Walking around, the Vampires there didn’t wish to chat with him. Holding a wine glass, he smiles at them but none of the immortal creatures were curious enough to chat with the human. Seeing that no one was interested in the right side of the room, he nonchalantly walks to the left. Greeting everyone he’d pass by and a warm smile to boot to truly sell himself. Suddenly, someone throws him to the side and to much of his dismay. Was an old face that he had no intention of meeting.

“Ah, General. Good to see you here.”

“Ah yes. Lord Angelo, how may I be able to serve you?”

“Do tell. What’re your plans with the Countess?”

“... Uhhh… What do you mean by this? If you mean in the future, then continue adventuring and doing missions.”

“Not that you buffoon. Do you plan on marrying her? Sir Minuit has been going on charades about how you might be a Hero of sorts. Though I seriously doubt that seeing you and your demeanor with the lack of divinity. I do want to know if you have any willingness to get involved in Vampire Society for good.”

“Uhm… no… I’m going back to Earth. No matter the cost. I have far too much at stake there and family.”

“Good, good. This Earth. Is it like Threa?”

“No. Not at all, Threa is also a bit bigger than Earth and… the creatures here are certainly more gigantic and diverse. Humans aren’t also the only species with thought and intellect.”

“Ah, so this Earth place of yours contains many humans? Do Vampires exist?”

“Nope. None, all of these are merely a work of fiction for us. Imagination, something authors and writers would make up to entertain or warn the masses.”

“Interesting, that explains your abject disrespectful behavior and posture when meeting us. But nonetheless, I do wish for your safe return. Do not return here, unless you are one of us.”

“Ohhhh, is this… kindness I am sensing?”

“Hmph. Do not think too much of it. Alana has been smiling more and smiling true. Something I’ve only been able to do once.”

“University I guess?”

“No. I’ve known her far before that. But we were merely acquaintances…” Don then started swirling his wine glass. “She was alone in the garden, as her parents instructed her to go there since everyone was amazed at the sight of a Purebred Vampire born from natural ways. I merely made a stupid joke about how I hate Eggplants and she laughed at it.”

“Pfft… That’s… that’s actually pretty cute Lord Angelo. Well, she laughed because she hates bitter food. That’s why when we were adventuring, I avoided buying Eggplants and Sesame seeds unless it's for Bahamut.”

“I always theorized she hated it, so that’s why she drinks more Wine than coffee… I do not know what she sees in you, but I hope you may be able to continue doing this. Keep making her smile and have fun. Not to be bogged with her life as one of the few Purebreds.”

“Do not worry my man.” The General smiles and puts his arm over the Vampire Lord. “I gotchu’. Look, Alana at the end of the day is just another normal girl. Treat her just like anyone else and she’ll reciprocate the same. Treat her as someone special and she’ll return the same. That’s really all there is to it, she likes normal things like Mangas about Knights saving Heroines or Novels and even cooking stuff.”

“Look at you talking big.” The Vampire swipes his arm and walks away waving. “I’ll be sure to keep that in mind for future use. Do be well, Lord Jackson.” General Paul smiles as he continues walking around. He could feel the gaze of the Countess constantly following him even though he is a hundred meters away already and she’s inside a crowd of Nobles chatting and drinking.

He’d occasionally weave and make zigzags and could still feel the eyes of Alana. In a quick look behind his shoulders. The Countess is merely drinking some untainted Wine and would look at him occasionally with piercing stares. The General could constantly feel it and in the spur of the moment, the two’s gazes met each other. She lightly tilts her head and smiles, her Doll like appearance striking the man's heart even from afar. Having seen that there’s nothing to be worried about, Paul walks to the front where the King and Queen with the Princess was. Sitting in a far more frivolous throne made out of gold, diamonds, and rare Threan materials. The High Society was all around them, with the most expensive and showy masquerade masks money could afford while their tables were empty of food or plates. With them just facing the direction of their leader.

Their get together in the front was on a whole other level compared to the ones in the middle and near the entrance. Everyone here was from the Highest level of the Vampire Hierarchy and it showed. Even though they were masked, the General’s imagination couldn’t help but fly at the idea of how each of the women would’ve looked. Through the frilly gowns and expensive uniforms, the way they danced and chatted was just on its own level. Only one woman in his life could perfectly fit in the atmosphere present there and she’s nowhere to be seen. Nonetheless, seeing that he has no one to talk to with Voltaire's head not present. He turns around just to be ambushed by Nigel.

“O-Oh! Sir Minuit!”

“Ahahahaha! No need to be so respectful, my son. Please, walk with me. Do you like the Wine?”

“Hm! It's so sweet and the aroma is otherworldly.”

“Nice ehy? Ahahahah, that’s the Wine of the Minuits. Our premium brand, good to see you have a good taste in the finer things in mortal life.”

“I couldn’t even bring myself to drink it in one go. I now understood why Alana told me to drink it in pints only. She has taught me alot of high society life, it's thanks to her I can drink this Wine and appreciate why it's so famed and loved.”

“Feel free to drink as much as you want. Now, what brought you up here, my son? Got a question to one of the Leaders of the Five Houses?”

“Ah no, I was just roaming around. Bit of a habit I got from Tur. I just feel like walking around this place and scouring it.”

“Oh yes! You were an Adventurer with a pet dragon before all of this, yes?”

“I was. Though Bahamut is not my pet, Bahamut is my companion for life.”

“Ah yes. Forgive me. Don’t go around far too much now, the Castle is vast and its corridors confusing. If you want to look for a chest to loot or some fancy thing to bring back. I suggest checking the ancient Queens castle. Vampires dare not enter even the forest that surrounds it.”

“I’ve actually been there. Did an errand for the Theater.”

“Really?! Oh, the next play might be about the First Queen! What did they request for you to find? Is it an artifact? A gown? Dress? Weapon?”

“Ahahahaha… uhm. I can’t really say Sir Nigel. Though she’s a klutz, Lady Amaldia was really working hard with Colonel Jawoki. I guess just wait for the play.”

“Ah! Such a dastard thing! I am brimming with excitement. Also… nice dance moves.” his eyebrows go up and down, gesturing to the General with a wide smile.

“Hah-hah… yes. That was…” the General then smiles back. “That was fun. Not gonna lie, I can see why she’s such a dancer. I’m no match for her.”

“Not at all my son! She was enjoying it so much! The smile on my daughter's face, she was obviously drowning in joy and lust. I haven’t seen my daughter make such an adult expression and I’m livid! Absolutely in jubilation for her!”

“Yeah… hahahaha…” he scratches the back of his head while lurching down instinctively. Trying to hide the stupid joy being expressed by his face. “It was super fun, I never really danced to this type of level before and I can see now why people do it.” Nigel then downs his entire wine glass and faces Paul. “Go get ‘em tiger! Or whatever idiom you Outworlders say! Ahahahaha!” the General in response downs his own wine glass which was almost empty. “PUWAH! YES SIR!” The two laughed at each other, gaining the attention of the High Society, even the King looked in their direction from how noisy they were.

“Good! Good! Now go! I suggest visiting the mezzanines! Lots of families there I am sure are curious about you Outworlders!” fixing his uniform and his collar the man nods and the two waved at each other. While behind Nigel was his wife appearing out of nowhere. Quickly pinching his ear. “My love… Simmer it down. The King is looking.” After hearing this, he quickly got to his feet and turned around to face the gaze of the King. Shivers was sent to his spine as he bowed and joined the rest in silence.

Walking back to the right side to go up the stairs, he could smell a certain familiar scent coming from the opened window outside. Following it, he went down the flight of stairs and went over to the empty balcony as the blue Moon of the foreign world with its little satellite planet over it looked like a sight to see. The snow blanketed it heavily and the warmth of the lobby kept it from piling anymore higher than your ankles. Seeing the peace, the man leaned on the balcony rail, cleaning off the snow as the night sky could be fully seen. The thick slab of concrete was cold and nearly frozen. But his specialized and expensive Noble outfit made for players kept his body temperatures at acceptable levels. Though his breath was still visible as he quietly enjoyed the cloudless night.

The light of the brightly painted late medieval city was in full view. He lets out a long sigh, just basking himself in the attention to detail given to each of the structures that even far away and at night, he could still see its vibrant colors overwhelming the white snow of the harsh winter climate.

“Psst.”

“What? Who’s there?!”

“Look over to your left, My Lord.”

Following the instructions of the strange alluring voice near a Gargoyle statue, he sees a familiar face. A woman so beautiful with her shiny silver hair that no man could never forget that silhouette. Standing alone wearing a wonderful celestial gown with the foreign stars of the foreign world, Duchess Morgana quietly drank Wine. Not wanting to be a part of the crowd as she sighed in her place.

“What do you want me to do? And where the hell are you?”

“I suggest you go over and talk to her My Lord. This is your chance to break the ice fully, if she is willing to share a cake with you. Then a nice chat shouldn’t be far from imagination. You also owe her for pulling some strings and giving you a lot of credit than is worth to the politics of the Kingdom.”

