Reia stalked about the large, dank room, attempting to discern any possible means of escape.

 

A single light dangled from the middle of the windowless, concrete-walled room. Shadows were cast into the corners by the collection of junk and furniture heaped everywhere. Far as Reia could tell, the only possible way into and out of the room was the lone door through which they’d been herded. Though there was no one posted near the entrance when they were brought in, she assumed the two guards that escorted them would also serve as their jailers.

 

Running her hand along one of the walls, she wondered if it’d be possible for her or Yvonne to smash their way out. The wurm was certainly the most powerful member here, Reia thought as she glanced towards the hulking serpentine woman, who was currently coiled up atop herself below the light. If these weren’t meant to be load-bearing walls, the cinder blocks used to construct them would be relatively thin.

 

“What’s up, Captain?” Yvonne said as their eyes met.

 

Even if they could create a breach big enough for them to escape through, it’s not like the guards would just stand by and watch them flee. Reia frowned, looking back towards the wall. “Nothing much, just thinking.”

 

Yvonne hummed. “Pacing around won’t get us out of here.”

 

That’d explain why she was nestled up in the center, Reia thought.

 

Both their attentions were suddenly drawn to a loud clatter from a heap of junk as it shifted and scattered across the floor.

 

Viole leapt backwards from the avalanche of debris as it threatened to bury her, a bucket held in her paw.

 

Almost immediately after the noise subsided, the door was practically thrown open. One of the guards – a powerful tiger woman – filled the doorway, looking around before her eyes focused on the wolf and the junk scattered around her.

 

“What’s going on in here?” she growled, one paw kept near her holstered side-arm.

 

Pivoting on her heel, Viole turned to the guard, holding the bucket out in her direction. “Just procuring supplies for hygiene, since you guys haven’t seen fit to give us anything. Sorry about the noise.”

 

“…I see,’ said the Jinko, her tense posture relaxing somewhat. She then glanced across the three woman kept prisoner in the room. Once she confirmed that they weren’t attempting an escape, she began to draw back into the hallway. “Keep it down.”

 

As the door clacked shut, Viole shrugged and began walking towards a barren corner of the room. “Not the most ideal solution, but better than letting it go on the floor, huh?”

 

“Hopefully we won’t be here long enough to make use of it…” Reia said, abandoning her inspection of the room’s walls.

 

Though she knew they hadn’t been there long, she had no means of telling precisely how long. It was doubtful more than a half hour had passed, but time could pass much more slowly or quickly than one expected when there were no windows or clocks.

 

There wasn’t much that could be done now. The only option available was simply to sit and wait, unless something could be done with all the junk lying about here, Reia thought as she took a seat on a desk.

 

She didn’t have the faintest idea where they were, though the lack of a proper jail facility and a room full of office furniture led her to conclude they weren’t in any military installation. They’d been blindfolded until they reached the room, so she couldn’t even speculate on the type of building they were in. Guessing from how far they’d walked since entering the structure, Reia thought it was at least fairly large. There was an elevator as well, but she couldn’t guess at how many floors they traveled down.

 

Finished with dragging some filing cabinets around the bucket in a make-shift screen, Viole clapped her paws together in satisfaction, then approached Reia.

 

“What do you think they’ve done with the others? With the men and the Colonel?”

 

Hearing Viole’s question, Yvonne shifted about to face the two, but remained quiet.

 

“Well,” Reia began, “Considering how they’ve treated us so far, it’s reasonable to assume they’re being handled the same way…” Hoisting herself completely atop the desk, the metal and wood creaked and groaned under her bulk. “Though Serlov is probably getting the VIP treatment. For better or worse.”

 

“What about Emrald? She isn’t with us…” Yvonne said, raising her torso up into the air.

 

Reia grinned. “If she’s not with us, that probably means she eluded them. Leave it to that crafty fox… though considering how long our helicopter and truck ride were, I wouldn’t count on her showing up with an army behind her.”

 

There was the niggling issue of the kitsune being stranded in the middle of a relatively remote forest, though she’d make it out eventually. Probably.

 

For the time being, they were on their own, and probably weren’t going anywhere soon. Reia sighed. At least they could’ve given her a book or something.

 

 --

 

Gigantic fox ears swiveled about, orienting themselves towards where the helicopters had been their forms disappeared into the night sky. Once the chopping noise of rotor blades had faded, the ears began to pivot seemingly at random, picking out the sounds of the night forest.

 

On the rare occasion, Emrald was glad to have her massive, radar-dish-like ears; they captured distant sound quite well.

 

Once her senses confirmed that she was now alone amongst the trees, she crept from her hiding spot between a fallen tree and a large boulder. And immediately hated her ears once again as the tips snagged on the overhead branches. The tails she could wrap around herself and keep them in some manner of control, but she was powerless to do something about the ears.

 

Maybe she’d get them clipped, she thought… though Casey did seem to enjoy touching them. Maybe not, she through with a wry smile.

 

Unfortunately it was a cramped hiding spot, even for a dainty fox-woman like herself. Her joints popped and her muscles ached as she allowed herself to move for the first time in hours. Unwinding and stretching herself out, Emrald looked up at the sky, facing the direction the helicopters had traveled.

 

“To the southwest, huh?” She whispered to herself.

 

It matched up with what she’d learned from the soldier she interrogated.

 

She shivered in spite of herself. Not from the cold, but rather from the knowledge that their strongest allies may have betrayed them. Still, her many years of life had taught her not to jump to conclusions without some solid proof or evidence. Picking the brain of one low-ranking mercenary had been useful, but she’d come away with more questions than answer.

 

It would not be unreasonable to assume they’d been hired by one entity calling themselves another, or that the soldier had been trained to resist the sort of mental manipulation Emrald had at her command. She’d have had to snag someone higher in the chain of command before she could count on the veracity of the information.

 

Catching herself staring at nothing, Emrald shook her head and closed her eyes. She could stand here and ponder things for hours, but to what end? Pushing aside those thoughts for the time being, she needed to find a way out of this forest and get to a town or city where she could contact the military.

 

Without a map or knowledge of the area, her best option was to head east – towards their original destination. There ought to be roads that she would be able to follow towards the city, or even hitch a ride.

 

To add to her problem of not having a map, she didn’t have a compass either.

 

What was it about a North Star? She knew from her survival training that one could use that as a guide. But, as her eyes raked the night sky, she had no idea which star was the one she sought. It’d been too many years, and all she could recall was something about constellations or some such.

 

Frowning at the stars as if it was their fault for being so numerous, Emrald was about to give up on a heavenly method of navigation when the moon caught her eye. Or, more specifically, its crescent shape. Wasn’t there something about how a line that went from the top tip of the crescent to the bottom tip would point towards the south?

 

She traced an invisible line through the sky using her finger, going from the top of the moon to the earthly horizon.

 

“That’s south, huh?” She said to herself, pointing a foot in the same direction. Using her foot as a guide, she made a mental quarter circle. “…so then that’s east…”

 

Her tails danced slowly in a waving motion as she thought. If she was wrong she would be walking for quite a while. Well, she was going to be walking quite a while anyways, she thought with a sigh. At least heading east she’d eventually stumble onto some sort of civilization. Probably. Who knows if there was anything around in the other directions?

 

At least she’d find out if she was wrong about her directions as dawn came. Sun rose in the east, so as long as she heading towards it as the sky brightened all would be well.

 

Inhaling sharply through her nose, she then let out a slow exhale that turned to vapor in front of her face. Then, wrapping her tails around herself, she started off in the direction she hoped was east.

 

“…Please be alright,” she murmured to herself as new thoughts began to fill her mind now that one problem was solved.

 

The gentle pink glow of the approaching dawn buoyed Emrald’s spirits as she scuttled up a steep incline. She’d been heading a little more south than she’d have liked, but it was east enough, and gave her hope that she might escape the endless sea of trees soon.

 

Traversing through forests irritated her. As there was no path, everything sort of blended together on her, making it difficult to gauge if she was still heading east. Several times now she had to stop herself and backtrack as she’d gone off course. Emrald cursed often at the trees, but they didn’t seem to mind her tirades.

 

The irony of a kitsune getting herself lost in a forest was not lost on her as she smiled bitterly at the realization.

 

Cresting the steep hill, her bitter smile gave way to another hopeful one. There was an even steeper slope on the opposite side, dropping down quite a ways. But, the trees thinned out to virtually nothing just beyond. And, best of all, there was a winding road just a short ways away. It appeared to head northeast and southwest, so the chances of it leading towards the city were good. Hopefully.

 

Emrald peeked over the side, estimating how far the descent was. As she was now, it’d likely be a hazardous-at-best journey. There was a solution. An unappealing solution for Emrald, but there was one nevertheless. She really did hate having to do this.

 

With a groan, she slipped off her boots, then her uniform and undergarments. Folding up everything into a neat little package, she then stood back and took a deep breath. A pale blue glow seemed to emminate from within her, and then in a rapid burst of magic the human-looking woman with over-sized ears and multiple, fluffy tails was gone. In her place was a very large, person-sized fox. With over-sized ears, multiple fluffy tails, and striking green eyes.

 

The fox picked up the package that was bound together in boot laces with her mouth, and approached the precipice. Looking down for a moment, she then took a short hop, landing on the near-vertical drop. Shifting her paws, body, and tails about to keep balance, Emrald looked as if she was surfing down an earthen wave.

