Despite Stella's half-hearted reassurances, Mio couldn't hold back the feeling of dread in the pit of her stomach that rose up each time she watched Tetsuya sustain another injury. He clashed with the behemoth of a man over and over again, the two of them trading blows like it was nothing. Indeed, she was awestruck getting to watch the prince engage in combat with someone other than herself for the first time. He fought just as valiantly as he had back then, every move he made flowing as naturally as though he'd planned each one beforehand. Forgetting herself, Mio wandered up to the side of the cube encasing them and placed her hands upon the magic wall as she gazed inside, transfixed by the dance of warriors.
"Master!" She called, wincing when the stranger punched him with such force that she could've sworn she felt her own ribs crack as well. She was quick to cover her mouth, however, not wanting to distract him and cause a potentially fatal slip-up. Stella had the right idea โ she needed to believe in him, to trust that he could handle himself without her. Tetsuya had beaten her in their own battle, and she knew well of his strength, but it still wasn't enough to stop the concern clouding her head and filling her mind with doubts.
Her worries proved unfounded, thank the stars. Tetsuya turned the tides in a stunning comeback, both onlookers visibly surprised at the storm the prince so effortlessly summoned forth. Even Stella took a few steps forward to get a better look, her green eyes focused intently on the fight. "Damn, is he really going to...?" The ginger murmured, cupping her chin as the battle neared its end. Mio didn't even spare her a glance, so absorbed in witnessing her master's victory that she could only cheer when he successfully won the other's capitulation. "Yes!"
The two men stood and exited their enclosed battlefield to approach their servants. Mio immediately ran up to her master, her golden tail wagging in a show of her excitement and relief at seeing that he was okay, her eyes shining with adoration. Stella, on the other hand, slowly sauntered up behind her, shooting her own master an unamused glance. The two girls couldn't have been more different in the ways that they treated their superiors, contrasting one another like night and day.
Mio looked over to the man known as 'Wolfsbane', a name she did not recognize. The Vanaheim Union, however, was one she was somewhat familiar with. King Roth frequently spoke of conquering other nations, and the Union was one that came up often in his speeches. Timidly, she nodded in greeting, still a bit skeptical of the male due to him attacking Tetsuya and intimidated by his large frame. "It's alright..." Her tone was clipped but polite, her eyes on Stella once more when Vladimir gestured to her.
Immediately, Stella rolled her eyes in response. "Wow, thanks for the introduction." She bit back sarcastically, but she faced the Spardan prince with a more deferential posture. "Likewise. And yes, we had plenty of time to get to know one another while that oaf was fighting you." Mio could've gasped at the way that she was talking about her own prince. The human girl didn't hold back in the slightest, her arms crossed over her chest as she looked from Tetsuya to Vladimir, seemingly none-too-pleased with the latter. Was it acceptable to speak to royalty that way in Vanaheim? Or were the two really just that comfortable with one another? She had a hard time reading social situations, but she hoped that they didn't actually hate each other.
Realizing that they were now being sent away, Mio chewed on her lip anxiously as Stella let out a knowing sigh. "Go figure. I'm not surprised you would get yourself in trouble on our first day, Vlad." Shaking her head, she turned to walk away before glancing over her shoulder at the blonde. "You coming?"
Mio paused to listen to the thoughts that Tetsuya beamed into her head, nodding hesitantly to confirm that she understood them. "... Right. Okay." Was all she replied, her feet pulling her towards the hallway with Stella even as her eyes remained trained on him, his parting wink sending a surge of butterflies into her stomach. She hadn't expected to be separated from him so quickly, and the reality of it deeply unsettled her. It had been a long, long time since she was allowed to roam on her own anywhere. The freedom should have been liberating, but she instead felt stifled, her nerves shot from the realization that she would have to navigate this huge place full of strangers without him. She could run into the fray without a second thought, but socializing with others was too just too frightening, apparently.
Taking a deep breath, she steeled herself and tore her eyes from him at last. Don't hesitate to call for me if you need me, my prince. With that final message, she made her way to the dorms, praying that Tetsuya wouldn't be reprimanded too harshly for his actions.
Some time later, as the ball was set to begin and the prince still had not shown himself, Mio finally gave up waiting around for him. With Mary's guidance, she made her way back to her room to prepare for the upcoming festivities. Stella had told her that students were expected to dress formally for the opening ball, but she emphasized that it was very important for commoners and servants to wear simpler dresses than the princesses and noblewomen. They wanted to be the stars of the show and would not take kindly to having their spotlight stolen away. With that in mind, the beastkin girl opted for a simple black dress she'd found in her new dorm's closet. Somehow, all of these clothes were already in her size, indicating that they'd been prepared for her before she'd even arrived.
The dress was backless and slim, the shape of it hugging her waist and hips as she slid it on and tied the halter ribbon around her neck. She cut a hole in the fabric so that her tail could protrude freely and fixed her braid before taking a look at herself in the full-body mirror across from her. Is this... a bit much? She wondered, blushing lightly as she traced her finger along the hemline where it met the milky white flesh of her thigh, settling an inch or so above her knee. It was certainly less fancy than the other dresses, but she felt a bit exposed, too. For a young woman who was used to wearing a suit of armor as a second skin, she felt practically naked right now.
Nonetheless, she pulled on a pair of black heels and took some time getting used to them before joining the others. She'd never worn them before, but her natural sense of balance helped her adjust to the added height quickly enough. She didn't bother to accessorize or put on any makeup since she wasn't experienced with any of that. For now, this would just have to do.
Mio left her chambers and joined the throng of students making their way to the ballroom. Unfortunately, she didn't see Tetsuya in the crowd, but that didn't stop her from searching restlessly anyway. It wasn't long before she had stepped through the grand doors and found herself in the dance hall, her eyes widening as she was immediately assaulted by bright lights and vivid colors.
Hundreds of students, old and new, were already chatting and laughing together as the evening began. It was hard to even hear herself think over their voices, let alone the orchestra playing tirelessly in the background. Still, the ballroom, awash with color and decorated with floating lights and streamers was a breathtaking sight. Magic crystals suspended in the air above them refracted their multicolored hues across the polished floors, the candles in the chandelier projecting a warm glow that illuminated all in sight. The entire place was practically sparkling, but the people within were determined to shine even brighter than the moon in the skylight above. Noblemen wore suits and robes of the most luxurious make, while the women that clung to their arms adorned dresses of the finest silks. It was easy to tell who was a noble and who was of common birth just based on their outfits alone. Servant girls wore shorter, more plain-looking dresses while princesses and noble daughters flaunted long, colorful gowns with ruffles and expensive jewelry upon their ears and necks. The class disparity was rather obvious, but she supposed that even an establishment such as Alexandrian Academy had to cater to those of high birth.
Uninterested in schmoozing, Mio snuck along the side wall, taking care to avoid bumping into anyone as she headed for the refreshments table. At the very least, she wanted to try to blend in and keep a low profile while waiting for Tetsuya to arrive. With shaking hands, the canine maid grabbed a delicate glass and poured herself some of the sparkling liquid from the first bottle she saw. She sniffed the contents before raising it to her lips and taking a sip, her ears flicking slightly out of curiosity. It was only apple cider.
She took a seat at an empty table near the edge of the room and crossed her legs, her discomfort obvious as she sat there alone and drank the sweet juice idly. As she waited, she couldn't help but tap her nails against her other arm, one of her high-heeled shoes bobbing in the air impatiently as she looked around for any sign of the prince.
Maybe I should go looking for him... Mio thought, her eyes flicking over as she politely turned down a sheepish servant boy who'd come to ask her for a dance. Embarrassingly, she didn't even know how to dance, much less waltz or pirouette as the aristocrats did. With any luck, she wouldn't have to try, either. "Please save me, my prince..." She begged under her breath, wanting nothing more than to escape this party and be alone with him once more.
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โโโโโโโโฉโโโโฆโโโโฉโโโโโโโ โ ๐ฏโฏ๐๐๐๐๐ถ ๐. ๐ฏโฏ๐๐ โฏ๐๐ โ
"What would you ask for, if you knew the answer was Yes?"
I decided to edit my intro post for the main antagonist. Feel free to go with the old or new post.
"Please save me, my prince..."
An eerily familiar phantom touch on her exposed shoulder sent a shockwave of faint memories coursing through Mioโs entire being. โYour wish is my command, darling,โ a familiar tone of Spardan royalty acknowledged her wish.
Then she was flung back to reality. โAre you alright?โ Tetsuya asked as he retracted his touch while taking a seat next to Mio. โI didnโt mean to startle you if I did,โ he excused his misdeed before taking a sip of his surprisingly aromatic red wine. โPardon my tardiness. The school intendant gave me an earful.โ His azure eyes then glanced over to Mio followed by him resting his chin on his palm, โBut at least Iโll get to spend the night with you.โ His ocean eyes stared into her lightly blushing irises followed by a charming smile.