“Geez. She looks ten times hotter and more serious now. You seriously can’t expect me to just walk to her and say Hi.”

“Yes. Now, go shoot your shot, My Lord.”

“Elizabeth, do you know how crazy this is? Like seeing such a beautiful woman like that… even my ego isn’t big enough to walk up to her.”

“My Lord, we’ve literally slept countless times by now and two days ago, you did it with the Countess and a Dragon God with me. I’m pretty sure you can handle this… And just so you know, I’m far more beautiful than her. Yes, Silver hair is a rarity, but so is golden blonde… well back then that is.”

“I-I don’t know, she has this aura with her.”

“C’mon My Lord. Just be yourself, be human. Don’t let logic get in the way now! Of all times, why would you use your brain now? Use that human instinct of just going gung ho at the most important of times. Now go!”

The small cave bat lightly pushes his shoulder and completely disappears into the snowy night. Though not enough to move him, it did transmit what she wanted him to do and the man swallowed his saliva. Grooming himself a bit and with a sigh. Walked over to the Duchess, thanks to how big the ballroom was. It took him a good minute to reach her. Which was more than enough for the General to switch off his logic and just shoot his shot.

“H-h-h hello there Lady Tempest.”

As expected the tall woman ignored him and continued drinking.

“I’m sure you can remember me… Uhm… thanks for the cake and saving us from that whole debacle in the Church. Bahamut is really something huh? Ahahahaha…”

This made her stop drinking and slowly turned her head at the man. Up close and personal, Paul couldn’t believe how gorgeous she was. Her pale skin and sharp jawline and pointy ears were all in the right places, making her have an astonishing presence that could rival the Countess or even the Queen. This inevitably made him swallow his saliva again and take a deep breath.

“Ah yes, Lord Jackson. We meet again.”

Her eyeshadow and makeup made her already divine facial features look like it could sparkle naturally, overwhelming the General. Even though his masculine side was more apparent with the uniform, it was still a lightyear away from the look of a Vampire.

“Hm. Yes, thank you by the way.”

“For?”

“Uhm taking the attention of the High Elves away. If it weren’t for you, I’m pretty sure Bahamut would’ve done something more daring… and also made a scene and shared a Cake with me. It really did the rounds and made humans look better since you did that.”

“Is that so? I merely protected the Kingdom's reputation. The High Elves are an important guest. I shared a cake with you because you deserved it. Nothing more, nothing less.”

Her voice was lower than before and the softness of it could make Paul dance to her tune without effort. He already knew what type of woman she was but he couldn’t be anymore unprepared at the situation he has gotten himself into. He inhaled and curled his lips the best he could to make the nicest expression he could think of while sighing knowing it's going to be a long night. “Ah shit. This is going to be a rollercoaster.” Seeing the opportunity, he took one step closer to her.

“But still, thank you. I’m sure you're aware of our circumstances.”

“No. I am not aware of Lord Jackson.”

“No need to call me Lord, Paul will do.”

“I apologize but I cannot, such a formality is required for someone like me. Regardless of your personal choice and preference. Most of all to a High Ranking General from a country not of this world.”

“Ah, no need. It's better to call me by my first name. Makes things easier.”

“Even still, as you can see, I have a lot of admirers inside that room. I’d rather not offend them and call a human of all creatures by the first name.”

“Alright, alright.” he takes a step back and sees that there were a lot of high ranking Nobles that’d occasionally sneak a stare at the Duchess all alone outside.

“Sooo… I guess you're not that much of a people person huh?”

“No I am not. Lord Jackson, may I ask why you're interviewing me? Do we have any sort of deep relationship to deal with?”

“N-no. Just curious really as to why someone like you would be out here. Knowing the status you hold. I’m guessing you haven’t had a good history with them huh?”

“Yes I do not. I’ll leave it with that.”

“But you know, it's good to talk. Not talking can be bad for you.”

“Haaaa… What is it with you humans? Do logic and common sense not apply to your kin?”

“Sometimes… yes. Personally, no.”

“...Gods.” She then puts her hand up her face, her fingers massaging her forehead as she looks at the General. Her crimson red eyes pierced the man's soul as she thought for a few seconds alone. “Have I fallen so much that I let a human of all things hear me out this much… speak your mind, Lord Jackson.”

Seeing that he has found an opening, the General couldn’t be any more happier at the success and takes it a step further.

“Would you like to dance?”

“Preposterous! Of all things, that’s what you want to ask of me? Going through all of that effort to ask me for a dance? We only met once of all things. What made you think I’d accept this? Do you even know what it means to dance with a Vampire?”

“What?”

“It’s a dance with death. Mortal and Immortal, two opposing sides of the coin. To dance with me would be an Angel dancing with a Demon. Do you not see this reason?”

“Well… it seemed that you were lonely. Believe it or not, I was just like that too back then. Since I never really got into the life of the top ten percent. In every party I’d go with, it was just mostly for the food and business talks. Other than that, I never drank or partied. I usually stayed in one spot and did my own thing.”

Feeling the relaxation of his heart and body, the Duchess groans and puts her Wine glass on the concrete railing. “Gods! Are you humans truly not subject to common sense?” Looking at the General, he had already put his hand out, ready to take hers. “Don’t make me regret this, Paul.” Taking the human by the hand, looking down at his eyes, the two danced. Inside, a player could see their General dancing with the ice queen of the Kingdom after a commotion could be heard. Shocked Vampires unable to believe the sight before them. “Go get ‘em tiger.” was all he could whisper to himself as the other vampires slowly turned at the sight on the balcony.

Under the cloudless night, in the shade of the blue Moon and its little friend did the long silver haired Duchess lead the human General through the balcony, harmoniously dancing together to the music of the Philharmonic Orchestra. The waltz seemed to go on forever as the two locked their eyes and in the switch of the tone, Paul then took the lead in the middle of the song. Shocking everyone and even the Duchess while Alana and Bahamut smiled. Unable to believe that their Lord and Master is doing such a daring thing while impressing the Vampires Noble society with it. Even the King stood up and took a peak at what was happening.

One of the human photographers meant to record the entire thing snaps a quick photo of the two, perfectly situated under the night sky as the bright stars could clearly be seen. Even though Morgana was 9 inches taller than him. The General didn’t give her any dominance and took the balcony floor like it was his territory. Soon, even the Duchess showed a faint blush on her right cheek as she smiled, leaving her longing face for the moment and visibly enjoyed the harmony of the two, as equals.

The music soon dies down, and the two bow at each other. With the Duchess, giving her most elegant bow to the human man. Face to face, with her pointy ears and vampire fangs and the man with his smile and bright shiny brown eyes full of hope. She hugs him out of nowhere and looks at the crowd which promptly returns to their dance, conversations, and drinks.

“That was fun. Wasn’t it Morgana?”

“Heavens. Who trained you to be such a ladies man? I think the Noblemen of this Kingdom needs some training if it took a mere human to snare me this much.”

“Heh heh heh. I guess this means we can agree every now and then, can’t we? Regardless if you're of a different species than I am.”

“Haaaaah… maybe… yes. But that was truly impressive, from the bottom of my heart. Thank you. I haven’t had a dance like that for ages now. I’ll surely remember this Sir Paul. Be happy that you’ve achieved such a milestone in the short time you're here.”

“Hm… Piece of advice.”

“Oh, human wisdom. Do tell.”

“Don’t worry too much about how people will see you. Just do it.”

Inside the Ballroom and all the way in the end was the Throne of the King who had one of the servants whisper something to him. It was so amusing he laughed wildly out loud while slapping the top of his thigh.

“BWAHAHAHAHAH! Ah goodness me. What is it with these Outworlders? Are they even truly human? Ah my stomach. I haven’t had a good laugh like that for a while now.”

With the dance finished, and being parched. The General went back to his table and ate the local Tuna then some steak and chicken. Totally full and seeing Bahamut doing some party tricks with her flames and Alana busy doing business talk with other nobles, he went out and started exploring the castle all by himself. Many of the rooms outside of the party hall are closed with some of them opened with a Butler standing frozen still. Waiting for a tenant to enter. He curiously walks up to one and peeks over inside and could see a King Sized bed with cabinets and a mirror, looking more like a free hotel room.

“What’re these rooms for?”

“It’s for the attendees, My Lord. If they ever feel tired or wish to have some private time, they may go here and do as they wish.”

“I see… and how long?”

“As long as the party has not yet expired, My Lord.”

The Elven Butler was completely still and his face blank. The General just nods as he continues to walk around the Castle’s well decorated corridors. Going deeper and deeper into the massive structure and satiating his fill for adventure. Admiring everything that caught his eye, as the complex and wonderful architecture of olden times hits him like a truck as the night lights shone another side of the magnificent castle of the Vampires.

He was so much into his walk that he has now found himself inside its massive halls that are devoid of life, apart from the occasional patrol and cleaning servant, there wasn’t a singular soul to be seen or found. Walking around even more, he felt the food he ate drop, making him blurb out loudly. “Oh, good thing there’s no one around.” tapping his tummy with both of his hands. The man ends up in the garden next to the ballroom.

