Traveling Companions

After Mac munched on his bread, he got in the steaming tub, soaking in the hot water. Hopefully this trip goes okay, and we can get to Marsae uninterrupted.

After thinking and soaking for a bit, he got out of the tub and dried off, before putting on one of his track suits and hopping into bed.

Mac felt exhausted. The last two weeks had been a blur, and even when the siege had been lifted he had only felt relief a short while before had started to worry about this, their current campaign.

Before he could think too much, a knock came at the door.

Honestly, I don't know why I wasn't expecting this. I'm surprised Gabriella is coming already, though, we've barely talked, he sighed.

Mac, of course, went and opened the door anyway.

Outside was not Gabriella, but Amiry, wearing a black nightdress with golden butterflies. Alarm bells went off in Mac's head.

“Sire?” she asked, “Would you mind partaking in some conversation with me this evening?”

Mac did a double-take. “You came here to...talk?”

Amiry nodded. “Yes. I must admit, I miss our talks out on the Ledge, even if I don't miss the situation that led to it.”

Mac, thinking he'd be fine with some conversation to distract him (assuming that's all Amiry wanted) nodded. “I only have water, if that's okay.”

Amiry smiled, revealing that she'd had a jug of wine behind her back. “I pilfered this from the kitchens.”

Mac blinked, “You stole it!?”

Amiry giggled, “What do you mean? Are we not paying the inn to stay here?”

Mac was taken aback by her giggle, but then nodded. “Yeah, I guess we are.”

They sat down while Amiry poured them some wine. As opposed to the normal strawberry flavored wine Marie normally had, this wine had a more sour taste.

“Do you mind if I ask something a bit personal, sire?” Amiry said, taking a sip.

Mac shrugged, “Sure.”

Amiry smiled, “What's the situation with you and Lady-..., sorry, Queen Gabriella? I tried talking to her about it but it seems...complicated.”

Mac could hear the voice of Kay on this shoulder, telling him not to give information away. However, Amiry didn't have a House, really, just being the concubine of a deceased Lord. She was only even noble status because Mac had granted it to her days prior. So, he decided maybe keeping Amiry happy would be of better benefit.

“It's just that...complicated. We didn't get our relationship started on the right foot, and now we're trying to...start over. Or I guess we will, whenever we have a chance to talk more. I think she's so engrossed with this campaign she doesn't have time to think about anything else.”

Amiry had gotten her fan out, but stopped it. “Sire...you didn't...force yourself on her...did-”

“No,” Mac replied quickly. “I wouldn't do something like that.”

Amiry nodded. “That's true, you don't seem the type. Plus, you already have so many willing women...” she giggled, having met three of his wives and fiances at Stromvurk.

Mac nodded.

Amiry waited a moment, then said, “Come on, sire, you can ask me a personal question too. It's not a proper gossip if only one of us asks questions.”

Mac sighed, taking a sip of wine and trying to think of what to ask. “Okay...tell me about your former lover? The previous Lord Brescia.”

Amiry winced, taking a sip. “Right to it, eh?”

Mac chuckled, “You said ask something personal.”

Amiry nodded. “True, I did. I don't have much to say, though. You already know I was offered as a concubine on my twentieth birthday?”

Mac nodded.

“I wasn't thrilled but...I tried to make the most of it. I was treated well, given a decent stipend of gold, and he only had sex with me a dozen times or so before he died a couple years later.”

Mac, now curious, asked, “Were you...upset?”

Amriy sighed, “Maybe it is bad to say, but not particularly. It's not like he treated me poorly, but I didn't have any feelings for him.”

Mac nodded, understanding how she felt. He was lucky things had worked out well for him in his romantic life, but not everyone was so lucky. Trying to steer the conversation, he asked, “Well, what have you done since then?”

“I was able to get a nice apartment near the manor, and occasionally was invited to events out of respect for my prior status, but I mostly focused on other pursuits. I practiced my magic a lot, since it brings me joy, and I also read a lot” she explained.

“What do you like to read?”

Amiry blushed slightly, “Romance. Usually smutty romance.”

Mac did a soft chuckle, not sure how to react to the admission.

Amiry put her hand down, “Wait, I remember Lady Charlotte saying you had brought some Otherworlder books with you. You wouldn't happen too...”

Mac shook his head. “Sorry, no Otherworlder smut. Just a few textbooks.”

Amiry nodded. “Unfortunate...”

They continued making light conversation for another hour, before Amiry drowned the rest of her drink. “Well, I best be off to bed, sire. I appreciate you keeping me company,” she said with a smile.

Mac was taken aback a bit. The smile she gave seemed more genuine than previous ones. “Of course, anytime.”

Amiry nodded, “I may take you up on that.”

In the morning, they were quickly off at dawn, trying to maintain the schedule Gabriella had set. Today, Mac didn't have much to do, since Gabriella was handing much of the logistical work, and he was only needed to rubber-stamp a few items.

Luckily, he was distracted from the monotony a few hours after they started by Rhea, returning from the palace.

“Is everyone okay?” Mac asked, as she flew in.

Rhea got large and hugged him. “Yes, everyone is fine. Mel and the others are still very pregnant.”

Mac turned to hug her back.

“Marie did give me this, though,” she said, letting go and pulling out a letter from her courier bag.

Mac opened the letter:

Mac,

Rhea told me about what happened with Gabriella. Please make sure you are gentle with her. She is going through a lot, and I believe she has changed from her original attitude towards you.

Yeah, I gathered that. The letter continued:

When you are around Provent, you must seem like you are getting along with Gabriella. I sent a letter to Gabriella as well, saying as such. While we are currently united against the Navarrans, Ositania and Provent won't be lovers overnight. You both must make an effort to appear at least slightly enamored, if not more, to win over the people, and especially the soldiers. I don't care if you have to hold hands or kiss in public, it needs to be shown.

All my love,

Marie

Mac gave a wry smile. She makes these demands then ends it with 'all my love'.

Rhea, who had been hanging off of him (currently in her medium-sized courier form) gave him a kiss. “I need to go deliver more letters now.”

Mac nodded, and Rhea flew out the window.

A couple more hours passed, and the wagon train made a brief stop for lunch (both for the troops and to feed and water the horses and mules pulling the wagons).

He was about to venture out, when a knock came at the door. Opening it, Gabriella was outside, wearing a tight-fitting fancy white shirt, with golden pants that almost matched her hair. She was holding a basket with a few sandwiches, and a jug of tea. She blushed slightly, and asked, “May I join you for lunch?”

Mac nodded. “I was just about to get some, so sure.”

Gabriella came inside, and set them both down on the table. They both started eating and drinking in silence.

Mac, feeling like he should make some sort of effort, asked, “Did you make these?”

Gabriella blushed, “I can't cook. I asked your maid Kylie to make them. Well, I asked her to make something you would like.”

Mac nodded, “I'll have to thank Kylie later, then.”

Gabriella seemed interested. “Do you always thank your maids just for doing their job?”

Mac raised an eyebrow. “Yeah. Just because their servants doesn't mean I should treat them poorly.”

Gabriella shook her head. “I'm not disagreeing with that. But I think there's a difference between treating them well and actively going out of your way to thank them.”

Mac realized what she was getting at. “That's fair. I guess because I didn't grow up as a noble in my previous world, I feel like I am be more appreciative then people born as nobles who take it as a matter of course.”

Gabriella nodded. “I see.”

After that, there was more awkward silence. Sorry Marie, I'm trying...

Luckily, Gabriella had thought of something. “Is Melissandra...Mel, your favorite wife, or is it one of the others? I know you picked Eleanor during your Introduction Ceremony, and I heard Emma and Felicia were commoners you took a liking too.”

Mac closed his eyes for a moment. However, he realized where this question was probably coming from. “I don't have a favorite. They all have their unique quirks that I like.”

Gabriella sighed, “That doesn't help me at all.”

Mac shook his head. “You don't need to act like one of them, just be yourself.”

Gabriella shook her head. “Being myself led me to being...” she trailed off.

Mac acted like he was waiting for her to continue.

