his servants couldn’t help but feel as if there’s a sense of familiarity with the gothic woman with the human. But he couldn’t put his finger on exactly what memory it was.
Paul and Bahamut then bow at the Altar and the two leave the Church. Outside, the High Elves with the Vampire Nobleman were walking up the stairs. Making the General step aside from the tall and intimidating Elven diplomats whose outfits were more grand and intricate than his dark WW2-like General uniform.
“Wait.”
The tallest Elven man in a robe full of gold and gray halts the Lord that was giving a brief history of the Cathedral and turns his head at the woman with the human. He first looks at her human ears and is evidently surprised by it. But taking a closer look, he puts his arms to his back as the man whose an inch taller than the Dragon stares right at her veil, he could see the gleaming golden eyes of Bahamut and the slits she has for pupils and the strange power coming from it.
“May I humbly ask who you could be?”
“I’m simply Bahamut.”
“Dear no. That wouldn’t work on me, I’m sensitive to the Divine and I can sense Godly divinity from you. True Godly divinity, that of a real living God… could you be the one the humans on the border Fortress City of Gareth’s Kingdom are worshiping? The so-called God amongst Men and Elves?”
“Wait, the Church of Bahamut is back?!”
“Shush ill-mannered cretin. I will have you cut open and turned upside down and eaten by the wolves if you dare put that dirty saliva of that whorish human mouth of yours on my beautiful robe.”
The Elf then stares and observes the human. Looking at his outfit and how he is dressed.
“You have a good uniform, I like it. That black leather coat and the red collar and hmmm… what an interesting combination. White shirt and black necktie with a black coat, but it’d be better if it's not worn by a cretin like you. Such a stylishly devilish ensemble would look better if it was worn by a far better people.”
“Huh, so you like my uniform. But not the wearer, I like the drip too but I think if you were to wear this, it’d be far too perfect and I’d be able to report you to the Admins without question.”
The Elven man then brushes past the General ignoring his rebuttal as if it didn’t even go to his long sharp ears adorned by expensive golden earrings, almost trampling him but Bahamut grabs his hand and prevents him from falling down the stairs. “Dammit! What the fuck was that about?! Have some decency! Can’t you see my armband?!”
“Could you be…” with a closer look to Bahamut, he takes a longer gander at her eyes. Its golden shine and the strange spirals forming around the slits, and the divine aura screaming from it. “A true Dragon God! Heavens be blessed! What would you be doing here?”
“A Dragon God!?” The Elven Lords couldn’t believe it. Rushing around her to take a closer look at the woman. “But how could that be?! For my seven hundred years of living, there have only been two Dragon Gods left walking amongst us. To think one would be with a disgusting putrid pale fleshed mongrel.” The other Elves hold their hand up their mouth, not believing it.
“Such a rarity, there’s only been two recorded to be alive to this very day… oh what wisdom and knowledge lies inside that head of yours Goddess. I hope you could bless us with your knowledge, the Goddess Forrus has always respected Dragonoth and we shall follow in her footsteps and hope for your guidance in the future of our Empire.”
“It would be nice if you wouldn’t do that to my Master.”
“Master…?”
Bahamut looks down on Paul who was trying to find space to stand up and not disturb the Diplomats from Geraldia, realizing how volatile the relations are between the Outworlders and the High Elves.
“This disgusting smelly mongrel-thing is your Master? Pfft…. BWAHAHAHAHAHA!” as he catches his breath, he looks Bahamut straight in the eyes. “I never did get this strange mutual respect between Humans and Dragons, for as long as I can remember, you two had always hunted each other down and yet, formed one of the most strange relationships that I’ve ever seen. Look, the human looks good in his ensemble. But he is still a disgusting cretin mongrel wearing a nice outfit. That’s all there is to it.”
“You’re lucky that I’m aware of what might happen if I lay my hands on you. But don’t drag my Master into this. He has far more restraint than I do, and you do not want to push me. You speak of intellect, yet you fail to see the obvious. Power is everything for us Dragons, and the humans, even though they are the most fragile and puny of all the species, stood to rise and defend themselves against all odds. Do not talk down to them, for they earned the respect of Dragons for that sole purpose alone. Or would you like to test that and see the tenacity of humans firsthand?”
“Really? These squishy mongrel-like creatures that are far more disgusting than the Orcs and Ogres and would coitus with a plant if it looked hot enough for them? At Least those two kinds know how to fight properly and live longer, but these ones? Look at him! You Dragons oughta’ know that if you want a proper ally, ally with us Elves. We not only live longer, but are also respectful, our culture is also far more interesting than these Apes that shed their fur. The only thing good about these lesser creatures are their hands, good slaves and good partners in bed but even then, they get tired so fast. Can’t catch up? Ahahahahaha! We’ve crushed so many of their armies that they built a line of fortress cities on our borders. Such a pitiful creature, afraid of everything and can be killed by a mere push.”
The Elves with their mocking tone just laughs at the human general. Even though he was in full uniform with the most dignified look of a high ranking officer of an armed forces, they just insulted him in the open, completely destroying the man's reputation as the Vampires passing by gathered to take a peek at the confrontation, they are met with the High Elves mocking a high ranking human general. Not taking the blatant disrespect to her Master, her eyes change colors. With a red spiral in her iris fully forming, around her purple pupils, she grabs the man's face. With her immense grip crushing his skull.
Paul in the heat of the moment grabs her hand, preventing her from crushing the diplomat Elf’s face. “DON’T DO IT BAHAMUT! WE DON’T WANT WAR!” hearing his words, she stops crushing his face just as the Vampire Lord and the other Elven diplomats prepared their magic. Spirals of gold appeared around their hands and arms while others had fireballs ready to go. “Okay Bahamut, let’s calm down. EVERYONE! CALM THE FUCK DOWN!”, stabilizing the tensions. The diplomats lower their hands and Bahamut lets go of the Elf which proceeds to use divine magic on himself, immediately stopping the bleeding on his face. She then looks at Paul and goes back to the Elves. A smirk appears on her face after a second of thinking, she wipes her mouth, and the General shakes his head. “No. Don’t you even think about it, I know that look. No Bahamut.” she just grins in return.
