The Goddess Circle #13

Story by TulipSquirrel on SoFurry

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Having murdered dozens of innocent people within the kingdom of Fenera, the wicked wizard Zyablos makes way for the desert kingdom of Guarude for unknown reasons. Chasing him through the world are the valiant warriors known as the Obscura Knights. Among them is the youngest and newest member; the talented warrior known as the Alabaster Maiden, Chivan. But for her, this mission is more than just to take down a madman. Years ago, Chivan spent her youthful days in Guarude alongside her friend, the rambunctious Princess Nile. If only their reunion was under better circumstances.

Hello everyone. It's Monday. And Monday's time for a new story.

This story is long. VERY long. Longer than the other Goddess Circle stories, which made it the perfect story to end things off for. Yes, for those who care, this will be the last episode/chapter/part/whatever I'm calling it for the Goddess Circle. I was really proud of this series when I was writing it, but if I may be personal, I'm disappointed in how it didn't get any traction. I wonder why that is. Had my little break caused people to not read my stories? Or were the individual parts of the Goddess Circle just not what people were interested in? I wonder.

Oh well...

For those who did enjoy these stories of mine, I greatly appreciate it. While the Goddess Circle may not have done the numbers I had hoped they would, that doesn't mean I'm gonna stop writing of course. I'll probably return to writing out one shots in the future before I do anything multi-story related, so I hope you look forward to it.

Until next time you guys!

This art was drawn by Eclair over on VGen.

https://vgen.co/Eclair

Ko-Fi if you want a commission.

https://ko-fi.com/tulipsquirrel

Patreon if you want to support.

https://www.patreon.com/MaverickKayPrime


Nile, Goddess of Guarude

His name was Zyablos.

And he was a monster.

In the continent of Byrn, there lays the nation known as Fenera. Resting in the same mountains that share its name, it is a frigid kingdom, one that knows nothing but snow and bitter winds. And yet – while far from the largest of nations – it is home to over thousands of denizens. To those who live in Fenera, while the kingdom can be cold and merciless, their use of magic and technology have kept them warm for centuries.

The kingdom's stone structures are tall and black; these mighty bastions forged with a Baroque décor. Within their surfaces in the most populated cities within the land, the ground circulates with ever pumping magic. Spreading out like veins, it produces not only energy to help keep their machines turning, but also produces heat to keep their citizens warm.

Legends say that – long ago – the mountains were the final bastion of a demonic invasion. That a cruel being from a different realm attempted to invade their world, and sent forth a near endless assault of otherworldly beings. To defend themselves and the world as a whole from these monsters, the people of Fenera crafted their monolithic walls to help protect them.

But not even that was enough. Their walls were great, but these monsters were greater. Strong individually, and strong in numbers, these demons continued to force themselves upon the world, seeking to overrun them. Mere walls would not be enough to stop them; they would need more.

And that 'more' came in the form of a group: a trained sect of individuals whose sole purpose in life was the eradication of demonic forces, no matter what. A group so talented, so dangerous, so powerful, that they became legend and rumor in their own right. A group that continues to hunt down satanic influences even now. They may stalk the shadows, content to be covered in the same darkness their enemies sprout from. But if one finds themselves fighting an evil they can't comprehend, let alone best, then they must call upon...

The Obscura Knights...

Crunch! Crunch! Crunch! Crunch! Crunch!

It was windy today. Along the infinite white plains of Fenera, one could see powdered snow and ice being carried by strong gusts, flowing like a flour in a kitchen. Amid this snow and ice, two figures could be seen. They marched through the seemingly endless fields, wearing majestic white and black cloaks that billowed in the wind. With their hoods pulled up, the cloaks concealed their faces, making it impossible to know who was beneath them. However, one was tall and burly; clearly a man. The other was significantly younger, shorter too. It was difficult to tell who laid beneath it.

Together, these two followed along a predetermined path. In the distance – only a few yards away in fact – one could see a hillside. Further still, there were other figures cloaked in white and black, standing by as if waiting for something... for some_one_. Upon the arrival of the two figures, the other cloaked beings straightened up and turned, facing them where they bowed.

“Captain Femtos," said one of the cloaked figures, “You have arrived."

“Enough of that," answered the man in the larger cloak, “Tell me... what is the situation."

“We have chased Zyablos to this location. He's in that cathedral as we speak..." reaching away, the cloaked figure produced a telescope and handed it to the man before him, “Throughout the night and the morning, there has been no movement on his part. But we know he's in there; we can feel it."

The cloaked man nodded before taking the telescope from his subordinate. Placing it to his eye, he gazed down in the distance. Slightly obscured by winds that carried snow and ice, one could see the mighty walls of a black structure in the distance. Its roof was white, its architecture Gothic, and its windows stained-glass. Abandoned, one could only wonder how long its been here, left alone to the whims of nature. Even then, to think that Zyablos would hide out here of all places.

“It's sickening," muttered the captain – Femtos – as he handed the telescope to the smaller figure at his side, “For him to disrespect a church. He truly is a monster."

“What do you say we do, Captain?" asked the man to his right.

“We don't know yet what Zyablos' plan is, but we cannot allow him to continue whatever it is he is doing. However long it's been since he's gone in here, he's had a plethora of time to see his plans through. No longer. Prepare yourselves. We move on my command."

“Captain... what of her?" asked the figure beside him, “She is still too young, is she not?"

“Do not worry about her," said the captain as he crossed his arms, “She is like you, and has been trained for this all her life. I will not stand idly by and let you question her, regardless of her age."

“Yes, Captain. Apologies, Captain."

“Now then..." Femtos started walking off, “Move yourselves to the outer perimeter of the church. We will enter inside and confront Zyablos. We will weaken him and drag him out. That's when the rest of you will attack. We will slay this demon together."

“Yes sir!"

The many cloaked figures all nodded in unison upon the order given by their captain. In preparation for their oncoming battle, they reached into their cloaks, pulling out a variety of weapons. From swords and spears, to firearms and tomes, they were prepared to fight whatever stood before them. They then rushed down the hillside, moving to the perimeter of the church. That left Femtos and the small figure beside him, who lingered behind.

“Do not let his words get to you, Chivan," said the captain as he faced the smaller figure at his side, “You have been preparing for moments like this all your life. Do not start to doubt yourself now because of the doubts of others."

“I... I know, Father," said the figure to his right. It was a young voice... a girl's voice.

“Good. Now then, let us push forward."

Nodding in unison, the two figures started marching down towards the church. Unlike the others who stood sentry at the edge, they walked down the stone path towards the church directly. Decades ago, this cathedral was the house of worship for a small little community. Following a powerful series of blizzards however, the community would move for other towns. This left the church and forgotten to time, resting amid a small number of crumbling structures and buildings.

And yet this church was still in remarkable condition. Sure, there were cracks here and there, and a few windows were shattered, but compared to the rest of the town that was essentially gone, its a wonder how this place was still standing tall. Was this Zyablos' doing?

Coming to the doors of this cathedral, Femtos' powerful palm pressed to it... and then pushed the door open.

THOOOM!

Its monstrous slam echoed throughout every faucet of the church, announcing his arrival. Marching through the lobby of the derelict domain, the two stepped into its main hall. Its candles were lit by an esoteric light, shattered windows allowed snow to blow inside, and in the heart of the cathedral...

“Aaaaah... the Obscura Knights. How wonderful it is for you to join me."

He was there.

The main hall of the church – a place once meant for worship – had been transformed into a man's sick science lab. Various machines of an arcane origin were resting about, pumping with steam, electricity, and magical energy. Symbols were drawn about, some of which for alchemy, others for astrology... but most were of a demonic origin. There were even bags resting about, though the contents within... were probably better off not knowing.

And in the center of it all was a man. He was a tall, though not as tall as Femtos, and had a lithe figure with a slender frame. From his head fell hair as black as the walls of Fenera, that came down to his shoulders. In some areas it was curly, in others straight, but in the middle fell this single bang which rested along the middle of his head.

Wearing red and yellow garbs, he gave off an almost religious vibe. But like everything concerning this man, it was warped and malicious. This man exuded an evil, almost destructive aura. If cruelty could be given form, it was his. And if you didn't believe it, just look into his yellow eyes...

Marvel at how empty they were.

“Zyablos..." muttered Femtos as he gripped his cloak, “I did not come here to talk. Words are wasted on you. It is time that your evil was eradicated."

Fwooossh!

With a swipe of his hand, he removed the cloak which covered his body, revealing his body beneath.

He was an older man, one whose age was around his late thirties, early forties. And yet, he still looked so young. If one were to assume he was in his late twenties, they'd be forgiven for their mistake. With his fair skin, his chilling blue eyes, and his gilded blond hair, all of which looked so pristine, he had the appearance of a man significantly younger.

His figure was no different. Despite his age, he had this powerful physique. Bigger than Zyablos, but not bulky or wide. He often times towered over others in a room, and with his build, most were too intimidated to him to look at him, let alone speak to him. Not made any better by his face, which almost always seemed to be bent into this no-nonsense scowl.

His clothing exemplified his position. It was a gallant ensemble, appearing like a lithe knight of black and white. Light armor adorned his chest, arm and legs, but didn't completely cover the almost princely garbs he wore beneath. And on his back, flowing long and free, was cape with the Obscura Knights symbol resting in the center of it. That being an 'O' and a 'K' merged together, with a sword thrust down its center.

This was Femtos Soriel, Captain of the Obscura Knights within Fenera.

At his hip rested a basket-hilted sword, one with an opulent guard that swirled and spiraled with beauty and grace. Gripping the blade, he withdrew it quickly, revealing it in full. Its silver blade alone seemed to radiate with an awesome power, as a strange, glowing green magic began flowing off of it.

“My oh my," said Zyablos as he approached the captain, a grin on his lips, “What did I do to garner the attentions of the famous Captain Femtos himself? And here I thought I was a small-time villain. I dare say, it's quite a boost to one's ego that you come yourself to slay me as oppose to--"

Dash!

Well, Femtos did say he did not come to talk...

With impressive speeds, he darted at Zyablos, leaving a gust of wind in his wake. His inhuman speed allowed him to fly at his opponent and bring his blade down upon him at the same time. But mere moments before his sword could meet flesh...

KLASH!

It was blocked.

Holding up his hand, Zyablos defended himself against Femtos' strike with a fountain of magical energy. It clashed against his sword as if the obscura knight was striking steel! Zyablos' expression had also shifted, leaving his playful demeanor for something more serious and tense. Both his and Femtos' eyes met in this moment, before the wizard pushed him with his hand, sending him back with an explosion of magic.

“I thought you'd be aggressive," said Zyablos as the dust began to settle following his discharge, “My, my... and here I was hoping we could have a spot of tea first."

“No more talk, Zyablos," Femtos said as his eyes focused in on him, “After all you have done, you don't deserve having a tongue anymore."

Dash!

Again, Femtos rushed at Zyablos. His blurring body was impossible for any normal human to keep up with. And yet--

KLASH!

Just like before, the wizard stopped his strike with a barrier of magic. Gritting his teeth, Femtos struck at Zyablos again and again and again, performing a flurry of blows that would have killed a person in a matter of seconds! And yet, each strike was again blocked and parried by the wizard's protective hand.

Again and again and again, the cathedral grew bright with flashes of light and magic. Femto's blade constantly struck Zyablos' barrier, no matter where he struck. How the wizard could keep up with his speed, he did not know. It didn't stop him from pushing him back, forcing Zyablos on the defensive.

Standing idly by, Chivan watched as her captain clashed with the wizard. She knew her father's capabilities – he trained her after all – but she had never seen him be so aggressive before. His swings were precise and deadly, strong and mighty. And yet, he could not land one strike on Zyablos, no matter what he did. Was he holding back, or was the wizard that good?

“I can't keep up..." she whispered to herself, “They're... ah..."

KLASH!

With one more strike, Femtos pinned Zyablos down in the center of the cathedral. As that barrier of magic flickered like an optical illusion, the wizard and knight eyed one another. No matter what he did, Femtos just couldn't break him! Making matters worse, Zyablos wasn't trying to fight back; only to defend. Why is that? And... what was this he was feeling?

“FATHER! WATCH OUT!!!"

“What? Hrrrk!?"

Slash!

Just barely! Just... barely!

Leaping back, Femtos dodged a strike that would have sliced him in twain. A tiny glimmer of light danced across the cathedral, cleanly cleaving in half all that it struck. Confused, the obscura knight gazed into the direction of the attack, his eyes falling on...

A puppet? Yes! A puppet! A puppet made of flesh.

It was the body of a human, its flesh paled and rotting in various ways. Even the clothes it wore was patchwork, like someone stitched together random materials to create something. But why call this corpse a puppet? Because of the way it moved. Its movements were jerky and inhuman, less like it was moving naturally, and more like it was being carried on invisible strings. But despite its uncanny motions, the zombie puppet was still a deadly force to be reckoned with. It didn't even have human hands, instead having long, serrated claws.

Claws it wasn't too shy of using.

Slash! Slash! Slash!

“Gah!?"

Quickly, Femtos dodged the various attacks. They were aimed at tearing through flesh, be it on his chest, his face, or his neck. Forced back the by assault, the obscura captain stood in the center of the church, watching as the zombie puppet continued its approach... while Zyablos stood behind. His arms were crossed, his lips were curled into a grin, and taunting snickers left him.

“Wonderful, isn't it?" he said, “I spent quite a while forming this gentlemen. I believe he was a farmer in the southern plains... though I could be wrong. I ran through a lot of bodies before I finally created some worthwhile puppets."

“You sick monster!" Femtos growled as he clutched his blade tighter, only for realization to befall him, “Wait... did you say... puppets?"

“Eheheheh... yes I did..." replied Zyablos as he raised his hand, “Allow me to show you the fruits of my labor, Femto!"

Snap!

With a snap of his fingers, the wizard sent a quake traveling through the church. Femtos and Chivan gazed around as the ground rumbled beneath their feet, before sudden objects were tossed up into the air. Hiding among the books and pews of this derelict church, were even more of Zyablos' puppets! They shot upright, their flesh rotting and their clothes tattered. Men, women, beastkin; it did not matter. Individuals of all kind were twisted into this menagerie of flesh and blades.

“By the gods..." Femtos whispered, causing Zyablos to laugh.

“Bwahaha! Yes! By the gods indeed!" he cried, “Only now after creating my puppets, do I feel close to the gods. How many twisted freaks did they create before finally getting it right with mortals? Please do me a favor and ask them that question..." his face shifted, growing serious and cold as he pointed at Femto, “When you see them in the afterlife. Now kill him!"

SWISH! SWISH!

All at once, the puppets Zyablos summoned began flying at Femtos in unison. With their rotted and warped visages and their blades raised high, they struck at the obscura knight. They were fast but he was faster, clashing and parrying their strikes with his powerful blade. However, he was but one man, and there were several puppets! He needed help! And that help came in the form of...

Shine! SPEAR!

A shimmering blue blade.

One of the puppets suddenly came to a stop, its body locking up and twitching. Piercing through its chest was a thick blade forged from a blue magic. Much like the energy that radiated off of Femtos blade, this magic too was wispy and flowing. Unlike his sword however...

Fiizzzz...

It faded away, vanishing into thin air. The puppet them twisted and fell, collapsing upon the ground as if it were dead... or... well... more dead than it already was.

Femtos looked up, gazing in the direction where the blade came from. His eyes fell on Chivan, who stood in the center of the church with her hand raised up. Bringing it back, she gripped the cloak she was wearing, and--

Fwuaaaah!

Tossed it aside.

She was a young woman, no older than nineteen. Her figure was spry and dainty, with soft, curved shoulders, thin arms, a slim, trim midsection, a fit and perky chest, and surprisingly wide hips and thighs. It gave her a somewhat bottom-heavy physique... and a short stature. If she were to stand side-by-side with her father, she'd barely come up to his chest!

Another difference compared to her father? Her hair. Instead of being a golden-blond, it was this snow-white. It was as if she collected the pure snow that blew against her, and stuffed it into her hair. Short and curly, it fell down to her chin and was curled in a bob, with the front bangs of it parted asymmetrically to show her face.

Her serious... stern... focused face.

She was like her father; a no-nonsense and professional kind of girl. Her nose was pointed, and she wore this scowl on her visage. Even her eyes were chilling. Despite being a vibrant and verdant green, they were somehow so cold.

Her attire was similar to his as well... and yet obviously different. He was a swordsmen, and his clothes offered him great movement and protection. She however was more of a mage. Her clothes was like a dress, one that held close to her body, flaunting her curves and contours. Beneath it she wore black tights, and adorning it was light armor, specifically on her shoulders and legs. And last, flowing from her back was a cape with the obscura knight symbol emblazoned on it.

And yet – despite being an obscura knight – there was something oddly spiritual about her. If you were to remove the armor on her clothes, you'd be forgiven for thinking she was a nun of some sort. There seemed to be an aura, a power that radiated from her body as a whole. It was almost great enough to repel evil by itself! But then she'd raise her fingers...

Bweam!

And produce a blade forged of shear magic from her fingertips!

“Hiiiyaaaah!"

Tossing the blade out, Chivan sent it flying into the chest of another puppet, piercing it through its chest. Like the one before it, this puppet twitched and locked up, then collapsed as nothing more than a corpse. Dashing in, she followed her assault by tossing out more blades! They flew through the air, penetrating the bodies of the puppets around her with deadly accuracy. Their chests, their heads; they were all stabbed, where they twitched, locked up, and then fell over. The groups of puppets were all slain in a matter of moments!

And Chivan wasn't done yet.

“Hiiyaaah!"

Flash! Bounce!

“Nnghh...!"

Chivan's blade flew through the air... and straight towards Zyablos. Before it could strike his head however, her magical dagger was reflected by his barrier, protecting him. The wizard stepped back, his yellow eyes meeting her serious ones. She came to the side of her father as they both focused their attentions on the wizard in front of them.

“Well now..." he muttered, his annoyed face bending into a smile, “I truly am blessed. Not only do have I garnered the attentions of the illustrious Captain Femtos himself, but he has saw to it to bring his gifted daughter here to help him. Hah hah ha! Oooh... lucky me..."

Femtos and Chivan did not bother answering him. Instead, the two looked at one another, nodded, and then dashed at Zyablos in unison. They were twin blurs of white and black, appearing before the wizard in unison with their weapons ready!

KLASH! KLASH! KLASH! KLASH! KLASH!

For them, time was moving normally, but for any normal mortal, all they'd see were blurs! The two knights struck at the wizard, constantly hitting his barrier again and again. Their assault was relentless, but no matter how hard they struck him, his protection would not break. But they were forcing him back nonetheless.

The church and his laboratory suffered damage as a result of their attack, for the blows were so great that it sent out shockwaves! Not that Zyablos could focus on it; all he could see were their eyes! Blue and green, they shined like lights with the expressed purpose of killing him.

Craaaaackk!

And they were going to make that happen.

Zyablos was a powerful wizard, but his barrier was but so strong. Having endured a number of hits, visible cracks began appearing on its surface. The more strikes he took, the more cracks appeared. He needed to figure out an escape, and quick!

But before he could think of one, Chivan pulled back. As Femtos continued striking Zyablos' barrier, the ivory maiden held her hand out. Pointing her palm towards the devious wizard, she began summoning her magical might, making it flow off her body like an azure aura. The ground grew tense around her, with various objects flying upwards from the backlash of her power. But Chivan did not break focus; she kept her eyes trained on Zyablos before shouting out--

“FATHER, MOVE!"

He didn't hesitate. The captain leaped back.

BWEEAAAAAMMM!!!

And a mighty blade constructed of magic came flying out.

It struck Zyablos' barrier with so much force that he was flung back! Hitting the wall behind him, Chivan's blade of magic continued pushing against him. The impact was so great that sparks of magic were sent flying all directions. All the while, her blade began grinding against his barrier, causing more cracks to start splintering throughout it.

Zyablos held his hands out and, focusing with all his might to deflect Chivan's attack... but it was a losing battle. With every passing second, his shield came closer and closer to shattering into pieces. He could even feel his magical might start to wane! He needed an escape, and quick! Good thing he already had one. So all he needed to do now... was let go.

“Fuaah...

BLAAAASSTTTT!!!

Zyablos let loose on his barrier, allowing Chivan's attack to make it explode in a vibrant explosion of magic and sound. The cathedral as a whole rumbled from the impact, while the magical shockwaves knocked Femtos away! But the obscura captain landed on his feet next to his daughter, his blade still drawn while her hand fell.

For a few moments following the explosion, the two did nothing but breathe heavily. Was Zyablos defeated? There was only one way to find out.

Chivan traded a few glances with Femtos, before both began walking to check up on their reprehensible wizard. Coming down to the center of the cathedral, they found him, resting with his back to the wall. Battered by the explosion he endured, his clothing had been torn in various areas, and his flesh was beaten and bruised. And yet, he still smiled, chuckled too as the two obscura knights stood in front of him.

