“...and that pretty much sums it up.” Gwen fixed her glasses as she straightened up from being hunched over the papers she’d spread out over the conference table. “As you can see, the atmosphere is tense. Things are becoming increasingly more dangerous and difficult. But hope is not yet lost. I believe this is still manageable.”
Everyone wore a pensive expression as silence descended onto the room. All the women in the chamber had their attention on the previously introduced and explained documents, reports, or evaluations. Out of all of them, Noir seemed the most deep in thought, her sharp brows arched noticeably. Though some could argue that it didn’t differ much from her neutral state. The Onyx descendant always appeared as someone of great cunning.
“As you said, this isn’t enough to throw a log under our feet,” Grea said, her arms crossed beneath her chest. “The Rubytongs might think they are ready to face off against whatever the resistance throws at them, but they have no idea who they are really up against.”
She shot a wicked grin at Asterios, evoking a few knowing chuckles from her sister-mates.
“That doesn’t change the fact that we should probably consider our options carefully,” Silvia chimed in to cool down her enthusiasm a bit. “There are new variables on the table. Literally.”
They all understood what she meant by that. The magical function of the map resting beneath the copious number of sheets was currently disabled, but the immense advantage it provided was not lost on the members of Ast’s closest council.
“Do you suggest that we revise our approach?” Tia hummed with a charming floral undertone that carried something menacing beneath. “Like a full assault or infiltration?”
“The security is already agitated. I agree that it’s now much easier to create a diversion. We can use the insurgents to make the ruling party shift its gaze from our operation. Grea’s ability will help us remain unnoticed even if things don’t go perfectly according to the plan,” Selene suggested, taking a questioning glance at Asterios. “What do you think, my Lord?”
“No matter what we do, the chances of an internal conflict sparking into the open streets are at an all-time high,” Althea shared her wisdom. “It might be wiser to finish things as quickly as possible, with one decisive strike that brings forth anarchy and disarray for just a brief moment rather than a slow and languid campaign.”
“But, ultimately, the decision belongs to you.” Tina turned to him alongside them all. “We’ll gladly follow suit, Ast. What should we do?”
Asterios heard their views and opinions loud and clear, giving them serious consideration. He could throw the question back at them and then choose the option that garnered the most supporters. However, as much as he liked letting his companions be the ones to take charge while he supported them from the back, he knew well they expected him to take that responsibility upon himself. Not just as their leader, but also the person behind this entire nation.
Thus, subduing the desire to sit back and watch everything unfold in the hands of his capable mates, he met their faces firmly.
“It might be an optimistic wish, but I still hope to resolve this matter as peacefully as possible,” Asterios began. “At the same time, I don’t want more innocent bystanders to be hurt at a later time due to that decision, which to some might look cowardly or weak.”
Taking a slight peek at the only other True Dragon in the room, he rested his palms atop the map and roamed his eyes over his loyal advisors.
“We are going with the original arrangement of cooperation with the Hammertingle clan. Backing them up from the shadows, we observe as they carve their path through the Clash of Forges, securing the win for their family,” he explained. “But, I acknowledge your concerns about the tension in the Rubytongs household. They might not uphold the traditions, lashing out instead, and retaining their position through force. From a certain perspective, the increase of their military might all over the city may as well be a step towards that.”
“You are right.” Gwen stroked her chin. “They have to know how fed up the people are with them. The resistance is just a piece of the proof. Win or lose, they might actually be aiming to make this Clash of Forges into the last event in the history of their kin.”
“Bastards.” Miria let out a vicious growl.
“Unfortunately, that is a possibility.” Asterios nodded somberly. “Therefore, as we make our moves on the surface… we are going to simultaneously act underground. Thanks to Noir’s efforts, we have access not just to the rebels but also to the huge network of tunnels beneath the capital that even they might not be fully aware of.”
The person-in-question puffed out her chest regally, soaking up the praise with an aura of indifference belonging to someone who knew they deserved nothing less at any time. Yet, Asterios and his girls were by now able to discern just how happy their new friend was under that carefully crafted mask. Ast’s compliments seemed to get through her stone exterior somehow.
“We’ll split our forces and focus,” he continued. “I know it might be a lot, but you girls can definitely handle it. On my own, it wouldn’t be possible to spread so thin, but with you by my side, I don’t have anything to worry about, do I?”
