Nathaniel stood in front of the full-sized mirror straightening out his suit. The ascot felt too snug around his neck, and he wasn’t a fan of the ornate embroidery. What he wouldn’t give to have his old, simple suits, instead, he had to wear clothes that belonged in some museum.

“Master, we’re ready!”

Hope ran out in a pink and white floral dress with a short poofy skirt and sleeves that showed off her legs and arms. a lacy belt wrapped around her waist with a large bow resting on her hip matched the ones in her hair. Two braids hung from either side of her head, leaving her ears exposed, and her radiant smile was infectious.

Ralia came out in a dress the same dark blue as her scales and golden bangles hung off her arms. The waves of her golden hair flowed freely with each step she took. Her sheer dress hung from her shoulders leaving her arms and back exposed, and with the amount of cleavage she was showing, he feared something would slip out. Although, it’s not like Ralia would care.

Bella was the last to enter the common room. The prim beauty was lovely in her silky black dress with matching gloves that nearly covered her entire arms. Her long ,flowing hair was decorated with a series of braids that came together in the back. Of the three, she’d easily fit in with the nobles during the banquet.

“What do you think?” Hope said rocking on her heels.

“I think someone might kill me out of jealousy.” Nathaniel chuckled as he tried fixing his tie.

Bella came over and adjusted his tie. “Then we’ll protect you master.” She smirked mischievously. “Especially from those awful temptresses that have been pursuing you lately.” Nathaniel sighed deeply. After the duel, several noble families had started vying for his favor, and it was exhausting trying to escape their advances.

“Then I’m in good hands.” Nathaniel smiled back. “Shall we get going?” They nodded at him and followed him out of the room.

Nathaniel moved through the halls with a smirk on his face. The staff that weren’t tending to the ball stared dumbfounded at the two beautiful women at his sides. Bella and Ralia both took his arms, clearly aware of the attention directed towards them. Hope was oblivious and waved warmly at each servant. When they approached the door to the ballroom, the crier choked on his own breath.

“Are you okay mister?” Hope asked with a concerned frown. The crier waved her concern away.

“Nate, what are your slaves wearing?” Maria glared at him from the other side of the hall. She hung off the arm of a young nobleman he'd never seen.

“Dresses obviously.” Nathaniel chuckled. “I didn’t think it would be appropriate for them to come in rags.”

Maria sighed in frustration. “That’s not what I meant Nate.” She rubbed her temples, eyeing the dresses. “What I wouldn’t give to wear a normal dress. These damned corsets are killing my ribs.”

“I’ll make you some when I get back to Treante.”

Maria smiled warmly. “Thanks Nate.”

“Are you certain I look acceptable?” They turned to see Shawn approaching the door with Queen Haelie.

“You look great.” Shawn gave her a large, toothy smile.

“Then I think you’ll enjoy how I look tonight.” Haelie chuckled, but her face turned deep red when she noticed the others.

“Nathan, I understand you have a harem, but why do you need to show them off like that.” Nathaniel jumped and turned around to see Shizuka glaring up at him.

“I’m ready to introduce you whenever you’re ready Saint.” The crier cleared his throat and took his position by the door. Maria nodded and he introduced her to the crowd with a round of applause.

“Where’s Duncan?” Nathaniel looked around.

Shawn laughed. “Veyl decided he wasn’t healed enough to attend,” he said, “I figure she has him tied to the bed to keep him from going anywhere.” He gave Nathaniel a salute when the crier beckoned him forward.

Shizuka sighed dejectedly. “I better get ready. Alone. Again.” Bella gently grabbed her arm, gently moved Ralia out of the way, and gave the spot on Nathaniel’s right arm to her. “What?” she looked at Bella confused.

“You should be entering this ball with a smile, not a frown.” Bella smiled warmly at her. “So, for tonight, we’ll let you have master. Besides, we need your help in keeping those filthy noblewomen away.” Shizuka blushed heavily, but she couldn’t keep the large smile off her lips.