In the spur of the moment, she leans in to her Master. Her long slender fingers carefully holding his chin as her eyes stared at the Elves, their look couldn’t believe the voluptuous Dragon Goddess was about to do it and in a second, she lifted her veil and sensually kissed the human General. Making the Elves instantly vomit while the Vampire Duke just looked with a blank stare. “Oh Angus the Almighty God of All Emotions, what am I supposed to do?” Confused at what to do in the situation. Lady Voltaire herself came out of the Cathedral to see the commotion and just smiled at the sight of the Elves being disgusted at the sight. “See, didn’t I tell you Arnheit?” the young man in his noble uniform just had an empty expression on his face. “Are you sure about this? The High Elves would be a pretty good ally in the upcoming End times. If both of our nations come out of it more unscathed than the humans, we can become the next Empire in line and possibly, a second Superpower.”
“I am sure. These humans, they are resilient and more entertaining than these boring long sharp eared chauvinist freaks… and look, even the Dragons love the humans. I think we should try loving them too. Even just for a bit.”
“Well, they are only after our privileges on the main rivers of Schon which can damage the profit of local brands. The Outworlders are merely after neutrality so I guess that’d be a better exchange.”
“Hm. Prepare letters, I’ll start now and spread the word.”
“There’s no turning back from Lady Voltaire. To support humans is something not seen.”
“Hmph. The Voltaires sided with the human hero as he besieged the Castle and killed Queen Elizabeth. I’m merely repeating that once again and these humans will be gone in the next few months. Didn’t they say they also came here to look for a way home?”
“Yes Lady Voltaire. They have reached the borders of Vitas but are seemingly stuck or something.”
“Let us see where this path shall take us. I find it to be more interesting anyways.”
Seeing the reaction and the General unable to fight it, Bahamut goes further. Sticking her tongue in his mouth, swirling it and then with his free hand, lets him grope her breast as the Elves continue to overreact, some reaching for the pillar as they gargled at their own saliva. Lady Voltaire could be heard laughing as she put her fan up her mouth to prevent her voice from spilling out further. “ALRIGHT! That is enough. Sir Jahfre of Elvennur. Please, head this way. The Bishop is ready to meet with you. He has been looking forward to meeting someone who is well versed in the ways of those who follow Goddess Forrus.” Bahamut then stops kissing Paul, slowly letting go of his lips as the two’s saliva drips to the Cathedral stairs. The Dragon God just smirks again as the Elves run to the Duchess. Holding handkerchiefs up their mouths and nose from the sight they were beholden too.
Bahamut then looks up, holding the confused General who couldn’t process the moment from falling, his eyes wandering and visibly not processing the kiss he had with her. Lady Voltaire sneaks a thumbs up with the Dragon God smiling back at her. The Elves then head inside the large building and Bahamut drags the limp Paul back to the Castle. On the way there, the two meet a patrol that was handing out Santa hats to the Vampires. Bahamut takes two, giving one to the General who was limped from getting kissed by the Dragon. He later gains himself inside the hallway of the Castle’s middle building. Wearing the red Santa hat ontop of his Officer’s cap. Snow was lightly falling outside while Bahamut, with her greater hearing, could hear Alana’s voice snarkily talking back to the other Nobles as Queen Elizabeth gave her pointers on how to counter their offers in profits and land ownership. On her seat, she’s just quietly inspected the Santa hat.
“Geez Bahamut… was that really necessary?”
“Well, I must make a point to them. And that was the point.”
“I swear, if I leave you alone, you’d probably start a war. But, good kiss though… not gonna lie… that was…” he puts his hand up his mouth, clearly blushing while remembering her tongue as he tastes her saliva. “You might give the Queen a run for her money… wow. What’re the magical properties of a Dragon God's saliva again?”
“R-Really?! That was my first time so I was just winging it but if I was that good… heheheh… it should help you with any ailments Master and injuries. As long as it doesn’t involve a higher type of divine or true magic or curses. It should be able to heal completely.”
“I see, and for normal Dragons. Their saliva can also do the same right?””
“Some. But they must be strong and already possess some level of divinity to be able to have saliva that has properties. But that was a good show. I really showed them, didn't I, Master?”
“Yes you did. It’s interesting though, that’s how they see the relationship between humans and dragons.”
“Hm?”
“How being the most fragile of all the races seems to have made us closer to the toughest.”
“It was… as it said in that book. A marriage made in heavens. Humans have long been hunting Dragons and Dragons have long been hunting Humans. Both respected each other and it was only a matter of time till a bridge was going to connect our species through battle. The other races saw humans as a danger to everyone and of itself but we Dragons saw it as adaptation. And soon, humans and dragons became friends with stories like Vayke and Sir Kay becoming more and more common. We dragon's see power as strength, and the human soul has it.”
“Yeah… though question. Is Vayke still alive?”
“Vayke? Hmmm… I haven’t returned to the Kingdom for so long. I do wonder if she’s still alive. I’m sure she’d make a fuss seeing me in human form.”
“Man, it would be cool to know how the two made it work. Though I guess, we are making it work. I’d love to have some extra pointers rather than just winging it.”
“Even then, humans fought on and lived. Survived, Master, now I understood why the Dragons of Tur chose to shed their scales and become humans. Not only for the sake of survival, due to how we pick our mates. But also because you were all truly worthy of our power. In our five years of adventuring, not once did a day pass without happiness and compatibility between our souls.”
“Hmph… I guess this is because Dragons don’t see power as power. But also Willpower and many other factors. The other species ever did see you Dragons as opposite but Divine creatures, even then. Not one of those High Elves laid their hands on you and were respectful. AH! It’s because we humans are annoying motherfuckers!”
The passing slaves only stared at the human man as they carried expensive and heavy chairs to the West wing. “Oops.”
“YES! Exactly Master! Because of that! Humans are inherently annoying and will do everything to fight everything, including Dragons! You humans not onced saw us as Divine or amazing creatures, but as equals that need to be destroyed! That’s what made us respect you, because humans are amazingly stupid!”
“Bwahahaha! C’mon Bahamut!”
The two hug it out as passing Vampires carrying heavier and expensive table decorations just whistle away at the scene while the two continue to hug it out and smell each other's scents.
“Hm! I made up my mind! I shall no longer pick a Patriarch Dragon God to mate with!”
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“Wait… what?”
“I shall pick you!”
“HUH?!”
“Yes Master! I have determined that you indeed have the genes that will birth great mini dragon gods! This shall be the first of its kind!”
“Calm down Bahamut, let’s think this through first.” Paul then recalls some memories and his face instantly frowns but a smile fights it.“ The brains on his body are fighting for control. But ultimately, after remembering limping for a few hours or an entire day after a single session with Elizabeth. His brain wins over. “Bahamut, I am already drained after a few hours with the Queen, what makes you think I can even mate with you? Are you aware of the limits of my body?”
“Oh c’mon Master. A Dragons libido isn’t as bad as a Vampires!”