“I dare say, heh heh... you two really surprised me. I didn't expect you both to come at me so furiously."

“Really?" replied Femtos in an incredulous manner, “You who have slipped through our fingers time and time again? You who have left nothing but death and destruction in your wake? You who have performed such sinister and vile magics on corpses? You are stunned by our fury?" he shook his head and raised his blade, “Nay... prepare yourself to be slain, Zyablos."

“Ah... but... before I go..." he grinned, his yellow eyes giving a soft glow, “Did you not notice something, Captain Femtos?"

“What now?"

“I'm just saying... eheheheh... you came in here so quickly, you didn't have enough time to check on the rest of your squad, did you? Eheheheheheh... think about it. Did you all not think it odd how I let you spy on me? Your men are skilled, but I am no fool. I knew that the Obscura Knights had tracked me down, and yet I continued on with my experiments. I could have escaped at any moment I pleased, but I didn't."

“What are you talking about!?" Femtos growled, to which Zyablos shook his head.

“Eheheheheh... you were all so hasty... too hasty. I understand that I am an high-priority target, but you really should have paid attention to your surroundings. After all... the church itself was littered with my puppets," his grin spread out wide, “Did you not think that the outside was littered with them too?"

Both Femtos and Chivan looked at one another, their eyes wide and mouths agape. Before one could say a word however--

Dash!

“Wait, Chivan, no!"

The Alabaster Maiden darted for the entrance of the church. Breaking through the front doors of the cathedral, she returned to the snow-white fields to see...

Red...

Like a fickle painters brush against a white canvas, the fields outside of the church were stained red with mighty strokes. Zyablos' puppets were were clashing blades with the Obscura Knights, littering the ground with corpses. How many had been slain by the wizard's marionettes? How many more would be slain if she didn't get to work?

None... because Chivan would not allow it!

Flash!

“Hiiiyaaaah!"

Rushing into the battlefield, the Alabaster Maiden began flinging out her magical blades with pinpoint accuracy, striking down puppet after puppet. One could hear her cleave through their forces with deadly precision... and yet Femtos could only gaze at her in horror. Not horror towards her, but horror towards...

Gleeaaaam!

“Eheheheheh...

Him...

Femtos looked forward. Zyablos was looking back at him, his palm opened wide and pointed towards him. From it rushed nothing but magic, one that was crimson in color. It was a point-blank blast.

THA-BAAAAMM!!!

With explosive power, Femtos was knocked off his feet, and launched clear through the cathedral. His body became a missile, slamming through the wooden doors with so much force that he was sent straight through it! Slamming on the ground outside, he uprooted snow and ice before skidding to a halt. And yet, not even thought was enough to keep the obscura captain down.

Planting his blade into the ground, he pushed himself back to his feet, fighting through the pain of the blast. Around him, his men and daughter were fighting against Zyablos' puppets. But even if he wanted too... he could not focus on it. If they just defeated the wizard himself, his puppets will lose all function! With that in mind, he quickly rushed back towards the church, but--

Thud! Whump! Dud! Thud! Ka-thump! Pump!

“What?"

Turning around, Femtos faced the battlefield around him, where something wondrous – yet terrifying – happened. One by one, Zyablos' puppets dropped suddenly, ceasing their onslaught. The ground was littered with their immobile corpses, confusing and stunning those around them. Even Chivan looked around with an eyebrow raised, before turning to face her father.

“No! Dammit!" he shouted whilst turning.

Rushing back into the church, the obscura captain gazed around where he saw... nothing. More specifically, he saw no one. There was a certain wizard who should be here, but he was gone. Scrambling through the makeshift laboratory, Femtos looked for any sign of Zyablos, whether it be a bit of his cloak, his shadow, a shoe! But – again – he saw nothing!

“No... NO!"

Zyablos had escaped.

“DAMMIT!"

Slamming his foot to the ground, an explosion of magical energy erupted at his feet. They were so close! So close! All they had to do was strike him down, and the horrors he's created would have all been over! But they let him get to his head! Damn that silver-snake!

“Father...?"

Despite his anger, her voice still pierced the air. Unfurling his fist, Femtos looked over towards the entrance of the church, where his eyes fell on Chivan. She wore a look of concern on her face, and stood there with her hand curled at her chest. Seeing her both calmed him down, yet also reminded him of Zyablos' escape... and why he escape.

“Chivan..." he whispered, “Why did you leave?"

“Wh... what?" she replied, flinching at him, “What are you talking about?"

“We had Zyablos," he explained whilst facing her directly, “We just needed to kill him, but...! Why did you rush out there!"

“He was killing our men!" Chivan shouted back as she marched up to him, “What was I to do? Stand idly by and allow it to happen!"

“That's not what... ggrrrhh!" he shook his head, his fingers running through his hair, “Haaaah..."

Deflating momentarily, a myriad of thoughts rushed through Femtos' head. He understood why Chivan did what she did, and even knew that his anger was not directed towards her, but towards Zyablos. Taking a few moments, he settled his nerves, before walking up to his daughter, where he placed his hands on her shoulders.

“Chivan..." he said as he gave her a numb look, “In our line of work, you cannot be hasty and make knee-jerk reactions. You have to be patient at times, and think things through. You are too smart to be afflicted by your emotions in such a way. Zyablos used that on the both of us. In the future, you must give pause."

“But father... what else was I to do?"

“I know it's a difficult lesson to learn," he replied, “At times, I know I fail in heeding it. But sometimes... sometimes... sometimes you must prioritize the needs of others. Our men have been trained for years to take on the ultimate sacrifice if need be. It is their duty as obscura knights. But in rushing to save them, Zyablos has escaped, meaning he may very way bring harm upon innocents later."

“But... aaahh..."

Chivan's face was typically stoic and serious, but in this moment, she looked away in defeat. Had what she done been really that bad? Sure, Zyablos escaped, but she did rescue some of their members. It wasn't all bad... was it?

“Captain Femtos...?" called a voice from the entrance.

Looking over, Chivan and Femtos watched as members of the Obscura Knights entered into the cathedral. Some were injured, others spared, but all were shaken by the battle which occurred. They were looking at their captain for guidance, who could only shake his head.

“Chivan, joined with the healers and tend to the injured," Femtos ordered.

“Haaaah... yes, father..."

Her name was Chivan Soriel, daughter of Femtos Soriel, the captain of the Obscura Knights' branch in Fenera. Like all members, she endured grueling training so that she may one day save others from the demonic forces that hound the world. Unlike most others however, she was blessed with something most could only hope to achieve after decades of practice.

Chivan was gifted with magic, with a rare few who could ever hope to rival her. Her mastery over magic was noticed at a young age, for she could effortlessly mirror the abilities of wizards by only watching them. With such wondrous capabilities, she was trained firsthand by her father, who hoped to forge her into a mighty weapon against all evil in the world. All her life, that's all she wanted to do.

Please him. And yet...

Her hands radiated with a magical warmth, flowing over the gash of a knight in front of her. He was once wincing with pain, but now sighs of pleasure were leaving his lips. She could not completely heal a wound – a scar would be left on his leg – but it would no longer be bleeding, nor would it cause him pain.

“Better?" asked Chivan as she gave him a smile.

“Much better," he said, “Thank you, Lady Chivan."

“Ufufu... thank you."

Her smile was small, yet it was bright nonetheless.

Grabbing nearby coils, she began to gently wrap it around his wound for added protection. All around them, the cathedral was being scoured by the Obscura Knights, who searched for anything that could hopefully lead them to Zyablos' whereabouts. His notes were scrutinized, his puppets were investigated, and standing above it all was Femtos.

“Have you found anything yet?" he asked of his subordinates.

“Not yet, captain," they answered, making him look away.

“Keep searching. There has to be something here we can use to find him."

“Captain Femtos!" someone called, “I think I've found something here!"

“Hm...? Bring it over."

Rushing to his side was a knight, and in his hand was a rolled up paper. He handed it to Femtos, who rested it on a nearby desk. Unrolling it, he revealed a--

“Map...?"

It was dusty, old, and detailed a land that... wasn't Fenera. Multiple notes were etched into its surface, detailing things like names and locations. There were also various symbols of an esoteric origin. Some of them he knew, but not all of them. The knight who originally found the map didn't recognize this land at all, but Femtos did.

“This is... Guarude..." he whispered.

“Guarude...?" a voice came from behind.

Looking over his shoulder, Femtos' eyes fell upon Chivan. His daughter looked back at him, before bringing her gaze down to the map on the table. Approaching it, she placed her hands on its surface, and began scanning it alongside her father.

“Do you remember Guarude?" he asked of her, to which Chivan nodded.

“I do..." she replied, “We went there when I was very young. That's where..." she looked at her father, “That's where Princess Nile lives, correct?"

“Yes she does," he replied with a smile, “Heh... you and Princess Nile spent a lot of time with one another when you were children. But..." he cocked his head, “Why is there a map of Guarude here? And... what do these symbols mean?"

“I... recognize these symbols," answered Chivan, “They are in my tomes and sorcery books. And these notes. I think..." she shook her head, “I think... I think Femtos is planning something in Guarude. Something that involves... divine magic."

“Divine... magic...? In Guarude...?" Femtos said in confusion, while Chivan nodded.

“That's what it says," she raised an eyebrow, “Father...? Do you think... Zyablos is looking for something in Guarude?"

He didn't answer right away, instead raising his fingers to his chin in a thoughtful manner. Closing his eyes and sucking in air, he pondered this new information. The idea of divine magic being in Guarude confused him... but the idea of Zyablos getting his hands on divine magic terrified him. Divine magic wasn't normal magic; it was the kind of magic that only gods have access to. If a man like him got a hold of even a minuscule amount of it, that would be enough to illicit immediate action.

Femtos couldn't allow it.

“Everybody, continue scanning the cathedral for any information you can find," the captain ordered, “We have to get our hands on Zyablos, and quick. As for you, Chivan..."

“Y-yes, father?"

“Pack your things. We're going on a trip."

Guarude. Her memories of this land are... hazy to put it lightly. She remembered coming here plenty of times in her youth. You see, the ruler of this land – Pharaoh Amenhotep – was friends with her father. When they were young, they spent time learning alongside one another in the same academy; a friendship that continued well into their adult years. That led them to introducing their daughters to one another when they were but children.

Chivan, the Alabaster Maiden and future member of the Obscura Knights. And Nile, the Princess of Guarude. Heh... when placing their titles alongside one another, she comes up a bit short, doesn't she? Which would you rather be? A knight, or a princess?

The answer is not too difficult to come to, is it?

She remembered running around with Nile in her palace. They were about the same height, but the princess had a robust amount of energy within her. No matter how long they ran or how hard they did so, Nile would never grow tired. She also never left Chivan in the dust.

She also remembered the beauty of Guarude. It was a desert land, but she remembered seeing greenery and foliage. And the palace? Oh, the palace! Never had she seen so many mixtures of pure white, and glowing gold! It was big, with a brilliant courtyard filled with the most wonderful flowers she had ever seen! And the servants were always there, ready to help whenever they needed it.

Putting it lightly... she remembered Guarude being a paradise. But that's just the thoughts of a little girl, correct? It wasn't actually a paradise... was it? Besides, it had been well over ten years since she last saw the land; who's to say that it even retained that level of beauty and majesty? And what of Nile herself? Did she even remember Chivan? They hadn't even sent as much as one letter to one another.

Well, one thing was consistent with her memories of Guarude. It was hot!

“Hah... I told you to dress lightly after we got off the airship."

“I... am fine, father."

Up and down, Chivan's fan flapped, blowing cool air upon her sweaty body. Some would call her insane for dressing in such a way when going to a desert land. A dress with tights beneath it? Was she trying to give herself a heat-stroke? Of course not! She just gravely misjudged how hot Guarude could be.

Sitting across from her in this carriage was Femtos, who – in a rare moment of ease – smiled at his daughter's misfortune. Unlike her, he dressed lightly for the hot weather, wearing a light shirt and slacks that were white in color.

“Remember, we do not know how long its been since Zyablos has arrived," said her father as he leaned forward in his chair, “We don't even know if he's arrived yet. Nevertheless, we need to stay focused and vigilant. If he is here, we cannot allow him to slip through our fingers yet again."

“I know, father," said Chivan with a nod of her head, “This time, we will capture him. I will not fail you again."

“Chivan..." his face melted, “Haaah... I want to apologize for how I treated you in the cathedral. I understand that my anger was misplaced. You were only trying to save others, and I understand that. It even makes me proud. But remember..." he raised his finger, “Obscura Knights are willing to lay their lives on the line for others. They were doing their job."

“I... aaah..." clutching her hand at her chest, she nodded, “I know, father... I understand."

“Haaah... now then," straightening up, he glanced out the window to their side, “I have been in contact with Pharaoh Amenhotep, so he should be already aware of the situation. Nevertheless, we will meet with him at his palace. I'm sure Princess Nile will be there too. Haaah..." smiling, he nodded, “Princess Nile... I wonder how she's grown throughout the years. I'm sure she's just as rambunctious as she used to be, despite her age."

“Huh..."

Chivan's eyes closed shut, again thinking about Nile. Femtos was excited at the prospect of visiting his old friends, even if it was muted and aloof. His daughter on the other hand, was far more conflicted. She could even feel her stomach start to roll, fearing that the desert princess may not be so approachable. Time is long: it can change people.

Turning away in an attempt to take her mind off her thoughts, Chivan too began looking out the windows at their side. For as far as the eye could see, there was nothing but sand. Endless, endless sand. Guarude was often touted as having an infinite desert, one with dunes and hills and pits. There were settlements among the sand – it was a big nation – but that didn't make it any less easy for a person to get lost, never to be seen again.

But the deeper they traveled inside, the more powerful the smell of water became. And soon after that scent, there was the smell of flowers and trees. Beyond even that, the sound of roaring waterfalls became stronger and stronger, louder and louder!

The first sign of foliage would be the overhanging palm trees. They stood tall above as their carriage entered this brief forest grove. But once they broke through the thicket of grass and trees, they'd see a massive city that shined like gold! Smooth buildings stood tall, their surfaces white, brown and gold. There were roads and highways which with various vehicles traveling among them. Palm trees too were among it all, adding greenery to the gilded metropolis. And at the back of this opulent city, there laid a massive line of waterfalls which explained that earlier sound.

But above all – and sitting in the center of this city – there was a pyramid. Just as grandiose as the city it laid in, this palace could be seen from miles around with ease. At each corner of this grand palace, there stood four statues that depicted some sort of god. Each one was carved from gold, and each one shined ever so brilliantly when the sunlight struck it.

To put it lightly, this city was a desert heaven. And right now, they were aimed towards its palace.

“Wow..."

Chivan was expecting to see sand and stone structures, but nothing like this. Watching it all come closer as they entered into the city, she was mesmerized by the beauty on display. The golds and browns of Guarude, were different from the whites and blacks of Fenera. It was like entering into a completely different world.

But the people here were unique too. Walking on the streets were not humans like Chivan and Femtos, but instead beastkin: a class of humans who have animal-like attributes. Some were jackals, others crocodiles, others were like harpies! It appeared as if this land was made up entirely of beastkin! Not that Chivan had never seen beastkin before; they were plentiful in other lands. But none to this degree.

They continued along their confined path, heading towards the glorious pyramid in the heart of the city. As expected, entry was barred from the rest of the metropolis by a grand white wall. But for them, the gates were opened, allowing them and their carriage to enter inside. Chivan could feel excitement start to bubble within her, no matter how much she tried to keep it held in. Just what exactly was the palace like now after all this time had passed? There was only one way to find out.

The driver of their carriage walked over and opened the door. After a respectful bow, he offered his hand to Chivan, who tenderly grabbed it, allowing him to pull her out. With dainty steps, she exited the carriage, standing outside where--

“Ah...?"

Stairs. Lots of stairs.

The staircase leading up to the palace seemingly went on without end. There were hundreds of them, if not thousands! Walking up and down these stairs must take so much time!

Along with Femtos, Chivan walked up these stairs. Every step seemed to coincide with the beating of her heart, which rose higher and higher and higher. Eventually coming to the wide open halls of the palace, the Alabaster Maiden gasped in awe. The palace was open and large, with clean floors and walls. Hieroglyphs were drawn on the walls, depicting gods and deities in various forms. She couldn't understand any of it, but she was awed nonetheless.

The ceiling of it was held up by various pillars, each one perfectly carved, and each one glowing like gold. This... couldn't have been real gold, right? Just stone that looked like gold? Chivan found it difficult to ascertain the truth.

And the servants? The servants were so... ahem... uh... well...

Scantily-clad...

Wearing white and gold, the servants of the palace – both male and female – seemed to dress so lightly. The women exposed their legs, arms, necks, and even cleavage, while the men seemed to forgo the usage of shirts as a whole! Their choice of clothing may change between them, but their attire was no less skimpy and light. They didn't seem to mind however.

Chivan wasn't an idiot; she knew why they were dressed like this. It was the same reason why she was sweating so much; Guarude was hot! But even with that in mind, the Alabaster Maiden couldn't imagine showing so much skin! It was almost lewd, causing her to stiffen in place. But before she could worry about it too much.

“Ah! Captain Femtos and Lady Chivan! You've arrived!"

A voice called out to them, snapping her from her thoughts.

Turning over, both Chivan and Femtos' gaze fell upon a man. He was tall, his flesh black, while from his head stood the ears of a jackal, with a matching tail extending from his backside. He wore baggy purple pants, a long hat, and had a glorious gold and black necklace wrapped around his neck. Coupled with the opulent gold scepter in his hand, they could tell that this man was important. Chivan felt as if he was vaguely familiar however.

“Vizier Ramses!" said Femtos as he approached the man, where he grabbed his hand and gave it a firm shake, “It's wonderful to see you again."

“Likewise, Captain Femtos," he said, “If only our meeting was under better circumstances. Ah, but before we get carried away," he turned, his hand gesturing down the hall behind him, “This way to the throne room. Pharaoh Amenhotep has been patiently awaiting your arrival."

“Then let us not waste anymore time. Come, Chivan."

Together, the trio headed down the hall, coming to the throne room of the palace. It was a wide room, one that rested at the near top of the pyramid. Square in shape, it had no walls to speak of so that its ruler could gaze upon all of Guarude at their leisure. At its rim was water that flowed from reliefs in the wall, with potted plants resting at its four corners. Typically, there would be any number of servants making sure that the throne room was spotless. But right now, there was only one man.

He was tall, almost taller than Femtos in fact! For Chivan, that was stunning; no one was as tall as her father! He had a powerful build, with equally as powerful, catlike eyes. Catlike...? Yes, catlike! His ears too were not that of a human, but those of a cat, and he had a feline's tail as well!

He was not wearing a shirt, allowing anyone and everyone to gaze upon his flawless, golden-brown physique. Rippling muscles and brawny strength appeared sewn into his very flesh! His legs were covered in harem pants, and around his waist was a gold and black belt. But the first thing most people would notice about him, was the grandiose headdress he wore on his head. It was a brilliant crown, one that was fit for any pharaoh.

But he was a pharaoh. Pharaoh Amenhotep to be exact, the ruler of Guarude.

And he sat at the throne itself.

The pharaoh's throne was a place as opulent and golden as one would suspect. Resting beneath a solar disk, it was if the sun itself sat behind his head. It caused him to radiate this unapproachable aura; like he was truly a deity given form.

And yet... this unmistakable kindness radiated off of him. His facial features weren't as domineering as her father's, but it was clear to Chivan that if he wanted to be serious, he could be. He had a thin mustache on his face, and an opulent goatee jutting from his chin.

“Amenhotep..." said Femtos as he stood before the pharaoh.

“Femtos..." he replied.

Chivan tensed up in place. Never had she heard anyone call her father 'Femtos' before, outside of her mother. Even Zyablos called her father 'Captain Femtos', even if one would argue he was mocking him. But even more shocking, her father didn't call Amenhotep 'Pharaoh Amenhotep'. Perhaps to most, lacking such honorifics may be a minuscule offense. To Chivan, it was insane!

The pharaoh rose from his throne, where he walked up to Femtos so that the two could see each other eye to eye. For several moments, the air was heavy and intense, with neither side saying a word. Chivan's eyes darted between the two, wondering if something was going on between the two. Did they have bad blood? If not, then why was the air so tense!? Well...

Grab! Grab!

“Femtos! It has been far too long, my friend!"

“Likewise, Amenhotep! Dare I say... have you gotten taller?"

Oh... no... there was no bad blood. This was just some weird joke between the two. How crass...

Amenhotep and Femtos met hands in the center of the throne, gripping one another tight and shaking on it. Standing beside, Chivan looked up towards the pharaoh and her captain, mesmerized by the change in the latter. She couldn't remember a time where she saw her father act so jovial. The smile on his face was a bright and genuine one, and the same was true for the pharaoh.

