Chapter 24: The Bonds that Bind

I trudged into my house, feeling like I'd been put through the wringer after the intense day with Guardian Rhinehardt. The call with my wives had been brief and unsatisfying, and I wished nothing more than to hold each on my arms but they were still on the campus, dutifully attending their classes. I'd decided to skip my last class, figuring I'd earned a break after the emotional rollercoaster I'd been on. As I stepped through the door, the familiar scent of home hit me, but something felt off. I found Gloria, Ashani, and Nikky waiting for me, their expressions a mix of concern and curiosity.

"Where's Mary?" I asked, immediately noticing the absence of the timid drow elf. It was unlike her not to be at the door, ready to attend to my needs the moment I arrived. Despite being uncomfortable with her subservience, I found it's lack a little jarring.

Ashani's golden eyes followed me as I moved further into the house. "She's on the computer in the front room," she replied, her voice carrying a hint of uncertainty that made me uneasy.

I made my way to the front room, expecting to find Mary relaxing, maybe browsing the internet or playing a game. Instead, the sight that greeted me was far from relaxing. Mary was hunched over a high-end mechanical keyboard, her slender ebony fingers flying across the keys at a speed that seemed impossible for any human – or elf, for that matter. The room was bathed in the eerie glow of multiple screens, each displaying a dizzying array of code and diagrams that made my head spin just looking at them.

"I'm terribly sorry I wasn't there to greet you at the door, Master," Mary said without looking up, her piercing red eyes fixed on the screens before her. The rapid-fire clicking of the keys never faltered as she spoke. "I'm in the middle of strengthening our cyber defenses around the home and vehicles."

I stood there, mouth slightly agape, trying to process what I was seeing. This was a side of Mary I'd never witnessed before, and it both impressed and unnerved me. What the hell had happened while I was out?

"Is something wrong?" I asked, a knot forming in my stomach.

Mary's fingers paused for a moment. "I was able to observe most of your interaction with Guardian Derrick through unsecured drones, public surveillance, and his home AI, which I... accessed. I'm concerned and taking what I consider to be necessary precautions to protect you, Master."

I ran a hand through my hair, feeling a mix of appreciation and unease. "I appreciate your efforts, Mary, but is it really necessary? I thought I handled everything pretty well. Derrick didn't seem suspicious of me anymore."

Mary's fingers flew across the keyboard again, and suddenly, a recording began playing through the speakers.

"This is Guardian Rhinehardt. I need to speak with someone at the resurrection retreat in Utah," Derrick's voice came through clearly.

"Protector Karl speaking. How can I assist you, Guardian?" The voice that responded made my blood run cold. I remembered all too well how much Karl disliked me.

"I need details on the body Carpenter Brody was put into after his resurrection," Derrick said, his tone businesslike.

"Of course, sir. Let me verify your clearance... One moment, please." There was a brief pause before Karl's voice returned. "You're cleared, Guardian. I see you've taken command of that fucking Carpenter Brody. If you ask me, he should've been recycled. Wasting a perfectly good body on such a low-ranking Knight..."

"Protector Karl," Derrick interrupted, his voice stern. "You're only two ranks above Brody. Now, the information on his new body?"

"My apologies, Guardian," Karl's tone became respectful again. "That information can't be sent over open lines. I'll encrypt it and send it to you digitally. If I may ask, has Brody done something wrong?"

"There are a couple of things that don't make sense," Derrick replied carefully. "I'll know more after reviewing the file."

"Is there anything else I can do for you, Guardian?"

There was a moment of silence before Derrick asked, "Have there been any more resurrections?"

Karl's voice became somber. "No, sir. Brody was the very last one. No other Knights were successfully resurrected, which is... odd, considering how many we lost in Wyoming and around the Gulf of Mexico."

"The world has lost many heroes," Derrick said solemnly. "Let's hope they're enjoying paradise in the afterlife. That'll be all, Karl."

The recording ended, leaving me speechless. My mind raced, trying to figure out what I'd done to make Derrick suspicious. What was in that file?

"Mary," I finally managed, "were you able to get that file Derrick requested?"

I watched Mary's fingers fly across the keyboard, her white hair a stark contrast against her ebony skin. "It's my next priority after shoring up our defenses, Master," she assured me, her red eyes never leaving the screen.

"Damn, you lucked out with this one," Nikky's voice cut through the room, making me jump. I spun around to find her leaning against the doorframe, looking annoyingly casual. That trademark smirk of hers played on her lips, and I felt a twinge of irritation. "She's got skills. Too bad you're such a terrible spy, though."

My patience, already stretched thin by the day's events, snapped like an overworked rubber band. "I know Mary is amazing," I bit out, my voice harsher than I intended. "I just wish she wasn't my slave. And of course I'm a terrible spy! I didn't sign up for any of this crap." I ran a hand through my hair, feeling the frustration build in my chest. "I know I'm a terrible liar. It doesn't come naturally to me like it probably does to you, Red."

The moment the words left my mouth, I knew I'd crossed a line. Nikky's smirk vanished faster than a snowball in hell, replaced by a flash of hurt that cut me to the quick. She tried to mask it with indifference, but I'd seen it. I'd caused it. My stomach twisted with guilt as I opened my mouth to apologize, but Nikky was already turning on her heel, walking away before I could get a word out.

"Shit," I muttered, dragging my hand through my hair again. I could feel a headache building behind my eyes, a dull throbbing that matched the ache in my chest.

Charlotte's mocking laughter echoed in my mind, clear as a bell and twice as annoying. "Oh, Bobby boy, you really stepped in it this time, didn't you? And here I thought you were supposed to be the nice one."

I gritted my teeth, fighting the urge to snap back at the succubus sharing my headspace. This day was going from bad to worse, and I had no one to blame but myself. I'd let my frustration get the better of me, and now I'd hurt Nikky. The guilt sat heavy in my stomach, a leaden weight that threatened to drag me down.

"Shut up," I muttered under my breath. I knew I'd screwed up with Nikky, and I didn't need the peanut gallery in my head pointing it out.

As I turned to go after Nikky, Ashani entered the room in her human form, blocking my path. I had to crane my neck to look up at her face – she was easily over half a foot taller than me. Her well-built frame made me feel small in comparison, which was saying something considering I'm no slouch at just over six feet tall myself. Her mocha skin seemed to glow in the dim light of the room, and her long black hair cascaded down her back like a silken waterfall.

"What do you need, Ashani?" I asked, trying to keep the frustration out of my voice. I was still reeling from my encounter with Nikky, and the last thing I needed was another complication.

Ashani's golden eyes met mine, her gaze intense and unwavering. "I've been considering your suggestion, Bobby. If you can reinstate my status, I will ensure my tribe stands with us against Ardin."

"Alright," I said, my interest piqued despite my earlier irritation. The prospect of having a tribe of Nagini on our side against Ardin was too good to pass up. "What do we need to do to clear your name? Perform a rite of passage? Murder your uncle? Stand on one foot while juggling plates? Complete a gauntlet? Wrestle a kraken?"

I couldn't help but let my imagination run wild. After all the crazy shit I'd been through lately, none of those options seemed particularly far-fetched.

Ashani gave me a look that made me feel like I'd just suggested we paint ourselves blue and dance naked under the full moon. Her thick eyebrows furrowed, and her full lips pursed in a way that somehow managed to be both regal and adorably confused. "What foolishness are you speaking of? We will simply present ourselves before my uncle. You will state that I am untainted, and that will be the end of it."

I couldn't help but laugh. The sound escaped me before I could stop it, echoing off the walls of the room. "You really think it'll be that easy?" I asked, shaking my head in disbelief. Sometimes I forgot just how sheltered Ashani's life as a princess had been. The real world rarely worked out so neatly, especially when it came to magical creatures and their complex social structures.

I couldn't believe what I was hearing. Ashani's naivety was reaching new heights, and I found myself struggling not to laugh out loud at her ridiculous assertions. Her chest puffed out even further, if that was possible, and I had to force my eyes back up to her face. It wasn't easy, given how her already impressive bust seemed to have doubled in size.

"Of course," she declared with a haughty air that would have put most royalty to shame. "I am a princess. They will listen."

I couldn't help but snort. "Uh, hate to break it to you, Your Highness, but they didn't exactly roll out the red carpet for you before when they exiled you," I pointed out, trying to keep the sarcasm out of my voice and failing miserably. "What makes you think they'll suddenly start taking your word as gospel now?"

Ashani looked at me like I was the dumbest person she'd ever met. "You will be there as a witness," she said, her tone suggesting she was explaining something painfully obvious to a particularly slow child. "They will have to believe us."

I felt my eyebrows climbing higher on my forehead. The more Ashani spoke, the more I realized just how sheltered and naive she really was. It was like watching a kitten try to take on a pack of wolves – adorable, but ultimately doomed to failure.

"And why would they trust me?" I asked, genuinely curious about her thought process. "I'm technically a Knight and a human. In their eyes, I'm probably about as trustworthy as a fox in a henhouse. They have absolutely no reason to believe anything I say."

Ashani's brow furrowed, creating a little crease between her eyebrows that I might have found cute if I wasn't so exasperated. "I trust you, and I'm a princess," she said, as if that settled everything. "So my tribe should trust you as well."

I shook my head, realizing I wasn't going to get through to this entitled princess. It was like trying to explain quantum physics to a goldfish – utterly pointless and likely to give me a headache.

"Master," Mary's soft voice cut through my thoughts, providing a welcome distraction from Ashani's royal delusions. "I've done what I can to secure our systems. The computer is currently decrypting the file on your body."

Before I could even begin to process that information or thank Mary for her efforts, Gloria marched into the room like a woman on a mission. She was dragging a very reluctant-looking Nikky behind her, and I braced myself for whatever new drama was about to unfold.

"You," Gloria said, pointing at Nikky with all the authority of a drill sergeant, "apologize to Bobby. Now."

I blinked, caught completely off guard. "Wait, what?" I said, feeling like I'd missed a crucial part of the conversation. "I should be the one apologizing to Nikky. I was the one who-"

Gloria cut me off with a wave of her hand that brooked no argument. "Nikky," she said, her tone leaving no room for debate, "explain."

I turned to look at Nikky, curious despite myself. Her face was as red as her fiery hair, and I couldn't tell if she was embarrassed, angry, or some volatile combination of the two. She opened and closed her mouth a few times, reminding me of a fish out of water, before finally managing to speak.

"I... I'm sorry for intentionally pushing your buttons, Bobby," she said, the words sounding like they were being forcibly extracted. "I shouldn't have done that."

I blinked again, feeling like I'd stepped into some bizarre alternate reality where nothing made sense anymore. My head was spinning, trying to process the rapid-fire changes in the room's atmosphere. One minute we're all at each other's throats, the next we're apologizing, and now... this. I cleared my throat, fumbling for words like a teenager asking for his first date.

"I... well, I'm sorry too," I managed to get out, my voice sounding strangely hollow in the tense silence. "I went too far. I shouldn't judge you when I barely know you." The words felt inadequate, but they were all I had.

Gloria nodded, her piercing blue eyes seeming to look right through me. She appeared satisfied with our awkward exchange of apologies, and I felt a moment of relief. But that relief was short-lived as she turned to Ashani, her voice taking on a more businesslike tone.

"Ashani, we need to discuss-"

"To you," Ashani interrupted, her chin lifting in a gesture of defiance that made me want to groan, "I am 'Princess' Ashani."

Damn it, I thought. Really? Now? I could feel the temperature in the room plummet, and it wasn't just my imagination. Gloria's blue eyes flared with an intensity that made my skin prickle. Suddenly, the air around us felt thick, heavy with an overwhelming presence of power that made it hard to breathe. I'd felt this before, but never quite so potent. It was like standing in the eye of a storm, knowing that any second, all hell could break loose.

"You," Gloria said, her voice low and dangerous, each word dripping with barely contained fury, "need to learn that you are not currently a princess. I will address you as I see fit."

I watched Ashani, half-expecting her to crumble under Gloria's intense stare. But I had to hand it to her - the princess was doing her damnedest to keep up her regal act. Still, I could see right through it. Her jaw clenched so tight I thought her teeth might crack, her shoulders tensed ever so slightly, and there was a flicker of uncertainty in those golden eyes of hers. It was like watching a house of cards trying to stand in a hurricane.

But she didn't back down. I had to admire her guts, even if I thought she was being monumentally stupid. It was like watching two apex predators sizing each other up, neither willing to show even a hint of weakness. The air in the room felt so thick with tension I could have cut it with a knife. I found myself holding my breath, my heart pounding in my chest like it was trying to break free.

Part of me wanted to step in, to say something - anything - to break this standoff. But I knew better. This was between Ashani and Gloria, and interfering would only make things worse. So I stood there, feeling about as useful as tits on a bull, as the seconds ticked by in agonizing silence.

I watched as Ashani's lips parted slightly, as if she was about to speak. I tensed, wondering what she could possibly say that wouldn't end with Gloria turning her into a smear on the carpet. But no words came out. I could almost see the gears turning in her head, trying to come up with a response that wouldn't completely trash her pride. But in the end, she just stood there, meeting Gloria's gaze with a stubborn determination that was both admirable and, in my opinion, a little bit suicidal.

The silence stretched on, becoming almost a tangible thing. I found myself wondering how long this could possibly last, and what the hell would happen when it finally broke. The tension in the room was thick enough to cut with a knife, and I could feel sweat beginning to bead on my forehead.

Gloria continued, her voice calm but underlaid with solid steel, "Ashani, I have known the pride of the Nagini people for a long time. They will not listen to Bobby unless he proves himself." Her eyes, those piercing orbs that seemed to look right through you, fixed on the Nagini princess with an intensity that made me grateful I wasn't on the receiving end.

"He has already proven himself by rescuing and freeing me," Ashani protested, her voice quivering but still defiant. I couldn't help but admire her stubbornness, even if it was misplaced. Her golden eyes flashed with a mix of emotions - pride, uncertainty, and something else I couldn't quite place.