 

Reaching the bottom, she took a graceful leap just before landing, avoiding what would have been a rather jarring impact. Looking back towards her now-dirty tails, the fox let out a low, sorrowful whine before becoming bathed in blue light.

 

Just as quickly as she’d become a fox, Emrald was once again mostly-human, albeit naked and quite cold. As she slipped back into her uniform, she cast a glance up the path she’d descended, then across the way to the road. “Now we’re getting somewhere,” she murmured, lacing up her boots.

 

Once at the road, she looked down it both ways, praying there would be an approaching vehicle. One ear listened one way, the other swiveled to listen towards the opposite direction.

 

Nothing but silence.

 

It would be too easy for a car to be coming along at this hour, at this place, wouldn’t it? At least she was out of the forest.

 

Emrald’s journey down the road was dull, but at least following its meandering path meant she could let her mind wander. Not having to verify she was still heading in the proper direction every hundred paces was nice.

 

Her mind went back to what she’d learned when she interrogated the mercenary. Casey and the others should be safe for a while, maybe a few days. Apparently the fiery explosion had been unintended as well; their intent was simply to force the aircraft to make an emergency landing. If their intent was to capture everyone unharmed, it did make sense that they didn’t want the plane to explode, so she was willing to believe that tidbit.

 

She wasn’t so sure about the other morsel that’d been divulged to her. The mercenary group was supposedly hired by a technology firm that had several board members acting as consultants to the United Front, and the company often made campaign contributions. It was a little too convenient as far as Emrald was concerned, but then again so long as the money was hidden no one could link the two to the events that transpired last night.

 

Companies that dealt in warfare often hired private firms for protection, especially on shipments, so such a contract would be seen as normal business. The vast, empty expanses between large population and industrial centers made shipping prime picking for piracy and pillaging. In the past there would have been military patrols along trade routes, but they had always been sparse. With the outbreak of war, all the patrols except for those deemed vitally important to the war effort had been stripped, leading towards a boom in the ‘protection services’ market.

 

So, again, nothing too strange about a cutting-edge firm spending coin to protect their goods during shipment. Even if the services they purchased were diverted elsewhere, administrative bureaucracy could be blamed for sending them to the wrong place.

 

Still, it was all just so convenient. Emrald couldn’t shake the notion that it was some kind of setup, but as she only held a few pieces of the puzzle there was nothing she could do but speculate.

 

It simply didn’t make sense for the UF to pull something like this. Wasn’t this rally thing their idea? Wasn’t it in their best interest to keep everyone safe?

 

If the powers that stages this little fiasco had simply wanted the rally or the men to go away, why not just kill everyone and be done with it? Why go through the trouble of making sure everyone was alive and well? Were they intended to be hostages?

 

Letting out a groan and ruffling her hair and ears, Emrald felt like she was going to think herself crazy.

 

Why couldn’t the mercenary she found have at least known their destination? The only part she knew was a landing site where they’d change over from the helicopters to trucks. Not much help, but maybe an investigation of the location might yield a clue or two.

 

Ambling on, Emrald wished for the city to appear before her. She was tired of walking, tired of thinking, and tired of letting precious time slip away. With nothing else to do, she broke into a jog, hoping the exertion would quiet her thoughts some.

 

“Are we there yet…” Emrald mumbled to herself, huffing and puffing as she slowed to a crawling walk. The cold prevented any accumulation of sweat, but the air burned her throat and lungs in its own way.

 

By now the sun was well on its journey through the sky; she figured it was probably eight or nine in the morning. Despite the time spent along the road, she’d not seen nor heard anything other than the sound of her boots on the pavement. At least the bright morning light warmed her face and ears, providing her with some measure of comfort.

 

Jogging had not been a good idea. It’d been years since Emrald had been forced to travel on foot for such a long time without a break. Though light and fit, there were limits to what one could do to alleviate the inevitable pains of long-distance travel in military boots.

 

Based on the various pin-points of pain, she knew blisters were developing. But without some kind of sterilized needle or bandages, she was hesitant to pop them. Things weren’t bad enough for her to risk an infection. Yet.

 

Proceeding up a long, gentle incline, Emrald hoped that she’d see something, anything other than plains, trees, and this road, once she crested it.

 

For once her hope wasn’t in vain; approaching from the other direction was a truck of some sort.

 

Though she was certainly glad to see a vehicle as it heralded an end to her marching, doubt crept into her mind. There was a chance of it being a patrol meant to apprehend her, but the odds were very low. At least, she hoped they were low.

 

Waiting at the top of the hill, she waved her arms and tails about, drawing the attention of whomever was driving. As it drew near, it began to slow and drift over to the side of the road where she was standing.

 

Getting a look at the driver, and passenger as well, Emrald pegged them as farmers of sorts. Both of them appeared to be some sort of lizardwoman as well.

 

The truck pulled alongside her, slowing to a stop. Sharing a brief word with her passenger, the drive then rolled down the window. Emrald could see now that they were both salamanders, rather than the typical lizard.

 

Farming was a rather strange vocation for such a fiery and brash species, but then again most would scoff at a kitsune being in active military service.

 

“Need somethin’, stranger?” Said the driver, tipping her wide-brimmed hat up. Her eyes fixed on the small woman in front of her, drifting down to read the name sewn onto the kitsune’s military outfit.

 

“Yes… is the city back that way?” Emrald asked, pointing towards the direction the truck had come from.

 

 “Yea, why ya ask? Headin’ that way?”

 

Emrald thought about the cards she should reveal. Would they help her if she simply asked? Or would she have to pull something about urgent military business? Casual friendliness would come first.

 

“Yes… there’s been a… mishap of sorts, and I’ve been walking all night and morning. I need to get to the city to contact someone.”

 

Both women inside glanced at each other, then back towards the kitsune. “What sorta mishap would have ya walkin’ all that way?”

 

“Well… I was on an aircraft that crashed in the forest to the southwest… would you be able to give me a ride into town?” Emrald said, sporting her best ‘pity me’ face. Due to her small size, people often mistook her for being an actual youth, rather than simply being tiny. She hoped it’d be effective here, attempting to position her hands to cover up the rank insignias sewn onto her clothing.

 

“What? Crashed?” The passenger spoke up, then looked out west; maybe hoping to see some sort of smoke or fire.

 

Chewing her lip, the driver regarded Emrald for a moment before turning to the passenger. “Hey, do we have time to head back?”

 

Her passenger turned back around, placing a clawed finger to her chin. “Mmm, yeah, pretty sure. Time enough to give that kitsune…”

 

“Emrald,” the kitsune in question said with a smile.

 

“…Emrald, a lift back to town.”

 

The driver nodded. “Alright, we’ll give ya a lift. Ain’t no room up here, but ya can hop in the back. Always one to support military folk.”

 

Emrald clapped her hands together happily. “Great! Thank you so much…?”

 

“Diana,” she said, returning Emrald’s smile.

 

“…Diana, thank you again,” she said as she made her way to the bed of the truck and jumped aboard as it began to turn around.

 

The remainder of the journey was mercifully brief. The cold wind whipped and tore at her in the bed of the truck, but she only had to endure it for less than half an hour as she balled herself up in the corner to keep warm.

 

Though she was content to be dropped off at the outskirts of the town, the salamander duo insisted on bringing her near the downtown area. Emrald gave them thanks again, waving as they drove off. She kind of wanted to have them drop her off near the rally grounds, but decided on keeping as much secrecy as possible.

 

Seeing as how they were supposed to have been here last night, there should still be a sizeable contingent of the military around somewhere.

 

A few quick questions to various passersby on the sidewalks yielded the information Emrald sought. Fortunately, the grounds were close by to where she was – not more than a fifteen minute walk according to most.

 

Despite the heavy fatigue settling down upon her, Emrald knew she had to endure longer. Probably another entire day and night. She grit her teeth, trying to force out thoughts peaceful sleep, nestled up in a bed made from her own tails. Slapping her cheeks, she gave a short shout that drew some curious glances from those around her, then set off for a little bit more walking.

 

As expected, the rally grounds were abuzz with activity despite no rally actually having taken place. Scores more troops than she’d have thought usual were stationed around in a perimeter. There wasn’t a guard like this at the last event; though a plane with the star attractions had not crashed at the last event either.

 

Spotting the approaching kitsune, a guard moved forward to call Emrald’s attention. Once she was within talking distance, the guard spoke. “I’m sorry, but this area is currently closed to…” the guard trailed off, realizing the approaching fox-woman was wearing a military field uniform.

 

“Ah, hello… private,” Emrald replied with a smile, taking note of the name and rank on the guard’s uniform.

 

The guard hesitated, staring down at diminutive kitsune. “Er, excuse me… Captain Dirz, do you have a pass for this area?”

 

“A pass? I’m afraid not... however, I was supposed to be here. Last night, actually. The plane I was on kind of exploded. So, can I go through?” Emrald said casually, as if she were simply a few minutes late.

 

Confusion adorned the guard’s face for a moment until she made the connection with the name and the captain’s appearance. “S-sorry, I didn’t realize… go on ahead, Captain Dirz. I’m assuming you’d like to speak with General Jurai? She should be in the large building across from the stage.”

 

For once Emrald was glad for her status. A little bit of arrogance and a few letters in front of her name that denoted her as an officer were all it took to get poor troopers like the private here to bend to her will.

 

“Thank you, private.”

 

The guard fumbled out a salute; Emrald couldn’t help but grin. She returned it crisply, then proceeded through the checkpoint.