“Damn right!” Grea shook her fist, matching his affectionate smile with a massive grin.
The others echoed her acknowledgment. Even Noir grunted faintly, giving him a slight nod.
“What are our next steps, then?” Silvia asked. “The general plan has been formed. It’s time for specific actions.”
“I was just getting to it. Feel free to speak up if you think of a better allocation.” Asterios stood up. “Tina, Silvia, I would like you two to prepare our backup forces for when things go south. I mean Dragon Guard, Glimmervale’s elite units, and even some of our allied neighbors if you deem it necessary. I’ll tear a passage to Wintercrown if they force my hand. I would rather not, but it’s good to leave the option on the table.”
The noble pair presented him with a respectful bow.
“As you wish,” Tina spoke up for them. “We’ll gather enough combatants to conquer the enemy before they realize what is even happening.”
He snickered, rubbing his eyes with an amused smirk. “Don’t go too far. We aren’t starting a war. You’ll be our safety measure so that we don’t get overwhelmed.”
“No one shall overwhelm you if we overwhelm them first,” the fiery princess added with a flaming flicker in her amber eyes.
Releasing a quiet sigh, he decided to ignore her comment.
“Moving on. Grea and Bryn.” Asterios glanced at the demonic-divine duo. “You’ll be our eyes on the ground and in the sky. Possibly alongside Gwen and her operatives, who will be the brains of this operation. I don’t mean to discredit Grea’s and Noir’s newly developed surveillance technique, but a map, even if mystical, doesn’t convey the whole picture perfectly.”
The proud Valkyrie cocked her head back in understanding. “You wish me to observe the city from within the clouds and keep watch for any inconsistencies or unforeseen alterations, Master. Very well. I will cooperate with Grea to the best of my abilities and ensure that you are all safe in enemy territory, no matter what.”
She stumbled a little as a crimson-skinned hand smacked her on the back a few times, its owner appearing next to the blonde.
“And if anything happens, she’ll be able to heal any of you in a flash. This gorgeous thing hasn’t yet shown how much she’s grown during your absence, and trust me, you can’t even imagine the scope of it.” Grea preened like she was applauding herself. “Leave being the observer to me. I might not hold a candle to our interdimensional stalker, but I’ve always secretly been into watching others.”
From how her brows bounced suggestively, Asterios got the true message clearly.
“Next.” He didn’t rise to the lewd provocation. “Miria and Noir.”
The heads of the two called out women snapped towards each other. Both displayed surprised and, to some extent, confused expressions, not expecting such a team-up. Naturally, one side of this abrupt party was noticeably more expressive than the other.
“You girls will handle all the matters related to our friends in hiding.” Asterios recaptured their attention to satiate their curiosity. “Noir is the one who infiltrated the place and knows it the best. She’s also very proficient in remaining unseen. But, she could use the hand of someone more experienced and knowledgeable about this realm. You, Miria, after your recent advancement, can pretty much copy anything I do, thus you should be able to keep up with her, given enough effort. What do you think?”
“I won’t disappoint you, Master!” The joyful panthergirl smacked her chest with a fist.
“Are you sure about this?” Noir scrunched her nose a bit. “I don’t mean that she is bad or that her presence will cause me that much trouble to cover for, but compared to you…”
“Miria.” He met his feline lover’s eyes and conveyed his thoughts.
She giggled adorably as she assimilated the knowledge, then struck a cute pose. Shadows arose from the floor and swirled around her figure. Covering her entirely, they smoothed out, and she winked out of existence, evoking a few gasps from the spectators.
And a certain female True Dragon was the most flabbergasted by the scene. Also being the only one who seemed to track something moving throughout the room.
“As you can see, Miria possesses a somewhat special constitution. Don’t expect her to shift into a Battle Form or such, but she won’t drag you down when it comes to abilities.” Asterios watched the panthergirl materialize next to the black-scaled lady, who clearly expected it. “Are you still uncomfortable with this assignment?”
“No, sir.” Noir turned to him, scanning his face inquisitively. “We won’t fail you.”