They were friends... just how many friends did her father have.

“Ah, and look at this," said Amenhotep as he shifted his gaze over towards Chivan, “Is this... little Chivan? My... how you have grown," approaching her, he caused the Alabaster Maiden to tense up as he towered above her, “The last time I saw you, you barely came up to my knee. Now look at you," raising his hand, he offered it to her, “It's lovely to see you again, Chivan."

“I..." was her response.

Looking down at his hand, Chivan trembled in place. It had been well over a decade since she last saw him, and yet he was being so personal with her. She wanted to shake his hand – the last thing she wanted to do was disrespect him – but she just couldn't bring herself to do it. So instead, she grabbed her skirt and performed a curtsy, saying,

“It's lovely to see you too, Pharaoh Amenhotep."

Straightening back up, she gazed up at the pharaoh, wearing her aloof and almost emotionless visage. Amenhotep gazed back, his head cocked to one side as he pulled his hand back. He appeared perplex for a moment or two, but then smiled and nodded.

“So... how was the trip to Guarude?" asked Amenhotep as he faced Femtos, “I take it you found no issues."

“Non whatsoever," answered the captain, “Your servants have been very kind and professional, Amenhotep. I thank you for the kindness you have shown my daughter and I."

“Bah! There's no need to thank me for it. Pharaoh though I may be, I am still your friend, Femtos. Besides, you have brought to our attention a problem that plagues our land. I would be remiss if I did not make your stay as comfortable as possible. Speaking of which, this issue..."

“Yes, Zyablos," said Femtos as he grew tense, “He is a monster. I almost find it difficult to believe that he is human. Maybe he was human once..." he shook his head, “But no longer. He's a necromancer, and has been abusing the dead for far too long with his sick projects and experiments."

“Your letters made it clear how dangerous a man he is," said Amenhotep, “I already have my forces searching the land for Zyablos. So far, nothing has come up. But once it does, you will be the first kn--"

“Father!" a voice called from the entrance of the throne room, garnering everyone's attentions, “I noticed a carriage outside our palace. Is someone here? Hm?"

It was a sporty voice. It was a hoyden voice. It was a boisterous voice. It was a tomboyish voice. It was her voice.

Everyone turned to face the entrance of the throne room, where they watched a young woman appear. A tall young woman. An athletic young woman. A divine young woman.

She had blue hair. Well, to be specific, the color is imperial blue, thanks to its darker shade. In some lights, it may appear more like indigo, in other lights, it could be completely black. It was short, sporty and curly, coming down just to her cheeks. What style was it called again? Oh yes, a pixie cut!

Her eyes were sharp and slender, fixed into this powerful, catlike gaze. And yet, despite this strength, they exuded playfulness and levity, much like a teasing feline. Maybe it was because of her smile, which also was curled with this feline bend.

Much like the pharaoh before, she was a beastkin of the feline genus. Cat ears were on her head, and a feline tail extended from her backside. But where as Amenhotep was reserved and refined, this young woman was energetic and curious. Her tail slithered and danced, and her ears were twitching and turning.

She was a powerful though lithe young woman, one whose flesh was as golden-brown as the sands of Guarude. Entering into the throne room, she had shapely hips and thighs, a narrow midriff, and this ever so buxom, no, bountiful chest! There was even light musculature on her arms, legs and stomach! And yet, she retained her femininity, making her this graceful, beautiful, golden, idol.

Her clothing was no better. It was like a dress... but not exactly? Black in color, the bodice of this dress was thin and tight, holding close to her chest. It flaunted her tomboyish physique, as it exposed her rounded shoulders, and even the sides of her stomach. Coming down to the skirt of the dress, it was flowing at the back where it touched the floor, while a pelvic curtain hung down the middle. Aside from that, her legs were exposed in full, allowing anyone and everyone to gaze upon the curves of her hips and thighs. With how thin it was – not to mention that it didn't even reach down to the ground – if she jumped a bit too high, anyone would be able to see between her legs! Was she even wearing shorts beneath that?

Oh yeah, and she was wearing a lot of gold. Golden wrings around her wrists, a golden choker around her neck, and a golden tiara in her head. She was even wearing golden sandals on her feet! All of which was created with the utmost perfection, as if it had been created by a true artisan! On her body, it elevated her as being beyond almost everyone around her.

This was her. This was princess...

“Nile...?" said Chivan, garnering the attentions of the catgirl.

“Chivan...?" she replied.

The Princess of Guarude approached the Alabaster Maiden, coming face to face with her. No... well... more accurately, face to chest. Compared to Chivan, Nile was this tall, curvaceous, voluptuous, amazon of a woman! Meanwhile, she was this short, dainty, thin girl, with a wide bottom!

From eyesight alone, you could see that they were different! But it wasn't just in appearance! They hailed from completely different worlds, with different virtues! And yet, the moment Nile was but a few inches away from Chivan...

Hug!

“Ah!?"

“Oh! Chivaaaan! Nyah hah hah! You've gotten so much taller!"

Nile embraced her.

Chivan was pulled in against the desert princess, her head pressing against her chest. Her cheek rested against Nile's bosom, which was so big, shapely, and firm. Supporting her head, her breasts felt so warm, so soft, so... perfect.

Chivan almost didn't want to pull back... but then she realized that... ya'know... HER HEAD WAS ON NILE'S CHEST!!!

“Gah! I...!" said the Alabaster Maiden as she her head pulled back, coming face to face with the princess who embraced her.

Nile looked down upon her, this charming smile on her catlike lips. It exuded such warmth and kindness, even if there was an air of feline mischief at play. For a moment, it was impossible to believe that the Princess Nile of her memories was the same woman who was standing before her now. It had been so long.

But despite her hesitation, Chivan kept her hands on the desert princess' hips. After a few moments, she worked up enough courage to raise her hand, where she placed it upon Nile's cheek. Gently, she clutched the princess, as if still unsure that she was real. In response, the catgirl's grin grew, and she nuzzled her cheek against Chivan's palm.

“Your hands feel really nice," Nile remarked.

And for the second time, the Alabaster Maiden realized just what she was doing.

“I...! Ahh!?"

Pulling back fully, Chivan separated from Nile, this furious blush on her cheeks. Timidly, she looked down at the ground with her eyes wide, while the desert princess chuckled at her side. She had no qualms with the closeness they shared, though the same could not be said for the Alabaster Maiden.

“Nile," said Amenhotep, drawing their attentions over to him, “Why don't you take Chivan back with you to your room? She and Femtos have traveled a long way to get here. I'm sure they could use the time to rest."

“Nyeh heh! Of course, father!" replied Nile before shifting her attentions towards her, “C'mon, Chivan! Follow me!"

“I... uh..." Grab! “Ah?"

Looking down, Chivan's hand had been grabbed into Nile's, who gently clutched her close. Muted though her personality may be, even her eyes had to grow wide from the desert princess' forwardness. Nile wasn't the type to hesitate, was she?

Hand in hand, she began tugging Chivan out of the throne room, causing her to stumble behind on unsteady feet. They rushed through the halls of Nile's palace, passing by servants and golden décor alike! But all the Alabaster Maiden could focus on was the princess herself. Again, she couldn't rap her head around how tall she was! It was impossible to imagine that they were the same age!

And yet this grip... it was somehow both so tender, yet firm.

Chivan was so focused on Nile, that she didn't pay much attention to the palace they were in. Everything blurred past them, and it didn't stop until the princess stopped. And when she did, that was because they came to a pair of doors. A grin laid on Nile's lips and her tail danced wily in the air, while she pushed her hands on the doors and pushed them open.

Eeeeaaaaaaaaaarrrrrrk!

Imagine a bedroom. Now, imagine the greatest bedroom in the world, a bedroom that an angel would rest upon. That's where Chivan found herself standing before. It was an opulent chamber: the walls shined like gold, there was a grand balcony that overlooked the desert in the distance, various chairs and couches rested about, and of course, there was the bed. It was grand in size and circular in shape, with sheets that were as white as a cloud resting upon them... and no doubt just as soft. One could easily sink into the mattress and pillows of this bed, and be smothered by them.

This? This was the bedroom of royalty! This was the bedroom of a princess!

And that princess was pulling her along.

“C'mon! We can sit right here," said Nile as she guided Chivan over towards one of her couches, “Make yourself at home, Chivy!"

“Glk!? Ch-Chivy!?" repeated Chivan as she stammered in place, “Ah... n-no... y-you remember that?"

“Nyeh heh heh! Of course I remember it! I was the first person who called you it, wasn't I?"

A blush of embarrassment formed on Chivan's cheeks. It was so great that she clutched her face with her hands in an attempt to hide herself. That nickname, 'Chivy'. She had not heard that name in over a decade! It was what Nile called her during her stay here in the palace. Even now, she could remember her high-pitch voice calling it out.

CHIIIIVVYYYYYY!!!

It was cute back then, but they weren't eight anymore! Gah! How could Nile even remember it in the first place?

She wanted to tell the princess not to call her that. In fact, if anyone had the galls to call her that outside of Nile, she would have given them a swift slap! But before the Alabaster Maiden could speak a word, the Princess of Guarude sat down next to her. Only an inch or two of space separated the two, and they were both facing one another.

Again, Nile's looming height made Chivan feel so small, but her charming smile radiated such warmth. The desert princess flawlessly exuded this approachable aura, and when she leaned over to rest on her cheek on her fist, Chivan felt herself relax as well.

It had been a while since she'd shared a space with another girl her own age. So focused was she on her studies and mastering her magic, that she didn't have a lot of time for socializing with others. There was just one slight problem with this closeness she shared with Nile...

Why was she wearing those clothes!?

Nile's dress was both exotic as befitting a princess of her caliber, and also skimpy. It showed so much skin on her arms, her sides, her legs and thighs, and yes, her cleavage too! Like her servants before, Chivan had never seen such attire! It left her feeling flummoxed! Nile on the other hand.

“Heeeey... aren't you hot in all those clothes?" she asked, making Chivan fidget and blush.

“Y-yes! But I'm fine!" she answered whilst looking away, “I have this fan. I can use this cool myself off."

In an attempt to save face, Chivan gazed into the opposite direction of Nile, where her eyes fell upon... a mirror? The corner of Nile's bedroom appeared to be where she dressed herself, as there were multiple full-body mirrors lined up in a curved position before a raised platform. When gazing at the mirror, Chivan could see herself, blushing furiously with her eyes wide... as Nile raised up from behind her with this devilish grin on her lips.

“You liar," she said, sending a jolt down the obscura knight's spine.

“Wh-what? What are you talking about?" Chivan asked, attempting to defend herself... poorly.

“Chivy, you're sweating furiously," said Nile as she grabbed the skirt of her white dress, “You can't hide it! And... nyah? Are you wearing pantyhose? In Guarude!? Nyeh heh heh! I know Fenera is an cold, but I'd hope you'd make a change of clothes before coming to my kingdom!"

“I... ah! It's... fine!" Chivan reaffirmed, a furious blush adorning her cheeks as she closed her eyes, “P-please, stop worrying about it, Princess Nile!"

“How can I not worry about it?" asked Nile as she stood up before Chivan, “Chivy, you're my friend! And I'm not going to just stand around while one of my friends melts in front of me! C'mon, c'mon! I have plenty of clothes you can wear!"

“Ah! Nile!" Grab! “W-wait! Niiillleeeee!"

No good! Nile's physicality wasn't just for show; she was incredibly strong! Against Chivan's will, she was pulled over towards the princess' changing corner. Placed atop the raised platform, the Alabaster Maiden came face to face with herself. Her eyes were wide and mouth too in this visage of shock, and this furious blush of embarrassment adorned her cheeks. All the while, Nile stood behind her, with her hands resting on her shoulders.

For a few moments, the two did nothing but stand there. Chivan's shocked expression shifted into something more demure, while Nile rested her chin upon her forehead. The desert princess wore this smirk on her lips, her catlike eyes gazing into their reflection... and her chest moving up to cradle the back of her friend's head.

Again, they were so busty... so firm... they cradled her head like a lovely pillow.

Around and around, Nile's hands began to gently rub and knead her friend's shoulders. Despite Chivan's earlier defiance, she allowed the princess to bring her fingers around to the back of her dress. There were strings holding it up, ones that had been tightly wound before her arrival. With deft fingers, Nile undid them; one by one by one by one, until...

Shshffffl...

The dress grew loose on Chivan's back.

Returning to earth, the Alabaster Maiden realized what her friend was doing. Her eyes widened and a gasp of shock left her lips, but when Nile clutched her dress by the shoulder...

Fwwwaaah!

It was too late!

With a mere swipe of her hand, Nile flawlessly removed Chivan's dress, tossing it aside. Beneath, the Alabaster Maiden was wearing her pantyhose of course, which covered her from the waist down. She was also wearing a white corset, one that clinched and lifted her bosom from the bottom. Speaking of her bosom, she wore a pink brassier on her chest, one that gave a graceful lift to her chest, and looked so positively--

“Cute!" Nile exclaimed. Chivan wouldn't agree.

“Aahah!?"

Embarrassed beyond all belief, the Alabaster Maiden quickly raised her arms, covering her chest as she crouched down on the platform before her. Teeth clinched, she shook her head in some vain attempt to dispel the humiliation she felt... which obviously did nothing. Nile on the other hand...

“Is something wrong?" she asked, her fists on her hips.

“Y-yes, there's something wrong!" Chivan shouted as she faced her, “You disrobed me, Princess Nile!"

“Well... I can't give you new clothes if you're wearing them," said Nile with a shrug of her shoulders, “Speaking of which, let's get you out of your pantyhose and corset. The clothes I have for you won't fit with them on."

“Nnghh!? M-my pantyhose and corset? Ahh..." she looked down, “Hah... no... th-this is too much, Princess Nile!"

“Why?" she asked, “Is something wrong? Are you ashamed of your body?"

“What? N-no! Of course not!"

“Good! Because, Chivvy," reaching down, Nile placed her hand on her shoulders, giving it a firm yet tender squeeze, “You have a very beautiful body. Nyaaahh... it's so shapely and dainty. Ah... and so thin too... nyeh heh... I'm almost jealous of you!"

“J-jealous...?"

That word bounced around in Chivan's head. 'Jealous'? What did Nile have to be jealous over? She was this stunning, tall, voluptuous, golden beauty of a young woman! If anyone should be jealous, it was Chivan! If Nile were to enter into a room, no one would doubt her capabilities.

Unlike...

No! She couldn't let those thoughts infest her mind! She was in Nile's room with only her bra and pantyhose on! She needed to focus on that first!

“Princes Nile, please. I-I mean no disrespect, but could you please return my dress?" asked Chivan as she looked over her shoulder at her friend, “And then please turn away so that I can dress myself?"

“Hm? What's wrong? Are you embarrassed by me being here?" asked Nile as she pointed at herself.

“Yes!" Chivan cried, “Princess Nile... I... I'd rather like it if you did not see me undress myself."

“Why's that? We used to play dress up all the time as children, and there was no problems then."

“That...? As children?" Chivan repeated, “Princess Nile, that was over ten years ago! We're not eight anymore! Haah... we haven't even seen each other since those days! Things have changed... we've grown up."

“I'm not an idiot; I know that," Nile replied, “But... that doesn't make you any less of a friend to me."

“I...!"

That wasn't a response she was expecting to hear. There was this earnestness in Nile's voice, this honesty that Chivan wasn't expecting. To think that after all this time, she still saw her as her friend, even if they hadn't shared as much as a single letter to one another, it was heartwarming.

Chivan... didn't have many friends...

“I apologize if I made you feel uncomfortable," said Nile with a sheepish smile, “Nyeh heh... I admit, I've only been outside of Guarude's borders a handful of times, so I'm not used to the customs of people from other lands. I'm not sure how things are in Fenera, but in Guarude, it's not uncommon for us to help each other dress, especially with how our clothing can be. I just wanted to share that with you."

“I... hmm..."

Oh great, now Chivan felt like she had done something wrong! Nile may be haughty and brash, but that didn't mean she was trying to make the Alabaster Maiden uncomfortable! She just wanted to help her friend, who was indeed sweating, and did need a change of clothes. Perhaps then... she should meet her halfway. After all, as the saying goes...

When in Sifer, do as the Siferians do...

“Oh... haah... o-okay, Nile," said Chivan as she stood up, though she continued clutching her chest to defend her modesty, “I'll... try one of your outfits. P-Princess Nile..." she smiled at her, though her face was still red with embarrassment, “Could please grab some clothes for me?"

“Nyah hah hah! Of course! Right away, Chivy!" said Nile, her ears twitching and tail straightening up.

With an excited burst of energy, the desert princess rushed towards her walk-in closet that was nearby. She vanished from view, but Chivan could hear her laughing and giggling as she searched through her clothes. The excitement she showed was rather palpable, and despite her attempts not to, the Alabaster Maiden began to softly chuckle along with Nile. Maybe... it wouldn't be so bad.

“Here we go!" said Nile as she returned, “I hope you're ready, Chivy! I have a lot of clothes, so this should fit you!"

In one hand Nile held a simple top, one that was wavy and airy. In the other hand, she held a long skirt, one with a split at the side. Both were white, and both were laced with light gold, particularly around the collar and the waistband.

Approaching her friend, the desert princess wore a wide smile on her face as she offered her the dress and skirt she was holding. Timidly, Chivan picked both up. Despite their differences in size, she could tell from eyesight alone that these articles of clothing would fit her. Maybe they belonged to Nile when she was younger?

“Alright, next step!" said the Princess of Guarude with a toothy grin on her lips, “Let's get you out of those pantyhose!"

“Ah!? Nngh..." Chivan looked down, “R... right..."

A series of giggles left Nile, sending shivers down the spine of her friend. Her embarrassment was growing with each passing second; she was about to jump out of her skin! Maybe she should stop now? She could always request some privacy; she was sure Nile would understand.

But before a word could leave her lips, the princess' hands again fell on her shoulders. She kneaded her gently, touching her in a way that was soothing... but also bolstering. Under Nile's guidance, Chivan stood up tall, where she was turned to face her reflections in the mirrors before her.

She looked so docile and embarrassed. Nile looked so brash and confident.

With those courageous hands of hers, the desert princess gripped Chivan's pantyhose. At first she gave them a few exploratory tugs, and then she began to slowly peel them off of her legs. The Alabaster Maiden could feel her cheeks turn an intense red; soon, her face would be hotter than all of Guarude! And yet, she did not stop Nile.

This is normal in Guarude. Just endure it, she told herself.

“You're very beautiful, Chivy," the desert princess said aloud as she rolled her pantyhose down, “You have such wide hips, and they're so shapely. Nyeh heh! And your legs too! They have this lovely shape to them! Nyaaaah! Your physique is so bottom-heavy...! It's great!"

“P-Princess Nile, please!" said the Alabaster Maiden as she shook her head, “S-stop praising me like that."

“Hm? Is something wrong?" asked Nile.

Stepping out of her pantyhose, Chivan stood before the princess is nothing but her panties, corset and bra. Her embarrassment did not diminish, but she was getting used to the situation. Even with her red cheeks, the Alabaster Maiden's expression had become stiff, as her eyes were closed and her lips were in a defiant frown.

It had the opposite effect on Nile.

“Nyeh heh! You're so cute, Chivy!" said the desert princess, making her eyes widen, “I absolutely adore the expressions you make!"

“I... aaah..." she shook her head, “Princess Nile, your praise... it's--"

“Heeey... stop calling me that," the princess said, cutting her off.

“Wh-what? Stop... what?" asked Chivan as Nile's fingers traveled up to her corset.

“That 'princess' stuff," she explained as she began undoing the strings of her corset, “'Princess Nile' this, and 'Princess Nile' that! Nuh uh..." she shook her head, “You can just call me 'Nile'. You're my friend, Chivy, not my peon."

Those words rang in Chivan's ears, making her feel... unsure, in all honesty. She was a young woman who's life revolved around duty and honor, making it imperative that she gave the utmost respect to those deemed her superior. Nile was her superior, being a princess and future pharaoh. To call her by her given name would be... difficult.

But it wasn't like that years ago, was it? Years ago, that's all she called her. Nile and Chivy, running around the halls of the palace, exploring every inch of it, and driving their fathers crazy.

Swip! Swip!

“And there," said Nile.

Falling down at Chivan's toes were her corset. The Alabaster Maiden gazed at it in a dazed manner, before realizing what that meant. Bringing up her arms, she covered her chest and her stomach with her arms, defending herself against Nile's gaze. But when she looked up at her reflection, she again saw the desert princess' charming and reassuring smile.

“I don't care what you say. I'm going to call you 'cute' and 'beautiful. Because that's what you are," said Nile.