“It led to me hating you and locking myself away. That's not conducive to a good relationship,” she finished.

“Well, how you are now is fine.”

Gabriella blushed. “How I am now? I don't even know...what I am!”

Mac shook his head. “That's not fair to yourself. Your working hard for your people, agreeing to marry a guy you hated a few weeks ago just to save them. You're putting thought into how to win my affection, despite not knowing what you should do. Asking for something you knew I would like for lunch to get on my good side. You wore a cute outfit that made you look more attractive than you do in your armor, although to be fair you still look good in your armor. And you wore some of Miss Amiry's perfume, which I'm assuming you borrowed from her. It's a good scent, but I think you should get something a bit softer.”

Gabriella had gotten progressively redder over the course of Mac's explanation, until she was almost beet red, and mumbling something.

“I'm not saying that to be mean, I really do appreciate all the effort you put in.”

“...not true.”

“What?”

“That's not true,” Gabriella repeated.

Mac raised an eyebrow. “I'm being serious, I think it's really cute.”

Gabriella continued looking down and shook her head. “I meant that part about me hating you. I...I don't think I've hated you for a while, I just couldn't get out of my own head.”

Mac nodded. Since Gabriella seemed to be thinking, he didn't say anything.

After a few moments, Gabriella, still red, looked up. “Let's kiss.”

Mac nodded. “I'm assuming you got Marie's letter, too?”

Gabriella slammed the table. “Not because of that you idiot, I just want to kiss you! You can't just say all that stuff about me and then not expect me to have some sort of reaction.”

It was Mac's turn to blush slightly. “Okay. Do you want to lead?”

Gabriella shook her head. “I don't know what I'm doing, I've never even held hands.”

Mac stood up and walked over, holding out his hand.

Gabriella looked at it for a moment, then took it and stood up.

Mac squeezed it gently, causing her to blush.

“Just because I'm blushing, doesn't mean you should stop,” Gabriella said determinedly, grabbing his other hand.

Mac nodded. He then slowly leaned over, and Gabriella closed her eyes. He placed a gentle smooch on her lips.

As he leaned away, Gabriella seemed confused. “Is that all it is? It was fine, but it wasn't much different than how my mother would kiss me, just on the lips instead of the forehead.”

“Well, I know a more intimate kiss...”

Gabriella nodded. “I need to learn.”

Mac leaned back down, and slowly started moving his lips against Gabriella's.

Gabriella didn't react at first, then started moving her lips in sync, quickly matching Mac's pace.

Mac leaned back. “How's that?”

Gabriella was back to blushing a bit. “That was definitely more intimate.”

Mac nodded, “Okay, we'll go to the next step then.”

“Next step?” Gabriella asked, but Mac was already leaning over.

Mac gently stuck his tongue in this time. Gabriella did a twitch when their tongues first touched, but then started matching his movements again, and quickly figured out how to make out properly as well.

She's a quick learner.

They continued making out, and Mac didn't realize when, but he had wrapped his arms around her lower back, pulling her in until her breasts were smashed against him. Gabriella had almost identical proportions to Melissandra, so it didn't feel unfamiliar. This familiarity also led to his hands wandering down and squeezing her butt.

This caused Gabriella to jump back in surprise.

“So...sorry,” Mac apologized, blushing slightly in embarrassment. “I thought you were one of my wives for a second. Well, one of my other wives, I mean.”

Gabriella, who was noticeably not breathing heavily, simply blushed and nodded, not upset. “I was just surprised. If you're confusing me for one of the others, I will take that as a compliment.”

Mac wasn't sure how to respond to that, so just smiled sheepishly.

Gabriella seemed to hesitate, then went to leave. “Would it be fine if I came again for lunch tomorrow?”

Mac nodded. “Of course. I mean, we're engaged, you can just come visit whenever you want.”

Gabriella shook her head. “I appreciate that sentiment, but even married couples need to make sure to schedule time with each other properly.”

Mac, remembering his normal palace schedule, nodded. “I guess you're right.”

After lunch, they went back on the road, the wagons having to continue into more snowfall.

Around dusk, they reached the edge of the Great river that separated Ositania from Provent.

While the army was setting up camp, Mac walked around, talking with some of the troops and generally doing what he could to raise morale (or really, keep the morale high following their victory at Stromvurk).

Partway through, he ran into La Hire, with Kylie following behind him.

Mac gave her a thumbs up. “Thanks for the sandwiches,” he said.

While La Hire seemed confused, Kylie smiled and nodded. “Of course, sire. I was rooting Gabriella on,” she said, giving a small thumbs up.

Mac nodded. He thought for a moment, then asked, “You wouldn't happen to have some extra perfume, would you?”

Kylie nodded. Knowing what he was going to say, she replied, “I'll have La Hire help me pick one out later. I didn't think the one she had on fit her well.”

La Hire seemed even more confused, but Mac just smiled and nodded, before continuing on his way.

After getting some dinner at the mess kitchen, he went back to the carriage, and found a large tent had been erected for him. Inside was a modest accommodation, with a steaming tub (though a bit smaller than one he'd normally have) in one corner, his chest and a desk in another, and a bed on the far side. In the middle was a table with wine on it. And sitting at the table already was Amiry, helping herself to some of the wine.

Mac did a double-take. “Did they not give you any wine?”

Amiry giggled, “No, but I figured I could steal some of yours. And enjoy some conversation again.”

Mac nodded, not opposed to having someone to talk to. Although, “Well, I wanted to take a bath...”

Amiry waved it off. “That's fine. Or what, are you worried I'll peek on you?” she giggled.

Since there was a screen set up, he would have some privacy, so he sighed and went behind it, stripping and getting into the tub.

“How did things go with Gabriella?” Amiry asked, now chewing on some bread.

How did-...oh yeah, the perfume. “It went fine. We just, you know, made some small talk.”

“I figured. She seemed a bit nervous.”

Well, I wouldn't say she wasn't nervous, but she definitely can make up her mind if she wants too.

“Anyways, sire, I actually had a specific request tonight.”

“Which is...”

Amiry seemed to pause a moment, but replied, “Well, due to sire, I now have noble status. However, I don't really have a House or anything. I'm obviously not going to return to my old elven house, if they would even take me back, so I need to start a new one, or join an existing one.”

Mac gulped. She's not going to try and...

“I was hoping you might set me up with a nice man. All I really want to do is settle down and have a few kids. Well, when my sire doesn't need me to crush his enemies.”

Wait, so with another man, right? Not me? Mac decided he needed more information. “Well, what exactly are you looking for in a man?”

Amiry took a few moments, then replied, “I guess I'd like someone who already has a wife or two. Not to imply I'd be a lazy wife, but I don't want to be in charge of running a house, so I have enough time to read and look after the children.”

Mac nodded. Let's see...who do I know? His mind immediately went to La Hire. However, he already had three, and maybe a fourth in Mazzy. However, it could still be a good gauge. “How about someone like Captain La Hire? That would also be convenient since you're both in the military.”

Amiry made a 'hmmm' sound. “I don't know. I have nothing against him, but I feel like I wouldn't exactly fit in. They seem like a tight-knit group, and I can tend to be a bit of a loner.”

Mac kept thinking. Loner, hm? He got out of the tub and dried himself off, then put on a new tracksuit. Walking out from around the screen, he asked, “Do you have anything against dwarves?”

Amiry blushed slightly, “After seeing how enraptured Lady Sophia and Lord Harald were, I wouldn't be opposed...”

Mac nodded, “I know Daisy had told me dwarven men can spend days a time at their forge at at a time.”

Amiry shook her head, “I want some attention, at least.”

After this, there was silence for a bit as Mac tried to think, and they both sipped on the wine.

“Sorry, I guess I don't know enough guys.”

Amiry smirked, “Figures, the King with a dozen wives already doesn't have any male friends.”

Mac, trying to think of how he could help, shrugged, “If you find someone you are interested in, I can at least introduce you. That's probably the best help I can provide.”

Amiry gave him another of her genuine smiles, “That would be excellent, sire.”

They continued making small talk for a while longer, until Amiry took her leave and left the tent.

