Raise your flag to change the world

Fighter by KANA-BOON

Dareka no sakebi ga kudakechitteiru

Fumishimeru tabi itami no oto ga kikoeta

Himei ni mo nita koe kikinareta sono kakera

Hontou wa jibun da to hajime kara kidzuiteta

Kagayaki wa setsuna senjou de saku hana no you ni

Utsukushiku are senshi yo

Ai nai taenai taihai hitori no faitaa

Towa nakutomo tatakaitsuduke!

Aa inai tsumi to itami nai sekai e saa ima

Towa nakutomo te o nobasa faitaa

Sadame yo koko kara ugokidase

Ai nai taenai taihai hitori no faitaa

Towa nakutomo koko janai dokoka e

Kagayaki wa setsuna senjou ni saku hana no you de are faitaa

Reincarnate it's a term for a person to reborn again it's something that when a person die he or she will be reborn again from animals, different gender and another world. Its how a man called Kumon Kaito whom was reborn again in another world call Eostia. Technically it was his third incarnation.

The first incarnation after he died was in an alternative London in 1868, as the Industrial Revolution reaches its climax. He was orphan raise as an assassin together with the Frye Twins by the name Carl. He learn everything at young age their history, technique, technology and creed. As such he followed them to London and to pursue their noble goal to stop the Templars and preventing them from obtaining the pieces of Eden.

Sometimes you need to bend the rules to get the job done as the forming of Rooks gang was a brilliant idea not only obtaining information of any territory they gain but increasing influence and stopping the Templar network. This so called gang not only helps the children and poverty but take down the Blights and remaining Templars.

But alas life of an assassin come to an end when he dies trying to save the twins. He knew life an assassin is to walk with death and many had died when fighting the Templar but he was satisfied as long it can change the world.

Kaito second incarnation was an Orphan boy name Dune he was born on mars it was a life of harshness after the calamity war. Mars Children weren't giving rights and treated poorly. It was then he joins the Private Military Company CGS and undergoes the surgery like the others.

The grownups treated the children like discarded pawns and slave labor but they can't fight back it's the only place where there is shelter and food. It was then he meets Orga and Mikazuki that one day change their life forever.

Then it happen when the day Tekkadan was form from the ashes of war Dune knew it was time to rise up and walk their own path. As he pilot battle against mobile suits whom are enemies trying to stop them. Pirates, mercenaries and Glaajorn

It was then he makes his final stand along with his other brother in arms. As they fought tooth and nail making their last stand on Mars. He died with satisfaction along with his comrades.

Kaito remember everything during his third incarnation when he bump his head or more likely someone push him of the stairs as he crash down the feeling of pain was insufferable especially for a nine year old. However the bump on the head was what trigger his previous life memories and his real name Kaito Kumon also known as by another name Armored rider Baron.

When he regains his memories he knew one thing he needed to be strong and follow his own path or it will be his own destruction. He was the son of a mistress that his father took her hand of course it wasn't that uncommon for nobility to have mistress. His name is Keith Corvo the son of a mistress that his father bang because he wanted to reduce stress.

But for commoners like her they are look down especially Kaito. His father was a duke a privilege that his family the Lucretius Corvo. The Corvo is noble family that has served the royal family for a long time as such they have a very influence of wealth power and prestige.

His brother whom is Gilbert Corvo bully him for being a half breed it was hell for a nine year to be bully by an 11 year old. But Kaito had to thank Gilbert for it if it wasn't for his half-brother despicable action he won't remember who he was and before him.

Even so how much knowledge he can use to revolutionary the world. He had to wait for one he was still young and two he love his mother Petra. Kaito wanted to finally felt that love he misses especially from his mother. He lost that feeling after the Yggdrasil incident and lost his family. Even so he love his mother Petra as he endured being bully at the same time reading and obtain knowledge of what needs to do. He also made alliance with certain group undetected by his family.

Happiness didn't last long as his mother fallen as such his father cast both son and mother out from the mansion in the cold street. Kaito worked hard care for his mother but the medicine wasn't enough to cure her. Since it was medieval times convenient medicine weren't produce due to relaying on magic.

Kaito knowledge of medicine is useless he needed the tools and equipment even to made one takes time and resources. Not only that healing magic only be distributed with one gold coin. That means commoners like him can't afford it.

He never gave up as he works to help ease her pain but it wasn't enough and she was gone. Kaito scream in frustration of the injustice of this world. It reminds of Zawame City, Mars and London where the strong oppress the weak. He saw the state of Eostia how nobles oppress the commoners, slave, and other things that pisses him off.

It was then he knew his destiny and that was to change the world. However unlike other previous worlds those with power had the advantage government conspiracy, advance weapons and armies. He will build his own country, built an army and technologies. He will honour the name of his comrades whom die fighting for their cause during his previous life.

20 years later

The Kuro Inu or black dogs a group of mercenaries whom are famous in the battle field lead by the war veteran Vault.

Kaito was one of the group he was already 21 years old he join the mercenary at young age it was the only occupation with good payment and prestige. Before he was one of the dogs he join a less famous mercenary group after all is not like they allow a ten year old to join the war and looked down upon.

But he survives with knowledge of his previous incarnation he endured the hell call war gaining wealth, prestige and influence. He was giving the title Crimson Wolf. As he prefer to work alone.

As such he was given a mission from the goddess reincarnate herself

Flashback

Celestine felt her breath hitch as the man in the black and red coat walked inside the throne room slightly behind Maia. He was just as she envisioned him, the same dark coat, the same tattered, left hand gauntlet. Brown hair covered by his hood.

She realized that the guards were still waiting to be dismissed.

"Thank you." Celestine told the guards after clearing her throat. "You may go."

The guards bowed. Now there were only four in the room. Maia took her place alongside Celestine, taking a seat on the steps leading to the throne. Claudia stepped forward slightly, hand on the hilt of her sword prepared anything.

Kaito kept very still. Hands at his side, it wasn't the first time such atmosphere he felt. The atmosphere was tense that you could hear a pin drop. Celestine recovered first.

"I hear that you have been slaying orcs and bandits left and right throughout the land after joining a mercenary band." She spoke clearly trying to show no hostile intent. There was no reply, at least not for a while.

"So I have." His voice was quiet that Celestine had to strain to hear it. "Is it a crime to hunt down monsters or joining a mercenary group?" it was a rhetorical question but he asked anyway.

"You will show respect, cur!" Claudia snapped. "You stand before Celestine Lucross-"

"Claudia. I apologize for my subordinate's ire, she is very protective of me." Celestine spoke up before an argument could erupt. She looked down at the stranger in their midst. "As for your question, no it is not. You have done a service to my people and for that I am grateful."

The stranger said nothing, only shrugging his shoulders. It was a humble gesture, as if killing a hundred bandits and orcs were a simple thing. He didn't do it because of so called justice he hated those who trample the weak.

Celestine smiled. "What brought you here Crimson Wolf?" She asked him gently. The title Kaito was given his life as a mercenary. Unlike other groups he prefer to work alone wearing a flash red coat thus the name Crimson Wolf.

"Nothing," The former rider replied quietly. "Just travelling the world and selling my blade to those who pay for it." Kaito has his reason on why he was collecting a lot of gold, it was irrelevant to tell the shield alliance.

"Another mercenary eh?" Maia asked.

"Not by choice." It was the cold answer which made her frown. Kaito had a reason to join a band of mercenaries

"No need to be so gruff about it." Maia said scowling further as the stranger refused to even acknowledge her.

"I do not have a very good opinion of mercenaries I join only to survive. Apologies in advance." The stranger replied. His tone of voice made it clear he was not going to breach the subject or tolerate questions. He steadied himself before looking up at Celestine on her throne.

"What do you want from me?" He asked quietly. "If I am not here to be judged for a crime, then this is something else."

Celestine held out her hand before Claudia started shouting. "I apologize. Yes, I brought you here for a reason." She told the stranger. "But first, I must ask that you tell us your name."

"You can call me Kaito or Crimson Wolf." The stranger answered.

"You don't have a family name or is that your real name?" Maia piped up.

"My family name is not important to me, Kaito is my name and that is all, you can call me by title if you want too." Kaito answered once more before turning his attention to Celestine. "What is your request, your grace?" Even how much he dislikes doing etiquette to a naïve Queen like Celestine it's better than to gain someone's wrath.

The Goddess Reborn blinked as the former armored rider looked at her expectantly.

"Very well, I will be sending the Black Dogs to attack the Dark Fortress." Celestine explained. "You shall go with them. Your task, should you choose to accept it, is to bring Olga Discordia to me."

Kaito lowered his head slightly as he digested that information. The Black Dogs were a famous mercenary group, led by the legendary Vault himself. A charismatic man and a powerful swordsman, Kaito had heard tales of their exploits. He had also heard of Olga Discordia, the High Queen of the Dark Elves herself. Her arcane strength was said to rival Celestine's own.

More than half of their legends spoke of the terrible battles between them. Here he was talking to Celestine but Olga Discordia was a different story. He had only heard tales about the Dark Elf queen, nobody knew exactly what she looked like but there were books on the subject.

"Why me?" Kaito asked any why not Vault since the man has experience unlike who was a newbie even though he has a long years of experience from his past lives that he doesn't anyone to find out.

"I am sorry?" Celestine tilted her head in confusion.

"Why ask a stranger, a newbie like me to capture one of the most notorious sorceresses in Eostia?" Kaito asked. If any normal person whom giving such tasked, he or she would say yes without any hesitation probably to gain glory, fame, favor and noble title.

Celestine looked down in shame. "Truth be told, I...had a premonition about you." She told him. "One where you could either be the savior of my land or its destroyer."

Kaito eyes widen a bit hearing such proclamation Maia, Alicia and Claudia turned to regard Celestine with outright shocked looks. But the Goddess reborn just looked at Kaito with a weary gaze, to her left Claudia had never seen her highness look so tired.

"What I saw frightened me beyond measure but also bright me doubt." Celestine told the young stranger standing in her throne room. "A warrior standing in a field of corpses as far as the eye can see. But you were strong, unbowed and unbroken. The other side of the field was paradise full with flowers and life my people suffer because of this war, Sir Kaitor I ask-no, I beg of you, Kaito. Help me bring peace to this land and I will be forever in your debt."

There was silence. Kaito stayed very still, he was so quiet that it was maddening to watch him just stand there. It was a risk like walking on a broken bridge with a bag full of gold. If he complete the mission he would achieve the goal that he plan all this year's beside he can't refuse such request.

"Very well, I accept your request."

Celestine felt a burden lift from her shoulders as the atmosphere lightened. Claudia still had a scowl on her face but she looked relieved to see that Celestine had brightened considerably. Maia was actually grinning. Alicia was still thinking trying to remember where she had seen him before.

"I thank you, Sir Kaito." Celestine said.

"It will be difficult." Kaaito told her. "But I will do my utmost to secure Olga Discordia and bring her to you. No matter what the cost."

Celestine nodded. "I only hope that you will return safely and successfully, Kaito. Too many have died in this war and I would not wish to add another to my conscious."

Kaito nodded. "If that is all, I wish to prepare for the task at hand." He said.

"You can stay at this castle if you wish, it is getting late. We will discuss more when Master Vault and his band arrive in a day. I will have servants prepare a room for you."

Kaito didn't speak but he did bow formally before heading out. Celestine leaned back into her throne with a sigh. So many things could have gone wrong but she had secured a way to peace.

She opened her eyes to see Maia, Alicia and Claudia watching expectantly. She smiled at her two subordinates. "Please, walk with me."

As the three princess knights headed out of the throne room the silence became awkward as each waited for someone to speak.

"Well, Lady Celestine. You certainly have a way of surprising everyone." Maia commented with a grin. "I never thought that you'd have a vision about some stranger who's as murderous and savior as they come."

"Indeed, I must object to his presence here." Claudia spoke officiously. "That man...he's danger I don't trust him at all. Princess Alicia what do you think?

