The Soul Touch

"Xelloss..."

The trickster priest smiled his usual grin at the crimson haired woman laying on the bed, the sheets covered with her splattered blood. "Now Miss Lina, this will only take me a moment. It is a good thing we discussed everything ahead of time, I fear you would not have enough life left in you to state all your terms..."

Lina Inverse glared through her weak eyes. "... Just... Shut the hell up... And get on with it." she coughed, a bit more of the red liquid escaped from her mouth.

Xelloss waved his forefinger, leaning his head close as he placed the finger upon her lips. "I will not allow L-sama to claim your soul, Lina-chan." his Mazoku eyes slowly opening, piercing through her as death was creeping closer. "... For it belongs to me." he placed a violet jewel into her hand, and the world exploded in black sparks of magic. "Now, let's go save your sister shall we?"

******** Two Days Earlier ********

One of the great temple shrines of Cepheid was crumbling down by a deep crimson haired woman standing, watching as it came down. "... Still running out of time..." Luna Inverse hissed.

"My, my, my... What happened here looks like somebody's having fun." The voice loomed from a black shadow above.

"Get lost, Xelloss." growled the Knight of Cepheid.

A black tornado came from the shadow and touched down to the ground, it slowly took the known form of the priest Xelloss standing before her. "I'm afraid I'm here on orders. Your recent actions are stirring up some questions in the monster realm."

"Tell Beastmaster to mind her damn business." Luna spat.

"Well I'll tell her you said that, but that doesn't satisfy my curiosity." Xelloss spoke, slowly opening a single violet eye. "Since when did you turn on Cepheid?"

"You really want to know, priest?" she grinned a bit, then reached out and grabbed his hand.

The burning sensation of holy magic pierced through his Astral Form. He quickly jerked out of her grasp, black smoke escaping from where she had grabbed, turning part of his arm black like the color of his true form. "... If you were cross with me, you merely had to say." he said in a mocking tone.

"Are you really that stupid or a glutton for punishment?" Luna growled, her eye twitching under the hair that covered them.

"That, would be a secret!" Xelloss waved a finger with a chuckle, then his face hardened. "... I knew this day would come, I had wondered why you turned Filia down... How long until...?"

"... I don't know." she merely answered.

"Does Lina...?" the priest began, and immediately was silenced by the powerful had at his throat, her fingers burning through.

"Bring her into this, and I will kill you myself, priest." Luna growled, tightening her grip as her magic flowed and continued to damage his form. "I know the Mazoku already have her on their radar, this is my problem." she slowly let go and turned around. "Just remember our bargain."

"Oh I have not forgotten, but I must say some things have changed since I met your darling little sister." Xelloss mused, opening both eyes with a smirk. "And I know Lord Beastmaster will be ordering me to see her again soon."

Luna turned to face him. "... If it is anything like what Hellmaster wanted tell her I-"

Xelloss raised a hand to silence her. "No. My mistress has no intention of summoning the Golden Lord. She only wishes to help balance the scales of power back to normal, as the monster race has taken a dive with losing 2 lords already." he shrugged. "Though the Demon Dragon King and Hellmaster got too greedy I'd say."

"What is she planning then?" Luna asked quietly.

"That-"

"Is a secert." Luna had cut him off, which made the priest pout just a bit. "It can't be good if she's keeping it from you."

"Well, it wouldn't be the first time." Xelloss rubbed the back of his neck. "But I have my theories."

"Will she threaten Lina's life in anyway?" the Knight of Cehpeid pressed.

"No, she wouldn't dare." Xelloss said this a little too darkly. "... But I think Dynast and Dolphin might."

"I wouldn't put it past those two." Luna shook her head. "... Do you need me to come with?"

Xelloss waved his staff as he shook his head. "You are quite busy on your own, Miss Luna. But if I may, where are you headed next?"

"... Seyruun."

“I have returned, Lord Beast Master.” Xelloss arrived in the throne room of his mistress on Wolfpack Island on his knee in a bow.

“Excellent.” Said Zelas Metallium, the Greater Beast, as she sat in her chair. She had short spiky orange hair with wolf ears and amethyst Mazoku eyes. Her build was extremely slim wearing a purple one piece suit with a black vest. She blew a puff of smoke from the cigarette in her mouth. “Report.”

“The rumors are true… Cepheid is on the brink of manifestation.” He lifted his head to show the damage on his neck from where Luna grabbed him. “His powers are flowing like mad out of the Cepheid Knight, it may not be long before he resurrects through her.”

“Then we have a problem.” Zelas spoke as she held her cigarette in her hand. “If she cannot get the Flare Lord to reject her, we will need the power to get him out of her.”