“Great.” He smacked his palms together. “And now…”
“You don’t have to rack your brains in search of any grand roles for us.” A lady-like chuckle greeted him as he faced the dazzling vulpine, flanked by his serene mentor. “With both Tina and Silvia focusing on military matters, someone else has to keep an eye on your domain this time.”
“She is right, my beloved disciple.” Althea joined her hands in front. “We appreciate the effort of making all of us feel included, but there’s no need to go too far. If you allow us to act independently, we shall tend to your and your empire’s well-being.”
“Of course, we will join in whenever you have a task for us or the situation requires it,” Selene said. “May we receive your permission to secure the administrative peace of mind for you?”
Asterios stared at the duo silently. Both ladies had decades of wisdom and experience in leading a community more than him. He usually left these problems to Tina and Silvia, but that didn’t mean Selene and Althea were a worse option. If they wished to manage his empire during this operation, he was more than glad to let them.
It was also obvious they intended to give the other two a break from their chosen responsibilities through this charitable offer, allowing the noble-blooded pair to have fun with something different for once.
“Very well. I’ll allow it.” He smirked at them. “Thank you for looking after all of us.”
His cunning vixen hid a smile behind her palm. “We are just selfishly pursuing some personal entertainment.”
Like he would believe that.
“So, that leaves just me.” Tia floated up to Ast’s side. “I don’t have a single disobedient bone in my body compared to some people—ignore the fact that neither my present nor past body had any in the first place—and I will dutifully remain within you to assist with your mental state and anything you might need me for, Master.”
Selene and Althea crossed their arms in unison at the jab aimed at them while the sneaky Dryad draped herself over their mutual mate.
“The meeting is adjourned, then.” Asterios paid her no mind, holding onto Tia’s shadowy figure. “I’m going to meet up with Truvi to see where things stand. Depending on that, I’ll either go to her clan or the resistance.”
“We’ll go with you, Master!” Miria waved at him excitedly.
“It’s not a bad idea.” Noir didn’t protest.
“I shall accompany you throughout the city, at least for a little while,” Selene joined in too.
“Okay. Let’s get things moving. Remember to stay in touch.” He shared a nod with everyone and turned to leave.
The black-haired duo was by his sides right away, walking together through the castle’s hallways, with the dignified lady trailing behind them. Consulting their bond, he pinpointed Truvi’s general location and led their group into the town. Miria cheerfully greeted multiple passersby, as they always loved to interact with the bubbly catgirl. Noir, on the other hand, glared at nearly everyone, keeping to herself. It was a stark difference between the two, but it still didn’t deter the more courageous people from trying to approach both. Selene kept a smile on her face the entire time.
Soon enough, they found the destination, which raised a few brows. The thread led them to a massage parlor, a vocation recently becoming more and more popular across the realm. It dipped into a medical practice as much as a service purely for relaxation. This particular establishment was located in the core of the city, and thus targeted towards the more wealthy residents.
Or those who might possibly be receiving discounts as benefits from their line of work.
Entering, they were hit with a pleasant, inviting scent and a comfortable lobby. Recognizing them at a first glance, the handsome elf clerk rushed to their help. He confirmed that Truvi was currently on site, soon finishing her session. Offering the group refreshments, the man led them to a private waiting booth, seating the VIPs in plush sofas.
They didn’t talk much. Selene slowly sipped on the tea she had been offered, sitting on Ast’s left. Miria snuggled into his opposite side and swayed happily with a cozy smile while Noir watched her silently from across.
As if sensing the attention, the panthergirl slowed down and popped one eye open. “Is there something on my face?”
Not answering immediately, the Dragon girl pondered something deeply. “I heard you are a cat.”
Miria stilled, deadpanning at her. “That must have been a shock to learn.”
Selene snickered gracefully, making Noir’s lips twitch with a growl.
“I think she means your other form.” Asterios ruffled Miria’s ears.
“Oh. Ooooooooooooooh.” The feline in question knocked herself on the head playfully. “Silly me. You haven’t yet seen me shift from up close, right? Look!”
Dark mist enveloped her body, and it flowed aside. Miria turned into a big black panther mid-pounce onto the floor. She stretched cutely, then walked up to Noir, meeting face to face with the draconic lady, who looked back at her with wide eyes. There was no fear or anxiety in them, and Miria didn’t intend to pressure their friend either, of course.
