Sometime earlier, after Adria's and Alex's bear encounter.

Adria, visited Alex more and more, spending time with him. She took him out on rides, horseback riding, and even took him hunting once.

They enjoyed each other's company. Alex brought her to his garden, showing her his flowers and herbs. As the winter was ending, the flowers began to shyly pop up from the ground. Still unable to bloom fully, their leaves were pale green, as they were waking up from the long slumber.

"Look, Adria, spring is coming," Alex said, pointing to the flower buds. "The flowers are waking up."

"Yes, I can see that," Adria agreed.

"Once they bloom, the sight will be beautiful. The garden will be filled with colourful flowers. It's my favourite part of the year."

"I'm looking forward to it," Adria said.

She was happy that Alex was opening up to her.

"I'm sure you will love it, Adria."

"You seem really happy here," she remarked, watching him tend to the plants.

"I am," Alex replied. "Gardening is very calming. It helps me relax and focus."

Adria nodded.

"You must show me around, my sweet Alex. But no flowers would be as beautiful, as your lovely face," she added, grinning.

"That's... uh... thanks, Adria," he stammered, blushing slightly. His small, innocent smile was like a ray of sunshine, illuminating her world.

She had never met a man, or anyone really, who was as pure and honest as him. It was refreshing. Most of her time, she had to deal with the ugly side of humanity. War, bloodshed, violence. Leading her dragoons was her life, and it had been so for a long time. It excited her, it made her feel alive. She could not imagine any other way of living.

But Alex was different. He was kind and gentle, innocent and sweet. His innocence stirred a primal desire within her. A desire to protect him. A desire to possess him.

As she looked at him, her thoughts were filled with lust. She imagined tearing his clothes off and taking him right there in the garden. She wanted to devour his body, to make him hers. As his defenceless body laid helpless before her, she would ravish him mercilessly. His tear-stained face, blushing crimson, and his sweet moans, as he tried to resist weakly, yet not honestly, his body betraying him. His shy, fearful, yet slightly expectant gaze, and his trembling, as he waited for her to claim him.

She shook her head, trying to clear her mind. She couldn't allow herself to act on her desires. Alex was too precious. She couldn't risk losing him. She had to be patient. In the first place, she didn't want to hurt him.

She wasn't like those stupid bitches of hers, unable to control their urges. She didn't want to ruin the fragile bond that had formed between them. She couldn't bear the thought of him rejecting her.

"I need to control myself," she thought.

As they walked along the rows of plants, she spotted a small, white flower with six petals. Its centre was pink and its leaves were long and slender.

"Ah, a snowdrop," Alex explained.

"A snowdrop?" Adria asked.

"Yes. It's a symbol of hope and rebirth. It grows during the winter and is a sign that spring is coming."

"Interesting," Adria said.

Alex plucked the flower and handed it to her.

"Here. This is for you."

Adria took the flower and held it gently in her palm.

"It's beautiful," she murmured.

"It's my gift to you," Alex said. "I hope you like it."

Adria smiled.

"I love it, my sweet Alex."

She reached out and stroked his hair affectionately.

"Thank you."

He blushed, smiling shyly.

"You're welcome."

"You are so kind and generous, my dear Alex," she said softly. "Not many men would give a woman flowers. Usually, they are the ones receiving them."

"Is... is it strange? For me to give you a flower?" Alex asked, a little uncertain.

"No, not at all," she replied. "I appreciate your gesture. It makes me happy."

"Oh... I'm glad. I just love flowers, and I hoped you'd like them too," Alex said, relieved.

"I do, my sweet Alex. I really do."

Adria felt her chest tighten. Alex's simple act of kindness touched her deeply.

"I love you, my dear Alex," she whispered, gazing into his eyes.

"I-I love you too, Adria," he replied.

The moment felt perfect. They leaned toward each other and their lips met. The kiss was gentle and tender. Adria's heart swelled with joy.

"My sweet Alex," she thought, as she wrapped her arms around him, "I will love and protect you forever."

Alex was shocked, yet somehow thrilled. He had never felt this way before. As Adria's fierce gaze bored into his eyes, he felt his knees go weak. He returned the kiss, and soon the two were locked in a passionate embrace. He felt her strong, muscular body against his own, and his mind went blank. His heart was pounding, and his cheeks flushed red.

As their lips parted, Adria smiled and kissed him again.

"You are so sweet and innocent," she murmured. "I can't get enough of you."

"A-Adria," Alex whispered, his voice trembling.

"Yes, my darling?" she asked, caressing his cheek.

"I'm scared," he admitted.

"Scared of what?" she inquired.

"Of this. Of us. It's all happening so fast."

"Don't worry, my dear Alex," she assured him. "I will always be by your side. I will protect you from all harm."