Xelloss looked up at his mistress, his amethyst orbs opened wide. “… My lord… You aren’t suggesting that we…?”

“I already know Dynast and Deep Sea Dolphin are considering it, it would be best if we offer her first.” Zelas stood up and placed a hand on her hip. “And by we, I mean you, pup. Lina Inverse does seem a little attached to you, you might be able to convince her.”

“… She will not accept the pledge easily, my mistress…” Xelloss lowered his head, not moving from his bow. “She will only take the best offer that will benefit her. Though I do think that she will do anything to spare her sister’s life.”

The Greater Beast rubbed her chin. “… Very well then, you have my permission to proceed with your suggestion from before. Just make sure you don’t promise too much, my pup.” She reached out a hand, slowly brushing her fingers through his violet hair.

“I will only offer what you have approved of, Lord Beast Master.” Xelloss replied. “If I can offer her this before Dynast and Dolphin do, their interference might aid in her swaying to our offer.”

“… Or succeed where we fail.” Zelas added. “Or worse… We all lose and they destroy her. I know Dynast, he won’t take a refusal lightly… He might be stupid enough to kill her out of rage, if she doesn’t cast the Giga Slave before then.”

“Then I best hurry, mistress.” Xelloss slowly stood.

“One more thing, my son.” The Greater Beast still had her hand on his head. “Don’t let that taint waste you, I put far too much into making you. Sometimes I curse our nature, and sometimes I really wish I hadn’t loaned you out to Phibrizzo and you met that woman. What is it about her that appeals to you? To the degree you’re willing to do this?”

The priest closed his eyes and smiled. “Ahhh mother, that would be a secret… One that you very well know the answer to.” With that he shifted to the Astral Plane, leaving the Greater Beast to just stare as she took another puff from her cigarette.

“… I just hope your Soul Touch doesn’t drive you to insanity, my Xelloss…”

“Bring on the next course!” shout Lina Inverse as she slammed her fist on the table, while fighting her traveling companion Gourry Gabriev for the last piece of meat on the table.

“Seriously Amelia, sometimes I wonder why you foot the bill for these two at times.” Grumbled Zelgadis Graywords, sitting back in his chair to get far enough away from the brawl.

Amelia Wil Tesla Seyruun shivered in her seat. “Miss Lina is far too scary when she doesn’t get a meal, I’d hate to see what she’d do to get the money for food otherwise.”

Sylphiel Nels Lahda rubbed her head as she sat at the furthest chair from the group. “I see not much has changed in the past year, Miss Lina and Dear Gourry still fight for their meals…” she sweatdropped. “I’m glad I ran into you on the way to Seyruun.”

“How are things going with rebuilding Sairaag?” Zelgadis asked.

“Very well actually, I did put a few things on hold to help Prince Pokota with Tarforashia and now the people of there are assisting me.” Sylphiel said with a smile. “Along with the help from Seyruun.”

“Is that why you’re on your way there Ms. Sylphiel?” Amelia asked, sweatdropping as the waiter brought in another tray of food and Lina nearly ripped it from his hands.

“Actually no, your father sent for me.” Sylphiel shrugged slightly. “He said he might be in need of my help as there have been several shrines to Cepheid been targeted as of lately.”

“Isn’t. *Much* That. *Chew* Why. *Growl* Phil. *Chomp* Asked for me?” Lina spoke with her mouth full of food, grinning victoriously with her foot in Gourry’s face.

Sylphiel blinked a few times. “He asked for Miss Lina?”

Amelia nodded. “Daddy thinks the shrine in Seyruun is a target, already 6 shrines across the globe have been destroyed in the past year alone.”

“We can’t figure out who or what is doing this unless we investigate, but odds are it’s probably the monster race up to their tricks again.” Zelgadis said with his arms crossed. “… Which probably means we’ll be seeing-“

“Oh dear, Mr. Zelgadis are you often into accusing someone before having any evidence on hand?” a very familiar voice echoed in the room.

“… Speak of the devil.” The chimera hissed, rising from his chair. “Show yourself you bastard!”

“Hello everyone.” There was a purple flash at a chair just a few inches away from the group, and there appeared Xelloss, a cup of tea in his hand that he took a sip from. “Always have such a warm welcome for me, don’t you Mr. Zelgadis?”

“Mr. Xelloss!” Amelia cried.

“It’s you.” Sylphiel gasped.

Gourry finally lifted his head and spoke. “…. Who’s that?”

Lina though, finished the bit of chicken in her hand and glared at the Mazoku before them. “… What are you doing here, Xelloss? What the hell does the monster race want from me this time?”

“Oh dear, Miss Lina whatever makes you think I can’t just drop by and see you?” Xelloss asked with a clearly fake cheerful expression. It would be too suspicious if he just got to the point anyway.