Her brazen words caused Chivan's eyes to quiver, before she blushed and looked away. Try try with all her might to remain solemn and stoic, she just couldn't keep it up. The desert princess' voice and mannerisms were as blunt as a hammer to the face, and yet still as deft as a dagger to the heart. Whenever she spoke, the Alabaster Maiden felt her defenses crumble into pieces.

“Alrighty... on to the next part," said Nile as she pulled away to the clothes she procured from her closet, “What would you like to put on first, Chivy? The skirt, or the top?"

“Ah... um... th-the skirt..." she said in a skittish manner.

“Nyeh heh! Skirt it is!"

Bringing over the garment, Nile fiddled with its golden waistband, opening it up. With Chivan's arms raised, she wrapped the skirt around her waist, where she clipped it upon her with a firm grasp. The Alabaster Maiden's cheeks turned red and her eyes grew wide, gazing at her reflection as this flowing white skirt hugged her flared hips. The slit at the side would allow a person to see one of her legs... and all of its flesh.

Chivan was blushing so furiously at the mere thought of it, while Nile gleefully jaunted around with so much skin exposed. How could she be so bold? How could the people of Guarude be so bold? She wanted so desperately to jump out of her skin, to bring this little game of dress up to an end!

But then Nile's hand began traveling along her body again. The dainty yet firm fingers of the desert princess, proved to be the surprising source of comfort for the Alabaster Maiden. She had this reassuring touch, one that could melt even the coldest of ice. And that's what she made Chivan do...

Melt...

“Alright," whispered Nile as she gave a parting squeeze to the knight's shoulders, “On to the top! Let's just... get rid of this bra now."

And Chivan grew frigid yet again.

“N-no..." she said with a defensive shake of her head, “N-Nile... I'd... like to keep my bra on, p-please..."

“Hm?"

The desert princess looked at her, but she averted her eyes. Considering how forward she had been, Chivan expected her to push on anyway. Perhaps speak some more of those honeyed words that made her so weak. But this time...

“Okay!"

Nile acquiesced to her request.

Reaching back, the desert princess grabbed the top to Chivan's ensemble. After undoing the clips of its golden collar, she coaxed her to raise her arms so that she could guide the top down on her chest. It slid along the knight's feminine body, covering her from her chest up. That meant that, yes, her midriff was completely exposed. Her curvy shoulders were exposed too, as this shirt was off the shoulders.

Ah... that's why Nile wanted to remove her bra. With the way this top was, everyone could be able to see its straps.

Click!

“Aaaannnd... there! Nyeh heh heh!" said Nile as she clipped together the collar of her shirt.

For a few moments, Chivan gazed at her reflection... where she struggled to accept what she was seeing. It was almost like she was having an out of body experience; who was this girl wearing these clothes? The young woman known as the Alabaster Maiden, was nowhere to be seen! Her arms were exposed, her leg too, and her midsection! Everyone could see her stomach! Just thinking about this was enough to make her head spin! What would the other obscura knights think if they saw her like this!?

Again, she could feel her vexation with the situation begin to rise. Why did she even allow things to go this far!? She should have just told Nile 'no', and then sat there and burned to death by Guarude's heat! Death was certainly preferable to the embarrassment and shame she felt right now!

But before she could rise her voice in anger, Nile's hands fell on her arms. Gently she stroked Chivan's body, causing that frustration and embarrassment to die before whispering,

“You look wonderful, Chivy."

And there it was again; the princess' ability to break her defenses. Whatever shame she felt was numbed as Nile's honeyed words poured into her ears. Was this embarrassing? Yes. But was it shameful? No, no it wasn't. This was typical clothing in Guarude. In fact, Chivan had seen plenty of servants wear something similar to this. And that's not getting into the fact that Nile's clothes were the most extravagant of them all!

“So... how do you feel?" asked the Princess of Guarude as she looked at her friend's face in the mirror.

“I feel... weird," Chivan answered, her blush returning though it wasn't as restrictive as it was before, “Do the people of Guarude always show so much... skin?" she then shook her head and covered her face with her hands, “No! That's stupid! O-of course they do! It's hot here! What a dumb question to ask!"

“Nyah hah ha! I don't think it's dumb!" Nile said with a laugh, “Honestly... nyeh... I think it's an interesting question! Hmmm..." crossing her arms, she took a thoughtful pose, “I never really thought about it. It's... not like we show skin for any particular reason. But there's nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to one's body. Nyeh heh heh! I'm not going to advertise my nudity to the entire kingdom, but I'm not going to limit myself either! I suppose this is just... fashionable for us!"

“Fashion... able...?" Chivan repeated.

“Yeah, nyeh heh heh! Fashionable!" said Nile with a beaming smile on her face and a nod, “I'm sure there's plenty of people in Guarude who are like you, Chivy! A bit shy to show so much skin! But I'm not, and you shouldn't be either. You have a remarkable beauty, and you should flaunt it if you want to!"

“I... haaaah..."

Nile said it so easily, as if Chivan could just flip a switch and be okay with exposing her body to others. Doubly so when she looked herself over... and couldn't see what made her so extraordinary in her friend's eyes. The desert princess was this tall, gilded, athletic beauty! She was stunning and statuesque in every sense of the word! In fact, Chivan wouldn't be surprised if Nile would had statues created of her for centuries to come!

Meanwhile, she was short, had these thin arms, and her hips and butt were a bit too wide for her own good. Everything that made Nile so amazing, she lacked. Would history even remember the Alabaster Maiden in a couple of decades?

“So... got any more questions?" asked Nile, to which Chivan shook her head.

“N-no... not right now."

“Great! Because I have plenty of questions I want to ask you!" said the desert princess, “Nyaaaah! It's been eleven years since we last saw each other! There's so much I want to know! Ah! But before I get ahead of myself!" grabbing Chivan's hand, she began tugging her along, “Let's get comfortable, Chivy!"

“Mm-hm..."

Apprehensive though she may be, she followed along with Nile. Returning to the couch and table within the princess' bedroom, she sat down, watching as her friend rushed off towards her bedside. A series of giggles echoed from her feline lips, filling the air as she rummaged through her things with an 'Ah-ha!' she found whatever it was she was looking for, and returned with it in hand.

“A... jewelry box...?" said Chivan as Nile put it down on the table between them.

“Yeah! Nyeh heh! No friend of mine is going to look anything short but her best!" the princess explained, “Lift up your arm! I have plenty of bracelets you could wear."

“A-are you sure?" asked Chivan, “I... I don't really need to wear them."

“Nyeh heh! I'm not gonna to give you a lot! Just a few. I think gold would look great on you, Chivy."

“I... ahh..." she nodded and raised her hand, “Okay."

“Nyeh heh heh! Great!"

Opening up her jewelry box, Nile revealed a bevy of golden regalia. Necklaces, bracelets, anklets, rings; the princess had so much in this small container! And it all shined so bright! Chivan's eyes grew wide and her mouth agape in awe of the luxury before her.

Picking up one band, Nile brought it over towards Chivan's hand. Gently, she guided it down upon her dainty fingers, and slipped it around her wrist. The princess' touches were like her words; strong yet tender, brash yet deft. How could anyone move with such perfection?

“Haaa..."

Feeling Nile's hands upon her hands sent a rush of warmth through Chivan's body. They just moved so flawlessly... so elegantly... and yet with this brash firmness that only a tomboy like her could have. Nile was a princess, yes, but there was no princess that was like Nile.

“So," she said as she looked Chivan in the eyes, “Why are you and Mr. Femtos here?"

“H-huh...?" she cocked her head, while the desert princess began sliding another bracelet on her other wrist, “Pharaoh Amenhotep didn't tell you?"

“I didn't even know we were having visitors," Nile replied as her hands gently stroked along Chivan's arm, “But for our visitors to be you? No... you wouldn't be here for simple pleasantries. You're Obscura Knights. Tales of your guild have reached all corners of the world, including Guarude. And with you following in your father's footsteps, I could only assume this visit is for business. So..." she appeared concerned, “Chivan... why are you and your father here?"

“I... haah..."

Closing her eyes, she took a few moments to think. Why would Amenhotep not inform his daughter of their visit? Honestly, it did not take her too long to come to an answer.

Years ago, Nile was a rambunctious little cat of near infinite energy. There was not enough time in the day to describe the amount of trouble she and Chivan got up to in this palace. And considering how excited and forward she had been in the short amount of time since their reunion, it was clear her boisterous nature was not dulled, but only grew with time.

Putting it lightly, if Nile knew that a dangerous man like Zyablos was in her kingdom, there was no doubt that she'd do something about it. But that still doesn't explain why Amenhotep wouldn't tell her. Didn't she have the right to know what danger could exist in her nation? She is its future sovereign, regardless of how brash she can be.

While Chivan was thinking this over, Nile had procured a necklace from her jewelry box. Reaching forward, she wrapped it around her friend's neck, causing her eyes to open. With how close they were, and with how the princess was leaning in, the Alabaster Maiden was given a full and unhindered view of her bosom.

By the gods of all that was pure and noble, Nile's breasts were so big. Their fullness dominated Chivan's view, and their shape magnetized her eyes. With every soft breath the princess took, her bosom would expand, appearing even bigger! And the cleavage with this extravagant dress, was like a valley that one could not hope to escape from.

Not like they'd want to.

Click!

“There we go!" said Nile as she pulled back, “Nyeh heh heh! Gotta say, Chivy! You look wonderful!" she looked over her shoulder, “Here, take a look yourself!"

Grabbing her mirror, Nile held it up before Chivan, allowing the Alabaster Maiden to look at herself. If the change of clothes was enough to make her question her own identity, then what do you think it felt like to see herself wearing all of this jewelry and gold? She looked so... exotic! The gold around her neck and arms helped to both draw attention to, and amplify her outward beauty! Is this why women wear such attire?

It's weird in its own way. Chivan knew why people wear jewelry, but it wasn't until wearing it herself that she truly understood.

“Nyaaah... you don't wear things like rings and bracelets in Fenera, do you?" asked Nile, seemingly reading Chivan's mind.

“N... no..." she answered as she stroked her fingers through her white locks, “I spend a lot of time studying and honing my magical craft. Not to mention my work as an obscura knight. It gives me very little time for things like this."

“Uh-huh! Nyeh heh heh! I thought so!" said the desert princess with a grinning nod, “If you want to, Chivy, you can keep that."

“Wh-what? But it's yours," replied the knight, to which her friend shook her head.

“Naaaaw! I have plenty of gold! Nyeh heh! We see it as a holy material, so that's why we have so much of it. Nyeh... it also doesn't hurt that Guarude exports the most gold of any country in the world!"

“Oh... r-right... but are you sure?" asked Chivan, causing the catgirl to cock her head.

“Yes, I am," she replied, “You're my friend, Chivy! I'd love to share my things with you," reaching up, she placed her hand upon Chivan's cheek, where she gently clutched it, “Besides... nyeh heh heh! A girl as cute as you needs gold as nice as this!"

“Aaaah...! Nnghgh! N-Nile!"

Chivan's cheeks turned a heated red, causing Nile to laugh boisterously. It wasn't just the sound of her voice that made her blush with embarrassment, but the words she used, and the tone she used. Maybe the knight was being a bit extreme, but there was something about Nile's voice that sounded so flirtatious. That phrase...

A girl as cute as you needs gold as nice as this!

It rang about in Chivan's ears.

The desert princess had called her beautiful, cute, and remarkable, time and time again. But it was hard for the Alabaster Maiden to tell what her intentions were. Was she merely calling her these things as a sign of praise? Like how siblings may flatter one another. Or was she calling her these things as a sign of something more? It was hard to tell, and Nile's constant touching of her face and body didn't make things any easier.

Was this just another Guarudian custom that Chivan was reading too deeply into? Yes, it had to be! Nevertheless, the knight still needed to take her mind off of it.

“Y-you asked before why we are here, did you not?" she said, causing Nile scoot in closer.

“Mm-hm! Are you gonna tell me?" asked the princess as she leaned over her friend, “Nyeh heh heh! I'm dying to know!"

“Haah... okay..." said Chivan as she stuffed her hands in her lap, “For the past few months, my father, as well as the members of Obscura Knights' Fenera Branch, have been chasing down this criminal by the name of Zyablos Luven. Haaah... Zyablos was once a member of Fenera's aristocracy. More specifically, the Luven family were major members of Fenera's orthodoxy. His parents ran it, his grandparents, and his great-grandparents. The Luven family are synonymous with the religion of Fenera."

“Let me guess... this Zyablos guy didn't agree?" asked Nile, making Chivan shake her head.

“Not exactly," she answered, “Ah... by the gods... if only it were that simple. For the longest time, Zyablos was a passionate member of the orthodoxy. He looked well on his way in following in his family's footsteps. But that's how it appeared on the outside. In reality, he was abusing his position in secrecy. Religion... is a powerful thing. For those who have reached the lowest point in their life, religion can help give them purpose. They can find safety and community in it, and crawl themselves out of the pit they are trapped in. But in the hands of malicious individuals, religion can be a powerful tool. Zyablos must have realized this when he was young. You see, he would take multiple trips to Fenera's distant fields. There, he'd act like a missionary, spreading the gospel of our gods. But, again..." she shook her head, “That's what it appeared like on the outside. In reality, he was beguiling and brainwashing the weak and downtrodden. He spread lies and falsehoods, tricking them into aiding him."

“And... why? What did he gain from this?"

Chivan looked at Nile, her face long as she shook her head.

Bodies..." she answered, “My father and his team were sent to investigate certain churches, ones that were forgotten and abandoned. Despite this, within them, bodies and corpses were found. The churches had been transformed into makeshift laboratories, where all kinds of horrible experiments were performed. Arcane wizardry, twisted alchemy, esoteric rituals; they were all being performed in secret within these once holy churches. Naturally, the Obscura Knights rushed to investigate who performed all of this. And..."

“It was Zyablos...?"

“Indeed. At first we weren't sure. But eyewitnesses claimed that a man with black hair wearing holy robes was in the area. Of course, there's plenty of people who could match that description, not just Zyablos. However..." she closed her eyes, “In Fenera, there's a location known as the Cortex Sanctum. It is where we keep some of our oldest, and holiest texts. Some of which is..." she shook her head, “Information too rare to destroy, but too vile to know. Nile... I do not know how you feel about this, but I honestly believe that there is some information that should not be known. Information that... if fallen into the wrong hands... can bring so much pain and misery."

“Zyablos... he learned of this information?"

Chivan nodded.

“The Luven family maintain the Cortex Sanctum. It is their duty to make sure that our sacred texts are protected, so that they can continue to teach more for centuries to come. They also maintain a vault within the Cortex Sanctum, a vault that contains texts of a... demonic origin. Haaah... considering how beloved and how devout the Luven family are... it was thought impossible that any member would ever abuse the knowledge they had access to. By the gods... saying that out loud must sound stupid."

“No... I wouldn't say so," said the desert princess as she scooted in closer, “Like you said, they were beloved... they were trusted. And Zyablos abused that trust."

Reaching down, Nile grabbed Chivan's hand, making her eyes open back up. Mouth agape, she watched as her friend wove their fingers together, interlocking them. She then gripped her hand tight, drawing the knight to grab a hold of her back. It was such a firm and loving hold.

“Keep going," Nile whispered.

“R-right... ah... we learned that the information within these satanic laboratories, was information one could only gain from the unholy texts within the Cortex Sanctum. Naturally, we stringently investigated the Luven family. That's when we were made aware of Zyablos' treachery. You see, Zyablos was more than just a member of the church and aristocracy. He was also a brilliant wizard, both in terms of magical prowess, and scientific endeavors. He relentlessly studied and scrutinized his craft, deepening his wealth of knowledge, and increasing his magical abilities. But it was more than that. Aaah... when we came to investigate Zyablos, he was already aware of us. He escaped the capital city of Fenera and retreated to the outskirts of the kingdom, where he continued performing his arcane experiments. We'd chase him from church to church, but he always seemed a few steps ahead of us, as we'd arrive just in time to find the remnants of his atrocities. That all changed a few weeks ago, where successfully tracked him down to an abandoned church in an eroded town. My father took me with him personally... it was to be my first mission as an Obscura Knight."

“Since you are here, I assume it didn't go well, did it?" asked Nile.

“I..." Chivan shook her head as her grip on the princess' hand grew tighter, “I should've stayed focus! What good was all my training if I was going to fumble it on my first true mission?"

“What? What happened, Chivy?"

“I... aaah... Zyablos is a powerful wizard. But he was more than that. The arcane knowledge he gained had transformed him into a skilled necromancer. He could control the dead, and puppet them around like... well... like a puppeteer. Aah... I have heard of such things before, but to see it? Aah... it was... hm..." she closed her eyes, “Nile... may I be honest with you?"

“Of course, Chivan. You can always be honest with me."

“Aaah... seeing those bodies like that... w-watching them move the way they did. Aah... it... it gave me nightmares. S-still... I did what I was trained to do, and I eliminated them as best I could. My father and I then worked together to put Zyablos on the defensive. We could have taken him then and there, but... aaah... it wasn't just the church that was filled with his zombie puppets. The land outside was filled with them too. While we were fighting Zyablos, he had his forces attack our men in secrecy. When he told us that, I... I let my emotions take control over me, and left the church to save our men. That gave Zyablos enough time to best my father with a blast, and escape the church. Aaah... if only I had just stayed focused, all of this could have been avoided! We would have had him, and your kingdom wouldn't be in danger, and--" Grab! “H-huh?"

Hug!

“Aahhh...!?"

For the second time that day, Chivan's head was pulled in against Nile's bosom. But instead of feeling embarrassed or shocked, the beating of her friend's heart was warm and inviting. The maiden locked up... then melted against the princess' chest as she started hugging her back.

“Hey... you did your best," said Nile, “Tearing yourself up over a mistake you made, will only lead to you making more mistakes in the future. Believe me... I've done that once or twice myself..."

She then pulled back, allowing Chivan to look at her face. And what was Nile wearing? Well, one of her big, boisterous grins of course!

“And don't worry about this Zyablos guy being in Guarude! He's the one who made a mistake coming here! With you and I on the prowl, we'll catch him in no time!"

Not only was Nile's grin boisterous, but her words were too! They radiated strength and bravado, and could make one believe in anything. Yes, Zyablos was in Guarude, but together with the princess, it was only a matter of time until his evil was brought to an end. Chivan honestly believed that.

She believed it.

“But... um... if you don't mind me asking," Nile cocked her head to the side, “Why here? Why Guarude? We're not even in the same continent. Wouldn't it be easier to hide in another country in Byrn?"

“Aah... we wondered that too, but..." Chivan shrugged her shoulders, “After scouring the cathedral, we found Zyablos' notes. He had a map of Guarude, one that had a lot markings and symbols on it. We scanned through the map too, where we came to the realization that he's looking for something in Guarude. Something that... I don't get it... something that has... divine magic in it."

Nile flinched.

“D... divine magic...?" she whispered.

Chivan cocked her head, noticing her friend's shift in demeanor.

“Yes... divine magic..." she raised an eyebrow, “Nile... do you know anything about it?"

For a moment, the Princess of Guarude looked to the side. Her once grinning and spirited face had shifted into something concerned... and even vulnerable. She appeared unsure and confused, but when Chivan reached out for her and grabbed her hand.

“Nile...?"

The princess looked back, a smile forming on her lips.

“Nyeh... thanks for telling me this, Chivy!" said Nile as she scratched at the back of her hair, “I wish my father told me this... nyeh... he probably thought I was going to rush out there and do something stupid. Or maybe he doesn't want to worry me... aah..."

For a brief moment, flashes of weakness appeared on Nile's surface. Something about this divine magic struck a chord with the desert princess, and Chivan was not ignorant of it. But before she could ask what was wrong, her friend reached down. Grabbing her hand yet again, the tomboy princess leaped up to her feet, causing her to do likewise.

“C'mon, Chivy! You and Mr. Femtos just got off your airship not too long ago, right?"

“Y-yes... we did, but I don't see why that's so important," Chivan replied.

“Nyeh heh heh! It's super important! I'm going to help you unwind! And you wanna know the best way to unwind in my palace?"

“Uh... s-sure... how do you unwind, Nile?"

She leaned in.

“I take a really nice, long, hot, bath! Nyah hah hah!"

A bath? A BATH!? Did Nile just offer her the chance for a bath? Alone? No, of course not! The way her face looked, it was clear to Chivan that the princess meant for them to take a bath together. And, wait... this brought back memories. Years ago when she was in Guarude with Nile, she remembered not just bathing with the princess, but bathing with others. Oh, right! Princess Nile had servants who help her bathe! And not just once, but several! So if they were to go to the baths, they wouldn't just be bathing alone! They'd be bathing with others.

That thought alone was enough to make Chivan's face turn as pale as her snow-white hair! She could even feel her spirit leave her body through her mouth! That didn't stop Nile from tugging her along and out of her bedroom, laughing all the while.