"I trust you, Adria," he whispered. "I'm just nervous."

"It's alright, my sweet Alex," she reassured him. "I'll be gentle with you. I won't hurt you."

"Okay," he said, smiling weakly.

Adria kissed him again, this time deeper and more passionately. Her tongue explored his mouth, tasting his sweetness. He tasted of honey and mint. She moaned softly, savouring his flavour.

Alex's mind was reeling. Adria's scent filled his nostrils, and her lips tasted sweet. Her muscular body pressed against him, and her arms enveloped him in a tight embrace. He was lost in the moment, overwhelmed by sensations.

Adria's hands roamed his body, caressing and stroking him. He moaned softly, his body quivering with unknown feelings.

"A-Adria," he whimpered.

"Shh, my sweet Alex," she cooed. "Let me take care of you."

"O-Okay," he murmured, surrendering himself to her.

She laid him down gently on the grass, her hands exploring his body. Her fingers traced his chest, his soft belly, his slender thighs. He trembled under her touch, his eyes closed, his breath shallow.

"Adria," he whispered, "please."

"Don't worry, my darling," she said softly. "I'll be gentle."

She lowered her head and kissed him again, her tongue invading his mouth. He moaned softly, returning the kiss.

Her hands cupped his cheeks, and then moved down to his neck. Her fingertips grazed his skin, sending shivers through his body.

His hands were at his sides, his fingers digging into the grass. He felt her lips leave his mouth, trailing kisses along his jawline, sending waves of something through him.

"Ahh!" he cried out, as her tongue flicked against his ear.

"So sensitive, my darling," she purred. "I love it."

Her lips moved lower, kissing and licking his neck. Her hands massaged his chest, squeezing and kneading.

"A-Adria," he gasped.

"Yes, my love," she murmured. "Relax."

"I... I can't," he moaned.

"Shhh," she whispered, "just relax. Let me take care of you."

He shuddered as her hands slid down his chest and stomach.

"N-No, I... we can't," he protested as he jumped away, like a frightened rabbit.

Adria frowned and pouted.

"What's wrong, my sweet Alex? You don't want me anymore?"

"It's not that, Adria," he said, shaking his head. "It's just..."

"Just what?" she pressed.

"It's... too early," he mumbled.

"Too early? For what?"

"For this," he replied. "I'm not ready. I need more time. We are not even married."

Adria sighed.

"Very well, my darling. I understand. I will wait. For you."

"Thank you, Adria," he said.

"But, let's seal this promise with a kiss," she grinned, and kissed him deeply.

"Okay," he replied.

They lay on the ground, embracing each other, their hearts beating in unison.

"I love you, my dear Alex," she murmured.

"I love you too, Adria," he replied, kissing her lightly on the forehead.

As the sun set, they walked hand-in-hand back to the manor.

***

Alex was a bit troubled. He didn't know why, but he couldn't get Adria off his mind. His heart was beating faster than normal, and his face was flushed.

He thought about their time together, how Adria's touch sent shivers down his spine. How her scent filled his nostrils, making him lightheaded.

"What is this feeling?" he thought.

He was confused. He had never felt this way about anyone before. He didn't know what to do.

"Maybe I'm sick," he said to himself.

"Or maybe," a voice in his head said, "you're in love."

"In love? No, that can't be," he argued. "I barely know Adria."

"You've known her for weeks," the voice countered. "And you've spent a lot of time with her."

"That's true," he conceded. "But, it's not like we're lovers or anything."

"Maybe not yet," the voice replied, "but you will be."

Alex thought about Adria's words.

"My dear Alex, I will love and protect you forever."

Those words echoed in his head, filling him with warmth and joy. He remembered his late father's words. His teachings about the meaning of marriage. About men and women. It was frowned upon, for a man and woman to be so intimate before they were wed. It was wrong.

Only married couples could indulge in such intimacy. Anything else was considered immoral. Adria had promised to wait for him, to respect his wishes. He was grateful for that.

He imagined getting married to Adria. They would exchange vows, promising to love and cherish each other forever. He would wear a beautiful dress, and Adria would wear a handsome tunic. They would kiss, sealing their union.

They would share a bed, making a holy covenant under the Goddess' watchful gaze. They would consummate their marriage, becoming one. After that, Adria would give birth to their children. Beautiful sons and daughters, and he would raise them with love and care, as was expected of him.

Alex blushed at the thought. Children. Adria's children. His children. Their children.

"My sweet Alex," he imagined Adria saying, "our children are beautiful."

Alex imagined cradling his newborn child in his arms. A tiny, pink, squirming bundle of joy. He would feed the baby with his breast, providing nourishment and affection.

