FSE

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Chapter 11

It had been over a fortnight since Venxia and Lukas first arrived in Salandra. Marcel's predictions about the show had proven to be more than accurate. Word quickly spread, not only in the Pageant District, but across the entire city. People lined up waiting for a spot to get into the shows. Many people kept returning, wanting to see what creature Lady V would 'summon' next. Lady V had even become a bit of a celebrity in the city, getting invited to several fancy parties in the Upper District.

The performances had helped Venxia. She had gotten much quicker in shifting between forms, or at least familiar ones. Venxia had also noticed an increase in her endurance, becoming less tired after each show as the days went by. After the first few days she was up for private shows with Lukas in their room once again. Lukas learned a bit himself. He was no showman by any stretch, but he had a better understanding on how things worked now. Marcel had also taught Lukas a few tricks when it came to social combat at the fancy parties, helping the adventure to feel more at ease.

After many successful shows, the trio was now quite set. Marcel had purchased a small cottage with his share, and had plenty of funds saved up for his remaining years. Venxia had purchased the reagents she would need for her studies, along with a few more arcane odds and ends. Lukas was happy to have more than a few coins left in his purse after mostly restocking the cart with supplies. It was time for the final show and for everyone to move on.

Venxia and Lukas were at the bar of the inn they were staying at. Travin, the innkeeper, was refilling their mugs as he shared some information.

“I know you two are finishing up your business in the city, so I figured you may be interested in a job."

“Possibly, I'd need to know the details." Lukas responded before taking a sip of his ale.

“Aneirin, a friend of mine, has a load of, let's just say precious cargo." Lukas raised an eyebrow and Travin held up his hand. “It's not contraband or smuggling, just legitimately valuable and in demand."

“So, your friend is looking for caravan guards then?" Venxia asked.

“Experienced guards, not rookie adventurers who can barely swing a sword without cutting themselves. People who have been there and know what to do in bad situations. In fact, Aneirin is especially interested in those with magical skills like yourself. You two can expect a double wage, maybe even triple for Venxia's spellblade skills."

Lukas thought about it as he took a long pull from his tankard. “Where exactly is the caravan heading?"

“Pretty far south and inland. The ultimate destination is Rebondao, but there will be trading stops along the way."

Lukas mulled it over before turning to Venxia. “What do you think?"

“Rebondao…if I recall, there is a fairly large university there." She gave a slight nod. “It might be a good place to find some more information or contacts."

He nodded back slowly. “I don't think there's any reason for us to stay close to Salandra, and we could use a change of scenery."

“So, I should let Aneirin know you two are interested?" Venxia and Lukas shared a long look then nodded. “Excellent. It will probably be two or three days before he gets everything together before setting out. It's going to be a long trip, after all."

“That's fine, we could use a day off before we hit the road ourselves."

***

The sign for Lady's V's Magical Creature Show now had a small addition nailed to the bottom. The neatly painted lettering proclaimed it was the final performance. The rumors had already been brewing that the limited engagement would be coming to an end. After Lukas had nailed the small notice up, the news spread through the city of Salandra like wildfire. People attempted to line up for the show immediately, only to be shut down by the city guards. A process that repeated itself several times over the course of the morning.

Backstage, Lukas was just sitting on a crate as Venxia and Marcel prepared for the last show. Marcel had found an even flashier outfit to wear. He had wanted to leave an impression with his final show. Venxia was leaning forward, staring in the mirror as she made minuscule modifications to her Lady V persona., adjusting her nose and eyebrows in ways Lukas could barely even notice.

“What a whirlwind it has been." Marcel said as he placed a brightly colored hat over his gray hair. “Truly, I am thankful you both came to me."

“We couldn't have done it without you." Venxia said, smiling sweetly at the old showman.

“And not just for your space." Lukas added. “We wouldn't have made a quarter of the coin without you knowing how to work a crowd and pull people in."

“Well, that's easier with a good show. And this is a show people will remember. It will be talked about and puzzled over for years. Don't be surprised if one day your grandchildren hear the tale of Lady's V's Magical Creature Show."

“That's getting more than a little ahead of ourselves." Lukas said with a slight blush.

Venxia giggled. “I'm sure our version won't be as exciting as the one passed around the campfire."

“Thank you both once again, retiring like this is something I can live with, even if I probably will miss the stage every now and then."

“It's our pleasure" Venxia said as she got up from her stool to give Marcel a hug.

“If you ever make it back to Salandra, be sure to stop in for a visit." He said softly before pulling away. “Now, we best start the show before the city charges us with inciting a riot."