I remembered the events in the gnoll cave a bit differently – Ashani had been the one to save my ass – but I decided not to rehash that argument again. The memory of that day still sent a shiver down my spine: the stench of the cave, the laughter of the gnolls, the burning pain of that poisoned blade. It wasn't something I was eager to relive.

"That's not enough," Gloria said firmly, pulling me back to the present. "The Nagini respect strength and honor above all else. Bobby will need to demonstrate both if he hopes to sway them."

"So what are you suggesting?" I asked, already dreading the answer. My stomach churned with a mix of anticipation and fear. Part of me wanted to just walk away from this whole mess, but I knew that wasn't an option. Not anymore.

Gloria's eyes gleamed with an almost predatory light. "A trial by combat."

"Oh, this should be fun," Charlotte chimed in, her voice dripping with sarcasm. "Maybe you can impress them with your stellar basketball skills. I'm sure that'll go over well with a warrior race."

"Shut up, Charlotte," I muttered again, fighting the urge to roll my eyes. Sometimes having a succubus in your head was like having an annoying little sister who never went away.

Nikky raised an eyebrow, her lips quirking into an amused smirk. "You know, talking to yourself isn't exactly a sign of mental stability."

"I'm not talking to myself," I snapped, feeling a flush of embarrassment creep up my neck. "I'm talking to the demon in my head." As soon as the words left my mouth, I realized how insane they sounded.

There was a moment of stunned silence before Nikky burst out laughing, her deep blue eyes twinkling with mirth. "Oh man, and here I thought my life was complicated. You've got a whole circus going on in there, don't you?"

I couldn't help but crack a smile, despite the gravity of the situation. "You have no idea. Wait until you meet the damned succubus… Uh, no offense, Gloria." I shot a quick glance at the powerful succubus, hoping I hadn't just royally screwed myself over.

"If we could focus," Gloria said, her tone sharp enough to cut through the momentary levity. "Bobby, are you prepared to face a trial by combat to prove yourself to the Nagini?"

The question hung in the air, heavy with implication. I looked around the room, taking in the faces of my unlikely allies. Mary, loyal and concerned. Nikky, amused and intrigued. Ashani, proud but uncertain. And Gloria, powerful and expectant.

"Do I have a choice?" I asked, already knowing the answer.

Gloria's smile was both reassuring and terrifying. "There's always a choice. But sometimes, the right choice is the hardest one."

I shook my head, thinking back to the gnoll cave once again. "Look, Ashani, I appreciate your confidence in me, but let's be real here. That Alpha gnoll wiped the floor with me. You're the one who took him down. How the hell am I supposed to impress a whole race of warrior snake-people when I couldn't even handle one overgrown hyena?"

Ashani's chest puffed out with pride for a moment before deflating as she realized what I was saying. "Well... I could teach you to fight," she offered, her voice lacking its usual haughty tone.

Nikky snorted. "Yeah, because we've got all the time in the world for Bobby to become a master warrior."

Gloria's eyes narrowed. "We don't know how much time we have," she said, her voice tight. "But every moment that passes, Ardin is likely killing more and more Lydenese."

The weight of her words hit me like a ton of bricks. I felt my shoulders slump as I made my way to the nearby couch and sat down heavily. The pressure of what we were facing seemed to press down on me from all sides. I looked around at the women in the room, but none of them moved to comfort me.

I took a deep breath, refusing to wallow in self-pity. This wasn't just about me anymore. "Alright," I said, looking back up at them. "Ashani, what kind of combat should I expect?"

Ashani opened her mouth, probably to argue that it wouldn't come to that, but Gloria cut her off. "Open your eyes, girl," she snapped. "Everything's not going to be all roses just because you wish it so."

Turning to me, Gloria continued, "It will depend on Ashani's uncle. It could be anything from first blood to death."

I swallowed hard. "Great," I muttered. Looking at Ashani, I asked, "How do you compare to others of your race?"

Ashani straightened up, her pride returning. "Most Nagini are tall, strong warriors," she said. "But I am a Royal Nagini. Therefore, I am taller, faster, and stronger."

"So, will I have to fight a royal or regular Nagini?" I asked.

Ashani's eyes flashed. "There are no 'regular' Nagini," she said indignantly. "But only my mother, my uncle, and I are Royal Nagini within the tribe."

An idea struck me. "Ashani, would you be willing to wrestle with me? Just so I can get an idea of where I stand skill-wise?"

Ashani looked uncertain for a moment before nodding. "I am willing to assist you, Bobby. But do not let your hands slip to where they shouldn't. Behave as a gentleman should."

I couldn't help but notice Ashani's prodigious chest again, thinking about what a large target they made. "Oh, Bobby," Charlotte's voice teased in my head. "Your eyes are wandering again. Careful now, or you might get more than you bargained for."

"We should probably do this in the gym," Nikky suggested. "It's got the most open area."

We all moved to the gym, and Ashani got into what she clearly thought was a proper fighting stance on two legs. She looked nervous, and I realized she wasn't used to fighting in human form.

"Actually, Ashani," I said, "I'll probably have to fight a Nagini in their snake form. Could you change?"

Ashani hesitated, and Gloria let out an exasperated sigh. "For heaven's sake, girl, just do it!"

Finally, Ashani transformed into her snake form. Her lower body elongated into a massive, muscular tail, covered in shimmering golden-brown scales. Her torso remained humanoid, but now sported six well-muscled arms. Her already impressive height grew even more, easily towering over me. Her golden eyes seemed to glow with an inner light, and her long, dark hair cascaded down her back.

"Thanks, Ashani," I said, getting into position. "I appreciate this."

"Remember, Bobby," Ashani said, her voice a mix of warning and nervousness, "behave as a gentleman should."

Nikky grinned. "Alright, lovebirds," she quipped. "Begin!"

Ashani moved with a speed that belied her size. Even with my upgraded agility, I was no match for her strength and grace. She darted forward, her six arms a blur of motion. I tried to dodge, but she easily caught me, wrapping two of her arms around my waist and lifting me off the ground.

I struggled, attempting to break free, but her grip was like iron. With her other arms, she effortlessly pinned my arms to my sides. I kicked out, trying to find purchase, but my feet met nothing but air.

In a fluid motion, Ashani coiled her tail around my legs, effectively immobilizing me. She brought her face close to mine, her golden eyes gleaming with triumph. "Do you yield?" she asked, her voice a low purr.

I could feel the heat radiating from her body, smell the exotic scent of her skin. It was intoxicating and terrifying all at once. "I yield," I managed to croak out.

Ashani released me, and I stumbled back, trying to catch my breath. The entire match had lasted less than thirty seconds.

"Well," Nikky said, breaking the silence, "that was... something."

Gloria nodded, her expression grim. "Now you see what you're up against, Bobby. The Nagini are not to be underestimated."

I ran a hand through my hair, my mind racing. "Yeah, I got that loud and clear. So, what now? How am I supposed to stand a chance against warriors like Ashani?"

"You could always try seducing them," Charlotte chimed in. "It would probably net you another level."

"Not helping, Charlotte," I muttered under my breath.

Ashani, still in her Nagini form, slithered closer to me. "I... I apologize if I was too rough, Bobby. Perhaps we could try again? I could show you some basic defensive moves."

I looked up at her, struck by the genuine concern in her eyes. It was a far cry from the haughty princess I'd first met. "Thanks, Ashani. I'd appreciate that."

As Ashani and I faced each other again, she began to explain the intricacies of Nagini combat. "Our fighting style is fluid and unpredictable," she said, her voice taking on a lecturing tone. "We use our multiple arms and powerful tail to overwhelm our opponents. Weapons are often involved, typically spears or swords."

"What about your venom?" I asked, eyeing her sharp fangs warily.

Ashani shook her head. "Biting is against the rules in formal combat. You need not worry about that."

Just then, Shayna walked in, drawn by the commotion. She froze at the sight of Ashani in her full Nagini form, her eyes widening with fear. I could see her struggling to control her reaction, her lips moving as she muttered something under her breath.

Elly poked her head in next. "What's going on here?" she asked, her brow furrowed in confusion.

Mary, ever efficient, quickly explained the situation. "Master Bobby and Princess Ashani are practicing combat techniques to prepare for a potential trial with the Nagini tribe."

Nikky chimed in, her tone sardonic. "Yeah, and we're short on time, but fresh out of better ideas."

I felt Charlotte stirring in my mind. "Hey, Bobby," she said, her mental voice tinged with excitement. "How about you let me take a crack at it? I might be able to last a bit longer against her."

I hesitated, then turned to Ashani. "Would you be okay if Charlotte took control for a round? She thinks she might do better."

Ashani nodded, her golden eyes curious. "I am willing to test my skills against your demon companion."

With a sigh, I relinquished control to Charlotte. It was a strange sensation, like I was watching through a window as my body moved of its own accord.

Nikky grinned. "Round two, folks. Begin!"

Charlotte moved with more grace than I could ever manage, her movements fluid and precise. She dodged Ashani's first lunge, ducking under one of her arms and spinning away. But Ashani was relentless, her six arms a blur of motion as she pursued Charlotte across the gym floor.

For a moment, it seemed like Charlotte might actually have a chance. She weaved and bobbed, avoiding Ashani's grasp time and time again. But then Ashani's tail whipped out, catching Charlotte's ankle and sending her tumbling to the ground. In an instant, Ashani was on her, pinning her with four arms while the other two held her head still.

"Yield," Ashani demanded, her voice barely winded.

Charlotte, using my voice, gasped out, "I yield."

As Ashani released us, Elly spoke up. "If time is such a concern, why not use Bobby's mens mundi? Couldn't you train there?"

I shook my head as I regained control of my body. "My mind might learn the techniques, but my body wouldn't have the muscle memory."

Charlotte spoke through my mouth, startling everyone. "Actually, with my assistance, we could add the muscle memory along with the knowledge."

"How much time dilation could we get?" I asked, intrigued by the idea.

"If it's just Ashani joining us," Charlotte replied, "I could make a night last for a few days. But it'll wear me out."

Gloria, looking uncharacteristically hesitant, spoke up. "If I combine my mens mundi with Charlotte's, we can slow time exponentially."

Shayna's eyes narrowed. "You have a mens mundi too? What are you, really?"

Gloria regarded us all for a long moment before answering. "I am a powerful succubus," she said simply. Then, turning to Shayna and Elly, she added, "But you need not worry about your man. My heart belongs to another, and I have no interest in Bobby."

"She's more than just a powerful succubus," Charlotte admitted to me mentally. "But it's not my place to say more."

Shayna stepped forward, her jaw set. "I want to be in the mens mundi too. I could help give pointers."

"She's jealous," Charlotte whispered in my mind. "She wants to watch if anything happens between us."

Gloria's eyes flashed, and I got the feeling she knew Shayna's true motivations as well. "The more people within our shared mens mundi, the less time dilation we can achieve," she said firmly. "For the best chances, it will have to be just the four of us: Ashani, Bobby, Charlotte, and myself."

Shayna opened her mouth to argue, but Elly cut her off. "We want whatever will give our husband the best chance," she said, placing a calming hand on Shayna's arm. "Right, Shayna?"

Shayna's shoulders slumped slightly, but she nodded. "Right," she agreed reluctantly.

I looked around at the assembled group, feeling a mix of gratitude and trepidation. "So," I said, trying to inject some levity into my voice, "I guess it's time for a really intense nap, huh?"

Nikky snorted. "Only you could make magical time-dilated combat training sound like a lazy Sunday afternoon."

"It's a gift," I replied with a grin. Then, turning to Gloria and Ashani, I asked, "So, how do we want to do this?"

Gloria's expression turned serious. "Bobby, be prepared. This won't be easy, and it certainly won't be restful."

I nodded at Gloria's explanation, feeling a mix of nervousness and determination. "Alright, let's do this," I said, turning to my wives.

I walked over to Shayna and Elly, giving each of them a quick kiss before pulling them both into a tight hug. "I don't know how long I'll be under," I told them seriously, "but to you, it'll only feel like hours."

Leaning in close to Shayna, I whispered, "You don't have anything to be jealous about. I intend to spend all of my time training and getting stronger."

Shayna raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on her lips. "Oh? I didn't realize you'd gotten the mind reading skill... or did you level up again behind our backs?"

I laughed, shaking my head. "No new level-ups, I promise. I just love my incredible wives who are as perceptive as they are beautiful."

Elly rolled her eyes, but I could see the smile she was trying to hide. "Laying it on a bit thick there, aren't you?"

"Maybe," I admitted with a grin. "But I mean every word."

"Just don't forget about us while you're in there," Shayna said, her tone light but her eyes serious.

I regarded them for a moment, an idea forming. "Actually, would you be willing to let me fall asleep in your laps?"

Elly chuckled, but Shayna's eyes softened. "How would that even work?" she asked. "You only have one head, and we have two laps."

"You let him, Shayna," Elly offered, her voice gentle.

The two women shared a look, and I could see the love between them. "Thank you," Shayna said softly, reaching out to squeeze Elly's hand.

"If all the sappy stuff is over," Nikky called out, "we should probably get started sooner rather than later."

Shayna shot Nikky a glare, but I noticed Elly eyeing the other woman with interest. I decided it wasn't worth mentioning, but I couldn't help thinking that my love life really wasn't within my control anymore.

"Oh, come on," Charlotte's voice echoed in my head, laughter in her tone. "You've got it better than most. Are you really complaining?"

I didn't have an honest answer to that.

Shayna sat down on the gym floor, patting her thigh invitingly. I leaned down, planting a tender kiss on her plump lips before resting my head in her lap. Nearby, Ashani curled up on her coils while Gloria took a meditation pose.

"We are not to be disturbed unless it's an emergency," Gloria stated firmly. "We'll be waking up tomorrow morning at the latest."

I shifted, trying to get comfortable and wondering if I'd be stiff in the morning after lying there all night. I was about to suggest moving to a bedroom when Gloria cast a spell, and everything went dark.

