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