Venxia gave Lukas a quick peck on the cheek before taking her place behind the curtain. Lukas took up his normal spot by the stage, ready to work the curtain and keep an eye on the crowd. It wasn't long before Marcel started to let people in. They rushed to the front of the stage, taking the best spots as quickly as they could. The only thing slowing down the torrent people was Marcel collecting the admission. Before long the tent was packed to the canvas walls. It was so full that Marcel had difficulty getting around the crowd to take his place on the stage and begin the show.

“Ladies and gentlemen! Welcome to Lady's V's Magical Creature Show." he bowed at the applause he received from the audience. “This will, unfortunately, be our final show. I will be retiring from the stage and Lady V will be traveling on to parts unknown in search of more magical beings. It has been an honor to perform our little show for you these past few days, and I hope you will all fondly remember us in the years to come." Marcel bowed once again before raising up his hand. “With all that said, I present to you, the amazing Lady V!"

Lukas opened the curtain to uproarious applause and cheering from the crowd. Venxia couldn't even get a word out over the fanfare and had to wait for the noise to die down on its own before speaking.

“Thank you for the warm welcome. I spent a great deal of time deciding who our final guests would be for today. There were more than a few…requests made since we announced the ending of the show. Of course, I couldn't hope to fulfill them all, but I am arranging the most popular request to stop by in the end." This announcement brought on another round of applause. “Alright, calm down everyone or there won't be a show." she smiled warmly at the crowd. “Now, allow me to summon our first guest."

Venxia slipped behind the screen and with practiced motions quickly stripped out of her wrap dress. Even before she hung the dress on a peg she had started her transformation. This form was a request from Marcel, his favorite of Venxia's various forms. Her skin shifted first to a pale green, which deepened to a vibrant hue of the color quickly. Then the leaves began to sprout out of her skin. The leaves resembled that of a maple tree. They started green, but soon shifted like a tree in the beginning of autumn, taking on shades of yellow and orange. The leaves provided some measure of modesty to her nude body. Her legs and arms grew longer and more slender, as did her chest and hips, though she still retained an undoubtedly feminine figure. Opening her eyes they were now green within sky-blue orbs. She gave a wink to Marcel standing just off stage before she stepped out onto the stage.

There was an immediate hushed gasp as the dryad took the stage. She smiled at the crowd with dark green lips before bowing slowly. At that, the applause and cheers filled the tent. Slowly, Vernxia turned around, letting her leaves rustle like a breeze through the forest. She stretched her hands up with her long fingers spread wide, like a tree reaching up to the sky.

It wasn't just Marcel, fae creatures were always a hit with the crowd. There is something mesmerizing about them, even if Venxia was actually a mortal, just taking on the appearance of a fae had an effect on people, some stronger than others. Lukas' eyes were on her, and he didn't notice two large men slowly pushing their way closer to the front.

“Ah yes, the lovely Dryad, the protector of sylvan groves. I'm grateful you were able to join us for our final performance." He gave a formal bow, which Venxia returned. “I'm sure you must soon return to your forest home. However, before she leaves, let's let her know how much we appreciate her coming out today!"

The dryad bowed to the audience as the applause and cheers filled the tent. With a final wave, she slipped back behind the screen. Venxia began to shift forms as Marcel worked the crowd.

“Thank you, I know Lady V can certainly hear you. In fact, I think they can hear you over at the docks." He paused for the amused chuckles. “Our next special guest caused quite a stir the last time she graced our stage, and there has been no shortage of requests for her return."

Lukas couldn't keep his eyes off of Venxia as she changed into her next form. A dryad was relatively simple, still being a humanoid creature. This form, however, took more skill and concentration. Venxia's legs melded together into a single long appendage. Shimmering green scales quickly sprouted to cover the snake-like lower body. Similarly colored scales encased her full chest, almost appearing like a skin-tight top. Venxia's hair grew out long and smooth, shifting color to a shimmering black. Venxia opened her eyes, golden orbs split by a long black slit of a pupil. She held her arms out at her sides and they twitched and bulged before splitting in two. Venxia flexed her four arms and arranged her hair before giving a slight nod to Marcel.

“Without any further delay, please welcome our next guest." The old showman bowed to the crowd before walking offstage.

The sound of a loud rattle filled the tent. This brought on a hushed silence from the crowd. One by one four hands gripped the edge of the screen before a head and torso solely emerged. Following the four armed torso a long green serpent body flowed, the tail ending with a tip much like a rattlesnake. The crowd gasped in awe at the sight of the naga as it slithered out to the center of the stage.