 

Near the stage, things were less chaotic than she had imagined, though still rather busy. Instead of crowds of civilians, the audience area was packed with tents and supplies. Soldiers were milling about, doing this and that. Looked more like a field base than a fair ground nestled inside a city.

 

While making her way towards the building the private had mentioned, Emrald came to the realization that she didn’t know anything about General Jurai’s affiliation. Or much at all, aside from her name and species. Emrald never was much one to really care about the upper echelons of the military. Far as she cared, the daily routine would not change just because someone she didn’t know took over for someone else she didn’t know.

 

What would the odds be that Jurai was in league with those who pulled off the abduction? Would she wind up being captured anyways? Would information about her escape trickle back? If only she knew; Emrald was full of regrets today.

 

Pausing in front of the largest structure she could find, Emrald began to think some covert espionage was in order. First, however, she would need to stop being a captain. Officers were relatively well-known, so she’d need to do something about that.

 

With some quick modification, she could alter the chevrons and rank abbreviation on her uniform to one that’d make her a rank-and-file soldier to those around here.

 

Yes, she thought, a little intelligence gathering would be helpful. Provided she didn’t run into that same private, and that no one wondered why a kitsune had suddenly appeared in their midst. No one would recognize her, would they?

 

 Shrugging, Emrald decided she’d deal with things as they came. Not like she had any other options.

 

 

 

Seated in the small, windowless room, Casey got the impression that he was in an office, rather than an interrogation room. After being led inside, his escort had removed his blindfold, and indicated that he should take a seat. Then they’d handcuffed him to the chair, as he reminded himself by tugging on the chain.

 

Other than a pair of chairs and small desk, the white, well-lit room was entirely barren.

 

Initially, Casey had been with the other men, all of them crowded into a room – much like the one he found himself in now. One by one they were blindfolded and taken out, though no one had ever returned. He’d found himself called and led out near the tail end of the group; Tomas was taken first if he remembered correctly.

 

Were they all in rooms like this, alone? Or was there simply a different holding area for those that’d finished with whatever it was they intended?

 

Anxiety blended with curiosity as Casey thought about what might be awaiting him. He comforted himself by thinking they likely wouldn’t torture him, or place him under duress, but waiting in an empty room gnawed at him.

 

Within a few minutes, by his reckoning anyways, Casey heard the sound of an opening door. And, rather than a feeling of apprehension he found himself feeling relieved that someone had finally come. Watching the door swing open, he’d figured an older woman would appear. Maybe someone gifted in magic like Emrald’s. Another kitsune wouldn’t be so bad; he was used to dealing with one, after all.

 

Instead, as the door fully opened, what stood before him was entirely new, yet a form he was entirely familiar with from myths and legends.

 

Smiling politely, the woman strode into the room. Her very long, hip-length black hair fluttered with each step. From the sides of her head, just above her ears, two large, forward-facing horns had sprouted; with sort of an odd spiral shape to them. Her attire was… revealing to say the least. Once fully inside the room, she then closed the door behind her.

 

Despite her smile, Casey felt increasingly ill at ease with every step closer to him that she took, going so far as to scoot his own chair away once she sat down across from him. When she looked at him, he felt his stomach churn.

 

The whites of her eyes were… dark, almost black, each centered with a yellow iris. Large, bat-like wings sprouted from her upper back, making it all but impossible for her to lean back fully against the chair. A thin tail capped by something that resembled a spade-point darted to and fro behind her, occasionally wrapping itself around some part of the chair and then unwinding.

 

No one had ever mentioned these demons of legend were still alive here. Was it because Emrald and the others were afraid Casey and the others would refuse anything had they known that these creatures – devourers of men, existed?

 

She kept up her congenial appearance, even closing her eyes and cocking her head with a broad smile.

 

Yet, she hadn’t said a word yet. Not even a hello as she entered the room.

 

Was this woman – this succubus – waiting for him to speak first?

 

Eying her like a mouse would watch a cat when trapped in the same cage, Casey’s heart began to race, and his hands trailed sweat wherever he laid his palms. It wasn’t even just the myths he knew about the woman before him that made her so unsettling. There was some presence, or aura, that made her almost unbearable to even look at.

 

Then she giggled.

 

In an instant the oppressive aura she was exuding changed. Her milky-white skin, considerable bust – barely covered at that – and hour-glass figure had come to the forefront of his mind in very short order. Rather than focusing on her demonic aspects, now he couldn’t help but take in eyefuls of her bared flesh.

 

“Aren’t you just a cutie?”

 

Casey blinked in surprise. Though her words were heavily accented in a way he couldn’t place, he immediately recognized that she was speaking his language, rather than Emrald’s magic providing a translation.

 

“Oh ho? So I guessed correctly on the first try, then?” The woman said, looking rather pleased with herself.

 

When Casey did not reply, she leaned back as far as her wings would allow, then crossed a leg across the other. A finger tapped against her cheek a few times as she stared at Casey with her blackened eyes. Her expression shifted a few times before settling into sardonic grin.

 

“You’re far more wary than the others. You know what I am, don’t you, boy?”

 

Her tone changed, deepening some and losing the bubbly quality present in her first words.

 

The creature in front of him was well-regarded as a vile temptress. One who bent men to her will with hardly any effort at all.

 

Any conversation with her would be rather treacherous. Casey’d need to stay on guard, and hope his knowledge of her would offer some kind of defense against her wiles. He sat still, regarding her with open hostility.

 

“Well, that makes things both easier and more difficult for me,” she said, uncrossing her legs and standing, then seating herself on a corner of the desk. Her barely-covered backside was presented to Casey, the plumpness spreading out slightly from her weight.

 

“What do you want from me?” Growled Casey, forcing himself to look away from her behind positioned so very close; so close he could feel warmth radiating from her.

 

Looking over her shoulder, the horned-woman flashed a happy smile and clapped her hands together. “Good! So you can speak!” She said, turning herself about on the desk so she didn’t have to crane her neck quite so much to be able to look at him.

 

“As for what I want, my dear,” she continued, her tail stretching out and lightly touching the back of Casey’s hand. At her touch, he recoiled, shifting backwards further away from her. His reaction drew another giggle from her lips. “Is just a simple chat. I do have some questions, but nothing like the nasty interrogation you were probably imagining.”

 

The closer she got, the more compelled he felt to ogle her form. When her tail touched the back of his hand, his skin felt hot; the heat quickly dissipated through his flesh, giving him a sensation of warmth all over before it focused in a particular place.

 

Gritting his teeth, he realized that she’d probably acted this way with those who had been taken before him. “…Did you have a ‘simple chat’ with the others?”

 

She closed an eye, and wagged a finger at him. “Tsk tsk, that’s a girl’s secret, you know~”

 

Casey simply stared daggers at her.

 

“That face won’t do at all! Tell you what. If you’re a good boy, I’ll answer that when I’m finished. How about it?”

 

He began to open his mouth to voice his agreement. Then he paused. Why was he agreeing so readily? Something about her seemed to compel obedience or agreement.

 

Was it that alluring aura, or presence? Or some other magic at work? Emrald had told Casey her particular school of magic could influence the mind and senses, and the person being charmed would never know. Perhaps this demon woman used something similar?

 

What is it that Emrald had said? That her illusions relied on subtlety and catching the person unaware? Grimacing, Casey hoped he’d be able to resist so long as he kept he guard up, but in a handful of minutes he’d already found himself dancing to her tune.

 

When Casey did not respond, the woman frowned, then clapped her hands together as if she’d remembered something important. “Oh, no wonder you’re being so shy! We haven’t even introduced ourselves yet! I’m Amelia. What’s your name, my dear?”

 

“…Casey.”

 

“See? Your voice wasn’t so grouchy this time.”

 

He said nothing further, though the muscles in his jaw bunched up.

 

“And, as you are most likely thinking, yes, I am a succubus,” she said, sweeping her wings out to their full width and gesturing widely with her arms. Then, smiling, she ran a finger along one of her horns as she relaxed. “Pretty impressive, no? Before you ask, yes, these wings are functional. If this room wasn’t so cramped I’d give you a demonstration.”

 

She spoke with a certain innocent joy, as if ignorant of her own heritage. Or maybe there was no evil ‘heritage.’ Other than her barely-there attire, she’d done nothing wrong.

 

Catching his thoughts, Casey shook his head slightly and blinked. No, that’s what she wanted. He narrowed his eyes.

 

“I’ve seen better.”

 

The succubus quirked an eyebrow. “Oh? On what?”

 

“A dragon.”

 

“A dragon, huh? Where’d you meet one of those? They’re kind of rare, you know?”

 

Amelia kicked one of her legs idly, leaning back and supporting herself with her arms. The desk had to be uncomfortable, so was she simply sitting there to be close to him? And what was with her pointless questions? Did she really just want to chat? Who exactly was she? How much did she already know?

 

The situation Casey found himself in made less and less sense the longer it went on.

 

“There was… a dragon woman, during one point. At the base where I was kept.”

 

“Makes sense, I suppose…” Amelia nodded, dragging out the last syllable of her response with an almost song-like quality to her voice.

 

 

 

On and on the conversation dragged, with Casey finding himself forced to answer all her pointless questions.

 

It almost reminded him of when he and Emrald had engaged in conversation that lasted long into the early hours.