It would take the Alabaster Maiden sometime to mount a defense against her friend's offer. She just needed to let her brain reboot. It wouldn't be too bad though, would it? After all, if she got to bathe with Nile, she'd get to see her gilded body in all of its nude, divine glory.

Oh... Chivan didn't know what was worse: the thought of having her body being seen naked by others, or that she found the thought of Nile's nude body as being incredibly... steamy.

No one had ever made her feel this way before...

What are nights like in Guarude? Well, if the desert land itself was like a golden jewel, then the skies were like a silver diamond.

A cool wind flowed through her open balcony, causing her curtains to billow and her blankets to ruffle slightly. Resting in the center of her mattress, the Alabaster Maiden stared up to the ceiling overhead as her mind thought back through the day's events. Returning to Guarude, meeting with Pharaoh Amenhotep, and of course, reuniting with Nile; it was all a whirlwind of emotion.

Somehow, Chivan was capable of convincing the princess to not bathe with her. It took a bit – Nile was a very persuasive young woman – but when the knight put her foot down, she put her foot down. Besides, she could sense that it – deep down inside – the catgirl's offer was just to deflect from her own thoughts.

Divine magic; those words flowed around in Chivan's head like an infinite loop. Divine magic – or divine essence as its better known – is a special kind of magic that only a rare few have access to. And those rare few, are typically beings of a higher power. Gods, deities, angels; only they can use magic of such caliber. Because of this, divine magic isn't normal magic. Divine magic is the most powerful magic a person can possibly have access to.

But the affects of it are lesser known, and even lesser understood. It's not like it's easy to get in conversation with a godly being, and ask them how their magic works. In a way, divine magic is like an incredibly rare and hard to find ore. People know of it, yes, but it is so minuscule that studying it is next to impossible.

So why is Zyablos here? While it could be inferred that him getting his hands on divine magic is not good, what would bring him to Guarude of all places? Was he aware of some magical source of divinity within the desert nation? If so, then where?

Going by Nile's reaction earlier, the princess was aware of something divine in her kingdom. Perhaps Zyablos was aware of it too, and that's why he came here to Guarude. Somewhere, there laid a source of divine magic he can get his hands on. But again, where? If Nile knew, then Pharaoh Amenhotep had to know if it as well, right? And if the pharaoh knew, then he had to have told Femtos by now.

Perhaps it was silly to worry. Soon, they'd be hot on Zyablos' trail. If he thought he could easily abscond to Guarude and continue performing his satanic rituals, then he was in for a surprise. The Obscura Knights would not allow him to bring harm to any more people! And this time when she saw him again, she was not going to let him trick her.

No, no, no! That wasn't good. Letting her emotions get riled up, would only drive her to make mistakes later on. What Chivan needed to do, was focus on what was important right now. She would wait until her father and Amenhotep had located Zyablos, and then further wait for any commands they would give. Until then, well...

Huh...

Guess she'd only focus on protecting Nile.

Ah, that's an odd thought to have. 'Protecting Nile'? Why would Nile need protecting? And from who? Zyablos? Chivan was a skilled and talented knight, one who was blessed with a magical gift beyond some of the most refined spellcasters in Byrn. And yet, she had no doubts that Nile had training on par – if not superior – to the training she's had in life. If Zyablos was so bold as to try and attack the royal family of Guarude, then it would be his funeral.

Besides, by gaze alone, one could tell that Nile's strength was second to none. Chivan had no doubts that if the princess placed her arms to a mountain, she'd move it aside with shear charisma alone. In a way, it was almost enough to make the Alabaster Maiden envious. No one would doubt Nile's capabilities. If the princess said she could do something, you would believe it without hesitation. That's how grand she was.

That's how divine she was.

“Aaaaah..."

Relaxing into her mattress, Chivan closed her eyes. In some attempt to finally get rest after the day's events, she found her mind being filled with thoughts of Nile instead. The princess offered her the chance to sleep with her in her bedroom, an offer that the maiden predictably declined. How would she be able to think, let alone sleep with Nile nearby? No doubt the princess would keep her up all night long, sharing conversations with her.

Maybe she'd do more than that. She's a cat, and despite how finicky cats can be, they can also be incredibly affectionate. And if there's one thing Nile had proven herself to be thus far, it's affectionate. She was always hugging Chivan, touching Chivan, stroking her glorious fingers along Chivan's body. Sharing a bed with her, there would be no escape from her tender touches.

“Haaaaha~"

Chivan's eyes doubled in size.

What was that? That noise? Did... did Chivan make that noise? And why was her body so hot? And why was it so hot... down there? Sitting up in her mattress, the Alabaster Maiden covered her mouth with her hand as she stared wide-eyed towards the wall in the distance. This was a feeling she hadn't experienced in a long, long time. It was nearly frigid. But when thinking about Nile...

“Haaaah~~"

This rejuvenating heat began pulsing through her body.

Chivan bit into her bottom lip, feeling confused and uncomfortable. Why was she feeling... this way, towards Nile of all people? Having gone to a girls academy, she was not unused to being surrounded by other women. But in all that time, she could not remember feeling this way towards any other girl she's ever known.

So why was Nile doing this to her? What? Was she... attra... cted to... her...?

“No, that's... that's nonsense."

Chivan was so bewildered by her own thoughts, that she voiced out her own disbelief of them. But they were her thoughts nonetheless, and merely denying them with her voice would not stop them from plaguing her. The second she closed her eyes, the image of Nile's body assaulted her. The soft curves, the feline straights, the divine athleticism; it was all there in her mind, free to be oggled.

It's not like the princess tried to hide it with her extravagant clothes.

“N-no...! S-stop it..." groaned Chivan as she clutched her head and curled up in her bed, “Stop it, stop it, stop it! I... I don't... no... n-not Nile. Anyone but Nile. Anyone but...!"

The more she tried to deny herself, the more these thoughts flooded her mind. After a few moments too long, the mental torture grew too great. She stood up, needing some air. Not too difficult, since the room she was given had an open balcony.

Getting up from her mattress, Chivan walked slowly over towards the balcony of her room. The chilling wind of Guarude's night air blew against her, but she was used to such cold temperatures. It reminded her of home, which was comforting against the thoughts that plagued her mind.

Perhaps what affected her was due to seeing Nile for the first time in over a decade. She was a beautiful and vivacious young woman; anyone would find her attractive. Coupled with how affectionate she had been, maybe it's understandable why she found the princess attractive.

Oh great... she was thinking about Nile again! The whole reason why she got out of her bed was to not think about Nile! What was wrong with her? Why were her cheeks so red? Why was her body so hot? Why did she have these butterflies in her stomach? Why could she still hear Nile's voice in her ears? And why could she see Nile walking down a path in front of her!?

Wait... what?

Chivan flinched. From where she stood, she could gaze down into one of the many courtyards of the royal palace. At least, she thinks it was a courtyard. It was a wide room, one with no ceiling, with a pool of water in the middle of it. And right there, walking along its edge, was Nile.

Was this typical behavior of the princess? It was late at night, being around 1 AM. The only reason why Chivan was still awake was due to differences in time zones, and the fact that she couldn't get any sleep. So why was Nile still up?

And why was she walking so strange?

The princess had infinite confidence. Not so much that one would call her arrogant or narcissistic, but she was clear that she'd never doubt herself, or the choices she makes. It made for a young woman who always held her head up high, and always wore this smirk on her brash lips. Even the way she moved was refined and powerful.

Like a goddess...

But that's not how she was walking now. Gazing upon Nile, Chivan could see the princess move with these jerky and sluggish movements. She hobbled through the atrium she was in, heading towards the distance with her back from view. Confused, the Alabaster Maiden cocked her head, wondering where she was going.

“Ni... le...?" she muttered to herself.

Something was wrong. Was Nile jumping to conclusions? Maybe, but those movements of hers were not normal. At the very least, she needed to confirm that everything was okay. So turning around, Chivan rushed for the exit of her bedroom... only to turn back around.

She needed to change out of her nightgown...

Rushing through the halls of the palace, Chivan was a white and gold blur. With her expert tracking skills, deducing Nile's location was easy, even in a palace as labyrinthine as this. Down this hall, around this corner, take this middle path, run faster, run faster, run faster. Even the hieroglyphs on the walls seemed to guide Chivan to one place.

This atrium... this was the one she saw Nile at from the distance. Her head turned left and right, searching for her friend. Had she already moved on in the time it took for her to get here? Was she too slow? Darn it! She should have just on her nightgown!

Tap... Tap... Tap...

Wait...

Chivan turned. That sound came from down this courtyard, where she saw... a hidden passageway? Rushing towards it, she gazed down inside, where she saw another room with various pillars. Just how big was the palace? No, now was not the time to think about it. Nile was probably down here.

Entering into this adjacent room, Chivan gasped in awe at its great size. It seemed to go on and on and on, and had so many pillars around in rows. Without any signposts, it would be easy for a person to get lost in here. Just what was the purpose for this room? Looking up, she found her answers, as there were various pipes in its ceiling. She had entered into the palace's sewage system.

Tap...! Tap...! Tap...!

Ah! The sounds were louder now! Gazing into their direction, Chivan caught a glimpse of Nile's tail just in time! It rounded around a pillar, causing the Alabaster Maiden to rush in.

“Nile!" she shouted when she turned around the pillar.

Walking along an invisible path was the desert princess. Her back was to her friend, and her movements were still these weird, choppy motions that looked so out of place coming from her. Confused, Chivan approached Nile as quick as she could, where she grabbed upon her shoulder.

“Nile!" she shouted... but the princess did not answer.

She continued on, shaking off Chivan with her sluggish and twitchy movements. Now more than ever before, the Alabaster Maiden was bewildered and concerned, even gritting her teeth. Rushing around to the front of Nile, she gazed upon her friend's face...

“Aahh...!? N... Nile...?"

The princess' face...

How does one describe the face of a zombie? Nile's eyes were open, but they did not see. Her mouth was open too, but she did not speak. She had an expression, but it was dazed. Her eyes too were devoid of life and light, looking like endless voids of nothing.

“Nile... Nile!" Chivan shouted as she put her hands on the princess' shoulders, “What's going on!? S-say something! What is wrong with you!?"

She pushed against her friend with all her might, but that did nothing. Nile was like an automaton; she could not be slowed, and merely pushed through Chivan like she wasn't there. Standing there in confusion and fear, the Alabaster Maiden raced through thoughts in her head. Why was Nile acting like this? And why did it look familiar?

Wait... jerky and inhuman movements? Almost like it was being moved by a...

“Puppeteer..." said Chivan aloud.

“Brilliant deduction... Chivy..." a voice echoed out.

It was a voice that made her eyes grow wide. It was a voice that made her blood turn cold. It was a voice she recognized all too well.

It was his voice.

Chivan gazed past Nile, her hand reached out as blue magic began parsing at her fingertips. Appearing from around a corner was... a man she did not recognize. He had dark skin, long black hair, the ears and tail of a wolf, and wore the clothing of a palace servant. If she were to see him in the halls of the palace, she'd think he was nothing more than another Guarudian man.

But it was those yellow eyes of his that gave it away... for they were completely empty.

“Zyablos...!" Chivan growled through gritted teeth, making the man chuckle.

“Hello, Chivan..." the man behind Nile said as he slowly approached her, “Lovely seeing you here of all places, wouldn't you agree?"

Shine! SPEAR!

Like father, like daughter; Chivan was not going to stand idly by and talk.

From her palm she fired one of her azure daggers of magic, which pierced the air with dizzying speed. Whizzing right past Nile's head, it flew towards Zyablos and--

Bounce!

Was deflected by his magical barrier.

“Eheheheheheh... did I strike a nerve?"

Shine! Shine! Shine! Shine! Shine!

All around Chivan's body, she produced magical dagger after magical dagger. They hovered around her head in a circular manner, and each one was pointed straight towards Zyablos. But the sinister necromancer was not afraid. Even as the Alabaster Maiden took a battle-ready stance, he continued filling the chamber with his demented chuckles.

“Why are you here?" Chivan growled through gritted teeth.

“Eheheheh... oh... don't play ignorant," he said, “We both know why you and your father are here, don't we... Chivy?"

The usage of her nickname caused her to visibly quiver with anger. Her green eyes glowed, and a blue aura of magic began flowing off her body, causing her clothing to billow as if an updraft was forming beneath her. But even this was not enough to frighten Zyablos.

“You do not have the right to call me that name!" she shouted, “Now get away from Nile so that I may perforate your body!"

“Oh-ho! I really have angered someone," said the necromancer as he placed his hands on his hips, “How cute! The last time you saw Princess Nile, it was well over a decade ago! And yet, in only a day, you're friendship has been rekindled. It's so heartwarming!"

SPEAR!

With another precise shot, Chivan launched a dagger for Zyablos' head! But this time, instead of striking his barrier, the necromancer hooked his fingers through the air. And when he did...

“AH!?"

Nile stepped in the way of Chivan's dagger. The Alabaster Maiden's eyes grew wide, and in an instant, she dispelled her magical dagger, causing it to fizz away as nothing but blue wisp. The princess didn't even react. Her eyes were still devoid of life, and her expression was still like that of a zombie.

“How did you...?" asked Chivan, causing Zyablos to chuckle.

“Impressive, is it not?" he replied, “The things you can do when you have access to knowledge beyond what any mortal should have. Suddenly, taking control over future monarchs is not as difficult a prospect as it originally seemed!"

“Grrrghh! How did...!? N-no!" SHINE! “Unleash Nile at once!"

“Oh please, Chivan... maybe if you were with your father, your threats would hold wait. But by yourself?" he shook his head, “No... by yourself, you're just a spoiled brat with too much magic for you to understand. You don't even know what pumps through the blood of your darling friend."

“Wh... what?"

“Eheheheheh... think about it..." Zyablos whispered as he leaned close, his head hovering next to Nile's, “Princess Nile of Guarude. When I learned the truth of her, I thought I had made a mistake. But then I laid my eyes on her, and I knew that it was no mistake."

“What are you talking about?"

“Eheheheheheh! You know why I am here, do you not?"

“You're... you're... you're looking for divine magic... aren't you?" asked Chivan... before her eyes widened, “N-no... that's not... that... N-Nile...?"

“Eheheheheheheheheheh! Yes, yes yes! Now you see it! Now you understand!" Zyablos said. Reaching up, he placed his hand upon Nile's chin and gently began stroking it, “The princess has the blood of divinity within her veins! The divine magic I was searching for, is her divine magic!"

This revelation caused Chivan to look down, then gaze to the side with her eyes wide and mouth agape.

How was this possible? Nile had divine magic in her veins? Chivan wouldn't have believed it... but she remembered how her friend reacted when she told her about the divine magic in the first place. That vulnerability and concern she showed made it clear that she was aware of something divine in Guarude. But to think it was Nile herself who owned it...

No... that made no difference! Whether Nile had divine magic or not, Chivan wasn't going to let Zyablos have his way with her!

Determined to stop him at any step, the Alabaster Maiden started standing up straighter. Taking her battle stance yet again, she stood in opposition of the necromancer, who chortled at her.

“You do realize you cannot win this fight, don't you?" he asked, his cold voice reverberating through the expansive walls.

“I don't care..." Chivan said back, “I will break whatever bonds you have on Nile, even if it kills me. It is an obscura knight's duty to lay their life on the line for others. But that's not why I'm doing this. I will do everything in my power to free my friend from your clutches."

“Aaaawww... how saccharine... and how utterly droll..." Zyablos chuckled, “You sound like so many who tried to stop me and my experiments, all of which would soon lay dead at my feet. Everything I've done led up to this moment. Controlling corpses is one thing... controlling divinity is something else entirely. And once I get my hands on Nile's blood, I will be unstoppable. But for you, Chivan, I'll give gift of death... at the hands of your beloved friend," raising his hand, he began moving it as if he was handling a puppet's controller, “Let's make this quick, Nile."

The desert princes stepped forward, her body still twisting and jerking in strange and alien ways. Approaching Chivan, she caused her to step back in a defensive manner. Nile was still zombified, still lacking her life and light. And yet, it was clear she was going to attack her. She even raised her hand, causing a golden light to appear at her fingertips.

It hovered at her open palm, growing thicker and thicker... and longer and longer. Grabbing upon it...

Flash!

The light vanished, where it was replaced with a spear. Much like Chivan, Nile was capable of forming objects with magic. Unlike Chivan however, these weren't mere magical constructs, but were real, tangible weapons! In this case, it was an opulent and decadent spear, one that was black and gold, and had twin blades at the tip like a pointed trident!

Was this the power of divine magic?

Spear in hand, Nile raised it in a daunting manner as she approached her friend. Facing Zyablos was one thing, but facing Nile was something else entirely! Chivan could feel her spirit waning as the dazed face of her friend hovered above her. She'd defend herself as best she could, but fight back? No, she couldn't.

“Bwahahahahahahahahahah! Kill her, Nile! Kill her this instant!" Zyablos cried, “Kill her and--" FLASH! “URRK!?"

Nile's spear...

Shot towards Zyablos.

KRAAASSSHHH!!!

Like a shattered window, the necromancer's magical barrier was broken into millions of pieces. They sprinkled upon the ground, before fizzing and vanishing into thin air. Shocked to the point that his heart almost stopped, Zyablos stepped back and turned around. Embedded into the surface of a pillar behind him, was Nile's spear.

“You... talk too much..." said the desert princess.

Her once jerky and twitching movements all came to a halt. Before Zyablos and Chivan's eyes, Nile straightened up and turned around, where she faced the necromancer with a grin on her lips. She then reached out, recalling her spear, which came flying back into her hand.

Pat!

“Gotcha!"

“N-Nile!?" Chivan shouted as she came around to her side, looking her up and down, “Y-you're alright!? You're fight!"

“Nyeh heh heh! Of course I am!" she replied with a beaming smile and a boisterous laugh, “Did you really think this creep was going to control me like a puppet!? Nyah hah hah! No one can control Princess Nile! And believe me, my dad really tries!"

“How did...?" muttered Zyablos in disbelief, drawing their gaze back towards him.

“You're pretty good, I'll give you that," said Nile with a grin spreading on her lips, “But I am Princess Nile of Guarude! The goddess Bastet is my mother! Her blood – the blood of the gods – flows through my veins! I do not have mere divine magic, nor am I just a princess. You stand before a demigoddess! No matter how great your magic may be, it is but a pittance compared to the vastness of my own abilities! Putting it lightly... nyeh... you hastily bit off a bit more than you can chew, necromancer!"

Grasping her lance, Nile spun it around like it was a baton, before pointing its trident towards Zyablos. He was still amazed, and really, Chivan was too! She honestly believed her friend was under his control, but somehow, she broke through it. No, not 'somehow'. Just like the desert princess said, no one can control her!

Despite the danger that Zyablos still displayed, Nile beamed with this golden, radiant glory. She was not afraid of him! Seeing her be so stalwart and courageous against this sinister force, imbued Chivan with a sense of bravado as well. Her hands pulled back in a battle-ready stance, the Alabaster Maiden produced her daggers of magic as she joined at her friend's side. Together, the duo glowed with a magical might that would crush all but the mightiest of forces!

Or in this case, the stupidest.

Even though his plan had been ruined, Zyablos did not turn and run away. He growled, bearing fangs between the two in front of him as green magic began exuding off his form. It exploded around his feet, flowing like fire. And this fire covered him from the toes down to his feet, blocking him in shadows as his voice pierced the air.

“I did not come all this way to be denied, your highness," said Zyablos, his voice oozing spit and venom, “I will have your divine magic! HAH!"

FWOOOSHH!

His green fire dissipated. What laid before them was no longer the servant he used as a disguise. The lithe figure and slender frame the black hair, the white and red garbs, and yes, those soulless yellow eyes; it had all returned.

“Nyeh... so you reveal your true form?" asked Nile as she rested her spear at her back, “Good! This'll make it more fun when I vanquish you!" looking over, she gazed at Chivan with a grin on her face, “You ready, Chivy?"

“A-are you sure, Nile?" said the Alabaster Maiden, “We've never fought together before. I've trained for hours with my father and no one else."

“So what?" Nile replied with a shrug of her shoulders, “I have the utmost of faith in you, Chivan!" then her eyes glared back at Zyablos in the distance, “Now then... NYAAAAH!"

With feline grace and speed, Nile dashed at the necromancer in a blur of gold and white. She moved so fast, it was almost instantaneous! One moment she was side-by-side with Chivan, the next moment--

“Gah!?"

She was right in Zyablos' face. And in that moment, this wicked grin was painted on her face.

KLASH!

Just in time, the necromancer produced his barrier, blocking Nile's spear. But where as Femtos was taken off guard by his magical shield, the Princess of Guarude was excited by it. Instead of pulling back, she swung her spear around, and performed a flurry of strikes. Each blow struck his barrier with deathly precision, aiming at his neck, his shoulder, his legs, his sides; everywhere! Had his shield not covered the entirety of his body, he would have died several times over!