Rising up on her tail, Venxia looked down and smiled widely, showing off her fangs. She shook her rattle once more for effect. The crowd broke out of their stupor and started to clap and cheer. Marcel walked back out on stage, only to find himself quickly entwined in her coils. This elicited quite a reaction from the crowd, but the old showman was, of course, ready for it.

“Now, now, my dear, we discussed this last time. I must insist you place me down this instant."

Venxia played along, with teasing looks and smirks before finally depositing Marcel back on the stage. Marcel took a moment to straighten his clothes before addressing the crowd.

“I must apologize, our Naga friend has quite the interesting sense of humor."

At that Venxia winked at the crowd and shook her rattle once more. The crowd now relieved of tension clapped and cheered. The naga slithered slowly around the stage, twisting and turning to show off her entire form to the crowd. As Venxia showed off, Lukas scanned the tightly packed crowd. He did a slight double take when he saw two large men in the front of the crowd. He was sure they weren't there at the beginning of the show. Then again, it was hardly uncommon for people to try and move as close to the stage as possible after the show began. Venxia performed an elaborate bow to the audience before moving back behind the screen. Her rattle shook one final time before slipping out of view.

“Thank you! Thank you!" Marcel bowed to the crowd as Venxia began to shift for her final form for the evening. "It will be a moment while Lady V summons our final guest. It has been an oft requested guest, but I had dismissed it out of fear of the danger involved."

Lukas couldn't help smirking as Marcel continued to build up the crowd. It's only dangerous if you get on Venxia's bad side.

“Lady V, however, has researched the proper wards and protections to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance. However, I would still advise you all to refrain from any sudden movements and to stay clear of the stage." A few members of the crowd by the stage did indeed take a step back at the warning. “And now for our final guest…"

Marcel quickly walked off the stage. Lukas could see Venxia casting a spell, just a simple bit of pyrotechnics to ensure a dramatic entrance. There was a loud bang and then a huge puff of red smoke. It was so quiet Lukas could have heard a pin drop. As the smoke dissipated a collective gasp was made by the crowd. Standing in the middle of the stage was a creature everyone knew, at least by reputation. The form was that of a voluptuous female. Her skin was a deep lustrous purple that almost seemed to glow under the stage lights. Her red eyes did, in fact, glow as they scanned slowly over the crowd. From out of her tar-black hair a small pair of red horns poked out. A long red spade-tipped tail slowly swayed from side to side as a small pair of bat wings shifted position on her back. Coal-black lips smiled seductively at all those in attendance.

Lukas was impressed by the effect Venxia was having on the crowd. It looked as though several people actually fainted. The succubus turned her attention from the crowd towards Marcel and she made a beckoning gesture with an ebony-clawed finger. Marcel slowly approached, but shook his head.

“I'm sorry, my dear, I gave my soul to the stage decades ago." He responded with a polite bow.

Venxia let out a laugh, altered by magic to sound far more otherworldly. It was enough to make even Lukas shiver.

“Now, now, you are supposed to be on your best behavior. We can't have you frightening our lovely audience."

The demon looked back at the crowd with her glowing red eyes and gave them a shrug.

“If you aren't going to behave then Lady V will have to banish you back to The Pit."

Venxia made a show of rolling her eyes before slowly walking across the stage. Her body swayed in the most alluring ways possible. All eyes were on her, including Lukas'.

I might have to request a bit of that later tonight… He thought with a smile as she showed off for the crowd.

The succubus stopped and locked eyes with a young man in the front row. She smiled widely before slowly licking her lips. The young man's eyes went wide.

“Alright, we'll have none of that! Lady V!"

There was another loud boom and another puff of smoke. As it cleared the demon was gone from the stage. The crowd erupted louder than ever. Marcel made a show of fanning away the lingering smoke as he took his position once more at center stage.

“What an amazing trio of special guests, quite fitting for our final performance. It has been an absolute honor and pleasure to have worked with Lady V these scant few days. Truly a show that will be remembered long after I am gone. I feel I can walk away from the stage knowing this and live out the rest of my days contentedly. But enough of the ramblings of an old man, please join me in thanking the woman responsible for such a dazzling show, Lady V!"

A freshly re-dressed Lady V stepped out from behind the screen and joined Marcel. She waved to the cheering crowd before taking a bow. She was just about to speak when suddenly two large men broke from the crowd and rushed forward. Instinctively, Venxia jumped back from the front of the stage, but she wasn't the one they were interested in. The two men rushed Lukas, who was caught more than a little off guard. Before he could draw his weapon, the young man's hands were pinned to the side. Lukas wasn't going down without a fight, and Venxia wasn't about to let them do so either.

