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.

 

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

From the Author:

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

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

Bobby learns more about his father than he wants.

 

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

Chapter 15

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

Memories Shared

 

A chilling breeze swept past me as I found myself outside a dilapidated concrete structure. Broken windows and shattered panes marred its façade, and the surrounding asphalt parking lot was riddled with weeds crisscrossing through deep cracks. Although I couldn’t feel the cold, an odd sense of awareness told me of its presence.

 

“Where am I?” I demanded, my voice echoing in the desolate environment. I was in conversation with Charlotte mere moments ago. How was I transported to this unfamiliar place? Had the succubus somehow controlled me and brought me here while I was unconscious?

 

My attention was drawn to a figure bundled up in a thick coat a few feet away. Instinctively, I moved toward them, only to see Charlotte’s silhouette standing before me, her expression a blend of sorrow and apprehension.

 

“This is a memory I’m not proud of,” she confessed, her voice laced with a mixture of reluctance and vulnerability. “We won’t be able to interact here, no one can hear us, but I wanted to...” She trailed off, shaking her head as if struggling to find the right words. “No, that’s not entirely true. I don’t want to show you this, but I believe it’s only fair, considering I’ve been privy to your deepest secrets. So please, watch, and try not to judge me too harshly for what I used to be.”

 

I nodded in understanding, a swirl of emotions rising within me. This experience was far from what I had anticipated when gaining access to Charlotte’s memories. Where were the carnal escapades? Where were the explicit and debauched encounters spanning centuries? As she claimed to be ancient, why was she showing me something that seemed relatively modern?

 

The crunch of gravel under tires diverted my attention as my gaze fixed upon two men who pulled up in a yellow and black sports car, their forms shivering in the cold. Anger surged within me as I recognized one of them.

 

“Protector Stephens and Carpenter Brody,” the voice from the bundled coat called out in an unfamiliar feminine tone. While I had initially assumed it was Charlotte speaking, the softness of the voice suggested otherwise. Surveying the empty lot around us, I couldn’t fathom how she’d arrived here unless she was dropped off. The only vehicle present belonged to the two men. “You’re late.”

 

My father, appearing much younger than my last encounter with him, stood behind another man draped in thick white robes. I focused on controlling my emotions, invoking the calming exercises I had honed over the years to master my temper. The urge to confront him, to channel my anger into my fists, was strong. But I remembered Charlotte’s caution that we couldn’t interact with this memory and rooted myself in place.

 

Inhale... one, two, three, four... Exhale... one, two, three, four...

 

“Let’s not waste time on pointless arguments,” the man I assumed was Protector Stephens retorted with a sneer. “We’re here to assist the Daughters of Respite with your mission, not to play your underlings.”

 

My father’s subtle flinch in response to the man’s tone surprised me. Memories of my interactions with my father painted him as an overbearing and authoritative prick.

 

Then the woman, still hidden within the furry coat, pushed back her hood, and my breath caught in my throat. Though I couldn’t place her, she was captivating. Soft brown hair framed her cherubic face, freckles scattered across her cheeks below luminous blue-green eyes. While her figure was concealed beneath the coat, she appeared no older than nineteen at most.

 

“If we could skip past the chauvinistic nonsense, I’d appreciate getting on with this,” the woman said, her voice gentle yet laced with unyielding strength that gave it an iron edge.

 

“Of course, of course,” the older Knight waved off her comment dismissively. “Just a quick question, if I may. Is it true that the Daughters of Respite don’t experience menstrual cycles? What’s it like to escape the clutches of the monthly mood swings?”

 

“Protector Stephens...” My father’s voice carried a note of both exasperation and disapproval.

 

If the woman took offense, she didn’t reveal it immediately. Instead, she did something even more unsettling. She smiled, her lips painted a glossy pink curving into a grin reminiscent of the Cheshire Cats.

 

“That’s right, we don’t,” the young woman responded, and suddenly the world around us shifted. Everything seemed to slow down, colors dimming. The woman strode purposefully toward the confident Knight, and just as suddenly, the world snapped back into place. A sharp gasp escaped the robed Knight, his body tensing as a dagger was poised near his groin. “We’re always ready to strip the power from someone who thinks they can belittle us. So why restrict it to just one week every month?”

 

“Uh...,” the Knight stammered, his voice strained as the pressure increased from the dagger against his groin.

 

“You can call me Jules,” the woman introduced herself. Once again, the world shifted, a temporal distortion slowing everything down as she returned to her previous position. A girlish giggle escaped Jules, and she pulled her hood back over her head, the dagger nowhere to be seen when the world returned to normal.

 

“With the unpleasantness behind us, shall we focus on the task of protecting humanity from the monsters that are now freely roaming our world?” she inquired with a hint of determination.

 

“What are you trying to show me?” I questioned aloud, but Charlotte wasn’t present. “And where are you, Charlotte? This is supposedly your memory.”

 

“Watch,” Charlotte’s voice reverberated around me, although her form remained elusive.

 

Could the young woman be Charlotte? It didn’t entirely add up. The Daughters of Respite were almost extinct, but I knew their reputation. While every member of the Paladonic Knights was male, the DOR was an all-female order renowned for their combat prowess, defending humanity from supernatural threats and possessing near-immunity to magic. I briefly toyed with the idea that Charlotte could be acting as a double agent, but her characteristic flirtatious demeanor was nowhere to be found. The Charlotte I knew would have engaged in banter with Protector Stephens instead of responding with a dagger. Unless, of course, it was all part of an elaborate ruse?

 

With nothing else to do, I followed Charlotte’s guidance and continued to observe.

 

Jules made her way over to the car, slipping into the back passenger seat. Protector Stephens directed my father to “get in the back with the witch” as he positioned himself behind the wheel.

 

Without any conscious action on my part, I suddenly found myself uncomfortably squeezed into the middle of the back seat. One moment, I was outside; the next, I was hunched in the back of the two-door coupe.

 

“Apologies for that,” my father whispered to my left. “I would apologize for him, but that’s just how he is. He’s also one of our best healers in the company.”

 

“You’re apologizing because you find me attractive and want to worm your way into my affections,” Jules responded with a scathing retort, not even sparing him a glance.

 

“You tell him, Jules!” I cheered inwardly, even though I knew she couldn’t hear me. There was a certain satisfaction in seeing my father taken down a peg.

 

“Actually, no, I’m not,” Bernard Brody countered. “I’m a happily married man. My wife is about to give birth to my son. Here, I’ve got pictures if you’d like to see them.” His voice carried a distinct note of pride as he began scrolling through his phone. Jules continued to ignore him.

 

“She’s not interested in gawking at pictures of your dear Susan, Carpenter Brody,” Stephens interjected with a condescending tone. “Unless, of course, you happen to have some racy photos of her? Feel free to share those around!”

 

“Pig,” Jules muttered under her breath.

 

“I keep telling you, Susan isn’t like that,” Bernard retorted, a note of exasperation in his voice that suggested this was a recurring argument.

 

“She would be if you wanted her to be,” Stephens laughed, dismissing my father’s protests. “Just a single suggestion from you, and she’d be as slutty as the other wives.”

 

While I enjoyed watching my father squirm under the treatment he received from Protector Stephens, a part of me couldn’t ignore the fact that Stephens was talking about my mother. The idea of inflicting a slow and painful death upon him felt like too weak of a punishment.