“Well let's see, every time I see you you're either trying to make me doing something for you, or you're trying to kill me!” Lina spat at him, slamming her fist on the table.

“Now, now Miss Lina no hard feelings... Remember I was under orders to offer your life to Valgaav that one time.” Xelloss waved a hand carelessly. “I myself have never truly chosen to try and take your life. And as for our last encounter, my mistress had my lips sealed involving the shadow of Lord Ruby Eye.” He opened one amethyst eye with a smirk. “And don’t I get a thank you for protecting your group? While it may had been a shadow of the Dark Lord it nearly wiped me from existence.”

Lina’s eye twitched. “Yeah suuuurreee, I’ll give you a thanks. Give me 2 minutes to chant the Ragna Blade as I cut you into pieces and stuff you down Gourry’s throat!”

“… What do monsters taste like though?” Gourry asked, tilting his head to the side.

Xelloss chuckled, this was why he always enjoyed their company. Lina was constantly an explosive amount of negative energy as she was easy to set off, just spending a few moments with her was enough to power him for weeks without much effort… Then if he assisted in making her angry or frustrated it made it all the better. “Besides had Valgaav taken me up on that offer, I omitted the very reason why I would have gladly killed you, because I would have turned you into a Mazoku!” he added out of the blue.

Lina just glared daggers him, her fist tightened. “… You would have turned me into a damn MONSTER?!?”

Her rage was as delicious as ever. Xelloss had a wide smirk on his face as he took in her emotions. “Of course, since I could never refuse an order from my mistress, the only other option would be to turn you into a Mazoku as I’d have to kill you to do that. That way I still wouldn’t have been disobeying orders, and you’d still be alive.” He shrugged as if this option was perfectly normal.

“Get to the point, Xelloss.” Zelgadis hissed. “What the hell are you here for already?”

“Ever impatient…” the Mazoku pursed his lips. “While you are correct I am here on business from Lord Beast Master… My business here is with Miss Lina, not with any of you.”

Lina narrowed her eyes at this. “What does the monster race want with me now?” she had never met the Greater Beast Zelas, but she suspected the creator of Xelloss just had to be just as bad… Or worse. After all she already had met 2 out of the 5 lords, somehow in the back of her mind she knew it wasn’t going to be over yet.

“Does it have anything to do with the shrines?” Sylphiel suddenly spoke up. “… You wouldn’t think of trying to make Miss Lina destroy them for you?!”

“Nonsense, if we wanted them destroyed we’d do it ourselves.” Xelloss waved a hand carelessly. “In fact we of the monster race have nothing to do with that incident, but we are interested.”

“WHAT?!?” the whole group shouted in surprise.

“Ok now I know he’s lying!” Zelgadis hissed.

Lina shook her head, calmly closing her eyes. “… No, despite his damn secrets Xelloss usually doesn’t outright lie… But, you do know who’s responsible, don’t you?” she opened one crimson eye to look at the Mazoku.

Xelloss nodded. “Correct. And while it’s not the main reason I’m coming to you now, it is a factor into the reason my mistress has sent me.”

“You know who?” Sylphiel gasped. “Who is doing such a vile thing?”

Xelloss chuckled and waved his index finger. “Now that is a secret!”

“…. Saw that coming.” Lina grumbled. “So get on with it Xelloss, what are you here for?”

“Well as you know Lina, due to recent events and the Monster Lords falling slowly in power, you're obviously on both the most wanted to join our race list, and also most wanted dead… So Lord Beast Master wishes to make you an offer before the remaining lords either decide to try to destroy you or make you join them…” Xelloss slowly opened his eyes as he spoke, his amethyst orbs staring right at her. Everytime he opened those eyes it often sent a shiver down Lina’s spine, because they showed the true nature of the Mazoku… But that also meant whatever he was going to say next was very serious…

“… So what exactly did Zelas send you to offer me?” Lina asked, arching her eyebrow.

The purple haired Mazoku smiled. “I’ve come to offer you The Pledge of Immortality, Lina Inverse.”

“M-Miss Lina! Please! Hear me out!!!” Xelloss gasped as Lina Inverse had him in a choke hold, wrestling him on the floor after she sprang out in a furious rage from his offer.

“WHAT KIND OF A FRUITCAKE ARE YOU??? YOU HAD TO HAVE KNOW I TURNED DOWN SEIGRAM’S IDIOTIC OFFER!!!” Lina screamed into his ear, her arms so tight around his throat had he been human she would have broke his neck. “This had better be a BAD JOKE Xelloss or I swear I’m gonna kick your ass worse than Valgaav and Gaav put together did to you!”