 

Where they came from, their family - those sorts of things. But, whereas those nights full of sharing and confiding were born out of love and a desire to know each other, Amelia’s questions seemed to be guided. Purposeful. Yet, he couldn’t discern what exactly she sought. Just when it seemed like she was honing in on a particular topic or event, she’d abruptly change to something completely different.

 

He’d managed to avoid discussing any one thing at length or detail, but the succubus always returned to nearly-forgotten topics; romance especially. She was most interested in prying those tidbits out of him, and, as their chat went on, Casey found himself feeling a sort of guilty regret whenever he lied to her, or avoided telling the whole truth.

 

The succubus always kept herself within arm’s reach of Casey. She’d stand for a while, sit down on a different part of the desk, or even bring her chair around.

 

Her revealing clothing kept his eyes on her body despite despite his efforts. She always seemed to position herself in a way that would show off a little more of her milky skin as she adjusted herself or shifted about. Whenever she caught him looking at her body, Amelia would laugh or giggle, then strike a provocative pose, asking if Casey liked what he saw.

 

She’d occasionally talk about her sexual prowess, then appear sullen when he turned down any offers for her to demonstrate her capabilities.

 

Though he had remained steadfast thus far, his resolve was beginning to waver. And he knew it. Parts of his mind that told him that she was just looking to have a bit of fun. There was be nothing wrong with letting her enjoy herself, and himself in the process, right? It’s what men and women did together, after all. There was nothing sinister, evil, or even ‘bad’ about her. She’d never once raised her voice, become angry, and was fast becoming pleasant company.

 

He was even beginning to forget that he was being held captive; sometimes the only thing that reminded him was the occasional clink or tug of the handcuff on his wrist.

 

“Oh? Let me take care of that for you,” she said after one such instance, producing a key from her cleavage.

 

Without waiting for Casey’s response, she bent down at the hips, standing beside him, putting herself on display. He wanted to looked away as she fiddled with the handcuffs, but they were right there. And she wanted him to look at them. She even let her hands linger on his skin far longer than what was required to unlock the latch on the cuffs.

 

“There. That pesky thing won’t trouble you any further,” she said as she released the cuff from his wrist.

 

He pulled his arm to himself, rubbing slowly at the mark left on his skin. Once she stood and backed off some, Casey glanced at her. Worry gnawed at his heart more than his mind; a strong desire to actually thank her had taken root. It was all a trick or a trap, he had to keep reminding himself.

 

“Now then, where we were? Hmmm… Oh, right! As I was saying, surely a strapping young man such as yourself has been pursued by many of the women around here. They’re all so desperate and lonely, you know. Why, I bet if you asked you could have your pick of the bunch! Or multiple at once; I know you guys love having many women all begging for you to give it to them… taking care of your every needy desire…” As she spoke, Amelia drew in closer, walking from side of Casey to the next, running a finger across his shoulders and back of his neck as she went.

 

His voice of reason was beginning to grow worryingly quiet.

 

About all he had left to keep his will intact were his thoughts of Emrald.

 

Bending down behind him, she began to whisper in his ear, trailing a finger in lazy circles on the back of his neck. “Doesn’t it seem like it’d be so much fun to do them all at the same time?”

 

Her touch and words spurred on depraved thoughts, and his imagination began to vividly picture scenes involving not just Emrald, but with others he knew as well. Reia. Serlov. Viole. Yvonne.

 

And Amelia.

 

Gritting his teeth, he stood with a start, slamming a hand down on the table to chase the thoughts away.

 

Casey glared contemptuously at the succubus.

 

Amelia backed off some, but continued to grin knowingly at him, swaying her hips side to side with her hands clasped just above her rear.

 

In an instant, he realized he shouldn’t have gotten angry like that. To her, his outburst was a sign of his imminent defeat. Balling the hand he’d slammed down into a fist, he closed his eyes and tried to calm himself.

 

“Oh? What are you getting so upset for? Wait…don’t tell me…” she feigned with a gasp, covering her mouth with a hand and opening her eyes wide. “…You’re monogamous?”

 

His eyes shot open. “Yes? What’s wrong with that? What do you even want with me anyways? You’ve been at this for hours,” he said, venom dripping from his voice.

 

No matter how he tried, he couldn’t clear the anger or fear from his heart. Half of his rage stemmed from the winged harlot in front of him, the other half from the feeling of dread that came with thoughts of betrayal.

 

Amelia continued to smirk, then began pacing around him slowly. Sighing, she then crossed her arms under her breasts, pushing them up and out. “Oh, it’s just surprising – that’s all. It’s rather common for men to have mistresses and women on the side, you know? It’s more… fun, that way. The same hole gets kind of old after a while, doesn’t it?”

 

She paused her pacing, then tilted her head to one side like she couldn’t believe what she was having to explain. “There’s nothing wrong with wanting to explore and enjoy those around you. I bet she even expects you to sample the easily-picked fruits that’ve practically drop themselves onto you. Why, I bet she’s taken some of the other men for a ride...”

 

“What the hell is wrong with you?” Casey could feel his temper flaring, but he was powerless to stop it. Emrald wasn’t that kind of woman. Not at all. “Just because you’re some slut-demon doesn’t mean all women are the same way. She wouldn’t betray our love - our trust - because she knows I wouldn’t.”

 

Spitting her with a harsh glare, he expected some sort of reaction from Amelia. Instead, all she did was continue to wear a smug smile.

 

“Darling, your idealism is… a turn on, I’ll admit, but you’re a little mistaken. That kitsune was probably all over you from the start, yes? Probably just wanted you to give her a couple good fucks to get her nice and pregnant.”

 

“What? How did you know that she was-“ Casey said, eyes open in surprise. He’d never mentioned his romantic involved with Emrald.

 

“Haha! It’s because you absolutely reek of fox. Though don’t worry, it’s not really a ‘smell.’ It’s more like her essence is practically dripping from you. She must be on you every night…”

 

Casey was angry. More angry than he’d been in a long, long time. And yet, her words had a truth to them.

 

Emrald had indeed been clingy and very much taken with him from the. Yes, he’d fallen for her sort of quickly as well, especially given the nature of their life together, and how they met.

 

They’d talked about that issue, and Emrald did profess that she was so keen on him from the start because he was the first man she’d ever actually met and touched in person. However, her passing fancy quickly gave way to deep love. She did long for children, but only with a man she loved, and that loved her in return, she’d explained.

 

Despite being a prisoner, Emrald was earnest, spunky, honest, loving… the sort of woman he’d always dreamed about. Things had moved fast, but he had never been happier in his life. The thought of raising children with her had become an appealing notion once he reflected on it for a while. Growing old, watching their children grow, then having grandchildren – very appealing, indeed.

 

Seizing on Casey’s delay in responding as he struggled to put his thoughts together, Amelia‘s visage turned ever more devilish. “I know what you’re thinking, darling, and I pity you. I really do. Those kitsune are not well-known for their honesty. If I remember correctly, the myths regarding them portray them almost exclusively as tricksters that seduce men for their own benefit. Ah, if only I had access to a few books that detailed their history with humans…”

 

Then her lips twisted upwards.

 

“You do know about their illusion and charm magic, yes?”

 

His eyes snapped to her face, then narrowed. He’d brought that up with Emrald as well; she’d even demonstrated an example. Her magic had been a concern, no doubt, but there was nothing illusionary about how she acted around him. That was certainly the behavior of someone in love.

 

It wasn’t something that could be faked. There’s no way someone could just… act that way.

 

Right?

 

“So? Aren’t you doing the same thing to me, right now?” Casey protested, something else pushing aside his anger as it welled up within his heart.

 

“Hmm? Why, I’m almost offended you think I am being deceitful,” she said, fluttering her eyelashes. “I assure you I have not lied, nor withheld anything, from you during our little chat. I’ll even say it – I like you. I want to ravish you, and I want you to enjoy it.”

 

“I will not, however, say I ‘love’ you, nor will I force you,” said Amelia, looking more exasperated than anything as she took a seat on the desk. Her tail snaked around on the desk, the spade-tip tapping against the surface like an idle finger. “Is it so wrong that I just want us to feel good together?”

 

“Then… what’s this… feeling? Ever since you walked into the room nothing has felt… right. You’re bewitching me, I know it,” Casey struggled to say, anger and fear twisting together, choking his throat. “You’re just trying to tempt me… I don’t know why, but you are. I know it. I know it!”

 

Amelia giggled. “Of course I am – though not as you imagine. Like I’ve already said, I think you’re cute. Don’t people try to attract those they’re fondof? As for that feeling, maybe it’s just your body being honest? Why, it’s not a surprise, really. Could that flat fox compare with these?” she said, casually removing her top to expose her heaving chest. Freed from their binding, her breasts expanded and dropped outward, swinging gently like heavy pendulums before coming to a rest.

 

Casey couldn’t break his eyes from them. Despite their size – there was no way he could possible get his hand entirely around one – they were still perky and smooth.

 

“Like what you see? Well, stare all you wish,” she said, using her hands to knead and press her breasts together a few times before letting them hang naturally once again.

 

Staring at her, Casey felt like there were important questions he was not asking. Something was at the forefront of his mind, though just below the surface. A warning, or reasoning behind her actions. What would Emrald say, or do, right now?

 

Emrald.

 

He focused his thoughts on her.

 

She wanted children. That much he could count on to be absolutely true. Most of the women in this world did, right? Their races were dying out. Was that this succubus’ purpose? Did she wish to produce as well?