“Superi, Cur Maledicti Sumus..?”

The ghostly singing of a woman sends shivers to his spine. “Is that… Latin? Who is singing Latin in these temperatures?!” stepping foot into the dark garden, the man goes into monkey mode. As an overflowing sense of power and strength comes rushing to him. The hair on his body stood frozen like all his evolutionary danger alarms were being sent into overload. But he didn’t waver and walked to the origin of the sound, he soon noticed a slim figure of a woman disappearing into the hedgerow.

“Nostra Maternitas Ablata…”

Her voice was fit for the Opera and was just missing the orchestra that should’ve been accompanying such a tearful elegy, a voice of a beautiful woman lamenting a passing thought of her damnation to live forever without an offspring to call her own and never will. Chasing the magnificent but bewail song, the General walks into the hedgerows and into the complicated path full of decorated flower pots and marble statues of former Nobles. Though his senses were all telling him to go back, his eyes and ears were trained on the figure and followed through the zigzagging web of well trimmed bushes. Nothing made sense to him but the need to know who was singing such an ode.

“Maledicta Aeternaliter Ingredi…”

Following the siren's voice like a sailor getting lured by the mermaid into its lair. He starts jogging through the twisty way through the path, encountering deadends just to turn around and try another path. Getting ever so closer to it, and leaving a mess of kicked up snow.

“Pacem umquam habebimus..?”

Soon the General sees footprints ahead of him, footprints of a woman wearing heels and with the trail finally found, it leads him to a large Gazebo perfectly overlooking the colorful Capital. Under its roof is a tall beautiful blonde woman wearing a masquerade mask that only covered her upperface. Leaving her jaw, nose, and red lipsticked lips to the world to see. With a Royal Crown and long white gloves, she turns around while swinging her song. Showing her bewitching pointy ears with blue gem earrings on them. Her neck is adorned by a Crimson ruby necklace and gold, on her fingers, ten rings of precious stones.

“An finito mundo moriemur..?”

Finishing her lament,the shadow of the gazebo showed her smile and elegantly bowed to him. Lifting her hand with five of the rings seemingly lighting up with power, and turning it around to reveal her palms. Inviting the man to the dark gazebo. Without saying a word, Paul walks to her, totally snared by her unfathomable beauty and voice. Accepting her invitation without even thinking. Now close to her, he could see her beautiful make up, accentuating the golden colors of her eyes. Her eye shadow was sparkling gold and her eyelashes, long and dashing. The mascara she put on that special night made her usually predatory and intimidating stares more lenient and open, like a woman who is prepped up for a good night out.

“My Lord, it seems you aren’t immune to a siren's song.”

“If a siren looked like you, and had a voice like yours, I’d probably be long dead at the bottom of the sea.”

She giggles and takes the lead as she dances with him. The Queen has long perfected her choreography and seemed as if she was floating. The General looked down and though he couldn’t even feel her feet, her long crimson gown was seemingly floating mere centimeters above the snow while not even making a sound. But she respected his humanity and took it slow and let the man relax and enjoy the atmosphere and sight. Paul breathed a sigh, completely in the vibe of the majestic woman before him. He lets her take him fully, to take the wheel of his body and soul.

“Pretty ballsy that you did this, they’re practically right over there.”

“Far away, my Masquerade mask should be more potent. I wouldn’t be scared, and they have no evidence of my identity, a mere old ancient crown won’t say much. Just relax and don’t think My Lord. My Knight. My King. My Savior.”

He looked up and could see the Queen was wearing her ancient crown, the golden tiara was full of jewelry and seemingly held some divine power as it emitted an air of holiness as he started it. Seeing his reflection on it, the man tilts his head as its rubies shine on the dark night. Catching his eyes the same way her beauty did.

“Though… that was a pretty mournful song you sang there, it almost made me tear up in some parts. Just how you control your tone and couple it with your deep sexy voice. It was something else really… I can’t even believe my body was disobeying my mind to that extent.”

“Thank you, though I’m not much of a singer. I learned how to sing back when I was but a Priestess for a now long and forgotten religion and then I had to master it fully when I became a Consort of the King. Now, if only my knitting skills could be improved to that degree.”

“Heh, I could do a thing or two, teach you more about knitting. It ain’t that hard, not for me at least.”

“Hm, I’ll be looking forward to that. Maybe one day, I’ll be the one repairing your uniforms. My Lord.”

“That would be amazing, Alana can cook, you can knit and fix my stuff, Bahamut can Bahamut and I’ll be uniting and leading us to the future. One where all of you can rest and be at peace. Not having to worry so much in your daily lives.”

She then takes it up a notch, showing her skills through her subtle and thoughtful movements, showcasing her amazingly slim and fit body through the dress while brandishing her wealth and power to the single human man. Her elegance was through the roof with the famed luxurious accessories of the first Queen in full sight for him to see, something even only a handful of living vampires have seen as most have long died. Only mere texts and relics remained of her legendary beauty that is said to have even smitten beasts and monsters alike.

She was confident in her style and form, letting her aura engulf the man and with a gaze that can make even the Devil itself fall in love. She smiled proudly, and the lights of the snowy city lit up their dark dance floor. And soon, the music died down and she bows, giving her Lord a quick but sensual kiss on the cheek and a bow.

“So. What do you think My Lord?”

“Good show.” With a smile, he bows to her elegantly in return. “My Queen Consort, my beloved, I hope the best for your eternity, though I may be a fleeting moment in your eternal life. I only wish that you may live the best eternity you can.” This made Elizabeth turn around and put her hands up on her face covering her blushing cheeks. “Pfft! Ahahahahaha! Look at you! I couldn’t believe that worked!” The General then hugs her from behind. Rubbing her tummy as she visibly turns beet red at the sudden attack.

“Geeeez. Since when did you get this smooth My Lord?”

“I learned from the best. I just copied how you spoke to me when we first met.”

“I might’ve created something far more dangerous than me if you continue to get more smooth.”

Elizabeth then disappears right before him and reappears again. This time a small crimson vampire bat. Paul lifts up his arm, letting the small bat land on it and scratches its head. “I wonder, since the party will be going on for a few days straight, where should I take a break? Hmmmm… maybe the Airbase and enjoy some R and R.”

“I think it's best for you to stay near the castle, My Lord. The Airbase is too far even with a vehicle.”

“Yeah, I guess so.”

He then heads back to the party and spent the next eight hours partying nonstop, though he only drank with Bahamut and Alana, he soon realized why the Kingdoms Wine was much revered and held a reputation. For humans, it was something that shouldn't be bowed in one go, and light pints should be taken in long durations as the first time he tried drinking a full bottle, he was knocked out instantly.

Waking up absolutely gobsmacked in the hotel, he looked around and could see that everyone was already awake except him. After looking around for some Briefs and socks, he enters the Living Room where the three women were already up and about. Alana was silently lamenting on the countless invitations she’s gotten.

“Alana, is the party still up? I swear I can hear the orchestra from here.”

“Oh it is, M’Lord. But since I am with humans and Non-Vampires, I made sure it was necessary for us to go home early if needed. It shouldn’t create that much of a problem in the future leading on. In no angle can this be seen as disrespect.”

“Ohhhhh… sorry.”

“Actually, I have to thank you, M’Lord. As you can see… this would’ve piled up ten times more if I was to stay the entire duration. Having humans and a Dragon with me made things easier. Though as you can see, even with everyone already knowing our relationship… they’d still try.”

“So are you just gonna throw those out? That’s a lot of letters and I think seeing the thickness in some of them, they really poured their hearts out in writing their thoughts.”

“Heavens no, M’Lord. I’ll reuse them, though I must make rejection letters for each and everyone… gah!”

“AHAHAHAHAH! Oh I’m sure the Queen could help you with that.”

Sitting pretty on the sofa, Elizabeth just throws her hand backward. Not wanting to do the arduous task.

“Also, what’s in today's agenda?”

“I’ll mostly be here, M’Lord. You should rest and be ready to return… and maybe not drink anything. Oh! But I think Bahamut wanted to do something.”

After just eating a bunch of biscuits, Bahamut peeks her head from the kitchen counter. Now her hands reach for another cabinet.

“Master, later come with me to the Warehouses. I need to check up on Garrana and see if she wants to take the little ones to the party.”

“Oh, the aquatic Great Wyvern right?”

“Hm, and the eight baby ones.”

“OHHHH! BABY WYVERNS! LEZZZGOO! LET’S GO! LET’S GO!”

Like a child, the General’s eyes light up and his face visibly showing an excited expression. Being hit with the idea of meeting Baby Dragons, the man wasn’t gonna go anywhere but there. “This is going to be a great rest day! Tomorrow, I’ll be sure to have enough energy for two days of partying! Let’s go!” He runs back to his room and dresses himself. Running out fully uniformed and ready to go.

“My Lord, you really love Dragons don’t you?”

