FSE

Dark and azure sky pt 4

Story by Fatchaos on SoFurry

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Dark and azure sky

- Part 4 -

Axeth opened his eyes slowly. The room was bright from the sunlight that came from the window. Birds were singing outside. It was warm. Azura was sleeping beside him, her hand going over his chest. She was sleeping so quietly it was hard to tell if she was breathing or not. But she was, her body moving slightly up and down whenever she took a breath. Her azure hair was shining, and her scent reminded Axeth of field flowers after the rains of spring. He decided to stay like this for a while longer.

Hara and Bahram were at the kitchen, preparing breakfast. Trix was looking, intrigued. The way they worked together! It was like one person was doing the breakfast. Tee hee! What a lovely elderly couple, really! They were preparing a rather nice breakfast, as well: Boiled eggs, fresh pear juice, gently fried, thin pieces of meat, most probably pork and of course, some bread. In a flash, they were done, and they sat on the round table, smiling at each other. Bahram had to comment the last night:

  • "Say, buttercup... did you hear anything during the night? "

Hara's face turned red.

  • "Bahram! "

  • "So you did. "

Bahram chuckled. So did Trix, now knowing what the bump was she heard.

  • "They are a young couple! It's rude to even speak about it! "

  • "Well, yes. But I couldn't help hearing it all. "

Hara smacked Bahram gently on the shoulder and smiled.

  • "You are hopeless... "

  • "I know, buttercup. Reminds of us on our younger days, no? "

  • "BAHRAM. "

Hara's face was bright red, but she was still smiling. Bahram gently stroked her chin and her long, brown hair.

  • "Age hasn't changed you one bit, Hara. You're still as beautiful as a freshly bloomed flower on a sunny field, like the day I first met you... "

Hara smiled, her blush fading a bit. The two rubbed their snouts together and Trix smiled. She looked down, a bit sad. She was jealous. Trix is always alone. Nearly always have been. Suddenly, the door to the kitchen opened, and Axeth was standing there. His hair was all messed up, and so was Azura's, who followed behind him to the room. Azura had a rather revealing silk robes that would have turned any mans attention to her, but Bahram paid no attention to it whatsoever. Axeth had modest robes as well, he actually seemed to be a bit uncomfortable wearing them. Hara smiled.

  • "Good morning! Did you sleep well? "

Azura smiled.

  • "Good morning. Yes, thank you. "

Axeth huffed.

  • "Morning. Yes. Thank you very much for letting us sleep here. "

Bahram smiled and took a glass of pear juice.

  • "Our pleasure. Come, sit. We made breakfast. I bet you could use some energy, judging from the sou- "

Hara smacked Bahram on the shoulder, very hard this time.

  • "Bahram! "

Trix started laughing out loud, as did Bahram who tried to resist laughing as Hara smacked him on the shoulder again. Axeth and Azura blushed and they awkwardly sat down. Azura coughed and attempted to switch the subject as soon as possible.

  • "Uh, yes! Thank you for the breakfast! It looks delicious! "

Hara leaned over to Azura.

  • "Sorry about Bahram, he is an old fool. "

  • "I heard that. "

Bahram smiled briefly and took a sip from his glass. Axeth decided to taste the juice as well. He couldn't believe his senses. The taste was so sweet. The fresh flavors were dancing on his tongue. Azura also took a gulp, and it was very good juice, indeed. From fresh pears, no doubt. Trix carefully flew to the table.

  • "Can Trix eat? "

Hara smiled kindly.

  • "But of course you can! Take a seat! Here, a glass of juice, just for you! "

Trix coiled herself on a seat, with her "tail" and her head being free. She took the glass with her tail and drank some of the juice. Gooooooood!

  • "Trix likes! Very good! Trix is happy, thank you! "

Hara smiled kindly again.

  • "I am glad you like it. "

Before long, the breakfast was eaten to the last crumb. Trix proved to be quite a formidable eater, despite her small frame and size. Bahram rose up from his seat and flexed his back a little.

  • "Well... Now that we are all full of energy, how about I try to educate you, Axeth? "

Axeth rose up.

  • "I would appreciate that, Bahram. Thank you. "

Bahram grinned.

  • "Good, good! Go outside, I'll be right with you. I just need to, well, dress appropriately. As do you. "

Axeth looked at himself, and realized he still had the robes on him. He swiftly walked to the guest's room to change them back to his "casual" wear: Loincloth and his armor. It really was like a second skin to him, despite the fact it wasn't designed for comfort at all. Bahram moved back to his room and moved a trunk from under the bed. It had been so long...

Axeth was waiting outside, Azura with him, who had dressed up in a more casual silk robes. Before long, the door opened and Bahram stepped outside. He was wearing no other than the priest-armor and had a neat looking battle-staff, very similar to Azura's. The armor was nearly identical to Azura's, save for the fact it was clearly for a male, especially the chestplate was a lot less... curvy. Bahram was awkwardly smiling. He seemed to feel a bit uncomfortable in the armor.

  • "It has been long since I wore this armor. Weighted a lot more than I remembered! That, or I have just gotten old. Oh well. Anyway. Are you ready? "

  • "As ready as I can get, Bahram. "

  • "Wonderful! Then we shall begin! With the basics, naturally. Come closer. "

Axeth walked to Bahram, who was looking at his staff.

  • "Alright. I will begin at the basics so you understand magic in general better. Then we will move to your own particular case. "

  • "Understood. "

Bahram pointed at the various smaller and larger runes on his staff, and the gems that were sapphires.

  • "See, when you have magical affinity like us priests, it is not alone enough to produce anything. The priests have developed these runes to help you. Now, without a staff, you normally draw the runes in the air, like this. "

Bahram pointed his index finger and drew a few runes in the air that floated still, mid-air, slightly glowing.

  • "First, you write the elemental rune. In this case, water. If it's not elemental magic, you don't draw elemental rune. Next, is the "adaptation" rune. There are... too many adaptation runes for me to even begin to list, and most of them work in combos. Like, drawing a "water" rune as the base, combined with "multiple" rune and "sphere" rune, you get...? "

  • "Multiple water spheres? "

  • "Exactly! Not hard, eh? "

  • "Understandable. "

  • "Indeed. And lastly, you draw the power rune. Very important. These comes in many variations. The more complex the rune, the more magical power the spell will have. More powerful spells drain more of your spiritual energy, that you recover by meditating, sleeping and... well... you know. Oh, and hopefully one day, with my potions! "

Bahram's eyes were glowing again. Then he coughed.

  • "But yes. This is how it works. The staffs, however, give you shortcuts to this progress. "

  • "Shortcuts? "

  • "Precisely. The staffs are carved full of the runes, meaning easy, fast access to most of your spells. The priest 'chooses' the runes he wants to use from the staff by merely thinking about them. But even then, the most devastating and, or, powerful spells need to be drawn as runes by the priest. But staffs make easier and faster use of magic, meaning it wouldn't usually give your enemies time to use the most powerful spells. "

  • "I see... but I don't use runes. "

  • "Indeed. Since you use eldricth magic, it is a bit more... 'feral' than rest of the magic. Powerful, hard to control, and extremely potent! "

  • "Hmm. What could I do with eldricth magic, then? "

  • "That's the most intriguing point of eldricth magic. Since it is not based on any element, though not all other magic is either, it means it's potential is quite... limitless. "

  • "Limitless? "

Bahram had the weirdest of looks.

  • "Limitless. You can shield yourself. You can enhance your weapons with the magic, making them tools of destruction. You can alter physics, manipulate objects and throw them. Too many things for me to list. Basically, anything you can imagine. Even sucking the very life-force out from someone. "

Axeth wasn't sure what to think of that. It seemed useful, yes, but very... threatening at the same time. Bahram could notice his worried look.

  • "This is, why you need to control it. Easily, you can overdo things. While it would not be bad for you, it would drain all your powers in an instant, and cause a lot of collateral damage around you. Possibly harming those you try to protect. "

Bahram pointed at Azura. Axeth gulped briefly.

  • "What can I do to control it? "

  • "Self-discipline. Don't let the power take the better of your mind. Rage is a very potent source for power, but it is highly unstable combined with magic. "

Axeth looked down.

  • "Controlling my rage in battle is not one of my virtues, I am afraid, Bahram. I might go completely berserk in combat. "

  • "Well. Even then, you might be able to at least direct your powers. Say, as a potent fighter like yourself, you couldn't have lived if you merely trust that swinging your axe in berserking fury will bring you victory, yes? "

  • "I... suppose so. There is a certain... clarity in my mind when I fight. You could say, I am focused on my enemies. Their movements. Their attacks. Even when I am completely enraged I take note of my enemies movements. "

  • "There you have it! "

Bahram shouted.

  • "Stay focused. That should be nearly enough. That way, your powers direct to the way you want to. Just be careful not to totally overdo things. Hah. Now that I've said that, it feels like I didn't teach you anything. You already could do what I was aiming for. "

  • "No, you helped a great deal, Bahram. Thank you. I am glad you explained this all to me. "

Bahram smiled, and looked at Azura.

  • "Say. The roads can be dangerous for you. Maybe I could teach you something? "

Azura was surprised Bahram suddenly spoke to her, as she was silently watching from a little distance.

  • "Uh, sure. I would be honored. "

Bahram was smiling more happily.