 

So, how did he get here? For what reason was he taken by force?

 

Clamping his eyes shut to avoid looking at her perfect bosom, Casey concentrated everything he had on his rational thoughts. “Then, why abduct us if you just… just wanted sex?”

 

Amelia had to struggle not to laugh. How she longed to spill this information, but for her purposes she needed him to ask about it. “Mmhmm. Well, I did not abduct you. Someone else did, that wishes for us both to be pawns in their game.”

 

“Huh? What do you mean?”

 

“That little kitsune that you’re so taken with. Has she told you of her family?”

 

Her family? Casey remembered she had relatives still alive, but she didn’t talk with them too much. He shook his head, turning around so he could open his eyes as he stared at the wall.

 

“I’m delighted then, that I can be the one to tell you this. The woman who orchestrated this operation is a clever fox too, you know. Her name is Thayla. Thayla Dirz.”

 

“What?!” Casey practically shouted, eyes snapping open. Her breasts caught his attention yet again, but the revelation was enough to keep his mind clear. Dirz was Emrald’s surname, though not her mother’s name. “Is she her grandmother or something?”

 

“I think she’s an aunt, actually. But yes, she’s the mastermind of all this. Sneaky little thing,” she said, sounding as if she was roped into the scheme against her will. “Don’t you think it’s a wonderful coincidence that two members of an exceptionally rare breed are so closely linked to events around you?”

 

Casey slumped in his seat. Had Emrald simply used him for her own purposes, or been the tool to recruit him and the others in order to hand them over to Thayla?

 

No matter how he tried, he couldn’t shake that notion. She had sort of manipulated him into having sex with her, hadn’t she? Or was it simply seduction and an eagerness to be with him?

 

The more he thought about everything that’d happened in recent months, the more confused he became. Casey didn’t know if he should be angry with himself or the demon in the room, or with Emrald or all these… monster women. Nothing made sense anymore.

 

His eyes settled on the half-naked woman in front of him. “You… you said you were a pawn? How is that”

 

Amelia sighed, then stood. “I have a little more freedom here than you do, but ultimately they wish to use me – or else they would not have brought me here.”

 

“So, you don’t know why?”

 

The succubus shrugged, and drew very close to Casey. She smiled nearly invisibly when he did not recoil from her like he did earlier.

 

“I have an idea… and to help persuade me, they allowed me to have first pick.”

 

Casey scrunched his eyebrows together. “Pick of what?”

 

“You, of course,” she said with a lurid smile. “You’re the top choice here, darling.”

 

As she spoke, she caressed his cheek with her fingers. A familiar warmth spread from her touch into his skin, then flowed through him as before. At the first her touch had been a thing to be wary or afraid of. Now, he thought it quite nice. Especially since she considered him the most ideal of all the other men taken.

 

When he did not reject her touch as before, she grinned a most wicked grin, though to Casey it appeared harmless. Then, taking a step back, she hooked both her thumbs onto either side of the garment covering the last, most secret place of her – and pulled it free, exposing herself entirely.

 

Glancing at Casey’s crotch, she winked and licked her lips, happy with the reaction.

 

“Don’t worry, my sweet, no one will hear, nor will they find out. It’ll be our little secret,” she said as she wrapped her arms around Casey’s neck.

 

--

 

Narrow, serpentine eyes watched the succubus as she slipped from the room and quietly closed the door behind her. Once she was out of sight, Serlov shifted her attention towards the kitsune seated behind an impressive, solid wood desk.

 

“I can’t believe you would consort with demons like her,” Serlov hissed, gesturing towards the door.

 

Nestled in her chair, Thayla stroked her tails a few times before returning the serpent’s harsh glare. “As I said before, this is in our best interest. How many times must I repeat myself?”

 

Serlov slammed her hands down on Thayla’s desk, every muscle in her face twitching. “You’re smarter than this! You know full well why their… kind,” she said, spitting the word out like it was poison, “were exiled.”

 

“I do, yes. Don’t forget, however, that humanity culled their numbers to near extinction. Those that remain can be most useful to us, and at the same time it allows us to keep track of them.” Thayla kept her voice passive, relaxing her angry glower.

 

Ever the politician, Serlov thought, running a hand through her hair. “How did you even concoct this fool plan of yours, anyways? Unless you had been maintaining ties with those demons in secret?”

 

Thayla rolled her eyes. “Just because you don’t like someone… or a particular group, doesn’t mean you can’t use them. Yes, I fostered communications with her and her ilk long ago – back when entering the human realm en-masse was but a seldom-whispered idea.”

 

The elder kitsune then hoisted herself out of the chair with an oomph, stretching out her back in a series of satisfying pops. “Back when I wasn’t this old,” she said with a short, snorting laugh most unbefitting someone of her station.

 

Another bang resounded through the room when Serlov slammed her fist down again. Not only had Thayla committed the grave sin of keeping contact with the demons, she had the audacity to laugh while speaking of it.

 

“Why? For what reason?” Serlov demanded.

 

Stretching herself out a bit more, Thayla sighed and began walking towards one of the many large windows in the room. Hands clasped in the small of her back, she said nothing for a time as she peered at the outside world.

 

“I already told you it’s because they will be useful to us. But,” she paused, turning about to look at Serlov. The bright light pouring in from the window silhouetted Thayla’s face, while at the same time casting a sort of halo around her form. “I suppose since we’ve known each other for so long, I can let you in on the details.”

 

“Why tell me? I’m a prisoner, aren’t I?”

 

“Well… that’s up to you, really. I’d rather have you as an ally than as an enemy.”

 

Serlov snorted. She wanted nothing to do with the kitsune’s machinations, but through the years she’d known her, Thayla had never been one to act rashly.

 

“…Fine, I’ll decide after hearing your scheme.”

 

The fox chuckled softly; Serlov assumed she was smiling, but the shadows hid her face well. “That’s all I ask for. Really, it is not such an elaborate plot; I got the idea soon after humanity declared war on us,” said Thayla, leaning back against the windowsill, crossing her arms in front of her.

 

“Men are the world leaders in all things in the human world, yes?”

 

The lamia narrowed an eye. “Yes… what are you getting at?”

 

“There’s no point or justification in meaningless bloodshed. I experienced plenty of that during my service in the military. Many of us did – hence why the UF was formed once our ‘one world’ plans with humanity and all that were gaining momentum.”

 

Thayla let out a long, deep sigh, then half-turned towards the window to gaze out at the sky. The sunlight washed over her face, highlighting every wrinkle, every blemish; every mark of age on the kitsune’s face. She looked so very weary.

 

Though Serlov knew her years were many, she never thought of her as ‘old’ before now.

 

“Compared to our rather vibrant history of slaughtering one another, the warfare of man looks little more than a childhood squabble, doesn’t it?”

 

“And? What does that have to do with anything?”

 

“Hah, the impetuousness of youth, is it? Fine, fine.”

 

Despite the seriousness of the conversation, Thayla let out another short laugh, and began walking back towards Serlov. “The short of it is that a handful of very scared and very xenophobic men also happen to hold the positions of power. I believe it was just a handful of them that convinced the rest of their world that we were a terrible enemy?”

 

Thayla shook her head in disbelief, sighing.

 

“When it comes to charming males, there’s none better than those succubi. Plus, they can quite easily conceal their… inhuman form, mingle in society, and get close to their targets with ease.”

 

Things began to click in Serlov’s mind. “So, what, you bargain with the demons, and have them charm various leader in order to pacify the populations at large?”

 

The kitsune smiled. “Correct.”

 

“And what do the succubi get out of the deal?”

 

Thayla hesitated, as if she herself were not entirely comfortable with it. “We provide them with… ‘meals’ and shelter.”

 

It was the only logical answer – one she’d been thinking all along as soon as Thayla made mention of a plan. But that did not make it easier to hear it from the fox’s lips, nor was Serlov able to conceal her flash of anger.

 

“How is offering up sacrifices helping us? It goes against everything we stand for!”

 

“Does it?” Thayla responded with a bitter little smile. “I’ve given this considerable thought, and have spoken with others. Many agree that allowing the succubi to take a few men, roughly two a year per succubus, is far better…” She trailed off.

 

Something like anger, but not quite, began to contort her features. “Far better than allowing a handful of humans to throw away thousands upon thousands of lives in vain glory. Call us demons, will they? Call us abominations, will they? Do they not see the utter waste of fighting a losing war? One those fools started for no cause other than their own insufferable hubris?”

 

The lamia’s mouth hung slightly open; she couldn’t remember the last time Thayla let herself become emotional.

 

“We’d all expected them to realize the error of their ways when we turned aside their forces so quickly, so easily. When we showed mercy they’d never seen. When we them offered diplomacy and negotiations at every turn. And every time those that could prevent future battles simply ignored us!”

 

Her jaw was clenched hard after she finished speaking, yet her eyes were full of something akin to pity. She laughed again; a bitter, mocking laugh.

 

Serlov simply remained still and quiet.

 

“So! This is the best solution, don’t you agree? We settle the areas we’ve taken, and hold fast. We then send out the succubi to ‘convince’ the leaders of the world of men to lay down their arms and open up dialogues.”

 

Chewing her lip now, Serlov couldn’t deny the logic in the kitsune’s plan. Sacrifice a few to save the majority. It was logical, but it still didn’t sit well with her. To her, it felt like Thayla was treating the humans more as some sort… livestock. Working through her thoughts, something occurred to her.