As she started to cast a spell, the other man tossed a flask into the crowd. There were screams and cries as a cloud of smoke erupted from where the flask exploded. He then threw another flask at their feet. Venxia rushed into the cloud of smoke. She couldn't see anything, and all she could hear was the pandemonium of the crowd trying to exit the tent. Venxia cast a wind gust spell and it cleared away enough of the smoke to see. Unfortunately all she could see was a large gash cut into the side of the tent and Lukas' sword and belt laying on the ground.

“Lukas!" she cried out at the top of her lungs. She tried to rush through the opening in the tent, But Marcel grabbed her tightly. “Let me go! I have to find him!"

“First of all, they were professionals, not just thugs, they've already disappeared. And secondly, Lady V can't go looking for them, it will have to be Venxia."

Marcel's reminder cut through her rage and reminded Venxia that she created the Lady V persona for a reason.

“I need to find him."

“I have some connections that might be able to help us find out who took Lukas and where. I'm just somewhat surprised they went after him and not you, the star for the show."

Venxia slapped her hand against her forehead. “Because I was the one in disguise, they only recognized Lukas. Damn it! We should have disguised him too!"

“Perhaps, but I wasn't under the impression you two were being pursued."

“I didn't think we were. Damn it!"

“Stay calm. Go get changed and head back to your room to prepare. You're staying at Travin's place, yes?"

“Yeah, why?"

“Tell him about the situation, he's got more contacts than I do."

***

Venxia was glaring angrily as she arranged the objects on the table. A shallow bowl of water, a bell, a few candles and a few strands of Lukas' blond hair she retrieved from his pillow. She was just about to start chanting the spell when a brisk knock on the door disturbed her. Before Venxia could say anything, the door opened. It was the innkeeper Travin, accompanied by Marcel.

“Sorry if we are interrupting, but there isn't a lot of time."

“Do you have some information then?"

Travin nodded. “Yeah, I know those two were hired out of Malcross, and that's where they will most likely return to. It doesn't sound like there is an open contract out on your heads though, someone is keeping this on the down-low

“Kirchweger…" Venxia nearly spat out the name.

Travin exchanged a look with Marcel before speaking. “Reiner Kirchweger?"

“You know him?" Venxia asked.

“I know of him." Travin shook his head. “A questionable broker like him comes up in conversations every now and then."

She sighed. “He already had history with Lukas and we tricked him to get into an auction."

Marcel raised an eyebrow. “Did you leave without paying?"

“No, we paid fair and square, but Lukas helped himself to a ring on the way out, and then we both stood him up for a date."

Travin furrowed his brow. “Both? As in you and Lukas?"

“It's a long story, I'll explain later. Right now, see what you can find out, I need to get scrying and figure out exactly where they are."

***

Venxia had difficulty performing the scrying ritual. It wasn't from any countermeasures the kidnappers had deployed, just her own emotions getting in the way of the focus needed for the ritual spell. Eventually the image of Lukas came through the reflection in the shallow bowl of water. He was bound and gagged inside a covered cart. Seeing him like that almost made Vexia lose her focus again, but she pushed through her emotions. Slowly, she pulled back from Lukas, trying to get some hint of his location.

Venxia's view shifted outside the cart. She wasn't surprised to see they were outside the city, Travin had confirmed that for her already. There were three men in total gathered around a modest campfire.

The third one must have been driving the cart. I'll have to be ready for that. She tried to glean any details of the camp's location. Venxia noticed a rather large willow tree and then it clicked. Wait, I know that campsite! We stopped there on our way to Salandra!

With the information she needed, Venxia let the ritual end. She blew out the candles and rushed over to her gear. She was belting on her sword when there was a knock at the door.

“Come!" Venxia said without even thinking, her mind was already running over the spells she still had available.

“I just talked to…" Travin trialed off as he saw Venxia gearing up. “I take it that you located Lukas."

“Yes." She replied as she strapped Lukas' sword to her back.

“I talked to an old friend of mine. I can get you out of the south gate, but you won't be able to enter the city again until after sunrise."

“Thank you." Venxia said curtly. “I guess I'll see you in the morning then."

“Be careful out there."

***

Travin's contact got Venxia out of the city with no issue. She passed the guard a few silvers for his discretion before hurrying off into the night. Venxia didn't want to alert her presence with a light spell, instead she let her eyes shift to a form more suited for the dim moonlit night. Once she was sure to be out of sight from the city walls Venxia began her true preparations for the upcoming fight.

As a natural shapeshifter, Venxia had to learn to not let her emotional state affect her physical form. At this point in her life it was something she barely even thought about anymore. But ever since Lukas had been taken she had been struggling to hold back. Under the pale light of a last quarter moon Venxia stripped out of her clothes and stopped holding back.