 

My father seemed to shrink into himself as he put his phone away, his pride wounded by Stephens’ taunts.

 

Observing this version of Bernard Brody, I couldn’t help but wonder how he had transformed into the man I’d grown up despising. This version of him appeared respectful and considerate, a far cry from the man who would return home drunk, berate me for imagined wrongs, and then unleash his anger on my mother. Of course, I now knew that my mother had actually enjoyed those moments, being a masochist. Nevertheless, I hadn’t enjoyed the emotional and verbal abuse.

 

“We can skip this part of the drive,” Charlotte’s voice informed me. “There’s nothing more of significance in these conversations. You’ll witness the impending disaster soon enough.” Her tone was sullen, leaving me with no opportunity to respond before I found myself standing outside a decrepit home.

 

The place appeared even more dilapidated than the house I grew up in. Missing shutters on one window, peeling paint, and boarded-up windows gave it an air of abandonment. A quick glance up and down the street revealed that the neighboring houses weren’t in much better condition.

 

“Just a reminder,” Jules’s voice came from within her coat. “I get first dibs on the young women in there. After that, you’re welcome to any men and the older women.”

 

“I’m not entirely sure why you witches want the young Vanara, but we’ll do our part,” Protector Stephens remarked. “Carpenter Brody, are you ready?”

 

Turning my gaze to my father, I was surprised to see him donning spiked gauntlets. He was already clad in a chainmail shirt and sturdy leather trousers. A kite shield leaned against the back bumper of the car. His weaponry was complete, with a pistol holstered at his left hip and a short sword secured on his back.

 

“Just need you to cast your protective spells on me, and I’ll be set, Sir,” Bernard responded with a nod.

 

Taking a moment to assess the group, I realized that Stephens likely fulfilled the role of their healer, my father was their tank, and Jules served as the primary damage dealer.

 

Stephens gestured with his hands and muttered an incantation under his breath, then turned his attention to Jules. “Need any magical assistance?” he asked, a suggestive tone lacing his words.

 

“I’m immune to your magic, remember?” Jules retorted dismissively.

 

“There’s more than one kind of magic, you know,” Stephens persisted, undeterred by her response. His eyebrow waggling continued as if he’d forgotten the encounter in the parking lot. Or perhaps he just enjoyed the act of rejection?

 

“I’m immune to all your magical tricks,” Jules snapped back, her glare directed at the healer. “Your young Knight has more of a chance than you do, and that’s only because he’s a gentleman. But I have no interest in either of you.”

 

“Give me an hour, and I’ll change your mind,” Stephens continued his advances, blatantly ignoring her obvious lack of interest.

 

“If it takes you an hour to satisfy a woman, I pity your wife,” Jules shot back, her words laced with sarcasm. “Now, if you’re done pretending to be impressive, can we focus on the task?”

 

“Fucking frigid bitch,” Stephens muttered loud enough to be heard by everyone.

 

Ignoring his comment, Jules waited for my father to take the lead. Bernard positioned his shield before him as they approached the front door, with Stephens trailing behind. My father counted to three softly, then turned the unlocked doorknob and charged inside.

 

Describing the ensuing chaos in this journal will be challenging, but I’ll do my best. I had no prior knowledge of what a Vanara was until I laid eyes on one. The tallest of these creatures stood around five feet tall, possessing ape-like heads and tails but human-like bodies. They wore children’s clothing, and the males preferred going bare-chested.

 

The interior of the dilapidated house made more sense after seeing these Vanara, but at the moment of our entrance, I was perplexed. Monkey bars, poles, ladders, hanging ropes, and a single couch filled the front room. Vanara were suspended from various points, all turning to face us as we barged in. A heavy silence hung for a brief moment before the creatures let out an ear-piercing collective screech.

 

My father drew his pistol from his hip and fired two precise shots at the lead creature. The monster barely flinched and retaliated by launching a golden energy ball toward us despite being hit. Bernard raised his shield to intercept the projectile before quickly repositioning to take aim again.

 

“Focus on their heads or hearts!” Jules yelled as she emerged from behind my father. The world seemed to slow as she drove her dagger into one Vanara’s eye and then pierced another’s heart. I noticed that time manipulation didn’t affect every Vanara as one continued to launch its glowing attacks at Jules.

 

“Watch out!” I instinctively cried out, though I knew they couldn’t hear me.

 

“They can’t hear you,” Charlotte’s reminder stung with a hint of annoyance.

 

“Why are you showing me this?” I demanded, my frustration growing.

 

Charlotte remained silent.

 

Lost in Charlotte’s response, I missed parts of the ongoing battle. When I refocused, Stephens was mending a scorch mark on my father’s left shoulder. Bernard had discarded his pistol and brandished a short sword in his right hand.

 

The fight raged on, my father deflecting projectiles with his shield while Jules maneuvered to strike a few of the Vanara, then retreating to cover. Stephens quickly healed my father when needed, but he ignored Jules when she was hit in the leg by a thrown dagger toward the end of the battle. At first, I thought he was being cruel, but then I remembered that his magic wouldn’t work on her.

 

“We’re clear!” my father shouted after a few moments of eerie silence. He turned his attention to Jules, noticing her pained expression, and swiftly moved to her side. “Here, keep pressure on it. I know healing magic won’t work on this, but I have an emergency first-aid kit in my pack back at the car.” He then hurried out of the house.

 

“I’m familiar with wound treatment,” Jules hissed through clenched teeth after him.

 

“What a waste,” Stephens commented, kicking the lifeless body of a small Vanara. It appeared to be a child.

 

“We should collect genetic samples for our research,” Jules remarked, her tone somber. “I wish we could have taken some of them alive, though.”

 

“Heh, yeah,” Stephens chuckled. He crouched over one of the creatures, lifting its shirt and then dropping it in disgust. “Never mind. Even the females have hairy chests.”

 

Bernard returned with the first-aid kit, ready to tend Jules’ wound.

 

“Is sex the only thing that occupies your mind?” Jules questioned, wincing as Bernard tore her pants to access the wound.

 

“Sorry, but I need to see the wound,” Bernard said, focusing on his task.

 

“Just because you’re sexually frustrated doesn’t mean the rest of us are as cold-hearted,” Stephens chimed in as he joined them, holding Bernard’s discarded pistol. He aimed it at Jules, his tone condescending. “You know what? I’m tired of your attitude. It’s quite tragic that your injuries turned out to be fatal. Especially for someone as attractive as you.”

 

“What? They’re not—” Bernard started to say, then shook his head. “It’s not loaded. I emptied it into that big one over—” but his words were cut off as Stephens pulled the trigger.

 

Time seemed to slow again, the world losing its color. I watched as Jules tried to move away, but her actions caused her wound to worsen due to the needle Bernard had just placed in her leg. The gunshot echoed, and Jules fell to the ground, clutching a new wound on her chest.

 

“Huh,” Stephens shrugged his shoulders with a cocky grin. “I must have reloaded it. Fancy that?”

 

“What in the world are you doing?” Bernard stood up, his eyes filled with rage as he confronted his superior. “She’s an ally! Why would you shoot her? Are you out of your mind—”

 

A second bang echoed around the house, and my father fell across the woman. A new hole in his head. Of all the times I’d dreamed of watching my father die, wishing for it to happen, actually seeing it made me feel numb.