His long silky platinum locks had layers one couldnโt resist to comb through. His face lacked any scar or heterochromia and any other distinct feature. The suit wore Tetsuya and provided sharp edges to accentuate his broad back and even broader shoulders. The ivory suit overlapped a dark interior to coincidentally match with Mioโs black dress. They were the spitting image of being the otherโs yin to their yang.
โDarling?โ Tetsuya called to her attention once again. โWhatโs wrong?โ he inquired before beating her to the punch. โItโs the face isnโt it? I know. I was surprised when I saw myself too. Itโs amazing what a minor illusion spell can do.โ He admitted before touching where his scar should be.
โSo, what have you been up to in my absence?โ Testuya leaned in closer to Mio as if eager to hear what she had to say. Suddenly the overture of a classical piece echoed along the ballroom walls. Tetsuyaโs eyes lit up, and suddenly, Mio had lost all of her charm. โI love this song. Come on darling; letโs dance!โ
Without warning Tetsuya grabbed onto Mioโs wrist.
Tetsuya quickly dragged Mio to the dance floor. Tetsuya held Mio by her waist and with the other her hand, โJust follow my lead darling,โ Tetsuya confidently said before beginning to match to the beat of the music.
Tetsuya laughed at Mioโs vain attempts at dancing almost as if he were mocking her efforts. โItโs fine darling. Just leave the dancing to me next time,โ he said before bringing her close.
โWhat a lovely theme it is. Itโs Inspired by the legend of โTheCity of Wonderโ where, if found, would grant any wish.โ Tetsuya looked longingly into Mioโs eyes. โWhat would you ask for, if you knew the answer was yes?โ he whispered in a suggestive tone. A pointer finger fell on her lips, โShhhโฆdonโt tell me yet,โ he hugged her closely with his lips inches from her ear, โGuessing is the best part,โ his warm breath tickled her ear.
โWhat are you doing!?โ a feminine voice stirred a dramatic case of dรฉjร vu from her tone alone. Tetsuya loosened his hug and looked at the one responsible for the interruption.
As soon as Mio laid eyes on her she would see a reflection from a shattered mirror lost from memory. The mysterious woman was a young lady with similar height, build, and wore an affluent outfit along with the same kanzashi King Leonard kept.
โCanโt you see?โ Tetsuya fired back before standing in between the young lady and Mio, โShe's mine now and thereโs nothing you can do about it,โ a mischievous smile adorned his lips.
โWhy are you doing this, Mio?โ the young ladyโs voice rang in the Berserkerโs head. โI believed in you. Why are crawling back to your former master?โ she despertarly needed an answer.
Testuya gestured for Mio to take his hand, โCome darling. Letโs leave now that she sullied the atmosphere,,โ he said before turning his back to the young lady.
โShe?โ the mysterious woman asked before looking at her hands. Then a candle light lit in her head upon realization. โSo I take it youโre Tetsuya Tempest?โ she followed the prince.
โWell of course I am,โ the young man spoke from over his shoulder without stopping.
โThen I take it you are the master to this maid?โ she tilted her head expecting nothing short but a yes.
โYes, now leave us be!โ he hissed hoping to wave off the nuisance.
โThen whatโs her name?โ The young lady asked Tetsuya who stopped in his tracks. He barely glanced over his shoulder to acknowledge the girl. โYou donโt know it, do you?โ. There was a void of silence filled by the orchestra. The young lady then walked up to Mio and looked her directly in the eyes, โFirst rule of dealing with illusion magic โdArLInGโ is to never pay attention to what they want you to see.โ She pulled out a knife, โSecond rule is if something feels off itโs nice to give yourself a little pinch,โ she finished before gingerly stabbing Mio on the shoulder.
The lady standing before Mio slowly vanished as if dust was carried away with the wind. Tetsuya too turned to dust. The ashes swirled all around Mio enveloping her in a cyclone revealing chains bounding her. They began to rust before dispersing into thin air. In front of Mio stood Tetsuya with the same white suit except with a scar and a new way of concealing his scar. โMio. Do you still wish to go with her?โ Tetsuya asked as if questioning the canine on where her loyalty lies with.
โYou always were a thorn in my side, son of Tempest,โ The wretched tone came from none other than the former Princess to the Beleth Empire. She spun to look at him, "But that's why I always liked you~" she narrowed her eyes.
Her skin was as icy cold and white as snow. Her hair was as dark and chilling as midnight. Her legs were long and her hair was longer; reaching past her derriere. Crimson eyes coupled with full red lips made her a heartthrob. But her voluptuous body turned many knobs. She wore a miniskirt hiking up halfway to her thighs and usually adorned a black trench coat and a black corset. Her fangs hinted at her true nature, but her stunning features made it difficult to say no. She is Lady Raynare von Einzbern.
She extended her hand for Mio, โCome now darling. Be a good girl and come back to me.โ She said as if Mio were nothing more than a lost pet.
"Please save me, my prince..."
A familiar phantom touch on her exposed shoulder imposed eerie chains upon her shoulder. Burdening her into captivity and restraint for a mere moment before reality settled back in. "Your wish is my command, darling," a familiar tone of Spardan royalty acknowledged her wish.
The presence of the prince radiated the same instincts to go into fight or flight. "Are you alright?" Tetsuya asked as he retracted his touch while taking a seat next to Mio. Then the discomforting feeling vanished. "I didn't mean to startle you if I did," he excused his misdeed before taking a sip of his red wine. The smell slithering from the glass was intoxicating as if familiar. "Pardon my tardiness. The school intendant gave me an earful." His azure eyes then glanced over to Mio followed by him resting his chin on his palm, "But at least I'll get to spend the night with you." His ocean eyes stared into her lightly blushing irises followed by a charming smile.
His long silky platinum locks had layers one couldn't resist to comb through. His face lacked any scar or heterochromia and any other distinct feature. The suit wore Tetsuya and provided sharp edges to accentuate his broad back and even broader shoulders. The ivory suit overlapped a dark interior to coincidentally match with Mio's black dress. They were the spitting image of being the other's yin to their yang. But his eyes, how could he have them both.
More than just the set. They were captivating. They was a deep ocean within the windows to his soul. As if she were slowly being sucked in and sinking deeper. "Darling?" Tetsuya called to her attention once again. "What's wrong?" he inquired before beating her to the punch. "It's the face isn't it? I know. I was surprised when I saw myself too. It's amazing what a minor illusion spell can do." He admitted before touching where his scar should be.
His aura radiated a different energy. His eyes captivated her every time he locked onto her own. Yet here he was looking and acting fine. "So, what have you been up to in my absence?" Testuya leaned in closer to Mio as if eager to hear what she had to say. Suddenly the overture of a classical piece echoed along the ballroom walls. Tetsuya's eyes lit up, and suddenly, Mio had lost all of her charm. "Oh I just absolutely love this song. Come on darling; let's dance!" He locked eyes with her again and the words to deny his request would be seemingly stuck at the edge of her tongue. Unable to cross the threshold of her lips.
Without warning Tetsuya grabbed Mio's wrist.
Tetsuya quickly dragged Mio to the dance floor, "Just follow my lead darling," he confidently said before assuming the proper position with his hands on her hip and Mioโs hand before he matched to the beat of the music.
But try as she might. Mio was more accustomed to the song of steel than of the violin. "Oh well. Thatโs just fine darling. Just leave the dancing to me next time," he said before bringing her close. His gaze slowly imposing a more intense burden behind it.
"What a lovely theme it is,โ he said while simply slow dancing with her instead. โIt's Inspired by the legend of "TheCity of Wonder" where, if found, would grant any wish." Tetsuya continued to look longingly into Mio's eyes. The burden beginning to lift and now a brain fog began to settle. "What would you ask for, if you knew the answer was yes?" he whispered in a suggestive tone. A pointer finger fell on her lips, "Shhhโฆdon't tell me yet," he hugged her closely with his lips inches from her ear, "Guessing is the best part," his warm breath tickled her ear.
"What are you doing!?" a feminine voice stirred a dramatic case of dรฉjร vu from her tone alone. Tetsuya loosened his hug and looked at the one responsible for the interruption.
As soon as Mio laid eyes on her she would see a reflection from a shattered mirror lost from memory. The mysterious woman was a young lady with similar height, build, and wore an affluent outfit along with the same kanzashi King Leonard kept.
"W-why are you here so soon?" Tetsuya asked before standing in between the young lady and Mio, "She's mine now and there's nothing you can do about it," he proclaimed as if possessive of Mio more than a master should be.
"Why are you doing this, Mio?" the young lady's voice rang in the Berserker's head. "I believed in you. Why are crawling back to your former master?" she despertarly needed an answer.
Testuya gestured for Mio to take his hand, "Come darling. Let's leave now that she sullied the atmosphere,," he said before turning his back to the young lady.
"She?" the mysterious woman asked before looking at her hands for confirmation. Then a candle light lit in her head upon realization. "So I take it you're Tetsuya Tempest?" she followed the prince.