“EVEN STILL. I wish to live, I’ve heard many stories and none of them are good. Well, it was good but it was how long it was that made it very hard for me to say I’m into it.”
“What? I was already on the fence about this decision for a long time now… but after doing this kissing thing. Hm, I think this is the best choice. I felt not only compatible through our interactions but also now, with our very bodies!”
“L-let’s wait first okay? You are in the human form, that thing you are feeling is called Lust. I’ll have to teach you first in controlling that and maybe not killing me in bed.”
“Oh of course. Though since I’m not in my dragon form… I’ll have to consult with those about the customs and procedures needed to mate with a human. I am also aware of our differences even in this form. So you don’t need to worry, Master.”
“Good, because doing it with the Queen is already enough to make me go limb for a day or two. Doing it with YOU and HER would make me immobile for weeks, like the sex is super good. But the aftermath just makes me not want to do it at all.”
“Really Master? But aren’t humans known for this? Humans so far are the only species that I know are the most open to shagging anything. We Dragons, we only allow Humans. Others are merely exceptions.”
“Look, we might be perverted but we still have a working brain and usually, after a few moments it would take over and we’d realize if what we are doing is truly something we should be doing… most of all with species that’re far more superior to us in all aspects.”
“I see, but Master. For us Dragons, pleasure is merely an afterthought. What we are really after is compatibility and the birth of a stronger offspring.”
“Bahamut…. When you kissed me. Did you feel like undressing me right then and there and poking my entire body?”
“Yes. Is that bad?”
“Not necessarily, but good thing you controlled that urge. AS THAT’S LUST. Put it to rest, I can give you an entire twelve hour length lecture and class about it as believe me. You are not prepared for this feeling. I’m actually surprised you held out this long.”
“Well, we Dragons aren’t one to seek pleasure in coitus. We seek it in battle and victory against a stronger foe.”
“For now, just control yourself alright?”
“Yes Master.”
The General couldn’t breathe a bigger sigh of relief. Knowing he might’ve just averted having his very soul drained from his mortal flesh and bone. Waiting in silence as Vampires go left and right, bringing expensive chairs and tables while the man just crossed his arms and waited for Alana and Elizabeth to finish. Bahamut on the other hand just dozes off to sleep, resting her head on his right shoulder. The man had to move her pointy crown as it was poking his cheek.
Suddenly, the door opens and just as he was about to awaken Bahamut. The woman who came out had long pointy ears. Her height alongside her personal Knights wearing seemingly composite armor almost reached the top of the door frame. Wearing a dashing golden robe with bronze and silver pendants, the woman tilts her head at the sight of the two seemingly normal humans sitting quietly on the corner. Like two children waiting for their parents to finish up on their business.
“Could you be a Guranq’?”
“Excuse me?”
“I apologize for my English. I am still very new to this foreign language.”
She spoke with such a lighthearted and friendly tone the General couldn’t believe that she is part of the same race of Elves that mocked him and spite him in the open. Her accent came with a thick Nordic flare to it, but understandable even from afar.
“U-uhm no worries. You speak English far better than I do.”
“You please me with your compliments. I’m Lady Gerrana Destrau, a member of the Economic Council of Elvennur. I’ve come to visit the Vampires, and to my surprise. The foreign Guranq’ is also here.”
“We call ourselves Humans. But… uhm… I’m just here with Bahamut to wait for Lady Minuit.”
“I’ve actually been watching her. The Vampires have a very good and sophisticated system to their dealings. It pleases me to see how perfected it has been. Only immortal creatures could make such an efficient system.”
“Y-Yes.”
“Hmmmm… you seem approachable except for that uniform of yours. Why is it so intimidating? Do you plan on starting an argument? Prove a statement? Such an outfit would never fly in the Empire. So dark and dreadful.”
“It’s kinda the point. We took inspiration from a certain group that had the same idea.”
“I see… though it is fashionable, I can see the Vampires liking it. So, you are an Outworlder yes? A foreign Guranq’.”
“Y-Yes.”
“Then…”
She then starts walking forward. Ignoring her Knights hands. Her hand reached into her golden robe, slightly revealing the elegant gown underneath it. The General moves his hand a bit into his tunic just for her to reveal a rolled up poster. His hand relaxed while the Knights behind her in their tanned coloured composite armors just stared at the human.
“I want to know, what imagination do you humans have to make this poster?”
Unrolling it, the woman reveals a Retro art of the Montana Class Super Battleship created by the Men of the Woods supported by four Arleigh Burke Class Destroyers with F-18s flying over it.
“This! I’ve personally seen these smaller metal ships called Destroyers. But this big one, who made this art and who thought of this fictional ship of immense size?”
“F-Fictional?”
The High Elf then leans down and points at the huge battleship taking up most of the poster space with a huge bolded arial on top of it “Join The Navy! Together, We Shall Find a Way Home!”
“Yes! I want to see more art of this ship! I can see one used as a merchant ship for my company!”
“Lady-”
“Hm? Hm?”
“It’s not fiction.”
“PFFT. S-Sure. What organization would make a Naval ship meant for war this huge? It would stand out like a sore thumb. You could build multiple Destroyers with the size of this thing.”
“B-b-but the Men of the Woods did indeed build one… heck two actually.”
She then stares at the man's eyes. Surprised at his blank expression. “E-Eh?! You Guranq’s actually built and deployed these!?”
“Y-yes. They were part of the Men of the Woods plan to take over Tur with military might. Its main job is to shell shorelines and positions near the coast.”
“Wait wait wait, so you're telling me Foreigner that you Outworlder Guranqs had the idea of building this huge metal floating war machine with these giant cannons mounted on it to lay waste on coastal settlements?”
“Not really settlements but maybe Dockyards or Bases… or airfields as if you ram that thing up the beaches. It should have enough range to shell fortifications deep inland.”
“EHHHHHHH!? REALY!? I MUST SEE ONE PERSONALLY!”
She holds the men's greatcoat, stretching it as Paul battled to keep a straight and fixed position. His hand lightly held Bahamut’s cranium. He just smiles at her excited face, brimming with happiness as her gray coloured eyes sparkled.
“T-Though I think both of the ships sank… or one is forever in the eternal repair loops.”
“... Eternal repair loops?”
“Y-Yes. That’s what I call things that will be in repair for all of its service life and will probably get dismantled after five years of staying in the dock having no funding for its repair.”
“T-then… does this ship also exist?!”
She then points behind the Montana Class and the Nimitz Supercarrier behind it.
“Y-Yes. The Men of the Woods with the help of my Guild, the Knights of Eldwood built three of those. We actually have one for ourselves as promised with the contract.”