 

“Well, damn,” Stephens chuckled, looking down at the lifeless bodies of the other two. “Seems he caught a bullet between the eyes. Looks like I’m the only one left standing.”

 

“You’ll... pay,” Jules managed to say before a fit of coughing overtook her, accompanied by blood. A memory flashed briefly, reminding me of Willmont’s final moments, but I pushed it aside.

 

My father was dead. But how could that be? He’d mentioned his upcoming son’s birth, placing this memory before I was born. None of this was making any sense. I had vivid memories of an older Bernard Brody, drunk and berating me, telling me I would never measure up, that I needed to be stronger, wiser, and better, or else the world would chew me up and spit me out.

 

“Don’t worry,” Stephens’ lips twisted into a sinister grin. “I’ll make sure to have some fun with you before your body gets cold.”

 

The world shifted again, and Jules made a swift move. When time resumed its normal pace, I saw that Stephens had a new adornment around his neck: the hilt of a dagger just above his collarbone, blood spattering his hand as he gripped the weapon and pulled it out.

 

Jules and my father’s lifeless forms were surrounded by a fresh coat of vivid red gore. Then, there was a final gunshot, and the scene faded away.

 

I stood in darkness, grappling with the emotions stirred up by witnessing these deaths. I was confused, uncertain about why Charlotte had shown me this memory. Yes, I’d seen death in the caves and even among the Varanas, but watching these three humans meet their end was profoundly different.

 

“I’m sure you’re feeling lost,” Charlotte’s voice echoed around me. “With my eidetic memory, I can still vividly recall everything that happened back then, even though I was a different person.”

 

“So, you were Jules,” I uttered, the realization sinking in. “But wait, were you playing both sides? How were you immune to magic if you only pretended to be a Daughter of Respite? And why—”

 

“Keep watching,” Charlotte interjected somberly. “If you still have questions after the next part, I promise I’ll address them.”

 

“There’s more?” I asked, feeling a sense of unease, yet I was abruptly transported to a different location. One that was familiar, although much less crowded than before.

 

We were back in Purgatory. The dull, faded tiles underfoot blended into the off-white walls and stained drop ceiling. The space was still vast, and with fewer souls around, it seemed even more extensive than I remembered.

 

My father was easily recognizable, rubbing his forehead while surveying his surroundings. Charlotte—or Jules—was a bit more challenging to identify. She wasn’t in her usual demonic form, nor did she entirely resemble the person I had known as Jules. Instead, her appearance shifted fluidly between the two states, her form in a constant state of quasi-liquid transformation.

 

“What in the world?” Bernard stammered, his eyes locking onto the peculiar apparition. He instinctively reached for a weapon that wasn’t present.

 

The figure dropped to her knees, clutching her head, emitting a moan that blended both pain and anguish. The sound was pitiful, a mixture of suffering and despair. “No! I am Jules! I was... I used to be… No! Lies! I can’t…”

 

Despite his evident apprehension, I could see genuine concern on my father’s face as he tentatively approached the enigmatic entity.

 

“Jules? Is it... Is that truly you? What have they done to you?” He extended a trembling hand toward her shoulder.

 

A clawed hand shot out, seizing my father’s wrist. Once again, I was reminded of the sensation when Charlotte did the same to me, but this time she appeared to have less control over the action. My father’s eyes glazed over, his expression becoming vacant. Had I appeared that dazed when she did it to me?

 

“Yes, Jules... No, Jules was her! I am... I’m…” The creature’s voice cracked, teetering on the edge of hysteria as it wrestled with its identity.

 

“Well, well,” a dry female voice interjected. Another figure had joined the scene—a squat female demon with a single horn curling from the left side of her head. Despite her compact build, she sported a sharp pinstripe suit, carried a clipboard, and exuded an air of both boredom and officiousness. “Another Daughter of Respite. Those women certainly know how to stir up trouble, and we’re the ones left to clean up their messes.”

 

“Yes! I am... No, it’s lies!” Jules’ voice wavered.

 

The plump demon shifted her attention to Bernard, her expression souring. “And it seems you’ve acquired a companion as well. I suppose I can manage both of you at once. You’re in luck, though. We’ve received word that a significant battle is on the horizon, which means we’ll be quite occupied once that commences.” She regarded the tormented being for a brief moment, her own face contorting as the internal struggle persisted. Seeing that neither side was gaining dominance, she moved toward the crouched creature and delivered a sharp slap.

 

“Ow!” The entity recoiled, taking my father down with her as she transformed back into Charlotte’s demonic form. “Why did you... My head! I’m back to being myself!”

 

“Hmm?” The squat demoness appeared intrigued. “It’s a rare occurrence when those women manage to get hold of a succubus. No matter. Follow me and bring your companion.”

 

“My companion?” Charlotte’s gaze shifted to my father, her features betraying a hint of embarrassment. I could almost swear her crimson skin deepened in hue. “Well, damn. It seems I’ve got myself a damn Knight! He’s... kinda cute. Ugh, I can’t believe I acted like such a prude.” It was astonishing to witness how her demeanor had shifted from the intensity of her recent experiences to a more relaxed attitude.

 

The environment changed once again, placing us within a smaller office. The diminutive demoness typed on her computer, reading something before returning her attention to us.

 

“You should release him. He needs a clear mind to determine whether he’s headed for Heaven or Hell,” the officious demon advised, waiting until Charlotte released my father. He blinked several times in rapid succession before continuing. “Good. Now—”

 

“I need to know if Protector Stephens is still alive!” Bernard’s words rushed out almost urgently.

 

“Your assailant?” The demoness appeared taken aback. “At this moment? Did you not hear me mention that we’re about to experience a surge of incoming souls?”

 

“Yes, I need to know—” Bernard began, but Charlotte interjected this time.

 

“He’s dead. Jules took care of him right after he killed you,” Charlotte informed him, her voice carrying a mixture of weariness and contemplation. “Or I killed him. Jules still feels like a separate entity, even though I know it was me. Or rather, my body under the influence of the personality they implanted in my head.”

 

“That’s a common reaction among victims of the Daughters of Respite,” the plump demoness commented. “You’ll probably reconcile with it eventually, although I can’t be entirely certain. Few of those women led balanced lives, and even fewer spend much time here. Now, if we can proceed?”

 

“Then I must know if he’s in Heaven or Hell,” Bernard snapped, a frantic intensity in his gaze. Personally, I was surprised at how composed he appeared while sitting next to the succubus.

 

“He committed murder,” Charlotte said with a wince. “He didn’t strike me as the type to be rewarded in the afterlife.”

 

“I need. To. Know,” Bernard ground out between clenched teeth. “Please! I don’t care where I end up as long as I know his fate.”

 

The elegantly dressed demoness shook her head with a grimace before rising to her feet. “Never let it be said that we in Purgatory don’t go the extra mile for our clients.” She headed toward the exit. “I need to access a different database for him. It seems he didn’t end up here. Give me a few minutes.”

 

Once the door closed behind her, my father leaped to his feet and hastened to the computer.

 

“What are you doing?” Charlotte queried as she moved to join him. He scarcely flinched when she leaned on the desk beside him.