 

“Don’t those demons do that already? Drain the life from men? Why do they want our help?”

 

Thayla closed her eyes for a moment, taking a deep breath and exhaling out some of her anger. “That’s why they’re nearly extinct. Eventually they get caught and killed. Any child they have will be born a succubus - wings, horn, tail and all that. Since the child cannot control their appearance, they need somewhere away from prying eyes to raise their offspring.” The elder kitsune paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts.

 

“The expansion of humanity across their planet has left precious few safe locations for succubi to gather. The woman who was in here, Amelia, is one of their longer-lived members, and has ties to most of the others still alive. She’s here as a liaison.”

 

Thus far, Serlov had been able to follow along. Except for one question that had been on her mind. “So, why capture us for all of this?”

 

The pair studied each other in the quiet of the room. Thayla then looked down for a moment, visibly frowning. She’d never given in to Serlov like this before.

 

“I heard Emrald managed to avoid capture. Smart girl, isn’t she? Takes after me, you know,” said Thayla, her expression softening. “Casey is the fellow she’s taken a shine to, correct?”

 

Cocking an eyebrow, Serlov wondered what she was getting at. “Yes… they’ve been a couple for a while now. Why do you ask?”

 

Meandering over to her chair, the elder fox collapsed into it. In stark contrast to the fiery politician that had been presented but minutes ago, she now appeared little more than a kindly old grandmother.

 

“Wondering if I’ll see a new generation with fresh blood,” she said with a tired laugh. “How close was she with that Casey fellow?”

 

Serlov’s eyes narrowed to slits. The reason for their capture had become evident. “Close,” she said, “Very close. The man she was so attached to – Casey, was shot acting in defense of her. She saved his life, and they became fond of each other. Inseparable, even. I have little doubt they love each other deeply. ”

 

She’d considered a terse response, but elected to expand on things for further effect. Judging from Thayla’s increasingly downcast expression, it was working as intended.

 

“The other three were fast becoming more than simple romantic partners as well,” Serlov finished.

 

Serlov’s words seemed to weigh heavily on Thayla, pressing her down into her seat with unusual gravity. “Do you suppose she’s pregnant yet?” she asked, quickly following up with “Don’t bother answering. Just thinking aloud…”

 

“You don’t want to hear that answer, do you? Hah! Let me say I would be very surprised if she wasn’t by now, Thayla Dirz. And, as such, by offering up Casey and all the others to that demon as a gift, you have assured Emrald will be raising her child alone.”

 

The lamia’s words bit hard. Thayla stared at Serlov, but said nothing further.

 

Slithering her way towards the door, she looked over her shoulder. “May I speak with my soldiers that were captured?”

 

Her words were met with dulled, green eyes. Thayla blinked heavily, holding her eyes closed for a moment. When they opened again, she appeared to be more or less calculating self. “You may, under the condition that you not provide any details or… attempt anything. I trust you will not take advantage of my leniency?”

 

“Yes. I just wish to make sure they’re well, and let them know I am fine.”

 

“Fine. I’ll send for you later. Keep what we’ve talked about in mind, Mirona.”

 

The lamia smiled, opening the door. “Oh, I will. Don’t worry.”

 

--

 

 

 

 

 

“What?! How could she do that?”

 

“Shh! Keep your voice down, Viole,” whispered Reia as harshly as she could manage.

 

“Er, sorry… but still, how could they sell us out like that? What about Marc? What’s going to happen to him? The rest of the them?”

 

What indeed, Serlov thought, closing her eyes for a moment. While she knew a succubus could control the amount of life force siphoned from someone during sex, she had little doubt the one called Amelia would simply drain the offerings to death.

 

Taking a breath, Serlov’s gaze met the eyes of the three women looking at her. Worry was clear on everyone’s face – even the normally stoic Reia.

 

“I have no idea when the succubus is going to… open her gifts, so the sooner we act the better. On my way here I passed a hallway that had guards posted around it. Seeing as how I didn’t see any others standing around, I figure that’s where all the men are being held.

 

Reia chewed on her lip. “How are we going to get out of here without raising an alarm?”

 

“Since I can come and go as I wish, we should probably use the window of opportunity when I go to leave this room,” Serlov said as she glanced towards the door.

 

During Serlov’s explanation of what was going on, Yvonne had been remarkably quiet – until now. With a mighty snort she cracked her knuckles and smashed her clawed fists together in front of her chest. “I’ll do whatever it takes!”

 

The brazen display from the usually sedate and happy wurm made Reia and Viole smirk; even Serlov allowed herself a momentary grin.

 

“So,” Reia began, “You get them to open the door, lash out or something when they’re off guard, then we swoop in – hopefully before you get shot?”

 

Serlov nodded. “That’s the gist of it. Not much we can do in this situation.”

 

She almost wished Emrald had been captured along with everyone else. Her magic would’ve been most useful here, though who knows if she wouldn’t be afforded ‘special’ treatment due to her relation to Thayla.

 

Glancing again at the door, a slight addition to her plan formed in her mind. Eying the size of three other women here, she thought Viole would be able to hide behind the door. It’d allow someone else to be fairly close; no doubt the guard that opened the door would make the others stand near or against the far wall.

 

There was also the question if the guard would notice the missing wolf-woman. Options were limited; it was better than nothing, she decided.

 

“This is going to be extremely dangerous. If you three are willing to take the risk we’ll go ahead with it. Otherwise, I’ll try to figure out something later.”

 

Unsurprisingly, the three soldiers under her command responded their agreement in an instant, almost in unison. .Serlov shook her head and smiled. Were they doing it simply to escape, or to rush to the aid of their… boyfriends. The word tumbled awkwardly in her mind, lingering in her coconsciousness longer than she’d have expected. Maybe she’d have to try acquiring one for herself in the future, she thought with an odd smile before driving the thought from her mind and quashing her grin.

 

“Okay, then,” Serlov started, “Viole, I want you behind the door for when it opens. You’re pretty quick, and hopefully they won’t notice you’re missing right away. When I act, I’ll need you to support me while we wait for Reia and Yvonne to rush in. It’s simple and stupid, but it’s about all I can come up with in short order.”

 

The trio nodded their approval.

 

“Reia and Yvonne, I want you two to start off as close to me as possible when I go to leave. The guard is probably going to tell you to back off, so just listen to her until she feels safe enough to let me through. Hopefully seeing you two comply with her will put her a bit more at ease.”

 

After another round of agreements, Serlov began slithering towards the door.

 

The minotaur and wurm followed close behind, and the wolf scampered over to the door’s shadow.

 

Serlov paused for a moment before knocking on the door, considering the consequences of what she was about to do again. She’d made the decision to attempt a breakout as soon as she’d learned that Thayla offered up her men – her soldiers, to the succubus.

 

Though not officially in the chain of command, military personnel were expected to defer to Representatives in non-combat situations. There was a very real possibility she could be charged with insubordination – or worse, if Thayla presented herself and had to be dealt with. A tribunal probably wouldn’t charge her when she was acting in the best interests of her troops, especially when they were kidnapped and offered up as sacrifices. But, they could be sticklers for protocol and adhering to the letter of the law, and politics would be a powerful force in the aftermath of all this.

 

It took her only a scant second to reach a conclusion. Lives were more important than her career.

 

She knocked on the door.

 

The lock clacked, and the door swung partially open. A guard stuck her head in. “What, are you done in there?”

 

“Yes, for the time being,” Serlov responded.

 

This guard – a powerful looking sphinx – would most likely the most difficult to deal with. Even should the automatic rifle slung over her shoulder be taken out of action, she still possessed powerful curse-magic that could easily disable one or two people if she had time to perform any incantations. She’d have to be the priority target. How fortuitous she would be the one to open the door.

 

The sphinx glanced around the room, then narrowed her vision settled on Reia and Yvonne. “You two, against the wall over there. And where’s the third? The wolf?”

 

Viole’s voice called out from behind the door. “Ah, sorry, call of nature…”

 

Serlov bit her lip. They had used a bucket for a toilet, but would the guard remember which corner they put it in?

 

Grunting, the sphinx seemed satisfied with the response, then began to open the door all the way once the other two were against the wall.

 

There were two other guards present in the hallway - a lithe lizardwoman and a stocky oni. The lizardwoman had been the same one that escorted her from Thayla’s room.

 

As Serlov slithered forward, a most opportune moment presented itself as the pair crossed into the hallway. The sphinx had turned around instead of backing up to keep her eye on the lamia. An opportunity born of those not accustomed to the boring routine of guard duty.

 

Her powerful tail lashed out at the same moment she let out a shout. As Serlov’s muscular snake-half slammed the unaware sphinx to the ground, Viole had dashed from behind the door in a low crouch, practically on all fours.

 

Vaulting over the fallen sphinx, the wolf gathered the attention of the remaining two guards as she bore down upon them. They made to draw their weapons, but Viole dashed across the gap before they could squeeze the triggers.

 

Arms outstretched, she tackled the lizardwoman, throwing the pair to the ground in a tangled heap.

 

Rifle pointed at the two, the oni hesitated to fire, instead watching as the wolf and lizard fought for control of the rifle that clattered to the ground.

 

Taking her eyes off the doorway had been a mistake, as while she focused on the wolf and her comrade, Reia had managed to sprint forward, blowing past Serlov and out into the hallway, straight towards the single-horned woman.