The crier waited for them to get into position, and then opened the door. “Introducing the Archmage, Shizuka Tobishi, and the Inventor, Nathaniel Light.” The applause that followed was broken and disjointed. Shizuka shook violently under the intense gaze of the crowd. Nathaniel placed his left hand on hers, gently patting it, and she smiled gratefully at him.

“Wait, the Archmage and Inventor are entering together?”

“Are they courting?”

“Preposterous, heroes have never courted each other.”

“How are we supposed to compete with another hero, and what about those slaves!”

“Indeed, truly scandalous, especially that dragon-heart.”

Ralia’s smirk grew under the gossip, and she puffed out her chest more. Bella smiled gently but her eyes sparkled with mischief as she copied her friend. The two women received hateful glares from the noblewomen and lustful ones from the noblemen. Nathaniel looked at the group of mages standing to the side. The old men looked at Hope with wide, hungry eyes and they were talking amongst themselves. A noble with a rough looking attendant sneered at him with his eyes flicking over to Bella.

“Stay close you three.” Nathaniel warned them.

“Yes master.” They nodded in understanding.

Nathaniel took his designated place and was immediately swarmed by the nobles. The nobles began lauding him praise over the duel. Their words nothing but incessant buzzing of false praises. A few noblewomen tried taking his left arm, but thankfully Bella kept them off by presenting him with food and drink. Ralia’s presence was invaluable, as a few noblemen tried pulling Shizuka away, but the sight of the scandalously clade monster kept them distracted. Hope stood in front of Nathaniel and Shizuka, showing off her arms. The nobles stared in absolute amazement.

“Pardon me, Inventor.” The nobleman who was staring at Bella approached. Ralia released a low growl when the rough-looking attendant glared at them. “I’m Count Delimaar, and I believe you have something that belongs to me.” His burning gaze landed on Bella.

“I’m afraid I don’t know what you’re talking about.” Nathaniel smiled politely.

“The dark elf, she’s mine.”

“Count Delimaar took possession of the dark elf several months ago.” The attendant barked.

“Then I’m afraid you’re looking for a different dark elf.” Nathaniel tried to give the noble an apologetic smile. “I bought Bella here in Rumand from the Quarmane trading company. They have a copy of the contract if you need to see it.”

“I see.” Delimaar growled in disgust. “Then, how much would you sell her for?”

“Sell Bella.” Nathaniel laughed which caused the attendant to snarl. “She’s been completely invaluable to me. I’d be an idiot to sell her.”

Count Delimaar sneered in rage. “Well, if you do decide to sell her, then please let me know. Come Torman.”

Nathaniel watched the count walk away. “So, that’s the asshole who enslaved you.”

Bella stared at the ground in concern. “Yes.” Her eyes were shining like she was on the verge of crying.

Before he could ask, a familiar red-headed woman approached. “There you are Nathaniel.” Gabriella pushed her way through and took his left arm. “I was hoping to accompany you tonight.” She smiled warmly at Shizuka, but there was a fire in her eyes. “But it looks like you found someone else.” The other nobles stared furiously at her, but it made her smirk grow. “Come, let me introduce you Duke Sigmund’s wife.” Bella and Hope stayed with Shizuka.

Gabriella led Nathaniel out of the group and towards a lovely, platinum blonde woman. Her almond shaped eyes were perpetually downturned and her small, full lips gave her a perpetual pout.

“Duchess Sigmund, this is the Inventor Hero, Nathaniel Light.”

“A pleasure, my lady.” Nathaniel kissed her hand.

Duchess Sigmund smiled. “Lady VuRant mentioned an arrangement. You would supply our domain with weapons and armor in exchange for backing your claims.”

“Yes, my lady.” Nathaniel cleared his throat. “I fear king Rogmier won’t uphold his end of our agreement, so I’d like to begin establishing good reports with several of the noble families.” He smiled at Gabriella. “I’ve already sold weapons to the VuRants.”