Mac drained the rest of his cup, before rolling into bed.

The next day, they traveled along the river, until they reached a familiar stone bridge. The one he had first met Gabriella on, all those months ago.

The army stopped as they prepared the wagons to start crossing. The bridge was only wide enough for one wagon at a time, and they didn't want to risk the bridge collapsing along it's span, so they slowly had a few at a time cross.

While this happened, Mac waited in his carriage, expecting Gabriella to come as they scheduled. Sure enough, a knock came at the door, and Mac went over and opened it. Gabriella came in, wearing a white sundress that went down to her knees. It emphasized her breasts and hips tightly, although contrasted a bit with her toned muscles of a soldier.

Mac could immediately smell the new perfume, a hint of lavender. “That smells really good.”

Gabriella blushed. “Your maid gave it to me. She sprayed a few on me when I asked for more sandwiches, and then doused me in this one, and told me to come back for the bottle if you complimented it.”

Nice job, Kylie!

They sat down at the table, and Mac also noticed her hair was done differently. It was usually in a ponytail or just hanging down, but today some of it was hung up with a clip behind her head, and the rest was curled slightly.

“I like your hair too.”

Gabriella just blushed, “Thanks.”

Since there was just awkward silence next, they started eating the sandwiches and drinking the tea.

While they were eating, Mac thought, This is incredibly endearing. I'm a little worried she is putting too much pressure on herself, though. Even if she's trying to make up for before, I'd rather she didn't push herself. Deciding to try and voice this, Mac said, “I do appreciate it, but you don't need to force yourself when you're with me. Like I said, you should just be you.”

Gabriella blushed, “I told you, I don't even-...” she trailed off, then bit her lip, before shaking her head. “It's not that I don't want to do this, I just have no experience and am not sure what to do. Mel gave me a few tips, but I feel like they didn't help much...”

I'm sure Mel gave good advice but it's not necessarily going to fit for her. Mac decided to just smile and nod. “Okay, just keep doing whatever you want to do, then. I'll support you however I can.”

Gabriella seemed to think for a moment, then blushed slightly. “...kiss.”

“What?” Mac replied, not able to hear her murmur.

“I want to kiss again. For practice,” she added.

Mac nodded. Walking over as she stood up, he wrapped his arms around her, before bringing her in for a gentle kiss.

“No, the lovers one,” she said, before waiting for him.

Mac stopped himself from chuckling, then went in and used his tongue to probe hers. Gabriella got into it quickly, seeming to never run out of breath. Mac eventually had to pull back. “Are you...okay?”

Gabriella was a bit red, but nodded. “Yes, it is very enjoyable.”

“No, I mean...you just don't seem to run out of breath.”

Gabriella shrugged, “I don't know.”

Maybe because she's used to soldiering? Mac decided he would try and keep up, and went back in.

This time, Gabriella stopped him. With a deeper blush, she murmured, “You can grab me again.”

Mac raised an eyebrow, remembering the previous day. “Your butt?”

Gabriella shyly nodded, “Yes, or...” she looked down at her chest.

“You want me to grab your breasts!?”

“I see you staring at them, so I-”

“Hold on, hold on. I won't pretend like I haven't looked, but I don't stare at them...”

Gabriella looked at him for a moment, then smiled and giggled. “If you say so.”

Mac was taken aback for a moment at the giggle. That was the cutest she's ever looked! Being slightly turned on, he went back in for a kiss. He gently grabbed her breasts over her dress and squeezed.

Gabriella instantly let out a moan, then stopped kissing, taken aback by her own moan. “That felt...”

Mac, deciding to go with the flow, held up his hands, “If you want, I can give you a massage. I've been told I'm really good.”

Gabriella blushed slightly, then nodded. She sat down on the chair, and Mac walked behind her. Pulling over the straps of her dress, he started digging his fingers into her shoulder muscles, trying to relieve some of the built up tension.

Gabriella seemed to instantly feel relief, her shoulders sagging a bit as if the stress was melting away.

After a few minutes, he slowly pulled down the top of her dress, revealing a matching white undergarment. He waited a moment, but Gabriella wasn't stopping him or voicing anything, so he gently grabbed over the undergarment and squeezed.

Gabriella moaned just like earlier, but didn't do anything to stop him. Mac continued squeezing and massaging.

Mac could feel himself getting aroused, his shaft starting to wedge into his pants. Should I see if she wants to go all the way? Actually, we probably shouldn't, I don't want to spook her, seems like we're going at a good pace.

Mac toyed with these thoughts, when their was suddenly a knock at the door.

The both quickly looked at each other, fixed their clothes, and Mac opened the door slightly.

La Hire was outside. He seemed to give him a confused look for a moment, but then said, “Sire, we're about to move your wagon, soon. I wanted to notify you in case you were eating.”

Mac nodded. “We just finished.”

La Hire seemed to react slightly at the 'we', but then nodded. “Understood. I'll have Gabriella's horse sent over here.”

I guess we didn't need to keep that secret or anything.

He closed the door and turned around to see Gabriella standing up and fixing her dress, her face stilled flushed.

Mac wasn't sure what to say. Now it just feels awkward.

Gabriella, however merely walked up and planted a quick kiss on his lips, then walked out the door.

I guess we're good, then.

After they crossed the bridge, the majority of the army had crossed over into Provent, and it was around dusk.

Mac went into his tent, and immediately went to the tub to soak. His thoughts were still on Gabriella.

Maybe I should suggest we meet at night if she wants to...well, she might just be building up to it. I'm sure Amiry would be upset, too, not having her talking and drinking buddy.

As if on cue, Mac heard the tent flap open. “Sire? Are you bathing again?”

“Yes, I like bathing before bed.”

“That's fair. I did before coming here,” she replied.

Mac quickly finished soaking, getting dressed and walking over to Amiry, who was already drinking.

“Did things go better with Gabriella today?” she asked

Mac blushed out of instinct when he remembered, which caused Amiry to give a sly grin. “What? Did something 'good' happen?”

“No, we're just...getting along well.”

If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it's taken without the author's consent. Report it.

Amiry nodded. In a more serious tone, she replied, “That's good. We need you two getting along or this whole thing falls apart.”

They made some small talk for a while, until the conversation trailed off.

“Oh, sire, remember our conversation from yesterday?” she said, then unfolded her fan.

Mac nodded. “About setting you up? Sorry, I haven't thought-”

“No, I think I may have thought of someone myself. I told you, I wanted someone where I wouldn't need to be too responsible for anything. But I also thought today, 'I have a powerful magic that other Houses might want'. So maybe I could parlay my situation into getting with a high-ranking noble.”

Mac nodded, “That's smart. You do have some decent leverage.”

She pulled down her fan to reveal a devious smile. “So with my magic and my beauty, I could get any man in the Kingdom, right?”

Mac nodded along more, while she stood up. “I don't know about any man, but probably...a...lot...” he trailed off as Amiry sat on his bed.

“Well, what about the King?”

Mac sighed, Why does this always happen?

“Especially a King that has a penchant for picking up pretty women.”

Mac shook his head, “Amiry, I really enjoy your company, but-”

Amiry cut him off, “Are the rumors not true? Or do you just not find me attractive?” Amiry asked, a bit of a pout on her face.

“No, you're quite elegant, but I only sleep with my partners,” Mac explained.

Amiry smiled. “Did you not understand my proposal, sire? I would not mind being your partner.”

Mac shook his head. “We don't know each other that well-”

Amiry cut him off again. “We've been through a lot together these past few weeks, and I feel like we get along well. It's way more time then most probably get before they meet their partner,” she said, having experienced it herself.

Mac felt a twinge in this throat, having had similar situations. She's not wrong, but...

“Or are you just not interested in more partners?”

That's kind of true, but... Mac took a deep breath. “Give me a second,” he asked, then closed his eyes.

Amiry seemed amenable to this, putting her hands on the bed and waiting calmly.

At this point, I don't want her falling into the hands of another House. Thinking about it logically, her magic is almost too powerful to allow her to just go wherever. She's not really tied to House Brescia, technically, but it would still improve our relations with them, at the least. And...I guess this makes a lot of sense politically.