 

The oni caught movement out of the corner of her eye, but it was too late – she only caught a glimpse of a massive fist as it smashed heavily into the side of her head, spinning her around and dropping her to the ground. A pained yelp echoed through the hall, snapping Reia and Serlov’s attention to the scuffle that had been taking place on the floor.

 

Viole was clutching her stomach, curled up and immobile.

 

The lizardwoman had rolled into a crouch away from everyone, and began to stand up, bloody knife held in her claw. Letting out an angry growl, Reia took a heavy, power stride towards the remaining opponent. Reptillian eyes caught her movement, and the guard dropped to a knee, switching her grip on the knife in preparation for the onrushing minotaur. Reia saw the knife poised to lash out at her legs, but there was no chance she could stop herself in time.

 

In a purple flash, something lashed out and slammed the lizardwoman’s claw into the ground, wringing the knife from her grasp. The tip of a tail rested momentarily on her arm before it was withdrawn with the same speed with which it had struck.

 

She glared harshly at Serlov. Until Reia brought her knee square into her cheek.

 

The guard’s eyes glazed as the bones in her face fractured from the impact, then closed as her body snapped backwards onto the floor. The minotaur’s momentum carried her forward some distance, the awkward attack causing her to tumble to the ground and slide across the linoleum.

 

Serlov noticed movement in her peripheral; the oni was attempting to stand, staggering on unsteady legs. Whipping out again, she bowled the oni over by sweeping her legs out from underneath her. Her head cracked harshly against the ground, and then she lay still.

 

She probably wouldn’t be waking up any time soon.

 

With the lizard and oni dispatched, Serlov turned about.

 

The sphinx was glaring contemptuously at her and Yvonee, firmly within the wurm’s coils. Not nearly as fast as the minotaur, she’d taken it upon herself to constrict the sphinx so that Serlov could freely aid Reia.

 

Yvonne’s attention was glued to Viole as she continued to roll and shudder on the floor, holding her mid-section tight as blood began to pool around her, streaking the floor red as she squirmed. Turning to face the sphinx, Yvonne wrapped her claws around the lionwoman’s shoulders as Reia and Serlov both rushed to the fallen wolf.

 

“Medical supplies! Where are your medical supplies?!” The wurm demanded, her eyes flashing with anger.

 

The sphinx simply snorted.

 

Reia knelt down besides Viole, rolling her onto her back. The wolf’s eyes opened, and a bloody paw shot up to hold onto the minotaur’s arm. “I’m… I’m sorry…” she whispered harshly, keeping her other paw on the wound. “She got me…”

 

“You don’t have shit to be sorry for,” she replied as calmly as she could, bringing the wolf’s knees up.

 

Serlov approached with a shirt she stripped off the fallen oni. “Rip it in half, top and bottom,” she said as she tossed the garment to Reia.

 

Lowering herself on the other side of the wolf, she lifted Viole’s paw from the wound, then undid her uniform to completely expose the damage. Looked like a clean wound, and nothing was hanging out, though it was bleeding fiercely.

 

“Ball up the bottom half, and we’ll use the sleeves to tie it in place,” she said, looking up at Reia. Turning to Viole, she laid a hand atop the wolf’s paw. “This is going to be one shitty bandage, and it’s probably going to hurt like hell. Just bear with it, okay?”

 

“Hah, okay Colonel,” Viole gasped.

 

Reia placed the wadded up section of cloth against the wound, then lifted the small of her back just enough to slip the sleeve of the tattered uniform underneath. Serlov picked up the end, handing it over to the minotaur. Tying over the make-shift bandage, she slowly drew it tighter and tighter, wincing as Viole cried out in pain.

 

While they had been tending to Viole’s wound, Yvonne had kept up her demand of the sphinx, increasing the tightness of her coils bit by bit, choking the air from the guard. “Where. Are. Your. Bandages?” She hissed, her face inches from the sphinx’.

 

The sphinx gasped in short bursts, barely able to breath in at all. Her face was becoming increasingly pale, and her eyes were beginning to fade out.

 

“Yvonne! Are you trying to kill her?!” Serlov shouted, slithering over to the wurm.

 

Yvonne narrowed her eyes momentarily as she stared angrily at the sphind before she obeyed and loosened her binding.

 

Somewhat freed from her constrictive grasp, the sphinx began gasping and coughing as air was finally allowed to into her lungs.

 

Serlov approached slowly, purposefully, until her face was very near the sphinx’. “My soldier here is going to die,” she began, keeping her voice even and calm. “We have left you all alive. Will you not extend us a similar courtesy? I’ve no wish for anyone to die this day.”

 

The sphinx focused on the lamia as she spoke, then glanced at her fallen allies. They were alive, though not in the best of shape. Her amber eyes then lingered on the bloody wolf, her paw clinging tightly to the minotaur as she took labored breaths.

 

“A bandage and a vial of morphine are not going to save her,” she said in a hoarse voice, cringing as she spoke.

 

Serlov’s expression clouded. “Yes, I am aware she will need a doctor. Unless you are willing to provide one, I will settle for whatever aid is available – even a wound sealant would be a boon.”

 

Shifting within the Yvonne’s grasp, the sphinx met Serlov’s stare for a few seconds. “…We have a few medical kits in our vehicles outside, but no medics. Or doctors.”

 

The building had to have some sort of area with first-aid supplies, but they likely wouldn’t be sufficient to deal with a wound as severe as Viole’s. Serlov had no choice, really, she’d need to get to their trucks and hope the kits had what she needed.

 

Serlov cursed silently as other questions percolated in her mind. “By the way, where are we?”

 

Averting her eyes, the sphinx remained quiet, until a gentle squeeze from Yvonne provided the necessary motivation. “One… one of the UF party offices… in Finzbour,” she coughed out.

 

Gears in Serlov’s mind began to turn. They weren’t far from the city that housed the portal to the human world – along with the garrison stationed there. It’d be about a 45 minute drive, if they could steal a truck. Of course, the question was if Viole could make it that long. Gut wounds could be fatal in a few minutes or they could survive for hours. She had no idea how severe the injury was, though Viole was still lucid; that probably meant an artery or large vein hadn’t been severed.

 

No matter what, however ,time was ticking for the wolf. They also needed to get to the men quickly, lest the succubus consume them. Was it possible to save the men and ensure Viole made it to a doctor?

 

“…If we, or you, called an ambulance, would you allow them to transport her to a hospital for treatment?”

 

The sphinx looked down, and shrugged as best as she was able. “I don’t know. Anything I could say or agree to wouldn’t mean anything. I’m not in command here.”

 

“Then who is?” Serlov asked, crossing her arms.

 

“Representative Dirz is, technically. Though Lieutenant Lykone is acting commander of those stationed here.”

 

“Who’s Lykone?”

 

“A Jinko, if that’s what you’re asking. And I’m not sure where she would be at, to answer your next question.”

 

Smart sphinx, Serlov thought.

 

What were her options, now? She’d have to leave Viole behind to find the men, free them, and then force Thayla or Lykone to allow an ambulance entry . But, she could ill-afford to leave someone behind to tend to the wolf.

 

Just as she was about to make a decision, Viole’s voice crackled. “Go save ‘em, Colonel,” she coughed, motioning for Reia to sit her up. “I sure as fuck ain’t feeling too great right now, but I’m still thinkin’ and I’m still warm. Just prop me against a wall, give me a gun, and I’ll make sure they don’t go anywhere.” Her voiced was tinged with pain and her words came in gasps, but she still managed to put on a devilish smirk as she spoke.

 

“Are you sure…? Wait, no, that one’s magic,” Serlov said, thrusting a finger at the sphinx, “is ideal against lone targets. Wouldn’t work.”

 

 “Ah, it’s not instant, right? Soon as I feel a tingle anywhere I’ll just shoot her,” Viole said, winking at the sphinx. “We’ll be best of friends, won’t we?”

 

The sphinx said nothing, instead she simply regarded Viole warily.

 

“You can’t be serious…?” Reia chimed in, still holding her comrade upright. Through her breath she could feel her ragged breath. The bandage was beginning to show signs of soaking through with blood as well.

 

The bloody wolf simply gave a pained smile, closing one of her eyes momentarily. “Very serious. You guys have a job to do. Can’t be fussing over my stabbed ass.”

 

Serlov frowned. It was the best choice when she thought about it logically. But, leaving someone behind, even as a temporary measure, was tantamount to abandoning them as far as she was concerned.

 

“Colonel,” came Viole’s quiet voice, her smile fading.

 

“…Fine. We’ll be coming back to get you, and we’ll be bringing back Marc as well. Let’s get her situated…”

 

Serlov and Yvonne carried the two unconscious guards into the storage room and bound them with their own clothing. Breaking the legs off a table for a makeshift stretcher, they lifted the wounded Viole onto it and brought her into the room. Wadding up what little soft material was left, they propped her up against a wall.

 

Fortunately one of the guards had a handgun, leaving all three rifles for use by Serlov, Reia, and Yvonne. Not that Viole could likely fire a rifle in her condition, anyways.

 

After tying up the sphinx, they deposited her in front of the bloodied wolf.

 

“Go get ‘em, guys,” Viole said as cheerfully as she could manage. “I’ll make sure she stays put.”

 

“Don’t do anything stupid,” Reia replied as she closed the door to the storage room, flashing her own grin.

 

The remaining three then set off through the halls towards where Serlov had seen the other guards.