"I agree but I can't get out of my mind that I felt like I knew him from somewhere" the princess try to remember the face that person she seen before.

"It doesn't matter is probably some random passenger that you just saw on the street." Claudia urges the princess to let it go.

"You're probably right."

The Rider looked up at the man who had addressed him. Much like all of the Black Dogs, he was only dressed in a green vest and pants. Two large daggers were sheathed at his hips. He was in his mid thirties it looked like.

"Who are you?" Kaito asked.

"Heh, I'm Hicks." The man's grin widened as he took a seat next to the former armored rider, who was busy sharpening his pistol swords.

"So that's what you killed the orcs and bandits with eh?" Hicks asked trying to act friendly. Looking at the strange shape of swords unlike others swords use in Eostia this weapon had a strange handle and longer.

"I've killed many with this weapon." Kaito reply was cold. "What of it?"

Hicks reached out with his hand. Hunter stared at it then locked eyes with Hicks whose smile faltered slightly. "Alright, alright..." Hicks raised his hands. "If you're that stingy."

The rider returned his whetstone into his satchel then offered the blade to Hicks. The mercenary took it in both hands examining it with interest.

The blade was smooth much smoother than any regular sword that the mercenaries use, it was more durable and lighter. Hicks even hurt himself touching the blade edge." Such magnificent blade where did you get it?"

Kaito decided to indulge with the mercenary curiosity. "I made this blade using my own hands is one of a kind."

"Really, so you're also a blacksmith." Hicks was impress such weapon. His mind already started to think if such a guy working with the Black Dogs would improve the plan that Vault was starting. Such a weapon would make the Black Dogs stronger than before.

"Are you done admiring the weapon" The rider took up the Pistol Sword with an easy grace as he holster it back. "I told you. I've killed many with this weapon." The Pistol Sword wasn't Kaito only weapon as he has many weapons hidden. As a train assassin he already preps many hidden weapons from prying eyes, as much his part of the dogs they are not Tekkadan and The Brotherhood.

He regarded Hicks with a look as he stood up. "Is that all you wanted to asked?"

"No, I wanted to asked what do you think would happen if we manage to capture Olga Discordia and end the war, we mercenary will out of a job."

"Yeah I thought of such idea might happen but that isn't the question" Kaito already knew how Hicks was fidgeting.

"Your right what I'm trying to say is we mercenaries have been look down by the nobles and the knights. We risks our lives in this war fighting in the front lines while the seven shield alliance still look down on us.

"You see Vault has a big plans it involves overthrown the current hierarchy to a new age, I don't know the details but he said it was something big."

"Aren't you afraid that I might a spy, that I might tell the alliance?" He asked jokingly.

Hicks narrowed his eyes. "You're a dangerous man, Kaito to gain such skill and weapon." He said with a sarcastic smile thinking what to say to Vault.

The former armored rider chuckled. Of such proclaimed.

"You are indeed a wise man if you think that of me, Hicks." Kaito said almost cheerfully. "Pray that others follow your footsteps lest they lose their life." Kaito reply his sarcasm to Hicks.

Hicks stood up as Kaito turned to adjust his horse's saddle. Vault had originally sent him to size the lone mercenary and he technically did. Vault was going to like the good news that Hicks was going to bring even if he did told the whole thing but to have such skills within the Black Dogs was a gold mine. Hicks wasn't sure if Vault could pull the man into the inner circle regarding his plans but he hoped Vault could.

"So, Hicks. How's our resident stranger?" Vault asked. "He settled in yet?"

Hicks shook his head. "Vault, you can convince him right?" He asked.

Vault quirked a brow. "What brought this on eh?"

Hicks shook his head. "He's a loner but the blade that I examined was well crafted by himself it will be a great boon to our men to get such good weapons."

"So he is not only a warrior but a blacksmith as well?" Kin, the Black Dogs' only mage, spoke up as he closed his Grimoire. "Celestine Lucross herself recommended him after all."

"I already asked him about what he thinks of the Seven Shield Alliance he didn't care at all not only that he even joked about being a spy, a complete loon he is a complete wildcard. I don't how he will respond."

Vault laughed. "So, aren't we loons as well for to take on one of the most dangerous women in the land?" He looked at Hicks. "And don't you worry about the plan, I'm sure the Crimson Wolf will appreciate a reward after everything's done and over with." His fierce grin widened and actually managed to alleviate Hicks's concerns.

"In any case, Hicks." Kin said. "You should try to calm down. You look way to suspicious if anyone asked."

"Whatever Mage," Hicks snarled before stalking from the tent with all haste. "I've got better things to do anyway."

Kin and Vault looked at each other with some apprehension. As the Black Dogs continued their push into the North, the land became far more treacherous. They lost some men to disease while others were lost to monster attacks. But they pressed on, the Black Dogs would not be denied their glory and the Kaito refused to let anything stand in his way to finish his mission. He was here to bring Olga Discordia to Celestine and that was it. He had no interest in staying anyway, if he finish this mission he would finally fulfilled his goal.

He was no hero, not like Gaim and the riders. He was born and train by assassin and a child soldier fate has always being cruel, he endure nonetheless. Kaito turned his head. As they travelled through the North, he had overheard men talking about something. All he got out of it was that women were involved. So the mercenaries were already celebrating and planning what they were going to do after the war. How confident of them, judging from the looks of this barren wasteland.

No life grew here, what remained was twisted by dark energy. They were close to the Black Fortress. The rider stood on a hill and looked left and right. Truly, it was a desolate place... Lesser men would have been driven to despair in this place. This reminds a bit like Mars Post Disaster era when the planet was a complete desert with little water and food.

For the rider, it only brought back memories.

Memories of how he grew up in the ghetto during his second incarnation as a child soldier fighting and surviving in a world where human debris are nothing more than discarded pawns. Children whom are force surgery the Alaya-Vijnana system the implant surgery is dangerous and can have lethal side effects. If the nano-machines do not fuse correctly with the intended host, that person can become paralyzed from the damage to their spine.

He could never forget such pain as he endure the surgery allow him to pilot a mobile worker and mobile suit. The person whom he respects was Mikazuki Orguss just like him he endure three times surgery to enable pilot the mech easily.

The Rider opened his eyes as he sensed someone approaching behind him.

"Hello, Crimson Wolf." Kin said. The Rider turned around to regard the young mage, resisting the urge to simply walk away. Kin was the Black Dogs' only mage, and thus it was his magic that allowed him to get this far. The bespectacled man was talented, but arrogant and preening. Kaito could sense the distaste Kin had for him.

That was not his problem. And he came here to do a job not make friends.

"What is it?" he asked.

"You've been standing there for quite a while." Kin noted. "The air here...It stinks."

The stench here was nothing to compare the ghetto on Mars and 1800 London. He said nothing for a while.

"It does." He agreed. "Though that's not the only thing about this place is it?"

"Ah, you noticed." Kin's smile was predatory. "Yes, the land saps the life of any and all who come here. An insidious defense created by a skilled necromancer."

"Olga Discordia." Kaito spoke the name of their adversary...and his quarry. "Who rival Celestine Lucross in magical strength." Only by rumours he heard.

Kin crossed his arms. "Indeed, it's interesting how she could have done this over such a large area." He commented. "Dangerous, but it is pretty effective at deterring invaders."

Kaito wasn't surprise since a terraforming device was able to made Mars habitable.

"Except for someone like you." Kaito said.

Kin chuckled. "Yes. But the most interesting part of all this, is perhaps you." He eyed the lone mercenary. "It is curious that you haven't been to the healer's tent once throughout this whole journey. Makes me wonder what else you're capable of."

"I've my own remedy to heal myself." Kaito said softly.

"Ah, you are a mage?" Kin asked.

"Not really, no. Some of my possessions are magical tools to help me in fights." Kaitor's reply was quiet, almost serene. "One in particular heals any ailment." What Kaito is talking about was modern medicine that he manages to produce like antitoxins, pain killers, antibiotics and such. In a world that is medieval era medicines were scarce and only the rich are allowed to be heal by the church healing magic.

"A useful tool," Kin looked curious. "I would like to see it if you have the time."

"We shall see."

The Black Fortress; The miasma of evil was stronger here, but Kaito bit down hard on his growing unease as he looked up at the spire of black stone that Olga Discordia called home. Vault's mercenaries were hidden, while the man himself took Kin and the Rider alongside a handful of men to the back of the fortress. Even now, teams of Black Dogs led by Hicks were silencing the monster sentries positioned around the fort.

"Kin, hurry the fuck up!" Vault whispered harshly. Kaito shrugged, gripping his pistol swords in both hand. Kin's chants were a low murmur and he was not paying attention at all. The former armored rider didn't care about how Vault knew that there was a secret entrance or how Kin was magically picking the lock. He was impatient to get a move on because even he could see that the longer they remained still, the more likely it was they were going to get spotted by sentries.

Or Olga herself. Nobody wanted to get blasted into oblivion by a magic spell. In truth he could just stealth climb up easily just like the assassin that he learn but he prefer keeping all his cards.

An ominous creaking alerted Vault to the doors opening. "Okay, men." Vault leaned his bastard sword on his shoulder. "Come on! Let's get in!"

The group of Black Dogs, plus one rider, entered the secret passage way.

"It smells bloody awful in here." One mercenary said.

"Hush up! Walls have ears!"

The rider thought to himself as they continued moving. The only sources of lights were the torches, which was worrying. Who would put torches in a secret entrance? In fact this whole venture had been going far too well for the Rider liking. Everything was textbook mistakes were happening. Nothing. It was like well plan, too well plan.

The passageway was empty as well...As though the Black Fortress was completely bereft of any life, natural or unnatural inside.

The Rider exhaled through his nose as the air grew chilly. Now he knew why. He can smell something foul in the air.

"Heh, blades out boys." Vault said as he gripped his sword in two hands. "We've got company."

The Rider turned to find a group of orcs waiting. These ones weren't the usual rabble he had put down. These ones were armed, crude clubs and swords. They also wore a mismatch of leather armor and rags.

The Crimson wolf readied his word Pistol. "And so...the fight begins again." He said to himself.

Vault and the others gaped as the rider charged first unshed his dual pistol swords. The Black Dogs readied their blades as the orcs roared.

The rider was among the first to reach the orcs. His first victim died with the sound of swish as the dual blade pierce into its head. The next lost its head as the rider brought his weapon round in a brutal horizontal slash. The dual Pistol Swords in a ready stance and rider began to systematically slaughter his way through the enemy.

One of the orcs grab his blade trying to stop his movements rather than trying pulling back he aim and pulled the trigger his pistol shot the hidden tub of his blade blowing the brains of an orc. Still the dead orc was gripping his weapon tightly.

One of the orcs charge towards Kaito ready to skewer him with a javelin seeing the rider was weaponless he release the sword then pull out another weapon within his coat it was a metallic cylinder with a trigger those who might know of its shape are from earth it was a revolver a weapon that was use during the infamous wild west era as he aim and pulled the trigger again this time with three shoot.

The first bullet hit the upper chest the second and third bullet hit on the head. The orc was stunned and fell like the others before him.

The rider turned to face another foe but Vault was there. With a shout, he smashed aside the orc with his bastard sword. "Hah, we all live once!" Vault snarled. "Come on, you sad apes! Put up a better fight!"

Vault grinned at the Rider. "My blood's up, let's keep going!"

Kaito nodded, a lot more calm than Vault. He knew how to separate themselves from the bloodlust. There wasn't much keeping a man from becoming another beast after all. The Rider turned, slashing his pistol swords taking off its head with an offhand swipe.

When the last orc fell more came to take their place. Vault and the Rider were at the forefront, Kin supporting them from behind with his magic. As they ventured deeper into the hold, other creatures began to materialize from the walls.

Orcs, goblins, and more monsters are coming along. It did not matter to the Rider in any case, they died beneath his blade. It was only when the last goblin died that the bigger ones came into play. Like the rest he killed all of them efficiently, quick, and painless.