 

 

I became aware of standing on a wooden platform made of bamboo, wearing nothing but a pair of shorts. Across from me stood Ashani in her snake form, a simple wrap covering her prodigious breasts. I looked around, but there was no sign of Gloria or Charlotte.

Squaring my shoulders, I turned to Ashani. "Should we get started?"

Ashani nodded, though she looked a little uncertain about being left alone. After a moment, she straightened up. "Yes, I will do my best to train you in the time that we have." She paused, looking me over. "Your posture is good. Have you had training before?"

"I received some martial arts training when I was younger," I admitted. "But I never had a chance to practice against anyone or anything like you."

Ashani's cheeks darkened slightly, and she looked flustered. "I... I'm not sure how to take that."

Realizing my wording might have been off, I quickly added, "What I mean is, you're the greatest fighter I've ever had the opportunity to challenge myself against."

Her expression softened at that, though she still seemed a bit shy. "Thank you. Shall we begin?"

And so, our training began.

The first few rounds were brutal. Ashani's six arms and powerful tail made her an overwhelming opponent. She'd catch me before I could even react, pinning me to the ground or wrapping me up in her coils.

"You must anticipate," she'd say, helping me up. "Watch my movements, look for patterns."

As time passed - though it was hard to tell how much in this strange mental space - I started to improve. My reflexes got sharper, my movements more fluid. I began to see the subtle shifts in Ashani's body language that telegraphed her attacks.

"Better," she'd nod approvingly as I dodged one of her lunges. "But not good enough."

We sparred for what felt like days, taking breaks only when absolutely necessary. Each time we resumed, I felt a little faster, a little stronger. I started to last longer against her onslaught, even managing to land a few hits of my own.

"You're learning," Ashani said, a hint of pride in her voice. "But remember, in a real fight, your opponent won't hold back."

She demonstrated this by suddenly increasing her speed and strength, catching me off guard. I found myself pinned once again, but this time, I managed to wriggle free, using a technique she'd taught me earlier.

"Excellent!" she exclaimed, her golden eyes shining with excitement. "Now, let's see if you can do that again."

As our training continued, I began to feel more confident in my abilities. I was nowhere near Ashani's level, but I was no longer the easy target I'd been at the start.

"You've improved greatly," Ashani said during one of our breaks. "But there's still much to learn. Are you ready to continue?"

I nodded, wiping sweat from my brow. "Always ready. Let's go."

And so we pressed on, the mental landscape around us shifting and changing as we moved through different scenarios and terrains. Through it all, Ashani remained a patient but demanding teacher, pushing me to my limits and beyond. Without the need for food or sleep, we trained for hours on end. The only reason for our break was for Ashani to impart some wisdom or technique, and a few mental breaks to keep us sane.

As we prepared for another round, I couldn't help but wonder how much time had passed in the real world. But there was no time to dwell on it - Ashani was already moving, and I had to be ready.

 

* * *

I woke up with a start, my mind foggy and disoriented. The hard floor beneath me felt unfamiliar, and for a moment, I couldn't remember where I was. As my senses slowly returned, I realized I was lying on the gym floor, a soft pillow under my head and a warm blanket draped over me. On either side, I felt the comforting presence of my wives.

Despite what should have been a full night's rest, my body ached, muscles stiff and sore as if I'd run a marathon. I blinked, trying to clear the haze from my vision, memories of the mens mundi slowly trickling back.

"Charlotte," I thought, "how long were we in there?"

Her mental voice came back, barely a whisper and heavy with exhaustion. "A few months. Now leave me alone, I'm exhausted."

I was about to ask her more when I noticed a figure in the doorway. Mary, silent as a ghost, glided into the room with a steaming cup of coffee. She helped me to my feet without making a sound, somehow managing not to disturb Shayna, Elly, Ashani, or Gloria.

As we made our way to the kitchen, the aroma of freshly cooked breakfast filled the air. Mary guided me to a chair where a plate was already waiting.

"Thank you, Mary," I said, my voice still rough from sleep. "How did you know I was awake?"

Mary's red eyes met mine, a hint of a smile on her ebony face. "The slave bond, Master. It keeps me informed of all your needs, moods, and desires so that I can take the best care of you."

I felt a twinge of discomfort at her words. The idea of someone having constant access to my thoughts and feelings felt invasive, and I couldn't help but worry about the burden it placed on Mary.

Before I could voice my concerns, Mary spoke again, her voice soft but sure. "I can sense your worry, Master. Please, don't be concerned. You're a much better master than any I've had before. I can feel your desire for my happiness, your reluctance to cause pain or suffering. I couldn't be happier belonging to you."

I understood what she was saying, but the idea of ownership still didn't sit right with me. I opened my mouth to tell her I'd prefer her to be free, but before I could get the words out, Mary leaned in and kissed me.

My mind, still fuzzy from the long sleep and apparent months of training, took a moment to catch up. It wasn't until I felt her tongue slip into my mouth that reality crashed in. I was about to pull back when I heard a familiar voice.

"I thought you were going to wait until you'd freed Mary from her slavery before taking her to bed," Elly said, her tone more amused than accusatory.

I jerked away from Mary, my face burning. "Elly, I... it's not... we weren't..." I stammered, moving to embrace my wife.

Mary, her face flushed but eyes shining, spoke up. "It was me, Mistress Elly. I kissed Master, not because it was something he desired, but because it was something I truly wanted to do." She lowered her eyes, her voice growing softer. "Knowing that my master wants me to be happy, I hope he won't be angry with me for doing something that made me happy."

Then, so quietly I almost missed it, she added, "If master wishes to punish me, I will accept any spankings he feels are justified."

Before I could process that statement, Ashani stumbled into the kitchen in her human form, making a beeline for the abandoned plate of food on the table.

"That food was for Master," Mary said, already moving to prepare another plate. "But I can get you another one, Princess Ashani."

I chuckled, waving Mary off. "Let her have it, Mary. She's certainly earned it after the last few months."

Elly's eyebrows shot up. "The last few months? How long were you and Ashani in the shared mens mundi?"

I shrugged, still enjoying the feeling of Elly in my arms. "I'm not sure of the exact time, but Charlotte mentioned something about a few months before she passed out in my head."

Elly looked at me, a mix of concern and curiosity in her eyes. "Do you think you're ready?"

Before I could answer, Ashani spoke up, her mouth full of food. "Bobby is a fast learner," she said after swallowing. "He truly knows how to use his body to his advantage now."

"I knew you'd end up fucking her," Shayna grumbled as she entered the kitchen, clearly misinterpreting Ashani's words.

I groaned, running a hand through my hair. "It's not like that, Shayna. We were training, that's all."

Mary silently handed Shayna a mug of coffee, which she accepted with a grunt of thanks.

"It's true," Ashani said, her golden eyes serious. "Bobby has become quite skilled in combat. His progress was... impressive."

Shayna looked skeptical, but as she sipped her coffee, her expression softened slightly. "So, you really just trained for months? In one night?"

I nodded, still trying to wrap my head around it myself. "It's hard to explain. Time moves differently in the mens mundi. It felt like months to us, but I'm guessing out here, barely any time passed at all."

"And what exactly did this training entail?" Elly asked, her curiosity evident.

I launched into an explanation of the grueling sessions with Ashani, describing the various techniques and scenarios we'd worked through. As I spoke, I could see the skepticism in Shayna's eyes slowly giving way to understanding.

"It was not easy," Ashani added, her voice carrying a note of pride. "But Bobby proved to be a worthy student."

"Far enough to face your uncle?" Elly asked, concern creeping into her voice.

Ashani hesitated, her eyes meeting mine. "It... it is hard to say. My uncle is a formidable warrior, even by Nagini standards. But Bobby's skills have improved greatly. With some luck and strategy, he may stand a chance. However, it may be that he will face one of our champions, as my uncle may think that fighting a human is beneath him."

I felt a knot form in my stomach at her words. The reality of what I was about to face suddenly felt very real.

"Maybe we should reconsider this," Shayna said, her earlier irritation replaced by worry. "There has to be another way to help Ashani without putting Bobby in danger."

I shook my head, my resolve firming. "No, we've come too far to back out now. Ashani needs our help, and this might be our best chance to gain allies against Ardin. I don't think we have the time to deliberate."

"But at what cost?" Elly asked softly, her hand finding mine.

I squeezed her hand reassuringly. "I know it's risky, but I have to try. We need all the help we can get, and if there's a chance I can prove myself to the Nagini, we have to take it."

The room fell silent for a moment, the weight of the situation settling over us.

I watched as Mary gracefully brought three plates of food to the table, balancing them on her arms with an ease that would make professional waiters jealous. The aroma wafting from the plates made my mouth water, reminding me just how hungry I was after our intense training session in the mens mundi.

As Mary set the plates down, Gloria stumbled into the kitchen, looking like she'd been hit by a truck. Her usual poise was gone, replaced by a bone-deep exhaustion that seemed to weigh her down. She wobbled over to the table, her eyes fixed on one of the plates of food. Leaning in, she took a deep whiff, savoring the delicious scents.

"Mmm," she mumbled, her eyes half-closed. "You were in there for exactly three months, two weeks, four days, seventeen hours, and thirty-six minutes."

I blinked, surprised by her precision. "That's... oddly specific. How can you be so sure?"

Gloria just waved a hand dismissively, too tired to explain further. As she slumped into a chair, my fingers found their way to the pendant around my neck. I remembered the way Gloria had reacted to it before, when we discovered she was once a goddess. What was her history with it? And why did the Pillar of Light think it was so important?

Feeling a surge of boldness, I pulled the pendant out from under my shirt. Gloria's head snapped towards me so fast I thought she might get whiplash, her eyes locked onto the pendant like a bloodhound on a scent.

"Gloria," I said, my voice steadier than I felt, "what's the deal with this pendant? What's its significance?"

Gloria's eyes narrowed, and for a moment, I thought she might refuse to answer. "It's in the past," she said, her voice tight. "It doesn't matter anymore."

"Bullshit," Shayna called out, her eyes flashing. I nodded in agreement, backing up my wife.

Gloria's face darkened for a moment, anger flashing in her eyes. But just as quickly, it faded, replaced by a bone-deep weariness. She looked around the room, regarding each of us in turn before letting out a heavy sigh. She took a big bite of food, chewing slowly as she gathered her thoughts.

After swallowing, Gloria spoke, her voice low and serious. "What I'm about to tell you, only those I most trust know."

"If we're supposed to save the world together," I pointed out, "then we have to trust and rely on each other."

Gloria nodded, a sad smile playing on her lips. "You're right, of course. Very well. I was once known as Aphrodite, before becoming Venus to the Romans. When Christianity began to spread and violently fight any that didn't follow their dogma, I fled down to what is Egypt today, and there... I met a young man named Ardin."

As Gloria delved into her history, I found myself hanging on every word. At some point during her tale, Nikky joined us, sliding into a seat and helping herself to some food. But none of us really noticed, too engrossed in Gloria's story.

When she finally finished, tears stained Gloria's cheeks, and she looked emotionally wrung out. A heavy silence fell over the room as we all tried to process what we'd just heard.

Elly was the first to break the silence. "Gloria," she said softly, "none of that was your fault. You did what you thought was best for the man you loved. Not even the goddess of love could know what Ardin would become."

"Yeah," Shayna chimed in, her voice filled with righteous anger. "Ardin's the one who chose to become a zealot. You can't blame yourself for his choices."

I nodded in agreement, but a nagging question still gnawed at me. "Gloria," I said hesitantly, "about the pendant... Does me having it mean that I'm descended from Ardin?" I paused, remembering what I knew about its abilities. "I know it blocks others from reading my mind, but does it have any other significance?"

Gloria shook her head. "I don't know if you're related to Ardin, but I doubt it. The power of the pendant only works under two conditions: If it is gifted by someone who loves the recipient, or if the recipient dies and it's picked up by someone new. If gifted, it gains power from stronger levels of love. Most of that power is lost if the bearer dies before gifting it to an heir."

"Ooh, mysterious," Nikky piped up, her eyes gleaming with curiosity. "Does it have any other nifty abilities besides blocking mind reading?"

Gloria looked around the room, her gaze lingering on each of the women before finally meeting my eyes. "You're not going to like it," she said, her voice heavy, "but you need to hear the whole explanation before getting upset."

I felt my stomach drop, a sense of dread washing over me. Was I going to get some form of love cancer or something? As it turned out, I was close, but not in the way I feared. It was much worse.

I felt like I'd been sucker-punched, the air knocked clean out of my lungs. Gloria's words echoed in my head, each syllable another blow to my gut. My mind reeled, struggling to process the implications of what she'd just revealed.

"What?" I bellowed, leaping to my feet so fast my chair toppled backward with a resounding crash. "Are you saying I've been brainwashing people?" The words tasted like bile in my mouth, a mixture of anger and revulsion churning in my stomach. I couldn't believe it. Didn't want to believe it. "How could you ever make such a thing?"

My hand flew to the pendant, fingers curling around the cool metal. I was ready to yank it off, to hurl it across the room, to smash it into a million pieces. But before I could, a small yet surprisingly strong hand clamped around my wrist, halting my motion. I glanced down, shocked to see it was Mary who'd stopped me.

"Master," she said, her voice barely above a whisper but carrying a steel I'd never heard from her before. "Please listen to everything Gloria has to say."

I gaped at her, momentarily stunned. Mary, my timid, soft-spoken maid, was actually defying me? The shock of it was enough to make me pause, to force myself to take a deep breath. My heart was still pounding, adrenaline coursing through my veins, but I managed to rein in my emotions. Just barely.

"Fine," I growled through clenched teeth, my jaw so tight it ached. "I'm listening."

I saw relief flood Gloria's eyes, softening her features. She took a steadying breath before continuing. "It doesn't brainwash anyone," she explained, her tone gentle but firm. "And it doesn't make people fall in love with you. What it does is attract those who are compatible towards the bearer. Not just compatible in gender, but also in temperament."

I took a deep breath, trying to calm my racing thoughts. "Gloria, can you explain more about how this pendant works? I'm still not sure I understand."