From time immemorial, women were the ones to bear and birth children. Men had always been nourishers. Breastfeeding was their role in life. It was their sacred duty. Alex was no exception.

After the first night of the holy union, men's bodies transformed permanently. Their chests changed, becoming even softer. Secretions of milk began to form in their breasts. These changes were necessary, to enable them to nourish life, as women were unable to do so.

The start of men's ability nourish life marked their transition into complete adulthood. It was celebrated with a ceremony, where elders bestowed blessings upon the male. He was praised for fulfilling his destiny, for becoming a provider-nurturer.

Alex felt scared, yet excited at the same time. The thought of nursing a baby, Adria's baby, filled him with joy. Yet, he was nervous. He didn't know if he was ready.

"Am I ready to become husband and father?" he wondered.

Alex knew Adria would wait for him. She had promised. But he didn't know if he could keep her waiting.

Alex felt conflicted. Part of him wanted to marry Adria right away, to consummate their relationship. To fulfil his destiny. Another part of him was scared. Marriage was a huge commitment. It was a lifelong bond, sealed under the Goddess' gaze. There was no turning back once it was done.

Even though the two of them were promised to each other, Alex felt anxious. He didn't know if he was ready to take the next step. But he didn't want to disappoint Adria nor make her wait forever. She had been so patient with him. She had respected his wishes, despite her own desires. His own indecisiveness made him feel guilty.

Alex decided to pray to the Goddess. He wanted guidance. He needed to know what to do.

Alex went to the chapel. It was a small building, located within the manor grounds. It was used for worship and ceremonies.

Alex knelt before the altar, clasping his hands in prayer.

"Dear Goddess, please guide me," he pleaded. "I am conflicted. I don't know what to do. Adria has been so patient with me. I don't want to keep her waiting forever. But marriage is a big commitment. I'm scared. Please help me. Show me the right path."

Alex prayed fervently, hoping for an answer. No reply came. But Alex didn't feel discouraged. He knew the Goddess watched over everyone, even though she rarely intervened directly. He continued praying, until the sun set and darkness enveloped the chapel.

As Alex returned to his room, he felt calmer. Praying had eased his mind. He felt confident in his decision. He would agree to Adria's proposal. He would marry her.

Alex felt nervous, yet excited at the same time. He couldn't wait to tell Adria the news. He imagined her reaction, how her face would light up when he accepted her proposal.

After his nightly rituals, Alex lay in his bed, his thoughts filled with Adria. He drifted off to sleep, a smile on his face.

***

The dragoons were growing restless in their camp on the outskirts of Lockinge. Lady Adria had forbidden them from entering the village without her permission. She didn't want them causing any trouble that might reflect poorly on her.

But after weeks cooped up in the camp, the dragoons were getting antsy.

"I'm so damn bored just sitting around here day after day," growled Vasilisa, one of the veterans. "I need some excitement!"

"You and me both," replied Rada, sharpening her dagger. "At this rate, we'll go crazy from boredom before the war even starts."

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The other women grumbled in agreement. Their blood boiled with the thrill of combat, yet here they were essentially reduced to doing chores around camp.

"Screw it, I say we sneak off to the village tonight," declared Yana, eyes glinting with mischief. "Lady Adria never has to know."

Murmurs of approval rippled through the group. A night carousing and drinking in the village would provide some much-needed stress relief.

Under the cover of darkness, a group of dragoons snuck away from camp towards Lockinge. They made their way to the village hall, where the sound of music and laughter could be heard from within.

Slipping inside, the dragoons were welcomed by the warm glow of lanterns and a crowd of youths dancing merrily to fiddle music. The dragoons wasted no time in grabbing mugs of ale and joining in the frivolity.

At first, young innocent boys were slightly interested in the newcomers, eyeing their athletic bodies curiously. Their rough demeanour intrigued them, especially their muscular, strong physiques. Yet, their intimidating aura kept the boys at bay.

However, soon alcohol loosened their tongues and inhibitions, and the dragoons began flirting openly with the Lockinge villagers. Some found dance partners, while others struck up conversations with attractive young men.

At first, spirits were high. But soon, the dragoons' crude nature emerged. Their suggestive remarks and wandering hands quickly became too much for the young and naive Lockinge men to handle.

"Come here, gorgeous!" Rada shouted, grabbing a young man who yelped and pulled away in terror.

"N-no! Get away!" he pleaded, trembling as Rada yanked at his wrists.

Nearby, Vasilisa cornered a frail looking boy, leering hungrily as he shrank back.

"Now, now, no need to shake so much, lad," she mocked, as the boy shuddered uncontrollably.

The other dragoons began groping at unwilling partners forcefully. The men cried out and recoiled in fear at their rough, invasive touches.