Vault laughed and clapped a hand on his shoulder. The Rider had to resist the urge of breaking said appendage and stabbing the man who was congratulating him.

"You've got quite a sword arm there!" Vault crowed. "We'll conquer anything in our way thanks to you!"

The Rider said nothing, only looking down further the hallway. "We should move."

The attack was going well, until they ran into even more creatures. The Hunter swung his sword down and chopped the downed werewolf's head off. He fended off another with a quick swipe across its face before he drove his sword into its chest. The Rider kicked it off the blade. This was where he was going to have to make a choice.

"Kaito! We'll finish these guys off!" Vault roared as he blocked a demon's claws with his own blade.

"Hicks is on his way here!" Kin told them both. "Wolf, go take care of Olga! We can handle this! Go, quickly!"

The rider didn't say anything before shooting aside another monster and continuing onwards, blade and pistol in hand. No time for regrets. He had to complete the mission. His only problem was how to bring Olga Discordia in without a fight, might have to take drastic measure. He kept going down the corridors, bashing doors open only to find them empty.

Something wasn't right here. There were a lot of monsters but no sign of any Dark Elves. Surely Olga had soldiers guarding her castle? This was easy too easy. So he decided to change tactic as he readied the hidden blades.

The assassin equipment that he prepared from the knowledge of his previous incarnation is what makes him popular among the mercenary group. As an assassin you conduct assignation, espionage and mission on your own. He completes all of it. If you need information of the enemy Crimson wolf is your guy.

He run without making any noise while keeping his eyes and ears open to detect any enemy presence. But no sign any dark Elves. It left him a question it was either that she was confident in her skills that she allowed her people to leave for their safety or a fool that she can take the Black Dog Mercenary on her own.

The former assassin pressed on regardless, his destination was clear now. He had reached the throne room. His quarry was probably waiting for him. The Rider unravel his Assassin gauntlet the materials to made wasn't easy it was custom made for him only. The gauntlet has a grappling hook allowing easy climbing, a dart than change to a sleep dart or instant poison, the gauntlets included extra flash bang that can be activate if he need a quick getaway. Final reaching his destination he pushed both doors open.

Several Orcs were standing guard at the entrance, he first ran on the walls using it to propel himself to jump and caught two orcs by the neck and release the hidden blade killing the orcs instantly but he wasn't finish as the rider quickly jump again using the dead orc as a momentum he pull out a small dagger and throw pin point accrue on the orc head. Then he took the revolver firing the ones from far.

The last died without a sound as the rider pierce its throat and the body like the others. He followed the red carpet until he eventually reached the throne...and the woman that had been sitting upon it.

Olga Discordia. The Dark Queen. Ruler of the Dark Elves. The only one who could rival Celestine Lucross.

She was beautiful, that was certain. Long dark hair, warm espresso skin, a voluptuous body covered by an elegant corset and underwear underneath a silken cloak. Olga's piercing gaze was leveled at the Rider. She held a long black staff topped with a crystal. Long ears twitched as she regarded the Hunter with an aloof look.

"One man?" Olga's voice was seductive, ringing with authority. "I do not know whether to be irritated or amused."

"History is rife with the few who stand against many. The weak going against the strong," The Rider replied. As he aim the revolver at the queen of the dark elves. "And I'm the strongest can be."

"A curious statement from one such as you." replied Olga, an elegant eyebrow raised. "Tell me, human. Before I reduce you to ash, why have you come here with a band of brigands? To plunder the secrets within this fortress? Do you seek me perhaps? As a trophy?"

"I was sent here to find you actually." The Rider said tonelessly, still holding his revolver. "Someone wants to talk to you."

Olga's eyes narrowed. "Talk to me!" She said haughtily. "So they send soldiers loudly stumbling their way through my home, killing my soldiers, and plundering my treasures. It would be amusing, if it weren't so cowardly!"

When Kaito heard that he felt offended that she would call him a coward. In his defense if he can create the technology like a telephone he wouldn't need to go through this shit.

"That isn't my concern, I didn't come here to kill and plunder like those Black Dogs." The Hunter's tone grew frosty. "Celestine Lucross sent me to bring you to her unharmed. She wishes to parlay."

Olga's proud visage turned into a curious one. "Parlay?"

"Yes." The Rider said quietly. "She is tired of fighting you and wishes to end things peacefully."

"So she sends mercenaries to attack my home?" Olga asked. "That doesn't seem like a parlay to me."

"True." The Hunter agreed, surprising Olga. "But, considering that your monsters are not exactly the nicest things around...this was the only way. I do apologize for that." He then turned his hardened gaze on Olga whose jaw nearly dropped. It wasn't some times

In all the centuries she had lived, no man had glared at her with such a stern gaze. "However, my mission is to bring you to Celestine. I will use force if I have to." As he crack his knuckles. "And I apologize how rough I'm going to get."

"You will die trying, human." Olga said her tone cold, the crystal on her staff glowing ominously.

"Either way, this gets settled once and for all." The Hunter readied his Pistol Swords. As the two face off, the doors thru Olga's throne room banged open.

"Well, now! Kaito!" Vault crowed triumphantly using Kaito name not his title. "About to start another fight without me!?"

"I have this under control." Kaito replied keeping one eye on Olga.

"We came here to back you up, Crimson wolf." Vault said and snapped his fingers. Two of his men dragged another dark elf into the room. Lean and supple, her blonde hair lashed into a ponytail on the side of her head, she was dressed in similar fashion to Olga save that her cape was shorter.

"Ngh! Lady Olga, forgive me!" She growled, struggling weakly against her captors.

"Chloe." Olga's voice trembled. Kaito saw that her cool facade had broken slightly before it turned murderous. "Let her go human!"

Vault laughed. "Or what? You get to watch me slit this girl's throat?"

The Rider exhaled through his nose. "I was in the middle of trying to ask her to surrender Vault I don't like the things you do."

"Hush up, youngster. This is quicker." Vault dismissed the Rider.

"So what'll it be Queenie?" Vault said as he hauled the young woman by her hair and pressed a dagger to her throat. "You drop your staff or she dies right here and we take you on anyway."

"You..." Olga growled. Her power surged as she took a step forward.

A loud bang was heard "Enough!"

Everyone stopped what they were doing and gaped at the Hunter who had raised his voice. For Vault, it was quite surprising to hear the normally quiet stranger actually speak above monotone.

"The battle has gone on for far too long. Olga Discordia, I ask that you surrender lest more harm come to your loved one." The Rider spoke, ignoring the way the young woman in Vault's clutches redden slightly. Olga watches the Rider warily as he gestured to the staff in her hand with his swift weapon.

"Give me your weapon and this posturing stop. You will be imprisoned and treated with the utmost respect. You have my word." Kaito said glaring coldly at Vault. "And we will bring you to Celestine Lucross unharmed. I cannot vouch for your safety if you intend to resist."

Olga looked like she wanted to resist but she sighed dejectedly. "I, Olga Discordia, surrender to you stranger. My staff is yours." The Rider reached out to grab the staff but Vault beat him to it, having handed Chloe over to one of his subordinates. Hicks and Kin looked on, as proud as can be.

"So you were all talk." Vault commented lightly at Olga who glared. The Rider watched in irritation as Olga and Chloe were chained and shackled before being lead to the dungeon. Vault grinned as he looked at the throne and sat down on it. The arrogant bastard actually thought he was a king.

"I don't like how you use a hostage to make her surrender." Kaito told Vault coldly.

"Piss off, you forget I also have a contract. I have the overall command here boy." Vault said cheekily.

"And if she had blown us all into little chunks scattered across her throne room?" Kaito replied. "I was trying to convince her to surrender amicably."

"And she did." Vault said. "Don't be such a worry wart. The Black Fortress belongs to us! It's a victory so stop whining. We'll stay here for a few days and then we'll bring the Dark Elf Queen and her little minx to Lady Celestine."

Vault grinned. "So relax, take a look around and enjoy the fruits of victory."

The rider eyes narrowed. Kaito clench his fist hard this wasn't the victory he wanted it was a cowardly act using hostage. This man was either far too overconfident for his own good or he had something else in the works. Either way, this was getting extremely irritating. He stalked from the throne room, annoyed.

Vault leaned forward, watching the Crimson wolf depart. Maybe Hicks was right and he'd need to watch stranger closely. It would be a shame to get rid of a strong arm like him and those weapons he carries. He'd give the boy one more chance to pick his side in the days to come.

The passageway was still open. It was clear. The Rider kept going, sighing. The next step of the journey was getting horses, finding their way back south and getting back to Celestine Lucross. Not complicated, but as simple plans go...

The rider found who he was looking for in the dungeons. Olga and her servant Chloe, if he remembered correctly, were sitting together in a cage. Chloe outright glared at him while Olga was more reserved. She looked every bit the Queen she was, even if she was in a cage locked up.

The Rider looked around quietly, knowing full well she was being watched by three other men. "I trust that you have not been harmed any further."

"What's it to you, human!?" Chloe snarled.

"Chloe. Enough." Olga said sternly. She regarded the Rider. "You are a strange man to actually visit your prisoners just to have a conversation."

"My mission is to get you to Lady Celestine, your highness." The Rider replied shrugging. "Not to belittle or insult you."

Chloe muttered something rude. Olga sighed. "So, what now?"

"Depending on what Vault wishes, you may be stuck here for a while." Kaito said calmly. "Otherwise I might have to seek permission to bring you out of here myself."

"Oh? Straightforward aren't you?" Olga teased.

"I have no patience." The Rider said. He seems to notice Olga's attempts to flirt. "If Vault is not willing to end a war himself, then so be it. He can collect his damned payment himself when he gets back to Ken." It wasn't the problem his gut tell him he can't trust Vault after that stunt.

Olga blinked at this stranger's blunt statement. "You...are not a very patient person, are you stranger?" She asked.

"Wasting time is wasting money." The Rider said. He sighed. Kaito wanted to finish the mission quickly as possible "In the meantime, I suppose that you are hungry. Do you have any preferences before I head towards the kitchen?"

"We won't eat your filth, human." Chloe growled. "So why don't you-"

"Chloe." Olga chastised her vassal. She then told the rider just get them something good.

"Mistress, you shouldn't trust him." Chloe told Olga. "He's a human. Worse, he's a mercenary."

"Either way Chloe." Olga said wearily. "He will be our only way out of this unharmed."

"How can you trust him so?" Chloe whispered.

"He gave his word, Chloe. Few men would not do that so willingly." Olga spoke seriously. "I could tell he was not lying." She glared at the three men leering at her through the bars. It can be called women intuition.

Kaito made his way to the kitchens, avoiding the revelers as the Black Dogs celebrated their victory over Olga Discordia and the end of the war. Kaito wasn't that stupid mercenary like them crave war like the drugs, for them to celebrate its end was suspicious.

In the kitchen he decided to make instant noodles food from his previous world, he already prepared the noodles and ingredients early before the journey. Kaito wanted to have a decent meal after the war. So he decided to serve both dark elves Ramen.

As he travelled back to the dungeons he caught the tail end of several conversations.

Again, it involved women, The Princess Knights of Eostia in fact. One mercenary was discussing with his fellows about "what he was going to do with them all if he got the chance." There were other remarks from his colleagues. Like ones about Celestine and how "the bitch was going to pay them more than what they owed." Follow by another "Those dark elves were going have some fun."

The Rider eyes narrowed when he hears the names Olga and Chloe. He already suspected something foul was happening. Perhaps he'd be leaving sooner than he expected. His grip on the food tray tightened to the point of it creaking.

He has to do it quietly just like how he was trained.

Chloe and Olga ignored the taunting. Well, Olga did the whole time. Chloe had snapped and was already threatening to kill someone when the door opened. The three mercenaries surrounding them turned to look at the visage of the Hunter staring at them. He was carrying a tray of food.

"What is going on here?" He asked coldly.