Gloria nodded, her expression softening. "Of course, Bobby. The pendant doesn't force attraction where there is none. It simply... enhances the natural compatibility between people. If someone isn't compatible with you, the pendant won't affect them at all. But if they are compatible, it makes that connection easier to recognize and pursue. It's like... opening a door, not pushing someone through it."

I mulled over her words, still feeling uneasy but less panicked than before. Elly spoke up, her voice thoughtful.

"That actually makes sense," she said. "Think about Joey and Tina. Tina's a lesbian, so she's not attracted to men at all. The pendant wouldn't change that. And Joey, well, he's gay, so he might be attracted to you, Bobby, but since you're not gay, it doesn't pull him in either."

I nodded slowly, feeling a bit better about the whole situation. "Yeah, okay. I guess that does make sense."

Shayna chimed in, her eyes bright with understanding. "And that kind of explains Serina and Jennifer too. They were probably already attracted to you, but the pendant just... amplified that, I guess?"

Elly's face lit up, and I felt my heart sink a little as she said, "Oh! That means those two would probably be compatible to join a harem centered on Bobby!"

At the word 'harem,' I started spluttering. "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Hold on a second. I don't want a harem! That's not... I mean, I can't..."

Nikky's laugh cut through my protests. "Oh, man," she said, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Hate to break it to you, but that ship is already pretty close to sailing. Look around you."

I glared at her. "I'm not sleeping with all of them! Just my wives."

"Two wives," Nikky pointed out, grinning. "Technically, that's already the start of a harem."

Before I could argue further, Gloria cut in. "I feel I should remind everyone that I won't be sleeping with anyone. My man is out there, and once I've completed this mission for Sonia, I'm returning to him."

I turned to Gloria, a question nagging at me. "Why would you ever give something like this to your husband? Did you want him sleeping around?"

Gloria's face was utterly serious as she replied, "Yes, I did."

I blinked, taken aback by her blunt response. She continued, her voice filled with passion.

"Ardin was so tied to his damned religion. I wanted him to see that there was so much more to the world than those stuffy practices. As a goddess of love, I understood that love isn't something to be limited the way Christianity - or rather, the men who claimed to be holy and righteous - demanded it should be. I wanted Ardin to experience all the love he could. I even cranked up his libido to make it easier for him to be open to sleeping with other women. Of course, in Ardin's case, I misjudged a few things and it didn't turn out the way I hoped it would."

She paused, her eyes distant even as her voice firmed with annoyance. "Humanity wasn't designed to be monogamous. It was religion and greedy men who wanted to pass their property down to only their offspring that changed society to view polyamory as evil."

As Gloria finished her tirade, I noticed many of the women nodding in agreement, especially Elly. A heartbreaking thought occurred to me, and I turned to face my taller wife.

"Elly," I said hesitantly, "do you... do you want to sleep with other men? Since you're so excited about hooking me up with other women?"

Elly looked at me like I'd just asked if the sky was green before bursting into laughter. "Oh, Bobby," she said, shaking her head. "Have you forgotten? I was a lesbian before the spell on First Knight made me attracted to you. Only you. I'm more than happy to bring as many women as I can to your bed, but your dick is the only one for me."

I felt my face flush, realizing I should have figured that out on my own. Turning to Shayna, I opened my mouth to ask, but she beat me to it.

"Before you ask," she said, rolling her eyes, "your dick is the only one I'm interested in as well."

"Maybe the spell changed you," I suggested, still feeling uncertain. "I mean, look at Elly. She's still interested in me even though she used to only like women."

Elly jumped in, her voice firm. "That's because I know you, Bobby. I had your file memorized. I knew from the start that we were compatible emotionally, if not sexually. And even after your mother removed the spell, I found I was still attracted to you. I honestly desire you, not just for your personality, but also your body and the way you make me feel."

"But that's probably because of the pendant!" I protested.

Elly's eyes flashed, and suddenly she was right in front of me, rising on her toes to get in my face. "Now you listen here, Bobby Brody," she said, her voice low and intense. "I love you, and you're just going to have to deal with it."

I opened my mouth to argue further, but before I could get a word out, Elly grabbed the back of my head and pulled me into a passionate kiss. By the time she pulled back, I'd completely forgotten what I was going to say.

Nikky's voice broke through my daze. "Damn, can I get a kiss like that from you, Elly?"

I turned to see Elly smirking at Nikky. She bit her bottom lip, considering for a moment, then shrugged. But instead of going to Nikky, she walked over to Shayna and gave her an equally passionate kiss.

As I watched my wives kiss, a thought occurred to me: Why the hell was I even arguing about this in the first place?

 

* * *

1123 AD

Ardin grunted as he thrust into the nameless woman beneath him. Ardin's eyes gleamed with a mixture of carnal satisfaction and disdain as he regarded the woman beneath him. Her dark almond eyes reflected a combination of pleasure and amusement, her legs wrapped tightly around his waist as she matched his forceful rhythm. A part of him recognized the sinful nature of his actions, yet he found himself unable to resist the overwhelming urge that had consumed him for years. His insatiable appetite had only grown stronger with time, driving him to seek release with increasing frequency. At least, he reasoned, he had the wisdom to confine his indulgences to those he deemed unworthy of salvation; he would never compromise the virtue of a true Christian woman.

His pleasure was abruptly shattered by a hesitant knock at the door of his modest, dilapidated dwelling. Without breaking his stride, he called out for the visitor to enter. A youthful Knight, barely past the cusp of manhood, cautiously peered inside. The young man's voice quavered as he spoke, "M-my apologies, Lord Ardin. We've discovered something that requires your immediate attention."

Ardin exhaled sharply in irritation but maintained his current activity. "What is it?" he demanded, his tone laced with impatience.

The young Knight's response was tinged with a mixture of reverence and trepidation. "I-it's a succubus, my lord. We believe we've captured one."

This revelation was sufficient to halt Ardin's actions. He disengaged from the woman and began to dress himself, displaying no concern for his state of undress in front of the young Knight. As he exited the hut, he issued a curt order to the Knights stationed outside, his tone leaving no room for debate. "Dispose of her."

Ardin followed the young Knight, his mind already shifting to the prospect of finding another woman to satisfy his relentless desires. Perhaps he should have waited to have the woman in his hut disposed of, but it was too late now. The hunger within him, a constant companion since his transformation, gnawed at his insides, demanding to be sated.

The thought of a captured succubus intrigued him, stirring a complex mixture of emotions within his battle-hardened soul. He pondered the implications of such a creature's presence, his steps quickening as he anticipated the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead. Memories of Venita, his estranged wife, flickered through his mind, but he pushed them aside with practiced ease. This was not the time for sentimentality.

They arrived at another hut, and Ardin could sense the power of the being inside. The air around the structure seemed to shimmer with an otherworldly energy, making the hairs on the back of his neck stand on end. Two guards stood outside, and they straightened at his approach, their faces a mixture of awe and fear. "Two more Knights guard her inside, Lord Ardin," one of them reported, his voice quavering slightly.

"What makes you think it's a succubus?" Ardin asked, his tone sharp and demanding. He had encountered many magical creatures over the last few decades, and he knew better than to trust appearances alone. His eyes narrowed as he scrutinized the guards, searching for any sign of deception or bewitchment.

The guards hesitated for a moment before one of them answered, his words tumbling out in a rush, "Her unearthly beauty, my lord. And the way she... looks at us." The guard's face flushed, and he averted his gaze, clearly embarrassed by the effect the creature had on him. "It's like she can see into our souls, my lord. And her form... it's like nothing I've ever seen before."

Ardin nodded, his senses heightened as he detected an energy unlike any he had encountered before. It was not the familiar aura of Venita, his estranged wife, but something far more sinister and alluring. The power emanating from within the hut pulsed with a dark, seductive rhythm that both intrigued and unsettled him. Ardin pushed aside the flood of memories threatening to overwhelm him, memories of a life long past and a love turned to bitter ashes. He steeled himself, drawing upon decades of experience and the hardened resolve that had made him the formidable leader of the Paladonic Knights.

With a deep, steadying breath, Ardin reached for the door, his fingers brushing against the rough wood. He hesitated for a fraction of a second, sensing that whatever awaited him inside could irrevocably change the course of his mission. Then, with a swift, decisive motion, he pushed the door open and stepped into the dimly lit interior.

The sight that greeted him was both captivating and unsettling. His eyes were immediately drawn to the figure reclining on a luxurious pile of furs, her presence commanding the small space. She was a vision of exotic beauty, her midnight black skin gleaming in the flickering candlelight. A stark white fur was draped artfully over her shoulders, contrasting sharply with her ebony skin and the deep crimson silk that clung to her curves like a second skin. Her eyes, glowing like embers in the dim light, sparkled with a mixture of mischief and ancient wisdom. Cascading around her pointed ears, her hair fell in loose waves of purest white, reminiscent of freshly fallen snow.

Ardin's gaze raked over her form, his decades of experience with magical creatures allowing him to catalog her features with clinical precision. Yet, despite his vast knowledge, he found himself unable to immediately place her race. The combination of her striking appearance and the palpable aura of power surrounding her was unlike anything he had encountered in his long life.

"What is this creature?" Ardin asked his Knights, his voice low and controlled, betraying none of the curiosity and wariness warring within him. He addressed his Knights, but his eyes never left the enigmatic figure before him.

The woman's laughter filled the small hut, rich and warm like honey, yet with an underlying edge that hinted at hidden dangers. "A Drow elf, handsome," she purred, her voice a melody that seemed to caress his very soul. "And you are?"

Ardin narrowed his eyes, recognizing the name of her race but wary of her casual demeanor. The Drow were known for their cunning and cruelty, and he had no illusions about the potential threat she posed. "Paladonic Knights," he stated, his voice hard and unyielding. "Do you know what we do to your kind?"

"Oh, I know," she responded, her voice a silky purr that seemed at odds with the gravity of his implied threat. She ran her fingertips along her body in a deliberately provocative manner, her eyes never leaving Ardin's face. "But I also know things that will help you in your mission."

Despite himself, Ardin felt a spark of interest ignite within him. He had dedicated his existence to eradicating magical creatures, yet here was one offering assistance. The irony was not lost on him, nor was the potential value of such an alliance. Still, he remained cautious, all too aware of the duplicitous nature of her kind.

"Why would you help us?" he asked, his voice betraying nothing of the curiosity burning within him.

The Drow elf's smile widened, her red lips curving in a knowing way that suggested she held secrets beyond his wildest imaginings. "Because I believe we can help each other, Ardin," she replied, her use of his name a clear indication that she knew far more about him than she should. "I can assist you in wiping out many of the other races."

Ardin felt a chill run down his spine at her words, even as a part of him thrilled at the possibilities her offer presented. He knew he stood at a crossroads, and that his next decision would shape the future of his crusade against the creatures of the adversary. The air in the hut seemed to thicken with tension as he considered his response, the fate of countless beings hanging in the balance.

Ardin studied the Drow elf for a long moment, his keen eyes taking in every detail of her exotic features. The air in the hut seemed to crackle with tension as he considered her offer, his gaze briefly flicking to the two Knight guards standing at attention inside. Their faces remained impassive, but Ardin could sense their unease at the presence of this dark-skinned beauty.

"What do you want in return?" he asked, his voice low and measured. He had not survived this long by being naive or trusting, especially when it came to beings of magic.

The Drow elf's smile widened, revealing perfect white teeth that contrasted sharply with her ebony skin. Her scarlet eyes, bold and challenging, locked onto Ardin's with an intensity that sent a shiver down his spine. There was power there, ancient and alluring, and Ardin found himself both drawn to it and wary of its potential.

"A partnership," she purred, her melodious voice carrying hints of promise and danger. "Together, we can bring about the end of our mutual foes. Imagine the power we could wield, the order we could impose upon this chaotic world."

Ardin's mind raced with the possibilities her words presented. He knew nothing came for free in this world, least of all from a creature such as this. Yet he could not deny the pull he felt towards her, a mixture of curiosity, desire, and the tantalizing prospect of increased power. His body thrummed with an unsatisfied libido, a primal urge he had too-often suppressed in pursuit of his holy mission.

A needle of doubt wormed its way into Ardin's thoughts, piercing the veil of desire that threatened to cloud his judgment. With practiced precision, he scanned his body, employing what he firmly believed to be a God-given ability - a divine gift bestowed upon him to combat the insidious influences of magical creatures. He probed every fiber of his being and his surroundings, searching for even the faintest trace of enchantment.

As he delved deeper, Ardin felt the drow's power, an intoxicating aura that pulsed and swirled around her like a seductive perfume. It was alluring, yes, but also tightly controlled, a testament to her mastery over her own abilities. To his surprise and grudging admiration, he found that her power didn't touch him directly. There were no tendrils of magic worming their way into his mind, no subtle compulsions tugging at his will.

Expanding his awareness, Ardin's connection to the very earth beneath his bare feet revealed the state of his three fellow Knights. Their arousal mirrored his own, a primal response to the drow's otherworldly beauty and confident demeanor. He could sense their quickened heartbeats, the rush of blood through their veins, and the growing tightness in their loins. Yet, like him, they weren't under any magical influence. It was her raw, natural allure - the dangerous curve of her lips, the smoldering intensity in her crimson eyes, and the promise of dark pleasures in her every movement - that elicited such a visceral reaction from them all.

Ardin found himself both relieved and unsettled by this realization. On one hand, it meant they weren't being manipulated by sorcery, which would have demanded swift and merciless action. On the other, it forced him to confront the uncomfortable truth that he - a paragon of virtue and righteousness - could be so affected by a creature he considered an abomination. The conflict between his ingrained beliefs and his body's undeniable response only served to heighten the tension of the moment, leaving Ardin teetering on the edge of a decision that could alter the course of his life and mission forever.

For what seemed like an eternity, Ardin weighed his options. The potential benefits of such an alliance were immense, but so too were the risks. Finally, decision made, he spoke. "Very well," he said, his voice carrying the weight of command. "What is your name?"