“B-but I don’t mean it in the same way Seigram offered!” Xelloss squirmed, his eyes closed. “Y-you don’t understand there’s so much more on the line this-GAH!” she had punched him with a Visfarank.

“Lina would never make a deal with a monster! Mr. Xelloss you should know better than that!” Amelia growled, glaring down at the Mazoku.

“Well, I don’t know about that… I mean if they offered her enough I’m sure they could temp her into considering it….” Zelgadis mumbled.

“Can I ask something?” Gourry spoke up.

“What is it, Gourry dear?” Sylphiel looked at him confused.

“…. What’s this Pledge of Immortality thing again?” the blonde asked, making everyone in the room sweatdrop.

“STUPID JELLYFISH BRAINS!” Lina snarled and hurled a Fireball that he quickly dodged.

“Mr. Gourry how could you forget about that?” Amelia cried.

“Well it sounds familiar, but I can’t place my finger on it…” Gourry rubbed his head as he came back up from hiding under the table.

“Basically I am asking Ms. Lina to pledge herself to Lord Beast Master for immortality and other compenstations.” Xelloss chimed in, seeming unfazed now by Lina’s arms still around his throat. “Besides, haven’t you ever heard of don’t kill the messenger?” he opened his eyes about half way.

Lina twisted her mouth into a frown, then slowly released him. “Guess you have a point, you were ordered to offer it to me. It’s not like Zelas might have listened to you if you told her I’d turn her down.”

“Which in fact, I did.” The Mazoku admitted bluntly. “Her first offer was clearly just to ask you to join us, and I warned her that would only get me a Dragon Slave to the face.”

“Well I’m glad you’ve paid attention at least.” The sorceress smirked, her hands on her hips. “… But what does Zelas want with me anyway?”

“Hmmm… Well that…” Xelloss closed one eye, waving his index finger. “… Is a secret!”

An anger vain popped on Lina’s forehead. “Darkness beyond twilight… Crimson beyond-“

“WHOA WHOA MISS LINA PLEASE!” Xelloss waved his arms frantically, both amethyst eyes wide open. “What I meant was it’s a secret to everyone else in this room!” he extended his arm to the group still at the table. “As I stated before my business is with you and you alone. Mistress Beast Master does not wish me to reveal everything to your comrades just yet.”

“Get lost Xelloss.” Zelgadis growled. “Lina already turned you down, and if you’re hiding the very reason for her to join it has to be a bad one.”

“Zel’s right, you monsters are obviously up to something and I don’t feel like being a pawn in your games this time.” Lina hissed, turning her back to him. “Now run back to your master and tell her my answer is no.”

Xelloss sighed and closed his eyes, shaking his head. “Miss Lina, I really think you should hear me out…”

“Not hearing ya.” The crimson haired sorceress started walking away.

Xelloss grit his teeth, at this rate he was going to lose her… He had no choice, he had to reveal some sort of detail that would lure her back… But which detail that wouldn’t be disobeying a direct order? He took a moment to process it, and immediately he knew what he could say discreetly enough that would spark her interest. “It involves the Knight of Cepheid.”

Lina froze mid-step. Her body became ice and her eyes wide. “…” she slowly turned her head to face him, as for once the priest had her ear. “… What about my sister?”

The Mazoku smirked, he had her now. His amethyst orbs meeting her crimson as he spoke. “That we must discuss in private. I swear by Lord Shabranigdo no harm will come to you even if you still refuse, just I believe the information I am offering just for you to hear my request is compensation for your time?”

“The Knight of Cepheid?” Sylphiel gasped. “What would she have to do with this?”

“Are you saying Lina’s sister is in danger?!” Gourry gasped.

Xelloss lowered his head, his hair now covering his eyes. “… Correct.” Well, his mistress didn’t say they couldn’t guess what was going on, just that he couldn’t outright tell them.

“Are you saying the Mazoku are threatening her in some way?” Amelia shivered.

“You bastard! You wouldn’t actually try to blackmail Lina into this would you?!” Zelgadis growled.

“My, my Zelgadis I’m hurt you think so low of me.” Xelloss pursed his lips into a frown. “The truth is the Mazoku are not the threat to Miss Luna’s life. But we do know what is, and the solution involves Miss Lina here.”

Lina took one step towards the purple haired priest, her eyes fixed on him. “… If I come with you, you’ll tell me everything you know, no secrets?” she growled, pointing her finger straight at him. “I want to know EVERY detail, and you don’t get to leave a single bit out.”

Xelloss lifted his head, his eyes meeting hers once again and he felt a slight shiver come from her. “I will answer all your questions regarding your sister’s situation. After that, I will explain the terms of Lord Beast Master’s offer.”

“… And you’re not here to kill me you say?” Lina arched an eyebrow.