"We-We uh we were just having some fun, Kaito." The lead man said using his name not title. "These bitches are going to get what they deserve soon."

"Aye, so they are." Kaito spoke, voice frosty. "Now, could you please leave? Vault would hate to find out that his prize captives are being distressed in anyway..."

The mercenaries nodded their assent and quickly left the dungeon. The Rider watched them go before kicking the door closed.

"Apologies, Lady Olga." The rider said to the dark queen. "It seems that we are rather rude hosts." Mercenaries never did have any manners unlike him he learns etiquette after all manners makes a man.

"Indeed." Olga deadpanned as the he pushed the tray below bars allowing it to slide towards the captivate guest. "Those men are as crude as usual. Typical humans." As she look at her food, the stranger now known by the name Kaito he sat down eating his own portion of Ramen first and waiting for them to eat.

They were still a bit hesitate of such food that never seen before. But then again instant noodles can be call luxury food in this medieval era world. "It's not poison or drugged I won't stop that low like those mongrels."

Olga then decided to eat as she took the first bite her eyes widen as her taste then savoring the flavor that she never eaten in her 700 years life. It was the first time she eaten something this delicious. As she continue eating in complete royalty etiquette.

Chloe glared right back for a few moments before eating, like her master she enjoy the food every bit. Kaito was eating but it wasn't as good from his previous world then again those who never eaten such food it can be called luxury.

After finishing his meal first Kaito was checking making sure he was well equip all his weapons were function well no defect and a few ammo left and some smoke bombs.

After both the elves finish their meal, Kaito decided to break the ice he wanted to ask a question "If you don't mind I would like to ask a question milady."

Olga was reluctantly to tell the stranger however he proven to be a good host it was right to pay hospitality in return. "What do you want to know?"

"Where are the other dark elves?"

The queen wasn't surprise of the answer given other then the two prisoners there wasn't a single dark elves surrounded the fortress. "I let them escape during the battle I wanted to make sure all of them are safe with my people escape I don't to hold back." Olga looks at Chloe who can only nudge in shame. She knew she was the reason they are captured.

"Why did you start this war I doubt rivalry between you two was the cause."

"Isn't obvious I want to protect my people, for 700 years we dark elves are persecuted by the world calling us dark creatures. We are turn to slave and amusement by you humans, you attack our village and burn it to the ground. Unlike the others non-human only we dark elves were discriminated. I attack Estosia not because of petty rivalry but to protect my people."

"The orcs and other creatures I sent are nothing more than what humans did to us so I only pay them back."

Kaito understand what she meant during his journey he saw dark elves whom are slaves for amusement by the men in Estosia. How they have no right like the half-ling and elves. But reality was that before Celestine was announce as a goddess reincarnate humans already persecuted the non-humans and they forgot about it.

"I understand I think what you did was for the greater good, you want to protect your people even you being condemn by the world. It's something I respect." Nobody had clean hands even heroes like king Arthur stain his hand in blood to protect his people.

Olga was speechless it was the first time that a human actually compliment her of such action and not judge her.

"They were talking about you two, the Black Dogs." He told Olga. After got the answer he wants.

"So I noticed." Olga answered. "They say that they are planning something Kaito, and they are uncertain about you."

"Hmm." Kaito look at his pocket watch and saw five minutes before midnight. He stood up as ready what its needs to do. He picked up his weapon, strapped it to his coat and approached the cell door.

"Lady Olga, get back!" Chloe moved forward to shield her mistress. "You bastard-"

The Rider was inspecting the cell doors he then reached into his pocket for a key and unlocked the cell doors. He pushed the cell doors in to allow Chloe and a surprised Olga out.

"Wha...why?" Chloe asked.

"Come with me if you don't to become those black dogs plaything." The Rider replied. He looked at the chains. "Hold still."

He cut both the shackles on Chloe's wrists then did the same for Olga when prompted. "I will reward you handsomely for this, Kaito." She told him gratefully.

"You can thank me later when were safe." Olga nodded when the door opened.

"Oy, Wolf it's time for my shift-" The Black Dog gaped first at Chloe and Olga and then at the Crimson Wolf but it was too late.

A throwing knife embedded itself in the man's throat and he went down choking his life's blood. When the man finally expired, the rider drag the body took whatever possession he has, he didn't know the guy and didn't care. He handed the man's knife to Chloe who took it wrinkling her nose with disgust.

"Well, this is going to be difficult." The Ridersaid. "We can't go out that way with it there." He nudged his head at the door and the corpse lying in front of it.

"Hmm..." Olga smirked. "Follow me you two."

Chloe and Rider obeyed Olga as she approached a section of the wall. "As the mistress of this fortress, I can shape it to my whim however I please." She explained as she touched a brick. A rune shone in the dim torchlight and the wall glowed once before it disappeared, revealing a passageway. "I have many of these portals hidden around the fort. This is but one of many, leading to my armory."

" I'll go first" . He moved first. Olga was next and Chloe was last because she hesitated.

"Chloe, we are escaping with this stranger. Let's move." Olga said. Chloe nodded before glaring distrustfully at the stranger's back.

Eventually they reached the end of the passageway. The Rider looked around the armory. There were suits of armor all over the place. Chloe disregarded those and went for twin daggers. She also took an ebon bow and a quiver full of arrows. Olga went for her staff then reached for a satchel.

Kaito raised a brow as Olga stuffed a longsword inside the bag that seems physically impossible.

"Is that... a magic bag, Lady Olga?" He asked her.

"Indeed." Olga said, smiling. "I can fit many objects within this satchel of mine and it won't become any heavier."

"Impressive. If have that bag I could brought instant noodles easily." The Hunter commented then kept his mouth shut. He deigned to take nothing.

"Will you not take the armor?" Olga asked.

"No." He said bluntly. "My attire more than adequate protection and armor will just slow me down. Are both of you done milady?"

"Yes." Olga nodded as Chloe finished strapping another pair of knives to her hips. Her bow was slung over her shoulder. She glared at the Hunter.

"Well?" Chloe asked.

"We should probably be safe if we open this door." Olga said. The Rider walked over to the door as he put on his hood leading to the other section of the armory. He saw the two men standing guard gape in surprise.

"Wolf? How'd you get in there? We couldn't open that door."

The Rider calmly grabs both of the guards' mouth as he activates the hidden blade piercing their neck killing them instantly.

He looked at both corpses without remorse as Chloe and Olga emerged. Olga was regarding the Rider with a curious look.

"You're fast, human what weapon did you use." Chloe said.

The Rider said nothing and kept moving until he reaches the door. He opened the door and peek his head out. Coast was clear. There was one guard strolling probably was sent here, Kaito blend in the shadow as he sneak behind the guard quietly in quick movement he grab the guard neck in a choke hold then he broke it like a twig, as he drag the body hiding it from site.

"The front gate is sure to be guarded." He told Chloe and Olga. "So while they all celebrating, we should slip out through the back entrance."

Olga nodded. "We should move then." She said then smiled. "Thank you, stranger for freeing us."

The Rider nodded, merely kept moving forward with his two charges in tow. He couldn't just leave. He could leave Olga and Chloe to their fates, but he had given his word. He was man that would never do any dirty tricks to achieve his goal beside that, he already knew what will happen two of the dark elves if he leave them. Thinking about it makes his blood boil. The madness of war.

This was his mission. He had to finish getting these two to safety to fulfill his goal. An oath was an oath.

They made their way through the castle, quiet as they could be. Whenever there was a sentry, Chloe or the Rider would silence them with a blade. There was no time to hide the bodies, but they did scavenge what they could. Specifically gold or any food the guards would have on their person.

It wasn't much but it was better than nothing.

"This...this is good." Olga said. "We can get out of here."

The passageway was still open. It was clear. The Rider kept going, sighing. The next step of the journey was getting horses, finding their way back south and getting back to Celestine Lucross. Not complicated, but as simple plans go there got to be obstacles.

"Into the arms of our enemies." Chloe snarked. "Thanks to you." She shot a look at the Rider who stopped.

"I don't trust Vault." He told them both. "So that is why I am taking you both with me to Lady Celestine. If you would like to stay, then by all means, do so." Kaito sarcastically.

Olga looked down at her servant who rolled her eyes. "I don't trust this human, Lady Olga. If he wanted to, he'd have taken you back to Vault by-"

"Well, well! Look what we have here..."

Speak of the devil Vault and more than a dozen soldiers had appeared behind them. The Rider sighed as the mercenaries formed a circle around the three.

"Really, Kaito. I honestly am surprised that you'd go this far." Vault said as he approached his bastard sword in hand. "Take these two bitches out and have them all to yourself."

Kaito decided to humor him. "I would have all them to myself after all I felt in love with her highness Olga, it was love at first sight."

Olga was baffle such words of course she knew he was teasing her, Chloe on the other hand felt disgust.

"So that it you're of those brats whom fall in love on first sight." Vault wasn't surprise.

"Maybe, I'm bringing these two to Celestine Lucross. That is my mission and you can't stop me."

"Celestine Lucross." Vault said. He then spat on the floor. "What can the Goddess offer you, kid!? Eternal servitude as a lapdog!?" He shook his head.

"Tell me Kaito, what was your life like? Are you happy with the way things are now?"

Kaito's eyes narrowed. "I'm being paid. What else would I need?"

"But you won't rise any further."

"Oh?"

"Kumon Kaito also known as the Crimson wolf, a lone mercenary that became a mercenary at the age of ten. The brat has accomplished untold tales of heroism and battle. The brat is famous for completing suicidal and dangerous mission. He gain fame and prestige but it still not enough as he want more. To satisfied his hunger. That's what I was told." Vault said.

"….."

"I heard you bought slaves and more slaves especially the non-humans and a lot of them, but some say they haven't seen those slaves you bought. Rumors say you used them as meat shields for your survival, discarded pawns or sexual things.

"So what buying slaves is nothing legal so let cut the chatter what is you wanted to say Vault we both know this isn't about the money."

"I see I'll have to tell you what exactly I'm implying, don't I? Well then!" He paced back and forth as he continued, "We're all mercenaries here. The ones that have been fighting in this damn war on all fronts for three centuries! Every death that's happened, every loss in territory, every piece of armor that's been damaged, every blade broken, every arrow wasted! They can all to be blamed on Celestine Lucullus and Olga Discordia!" He seethed as he spoke those two names.

"And for what?!" He roared out as he stopped pacing, "We have received very little in profit from those lazy bitches playing knight from a clean slate while we fought our way through Hell itself!"

"And when this war ends, then what? THEN WHAT?! WE GET NOTHING FROM THEM! I'll have to force them to give me what I want!" At this point, Vault had stomped his foot into the floor with all the rage he could muster from years of fighting a war.

"Those Princess Knights of Celestine? HA! FUCK 'EM! Enjoying the spoils from their high castles when those should've gone to us!" With both arms spread out, Vault gestured to the men behind him.

"Think about it, Crimson wolf. This is the start of a new era, one where men are truly free and women and under our thumb, not the other way around! Every man is their own king with scores of bitches to fuck! And to celebrate…" Vault aimed his sword at Chloe and Olga. "And we are gonna start with you."

"To do what exactly?" Kaito asked before Olga could say anything.

"Think about it! If you want you could have her right now! This, this is the start of a new nation, Hunter! The Sex Empire, where any man could live as a king! Those Princess Knights? They should be doing what a man should be telling them, not the other way around. They'll cook, clean and fuck whenever we tell them to."

Everything was quiet until Kaito was the one who spoke first "Your right about those Princess Knights and those around them. They are nothing more than naïve little girls playing knights from their so call high place. The nobles whom follow them abuse their power unknown to them as they hide their corruption."

"All I can see in Estosia are poverty, corruption, slaving, and decaying this country is dying even before Celestine and Olga rivalry. We mercenaries fought and bleed while the knights fight in their so called safe place."