 

--

 

Peeking around a corner, Reia spotted a pair of guards milling about in front of one particular hallway at a large four-way juncture. While they were certainly inattentive, the distance from the corner to them was simply too great to be able to sprint across without being noticed. As much as she wished to avoid needless killing, there weren’t any alternatives.

 

Tucking in, she told Serlov of what she saw, along with her recommendation of how to resolve the situation.

 

Her commander nodded. “We’ve got a job to do, and we need to get it done fast.”

 

Switching off the safety, Reia brought the rifle up to her cheek as she swung around and took aim. A brief staccato cracked through the nearly-empty halls, the minotaur double-tapping both guards. The first woman dropped, probably without seeing or hearing a thing, and the second was dealt with long before she could even ready her weapon.

 

Reia rushed forward, covered by Serlov and Yvonne as they took positions around the corner, looking down the other hallways for anyone approaching. After Reia checked the fallen guards for life signs and confirmed they’d no longer be a threat, she signaled to the serpentine pair.

 

“There’s quite a few doors down this way,” Serlov said as she studied the walls on either side of the hall the guards had been posted at. “This is going to take some time to-“ She cut herself short as a door at the far end opened, someone stepping out.

 

Serlov brought her sights up, and studied the target. Confirming it wasn’t human, Serlov dispatched the woman – something with four legs, looked like a centaur – in a short burst of fire. “Six down,” she breathed out. If a lieutenant was in command, chances are there wouldn’t be too many more mercenaries around. Or so she hoped.

 

“Each of you take a side and start sweeping those rooms,” she yelled.

 

Reia and Yvonne grunted their acknowledgements, and split up on either side. Reia hammered the first door open with a mighty blow from her hooved foot, nearly knocking it off its hinge in the process. Her gun and eyes searched the room, but failed to find anyone.

 

Glancing back to Serlov, she shook her head and took off towards the next door.

 

Yvonne had to hold her rifle one-armed, using the other to spear through the door, splintering the top half apart as her powerful claw tore through the wood with ease.

 

“Clear!” She yelled, slithering quickly along to the next room.

 

Proceeding up the center, alternating between watching behind and in front, Serlov covered the other two as they each battered open another set of doors. Again, the rooms were empty save for typical office furniture.

 

There were at least a dozen rooms along each side of the hall, as well as the room that was at the end of the corridor from which the centaur had emerged. Serlov’s thoughts and eyes lingered on the doorway.

 

No one else appeared to be leaving the room, but that didn’t mean it was safe – not like people would be rushing out once they witnessed someone gunned down.

 

“Hold for a minute,” Serlov yelled, “I’m going to check the room at the far end.”

 

The minotaur and wurm halted their room-to-room search, now on three rooms apiece, and watched in the direction from which they’d entered the hallway.

 

Holding her back against the wall, the doorway less than an arm’s length away, she stared down at the centaur that had spilled across the floor. Most of her had fallen into the hallway; her face was nearly touching Serlov.

 

The centaur was certainly a young girl; probably hadn’t been with the mercenary unit for long. Four rounds had pierced her, starting from her horse-half going up towards her heart. She thought her days of killing those from the same world were over. With a sigh, she bent down and closed the woman’s eyes.

 

Straightening herself and then taking a deep breath, she inched closer to the entryway. Readying her rifle she then sprung sideways, using her coiled body like a power spring. The barrel of her gun swept back and forth in-sync with her vision. Her eyes found two pairs staring back, but they did not belong to anyone holding a weapon. Nor did they belong to anyone with a feminine face.

 

Hands bound and seated upon the floor were two of the men. Marc and Alex.

 

“Colonel!” Marc shouted as they both stood upon seeing Serlov.

 

“Glad to see you two are okay… we’re still searching for the others. Do you know where they are?”

 

“No idea, Colonel,” Alex responded. “They’ve been keepin’ us in here, haulin’ us off one-by-one… don’t know where.”

 

Serlov turned from the two to search the centaur for a key. “Well, we’re searching all the rooms down the hall… I figure they’ve got to be in one of them,” she said, patting the various pouches on the fallen woman’s fatigues.

 

Marc and Alex stooped down as well, checking as best as they were able with their cuffed hands.

 

“Nothing, huh? Wonder who has the key,” Serlov said, looking down the hall. Yvonne and Reia kept glancing backwards; Yvonne especially seemed to want to dash over as fast as she could.

 

“Right, well, keep your heads down – stay in here while we check the rest of the rooms.”

 

“Got it,” said Marc, ducking back into the room. Alex cast a long glance at Yvonne, then nodded and darted inside as well.

 

“Alright, back to checking!” Serlov yelled, heading back down the hall.

 

At her signal Reia and Yvonne resumed their search, making their way up the wide, brightly lit corridor. Room after room was the same as those they checked before.

 

Serlov was beginning to think that the others had been taken elsewhere. Until Yvonne yelled.

 

“Colonel!...Come… Come look…It’s…”

 

Inside the room, there was a familiar face - though he was slumped down onto the floor. Some of his clothing had been removed, revealing pale flesh. Serlov slid past Yvonne into the room, next to the man. He was still breathing, and his pulse was weak, but stable. Glancing up towards the ceiling, Serlov noted one of the ceiling tiles had been pushed aside.

 

She reached down, holding a hand on Casey’s bared chest, feeling his slow, weary heartbeat. Opening one of his eyes, his pupil was almost entirely dilated. There were no obvious wounds, and not even a day ago he was vibrant and full of life. Now, he appeared to be at death’s doorstep.

 

Her speculation on Casey’s condition was cut short by an angry shout.

 

“That fucking cunt!” came Reia’s voice, shortly after she’d forced open another door.

 

Serlov breathed heavily through her nose. “…Heft him onto the table for now, and… try to put his pants back on,” she said quietly to Yvonne before heading back out into the corridor and into the newly-opened room.

 

Contained within was a similar scene, though any signs of life were absent. His ghostly pallor was even more severe, and his naked form made his absolute stillness readily apparent. Before Serlov could say anything, Reia dashed out and began forcing her way into the remainder of the rooms in a panicked frenzy.

 

They likely shared the same thought regarding the well-being of the rest of the men.

 

Door after door was brought down, each one revealing the body of someone they knew. Four were confirmed deceased – Peter, Emil, Greg, and Louis. Only one man remained.

 

Standing in front of the last and final entryway, Reia simply stared forward, her body drained of its fire. There was little chance of anyone aside from Tomas being in the room. Serlov gently pushed the minotaur aside and tested the handle.

 

Inside was what she’d imagined. The lamia moved in to make her confirmation, placing a pair of finger against his neck. To her surprise he was not as cool as the others, and there was the barest hint of a pulse, along with the shallowest of breaths. Perhaps the large man simply had more than the succubus could take in a single meal?

 

Serlov felt a presence behind her, and glanced over her shoulder. Reia had crept in quietly, looming over the lamia.

 

“Is he…?”

 

“No. He’s alive, if only just,” replied Serlov, removing her fingers from his neck.

 

Moving aside for the minotaur, Reia carefully lifted his body and set him atop the desk, and then began picking up the uniform that’d been strewn across the floor. Entirely silent and calm, she began to dress him with a gentle touch Serlov had never witnessed from the powerful woman as she left the room.

 

Out in the hallway, she sighed as Yvonne approached. Then, shadows at the far end of the hallway jumped to her attention. But, it was too late to even attempt to get into cover or pull her weapon from her shoulder. Six barrels were pointed at them, ready to spit death should either of them make an errant movement.

 

“Yvonne, don’t move,” Serlov said calmly, almost plainly, looking over the wurm’s shoulder. “I got careless.”

 

--

 

Arms crossed tight and her large ears flicking back and forth restlessly, Emrald grumbled to herself inside the little 4x4. She had to keep telling herself that it was fortunate she was being allowed to tag along, but the slow, almost crawling pace was setting her nerves on edge.

 

General Jurai had proven to be someone she could trust, but was hesitant to allow Emrald to go along with the search and rescue party. She’d finally given in when the ornery kitsune refused to take no for an answer, stating the importance of her comrades, and, somewhat bashfully, her lover. Eventually, after pleading her case in all manner of ways, Jurai finally capitulated and granted her wish.

 

After organizing the mission, Jurai herself had departed for the military operations center to assemble a formal inquiry into the matters of the UF. The missing men had caused quite a stir throughout the world; relations between political parties that had just begun to warm were again fractured as each sought to blame the other.

 

Now, at the airfield where the helicopters had supposed landed, Emrald was almost wishing she’d gone with the general. She had been ordered to remain something like a passive observer while Major Dyseth had been appointed commander of the mission, as well as the kitsune’s chaperone to ensure she behaved herself and stayed out of trouble.

 

Shielding her eyes from the bright sunlight, Emrald focused her gaze on the major. She was speaking with the last of the locals here as the remainder of the soldiers piled back into the trucks. They’d spent nearly an hour here already, questioning practically every single person within a large radius. Thus far, everyone they’d spoken with had confirmed that a small convoy of trucks, all bearing the markings of the mercenary company that’d conducted the operation, had left, heading northwest. It narrowed down the list of possible holding locations provided by Jurai significantly, but there were still at least half facilities to check on.

 

Unfortunately, they would still have to investigate them one by one the hard way – in person. It would be a tiresome process, and likely go until nightfall, but Emrald had a feeling she’d find her comrades.

 

And a feeling that something terrible was unfolding.