  • "You have water affinity, right? "

  • "Yes, indeed. "

  • "Fine choice! So do I! "

Azura smiled faintly, and walked to Bahram.

  • "See, most would consider water affinity to be the worst suited for combat. Usually, it is, compared to, for example, the destructive force of fire affinity and the brutality of ground affinity. But I've developed an utterly powerful, precise attack that only works with water. Do you wish to learn it? It could come in handy. "

Azura was unsure, but learning new spells was always useful.

  • "Alright. I would be honored if you wished to teach me a new spell. "

Bahram grinned.

  • "Wonderful! It's fairly simple, considering. Let me show you. "

Bahram started drawing runes in the air. Azura looked closely, reading the runes as Bahram drew them.

Water. Compression. Multiply. Pressurize. Multiply. Stream. Power rune; Leviathan.

  • "Not very complex, considering, if not a bit... long. Only the power rune is the hard part. I dare not use any higher power rune. "

  • "Uuuh... compressed water stream? "

Bahram had a very sinister look on him, as he pointed his finger out towards a rock. A very thin stream of water shot out to it, and it went from up to down. Seemingly, it did nothing, expect spray water all around the rock since the water came with high-pressure. Bahram's face turned smiling again.

  • "There you have it. "

Azura was a bit dumbstruck.

  • "A spray of water? "

Bahram smiled and walked to the rock, pointing Azura to follow. Azura did, and could not believe her eyes as she saw the rock. It had been cleaved in half, and the ground behind it had a deep "cut" in it.

  • "Water, when compressed enough and shot with high pressure, can cut through anything. Metal. Rock. Flesh. Highly accurate, powerful and extremely unpredictable for the enemy you might be using it against. Also works for crafting rocks to the shape you want. "

Azura was still shocked. The sheer strength of this spell was indeed very potent and deadly. And it was precise! It didn't do any collateral damage, save for the things behind the target of the spell.

Axeth was watching from the distance, and he was most impressed by the power of the attack. Like a sword, able to pierce anything.

  • "And believe me when I say... no shield, magical or physical, will be able to defend against this. Just be sure to use this spell wisely... it drains your energy rather rapidly, indeed. "

Azura bowed briefly, keeping her head down while she did.

  • "Thank you. Your wisdom is admirable. "

Bahram chuckled.

  • "Wisdom? Nooo. Sheer madness and the eagerness to try new things! You'd be surprised how many rocks I've mutilated... "

Azura smiled to Bahram who was now focusing on his staff, examining it thoroughly. He gave a loud sigh and focused back on Azura.

  • "This... was very nice. I mean... I am old. And I've never really got the chance to share my wisdom with anyone. Save for Hara. She understands and shares interest in my work, but I could never teach her to do any of these. I am bound as a priest. "

Azura was quite sure that for a second, Bahram was trying to not shed a tear. Bahram swallowed rather loudly, but smiled again, in his usual, joyful way.

  • "I am glad I could share this with someone. Be sure to pass it down to your children. "

Azura coughed.

  • "I think it's a bit too early to be thinking about such... "

  • "Nonsense. You are healthy, young, and beautiful. When you find a nice place to stay, I'd say you should definitely try. "

Bahram's voice reeked of redemption.

  • "You see. The potion that I developed for Hara. It has a... side-effect. "

Azura was quite sure she knew just what. Bahram bit his teeth together.

  • "We can never have children. The potion... prevents that. And if Hara wouldn't take it... I'd kill her with my parasite. We long ago quit such... activities. I tried to perfect the potion, but I never succeeded. I long ago gave up. We are too old. "

Bahram was squeezing his staff so his knuckles were showing clearly. Azura wasn't sure what to say. She felt pity, but felt it would be not appropriate to show it. Hara suddenly appeared behind Bahram, and grabbed him by the shoulder.

  • "We have each other. That is enough. I already had a miracle when I could have you. "

Bahram slowly turned around. His eyes were glassy and he just couldn't say a word. He had wanted a son. A daughter. Grandchildren. But looking at Hara made him a feel better, but he couldn't help a few tears running down his snout.

Azura thought it was best to leave the two at peace, so she walked slowly back to Axeth who was also observing from the distance.

  • "I pity them, Azura. "

  • "So do I. So do I. "

Axeth huffed, looking down. Children. The sudden realization that he could, in fact, have children made him think of things far ahead. Such thoughts made him feel happier than ever. Axeth slowly slid his hand on Azura's shoulder, stroking her gently.

  • "When this is all over, Azura. "

Azura turned her head and looked at Axeth's eyes. His eyes were nearly shining. She could nearly see into his soul through them.

  • "Maybe. Maybe we could... "

Azura smiled. She understood perfectly. Her smile gave Axeth a clear answer. Axeth smiled joyfully back at Azura. His smile didn't resemble that of a fearsome warrior, but a very happy man. The silence was broken when Trix sprung out of nowhere, spinning around Axeth & Azura.

  • "What next? Trix has no idea. Trix thinks we can't stay here forever, no no! "

Azura sighed.

  • "No. We can't. And we don't want to disturb you any longer, Bahram and Hara. "

  • "Again, it is no problem at all. We rarely have visitors like you. It's been a pleasure. "

Azura and Axeth walked to Bahram and Hara and while Azura bowed gently, Axeth shook both of their hands, smiling.

  • "It has been an honor. You have my gratitude. "

Bahram smiled and flexed his muscles a bit. He was clearly feeling uncomfortable in the armor.

  • "Hmm, where do you intend to go next? Tarqaan, or Ras'Tori, if my fears are correct, has probably been informed of you, and she WILL take action against rogue priests and priestesses. "

  • "I know. I am not sure where to go. My feelings are mixed. I feel like running, but at the same time, I feel like fighting. Fighting the matriarch. Her lies sicken me. "

Bahram huffed.

  • "There is little we can do about her. She has an army of soldiers, and priests and priestesses follow her every command. "

Axeth grunted very silently, thoughtfully.

  • "There might be a way. You might have noticed, Azura. The warrior caste. Our numbers have been rapidly decreasing over the past decade, thanks to the many wars the Capitol has fought. "

  • "Yes, I have noted that. War takes casualties. "

Axeth gave a strange look.

  • "Not nearly as many casualties as escapees. "

Azura lifted her eyebrow a bit, as did Bahram. Hara had a confused look upon her.

  • "I have witnessed myself, over the many, many years I have fought, how the warrior caste abandon their posts and escape. I never did, myself, given the chance many times. I felt there was nothing for me. Now I know better. But. The rumors about the safe haven for the warriors. If we could get there. "

  • "We could ask for their aid. "

Axeth grunted, thoughtfully again.

  • "Maybe. I doubt they are ready to face their oppressor, but even if they are not. We would be safe there. Tarqaan would be a fool to attack it. We are warriors. "

Azura had to agree, it sounded like the best move, especially since she couldn't figure of any better.

  • "Perhaps we should try to get there, then. Do you know where it is? "

  • "Yes. The rumors tell us that we need to travel straight to the south from Capitol, until we reach the mountains. Once we reach them, we 'Will be found'. "

  • "Wouldn't that mean we need to go past Oxoroth's marauders again? "

  • "Yes. But we made it past them once. I have no doubt we cannot do such again. And we have Trix now, Azura. She is a master of moving unnoticed. "

Trix felt all warm and fuzzy. Compliments!

Bahram wasn't sure if he should encourage such plans. But they had little choice.

  • "It will be dangerous, no doubt, but I wouldn't recommend staying where Tarqaan's forces will find you. "

  • "Indeed. I do not intend her to have that pleasure. "

Bahram smiled. Such spirited young ones. Rather reminded of himself when he escaped Tarqaan's claws.

  • "Still... stay for one more night. It is a long trip, and you need a lot of energy. "

Azura and Axeth smiled both.

  • "Thank you. That is very generous of you. "

Hara smiled happily. She was overjoyed to have visitors that stayed for a while.

  • "I'll go make some tea then! "

All five went back inside the house, closing the door behind them. Soon, sounds of happy discussion was heard within, and a faint trail of smoke that escaped the chimney mixed with the scent of fresh tea.