 

“Look, you seem like a decent... um, creature, or whatever, but I need to work quickly before she returns,” Bernard babbled, his fingers flying across the keyboard as Charlotte observed. “There! Great. It’s just as he told me. Now we add this line here... It must be at least three days. Susan will be furious with me when I get back. I’ll need to make it up to her and our son. And... done!”

 

Bernard stood and dashed to the door, pressing his ear against it.

 

“Is everything all right?” Charlotte inquired, arching an eyebrow.

 

My father turned toward her, his gaze lingering for a contemplative moment before he spoke in a torrent of words.

 

“Listen, I don’t know you well, but if you’ve ended up here, it means you’ve lived a life of balance. I don’t care about the teachings and proclamations of the Knights; not all non-human beings are malevolent, even… even if they resemble demons.” He paused, his ears attuned to any sounds beyond the door, before continuing. “Time is scarce. If you want another chance at life, come with me.”

 

Charlotte’s expression flickered with fleeting indecision before she shrugged, a hint of defiance in her voice. “Why the hell not? I don’t have much to lose. Besides, given the chance, I have scores to settle with the Daughters of Respite.”

 

Without a moment’s hesitation, Bernard flung open the door and bolted out of the room.

 

Once again, the world turned to shadow, and the version of Charlotte I was familiar with spoke to me from the abyss. “Your father gave me advice on how to navigate this afterlife. I faced intense interrogation due to my gender. That was before it became public knowledge that many Daughters of Respite were actually non-human entities, with their memories and appearances altered to seem more human. When I departed that Texas facility, the Knights cared little about who I was. I know what you’re thinking, but I didn’t have to resort to manipulation. Although I must admit, their dreams did grow increasingly lurid, and a couple even grappled with their own sexual identities.”

 

“Why are you sharing this with me?” I demanded, shaking my head in frustration. “Honestly, I’m not interested in those details. So why did you show me those memories?”

 

Charlotte’s response emerged after a prolonged pause, her voice carrying an undercurrent of fatigue. “I’ve witnessed civilizations rise and crumble. Your mind can’t fathom even a fraction of my experiences. I’m far older than you realize.”

 

“I don’t need your boasting or belittling,” I retorted, my anger rising like molten lava. “Why did you make me witness all of that? Why those memories?”

 

Charlotte’s reply came with a tone of weary understanding. “I’m not trying to undermine your feelings, Bobby. However, I want you to understand that I mean it when I say I’ve never encountered a man like your father. He wasn’t the individual you remember from your memories. You can’t fully comprehend the agony he endured, the turmoil that compelled him to treat you as he did.”

 

My anger surged, a potent blend of frustration and pain. “And what’s the explanation? Why did he do it? You’ve rifled through my memories. You know the torment he put me and my mother through. Regardless of what my mom claimed about enjoying it, I certainly didn’t! He turned my childhood into a living nightmare. Happiness was elusive, only present when he wasn’t around.”

 

“And yet, he took action to address the incident where you harmed that child. He ensured you received extensive martial arts training to manage your anger. He even entrusted me to watch over you to ensure your safety,” Charlotte responded, her voice carrying a hint of affront, though she must have recognized my justifiable anger. “I’m aware of your feelings and comprehend the reasons behind your animosity. But I wanted to reveal a broader perspective on Bernard Brody than you knew. Your parents were cautious about your entry into the Paladonic Knights. I disagreed with how they handled your upbringing, yet I wasn’t your parent. Your mother provided you with an explanation, and you don’t resent her.”

 

“My mother never made me feel like I was the most wretched piece of detestable refuse to have sunk to the depths of the sewers!” I retorted with a surge of frustration. “Those were my father’s exact words after I hurt that kid. I was already grappling with remorse for losing my temper—I recognized I went too far. What I did to him, due to his taunting me about being poor, was unjustifiable. But my father amplified my self-loathing at a time when I needed a fatherly figure to guide me.”

 

“Bobby…” she said my name, the syllables suffused with pity and sorrow, igniting another surge of anger within me that felt like it could raze everything in its path. I didn’t want her pity; I wanted her to comprehend the extent of my father’s failings. But there was nothing for me to direct my wrath—or, if I’m candid, my shame—toward. We remained mere voices adrift in an abyss. “You were a third-grader who left a fifth-grader with both arms fractured, a shattered nose, and a kneecap in pieces. You needed to understand the gravity of your actions.”

 

“I know that!” I yelled, my voice reverberating with pent-up frustration. “I’ve put in immense effort to rein in my anger, to ensure it never takes control of me again. I’ve striven to keep myself in check. And can you fathom how often he made me feel worthless because he had to pay for those lessons? How frequently he reminded me why I was being subjected to martial arts training? And now I realize that every instance he complained about the financial strain of those lessons... it was all a lie!”

 

“And yet, just last night, you lost your temper and nearly repeated the same pattern with Adam,” Charlotte’s voice conveyed the reprimand despite its soft timbre.

 

“I thought he’d shot Shayna!” I protested, appalled by the unfair comparison. “That fifth-grader didn’t merit the repercussions of my actions merely for taunting me about being poor. But Adam damn well deserved much worse.”

 

“I’m not excusing Adam’s behavior or actions,” Charlotte swiftly replied. “However, your reaction was triggered by emotions for a woman who’s been playing with your feelings. You would’ve ended his life if not for that officer’s presence. And in the end, he shot his own ass! Adam may be the quintessential douchebag, but he doesn’t hold a candle to the top thousand I’ve encountered over centuries. And he certainly doesn’t deserve death for being an idiot.”

 

Despite myself, a chuckle escaped me. It might have been Charlotte’s labeling of Adam, her endurance of far more challenging individuals through centuries of entrenched chauvinism, or perhaps it was the fatigue from the constant internal struggle. Regardless, my anger seemed to ebb away.

 

“You’re right,” I admitted after a prolonged pause. “At least about Adam. And I acknowledge that Shayna’s cautious nature is a defense mechanism. She made significant strides last night. However, you won’t sway me from the fact that my father remains the worst man I’ve ever known. That’s placing him even above Adam on that infamous list.”

 

“I understand—I genuinely do! He wounded you in ways only a father could. But my sole intention was to unveil facets of him that you weren’t privy to.”

 

“Does that mean you’ll let me wake up?” I inquired with an almost wistful desire to slip into a deep, dreamless slumber and leave my troubles behind.

 

“Yes, and before you become ensnared in the emotional turmoil of today, I want to apologize,” Charlotte’s voice sounded sincere. However, I couldn’t help but wonder what she was apologizing for this time. Before I could voice my question, my physical eyes fluttered open, and I found myself staring at the familiar ceiling.

 

Two immediate realizations dawned upon me. Firstly, I was alone in the bed I’d shared with my wives. Secondly, the sound of crying reached my ears, prompting me to rush towards its source. I hurried out of the master bedroom and discovered Elly and Shayna seated at the dining room table. Elly held our shorter wife tenderly, soothing her as she wept.

 

“I allowed myself to be carried away,” Shayna’s voice was broken by sobs, her face buried in Elly’s comforting embrace. They were both clad in minimal attire, but my primary focus was on Shayna’s distress. “I can’t believe I permitted her to manipulate me like that. I feel so filthy!”