“They’ve been a great boon to us, Lady Sigmund.” Gabriella nodded. “My father has secured our lands with the Inventors weapons, and I’ve now finished negotiations to acquire armor. The Inventor has even agreed to make armor for my father and cousins. Archons know, I’d hate if something happened to them.”

“You are willing to take orders on personal armor?” The Duchess’ eyes widened. “Could I possibly order a set for my own husband.” She wringed her hands. “My husband has been struggling to keep our domain intact.” She swallowed hard and gave Nathaniel a worried, tearful look. “I’ll do anything to see him safe.”

“Have things truly been that bad?” Nathaniel tried to keep from staring at the [Fear/Guilt] over her head.

“Yes.” Her lower lip quivered. “My husband is the last of his line, and I married him right after he inherited his title. He’s been tirelessly trying to secure our domain, but the brigands keep appearing. I fear he’ll die just like his brothers and father, and I have yet to give him an heir.” She took a deep breath and looked at him with determination. “Name your price Inventor. I’ll pay it, for my husband.”

Nathaniel stared at her in astonishment. His [Intuition] had never lied, and yet he couldn’t believe that there was a noble willing to make a grave sacrifice for someone she loved. Nathaniel could ask the duchess for anything, but staring into her earnest eyes made him feel guilty for trying to take advantage of her.

Nathaniel took her hands which shook violently. “My lady, I simply want the King to keep his end of the bargain we made,” he said, “If you are willing to support me, then I’ll make your husband his own suit of armor.” Her hands stopped trembling.

“If that is all you ask Inventor, then I shall give it.” A single tear ran down her cheek. “From this day forward, House Sigmund will support you Inventor.”

“I’ll even speak with the Quarmanes about giving you a larger discount on purchasing armor for you soldiers.” Nathaniel smiled at her.

“Thank you.” Duchess Sigmund chuckled. “If you’ll excuse me, I need to go speak with the nobles under me.” She looked to the head table where the King sat. “We don’t have much time.” She quickly made her way across the ballroom.

“You did that on purpose.” Nathaniel sighed looking at Gabriella.

“Yes, I’m sorry.” Gabriella nodded. “After how you’ve been treated, I knew you’d have terrible opinions of the nobility. So, I used the duchess as a sacrifice.” She took a deep breath. “A part of me thought you’d exploit her, but I’m glad to see I was wrong.” She twirled a lock of hair. “I’d understand if you want me to leave.”

Nathaniel took a deep breath. “Who should we speak with next?”

“Duke Warnmier.” Gabriella pointed to the skeleton of a man across the hall. His miserly glare scanned the room, and his wispy, grey hair was combed back revealing the liver spots dotting his forehead. A beautiful, raven-haired woman with unnaturally pale skin stood behind him. She noticed Nathaniel and gave him a hungry smirk. “He won’t be as earnest as Duchess Sigmund.”

The tale has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

“So, I need to be more ruthless.” Nathaniel squared his shoulders and cracked his neck. He noticed Gabriella giving him a longing look but chose to ignore it.

Duke Warnmier snickered when they approached. “I was wondering when you’d approach.” He gave Nathaniel a vicious smile. Nathaniel tried fixing his smile, but the noble waved him away. “Let’s get to business.”

“Very well. I made a wager with the King, and I want your support in pushing it through.”

“I know that already.” Warnmier gave Nathaniel a crooked smile. “You’re not the only one with a lovely Spymaster.” He squeezed the ass of the woman beside him. “What’s in it for me?”

“Armor and weapons,” Nathaniel replied, “The nobles that support me will get first rights to any weapons and armor I make, at a steep discount.”

Duke Warnmier rubbed his chin in thought. “What else?” He sneered mirthlessly. “It’s not truly in my favor since I have the wealth to purchase your armaments without the discount.”