Xelloss shook his head. “Killing you would only worsen the situation. I cannot force you to take the pledge, it must be willingly anyway.”

The sorceress took another step closer. “In other words, I still have the choice to turn down your offer… Which means you aren’t the only one that’s going to be offering this are you?” she smirked slightly.

Xelloss’s mouth twitched for a moment. “… I suppose you could say that. Lord Beast Master assumed you’d be most likely to listen to me before… Others come along.”

“Others?” Sylphiel shivered. “But if you’re representing Zelas why would others be coming…?”

“You mean Mazoku followers of the other remaining Dark Lords, don’t you?” Zelgadis asked.

Lina narrowed her eyes. “Dynast Grausherra and Deep Sea Dolphin… Nice to know I’m so coveted.” She said with a smug expression on her face.

“I’m afraid I cannot say anything more.” Xelloss chuckled, rubbing the back of his neck. “Otherwise Lord Beast Master would be very angry with me.”

Lina crossed her arms as she closed the distance between them, finally just a few inches away from him. “Alright Xelloss, I’ll listen to what you have to say.”

“Miss Lina you’re not really going to?” Amelia gasped.

“If it involves Luna, I’ll end up getting involved in someway.” Lina turned to the princess with a scowl on her face. “Look how she got me involved with Dark Star. I might as well find out all the details ahead of time.” She then turned her glare at the priest. “This doesn’t mean I’m considering the pledge, you know.”

Xelloss waved his hand carelessly. “Oh I was sure of that, but I am only following orders.” Ok that was stretching the truth a bit, but he figured letting her know what he was planning to offer with everyone around wasn’t a good idea. “Shall we?” he extended his hand.

Lina narrowed her eyes at him. She knew not to trust this damn monster well enough that he going to exactly tell her everything, but she knew whatever he would end up telling her would be the truth – that was one thing about Xelloss, he was strangely truthful for a Mazoku. If he said her sister was in danger and it wasn’t the their race after her, then odds were that really was the case. But if something was threatening the Knight of Cepheid, why would the Mazoku care? Wouldn’t they want Cepheid’s greatest asset out of their way?

She closed her eyes, letting out a sigh. “I’ll be back guys, trust me.” She winked, reaching out her hand to Xelloss and grasping his firmly. He smiled strangely at her, and before she could speak they vanished from sight.

The whole world changed around Lina as Xelloss teleported her away from her friends. The very next thing she knew that she was in what seemed to be the same area as before… Just everything was extremely dark and there wasn’t a soul around. The tables were all empty, and Xelloss was gone.

“A pocket dimension…” Lina thought out loud, it had reminded her of the time she and her friends were attacked by the Mazokus with Zuuma. “Xelloss where are you?”

“Forgive me Miss Lina, I was checking the area around first.” The Mazoku’s voice echoed throughout the area. “I wouldn’t want eavesdroppers by chance.”

Lina spun around several times trying to locate him, that’s when she stopped a large black cone suddenly behind her. Slowly it was taking the shape of a human, to that of the priest who had brought her here. “Trying to impress me with your true form, Xelloss? That’s unlike you.”

Once Xelloss finished his appearance, he gripped his staff and opened a single amethyst eye. “I assure you, that was not the reason for it. To create a dimension like this, I had to shed my physical form obviously.”

Lina’s eyebrow creased. “In order words, you were setting up a barrier to make sure we’re not interrupted.”

“Observant as ever.” Xelloss mused, taking a chair. “Sit, please.”

The crimson haired sorceress crossed her arms, but decided to sit across from him at the table. “Alright then Xelloss, what is going on with my sister?”

“How much do you know about the situation with the Knight of Cepheid?” Xelloss inquired, leaning back in his chair and opening his other eye.

“Not much to be honest, just that my sister holds the power of Cepheid.” Lina shrugged. “She never was very forthcoming about it….”

“I see, well you are aware of what the Knights of Cepheid are I assume?” Xelloss pressed.

“Of course I know that fruitcake, they’re pieces of the Flare Lord like the piece of Ruby Eye that was inside Rezo, that’s what makes them so powerful.” Lina huffed, crossing her arms.

“Yes, but what makes you think Lord Shabranigdo is the only one that wishes to manifest back into this world?” the priest asked with a dark glare. “And just what might happen if he were to choose to do so in the current knight?”

There was a sharp gasp from Lina as her eyes went wide. “… T-then what happened to Rezo would happen Luna and she’d…”

“Cepheid would absorb her life energy completely and be truly awakened into this world.” Xelloss finished. “And begin the purification, a perfect world as far as the Shinzoku are concerned. I believe you can guess what kind of world that would be like?”

“A world without chaos, completely in order with peace as they say without any negativity…” the crimson haired sorceresses narrowed her eyes. “A boring world.”