 

“Hush,” Elly attempted to console her, her fingers delicately combing through Shayna’s darker locks. When she glanced up at me, her expression was inscrutable. Did she want me to leave them alone or join in to offer support? Would Shayna even allow my assistance? “We did nothing wrong last night. I understand your feelings, my love, but—”

 

“But nothing!” Shayna’s voice cracked, and she pulled away from Elly’s comforting hold. Unaware of my presence, her anger, and attention remained fixated on our wife. “I knew that thing was a succubus. I believed I could maintain control while in that dream realm. You assured me that she couldn’t manipulate us there. Yet, the things I allowed her to do to me... I can’t erase them from my mind! Can’t you see? She doesn’t need to manipulate us within that realm. I allowed myself to be seduced by a demon, and it’s all your fault!”

 

I instinctively moved forward, but Charlotte’s voice resonated in my mind.

 

If you intervene, her rage will be redirected towards us. I apologize for my role in this, but you don’t deserve her wrath, particularly after our progress with her last night.

 

One look at the pain I saw on Elly’s face told me all I needed to know about Charlotte’s advice.

 

You’re right, I don’t deserve Shayna’s wrath, but Elly deserves it even less, I told my stowaway. I’d rather step in and be the bad guy than let Elly suffer when I can help.

 

I know you’re a man and always want to fix things, Charlotte shot back, but sometimes it’s better to let others commiserate than to butt in.

 

“It’s not Elly’s fault,” I asserted firmly, sensing Charlotte’s apprehension of my intervention. “I apologize for the extent to which things escalated for you last night. Charlotte assures me she won’t—”

 

“You!” Shayna erupted from her seat, launching herself toward me. Her finger jabbed forcefully but futilely at my chest, accompanied by a torrent of angry words. “This is all your doing! You led me to believe I could trust you! Why did you have to wear that necklace on First Knight? Why did you have to die and return with that succubus in your head? It would have been better if you’d remained dead!”

 

“Shayna!” Elly’s voice admonished the fiery woman glaring at me, yet I raised my palm in a calming gesture, urging Elly to hold back.

 

While Shayna’s finger poking into my chest was physically harmless, her words cut into my core. Charlotte was right, and I should have kept my mouth shut. I tried to convince myself that she didn’t truly mean it, but the wounds they inflicted were still keenly felt.

 

Maintaining an unflinching gaze with Shayna’s icy blue eyes, I addressed Elly in measured and composed words. “She’s entitled to her viewpoint. I can even empathize with where she’s coming from. I never intended to cause either of you pain, but I see that my presence here is achieving precisely that.” I let a firmness seep into my voice and observed Shayna taking a hesitant step back, which I closed by drawing myself closer and asserting my presence as I stared down at my diminutive wife. “However, don’t direct your anger towards Elly. She bears no responsibility. If you wish to direct your resentment anywhere, let it be towards me. Elly, on the other hand, deserves nothing but your affection.”

 

As I addressed Shayna, her begrudging steps backward continued, and her eyes widened as the weight of my words settled in. When I concluded my statement, I straightened, turned, and departed the room without uttering another word.

 

Holy fuck, man! Charlotte chuckled in my head. That was intense. If I were wearing panties, they’d be soaked. I’ll break my promise to tell you that Elly appreciated what you said. Her panties were also moist, FYI. And Shayna—

 

“Don’t,” I growled, cutting her off as I hastily dressed in the spare room, my own clothes still in that bedroom. I hoped the elf had the sense to remain out of Shayna’s line of sight. The bed was tidily made, but my concern was focused elsewhere. “I’m not in the mood to discuss that right now.” After throwing on my clothes and swiftly brushing my teeth, I picked up my phone, contemplating if I should ask Al for a ride to class. However, my intentions shifted when Elly walked in, fully dressed, diverting my attention.

 

Before I could react, she seized the back of my head and initiated one of the most intense kisses I’d ever shared with her, all while remaining fully clothed. The duration of our passionate exchange eluded me, though it ended too soon.

 

“You’re an incredible husband,” Elly breathed, her voice slightly shaky. “Now, before you say anything, I know what you did back there, and I’m grateful for it. You didn’t have to step in, but you did, and I appreciate that. I understand you have a stronger connection with her, and your defense means the world to me. Also, I want you to know that, from my perspective, having you in my life is an absolute joy.”

 

Shaking my head, I gently disengaged from her hold. “Could you cut it out with that self-deprecating bullshit?” My tone may have been harsher than intended, judging by the hurt that flashed across her eyes. I quickly moderated my voice, trying to convey my sentiments more gently. “Elly, I love you. I don’t favor either of you over the other. I don’t find one of you more attractive than the other. I truly can’t comprehend why you fail to recognize just how remarkable, intelligent, and incredible you are. I love you, Elly. Don’t undermine that by belittling yourself. Your unique qualities shine brightly, irrespective of who stands beside you.”

 

“I... I’m… wow,” Elly stammered, blinking in an attempt to gather her thoughts. “I know you’re just saying that, but—”

 

“But nothing!” I interjected, my frustration seeping into my words. “You’re easily the smartest woman I know. So why can’t you see your own greatness?”

 

Elly and I locked gazes, and in those charged moments, I sensed her mulling over my words. When she finally responded, a trace of regret underscored her words, although skepticism lingered in her tone. I wasn’t prepared for what she told me.

 

You’re familiar with my past, how I grew up, and how I was eventually cast aside. Then, when Shayna and I became friends, I saw her brilliance and somehow found myself overshadowed by it. I’d mastered the art of fading into the background with my parents, but Shayna radiated charisma and confidence with such ease, that I always felt overshadowed.

 

“So I concealed my true self, masking my identity. Despite a few boys telling me I was beautiful, I was sure they were just trying to get into my panties. I’m pretty adept at deciphering other people’s intentions, a skill I honed as a defense mechanism. I understood they were sexually attracted to me, yet most teenage boys would jump at any opportunity. Even though I wasn’t attracted to men, I might have given a few a chance if not for the restrictions imposed by the Knights. I couldn’t lose my virginity. Of course, I couldn’t explain this to them, and their inability to handle rejection only drove me deeper into my shell.

 

“My shell was only breached around Shayna—well, and now you. Everyone wanted to be friends with Shayna, while I was tolerated as the odd girl who hung around her. My intelligence outmatched that of almost everyone around, and some people struggled with a woman who could outthink half the professors at our university.”

 

Elly paused, tears glistening in her eyes, yet her gaze remained steady as it met mine. I was beginning to understand the depth of her struggle, and my determination to dispel her insecurities grew stronger.

 

“But you’re different,” she resumed before I could respond. “You truly believe all the things you say about me. I knew you were different from what I read in your file. Well, reading between the lines, actually. But actually experiencing it is something that’s new to me.”

 

“Didn’t I prove that on the first night in my dream space?” I asked, my hands gently resting on her shoulders.

 

“You did, but... well, I suppose years of ingrained thinking doesn’t dissipate overnight.” Elly chuckled, moving closer into my embrace, her head nestled against my neck. “Even if that night seemed to stretch on for days. Can I ask you for something?”

 

My arms tightened around her as I replied, “Of course. Anything.”

 

“Just be patient with me?” She placed a soft kiss on my neck before continuing, her voice sincere. “I’m aware you love me despite not knowing every facet of me. And I promise I’ll work on viewing myself the way you do. I trust your judgment and genuinely believe you feel exactly how you’ve expressed.”

 

“It’s not just a claim,” I said with conviction. “It’s an absolute truth.”