“What about a suit of armor for you sons.”

Warnmier sighed and rolled his eyes. “Again, I can purchase that without you. What do I get out of this?” A slimy smile came to his lips. “What about that power armor of yours?”

“That’s off the table.” Nathaniel growled.

“Pity, then I have no other reason to speak with you.”

“I hear you don’t like Prince Ollimier leading the army?”

“I don’t.” Warnmier spat. “Do you know what the Prince’s class is?” Nathaniel shook his head, and the duke barked. “He’s a Chevalier. They’re great for boosting morale but terrible at battlefield tactics. It doesn’t help that this stock of heroes are completely inept.” His gaze fell to Ralia, and his eyes remained on her chest. “Especially if the Champion can’t best a single dragon-heart.” Warnmier tapped his cane against the floor.

“Did you ever get a dungeon core for your mana chamber?” Gabriella smiled politely while tugging on Nathaniel’s arm.

“No, I didn’t.” Warnmier growled, wiping the spittle from his face. He stared at the head table. “That bastard promised me the dragon’s dungeon core, but instead, he took it for himself. How is my castle supposed to run without a core to power it.”

Ralia growled behind Nathaniel. “I’ll supply it.” He said with a smirk. Warnmier glared suspiciously at him. “You should already know, but part of the wager was that I would get control of a dungeon. Meaning I can provide you with power cores for your mana chamber.”

Warnmier barked a laugh. “Now we’re talking. So, I help, and in return you’ll provide me with cores. I don’t have a problem with that.”

“Not so fast.” Nathaniel smiled when Warnmier’s own smile faded. “Power cores are expensive. I’ll need to keep the dungeon fed to keep producing them.”

“So, what do you want?”

“Supplies, highly valued supplies to be exact.” Gabriella smiled sweetly. “You’re one of the few dukes who can negotiate with Nevran for adamantium, mithril, and orichalcum.”

Warnmier smirked. “Very well Inventor. I’ll support you, but I still expect that discount.” He looked up at his Spymaster. “Chilala, go let the other’s know they need to support the Inventor.”

“Right away sir.” Chilala smiled seductively at the duke. She smiled at Nathaniel and ran a tongue across her crimson lips. Nathaniel stared at the split tip of her tongue.

Warnmier started laughing. “Demon slaves make excellent spies. Not to mention their other skills. Go, I’m certain there are more people you need to speak to.” He shooed them away.

Nathaniel nodded and led his companions away. “I don’t think we can trust him.”

“No, you can’t.” Gabriella whispered with a shaky breath. “Archons, I heard the rumors, but I didn’t have any proof they were true.” She gestured to a couple standing close to the head table. “Last is Duke DeMare.”

Nathaniel swallowed at the sight of Duke. He was nearly as tall as Shawn and built like a brick wall. The grey hairs in his golden mane made him look more imposing, especially with the scar running down his right cheek. His piercing blue eyes remained fixed on Nathaniel when they approached.

“Inventor.” The Duke held out his hand.

“Your Grace.” Nathaniel took his hand, and desperately tried to match the crushing strength of the duke’s grasp. After what felt like a long time, they let go of each other’s grasp.

“My wife has mentioned your arrangement. There’s nothing left to discuss.” DeMare nodded. “We’ll support you with your claim.” A low growl rumbled in his throat. “However, after what you put my daughter through, my impression of you has dropped considerably.”

“Dear, we spoke about this.” Euphiere sighed, petting her husband’s arm. “You need to let Ophelia handle her own issues.” She smiled apologetically to him. “I do hope you and Ophelia can reconcile.”

“I do as well.” Nathaniel gave her a small smile. “And I do apologize for make Ophelia suffer.”

Euphiere’s smile turned to a frown. “I suggest you get back to Shizuka.” She growled. “Those damn mages are trying to keep her for themselves.” Nathaniel quickly crossed the ballroom. Nathaniel growled when one of the mages grabbed Hopes arm and tugged at it to get a better look.