All of a sudden, the Rider started laughing. It was startling because Vault was outraged that some little punk was belittling the cause he was fighting for. Olga was more concerned with the fact that Vault had them outnumbered. Chloe thought the human had gone insane.

"But what you plan Vault isn't what I want, it's nothing more than a tyrant whom wanted to rule." He scoffed. "Ah...I have never heard such a vile, arrogant speech in my entire life." It makes me wanted to puke although there was no humor evident in his tone.

"Your rule is not what I want for the future! You think small."

"You know Vault, your exploits told of a heroic man." The Rider said. "Tell me, were you planning this farce the whole time? Or did you get hit in the head during the war?"

"Don't you toy with me Kaito." Vault growled. "I'm going to give you a choice...Give those two up and I'll let you stay on my good side. Don't and you'll wish you were dead by the time I'm done with you."

"I'm going to kill you, Vault." The Rider spoke suddenly. "I am going to rend the skin from your bones."

Vault sighed. "Take them!" He told his mercenaries who whooped and charged in.

The Hunter sighed as all three of them stood back to back.

"Wonderful, human. I suppose you have a plan for this one as well." Chloe growled, holding her daggers.

"Cover your ears and eyes." The Rider said and closes his eyes. As he took something from his coat and throw it to the ground hard. It triggers a loud flash of light and sound covering the entire area. Mercenaries were blinded except the three who were making their escape. Using the chance Kaito took his revolver and fire at Vault but years of experience on the battle field his instinct kick in as he dodged using the Bastard sword as a shield.

Tch Kaito underestimated the veteran but quickly run with his two occupants from the fortress at the same time he throws all his smoke bombs to escape with their sight blur the Black Dogs can't give a chase.

They had managed to get two horses. One of which was the Rider's own. The clever animal seemed to have taken a liking to him, something he didn't understand but appreciated nonetheless.

They rode through the night silent.

Kaito looked back to his quarry. Chloe and Olga were on another horse, Chloe being the one responsible for following him. Olga hung onto her servant eyes closed. She briefly looked back at the Black Forest. He honestly could not imagine what she was thinking about. Losing one's home...The Rider shook his head and spurred his horse onward.

Time can numb wounds, but they necessarily won't ever go away. The Rider knew that as well as anyone did. Olga and Chloe were different people though. They have suffered enough.

They stopped at a creek, both to take a break and to ponder their next moves. Kaito was busy filling water skins and as he did so, he saw Chloe striking up a fire. At least, she was trying to until Olga stopped her, pointed her finger at the pile of wood and lit it up. The Rider sighed then approached the campfire.

"We're not going to be safe here." Chloe remarked as Kaito set down the water skins. "And that man if he finds us..." she shuddered what he would do

"He won't." The Rider said. "Not in this wilderness."

"You've done well so far, Stranger." Olga said. "Now...I must ask. Who are you?"

"I go by...Kaito or my title Crimson wolf. My full name is not important thus far." The Rider replied. He smiled grimly underneath his hood. "If anything, I wish these were better circumstances to meet and greet."

Olga narrowed her eyes. "That human..." She growled. "I won't forgive him for making a fool out of me. I should have destroyed him the moment he set foot within my home."

Chloe leveled a glare at the Rider. "And you helped him take it."

"Because we were at war." The Rider's reply was equally scathing as Chloe's look. "The war is over and it seems that Vault is starting a new one. My mission as you know is to get you out of here and back south. That is what Celestine Lucross has asked me to do and so I will." He exhaled through his nose.

"Kaito." Olga said. "This...plan of Vault's, does he mean to take over the country? And turn it into a Sex Empire?"

Kaito shrugged. "You heard it from the man's mouth, milady." He said. "If he means to start another war, he can. He planned this for how long I don't know with the resources within the Black Fortress he has quite the advantage."

"But surely the Goddess Reborn can do something, right?" Chloe asked, bitterly speaking the name of their most hated enemy.

"True. Celestine Lucross was my greatest foe. We only stopped taking the field personally because it was destroying the lands." Olga spoke. She looked at the Rider. "What are you going to do, Sir Kaito?"

"Just...Kaito, lady Olga." He looked uncomfortable. "I am neither knight nor hero."

"You should be." Olga said. "I owe you for not only saving our lives but also for protecting us."

The Rider kept looking at the flames. His eyes were blank. "I still have not completed the mission yet, milady."

He cleared his throat. "I shall take first watch. We leave at dawn."

Chloe could not sleep. The young half human, half dark elf was curled up in her blanket but she was keeping an eye on their...savior. He was still, very still. His eyes were closed but it was clear he wasn't sleeping, not yet.

She had seen what he had done to those mercenaries. What kind of power did this man possess to obtain skills and kill them efficiently?

Chloe kept a hand on her knife. Yes, she could kill this human right now and she and Lady Olga would be able to escape. She had thought about just killing the human and leaving with her lady but now...after seeing what he did in the Black Fortress with his skills. Who knows what he was capable of? Other reason he looks to familiar.

Chloe had a secret when she was young and the captive of those despicable humans, she was save by a boy he clobber the slave trader leaving them bruise and unconscious then he freed her shackles. She was afraid thinking that he would do the same thing likes these humans.

He didn't he gave her a whip the same whip that was used on her, the boy showed her what she needed to do as kept pointed at her tormenter then suddenly something broke within her like a damp it flooded feeling of rage and hate.

With one long lash she whip hard the person who was tormented her the human scream in anger as he tried threaten her but she wasn't listening as she continue. The scream of rage was turning into the scream of pain and despair.

The human she whip continue beg for mercy and beg forgives but she still didn't listen as she continue whipping him until his nothing more than a pile of corpse. When it was over she went for the next one and the next one saving the best for last.

When it was over the boy was gone he leave an apple for her to eat. When she took the first bite she cried with joy how sweet it tastes. In time she was rescue by Olga.

"You should be resting." Kaito told her.

Chloe blinked and let go of her knife. "I was."

"You were staring at me for quite a while. Sleep. I will wake you when dawn comes."

Chloe obeyed but she realized that he had known he was staring, even with his eyes closed. There was something...off about this man. He needed to be watched. He felt familiar.

Whatever he was, Chloe was not sure who she was more wary of. Vault, the leader of the Black Dogs...Or the stranger who known as the 'Crimson wolf.'

They had managed to make it out of the northern badlands and were headed straight towards Ken, the capitol of Eostia and the seat of Celestine Lucross herself. The problem was going to be food, water and the fact that Olga seemed to be sick from something. Kaito knew that she was sick is probably due to the badlands environment. This environment is what makes every known life clear away only those who are truly strong were able to adapt and evolve in these lands.

It seems Karma was a bitch as the Queen of the dark Elves was succumbs to the lands that she created. Fortunately, Kaito has medicine as he let her drink it slowly. While her bodyguard still continues to doubt him thinking it was poison.

He was giving the Queen a ride at his back as he can felt her large soft breast from behind him even from Cloe disproval. Chloe wanted to be the one to carry her beloved Queen but Kaito argue with her that she isn't strong enough to carry and protect her highness at the same time. She had a cloak over her body but Kaito could tell she was not doing good. Delirious, Olga was barely coherent and barely eating or drinking. Swearing to himself, Kaito looked around for any sign of trouble.

More than once, the Kaito had to fend off the wildlife. None of which was edible, or downright poisonous, example giant man eating plants, giant carnivorous lizards, poisonous insect and rotten corpse wolfs. He had already been yelled at by Chloe for being an ignorant savage mostly because he was carrying Olga while fighting at the same time. Kaito just shrugged Chloe anger and didn't care in which just increase her tantrum.

The only thing he could try to give Olga was a sedative to help her sleep, It was a good thing he has some leftovers ramen as he can give her some, nutritious food is import to build up metabolism. When the coast was clear Rider called for a stop.

"Lady Olga..." Chloe whispered as Olga let out a groan. She took the damp cloth on her queen's head and flipped it over. She was still feverish and shivering. Kaito was already getting a fire going. He paused only to take a look of their surroundings. He was overly cautious but considering their situation she could at least appreciate that he wasn't being an idiot human with no idea what to do.

When the fire was done, the Rider approached and took a drink out of his water skin. "Fire's done." He told Chloe.

Chloe barely paid any attention, consumed with worry for her mistress. The Rider to her surprise and displeasure, knelt down opposite of her. "Lady Olga?"

Olga's eyes opened. She looked around confused. "Have we...We stopped?" Her voice was weak, raspy.

"Lady Olga, I need you to drink some water alright?" He said. He looked at Chloe who obliged, gently helping Olga drink from the water skin. The Dark Elf Queen nodded her head in thanks.

"To think that I the Dark Queen would be laid low by a fever." Olga huffed. "How weak of me."

Kaito said nothing even as Chloe giggled softly before her face fell. She glared at the Rider as though it was his fault that Olga was sick. What else was he supposed to do? Yell at the gods to make them feel better? Like that ever worked. After all this was due to the Badlands the Queen of the dark elves created. "Even a Queen will get sick one day."

He ignored Chloe's angry stare and stood up to make sure the horses were tied down. Kaito was not in the mood for her childishness, even if he did understand her impatience.

"We leave at dawn, like yesterday. I will take first watch." He told them both.

"Surely...Sir Kaito." Olga said weakly trying to sit up despite Chloe's protests. "You should be sleeping as well."

"I will sleep when I am dead or when I complete my mission." That was the Rider's cold reply. "Rest Lady Olga."

Chloe scowled but Olga remained staring at Kaito as he sat down in front of the fire. The Dark Elf Queen had heard a hint of pain in his voice. She had barely met the man but she knew one thing about him; he was tired beyond all reason. Tired and angry. Something that she could relate too. Her, a Dark Elf Queen of noble blood and some mysterious stranger with a talent for bloodshed. Had this situation been different, she would have laughed at the thought.

"I want to ask Sir Kaito why did you defy Vault you live as mercenary should know that after the war is over you be absolute. His not wrong after all." Olga knew the life of mercenary is harsh. If is there's no war what is left for them.

"What Vault wanted is not my wish and desire the way he described is nothing more than a tyrant whom could do anything and take everything he wants because he got tired being ordered around by bunch naïve brats."

"You called the shield alliance knights brats that at first I heard, those who talk such a thing is blasphemy and send to jail as punishment."

"They are a brat whom doesn't know true meaning of war and bloodshed pretending to be heroes the only one I respect would be Maia Queen of the Mercenaries. Claudia maybe strong but she is nothing more than a loyal knight whom just follows orders like a puppy dog."

"What is your desire, I heard about Vault calling you the Crimson wolf whom bought a lot of slaves and use them. And you hunger for money."

"Yes I desire money but not for myself but to buy slaves and give a choice to be free or something better for the future that I desire."

"What future may I asked?" Olga was getting curious.

"That story for another time Lady Olga, when I'm ready to tell you."

The rest of the night was spent resting. Tomorrow was going to be another hard journey through the Badlands. When they made it to Ken...things were going to change drastically. The Rider exhaled. From one battle to the next this was his life now.

There was no point complaining. Rider kept an eye out before turning his thoughts to the Dream. A dream where memories of his past life would surface again.

Chloe's aim was true.

The feral werewolf died gurgling with an arrow in its throat. The Dark Elf turned to see the Rider cut down another monster with a single swing of his sword. If that wasn't enough he took a revolver and fire the one's from afar. When the one's got near him he use the hidden blade pierces its throat savagely.

Kaito exhaled under his hood as he went to check on Olga who was at the top of the hill with the horses. Chloe and the Rider had happened to run into the pack by accident and battle was joined.

Kaito had accounted for most of the kills. Chloe observed that not only was the human fast he was also insanely strong. She had watched him bisect a werewolf in a single blow. In the same amount of time he had also beheaded the alpha werewolf with frightening efficiency. He did not fight like a knight, his swordsmanship was measured and skill. It was like a beast killing another beast and at the same time an assassin.

Chloe watched as the Rider leaned his swords on his shoulder. "That was unexpected." He told Chloe. "Were they working for Vault?"