“I can still have children, if that affects your decision. I'm not that old for a half-elf.”

“No, it...I mean that's great but it wouldn't make me say no,” Mac explained.

“So you're saying yes?” she said with a giggle.

Mac sighed, standing up, before walking over to sit next to her. Ugh, this always happens. I try to think it through properly but it just always makes sense to say yes. “Okay, okay. It feels like there's no reason to decline. I don't know when we'll actually get married though, it might be months or even over a year, especially since we have this war to-”

Amiry raised an eyebrow. “I do not want to marry, sire. Just become your concubine.”

Mac shook his head. “I don't want to take concubines.”

Amiry crossed her arms. “You can't marry a former concubine.”

Mac shook his head. “I don't care. I...” it's probably fine to tell her... “...one of my wives is actually a former prostitute. That didn't matter to me, what mattered is who she was inside.”

Amiry giggled, “No wonder you have so many partners with lines like that.”

Mac blushed a bit. “It might sound sappy but it's true.”

Amiry nodded. “I don't doubt that, sire, but you are misunderstanding something. I do not want to be Queen. I merely want a man who will take care of me, give me attention, and a cute child or two. In exchange, you get a beautiful half-elf woman, someone who can bend the ground to her will at your command, and a cute child or two.”

Mac cranked his head sideways. Is just having some kind of transactional relationship okay? It's not that I don't like Amiry, and I've gotten engaged to some of the girls knowing them even less, but still...

Amiry smiled slyly. “You are most interesting, sire. I feel most men would have jumped me by now. What do you lose in this situation?”

“I feel like I'm slowly losing my principles,” Mac said, hanging his head. “I don't even recognize who I was a year ago.”

Amiry put a hand to his back. “It is not an easy thing, being a sovereign. Sometimes principles must be bent or discarded for the good of the country.”

Mac chuckled, “So you're saying taking you in as a concubine is for the good of the country?”

Amiry giggled, “Is it not? And like I said, I just want to be taken care of. If it helps, think of it as a reward.” She then leaned over to kiss Mac.

Mac reciprocated, putting a hand to her cheek and brushing her hair aside.

“So I take this as acceptance?”

Mac looked at her, asking, “Do you even like me? Or is this really just transactional?”

Amiry, for the first time, blushed a bit, “Yes, I like you sire. This is the most I've ever felt for a man in my life. I won't pretend like it's the same as you and your partners, but...”

Mac nodded. “Then yes, I'll take you in as a concubine. But, I have a couple conditions.”

“And they are?”

“The first is, you must live around the other woman in the palace. You don't need to do any duties, beyond your military ones of course, but I still want you there.”

Amiry giggled again, “What? Are you trying to convince me of how happy your family is?”

Mac nodded, “Yes. Plus, I think you'll enjoy gossiping with them.”

Amiry blushed and smiled, “Fine, fine. What else?”

“The second condition is, you must marry me if you, no...when you realize you want to marry instead.”

Instead of giggling, now Amiry started full on laughing. “Haha, are you that confident I will fall hard in love with you?”

“Not exactly. It's more confidence in my other partners.”

Amiry seemed amused, but nodded. “Very well. If that's all the conditions you set, I agree.”

Mac smiled. I'll just let the others do their thing.

Amiry kissed him, then blushed for a second time. “I am no virgin...but it has been a long time. Please treat me gently,” she said, turning her back to him.

Mac nodded, untying her robe sash, revealing her back to the lantern-light. Her skin was extremely pale, and Mac stroked it gently.

“Haha, that tickles...” she said. “What are you even doing?”

Mac shook his head. “Just follow my lead.”

Amiry nodded.

Mac continued pulling her robe all the way to show rough woolen undergarments.

“I didn't think I'd need sexy lingerie when I left for Stromvurk,” she said as if giving an explanation.

Mac shook his head. “I wouldn't dislike seeing you in some, but I'm not worried about it.” He gently clasped her medium-sized, perky breasts from behind, kissing her neck.

“What...” Amiry said, but then stopped and shivered.

Mac took off her bra, grabbing her now-bare breasts and rotating and massaging them. He then gently stuck his hand down her undergarment, probing her nethers with a finger. She was already incredibly wet.

“Were you hoping for this?” Mac asked.

Amiry, who was already red, nodded, “I told you I wanted attention. Well, I wanted your attention.”

Mac stood up, taking off his shirt and pants. Amiry looked at his bulging undergarment. “Do I need to prepare you?”

Mac shook his head, “I'm ready if you are.”

Amiry nodded, slipping off her sopping undergarment and laying on the bed.

Mac straddled on top of her, giving her a kiss, then caressing and licking her nipples.

Amiry went red again. “I thought you said you were ready?”

“I am, I'm just enjoying myself. Are you not?”

Amiry nodded. “I am not used to this, but it feels...tingly.”

“Tingly...in a good way?”

“In a good way.”

Mac slowly started inserting himself into her. It was a bit difficult, but he managed to slowly slide it all the way in.

Amiry didn't let out a noise, although her face contorted slightly while he was shoving his way in.

“Are you okay?” Mac asked.

“Don't worry about me.”

“I am worried about you though.”

“I'm fine. I told you, it's just been a while...” she said blushing, this time from embarrassment.

Mac kissed her again, then slowly started sliding in and out.

Amiry could no longer suppress herself, moaning softly each time Mac hit inside her.

Mac was a bit overcome with emotion, seeing how beautiful she was, her pale skin glistening with sweat. He started going faster and faster.

“Oh, sire...”

“Call me Mac.”

“Mac...please...inside...” she said, wrapping her legs around him.

He grabbed her slim waist, trying his best not to be too rough. With one final spurt, he released inside her.

As he finished, Amiry was panting heavily, arm over her forehead, seemingly unable to move. “That...was...exhilarating...”

Mac, while a bit sweaty, was nowhere near as tired. However, he laid down next to her, wiping the sweaty hair from her forehead. “I agree.”

Amiry smiled and giggled, “Haha, I cannot be as good as your wives.”

Mac shook his head, “Everyone is different.”

Amiry nodded, then went to get up.

“Where are you going?” Mac asked.

“To my bed. I apologize, but I can't handle more than once tonight. I'm sure after we do it a few times I will be able to go longer.”

Mac was confused. “That's fine, but not what I'm saying. Just sleep here with me.”

Amiry blushed, “You don't sleep with your concubines...”

Mac shook his head. “I am,” he said, grabbing her hand.

Amiry looked at the door of the tent, then blushed deeper, before crawling back into bed. “Fine, but you won't convince me that easily to marry you.”

Mac chuckled, “That wasn't even part of my plan, but it might anyway.”

Amiry just laid next to him, so Mac wrapped an arm around her, bringing her in close.

“Sire?” she said, more embarrassed.

“Like I said, call me Mac. I sleep better with a beautiful woman next to me.”

Amiry was surprised, but then giggled. “More sappy lines, Mac?”

“I'm not even being sappy, it's just the truth,” he replied closing his eyes.

Amiry was laying in bed, sweaty, her body held down by Mac's arm.

Her heart fluttered a bit.

What is this feeling? I don't understand. She shook her head. Well, what's done is done. He accepted me, so I don't need to worry anymore. Well, unless he changes his mind... She poked a finger into his chest, lightly drawing around on it. The King wasn't super-brawny, but he was toned and his muscles were defined, even in the lantern light.

I do feel a bit bad using him, but I wasn't lying. We both gain from this relationship. She then thought about the conditions. Surely he can't have time to just grind me down until I agree to marry him, right? Or is he planning on having his wives convince me to do something in exchange? She shook her head, Well, I won't worry about it for now, it's not my first time dodging house politics.

Battle for Marsae

The next day when Mac woke up, Amiry was already gone. She noticed she had left her fan (or at least one of her fans) on the table, with a note underneath. It said:

Return this to me when you'd like another visit

What? So she wants me to give it to her before she visits again? Or will she visit but only expect sex if I return this? I'm so confused.

Getting dressed and pocketing the fan, he grabbed some breakfast porridge then went into his carriage to prepare. Today as the last full day of travel, as they would reach Marsae sometime tomorrow.