“HAAH!"

A green wave of magical energy suddenly exploded at Zyablos' feet, forcing Nile to leap back. But as she jumped through the air--

FLASH! FLASH!

Piercing his wave of magic were two of Chivan's daggers. They flew under Nile's body the moment she jumped, missing her body, and striking his shield. Still, Zyablos flinched and pulled back, while the desert princess landed on the ground.

Slamming her spear on the ground, Nile produced a flood of golden magic which doused out his green flames. It was so bright and so strong, the necromancer was forced to pull up his arms, blocking his eyes with them. Her light did not remain for long, nor did she remain standing after. Dashing in yet again, the brash feline returned to her onslaught, striking at Zyablos' shield with speed, power, and precision. But when he tried to mount a counterattack...

Flash! Flash! Flash!

Bounce! Bounce! Bounce!

“Nnghh!?"

Chivan would fire her magical daggers, forcing him to stay still.

Behind her friend, the Alabaster Maiden sent her daggers flying with a pinpoint accuracy. With how she was positioned, she should be perforating Nile while attempting to attack Zyablos

Should...

Nile and Chivan were completely in sync with one another. Whenever the desert princess would raise an arm, or swing with her spear, or even kick at him, the blind spots in her body would be guarded by the Alabaster Maiden's magical attacks. Chivan's magical daggers would just barely miss her friend's body, instead striking Zyablos' shield, and forcing him to remain on the defensive.

This was even worse than what he experienced in Fenera! Fighting Femtos and Chivan was one thing, but fighting Nile and Chivan was something else entirely! And it was all because of the desert princess! Femtos was professional and skilled. He never overexerted himself with his attacks, never overextended. His strikes were also never too weak or too slow.

But Nile? Nile was refined in a way that was unrefined. Her attacks could be too strong, too fast, but also too weak, or too slow. She'd perform a flurry of blows one moment, then swing around with a big, slow, telegraphed attack the next! There was no rhyme or reason to any of her strikes, instead lashing out with whatever came to her mind first!

He'd compare them like this: Femtos struck with professionalism, Nile struck with passion! The captain fought as a means to an end, but the desert princess fought as a form of expression! She enjoyed it; it was fun to her! And despite this battle being a life or death matter, she was enjoying herself!

The grin on her lips spoke a thousand words...

KLASH!!!

“Fuck! Grrrrggh!"

With another blow, Zyablos was launched back, where he struck a pillar behind him. The impact dazed him momentarily, but he quickly recoiled. Nile may be enjoying herself, but the same could not be said for her. She was too fast for him; if he was going to win this tussle, he'd need to thin them out. And the only way he could do that was by taking out the weakest link.

Zyablos looked over. Standing in the distance was Chivan, her hands raised as she flung dagger after dagger at him. With them both focused on him, they couldn't protect themselves as easily as they usually could. That's good. Even though things hadn't gone exactly to plan, the necromancer hadn't gotten this far by not having backup plans.

And he had plenty of backup plans.

“HMMMPH!!!"

Slamming his foot down on the ground, Zyablos exuded waves of green, magical fire. Just like before, Nile planted her spear into the floor, producing a barrier of golden magic that protected her. He could see the grin she wore on her face, her excitement with this battle mounting with every passing second. This was so unlike any sovereign he had ever met; did she have the blood of a warlord in her veins?

No matter! This time, Nile was not his target. With her focused on him, it gave Zyablos time to twitch his fingers. Invisible strands of magic began controlling puppets made of flesh and blood. But this time, instead of trying to control the desert princess, he began controlling the forces which existed around them.

There's a reason why Zyablos brought them down into the palace's expansive (and intricate) sewage system. Not only did it make for an easy escape, but it also had near limitless nooks and spots for someone to hide in. He assumed it was this way so that the royal family could easily escape if need be. Instead, he had it stuffed to the brim with his corpses.

Behind Chivan, one of Zyablos' puppets descended from the ceiling. It landed on quiet feet, remaining silent as it approached the Alabaster Maiden. Like all of his puppets, it had the body of a human, but with these long, serrated claws. Raising them, the puppet slowly approached the Alabaster Maiden, taking aim with her midsection. Just one push; that's all it would take. One push, and blood would fly.

Just... one... push... and...

Gweam! STAB!

Chivan's eyes grew wide. In one hand, Nile held her spear. Her other hand was pointed back towards her, a golden light flooding from her palm. Turning slowly, the obscura knight's eyes fell on the puppet that was about to stab her... and the golden bolt of light which penetrated its chest. Like in Fenera, the puppet's body twitched and locked up... before falling over on the ground.

“See?" said Nile as she looked over her shoulder towards Chivan, a smirk on her lips, “I always got your back, Chivy!"

Slowly, Nile's gaze shifted back to Zyablos, who stood there stunned. How had she noticed his puppet? It was completely silent!

“Confused?" asked the desert princess with a taunting grin on her lips.

“How did you...?" he muttered back.

“Nyeh heh heh! There must not be a lot of beastkin in Fenera! Either that, or you really overestimate yourself!" raising her hand, she pointed at her feline ears and made them twitch, “I could've heard that grotesque puppet of yours from a mile away!"

“Grrrggh! Then you already know that--"

“They're everywhere?" asked Nile, cutting him off, “Nyeh heh! Yeah, I already know that!"

“Grrrgggh...! RAAAH!"

Slamming down his hands in a burst of rage, Zyablos immediately summoned all the puppets he had hiding around them. They fell from the ceilings, appeared behind the pillars, even emerged from between pipes and beneath floor panels. Somehow, during his time hiding here, the necromancer had worked his puppets into the corners of the royal palace! This was a cause for concern!

For everyone but Nile.

Rushing to her side, Chivan was understandably more alarmed by these bodies. There was even more here than in his cathedral! But then she looked up and over.

Even as the zombie puppets surrounded them, the Princess of Guarude grinned and chuckled. Excitement flowed flowed through her body, and her eyes slid into glares at the forces around them. To her, this was entertaining! She as this golden goddess; no amount of zombies would stop her, no matter how large in number they were!

Entire armies would fall at her feet.

Was it arrogant? Even a little egotistical? Perhaps. But was it reassuring? YES! Never had Chivan seen someone be so excited at the prospect of battle. Together with her, no number of enemies could stop them.

As the number of puppets continued increasing, Zyablos stepped back. The green flames of his sinister magic filled the air more and more, creating a fog that threatened to engulf Nile and Chivan whole. But the Princess of Guarude emitted this gilded light, one which kept them protected. Shining brighter and brighter, it dispelled the fog he tried to capture them in, illuminating their enemies... and the attacks swinging towards them.

SLASH! KLASH!

A blade came flying towards Chivan, but with her spear, Nile blocked it!

SLASH! KLASH!

Another blade came flying towards Nile, but with her magic, Chivan parried it!

SLASH! KLASH! SLASH! KLASH! SLASH! KLASH! SLASH! KLASH! SLASH! KLASH!

Again and again and again, attacks were launched, flying in all directions! They'd glimmer, before flying through at near sonic speeds! But each one were blocked and deflected just in the nick of time. Try, try with all his might, Zyablos and his puppets could not break their defenses! The Alabaster Maiden and desert princess were unbreakable swirls of white and gold, protecting each other without even giving commands.

And then they began to counterattack.

FLASH! FLASH!

SLASH! SLASH!

Chivan's blue daggers flew out, piercing the chests of Zyablos' puppets with pinpoint precision. As before, they would lock up, twitch, and then fall over. Nile was decidedly less tactful. Her spear would slash at them with huge, powerful swaths, cleaving flesh in half like it was naught but ribbons.

Watching it all happen, Zyablos continued walking back with an expression of shock on his face. He'd expect such power from trained warriors, but these two? Chivan's first true mission was their assault on his cathedral a few weeks ago! And Nile? Nile was just a princess! To his knowledge, the only training she should have gained was from her kingdom's own defense force!

But the two did not fight like nubile soldiers, instead battling like trained warriors! He couldn't believe it, but he underestimated the two. Alone he may be able to defeat them, but together, the two were unstoppable!

His forces were being cleaved through. In a matter of moments, their focuses would shift back towards him. If he didn't make his escape now, not even he was arrogant enough to believe he could stop them. Fortunately, Zyablos already knew the palace's sewage system.

With the two maidens focused on eradicating his zombies, the necromancer slipped around the pillar behind him. As he rushed towards the distance, he could still hear the sounds of their battle. It was frustrating, and made his blood boil with anger... but he was nothing if not tenacious. One day he'd return to get Nile's divine blood, preferably after he's figured out a way to truly subdue her. Until then...

“Ah! Z-Zyablos!"

Amid the flurry of bolts and strikes, Chivan noticed him vanish out the corner of her eye. For a brief moment she thought about chasing him, but the sound of Nile clashing blades brought her feet to a stop.

“Nile!" she shouted whilst flinging daggers at puppets, “Zyablos is getting away!"

“Fuck!" said the princess as she deflected another strike, “We can't let that happen! Chivan, go!"

“Wh-what!? N-no! I can't!" she replied, piercing another marionette with her magic, “I can't leave you alone with these puppets!"

“Don't worry, I can handle it!" Nile retorted, her spear cutting through more puppets, “These terrible things move too slow for me. Besides, we can't risk Zyablos escaping! He'll just bring more misery to those he comes across!"

“But... I...!"

This...

This had happened before.

Yes, this was a similar situation to what happened in the church in Fenera! Things may be slightly different, but the gist was the same! Zyablos' capture was imperative! In the limited time he had spent in Guarude, he had already produced more puppets, successfully infiltrated the royal palace, and enacted a plan that could very well kidnap Nile. He had to be caught!

But Chivan just couldn't do it! The idea of leaving Nile alone here was too terrible a thought! What if she couldn't protect herself without her there! If the priness got hurt – or worse off, killed – Chivan could never forgive herself.

Perhaps Nile could sense her distress.

“Chivy," she said amid the clashing of her blade, “Do you trust me?"

“Wh-what kind of question is that!?" she snapped back.

“Just answer it! Do you trust me?"

KLASH!

“Yes! Yes, I trust you, Nile!"

Flash! Flash! Spear!

“Then go, Chivy! I got this!"

“B-but what if you get hurt?"

“Eh! I get hurt a lot doing stupider things! At least this time someone came to my palace this time to kill me!"

Chivan looked at Nile in an incredulous manner. On one hand, what she said was completely bewildering. Just what does the desert princess do on a regular basis? Shouldn't she be living in luxury?

On the other hand...

Aaah! Her words were truly enthralling! The brashness she showed did not come from arrogance, but from confidence! Perhaps to a normal person, these zombies may be an issue, but to Nile, they were nothing but flies!

KLASH!

“Go, Chivy! I can handle these cadavers! Get that Zyablos! I know you can do it. We'll bring him to justice together!"

Chivan closed her eyes, understandably worried about Nile. But within her friend's words, there was belief in her.

I know you can do it. We'll bring him to justice together!

Those words swirled around in Chivan's head, imbuing her with a sense of courage. While she didn't want to leave Nile behind, she had to trust in her friend's capabilities. More importantly, she had to believe in her own.

Dash!

With a sprightly leap, the Alabaster Maiden departed from the battle, giving chase to Zyablos. He had already cleared a significant distance; she could just barely see the red of his cloak! Not wanting to risk him escaping, she doubled her speed, blurring through the chamber around her. Rushing past pillars, she came to another pathway, one that descended even deeper into the palace's underbelly.

Just how big was this place?

Splash! Splash! Splash!

At the bottom of this deeper chamber, the floor was covered in a thin layer of water. Chivan could hear even more of it flowing in the distance... this was truly the heart of the palace's sewer system.

Producing her magical daggers, the Alabaster Maiden began to stalk the chamber she was in. There were various walls in the way, making it difficult to ascertain where Zyablos was. However...

Splash! Splash! Splash! Splitter... splitter... splash... SPLASH! SPLASH! SPLASH!

She knew he was here; the sound of his feet rushing through the water gave him away. But where exactly was he? It seemed to be coming from everywhere at once! Some were close, some were far, some were soft, some were loud, some where--

“Hah!?"

KLASH!

Right behind her.

Producing a magical blade, Chivan used it to deflect an attack just in the nick of time. Her blade clashed with a sword being held by--

“Zyablos!"

The necromancer's hands gripped his sword, pushing it down upon Chivan in an attempt to slash her. But despite her smaller size, she held firm against him, eventually forcing him back with a loud--

“HIIIYAAAH!"

Landing a few feet away, Zyablos prepared his blade, holding it out against Chivan. Likewise for the obscura knight, who summoned her magical daggers in a showing of force.

“You... have proven yourself quite the frustration, Chivy..."

“Did you not listen before?" she growled back as the two began circling one another, “You do not have the right to call me by that name. Now surrender, Zyablos! You cannot escape."

“I've escaped once before... even successfully fled the country when you knew I would," he replied, “I will escape again, Chivan. But this time... this time..." a sadistic grin spread out on his lips, “Eheheheheheheheh! This time, I think I'll take a trophy with me. It'll be your head! HAH!"

Zyablos was a wizard, and a masterful one at that! But his sword was not for show; he had skillful swordplay as well!

Rushing at Chivan, he stabbed for her chest, only to have his blade deflected by one of hers. Again he struck at her – this time at her neck – only to again have his attack parried. One after another, after another, after another; his individual strikes were blocked, deflected, and parried by the Alabaster Maiden's magical daggers. Glints of silver and flashes of blue were intertwined in this flashy dance, with no one side besting the other.

“Impressive," Zyablos said amid their duel, “Your father did an amazing job honing you into the perfect little knight!"

“Your flattery falls on deaf ears!" Chivan growled back.

“Eheheheheh! Oh, I know, Chivy... however..." his yellow eyes began glowing, “There's a difference between a training hall and an actual battle. Case in point... pitoo!"

“Ack!?"

Did he just...

Spit on her!?

A bullet of spit smacked Chivan square in the face, making her flinch. That was all Zyablos needed.

No one said he had to fight fair...

THWAK!

“ACK!?"

With a swift boot to the stomach, he struck Chivan back, knocking her over. Water was flung up by her fall, but she quickly shook it off. When her eyes reopened however, the ground was starting to turn green. Zyablos' sinister magics were beginning to reform, flowing around him... and her.

“Eheheheheheheheh! You should have stayed at Nile's side," said the necromancer as he placed his hands and pointed them towards her, “At least then, you would have survived this altercation!"

Gleeaaaam!

Between Zyablos' hands, a glowing orb of magical light had formed. Staggering to her feet, Chivan began to focus, charging up her own magic prowess. If he thought she would be deterred by his showing of force, then he was sorely mistaken. Nile believed in her; she could not let her down!

“HAAAH!"

THA-BEEEEEEAAAAMM!!!

From Zyablos' hands roared a green beam of magical might, one that would disintegrate almost everything that stood in its path!

“HIIIYAAAAAAH!"

THA-BEEEEEAAAAAAAMM!!!

In opposition, Chivan fired a blue beam of her own, clashing attacks with the necromancer. They both met in the center of this chamber, sending dazzling flashes of green and blue throughout the air! The impact was so great, ripples of water were sent splashing throughout the chamber, even rising in the air as gravity seemed to invert around them! The palace up above wasn't even spared, as quakes could be felt trembling throughout as the two spellcasters continued their battle.

Chivan had never outputted so much magic in her life! Despite being so young and gifted, she didn't have the stamina to keep this up for much longer. Not to mention the fact that she was just fighting his puppets mere moments ago!

Gritting her teeth, the Alabaster Maiden tried to force her second wind, but that only served to demonstrate how tired she was. Her blue beam began fading, allowing Zyablos to encroach upon her. With energy to spare, he'd engulf her with his attack, reducing her to nothing but ash! Not even the sound of his sinister laughter could imbue her with energy! She needed help!

Splash! Splash!

And that help had arrived.

“Chivy... you're amazing."

Chivan's eyes widened. She would have looked over, but she could not tear her focus away from Zyablos. Didn't matter, for coming up to her side, was Nile.

Having slain his puppets, the Princess of Guarude joined her friend in her magical clash with Zyablos. She rested her arms along Chivan's arms, and pointed her open palms towards the necromancer. Then her cheek pressed against her friend's cheek as she pressed their bodies together.

“Hey! Zyablos!" she shouted at the necromancer in the distance, “You want my divine magic, right? Then here... have it! NYYAAAAAAAHH!!!"

Adding her magical might to Chivan's, Nile increased the power of her beam. The impact was immediate, as Zyablos was pushed back, and nearly thrown off his footing. He could handle one of them, but both!? But, no, that's not the worse part. Nooooo, that came in the form of flickers of gold.

Mixing with Chivan's beam wasn't just Nile's magic, but flickers of her divine magic. It took the form of gold, which flashed through the blue wave like flickers of light! His magic was burned away, causing his eyes to widen as he came face to face with their combined attack.

This time, there was no escape.

This time, there was nothing but pain.

“GRRRRAAAAAAAAHHHHH!?!?!?!?"

Picked up off his feet, Zyablos was slammed into the wall behind him. Their magical beam kept him pinned there, forced to endure their combined blast. The flooding of blue, the flashing of gold, it all roared upon him, stripping away his clothing... and then his flesh!

There was nothing he could do. He could cry out in pain... but that would do nothing. He could beg for forgiveness... but it would be drowned out against their beam. He could curse them until the end of their days... but it would be the petty last words of a dying man.

And when this man... no... this monster died...

FWOOOOSSSHHH...

There would be nothing left.

Nile and Chivan dropped their hands, their combined beam of energy fading away into nothing. At the other end of the chamber, resting on the wall, was a black scorch mark in the form of a human man. These ashes were the final remnants of the necromancer known as Zyablos.

For several more moments, Nile and Chivan remained alert. Was this a trick? Were there any more of his puppets hiding around the corner? Were their any last surprises?

No...

“Guh!"

Splash!

Her legs giving out, Chivan collapsed upon her hands and knees where she gasped for breath. Did that all just happen? Did they win? Did they slay Zyablos? It was so incredible, she almost didn't want to believe it!

But then the Alabaster Maiden opened her eyes, where she gazed down upon the water beneath her. Within its surface she saw her own reflection, gasping for breath after the most difficult battle in her life. And who was it standing next to her side?

“NILE!"

“WHOA!?"

With a sudden spurt of energy that not even she was aware of, Chivan turned around and threw herself at Nile, slamming into her body. Embracing her friend dearly, she dove her head into her bosom, and wrapped her arms around her back. The desert princess did likewise, hugging her close to deepen their hold.

For a few long moments, the two said nothing and just stood there. A flurry of thoughts were rushing through Chivan's head, mixing between disbelief... and joy. Sooooooooo much joy. Feeling Nile in her arms, and being held in Nile's arms, brought a smile to her lips.

But then she pulled her head away from the desert princess' chest, and gazed up at her face. Leave it to Nile to be grinning from cheek to cheek. It was this radiant and amazing expression; one that captured the sun upon its surface.

Bringing up her hand, Nile gently clutched Chivan's cheek into her palm. If this were mere hours ago, the Alabaster Maiden would have pulled away in embarrassment. But in this moment, as Nile's thumb stroked along her cheek and lips, she felt...

Warm...

“You are beautiful, Chivy," the princess whispered.

“Nile... I... aaah..."

Leaning in, Nile pressed their noses together, where her eyes slowly began closing shut. For some reason, Chivan found herself doing likewise. She knew what was coming next... and she was ready for it.

“Mmmfff~~"

“Nmmmph~"

Nile was stealing her first kiss. No, that's not true. You can only steal something by force. Chivan wanted to give this to her. She wanted to give everything to her. And going by the skill she displayed, this was far from the first time someone's given their first kiss to Nile.

She maneuvered open Chivan's lips with her own, before tilting her head to deepen their kiss. Shuddering, the Alabaster Maiden gripped tight upon her friend as she could feel her legs nearly give out. That didn't stop Nile from pushing her tongue into her awaiting mouth, where she began dragging it along her own tongue.

This taste... this flavor... it was positively divine. It was like honey, and chocolate, and syrup, and sugar, and so much more! All mixed into one! Chivan didn't know what ambrosia tasted like, but she figured it was something like this.

Chu...

Their brief yet deep kiss ended when their heads pulled back. Panting softly, the two gazed upon one another. Chivan looked dazed, and Nile did likewise as the rush of their battle began fading from their bodies.

“Nyeh heh...!"

But then the princess began chuckling...

Splash! Splish! Splash!

And footsteps emerged behind them.

“Nile!? Chivan!? What's going on down here!? Are you two okay!?"

“Hmm... I cannot say this was unexpected. Nevertheless, for Zyablos to have wormed his way into my palace without me knowing. Haaah..."