"S-stop!" one man stammered, tears in his eyes as he tried futilely to wrench himself free.

"Please... no!" another whimpered, cowering as a dragoon leered at him.

Their terrified reactions only spurred the dragoons on, feeding their lustful urges. They couldn't resist such delicious prey, helpless and vulnerable before them.

"Come on boys, don't be shy," Vasilisa sneered, grabbing a man by the waist and pulling him close.

"Yes, let us show you a good time," Rada laughed, her hand roughly groping a terrified youth.

The women of Lockinge watched in outrage as their menfolk were tormented by these brutes.

Mara, the strongest among the women, stepped forward, fists clenched in anger.

"Unhand our men, you beasts!" she roared, lunging at Vasilisa, trying to protect her sobbing target from the brutish dragoon.

Other Lockinge women followed suit, rallying to Mara's cry.

"You monsters get out!" they yelled. "Leave our village be!"

The men scurried away desperately like frightened mice. They huddled together behind the women, paralyzed by shock and horror.

The dragoons scoffed at the women's bravado.

"Oh, look who's trying to be brave," Vasilisa mocked, towering over Mara threateningly.

"Get out, I say!" Mara repeated, undeterred by Vasilisa's imposing figure.

Rada joined her comrade, sneering at the Lockinge villagers contemptuously.

"Or what, weaklings?" she taunted. "You'll fight us? Don't make us laugh."

The Lockinge women stood their ground, determined to defend their village and its people from these bullies.

"We will fight you if we have to," Mara declared, staring defiantly up at Vasilisa.

The dragoons exchanged amused glances.

"Alright then, let's have some fun," Vasilisa sneered, cracking her knuckles menacingly.

Without warning, she threw a punch at Mara's face, knocking the woman down. Rada kicked her viciously, sending her crashing into a table.

The Lockinge women cried out in alarm. They charged the dragoons recklessly, driven by their desire to protect their homes and men.

Vasilisa and Rada met the frenzied assault head-on, counterattacking with brutal ferocity. They punched and kicked mercilessly, inflicting pain and suffering on their opponents.

Soon, the brawl escalated into an all-out melee, with the blades flashing dangerously in the dim light. Even though the dragoons were strong and experienced warriors, the Lockinge women fought with a tenacity fuelled by their burning rage and protective instincts.

The battle raged on, neither side willing to back down. Blood and bruises were spilled, and furniture was smashed in the chaos.

Men cowered in the corner, watching helplessly as their women battled the dragoons ferociously. Tears streamed down their faces as they prayed for the conflict to end. They hugged each other tightly, hands clasped together in desperate hope.

Finally, the frenzied villagers overwhelmed the outnumbered dragoons with sheer ferocity and numbers. When the last dragoon has fallen lifeless, the men wept with relief, still quaking from their ordeal. The women soothed them gently, reassuring them the danger had passed.

The Lockinge women dragged the defeated dragoons' corpses outside, dumping them unceremoniously in the dirt.

"These brutes will never harm you again," Mara vowed, spitting contemptuously on Vasilisa's body.

"May their souls rot in the Goddess' hell," another woman cursed, kicking Rada spitefully.

The Lockinge men sobbed, thanking the women tearfully for protecting them. Their soft crying echoed through the night air, a testament to the horrors that played out within the village hall mere moments ago.

***

After parting with Alex, when Adria was riding back to Lockinge, she couldn't stop grinning.

"Finally, my sweet Alex is warming himself up to me," she thought. "He was so cute and innocent, but it seemed he has feelings for me. My patience has finally paid off. I'm so happy, I could cry."

As she was lost in thought, she failed to notice the abnormal situation in Lockinge. Upon her arrival in the camp, it was completely empty. No dragoons could be seen anywhere.

"Where are those stupid cunts?" Adria wondered, puzzled. "Did they abandon me and ran away? Those useless whores. If they think they can run away from me, they are dead wrong. I will find them and punish them for their disobedience."

She rode into Lockinge. Everything seemed fine at first glance. However, she noticed the village was unnaturally quiet. Not a single villager was to be seen.

Adria got suspicious. Something was clearly wrong. She decided to search for answers. As she rode through Lockinge, she suddenly heard a faint sound. It sounded like crying.

Adria followed the sound, and it led her to the village hall. She dismounted, drawing her blade cautiously. Slowly, she opened the door. Inside, she saw a gruesome sight.

The hall was in ruins. Furniture was destroyed, and blood was splattered everywhere. Some village women were trying to clean the mess. Adria recognized them - Lockinge's strongest women. They turned their heads to her. Their faces were battered and bruised, and their clothes were tattered.

"L-Lady Adria, you are back," Mara greeted her nervously, wiping her hands.