He again didn't have much to do, but was soon joined by Rhea, who was checking in.

Rhea gave him a kiss as she flew in. “I missed you Mac!” she said and hugged him.

Mac chuckled. “I missed you too, but its only been a few days.”

Rhea shook her head, “That's too long.” She then flew around him, sniffing. “Why do you smell like Miss Amiry?”

Mac blushed slightly, and Rhea started giggling. “Haha, I thought she liked you, but not everyone takes the next step. It's hard to tell what Children will do, though.”

“Don't tell the others yet, I-...wait, are you saying there's other girls that like me?”

Rhea winked, “Haha, of course! Not telling though.”

That's probably for the best.

Rhea sat on his shoulder for a while, leaning against his cheek as they both watched out the countryside.

“Do you need to go? Not that I want you to leave,” Mac added quickly.

Rhea smiled and nodded. “I probably should.” She grabbed his cheek and gave him another kiss, before flying away again.

When they stopped for lunch, Gabriella showed up again. Today, however, she was wearing her armor.

“Um...”

Gabriella blushed, “Sire, I need your assistance.”

“Why are you calling me 'sire', all of a sudden?” Mac asked.

“There's an issue, and I need King Mac of Ositania, not Mac my fiancee.”

Mac nodded, assuming there must be some sort of issue with the nobles or army. He went into his chest, and put on his regal armor, including orichalum chainmail, and wrapped the Prism Beast cape around his neck, before coming back out.

Gabriella lead him through the camp. He noticed a lot of the soldiers seemed on edge, and many were even preparing as if for a battle. What is going on? “Did we run into the Navarrans already?”

Gabriella shook her head. “No, it's...Proventals.”

Before Mac could ask, they stepped out past the front of the camp. Ahead of them was four knights in Provental armor, having a heated exchange with some Ositanian nobles, and behind them Mac could see many more in the distance. It was nowhere near as large their army, though, based on what he could see.

One of the knights started pointing. “It's Lady Gabriella! They weren't lying!”

They tried to rush over to her, but the Ositanians stopped them. “What are you doing? That's our King there, stay back.” One of the dwarf nobles even unhooked their axe, although Drenven tried to cool his head and stop him.

Gabriella shouted as she walked over. “Be at ease, I'm fine, as you can see.”

The four Provental nobles stopped struggling. “Lady Gabriella, what is going on? Why are you with the invading Ositanians?”

Gabriella stopped in front of them, she nodded to the one's holding them back, and they let go, much to the surprise of the Provental nobles. “We're not invading, we're here to break the siege of Marsae.” She paused, then asked, “Did Uncle not tell you anything?”

One of the nobles spat on the ground, “That spineless coward fled in the night with his family.”

Gabriella bit her lip for a moment, then seemed to calm herself down. She then reached into her armor, producing a letter and unfolding it. “Uncle abdicated to me. In exchange for rescuing Marsae and driving the Navarrans out of Provent, I will be marrying King Mac and rule of Provent will fall under Ositania.”

The Provental nobles seemed angry. “What!? So we trade one foreign invader for another? What kind of agreement is that?” one shouted.

Gabriella looked angry, “You know as well as I, Lord Valen, that Provent is too weak now. Is this all the forces you could scrape together? It's probably not even one-fifth of what we would need to fight the army at Marsae. And even now King Lavon is rebuilding his other army in Navar, deciding if he wants to attack Ositania again, who just beat them in battle, or us, who can't even muster an army together large enough to resist. And even if by some miracle we kicked out the Navarrans, some other country would sweep us up. The Ositanians might actually invade instead of helping liberate us.”

Lord Valen and the other nobles looked down, irritated, but had no argument to bring forth.

Mac decided he would try and help. “I have no intention of upsetting the order in Provent. Gabriella can keep Marsae as her fief, and any Provenal nobles will become Ositanian nobles, assuming they don't break the law. And pay their taxes,” Mac added, the issue with the former Lord Arpitan coming into his mind.

One of the nobles glared at him. “No one asked you, Ositanian bastard.”

Mac sighed, but Gabriella angrily stepped at the noble. “Lord Andal, do not talk to my fiance that way, or I will strip you of your noble status here and now.”

Lord Andal stepped back, but Lord Valen asked. “Lady-...no, Queen Gabriella. How am I to believe this? Are you really okay with this? He seems to be forcing you. I've heard the Ositanian King is a lecher...”

Gabriella got angry again, but this time turned around towards Mac, blushing slightly.

Is she...

Gabriella wrapped her arms around him, pulling him close so their armor clanked together, then planted a kiss on him. “No...” she said to herself, then leaned back up, starting to make out with him.

The other nobles, both Ositanian and Provental, had varying shocked or incredulous faces. The guards behind Mac were chuckling softly.

After a few moments of making out, Gabriella, still red, turned back around. “The marriage was my idea.”

Lord Valen blushed softly, then bowed, “As you command, your highness.” The others followed suit.

The Provental nobles got on their horses and rode back to their army. Gabriella turned to Mac, “Sorry, I will not be able to join you for sandwiches, but I had Kylie make some for you anyway.”

Before Mac could say anything, she kissed his cheek and walked over to her horse, before galloping away after them.

Ignoring a couple snickers he got, he walked over to find Kylie. She seemed to be waiting for him (along with La Hire) and gave him a basket. “No Gabriella?”

Mac shook his head. “No, she needs to go speak with some others.”

La Hire started, “Sire, I apologize that my fiance has been interfering with you and Gabriella. I told her it wasn't wise, but-”

Mac cut him off, “No, it's okay. She's been a big help actually.”

Kylie giggled, “Nyahaha.”

La Hire sighed. “Very well,” and patted Kylie between her ears.

Mac let them be, assuming he'd help Kylie win some small bet, then went back to his carriage to eat.

The rest of the day passed uneventfully, until dusk arrived and they stopped to make camp.

Mac bathed again. I guess we'll see what Amiry meant. I didn't have time to find her and deliver the fan. As he predicted, he heard his tent flap open while he was bathing. “Hold on, I need to dry off.”

There was no response, so he quickly toweled himself and put his tracksuit on. He went around the screen, and there was Gabriella, in a white nightdress, and her hair down and shining as if she too had just bathed. She had a concerned look on her face.

“What's wrong?” Mac asked. “You don't need to force-”

His breath was knocked out as Gabriella tightly hugged him.

“What's wrong?” Mac repeated, hugging her back.

“I just...I just want someone to comfort me,” she said, a bit tearily.

While Mac was slightly aroused at the sight of Gabriella, he decided right now wasn't the time for such things.

“Let's just sit down,” he said.

Gabriella sat on the bed, so Mac sat down next to her and wrapped her in an arm, holding her to him.

“I'm sorry...” Gabriella said.

Mac chuckled, “I'm not even sure what you're apologizing for.”

Gabriella blushed, “I feel bad. I was so mean to you, and now you're being nice to me, and helping me so much, even helping to retake my country...”

Mac shook his head. “I thought we already talked about this. I already forgave you.”

Gabriella seemed a bit angry. “You should have been madder at me! I feel like I didn't earn anything.”

Mac sighed, “Yeah, I've felt like that before.”

There was a bit of silence, and then Gabriella blushed and frowned. “So? Are you not going to do anything to me?”

Mac was taken aback. “What? Are you wanting to have sex?”

Gabriella blushed harder but shook her head. “No. Well, actually I did want too ever since your massage yesterday, but Mel told me she was incredibly sore the day after her first time, and I can't be hurt when I'm supposed to be leading a battle.”

Mac nodded. He gently rotated her around (much to her surprise) until her legs crossed over his, so she was sitting sideways. He then wrapped his arms around her, pulling her close, then started making out.

Gabriella leaned forward, as if wanting more.

Mac put his right hand to her breast, squeezing gently so she moaned as they kissed.

Gabriella leaned back, “Can you...massage them more?” she asked.

Mac spun her the rest of the way around, before pulling around down her dress. He then carefully undid her undergarment, revealing her large breasts to the dimly lit tent. He carefully grabbed each one, squeezing and rotating as he kissed her neck.