 

I felt her nod against my neck, her arms briefly tightening around me. “I… It’s just…” She trembled in my embrace for a moment before gathering her resolve. “No, I want to believe you. I’ll trust you. Seeing the disappointment on your face a moment ago hurt. I never want to make you doubt me again. I’ll work on becoming more open and outgoing, I promise.”

 

“Focus on being the person you aspire to be, Elly,” I whispered gently. “Don’t try to mold yourself into Shayna’s image. You’re not her, and you shouldn’t be. Embrace the version of yourself that brings you happiness. I’ve glimpsed your core, and I want you to understand that I love you for exactly who you are.”

 

“You sure you’re not studying psychology?” Elly teased, placing another tender kiss on my neck.

 

“Damn it!” The reminder of class time made me glance at the clock, and I realized I was running late. “I need to get to class!”

 

“Or we could ditch,” Elly playfully suggested, her right leg sliding up and wrapping around my thigh.

 

“Haven’t you had enough of me from last night?” I laughed, not budging.

 

“Never enough one-on-one time,” Elly continued to pepper kisses along my neck, and I eyed my bed with a tempting thought. Just as her lips neared mine, Shayna appeared at the doorframe and addressed the room without looking directly at us. Was she still upset with me? I resisted the urge to consult Charlotte, reminding myself Shayna would talk to me when she was ready.

 

“Come on, Elly. You wouldn’t want to ruin your perfect attendance record.” I noticed she avoided eye contact and wondered if she was still annoyed with me. Regardless, I was tempted to ask Charlotte but squashed that idea. Shayna would communicate with me when she was ready.

 

“Yeah, you’re right,” Elly responded, reluctantly detaching herself from me. Before her warmth left, I pulled her in for a swift kiss and released her. “Guess I’ll drive Bobby in today. See you in class?”

 

If Shayna was harboring any resentment, she didn’t display it. “Sure, okay. See you there. Just make sure you don’t take any detours, or you’ll be late.”

 

“Yes, mother,” Elly chuckled, tugging my hand as she led me to the garage.

 

Even though we had spent a few days together, I realized I hadn’t really paid attention to Elly’s vehicle. Shayna’s red Kindred Ravager overshadowed the pearl-white convertible parked next to it. I didn’t recognize the specific model, but the emblem on the hood indicated it was another creation by Kindred. Once seated in the passenger seat, I noticed an embossed “Slipstream” on the glove box.

 

Quick side note in my journal here. Who on Earth is Kindred? Before marrying my wives, I’d never encountered them as a car manufacturer. Are they foreign? Given that both my wives drive their models, I’m guessing they must be owned or somehow affiliated with the Paladonic Knights. Also, whoever is in charge of naming their models seriously needs to reconsider their career choice. Ravager? Slipstream? Next thing, they’ll introduce an off-road vehicle called “Rocky”! Maybe I should think about a career in marketing...

 

Anyway, let’s get back to the present.

 

“Is it weird that a part of me still wants to ditch?” Elly’s hand rested on my thigh as she maneuvered the car out of the garage.

 

“Do you actually have a perfect attendance record?” I inquired, genuinely impressed.

 

“Well, almost,” Elly admitted with a wince. “Shayna’s impromptu makeover yesterday made me late, but apart from that, yes.”

 

“Well, I won’t be the one to lead you astray, no matter how tempting it might be,” I told her, contemplating whether to suggest returning home. I could probably afford to miss a class or two… I think.

 

If you knew the things she was thinking about doing to you, you’d be begging her to take you right here, right now, Charlotte informed me.

 

You just want to feed on our sexual desires, I accused her jokingly.

 

Nope! Charlotte cackled in my head. Don’t need to. I’m already glutting myself on Elly’s desires.

 

Slut! I exclaimed with a mental chuckle.

 

Actually, never mind, she said in syrupy sweet tones. I really want you to go back. I’m curious if she can actually do that last thought. I’ve never thought of that. Oops! Busted.

 

“You’re communicating with her, aren’t you?” Those words might have sent shivers down my spine in any other relationship with any other woman. But even in this situation, I wasn’t entirely sure how to respond.

 

“I’m sorry,” I said, treading carefully.

 

“No, I suppose I shouldn’t be surprised,” Elly replied, giving my thigh a reassuring pat before allowing her fingers to idly trace patterns along my leg. “Did she share my thoughts with you?”

 

“Not in explicit detail,” I chuckled, feeling a sense of relief. “But she tried to persuade me to bring you back to my bedroom immediately.”

 

“Hmm, that could lead to some interesting discussions.” Unfortunately, whatever thoughts were running through Elly’s mind, she didn’t share them with me.

 

I really like her way of thinking! Charlotte chimed in a moment later. Then, in a switch, she assumed control over my words and directly addressed my wife. “I concur, and we’ll have more to talk about without prying ears around. However, we’ll need to figure out how to establish a two-way conversation, though… Yeah, that’s a solid plan.”

 

“Hey!” I interjected, taking back over my mouth. “I thought we agreed you wouldn’t do that anymore.”

 

My apologies, but I had to ensure she got the message. No, I won’t reveal the specifics. We women need our share of secrets, too.

 

We continued driving silently for a few minutes, Elly’s hand tracing unhurried circles on my leg. Then, with a determined declaration, she announced, “Fuck it. She’ll just have to forgive me.”

 

Without any clarification from either the driver or my internal companion, I leaned back in my seat, anticipating that Elly would soon turn the car around and head back home. To my surprise, however, she pulled into a car dealership.

 

“Um…” I scanned the surroundings as we exited the car, noticing a salesperson hurrying over to greet us. “This isn’t quite what I was expecting.”

 

“Let me handle the initial conversation,” Elly said briskly before addressing the olive-skinned woman approaching us. “Good morning, uh… Is it pronounced Demitra?”

 

“Good morning!” The woman’s grin was accompanied by a nod in our direction. “Yes, you got it right. Are you considering a new car today?”

 

“Yes, my husband was recently promoted, and we wanted to commemorate the occasion with a unique vehicle,” Elly declared, radiating confidence.

 

The saleswoman’s eyes briefly flicked to Elly’s car before lighting up as they settled on me. “Congratulations are definitely in order. You’re in luck; we received information on the latest models last night.” She turned and headed towards the dealership building, and just as I began to follow her, Elly’s hand on my chest halted me.

 

“I had some kin that strongly recommended this place,” Elly said, using a phrasing that struck me as odd. “I’ve always hated the process of buying a car, but they assured me that this is the place to go.”

 

Demitra turned back to us, her practiced smile concealing a fleeting grimace before she spoke. “I dread to think of the experiences they might have had at other dealerships. However, I can guarantee that we prioritize a hassle-free shopping experience, and you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for here.”

 

Elly visibly relaxed, but there was a glint in Demitra’s eyes as she cast an eager look my way, a moment that didn’t escape my notice.

 

“I realize this wasn’t the plan you had in mind,” Elly whispered as we followed Demitra, “but getting your own car is necessary. Besides, judging by how she just looked at you, that might still be on the table.”

 

My stride faltered as if stumbling over an invisible obstacle while an ill-timed gulp of saliva went down the wrong way, causing me to cough and splutter. Elly’s reassuring slap on my back accompanied my desperate attempt to regain my composure. Surely she didn’t mean what I thought she did... right?