She shook her head. "I do not think it would be possible to tame werewolves this fast." She said. "Lady Olga was a master of binding monsters to her cause."

"A particularly talented mage could do it." Olga added, sounding exhausted. She looked better now, a little bit of color had returned. "Were there any mages amongst those dogs, Sir Kaito?"

"Kin he was a mage." The Rider said quietly.

Olga frowned. "No others?"

"Nothing is certain." Rider cleaned his blade off and holster it back. "We should keep moving, we're wasting daylight." It stinks here the smell of dead corpse was already attracting the flies.

Chloe nodded hesitantly. While she still distrusted the human, their interactions were more professional. It was something the Rider clearly appreciated even if he didn't show it. Both Dark Elves hardly knew anything about their protector, and Olga thought it best not to ask any further questions. Although her burning curiosity remained, she had to be patient. She had to survive, for Chloe. For everyone else she had left behind in the north.

"You should watch your back, stranger." The old merchant told him as they crossed paths. "Orcs just razed another village to the ground." Both Olga and Chloe were wearing cloaks covering their faces and body to hide their feature from the public.

Silently swearing to himself, Rider asked. "Where?"

"The village of Oppenheimer used to be down east yonder." The old merchant pointed eastward.

"What of the lands surrounding Ken?" Kaito asked, trying to be as patient as possible. If there were orcs in his way then things were more complicated than he thought. Vault and his mercenaries are finally making their move.

"The knights are mustering for battle. There has been a surge of orc attacks all over so they're stretched thin."

'Typical, why I'm not surprise'. Kaito thought to himself. It was their own fault relaying too much on mercenaries and he doubts those brats have any experience on the battlefield. He bade the merchant good-bye not before buying a few things like supplies and headed back to his companions. Hooded and cloaked, Olga and Chloe were eating lunch next to the horses.

"Well?" Chloe asked as The Rider set down a satchel of supplies.

"Not good Orcs have taken a village east of here, so we're going to have to make a little detour." He said and sighed. "Celestine has mobilized her knights to fend off orc raids."

"Vault has started his move then." Olga whispered.

"Yes, with your Orcs." Kaito said. Chloe glared at him warily. Olga's expression was resigned.

"Yes...my soldiers." Her tone was recalcitrant. "That I allowed free reign. It was either the south or my people. That was the choice I had. They either enslaved the humans or my people."

Kaito won't judge her if from her view he knew how dark elves were discriminated even before the war if he was a dark elf reborn he probably join Olga side, but he wasn't going to judge her. There were other people who were more deserving of that task. He wanted to give a few words of understanding the feeling of what needs to be done situation.

"I won't judge you lady Olga, I understand you did it to protect your people even if it's necessary evil" Kaito was no hero or saint, the world no the universe will always be crueler to those who are born different, in London. Mudlark were usually youngster between teens scavenges for item in cold water river of Thames covered in mud and filthy. As they scavenge scrap of food or items to sell those children are either abandon or prostituted children, left in the cold street of London. Post calamity war Human Debris orphans children whom live in Ghetto of Mars or captured slave by pirates. They have no rights and are treated as meat shield, discarded pawns and slave. Dark Elves discriminated because they use dark powers and their origin. It was said that Dark Elves made a pact with demons to obtain such power even it's not true.

"Let's get going then." The Rider said.

Olga was baffle the human did not condemn her in rage of the atrocities she did for the first time that someone actually understood of the necessary evil she did to protect her people.

Chloe baffle like her master she was surprise such bold proclaimed, the other humans she fought before always accuse her Queen of evil atrocities, not understanding her reason.

The journey to Ken was a silent one. Apart from a few attacks from orcs, they were mostly unbothered by anyone heading out. Townsfolk were leaving their villages and heading towards the capitol for safety.

Kaito can deduce that Vault was doing a blitzkrieg strategy he probably send messages to the other villagers that the War was over, after the downfall of the fortress. With the false message sent the knights would return to the capitol and villagers would continue their work without any worries. With the village defenseless it was perfect for an attack.

The Rider sighed as they finally reached the Fortress of Ken after a whole day of travelling. And his gut felt this is going to be a headache after this.

"My, My Celestine..." Olga commented. "You've outdone yourself. I can see so many wards it would be a surprise if those dogs actually managed to breach this fortress."

"You can see that from here?" The Rider asked.

"Aye, Sir Kaito. Every sorcerer or sorceress leaves their mark in the spells they weave." Olga said smiling underneath her hood decided to call him sir. "You will also sense them differently. I, for example, can see the structure of magic. From what I remember of her, Celestine can 'hear' the tone of magic."

The Rider said nothing and shrugged. Huh. The things you can learn on the road. He was still musing on what Olga had said about magic when the guards noticed.

"You there, stranger! Halt!" The guards stepped in front of the Rider horse. "What business do you have bringing Dark Elves in here?"

Kaito , felt irritated, got off his horse. "Celestine Lucross has asked me to report to her directly, sirs. I have two individuals with me who are witnesses that she needs to listen to." He said politely.

The younger one scoffed, keeping a hand on his spear. "And by what right do you have to see her highness, foreigner?" He asked mockingly. A mistake as the Rider grabbed him by the gorget of his armor and pulled him in close.

"Listen hear you prick I'm in a very bad mood right now she was the one who spoke to me, boy." The Rider spoke tonelessly, but there was steel in his voice. "But go ahead, draw that sword. You and your friend will have a few broken bones. Now, I'm going to say this only once: Get out of my way." His frosty tone forced the guards to reconsider blocking him from entering the capitol.

"Let them in." The elder guard squeaked out in fear. "Let him pass, let him pass!"

"Thank you for your patronage." Satisfied Rider got back on his horse and led Olga and Chloe through the gates, making sure to steer the horse to bump the younger guard out of his way. The poor fool tumbled onto his backside.

"Smooth." Olga snickered.

Fortress Ken, Council Hall

The sound of doors from other rooms can be heard as if a beast was rampant through until the final door slam open. "S-Sir! There is a meeting going on, you can't just-"

Celestine Lucross looked up curiosity as Claudia Levantine stood up frowning as the doors opened revealing the young man who was tasked with bringing in Olga Discordia. Said Dark Elf was standing next to the Rider alongside another Dark Elf with blonde hair. Her butler, Jamal, was sputtering indignantly at this stranger's brusque manner but considering that the man was extremely intimidating had chosen not to try and physically bar him from entering the council hall.

Kaito turned his attention to Celestine. "Lady Celestine, my mission is successful. I present to you Olga Discordia and her vassal, Chloe." He said emotionlessly. "I am afraid I also have news of dire importance to share with you..." He looked to see that the Princess Knights had been gathered in Celestine's council hall. "And the other Princesses Knights as well."

"Sir, you cannot just barge in here like that. There is proper procedure-" Jamal started to say but Celestine raised her hand.

"It's alright, Jamal." She said gently to her butler. "You may go for now." Jamal looked ready to protest but schooled himself. With a meaningful glare at the Kaito who didn't even bother to respond, the butler excused himself and left.

Celestine then turned to the Rider and smiled graciously. "Sir Kaito, it is good to see that you have returned successfully."

He nodded. Celestine then regarded Olga Discordia. A silent moment passed between the two century old elves. There was a spark of memory in the air. "Please, all of you take a seat. I am sure we all have much to discuss."

The Rider prefer remained standing in the room as Olga and Chloe took their own chairs next to Claudia Levantine and a blonde girl who regarded the man with a wary glance. Her attire was a mixture of armor and blue cloth, highly revealing. Her eyes were a brilliant shade of purplish blue. She had an uptight air about her and had a very serious look.

This was Alicia Arcturus, daughter of King Eos and the celebrated Knight of Iris. The so called naive brat whom trying to play hero. He doubt this princess ever experience true bloodshed. She probably wanted to be a knight due to some heroic tales that she read and heard. He knew this princess wouldn't ever survive in the Badlands.

Next to Alicia was a pink haired girl younger than her. She slightly resembled Alicia save that she was softer looking and had a milder temperament. Like Alicia her pink dress was revealing and she wore a golden tiara over her voluminous pink hair. She was trying to calm down the more passionate Alicia.

She was Prim Fiorire, Alicia's younger cousin. The puppet princess much more fitting title, she's nothing more than a figure head to the alliance. Is probably due to her royalty heritage she got this position. Kaito knew she has no power or skilled nothing more than a weak poodle that has being pampered from birth.

The Rider turned his eyes on Maia, the Queen of the Mercenaries. The redhead regarded him with a look before her expression turned sullen at the sight of Olga Discordia. She seemed frustrated with something. She's probably the person that Kaito can respect; she has both skill and experience in war unlike the brats in the room.

Sensing eyes on his frame, Kaito then looked to the left side of the table. Kaguya was the head Shrine Maiden and came from lands far to the east. Wearing pink robes of silk, she had short black hair that framed a heart shaped face. Strong and sensible brown eyes examined the Rider curiously. The way she looks and name reminds him of the Miko shrine from his former world Japan. Shrine Maidens said to possess power to see spirit and dispel curses. Kaito doesn't believe that unless Kaguya exhibit her power he would give her a benefit of a doubt.

The last member caused the Rider to sigh inwardly because she looked the most childlike amongst the women here. She wore a two piece armor made of animal hide, all underneath a green cloak. A hat was placed haphazardly on the top of her curly ginger hair. Bright curious eyes looked around at the table, lingering on the man with interest.

Her name was Luu-Luu, a talented genius Halfling who was a master weapon smith. In his common tongue it would be dwarves as he called them. But unknown to the alliance he has made his own alliance with the dwarves.

"My comrades." Celestine said as she leaned forward seriously. "This is Sir Kaito, a mercenary I personally hired to bring Olga Discordia to me. As you can see, she is here and that mission is successful. However, he has something important to share... Sir Kaito?"

The Rider stepped forward. He signed it's better to let it out then twist and turn of the bad news is going to give.

"A few days ago, I was tasked with bringing Olga Discordia back to Ken in order to force an end to the war. To that end, I accompanied the Black Dogs up north to launch a raid on the Black Fortress and capture Olga. That endeavor was successful."

His tone was clipped and to the point. "However, upon imprisoning Olga in her own dungeon Vault had refused to transfer custody to me, saying that they had to inspect the fortress and enjoy the fruits of their labor. Once there, I decided to take matters into my own hands and thus I freed Olga and her vassal, Chloe. We were about to leave when we were stopped by Vault himself..."

He regarded Celestine and told her and everyone else in this room about Vault's plan to rape the country into a Sex Empire led by his mercenary troop. He didn't get the chance to go into further detail however as Maia slammed her fist into the table and stood up.

"That is wrong." She said. "I refuse to believe that Vault would turn his back on everything he fought for and speak such nonsense about...about..." She couldn't finish her sentence.

The way she spoke her tone, that would mean the Queen mercenaries knew Vault probably a former member of his merry men.

"But he did." The Rider replied pedantically. "I heard it from his own mouth that he wanted to start with Lady Olga and Chloe."

"I do not give a damn about them." Maia snarled and pointed at him. "You're talking about a war hero, you bastard. Watch your tone."

Scratch that, she's probably in love with him or something.

The Rider reply was a look that he didn't care of her outburst. Maia actually flinched from the Rider's stern gaze. "Regardless, that is what he told me and there was the fact that he made an attempt on my life so...here we are." He replied truthfully.

"It is true." Olga said, gracefully despite the glares in the room. "That mongrel intended to give me and my vassal to his men as entertainment. Thanks to Sir Kaito, we avoided that fate." Both dark elves shuddered thinking of such fate would befell on them.

"How do we even know he is telling the truth?" Alicia leveled a hostile look at the rider and the Dark Elves. "What if this is a trick to lower our guard? This stranger's a mercenary and a foreigner too. And he's in league with the Dark Elves."