“Of course! Ohhhh, you have no idea how happy I am to know how similar the Dragons are here and those of Tur. That just means I can interact with them the same way.”

“Ehhhh, how many Dragons have you taken care of, My Lord?”

“One. Bahamut.”

“What? Then why’re you so excited about them?”

“I just really love Dragons overall. Cool, armored, heavy, and super badass looking like the Volcanic ones. They have a certain beauty of nature and the divine mixed into one flying lizard that can grow older than literal continents!”

Seeing her Lord all happy. Elizabeth smiles and waves. “Take care, My Lord.”

“M’Lord! Be sure to be back here by the evening! We’ll have to get into our outfits once again!”

“Of course! Bahamut! Let’s go!”

“Eh? Already Master? I know you love Dragons but I think it's better for us to do it a bit more later in the afternoon.”

“What? I wanna see them. I haven’t touched a baby wyvern for so long now.”

“Argh… okay. But let me eat one more can of this blueberry biscuit.”

“M’Lord, what about us Vampires? Have you had the same type of interest with our species?”

“Is this before or after meeting you?”

“Before.”

“Uhhhhh… not good. Let’s leave it at that.”

“Ehhhhh… c’mon M’Lord!”

“Okay Alana. I actually kinda hated Vampires. Not only are most of the players playing them are… out there. More out there than those that chose the Lizard species. Most of our media pieces on Vampires are highly overrated apart from some really good ones.”

“Ah, I see. And after?”

“After? Well, I think you guys are pretty cool. Though of course the superiority complex and the inherited bloodlust scares me. Knowing you have this pretty cool culture and all the traditions you have really made me change my mind. I also love how you paint your cities, though I still prefer the Kingdom of James Capital city-”

Elizabeth turns around and kneels on the sofa. “Ehhhhh?! My Lord! I specifically made this city to be a better version of theirs!”

“I know, but the Capital of James really knows how to put banners in the correct places while not letting its size block the brightly painted houses… oh! But your Cathedral and Park really blows it out of the stage. The Theater too.”

“Countess! Write that down and have the city adjust properly! I will not take my wonderful Capital being lower than that of a humans!”

“Ahahahahaha…. Your Majesty, I think we just need to properly move and relocate some banners. I do think of that myself, as some of the buildings around the city have some nice details on their walls and windows.”

“Exactly that.”

Alana, who was already writing rejection letters, remembers something, holding the General by his uniform collar with one hand.

“Also, M’Lord, be sure to arrive early. I’ve called a Painter to come and paint us all including her majesty. Do not be late.”

“A painter? Are we gonna stand for a few hours?”

“Yes, so get comfortable when we’re there since the portrait I requested is pretty large.”

“Yeah, no worries. It's not like I haven’t stood at Parade on top of grass for hours and hours on end guarding nothing but my sorrows and regrets. But… are you sure you want the Queen to be there?”

“Have no thought of it, M'Lord. This man is very… out there. He’d kill to have an opportunity to paint the beauty of our first and ancient Queen.”

“Ahahahaha, oh I do love how my looks have passed through all of my wars and crimes. To think that to this very day, Humans, Elves, and Vampires still hail my beauty through the aisles of their lives.”

“But still, Alana. Are you really sure about this? If this man even speaks a pint of the fact that-”

“As I said M’Lord. Have no thought of it. He is to be trusted.”

“Mmmmm… alright. I’ll put my trust in you then. Bahamut! Are you ready?”

Bahamut finishes her biscuits. “Yes Master!” and the two immediately head off to the street down below, the new year is already looking good with a Sun high and mighty, though the snow isn't melting. The city looked more inviting than usual for a human like him. Looking around, vampires were already out and about with their slaves.

“Also. Bahamut.”

“Yes Master?”

“Are you okay with the idea of the Vampires having Dragons?”

“Hmmm… I do, Master. It’s not as if the two species don’t have connections.”

“Really?”

“Pfft…” Bahamut puts her hand up her mouth. Stopping her laughter from spilling out. “Master, I can see it in your face.”

“What?”

“Those serious and dead eyes. You are concerned about them, yes?”

“Well…” he puts his hand up the back of his head. Looking away to hide his face. “I am… Dragons are also very loyal to those that defeated them. Knowing what they can learn from a creature that bested them in fight. I don’t want that to lead to them having a bad life here.”

A hand then comes and starts brushing the top of his head. Lightly patting it.

“You are a really good person, you know that Master?”

“Me? A good person? Hah. Yeah… sure. Maybe. I don’t know, look. I just don’t want creatures to be used in a bad way.”

“Oh please. Stop with that Master. I can read you like a book.”

“Just get a carriage already.”

Seeing a carriage, the Dragon lady hails one. The open top taxi driven by a well dressed man bows as he helps them get on.

“Where to madame?”

Not knowing the language, she tugs Paul’s jackets.

“The warehouse, please.”

“Of course…” The driver then sees his armband with the word Diplomat on it. “Sir.”

The carriage driver takes them to the warehouse which is twenty minutes away. Already, the city workers were busy cleaning and pushing snow off the main roads and piling them up on designated locations. Using a mixture of wind and water magic to properly organize things. As usual, the city was as vividly striking as it was. As the white coating from the wintery night got removed and melted with magic, the bright colors and small paintings on the edges and corners of the buildings got revealed.

Like tourists, the two basked in the beauty of it all. The coloring of the city almost made the cold harsh temperature luminous and striking. Making them both just smile at the sight of the wonderful architecture and painting.

Reaching the warehouses with the masts of the Kingdoms sailing ships peeking over from the river, the General pays the driver 1 silver coin and follows Bahamut inside, knowing her. The guards let her through and the human that’s in tow, she then goes deep into the rows of storage buildings, with many of the workers being a mixture of Vampires and slaves, most of them being regulated to overseer and managerial duties while the Vampires doing menial work has a cuff on their leg.

Weaving through the busy port that’s smelt of all sorts of things from fishes to perfume, the two arrive at one warehouse with two large metallic doors, labeled in Romanz to not open unless allowed to and the seal of the Minuit family.

Opening it, they’re met with a blonde man wearing a cravat with a vest and expensive boots. Trying to clean one of the baby wyverns which wasn’t cooperating. Paul having experience with Bahamut just facepalms at the poor attempt he is making. Visibly trying to push the small Wyvern into the bath as its Mother watches with a visible smile at the sharp eared man trying to get her baby into the bath.

“You need help there?”

The man turns around, showing his blue eyes and posh look. His smell and posture showed a man of great heritage and bloodline.

“Who could you be…? A Diplomat?”

“General Jackson, I’m with the Diplomats from the Outworlders. This here with me is Bahamut.”

“Oh my, the Goddess. Pleased to be of your acquaintances. I’m Squire Ahern Jacques of House Charlemange. I aspire to be a Knight one day.”

“General Paul Jackson of the Knights of Eldwood, Knight General and Commander of its Ground Forces. You need help? That wyvern seems to not be cooperating with you.”

“It’s my first time. The Knights of Charlemagne's want to have an Air Force as they call it ready for battle.”

“Oof, armored vampires riding wyverns into battle. Now that’s a sight to see. Well, Bahamut, turn into a dragon.”

“Ehhhhh?!”

“Just do it. And pick up that wooden bucket.”

Bahamut does as she’s instructed and picks up the bucket and walks to her Master. Placing it and then turning into her small dragon form.

“Okay, first things first. You gotta make sure the dragon is all ready. Drain their energy a bit, play with them or have them run around.”

Paul then swirls his hand, making Bahamut follow it. Trying to sniff his fingers and then proceeded to pick up the little four legged dragon. The baby wyvern sees her and hops out of the bucket to play with Bahamut.

“See? Let them get tired first.”

The black dragon didn’t want to play but seeing the baby wyvern so happy, she allowed it and the two played tag. Flying around the pillars and to the hay. Making a ruckus of things.

“Goodness, they’re quite energetic aren’t they?”

“Yeah. Many dragons and wyverns can go for days without sleeping. Some even sleep while flying hence their hibernation could last for years. Also, be sure to watch out when you're walking around with Wyverns. Look.”

He points at how the two walk, with the Wyvern most of all only having two legs and relying on its wings to be more mobile. Their walk would be akin to a snake, slithering their body to reach a faster speed.

“Watch your feet around them. Though you won’t crush them, believe me. I’ve stepped into a Dragon before and it only hurt me thanks to their spiked back. It will greatly annoy them. Just remember that alright?”

“Of course. You seem very experienced with dragons. Then, can you tell me why they have those spiky spines on their back? I’ve found it hard to pick them up thanks to it.”

“You exactly pointed out why they have those. To not be picked up, as funnily enough. Since Dragons have their feets below, the moment something bigger than them picks them up. They wouldn’t be able to do anything.”

“I see, that’s fairly logical. Interesting, and how long does a Dragon usually live?”

“Depends. True Dragons could live for thousands, Wyverns. A hundred or so unless they become more powerful. As the stronger a Dragon becomes, the longer their lives are.”