"Well of course I am," the young man spoke from over his shoulder without stopping.
"Then I take it you are the master to this maid?" she tilted her head expecting nothing short but a yes.
"Yes, now leave us be!" he hissed hoping to wave off the nuisance.
"Then what's her name?" The young lady asked Tetsuya who stopped in his tracks. He barely glanced over his shoulder to acknowledge the girl. "You don't know it, do you?". There was a void of silence filled by the orchestra. The young lady then walked up to Mio and looked her directly in the eyes, "First rule of dealing with illusion magic "dArLInG" is to never pay attention to what they want you to see." She pointed at the eyes before pulling out a knife, "Second rule is if something feels off it's nice to give yourself a little pinch," she finished before gingerly stabbing Mio on the shoulder.
The lady standing before Mio slowly vanished as if she were dust carried away by the wind. Tetsuya too turned to dust. The ashes swirled all around Mio and enveloped her in a cyclone before dispersing into thin air. In front of Mio stood Tetsuya with the same white suit except with a scar and a ball mask to conceal his scar. "Mio. Do you still wish to go with her?" Tetsuya asked as if questioning the canine on her loyalty.
"You always were a thorn in my side, son of Tempest," The disgruntled tone came from none other than the former Princess to the Beleth Empire. She spun to look at him, "But that's why I always liked you~" she narrowed her eyes a powerful aura emanating from them. Her spell no broken upon the Berserker but the imposing authority behind her gaze remained.
Her skin was as icy cold and white as snow. Her hair was as dark and chilling as midnight. Her legs were long and her hair was longer; reaching past her derriere. Crimson eyes coupled with full red lips made her a heartthrob. But her voluptuous body turned many knobs. She wore a miniskirt hiking up halfway to her thighs and usually adorned a black trench coat and a black corset. Her fangs hinted at her true nature, but her stunning features made it difficult to say no along with those peircing red eyes. She is Lady Raynare von Einzbern.
She extended her hand for Mio, "Come now darling. Come back to me and I promise to spoil you better than your master ever could." She said as if Mio were a lost pet.
As if the heavens had sent him just to answer her prayers, Tetsuya appeared before her just moments after she'd whispered her desire to see him. The colorful lights dancing along the walls and floors shone over him and momentarily blinded her when she looked up, her pink eyes squinting in an attempt to clear her view. 'Darling?' She thought, her cheeks flushing for a moment when she realized that he'd heard what she'd said. "I-" Before she could try to explain herself and apologize for her thoughtlessness, she cut herself off, gaping at the prince's appearance. He had two blue eyes, his scar and the eyepatch he'd been wearing nowhere to be seen. How was that possible?
When he called her back to attention, Mio snapped out of it, blinking the shock from her face as another emotion rose in its place โ suspicion. It felt wrong... Tetsuya's attitude, his looks, the overall vibe she was getting from him was off, and a sinking feeling was slowly but surely needling its way into her head. She didn't know what was off, but there was definitely something wrong. "Oh, um, I see. You took me by surprise, sir..." She murmured, becoming more withdrawn from him than usual as she clammed up and averted her gaze. Why would Prince Tetsuya disguise himself with an illusion? ... Is he that ashamed of what I did to him...?
The thought alone was disquieting, but before she could answer his next question she was already being swept up from the table and onto the dance floor, her silken dress rustling as she stumbled after the man. "Ah! Wait-!" She tried to put a halt to his plans before he could go through with them, but it was no use. He pulled her into his arms and she clung to him with her tail between her legs and her ears flattened, the thought of having to dance in front of all of these people turning her legs to jelly. "I c-can't..." The rest of her sentence died in her throat as she felt his fingers entwine with her own and his other hand rest on her waist. While his touch would normally fill her with warmth and turn her ivory complexion scarlet, this time her pulse quickened out of anxiety instead, her face only paling while she was left utterly at a loss for words.
Highly uncomfortable and equally uncoordinated when it came to waltzing, all she could do was try not to trip as Tetsuya jerked her this way and that. Eventually, it seemed he had realized that she wasn't going to get any better and mercifully let up, her mortification lessening somewhat when they slipped into a much simpler, slower dance. As they swayed back and forth and he gazed into her eyes, she was somehow unable to look away, those feelings of unease tightening her throat and robbing her of speech entirely. What does he mean...? She thought, her brows furrowing as he shushed her and held her closer. He wasn't acting like himself at all.
Upon hearing a hauntingly familiar voice, Mio finally broke his hold over her and whirled around, a soft but audible gasp leaving her lips at the sight of the girl standing across from them. She brought a delicate palm up to cover her mouth as she took in the regal young lady's appearance, from her long, snow white hair to her crystal blue eyes. Her heart palpitated intensely as her eyes scanned the unknown person's face and the kanzashi she wore, taken aback by how young and eerily familiar they seemed. That hairpin had once belonged to Pandora Tempest, she knew, but the girl wearing it now couldn't possibly be her. The princess had gone missing without a trace years ago; there was no way she would just show up now at the academy ball out of nowhere. However, her appearance was similar to Tetsuya's, which would at least explain why Mio thought she looked familiar. Her voice, though? She was certain she'd heard it somewhere before.
When 'the prince' and the strange young girl began quarreling and he took hold of her to lead her away, boldly claiming that she belonged to him, she felt a chill run down her spine. Somehow, that girl's voice was in her head, but it should have been impossible. Only her master could speak to her telepathically, but that could only mean one thing...
Her suspicions were soon brought to light when the girl exposed the blue-eyed Tetsuya for being a fake. Mio tensed up slightly when the Pandora-lookalike approached her and withdrew a small knife, but she did nothing to stop her. The instinctual sense of trust she felt towards her proved that she wasn't just some young girl in a fancy dressโhe was her real master, while the man in the suit behind her was a fraud. She winced as the blade pricked her shoulder, but the blossoming feeling of pain it left behind worked. In moments, their identities had been revealed. As relieved as she was to be reunited with the real Tetsuya, she was horrified when she realized just who it was that was pretending to be him.
It was none other than Beleth's princess, Lady Raynare von Einzbern.
"Princess..." Mio gasped, the fur on her ears and tail bristling at the realization. Raynare was a cruel, wicked woman who hid her callous nature behind the mask of a beautiful, charming lady, but Mio knew better. King Roth's daughter never batted an eye at the inhumane treatment of Berserkers or her fathers warmongering policies, worse, she wholeheartedly agreed with them. Her heart was just as black as his, and the canine had hoped she wouldn't recognize her. It seemed that she was naรฏve for ever thinking she'd be safe.
As soon as the real Tetsuya spoke, Mio immediately rushed to him, creating distance between herself and the raven-haired woman. "No, Master. I won't leave you." Her resolve was firm as she shook her head and took his elbow, her body pressing closely up against his. There was no force in this world or any other that would make her go back on her word. She had forsaken Beleth and its people, a decision that would not be reversed because of some honeyed words and empty promises. Their bond was forged in battle, and it was built on trust, not fear.
Glaring at the hand that outstretched itself to her, Mio backed up further, her arms tightening around Tetsuya as she practically dragged him along after her. "I refuse. I know your game, Lady Einzbern. I will never fight for the empire that enslaved me again." In contrast to her timidity earlier, the maid had become especially blunt and critical, almost getting a rush from finally standing up to one of her former superiors. All she could ever do was cower and obey when her mind belonged to them, but now she was empowered by her new bond with Sparda's prince, as eager to defend him as she was to maintain her newfound freedom. "I'm staying with Prince Tetsuya. My only allegiance is to him now."
Raynare chuckled, though it lacked any semblance of humor. "Oh? And what has Tempest or his nation ever done for you, hm? Locked you in solitary confinement for months? Forced you to become a guard dog for the prized prince?" She took a step closer, her red heels clicking over the tiled floor. "I made you what you are, you know. Without Beleth - without me - you'd be nothing. I'm the one you owe your allegiance to, darling."
Mio bared her canines in response, seemingly moments away from attacking the princess, but she focused instead on keeping a cool head. If she attacked Raynare she would definitely be scolded, or even kicked out of the academy, and if that happened then she would never be able to help Tetsuya find his sister. Since she was here solely for him, she couldn't afford to lose control and screw things up.
"What's your goal?" The Berserker finally snapped, her tail flicking in annoyance. "Why can't you just leave us in peace? You lost the war and we've gone our separate ways. It's over."
Raynare gave a dramatic sigh as she picked up a glass of red liquid that looked like punch from a nearby table, her crimson eyes studying the ripples that formed within as she swished it around idly. "You really are a bad girl, Mio. Your new master must be far too lenient with you. We'll have to work on your attitude..." She smirked and took a sip, gazing at the two of them with an amused look in her eye. "I've got an idea. Let's make a bet, dear Tetsuya - your allies versus my axis forces. Whichever group outperforms the other in the three main competitions being held this year wins. Pretty simple, right?"