“Tell us Archmage, how do these false limbs work?”

“Quite remarkable.” Another mage in highly ornate robes started pulling on Hope’s fingers, and the fey yelped in pain.

“Stop it!” Shizuka snapped trying to push the mages away. Bella tried pulling Hope away, but the mages kept pulling on her cybernetics. “You’re hurting her!”

“She’s a slave. What does it-“The mage fell to the floor after Nathaniel punched him in the face.

“Magus Zander!” The mages gathered around the mage Nathaniel struck.

“What the hell do you think you’re doing?” Nathaniel shoved the old men away from Hope and picked her up. Ralia pushed the other mages away.

“We were simply wanting to learn the secrets of your creation.” Zander rose to his feet. “Imagine Inventor, your metal limbs could change humanity in an instant. So, why waste it on a fairy?”

“Waste it!” Nathaniel’s heartbeat drummed violently in his ears. “I made them specifically for her. After you assholes amputated her limbs.” He took several breaths, trying to get his anger to subside.

The mages looked at each other in confusion. “Why are you upset? The fey’s flesh was a valuable ingredient for potions of youth. Without them, we wouldn’t have the capital to continue our research.”

“Oh god!” Shizuka gasped covering her face.

Nathaniel gently set Hope down, and then slammed the Mage against the wall. “You’re telling me you butcher fey for damned cosmetics!” The whole room went quiet, and all eyes fell on them. “You put her through hell for thirty years.” Nathaniel’s hands shook violently. It took all his resolve not to strangle the old man.

“It only makes sense.” Zander snapped. “Their kind live for hundreds of years while humans only live for a single century. These potions allowed the Sage to live for nearly two hundred years. Why shouldn’t we use them to preserve the best of humanity.” The Mage’s eyes burned with a mad fire. “Progress is a hungry beast, and we mages will feed it everything we can get our hands on, and we will progress. We must progress!”

Nathaniel threw Zander away. “Get out of my sight!” He snarled as the old man fell to the floor.

“You can’t stop progress Inventor!” Zander barked, spit hanging from lips. “Work with us. Together we can see to it humanity surpasses even the Archons.”

Nathaniel’s fist turned white, but before he could take a step, Hope grabbed his hand. She looked up at him with big, tearful eyes, and she shook her head. Staring into her warm, golden eyes helped eased his anger.

“If you want to see progress old man, then I’ll show you progress.” The mages grumbled as they shuffled away. “Are you alright?” Nathaniel checked over her cybernetics.

“I fine.” Hope smiled brightly at him. “Thanks for saving master.” She jumped into his arms and kissed his cheek.

“Nathaniel, I didn’t know, I swear.” Shizuka stuttered on the verge of tears. “Hope, I’m so sorry.”

“Why are you sorry?”

“I helped make some of those potions.” Shizuka rubbed her eyes. Hope jumped down and gave her a hug. “I’m sorry.” Nathaniel gently rubbed Shizuka’s back.

“If the Inventor is done causing a scene.” King Rogmier stood up addressing the crowd. “Thank you to everyone who could make it. This banquet was to commemorate the return of the Inventor Hero, who has been diligently honing his skills while the heroes protected our kingdom.” Nathaniel sighed as he gently pulled Shizuka closer. “To demonstrate his skills, his slave fought against the valiant Champion in a suit of armor made by the Inventor and bested our Champion by the skin of her teeth.”

“That’s not how I remember it.” Ralia scoffed under her breath.

“To reward such diligence, I hereby bestow the Inventor a noble title.” The King’s smile was lopsided.

“And what about his other earnings!” a young noble he hadn’t seen shouted.

“Looks like Duke Warnmier got more than his own nobles to support you.” Gabriella whispered.

“Well, the Inventor shall be given land of his own.” King Rogmier’s left eye twitched. “Since he has made a home in Treante, I figure that’d be the best fief to give him.”