Ash. This urn of ash was all that remained of Zyablos. It sat in a clear jar, and rested in the center of a table. It took their men multiple hours to scrape all of it off, and he was sure there was still some left painted on the walls beneath his feet. Quite the cruel yet ultimately befitting end to such a sadistic man.

Amenhotep's arms laid behind his back as he eyed the jar before him. The threat posed to him, his family, and his kingdom had passed... and yet he still felt understandably upset. Zyablos got so close to his daughter without anyone noticing; what would have happened if he hadn't underestimated Nile? Could he have really brought harm on his daughter?

“To think that Princess Nile was the source of divine magic that Zyablos was looking for," said Femtos from behind, “I thought it would be an object or an artifact... not the princess herself."

“It is a secret so absurd, no one would believe it outside of Guarude," said Amenhotep as he faced his friend, “Nile's mother was the goddess Bastet. Her divine blood runs through our daughter's veins."

“That would explain Nile's prowess... but still..." a smirk appeared on Femtos' lips, “How did you manage to woo a goddess, old friend?"

Amenhotep shook his head, a begrudged smile forming on his lips.

“You're too old to be looking for gossip, Femtos," said the pharaoh, “Perhaps one day I'll tell you about it... but not today. For now, we should focus on searching for Zyablos' things. Even though I do believe our daughters slew him, I won't be able to sleep peacefully until all of his plans have been found."

“You? Acting like the professional and mature one?" said Femtos with a light chuckle, “My... times really have changed," he then cocked his head and raised an eyebrow, “Speaking of our daughters... why did you not tell Nile of the threat posed to her?"

“Nyeht... are you unaware of what happened?" Amenhotep replied sarcastically, “My daughter is as free a spirit as could be. She feels both honored and shackled by her position as princess and future pharaoh. Perhaps it's her youth, but she often times disobeys me, and rushes out into the desert in search of adventure and thrills. I have no doubts that if I told her of Zyablos, and the fact that he was looking for divine magic, she would have rushed out into the sands in search of him herself."

“Ah... the princess will be a very forward ruler, won't she?" said Femtos with a warm smile on his lips, “I have no doubts that under her rule, problems will be solved quickly... if not directly by her own hands."

“Perhaps. But only when she learns the value of patience and wisdom. Nevertheless..." he smiled as well, “I'm happy she and Chivan are okay. Together, they made for quite a duo. They bested Zyablos all on their own. I'm proud of them."

“I am too," said Femtos, “I think... I think Nile helped teach Chivan the importance of her role as an Obscura Knight. Going by their words, she faced off against Zyablos alone. That's not something she would have done a few weeks ago. I'm proud of her too."

“Hmm... our daughters have done their jobs, now it is time we do ours," said Amenhotep as he straightened up, “They deserve their rest."

“Should we send guards to look after them? Zyablos may have conspirators."

Amenhotep shook his head.

“No... I think we should give them some... alone time."

“Mmmff... chu... nmmph~ chu~ mmmphh...! Huaaah~"

“Nmm~ chu... hmmmph~ chu! Hmmmph ~~aaahahahaaa~~"

This was...

Amazing.

Chivan was prudish. The mere sight of bare skin was enough to make her deflect her gaze, and even hearing lewd talk made her face turn red with embarrassment. Her only understanding of anything sexual came from the pages of a biology textbook, and nowhere else. She was aware of sex. She knew of sex. She even understood that sex was this amazing, pleasurable thing that people could get addicted to. But all of these understandings came from the distance; not from firsthand.

Until now.

Intertwined upon the endless cushions of the princess' mattress, was Nile and Chivan. Their hands and arms clung to one another, deepening the embrace they shared as their lips and tongues continued their lewd dance. Chivan's hands held firm upon Nile's hips and sides, while the princess hand her hands on her shoulders and neck. They squeezed one another, kneaded one another, groped one another, all as the rush of primal lust took hold over them.

Chivan knew well how to touch a body. She had been trained to apprehend and even kill an individual if necessary, so understanding the weakspots of a body was crucial. But that was in a decidedly violent position. When it came to lovemaking, the knight's fingers were scrambling.

She squeezed at Nile's sides and hips, exploring her beautiful, hoyden physique. Her hands slide along the curves of her waistline, where it came down to the bump and curvature of her hip. Then she gripped her butt, squeezing it hard into her awaiting hand. Amid their kiss, a groan was forced from her lips. Nile's ass was so pert, so firm, so remarkable!

Could bodies really be this amazing?

“Nyaaaaaaah~" moaned the desert princess as she pulled her lips from Chivan's.

Pinning her friend down to the mattress, Nile gleefully wiggled her hips, shaking her ass more into Chivan's awaiting palm. The grin she wore told her everything she needed to know, coaxing the Alabaster Maiden to stroke her fingers along the curvature of the catgirl's butt. Around and around she worked her palm, before squeezing her ass again, and then pulling on it.

“Nyaaaah~ oooooh...! So possessive of you, Chivvyy~" Nile moaned, her sarcastic tone tickling her friend's ear, “Nnngh~ you have such a strong grasp. Go ahead... haaa~ hold me more~"

Chivan bit into her bottom lip, nibbled on it idly, then closed her eyes and nodded. Squeezing Nile's ass even harder, she put to work a power that allowed her to handle swords and daggers with ease. Despite her short, dainty stature, she kneaded Nile's firm butt more and more before giving it a parting--

SMACK!

“Nyyaaaah~~~! Ha hah hah ha!"

Swatting Nile's butt sent this ripple through her taunt skin which traveled all the way up to her sporty hair! It also triggered shudders through the maiden's body, making her tremble with a lurid, hungry desire.

Chivan had never done something so lewd before. Kissing Nile was one thing, but she actually struck her butt as well? Was this typical behavior in the bedroom? It all made her body had grow so hot, that sweat began trickling down her form.

Nile enjoyed it. Resting atop Chivan as she did now, her hips began swaying in saucy little circles, gyrating gently upon Chivy's waist. More and more she worked her butt into her friend's awaiting palm, coaxing her to grope her more and more.

Wait... Chivan had two hands, right?

SMACK!

“NYAAAAH~! CHIVYYY~~~! HAH HA!"

Both hands slammed atop Chivan's butt, kneading her cheeks in unison. Her ass was not only taut, not only round, but so damn shapely! Griping and groping her was like squeezing upon a big, plump peachy! Nile even arched her back, pushing out her chest against Chivan's face, making it heat up.

Oh... such busty breasts! Just like her ass, Nile's chest was big, shapely, and taunting her to touch it. Guiding her hands away from the princess' butt, Chivan traced them along her sensual sides and brought them to her chest. For a few moments she hesitated... and then her hands moved in!

Grab Grab!

“Nyaaaah~! Hah hah~"

Chivan's eyes were wide, her mouth in this little oval, and her cheeks were a bright red. Both of her hands latched upon Nile's breasts, squeezing them through the top of her exotic dress. Not only were her breasts big, but they were so damn firm as well. Groping them through her bodice, her fingers would sink into her taut flesh... if this damn dress wasn't in the way! That didn't stop Chivan from pushing her chest up, drawing teasing chuckles from Nile's lips as a grin appeared on her lips.

“Having fun, Chivy?" she asked whilst shooting her friend a raunchy glare.

“By the gods, yes," Chivan answered, not even hesitating to hide her pleasure.

“Nyeh heh heh! Wanna have more fun?"

“Nmmmph~! Y-yes..."

“Okay then~"

Reaching back, Nile began fiddling with the strings of her exotic bodice. A few done here, a few done there, and then--

Fwwwww...

The garment fell loose around her chest. The only thing keeping them in place was Chivan's hands, which were still cupping Nile's bosom up. All she needed to do was drop her hands, and her chest would be exposed. So...

Chivan dropped her hands...

Fwump!

“Haaaah~~?"

Before her eyes were Nile's nude, busty breasts. As if in opposition to gravity, her chest wasn't just big, but also perky as well! They had this erotic curve to them, with hard, dark brown nipples that were as hard as steel. Rising up and down with her every breath, they expanded before Chivan's eyes, taunting her... coaxing her... driving her to raise her hands again, and--

Plap! Plap!

“Hnnnghh~ your hands feel so nice, Chivy~"

Wearing this expression of lust and awe, Chivan placed her hands upon Nile's busty bosom. They were so much larger than hers, and so damn firm! With lewd and hungry groans, the Alabaster Maiden began groping her friend's chest in earnest, causing the princess to arch her back.

Her fingers sank into flesh, squeezing them, then rolling them around and around and around in circles. Nile's hard nipples rubbed against her palms as well, sending jolts of pleasure throughout the desert princess' spine. She then brought her hands to the bottom of her tits, cupping them, and then lifting them up, before letting them drop with a lewd 'Plap!'

“I've never... haaah... no woman..." whispered Chivan, making Nile chuckle.

“No woman has ever made you feel like this before?" asked the princess as she posed with her arms above her head, “Nyeh heh heh! Thank you for the praise, Chivy. Nmmm~ it feels amazing coming from you."

“R-really? N-Nile, I... ahh~"

Dropping her arms down, the princess placed her hands upon Chivan's shoulders, where she began to gently knead her arms. They were so dainty, so curved, just begging to be touched, to be groped. The mere act of touching her was enough to bring moans of desire from Nile's smirking lips.

“Hmmmph~!"

“Nmmmm~~~!"

Diving in with feline speed, the princess placed her lips to Chivan's taking her into a kiss. Their tongues danced between the gaps of their mouths, swapping spit and taste with all the lewd fury of lovers who hadn't seen one another in years. Eyes closed shut as well, they focused only on the kiss they shared... and their hands which groped at their bodies.

Chivan was still focused on squeezing Nile's tits. Nile on the other hand, hooked her hands beneath the Alabaster Maiden's shirt. She was in such a rush to save her earlier, that she failed to put on her bra. So once Nile pulled the shirt up over her head...

Fwump!

Chivan's chest was exposed to all.

The Alabaster Maiden's physique was pair shaped. She had wide hips, shapely thighs, and quite the curvy butt. Her midriff was also narrow and slim, appropriate for someone as athletic as her. Her chest, however, was rather slim. She wasn't flat mind you, but her perky tits were nowhere near as busty as Nile's. It was almost embarrassing, not just because she was exposing herself, but because she felt so inadequate against the near ethereal beauty of the hoyden princess.

But Nile didn't feel that way.

“You're beautiful, Chivy," she whispered as she leaned over, trapping her friend's gaze with her own, “Nyaaaaahh~ you're like a little bunny. Nmmm~! A snow bunny! Nyeh heh! I'm gonna sink my claws and fangs into you."

“Nillleeee~" Nomph! “Aaah~~~"

Nile made good on her promise.

Diving her head in, she sank her fangs into Chivan's neck and shoulder, kissing and licking and nibbling upon her pristine flesh. The Alabaster Maiden groaned, her arms embracing her friend closer, while her head tipped to the ceiling. Mouth agape, she let her moans fill the air without shame or end as she was feasted upon so thoroughly.

Nile's hands did not remain idle either. One slipped between the gap in Chivan's skirt, stroking along her leg and plump thigh. Around and around her hand rubbed in circles, sending pleasure throughout the knight's body. Her other hand stroked along her slim sides before coming up to one of her perky tits.

It filled her palm so wonderfully; it was like she was groping a pert ball! When she began to squeeze, a high-pitch 'EEP!' left Chivan's lips, making Nile giggle. But she did not stop groping her, did not stop kissing her, did not stop pleasing her.

“Ooooh~ Haaaaahh~! Nnngh~ N-Nillleee~" Chivan panted, causing the princess to pull away from her neck.

Drawing her face up, Nile placed their nose together so that they could gaze into one another eyes. They intertwined into a kiss yet again, their tongues grinding against one another, before it was cut off far too soon. A bridge of spittle hung between their panting lips, snapping apart when Nile began moving down.

Chivan knew what was coming next.

“Hmmph~~~!"

“Aaaaooooh~"

Nile pressed her face against her friend's bosom, smothering her face in her pert and perky tits! They were so smooth, so round, so firm; grinding against them drew giggles and laughs from the princess' lips, and shuddering moans from Chivan's. Not stopping there, Nile opened her mouth and captured one of the maiden's nipples into her mouth.

“Oh~!?"

The sudden rush of pleasure caused her eyes to double in size, nearly bulging with shock. Nile's mouth was hot and moist, her tongue deft and devious. It swiveled and swirled around Chivan's nipple, lapping at her areola as she lathered her in spit. From her body there was this taste of... vanilla? Oh yes, vanilla! Delicious, delicious vanilla! Clutching her head, the Alabaster Maiden drew her friend in closer, increasing the pleasure of her passionate nursing.

Never had Chivan been so jealous of lactating women than right now in this moment. Such a lascivious thought...

Nile didn't just suck on one tit, she sucked on both. Constantly she'd swapped between Chivan's bosom, licking and lathering one, before switching over to the other. She was relentless with her assault, even coming back to pepper her perky tits with a flurry kiss.

Every lick, every kiss, every suckle, the Alabaster Maiden felt it all! And it had her singing lewdly with her erotic voice.

“Aah~! Haaah~! Ooooh~! N-Nilleee~! Nmmmph~!"

Gazing down, Chivan stared at Nile's ruffled and wild hair, watching it shake next and right as she nuzzled her bosom close. Her head then pulled up, leering at her friend's face with this grin on her lips. This was just the start; it was time for the princess to start venturing lower.

Lowerrrr...

Pursing her lips, Nile began kissing along Chivan's sleek and trim midsection as she traveled down her body. The Alabaster Maiden moaned, her back arching as she pushed her skin against those lips. No matter how soft or gentle the touches may be, they were strong enough to shake Chivan in her entirety.

And then it all came to a stop.

Nile had come face to face with the Alabaster Maiden's pelvis. The only thing covering her crotch was the silky white skirt. So easily, Nile could grasp the golden rim of it and undo its clips, freeing the garment from her body.

But she didn't.

Flashing Chivan a grin, Nile instead grasped the skirt and opened it up. She then stuffed her head beneath the gown, blocking view her.

“N-Nile!?" the knight gasped, “What are you--"

“MMMFFF~~~"

“OH GODS~!? AAAHH~~!"

Around Chivan's pelvis were her pink panties. They did little to obscure the fact that a stain had formed in the center of it. It also did little to block the princess' attack.

Rushing in, Nile pressed her mouth and lips to Chivan's cunt, taking her off guard. Without warning nor hesitation, she was assaulted by her friend's lewd and talented mouth. She could feel the intense press of her lips in a kiss through her panties, which pushed up hard against her sweltering cunt. The impact was so intense, that no only did Chivan cry out in ecstasy, she also threw her head back into the mattress beneath her.

She couldn't see it with her skirt in the way, but she could feel it. Nile's devious hands reached up and gripped the sides of her panties, where she slowly began pealing them off. Gritting her teeth, trepidation and fear began flowing through the Alabaster Maiden. Should she stop her now? Things had already progressed this far, yes, but it could still be stopped!

But for as frightened as she was, the strength of her desire and lust was greater. Curling her hand beneath her chin, a kooky grin spread out over Chivan's lips as she felt her panties be freed from her body, revealing her moist pussy.

“Wow~" whispered Nile, “Nyaaaaah~ it's so smooth, Chivy~! Nmmph... I love it... such a beautiful pussy..."

Hearing such praise be lobbied at her pussy, was a unique and strange feeling... that surprisingly felt good. Nile thought it would take her off guard, maybe disturb her, but no. Warmth traveled through her body, and a kooky smile spread on her lips. To think that Nile found her womanhood beautiful... it was an elating feeling indeed.

“Mmmph~~~!"

“AAAAAAAHHHHHHhhhhhhnnnn~~~"

One that melted into roaring pleasure.

Nile was a relentless princess. Giving Chivan no chance to react, she pressed her mouth upon her sweltering cunt, capturing it between her lips. The knight arched her back and sprung her legs up, but not even that was enough to escape Nile's oral assault. Her feisty tongue slid along Chivan's slit, traveling from the base to the clit and back again. Every stroke could be felt, drawing desperate pants from her friend's mouth as she clutched the blankets tight into her fists.

“Haah~! Aah~! Aah~! Hah~ Ha~! Hah~! Aah~ Aah~!"

The sound of Chivan's voice was so wonderful. Hearing it not only made Nile's ears twitch, but goaded her to deepen her swirling tongue. Whenever she lapped at her friend's folds, her sweet nectar oozed into her awaiting mouth, coaxing her to drink from her more and more and more.

By the gods, was this what sex was like!? That thought bounded through Chivan's mind, no matter how difficult it was to think! Having her womanhood be stimulated by Nile's tongue should be disgusting, but it instead brought nothing but pleasure! There was just one problem with it all...

She couldn't see it!

With her skirt in the way, Nile's oral was obscured. Chivan could obviously feel her devious tongue as it lapped, slid and swirled along her cunt, and she could even hear the lewd 'Slurps!' and 'Sicks!' that echoed from it. But she could not see it, and that was frustrating to no end! She needed to see it!

She needed to.

So reaching out, her hand clutched desperately at the air... and then grabbed her skirt, pulling it aside.

Fwwuussh!

And her cold green eyes came face to face with Nile's lewd gaze.

The desert princess gazed along her body, meeting her friend's gaze. In a showing of erotic skill, she opened her mouth wide, letting Chivan watch as her tongue slid along her moist folds. The Alabaster Maiden was so entranced by her gaze, that she immediately locked up in place. Nile took this opportunity to move in, forcing her legs upon her shoulders, while her mouth closed fully on her pussy.

“Nmmph~!"

If Chivan thought this was the extent of her oral skill, then she was sorely mistaken. This was just the beginning.

Reaching up, Nile's hands traveled along Chivan's body, coming to a halt at her chest. In both of her palms she grabbed a hold of her friend's perky tits, holding them firm. Reaching down herself, the knight grabbed upon her wrists, but not to pull her away. No, she pulled her in closer, desperate to feel everything Nile could do.

Her friend did not disappoint.

“Mmmph! Mmmmnn! Nmmmm!!!"

“AAAAHHHH~~~!"

Her tongue...

Penetrated her pussy.

With near endless, erotic skill, Nile pushed her tongue into Chivan's pussy, separating her cunt. The knight's eyes grew wide as she felt her friend's devious tongue grind and writhe within her folds. She dragged them along her vaginal walls, teasing and brushing the individual ridges within. Each lick gave her this sweet, lewd taste, which made the princess moan into and throughout her nubile body.

Her hands weren't still either. As she dined on Chivan's cunt, Nile began to grope and knead her tits at the same time. Around and around she worked her bosom, squeezing them, sinking her strong fingers into her taut flesh, and then pulling back to flick her nipples about. The squeezes were one thing, but the flicking made Chivan's back twitch and jerk.

A sliver of drool traveled down her cheek and chin while this strange feeling began building up within her loins. It was like a knot had been formed within her womb, and Nile was slowly beginning to pull it apart. What was this feeling? What was it she was experiencing?

Oh. That's what she was experiencing. Again, Chivan's a prudish young woman, but she's not dumb. She knows biology, but this blissful rush that she's only read of in a book...

“AAH~! HAAH~! HAAH~! NIILLLEEE~~~!"

Was finally hers to experience.

“AAAAAAHHHAAAAAA~~~!!!"

SQUIRRRRRT! SQUIIIIIRRRT! SQUIIRRRRT!!!

Honestly? It was impressive she had lasted this long. Maybe it was her warrior's stamina.

Legs thrusting up, Chivan unleashed a flooding of feminine jizz right into Nile's awaiting mouth. Her tongue, her teeth, her gums, her everything was coated by the Alabaster Maiden's nectar, all while she suffered shudders and trembles that went on without end!

Reaching down, Chivan gripped hard on Nile's head, holding her in place as her orgasm went on and on and on! Just when would it stop? Would it ever stop? The maiden could see nothing but stars and her sonorous cries split the air while her climax flooded and rushed and roared.

Truthfully, it wasn't that long. For a virgin like Chivan however, it was an eternity.

Whump!

Once her climax subsided, the Alabaster Maiden fell into the bed. One of her arms covered her head, while she panted desperately for breath in a near dazed heap. Nile meanwhile arose from between her legs, her honey oozing down her lips and chin. Smirking, the desert princess licked her lips clean of Chivan's orgasm, before swallowing the rest down.

“Aaahh~ delicious! Nyeh heh heh!"

Moving her arm, Chivan brought her gaze down upon Nile, watching as her friend sat up straight on her bed. This catlike smile of elation was on her lips, as if proud of the pleasure she granted her. But that did not mean the night was over, not yet.

Standing up from her bed, Nile turned around, giving Chivan a view of her luscious backside. Though her bodice was down from earlier, the desert princess still wore the rest of her dress... for a few moments, anyway. Slowly she pulled it down her legs and off her body, revealing her nude form in all of its glorious, golden glory. She then looked over her shoulder towards the snow bunny on her bed, this saucy smirk on her lips.