This time, she came closer to Tetsuya as she wound a strand of his silver hair around her slender finger, her red lips curling into a mischievous smile. All the while, she was seemingly oblivious to the petite blonde glaring daggers at her from beside him. "I already know you won't win, but feel free to name your terms. As for me... Well, I'll be taking back this Berserker. You'll forfeit your psychic link with her and return her to me without a fuss. I think it's quite a generous offer, all things considered. She is rightfully mine, after all."
Despite the obvious disgust creasing her features at being spoken about like she was an object, Mio couldn't help but feel worried at the thought of becoming a bargaining chip for Beleth's princess. Her concerned pink hues flashed over in the prince's direction once more, an unspoken question lingering on her lips. Would he take the deal? Would Lady Raynare continue to torment them if he didn't?
"So, what'll it be? Do we have a deal?" Her voice was a breathy purr, each syllable an exercise in sensuality as she leaned in, seeking to entice the prince with her feminine wiles.
โโโโโโโฉโโโโโโโโโโโโฉโโโโโโ
โโโโโโโโฉโโโโโฆโโโโโฉโโโโโโโ โ ๐ฏโฏ๐๐๐๐๐ถ ๐. ๐ฏโฏ๐๐ โฏ๐๐ โ "I must fight with my weapons. Along with integrity, courage, and resilience"
A composed ocean eye followed Stella and, mostly, Mio. His reassuring smile slowly faded after he instilled confidence in his maid that everything would be alright. Tetsuyaโs chest tormented him with each breath he took. His muscles ached and were on the verge of collapse. The iron in his mouth tasted dry and rusty. But, Mioโs final words rung within his mind and provided comfort and courage to bravely face the authority figure ready to discipline this rowdy couple of newcomers. She gently reminded Tetsuya that he was not alone and for that he was grateful, โThank you, Mio,โ he responded in a hushed tone with a tightness in his chest that felt different than the pain.
โSo are Stella and youโฆโ Tetsuya trailed off while gaging Vladโs response/reaction. Vlad grumbled coupled with a unamused glare at his tiny attendant. โOh. I see,โ Tetsuya simply said before dropping the topic. He looked forward to getting to know the silver-tongued ginger.
High heels hastily clicked along the floor as a witch with crimson braids burst forth from one of the hallways connecting to the grand hall, โYou two stop fight-!โ she started before her eyes met the two young men standing at the edge of the cube waiting to be let out. โOh. Well then,โ she dusted herself off and walked right up to them. โCare to explain yourselves?โ She asked in an unamused manner with crossed arms while tapping her foot just waiting to hear their poor excuse.
Tetsuya and Vladimir briefly glanced at each other before simultaneously enthusiastically saying, โJustsomefriendlytraining.โ Tetsuya scratched the back of his head with a bashful smile while Vlad wrapped his arm around Tetsuya and showed their camaraderie with his toothless smile. The witch narrowed her eyes, โโฆRrrriiiigggghht. You boys follow me,โ she said before the amethyst walls began to evaporate. Tetsuya grabbed his bags and then briefly glanced back at the hall Mio disappeared to before sighing and following the witch.
The prince hissed through gritted teeth as the disinfectant scraped along his back wound. But the stinging paled in comparison to the tongue lashing the two received from the witch. They were sent to the infirmary to heal their wounds after she reprimanded the two. Alexandrian academy has several national ties with one of these ties being with a well renowned church of silent healers. Draped in white cloth from head-to-toe their identities are kept a secret to ensure their gifts couldnโt be used by one nation. Allowing Tetsuya (and all of the student body) to heal from his injuries far beyond the spectrum of potions and healers available from Sparda.
Vladimir sat up once his teeth were put back into place. The mountain of a man licked his teeth before putting them to use, โTetsuya, Iโmโฆsorry,โ he said catching the attention of the Prince of Sparda. โI already said itโs fine, Vlad. I appreciate the letter and gift informing me of the duel. I just assumed we were going to have your customs tomorrow like we planned.โ Tetsuya said. โYes, thatโs what I planned. Until I felt something similar to a hand.โ Vlad admitted. Tetsuyaโs eye widened. The hairs on the back of his neck stood up. A chilling sensation washed over him as he felt stunned while ann idea flashed across his mind. He gulped, โWhat do you mean?โ
The giant continued with, โI planned to fulfill my labor tomorrow with dread. But upon feeling a hand on my shoulder all I saw was red,โ he explained. Tetsuyaโs hands balled up into fists and shook with malice. His usually calm and cool headed demeanor turned into a cold stare into space. โ...No...it couldnโt,โ Tetsuya suddenly stood up from the exam table and grabbed the rest of his belongings. Leaving the white robe squirming to finish their work, but he intercepted their hands and shook his head. Tetsuya then marched toward the exit, โI need to go Vlad. Iโll see you at the ball,โ he said in an eerily serious tone before leaving.
He felt sick to his stomach. The idea of his little sisterโs kidnapper attending this school was something he never wouldโve thought possible. He questioned his judgment to separate from Mio. โWas she ok? Can the telepathy even reach her from here? Oh god what if they already got to her? What if sheโs gone? How can I save her-โ Tetsuya froze when he walked into his room and immediately noticed a present on his bed. He set his bags down and picked up the note on top. โI saw this suit and immediately thought of you, Master. Please consider wearing this to the ball. I think youโll look handsome in it. -Your Trusted Companion โ
Tetsuya set aside the note and popped open the box to see a finely white tailored suit with a masquerade mask meant for the ball. His nerves eased and he took a deep breath to calm himself. He always became anxious and cold/distant when thinking of Pandoraโs kidnapping. He justโฆneeded to settle down first. The prince sat on his bed and looked at the note again. A soft smile pursed his lips. Mio was just fine.
Little did he know the treacherous footsteps of a princess-napper had snuck up on the canine Berserker. A hand leered over her before touching her shoulder. Lacing her with his poisonous trap of illusions and sending her into a blank stare comatose. Then conniving lips whispered to her pointy ears, โ๐ฒ๐ฝ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐ฝ๐ถ๐ ๐๐ฝ๐ ๐ถ๐๐๐๐๐พ๐๐ ๐ธ๐๐พ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐พ๐๐ ๐ท๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐ถ๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐ถ๐๐๐๐, ๐ถ๐๐น ๐๐ฝ๐๐๐๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ถ๐๐ ๐๐ฝ๐ ๐พ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐น ๐๐ถ๐๐ ๐น๐๐๐๐๐๐น ๐พ๐ ๐๐ฝ๐พ๐๐ ๐๐พ๐๐ ๐ท๐ ๐๐๐ ๐ป๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐ ๐๐๐๐๐๐พ๐๐.โ He finished reciting the conditions but his hand still lingered on her bare skin. The shadowy figure glanced to the vampire, Raynare, โSheโs ready,โ he said before lifting his hand and awakening Mio from her comatose state.
Tetsuyaโs white dress shoes clicked along the floor. The classical music combined with the chatter of busybodies filled his ears. He traversed through a sea of people as he searched for Mio. โThis is silly. I should just ask her where she is,โ he thought before familiar beastkin ears caught his attention. The prince maneuvered past the students. โI didnโt know she danced,โ he thought with a curious grin wondering what else she could be hiding.
He came to a halt the moment his eye landed on the Princess of Atrocity dancing with the Golden Jackal of Sparda. His back felt a sharp pain of betrayal as he watched the two ladies, who donned matching ebony attire, dance together. The knife switched to his gut and twisted after he remembered Mio telepathically giggling at the concept of living a double life earlier. Was she a double agent? โWhy is Mio with Raynare?โ Tetsuya thought just before his blood began to boil. He had enough spectating when Raynare put a finger on Mioโs lips. He needed the truth on what was going on before he made another hasty decision for today.
Tetsuya confronted the two, but was met with a swift response of Mioโs allegiance shifting. Strangely enough Mio reacted shocked to seeing him, but in a manner as if she had never expected to see him and was in disbelief he was even at the academy. Besides Mioโs puzzling reaction. The ire from within him boiled and yearned to be unleashed upon the princess. But he restrained himself and telepathically spoke to Mio. He desperately hoped this was some misunderstanding. If she truly was a foe then he would have to face her like they did many moons ago. But Raynare dismissed him her. Waitโฆher?
The prince looked down at his hands. โMio had a weird reaction to me. I thinkโฆ she sees me as someone else,โ he glanced to Raynare. โThen the same must be true for the princess. Which means an illusion has been cast,โ he thought. Tetsuya took a deep breath to calm himself and regained his composure from under his mask. Maybe all wasnโt as it seemed. After deducing the nefarious plot to steal Mio away he decided to unmask this imposter masquerading as Mioโs master. He poked the major hole in Raynareโs plan which was her being unable to address Mio by name. Then, with a dagger Tetsuya summoned, he helped shatter the illusion Mio was entrapped in.