“Mac, please,” she turned her head to kiss him some more.

This went on for a couple minutes, until she reached down and grabbed his crotch. “This is sticking into me.”

“Sorry...”

Gabriella giggled, Mac in awe of her cute giggle once again. “You don't need to apologize. Truthfully, it's ironic I once thought you a lecher, and now here I am glad that I got you aroused.”

She kneeled on the rug next to the bed, unzipping his trackpants and grabbing his member out. “You will have to make do with my mouth for now.”

Mac was going to stop her, but she already had stuck it in. While her form was amateur, Mac was overwhelmed by the sensation.

“I'm about there...” Mac warned her.

Gabriella, however, just went deeper, sucking it in as he released. She swallowed, but then gagged a bit. “That tasted worse than I thought it would...” she said, before going over and chugging some wine straight from the flask.

Mac wasn't sure what to say. “Are you okay?”

Gabriella wiped her mouth. “Yes. Do you feel good?”

Mac nodded, “Yeah, that felt...great.”

Gabriella blushed, then kissed him. Her breasts were still hanging out, so she blushed slightly and pulled her dress back up.

Mac, assuming they were done, zipped his pants back up.

Gabriella kissed him again. “I better get going.”

“You don't want to sleep with me?” Mac asked.

Gabriella shook her head, “No, I...” she looked at the tent flap, and then at Mac. “Well, maybe just for a bit...” she slipped onto the bed, and Mac wrapped an arm over her.

Gabriella's heart was racing.

Mac reached over to kiss her, but then closed his eyes.

Gabriella closed her eyes as well, but couldn't seem to calm herself down. I don't deserve this. Well, maybe I deserve being in this situation, but I don't deserve Mac being so kind to me. I guess he does seem to find me to his liking.

She felt him softly breathing as he slept. She blushed slightly, poking his chest as it slowly went in and out.

The next day, Gabriella was gone when Mac woke up.

Everyone in camp seemed on edge or excited, and everyone was preparing for battle.

Captain La Hire came up to him. “Sire, Queen Gabriella said to put you and Amiry into your...thing...before we leave, since we might not have time to transfer you when we get to the battlefield.”

Mac nodded, “It's a scaffold.” After the siege of Stromvurk, Mac had wanted to be able to get a good view of any future battlefields as well. Additionally, he and Amiry did much better when they were above the people there were fighting against.

When they arrived, Amiry was already there, holding her fan over part of her face, then pulled it down when he stopped to smile at him, “Good to see you, King.”

Mac stopped himself from blushing. Why am I feeling awkward, I have sex all the time. “Good to see you too.”

As they started being pulled away, Amiry asked, “Did you have someone else last night? I thought you might return my fan, but you did not.”

Mac had temporarily forgotten after Gabriella had visited, but the fan was currently in his trunk in the carriage. “Sorry, Gabriella came over to....talk.”

Amiry giggled, “Oh, well I guess she outranks a concubine like me.”

“What is the thing with the fan, anyway? You were just visiting me without any sort of arrangement, so I don't understand why I need to give it to you.”

Amiry seemed a bit upset. “It's from one of my books! When he wants to have sex with his favorite concubine, the Lord sends a fan to her, so she knows to rendezvous with him that night.”

Mac facepalmed. “You can just come over, though!”

Amiry blushed, “Yes, but that's less exciting. You must give it to me if you want to have sex.”

Mac sighed, “Okay, okay, I'll play along...”

Amiry smiled. “Excellent. So, how was Lady Gabriella? How many times has it been now?”

Mac took a moment to register. “We didn't-...no, that's personal between us.”

Amiry nodded. “I understand. Based on her questioning I thought you two might be, but I won't pry.”

I guess I shouldn't be surprised, but I'm glad they're getting along.

They were carried along in silence for a bit, when Marsae came into sight. It was a large city, comparable to Pearie, and built along a river. Unlike Pearie, which was surrounded by forests, Marsae was surrounded by flat farmland, so the whole of the city could be seen. Mac could see several fires as well.

Gabriella rode up. “Mac, they're attacking the city, we need to collapse on them at once.”

Mac nodded. “Let's go then. Raise the flags.”

Gabriella rode away towards the middle of the army as it fanned out on either side. Mac started cranking the lever next to him, and the carriage of the scaffold started to go up.

While there was railing all around them, Amiry gripped onto him tightly instead.

Mac kept cranking the lever until they were about fifteen meters above, then locked them in place. He had been worried it would sway slightly, but the dwarven construction of the foldable scaffolding using the new spring technology was solid.

He could see the whole army now, and the scale was insane. It reminded him of seeing the Navarran's from the Ledge, but he wasn't high enough to actually see the edges of the army.

Two cavalry galloped ahead, one waving the Ositanian flag, and the other the Provental. Mac took this as his sign.

Taking out the Marshal horn, another gift from Lord Cartegna, he blew three times in quick succession.

A massive cheer came all around him, as the cavalry galloped ahead, and the soldiers on foot started picking up the pace.

They were close enough now Mac could make out individual soldiers. Many were massing with shields near the walls, while some were climbing up ladders.

“Sire?” Amiry asked, preparing herself.

“Let's get to it,” Mac replied. He held up his hands, and suddenly, despite the clear, sunny skies, lightning came down, crashing amongst the massed Navarrans several times.

Amiry smacked her fist into her other hand, and ground came up underneath the ladders, knocking them over and breaking them, causing the men climbing to fall into the ones below.

Mac and Amiry kept using their magic, trying to thin out the horde. Mac had hit Magic Fatigue hard again, sitting down for a moment to catch his breath.

Amiry kept going for a bit longer, Mac able to see her sending Navarrans flying as the ground below them raised up.

When their army was a couple hundred meters away, Mac gathered his breath, then blew the horn twice, causing the army to stop.

The Navarrans seemed confused. They had started to move some of their army towards them instead of Marsae, but were still waiting. Some soldiers even lowering their shields in confusion.

Mac could see the catapults being wheeled up. Then, after a few moments, boulders started flying at the Navarrans, crashing into their ranks, and smashing holes in their lines.

The Navarrans seemed frozen as to what to do. Some ran, some started filling in the holes per their training, and some even started charging through the empty gap between the armies.

After a bit, another volley of boulders rained down. Then another.

Mac heard three blasts of a horn from the Navarran side. Their army started charging.

One more volley came, then Mac blew three times, and their army started charging.

He and Amiry tried to aim their magic into the back ranks of the enemy, but both were heavily Magic Fatigued at this point.

“Captain La Hire said I needed to stop you at this point,” Amiry stated, before casting her magic once again. She was breathing heavily, her dress soaked in sweat.

Mac looked down as he saw something bright in the corner of his eye. It looked to be Gabriella, based on her armor and horse. She held up her hand, and a bright beam of light shone out, before going into a group of enemies. Whatever it was, several of them fell over dead instantly.

Mac was almost taken aback, No wonder she's a soldier, she has some sort of death magic! He hadn't had reason or thought to ask her about it, and it was often frowned upon to ask about magic without prompting, so he generally avoided the subject, to the point of not asking. I probably should have, but I guess we can talk about it later.

The battle continued for a while, Mac and Amiry continuing to cast magic in the back when they had the energy. The catapults were silent, as Mac had asked them not to fire once the hand-to-hand fighting began. While it might have been okay to fire in the back like they were using their magic, he was terrified of the possibility of friendly fire.

When Mac thought the Navarrans might be about to break, there was suddenly three horn blasts from the direction of the city. The gate opened, and some of the defenders sallied out, into the side of the Navarrans.

Not too long after, he heard four horn blasts from the Navarran side. They started to turn around and run, though many were cut down or shot with arrows as they tried to retreat.

Mac, seeing his army was about to give chase, blew his horn twice to hold them. While some seemed confused, they turned back around and got back into formation.

Mac released the lever, and the scaffolding slowly started to compress back down.

Amiry held onto him again, although considering how tired they were, Mac didn't say anything.