Venxia closed her golden eyes and grimaced, almost as if she was holding back a primal cry. The change started at her feet as her toes fused together and her nails grew thick and red, her feet completely shifting to a pair of heavy cloven hooves. As Venxia shifted slightly on her transformed feet, her skin grew thicker and tougher, shifting to a green color. The leathery green skin started to grow up her legs to cover her lower body. It creeped up her legs to her waist. With her eyes still closed Venxia took a ragged deep breath, she was far from done.

Her rear began to expand. At first it just got bigger, but then started to push out away from her body. Venxia's legs seemed to split; a second pair almost stepping back out of her original. They were thin at first but soon they started to fill out. Instead of cloven hooves, they ended in three sharp red talon-like claws. Venxia's rear legs slowly stepped back, stretching out her body with it. Her lower body slowly shifted and filled out. Her hands mirrored the transformation below, her nails lengthening into wicked red claws and the thick armored skin growing up her arms.

Venxia continued to let her rage guide her transformation. Her front legs split twice more. The first set became another pair of taloned feet and her lower body shifted to accommodate its now six legs. The other pair of limbs went through a further transformation. The limbs grew long and slender, three of the digits began to elongate as a membrane stretched between them. The limbs continued to form into wyvern-like wings, large and powerful enough to lift Venxia up into the night sky.

Red horns grew out green tendrils her hair had become. The long tapered horns grew to a sharp point well above her head, adding to her now fearsome nature. Her ears grew large, sweeping back into points, allowing her to hear much more acutely. Venxia standard twin red tails grew thick and strong, the spade tips were augmented with spined barbs. On her chest her nipples were replaced with lips, but instead of the usual smile, the lipples matched the serious expression on Venxia's face.

Her form finished filling out with powerful muscles Along her legs and arms thick black scales formed like armor. Venxia opened her eyes, the large golden eyes glimmered in the moonlight. She further enhanced her strength and resilience with magic. Venxia then belted Lukas' sword to her waist and gripped her own blade tightly in her hand. She bounded down the road and after making a large leap she began to pump her wings, soaring up into the night sky.

With her beastly eyes Venxia was able to follow the road below. As she grew closer to the campsite, Venxia spotted the tiny dot of a campfire in the night. Her eyes narrowed as she dove towards the bastards that had taken Lukas from her.

***

A trio of rather large brutish men were sitting around a campfire not far from the road. The flowing of the Gamfait River blended in with the other evening sounds and the crackling of the fire. Their target was safely stowed in the small covered cart a few paces behind them. They were relaxing around the fire enjoying wine and pipeweed while supper was cooking over the fire.

Walden shifted around the sausage and onions frying over the fire. “Do we give the ah, package, any supper?"

Botwine snorted as he refilled his pipe. “We weren't paid to feed him."

“Still," Walden looked up from their supper, “we were paid to bring him back alive and intact."

“Missing a meal or two never hurt anyone." Osric said as he passed the wineskin to Botwine. “Just keep him watered and he'll make it back to Malcross just fine. After that the client can spring for his bread, or not."

All three of the large men chuckled at that. Suddenly a strange sound cut through the night. The three men froze, unsure what they were hearing or where exactly it was coming from. Looking all around they saw nothing in the moonlight. It was then Walden realized it was coming from above them. As he looked up all he saw was a monstrous shadow against the moon and stars. He managed to point and let out a cry of surprise before the small campfire erupted into a bonfire like blaze.

Botwine and Osric leapt away from the sudden flash and heat. The magically enhanced fire lit up the campsite, and the new arrival. The creature landed with a loud thud onto the ground, right on top of Walden he let out a short scream that was quickly silenced by the sword in the creature's hand piercing his neck. Then the beast turned her golden eyes on the other two men.

Osric's hand went to his short sword as he backed away from the creature. Botwine just ran out of pure fear into the night. He didn't get far before a bolt of energy slammed into his back, knocking him off his feet. Osric wasn't a scholar, but he knew magic when he saw it. He gritted his teeth and faced off against the imposing creature looking for an opening.

***

Lukas had been laying in the dark of the covered wagon. He had been trying to listen in on the conversation between his captors when all hell broke loose. Lukas couldn't help smiling around his gag. He had a good idea who was out there.

Venxia, just be careful, I want to thank you properly after this.