The veil lifted from Mioโs eyes and as soon as the canine realized who โTetsuyaโ was she chirped the atrocious oneโs title while being riddled with shock. The real prince of Sparda asked one more time where Mioโs loyalty stood. He could barely finish his sentence when the maid gained some distance from the bloodsucker and latched onto his arm while firmly proclaiming fealty to him. Raynare attempted one more time to sway Mioโs loyalty once the mask fell off, but Mio practically dragged her master with her backward to avoid Raynareโs touch. โWoah!โ he lightly yelped at the suddenness.
A crowd was slowly beginning to form a circle around the three just as Mio called out the trickery Lady Einzbern employs upon her subjects. Mio also promised to never willingly obey the orders of the Beleth empire again in a triumphant manner. Tetsuya had never heard such heart in her speech as if she was standing up to an abuser after healing from her wounds. She then proudly redeclared her allegiance to Tetsuya while clinging onto and bringing him close to her body as if she cherished the newfound freedom close to her heart. Cementing the discussion of her loyalty shut and restoring Tetsuyaโs confidence in her, โMioโฆโ he softly said as if speechless with her conviction.
The Princess of Beleth didnโt take kindly to the rejection and went on the offensive by beginning to list off what the Spardan dynasty had done to Mio. She took a step closer which reflexively forced Tetsuya to put himself in front of her and Mio as he faced off against the adversarial sovereign. Raynare then had the audacity to tell Mio she owed the Beleth empire for everything she was now. Mio flashed her canines and looked ready to pounce, but Tetsuya put his hand over hers and briefly glanced down at Mio. Thankfully she got the hint to not be brash and remembered to not do anything which may get her in trouble.
Tetsuya then turned his attention to the vampire, โYou stole hundreds of innocent girlsโ lives to turn them into your experimental soldiers in a war that wasnโt theirs to fight in. You have no moral high ground here, Raynare,โ he set the record straight. โMio belongs at my side. Attempting to take her is the same as stealing from me,โ he warned sternly. โWhy you attempted to do so is beyond me.โ Which sparked the question. But Mio beat him to the punch. Mio asked why Raynare was doing this since she had already lost the war. There was no need to kidnap unsuspecting girls anymore.
Raynare sighed while picking up the scarlet drink she had from before when meeting Mio at her lonesome table. The taste of blood always was more delicious when fresh. As she swished the glass around she saw her drink is already growing stale. She completely ignored Mio's question and instead chose to reprimand Mio as if she were her subject and promised to rectify her transgression. Then there was a devilish spark in Lady Einzbernโs eyes. She proposed a wager, โA bet?โ Tetsuya reiterated in a pensive tone.
She closed the distance and began to toy with his hair just like a lover would. Tetsuya slapped her hand away nocking the drink onto the floor which earned him an amused giggle from the blood fiend before she continued. Raynare arrogantly claimed victory already and named her price being the delicious arm candy latching onto Tetsuya. He could feel Mioโs pink irises on him while he remained silent making it seem he was thinking of the offer. The princess utilized her feminine charm to entice him to agree. She crossed her arms which pressed her sizable bust together while pouting to puff up her lips. Her eyes widened to gain sympathy in hopes of humoring her in this deal. โMaybe youโll want me~?โ her tone was venomously sensual. She made many of the servant boysโ knees weak and would be the wet dream of many nobles that night.
Unfortunately for her, Tetsuya saw her for what she truly was. A cruel, wicked, and manipulative snake instead of charming, feminine, and seductive lady. His blood boiled just by looking at her and he wished to run his entire armory through her supernatural body until her vampiric regeneration gave out. But instead Tetsuya remained calm and stoic. He decided to take off his mask once she finished her sad attempt at convincing him.
The shadow of the mask peeled off and revealed his face along with his scar and shimmering azure eye actively counteracting the vain attempts of Raynareโs crimson eyes, โYou know those donโt work on me, Raynare. Still, I find your attempts comical. Youโve always been such a jokester. Oh wait, I mean youโre now just a joke. To think you still call yourself princess when you donโt even have a kingdom to call home is clearly a desperate attempt to cling onto your glory days. Hell you just tried to kidnap someone who used to respond to your beck and call. Face it Raynare. Youโre a sad shadow of your former self whoโs hoping I take your pitiful deal because you have nothing more to your name.โ Tetsuya spouted all with ferocity before sheathing his silver tongue.
Raynare gasped at Tetsuyaโs audacity. Her lips failing to fire back a retort as the prince chose to eviscerate her social status with so many eyes on them. She could hear the murmuring crowd. She gritted her teeth and furrowed her eye brows with her nostrils flaring. She was thinking of how to make the prince rue the day he showed such insolence.
Tetsuya gave her the cold shoulder and narrowed his eyes at Lady Einzbern, โStay away from Mio or youโll answer to me next time,โ he warned before turning his back to the vampire. โLetโs go, Mio,โ he thought while tugging the Berserker along with his elbow.
โI donโt blame you for walking away. I would be afraid to lose someone like her too.โ
Tetsuya froze mid-step. His eyes blankly stared in front of him as his stoic expression faltered and cracked. His jaw tensed and his heart stopped as little needles pricked along his skin before goosebumps raced up his back. He replayed the voice again to make sure he wasnโt mishearing anything.
โPandora was such a sweet girl. Iโm really glad I was able to make her last night special.โ
Tetsuya held his breath as the nauseous feeling twisted his stomach. He slowly turned back to Raynare just as a gentleman joined her side. โItโs himโฆheโs really here right now,โ his thoughts spilled into the telepathic link as he was unable to focus and keep it to himself. Tetsuya turned to face the man clad in a black suit with a black masquerade mask. The prince's fists balled up and began to shake. His teeth grit as he stared down the man with extreme hostility. As if hoping to kill the figure with his magical eye alone. He was only able to mutter one word, "Stryker."
The mysterious man in black waved, โHello, Sir Tempest. I promise you I only ever involve myself with woman. Which includes your sister. After the special night we shared Iโd definitely say she graduated to womanhood,โ he blatantly jeered at the royal Spardan as if mocking the prince was an amusing past time for him. Itโs not like anyone would be able to dispel his lies.
Mio suddenly lost her masterโs grip as Tetsuya closed the distance to grab Stryker by the collar. He reeled back a fist with brass knuckles having been summoned. โCareful, Tetsuya. You wouldnโt want another incident now would you?โ Raynare warned with a sly smile. โI believe you only get three strikes until youโre expelled. Unfortunately you already have one. What a shame,โ she sarcastically said with a shit eating grin. Hinting at her possible involvement.
Tetsuya grip refused to let go. His gritted teeth eventually hid behind his lips. His tense brow slowly unfurled. The shaking closed fist eventually stopped fidgeting. The classical music had stopped at this point and Tetsuya could practically hear an echo within his own thoughts. He held the man responsible for kidnapping his sister for a bit longer before sighing and letting Stryker go. The prince took a few steps back as if unwilling to share the air with this poor excuse of a human.
He stared daggers at the masked man, โI will find Pandora. I donโt care how long it takes or what Iโll have to sacrifice. You will not stop Mio and I from succeeding,โ he declared with passion.
Raynareโs amused grin fell off the face of the Earth as she narrowed her eyes. Her her lips pressed into a thin and unyielding line, โDid he justโฆ?โ she thought. โYouโre still looking for your sister?โ she asked. Her eyes looked to Mio, then back to Tetsuya, to Mio, then to Tetsuya. The princeโs face said it all. โPfttโฆHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA *breath* HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA,โ she laughed like a madwoman as if a world renowned court jester had told her of his magnum opus joke. Stryker frowned wondering if she had gone mad by how her lungs had almost given out for something not perceivably funny.
She wiped the tears from her eyes and hugged her stomach as she recovered from the whole revelation. โOh-hehe-oh my goodness. This is truly remarkable,โ she said before pointing at the berserker. โYou, Mio, will help him,โ she pointed at Tetsuya, โthe royal prince to find his dearly beloved lost sister?โ she asked again for further confirmation. โHehehe-ok-ok. New deal. Same conditions as before except, if you win, I will tell you where Pandora is with no hesitation or tricks,โ she said. Raynare then began to examine her nails for imperfection as if letting Tetsuya mull over her proposition.
Testuya held his breath. He didnโt exactly turn her down, but he didnโt say yes either. The toll was steep but the reward was exactly why he came here in the first place. Tetsuya sighed as the pressure weighed heavily on his shoulders. โHell I might even tell you even if I win. Thatโll be the icing on the cake,โ she added when he didnโt say yes immediately. His eyes lit up. Tetsuya glanced to his maid as if debating Mioโs worth to him, โMioโฆthis opportunity is too great,โ he thought to her before turning to Lady Einzbern.