Tarqaan squealed loudly, her screams echoing in the throne room, and to the rooms near it. The guards at the other side of the door glanced at each other awkwardly. When Tarqaan was screaming like that, it only meant one thing: Battlemaster. No one else made her scream like that. Battlemaster never hid the fact he was half-warrior breed. And he never had tolerated making fun of that fact, unfortunately for those who didn't know he didn't like "funny" guys. His scales were darker than your usual Capitol dweller, nearly black. He was larger than your average Capitol dweller, as well, more muscular and he had a few spikes like the warriors have, starting from his snout and going to his neck, then all the way to the tip of his tail. His horns were somewhat longer than usual, as well as thicker, and had that extra curvy horn coming from the main joint, much like warriors have. His eyes were blue, and he had a red mane that accompanied his spikes on his head. He was fit for a soldier, so he joined Tarqaan's army as soon as he became of age. He had risen in military ranks quickly, and despite his size and looks, he was not only a formidable fighter, but an excellent tactician. And by all means, not stupid. Eventually, he got to meet Tarqaan in person. He was genuinely surprised when the meeting ended in rough, feral mating session with the matriarch herself. From that day forward, Tarqaan had kept him close, and named him as the "Battlemaster". He wasn't sure what role he was actually playing, aside from a general, bodyguard and... personal "escort". But he had no complaints. She made him feel special. He was quite aware Tarqaan was very randy, for a lack of a better word, but to him, she gave special privileges, and she could mate with him for hours. Not to mention he was the only one who ever was granted the pleasure of having a nice afterglow, anyone else was dismissed immediately. He admit to himself, though, that every time she mated with someone else, he felt extremely jealous, but never mad. The amount of mating Tarqaan had made Battlemaster wonder why she never had kids of her own. Officially, she had two daughters. But Tarqaan had let the Battlemaster to the secret that they were merely adopted. Either way, Battlemaster kind of wished he would eventually be the one to be a father to one of her own children, should she ever have any. He wished she did. For she made him feel happy. And he wanted her to be happy, as well. However, right now, he only had one thing in his mind. Screwing her as hard as he possibly could. He kept on thrusting, keeping Tarqaan tightly against the wall with his hands on her waist, her back arched backwards nearly unnaturally and her breasts squeezed against the wall. While the Battlemaster had no intention of hurting Tarqaan and her perfectly curved, white scaled body, he knew Tarqaan wanted him to take her roughly, so he did. Tarqaan kept moaning and screaming loudly as Battlemaster kept pounding her. She preferred to be in control, but on his case, she just loved him taking her like a beast. The sheer force of every thrust made her scream in agony and ecstasy at the same time, and she wasn't sure how many times he had already made her come, and she wasn't satisfied yet. She was pinned down against the wall so all she could do is moan loudly, her silver hair going in front of her eyes constantly. Finally, Battlemaster showed sings of approaching his climax: His thrusts became even harder, but slower. Tarqaan squealed again as he pounded her wet slit full with every thrust. Her juices were already dripping on the floor from the orgasms she had had before, yet there was more to come. In her formidably long life, no one ever satisfied her like Battlemaster. The sheer feeling of being utterly overpowered, squeezed against a wall was just so fantastic! She bit her teeth together as her mate finally started to climax. He took a firm hold from Tarqaan and pushed her against the wall as hard as he could. Her back arched even more, and Battlemaster feasted his eyes on her shiny back and buttocks as he roared loudly. He pounded Tarqaan with slow, frequent pace as he started filling her slit with his seed. The slight size difference was enough to make Tarqaan unable to house nearly any of it, and soon the warm cum started covering the floor beneath them. For minutes, he just kept on slowly pounding Tarqaan, even after he had all his cum inside her and on the floor, leaving a bridge between her slit to the floor, until it was broken from the constant shakes from the pounding. Finally, Battlemaster let go of Tarqaan, moved back as he slid himself out from her, exposing his still very hard shaft. It had five huge, soft barbs underneath it, that nearly made it twice the wider to have inside someone. It was dripping of both his own seed, and Tarqaan's juices. He laid down, soon followed by Tarqaan who crawled on him, stroking his face. Both were exhausted and winded, their pants competing whose was faster.

  • "You are so good to your Matriarch... "

Battlemaster didn't answer, he was far too busy catching his breath. Instead, he smiled.

The sudden silence from the screams was a signal for the twins, and they opened the door and stepped inside the throne room. Predictably, Tarqaan was on top of Battlemaster, both naked, Battlemaster's cock still erect and ready for the mandatory second go. There was always a second go. Sometimes a third go. By the looks of it the first one had been rather rough and... messy. The twins bowed, as inappropriate as it seemed, considering the situation. Then again, the twins were quite used to this. Qata spoke first.

  • "We have prepared ourselves and our men. "

Mata continued.

  • "We are ready to leave at your command. "

Tarqaan sighed. She wanted not to waste any time on having another go with the Battlemaster, he seemed ready for another go already, but this had to be taken care of first.

  • "Mmmh. Good. "

The twins were, as the name suggests, twins. Qata, the priestess of ice, was a malevolent, sinister and narcissistic high-priestess that was feared on any battlefield.

Mata, the priest of fire, was a sadistic, calculative and also very narcissistic high-priest, that was equally feared with his sister. Together, they formed an arrogant pair no one ever wanted to face. Rumors were they were both asexual, in a way, but sheer violence turned them on. Quite possibly, considering how much pain they enjoyed to cause. Both, naturally to the priest caste, had white scales, and true to their affinities, Qata had white eyes and hair, while Mata had red eyes and hair. Their armor was quite close to the regular priest armor, save for the markings which was of the same color as their affinity, and the fact it was custom made for them. Both had their hair in a ponytail fashion, with the exception that Qata's hair was slightly longer, reaching her tail's base. They both had a grin similar to each other.

  • "Having fun, there, Tarqaan? "

Mata laughed. They were the few ones who could ever disrespect Tarqaan, and live. They knew it, and they exploited that, to a certain extend. Even still, they respected Tarqaan for her powers and they were wise enough not to challenge her.

Qata licked her lips briefly.

  • "You're having all the fun and you're sending us to do your dirty work, hmm? "

  • "Watch your tongues, twins, or I will let them hang above my throne. "

Battlemaster grunted while Qata and Mata sighed simultaneously.

  • "You are no fun. But I suppose we did interrupt you on a bad time. "

  • "Yes, you did. So. You are ready to leave at any given time? "

Mata nodded.

  • "Then this is the time. Go. Go and kill them both. I do not want rogue priestesses running around. Or better yet, bring them both here, alive. I could use a little amusement. And a reminder to the people what happens when you break taboos. "

Qata and Mata laughed, again simultaneously.

  • "We do not take prisoners, as you might know. "

Tarqaan sighed. She changed her stance a bit, stroking Battlemaster's legs with her own.

  • "Just get it done, now. If you fail, do not come here. "

The twins chuckled.

  • "You can count on us, Tarqaan. You will have their heads in before you know it. "

Qata gave a sinister laughter.

  • "If there are heads left, that is. "

Mata joined her laughter. Battlemaster had seen some vicious enemies on his days in the field, but the twins beat them all times one hundred. They were chilling him to the bone.

Tarqaan grunted in annoyance.

  • "Now, GO. "

The twins faces turned serious, Tarqaan had her expression that suggested she was getting very annoyed, so they saw it was best to not push their luck. They gave a brief bow and left, closing the doors behind them. They had work to do.

  • "Well, Qata. Seems like we have lovers to hunt. "

  • "Quite so, Mata. Let us waste no more precious time... I ache to unleash my magic at long last again. The screams..."

Mata gave a sinister chuckle.

  • "As do I, dear sister. As do I! "

Tarqaan sighed loudly as the doors finally slammed shut. She hated the twins, but their effectiveness was far worth the effort of having to deal with their arrogant attitude. Battlemaster now gave a quiet, playful chuckle. He knew better than to interrupt Tarqaan when she is speaking, but when they were alone, he could express himself more freely. Very freely, in fact. Almost like a normal couple.

  • "You really hate them, don't you, Tarqaan? I suppose I can't blame you. Those two chill me to the bone, they do. Sadistic bastards. "

Tarqaan sighed again, less irritated. Battlemaster was the only one she let speak her name without any of the praises or anything. Save for the twins, but they didn't care. Of course, this only applied when she was alone with the Battlemaster. Funnily enough, she actually thought she liked him. Or even love. Nothing she had ever felt towards anyone. Sure, at first, she was merely attracted by his... physical prowess, but when she took him as a regular... consort, she realized she was talking to him. He was that someone she could talk to in private, share feelings with. Real feelings. Things she never thought she would need to share with anyone. But he made her feel happier when he was around. She never gave him a name beside the Battlemaster, though. Name was not needed.

  • "Indeed, Battlemaster. I do. But they are a great asset to the Capitol. "

  • "Hmmh. Yes. Luckily, you rarely have to see them. "

Tarqaan muttered in agreement. She stroked her silver hair away from her eyes and lifted herself up, kneeling down on top of the Battlemaster. She started smiling.

  • "Do you still have any stamina left for a lonely Matriarch? "

Battlemaster chuckled, stroking Tarqaan's legs so very gently.

  • "You never have to be lonely when I am with you, Tarqaan. You know that. "

Tarqaan grinned playfully. Battlemaster was always so nice. Of course, everyone was nice to her, in fear of getting punished, but his compliments were genuine. In public, Battlemaster was just considered as henchman that she fucked real hard (or more accurately, who fucked HER real hard), but Tarqaan knew the truth. It was not just sex she had with the Battlemaster when they were alone. But also cuddling. Kissing. Talking. All the things Tarqaan was thought not to do with anyone. She was an emotionless, cold, calculative, randy matriarch to everyone else. It didn't matter, as long as Battlemaster was with her, she was happier than ever before. Truthfully, she had plans for him in the future. Special plans. It could cost her years of her life, but she actually considered it...

Tarqaan chuckled and pressed herself against the Battlemaster.

  • "I know. Let's just... stay like this for a while. We have time. No rush. "

Battlemaster had no intention of ever leaving by her side, so he embraced her, and kept her close.