“EHHHHHH LEAD ME TO ONE!”
“I-I-I apologize miss. But I can’t.”
She then stands up, her face looking doomed and disappointed. “I really thought I could see massive ships… no one in the Council would support the idea of it. They’d rather have smaller ones… my dream…”
“U-Uhm… may I ask what your job is? Aren’t you some sort of a Minister?”
“Yes… I also lead my Fathers Merchant shipping company… I’ve had this idea of making our ships bigger and better but the Naval Office wouldn’t allow it. They only give exceptions to our Galleons and Flying Boats…”
“Cool flying boat though…”
“BUT NOT AS COOL AS THIS HUGE METAL FLOATING SHIPS AT THE SEAS!”
Bahamut then yawns. “Masterrrrr…. Keep it quiet please. I wanna sleeeeep… zzzzz”
“Slave?”
“More like a scary Dragon Goddess of Death and Destruction that’s with me for all of eternity.”
“Ah, I see. So, about seeing those ships.”
“Look ma’am…”
“It's Lady Destrau!”
“Alright, Lady Destrau. I cannot help you with this as I’m currently in Diplomat duty. If you want to, I recommend visiting our Airbase.”
“An Airbase?”
“Yes, we have one directly South of the Capital city. Right below the region owned by the Minuit’s daughter.”
“Oh, we actually saw that flying in with our blimp. Do those goose shaped aircrafts actually fly?”
“You mean the Super Galaxies and Antonovs?”
“Yes, those. What magic powers those?”
“We use turbine engines. It sucks air in, combusts it and uses it as an exhaust…”
The woman then puts her hand up her chin, rubbing it. Her other hand slipped underneath her breasts, with the General putting his lips together. Taking a gander at how well shaped and huge it is. One of the Knights sees this and walks to cover his eyes but Bahamut awakens and stops him. The High Elf is confused as he is unable to walk anymore forward. As if a concrete wall was placed at the height of his chest. Looking down, it was the pale hand of a woman with long slender fingers and nails. Following it, it leads to an awakened Dragon. The golden divine stare of the woman.
“Oy long ear. Hands off him.”
Though Bahamut’s voice seemed like a calmed and collected loving Mother with a soft and accepting aura, her eyes tell an entirely different story. The Knight immediately backed off as she straightened her body and fixed her crown and veil.
“Ahem. Master has already had a long day. It would be keen for all of you to leave him be.”
“Could you be… a Dragon? I’ve never seen a human with eyes for slits before. Only those of your kin and the Vampires!”
The High Elf then switches her attention to Bahamut. Inspecting the elegant lady whose hands are wrapped around the right arm of the General. “What?”
“W-Wow, you're totally a bombshell as they say. Right?”
He nods in approval. “Yeah… we say that… though if it was Bahamut, I’d say she’s a Goth. OUCH OUCH OUCH!” Bahamut's fingers pinch his cheek, pulling it slowly. “Oy Master, I am not Goth, I just like the color black.” he soon taps out and the woman lets go of his cheek. Making the man rub it as it swollen.
“You two have a very close relationship don’t you?”
“I guess so yeah.”
“Are you a follower of this Dragon then?”
“No. I’m a Catholic.”
“You like cats?”
“No. I mean, yes but also dogs. I mean it's my religion.”
“Your religion is holic with cats?”
“Forget what I said. But yeah, No. I am not part of the Church of Bahamut.”
“I see, but Goddess… that is what you're called, yes?”
“Hm. But Bahamut is fine. Just make sure it's done in a respectful tone.”
The High Elf nods and leans in closer. “You are aware that your Church is rapidly expanding, yes?”
“And? Look Long Ear. I do not care, as long as they worship me. I am fine.”
“Interesting… this trip has truly been worth it. Well, I shall get going before I get burned to crisp. Ferrad.”
The silent Knight so far walks up to her and makes a polite bow. “Yes Lady Destrau?”
“Prepare a carriage. I’d like to visit that Airbase of the Guranqs.”
“Of course.”
“Till we meet again Lord?”
“Jackson.”
“Lord Jackson. I get a sensing tease that this won’t be the last as the Church of Bahamut is also spreading its tentacles into the Empire. It's forbidden, you know? The belief of another religion. It's either the High Order of Goddess Forrus or being branded as a heretic.”
“I see… Well, if Bahamut wants to do something about it for her followers, I’ll gladly help her. But so far, she doesn’t want to get involved.”
“Alright. Also, Lady Minuit should be exiting out within the next few minutes. She made a lot of families angry. She’s either truly a top notch Diplomat and Businesswoman or she had taken pointers properly before walking in.”
The Elven Lady walks away into the maze of halls inside the main palace. The clacking of her shoes and the plastic clanks of the Elven Knights armor gone and once again, silence. After half an hour, a bunch of Nobles exited the room where Alana and Elizabeth were. They ignored the two as they all seemed extremely angry and distraught, murmuring to themselves and under their noses all sorts of insults and disrespectful words they could conjure. The last to leave was the Countess with the Vampire Bat on her shoulder.
“M’Lord! You should’ve seen it! Queen Elizabeth is amazing!”
“SHHHHH!”
“Oh… I mean her Majesty is extremely well versed in the art of words, with my skills of business and numbers, we were unstoppable!”
Queen Elizabeth, still a Cave Bat glides to her Lord's face. Sniffing it intensely.
“Sniff sniff, One. Sniff sniff, two…? My Lord, did someone else kiss you today other than me?” she then sniffs even more. “Two women! One that might be a High Noble!”
Bahamut then quietly slips away, behind the Countess. But her fatal mistake was that her scent was strong, and the Queen immediately identified who it was.
“Heh-heh-heh… hello your majesty.”
“Later, talk to me. You too Countess. This is not good, Master. I recommend you stay away from Bahamut.”
“Don’t have to tell me.”
“I knew this day would come, nonetheless. I shall teach the both of you about the human body and how to handle it.”
“Wait, why me Your Majesty?”
“Because, you're already here Countess. I might as well add you in, I am also hoping you can show Bahamut how a Vampire controls herself. She might learn a thing or two.”
“In Vampirism Class, we only skimmed through the part of Lust and Desire. So Your Majesty, I do think I might also be learning a thing or two myself.”
“What?! Why?”
“The Professor told us it was better for us to see what works by personally doing it. It’s just that I used that time to better my dancing while others found out their fetishes and such.”