"What in the Goddess' name happened here?" Adria asked, baffled.

"Those brutes, the dragoons you lead, attacked us," Mara explained.

"What?" Adria exclaimed in disbelief.

"Yes. We managed to fend them off. But many villagers were hurt," Mara continued.

Adria was shocked and enraged.

"Tell me...! Tell me the truth! What happened here?! Where are my dragoons?!" she demanded furiously, as she approached Mara menacingly with her sabre drawn.

Mara trembled in fear, stammering: "T-They are dead, Lady Adria. We killed them."

Adria froze.

"Dead...? My dragoons are... dead?" she mumbled.

. Lady Adria, please calm down," Mara pleaded, terrified.

"Answer me, bitch!" Adria roared.

Mara flinched, cowering in fear.

"T-They attacked us first, Lady Adria," she whimpered. "W-We had no choice."

Adria was seething with rage. Her dragoons were dead. Her beloved comrades. Murdered by Lockinge women.

She gripped her sabre tightly, her knuckles white.

"I told you not to lie to me! Tell me the truth, whore!" Adria roared, pointing her sabre at Mara's neck.

Mara shuddered, tears welling up in her eyes.

"P-Please Lady Adria, we are telling the truth,” She whimpered.

Adria gritted her teeth, trying to contain her fury.

"They were my bitches. My property. And you dared to kill them? I should gut you right here and now," she growled. "But, if what you say is true, those dragoons deserved their fate."

Mara cowered, trembling in fear.

Adria lowered her sabre.

"However, even though those bitches weren't that stupid, they wouldn't attack you without a reason," Adria pondered. "What really happened here?"

"That's... That's what happened Lady Adria," Mara stuttered. "They attacked us for no reason."

"No, something else must have occurred," Adria concluded. "Tell me the truth, or I will skewer you like a pig!"

"W-We were having a party, celebrating upcoming spring," Mara confessed. "Your dragoons showed up and started harassing our boys."

"Harassment? What do you mean?!" Adria asked.

"They were making lewd suggestions and touching the boys inappropriately," Mara hesitantly told Adria everything - about dragoons' rude behaviour, their advances on Lockinge men, and the ensuing brawl.

After hearing Mara's story, Adria's anger was threatening to erupt again.

"Where are they?! Show me my bitches' corpses!" Adria barked.

Mara complied nervously, leading Adria outside. In the village corner, the dragoon corpses were dumped, covered with blood and dirt. Adria inspected them one by one.

"Vasilisa... Rada..." she muttered.

"We dumped their bodies here Lady Adria. Please forgive us," Mara pleaded.

Adria ignored her, staring silently at her dragoons' lifeless corpses.

"Those stupid cunts," she thought. "Why did you disobey me? Why did you leave camp without my permission? Did I not tell you Lockinge men are off limits?! Damn you bitches! Damn you!!"

Adria clenched her fists, trembling with rage.

"Lady Adria?" Mara asked meekly.

Adria remained silent, lost in her thoughts.

'But those bitches were mine. My dragoons. They were my property. My possessions. And you whores dared to kill them? Slaughter them like pigs?! Just because they tried to get a little closer to Lockinge boys?! Unforgivable! UNFORGIVABLE!!' Adria thought.

She snapped. A wave of fury washed over her, and she howled furiously.

Mara cowered in terror.

"Lady Adria, please forgive us," she begged.

Suddenly, Adria's expression became icy steel as she surveyed the slaughtered dragoons. Her heart hardened like stone. These peasants had dared to lay hands on what belonged to her - they would suffer dearly for it.

"Those bitches were mine. You whores killed them. You will pay for this," Adria spoke cold and calmly, yet her voice was dripping with venom.

Mara trembled in fear.

"P-Please Lady Adria, everyone is so exhausted," she pleaded. But Adria didn't listen. She turned around and hacked Mara viciously with her sabre, at her neck. Mara collapsed lifelessly, her head severed from her shoulders.

With lethal precision, she set about igniting buildings throughout Lockinge. Adria kept her face emotionless, ignoring the panicked screams. Inside, her fury raged like an inferno.

She found a young woman fleeing the flames and grabbed her violently by the throat.

"Know this, worm - your pathetic village is ash because of you," Adria spat, squeezing the girl's windpipe till her eyes rolled back in her skull.

Adria observed the smouldering ruins of Lockinge, the village now completely razed by her hand. The destruction was absolute - she had exacted vengeance on those who killed her dragoons.

As the fires died down, Adria was gripped not by remorse, but by the sinking realization that she had gone too far this time. Lockinge was annihilated, its people turned to ash.

Her vengeance had driven her to obliterate the entire village. Adria's chest tightened anxiously. This was excessive, even for her.