“Surely that’s not all your majesty?” Duchess Sigmund gasped in shock. “To give a hero a single village is hardly a reward. After what we all witnessed, I’d say the Inventor has shown himself worthy of something more.” Nathaniel was surprised at the number of nobles who cheered in agreement, but his [Intuition] exposed their greed.

“You are truly right, Lady Sigmund.” Veins could be seen in Rogmier’s neck as he smiled at the duchess. “Since the Inventor has shown the initiative, it would be wise to allow him control over his creations as well as provide him with the resources he needs.” He sighed dramatically. “In truth, I can’t stand by knowing that the Guild took advantage of him. We shall sue the Guild for every coin they stole from him, and demand reparations for the kingdom as well.” Nathaniel sighed with a disgruntled smile.

“There’s one more thing I believe the Inventor has earned.” Nathaniel looked up in awe as Ophelia approached the king. “When I found the Inventor, he had claimed the dungeon next to Treante.” This garnered hushed gasped from the crowd. “Under his care, he used the dungeon to better the lives of the people of Treante. I request the ownership of the dungeon be granted to him as well.”

“Preposterous!” An elderly woman in gold, white, and purple robes snapped. “The dungeons are dangerous. They will surely corrupt him.”

“That’s the head of the Church.” Gabriella whispered into his ear.

“We’ve heard enough of your wives tales.” Duke Warnmier rose to his feet and hobbled towards the king. “Your majesty, if the Inventor is willing to take the risk onto himself, then let him own the dungeon. In return, I suggest he provide a yearly contribution of a level five core to every domain with a mana chamber.”

“An excellent idea!” Rogmier’s eyes gleamed with a greedy light. “The ownership of the Treante dungeon will also be granted to the Inventor. At the start of next year, he’ll provide us with power cores, and if he can’t he’ll then supplement it with his creations until he has paid his debt in full.” The crowd murmured in approval.

“I’ll gladly accept your terms.” Nathaniel smiled which caused the crowd to cheer.

“Can you afford that?” Gabriella looked at him in concern. “After all, two active mana chambers are here in Gilbrant.”

“That should be easy.” Nathaniel chuckled at Rogmier’s deep frown. “But it would be easier if you could get me the rest of the money.”

“I’ll see what I can do. It’ll mostly come in smaller payments, but I’ll get it.”

“Thank you. Now if you’ll excuse me.” Nathaniel walked over to Ophelia who was speaking with her parents. The duke glared at him but allowed his wife to pull him away. “Thanks for supporting me.”

“You’re welcome.” She smiled warmly at him. “I wanted to show you that I believe in you. So, if owning this dungeon will help, then I wanted to support you however I could. I’m sorry that Duke Warnmier used it for his own gain though.”

“That’s fine.” Nathaniel shook his head. “I get the feeling that old man always tries to get the upper hand whenever he can.” Ophelia chuckled. “So, where will I need to go when I’m ready to join the war?”

Ophelia’s smile faded, and her gaze fell to the women in his life. “Castle Warnmier. Even if we’re not there, the army is regularly supplied from there, so you should be able to follow the supply trains.”

“Thanks.”

Ophelia fidgeted from the awkwardness. “If you’re willing to take some advice. Winter is the best time to prepare. It seems the Horde isn’t used to the cold weather and they often hole up in the forts they’ve captured.” She licked her lips and twirled a lock of hair. “We’ll do our best to retaliate, but winter is essentially a time in which we cycle out the troops.”

“Then I’ll try to get everything done by then,” Nathaniel replied, “I should get going. I need to get my papers from the king. I’d like to head home tomorrow.”

“Of course. Have a good night.”

----------------------------------------

Bella splashed cold water onto her face and wiped the droplets away with a towel. Her long silver hair shone in the moonlight and her violet eyes sparkled like stars. She smiled at her reflection, but ghostly faces flitted around her reflection. For a moment, she could feel the sting of the broken collar. Her eyes were drawn to movement in the mirror.