Azura and Axeth looked at each other, lying on the bed. Trix was sleeping soundly on the edge of the bed. She had pleaded to sleep on the bed as well, and Azura didn't have the heart to say no. She was adorable, in a way. It was rather hard to sleep for both of them, knowing they will have to keep on traveling tomorrow, and it was a long way, and there was no guarantee the safe haven they were looking for even really existed. Azura whispered.

  • "Can't sleep? "

Axeth grunted.

  • "No. It's not the bed, this time. I am... nervous. "

Azura huffed. So was she.

  • "Everything will be alright. The haven will be there. "

Axeth smiled faintly. He was more free than ever, but never had he been so nervous. Maybe it was because he wasn't nervous about himself. He was afraid something would happen to Azura. She was the only real good thing that ever happened to him. So he would rather die than let it vanish from his life. The two kept looking at each other, but eventually, they both soundly fell asleep.

The morning was filled with fried meat, eggs, pear juice, happy chatter and sunshine from the windows. After the breakfast, Azura and Axeth packed for the journey. Bahram gave them conventional salves, like ones that would ease the strain from the long walks ahead. He also gave Axeth some home-made wine with a wink on his eyes. Three bottles in total, enough for a couple of days worth of tipsiness. Or one really major haze. It made Axeth feel rather uncomfortable. He rarely was able to drink during his days as a warrior, but when he did, he went quite wild. Like any other warrior. Sometimes, things resulted into rather brutal fights. And sometimes, things could even develop into the kind of orgies that leaves no one cold. But he didn't NEED to drink any. Hara gave Azura a lot of home-made juice, home-made bread and home-made cookies. It was clear she never had made that much for just for herself and Bahram, as she was very eager to give them away with a bright smile. Axeth and Azura walked to the road, followed by Trix. They turned back to give the last farewells.

  • "Thank you for everything, Bahram and Hara! "

  • "You have our gratitude for your hospitality. I hope I can repay it someday. "

Bahram and Hara smiled. Such a sweet couple those two were. Bahram shouted back.

  • "You are welcome! Come visit sometime, when the time is more... appropriate! And take care! I wish you the best of luck! "

Trix flailed around a bit, and shouted her farewell as well.

  • "Trix thanks you both! Trix will miss you! "

Hara waved back to Trix, who was crying a bit. Such a cute, adorable serpent she really was!

The three walked the road towards the horizon, slowly vanishing from Bahram's and Hara's sight.

  • "I hope they will be safe. "

Bahram held Hara tight against him.

  • "They will. If there comes trouble, I'm sure they can overcome it. I know they will. "

The long hours of walking were as boring & exhausting as Azura recalled. Her feet already hurt on the second day of their journey, but she wasn't complaining. Axeth rarely complained about anything, after all. Part of his warrior discipline, no doubt. Trix was as energetic as always, though she fell asleep very quickly. Actually, now that Azura thought of it, Trix was cute. Her electric-bunny attitude was rather amusing, as well. She didn't hate her, no. But she wasn't going to unbind her soul just yet.

  • "Trix? "

Trix didn't realize she was spoken to at first, but then she realized her name was spoken.

  • "Huh? Yes? "

Azura smiled gently.

  • "Tell me a bit about yourself. "

Trix looked confused.

  • "You wan't to hear about Trix? "

  • "Yes. "

Trix, after hearing that, spun around in the air a couple of times, clearly happy for the attention she just got.

  • "Ooh! Not much to tell about Trix, no no! But a little, yes. See, Trix is an Arcane Serpent, yes? Trix hatched about... twenty four years ago, yes yes! "

Axeth lift his eyebrow a little.

  • "Twenty four? "

  • "Yup! Arcane Serpents live long! Unless they get killed! "

Trix flailed nervously as she said that.

  • "Isn't twenty four a bit... much for an Arcane Serpent, nevertheless? "

Trix had the funniest of looks. Then she smiled. But that smile was different. It was a fake.

  • "No no no! Trix at her prime! Yes yes!

Trix started smiling normally again, and spun twice in mid-air.

  • "Trix was one of the four, no five other hatchlings, yes yes! She was the energetic one, doing stupid things! Like now! Trix left nest as soon as she could, traveling around the world, stea- collecting stuff! Storing it into Trix's hair! Pretty things! Shinies! That is it. No more. "

Azura looked at Trix in disbelief. Behind that energetic serpent had to be more than just that. Something she wasn't telling. But she supposed she wouldn't find out demanding an answer.

  • "Well, that was... short. No matter... "

Trix gave a happy laughter. Or at least it sounded like it. The three continued along the road, ever so slowly proceeding to their destination far south.

They had made it past the crossroads leading to the Capitol, and headed directly south. It would take roughly two more days to reach the chasm they had crossed earlier. But it was getting late, so they set camp deep in the woods, near a pond at a little cliff. And once again, with just a little magic to help, the shelter was all nice and warm. It was raining outside, but the thick sheets covered them from the rain and wind. Remarkably, Trix wanted to stay outside for a while. She said she loved the rain, so she wanted to explore the woods a bit. No harm in it, as Azura knew she was still binded to her. Axeth dug his backpack to find weapon oil. It was mandatory to keep a proper maintenance to your weapons, lest you want them to rust. Azura looked at Axeth working, cleaning his axe, drying it, and then applying a thin coating of oil on it. Azura, herself, merely used magic to dry & clean her battlestaff to prevent rust from forming. And if rust did appear, she knew a neat spell to get rid of it as well. As Axeth was putting the bottle of oil back, his hand found the home-made wine Bahram had given to him. The whole three bottles of it. Normally, he wouldn't have thought of such, but since it was raining and they had nothing better to do, he took the bottle out with a smirk.

  • "Tell me, Azura... Is drinking a taboo too? "

Azura glanced at the wine bottle Axeth just had took out.

  • "Uhm, in the purpose of getting intoxicated, yes. As a celebration drink, no. As long as it is just one drink. "

Axeth laughed a bit and started working on the cork.

  • "Well, you have already broken one taboo... why stop now? "

Azura wasn't very sure what to think about it. She had never been drunk in her entire life. How would it feel? Was it wise? Then again, at this point, she was pretty sure she shouldn't be too formal about anything anymore. So she nodded.

  • "Sure. Why not. Just a little. "

Axeth had managed to uncork the bottle, so he handed it to Azura first. She took the bottle and smelt the contents. It smelt kind of nice, really. Like juice. She took a rather careful gulp, savoring the taste in her mouth. It was good, if not a little... bitter, or sour. It was hard to describe, but overall, it tasted very good. So she took a bit longer gulp.

  • "Not bad, I think. "

Axeth huffed happily and uncorked another bottle for himself.

  • "Uhm... another one? "

Axeth laughed briefly.

  • "Of course. That one's yours! "

Azura gave a nervous laughter, and took another sip. Her head started feeling funny. Dizzy. But she felt good.

About twenty minutes from that, Azura was on full drunken haze. She had finished her bottle, taken a sip from Axeth's bottle and was talking loudly. Axeth actually felt a tad uncomfortable, especially since he wasn't nearly as intoxicated as she was. And the way Azura spoke! Just not like her. Not to mention she mumbled some of the words, making it so much harder to figure out what she was actually trying to say.

  • "...... And then, Axeth! THEN! She touched the damn sphere and WHOOOOOOOM! "

Azura spread her arms when she imitated an explosion of sorts.

  • "The whole sphere blew right into her face, sending her flying!!! "

Azura started giggling hysterically, Axeth followed with his own slightly faked laughter. Axeth was beginning to wonder if Azura was talking about herself, rather than a "friend" who always seemed to get into trouble but whose name had miraculously escaped Azura's mind. After giggling for a while, Azura finally managed to get a grip, slamming her hands to her sides. She still giggled a little bit, and grabbed her right breast.

  • "Something... I cannot understand *hiccup* is THIS. "

Axeth lift his eyebrow.

  • "Your breast? "

Azura giggled.

  • "You said breast! Yeah! No! Not my breast! ALL breasts! Why do you find them so attractive? I mean... I don't. Blobs! They bounce! "

Axeth sighed and glanced at Azura's bust. No complaints, there.

  • "I don't rightly now. I just find them... good looking? "

Azura giggled even more wildly.

  • "Good looking?! Lies! You find them sexy! That's what you think! "

Axeth shook his head a little.

  • "Well, I do find them... appealing as well, of course. "

Azura suddenly, as a rather uncontrolled move, lunged at Axeth and poked his abs.

  • "Well! I find these sexy! And your biceps! And shoulders! And everything! You, Axeth! You are sexy! "

The sheer difference between sober Azura to drunk Azura was enough to make Axeth feel very awkward. He laughed nervously. This was like a different person. She was... impulsive, to say at least.

  • "Well, thank you, Azura, you are most kind... "

Azura giggled yet again, took a good look on Axeth. She blushed a bit, and grinned wildly.

  • "I want to fuck. "

Axeth had to rewind that word through his head a couple of times. Did Azura, the kind, cute, formal ex-priestess just say that? Yes she did. Axeth smiled awkwardly. This was just so not like Azura.

Azura, however, wasted no time, she worked her silk robes buttons ( that seemed to be extremely hard to do ), finally forcing them open. With a flash, she slid her robes to the sides and pushed herself against Axeth. More accurately, her breasts against his snout.