"What have I done...?" Adria muttered

The enormity of her actions weighed heavily on her. She had slaughtered Lockinge indiscriminately - men, women, and children had perished in the firestorm.

She had lost control. The villagers were guilty, yes, but this...this was too far.

What had she done? Adria looked around wildly, beginning to comprehend the extent of the destruction. Her situation was now desperate.

"Alex..." she whispered.

She felt justified in avenging her dragoons, but Alex...what would he think? Would he understand why she had done this?

Fear she may have lost him forever flickered within her. Adria's heart ached for him. She longed to see his sweet face once more. Adria steeled herself. She would make Alex see this was necessary retribution. He belonged to her - no one could alter that, she vowed.

In the distance, alarm bells began ringing from nearby villages. People would be coming to investigate the smoke rising from what remained of Lockinge. Adria would be hunted, of that she was certain. But she felt no fear - only a desperate purpose taking hold within her. She had one card left to play.

Adria mounted her horse and galloped towards Claywater, her mind racing. Alex would be her salvation - she would make him understand, convince him to flee with her. Together, they could start anew somewhere far away from Lockinge's ashes. Adria's resolve solidified as she rode onwards. Alex was hers, and she would defy death itself to claim him.

***

Meanwhile, Alex was resting peacefully in his room, when he heard alarm bells ringing in the distance.

"What's going on?" he wondered, confused.

He went outside to investigate. He saw thick, black smoke rising in the distance.

"That's strange," Alex thought. "Where is that smoke coming from?"

Max came out of the manor, still sleepy and dishevelled.

"Alex, what's going on?" Max yawned.

"I don't know Max," Alex replied.

"Look, the smoke is coming from Lockinge!" Max exclaimed.

"What?!" Alex gasped.

He squinted, trying to discern the source of the fire. It was indeed coming from Lockinge.

"Oh no...! Adria!" Alex thought, terrified. "Something terrible must have happened!"

He ran back inside, rushing to his room.

"Alex, where are you going?" Max called out.

"I need to get to Adria!" Alex replied frantically. "What if something happened to her?!"

"B-Brother...!" Max stammered.

Alex hastily packed a few belongings, and wore a simple clothing.

"Alex, wait!" Max cried out.

But Alex was too concerned about Adria to hear him.

"Please Goddess, let Adria be safe," Alex prayed.

He was trying to leave the manor, but he was stopped. Not by his younger brother Max, but someone else.

It was miss Gabelle.

"Master Alex, where are you going in hurry?" miss Gabelle asked sternly.

"Lockinge is burning miss Gabelle," Alex explained. "Adria might be in danger!"

"Yes, I know. Everyone in Claywater can see the smoke," Miss Gabelle stated.

"Then, let me go!" Alex insisted. "I.... I need to make sure Adria is safe!"

"You can't go Master Alex," Miss Gabelle declared.

"W-What?!" Alex exclaimed, shocked.

"You can't go, Master Alex," Miss Gabelle repeated firmly. "It's too dangerous."

"But miss Gabelle...!" Alex protested.

Miss Gabelle shook her head.

"No Master Alex. You can't go. Lockinge is burning, yes. But you don't know what caused the fire," she declared.

"B-But... But... Adria might be in danger!" Alex argued.

"Master Alex, please be reasonable," Miss Gabelle said. "You can't just rush off without knowing what happened."

"That's right, bother," Max joined miss Gabelle. "We don't know what caused it. It could be bandits, or monsters. Please brother, don't be reckless."

Alex hesitated. His younger brothers' words made sense. But, his desire to see Adria was overwhelming.

"Master Alex, please listen," Miss Gabelle began. "I will check what happened in Lockinge myself. Please, stay here and pray to Goddess for everyone's safety."

Alex sighed, defeated.

"O-Okay miss Gabelle. But, please find Adria," he pleaded.

"Don't worry Master Alex. I will bring Lady Adria back to you," Miss Gabelle assured him.

"Thank you miss Gabelle," Alex murmured gratefully.

"Master Max, please take care of your brother," Miss Gabelle told Max. "His state is too fragile, right now."

Max nodded obediently.

"Yes, miss Gabelle. Leave brother to me."

Alex watched helplessly as miss Gabelle rode towards Lockinge.

"Please Goddess, protect Adria and everyone else," he prayed fervently.

As hours passed, Alex was growing increasingly anxious. There was no news from Lockinge, and Miss Gabelle hadn't returned.

"I hope Adria is safe," Alex thought, worried. "Please Goddess, keep her safe."

Max stayed by his brother’s side, comforting him.

"Bother, please don't worry," Max tried to cheer up Alex. "Miss Gabelle will find Adria and bring her back."