Olga and Chloe glared at the blonde princess while Kaito starting to get irritated withered Alicia's accusations.

"Be that as it may." Kaguya spoke up. "Sir Kaito is here, but Master Vault is in the north. Surely, that would help give some credence to his claims Alicia."

Alicia still looked unconvinced.

"Can you tell us why he has done this Sir Kaito?" Claudia asked from her seat.

Rider took a deep breath. "He blames you all for the bloodshed during the war, as he accuse you all sitting on your goddam throne while we mercenaries bleed for your cause." "If that not enough you called all of us lowlifes that would do anything for gold." The Rider answered. "And since he would be out of the job he wanted to secure a better pay...through enslaving everyone in this room and every other woman in this land."

His uncaring words earned him a hefty glare from Alicia and Maia. But Olga and Chloe knew he just being serious. Kaito doubt he needed to explain a Coup d'état will happen within the seven capitol. Traitors will emerge from the shadow supporting Vault and his dogs.

"As such...he intends to use the resources secured in the Black Fortress to fulfill his goals." Rider continued with his arms crossed. "He also wishes to kill me for bringing Lady Olga here."

Luu-Luu chuckled. "You seem pretty used to something like that."

The Rider shrugged. What else was he supposed to say? The halfling was correct. In his previous incarnation he remember how the Templers use Coup d'état during the French revolution to usurp power. With the chaos happening they can pick up the pieces.

Celestine sighed. "Regardless of his reasoning, Vault has started a new war just as one has already ended." She announced. "I propose that we prepare for battle and muster forces to stand against Vault and the Black Dogs."

"So we hire more mercenaries, Lady Celestine?" Alicia asked. "We ought to just send our knights out to deal with him."

"I'm up for that! I can lend out my Halfling troops for an interesting fight!" Luu-Luu crowed.

"That's suicide, you all would never last a week?" Rider had point out Alicia's flaw tactic.

"Excuse me?" Alicia glowered at the man.

"If you muster your armies and head up there, most of you will not be returning." Rider said. "Olga nearly died getting here because we had to cross the badlands, this isn't some game you're playing."

At Chloe's side, Olga coughed looking contrite.

"Furthermore, Vault has had time to consolidate his holding. Even a child could see that attacking a prepared position is an extremely bad idea."

The Rider sighed. "And that is not even counting the number of Black Dogs in the south. I hear that it is the largest mercenary organization in the land, if that's not enough other mercenaries group beside the black dogs would flock his cause like a moth to a flame. Am I correct, Lady Celestine?"

"Indeed." Celestine said. "I am sorry, Alicia, but I will have to agree with Sir Kaito on this. Attacking the Black Fortress is simply unfeasible right now. We have much to prepare in the coming days, my knights."

"Now that issue is reserve." At this Celestine frowned as she gazed at Olga who remained very poised throughout the whole meeting. She had kept silent the whole time.

"What must be done with Olga Discordia?"

"Imprisonment then hangs." Claudia Levantine suggested immediately.

"Why just that?" Alicia scowled. "I say we burn her at the stake."

Maia said nothing and neither did Prim, who had no heart to suggest such a harsh punishment on anybody.

"There are quite a few rituals to summon guardian spirits in my homeland." Kaguya suggested. "Perhaps, I could use her as a sacrifice."

"Sky burial." Luu-Luu piped up.

Kaito quirked a brow, he already expected such outcome as those brats lash on the guilty party without any trial. But, he did something no one expected. He walked away from Celestine's side and walked over to Olga and Chloe. Once there he stood at attention behind Olga who smirked at what he was doing.

"Sir Kaito, what are you doing?" Celestine asked curiously. Claudia watched with a frown.

"Defending my wards as they are under my responsibility, I did give Lady Olga my word that no harm shall come to her after all I'm a man of my word."

That statement caused a ripple to go through the meeting room. Almost all the Princess Knights had become enraged at the mercenary. Celestine was surprised, but there was a hint of a smile on her face. Luu-Luu's reaction was comical her eyes were wide as she gaped ludicrously at the Hunter.

Olga smirked as the Rider again willingly defended both her and Chloe.

"Some of you seem to believe that Vault is a minor threat easily crushed by the sight of a thousand swords." Rider said. "That man is clever and he's been fighting your bloody war for you for quite a while. He's a hardened veteran compared to some of you. Lady Maia herself has fought alongside him in the past." Kaito deduce that.

Maia flinched slightly as some people glanced at her.

"Furthermore, it won't be as simple as attacking the North likes last time. We also have to look to the south. As I have learned in my travels here, Vault is considered a hero." He crosses his hands. "We must also consider that he has convinced others to follow his banner and thus we must be cautious as well."

Kaito didn't mention there would be traitors among them, the princess knights would only lash at him telling the people and nobles are loyal to the crown. He scoffed as if, as long their given power and wealth those nobles would change faction and stab you in the back.

Celestine could agree with that. She had definitely gotten her money's worth hiring The Crimson wolf.

"But what does that have to do with Olga Discordia?" Kaguya asked. "Surely you know that she is responsible for reprehensible crimes."

"She can start earning forgiveness for those crimes by helping us defeat our enemy." The Rider answered the Shrine Priestess. He doubts they would accept the necessary evil part or believe how corrupt the nobles systems really are.

"Are you joking!?" Alicia stood up before Kaguya could ask another question even as Prim tried to pull her back into her seat to calm her down. "She is a monster! She's responsible for ruining countless lives! You must be an idiot if you're willing to defend her! Either that or she already has you under her thrall. I wouldn't be surprised if you were!"

Bang it was the sound of a revolver that Kaito shoot that graze Alicia hair. "Sorry you voice irritates me brat. I'm already losing my patience. You all act righteous and just ruler but did any you consider the feeling of others or result of your action, no none of you haven't."

"What Vault speaks is the truth you all playing heroes, you never truly understand your duty. You all act high and mighty sitting on your throne, its people like you is reason a monster like Vault was born."

"If you want to go through them you have to through me." Kaito cracked his knuckles. "And I assure you all going to have broken bones after this." He emits a deep bloodlust that occupants the entire room.

"Fucking hell..." Maia gulped, her eyes watch Rider sensing a present of a beast ready to lunge his enemy.

All share the same sense as Maia as though the Princess Knights were trapped with a deadly predator in their midst that was more than capable of killing everyone in this room.

Celestine thought she could hear the roar of the beast in the room, an angry sound that barely registered in her senses. She could see an image manifesting from the Crimson wolf it look like a demon with horns but has blue eyes.

For Olga she could see a storm brewing around Rider, if this was him enraged. Like Celestine she could see the beast emerge.

Kaguya felt a chill go down her spine the shrine priestess rubbed her arms to ward off the chill. Such malevolent ki Sir Kaito had but somehow she had the feeling that he was holding back a lot. Like the other two she can see the beast forming except is more like an Oni in her eyes.

"I pray that you are wise enough not to try my already dwindling patience with you, Lady Alicia. Sit. Down." The Rider told Alicia quietly, so quietly that they had to strain to hear his voice. But there was no mistaking the menace in his tone. Alicia sat down hastily as Prim whimpered fearfully avoiding making eye contact with the Hunter who stared Alicia down until she too looked at the table. Her ears had turned red, whether from embarrassment or rage he neither knew nor cared. He was not going to stand there and allow her to accuse him of being under the thrall of anyone.

The atmosphere seemed to lighten slightly as Rider put his hands on the table and spoke. "We stand to lose even more if Vault is allowed to move freely. Lady Olga and Chloe have information on the North, the Black Fortress and the Badlands. Information will be lost if you decide to kill them." His voice was calmer now which helped everyone breathe.

Celestine cleared her throat. "Very well, Olga." She turned to her rival. "Is there anything you would like to say?"

"I suppose I do not have a choice do I?" Olga said after a while. "But either way I appreciate having the opportunity to put that Vault and his mongrels in their place." She smiled deviously. "I will be glad to help."

Celestine beamed at that. "Then, I believe that there is one last matter to settle." She stood up and faced Rider who looked back stoically, eyes never leaving Celestine's.

"Sir Kaito, for your unwavering dedication and the success of your mission I wish to reward you." She said. "If you could please, kneel."

The Rider obeyed. Celestine frowned for a moment then asked a question.

"If you could also remove your hood please, Sir Kaito?"

He hesitated only once but obeyed as he first removed the hood, revealing unkempt brown hair. Revealing a somber faced young man with dark eyes. He would have been quite handsome had his face held more expression.

"Um..." Celestine cleared her throat as she was clearly disturbed by the emotionless mask that Rider express. "Can I ask your full name, Sir Kaito? I would like to do this properly."

"Kumon" The Hunter replied. "My name is Kaito Kumon the Crimson wolf."

Celestine smiled. "Kaito Kumon, my country is once more imperiled by a man who wishes to enslave its good people. You have done a great service for me by aiding them before. I ask if you are willing and able to do so once more."

"I am." Kaito said quietly. "My blade is yours." Kaito had a reason to fight this war sure he won't get paid but Vault is a threat worst then Olga and must be stop no matter the cause.

Celestine nodded. "Then, by the power vested in me as the ruler of this country, I Celestine Lucross bestow upon you the title of Knight, Sir Kaito Kumon."

Kaito nodded. "I thank you for your generosity, Lady Celestine." The newly knighted Rider stood up.

"What would you have this knight do?"

The Rider sighed and thought about what had happened today. He had sent a Messenger back to base to alert his comrades of the current changes. They needed to know that TEKKADAN will involve in this war.

Kaito looked at the steaming cup of tea next to him then leaned back in his chair and sighed. Having a room at Celestine's estate was nice but he would really just prefer having his own place. The Princess Knights were going to meet again tomorrow to formalize an alliance, but that wasn't the worst part.

Some idiot noble had decided to throw a party to in his words, 'welcome Her Highness's new knight'. Oddly, enough Maia had also been invited to the little gathering. Politics nobles like them probably wanted to ask him a favor or something unless those nobles are not worthless it wouldn't be bad to gain an alliance.

Kaito took a sip the tea then set the cup back on the table half empty, thinking of the situation it was suppose to be a simple rundown, complete the mission and get paid that's it. Now he got involve with another war only this time by a tyrant with a superior complex.

There was a knock on the door."Enter." Kaito spoke up. He idly unbuckled his pistol's holster.

"Your pardon, Sir Kaito. Celestine Lucross asks for your presence in her quarters." The maid poked her head in, not keeping eye contact.

"Very well." Kaito answered. "I shall be there in a moment."

The halls were silent. That was good, that meant less stares especially the nobles and knights. It was honestly very annoying but The Rider weathered it as he usually did. He easily kept pace with the maid leading him towards Celestine's quarters. His shoes hardly made a sound compared to the click-clack of the maid's heels it was due since his former life as assassin.

When they arrived at Celestine's door they found the High Elf outside, looking over the fortress on her balcony.

The maid bowed and ushered Kaito inside. "Lady Celestine, I have brought Sir Kaito."

"Yes, thank you." Celestine dismissed the maid. Rider walked inside then quirked a brow as Olga Discordia was there as well. The Dark Elf gave a little polite wave but Kaito noted the way her eyes were locked onto his.

For some reason, it made him feel very uncomfortable. It's a gaze he has similar seeing before in his life time.

Celestine walked back inside, removing her shawl from her shoulders. She raised her hand to stop Kaito from bowing.

"Please Sir Kaito, can we keep this private? You do not have to stand on ceremony with me."

"...As you wish." Kaito clasped his hands behind his back and relax for a second. He always hated to show etiquette to those who aren't earning his respect.

"You're very tense." Olga observed as she took up a wine glass at her side. She took a sip. She was wearing dark silken robes and nothing else. Again, Kaito was extremely uncomfortable because both women were intensely beautiful and both were royalty. This was clearly not his element.

"If I'm in a round with two of the most beautiful females in Estosia even I'll be intense." Kaito can hear Eugene saying it's not fair or something like he was hogging all the fun.