The Drow elf's smile transformed into something more predatory, a look of triumph flickering in her crimson eyes. "Elara Darkstone," she replied, her voice low and seductive, sending tendrils of heat through Ardin's body. "But you may call me whatever pleases you, My Lord."

She stood and took a step closer, her lithe form moving with a grace that belied her deadly nature. The guards tensed, but Ardin held up a hand to stay them. Elara's scent, exotic and intoxicating, filled his nostrils as she leaned in close.

"And I look forward to working with you, Ardin," she whispered, her breath hot against his ear. "Together, we shall reshape this world in our image."

Ardin suppressed a shudder, both of anticipation and trepidation. He had set foot upon a new path, one that promised great power but also great peril. As he gazed into Elara's mesmerizing eyes, he wondered if he had made a pact with a valuable ally or a dangerous adversary. Only time would tell, and Ardin vowed to remain vigilant, even as his body yearned for the touch of this dark enchantress.

 

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From the Author:

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Ah, the holiday season! Sorry this one took a little longer to get out. I decided to try my hand at NaNoWriMo on a different story. But, hopefully this chapter is to your liking. Still many more to come.

Nikky

 

Ashani

 

Chapter 23: Dribbling Deceptions

 

I woke up Friday morning in my own bed, sandwiched between Shayna and Elly. The last thing I remembered was falling asleep in the living room with everyone else after a long night of planning and strategizing. Somehow, we'd all made it to bed. As I blinked the sleep from my eyes, I marveled at how chaotic my life had become in just a week since my resurrection.

Has it really only been a week? I thought. Is this what the rest of my life is going to be like?

I carefully extricated myself from between my wives, trying not to wake them. Elly mumbled something I didn't quite catch but remained asleep. Shayna instinctively scooted over to cuddle with Elly, filling the warm space I'd left behind.

The smell of coffee and bacon lured me to the kitchen. As I entered, I was greeted by the sight of Gloria and Ashani seated at the table while Mary bustled about, serving breakfast. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the savory scent of crispy bacon and fluffy pancakes.

"Good morning, ladies," I said, scanning the room. "Where's Nikky?"

Mary's cheeks flushed a deep red as she busied herself with the coffee pot.

"I'm right here, stud," Nikky's voice called out. She sauntered out of Mary's bedroom, completely naked, her red hair tousled from sleep.

I raised an eyebrow. "Uh, did you kick Mary out of her own bed?"

Nikky grinned, her blue eyes twinkling mischievously. "Mary's not my slave, Bobby. There's nothing wrong with enjoying the company of a beautiful woman." She winked at me. "Unless you're jealous and want to join next time?"

I couldn't tell if she was serious or just teasing. Before I could respond, Nikky moved to Mary and gave her a quick, but passionate kiss. Mary's eyes darted to me, seeking approval. I nodded, letting her know it was okay to pursue any relationship she wanted. The kiss didn't last long before Mary went back to cooking and serving us, somehow managing to be in the right spot at the right time for every step. The second the bacon or pancakes needed to be flipped or pulled off, she was right there, all while also making freshly squeezed orange juice and brewing the perfect cup of coffee.

Mary set a plate in front of me, piled high with golden pancakes, crispy bacon, and scrambled eggs. "Breakfast is served, Master," she said softly, her eyes downcast but a small smile playing on her lips.

I took a bite and almost moaned. The pancakes were light and fluffy, perfectly complemented by the sweet maple syrup. The bacon was crisp and salty, and the eggs were seasoned just right. "Mary, this is incredible," I said, making sure to catch her eye. "Thank you so much."

Mary's smile widened, her red eyes shining with pride.

Shayna stumbled into the kitchen, looking adorably disheveled in nothing but an oversized nightshirt. Mary immediately handed her a steaming cup of coffee. Shayna took a sip and sighed contentedly. "Mary, this is perfect. Just the way I like it. Thank you."

Then Shayna noticed Nikky's state of undress. I tensed, expecting an explosion, but after a couple of tense seconds, Shayna just shrugged. "Damn, girl. If I had a body like that, I'd walk around naked too."

Nikky preened under the compliment as Shayna turned to leave. "I'm going to wake up Elly," she called over her shoulder.

Gloria watched this exchange with a bemused expression. "You know, Bobby," she said, her voice tinged with both admiration and concern, "I can't decide if you're the luckiest guy in the world or if you're destined to crash and burn spectacularly." She gestured to the kitchen full of beautiful women. "You've got those amazing wives who obviously love you and are looking out for you. But your destiny... it's fraught with danger. If you're not careful, these women might burn you out before you even get started. Or worse, you might take them down with you."

I sighed, running a hand through my hair. "Yeah, I know. Believe me, I never wanted a polyamorous relationship. This literally fell into my lap. But... I have no regrets."

Just then, Elly and Shayna entered the kitchen. Elly, having overheard my last comment, wrapped her arms around me from behind. "And you better not have any regrets," she said, her voice full of warmth. "Because I love you, Bobby Brody. And I love Shayna. And I wouldn't trade this for anything in the world."

Shayna joined our embrace, pressing a kiss to my cheek. "What she said," she murmured.

I looked around the kitchen at the assembled women – my two wives, my compatriots in that damned quest, and my... whatever Nikky was. Each of them had their own strengths, their own quirks, their own reasons for being here. And somehow, improbably, we were all in this together.

Ashani cleared her throat, her golden eyes narrowing slightly. "As touching as this display is," she said, her regal tone tinged with impatience, "perhaps we should focus on the task at hand? We do have a dangerous immortal to capture, after all, and I believe you mentioned something about returning me to my tribe."

Right, Charlotte's voice echoed in my mind. Let's not forget why we're all here. Ardin isn't going to capture himself, you know, and you'll need all the help you can get.

I nodded, reluctantly pulling away from Elly and Shayna. "Ashani's right," I said. "We need to finalize our plan. But first, let's finish breakfast. No sense facing a potentially world-ending threat on an empty stomach."

As Mary served up dishes to Nikky, Shayna, and Elly, I noticed Shayna's brow furrow with concern.

"Mary, have you eaten yet?" Shayna asked, her voice gentle and caring.

Mary's eyes widened slightly, a small smile gracing her lips. "Thank you for your concern, Mistress Shayna," she replied, her voice soft and melodious. However, I couldn't help but notice she didn't actually answer the question.

Before I could press the issue, Nikky reached out and pulled Mary into her lap. "Someone else can tend to the food," Nikky declared, her voice playful but with an undercurrent of authority. "You need to eat too, beautiful."

I watched as Nikky began to feed Mary from her own plate, the two of them giggling and exchanging heated glances. It was... distracting, to say the least. Despite my best efforts, I found my eyes drawn to Nikky's curves, her naked form on full display.

Damn, Bobby, Charlotte's voice echoed in my head, tinged with amusement. A little quality time with that fox would probably bump you to the next level. Just saying...

Not happening, I thought back firmly, trying to tear my gaze away from the spectacle before me.

Suddenly, I felt Elly lean in close, her breath tickling my ear. "She's pretty hot, isn't she?" she whispered, a teasing lilt to her voice. "But I thought you weren't interested in redheads..."

I nearly choked on my pancake, coughing and spluttering. Once I'd regained my composure, I turned to Elly, keeping my voice low. "Okay, yes, I noticed her," I admitted quietly. "But my heart belongs to you and Shayna. Always."

Elly grinned, clearly pleased with my response. But before she could say anything, Nikky's sultry laugh filled the kitchen.

"Why, thank you, Bobby," she purred, her blue eyes twinkling mischievously. "You're not so bad yourself."

I blinked in surprise. There was no way she could have heard me from across the room. Filing that information away for later, I decided a change of subject was in order. I stood up, moving towards the stove.

"Here, let me take over the cooking," I offered, reaching for the spatula.

Mary's eyes widened in alarm. "Master, please, there's no need-"

"Hush, you," Nikky interrupted, tightening her hold on Mary. "Let the man cook if he wants to. It's his house."

I managed to save the current batch of pancakes and bacon, though they were a bit well-done. As I flipped a fresh batch onto the griddle, I turned to Ashani.

"So, Ashani," I began, trying to keep my tone casual, "tell me more about your race. What exactly would it take to get you reinstated as their princess?"

Ashani straightened in her chair, her golden eyes gleaming with pride. "Surely you jest," she said, her voice regal and slightly condescending. "The Nagini are the most magnificent race to ever grace this earth. Our proud warrior culture, our rigid caste system, our superior physiology - these are all common knowledge."

I exchanged a bemused glance with Shayna, who just shrugged.

"Humor me," I pressed. "What can we do to return your status?"

Ashani paused, her expression growing somber. After a long moment, she spoke. "The gnolls would have to confess that they never defiled me," she said quietly. "Or I would have to prove my innocence."

I frowned, remembering the scene in the gnoll cave. "The gnolls are dead," I pointed out. "Is there another way to prove you're... clean?"

Ashani's cheeks flushed slightly, but her voice remained steady. "I am still virginal," she stated matter-of-factly. "But my uncle refused to listen or have me examined. He's the one who banished me. It would take a mighty warrior to get him to listen." She shook her head, her long hair swaying. "I see no way forward."

A sinking feeling settled in my stomach as I realized what I might have to do. Would I have to fight for Ashani's honor? Was it really worth it? There had to be another way...

Oh hell yeah! Charlotte's voice exploded in my mind, practically vibrating with excitement. You'd better start leveling up, Bobby boy. This is gonna be epic!

I groaned internally, flipping the pancakes with perhaps a bit more force than necessary. How the hell had my life come to this? One minute I'm a normal college student, the next I'm sharing my body with a over-zealous succubus and contemplating fighting some sort of snake-person royalty to restore a princess's honor.

"Is everything alright, Bobby?" Shayna asked, her voice laced with concern.

I forced a smile. "Yeah, just... thinking about our next move."

Gloria raised an eyebrow. "Care to share with the class?"

I hesitated, looking around the room at the assembled women.

"I think," I said slowly, "that we might need to make a detour before we go after Ardin."

Ashani's eyes widened. "You don't mean..."

I nodded. "We're going to clear your name and get you back into your tribe. We need all the help we can get against Ardin, and having a Nagini princess on our side with her tribe behind her could be a game-changer."

Not to mention all that sweet, sweet EXP you'll get, Charlotte chimed in.

Not now, Charlotte, I thought back.

"Are you sure about this, Bobby?" Elly asked, her voice soft but concerned.

I met her gaze, then Shayna's. "No," I admitted. "But I think it's our best shot. We need allies, and Ashani deserves justice."

Nikky grinned, her blue eyes sparkling. "Well, this ought to be interesting," she purred. "Count me in."

As the others began to discuss the logistics of our new plan, I turned back to the stove, flipping another batch of pancakes.

As I flipped another batch of pancakes onto a plate, I heard a faint, distant ringing. It took me a moment to realize it was my phone.

"Shit," I muttered. "Can someone take over here? I need to get that."

Without waiting for a response, I dashed out of the kitchen and down the hallway towards my bedroom. As I ran, I heard Shayna's voice behind me.

"Did you guys hear a phone?" she asked.

"I didn't hear anything," Elly replied, sounding confused.

I burst into the bedroom, lunging for my phone on the nightstand. I managed to snatch it up just before it went to voicemail. Glancing at the caller ID, I decided to stay in the room for some privacy.

"Guardian Rhinehardt," I answered, trying to keep my voice steady. "What can I do for you, sir?"

Derrick's deep, authoritative voice came through the speaker. "Bobby, I need to see you. Today."

My stomach clenched. "Sir, I have classes today. Is it possible to-"

"The teachers won't notice if you miss one day," Derrick cut me off dismissively. "This is important, Bobby."

I hesitated, thinking about the classes I'd already missed this week. It didn't sit well with me, but I knew I couldn't go against my boss in the Knights.

"Alright," I conceded. "Should I meet you in Consul Willmont's office?"

There was a pause on the other end of the line. "No," Derrick said firmly. "And it was weird for Consul Willmont to be in charge of new recruits. Someone else is already filling his role. Come to my house. I'll send you the address."

I bit my lip, holding back the fact that I already knew where one of my basketball idols lived. "Okay, I'll-"

The line went dead. Guardian Rhinehardt had already hung up.

I lowered the phone, feeling a mix of anxiety and frustration. When I looked up, I saw Shayna standing in the doorway, her expression worried.

"Everything alright?" she asked softly.

I sighed, running a hand through my brown hair. "That was Guardian Rhinehardt. I have to meet him today."

Shayna's frown deepened. "What about our plans with Ashani?"

"We'll have to do it this evening," I replied. "I don't think I have a choice in this meeting."

Shayna nodded, understanding but clearly not happy about it. We made our way back to the kitchen, where the others were finishing up breakfast.

"I have to leave," I announced to the group. "Ashani, we should plan on heading to meet your tribe this evening."

Ashani nodded regally, but Gloria's face darkened. "The Knights," she spat, her voice filled with venom. "The sooner you break out from under their thumb, the better you'll be."

I understood her sentiment, but the reality wasn't so simple. "I know, Gloria, but they've got their hooks in me too deep. I can't just walk away."

Nikky chimed in, her blue eyes serious for once. "You're playing a dangerous game, Bobby. I saw how hard it was for Susan and Bernard to live a double life."

The mention of my father sent a jolt of anger through me. Rather than get into another argument about him, I decided to leave.

"I need to get ready," I muttered, heading back to the master bedroom to shower and prepare.

As I stepped into the shower, letting the hot water wash over me, I heard the bathroom door open. Elly and Shayna slipped in, their expressions a mix of concern, determination, and playfulness.

"I don't remember how we got to bed," Elly said, "but I'd planned on having you ravish me before we fell asleep."

I wondered if Mary was somehow the culprit for how we'd all managed to end up in our beds, but that then led to thought about what Nikky and Mary got up to with the rest of us asleep, and with my wives right there, ready and apparently willing, they took precedence in my thoughts.