"Max, thank you," Alex murmured. "But I can't help worrying. Lockinge is burning...! Something terrible must have happened!"

Alex prayed more, hoping for Goddess' mercy. Finally, there was a knock on the manor's door. Alex rushed to open.

"Miss Gabelle...!" Alex uttered. But the figure standing before him wasn't miss Gabelle. It was Adria. She was dishevelled, covered in dirt and blood.

"Adria...!" Alex gasped in shock. "Adria, are you alright?!"

"My sweet Alex...!" Adria murmured.

Before Alex could say anything, Adria embraced him tightly.

"My sweet Alex, I'm so happy to see you," Adria whispered, holding him close.

"Adria, what happened in Lockinge?" Alex asked.

Adria didn't reply. She buried her face in his hair, breathing in his scent.

"Adria...! Please answer me!" Alex insisted.

"Shhh, my darling," Adria murmured, stroking his hair gently.

Adria held Alex close, savouring his warmth. She knew she owed him an explanation, but finding the right words was difficult.

"My sweet Alex," she began slowly. "I'm afraid I've done something terrible in Lockinge."

Alex pulled back to look at her face. "Terrible? What do you mean?" His voice trembled.

Adria took a deep breath. "Some of my dragoons disobeyed me. They went into the village against my orders and... they were killed."

Alex stared at her in disbelief. "W-Why would something like this happen?"

"The villagers rose up against them," Adria said bitterly. "My loyal warriors were slaughtered like animals."

Alex's eyes widened in shock. "The villagers killed your dragoons? But why?"

Adria clenched her fists. "Because my dragoons just tried to have some fun."

"What do you mean by 'fun'?" Alex asked nervously. "I... I don't understand Adria..."

Adria hesitated, trying to find the right words.

"They wanted to play with the village boys. They thought the boys were cute, and wanted to... be with them," she explained.

Alex blushed.

"Be with them? You mean... they wanted to be intimate with them?" he asked, his face reddening.

Adria nodded. "Yes. That's exactly what I mean."

"But... that's...!" Alex stammered.

"My dragoons were just horny bitches, my sweet Alex. Even though I forbade them from laying their hands on the village boys, they couldn't help themselves," Adria explained.

Alex was horrified. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"Adria... please tell me it's not true," he pleaded. "Please tell me your dragoons didn't do that."

Adria gritted her teeth.

"It's true. My dragoons tried to get closer to the village men. And, the women killed them," she confirmed.

"That's terrible!" Alex exclaimed. "But you can't blame the villagers. They were just trying to protect their people."

"I... I understand that," Adria agreed. "But those were my loyal dragoons! They were my comrades! Just because they were horny, those whores decided to kill them! Like fucking animals! I... I just couldn't let that stand..."

"What do you mean? What did you do, Adria?" Alex asked, fearing her answer.

"My dragoons were slain by the villagers," Adria began. "I couldn't let that stand. I... I had to punish them. I had to make them pay."

"You...! You didn't...!" Alex stammered.

"I couldn't let the villagers get away with their crime," Adria continued. "So, I burned Lockinge to the ground. I razed the village, along with everyone in it."

"Adria...!" Alex cried.

"...!" Max, who was silent until now, gasped.

Alex looked at her in shock.

"Adria, please tell me you're joking," he begged.

Adria averted her eyes.

"I'm sorry my darling," Adria said, her eyes looking down. "I couldn't control myself. When I heard what the villagers did, I lost it. I slaughtered them. All of them. Women, men, children. No one was spared."

Alex was trembling. He couldn't believe what he was hearing.

"A-Adria...! Why...? Why did you do it?" he stammered.

"For retribution. For revenge," Adria answered.

Alex stared at Adria in disbelief and horror. He took a step back from her, shaking his head.

Adria's eyes filled with despair. "My darling, please..." She reached for him but he recoiled from her touch.

She fell to her knees, distraught. "My love, I'm begging you, give me another chance! We belong together!"

Alex turned away, tears streaming down his cheeks.

"Adria...how could you?" he whispered. "All those innocent people..."

"Innocent? Those peasants were far from innocent!" she spat. "They murdered my loyal dragoons in cold blood!"

Alex remained with his back to her, paralyzed by anguish.

She crawled over to him, grasping the hem of his skirt entreatingly.

"Please Alex, look at me," she begged. "They killed my dragoons in cold blood. I had to avenge them, don't you see?"

Alex did not respond or look at her. Adria's heart shattered at his silence.

"Say something, please!" she cried desperately. "Yell at me, hate me if you must, but say something, my darling!"

When Alex still did not reply, Adria felt herself unravelling. She knew she was losing him and it shattered her.