When they got back to the ground, Mac helped Amiry off, and then was greeted by La Hire and several nobles.

“Sire, why did you command us to hold? We should be routing them!” one of them said excitedly.

Mac shook his head, “I don't want to risk any men chasing. They could set up a trap, and they still have a lot of soldiers. Like I said at the beginning, the goal is to win while minimizing our losses.”

A couple of the nobles grumbled, but La Hire and most of the others nodded.

Gabriella rode up. Jumping off her horse, she hugged Mac, “I'm glad you're alright.”

Mac hugged her back, “I should be the one saying that. You were close enough to use your...magic.”

Gabriella blushed, “You saw that? I can only use it once or twice before-” she then realized a majority of the commanders were around them, some giving smirks. Going back into commander-mode, she asked, “What shall we do? The defenders are chasing after them. Our Provental soldiers are asking for permission to follow.”

Mac shook his head, “No, let's take stock and treat the wounded.” He turned to La Hire and the others, “I don't want any of our soldiers going in Marsae without permission. I'm sure there's still bad blood between us with some of the Provental, and I don't want any incidents jeopardizing things.”

The noble commanders all nodded or bowed.

“Let's set up camp a bit outside. Actually, let's loot the Navarran camp of supplies and set up there.”

As they left to deliver the orders, La Hire asked, “Are you going into the city?”

Mac nodded. “Take some of the guard with us. Not too many, I don't want them thinking we're occupying them.”

La Hire nodded. “Shall I get you a horse?”

Mac blushed, “Um...I only had a bit of practice, so it's probably better if I walk...”

Gabriella shook her head. “Just ride behind me. Gale can support us both.”

An hour later, and a small guard of Provental soldiers and Ositanian Royal Guard had made a box, and were heading through the gates of Marsae. Inside was a standard-bearer of both countries, and behind them was Mac and Gabriella on one horse.

“This is embarrassing...” Mac said as he clutched onto Gabriella.

Gabriella giggled, “It should be fine.”

Masses of crowds were cheering, some throwing flowers at them. Soldiers were banging their shields as they yelled.

They got a bit in as the crowd made way, when a soldier walked in front of them. While the Royal Guards tensed up, Gabriella shouted, “Alfons, is that you?”

“Lady Gabriella!?” the man shouted, as he ran up near them, the guards letting them pass.

Gabriella smiled. “Did my Uncle make you adjutant after I left?”

Alfons nodded. “He did. Not that I feel any happiness from having served that cowardly bastard,” he spat on the ground. He then looked at Mac, “I would ask why, who I presume is the Ositanian king by their attire, is clutching to you so tightly, but I can probably piece together what happened.”

Mac gave a wry smile.

“Come, let's get to the palace to talk.”

Gabriella nodded, and they continued on through the street.

As they continued, Mac felt something hit him in the back.

The guards behind Mac started shouting, and pointing to a nearby makeshift wall. “It came from there!”

Gabriella asked, “What happened?”

“Um...I think someone shot me with an arrow.”

“What!? Are you okay?” Gabriella shouted, turning the horse around to stop quickly.

He grabbed her tightly to stop from being bucked off. “I'm fine! It just bounced off my armor.”

Two Provental soldiers had dragged the offender down off the wall. The crowd nearby that had seen what had happened was jeering.

“Solider, why in the world would you do such a thing?” Alfons asked.

The solider spit at Mac (though he was being held to the ground so it barely went anywhere). “That Ositanian bastard has his hands all over Lady Gabriella. I wasn't about to let him get away with it.”

“You realize if you had missed even slightly you would have hit your Lady you claim to be protecting?” Alfons replied.

The solider had no response as Gabriella walked forth. She held out her hand, and a beam of light shot through the man's heart.

Mac's eyes went wide. He could feel some slight amount of heat for the moment the magic shot through the soldier.

“If anyone harms a hair on King Mac, my fiancee, they are sentenced to the same fate,” she replied.

The soldiers drug the offending soldier's corpse away.

Gabriella jumped back in front of Mac.

“You didn't need-”

“Oh course I did. He tried to kill you,” Gabriella cut him off. “I've thought this before, but you're too nice to be a King. Basically everything else about you is perfect for leading a country, but you're just too nice,” she explained, a hint of trepidation on her voice.

Mac couldn't see her expression, but assumed it was a serious one. “You might be right. I've tried to harden my heart a couple times, but I always slip back...”

“Please keep being nice to me, though,” Gabriella whispered.

Mac grabbed her slightly firmer, and Gabriella leaned back into him a bit, as if to comfort herself.

They reached the palace, and Alfons led them inside. Unlike the Ositanian one, barely anyone was inside. Mac saw a few maids peaking out from one of the rooms, who seemed to get excited when they saw Gabriella.

Coming out of the room, they bowed excited, “Lady Gabriella! We thought we'd never see you again.”

One of them said, “Our condolences about your father.”

Gabriella gave a wry smile and nodded. “Thanks for taking care of everything despite what's been going on.”

The maids seemed taken aback, but then smiled and bowed, before heading back to work.

Mac smiled, Guess I'm rubbing off on her.

They were brought to a council room, where Mac, Gabriella, and Alfons went inside, while the guards posted themselves outside the palace, after Mac reassured them he would be fine.

This was similar to the council room at Pearie, a large table in the middle surrounded by chairs, with many different maps, notes, and orders thrown everywhere.

“As I said, I can probably guess, but so there are no misunderstandings, please explain everything that happened.”

Gabriella pulled out the letter from the former King Ferdinand, as well as the one she wrote to Mac, and started explaining from when she first heard of the invasion.

Alfons nodded along as he listened and read. Once she had finished, Alfons nodded. “I see.”

“So you're not upset?” Gabriella asked.

Aflons sighed, “I can't say I'm thrilled to be under the thumb of Ositania, but better alive and under their thumb, then dead under the boot of Navar.”

Gabriella nodded. “I know you won't believe me right away, but Mac...” she turned to him and blushed, “...he is a great king. I think we'll be better off under him then uncle.”

Alfons seemed to size up Mac. “That would indeed be welcome. Though being better than your uncle is a small achievement,” he said with a 'hmpf'.

They talked a bit about then next steps, then decided to break for rest.

“Is my old room still there?” Gabriella asked.

Alfons nodded, “Yes. The maids hoped you would return at some point, and kept it tidy while you were gone.”

Gabriella nodded, “Mac and I will be using it while we're in Marsae. We're going to go rest there now, but please come get us if anything changes.”

Mac raised an eyebrow slightly at the declaration, but Alfons merely bowed.

Gabriella grabbed his hand and started pulling him out the door, and down the hall.

After a short walk, they came upon a room. The door was open and a maid was inside, having just drawn a bath. When they entered, she bowed and left.

After the door was closed, Gabriella immediately started taking off her armor.

Mac watched for a moment, then realized she must want to get down to it, and started undressing himself.

Gabriella finished first, slipping off her panties and lying on the bed.

Mac walked over and looked down.

Gabriella tensed up.

“Um...we don't have too if-”

Gabirella blushed, “Of course I want too! You think I'm just lying here naked for show!?”

“Well, you seem nervous...”

“Yes, because it's supposed to hurt...”

Mac sighed, then got on the bed. Instead of straddling on top of her, he laid down next to her, gently kissing her cheek. “Just relax...”

Gabriella seemed confused for a moment, but then some of the tension seemed to leave her body. “Sorry...”

Mac shook his head, “It's fine...” and kissed her again, this time on the lips. He pulled her close, so her breasts poked into him, and they slowly kissed. He then gently drew a hand down her body, until he stuck a finger into her opening.

Gabriella shivered a bit but didn't say anything, just continued kissing him with more intensity.

Mac then finally got on top, carefully sliding his member up to her nethers. With a slow thrust, he gently put his shaft inside her.

Gabriella grabbed him tightly, but kept kissing him.

“Are you okay?”

Gabriella nodded, “I've been in worse pain.”

Mac nodded back, and slowly started moving in and out.

Gabriella moaned in increasing intensity, causing Mac to pick up the pace.

Mac felt himself coming, as Gabriella spasmed in his arms. “Do you want me to pull out?”