Ralia washed herself with a wet towel. Despite several scars, her skin was nearly flawless, and her scales did accentuate her unique allure. A hungry smile touched her lips as she ran the cloth up and between her legs.

“May I ask a favor?” Bella whispered, not wanting to wake Hope.

“What kind of favor?”

Bella hesitated but turned around to face Ralia. “I want to tend to master tonight, please.”

A sad frown came to Ralia’s lips, but she nodded. “Very well.” She sighed throwing the rag into the water. “It’s only natural for a man of his rank to have multiple women. Who am I do deny him that.”

“Ralia…”

“Don’t.” Ralia glared at her. “Simply make sure that he enjoys himself. Am I clear.”

“Yes.” Bella smiled warmly at her. “Thank you.”

Bella silently stepped out of the room. Her knees shook as she approached the master bedroom, and for a moment, her hand hover over the doorknob. With a deep breath, she stepped inside. Nathaniel laid on the bed with his hands behind his head.

“Can we just sleep tonight Ralia?” He sighed slowly sitting up. “We’ve got a…” He stared in surprise as Bella stood by the door. “Is something wrong Bella?”

“No.” Bella ran a hand through her hair. “I wanted to attend to you tonight.” She was thankful for the dark room, and let her nightgown fall to the floor. She hugged herself as the cold air ran along her exposed skin. “I hope you don’t mind.”

“I don’t, but are you sure?”

Nathaniel’s eyes slowly looked downward. He swallowed hard, and Bella smiled at his obvious attraction. She glided across the room, pressed herself against him, and looked into his eyes with a warm smile.

“Yes, master.” She took his head into her hands. “I want to be with you.”

She gently kissed him, and she shivered in anticipation as his hands rested on her hips. She gingerly pushed Nathaniel onto the bed and straddled his lap. Her kisses becoming more intense. Traitor. Bella moaned when Nathaniel placed a hand on her stomach, and she guided his hand up to her breasts. Traitor. She squeezed his arm tightly and shoved her tongue into his mouth. His tongue fought back against hers, and she sucked on his when it entered her mouth. Traitor!

Nathaniel pushed her away and stared into her eyes. “Bella, why are you crying?”

Warmth ran down her cheeks, and she brought her fingers up to touch the tears. Bella stared down at Nathaniel. Warmth filled her heart as she looked on his face, but her eyes lingered on the rounded lobes of his ears. The voices of her people rang in her ears, their harsh words beating her mind. The tears flowed freely.

“I’m sorry.” She cried, begging the ghosts of her people for forgiveness. Warmth embraced her, and Nathaniel cradled her head in his chest.

“Everything will be alright.” Nathaniel whispered into her ear.

Bella tried burying herself into his form, and she cried into his chest. Her fingers clutched desperately at his back, and her legs tightened around his waist. His warmth was comforting, and Bella did everything she could to get closer to it.

“I’m sorry master.” Bella choked on her tears. “I can’t. I so desperately want to, but I can’t.” She looked up into his face and she found herself lost in his warm smile.

“Take your time Bella.”

Bella held back a sob. “Can I ask a favor?” Nathaniel nodded with a warm smile. “Please, save my people.”

Nathaniel placed a hand on her cheek and kissed her. “Very well. I’ll do everything I can to save them.”

Bella pulled Nathaniel into a passionate kiss. Her fingers ran through his hair, and she accommodated when his hands pulled her hips closer. They pulled away for a quick breath, only to go back in for a kiss.

Bella finally pulled away. “Thank you.” She smiled and ran a hand down his chest. “I wish we could stay like this.”

Nathaniel chuckled and pulled her onto the bed and threw the covers over them. “You’re free to stay for as long as you like.”

Bella snuggled up to him and threw a leg over his. “Thank you… for everything.” She buried her face into his chest, taking comfort in his presence.