“Then, the Goddess… was she a normal Dragon once?”

“Bahamut?” The two look at the small Black Dragon, occasionally biting the baby Wyvern. Though not anything harmful, the small green winged lizard soon learns how to dodge her attacks and become more mobile in moving and snatching chances to bite back.

“Of course. Bahamut was born inside the Mantle like many True Dragons where they could feed off the energy from the particles and magma. She just fought enough battles to become Immortal. The ultimate peak of any Dragon… to become Immortal.”

“Immortal… so even Dragons don’t get to have such a privilege at birth.”

“Hm. I’m guessing you were born as a Vampire?”

“Yes. Both of my parents are Vampires.”

“I see, well. I don’t think Dragons being born mortal is anything wrong. It's thanks to that they get to relate with humans and the rest of the species.”

“How do they grow so strong? I cannot even imagine fighting enough battles to become an Immortal being.”

“Easy, souls.”

“Souls? Is that why they're so in love with battles?”

“Yes sir… Dragons, when they defeat an enemy as strong or within their level. They not only kill the enemy, but also take their soul.”

“Huh. What does it mean then if a Dragon defeats a Vampire? Will our soul be worth it?”

“Oh yes. This is exactly why Dragons prefer to fight heroic or valiant people. Because souls that have been through a lot are far stronger than that of a Commoner who lived in a village in its entire life… Though some prefer to instead kill and eat a bunch of Commoners who could be worth the soul of a hero in like… the hundreds but it doesn’t really matter as in the end. If they win, and they get your soul. They are victorious and have grown, even if its marginal.”

“For a human, you spiked my interest in these beasts. Then, has Goddess Bahamut been a human for long?”

“Yeah. Way before she was even that size. In lore, she did this to meet with the rapidly changing Dragon race that was shedding their scales for more economic and ergonomic reasons. No need for large and gigantic cities with hundred meter long walkways to fit their huge bodies though those still exist but in ruins.”

“They had cities like that?”

“Yup. Bahamut and I have been through some of the ruins of those places and she’d often tell me stories of the glory of their species. How before they shedded their scales for human forms. The Dragons would meet in huge squares, larger than the size of towns. But yeah, that’s in the past.”

“I find it hard to believe that a species as prideful as Dragons would even dare to shed their armor.”

“Oh, not all Dragons are as prideful. Yes, maybe for True Dragons like Bahamut. They are super prideful and full of ego. Black, Red, and the rest of the Metal Dragons would rather die than become a human. The Wyverns though, most of all the Green, Brown, and Blue ones would gladly become a human.”

The Squire then looks at Garrana who is a Blue Great Wyvern.

“Is she included?”

“Garrana, are you willing to turn into a human?”

“Hm? Oh, Lord Jackson. Pleased to know that you are aware I wasn’t sleeping.”

“I’ve fallen for that trick so many times. It was Bahamut that taught me that if a Dragons breath isn’t twenty seconds apart when sleeping. Then it's awake.”

“Ahahahaha, yes. I can turn into a human if needed.”

“Then, Lady Garrana. Would you be willing to turn into one and stay in a hotel or Manor?”

“Later. For now, the little ones must learn.”

Her huge giant purple eyes look at the litter of baby Wyverns sleeping under her wing, tightly snuggled up with each other as some drool. In absolute heaven as they felt their mothers warmth and love.

“I see, I look forward to it, Lady Garanna.”

“Ahaha, fear not me Vampire. I do not have a monstrous human form and my personality is not as outlandish as the Great Goddess playing with my son right now.”

“Why is that? Lord Jackson, may you explain?”

“What? You want me to give you a history lesson on why Dragons have the most insane personalities out there?”

“Yes?”

“I don’t think I should. It’s better for you to learn by yourself, I actually laughed for days straight when Bahamut spilled the beans for me. It's so simple and yet, hard to comprehend for someone like me who is a mortal without armored skin and wings.”

“I guess it will be a good way to build a bond with him then.”

“Oh man, believe me. Male Dragons are far more normal… well the ones I’ve met. Though in a fight, they are far more ferocious. Most of the Dragons I’ve fought are actually Male and when they fight, booh. Man, they will not say yes to defeat.”

“Then, it will be easier then.”

“Just be ready for when they develop enough to know language. Which is usually a year or two in. They’ll either nag you to death or spout the most strangest and annoying things when trying to have a normal conversation.”

“R-Really?”

“Bahamut would literally converse with me the most insane of things and I’d have to brush it off and get used to it. Not even Alana was saved from it.”

“Alana... You mean Lady Minuit? You know her?”

“Yes. She’s my lady.”

“A-” the man then puts his hand up his chin. Thinking carefully as he stared at his boots then up to the human. “Aaaahhh… I’ll save that conversation for later. For now, continue.”

“When Dragons learn your language. Be sure to continue to talk to them. It’s just like talking to a person but more insane and crazy. Keep a conversation daily and let them know where you draw the line and where you are uncomfortable. Like, Bahamut never had an experience with a human. So she’d literally nag me when I want to sleep or have a nap in game. So I have to tell her to be quiet.”

“Oh Gods…”

“Yes, so prepare for a bit of a sleepless night for a week or two till they learn fully what you want and don’t want. Having a bond with a Dragon is a super special thing as if you give them what they want and respect them. In return, they’ll let you use their power and strength. They’ll give it whatever they can in defending you.”

“Sooooo… I have to treat them like how I treat my horse and Fiancee?”

“Ehhhhhhh…. Yes? I mean, more like a wife of twenty years if it's a female dragon. Me and Bahamut would bicker sometimes and it’d be the most insane things you’d hear if you were near us.”

“I-I see.”

Paul points at the sleeping Great Wyvern Garrana who was snoring loudly as seven baby wyverns are neatly tucked underneath her massive wing.

“Also, be ready for that. They snore… like LOUDLY. If you ever raid a liar and want to find out if there’s a Dragon in it. Hold your breath and you’ll hear them hibernating inside.”

“I cannot even fathom such a size of a flying beast. They're really something aren’t they?”

“Heh. Yeah, their personalities are quite a spectacle. At least you vampires, I can still somewhat level with. But Dragons or Wyverns? Yeah, they’re on a whole other plane of existence when growing into adults. You know me? I wasn’t even given the chance to have a pet Wyvern or Dragon to fully mature with my own two hands. Mine was a full grown True Dragon with a God complex and a bottomless pit of a stomach.”

“It is said that when the foreign God Dragonoth came into Lunaris and made the first Dragons, he made them not only in his image, but in the image of the other creations of the other Gods and Goddesses. Making them superior but also balanced with nature.”

“The Dragons in Tur… from what I remember, The One and Only God made Dragons accidentally, as the world of Tur far before humans came was a landscape full of fire and hell. Dragons came to bring balance with fire and soon, the other elements. They then turned the lands fertile and gave the other creatures a chance to thrive and live fully.”

As the two conversed, Bahamut glides back to Paul. Visibly panting while the baby wyvern was still active, trying to bite her long spiky tail. The small black dragon tries to bite back but it dodges her jaw quickly and lightly bites her back.

“M-Master… the energy of the little ones…”

While talking, Bahamut flapped her wing. Making the baby wyvern let go of it. Landing on its back, it rolls and then wags its tail. Ready for more play.

“BWAHAHAHAH! Ah, it's fine. I think that’s enough for the little green wyvern.”

Picking up the wyvern by the scruff, the baby tucked its wings and legs in. Lightly placing the young winged lizard into Ahern’s bucket where it slithers down into the water, and soon steam starts to appear.

“Also, be sure when picking them up by the scruff that they’re comfortable. Don’t be afraid of the spikes, it won’t hurt you as much compared to the ones near their wings.”

He then picks up the tired Bahamut by the scruff also. Showcasing her like an expensive 1/1 metallic toy of a black armored dragon.

“You see this? How Bahamut’s all locked up. Not moving an inch at all? That means they're comfortable and are placing their trust in you. They’d pack their feet into their belly like that, just in case if you drop them and they’d be able to land properly. Also, don’t waggle them please. Dragons are tough but they still have a fleshy interior. So remember that alright?”

“I see, and how come she isn’t unfolding her wings?”

“Bahamut likes to fly. She’s probably thinking of just gliding if I never drop her.”

“I understand. Then please. Do watch me.”

Ahern then tries to pick up the baby wyvern but it spreads its wings and shows its talons on its two legs. Hissing at the handsome young man.

“Woah okay okay, calm down. Slowly lower your hand. Don’t pinch the scruff heavily, since you're a vampire, control your strength. That wyvern is showing you its fangs right now and it's ready to fight. Be calm, breathe in and out. Don’t show too much fear and lead it on. You're the Alpha here, the big man that will take care of it. Now, try again.”

Following his instructions, the Squire with his gentleness now more apparent with a big warm smile coupled, the green baby dragon disengages. It waggled its feet on the water and folded its wings in and lowered itself into the water. Straightening its leg. He then managed to pick up the baby wyvern without much of a fight.