โRaynare, this opportunity is too greatโฆto be true,โ he said which slapped the cocksure smirk from Raynare & Strykerโs faces. He continued with, โI refuse to treat Mio as a dispensable object to use and do my bidding. Sheโs more to me than a pawn. Sheโs a trusted companion and has proven her worth to me. But even if she hadnโt, sheโs still an innocent beastkin. So for those reasons I will be turning down your offer, again.โ He said with a heavy heart. He could feel the chance of seeing his sister slipping away. He would do almost everything except sacrifice anyone other than himself.
The prince nodded a farewell before spinning on his heel and taking a step toward Mio. Without skipping a beat he took her hand in his and began to walk away, โCome on. Letโs get out of here.โ
Suddenly he felt a tug on his forearm. Tetsuya turned to look and see Raynare staring daggers at him, โYou think you can humiliate me and just walk away?โ she growled before using her superior strength to tug Tetsuya down to her level as if he were a toddler. He gasped as she brought him close enough to sink her teeth in. She teased his neck by licking the exposed skin before moving onto his ear, โIf you donโt accept my deal Iโll oust your precious little bitch as a berserker.โ she threatened in a sinister whisper.
Tetsuya pulled back to regain his posture but was still tethered to her by her impeccable grip strength, โWhat will it be, son of Tempest?โ she hissed with her fangs unsheathed and she wasnโt afraid to flash them at the berserker either.
Because of Mioโs proximity she definitely heard what Raynare whispered. His thoughts raced across his mind while thinking of a solution out of this. But whatever he thought of ended with Mio being ousted to the large group of students as a Berserker. The gossip would spread like wildfire at the ball and be well known by the end of the week. Without many options the prince apologetically looked at his maid, โIโm sorry Mio. We have no other choice,โ he thought telepathically before sighing.
โFine. You have a deal,โ he begrudgingly agreed to Einzbernโs terms.
Angered as she was by the vampiress' attempts to seduce her master, Mio couldn't help but admire him for the way he stood up to her, continuously rebuffing her advances in much the same way she'd always fantasized about doing while serving beneath her. Seeing the drink slapped out of her hand was extremely satisfying, and the mortified look on her face that followed when Tetsuya viciously demeaned her in front of an audience was truly the cherry on top. It took everything in the canine not to turn around and stick her tongue out at the devastated princess as Sparda's prince began to lead her away, for she found herself delighting in the other's suffering in a way that was most uncharacteristic of herself. Call it karma for the years of trauma Raynare had put her and other young women through.
But then she heard a voice that chilled her to her very core, the mere sound of it turning her blood to ice. The maid had a similar reaction to her master, her body frozen in place as her grip on his hand tightened uncomfortably. Stryker. His was a voice she could never forget no matter how hard she tried, for it haunted her most vivid nightmares, the image of his face filling her with deep, unbridled fear. Unlike the princess, who was mostly all talk yet rarely ever got her own hands dirty, Mio had witnessed firsthand the kidnapper's cruelty. He had a callous disregard for life, easily disposing of any other Berserkers he deemed 'unfit' to become tools for the empire. He'd had a hand in her own capture and psychological breakdown, she knew, even if she couldn't remember that first, fateful meeting between them. Whoever she'd been in her past life, she was an utter fool to have fallen into the clutches of a monster like him.
Worse yet, he saw fit to taunt her benevolent handler with degenerate comments about his missing sister, a crime that simply could not go unpunished.
"He's lying," she hissed, her body whipping around to face the vile man as she did, relieved to see he was wearing a mask so that she didn't have to look upon his detestable visage. "It's nonsense. He's just trying to rile you up."
Of course, she didn't know for certain whether or not his words held any truth, but she knew the type of person that Stryker was. Deceiving others to pursue one's own agenda seemed to be the norm for those under Beleth's banner, and he was certainly no exception. She shared in Tetsuya's hatred of the man, but she realized, begrudgingly, that Raynare had a point. It was better to concede now and plan for revenge later than to doom his own future prospects over another fight on school grounds. Even if she did secretly wish she could join in on the thrashing.
When the prince finally released him and declared his noble intentions, Mio stood proudly beside him, her magenta gaze sweeping over the two fiends and boring holes into them in turn. She was honored to be the one he chose to help him with his mission, and she'd be damned if she let the fallen princess or any of her pathetic lackeys get in the way of that. Even so...
Why was the harlot laughing?
Scowling, she waited with arms crossed for Raynare to cease her incessant cackling, all the while fighting the urge to stifle the shrill noise with a pillar of rock to the face. She had no idea what was so funny about Tetsuya's plight, but she was losing her patience with the both of them by the second. To say that they got on her nerves was an understatement. Knowing that she no longer had to be terrified of what they would make her do was liberating, but she still couldn't shake that niggling fear of being taken by Raynare once more, forced to forfeit her autonomy completely and return to a life of enslavement. Most of the other Berserkers who'd fought in the war had been executed, so she was well-aware that the noblewoman was trying desperately to regain the last vestiges of her power and influence that still remained within this world.
In pursuit of that goal, she revised her previous deal, promising Tetsuya that she would tell him where Pandora was if he agreed to take her up on it. Mio narrowed her eyes, more than a little hesitant to trust a snake like Raynare. How did they know she would really keep her word? What if they went through all the trouble of winning and she lied, or refused to answer? And what would happen to her if they lost? She glanced up at her master as she heard his thoughts, her ears lowering somewhat in a dejected manner. It was his decision, in the end. He may have allowed her bountiful freedom and independence since going through the blood pact with her, but he was still the authority figure all the same โ after all, she could not truly exist without being tied to someone's chain now that she was a monster.
However, seeing the prince refuse a second time brought her no joy. As much as she appreciated hearing his heartfelt words, she could barely stand seeing him lose all hope like that. She reached for his hand, gazing up at him sadly as his fingers laced through hers. It wasn't fair. This could have been the greatest opportunity for them to find Pandora, but it also could have meant returning her to the bonds of captivity. She wanted to kill Raynare and Stryker for even suggesting such a cruel bargain, but if she did then they would lose the last two people who had any clue where the lost princess was.
Mio turned back at the same time that Tetsuya did when the raven-haired woman seized his wrist and brought him down to her level. With a gasp, the beastkin moved in to shove the wicked temptress away from her master before she heard the other's whispered threat. No!Her thoughts became disorderly and frantic, panic constricting her chest at the realization that they'd been had. Raynare had successfully backed them into a corner; her one-sided deal was practically sealed.
Returning her prince's glance, Mio nodded subtly, trying to reassure both him and herself. "It's not your fault." She replied to him, their mental communion thankfully hidden from the rest of the ball. Placing her other hand on his arm, she directed a hard stare towards Raynare as Tetsuya finally acquiesced to her demands.
"Perfect! I just knew you'd come around, darling." The vampiress slowly trailed her fingers down his forearm, shooting him a seductive wink before finally letting him go. A low growl rose in Mio's throat as she watched, her protective instincts almost getting the better of her. "Well, then, I'm sure we'll be seeing each other again very soon. Let's go, Stryker." With a snap of her fingers and the hint of a fanged smile, Beleth's princess turned on her heel and walked away, the kidnapper flanking her. He sent Mio a look over his shoulder that shook her to her very core, her loathing for him so strong that she felt bile rise in her throat. As soon as they were out of sight, Mio's fingers tightened over Tetsuya's, still holding onto his hand throughout the whole ordeal. His touch gave her strength, something she would be needing for the trials ahead.
"This way, Master." She urged him along, a sullen look on her face. Pushing through the crowd that had formed around them, she led the ashen-haired prince up the stairs to where a balcony hung off the side of the building. Perhaps unsurprisingly, it was completely deserted. Once the door had closed behind them and the cool evening air hit her skin, Mio let out a breath and released his hand. She walked over to the edge and leaned against the ornate guardrail, her arms draping over the side where she was able to look out upon the night sky and the land beyond. The moon caught her eye as she angled her chin up to gaze at it, a few moments of quiet introspection passing between them.
Finally, she turned her head to glance at him, her platinum strands lifting momentarily in the breeze before settling back at the nape of her neck.
"Thanks for defending me back there." Despite the turmoil in her heart, she managed to smile at him, truly grateful for Tetsuya's considerate nature. "If it weren't for you, I might never have realized that I was in an illusion. Sorry for worrying you." Her smile turned apologetic for a moment before it faded entirely as she looked away once more, a deep breath breaking up her speech. The prospect of becoming a captive again was utterly appalling, but she recognized that the two of them had little choice in the matter.
As if she'd suddenly become filled with conviction, the girl gripped the railing until her knuckles turned white, a little wrinkle creasing the bridge of her nose as her thin brows knitted together. "We're going to win. I don't care what it takes or who I have to crush to ensure our victory โ we will find your sister. So don't lose hope, okay?" Bright pink jewels flashed in his direction, a show of sympathy for the crestfallen prince as she reached out to put her warm hand over his.
"I wasn't lying when I said that my only allegiance is to you, Your Highness. If we do lose, then I want you to kill me."