  • "I bet you want, too... "

Before Axeth could answer, Azura already grabbed his horns and pulled his head firmly against her right breast, giggling as she did. Axeth couldn't decline such an offer, so he gently suckled on her swollen nipple, running his forked tongue through her piercing, as he usually did. Azura let a brief moan, and just held on Axeth's head for a while, letting him work on her. Drunk or not, Axeth was determined to give her what she wanted. Finally, Azura pushed Axeth's head away, bending down to kiss his snout. Her breath didn't smell too good, but it really didn't bother Axeth at this point. Azura crawled backwards, staying on her knees. Without any help from Axeth, she nearly tore his loincloth away, revealing just what she wanted: Axeth's fully erect manhood. Azura let out a funny laughter, and placed herself on top of Axeth's shaft, gently rubbing it's tip with her vaginal lips that were already dripping from her own sexual juices, thanks to her wild arousal. She fell as her balance was more or less off, but somehow, she managed to stay straight on her knees. Before Axeth had the time to fix his stance, Azura already slid Axeth's pulsing shaft in it's full length inside her. Both gave out a mutually pleased moan, Axeth finally fixing his stance to offer more comfort to his back. Azura gently slid herself up, fully exposing the pulsing cock that was now nearly dripping from Azura's juices. She slammed herself down, making Axeth roar. And then, she started riding. It was rough, she was riding him hard. The pace was unbelievably fast, her breasts bounced up and down, her hair getting in front of her eyes. She put her hands behind her head and kept on riding. And kept on going. There was nothing gentle about it, she was bouncing on him like a rapid animal, a beast on heat. She was screaming, and so was Axeth. Every time her swollen, lubricated vaginal lips hit Axeth's shafts base, it made a neat sound that became louder by the second. Axeth was enjoying the sight, her breasts bouncing and hair flailing, not to mention her near-perfect body was a sight to behold even when not in such carnal situation. Their tails were locked together as usual, and the rain was a numb ambient sound they couldn't hear through their own screams. Axeth's release came, his legs kicked wildly thanks to the sheer force of his climax, but Azura wasn't stopping. Axeth's back bent back, his cum filled Azura times over, any extra dripping out, making the sounds of flesh impacting on flesh even harder. Axeth did his best to catch his breath, but Azura kept on going. He let out a few pained roars, but Azura ignored them. His shaft was still rock hard, and Azura was determined to keep on going riding him until she fainted.

Trix could hear the moans and roars in the distance. She huffed in amusement, and spun around in air. They were at it again, yes they were! Luckily, she liked the rain, so she was overjoyed to be outside right now. Was that a firefly? Yes it was! Tasty!

Eventually, Axeth started enjoying the ride again, quite dumbstruck on how much stamina Azura had on her drunken, horny haze. Azura screamed loudly, but she didn't climax yet. Axeth, on the other hand, did again. His legs kicked more wildly, pounding the ground, his back going in an arc, his elbows lifting his torso up. He let out a feral roar, his talons digging deep into the soil beneath him. He filled Azura again, but she wasn't stopping. Nearly desperately, Axeth moaned painfully, but Azura just kept on riding him. He was too exhausted to try to move, even if he really hadn't done anything but just enjoyed and laid still. After catching his breath a little, he was able to open his mouth to speak.

  • "Azura, I- "

His sentence was paused as Azura slammed herself down very hard, making Axeth roar in pain and ecstasy. Azura's moans became less louder, more exhausted, sounding like she was in pain. But she wasn't. Her expression was telling a lot, she was finally reaching her climax. She grabbed Axeth's hands and firmly held them against her breasts, lowering herself down a little bit. She let out a very out-of-breath word; "Yes...!" before gasping loudly. She gasped again, pulling her head down, eyes closed, before all her muscles tensed, she pulled her head back rapidly, squeezed Axeth's hands roughly on her breasts and screamed. Axeth could feel the warm juices flowing from her, dripping down between his legs. Axeth gave a few exhausted grunts as Azura slowly lowered the pace. Finally, she stopped, and collapsed on Axeth, panting, her hair being a complete mess and her body shaking. Axeth sighed in relief. Azura took her time in collecting her breath, before pulling her head up a bit, kissing Axeth's snout wildly. Axeth returned the favor, if not he also gently pulled Azura up, finally releasing his hard-ridden cock. It was in pain, at least a little, Azura had ridden him so hard it actually hurt. Axeth gently embraced her body against his, and stroked her hair. It didn't take long, a couple of seconds, before Azura simply passed out on his arms. She looked exhausted, but she had that funny smile on her. Axeth kept stroking her hair for a while, before his own eyelids grew heavy. Azura mumbled something. Axeth wasn't sure what, but when she embraced him, he already had what he needed. Slowly, he fell asleep beside her, the rain still coming down outside. Trix carefully lift the sheet covering the shelter. The air was hot and damp, so she left one of the sheets lifted so fresh air could rush in. She gently coiled herself in the corner and took a look at the two. It was a mess, they apparently had had a very rough ride this time. The stench of alcohol was in the air still, suggesting what led to this situation. As much of a mess as it all was, the embrace looked so lovely. Trix slowly placed her head on her coiled body and closed her eyes. Alone, she was.

Azura had wild dreams. She was naked in some sort of woods, running somewhere, without an idea why she was running. The trees around her were black as the night, yet it was bright. The soil beneath her was white and felt soft to her feet. She kept on running, the trees seemed to be moving. Suddenly, she opened her eyes. It was morning. Her head felt twice it's size, nearly like someone was trying to break out through her forehead with a hammer. She had a terrible taste in her dry mouth. She felt so very sick, more than ever before. She looked around. She was lying on top of Axeth, who was sleeping soundly. She took a quick look behind her. The dried-up sexual juices gave her an idea what had happened, though she didn't recall any of it. She slowly rose up and crawled to her backpack. She needed something to dull the pain, so she dug her backpack and found a little vial at last. The white, milky liquid in it soon found it's way to Azura's throat and she put the vial back to her backpack. It wouldn't take long for the pain to dull, in the meantime, she drew a few runes in the air, creating a sphere of water that she used to clean herself up. She was sighing loudly, her head started to feel a bit better, though. She was thirsty and hungry. Trix seemed to be asleep still, coiled in the corner. Cute. Axeth took a deep breath and opened his eyes. He looked around for a while, until his eyes focused on Azura.

  • "Morning, Azura. Slept well? "

Azura sighed, holding her head.

  • "You could say that. What happened? I can't remember a thing. "

Axeth's expression turned awkward.

  • "You... drank a bit too much. It happens. I shouldn't have persuaded you to drink. "

Azura brushed her hair back, and looked a bit embarrassed.

  • "We... mated? "

Axeth huffed and nodded his head. Azura blushed briefly.

  • "Wow. I can't remember a thing, still. And I feel terrible. "

  • "Drink water. Lot's of it. It helps. "

Now that Axeth had said that, she was amazed she hadn't had any water yet. She drew a few runes in the air, creating two spheres of water that neatly floated in mid-air. One she gently poked towards Axeth, and the other one she started suckling, "drinking" from it. Water had never tasted so good. Axeth looked at the water sphere, and touched it. His finger sunk in it, but the sphere held it's form. He followed Azura's example, saving a bit of the water for his hands so he could wash off a few leftover stains from last night. Trix woke up, stretching her body in a straight line, then coiling it again.

  • "Morning, lovers! "

Azura blushed a bit again, Axeth merely grunted.

  • "Uhm, did you enjoy the rain? "

  • "Ohh, very much so! Trix did catch fireflies! Yummy! Tasty. Yes, yes, Trix had wonderful time. As did you two, Trix dares to say! "

Trix giggled, making Azura blush even more. Axeth rose up, stretching his back and flexing his arms, groaning as he did, slightly awkward look in him.

  • "Let's just have some breakfast, shall we? "

Everyone silently agreed.

The next day of walking went without much problems, if not the commoners were giving them odd looks, but they were used to it. Chances of walking to a patrol was not very high, besides the patrols tended to make themselves noticeable, since they were mostly to offer the commoners protection, so they made themselves easy to spot in case of need. They would reach the chasm tomorrow. It was marauder territory, so it was getting more and more unlikely to run across another patrol. The forest road had changed into a more crude road leading through plains. The scene was rather pretty with the clear, azure sky and few clouds, sun warming the ground gently. They put another shelter near a small river, out of sight from the road. Having a wash in the river was something they all had been looking forward to, it was rather rejuvenating, really. The dust of the road tends to stick everywhere, after all. The night was peaceful, and if it had not been for Trix who was sleeping, Azura and Axeth may have had a little private time. After packing the next morning, they set off on the road again, following it south. They would, without a doubt, have to go trough the "secret" passage that Trix had shown them, as she was, ironically, afraid of great heights, despite the fact she could fly. As they walked the road, Axeth started feeling uncomfortable. This feeling was something that came from his most primal instincts. He didn't know what it was, but he knew better than to question his senses. It was a direct warning.

  • "Azura. We might have trouble. "

  • "Hmm? You sure? "

Azura looked around rather casually.