"You mean after I was drained twice yesterday, you planned on going another round with me?" I asked as I pulled Elly into my embrace. Our lips met in a passionate kiss, and it was Shayna who answered my question.

"We watched you fuck two other women yesterday," Shayna said, her voice already thick with desire. "And while you played with us while deep in Demitra, we could only watch you fuck Adam's mom senseless. I planned on taking you as soon as we got home, but then we had guests, and you know how that—oomph!"

I'd released Elly's lips, but only to pull Shayna into me, and the three of us shared a three-way kiss.

Shayna pulled away from our kiss, her blue eyes dark with desire. "I need you," she whispered, her voice hoarse with longing. My body was already on edge, and her words only served to heighten my arousal.

I groaned, my grip on her hips tightening. "I need you both," I confessed, my gaze flicking between Shayna and Elly.

Elly took that as her cue, dropping to her knees in the shower. Her eyes sparkled with mischief as she looked up at me, a wicked smile playing on her lips. "Let me get you ready for our wife," she purred, her hands reaching up to cup my balls.

Before I could respond, her lips wrapped around my cock, taking me deep into her throat. A strangled moan escaped my lips as I felt the wet heat of her mouth engulf me. She'd always been good at this, but now... it was like she was trying to prove a point.

As Elly bobbed her head up and down, her hands caressed my thighs, her fingers teasingly close to my balls but never quite touching. Meanwhile, Shayna pressed her body against me, her lips seeking mine in another passionate kiss.

Our tongues danced together, a passionate pas de deux that set my senses ablaze. I could feel Shayna's nipples hardening against my chest, a testament to her arousal. My hands found their way to her modest breasts, squeezing and kneading the soft flesh as our bodies moved together in rhythm with Elly's mouth.

After a few moments, Elly pulled back, gasping for breath. Her eyes glittered with challenge as she spoke. "I'm gonna need some help with this beast," she said, her fingers still wrapped around my thick cock.

Shayna didn't need to be asked twice. She dropped to her knees beside Elly, her ice blue eyes locked on mine as she took me into her mouth. Together, they worked in tandem, their tongues teasing and tormenting me, driving me wild.

"Fuck, I'm not gonna last," I groaned, my hands tangling in their hair. Both women preened, clearly proud of their skills. But I needed more. I needed to be inside one of them.

I pulled away, my body trembling with need. "Shayna, get up here," I rasped, my voice husky with desire.

She obeyed, her eyes dark with desire and need. I pressed her back against the shower wall, my hands roaming her slender body as I kissed her deeply. Meanwhile, Elly stayed on her knees, her eyes locked on my cock, licking her lips hungrily.

I entered Shayna in one smooth thrust, lubricated by my wives' saliva and Shayna's natural fluids, groaning at the tight heat that enveloped me. She moaned, her nails digging into my back as I began to move within her. The water cascaded down on us, adding to the sensuality of the moment.

Elly watched, her eyes gleaming with lust. "I want to ride you next," she murmured, her eyes never leaving my cock as it slid in and out of Shayna.

Shayna gasped, her head falling back as I pounded into her. "Yes, ride him," she panted. "Ride him hard."

I could feel myself getting closer to the edge, the pressure building within me. I knew I wouldn't last much longer, not with the two of them working together to drive me wild. But I didn't want it to end, not yet. I wanted to savor every moment of this exquisite pleasure.

As I moved within Shayna, I could feel her body tightening around me, her muscles clenching as she approached her own climax. I knew she was close, and I wanted to make sure she got there. I reached down between us, my fingers finding her clit, and began to rub it in time with my thrusts.

Shayna moaned, her body convulsing as she came. I could feel her muscles milking my cock, urging me to follow her over the edge. And I did, with a roar of pleasure that echoed through the shower.

As I came down from my high, I pulled out of Shayna and looked at Elly. She was still kneeling on the shower floor, her eyes dark with desire. "Your turn," I said, my voice low and husky.

Elly grinned, her hands reaching up to cup my balls as she took me into her mouth once more. Her tongue and skill were on point as she cleaned our combined juices, and I didn't even have an opportunity to go soft before I was ready for round two. I let out a low growl as she sucked and licked every inch of me, her eyes locked on mine with a mischievous glint.

"My turn," Elly breathed as she guided me to sit on the shower floor. Elly straddled my legs for a brief moment, her fingers tracing my chest and abs before lowering herself upon my length. I entered her in one smooth stroke, groaning at the tight heat that enveloped me. Elly moaned, her head falling back as I began to move within her, her hips rocking in time with my thrusts.

Shayna moved behind Elly, her eyes fixed on us. The sight of her watching us was intoxicating, and I could feel my desire spiking once more. "Let me help," she murmured, her hands reaching around to caress Elly's breasts and sensitive nipples.

I groaned, the sensation almost too much. Shayna's fingers teased Elly's nipples as I thrust into her, our bodies moving in perfect harmony. The water from the shower beat down on us, adding to the intensity of the moment. The steam filled the air, making it heavy with the scent of our arousal.

Elly leaned back on her hands, her head falling back as she turned to our dark-skinned wife. "I want to taste you while he… oomph… ruins my pussy." Her voice was breathless, her words coming out in gasps as I continued to pound into her.

Shayna let out a low moan at Elly's words, before planting a passionate kiss on her lips. I felt Elly tighten up around me as she experienced her first orgasm of this session. Her body shuddered, her muscles clenching around my cock as she cried out in pleasure.

Shayna soon stood, and squatted over Elly's hungry lips while still facing me. I watched in awe as some of the seed I'd planted in my short wife slipped from between Shayna's nether-lips and dripped down onto Elly's waiting tongue. The sight was almost too much for me to handle, and I felt my own orgasm building.

Reaching forward, I took Elly's pert nipples between my fingers and tweaked them lightly, eliciting a hungry grown from my wife. Her back arched, pushing her breasts further into my hands as she continued to devour Shayna.

"Oh, shit!" Shayna gasped, once her labia finally kissed Elly's soft lips. Then Shayna's blue eyes met mine, dark and hungry, as she tried to speak while Elly ate her out. "Damn, Bobby… She's… huff, I mean, you're good at this and—Oh!—all, but our wife knows what she's doing."

"Fuck, I'm already close," I gasped, my body on edge. The scene before me was just too good! The sight of Shayna's pleasure-filled face, the sound of Elly's wet lips on Shayna's flesh, and the feeling of Elly's tight pussy around my cock was almost more than I could handle.

"Come for us," Shayna whispered, her eyes locked on mine. "Let us see you fall apart as Elly makes me cum."

Her words sent me over the edge. I came with a hoarse shout, my body shuddering as I filled Elly with my release. Elly cried out, her body convulsing around me as she reached her own climax. We clung to each other, our breath coming in ragged gasps as we rode out the waves of pleasure.

Finally, I pulled out of Elly, my legs feeling like jelly. Shayna wrapped her arms around me, pressing a soft kiss to my lips. "That was..." I began, searching for the right words.

"Incredible?" Shayna supplied, her eyes sparkling with amusement.

"Life-affirming?" Elly suggested, her cheeks flushed with a pleased smile.

I laughed, pulling them both close. "All of the above," I agreed. "But now, I really do need to get ready to meet Guardian Rhinehardt."

And you better level up soon, Charlotte's voice chimed in. We've got a big quest ahead of us, and you're gonna need all the help you can get.

 

* * *

I pulled up to Guardian Rhinehardt's house, my stomach churning with anxiety. The Kindred Gladius's engine purred to a stop, and Seraph's voice filled the interior.

"We have arrived at our destination, Bobby," the AI announced. "I detect Al's Jeep is already parked in the driveway."

"Thanks, Seraph," I muttered, my mind racing. What was this meeting about? And why was Al already here?

As I stepped out of the car, memories of our last encounter with Guardian Rhinehardt flooded back. The gnoll cave, the chaos, the deaths... and the lies I'd have to maintain. I took a deep breath, mentally rehearsing my story. Mary, dead. The Nagini, escaped. Somehow, I'd managed to drag both Rhinehardt and Al out of that hellhole after using the last of Mary's health potions.

You've got this, Bobby, Charlotte's voice echoed in my head. Just keep it cool.

I approached the front door, my hand raised to knock, when it suddenly swung open. Standing before me was a woman who could've stepped right off the cover of a fashion magazine. She was tall, probably 5'10", with legs that seemed to go on forever. Her honey-blonde hair cascaded in perfect waves over her shoulders, framing a face with high cheekbones and full lips. Her eyes, a piercing green, looked me up and down with barely concealed disdain.

"You must be Bobby Brody," she said, her voice dripping with condescension. "I'm Veronica Rhinehardt, Derrick's wife. You're late."

I opened my mouth to apologize, but she'd already turned on her heel, expecting me to follow. As we walked through the house, she spoke over her shoulder.

"You know, it's quite generous of Derrick to give you young Knights any attention at all," Veronica said, her tone making it clear she thought otherwise. "He's such an exceptional man. Perhaps if you work very, very hard, you might one day be half the Knight he is. But I wouldn't count on it."

I remained silent, gritting my teeth against the urge to respond.

Oh, darling, Charlotte's voice rang in my head, laced with amusement. If you only knew what your 'exceptional' husband was really like. I bet you'd trade him for our Bobby in a heartbeat.

I had to stifle a laugh at Charlotte's commentary as we entered what I could only describe as a sports fanatic's dream den. The walls were lined with signed jerseys and photographs of Derrick's illustrious basketball career. A massive flat-screen TV dominated one wall, while a fully stocked bar occupied another. Leather couches and recliners were arranged around a coffee table that looked like it cost more than my old dorm room.

Derrick and Al were seated on one of the couches, deep in conversation. As we entered, Veronica sauntered over to her husband, clearly expecting some sort of acknowledgment. Instead, Derrick barely glanced at her.

"That'll be all, Veronica," he said dismissively.

For a split second, I saw a flash of hurt in Veronica's eyes before she masked it with a haughty expression. "Of course, darling. I have better things to do anyway," she said, tossing her hair as she left the room.

Poor thing, Charlotte mused. He doesn't appreciate what he has because he never had to work for it. It was just handed to him on a silver platter.

I've had to work for my wives' appreciation, I thought back. And I love them all the more for it.

I'm working hard to earn your appreciation too, you know, Charlotte added, her mental voice softer than usual.

Instead of replying with words, I sent her a wave of genuine appreciation. It wasn't love–we weren't there–but it was something.

"Bobby!" Derrick's booming voice snapped me back to reality. He was smiling, but there was something in his eyes that put me on edge. "How've you been since our last... adventure?"

I swallowed hard. "Honestly, sir? I've been having trouble sleeping," I admitted, then added the lie I had prepared. "I keep having nightmares about the way those gnolls laughed."

Al let out a genuine laugh from his seat. "Man, I hear ya. But let me tell you, Jolene wears me out every night. I sleep like a baby!"

I forced a smile, but it faded as Derrick leaned forward, his expression growing serious.

"Bobby," he said slowly, "tell me again what happened to Willmont's maid."

My heart rate spiked, but before I could panic, I felt Charlotte's calming presence.

Let me help, she whispered in my mind. Use my acting skills.

Taking a deep breath, I met Derrick's gaze steadily. "It happened so fast," I said, my voice steady and tinged with regret. "One of the gnolls caught her with a brutal blow. Before I could react, another had grabbed her and was carrying her off into the darkness. All that was left behind was her bag of potions."

Derrick's eyes narrowed slightly. "We never found her body," he said, his tone neutral but probing.

I shrugged, careful not to offer any more information than necessary. "I'm not sure what happened after that, sir. It was chaos, and I was focused on getting you and Al out of there."

The room fell silent for a moment, the tension palpable. I could feel Derrick's eyes on me, searching for any sign of deception. But thanks to Charlotte's influence, I managed to keep my expression neutral, meeting his gaze without flinching.

I felt my palms grow sweaty as Derrick's mood suddenly shifted. He shrugged, as if the topic of Mary's disappearance was no longer important.

Bobby, be careful, Charlotte's voice echoed in my head. He still suspects you of something, but he's not sure what. I can sense it in his thoughts.

I nodded imperceptibly, keeping my eyes on the road.

Al cleared his throat, his voice tinged with uncertainty. "So, uh, do we have another mission coming up?"

Derrick shook his head, a smile playing on his lips. "Nah, I figure I gave you boys enough time to recover from the last one. But if I'm going to supervise and lead you, I ought to get to know you better."

I saw Al visibly relax, but I felt Charlotte tense within me. I didn't need her to tell me that this could all be a ruse. Forcing my posture to relax, I asked, "What did you have in mind, Guardian Rhinehardt?"

"Please, call me Derrick when we're not on an official mission," he said, his tone casual.

He's working to ingratiate himself, Charlotte warned. He wants you to drop your guard.

"Well, I've got a surprise for you boys," Derrick continued, a mischievous glint in his eye.

Charlotte's lack of concern eased my worry, but I couldn't help wondering if this was really worth missing my Friday classes.

"Let's go for a ride," Derrick announced suddenly. "Follow me."

He led us to his garage, and I couldn't help but gape at the sight. It was a car enthusiast's dream come true. Sleek sports cars lined one wall, their paint jobs gleaming under the overhead lights. Vintage classics occupied another section, each looking as if it had just rolled off the assembly line. In the center, a rotating platform showcased what I assumed was Derrick's pride and joy – a limited edition supercar that probably cost more than my entire college education.

Derrick tossed me a set of keys, grinning. "Ever driven a Lamborghini Aventador, Bobby?"

I stared at him, speechless. My finger hovered over the key fob, heart racing with excitement. But when I pressed the button, it wasn't the Lamborghini that beeped – it was a nice-looking pickup truck parked in the corner.

Derrick burst out laughing. "Oh man, you should've seen your face!"

Heat rushed to my cheeks as I took a closer look at the key fob, realizing it couldn't possibly be for the Lamborghini. I moved to hand the keys back, but Derrick stopped me.