"So I am." Kaito muttered.

"Why? Having a small chat with two extremely beautiful women makes you nervous?" Olga teased. Even so she felt a bit warmth for being called beautiful, those in Estosia always view dark elves as hideous dark creatures or monsters. She could say Kaito was different and that intrigued her.

Kaito blinked, looking at Olga for a few moments resume his task. "What do you require, lady Celestine?" He talked straight through Olga's attempt to flirt, which made her pout. As they say business before pleasure.

Celestine's smile lost a little bit of luster. She realized that Sir Kaito was a very intense individual. She reached out touching his face carefully caressing it like a mother to a child. Kaito didn't mind but he felt uncomfortable as memories of his mother resurface.

That was a warning sign and she retracted her hand immediately. Olga noticed as her eyes narrowed slightly.

"Forgive me...I just wished to talk to you." Celestine murmured.

"About what, milady?" Kaito asked.

"Well...you, of course." Celestine answered.

Sir Kaito remained standing, his face an emotionless mask as he considered her words. "What do you wish to know?"

"Why did you not join Vault?" Olga piped up before Celestine could get a word in.

Why do you all kept repeating the same word he thought. "Because what he desire is not my desire." Kaito answered quietly. "What I desire is something where we and everyone in this country can look for the future and not the scrap of food they need to fill."

"What would that be?" Olga asked.

"How about I tell a story. There were two boys both of them are orphans they live in the Ghetto then one day the older boy said were going somewhere not here. To a place where we all can truly belong. The other boy asked. What kind of place is that?" Kaito smile bit reminiscing "He answer I'm not really sure, but somewhere amazing. Where there's plenty of food. And we'll have our own beds. We won't know until we're there. Until we see it."

Olga and Celestine looked at each other, it made them all the more curious about his story

"A place where we truly belong?" Celestine asked. "Its way you collected a lot of gold to buy a noble rank so that you can govern such place?"

"You could say that, it's why I prefer you both kept it a secret the others might never understand."

"Oh, surely but why, Sir Kaito your cause would bring peace if words get out."

Kaito sighed such naïve thinking. "There are those who fear that their powers would be taken from them, they fear the change that would bring unbalance to their society. The nobles would fear the change and would do anything to reduce it. The Knights would think my cause is only to usurp the Shield Alliance."

"I can't tell you all the detail my dream unless you earn my trust."

Olga and Celestine glanced at each other. Celestine bit her lip as she had wanted to ask more questions but the way Olga was looking at her, it was best not to. It was like both understand the concept.

"Is there any question?"

"No, Sir Kaito." Celestine said. "But thank you for coming by to chat."

Kaito merely bowed and walked out. As he was out Kaito never told them that the country he invision was already forming from outside eyes. It's location within the mountains and forest that only he knows the secret passage. Unless the Shield Alliance earn his trust he will showed to them one day. Also this brings opportunity to flush out traitors amongst the alliance.

Celestine sighed and sat on her bed as Olga drinks her glass in one gulp. "That was interesting." The Dark Elf told Celestine. "Although you probably should not have pressed about his cause."

"I was curious, Olga." Celestine argued half-heartedly. "For him to think such kind of thing. Here I thought he was nothing than a man would do anything for gold."

"Yes my friend." Olga said then smirked deviously. "Of course, I should probably watch out since you've already staked a claim on our strapping new friend."

Celestine reddened and sputtered. "W-What? N-No! I was merely rewarding him f-for helping you!"

Olga's brow rise further until Celestine threw a pillow at her. Which Olga caught it in midair with a tiny bit of magic. "Pillow fights? Really?" She asked Celestine, who huffed indignantly.

"...He seems very tired." Celestine told Olga.

"Considering that he always took first watch, I wouldn't be surprised." Olga said. "I won't even get started on whatever he is dealing with in the past."

Celestine's ears drooped. Obviously, she was feeling quite guilty. She wanted to help but had no idea how she was going to do so. Especially after what had happened between Sir Kaitoand Alicia...

"Give it time." Olga said as though sensing Celestine's thoughts. "Perhaps, you'll wring a smile out of him yet, he manages to smile a bit as he told the story."

Celestine reached for another pillow to throw. Which she did, giggling.

For now, she had no need to worry about the coming war. She had her friend back, which was all that mattered. Long ago she and Olga had come to blows over the fate of humanity. That war would have taken everything she had held dear had it continued.

Centuries had passed but it had ended. A new war was about to begin. But Celestine had Olga by her side now.

She would not have had it any other way.

The next morning, Celestine and her Princess Knights were within the council chamber when Sir Kaito came in holding a scroll.

All eyes turned to him expectantly. Even Olga and Chloe who had been offered a place at the table were giving him concerned looks.

Kaito offered the scroll wordlessly to Celestine. She read the words to herself and the Goddess's expression turned to one of resignation.

"Sir Kaito was correct. The war has begun."

I read the kuroinu fanfiction and thought why is there a story that a hero will rise but not a hero try to change a country . A world where corruption and decaying as such it needed to change for a better world.

Secret base by Kayano Ai & Tomatsu Haruka & Hayami Saori

Kimi to natsu no owari shourai no yume

Ookina kibou wasurenai

Juu nen go no hachigatsu

Mata deaeru no wo shinjite

Saikou no omoide wo...

You and the end of summer and the dreams of the future

And our big hope, I won't forget them.

I believe that we will meet

In August 10 years later.

The best memories...

Deai wa futto shita shunkan kaerimichi no kousaten de

Koe wo kakete kureta ne "issho ni kaerou"

Boku wa terekusa sou ni kaban de kao wo kakushi nagara

Hontou wa totemo totemo ureshikatta yo

Our meeting was made in a moment at the intersection walking home.

You called out to me, didn't you? "Let's go home together."

While I embarrassedly hid my face with my bag,

In truth, I was very, very happy.

Aa hanabi ga yozora kirei ni saite chotto setsunaku

Aa kaze ga jikan to tomo ni nagareru

Ah, the way the fireworks beautifully bloom in the sky is a bit lonely.

Ah, the wind flows along with time.

Ureshiku tte tanoshiku tte bouken mo iroiro shita ne

Futari no himitsu no kichi no naka

So happy, having so much fun, we had so many adventures

Inside the secret base that belonged to the two of us.

Kimi to natsu no owari shourai no yume Ookina kibou wasurenai

Juu nen go no hachigatsu mata deaeru no wo shinjite

Kimi ga saigo made kokoro kara "arigatou" Sakendeita koto

Shiteita yo

Namida wo koraete egao de sayonara setsunai yo ne

Saikou no omoide wo...

You and the end of summer and the dreams of the future

And our big hope, I won't forget them.

I believe that we will meet in August 10 years later.

I knew that you screamed "Thank You" from the bottom of your heart till the very end.

A goodbye when you hold back your tears and smile is lonely, isn't it.

The best memories...

Aa natsuyasumi mo ato sukoshi de owacchau kara

Aa taiyou to tsuki nakayoku shite

Ah, summer break will be over in a little longer too, so

Ah, the sun and moon get along.

Kanashiku tte sabishiku tte kenka mo iroiro shita ne

Futari no himitsu no kichi no naka

So sad, so lonely, we had so many fights

Inside the secret base that belonged to the two of us.

Kimi ga saigo made kokoro kara "arigatou" sakendeita koto

Shiteita yo

Namida wo koraete egao de sayonara setsunai yo ne

Saikou no omoide wo...

I knew that you screamed "Thank You"

From the bottom of your heart till the very end.

A goodbye when you hold back your tears and smile is lonely, isn't it.

The best memories...

Totsuzen no tenkou de dou shiyou mo naku

Tegami kaku yo denwa mo suru yo Wasurenaide ne boku no koto wo

itsumademo futari no kichi no naka

There's nothing I can do about the sudden change of schools,

So I'll write letters, I'll call you, so please don't forget about me

Forever, inside the secret base that belonged to the two of us.

Kimi to natsu no owari zutto hanashite

Yuuhi wo mite kara hoshi wo nagame

Kimi no hoho wo nagareta namida wa zutto wasurenai

Kimi ga saigo made ookikute wo futtekureta koto

Kitto wasurenai

Dakara kou shite yume no naka de zutto eien ni...

I was talking to you for so long at the end of summer

After we watched the sunset, we gaze at the stars.

I will never forget the teardrops that flowed down your cheeks.

I'm sure I will never forget

That you waved your hand with all your strength to the end.

So let me be inside this dream like this for eternity...

Kimi to natsu no owari shourai no yume Ookina kibou wasurenai

Juu nen go no hachigatsu mata deaeru no wo shinjite

Kimi ga saigo made kokoro kara "arigatou" sakendeita koto

Shiteita yo

Namida wo koraete egao de sayonara setsunai yo ne

Saikou no omoide wo...

You and the end of summer and the dreams of the future

And our big hope, I won't forget them.

I believe that we will meet in August 10 years later.

I knew that you screamed "Thank You" from the bottom of your heart till the very end.

A goodbye when you hold back your tears and smile is lonely, isn't it.

The best memories...

Saikou no omoide wo...

The story idea is based on the light novel

The Death Mage Who Doesn't Want a Fourth Time -Amamiya Hiroto is unlucky. His life consisted of misfortune after misfortune, culminating in an unlucky death during an incident on a school boat trip, trying to save a girl he barely knew. After death, he met a god of reincarnation who requested that the hundred or so dead passengers—one of them being the girl he tried in vain to save—be reincarnated into another world. Yet a series of unfortunate events forced Hiroto to reincarnate with even less luck than before, starting with nothing but a tremendous amount of Mana. His second life, far worse than his first, came to a cruel end. However, upon meeting the god a second time, he was informed that there would be yet another reincarnation—one that had already been set in motion and could not be stopped. Not wanting Hiroto to live long, the god cursed him before he was reborn in the hopes that he would either die quickly or commit suicide. Hiroto was reborn once more as a half-Vampire, half-Dark Elf. A Dhampir. Not wanting a fourth life, he is determined to live this third life with the only things remaining from his previous lives—death-attribute magic and his enormous Mana pool.

Elf Tensei Kara no Cheat Kenkoku-ki-A genius magician, to fight against his fate to die a natural death from old age, grasped at the truth of magic to allow himself to reincarnate with a power he created himself. The cycle of reincarnation is repeated multiple times and in his 31st reincarnation, the magician became a boy named Syril who lives in a village of elves. However, that village is ruled by Humans, and the Elves are treated as livestock. After becoming 14 years old, Syril, who regained his past knowledge and experience, stands up to help a girl, who is his childhood friend. The story of the creation of an ideal country begins in that one village, a place where all races can coexist. Elves, Fox-girl, and various other Heroines.

Genjitsushugisha no Oukokukaizouki-"O, Hero!" With that cliched line, Kazuya Souma found himself summoned to another world and his adventure–-did not begin. After he presents his plan to strengthen the country economically and militarily, the king cedes the throne to him and Souma finds himself saddled with ruling the nation! What's more, he's betrothed to the king's daughter now…?! In order to get the country back on its feet, Souma calls the wise, the talented, and the gifted to his side. Five people gather before the newly crowned Souma. Just what are the many talents and abilities they possess…?! What path will his outlook as a realist take Souma and the people of his country down? A revolutionary transferred-to-another-world administrative fantasy series starts here!

The reincarnation is also based on Assassin creed game as such I pick the Syndicate version it's kinda suit with the steam punk genre also I kinda like the assassin gauntlet. I included Iron blooded orphan since Tekkadan is a mercenary group but different as they form a stronger bonds like brothers and more appealing with Mars condition. I would have wanted Metal Gear Solid that Kaito reincarnate , but Tekkadan is much more suitable.

At first I wanted Mikazuki Augus but he lack the motivation feelings and his a pilot not a warrior , second attempt was guts but he lacks the brains so I thought a different character. Even them one my favorite Some of the story are inspired from Samurai noodle video and Dr. stone manga.