Without a shred of hesitation, she leaned in, not a hint of a jest in her tone or demeanor. "I'd sooner forfeit my life than turn on you and become a pawn of Beleth again. If it comes down to it, promise me."
โโโโโโโฉโโโโโโโโโโโโฉโโโโโโ
โโโโโโโโฉโโโโโฆโโโโโฉโโโโโโโ โ ๐ฏโฏ๐๐๐๐๐ถ ๐. ๐ฏโฏ๐๐ โฏ๐๐ โ "I must fight with my weapons. Along with integrity, courage, and resilience"
Raynare, Princess to the former Beleth empire, successfully made a deal thatโll forfeit Mio if he loses the bet, but reveal his sisterโs whereabouts if he wins. He shouldโve been happy. The main reason for attending Alexandrian Academy was to find his sister, Pandora. So why did the bet leave a bad taste in his mouth? Maybe because he was backed into a corner and practically forced into the deal? It was either accept or have Mio ousted as a Berserker. He didnโt want Mio to be ridiculed with her time here. She had already faced enough as a Berserker.
Mio wouldnโt let the prince wallow in the air of defeat any longer. She strung him along past the nosy crowd and up the steps leading to a balcony where fresh air awaited them. Thankfully they were alone. Tetsuya took a deep breath of fresh air. He held it in for a moment before slowly sighing just as she let him go. He walked over to the far side of the balcony and wrapped his hands around the railing before leaning forward. The cool breeze splashed his face sending a calming wave down his body. Slowly alleviating the tension in his shoulders. He needed this. To recenter himself. With his eyes closed he kept focusing on his breathing and how the air felt.
Then his maid thanked the prince for standing by her. He glanced over his shoulder to Mio and saw her gratefully smile. She further apologized for falling prey to Strykerโs trickery. His azure eye flashed sapphire before looking away and back into the distant mountains. โIโm just glad youโre alright. Thatโs what matters most,โ he said nonchalantly with a tranquil tone.
Tetsuya closed his eyes thinking she was finished. His eyes shot open and he turned back at the sudden conviction behind him. He couldnโt deny how infectious her attitude was. The ends of his lips even slightly pursed upward. She closed the distance and put her warm hand on top of his as she reaffirmed her devotion to the cause. His full faith rallied behind her and her words. Tetsuya placed his other hand on top of hers in their hand stack, โThatโs right! The triumph cannot be reached without the struggle first!โ he added with a rising enthusiasm.
Mioโs positive attitude was another attribute he admired along with her loyalty and adorable pink jewels which sparkled even brighter under the moonlight when a fiery passion was lit within her. In the short time heโd known her she had already saved his life, decided to help find his sister whom she never even met, and proven to be extremely skilled in combat. Tetsuya didn't know if he knew Mio before she was experimented on but he assumed they would've gotten along just fine, and maybe even become friends. Thatโs why it hurt more than he expected when she suddenly asked him to execute her if she were to fall into the hands of Raynare.
The princeโs smile subsided, โDo you jest?โ he briefly inquired but Mio leaned in closer showing she was not. His brow furrowed before his gaze shifted away from her. His mouth hung open but no words escaped past his lips. Tetsuya held his breath before sighing and closing his eyes while taking his hand off from hers. He held onto the railing with a tight grip as the whisper of the current filled the void of silence between them.
He refrained from speaking for a few more moments as he collected his thoughts.
Then he placed a hand on top of her head and softly caressed her. Tetsuya opened his eyes again and smiled at Mio, "Hold your horses, little princess," he teased to lighten the mood. "I only promise to not lose. I already lost my sister to those two. I won't lose some other kingdom's princess either. But, if worst case scenario. I have another eye to spare and hold you off long enough to kill your master," he jested before his hand fell from her head.
Tetsuyaโs gaze softened as he looked down to the gravel path below. โIn all seriousness. Letโs cross that bridge when we get there. I know you donโt want to hurt me and I donโt want to hurt you. I also donโt want you in their hands. So Iโll liberate you again. That I will promise,โ he looked at her before winking with his one good eye letting her know everything was going to be just fine.
A sudden zephyr rushed past them sending his long silver strands up which caught him off guard. Tetsuya unbuttoned his ivory jacket and stripped it from his persons. โHere. Youโll get cold,โ he said before gingerly placing it on her shoulders. The warmth from his body heat lingered within the jacket. He set his hands within his pockets. His mind slowly lingered on today before he shook his head, โToday was full of their meddling. Vlad was tricked into fighting me, weโre forced into a deal, and I was tricked too. I thought you left me a note saying this outfit will look nice on me,โ he scoffed at the insufferable duo. Then he realized Mioโs attire, โHm. It's strange to see you in anything other than armor and a sword,โ as it was for all Berserkers. โBut your black dress suits you nicely, Mio,โ he complimented with a soft smile.
He was glad she didnโt come to the ball suited up in gear. It showed she was trying to adjust to civilian life. He would make an effort to further encourage this behavior when they werenโt in combat. He hoped she would find peace now that the war was over.
When the prince asked if she was joking or not, Mio only shook her head solemnly, her eyes never leaving his face as she watched him. He removed his hand from the pile and she did the same, her arms resting on the cold metal railing while she gave him space. She knew that it was a difficult thing to ask somebody to do, especially someone as pure of heart and heroic as Prince Tetsuya. Frowning softly, she couldn't help but feel bad for putting all of this responsibility on him. No matter who won or lost, Raynare's deal would have consequences โ what if they succeeded and she only confirmed that the worst had happened? Maybe Pandora was already six feet under somewhere, just rotting beneath the earth as a discarded tool of a fallen empire...
And if they did lose... well, she'd rather be dead than a slave to that wicked woman.
At last, she felt a hand settle atop her head and she blinked in surprise, her wide pink hues focusing on his lone azure one. As he rubbed the space between her pointed ears, the canine leaned into his touch, her scalp feeling warm and pleasant where he brushed it. Princess... Mio thought, falling silent as she pondered his words. Some of the other Berserkers used to be princesses and nobles... Could it be that she was one as well? It was hard to imagine herself having such a lavish lifestyle when all she knew was war. Once he removed his palm, she wilted slightly, disappointed at the lack of his touch.
"... Alright. I believe you." Mio responded softly, a hopeful smile once again gracing her features. She hadn't known Tetsuya for terribly long, yet it felt like it had been a lifetime. The two of them were inexorably intertwined, with her wish to serve him giving her purpose, a reason to live after years of nothing but conflict. If he said he would save her, then she knew that he meant it.
Her dress fluttered around her thighs as a powerful gust of wind passed them by. Shuddering, the young woman brought her arms closer to herself, her warm breath coming out as fog in the cool night air. It was only when her prince spoke up to offer her his jacket that she finally turned her head, tearing her eyes away from the stars to examine it. "O-oh, I couldn'tโ" Her protests were cut off when she felt him drape it over her shoulders anyway, her cheeks glowing like embers in the dim light above them. So much for trying to be mindful. She slipped her arms through the sleeves and pulled it closer, his scent tickling her nose as she practically swam in the large coat. "Ah... Thank you, Master."
She was afraid that he wouldn't be warm enough without it, but she didn't want to argue about it. Mio listened as he went over the day's events, her lips parting in shock when he offhandedly mentioned a note that was apparently written by her. It wasn't, really, and it was obviously just another part of the princess' plans, but... Her eyes roamed over his suit, a smile tugging at the corner of her lips in response to his compliment. "Thanks. It feels strange to walk around like this, almost like I'm naked without my armor, heh... I guess I'm too used to thinking like I'm still on the battlefield." She rested her elbow on the guardrail and cupped her chin with one hand, an appreciative look in your eyes. "You look nice too. Just like those charming princes from fairytales." She giggled, enjoying their private moment together outside of the chaos of the ball. As improper as it was, she still wished to get to know him better as more than just his bodyguard. As a friend, too, or maybe something more...
"Oh, but we should probably head back inside now. You'll get cold, too, Master." Stepping away from the railing, Mio linked her arm through his, her head tilting as she gazed up at him. "I'd rather not go back to the party, though. Can we stop by your room? I'm still your maid, so I wanna give it a once-over and make sure it's clean and orderly enough for Your Highness." Her little smirk showed that she was only half-joking. Really, she just wanted to spend some more time with him, but she figured she'd also get a head start on her duties before retiring to her bed.
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โโโโโโโโฉโโโโโฆโโโโโฉโโโโโโโ โ ๐ฏโฏ๐๐๐๐๐ถ ๐. ๐ฏโฏ๐๐ โฏ๐๐ โ "I must fight with my weapons. Along with integrity, courage, and resilience"
A leisurely chat between a Prince and his Battle Ready Maid Bodyguard took place atop of a second story balcony. The stars sparkled beautifully like a mosaic of interstellar proportions while the wind chilled the air around them. Tetsuya laughed when Mio mentioned feeling exposed without her armor. โI share the same sentiment. Itโll take some time before you get used to civilian clothing,โ he admitted.