***

Venxia lowered her hand after launching the spell at the one who tried to run. She doubted it was enough to drop someone that big for long, but for now she had to deal with the one facing her down. The brute was unarmored, but from his stance he at least knew how to use the sword he was holding. Venxia stalked towards him, her golden eyes locked on him, just waiting for him to move. He shifted backwards, until his back pushed against the cart. Cut off from escape, not that he believed he could evade her magic anyway, He charged at the creature. He was strong, Venxia felt it as she deflected his blade, But obviously he was used to fighting other humans. She lunged with talons on her front legs, ripping a trio of deep gashes in his side. He let out a scream of pain, almost doubling over. He made another desperate swipe at Venxia' but she easily deflected the sloppy attack.

She gripped his wrist tightly with her clawed foot, breaking the bones audibly. He crumpled to the ground in a heap, gripping at the wound on his side with his now mangled hand. Venxia left him to bleed out while she dealt with the last one.

Botwine slowly pushed himself up off the ground. His entire body radiated a tingling pain, but he gritted his teeth and pushed through it. He heard Osric's screams and knew the beast would be coming to finish him off next. He stumbled to his feet and tried to run, what else could he do? He didn't look back, just ran towards the river. He was desperate, planning to dive in and escape underwater. Botwine might drown, but it was a better chance than he had standing to fight.

Botwine didn't need to look behind him to know the beast was galloping up behind him, the pounding of her feet on the ground growing closer with every frantic beat of his heart. He could see the moon shimmering on the river, he was almost there. What happened next was the last thing he expected. The green beast not only caught up but started to run past him. Botwine continued to run, but was beyond confused. He expected to be tackled, trampled, or even run through with her sword. He didn't have long to contemplate this as her tails flicked out and tripped him.

The man tumbled hard on the ground, his face slamming into the soft earth near the riverbank. Botwine was in pain from head to toe. He pushed his head up and spat out dirt and a few of his teeth. His fingers dug into the riverbank as he tried to drag himself to the water.

Venxia was done with the bastard. She grabbed his body with her front legs, almost crushing his bruised and battered body. The man writhed and cried like a child. She was also aware he had soiled himself by this point. She lifted his body up off the ground to stare at him eye to eye in the moonlight.

“Who hired you?" Venxia's words were clear and precise, but he could feel the anger and hate just below the surface."

“I-I don't know! Osric was the one who talked to him!"

“So," her golden eyes narrowed, “I let the wrong one of you live then?"

“No! Please! Gods, I'll tell you everything I know! Just don't kill me!"

“Then start talking."

“We were hired to grab the kid and bring him back to Malcross! We weren't supposed to hurt him…"

Venxia leaned in closer to his face. “Did you hurt him?"

“N-no! Just tied him up, that's all I swear!" Botwine cowered under her golden-eyed stare. “All I know is the guy who hired us was some rich guy."

“That doesn't really narrow it down much for me." She let the tips of her claws press into his skin.

“O-osric said he was a chump, rich yeah, but making up for something. But his money was good."

“It wasn't that good, now was it?" Venxia tossed the man back down on the ground.

Botwine sobbed and coughed on the ground. It was one of the most pathetic things Venxia had ever seen. Still it sounded like it was indeed Reiner behind the kidnapping.

“Go." Venxia said in a low dangerous tone. “Now, before I change my mind. And tell your fellow thugs for hire it wouldn't be wise to take any contracts out against Lukas and his friends."

It took a moment for it to register in Botwine's mind that she was letting him go. He slowly got up onto his feet and took a shaky few steps back from her, afraid to turn around. Venxia continued to glare at him and he quickly turned and stumbled along the riverbank away from her. Once she was convinced he was truly not coming back she ran quickly back to the cart. She didn't bother being subtle and she tore through the canvas cover on the cart, finding the bound and gagged Lukas. Lukas jumped a bit in surprise, but quickly recognized Venxia's worried face.

She lifted him up gently from the cart with her front legs as she quickly untied the gag from his mouth.

“Lukas! Are you alright?"

He coughed and sputtered now that his mouth was finally free. “I'm fine, now anyway."

She smiled slightly before pulling him in for a kiss. Feeling his warm lips press against hers had a calming effect on her. She held the kiss for several heartbeats before slowly pulling away.

“I was so scared I'd lose you forever…" Venxia practically whimpered.

“Really? I was sure you'd come for me." He rested his forehead against hers. “Though I wasn't expecting to see you quite like this."

“I…I may have gone a little overboard." She admitted as she carefully sliced through the ropes with her claws. “I was just so upset…I may have let the beast out."

“I wasn't complaining, if anything I'm impressed. Did you actually fly here?"

Venxia flexed her wings. “Yes, but I think that was only because of the buff spells I cast. I don't think I'd have the strength otherwise to keep a body like this aloft."

“So, I take it that we will be walking back."

“I'm afraid so, but, with six legs I'm pretty fast on the ground. After what you've been through, I'll let you hitch a ride."