 

“I’m sorry, what?” I managed to whisper, my voice a mix of surprise and confusion, as we approached the door Demitra was holding open for us.

 

“I’m not blind, Bobby,” Elly replied in hushed tones as we continued walking. “And I’ve come to realize that you’re still adjusting to the world you’re now part of. So, I thought this might be an enlightening experience for you. Besides, don’t you find her intriguing? I certainly do with that mocha skin and dark eyes.”

 

This time, I succeeded in not choking on my own saliva, although we were too close for a further discussion on that particular topic.

 

Demitra didn’t lead us to any cars, as I had anticipated, but rather to a kiosk in a back room. With her practiced smile, she instructed, “If you could just enter your employee number in this box, we’ll be able to see the options that fit your budget.”

 

“I don’t—” I began to protest, realizing I hadn’t received an employee number from the Knights. Thankfully, my wife stepped in to rescue me.

 

“Don’t worry, darling,” Elly assured me with a gentle kiss on my cheek. “I’ve got it memorized.”

 

As I observed her fingers dance across the keys with impressive speed, I caught glimpses of my birthdate, initials, and other characters. The screen flickered a few times before transforming into a solid gold background, centered by a vivid blue number 2. The color and numeral remained visible for several seconds before vanishing.

 

Demitra’s countenance shifted into one of astute curiosity, her lips moistened as if in anticipation, and she turned to us, a broader smile stretching across her face. “Well, it seems things are going quite well for you, Mr.—?”

 

Bobby. Bobby Brody,” I introduced myself, extending my hand for a handshake. For some reason, Elly’s grip on my arm tightened to the point of discomfort. I half-expected her to draw blood, yet her expression was all smiles when I glanced at her.

 

“Well, Mr. Brody,” Demitra’s eyes gleamed with a certain eagerness as she delicately accepted my hand. “Everything appears to be in order. We have a selection of exquisite options within our Kindred vehicle range for you to consider.”

 

I leaned in closer to Elly, my nervousness growing. Despite the assurances that everything would be covered, the situation’s intensity made me uneasy. “What can we afford in terms of monthly payments?” I whispered, seeking some clarity.

 

“Gold,” Elly murmured back, not directly answering my question. She met my gaze with an intensity I struggled to interpret. “You can ask her. She can gather the information from my thoughts.”

 

Demitra’s amused voice cut through our hushed conversation as she held a door open for us. “Already discussing what you’d like him to get you?”

 

“Something like that,” I attempted to play along with a chuckle, my mind racing with questions. I demanded answers from Charlotte, frustrated by the lack of clarity.

 

Charlotte’s response was a cackling laughter. Yes, a genuine cackle!

 

I believe, for the first time, you’ve sparked a bit of jealousy in your brilliant wife. Apparently, the color corresponds to your potential, according to the Knights. Rose gold is her color. Elly tells me each hue represents a different potential rank—black being the lowest, followed by red, blue, green, and gold at the top. There are various shades in between, but gold signifies the highest potential.

 

And the number two? I inquired as we walked down a corridor toward an elevator.

 

Simple, Charlotte explained as if it were obvious. That’s your rank. The screen indicated to the saleswoman that your potential is limitless, but you are newly at the second rank.

 

Suppressing my emotional response, I faced the mirrored walls within the elevator. Demitra’s gaze was on me, as intent as a ravenous hawk spotting a plump, juicy rabbit to devour.

 

As I mulled over the situation, I couldn’t help but wonder if this turn of events was a positive sign or if it indicated that my involvement with the Paladonic Knights was deeper than I had initially thought. Was this somehow connected to the events in the caves, or was it due to something entirely different? Unfortunately, even Charlotte didn’t possess the answers, and a sense of unease settled in the pit of my stomach.

 

What I could figure out was that the more I delved into the workings of the Paladonic Knights, the less my feelings towards them remained positive. Even though I was about to get a new vehicle, I knew nothing came for free. Nevertheless, it was evident that they held significant expectations for me despite my reservations.

 

*    *    *    *

 

1072 A.D.

 

Ardin awoke to a disorienting darkness. His sense of time was lost, a blurred passage between his last memories and his current awareness. As he slowly sat up, the initial realization was his ability to move. His body ached, and a heightened sensitivity to the cool air on his skin sent shivers down his spine, yet the discomfort was bearable.

 

Surrounded by an impenetrable void, he couldn’t see anything. An assumption crept into his mind—this must be Hell’s deepest, darkest abyss. But, at least his physical senses seemed intact. Thoughts of his predicament swirled, his mind racing to understand his predicament.

 

In the teachings of the priests, Hell was a realm of fiery torment, a place filled with the reek of sulfur and brimstone. Yet, the air around him felt damp and cool. This wasn’t the inferno he’d envisioned. Where were the demons meant to be his torturers? Where were the agonized and tormented cries of sinners? The anticipated waves of terror he’d prepared for ebbed and flowed within him.

 

Reaching up to his face, a shocking truth unveiled itself. He was devoid of eyes, the sockets hollow and void of sight. Panic gripped his heart. How could he defend himself against demons if he couldn’t see them coming?

 

As his hands explored his immediate environment, his new ability took hold, and the surreal nature of his reality deepened. He was not in the afterlife; this was the remains of his home. Fingers sifting through ash, he absorbed information through his peculiar gift. Fragments of his past life lay scattered—his deformed children, their presence close, but a bit further lay the lifeless form of Venita. Did she perish while attempting to shield our children from harm? He wondered, a mournful contemplation amid the enigmatic darkness.

 

With trembling hands, Ardin’s fingers traced a path over the scorched earth until he reached where Venita’s remains lay. An internal struggle brewed within him—did he dare confront the sight of her charred bones? The weight of his uncertainty hung heavily in the air, overshadowed only by his overwhelming need for closure.

 

He summoned his courage and let his hand descend upon the bony shoulder below him. The moment of contact shattered the barrier between the living and the dead. Knowledge surged into his consciousness, but it was not of his beloved wife. Instead, the spectral connection unveiled the truth of Old Maerta’s demise. A scream, raw and ragged, tore from his throat, a manifestation of his grief and terror reverberating in the eerie emptiness around him. He had hoped for answers, yet the revelation plunged him deeper into the abyss of unanswered questions.

 

His anguished cry echoed, punctuating the dark silence. The fractured bones he touched bore the marks of violence, blades, or force, breaking the fragile structure. But where was Venita? Why was there no sign of her presence amidst the remains of their shattered home?

 

Driven by desperation and dread, Ardin cast aside his shoes and rose to his feet. He drew upon his unique ability, a supernatural gift allowing him to navigate his surroundings, a distorted semblance of sight in a world of darkness. He moved with a hesitant urgency, each step guided by intuition and his innate connection with his environment. Corpse after corpse, he searched, an unrelenting fervor driving him as he sought any sign of his missing wife.

 

Time lost its meaning as he continued his relentless search. Over and over, he moved from one skeletal form to another, his heart pounding in his chest, a desperate prayer for discovery mingling with his mounting despair. His quest led him through the charred remnants of what was once his village, a haunting reminder of the life he’d known.

 

The warmth of the sun’s touch on his skin signaled the arrival of dawn, the world outside his personal darkness illuminated by its golden rays. Yet, even in the light of day, Venita remained elusive, her absence a constant ache in his heart.