“I’m pleased you share my mistress’s view on it.” Xelloss chuckled, waving a finger. “Balance is needed very much, but due to the loss of 2 Mazoku Lords and that ghost of Lord Ruby Eye did in fact drain a good amount of our power that it drew on… The Flare Lord is preparing to appear and finish us off.”

“But he won’t just stop at the monster race…” Lina muttered. “He wishes to ‘cleanse’ the humans as well doesn’t he?”

“Exactly. After all what better way to weaken the Mazoku then by ridding this world of negative emotions that humans give us the most energy from?” Xelloss explained, shrugging his shoulders. “Positive emotions while we can feed off them, they taste even more bitter than the time you had that fake dragon cuisine. They’re not really best suited for our energy and only considered a last resort to feed on.”

Lina blinked twice at that. “… Wait a second, does that mean you were FAKING it that time Amelia and the others held you off?!?”

The priest’s eyes closed with a groan. “I wasn’t pretending that I felt nauseated with Amelia screaming ‘Life is Wonderful’ into my ear.” He waved his finger when she was about to protest. “I never said positive emotions effect me like you all theorized, I just never told you. It makes me ill about the equivalent as a human can get food poisoning, I just actually didn’t want to fight them right then and used it as a distraction to steal the Dark Star Weapon from you.”

She pursed her lips together. “That reminds me, I still need to pay you back for attacking me.”

“Oh come now Miss Lina, I was merely following orders and had I not reacted they might had severely wounded you.” Xelloss rubbed the back of his neck.

Lina closed her eyes for a moment in thought. “… But having only positive emotions in the world would mean your powers would all be weakened, also with only 3 lords remaining there’s no guarantee they can stand up against Cepheid… But that’s what you mean by you monsters are not what’s treating my sister’s life?”

Xelloss merely nodded. “Killing Miss Luna could possibly just trigger the Flare Lord’s revival quicker. Right now she is the only thing stopping him as she is trying to get him to… Reject her body as the perfect host.”

“Reject?” the crimson haired sorceress opened her eyes, blinking twice.

The purple haired Mazoku smiled. “How would you go about getting the Flare Dragon to consider you a tainted host?”

Lina raised her eyebrow, rubbing her chin. “Well… I guess I’d associate with the Mazoku and… AH! It’s Luna that’s destroying the shrines and temples isn’t it?!?”

Xelloss snapped his fingers. “Bingo!”

“But what does this have to do with me, Xelloss?” Lina shrugged her shoulders. “What can I do to help my sister if she’s already having this much trouble?”

“Well my mistress believes it would be motivation.” Xelloss explained, shifting his staff to his other hand. “Luna seeing you on our side would further her denying the Flare Lord, as she would never want to fight you. Second is possibly with your powers along with some we will lend you after the pledge you might be able to gain enough power for a magical fusion spell with Luna to seal Cepheid’s power inside her, so that either he will leave her body or be trapped until the next reincarnation.”

“And what happens to me afterwards though?” Lina pressed, her eyebrows creasing together.

“That I cannot say, the pledge would allow you to live forever, and Lord Beast Master says you would be allowed to keep the addition power…” Xelloss turned his head for a moment. “… But you would be subjected to possibly being needed for assistance in the future.”

“In other words it wouldn’t be much different than becoming one of her Mazoku.” Lina sighed, shaking her head. “Forget it Xelloss, I’m nobody’s pawn. I don’t take orders and wish to live my life as I choose. I’ll find a way to save Luna myself.”

“I told her you’d turn this down.” Xelloss chuckled, holding up a single finger. “But I was ordered to make the proposal.”

“Why’s she so set on me joining you guys?” Lina rolled he eyes. “It’s not like I’m going to go join up with the Shinzoku, I use far too much Black Magic for their taste.”

“Oh it’s quite the opposite Lina.” Xelloss wagged his pointer finger. “… Cepheid sees you as a threat.”

Her eyes went wide from that response. “W-what?!”

“Chaos follows you wherever you go, Miss Lina.” Xelloss explained, a grin on his face as he explained this. “You attract many Mazoku due to this fact even myself as you’re a great source of energy and amusing. Also you are quite drawn to violence and are of the traits the Flare Lord wishes to remove from humans. Because of this, he believes you could easily be swayed to the monster race, in thus tipping the scale in our favor. Cepheid would rather destroy you first so that cannot happen, that is also why your sister is retaliating against him.”