The small bat just facepalms using its wing and shrugs. “Later! Bahamut! After returning to the Manor, do not leave our sight. I will have to give you two lectures and show you how to do it. The human body is very fragile, I fear you two will overestimate him and give him a bad time. Which is something I do not want to be done.”
Her voice was low and serious, and sent shivers to everyone’s spine. The party then walked to the front doors of the castle. Entering the Minuit’s coach as it heads back to the Manor.
“M’Lord.”
“Yes Alana, how may I help you?”
“Would you be interested in going to a Masquerade Party?”
“Oh! I remember that. You told me that you’d invite me at the top of the hospital way back, correct?”
“And here it is! For the first time M’Lord, in his Kingdom's history, humans will also be participating in the Year End Masquerade! For some reason, the Duchess of the Voltaire family, which is the family that funds the majority of these Grand Parties, are allowing humans. Though I think the High Elves would be a problem though… as much as they’re good trading partners and also in technology sharing they’re… uhmmm…”
Bahamut raises her hand. “Absolute fuckwits?” her hand was then slapped by the Queen. “Heavens Bahamut! Don’t say such vulgar words when you're in that gown and crown!”
“Ahem. Yes, fuckwits M’Lord.”
“Yeah, me and Bahamut actually encountered the diplomatic party alongside Lady Volatire.”
“Gods… I should’ve never left you alone. So… did you perhaps encounter a tall man… taller than the Queen who had a sharp jawline and nose? White long hair and everything with an annoying handsome face?”
“Hmmmm… Well, was his hair really long?”
“Ugh.” the Countess just facepalms. Knowing who it was.
“Uhm… when Voltaire called out-”
“Oh yes, you mentioned Lady Voltaire…” then something seemingly clicks inside her head. “LADY VOLTAIRE?! HER DUCHESS VOLTAIRE WAS ALSO THERE!? M’LORD WHAT DID SHE SAY?!”
“N-nothing! Calm down! I think she and Bahamut actually reached an agreement of sorts and she also paid for our meal!”
“So that was whom I smelled from you My Lord. Duchess Voltaire huh…. Countess, could that be the woman with the starry gown and uptight attitude?”
“Yes your majesty. That was her.”
“I should’ve known. To think she’d be giddy with a human. Just what does she want from you?”
“No idea but she did pay for our food. So that’s nice, and Bahamut also bought some Manga.”
“No worries M’Lord, I have space in my library. Bahamut, after you're done with them. Just leave them on a counter or table and let the servants do the rest alright?”
“Mhm!”
“So… who was that Elf dude?”
“M’Lord… that “Elf Dude” was the head of the Empire of Dryades’ Department of Foreign Affairs! He was visiting as this is the second time High Elves would be invited to our most grand party, the Year End Masquerade Party!”
“Oh… ohhhh…”
“Nothing happened right? Please tell me M’Lord that nothing happened.”
“Let me tell you a little story…”
After the General retold the entire incident, Queen Elizabeth was laughing her stomach out while the Countess was soulless and dead on her seat inside the Minuit Coach. The Queen couldn’t stop laughing even as the carriage tumbled and hit rocks from the dirt path. Wearing the Santa hat, she continues to air out her chuckle at what Bahamut did, as the Dragon Goddess cowered under her veil. Embarrassed beyond belief. After two days, the party once again arrives at Alana’s Manor.
Even back home. Elizabeth couldn’t help but still be giddy at the thought, her eyes still crying from how much she laughed. “Oh goodness. I haven’t laughed this much in my entire life. Goodness me, Bahamut. Oh Bahamut, please keep being yourself. PFFT… BAHAHAHA!” In her head were countless possibilities of the faces the High Elves would’ve made at the sight of a Dragon Goddess kissing a human right in front of them. Not having any of it, Bahamut immediately walks to her room and dives into her bed. Facepalming and visibly still hiding her face. The tired party then walks to their respective rooms to finally rest and sleep. After a good long rest for the night, Paul awakens to do his paperwork with Alana.
“Ah ha!”
“Hm? What is it, M'Lord?”
“The report came back! Looks like no one has any fucking idea at how that photo reached the King! Yehey! And it seems that they got away! Oh my God. We aren’t going to last long.” the man then deflates and cowers within his arms.
“Who did? Those soldiers in black from that unnamed terrorist group?”
“Yes! Ah fuck. This shits going to make me fume. It's morning and I have nothing but bad news on my table. Look at this incompetent fucks, but the moment you don’t pay tax. They’ll remember everything, even what time you shit and piss.”
“Such is life, M'Lord. I’m guessing they have better things to do than try to expose the Queen anyways. They haven’t done anything since and they are no longer spotted around. That could also mean they're totally gone.”
“Which is what… even in this document. It states nothing of what they could be doing in the future or their possible next location. High Command is teasing me like a cougar. I hate it. Could they tease me like Elizabeth does? At least I’m looking forward to the news, not this.”
“What is with you Outworlders and keeping information to yourselves? I still remember the Queen chewing out a UN goon inside a limo for hiding so many things even to her.”
“I don’t know… I truly do not know. It’s like this back then on Earth and it's like this here. Of course a circus led by clowns breeds another circus full of clowns. Geez, what am I going to do with this information? Eat it? Wipe my ass with this later?”
“Well, the best you can do now M’Lord is just make a mental note of it. They’re out there somewhere plotting something.”
“I swear.”
“How was… Morgan? M’Lord.”
“Hm?”
“The Duchess. How was she, M’Lord?”
“Idunno. She seemed pretty fine. Why?”
“She visited us back in University. I’d often see her as this star that no one could reach. I couldn’t believe that she’d share a part of her cake with you. A human, how much did you sell yourself M’Lord? Are you truly skilled in this art? Maybe this is why they chose you instead of those men in suits.”
“Huh, so you also get thoughts like that. I always saw you as the type who wouldn’t care for such things as you seemed confident enough in yourself.”
“Hmph, even I am not immune to jealousy, M'Lord. Even with my family name, wealth, and purity. It's actually one of the things we Vampires feel a lot of times.”
“She was good. Though a bit bitchy at first, she never stood out to me as anyone dangerous or Evil. She was actually quite welcoming at some points and was kind enough to save us from completely being made a mockery inside the cafe and outside the Cathedral and even paid for all our food. You have to thank her as your coin pouch would’ve been more empty if it weren’t for her.”
“Good. I think we might’ve made our best ally for our cause M’Lord. Slowly but surely, we are making big strides in changing the opinion of everyone. I also think she’s the only one responsible for why this year's Masquerade Party is going to be the most interesting yet.”
“I know, and it’s quite good to know to have her be as understanding as that. Also, does it mean anything in your culture if a woman gives a man a slice of her cake?”