"My darling, I'm begging you, forgive me," she implored, her voice strained with urgency. "I never wanted this, any of this! I love you, my darling. I love you more than life itself. Please, say something!"

She grasped at his hand, willing him to believe her words. To believe in her.

"It's not too late for us," she insisted fervently. "We can start over somewhere new. Please Alex, don't do this!"

Finally, Alex answered her, with trembling voice: "Yesterday, I... I decided to marry you, Adria. I-I wanted to tell you today..."

"What...?" Adria gasped, surprised.

"I wanted to spend the rest of my life with you, Adria," Alex continued, his voice shaky. "I... imagined how you would react when I told you, like a fool. You would be so happy, and we would share a loving, passionate kiss. And..., then, we would marry. In the chapel. Everyone would celebrate our union. It would be so wonderful..."

"My darling...!" Adria's heart was racing with sorrow.

"I... I... please just leave, Adria. Before the others come," Alex sobbed, unable to look at her.

"No...! I'm not leaving without you!" Adria refused.

"Just leave me, Adria. Please. Just go," Alex pleaded, his voice barely a whisper.

"I'm not leaving you, my darling," Adria vowed fiercely.

"You have to go, Adria. If the others come, then... you will..." Alex replied, his voice hollow.

"I don't care, my darling," Adria insisted.

"They will kill you, Adria!" Alex warned her. "Please... just leave me, and save yourself."

"No. I won't leave you," Adria's voice was determined.

"Why, Adria?!" Alex shouted, finally facing her.

Adria was startled by his outburst. She stared into his eyes, full of sorrow and regret. His eyes, that she loved so much, were now full of tears.

"Because... I love you," Adria said. "I can't live without you."

Alex looked at Adria, his eyes filled with pain. He wanted to believe her words, but after what she had done, he was conflicted.

"Adria, I wish I could believe you still," he said sadly. "But how can I trust you now, after you murdered all those innocent villagers?"

Adria hung her head, shame and regret washing over her.

"You're right, my darling. My actions were inexcusable," she admitted. "When I saw my dragoons slain, rage overtook me. I wasn't thinking clearly. I should never have taken my vengeance so far."

She looked up at Alex pleadingly. "But you have to believe me, I never meant for this to happen! I never wanted to hurt you or destroy what we had together."

Alex hesitated, seeing the anguish in her eyes. He realised that he still cared for her deeply. His hearth was hurting, as much as hers.

"I don't know, Adria," he sighed. "I don't know if I can forgive you."

"Please, my darling," Adria implored, her voice cracking. "I'll do anything. Just name it, and it's yours."

Alex shook his head, conflicted. He still loved Adria, but he was unsure if he could ever trust her again.

Adria could sense his hesitation. She was desperate to salvage their relationship, and she would do anything to prove her love and devotion to him.

"Whatever happens, I will stay by your side, Alex," she declared. "I'll die for you, if I must."

"Adria, please, don't say such things," Alex protested.

"But, it's the truth, my darling."

Alex was moved by her sincerity and determination.

"Oh, Adria..." he murmured, as he felt his heart softening.

He knew he couldn't resist her, not when she was so earnest.

Adria's eyes lit up with hope. "You...you forgive me?" she asked tentatively.

"I... I never said that, but..." Alex stammered, uncertain.

Adria's face fell, but she remained determined.

"Whatever happens, I'll stay by your side, my darling," she vowed.

Alex didn't know what to say. He was torn between his love for Adria and his duty as the lord of the manor.

Suddenly, the shouts and cries outside could be heard.

"Adria...! They are coming!" Alex panicked. "Please, run away...! Save yourself! I will tell them, that you were not here."

"No. I will stay here, with you," Adria refused, her expression grim. "I will die with you, if that is what it takes."

"Adria, no...!" Alex exclaimed, horrified.

"If they want my head, they will have to take it by force," Adria declared defiantly.

Alex was speechless. He couldn't believe what Adria was saying. He tried to reason with her, but she wouldn't listen.

"Adria, please. Don't do this," he pleaded.

"No, my darling. I won't leave you. Not even if the Goddess herself descends from the heavens," Adria replied resolutely.

Alex felt tears welling up in his eyes. He knew he couldn't change Adria's mind, no matter how hard he tried.

"Miss Gabelle, she should be back by now..." Max murmured.

"She must have been delayed," Adria stated, as she was checking the barricade.

"Adria, please...! Just stop this madness and leave!" Alex pleaded. "I... I don't want to see you die! Please...!"

"Alex, it's too late for that," Adria's tone was bitter. "I made my choice, and I will stand by it. No matter what."

She turned to him, her eyes filled with love and determination.

"As long as I'm with you, nothing else matters," she declared.

Alex felt his resolve weakening. He couldn't bear the thought of losing Adria.