He then turned his attention to the nightsky and started stargazing. His eye traced along the outline of the constellations even when Mio compared him to the Princes from Fairytails. โOh stop, you spoil me with flattery,โ he said while a stirring warm feeling in his chest easily fought off the frigid cold that was nipping away at him. He stored his hands in his pocket to at least salvage some warmth.
Tetsuya was brought back to Earth when Mio wrapped her arm with his after saying they should go back inside. He looked down at the bright pink jewels staring up at him. Something about the way she looked brought an uneasy sense of deja vu. She continued further by expressing interest on heading to his room instead of the party. To make sure the room met the high standard of cleanliness for his highness of course. He mirrored her smirk, โHmph, and while youโre at it. You can finish unpacking my belongings. Such a trivial matter is beneath me.โ His overly pompous tone was drenched in sarcasm.
But Tetsuya couldnโt maintain the spoiled brat persona for long. He bursted out laughing before nodding, โSure. Letโs head back to my room. I think weโve had enough excitement for tonight,โ he said in his regular tone before leading her toward the double doors.
They walked along the upstairs hallways full of lively paintings and luxurious furniture where the students chatted to catch a break from the ball. Eventually they reached a long corridor with several doors lining up the hallway. They were on the East wing now where the boys dorms were. Gentlemen in suits frequented the halls. As they walked she was the center of attention as if she were a stunning flower in a sea of grass. Tetsuya slightly narrowed his eyes and he held Mio a little closer to him. His feelings stemmed from wishing to protect his companion from ogling masked strangers but failing to even think it could possibly stem from something elseโฆ
Eventually they reached his room at the end of the hallway, โHere we are,โ he said before reaching into his white trouserโs pocket and pulling out a key. He unlocked his room and opened the door before allowing her entry first. Tetsuya did one last glance up the hallway to see if they had a tail. He closed the door behind him when he was certain they were safe. He clapped his hands twice and the candles in the room sparked to life. Illuminating the area with a warm vibrant tinge of orange.
The room was smaller than he was used to but he could make do with it. A queen sized four poster bed, with its drapes tied, sat against the far side of the room with a set of nightstands on each bedside. To the left of the door a finely detailed desk made from rich mahogany with a standard chair faced the window. A couch, coffee table, and two armchairs sat to the right of the door. A reach in closet was just next to the lounging area where his bags could be found. Lastly another dresser sat directly across from where the closet stood on the opposite wall with his eye patch on top.
Tetsuya gestured to the modest room, โMake yourself at home.โ The prince sauntered over to the dresser and rolled up his obsidian sleeves and loosened his midnight tie before putting on his eye patch. He then started to cover the windows by draping the curtains. โWhat a day. I canโt wait to sleep,โ he thought to himself. Tetsuyaโs lips grew thin and firm, and his gaze grew distant as he stared into space, โSleepโฆโ His grip balled up the curtains in his hands before he turned to the young lady. โMio, would you mind keeping me company tonight?โ
He requested first before turning his attention to evening out the curtains. โSo we can sleep easier of course. It's our first night here after all- and given what happened last night and today. There's strength in numbers. Iโll take the couch while you take the bed.โ He added to clarify he wasnโt inviting her to his chambers as a sensual bed warmer but as a sentinel.
Mio grinned at the prince's sarcastic remark, her eyes sparkling with amusement. Pompous and entitled was exactly how she'd imagined a royal from a foreign nation to be, so imagine her surprise when she finally got the chance to speak to one face-to-face only to learn that he was anything but. In fact, Tetsuya Tempest was proving to be a little too independent, rendering her job as his bodyguard and maid almost unnecessary. She shook her head humorously, her fingers squeezing his inner elbow gently. "Well, that is my job, isn't it? I'd be happy to." She giggled, seeming much more eager to do his chores than she probably should have been.
After successfully exiting the ballroom without running into Raynare or any of her sympathizers, the pair made their way down the lavish hallways and navigated to Mary's eastern wing, the canine's eyes wide with interest as she looked around the boys' dormitory. On the outside, it looked the same as the girls', but she got a strange feeling walking through it. People were staring at her and Tetsuya, and she had no idea why. She kept her head down until they made it to his door, her ears lowered as a sign of her discomfort.
Once they were inside, she immediately began scanning the interior for any signs of wear and tear or potential hazards that could pose a threat to her prince. She made sure that the locks on the window and door were working and checked to make sure that Raynare and her goons hadn't laid any traps in his room while he was out. Satisfied with her search, she made her way over to his bags and began to help him put the rest of his stuff away. It appeared that the young woman enjoyed the busywork by the way she hummed as she folded his clothes, something about menial tasks holding a certain appeal to her. For someone who was used to constantly fighting and training, the switch from being a soldier to a maid was jarring but not unwelcome.
However, his sudden question caused her ears to perk up as she tilted her head over her shoulder to look at him, a quizzical look on her face. "You want me to sleep in here... with you?" She confirmed, her tone laced with bewilderment. "Is... is that allowed?" The last part was whispered as though she was afraid somebody would hear them and come to discipline her for sneaking into the boys' dorm at night.
Mio's eyes shifted around nervously before she gave a hesitant nod, seeing reason in his request. Personally, she had hoped they would be in the same dorm so she could keep a better eye on him, but it seemed that society had rather strict rules when it came to how men and women should interact. "A-alright... I should be the one sleeping on the couch, though. It's your room."
Ultimately, she would defer to his decision and turn in for the night alongside him, but not before making a quick trip back to her own room to gather her essentials. Her sleepwear, sword, and other necessities were absolutely critical to have with her. The journey there and back was uneventful, at least.
"Good night, Master." She called to him softly, her eyes passing over him before she turned off the lamp and rolled over onto her side. I'll keep you safe. I promise.
The first week of classes came and went, though it wasn't anything particularly exciting or engaging. All of the action had happened on the first day and during the opening ball, leaving orientation as little more than an introductory sequence for the students to get used to their new schedules and meet their professors and classmates. Nobles and their servants roamed the halls, each of them largely remaining within their inner circles and occasionally forging superficial friendships bound by deception and the weight of social expectations. Mio never could have prepared herself for how fake these people were โ one minute, a classmate might be smiling and complimenting her, but in the next they were whispering vitriol into another's ear just when they thought her back was turned. She was often treated differently for being of low birth and a beastkin, to boot. Though she supposed it was fortunate that Raynare had kept her promise not to expose her true identity, or else her fellow students likely would have chased her out of the academy altogether.
As troubling as adjusting to the unforgiving school environment was, however, a more pressing issue had recently begun to hinder her duties. It had started the previous night, waking her up mere hours after she'd already laid down to rest. At first, she'd thought it a fever of sorts, a pulsating warmth that spread from head to toe and made her entire body feel lighter. There were no other symptoms of illness, so she settled for opening her window to let cool air in and trying to go back to sleep. Despite this, she'd been unable to return to her slumber, frequently tossing and turning as something stirred within her and refused to allow her even a wink of sleep.
Throughout the day after, Mio continued to feel and act strange, despite her best efforts to continue on like nothing was wrong. She didn't want to allow some strange affliction to keep her from attending classes and being by her master's side, so she stifled it as best she could and sat through each lesson, though she was more fidgety and distracted than usual. Her body continued to feel hot and strange, some innate longing within her leaving her restless and hungering for that which she could not name. The closest thing she could compare it to was her thirst for blood, but she knew that wasn't it. Still, maybe Tetsuya would be able to help... At the very least, she wanted to ask him for blood before resorting to seeing a nurse. What if it was related to being a Berserker in some way? If they found out about her mutation it could cause a scandal that would most certainly throw a wrench into the prince's plans.
After dinner, she returned to her room for a bit to wash her face and change her panties โ again. It was the third time in just one day, and she was already starting to soak through the fabric of the new pair, which she considered quite unusual. She'd never been taught much about her own body or anatomy in general during her time in Beleth, but she felt like it had something to do with her current predicament.
The canine made her way to the opposite wing, her gait somewhat slow and unbalanced compared to usual. Each step she took weighed heavy, the journey to Tetsuya's room feeling like a lifetime, when in reality it was only a couple of minutes. When she made it to his door she leaned up against it and pressed her burning hot cheek against the cool wooden surface with a sigh. It was only getting worse as time passed, especially now that she could smell his scent through the gap in the door. Her mouth watered, her tongue tracing over her lips before she raised her hand to knock.
Knock, knock.
"Master... something's wrong..." Mio's voice trembled even in his head, her thighs squishing together beneath her uniform skirt as the evidence of her arousal coated them. "May I come in...?"
Her desire to see him, to feel him overpowered any sense of reason left within her. Panting softly, she clumsily undid the ribbon of her blouse to allow her skin some room to breathe, a hunger devouring her from the inside that he alone could satiate.
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