“Yes M’Lord. It’s actually a sign of intimacy, that this woman sees you as someone she could partner with.”
“W-wow.”
“Hm, hence my surprise. Though if you did say it as grand and heroic as you made it seem in your tale. I wouldn’t question it. Stories of valiant Knights rescuing their Princess are very popular with the ladies here. Even to me. She might’ve related to it a lot, M’Lord.”
“I know, even the Manga’s you bought are all about Knightly men saving people and doing heroic things.”
“And I shall read more! How long till break time?”
The two looked at the clock and the pointer was nearing the middle time where the Morning and Afternoon Sun meet. The beautiful art on the spinning disc shows the meadows and the location of it in the Kingdom.
“If I’m reading this correctly, an hour.”
“Alright. I guess I could still do some work.”
“My head is going to pop with all of these graphs… and this is just for one airbase which is the one south of the Kingdom. I can only imagine the horrors when I go back and paperwork from all active bases will have to go through me.” The General immediately slumps down on his table, his arms crumpling the sides of his head as his eyes roll through the endless sea of words, letters and numbers with colorful graphs. While in her own worktable, Alana just tapped her feet and hummed a Waltz. Her heeled shoes are properly together beside her table.
He stands up, and slowly walks over to Alana to see what she’s doing. His eyes sank even lower at the sight. The two papers she’s checking had nothing but numbers on it with some letters badly written. But her sharp ears were perking up and down as she enjoyed humming to herself. “O-Oh M’Lord, why’re you looking here?” The General then just walks back to his chair and sits down like a tired old man.
“You have it tough don’tcha?”
“W-Where is this coming from… M’Lord?”
“I have the benefit of having graphs and calculations done by computers while you are toiling away so hard at that wrinkly piece of paper. You have my respect.”
He then bows like he is with a Master of Management and Alana just lifts up her hands confused. “M’LORD! CALM DOWN!”
“I feel like I lost Five IQ points just staring at your paperwork for a few seconds. Don’t worry, I’ll do everything in my power to give you guys calculators.”
“W-We have those M’Lord! Look!”
Alana turns around and picks up a fancy metal Abacus “See! I use this to do my math! Oh and I also have this!” She also shows that a section of her table has permanent paint on it with X and Y for making calculations and the General just stood up and put his hand up her shoulder. “Do not worry, my love. I shall present to you technology that will make your life easier. Just let me get the request form.” his eyes seemed so hopeful for her as if he had the answer to all of her problems. “... Wanna call it quits early?” The General just nodded and the two got up. With her opening a drawer on her table and taking out a Manga she just bought recently. The two go outside the hall and Bahamut is on the central balcony, enjoying a cake while reading the horrific book she bought from the traveling merchant artist.
Wearing an oversized Santa Hat, and her Crown and veil placed on the marble table as she quietly heated her drink with tiny balls of fire. “Huh, Bahamut has a really sharp chin don’t she?” The divine pale-faced Goddess then teleports Salt cubes directly into her cup as she reaches out her left hand into a portal and fetches the second part of it. “I never knew she was into that stuff, M’Lord.”
“I always figured. Every time we’d go down any scary cave or place full ghosts, she never cared or even showed a pint of fear while I was cowering in the nearest cover.”
“You know M’Lord, Vampire Swordsmanship also has a section for fighting Ghosts.”
“Hah, no. You already taught me enough, and I can’t really use your style as much since it incorporates magic far too much for my feeble human body.”
“Then M’Lord, why not train your Mana usage?”
“Hm? Back in Tur, you cannot train your Mana. You can only increase it with enchanted items. If you want your mana to increase naturally, be a Mage from birth. But the rest of your stats would be dogshit. So you have to balance what you did when young.”
“Oh I see, I thought Tur had plenty of Mana to use though M’Lord. I find it strange you're so restricted.”
“You should see the normal people, not Chosen Ones like me or the rest of us. What Bahamut is doing now.” the two turn their look at the Divine being, a perfect circle is around her where it's completely void of snow. “Even I’m not able to use magic so freely.”
“It would be too late, but if you are willing M’Lord. You should train your magic daily, as it naturally increases your Mana. The more you use it, the more you can spam it as you’d say.”
“No wonder people here are so strong. So those who’ve been using magic for a young age can have an upperhand, even humans. I’ll see what I can do, it's not like I’m a Battlemage, most of my strat comes down to wielding my sword and if that doesn’t work, fists.”
“Pfft… I still remember you punching a Vampire Noble to a pulp M’Lord.”
“Heheheh… yeah. Also, how come Vampires have a subset in their Sword style for fighting ghosts?”
“Ah, it's due to the soul of a Vampire. If a strong enough one was to die, there’s a high chance their soul would linger in the area terrorizing those unfortunate enough to run into it.”
“So that means your grunts also have enchanted weapons right?”
“No M’Lord. We’re not that rich nor have a manufacturing base large enough to be able to field something like that. What made you think we can do that?”
“I fought High Elves before on the border, remember? They wear composite armor and their lances can shoot bullets of energy. Pretty sure Bahamut told me it was some sort of Lightning magic.”
“That’s due to the High Elves being the top place for enchanted metals, M'Lord. Fun fact, they are pretty much the largest nation in Threa next to the Kingdom of James in Dragovh. Due to this, the High Elves have access to almost any metal they need. But not enough of the more important ones like Kienium.”
“Kienium?”
“Hm, it's only found in the Northwestern part of Geraldia, in the Kingdom known as Avaria. So Avaria sells it to the High Elves and Avaria buys it back, all enchanted at exorbitant prices even though they both live in the same continent. Business M’Lord.”
“Huh, that’s pretty smart. No wonder they can afford to field an army like that. I’m guessing this is the same story for the rest of the Kingdoms and the farther you are, the worse it gets?”
“Yup. We actually invited the High Elves here to talk about it. The King has been forewarned already of the nearing End Times. When the Hordes of Hell will come upon this land once again, though the frequency has been getting more and more far apart. This Fourth one is said to be the worst one yet.”
“With this knowledge, the High Elves should be making more bank than they should normally then. Geez, for being absolute morons who hate everyone, they sure know how to do business. I gotta admire that and that flying ship of theirs. It looks magnificent.”
“I do find it funny that after eleven months of diplomacy, when they decided to come here. It was when we bridged negotiations with humanity.”
“They have good timing. Anyway, let’s leave Bahamut there. Let her enjoy her peace.”
“Mm. Let’s eat, M’Lord.”