“Look at you, good. Now you see it folding its wings right? Its legs are tucking in too. That means it's relaxed and is placing its trust on you like Bahamut did with mine. Congrats! You have earned a tiny smidge of its bond!”

“R-really?! Oh my, this actually feels fulfilling.”

Paul smiles at the sight of the happy Vampire. His bright blue eyes like the color of the ocean looking deeply into the wyvern that has entrusted its body to him.

“Yes hahahaha. It was hard for me as Bahamut was a fully grown Dragon. I had to learn all of this the hardest way possible and not even recommended by anyone.”

“Why? What’d she do, Lord Jackson?”

“She’d literally breathe fire… if not. Scratch me in her sharp talons.”

“Th-that’s not good. My room, after all, has wooden materials in it. It seems that I won’t be able to bring this little one with me when it's grown enough.”

“Oh man. That’s the least of your problems. Dragons don’t have our culture and morals, Vampires like Humans know stealing is wrong, others properties aren’t yours. But to them, they are hotwired to just eating and getting whatever they need. So you have to instill in them that things that aren't theirs are strictly off limits.”

“I see, is that why the Goddess has been staring in my belt buckle?”

“I guess so. It is shiny brass. I’ve trained Bahamut to not steal shiny things… but I just can’t do anything sometimes. Her nature would burst out and it’d get me into trouble.”

“Pft. Ahahahahahaha, I find the humor in that, Lord Jackson.”

“Now properly and slowly lower it back into the bucket.”

Paul demonstrates it first with Bahamut, slowly placing her back into the bucket and then giving her a scratch below the chin,

“Do they like that, Lord Jackson?”

“Depends from Dragon to Dragon, but Bahamut absolutely loves it when I scratch her here and here.”

He then moves his fingers to the top of her head, scratching it in tandem with her chin.

“And if they really trust you, This is like the absolute show of love between kindred animals is when they’re willing to have their bellies touched by you. Bahamut most of all, as much as her armor is impenetrable by everything in short of True Magic. Her belly has a lighter armor to it, making it possible to be penetrated by Demon Magic or even just the super old Elven Magic.”

“And that she’s a prideful dragon, correct?”

“Yup. True Dragons are the hardest to have their bellies scratched. You’d have to be willing to be with them in everything and all of it for them to even allow you to look at their bellies. Most of all, to allow a human? A mortal man to touch them in such an important spot? Phew, that’s showing trust and bond on a whole different level.”

“Amazing, now that you’ve said Lord Jackson. I get that the two of you have been through so much already?”

“Hm. Before coming to Threa. Me and Bahamut have already adventured for Four Years. I don’t regret a single one, being with her just takes the stress off me and her liveliness gives me much needed motivation for the next day.”

“Goddess, if I may ask for your graciousness in allowing me to give you a query.”

“Speak.”

“Just how much do I have to do to reach the level of love between the two of you?”

“Alot.”

“Bahamut… don’t give him that. He asked you properly.”

“Grrrrrr… well. Ahem ahem. Be ready to go the farthest of ways…” The Black Dragon then avoids the Vampires' stare as she hides her face with her wing. “I… I was really taken by how Master would protect me even though I am an armored dragon… he’d take magic balls head on to defend me and even take blows just to make sure my armor is unscratched.” Paul’s hand then starts patting her head and the dragon's tail wildly waggles from it. “He- Master, has no obligation to do that. I could actually fill in the role of a Tank far better than any human in ancient mythical armor, Chosen One or not. But he’d still do it for me either way… I was just… struck by that human nature. I don’t know.” the General then moves his fingers to below her chin and his other hand patting her head. “Good work Bahamut. Ahahahaha.”

“W-wow. I see… Lord Jackson, you seem to be very much in love with the Goddess aren’t you. As if from the beginning, it was love at first sight.”

“Oh man… ohhhh maaan. I gave Bahamut the biggest and fattest hug I could give when I finally summoned her on top of that shitty mountain full of Wyverns patrolling it." He then shakes his head with a smile. “Heh, Bahamut was the companion I’ve been longing for. When I first saw the News that she will be a one time summonable creature. I just knew I needed her in my life. The outlandish personality of Dragons are usually seen as therapeutic for some reason, I never really understood till I had Bahamut.”

“That must definitely be a human thing, Lord Jackson. No way will an outlandish personality seem helpful for Immortal beings like me. It’d actually be annoying if I get to have that for the next thousand or so years… that’d be torture.”

“Maybe, but you might also see the charm in it. Vampires are partly human too afterall. Even at first, I had second thoughts and that maybe it wasn’t worth it… but I soon just saw that it was Bahamut’s way of showing her love to me and now, she’s more than mature and she’d still occasionally burst into that humanless self of hers and I still adore it.”

The entire time, General Paul had a smile on his face and Bahamut stared into him with such a loving expression on her Dragonic face. Tilting her head a bit as she appreciates the wide manly jawline of her Master and Paul looked down at her and gave the Dragon a warm and embracing smile.

“It… it is beautiful though, Lord Jackson. To see this relationship first hand, the love between a Dragon and a Human. It’s like Water and Fire, it cannot happen and should not happen and yet, nature finds a way.”

“I don’t really think it's not meant to happen. As it did, and Bahamut herself is a Dragon God you know? If anyone knows, it's her and she’s fine with it. Just like that Red Volcanic Dragon that made it with a human Knight. I hope I can follow their wonderful story and have one just as fruitful and full of good words as in their name.”

“A Red Volcanic Dragon?”

“Hm. Vayke. The story of Vayke… I do wonder…”

In human form, Bahamut suddenly appears behind him. He confusingly looked down and could see her Dragon form was still there but at the same time was her human form. “Wha-what?!” out of nowhere, she hugs him from behind and strokes his shiny black hair. “Don’t worry Master. I’ll make sure our ending is one with big bangs and an awesome send off! I won’t let us be part of you giving off a final breath on your deathbed. It shall be with a smile and lots of love.” Some tears began to fall from his eyes but the General kept a stoic face, and looked at the Squire.

“I apologize.”

“No no. I- I see now what I am getting myself into… fully…”

He looks down on the baby green wyvern, looking back at him. He makes a deep sigh and boops his nose and the small lizard just tilts its head in confusion as to what it meant.

“Wow… to think this little thing will one day become like that… then. I shall put my resolve into this. Not only to you, but to the other babies. As the appointed caretaker of the Dragon barn, I shall do my best to make sure you all grow into worthy creatures. Does that sound nice to you?”

The baby wyvern just tilts its head on the other way and the Vampire smiles at the sight. Paul then nonchalantly scratches the Black Dragons belly. Making Bahamut throw water as her four legs move, her eyes looking up from the pure ecstasy of having her belly rubbed and just like that, her human form was gone. Disappeared into thin air.

“Though if they love a spot, don’t overdo it or you’ll spoil them. Bahamut here has a problem with that. It was like three years ago when I found out she has a weakness in her belly, and she wouldn’t stop bugging me for three days straight for daily rubs.”

“B-but M-masterrrr… it feeeeels so niiiiceee…”

“Yeah, yeah, yeah.”

“Oh, they can also learn languages, can they? What languages does Bahamut speak apart from Dragovh?”

“It's the Common in Tur called Vitz or English American, though some accents only have the English part. It’s actually pretty cool how they learn languages. They can do it fast too if they eat enough souls that know how to speak it.”

“American English… interesting. I’m surprised a human like you can speak Romanz and even have an uptown accent too or the fact that the Goddess’ Dragovh accent is something I’ve never heard before. It seemed far more ancient.”

“It’s a skill that I have, I needed it to use higher level scrolls since they’re no longer in Common language. I actually cannot hear your actual language. Only the Demon Language is the one I can hear fully, and one slur called Gurranq from the Elves.”

“I think you must be the first human I’ve met that could outshine a vampire. You seem so full of wisdom and knowledge. Akin to that of an old wise mage, the things you’ve done and seen would be worth in Diamonds here in Threa.”

“Heh, maybe. But I’d rather not test it. I still have a lot to learn, many actually. To this day, I am still learning. I do prefer this though, knowing new things without having to put on a set of armor.”

“You have armor?”

“I do, it's pretty edgy but it looks badass. For me. Alright, now do you have soap?”

He gives the General an orange soap that smells of Lavender.

“Interesting, the ones the Countess uses are purple and green, well first things first. When cleaning a dragon, unless it has armor but wyverns don’t. They usually just have thick scales, you have to use your hands to really get the soap into the area between there scales.”

The General proceeds to remove his jacket and rolls up the sleeves of his shirt. He opens his hand and closes his eyes. “Hmmm… yeah. Can’t focus on how cold it is. Produce Water!” a crap ton of water suddenly materializes in front of him, drenching the black armored dragon in the bucket with it. Bahamut then shakes the water violently, soaking his white shirt and his nameplate.

“Well… that was a mess.” he then shakes his hands and starts cleaning the Dragon. “Welp, start scrubbing the neck first. Wyverns and Dragons have very long necks, so start with that and make your way to their head. Don’t worry, if the species are truly the same and nothing really differs, soap wouldn’t affect their eyes since it has a translucent protective layer on top of it to protect their eyesight from whatever crazy element they spit out.”