  • "I don't see anything... "

Before she could say another word, two figures appeared from behind the far hill. They rode towards them, and the closer they got, the clearer it became they were Capitol priests. Or priest and priestess, to be more exact. Suddenly, behind Axeth and Auzra, a group of four soldiers in a much, much more sophisticated armor than your regular footman appeared from behind the rocks. Golden trims perfected their armor, and they carried long tower shields behind their backs, swords on their belts and a halberd was accompanying their huge shield, strapped firmly on the back. Their helmets had a neat, red ponytail on them. Axeth took a firm hold from his axe, Azura readying her staff, Trix looking around nervously. As the two riders approached in a seemingly non-hostile way, Azura's heart missed a few beats. She recognized the riders. It was the twins. One had a long, white hair, with white trimmed armor, riding a white horse, nonetheless, and the other, riding a brown horse, had a red, long hair and red trimmed armor. The soldiers behind them stayed back, for now.

  • "Axeth! This is bad! It's Qata and Mata! "

  • "Who?! "

  • "The next powerful priests from matriarch Tarqaan herself! "

  • "Are they just how dangerous, Azura? "

Azura looked at Axeth. She looked desperate.

  • "They are very, very powerful. "

Qata and Mata stopped at a safe distance, Qata sucking a previously invisible orb that appeared out of nowhere above Axeth, Trix and Azura to her hand, and squeezed it in her fist, making it disappear.

  • "Don't see anything? Hmhmhm, girl... you should keep your eyes open. "

  • "Indeed... such simple magic, really. Not that it was needed... we kind of... knew you would come this way, yes indeed. "

Mata chuckled in a very sinister way, making Trix's hair stand up.

  • "Trying to reach the 'safe haven', are you? "

Axeth's eyes grew wide. They knew!?

Qata saw the confusion in Axeth's eyes.

  • "Oh! But you are a warrior caste, are you not? Silly... You honestly thought we did not know about that place? Frankly, I doubt it exists. Your place is at the front-lines, not dreaming of such... unnecessary things as the thing you call "freedom"! Hah! "

Qata giggled, Mata joined her laughter and then leaned forward, placing his hands on the head of the horse.

  • "Oh, but whatever, this conversation so bores me, Qata. We came here on a mission, yes? "

  • "Quite so, brother. Oh, but I really feel like not dirtying my hands against such... insignificant threat! Why does Tarqaan so fear you? I cannot understand. Whatever, I don't really CARE. "

  • "As don't I, dear sister. Royal Guard!!! "

Mata gave a very loud shout, referring to the soldiers behind Axeth and Azura. Trix had already fled behinds some rocks and intended to stay there. The soldiers took their shields out, and placed them in front of them, slamming them on the ground. They all responded at the same time:

  • "Yes, your holiness! "

Mata smirked.

  • "Kill them! "

  • "At once! "

The row of four shielded soldiers started approaching Azura and Axeth. It was clear these were not your usual "ceremonial" guards, but elite, battle hardened soldiers. To make things worse, Azura noticed shielding runes crafted on their tower shields. These were, no doubt, one of the best, well-equipped soldiers Capitol could offer.

  • "Axeth. Their shields. They are Spellbane shields. They absorb magic. I can't attack them directly! "

  • "Then let me ease their hands. Those shields look heavy. Stay back, and attack when you get a chance. Seems like the twins are too arrogant to attack us. Yet. "

Axeth stood forward, slamming his huge axe to the ground, spreading dust as it landed.

The shield formation approached, and four halberds emerged from behind the shields. Frontal assault would be suicide. Axeth let the formation proceed, until it suddenly rushed towards him. He had no choice but to move to the side, but the formation changed it's shape accordingly, leaving both Axeth's and Azura's side covered. However, by doing so, he had reduced the number or halberds pointed at him to two. He had to take that chance, so he lunged at the formation, barely dodging the fast, accurate thrusts that followed his charge. He stepped to the right, cutting the pole of both halberds in a clean swipe. He backed down a bit, and noticed his scales already had a faint purple glow coming underneath. The two soldiers, now that their halberds were lost, dropped the broken poles and unleashed their swords. Surprisingly, they dropped their tower shields as well, replacing it with a sturdy looking, smaller, round metal shield. The two with their tower shields started approaching Azura now. Axeth tried to rush for help, but the other two blocked his way, forcing him to fight them first.

  • "Your fight is with us, low-caste sinner! "

Axeth squeezed his axe, grinning. He didn't have time for this.

  • "Then which one of you shall I kill first? "

The younger of the soldiers laughed mockingly, and charged Axeth with his sword ready. At first, Axeth was stuck on pure defense, the attacks the soldier delivered were fast and furious. Truly, his opponent was a skilled fighter. A few of them hit his shulderguards a little, but luckily, they were built to endure. Finally, Axeth was able to start retaliating, forcing the soldier to block with his shield. Taking the advantage of it, Axeth kept pounding the shield with fury, sending huge amount of sparks all around once the shield made contact with his axe. Roaring, his markings glowed brightly for a while, surrounding his axe with a purple flame. The next strike went straight through the soldiers shield, severing his arm and cutting his chest open, penetrating his chestplate like it was paper. With an yell of agony, the soldier fell on the ground, painting the soil beneath him red. His struggles to crawl away soon ended as Axeth ran his axe to his head, slicing it half. The other soldier looked at his comrade being struck down by this unnaturally powerful strike, and started to feel nervous about his own well-being.

The two soldiers approached Azura, and she was desperately trying to figure a way to retaliate. Direct attacks would not work, and she was far less experienced in close-combat than they were, not to mention she was outnumbered! However, Azura realized a very important factor regarding to the Spellbane shields. The shields merely absorbed frontal magical attacks. After all, they were mostly used against wild witches and warlocks who had no knowledge the shields could absorb magic, leaving them helpless when they too late realized that. Azura quickly figured a way to stop them, so she drew runes in the air. She would need quite a potent power-rune for this one. The soldiers rushed towards Azura. It was too late. For them. Azura pound the ground with her staff, and in an instant, the soil beneath the soldiers turned muddy, slowing them down, but eventually, the soil turned into a swamp. Not only did their rush stop, they were slowly being devoured by the very soil beneath them. Losing their shields with haste, the managed to escape the horrifying death-trap with less weight. But before they realized the fact that they had given up their only defense against Azura's magic, it was already too late. Both of them were smacked back with a huge fist made of water. Coughing water out, they desperately fought to get back on their feet, only to be greeted by another fist of water. To make matters worse, Azura locked the other one inside a container of water. Azura hated doing that spell. Seeing someone drown on dry land was never a pretty sight. Especially when the other one was trying to pull the other away, only his efforts were in vain as Azura locked him inside it as well. The two wildly kicked, clawed, flailed and seemingly, screamed as they desperately fought to get out. But after a while, the other stopped fighting, seemingly asleep inside a bubble of water. It didn't take long for the other to stop fighting his fate, either. The two soldiers floated in the prison of water, not moving a muscle anymore. Azura released them from their water prison and checked how Axeth was doing.. The last soldier, who was now facing Axeth in a test of might, staggered back against the overpowering force of Axeth's furious attacks. Seeing his comrades... drown like that made him go desperate, trying his all to hit the warrior in front of him. If he could just do that, maybe he could just run for it. Screw it all! He didn't want to die here. However, his sword was smacked from his hand as he tried a clumsy counter-strike against Axeth's faked opening he had left as a trap. He staggered back, trying to resort to his last weapon, a ceremonial dagger on his belt. But he didn't have time to reach for it before Axeth cleaved his head with a roar. The head flew off from the soldiers shoulders. He torso walked backwards a couple of steps, before it fell on it's back. Where the head had been a couple of seconds ago, a river of blood poured on the soil. Mata and Qata had been watching this intriguing performance with great interest.

  • "Bravo! Bravo! My my, Qata! They know how to handle themselves! "

  • "Quite indeed! Say... We need to do this ourselves, then? "

  • "Look's like that, Qata. Who shall you pick? "

Qate licked her fangs.

  • "I want the warrior. "

Mata chuckled, pointing his staff at Azura.

  • "Then I will take this sinner! "

They both jumped down from their horses, and walked a bit towards Azura. Axeth rushed back to her.

Azura looked at Axeth with a worried face.

  • "I can't take on them both, Axeth... I... I need you to try to disturb the other one until I have dealt with the other one! "

Axeth huffed.

  • "What are you talking about? Disturb? I'm going to kill the other, and then come to help you. "

  • "Do not underestimate them! They wield powerful magic! "

Axeth grinned, his markings glowed even brighter.

  • "Then I will surprise them. "

Mata and Qata looked at their designated foes, pointing their staffs at them.

  • "You are mine, handsome! "

Qata giggled.

  • "You, beautiful sinner... I am afraid you won't look as pretty as ashes. "

Mata laughed and readied himself.

Mata started walking to the left, followed by Azura, while Qata and Axeth moved to the right. Eyes locked onto each other, following every move the opponent made.

Mata sighed.

  • "Azura... if you surrender, I don't have to kill you. Tarqaan preferred if you lived. So please... do not force me to sear your pretty face. "

Azura laughed nervously.

  • "I will NOT surrender. "

  • "Why? Maybe she will show mercy. Though... I doubt that. Why go this far? Why oppose? For someone as inferior as he is? A mere warrior class?! He is NOTHING. Inferior being designed to serve us! "

Azura growled even more brightly and exposed all her fangs to Mata. Never before had she felt rage like this.

  • "Axeth. Is NOT. Inferior! He is my... my love. "

Mata brushed his hair behind his head, still looking directly at Azura.