The two then go down to look at the food with Elizabeth elegantly eating in her chair. Gracefully taking apart the meat first and only taking small bites and enjoying the taste of the food in her mouth before swallowing. Before the two even went into the dining room, she gently lowered the utensils and wiped her mouth softly.
“Oh, the two of you finally thought of coming out of that decrepit room.”
Elizabeth’s high and mighty stance stops the both of them, who seemed like gremlins that just walked out of their caves to feed and then to return back soon after.
“Yeah, and Elizabeth. Do you know what the reports from High Command are?”
“Knowing them, it’s probably a load of bollocks and empty words, My Lord.”
“Exacto. Clowns breeding Clowns. I swear, the future generations are getting more fucked than never before. If even here, the Circus that is modern government is being itself with people who should have no idea how to be the modern government just says enough.”
“Though My Lord, look at you being more vocal now.”
“Well… I got allies so I can be a bit more aggressive with my opinions as…” the man wipes his forehead. “This has been a nonstop shitshow from beginning to present. I swear, I’ll start a coup if it weren’t from the fact that someone else might already be on that and I might be on the chopping block if they win.”
“Calm down My Lord. Countess, how was your business?”
“It’s happening. I’ve already finished writing the Contracts and Land Relinquishment Procedures. I’ve also done the math and it all checks out, we might have a loss at the first month or so, but after that. It should be a continuous profit.”
“Heh heh heh. And that Countess is how you do business with these Nobles. You are a smart one when it comes to thinking up schemes and plans like our Lord for max profits and little waste. But you must also know how to deal with many people coming at you in one go. Do not be overwhelmed by their angry faces. That High Elf woman also seemed to be impressed by you.”
Soon, the entire group gathered at the dinner table. The General had to keep reminding Bahamut to eat as the Dragon was so busy reading her horror manga and she took longer than anyone else to take a bite, while the Queen had to lecture Alana about reading while at the table. After eating, Elizabeth drags the tired General who was planning on continuing his work to the garden, passing two people in Noble attire, with the woman looking like an older version of Alana. There in the garden, she demands to practice and learn more about using human guns while the Countess with Bahamut enters the Dinner room where her parents were quietly drinking tea.
“MOTHER?! FATHER?! YOU’RE STILL HERE?!”
“Oh my! If it isn’t my beautiful daughter. Please sit down, we had to… talk to alot of families that were arriving here, questioning about the ancient Queen… and who was that woman who just passed us dragging a tired human to your garden?”
“And Alana, who is that woman behind you who seems to be going to a funeral?”
Upon hearing this, Bahamut immediately turns around to escape the impending conversation but Alana grabs her gown's skirt and forces her to sit down next to her. The beautiful pale lady just drinks tea calmly as she hides the horrific and gory cover of her manga under her butt while eyeing the Countess who is evidently clenching her hands. Her parents were just as beautiful and handsome, truly befitting of birthing such a purebred beauty. Even at their age, you wouldn’t even notice that the mother had birthed a child and the father, busy with his work with their seemingly perfect youthful aura and looks.
“Alana.”
“Y-Yes Father?”
The Countess’ father spoke with a heavy and serious tone, a man who needed only a few words to speak his mind.
“That human with you, is that your… slave? Pet?”
“H-he is my…”
Alana and Bahamut stare at each other as the Dragon God sips the empty cup while adjusting her rear to make sure the manga is totally covered by her gown.
“He’s… my Lord father... I’ve been defeated by him.”
She lowered her head while Bahamut kept on drinking the empty cup. Trying not to sweat as the Countess puts her legs together and her hands on top of her thighs.
“So… it is true huh. The daughter of the Minuit's, one of the rare purebred vampires, one of the only ones to be born with no human blood at all… got felled by a… human?”
“My daughter, as a mother I hope you know how hard this is for me to accept. What had the human requested from you? Your body? Wealth? Knowledge? YOUR BODY?!”
Her mother had the same voice as the Countess, but deeper and in a panicked manner. Still shaking at the thoughts running around her head.
“No Mother. We’ve actually been adventuring together.”
“Adventuring? Alana. Do you know how many responsibilities you have with your Domains?”
“Sorry Father. I’m aware of it but I’ve had so much fun in these past few months.”
“Fun? Hmmmm… well you did get to befriend a Dragon God… that basically erased all suspicions and vile rumors about you… but you do know what’s worse than a false rumor right?”
“A true one Father.”
“Exactly Alana. Goddess Bahamut, may I ask what tribute you’d wish from the Minuit family? We’re willing to pay except for the souls of me, my wife and daughter.”
Bahamut stops pretending to sip her empty cup and thinks about it a little bit. Meanwhile, behind the Manor, in the garden was Paul trying to show the Queen proper gun safety.
“Please, if you want to spin a revolver like I do, don’t do it with the cylinder loaded!”
“Eh, it takes way too much effort.”
“It’s proper gun safety!”
Elizabeth spins his Python revolver loaded, making the General dodge and lay low. The man had to seemingly dance as she was spinning it without care, even turning and facing different directions making him perform combat rolls into the statues and hedgehogs.
“At least put the hammer up!”
“Hammer? Oh this?”
She then puts the hammer up, spinning the revolver even more daringly. Throwing it up in the air and then catching it with her long slender fingers.
“Why would you even want to do this? Isn’t yours a semi automatic single action pistol that fires a fifty!”
“You always looked so cool while doing it, I’d like to see how hard it is.”
Already, the Queen was able to constantly keep the revolver spinning and is able to stop it without much problem. Though she stumbles a bit on catching it, nonetheless her fast fingers prevented it from fully slipping and going off randomly.
“Okay, how about this. Shooting, now I’ll go fetch some random items and see if you can master the art of reloading with magic. It’s a bit finicky, but it can be done.”
Going around and asking the servants, he managed to find a rotten wooden table with some used mugs and bottles that are no longer needed. “Okay, materialize the AutoMag.” the Queen opens her palm and the AutoMag pistol appears right before his eyes. “Woah, that’s not teleportation magic… not even human teleportation magic.”
“Yes My Lord, it is weapon symbiosis as I call it. It's an old Dark Elven magic that fuses the weapon with your body, I also do this to my swords.”
“Wow, that’s pretty handy not gonna lie. But about bullets though? That thing shoots enchanted Action Express rounds. Not simple to materialize with magic.”
“Oh, you mean this?”
On her other hand, she materializes the strangely tipped .50AEs. Checking it out, the General’s eyes are intrigued by the engravings on the bullet and the gun itself. “Hmmm… interesting. So this gun technically speaking is just an offensive weapon.”