Shock, horror, and several other emotions crossed Lina Inverse’s face. Luna was trying to protect her? And she never had any intention to join the Mazoku, yet the Shinzoku view her as a threat? Well, it would be hard for them to misunderstand, after all what did the Ryuzoku do when they felt something could be a treat? The Golden Dragons murdered the Ancient Dragons out of fear, and it seems Cepheid was willing to do the same out of fear of her. “… So Zelas wishes to get me before I’m lost to death, which would be a waste of all my powers is that it?”

Xelloss nodded with a chuckle. “Exactly. That and Cepheid isn’t the only one to jump to the wrong conclusion. Dynast and Dolphin also believe if you do not join us you might join the Shinzoku if they made a deal to spare your sister, which I highly doubt they would. That’s why Lord Beast Master insisted I get to you first, as they will not hesitate to kill you. I was ordered to see to your protection until you give me an answer on the proposal.”

Lina frowned at that. Had she known she might had postpone rejecting Zelas’s offer just to use Xelloss as a shield as the other lords might come along. After all it would be nice to make him useful for a change. “But I already gave you my answer, so why are we still here?”

“Ahhhh, you gave me an answer on my mistress’s proposal…” Xelloss smirking, opening both of his amethyst eyes and waving his forefinger. “But you’ve yet to hear mine.”

Lina was taken aback completely by that. “Wait… WHAT?”

“Why the surprised look, Miss Lina?” Xelloss tilted his head to the side. “After all I am the highest ranking Mazoku outside of the remaining lords. I can easily perform a pledge…. I’ve just never had the use for it.”

“B-but wouldn’t this be like backstabbing Zelas? I mean you’re going for exactly what she wants!” Lina cried, waving her hands hysterically. Out of everything she expected him to say, she never saw that coming.

“Actually I have Lord Beast Master’s permission to do this.” Xelloss chuckled, leaning closer to her. “After I told her I was 98% sure you’d turn her down, I asked if I may make an offer and she accepted. She is that desperate for this plan to succeed and to not waste your talents by getting killed by either Cepheid or the other lords. While she would prefer you taking her offer as pledged under me you would not be subjected to her orders, she will be pleased.”

“And what’s to stop her from ordering you to order me?” Lina narrowed her eyes at him.

“Oh don’t worry, a pledge doesn’t mean you have to obey the Mazoku, you saw that yourself.” Xelloss shrugged. “I’ll even add it to our terms as my mistress agreed she can never order me to make you do anything, and I will never order you to completely do something against your will or the pledge stone will break immediately, destroying the contract.” He lifted a finger. “Also, by being pledged to me while I am highly skilled I am not at equal power to Lord Ruby Eye, if you really wanted to you could destroy the pledge stone with a Dragon Slave, if not the Ragna Blade.”

She looked at him suspiciously. “Why you are telling me all this?” she unconsciously moved closer to him, staring into the depths of his eyes.

“Time is of the essence, Miss Lina. And I only keep secrets when my mistress orders me to do so. That and I am hoping you’ll choose to take my offer after I explain all the terms.” Xelloss chuckled, and suddenly kissed her on the cheek!

Lina’s face turned scarlet as she was having a flashback of the last time he did that. She fell back into the chair all flustered until it snapped into her brain what she should be doing to that blasted priest right now! “Y-you bastard!” she leapt from her chair and knocked him over, her arms tight around his throat in a headlock. “How dare you assault an innocent girl you ass!!!”

Xelloss was just laughing under her choke hold on him. “Ahhh Lina you never fail to amuse me, no wonder you’re my Soul Touch.”

Lina’s arms suddenly loosened around his head, her crimson eyes wide in slight shock. “… What did you just say?”

Xelloss smirked up at her, and looked like he was about to answer playfully… When suddenly his face hardened. When the red haired sorceress looked up there was nothing there… But suddenly she was standing up, held tightly against Xelloss’s chest with his mantle wrapped around her. He must had teleported them as she saw the spot they were in just a second ago, and a huge explosion had erupted from there!

“W-what are you doing? What was that just now?” Lina cried, looking up at the Mazoku as he held her close. His eyes were extremely serious and looking out ahead.

“It appears I’ve been careless…” he spoke after a moment. “Someone did sneak in after all.”

“Impressive you managed to sense me, Xelloss.” A young female voice giggled in the air. “But I guess that’s to be expected from the Greater Beast’s General Priest.”

“Sherra.” Xelloss hissed with a low growl. “It’s very rude to interrupt you know, I’m here on business and you’re meddling.”

From the smoke of the explosion a female figure walked towards them. As she emerged, Lina could see she had long deep blue hair in a ponytail, green eyes, a formal blue outfit that had long selves that stretched down to her white gloves, a black belt and white pants. Attached to the belt was a sword with a stone-like hilt. “I overheard, and I’m here on business too. Lord Dynast sent me personally… To offer Lina Inverse to join the Mazoku.”