Lukas raised an eyebrow. “All the way back to Salandra?"

“We can't get back into the city until morning, but I'll get closer to the walls. I've got a spot picked where I, well, left my clothes." She blushed slightly.

Lukas chuckled. “Let's head back to the camp then, and I can properly thank you for the rescue, before you need to get dressed."

Venxia blinked but then laughed. She unbelted Lukas' sword and handed it to him. Once it was secure, she lowered herself to the ground so that Lukas could more easily climb onto her back. He settled in between her folded wings and wrapped his arms gently around Venxia's upper body. It felt good to her, feeling his warmth and weight right behind her as she stood up.

“Now take it easy, I'm still recovering a bit." Lukas warned.

Venxia smirked, an expression mimicked by her lipples, before she bounded away from the ruined campsite.

***

Lukas did have to hold on tightly as Venxia carried him quickly along the road. It was just them and the moonlight as they raced along the road following the river. Lukas' aching joints had at least some time to recover from being bound for hours by the time Venxia slowed and veered off the road.

“I didn't have the time to make a proper camp, it's just a sheltered spot behind this hill. Where I could, ah, change."

Lukas could make out a well used fire pit and Venxia's discarded possessions by the moonlight. He slid off her back carefully and glanced around.

“Here, let me light the fire." Venxia snapped her fingers and the pile of wood she had stacked in the ring burst into flames.

“Magic certainly beats out a flint and steel." Lukas chuckled.

“That's why spark is one of the first spells a magic user learns." She slowly stretched out her body.

To Lukas he couldn't shake the feeling the motion seemed feline in nature, even with the absence of any cat-like features in Venxia's chimera form. With the warm glow of the fire illuminating the area, He was able to get his first good look at his partner's current form. Calling it impressive would be an understatement. Lukas never would have guessed she would be able to take on such a large and complicated form when they first started their adventures together. Then there was the fact she used said form to rescue him single handedly. He felt such a mixture of pride, love, and gratefulness as he watched slowly relax, lounging on the ground in front of the fire. Lukas walked up to her and reached up, pulling her down into a long deep kiss.

“Mmm…" she sighed, “you're welcome."

“I'm not done thanking you." He kissed her again softly.

As they kissed, she started to pull up on Lukas' tunic, breaking the kiss only to pull it off and toss it aside. Venxia pulled Lukas in tight, holding him tightly with her arms and front pair of legs. Her lipples immediately started to kiss and tease his chest as they kissed. Lukas did his best to kick off his boots and wriggle out of his pants while in her tight grasp. He eventually managed to get stripped down, his clothes ending up in a heap below his suspended body. Lukas didn't even feel the chill of the night air between the warmth of Venxia's embrace and his own growing excitement. It took all his strength, but he managed to push away enough to break the kiss and speak.

“Mmm, I won't be able to continue thanking you if you don't loosen your grip a little."

“I know," she sighed, “it's just, having you taken away from me I don't want to let go."

“Don't worry, you can hold me all night."

“You promise?"

Lukas nodded before leaning in to softly kiss her lips. Venxia's grip lessened and he was able to slide slowly down her upper body, leaving a trail of kisses along the way. After Lukas was back on the ground he slowly started to walk along her body, his hands caressing her all the way. Venxia turned, wanting to keep her eyes on her partner, barely even blinking. He reached her powerful hindquarters and ran his hands lovingly over her rump.

Venxia giggled slightly before shifting her twin tails to give Lukas a better view. Her sex was vaguely equine in nature, but he just smiled. He slowly started to caress her while tapping into the magic of his earring. His already proudly stiff cock began to grow further, both in length and girth. As it swelled it shifted from a human shape to, much like his partner, something vaguely equine. With a wide flat head and a medial ring towards the base. But a simple horsecock wouldn't be rewarding enough for his rescuer.

Along the sides of the veiny shaft, a series of bumps and ridges started to form. It was enough for Venxia to see in the glow of the firelight and she shivered a bit in anticipation. She licked her lips with a long forked tongue as she watched his shaft reach its full size and final shape. But Lukas didn't immediately impale her on it, Instead he leaned in, his hot tongue lapping at her already tingling pussy. Venxia moaned loudly and wrapped her tails tightly around Lukas, pulling him in tighter. He responded with more fervent use of his tongue.

Venxia was hugging her upper body tightly, while her clawed feet dug deeply into the earth. She felt him pulling away and shifting his body and she was more than ready for it. Lukas sunk in easily, the warm wet passage swallowing his cock eagerly. Venxia convulsed and moaned as she felt every bump and ridge teasing her passage. She almost climaxed from the first thrust alone. Lukas let out a long low moan of his own as he sank in fully. He took a moment to savor the feeling of her body hugging and milking his member before he started to move.