With care, the General starts cleaning Bahamut and is surprised at how dusty she is from the short tag she played with the baby wyvern. He makes sure to check every nook and cranny and proceeds to move to her horns.

“Be careful with their horns when cleaning it. Just flow your hands on top of it. Dragons like Bahamut have very very sensitive horns since it's still connected to their nerves. If done properly, they’d do this.”

Like a smooth butter being run on top of a pan, the man professional swerves his hand and on the right level, cleans her horn. It hit all the right spots, making Bahamut close her eyes and all of the sudden, he wings fully unfold, almost striking the baby wyvern while throwing bubbles and soap everywhere to even the Vampires well ironed cravat.

“Boom. Her wings unfold.”

“Woah! That’s so cool, Lord Jackson!”

“I know right? Since she has nerves there, it overloads her with a tingling sensation with a human hand doing it. Now, the hard part. Really water your hands, and start making it as wet as you can. If you're really good with magic, manipulate the water and have the water spread to its wings. Again, be careful. Regardless if it's a super powerful Dragon God, these creatures love their wings as much as they love to fly. Gently and softly do it. That’s why I use magic here as it can really do it better than hands at times but they love it more with fingers doing it.”

The Squire follows his orders and since the General didn’t only teach through words but also through action, the vampire was able to do it but the wings of the wyvern wouldn’t unfold. The General let the baby wyvern sniff its finger and then rubbed its chin to Bahamut’s jealousy and its wings also unfolded.

“Just do that if it doesn’t want to unfold its wings. Dragons naturally do it when they get a tingling feeling, like they're ready to fly out.”

“Ah of course.”

“Hm. So… who's going to be taking care of this Dragon?”

“My Lord. He wants to also have his own personal Dragon.”

“I guess your Lord is going to be replacing his horse huh?”

“Hm, Sir Kay wants to replace his horse with a Dragon.”

“Good luck, as much as they’re good. There’s just some things that horses are a bit better still, like getting inside Dungeons or Labyrinths. Now, is Sir Kay a good person?”

“Hmmm… I do think so. He is my mentor and sword trainer. He has been very good with me, Lord Jackson. He’d even offer my gifts if I do good with the sword.”

“Are you sure? Really really sure?”

“I am, Lord Jackson.”

“Alright. But since this is your job now, be ready to go the extra mile for them alright?”

“Extra mile? I do not get this Outworlder idiom. I’m merely here to prepare My Lord's future Dragon.”

“Just… just be ready to see if the person who will be taking care of them will love them. Dragons aren’t easy to have. You just can’t have one because they are cool and breathe fire or some stupid shit like that. These creatures are not only Divine in nature, but are also super strong and dangerous. Even a baby wyvern like that can breathe fire and burn down a town if left unchecked.”

“Oh, but… to do that, Lord Jackson. I won’t be able to have time for my mentorship. To learn the ways of becoming a Knight of the Kingdom. I-i do not even have a land of my own yet and the wars the Kingdom participate in would take decades to finish.”

“Wait, you really don’t consider staying here?”

“No Lord Jackson. I still have to learn how to use the sword after this. I plan to return back to my Lord and have my daily practice.”

“Hmmmmm….”

A hand then rests on his shoulder. Lightly gripping it, he turned his face to the human whose eyes were dead center looking at him with the most serious face he had seen the man express.

“Then stop now. You are already building a bond with these Dragons, soon. They’ll remember you, your face imprinted on them. Do you know how much they are willing to wait?”

“N-No.”

“Vayke waited for God knows how long till her Knightly man to return, but since Vayke isn’t like Bahamut and cannot access the other world, she was never the same. Can you have that? Dragons’ feelings are something to not be toyed with. Their emotions, versions of loyalty and love is beyond you and my comprehension.” The Vampire then looks down on the baby wyvern at his hands and back to the General. “Do you know what Bahamut told me that really broke my heart?”

He shakes his head.

“She told me that she’d wait no matter how long. That she’d be there for me in the abyss. That she’d love me no matter if I am alive or dead, in here or the afterlife. That’s how much these Dragons will one day love their owners if they prove their mantle to be worthy of their respect. The mere fact that these strong and prideful creatures are already willing to serve under you should be more than enough to tell you that they are putting a lot of trust into your strength. Belief in what you can push yourself to become one day. Tell me, CAN YOU or CAN YOU NOT take the extra mile for them?”

“Hmmmm… I must think first, Lord Jackson. I cannot give you the answer right now. But I am aware, just from looking at the both of you and how much your souls mend together, the feelings of your emotions for one another would spill out into me too. I… I will think about it. I promised my Fiancee so much, and to attain it. I need to become a Knight of the Kingdom and to become worthy of her family’s achievements and name.”

“Good, think hard about it and if you can. Write a book, a notice or even just a warning. If any Noble wants his or her personal Dragon, they better be ready for the responsibility and not let their Squire do the most important thing with them. Developing a bond. They need to bathe, eat, drink, and sleep with their Dragon and know what it's like and how it's like. This isn’t something you can give to your lower ranking member or servant.”

“Though… I don’t think it’d be such a bad idea to be the first Vampire Dragonkeeper… As I said Lord Jackson. I shall think about it.”

“Hm. Then, let’s finish up. Sorry if I got a bit emotional there. I’ve just been Bahamut for so long, I cannot fathom what it’d be like if I sent a friend over to take care of her while I was away. That wouldn’t be the way, no. That’d be a travesty. I love Dragons very much even before having my own, and now that I’ve been taking care of one for years and years. I can say that my love for them only grew thrice more and I can see why they're so respected and loved by everyone equally. I have no words to use when it comes to how much I respect them.”

“The Goddess is surely lucky she has you.”

“Master is always emotional. He may put up an air of manliness. But deep inside, he is more akin to a toy bear that you can always hug.”

“Shut up.” His eyes then wandered. “I literally survived wars and saw entire cities razed by Napalm right before me.”

“Ahahahaha, see? Master is such a human. But that’s why he is like this and I love him for all he is.”

“Heh, Goddess. I think you’d be much at stake with the Demons.”

“Hm? Why?”

“The Demons believe the world is better off with no humans. Their religion revolves around how the God Humanus brought upon a leech into the planet. One incapable of feeling anything apart from their innate fear of everything and the need to understand it all. They see humans like how the Elves see everyone, a cancer that needs to be stopped.”

“Then they are fools. Humans are part of nature, to do away with them would be to do away with a part of what is natural. Do you think the world would be better if it was ruled by Dragons? No. We’d trample everything, and if we have nothing to fight, we’d fight the very Gods or the Stars far beyond even this Galaxy. One must seek balance, as even this world seeks it. Do you think the Demon Hordes are a natural occurrence? Or is it a factor of far too much prosperity and the world, like a body’s white blood cell killing its own red blood cell to bring balance back? As far too much good can also lead to ruin.”

“It seems that I’ve offended you Goddess. I apologize.”

“You have not. But… it did give me this angering feeling when I heard the Demons do not want humans. They focus on the Evil of humanity, but not on the Goodness of humanity. I wouldn’t even allow Master to touch me if I didn’t believe in the Good of the humans. Do they think the world they live in, one that’s cold and parted of colors with nothing but the orders of the Gods, the very nature that strives to kill off the excess peace of this world to be… good? Nay, that is in of itself the hypocrisy of the Demons, just as the hypocrisy of the Humans they hate.”

“Bahamut, that’s enough.”

“No Master, I will not stand abide by such a species. They need a lesson, for them to say and believe in such a thing. No wonder they treated you with such disrespect.”

“I am really sorry Sir Jacques. Bahamut… seems to have really loved humanity.”

“No worries Lord Jackson, I just hope she won’t curse me for offending her so much.”

“I do not do curses… intentionally. But I will curse those Demons if they even dare do such a thing, have they ever tasted human food? Master, maybe giving them Steak will make them change their might. Put gravy and mash potatoes into it.”

“I really taught you the wrong types of food to love, didn't I? Bwahahahahahah.”

The two men laughed and the Vampire nodded as he breathed out. “Maybe…” as he whispers it to himself. Soon, the two finish and he delivers the baby wyvern back to the litter where it soon sleeps with its brothers and sisters. All cleaned and polished.

“Phew. Now, Bahamut. You wanted to talk to Garrana?”

“Hm.”

Turning back into a human. She walks to the Great Wyvern as the two men go out of the Warehouse to stretch their bodies. As the Dragon God was left inside, a Humvee stops and a pack of soldiers exits. All wearing worn uniforms and vests. They approached the General with ease and saluted him. Seeing them, Paul instantly knew they were veterans who had been at the front and gave back a respectful salute.

“Great Wyvern Garrana of the Schontic Lake.”

“Primeval Goddess, the Foreign Dragon God Bahamut, how may I serve you?”

“I see that you detect the body of Mors Letum in me.”