  • "Love? How pathetic. Such a primal instinct left you to this? How I pity you. One last chance. Surrender. "

Mata lifted his eyebrow.

  • "Truly, a pity. Then again. I shall... enjoy this. "

At that instant, he slammed his staff to the ground and then pointed it at Azura. A fireball was launched at her, but she was able to deflect it. Barely. The fireball exploded in the background, sending flames on the terrain, making the grass burn wildly, creating a spreading wildfire. Azura gave her reply to Mata's fireball as a huge sphere of water being launched at Mata, but he merely turned it into mist before it reached him. Mata pound his staff to the ground, unleashing a huge stream of fire towards Azura, who had no choice but to retaliate with a huge stream of water to shield herself. She did not want to have a contest of will with Mata, but she had no choice. For she was sure she wouldn't be able to win such contest.

Qata spun her staff playfully a couple of times and walked a bit casually around a rock, looking the rock and Axeth in turns. Clearly, she thought Axeth wasn't much of a challenge.

  • "I do not understand... Hmmmhmmm. Tell me, is it really that good of a feeling, hmm? "

Axeth watched the priestess's every movement very carefully. With one spin of a staff or similar, she could unleash her powers in an near-instant. Axeth grunted and exposed his fangs in a gloomy grin.

  • "What feeling? "

Qata stopped walking and put her staff leaning on her neck, holding it with her both hands.

  • "What feeling? Sex, of course. "

Axeth's expression didn't change. She was toying with him.

  • "What of it? Why do you care? "

Qata chuckled, leaning on her left side.

  • "Since you went so far to oppose the greatest force in these lands for a mere... reproduction... performance. "

Axeth exposed his fangs even more, grinning with slowly increasing rage towards the arrogant foe he was about to face.

  • "You really think it is just that!? "

Qata smirked.

  • "What else, then? "

  • "Ever heard about a thing called love? I highly dou- "

Before Axeth could finish, Qata burst out laughing maniacally.

  • "Love?! Love!? Such a pitiful thing? Oh my, you are so naive! Like a damned storybook clich?!! Whatever it is you feel towards each other doesn't matter in a few minutes! All I ever loved is to watch my enemies scream in terror... oh, the sensation of it all! Feeling... so much more superior. I am like a GODDESS! No. Not like. I AM one. "

Qata's eyes were open wide, her pointy pupils shrunken in the white iris. She spun her staff around her back without a warning and pointed it at Axeth. A hail of razor sharp icicles lunged towards him, giving him barely no time to dodge. After the hail finally stopped, Axeth roared and started charging towards Qata. She merely chuckled, pointed her staff on the ground and made a huge field of ice around her. Axeth had seen and experienced ice before, but so suddenly, it took him off balance, especially since the ice was so slippery, it looked like a mirror. Axeth fell, but quickly got back up, only to be forced to dodge huge spikes of ice being launched at him rapidly. A few he had to break with his axe in order to prevent a hit. He couldn't get any closer, and he was still so far away.

Mata and Azura focused on trying to overpower one another, the conflict being on a standstill still. Mata shouted:

  • "I give you some credit, Azura! You are powerful! But! "

Mata laughed hysterically and boosted his flames to nearly twice the power as before. Slowly, Azura's water stream was giving up to the flames. But she was determined not to die. With her free left hand, she quickly drew runes into the air. Mata was too busy laughing to notice the three fists of water lunging down at him from the sky. Small as they were, they knocked him off balance, making him lose focus, giving Azura room to push her water stream forward, ultimately penetrating Mata's defenses, blasting him back. For a while, Azura thought it could be enough, as there was no movement inside the water. Suddenly, a huge fireball lunged out of nowhere, and before Azura could dodge it, it already exploded near her, sending her flying several meters. Mata rose up from the water, his eyes lacked any signs of calmness and his nostrils bled.

  • "So you want to play this seriously?! I'll show you just how serious I can be!!! "

He rose up and seeing Azura was still recovering from the blow she took, Mata started drawing runes into the air. Azura could slowly stand up, but she needed her staff to support her. Her leg hurt, and she already knew what it was: Her right ankle was broken. There was no way she could run with this condition, and healing it would have cost her way too much spiritual energy, and time. She looked at Mata who was drawing runes. Her eyes grew wide when she recognized the last rune: Power rune; Sun. It was the most powerful power rune, the magic that it unleashed was so destructive only a handful of priests could ever dream of ever using it. Mata, unfortunately, being one who could. As soon as he had finished the last rune, he started silently laughing in a very gleeful manner. Nothing happened at first, but after a while, flames emerged from his body, growing ever bigger, drowning everything in the flames close to Mata. And the flames were getting bigger, making anything not even near them burst into flames from the immense heat. Even Azura, about a fifty meters away could feel the heat. Mata pulled his head down and smirked, looking directly at Azura. His eyes glowed red.

  • "Power of the sun... "

He slowly started walking towards Azura.

  • "I will leave nothing of you... nothing but ASH! "

Qata was getting bored toying with the warrior. He was spirited, and a good dodger. And amazingly, he sometimes deflected or simply shattered her icy spikes with his unnaturally purple-glowing axe. Axeth needed to attack Qata somehow, but he couldn't get close. He recalled Bahram telling him he could utilize his eldricth powers in nearly any manner, so he simply thought about shooting some sort of projectile at Qata from his axe. Amazingly, it worked. Qata was genuinely surprised when she realized a huge bolt of purple energy was launched at her. She deflected it with her staff, if not barely.

  • "Eldricht magic? Intriguing! But you are an amateur! And I TIRE of this... game. "

Qata deflected a few more of Axeth's bolts, before dodging one to give her room to cast magic. She spun her staff above her head and bent down a bit, pointing her staff at Axeth. A ridiculous amounts of sharp, smaller icicles lunged towards Axeth in an barrage, accompanied by Qata's gleeful laughter. Axeth had no choice but to try to deflect them, so he spun his axe wildly at the never-ending barrage laying waste on anything on their path. Even with his axe having an eldricth boost, he couldn't deflect them all. Eventually, he was being ravaged by the barrage, the sharp icicles tearing his flesh, impacting on his armor and sticking on him. Finally, Qata stopped. That should be more than enough. Nothing had ever survived that amount of punishment. Axeth fell on his knees, blood dripping on the ice beneath him. He fell on his knees, and started falling head first to the icy surface. But he prevented that with his hand. Qata lift her eyebrow. Impressive. Axeth's head turned up, looking directly at Qata. His eyes had no pupils anymore. They simply had that sinister purple glow on them, like most of his body now. His fangs were exposed and he was growling in a shivering voice as the icicles stuck on his body started melting away. Suddenly, he roared in a way it hurt Qata's ears and lunged towards her with incredible speed. Axeth didn't feel anything but rage at the moment. No pain. He only wanted to kill that arrogant bitch. Qata was surprised, and for the first time during the conflict, worried. She quickly spun her staff, pound it on the ground, making huge spikes of ice emerge from the ground at Axeth, but he simply was too fast and they all missed, despite they covered a lot of ground. Qata staggered backwards and quickly drew runes into the air. Just before Axeth was close enough for a strike, she pointed her staff at him, and instantly huge walls of ice slammed on him, trapping him inside, freezing him with unnatural cold. Qata panted, and after she realized her last-effort spell was a success, she huffed and eased the hold on her staff a little and walked to the icy prison. Her gleeful smile returned. Axeth could be seen inside, stuck on the same stance he had before he had been imprisoned. The glow on him faded slowly. Qata giggled a little.

  • "You were a fierce one. But alas, no match to a goddess. Now... farewell. "

Qata spun her staff once again, then pointed at the icy prison Axeth was stuck in. She would crush him to mere liquid. Before she could launch her finishing blow, she felt pain on her neck. Immense pain. She screamed and staggered back, reaching on her neck with her hand. It was the Arcane Serpent! Trix was biting her neck hard, her poison fangs dug deep in her flesh. She was growling, not letting go. Trix knew she had to hold on, she could not give up. Qata dropped her staff and tried to catch Trix with both of her hands. Trix flailed as Qata tried to get a hold on her. She fought and fought, escaping Qata's attempts to grab her over and over again. However, ultimately Qata finally was able to get an hold of Trix and pulled her off from her neck, throwing Trix away. Trix didn't fall down, instead she flapped her wings and lunged at Qata again. Qata was able to dodge the new attack and jumped at her staff and launched a quick icy bolt on Trix who got slammed several meters away, screaming in pain.

  • "Stupid serpent! MY NECK! "

Trix flew a long way back, slamming against a rock covered in ice. She lost consciousness and her numb body slid down the icy field. Qata grabbed her neck, it was bleeding, blood pouring on her chest and on her hair, coloring it red. She knew Arcane Serpents bite were poisonous, so she pound her staff on the ground to neutralize the poison before it would paralyze her. At that moment, she saw something glowing in the icy prison. It was purple. It was getting stronger. The whole prison shook for a couple of seconds, and before Qata even realized what was happening, Axeth broke free with a primal roar. Sharp pieces of ice were spread around the prison, some of them cutting Qata's face and body a little. Axeth was glowing more than before, and he quickly turned his head towards Qata. Qata missed an heartbeat and staggered back. The warrior was too close! She had no time to cast any magic, she took a defensive stance as Axeth roared in rage and charged her. She tried to stab Axeth with her staff's spear-end, but all she heard was Axeth's axe slashing towards her from below. Suddenly, she could see the sky. The sky was cloudy. Her eyes grew wide, her pupils shrinking into near-existence. Axeth panted heavily, shivering from cold and slammed his axe beside him. He heard the impact of Qata falling on the ground, but he did not turn his head. He knew he had already won. Then came Qata's scream. It was pained, desperate, and quite frankly, pitiful.