“Offensive weapon?”
“Yes Elizabeth. This bad boy uses the same amount of enchantments that’s meant to just blow big holes at things or penetrate high level Bi or Trialloy armor. The rounds it uses are tipped with Divine spells also, meant to stop Regeneration skills or passives, the tip is made out of blessed lead. Interestingly, I don’t use one since my revolver fires magnum rounds and its shell to the powder are all created in a certain way. But yours is just meant to really just point and kill.”
“Ohhhh, now I can see why I have such an attraction to this weapon given to me. It knows my style. Heh… heheh…”
“Mhm. Alright, let’s see if you’ve perfected shooting since I heard you used guns against Havannah and her goons. Let us see.”
With one hand, the Queen aims the gun and starts shooting at the bottles. The poor objects were completely obliterated by the special rounds. Each bottle completely blows up to a million pieces from how powerful it was while others are left with big holes in them. The shined and chromed slide pulled back perfectly and the action of the gun was on point. “Damn, I need to get me one of those.” The gun then stops, and the Queen remembering how she was taught to reload it, presses the magazine eject button and catches the spent magazine and immediately faces Paul.
“So, how did I do?”
“WOAH OKAY! AGAIN! Don’t point! No pointing! Just like with a sword, don’t point it's tip at people nearby! Just add in a note to also not point it at people far away!”
“Oh, oops.”
“Phew. Well, you did good. But this time try using both of your hands.”
“Hm?”
The General walks up to her shoulder and places her hands and fingers on the gun, one on the grip and one below it.
“Like that, keep it far from your chest and keep it straight. You feet apart and have your best foot forward and aim down sight. Now, try shooting the mugs. Also, as an added bonus. Try reloading it from that position without moving or looking down.”
She then materializes another magazine and stumbles a bit but gets it in and pushes the slide back and the gun is ready to shoot. With another five shots, she starts blasting away at the wooden mugs and exiting on the back door of the Manor, Alana’s parents are frightened by the ear blistering sound of the .50AE destroying the mugs. After spending five rounds, one target left. The two curious parents start walking to the human and vampire with guns.
“Okay, that was good. But don’t fall for the folly of shooting a target a second time.”
“Hm? Why?”
“With rounds that big and powerful, you don’t need to shoot someone a second time even if a huge hunk of their body remains there more than dead. When shooting, you have to adjust your style a bit.”
“Really, My Lord?”
“Yes, as unlike Alana. I know you like to inflict a bit more of pain…” the General then remembers Elizabeth tearing up her enemies and letting them bleed or at some times, just tearing their limbs apart with her bare hands while she gleefully smiles at the pained faces of the poor fools unlucky enough to face her in battle. “But with a gun, the main idea is to finish the job as soon as possible and move on. So if half a bottle remains, just leave it. It’s already dead anyways.”
“Ah, of course. But one can never be too sure, am I correct?”
“Yes, that’s also true but you have to take in the fact that there’s five targets. With five rounds, better disable them all first, of course since you're the Vampire Queen, you can just swipe his head off with your hand or point your finger and shoot a bullet of air into him, but that stands next to the point. So when using guns, spare no expense in taking out as many targets as you can in the shortest amount of time.”
“I see.”
“Next I guess, I could teach you how modern warfare works. I get this idea that giving you a Mechanized Battalion full of tanks and soldiers to lead would be pretty effective in war. Oh, I should teach you more about tactics too! I feel that many of our modern tactics could prove helpful in your Kingdom’s future wars or troubles.”
“Oh, that is very interesting! I’d love to try that out. You did say, My Lord, that you were mostly outnumbered in World War Three and thus, forced to use other means to gain the upper hand.”
“Oh yea we were. The only battle where we had the numerical advantage was in Africa and I was a thousand kilometers from that place, in the seething heat of Central Asia then the Middle East. Every air conditioned room there felt like heaven, I wouldn’t even pop out of my tank from how hot it was. Good thing we were all issued with exoskeletons that had an inbuilt cooling system.”
“What’re these exoskeletons? You mentioned them multiple times in your war stories, My Lord.”
“Their special powered skeletons meant to help us become more mobile. That is old tech too, like a decade or two old already. It was actually our adversary NATO that fielded them first. It was just thanks to the brains that gathered in ASEAN that we built a more compact version that also provided Kevlar protection.”
“Powered skeletons? Hmmmm… what an intriguing piece of tech your world has, My Lord.”
“Hah, that merely scratches the surface of how terrifying modern war truly is. It made a soldier capable of walking ten miles without being tired and lifting heavy stuff. I wonder if the Men of the Woods has one, I could surely teach people in how to use one.”
“I find it amazing your civilization hasn’t yet cracked the planet with all these stories you have, My Lord.”
“We're no longer a single planet species too Elizabeth. We’re interstellar, though we do not have the population to build a functioning civilization on Mars… it's getting there. Just gotta reach that fifteen billion mark.”
“And how many humans are there on Earth?”
“Nine billion. We stagnated after the twenty twenties. Birth Rates even before I came to this world were still tanking. So the plan of making Mars a second Earth might have to wait… for a century or two…”
“Hmmm… do you have books with your tactics on it apart from the Art of War?”
“Oh we do. Even videos if you want. Also, are you actually reading that human anatomy book that you made me buy you like… five months ago?”
“Yes. Yes My Lord. Its actually thanks to that we’re able to have proper sex with you also having fun.”
“But you did notice right?”
“Hm…?” the Queen then puts her hand up her chin. “Oh! You lasted an hour longer now!”
“Yeess! It's all thanks to that Bloodrose petal Alana gave me on Christmas. What about you? Are you really going to use that pink gown with the wide brim hat?”
“Of course, It's a bit tight but I can manage.”
“And Bahamut, what did Bahamut give you anyways?”
“I’d… I’d rather not speak of it.”
Elizabeth seemed as if she had a long hard memory of whatever Bahamut gave her and the General immediately clapped his hand. “... I see… Well, I could pull some strings. You already have a big presence within High Command. They’ll surely do it with my blessing. Just remember, in modern combat. You do not need to have a bigger army. Just have the bigger guns and you’ll do just fine.”
“Please My Lord. That’s how King Charles had always operated and taught me.”
“Yea, I guess so. But there’s still some things that are different with modern arms and technology. Put in Magic, it's an entirely new dynamic.”
“Also, My Lord. We seem to have visitors behind us.”
“Really?”
The General looks back and could see the dashingly young and gorgeous mother of Alana and her devilishly handsome father. Holding each other at the sight of the ancient Queen. “Oh shit.”