 

Exhaustion clung to his bones, and hunger gnawed at his stomach. With a heavy heart and unshed tears, he retraced his steps, a weary journey that brought him back to the heart of his devastation. Gently, as though cradling a fragile treasure, he gathered his broken children into his arms, holding them close, his grip tender yet unyielding. Their innocent lives, free from the knowledge of tragedy, brought bittersweet solace, a reminder of the life that still clung to him amidst the ruin.

 

Ardin shuddered, his tears invisible but no less real, his cries echoing through the wreckage as he clung to the only fragments of his shattered world that remained.

 

As Ardin’s senses slowly reawakened from the grip of sleep, the memories of his harrowing ordeal rushed back, mingling with the fragments of his broken reality. His body was on the mend, his bones knitted back together by forces unknown, and his skin bore the remnants of Zeus’s thundering assault. However, his eyes remained shrouded in darkness, an unrelenting reminder of the cruelty he’d endured.

 

Zeus’s attack had wreaked havoc upon him, yet his stomach rumbled with hunger, a stark reminder of his humanity. He groped around in the debris, his hands seeking sustenance amidst the ruins. Once a beacon of hope, the ambrosia lay among the remains, its once vibrant promise now marred by the devastation.

 

Within the folds of his tattered clothing, the fruit Venita claimed held the power to save her, and their children still rested. He retrieved it, a glimmer of something to hold onto amidst the despair. Yet, even with his gift that allowed him to glean information from touch, the fruit held its secrets close, revealing nothing of its inner workings.

 

Venita’s fate weighed heavily on his mind. Did she survive? Had she managed to escape the nightmare that consumed their home? A torrent of questions flooded his thoughts, each driving him further toward a single goal: finding his wife and uncovering the truth.

 

His turmoil was overwhelming, a complex mix of grief, longing, and an insatiable thirst for answers. He held the fruit before him, its presence both a symbol of hope and a reminder of his loss. Though his children were gone, the desire to save whatever remained of his shattered world, should Venita still be alive, consumed him.

 

Resolute, he took a bite, the tangy sweetness of the fruit mixing with the bitterness of his emotions. The taste was a bitter reminder that life went on even in the midst of his personal abyss, and he was determined to discover the fate of the woman he loved, no matter the cost.

 

As Ardin’s teeth punctured the fruit’s flesh, a rush of life-giving nectar flooded his senses. Despite the fruit’s weeks of torment, the juice tasted nothing short of divine. Each drop seemed to infuse him with renewed vigor, an almost euphoric sensation that washed over his body, pushing aside the weeks of pain and exhaustion. A guttural moan of ecstasy escaped his lips, and his mind expanded in ways he could scarcely comprehend.

 

In this heightened state, he felt an intimate connection to the world around him. The creatures he had once considered bothersome pests now revealed their vital role in the intricate web of life. He saw the harmony of the ecosystem, the bugs breaking down the remains of his fallen companions, nurturing the soil, and paving the way for new life to take root. Even the scorched remnants of his village, now teeming with potential for rebirth, held a beauty he hadn’t noticed before.

 

His senses extended beyond the land, reaching into the depths of the sea. He felt the ebb and flow of the tides, the movement of schools of fish, and even the presence of predators lurking beneath the surface. The newfound clarity allowed him to witness a predator refraining from an attack due to its satiation, an intricacy of the natural world he would have missed before.

 

With the overwhelming influx of power, his physical discomfort melted away, leaving him feeling revitalized and more alive than ever. But his eyes, the very organs that had once granted him sight, now lay sealed, their absence compensated by his other heightened senses.

 

He took his pendant in hand, his gift affording him insight into the merchant’s nefarious deeds. The revelation cemented the merchant’s guilt and justified Ardin’s own actions against him. Holding the pendant seemed to unlock a window into the past, the very moment when the merchant had stripped him of it after the bandit’s attack. The memories surged forth, filling in the gaps and adding more depth to his understanding.

 

As his connection to the pendant deepened, a flicker of curiosity arose within him. What other secrets might it hold? Could it guide him toward the answers he sought, the truth of what had happened to Venita and the fate of his children? With newfound clarity and purpose, Ardin was ready to unravel the mysteries that had taken hold of his life, armed with his enhanced senses and an unyielding determination.

 

Determined to find any trace of Venita, Ardin cautiously extended his senses towards Old Maerta’s remains, hoping to catch a glimpse of her final moments. The visions that assaulted his consciousness were beyond horrifying. He witnessed a nightmarish creature, part human and part serpent, descending upon the crone with a fiery sword. Maerta’s bravery was evident as she tried to shield the wailing children, only to be struck down in a torrent of merciless violence. The monster showed no remorse, its sinister grin etched into his memory as it set fire to his children’s bedding; the sound of their agonized cries would forever haunt him. In Maerta’s dying moments, she couldn’t provide any insight into Venita’s fate; she hadn’t known where his wife was.

 

Driven by despair and determination, Ardin’s bare feet carried him from one lifeless form to another, revealing the brutal atrocities inflicted upon his village. The merciless creatures that invaded their sanctuary seemed to emerge from the depths of his darkest fears. His mind painted a horrifying canvas of twisted beings, monstrous amalgamations of human and beast, each one reveling in sadistic glee as they slaughtered with abandon. The night had been a maelstrom of terror, and Ardin bore witness to the aftermath, a landscape of death and destruction.

 

Yet, amid the chaos, a small glimmer of hope emerged as he retraced Venita’s path, stepping into the same footprints she had left behind. Through his heightened senses, he felt the visceral fear that had gripped her, saw the tears that streamed down her cheeks as she fled from the carnage that had befallen their village. While he couldn’t be sure whether it was before or after the tragedy that had claimed their children, he clung to the belief that she had survived the inferno.

 

Ardin’s heart ached to pursue her, to chase after the woman he loved with every fiber of his being. Yet, the burden of duty pressed heavily upon him, a solemn obligation to his fallen people and his children’s memory. The sun bore down on his skin, scorching him, as he dedicated the hours of the day to laying his friends and companions to rest. With his newfound abilities, his sightless eyes ceased to matter as he worked tirelessly to dig, move, and honor those who had once been a part of his tight-knit community.

 

As the sun’s intense heat gradually waned, Ardin’s resolve burned brighter than ever. He knew he couldn’t let these monstrous beings escape the consequences of their unspeakable acts. His heart seethed with a newfound determination, fueled by the agony of losing his loved ones and the relentless thirst for justice.

 

Sensing the desolation around him, Ardin’s awareness shifted in the direction Venita had fled. It was a path he would follow, a journey he would undertake with an unyielding purpose. The violence inflicted upon his village was not something he could ignore or brush aside. It was a grievous affront, a savage declaration of war against his people, against him.

 

With his senses honed to their fullest extent, Ardin took his first steps towards vengeance. The pain of loss mingled with the fire of retribution, forging an unwavering resolve within him. He would hunt down those responsible for this brutality, these abominations that had shattered his world. They would pay for their sins, and justice would be served.

 

As the horizon painted the sky with hues of orange and red, Ardin’s journey began again. His footsteps marked the start of a relentless pursuit, a quest to uncover the truth, seek retribution, and ensure that the monsters responsible would face the wrath of a man who had nothing left to lose. But first, he needed to find his wife.

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

From the Author

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