Venxia gripped him tightly with her tails as he moved with a strong and powerful rhythm. She wanted to watch, but couldn't keep her eyes open as wave after wave of pleasure radiated out from her sex. All the stress of the day Venxia had pushed down to deal with the situation came bubbling up to the surface. When it finally popped, her climax exploded through her body. Venxia's cries of pleasure echoed out across the countryside. Lukas cried out as well, though his voice was drowned out by his partner. His cock flared and his magically enhanced balls dumped their hot load deep into the chimera. Lukas' whole body tensed from his tightly clenched jaw to his curling toes as the sweet release finally broke through. Lukas tried to regain his composure, but after a few ragged breaths he collapsed forward over Venxia's rear.

The only sounds in the campsite were the heavy breathing of the two lovers and the crackling of the fire. Eventually the sounds of the insects returned, and a while after that, Lukas was able to move once again. With a groan he pulled out of Venxia. She had kept a firm grip on his shaft, even as it softened. He stumbled slowly back towards Venxia's front and was pulled up into a tight embrace as soon as he was in reach.

Lukas sighed and relaxed against her warm body. “Thank you…" he whispered softly.

“You don't have to really thank me. I know you would do the same for me."

“Minus the shapeshifting, yes."

They both shared a soft laugh under the stars.

***

Not long after sunrise, Lukas and Venxia were at the city gates being let back in. They were a little surprised to see Marcel was there waiting for them.

“Ah, Lukas, you are safely returned to us!" The old man clapped him on the shoulder. “I was sure Venxia was up to the task, but an old man can't help but worry."

“I'm safe, for now, but I think we will definitely need to leave the region as soon as we can get ourselves ready to travel."

“Do you have a destination in mind?"

“Originally it was a chain of contacts and leads that led us from Oxshell to Malcross, and we just came to Salandra in order to put some distance between us and Reiner while I did some research and replenished our gold reserves."

“Looks like we didn't put enough distance between us though." Lukas replied with a sigh. “Though luckily, Travin has already lined up an escort mission all the way to Rebondao

“That will be quite a distance from here and Malcross. Before you depart, however, allow me to escort you both back to the inn."

Travin was happy to see Lukas and Venxia both back safely and immediately sat them both down and brought out a large breakfast. Lukas was more than a little hungry having had nothing since before the final show. Venxia was also quite hungry, her shapeshifting had burned more than a little energy. As they ate hardily, Travin approached with some updated information.

“My friend Aneirin has finally gotten together all the guards he needs for his trip to Rebondao. The plan is to leave tomorrow at first light."

Lukas wiped his mouth before replying. “That's good to hear. I'm sure we can spend the day getting whatever supplies we still need and be ready in the morning."

“I'm sure Finbar is ready to hit the road again after all this time in the city too." Venxia smiled.

“He has grown on you." Lukas smirked.

She just rolled her eyes. “Hurry up and finish, we need to get to the market district."

***

Finbar pulled the small cart and its two passengers effortlessly down the nearly vacant streets of Salandra. It wasn't hard to spot Aneirin's caravan sorting itself out before heading to the southern gates. Travin had introduced them both to Aneirin the night before, and he was waving them down as Finbar approached.

“There you are, right on time." the merchant sighed with relief. “I know this is going to be a long trip to Rebondao, but I want my cargo delivered as soon as possible so I can stop growing more gray hairs worrying about it."

Lukas chuckled. “It looks like you've got quite a few guards hired. I'm sure we will get you there safe and sound."

“I surely hope so. At any rate, the gates should be opening any minute now. You can fall in line behind that wagon once we start moving."

Lukas nodded and Aneirin moved onto the next item on his checklist.

“I really hope our trip south is uneventful and the merchant is just being paranoid." Venxia paused to yawn softly. “I wouldn't mind a simple escort and have the time to continue my research along the way."

“That would be nice, but who knows what fate has in store." Lukas shrugged. “At least once we reach our final destination you should be able to consult the university in Rebondao."

“Yes, and I admit I'm looking forward to that. My only experience is with the academy at Oxshell, and I'm interested to see what this new institution will have in store for me."

“You mean us, we're in this together." Lukas winked

Venxia smiled and leaned over to kiss Lukas' cheek softly. The lead driver for the caravan called out and the assembled carts and wagons started to move.

“Here we go, off to Rebondao." Lukas smiled as he picked up the reins.

____________________________________________

Characters and setting belong to n666

Writing by Syntaxerror37

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