“Nile..." Chivan whimpered, watching as the princess continued walking away.

“Just sit right there, Chivy!" she said whilst retreating to her walk-in closet, “Nyeh heh~ I'll be back in a second..."

Easy for her to say! She wasn't the one being left behind! Watching her vanish from view caused Chivan to shiver with anticipation, her mind racing with thoughts. Just what was the desert princess planning? Well, she didn't have to wait long for an answer.

Nile returned, holding in her hands another golden box. It was similar to the jewelry box, though this was a smidgen bigger. Placing it upon the bed, the Princess of Guarude opened it up and reached inside... where she returned with--

“Aahh~! Oh... oh my...!"

A dildo. A long, double-sided dildo, one that was gold in color. Gripping it on both ends, Nile tugged on it gently, causing it to bend slightly. It was a flexible toy, easily able to move around, yet firm enough to grant the both of them immense pleasure.

A daunting sex toy, gazing upon it made Chivan shiver with apprehension. With its phallic shape, she knew exactly what it was meant to do, though she wondered just how Nile would use it. Sex between a man and a woman made sense to her, but sex between two women? That was a bit harder to wrap her head around.

Nile could see Chivan shiver with dread. She even watched her eyes dart around in an hesitant manner. Reaching down, the desert princess placed her hand upon her friend's hip, where she stroked her hand along her in a soothing manner. The touch – while undeniably lewd – was still warm enough to calm the snow bunny down, drawing her green eyes up towards her.

“Nile..." she whispered, to which her friend moved in.

“You're doing great, Chivy. I promise, I won't hurt you. Let me just... mmmmphh~"

“Nmmm~"

Their lips met in a kiss, one Nile was quick to take control over. Bringing Chivan out in a slow dance, she further calmed her down as their lewd tongues slid and ground against one another. Her other hand meanwhile, began working its way between her legs. Prying them apart, Nile curved her fingers and began stroking it along Chivan's folds.

“Hnnnnn~~~"

The Alabaster Maiden moaned into their kiss, but made no attempts to pull away. Nile's lips tasted too good to possibly escape, and her tongue was too dominant to fight against. Putting it lightly, the princess decided when the kiss ended. Chivan had no choice but to obey.

Oh... gods... did that feel good...

Amid their kiss, Nile continued stroking her pussy with her talented fingers. Up and down, back and forth, she stroked and toyed with Chivan's cunt, working it open more and more. From touch alone, the princess could tell that her friend had absolutely zero experience in the art of lovemaking. She hadn't even so much as touched herself in a night of self exploration. It was rather cute in its own, nubile way.

Chivan was like a young fruit that's just ripened. It was ready to be plucked. Oh, and Nile was one amazing farmer.

Slowly, her finger worked down... and then started pushing inside...

“Hnnnnggggghhh~~~!?"

Chivan's eyes grew wide, doubling in size as Nile pulled away. Gazing down, the snow bunny clinched her teeth at the sight of Nile's finger working its way into her tight folds. Such a strange feeling. She could feel her folds being stretched apart, but not by much. Still, the small amounts were enough to make her feel awkward, forcing her to clutch upon Nile for support.

“Nyeh heh heh!"

Her boisterous chuckles would always be a source of comfort for her.

Relinquishing control to the skillful princess, Chivan allowed her to finger her cunt at her own pace. It started off slow, with Nile pushing her digit in, and then pulling it out. She carved a path within her friend's pussy, further triggering that unique sensation of being stretched out. The Alabaster Maiden even curled her toes and shook her head, causing Nile to shake her head.

“You're doing great," she whispered, “Just relax, Chivy."

“Nnnghhh~~~!"

Those soothing words were like honey being poured into her ear. As difficult as it was, Chivan did her best to relax, and allow Nile to command her body.

Releasing freedom to someone else... ahh... it was oddly... thrilling...

Slllliiicckkk!

“Nnngghh~~!?"

Nile's finger started working its way deeper, causing Chivan's eyes to widen again. Rushing her head inward, she dove her face into her friend's neck, and gripped her as hard as she could. All the while, her finger started sliding in and out of her pussy, working her pussy open wider and wider and wider.

“Such a tight girl~" Nile whispered... though Chivan really didn't know what being 'tight' meant, “Fuck... aaah~ you're gripping so hard on my finger, Chivy ~~~nnnghmmmph~~~ you feel amazing~"

Again and again and again, Nile pumped her finger into Chivan's pussy, triggering a series of lewd 'Pops!' and 'Squelches!'. They echoed throughout her chamber, while the snow bunny opened her mouth, allowing her moans to unabashedly flow from her lips

This felt amazing! Nile's digits weren't just strong, they were deft as well. Her fingers and nails would pluck at the individual ridges of her pussy, dragging on them on every retreat, and sending ruminations of pleasure through Chivan's body. Wiggling her hips, the Alabaster Maiden pushed herself down on Nile's fingers in a rush of lust and need. She could feel that finger work its way deeper and deeper until--

Touch...

“EEEEK!?"

Nile touched something in her pussy.

Drawing her finger from her pussy, the princess watched as Chivan covered her mouth with her hands. Her expression made it looked like she had been slapped, which made Nile chuckle in a teasing manner.

“I think you're ready," said the princess as she placed her hands on her shoulders, “Just lay down, Chivy. I'll take care of everything."

“R-ready? Ready for...?" muttered Chivan... before realization dawned on her, “Oh... r-ready for... that."

“Nyeh heh heh! Yeah! Ready for that."

Getting on her knees before Chivan, Nile reached over and grabbed her double-sided dildo from off the bed. With a firm grasp, she brought one end of the dildo over towards her pussy, rubbing it along her folds. Back and forth, it started to shine with her nectar, while the Alabaster Maiden watched with unblinking eyes.

With a firm grasp yet gentle strokes, Nile began working her dildo into her moist slit. Chivan gasped, watching as her friend's folds parted around the toy. Just how often did she do something like this? There was this erotic ease to the way she moved, sliding that toy deeper and deeper into her until--

“Nyaaah~ there~"

Between her legs was her golden dildo. With a lewd flexibility to it, the toy stood tall between her legs like a real cock. Gazing upon it sent shivers down Chivan's spine; that apprehension was starting to build up again. But Nile crawled upon the bed, pinning the maiden beneath her body like a feline stalking its prey.

Laying back, Chivan watched as her friend's face hovered above her own. Her hand gently stroked along her face and cheek, appraising her features like she was marveling at a beautiful, priceless diamond. It calmed the maiden down, even drew her to nuzzle against her friend's palm in silent appreciation.

But then Nile's hand continued moving down. It stroked along Chivan's shoulders, traced along her breasts, slid down her stomach, and came to a halt at her wide hips. Under her guidance, she worked open her friend's legs, sending shivers down her spine yet again.

“N-Nile," whimpered Chivan, “This is my... y-you know... my...?" she looked to the side, “You're so talented. You know this so well. But me? I..." she shook her head, “I've never," Touch, “Aaah~"

Again, Nile placed her hand on Chivan's cheek, nudging her over until their eyes met yet again. The maiden read the reassuring grin on her lips, charmed by the hoyden princess' beaming grin and her soothing touch.

“Just rely on me... and relax," whispered Nile, “It'll hurt at first... but then it'll feel better than anything you could possibly imagine. Promise."

Chivan was not ignorant. She knew that when that sex toy of hers slid inside of her, it was going to go all the way in. And when it did, well, it was going to tear her hymen. It was frightening to imagine; such excruciating pain; could she even endure it? The fear of the unknown was almost too strong to ignore!

But Nile was there, and Nile was so reassuring. Sliding her thumb over towards Chivan's lips, she traced her touch along them, before gently pushing it into her mouth. Instinctively, the maiden suckled on her thumb, lathering it in her spit before watching it pull back. So much had formed already, that a strand of spittle was brought out as well.

“You ready, Chivy?"

Chivan swallowed her spit... and then nodded.

“Yes..."

“Nyeh heh... here we go~"

Touch!

“Aaah~!?"

That's it; just a touch. A cold touch to Chivan's hot and moist pussy. It sent shivers down her spine, causing the anticipation she felt to grow even stronger. Gritting her teeth, the Alabaster Maiden curled her hands in, gripping upon the blankets behind her in an attempt to relieve tension. That fear and hesitation was growing stronger again!

But Nile's touching touch kept calming her down. The desert princess placed her hands on her thighs, whispering things like 'It's okay', and 'Just relax', as well as 'You're so fucking beautiful'. Each one had Chivan melting into the mattress, awaiting the inevitable.

Left and right, the head of Nile's dildo began grinding against Chivan's slit. Gently she worked it open, while this lewd, boisterous grin of desire began spreading on her lips. Just a little more, a little more! Her friend's pussy began opening up, stretching apart due to her finger before. And once the snow bunny finally began to relax...

Puuuuushhh!

“Nnnghhh~~~!"

Nile started sliding her toy in deep.

With expert control, the Princess of Guarude guided her dildo into Chivan's snatch, spreading her apart. Deeper... deeper... deeeepeeeer... every inch that toy claimed felt like an hour had passed for the snow bunny. Her back arched off the mattress, almost desperate to leap up off the bed outright! This toy was way bigger than Nile's fingers, way thicker as well! And... and...

It was golden in color, and made of some material that could be both rigid yet bendable. But that's not what it felt like inside of her. Noooo, it felt like it was moving within her pussy. Chivan could feel Nile's dildo twitch and throb, like it was made of actual flesh and blood. But that's not possible, right? It was just a toy... right?

Touch!

“AAAH~!?"

Well, toy or not, it had reached deep enough to press against her hymen. That barrier was the last vestige of Chivan's maidenhood. She had been raised to give it to someone important to her in the future, as in a lover... a husband. But the person between her legs wasn't a lover, a suitor, she didn't even share the same gender! Nile was her friend... her princess... and it would be her honor to be her latest sexual conquest.

So...

She nodded...

PUSH!

SNAP!

“AAAAHHH-HAAAAAH!?!?!?"

Chivan was hers.

With a sudden thrust, Nile shot up with her hips, tearing through Chivan's hymen with one, speedy thrust! Her toy pushed deep into her core, all the way until their hips met with this sumptuous 'Pat!' Not that Chivan could really focus on it.

Eyes wide and mouth agape, her shriek faded into a silent gasp. Pain roared from her core, traveling out throughout the rest of her body. Whether it be in her pussy or the tips of her toes, Chivan felt the searing, aching pain of having her virginity being taken! And it just wouldn't stop! The searing pain, the awkward stretching, the copper scent of blood; it all overwhelmed her body!

“Nyeh heh~ you're so cute, Chivy," said Nile in a cool, almost nonchalant manner, “Just relax... just relax..."

Easier said than done! She'd been stabbed on the inside, and Nile's only advice was to 'relax'? How can she relax?

Well...

“You're shivering so much, Chivy," said Nile as she reached out for her friend, “Just relax. Don't worry; I got you."

Grabbing Chivan, the desert princess pulled her in, embracing her against her body. With a tug, she brought her friend up, resting her in her lap as she remained impaled on her cock. Still wincing with pain, all the snow bunny could do was cling to Nile for support, her hands wresting on her shoulders, while the princess' hands laid on her wide hips and shapely butt.

“It's okay," Nile whispered, “It's okay. I've got you, Chivy..."

“It hurts...! Nnngh! It really hurts!"

“Nyeh heh heh... yeah, I know. I felt the same way too on my first time."

“Your first... time...?"

“Nyeh heh! Don't worry about it. Just..." she shook her head, “You trust me, right?"

“Ah... yes..."

“Nyeh heh heh! Then let me work, okay? Just relax..."

“I... I!" Plap! “Nmmph!"

Oooooooooh... how had she ignored this for so long? Nile's breasts were simply divine. Their large shape, their busty curvature, their firm pliability; resting her head into her tits was like resting in the most perfect pillows known to man. Chivan snuggled against her, rubbing her face along her tits in an attempt to dispel some of the pain she felt.

And it worked.

A grin on her lips, one of Nile's hands clutched the back of Chivan's head, pushing her deeper against her bust. Traveling her hands along her sides, the snow bunny clutched her friend's bust, who offered one of her nipples up to her. She didn't hesitate to take it.

“Nmmph! Suck! Slrrp! Sluckle!

“Nyah hah hah~~~! Yeeaah~! Nyaaahhhn~!"

With all the hunger and fervor one would suspect of a nursing babe, Chivan suckled on Nile's tit like she could actually give milk! Her draw was strong, her tongue relentless, and how could it not be? The princess' body had the same taste as her lips; honey, chocolate, syrup and sugar, all rolled into one.

Sucking on her helped numb the pain of being penetrated on his cock, while drawing soft moans and giggles from the princess' lips. But they weren't going to sit around forever. Reaching down, Nile sank her fingers into the curvy and surprisingly soft flesh of Chivan's butt... and then started driving her up.

Sllllllliiiiiiiiddddddeeeeee...!

“Oh~! Hooooh~!"

And then drop...

Pat!

“Aahh~!?"

Sllllllliiiiiiiiddddddeeeeee...!

“Hiiyaaaahhhnnn ~~~! N-Niiillleee~~~!"

And then drop...

Pat!

“Aahhnnn~~!?"

Wasn't gonna stop there. So once again...

Sllllllliiiiiiiiddddddeeeeee...!

“Hhhnn~! Hnn ~~! Hhhnn~~~! N-Niiillleeellyyyy~~~!"

And then drop...

Pat!

“Ah~! Ah~! Haaah~!"

“Ooooh... ngghh~ so tight, Chivy," Nile whispered into her ear, “Haaah~ you're gripping on me so fucking hard~"

Those words tickled her ears, causing her pussy to clinch around that cock in her pussy. Wait, cock? No, it's just a toy, right? Again, it was so difficult to tell! That golden phallus was throbbing and twitching within her pussy... and seemed to grow even thicker!

Was that just Chivan's imagination at play?

Keeping her hands on her friend's hips, Nile started to softly thrust up with her hips. Her cock pushed in and out of Chivan's sweltering cunt, widening it out; more and more and more. The snow bunny gritted her teeth as she endured impact after impact. It was almost enough to make her scream out in an odd mixture of pain and pleasure. But one look into Nile's eyes calmed her down.

Together, they stared at one another, while the impacts of the princess' hips sent quivering quakes through Chivan's ass. Oooooh, and such a bubbly, round ass it was. This bottom-heavy form of hers deserved to be relentlessly fucked! Nile was almost disappointed with her choice to pick this position when she could have had Chivy bend over!

Ah... but the night's still young, is it not? Besides... the sight of her friend's face melting with pleasure, was a sight too wonderful to pass up.

Seconds passed on, with Chivan's sharp gasps of pain, shifting into moans and groans of pleasure. She was still panting, still wincing every now and then, but the pleasure was starting to overwhelm her. Just as Nile promised, she was making this feel so damn goooooooood.

Laying back in her bed, the princess watched as Chivan remained sitting up on her lap. The snow bunny's hands laid on her chest, keeping her propped up, while the princess' hips constantly drove her dildo in and out of her messy pussy. A flurry of emotions flashed through her face, shifting from wincing pain, to gasping pleasure, to overwhelming pleasure. Why?

PAT!

“HYOOOOOHH~~!?"

Chivan knew the parts of a body when it came to the act of subduing a person. When it came to the intricacies of sex however, she was... well... a virgin! One of those attributes she was unaware of, was that blissful spot of pleasure.

The g-spot.

Nile first struck it by accident... but she only needed to see Chivan's reaction to know where it was. When her friend gave out that wondrous cry of ecstasy, a sick grin appeared on the princess' lips.

No mercy!

PAT! PAT! PAT! PAT! PAT! PAT! PAT!

“HAAH~!? HYAAAH~!? HYOOOH~!? OH~! OH~!? HYOOOH ~~~! AAAHHNN~~!"

Sensory overload!

Like a cruel mistress, Nile relentlessly pounded at Chivan's g-spot, nuzzling and brushing against it with a deadly precision! Every stroke, every touch, every punch, sent thundering jolts throughout the obscura knight's body. Those ripples traveled throughout her ass, up her back, and straight to her white hair, which fluttered up and down, up and down, up and down.

So much pleasure! Too much pleasure! Chivan understood now! She understood why so many get addicted to this feeling! Sex was aaaaaaaamaaaaaazzziiiiinnng!

SMACK!

“AAAH~~!?"

“Nyeh heh heh~ keep moving those hips of yours, you little bunny you," Nile said as she laid her hands on her hips, “Up and down~ up and down~ you can do it~! Nyeh heh heh!"

“Aaah... r-right... nmmph~!"

Sliiiiiiiiiiiiiddeeee...

PAT!

“AAH~!?"

With her first bounce, a quiver was sent up through her body. Even her perky tits bounced from the impact!

PAT!

“OOOH~!"

With her second bounce, Chivan's eyes grew wide and her mouth turned into an 'oval'. She shocked herself; did it really feel this good to take charge?

PAT!

“AAAHNN~~~!"

A third bounce! This time, she grabbed a hold of Nile's tits, squeezing those busty breasts into her greedy fingers. Her cunt – while still tight – was growing looser and looser! This made it so much easier to move!

PAT!

“GODS~~~!"

A fourth bounce, and this time, she truck her own g-spot! When that toy touched her bundle of nerves, the roaring pleasure she felt traveled all throughout her body, forcing a gasp of ecstasy from her lips. And like a newly formed addict...

PATPATPATPATPATPATPATPAT!!!

Chivan quickly got to work fucking herself on Nile's cock!

Up and down, up and down, up and down, her dainty, bottom-heavy form bounced. Erotic quivers were sent rippling through her soft ass, making it jiggle! And that jiggle moved all the way up to her bob cut hair, forcing it to flutter up and then fall down! And this was all because of Nile's glorious cock!

Yes, that's what it was! This thing that was throbbing and twitching in her pussy was not some double-sided dildo, but a flesh and blood, golden cock! And Chivan knows what cocks do! They erupt like a volcano of spunk and seed! And that's what she wanted to do; make her dick erupt!

Chivan's pussy began undulating, milking off Nile's cock with a near instinctive desire. Not only did her thrusts send waves through her own body, but by nature of being a double-sided dildo, it also sent waves through the princess' body as well! Her sex toy was like a pole of pleasure, one that rumbled and ruminated through their bodies, making their curves, their breasts, their asses, all jiggle with erotic desire!

Not willing to sit around and do nothing, Nile began thrusting up against Chivan as well! Together, the princess and her knight fucked one another on this bed, connected by this lively dildo that seemed to throb and twitch within Chivan's snatch. No thoughts flowed through either of their minds, just the desperate and primal need to bring one another to a swift and powerful climax. It was rising higher and higher, their sweltering pussies getting wetter and wetter, their cries of pleasure getting louder and louder until--

“HYYIIAAAAAAHHH~~~!"

“NYAAAAAAAAAHHH~~~!"

SQUUUIIRRRRRRRTTTTT!!!

SQUUUUUUURRRRIIITTTT!!!

GLRRRK! GRRRKK! GGRRRNNK!!!

That sound... that feeling... oh... it was so warm.

Chivan's back arched... and a thick filling of cum poured into her pussy... her womb. It roared from Nile's cock, flooding and staining every inch of the knight's pink pussy. So much cum and jizz flowed, that it came sputtering out of her pussy and around Nile's cock. It then mixed with the squirting juices from their cunts, creating this truly sordid concoction of cum!

And it was glorious...

Plap!

Collapsing upon Nile, Chivan gasped for breath as their sweaty bodies cradled one another. Down below, the princess gripped her thighs, squeezing them gently, while the golden phallus they used slipped out of their pussies with a loud and lewd--

Shlop! Shlip!

Splak!

Chivan groaned from the feeling of emptiness that washed over her. How weird. Now having gained a taste of amazing sex, she longed for it, no longer fearing the pain it brought. But was it because the sex itself was great (which it was), or was it because of who she was having sex with?

Bringing up her head, she came face to face with Nile. Naturally, the princess had a smirk on her lips, and a playful look in her eyes. That look and those lips drew Chivan in. She crawled in closer to her friend, hovering her face above hers... before moving in.

“Nmmph~"

“Mmmphhh~"

Their arms clung to one another as they entered into a slow, passionate kiss. Lips rumbled against lips, tongues clicked along tongues, and soft moans and groans were traded between the two. Such sweet sounds...

Aah...

Pop...

Pulling back, Nile and Chivan again looked at one another... before the obscura knight laid down into her princess' neck.

Her princess.

Together, the two gazed towards Nile's balcony. Beyond was the desert of Guarude, with the glorious silver moon and blinking stars hanging overhead. It was a remarkable sight.

“So..." Chivan whispered, “What will I say to my future husband when... well... you know..."

“Oh that? Nyeh heh heh! Just scream out in pain... he won't know the difference! Nyeh heh heh!"