"No, no. You really will be driving," he said, still chuckling. "I dismissed my driver for the day. I want to see how you handle yourself behind the wheel."

Shrugging, I made my way to the truck. Derrick climbed into the passenger seat while Al scrambled into the back, practically vibrating with excitement.

As I started the engine, I couldn't help but appreciate the deep rumble and the sense of power it exuded. It might not have been a Lamborghini, but it was still a damn nice ride.

"Where are we headed?" I asked as I pulled out of the garage.

Derrick waved his hand dismissively. "Just drive. I'll tell you when to turn."

From the backseat, Al's voice rose an octave as he rambled. "I can't believe I'm riding with Guardian Rhinehardt! Do you know he's never failed a mission? He's a legend among the Knights! They say he's going to be running the whole organization one day!"

I tuned out Al's fanboying, focusing on the road and Derrick's occasional directions. After a few minutes of silence, Derrick turned to us with a grin.

"So, boys, how are things going with your wives?" he asked, his tone casual but his eyes sharp.

Al's response was immediate and enthusiastic. "Jolene is incredible! She's so submissive, does anything and everything I ask. I couldn't be happier!"

I hesitated for a moment, choosing my words carefully. "I'm still getting used to the idea of having two wives," I admitted. "But I can't believe how lucky I got. They're both amazing."

Derrick nodded, seemingly satisfied. "And how about your homes? Are you happy with your living arrangements?"

This time, Al's response was less enthusiastic. "Well, it's nice, but... I don't know, something feels like it's missing."

"As you move up the ranks and prove your potential, you'll get better quarters," Derrick assured him. Then he turned to me, eyebrow raised.

I decided honesty was the best policy. "It's so much more than I ever believed I'd have," I said, thinking back to my childhood home. "A hell of a lot better than what I grew up in, that's for sure."

Derrick's next question caught me off guard. "And your vehicles? How are you finding them?"

Charlotte's warning bells went off in my head, though she couldn't pinpoint why this question felt dangerous. I thought back to the sudden potential windfall I'd discovered when looking at vehicles, careful to keep my expression neutral.

Al, oblivious to any tension, shrugged. "I chose to stick with my Jeep. It suits me just fine."

I kept my eyes on the road as I answered. "I just got mine yesterday, actually. Still getting used to it."

As we rounded a corner, Derrick suddenly straightened in his seat. "We're here," he announced.

I pulled up to a street basketball court near the beach. The sun glinted off the ocean in the distance, and the salty breeze carried the sounds of waves crashing against the shore. A few people were shooting hoops on the court, their laughter and trash talk drifting our way.

As I put the truck in park, I couldn't shake the feeling that this seemingly casual outing was anything but. Derrick's questions, his careful observations–it all felt like a test. But a test for what?

Stay alert, Bobby, Charlotte's voice whispered in my mind. I don't know what game he's playing, but we need to be ready for anything.

I nodded imperceptibly as I unbuckled my seatbelt, preparing to face whatever Derrick had in store for us on this sunny beach-side basketball court.

As we stepped out of the truck, I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. The sound of basketballs bouncing and sneakers squeaking against the concrete filled the air, bringing back memories of countless hours spent on similar courts.

Derrick nodded towards the players on the court. "Bobby, you recognize any of those guys?"

I squinted, taking a closer look. My heart rate picked up as I realized who they were. "Holy shit," I muttered under my breath. "Those are your teammates from the NBA!"

Easy there, fanboy, Charlotte teased in my mind. Try not to drool.

Derrick grinned, clearly amused by my reaction. But his expression quickly turned serious as he leaned in close to Al and me. "Listen up, you two," he said in a low voice. "These guys don't know about my... extracurricular activities. So watch what you say, got it?"

Al and I both nodded, understanding the importance of keeping the Knights a secret.

"I thought it might be fun to get a little game in with some of my teammates," Derrick continued, his eyes twinkling with mischief.

Al shifted uncomfortably beside me. "Uh, Guardian Rhine- I mean, Derrick," he stammered. "I'm not exactly... good at basketball."

I clapped Al on the shoulder, feeling a surge of confidence. "Don't worry, man. Just follow my lead. I'll make you look good out there."

Derrick let out a hearty laugh. "We'll see how well you actually play against professionals, hotshot."

As we approached the court, I felt my palms start to sweat. Derrick called out to his teammates, and they jogged over to meet us.

"Boys, I want you to meet some friends of mine," Derrick said, gesturing to Al and me. "This is Bobby and Al. They're part of a social project I'm working on."

I tried not to wince at the 'social project' comment, but before I could dwell on it, Derrick started introducing his teammates.

"Bobby, Al, meet Jerome Washington, Brandon Keller, and Teaton Smith."

My jaw nearly hit the ground as I shook hands with each of them. Jerome stood at an impressive 7'5", his brown skin glistening with sweat, his shaved head reflecting the sun. He wore basketball goggles that somehow made him look even more intimidating.

Brandon, the shortest of the three at 6'9", had short blonde hair and piercing blue eyes. He gave us a cocky grin as he shook our hands.

Teaton, standing at 7'1" with close-cropped brown hair and dark skin, nodded politely but seemed eager to get back to playing.

"Nice to meet you boys," Jerome said, his deep voice matching his imposing stature. "Hope you're ready to get schooled."

Brandon chuckled. "Yeah, we'll try not to embarrass you too badly in front of your mentor here."

I felt a mix of awe and competitive spirit rising in me. "We'll see about that," I shot back, trying to sound more confident than I felt.

Derrick quickly divided us into teams: Al, Teaton, and me against him, Jerome, and Brandon.

As we took our positions on the court, I could see the nervousness written all over Al's face. "Just relax," I whispered to him. "We've got this."

The game started, and it quickly became apparent that Al wasn't exaggerating about his lack of skill. Within the first few minutes, he managed to dribble the ball off his foot and out of bounds. A few plays later, when I passed him the ball, he fumbled it so badly it bounced off his chest and right into Brandon's hands.

"Come on, Al," I called out, trying to sound encouraging. "Keep your eyes on the ball and your hands ready!"

But my advice fell on deaf ears. Al's coordination seemed to abandon him completely every time the ball came near him.

As the game progressed, it turned into more of a two-on-three match. Teaton and I did our best to cover for Al, but the other team's taunts were getting under my skin.

"Hey, Derrick," Brandon called out after scoring another easy basket. "Where'd you find these guys? The Special Olympics?"

I gritted my teeth, feeling a surge of anger on Al's behalf. I could see the defeat in Al's eyes, and even Teaton was starting to look frustrated.

That's when an idea hit me. I had this new telekinetic ability–maybe I could use it to help Al out, just a little bit. But I'd have to be careful not to make it obvious.

The next time Al got the ball, I focused intently. As he went to dribble, I gave the ball the tiniest nudge, just enough to keep it from bouncing off his foot again. Al's eyes widened in surprise as he managed to dribble a few times before passing it back to me.

"Nice one, Al!" I called out, and I could see a small smile forming on his face.

Clever, Charlotte's voice echoed in my head. But be careful. You don't want to draw too much attention.

I nodded imperceptibly, continuing to give Al subtle assists throughout the game. His confidence seemed to grow with each small success, and even Teaton started passing to him more often.

Despite our best efforts, though, we were still no match for three professional basketball players. The game ended with a resounding victory for Derrick's team.

As we all caught our breath, sweat dripping from our faces, Jerome approached Al and me.

"So, what kind of social project are you guys, anyway?" he asked, curiosity evident in his voice. "Some kind of special education program?"

I tensed, not sure how to respond, but Derrick smoothly stepped in.

"It's a mentorship program I'm involved with," he explained, patting me on the shoulder. "Helping young men from disadvantaged backgrounds get a leg up in life. You know, teaching them discipline, teamwork, that kind of thing."

Jerome nodded, seeming satisfied with the explanation. "That's cool, man. Good on you for giving back."

As the pros started to gather their things, preparing to leave, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment despite our loss. Al was grinning from ear to ear, clearly proud of the few plays he'd managed to pull off.

"Thanks for the game, guys," I called out, trying to keep the awe out of my voice.

Brandon flashed us another cocky grin. "Anytime, rookies. Maybe in a few years, you'll actually give us a challenge. You might even almost have some skill, Bobby. Almost."

As we watched them walk away, Derrick turned to us, a glint in his eye. "So, boys," he said, "what did you learn today?"

'That I should never be on a basketball court," Al groaned as he wiped sweat from his brow. His pale skin glistened in the late morning light, and his face was even redder than it usually is with all his freckles.

"You actually started to get better at the end," Derrick offered. "But what can you expect when going up against three pros?"

"Yeah," I cut in, my voice evincing my suspicion. "Wouldn't it have been more fair to split Al and I up, rather than dump us on Teaton?"

"More fair?" Derrick laughed in a way that mocked more than enlightened. "That would have ruined the whole point of this exercise."

"Which was…?" I asked after a couple seconds of silence.

I listened intently as Derrick explained the purpose of our impromptu basketball game. His eyes gleamed with a mix of pride and calculation that made me uneasy.

"I wanted to see how you two worked together as a team," he said, his gaze flicking between Al and me. "And I have to say, I learned quite a lot."

He turned to me first. "Bobby, I was impressed by how you chose to support Al rather than getting frustrated with his lack of skill. That kind of leadership is crucial in the field."

I nodded, feeling a small surge of pride despite my wariness.

"And Al," Derrick continued, "your persistence was admirable. Even after multiple slip-ups, you kept trying. That's the kind of determination we need in the Knights."

Al beamed at the praise, his chest puffing out slightly.

"I also noticed, Al, that you're a quick learner," Derrick added, his tone thoughtful. "It was almost... weird how quickly you improved towards the end there."

I tensed slightly, wondering if he'd noticed my subtle assistance.

"And Bobby," Derrick said, turning back to me, "you've got some real skill on the court. With some training, you might even have a shot at the big leagues after college."

Don't let it go to your head, Charlotte's voice echoed in my mind. He's buttering you up for something.

Derrick's expression suddenly turned serious. "However," he said, his voice taking on a stern edge, "I did notice a few things that need work."

He fixed his gaze on me. "Bobby, you seemed distracted a couple of times during the game. In a real fight, that kind of lapse in focus could get you killed."

I swallowed hard, nodding. He wasn't wrong–I had been distracted by using my newfound abilities to help Al.

"And Al," Derrick continued, "you need to work on your coordination. In the field, your fellow Knights will be relying on you to watch their backs. You can't let them down."

Al's earlier pride deflated visibly, but he nodded solemnly. "Yes, sir," he said quietly.

I could see both of us taking Derrick's words to heart. Despite my suspicions about his motives, I knew he was right about the importance of focus and coordination in dangerous situations.

Suddenly, Derrick's demeanor changed again, his stern expression melting into a friendly grin. "Now, who's hungry?" he asked cheerfully.

Wow, Charlotte's voice chimed in. This guy's mood shifts faster than a chameleon changes colors. He's really putting on a performance to get you two to drop your guard.

"I'm starving," Al admitted, his earlier dejection forgotten at the mention of food.

"Me too," I agreed, realizing how much energy the game had taken out of me.

Derrick's grin widened. "Great! It'll be my treat. Let's head back to the truck."

As we walked back to the vehicle, Derrick chuckled. "You know, this is why I brought the truck instead of one of my sports cars. Didn't want a couple of sweaty men messing up the leather."

We piled into the truck, with Al taking the driver's seat this time and me in the back. As we pulled out of the parking lot, Derrick started giving directions.

"There's a great sandwich shop just down the road," he said. "Take a left at the next light, Al."

A few minutes later, we pulled up in front of a small, cozy-looking shop. The smell of fresh-baked bread wafted through the air as we stepped out of the truck.

As we entered, a large black woman behind the counter broke into a broad smile. "Well, if it isn't Derrick Rhinehardt!" she exclaimed.

Derrick's face lit up with a grin that seemed genuinely warm. "Momma Gleason!" he called back. "How's the best sandwich maker in California doing?"

Momma Gleason laughed, the sound rich and hearty. "Oh, you charmer. I remember when you were just knee-high to a grasshopper, all skinny and awkward. Look at you now, Mr. Big Shot NBA star!"

Derrick's cheeks colored slightly, but his smile never wavered. "Aw, come on now, Momma. You're gonna embarrass me in front of my friends here."

"Good," she retorted with a wink. "Someone's got to keep that big head of yours from floating away. Now, you boys have a seat, and I'll bring you something special."

We made our way to a table in the back corner. As we sat down, a young boy approached our table, his eyes wide with awe.

"E-excuse me, M-Mr. R-Rhinehardt," the kid stuttered, his voice barely above a whisper. "Could I... could I maybe get your a-autograph?"

Derrick's face softened into a kind smile. "Of course, buddy," he said, taking the small book the boy held out. As he signed it, he asked the kid about his favorite basketball team and players.

He's good, Charlotte commented. Look at how humble and approachable he's acting. But inside? He's eating this up. Thinks everyone in this shop should be honored he's even here.

I watched the interaction closely, trying to reconcile Charlotte's insight with Derrick's outward behavior.

As the boy scampered away, clutching his autograph book to his chest, Momma Gleason approached our table. She carried a tray laden with an assortment of sandwiches that made my mouth water instantly.

"Here you go, boys," she said, setting the tray down. "I know how much growing boys can eat, especially after working up a sweat."

She turned to Derrick, her expression softening. "And thank you again for that donation to the shop, Derrick. It's been a real lifesaver with everything going on."

Derrick waved off her thanks with a modest smile. "It's the least I could do, Momma. You've always been there for me."

Oh, please, Charlotte scoffed in my head. He only made that donation to boost his image. And get this–he used the Knights' money to do it. Talk about generous with other people's cash.

Momma Gleason's face grew serious as she glanced out the window. "I tell you, I'm worried sick about all this chaos in the world. That Gulf of Mexico incident... and now the bombing in Wyoming? It's like the world's gone mad."