Huffing a warm puff of air into Noir’s visage, the sizable beast went past her, climbed onto the sofa, and plopped itself down, laying its head atop the woman’s lap. Noir raised her hands a bit in surprise, not expecting such a development. She took a peek at Asterios, not sure what to do. It was his mate who lay down on her, but she didn’t want to offend.
He met her gaze and gestured warmly with his head.
Hesitantly, Noir lowered her hands, watching him for any change of mind. But nothing as such happened even when her fingers rested atop Miria’s exquisite fur. Finally moving her eyes down onto the panther’s head, she started tentatively brushing along. Miria let out a contented purr, her rounded ear flicking happily. A barely noticeable smile grew on Noir’s lips as she continued to pet the mighty feline.
And Asterios made sure Selene kept quiet. He trusted her not to ruin the moment, but her foxy instincts were a tiny bit dangerous. Recalling Noir’s brief mention of cats back during their journey in Althea’s realm, he wanted his draconic partner to experience something nice without being forced to retreat into her prickly shell for once.
Unfortunately, the peace wasn’t destined to last for too long. The door to their room opened with an audible creak, and Noir’s hands shot up. She threw her arms to the sides and behind the backrest, assuming a fierce scowl as her sharp eyes jumped over the others. Thankfully, Selene followed Ast’s lead and faced the entrance, avoiding the confrontation.
“Mah Lord! And Ladies!” Truvi stumbled into the chamber with a grin. “Fancy meetin’ ya here! Came for a good massage?”
“If my Lord wished, we would gladly offer such service ourselves.” The fox lady squinted at the short woman.
“Of course, of course.” The dwarf receptionist snickered, waving her off. “But da equipment they have here is amazin’ so it might still be of use to ya. Anyway, I heard yer lookin’ for little old me?”
“Things are moving forward. You might have returned from Wintercrown, but we wanted to ask if you know where things stand regarding your family,” Asterios said.
Truvi assumed a more serious expression. “Last I heard, they are doin’ good with yer assistance. The elders no longer stand against this cooperation. Our artificers and engineers are workin’ their asses off with yer materials. I think there is one last qualifier round added due to da terror attack, and they are aimin’ for it. Might be old info, though.”
“We’ll have to verify it ourselves, then.” He nodded.
“So, it’s startin’?” She set her fists against her hips. “Send me back, Mah Lord. I’ll join mah Papi for this last stretch. Plus, it might be our final chance to witness da Clash.”
“Sure. We’ll be glad to have you as a contact in the clan. You’ve earned another break for your contributions in our recent celebration.” Asterios stood up. “Miria, Noir, get Umbra to transfer the three of you. I’ll follow soon after and meet up with Truvi’s family. You are free to handle your duties after arriving. Listen to Noir well, Miria.”
“I will!” The majestic panther hopped onto the floor. “See you soon, Master!”
Darkness swallowed the trio, leaving just Asterios and Selene behind.
“We’ll need to let the guild know about Truvi’s short vacation.” He turned to his vulpine companion. “But, before that…”
Noticing his approach, Selene let him pull her into a cordial embrace from the front, the corners of her mouth curling up in a charming smile.
“Thank you.” Asterios pressed a dainty peck to her lips.
“Oh? What for?” She raised a curious brow at him.
“For behaving.” He bopped her on the nose. “From the moment we left the meeting, up to the last second before Noir disappeared. Thank you for holding back. It must have been agonizing.”
“Whatever could you mean, my Lord?” Selene chuckled alluringly, stroking his cheek dearly as her mesmerizing eyes twinkled. “Am I really such a vicious tease in your eyes?”
“I know you well, my love.” Asterios snorted gently. “So, I will need to think of a reward for your valiant efforts in going against your nature.”
They peered at each other with increasing intensity, the air around them growing heavy.
Just then, the door opened once more, and an elf girl peeked inside, wearing a uniform belonging to the establishment. She froze mid-motion and flushed crimson, instantly launching herself into a string of apologies.
“Hmmm…” Asterios regarded her with a crafty look. “My kind lady, do you maybe have any free rooms that we could rent for a moment?”
Selene observed his profile with intrigue, her tail swaying excitedly as she wondered what her beloved had just figured out.