“Only the Goddess of Death, Destruction, and Unmaking has such an aura emitting from its bones.”

“Ah, I cannot remove that sadly. But it does make a good foundation for a body.”

“Indeed it does, it fits you like a glove, Goddess.”

“Hm. Now, do you wish to come to the party with the little ones?”

“I’m afraid the responsibility of taking care of eight infants would be far too much for me. Most of all in human form.”

“But I believe it would be a great training for them to get used to the Vampires. How about this, I shall take care of half of them. I am a female dragon after all. It’s in my nature to take care and nurture them.”

“Oh my. I shall participate then Goddess. I shall request Sir Jacques for a gown and if I can, teach the little ones how to turn into a human.”

“Good, I look forward to seeing one of my kin at the party.”

Bahamut looks at the Purple baby wyvern that’s awoken by the two speaking. She picks up the little thing and cradles it like a child. “I apologize little one. What’s her name?”

“Purpura, Goddess.”

“What a nice name. Fitting of this little one.”

The Dragon God then pats its head and sees that its horns are slowly peeking out and growing. She then scratches its chin and lightly places it back in the litter of sleeping dragons. Caressing its small but already developed wings.

“I hope you see the flourishing of the Dragons in Schon. Your husband's death wasn’t in vain Garrana.”

“I still mourn for him, Goddess. The last Volcanic Great Wyvern of the continent… dead. Such a pity for a wonderful and strong soul to die by those Wolves. I only pray that he has passed safely.”

“He hasn’t.”

“E-Eh?”

“He’s essence, I can feel it around you and your children. It seems that he’s planning on guarding them till they’ve grown to adulthood.”

“Oh my… My husband… I thank you. I thank you so much for protecting us. I apologize for being so weak, I was… I couldn’t fly…”

“You just gave birth at that time didn’t you?”

“I did Goddess, and the noises of the little ones attracted a roaming party of the Demon King’s Werewolves. He took hundreds with him till one that could speak fully and was coherent outfought my tired husband and slain him. Even through the harsh rain, in his last breath. He breathed the most beautiful fire I could see.”

“Could this Werewolf have scratches on his body? Prominently one that goes from the top of his head and down?”

“Hm? Did you by chance meet him, Goddess?”

“I did. Do not worry, your husbands have been avenged. The Wolf was strong, but I was stronger.”

“Ahhhh… finally, thank you Goddess for avenging him. I can rest well knowing that the beast is dead. He fought well, and respectfully. But I cannot fathom to remember his face, I stared into those cold deathly eyes. He tried to go after us, but I placed myself in the direction of the entrance and breathed fire. He couldn’t get inside.”

“Good choice of shelter, many Dragons fall due to letting their egos get the best of them and take shelter in large complex cave systems or labyrinths. One shouldn’t sleep without having an eye open to keep an eye out for the entrance to your lair. So, why did the Rogues start attacking Dragons? If they are willing to go after a Great Wyvern, then that must mean your numbers have truly fallen to the point that they do not care to back up to arrive to aid you. Who is the Elder Dragon responsible for this continent?”

“God Augustus left for the main continents. He was one of the last Dragon Gods of this planet and he left due to some premonition. Of a band of Heroes that will one day sweep over to the Kingdom of Vitas and enter the Underworld and finally defeat the Gods that keep starting the End Times. After that, he promised to return to us and bring back the Dragon Kingdom to its greatness.”

“Two Dragon Kingdoms? That doesn’t sound good. One of Catherine and one of Augustus… it seems that those two has some history.”

“Oh, you do not know Goddess?”

“Hm?”

“They were onced married.”

“Wha-what?”

“Yes, Goddess. Goddess Catherine, the White Dragon God married God Augustus, the Red Dragon God thousands of years ago and inherited the throne to the Dragon Kingdom. It was when their territory in the land of Dragovh fell after the horde of the Underworld besieged their flying cities. King Augustus never forgave himself and thought of coming to Schon, to the heart of it all to end it. He was planning on going to the Underworld and battling the Primeval Gods all by himself. But he couldn’t even scratch them and returned here afterward to rest and plan.”

“And Queen Catherine?”

“She was more lenient in the response to the Kingdom getting destroyed, choosing to rebuild and nurture a future generation than go to war after such a tumultuous time.”

“And you? I guess you felt more inclined to go with King Augustus?”

“I did, Goddess… though foolish. I had nowhere to go. Though I believed in King Augustus and his wisdom. Not even he was prepared for the power of the Primeval Gods.”

“That man is indeed a fool. He reminds me of my own Master. Fighting enemies far above his level. I guess if I do meet that moron, I’ll have him to go and offer a part of his divnity to me as an apology for hurting my Master and I’ll tell him how I did it.”

“You defeated a Primeval God?!”

“Death.”

“Death?”

“I defeated the Primeval God that is Death. Though the fight lasted for… I do not know actually. I stopped counting after five thousand. I did win in the end, I must learn of the Primeval Gods of this land if I even wish to begin a foolish errand to defeat them.”

“Pfft… I apologize, Goddess. But it seems that you’ve been humbled.”

“I have. Back then, my only view was to fight stronger foes and continue to grow. But things are different now.” Through the veil, the Goddess’ eyes seemingly squinted a bit, in memory of something traumatic. “I have to take care of people, to love and treasure. I can no longer be so rampant and chaotic as I was before. I also hate seeing Masters eyes whenever I get injured… It was the first time I felt useless. The Twelve Pillars wouldn’t allow me to tap into my Godly powers like now. I had to rely on Master’s armor from time to time to protect my tiny body.”

“I do see that Goddess, you rely on him greatly and he relies on you greatly too. Not only that, but watching him wash you tells me he knows every corner of your body. He must be proud to have such the respect and admiration of a Dragon that it’d let it touch its body in such a way.”

“He does and I can never get enough of his happiness for Dragons. He has a smile that one must die for. Tell me, Great Wyvern. Why do the Demons of this world hate Humans? In Tur, the Demons never hated Humans, both of the species respected each other as one is born of the other.”

“It goes in times far before me, Goddess. Though know of this, the Demons hate everyone. It's merely due to a single Human that they put a special attention to Mankind.”

“Let me guess… its Deus Vrax isn’t it? The Saviour of the Holy See.”

“Mhm…”

“Haaaaa… there’s never an easy answer to things is there?”

“Pfft… that was very human of you, Goddess.”

“I guess so. I might’ve been lingering around them for so long now that they’ve started influencing me to this degree.”

“But do you not like it, Goddess? Humans love everyone as much as they hate. Sir Jackson has not only been affectionate but also caring.”

“I… I love it.” Bahamut turns her head away from Garrana. Hiding her beet red cheeks that aren't visible due to the dark veil that hid her face. “As I said, Master has a smile to die for.”

“I never knew a Goddess could act so girlishly. Ahahahahahaha…”

“Enough. I shall depart now. Do take care of yourself, Garrana. I’ll be sure to give some blessings to you.”

“Thank you Goddess. May the radiant flame of Dragonoth, the foreign God be forever with you.”

Back outside, the General talks to his men as Jacques goes his way, the two saying their goodbyes to each other.

“Sir!”

“Speak.”

“We’re here to tell you about the recent scandals being experienced in North Geraldia, sir.”

“Hm? Have it sent to internal affairs. I don’t deal with stuff like this.”

“Yes sir, but the orders are specifically requesting for Bahamut but vampires would also be a good addition. The city of Zavalda has been experiencing a quiet turmoil from within its ranks. The Higher Ups want this finished sir so that they could send you there.”

“Is that so…? Why would they need me? Don’t tell me their plans are… martial law?”

He looks at Bahamut who tilts its head, curious at what’s happening.

“.. Yes sir. We’ve also called Colonel General Yamaoka and Mars to arrive in the city in tandem with you so that the situation could be controlled if the scandals go public. We’re expecting a rebellion.”

“No… you can’t be serious. That’s a city of millions of players.”

“Airbase Shadilay sir. High Command wants you there stat.”

“Okay, who is the moron responsible for naming our military installations?”

“The higher ups sir?”

“As expected. Look, I can’t promise anything. Tell them that they can fuck off with there orders as I am still busy here. If they want, they can drag my sorry ass back to Geraldia but I won’t be going anywhere till I’ve secured Neutrality. Got it?”

“Roger that sir. Thank you.”

“Alright, be on your way now.”

The soldiers depart and Bahamut rests her head on his shoulder.

“What was that about Master?”

“Looks like things are really getting interesting in Zavalda. We’re being called there as early as possible. Tsk, we were supposed to wait till Colonel General Yamaoka is also available so that two Dragon Gods could convene and immediately solve the situation.”

“This seems like an act of desperation from your leaders, Master.”

“It is. And it's showing… Zavalda is the city of factories, our equipment gets made there next to Iron Mountain. If it falls, we could be talking about a massive downsize of our capabilities.”

“Then, it looks like it's back to partying, Master.”

“I’ll be sure to enjoy it as much. Knowing what’s the next job. Argh.”