Derrick's jaw tightened almost imperceptibly. "Well," he said, his voice carefully controlled, "I'm sure the magical creatures–these so-called Lydenese–will get what's coming to them for causing all this trouble."

Momma Gleason frowned slightly. "I don't know, Derrick. The Gulf incident, maybe. But the news is saying it's looking more and more like those Paladonic Knights might be behind the Wyoming bombing." She sighed heavily. "I just wish the world could know peace for once."

I watched Derrick closely as Momma Gleason spoke. His face remained neutral, but I could see the tension in his shoulders, the slight twitch in his jaw. It was clear her words had upset him, though he was working hard to hide it.

He hates hearing the Knights badmouthed, Charlotte observed. But he can't exactly defend them without blowing his cover, can he?

Before Derrick could respond, Al spoke up. "But the Knights are there to protect humanity," he said earnestly. "They wouldn't do something like that."

Momma Gleason gave Al an odd look. "Honey, the Knights are labeled as a terrorist organization for a reason. Any group that goes to extremes like that is evil, no matter what they claim their goals are."

She seemed to catch herself then, shaking her head slightly. "Oh, listen to me, souring the mood. You boys enjoy your meal now. I'm sorry for bringing all that heavy stuff to the table."

As she walked away, I could feel the tension at our table. Derrick's face was a mask of forced calm, Al looked confused and a bit upset, and I... I was caught in the middle, trying to process everything I'd just heard and seen.

As we dug into our sandwiches, an uncomfortable silence settled over our table. The tension from Momma Gleason's comments about the Knights still hung in the air, making each bite feel heavy.

I had to admit, though, the food was incredible. The bread was fresh and crusty, the meats perfectly seasoned, and the vegetables crisp. It was easily one of the best sandwiches I'd ever had.

"This is amazing," I said, breaking the silence. "Thank you for bringing us here, Derrick."

Al nodded enthusiastically, his mouth too full to speak. He swallowed and added, "Yeah, thanks for mentoring us today. It means a lot."

Derrick's expression softened slightly. "You're welcome," he replied, some of the tension leaving his shoulders. "I'm glad you're enjoying it."

We finished our meal without much more conversation. As we stood to leave, I made a point of approaching the counter where Momma Gleason was working.

"Thank you so much for the food," I said, smiling warmly. "It was incredible."

Momma Gleason beamed at me. "I'm so glad you enjoyed it, honey. You come back anytime, you hear?"

"Oh, I will," I assured her. "Maybe next time I'll bring my ladies with me."

A strange look crossed Momma Gleason's face at that comment, but it quickly passed. She shrugged and smiled again. "Well, whoever you bring, they'll be welcome here."

As we piled back into Derrick's truck, I could feel the shift in atmosphere. Derrick's jaw was clenched tight as he started the engine, and he pulled out of the parking lot with more force than necessary.

The drive quickly turned into a white-knuckle experience. Derrick wove through traffic aggressively, barely slowing for yellow lights and cutting off other drivers left and right. I gripped the door handle tightly, my heart racing.

"Can you believe that crap?" Derrick suddenly exploded, his voice filled with anger. "The Lydenese must have framed the Knights for the Wyoming bombing. It's so obvious!"

Al nodded vigorously from the passenger seat. "Absolutely, sir. The Knights would never do something like that. They're the good guys!"

Derrick's rant continued as he swerved around a slow-moving minivan. "The world just doesn't understand how evil the Lydenese really are. And that Ambassador Snow? He's the biggest threat to humanity we've ever faced!"

"Totally agree," Al chimed in. "Snow's probably behind all of this. He's got everyone fooled with his 'peace and understanding' act."

I listened to their back-and-forth, trying to keep my face neutral. "It's a complicated situation," I offered, hoping I sounded supportive enough. "But I'm sure the truth will come out eventually."

Nice save, Charlotte's voice echoed in my head. But Derrick's not buying it. He wants full-throated agreement.

As if on cue, Derrick's eyes flicked to me in the rearview mirror. "You don't sound very convinced, Bobby. Don't tell me you're falling for the Lydenese propaganda too?"

I swallowed hard. "No, no," I said quickly. "I just meant that it might take time for all the evidence to come to light. But I'm sure when it does, it'll vindicate the Knights."

Derrick seemed somewhat appeased by this, but I could still feel his suspicion. The rest of the drive was a blur of near-misses and angry honking from other drivers. By the time we pulled into Derrick's driveway, I was silently thanking every deity I could think of that we'd made it in one piece.

Veronica met us at the garage door, a plastic smile plastered on her face. She leaned in to kiss Derrick, but he barely acknowledged her, accepting the kiss with minimal enthusiasm before brushing past her into the house.

"Come on, boys," he called over his shoulder. "We're not done yet."

I caught a glimpse of hurt in Veronica's eyes before she smoothed her expression back into that perfect, polished mask.

Inside, Derrick turned to face us. "I want you both to keep everything we discussed today in mind," he said, his tone serious. "Learn from it. Understand the real threats we're facing."

He glanced at his watch and frowned. "I've got an important meeting to get to. Veronica, see them out, will you?"

As Derrick disappeared deeper into the house, Charlotte's voice piped up in my head. Important meeting, my ass. He's off to see one of his mistresses.

I felt a twinge of discomfort at Charlotte's casual invasion of Derrick's mental privacy, but another part of me was grateful for the insight. It had probably kept me from saying the wrong thing more than once today.

Veronica's voice pulled me from my thoughts. "You boys are so lucky to have Derrick mentoring you," she said, her tone syrupy sweet. "He's just the best, isn't he?"

As she led us to the door, I couldn't help but feel a pang of sympathy for her. Her entire identity seemed wrapped up in being Derrick's wife, with little sense of who she was beyond that role.

"Thank you for having us," I said politely as we reached the front door.

Veronica's smile didn't quite reach her eyes as she opened the door. "Of course," she replied, her tone clipped. The door closed behind us with a bit more force than necessary.

Al turned to me, his eyes bright with excitement. "Man, what a day! Derrick's amazing, isn't he?"

I nodded, not trusting myself to speak without revealing my true thoughts.

"Well, I better get going," Al said. "Thanks for being such a great teammate today, Bobby. See you around!"

As Al headed off to his car, I approached my SUV. "Seraph," I called out, "take me home, please."

The AI's calm voice responded, "Of course, Bobby. Initiating drive sequence now."

As we pulled out of Derrick's driveway, I let out a long breath. "What a day," I muttered.

You can say that again, Charlotte chimed in. That Derrick is quite a piece of work, isn't he?

I nodded. "Yeah," I said aloud. "And poor Veronica. Did you see how he treated her?"

Mmhmm, Charlotte hummed. Classic case of a trophy wife who's lost her shine. She's built her whole life around him, and he barely even notices her anymore.

As Seraph navigated us smoothly through traffic, I found myself pondering the complexities of Derrick and Veronica's relationship. It was so different from what I had with Shayna and Elly.

Thinking of my wives, I felt a surge of warmth and appreciation. "Seraph," I said, "can you call my wives, please?"

"Certainly, Bobby," the AI responded. "Initiating call now."

As the phone began to ring, I settled back in my seat, grateful for the stability and love in my own relationships. Whatever challenges lay ahead, I knew I had a strong support system to face them with.

 

* * *

1103 AD

 

Ardin stood at the edge of the dense forest, his bandaged eyes seemingly fixed on the lifeless body of the griffin before him. The majestic creature's golden feathers were ruffled, its eagle head twisted at an unnatural angle. He could sense the unease radiating from the Templars around him, their emotions a mixture of awe and revulsion. The scent of blood and death hung heavy in the air, mingling with the earthy aroma of the forest floor.

Stepping forward, Ardin's voice cut through the tense silence. "This is why we exist," he declared, his tone firm and unwavering. "To rid the world of such abominations." He paused, allowing his words to sink in before continuing. "I have fought and killed many such creatures. It is our holy mission to cleanse the world of their evil." His words carried the weight of years of experience, each syllable infused with unwavering conviction.

The air grew thick with tension as Brother Thomas spoke up hesitantly. "But... it caused no harm to the villagers. How can we be certain it was truly evil?"

Ardin's jaw clenched, a flicker of irritation passing across his face. He could feel the doubt seeping into the minds of his followers, threatening to undermine everything he had worked so hard to build. The memory of Venita's betrayal flashed through his mind, fueling his resolve. He would not allow these men to falter in their sacred duty.

Turning to face Thomas, Ardin's expression hardened beneath the bandages covering his eyes. He could sense the young Templar's uncertainty, the wavering of his faith. It was a weakness Ardin could not abide, not when the fate of humanity hung in the balance. He drew in a deep breath, preparing to deliver a lesson that would quash any lingering doubts among his disciples.

Ardin turned to face Thomas, his expression stern despite the bandages covering his eyes. "Brother Thomas," he began, his voice taking on a lecturing tone, "you forget that all creatures not created by God are inherently evil. They undermine His authority and good works." He quoted scripture with practiced ease, "'And I will punish the world for their evil, and the wicked for their iniquity; and I will cause the arrogancy of the proud to cease, and will lay low the haughtiness of the terrible.' Isaiah 13:11. We are the instruments of His will, Brother Thomas. Do not let your eyes deceive you."

Thomas looked away, his conflicted emotions palpable to Ardin. The blind warrior could sense the doubt swirling within the young Templar, threatening to undermine his resolve. Ardin's heightened senses, sharpened by years of living without sight and his God given abilities, picked up on the subtle shift in Thomas's breathing and the tension radiating from his body. He could almost taste the young man's inner turmoil on the air, a bitter tang that reminded him of his own struggles with faith and purpose.

Undeterred, Ardin pressed on, his voice growing louder and more impassioned. The words flowed from him with a fervor that surprised even himself, as if some greater power was speaking through him. "I am gathering like-minded men to follow me in our crusade against these wicked creatures. Together, we will form a brotherhood dedicated to eradicating evil from this world." He felt the weight of his mission settle upon his shoulders, a burden he had carried for so long, but one that seemed to grow lighter with each convert to his cause.

The Templars listened intently, their reactions a mix of awe and unease. Some were captivated by Ardin's words, while others exchanged wary glances, unsure of what to make of this blind man who seemed to see more than they ever could. Ardin sensed the shifting currents of emotion in the area, the way some of the men leaned forward, their hearts quickening with excitement, while others drew back, their skepticism a palpable force. He heard the rustle of chainmail as some shifted uncomfortably, the soft murmur of whispered doubts, and the sharp intake of breath from those who found themselves moved by his passionate plea.

Ardin turned to address the group as a whole, his voice ringing with conviction. "I call upon each and every one of you to join me in this holy war against evil. Together, we will rid the world of these abominations and restore God's order." He paused, letting his words sink in before adding, "We will continue to spread Christianity throughout this godless region. The heathens will either see God's glory and love, or we will send them to meet St. Peter at the pearly gates. We were sent to this country to spread Christianity, and we will do it by word or by sword."

A heavy silence fell over the group as the Templars considered Ardin's words. Slowly, one by one, they began to nod in agreement. Their voices grew stronger as they pledged their allegiance to Ardin and his cause, the power of his conviction winning them over.

Ardin's lips curved into a satisfied smile as he sensed their acceptance. "Know this," he declared, his voice carrying a hint of pride, "I have the church's blessings in our endeavors. From this day forward, you are no longer mere Templars. You are now members of the Paladonic Knights. Our mission remains the same, but now we are better, stronger, and smarter."

As the newly christened Paladonic Knights murmured their approval, Ardin turned his head towards the horizon, his mind scanning the distant landscape. A pang of sadness washed over him as thoughts of his wife, Venita, surfaced unbidden. For a moment, he allowed himself to remember her touch, soft and warm against his skin, her melodious laugh that once filled their humble home with joy, the way she used to look at him with such love in her eyes, those mesmerizing orbs that seemed to hold the secrets of the universe.

But the moment passed quickly, like a fleeting shadow across the sun, and Ardin's sorrow transformed into a burning fury that threatened to consume him whole. He clenched his fists, his knuckles turning white with the force of his grip, his jaw tightening until he could hear the grinding of his own teeth. The memories of her deceptions, the bitter truth of her nature as a false goddess, flooded his mind like a poisonous tide. The betrayal cut deep, deeper than any physical wound he had ever endured, fueling his resolve to rid the world of all such creatures that dared to mock the divine order.

If I ever meet her again, Ardin thought, his inner voice cold and unforgiving, a glacial whisper in the recesses of his mind, it will be the last time she draws breath. The thought sent a shiver down his spine, a mixture of anticipation and dread coursing through his veins. He could almost taste the bittersweet victory on his tongue, imagining the moment when he would finally confront her, when he would make her pay for every lie, every moment of false happiness she had given him.

Ardin's eyes hardened, the warmth that once resided there now replaced by an icy determination. He turned back to face his Knights, seeing in their eager faces the instruments of his vengeance, the holy warriors who would help him cleanse the world of the taint of magic and false gods. A cruel smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he contemplated the righteous path that lay before them, a path paved with the bones of the unworthy and the ashes of the unholy.

"Brothers," Ardin spoke, his voice carrying across the clearing, "our work begins now. We will scour this land, root out every last abomination, and bring the light of God to those who dwell in darkness. Are you prepared for the challenges that lie ahead?"

A chorus of affirmations rang out, the Paladonic Knights' voices united in their newfound purpose. Ardin nodded, satisfaction coursing through him. He had taken the first step towards his grand vision, and with these men by his side, he would reshape the world according to God's will.

As they prepared to move out, Ardin's keen senses picked up on the lingering doubt in some of his followers' hearts. He knew that not all of them were fully convinced, that some still harbored reservations about following a blind man or about the righteousness of their cause. But Ardin was not concerned. He had faith that, in time, they would see the truth of his words, the divine nature of their mission.

And if they didn't... well, Ardin had ways of dealing with those who strayed from the path of righteousness.

 

=======================

So... It looks like I slowed down a bit. Got a little busy with work over the last couple weeks. Still, this is better than months in between updates, right?

Charlotte