  • "My legs!! MY LEGS! "

Axeth could feel no sympathy at all. He turned around, watching as the priestess was moaning on the ground in pain, flailing like she had a stroke of some kind, her legs that had both of their feet cut clean from them pouring blood on the ice, making small red rivers flow through the icy field. Axeth kicked Qata's staff and leaned down to grab her long hair. He took his axe on his other hand and started dragging her along the ice, leaving two blood-red trails behind him. Qata was screaming behind him, but he ignored all the screams. He finally let go of her, looking directly at her eyes. Qata just squealed, out of words, out of hope. Only purple, hateful eyes glared back at her. The pain was so much she cried, screamed and gasped, trying to believe this wasn't happening. She didn't want to die. She couldn't die!! Axeth kicked her so that she rolled on her stomach. She spit blood on the icy ground thanks to the less-than gentle kick. Qata mumbled desperately.

  • "I cannot die... not like this. Not li- "

Axeth took a firm grip from his axe and without any mercy, he roared and slammed it on Qata's back. It was hard to tell if Qata died from the strike, as her body was merely twitching after that, covered in blood that spilled from the srike. Axeth rose his axe, and slammed in on Qata again. And again. And again. Every strike was accompanied with a roar of hatred, the pace of the strikes getting faster and faster until he stopped with one last brutal strike, his axe and his face covered in Qata's blood before her corpse that was mauled beyond any recognition. Pieces of intestines, bowels, bones and rivers of blood surrounded the corpse, making it hard to tell just what had died there. Axeth turned around, and fell on his knees. He was suffering from blood loss and hypothermia. He started staggering towards the flames in the distance. Only one thing was on his mind. One goal. Focusing on that goal made his body ignore it's pain and fatigue. Azura. He had to get to her.

Azura tried to limb her way away from Mata who was slowly approaching, but the intense heat and her broken ankle made it impossible. It was getting so much harder to breathe, the heat making it nearly unbearable to stand. Finally, she fell down, trying to crawl away. It was slightly colder on the ground level, but it helped none, as Mata slowly approached. He still had a smirk on his face, his nostrils bleeding a little from the impact from earlier. Azura felt like dying, she could hardly breathe at all anymore. She couldn't think straight. She gasped for air, but it hurt as the air was so hot. She started drawing runes in the air. She didn't know what she was doing, she did it almost spontaneously. Mata chuckled, seeing Azura's attempt to do an counter spell of sorts.

  • "How amusing. But utterly futile! Anything will be devoured by the flames! EVERYTHING! "

Azura couldn't even hear his self-gloating as she finished the last rune: Power rune; Leviathan. She desperately pointed her staff at Mata's general direction, gave one last roar of agony and waved her staff. A very thin stream of water emerged from her staff, going in a straight line where she pointed it. It went through Mata's flames, Mata stepping back after seeing the line coming at him. He didn't have time to react before it was already gone. Azura's vision grew darker from the lack of air. Mata looked around. Whatever it was, it did nothing. He chuckled and moved forward. Then he felt a slight sting on his right shoulder. He looked at it. His expression turned from triumphant to horrified: His right arm was missing. At that instant, he screamed and staggered, holding his right shoulder with his left arm. The flames started to die away as his focus had been forced elsewhere. Blood kept pouring out from his hand, spilling it over the burned ground as Mata kept on staggering around, screaming in agony. Azura coughed and could finally take a deep breath of air. She kept coughing, but slowly regained consciousness. She watched as Mata staggered with his right arm missing. Azura growled and grinned, pointing her staff at Mata. A fist of water emerged and smacked Mata a few meters back, far away from his staff. Mate groaned in pain, coughing from the water that had poured into his lungs. He tried to crawl away, but looked behind him. Azura was standing again, limping very slowly towards him. Thing is: Azura was now faster than he was. He rolled to his back and used his left hand to draw runes. It was slow, the pain, increasing bloodloss and terror made it hard to concentrate. He created, and fired a fireball after another, Azura deflecting them all, limping slowly towards Mata. The balls exploded behind Azura, making light reflect from her back. She had a face filled of rage, her markings glowing in a way Mata had never seen before.

  • "Stay back!!! You are inferior! You cannot kill me! YOU CAN NOT KILL ME!!!"

Mata screamed hysterically, launching more fireballs as he did. Eventually, he realized he had no spiritual energy left to do anything at all, so he simply crawled backwards, as if an attempt to escape the inevitable. Azura kept on closing on him, so slowly. Her eyes looked so different. They were cold. Her pupils were missing. Only blue glow remained. Mata was horrified. Azura was just a few meters away as Mata crawled backwards against a rock. He looked at the rock, desperately, then back at Azura, terrified.

  • "Please! I- "

His pleads were interrupted as Azura stabbed him on the stomach with her staffs spear-end, making him spill blood from his mouth instead of words. He gasped for air, and Azura stabbed him again, on the chest this time. Mata screamed, and kept saying "Please" whenever he had the chance, but Azura's reply was always the same: Another stab. Eventually, Mata merely groaned as Azura kept stabbing his chest until she slashed Mata's throat open. It was hard to tell if Mata was already dead before that, but some blood still poured from his freshly cut throat. The blood colored Mata's scales red, matching his red hair quite nicely. Azura fell on her knees, taking support from her staff. She was panting heavily. Her pupils slowly returned to normal, and she looked at Mata's corpse. It was the most brutal kill she had ever made. And never before was she so satisfied about killing someone. She was still grinning in anger, but she stood on her feet and looked left. The terrain there had been frozen into an icy field, now melting in the sunlight. The wildfire was still raging, but she had no time to focus on it. She started limping towards the icy fields, even if moving hurt so. Was Axeth alright?

Trix opened her eyes. She recognized Axeth's face. He was smiling, though his face was covered in blood. Trix moaned in pain, but forced herself to speak.

  • "A-Axeth? "

Axeth stroked her snout.

  • "It's alright, Trix. We won. You saved me, little one. "

Trix smiled back, though it was hard thanks to the pain. Though compared to Axeth's ravaged body, it seemed like nothing. It was a wonder Axeth was still conscious. The reason to Axeth still being able to stand, however, came clear to Trix soon enough. Azura's gentle face appeared beside Axeth's. She, also, was covered in blood. Not a lot of it was her own.

  • "Azura? Trix tried... tried to be helpful. "

Azura smiled kindly at Trix. Axeth huffed and stroked Trix's snout gently.

  • "You were brave. If it was not for you, I would be dead. "

Trix coughed a bit.

  • "You saw Trix? "

Axeth swallowed a bit, nodding his head.

  • "I saw it all, even through the prison of ice. "

Trix smiled faintly, trying her best to ignore the pain. Azura's lower jaw started to shiver a bit.

  • "You were very helpful, little one. Axeth told be you saved him. Thank you. Thank you. Thank you so much! "

Azura's eyes turned glassy and a few tears dropped on Trix's bellybands. Trix smiled.

  • "Trix... Trix happy to help. Cry not. "

Azura smiled again, even if tears filled her eyes.

  • "I'll fix you up right, alright? I have a little left in me to do so. "

Trix just kept smiling, not realizing her own eyes were also glassy, a few tears running down. Axeth's eyes were a bit more shinier than usual, but he did not cry. But his expression told Trix he was pretty close, as he was biting his teeth together in the not-angry way. Azura pound her staff on the ground, blue light emitting from it and surrounding Trix's body. She could feel her body's pain fading. She lift her head up a bit, and tried her wings. She felt perfect. She flapped her wings faster, and before she knew it, she was already airborne. She did a somersault in the air, and then focused back on Azura and Axeth, who were genuinely smiling.

  • "Trix is back! Thank you, Azura! "

Azura smiled, a few tears still on her cheeks. She pound her staff on the ground, faint light emitting from it, moving to Trix, and then moving back to Azura's staff.

  • "There, Trix. You are no longer bound to me. You are free. All debts are repaid. "

Trix looked at Azura, her eyes open wide. Free? Trix was free! She flailed in the air, happily. Yet, oddly... she did not want to leave. She felt happy with these two. More happy than in a century. She swallowed a bit, and then looked at the couple.

  • "Trix... very thankful. But... would you mind if Trix followed thee a bit longer? Trix... likes you two. "

Axeth and Azura looked at each other, then back at Trix, smiling with a very warm smile, both of them.

  • "Stay as long as you like. I won't object. "

Trix brushed against Azura, wrapping her body around hers. This was, after all, her only way of hugging. She then let go of Azura, and playfully licked Axeth's snout. Azura realized it was a playful joke of sorts and said:

  • "Do that again and I will still boil you for salves. "

Trix laughed and spun happily around Azura's head.

  • "Evil, evil lady! Yes you are! "

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