Gabirella, her face a mess, shook her head, “Lady Amiry gave me some contraceptive medicine.”

No wonder she was asking those types of questions... Pumping faster and faster, she grabbed her hips tightly and released into her.

After he finished, he laid down next to her, trying to catch his breath. Normally doing it just once wouldn't tire him out so much, but considering what had transpired earlier, he felt exhausted now.

Gabriella was also breathing heavily, but she seemed as if a weight had been lifted off her shoulders. She turned and hugged Mac, pressing her body against his. “That was...exhilarating.”

“I enjoyed it too,” Mac responded, kissing her head (all he could reach in their current position).

After a couple minutes, Gabriella sat up. Smiling, she pulled him up as well. “Let's get in the bath.”

Gabriella had a large bath, that could probably fit four people, so they both laid down easily in it. When they got in, she sat across the tub from him, lying back (not covering herself) and seeming to relax.

Mac was a bit surprised at her demeanor, but laid across from her.

Gabriella smiled at him, “So...how did I do? Lady Amiry said you like to take control, so-”

Mac splashed a bit as he sat up. “What? I knew you two were talking but you already know about her?”

Gabriella blushed, “Should I not? I asked for advice, and she brought it up herself. I did think when I arrived at Stromvurk something might be going on between you two.”

Mac shook his head, “It wasn't yet, though.”

Gabriella shrugged. “Anyway, I would like to know about my performance, and what I can improve on.”

Mac wasn't sure how to respond. Is this like a military thing? I guess I can indulge her. “Alright. I'd give your body a ten out of ten. You're very beautiful.”

Gabriella blushed and smiled, averting her eyes. “Thank you. I was worried you might be taken aback by my muscles, but I guess you already have wives with them.”

Mac nodded. “Your moans as well, I'd give those an eight of ten, very cute.”

“Cute?” Gabriella blushed, seeming confused though.

“However, your kissing was a bit sloppy sometimes, five out of ten.”

Gabriella got a bit angry. “What!? How am I supposed to maintain lip contact when you're pounding into me?”

Mac shrugged, “Some of the others do.”

Gabriella nodded, “Alright.”

“And your movement was low, one out of ten.”

“Movement? But isn't that the optimal position for getting pregnant!?”

Mac was confused, “Why did you take contraceptives if you want to get pregnant?”

Gabriella blushed, “I don't want to wait long, just until the war is over, so I figured this would be good practice.”

Mac shook his head, “I don't know if I'd consider going this far “practice”.”

Gabriella nodded. “True, I guess we did go all the way.” She sighed, “I feel a lot better now.”

Mac raised an eyebrow, “Because we had sex?”

“Not exactly that. Just that I can be honest with you. And myself.”

Mac felt a surge of emotions at that, and scooted over to kiss her.

Gabriella seemed surprised, but wrapped her arms around him to kiss him back.

After making out in the tub a bit, they went at it once more, before drying off and crawling into bed.

“Isn't it too early for sleeping?” Mac asked.

Gabriella shook her head, “I'm taking advantage of my time alone with you.”

Mac sighed, “What other advice did Amiry give you?”

Gabriella giggled, “That was actually from Mel.”

Side Stories

A Valuable Asset

- Two Days before the Siege of Stromvurk -

Fawna gave a curtsy, before sitting down.

Marie nodded in approval. “Good, your curtsy was already decent, but now it's excellent.”

Fawna sighed in relief and smiled. “I had a lot of practice at the tavern.”

Marie blushed slightly, “Yes, but you were taught to put too much chest into it. For noble ladies, you need to stay more upright.”

Fawna nodded.

Marie, satisfied, moved onto the next part of the lesson. “Now, do you remember what I told you regarding talking with other nobles?”

Fawna nodded again. “If a man compliments me, smile and nod. If a woman compliments me, give one back. What if I don't have anything to compliment them on though?”

Marie held her forehead and sighed. “You must be able to find something. At worst you could at least say something generic like 'you picked a lovely dress'.”

Fawna nodded again. “What if they don't compliment me?”

Marie smirked, before thinking, “A good question, since you need to be ready. I would hope they don't do much besides compliments, but we need to prepare regardless. In order to start, though, I think we need to evaluate who you are, first.”

“Who I am?” Fawna asked back, seeming confused.

Marie nodded, sitting down and putting her elbows on the table, leaning forward. “What do you think is your greatest strength?”

Fawna thought for a moment. “I'm really good at remembering things, like orders. Or what my duties for the day are.”

Marie nodded, “That's not a bad answer, good memorization can be handy. However, I think you have two other things going for you. You're really beautiful, and you're really dedicated to Mac. Like crazy over him.”

Fawna blushed, “Well, aren't you?”

Marie blushed back, “Mac and I have a...close relationship, but we also work together a lot in public as well. We can't be all over each other, all the time. You, however...”

Fawna blushed deeper, “So you're saying I'm just crazy in love?”

Marie smiled, “You might be. But I'm saying that you should make the nobles think you are. If all they see is a beautiful commoner woman that Mac took on because of her looks, what will nobles think they can get from you? You probably don't have much info to give. You'd never betray Mac, of course. After a few interactions, most nobles will think they have you down in terms of personality.”

Fawna nodded. “Which is?”

“That you're basically a trophy women.”

Fawna smiled smugly, “Of course I am!”

Marie facepalmed. “That's not supposed to be a compliment. A trophy women is a wife or concubine that a lord will have just to sit around and look good.”

Fawna still seemed confused, “I do more than just sit around, though.”

Marie nodded, “Exactly, now you're getting it. If everyone thinks your just a trophy wife, they will let their guard down around you, assuming you pose no threat. And so, you can gather information or set things in motion without other nobles having their guard up.”

Fawna now seemed to understand. “So people think I'm dumb, but I'm actually not.”

Marie smiled, leaning back in her chair. “That's a blunt way to put it, but yes. Once you're properly trained up, you can be a valuable asset for gathering information during weddings, events, or whatever.”

“So I'll be useful to Mac?” Fawna asked excitedly.

Marie smiled, “You'll be useful to everyone.”

Better Information

Kay had just come back to her room after learning of the Navarran invasion. She was trying to remain calm, not wanting to stress out too much and endanger her and Mac's unborn child.

She was failing.

Dammit, how could this happen! We knew they were probing our defenses, but there was nothing about them suddenly invading! She, unfortunately, did not have any permanent contacts in Navar, or any other country for that matter. The information she got from other countries was generally from merchants who went between countries, bringing news along with them.

Kay shook her head, sitting down. Giving herself something to do would help her calm down. We need better information. Just getting info from merchants obviously isn't good enough. Provent, Navar, Catlan, even the Empire...we need to establish contacts in all of them. We can't focus too much internally. She closed her eyes, then grabbed a paper to write up a plan to put in motion. This is all I can do for now, she thought, trying to not let herself get distracted by thoughts of Mac.

Duty

La Hire laid in bed, the day before they would reach Marsae, staring up at the top of his lantern-lit tent. Next to him, Kylie was cuddling around his arm, rubbing her nose on his shoulder.

“That was amazing again,” she said with a blush.

They had just finished having sex, and although La Hire had enjoyed it, it was hard for him to keep enjoying the moment.

“Honey, what's wrong?” Kylie said, giving him a kiss.

La Hire blushed, “Sorry, I just...I'm worried about tomorrow.”

Kylie nodded, “I know. I wish you didn't have too, but I know it's your duty.”

La Hire nodded. “It is. But...”

Kylie raised an eyebrow.

La Hire shook his head. “I sometimes wish I didn't have too. I'd rather just stay at home with you, Kelly, and Fiona.”

Kylie giggled, “You sound like King Mac now.”

La Hire thought for a moment, then nodded. “I guess I understand him more every day.”

Kylie giggled again, then put a hand over his forehead. “Just think about coming back to us while you're out there, and everything will be okay.”

La Hire sat up, hugging her. “Thanks, Kylie.”

Kylie seemed to grow even happier, her tail spinning in overdrive. “Let's go again,” she said, pushing La Hire back down.