“Dynast?” Lina gasped. “… Does that mean that she’s…?”

“His general… Don’t be fooled by her appearance she’s much more powerful than the followers of Gaav you defeated.” Xelloss growled, his tone actually worried Lina as there was a hint of loathing and detest from him… Usually the priest kept his cool around people, but something about this Mazoku unnerved him… Just what was it?

“You can’t be serious…” Lina finally spoke after a few moments.

“Oh what? Is Lina Inverse surprised that Beast Master wasn’t the only lord out to get her?” Sherra chuckled, her eyes narrowed.

“… No, just what kind of name is Sherra for a Mazoku General?” Lina answered with one eyebrow arched.

The calm face on Sherra cracked from that, an anger vain popping on her forehead with a low hiss. “W-what? What do you mean by that?!? Lord Dynast named me himself when he created me!”

“Just seems kind of… Weak compared to the other generals and priests I’ve heard or met, I mean talk about lack of imagination!” the crimson haired sorceress smirked with a laugh. “I mean at least Xelloss here has a name that isn’t so plain. Next you’re gonna tell me Dynast’s priest’s name is something like Grau or Grou.” She joked.

Xelloss snickered, turning his head away with his eyes closed while Sherra just stood there, eyes wide in shock.

Lina blinked twice, completely dumbfounded. “… Wait, don’t tell me I’m right?!” she looked up at priest who was still holding her close while laughing.

“A pitiful human like you could never appreciate the great mind of Lord Dynast!” Sherra snarled, her hand on the onyx hilt of her sword.

“Have you ever asked him why he chose that name?” the crimson haired sorceress pressed.

“Why would I ever question my lord?!?” the blue haired Mazoku hissed, her left hand charging a bit of black energy. “You should be destroyed for merely questioning him!”

“Hold on there a minute.” Lina narrowed her eyes. “What good would be attacking me before you even make your freaking offer?”

“Well actually, seeing your reaction to Beast Master’s lackey I’m certain you would turn down Lord Dynast’s generous offer as well.” Sherra growled, drawing her sword. “You don’t deserve it anyhow, so I’ll just merely say you declined… Relentlessly and I had to destroy you for self preservation.”

“Sherra, it’s not nice to lie to your lord.” Xelloss finally spoke, turning his head back towards her. “And I know very well your orders are not to harm Lina Inverse until you report back her decline in his offer…”

Sherra smirked slightly at that. “Yes, but that’s the good thing about what you provided me, trickster priest…” she pointed her sword towards him. “In a pocket dimension like this, Lord Dynast can’t see this now can he? He’ll just have to take my word for it.”

“Ahhh, but what would happen if I were to report back to Lord Beast Master about what you’re doing?” Xelloss grinned, waving his forefinger. “You’d be in a great deal of trouble once she told him.”

“Your word against his most loyal subject. I’m willing to bet on it as Lina Inverse is fair game now.” The blue haired Mazoku swung her sword in the air. “All three of the lords want her for themselves, and to the victor goes the spoils. I can easily convince Lord Dynast that Beast Master was just trying to turn the tides in her favor making me out to be a traitor.”

Xelloss frowned at that. “But the situation with the Flare Lord concerns us all, you do realize you’re putting Lord Dynast in danger by possibly killing Lina Inverse?”

“Who said I’ll just kill her?” Sherra’s mouth twitched slightly, her grip on her sword tightened. “Dulgofa could easily transform with her mangled body, turning her into a very effective Mazoku to use against the Cepheid Knight… And once that is dealt with we could decide what to do with her afterward.”

Dulgofa? Lina’s eyebrow creased at that. But now she knew what Xelloss was so uneasy about, he already made it clear Beast Master for some reason wanted her to willingly choose to assist them, not be forced. She wasn’t sure why they wanted that, maybe it was easier to achieve their goal that way, but that’s what Xelloss was protecting her from this general doing.

“That is if your precious little sword can touch her.” Xelloss mused, waving his finger once again. “I’m still higher rank than you, Sherra. Don’t make the same idiotic mistake Seigram did.”

“Don’t compare me to such a low Mazoku.” Sherra snapped, with a hurl from her sword, several shockwaves of blue and black energy shot out.

Xelloss let out a yawn as if he was bored, tightening his cloak around Lina this time covering her head as the attack hit… Which she felt nothing from being hidden inside. “Is this all the power Lord Dynast gave you? I must say I’m disappointed. At least Valgaav managed to wound me, and he wasn’t even a priest or general.”

“Hey Xelloss I can’t breathe in here!” Lina snapped, popping her head up from the mantle’s cover. “And what the hell is with you guys talking about my life so damn causally? I turned down each of the lord’s offers so get the hell out of my life already!”

“Forgive me Miss Lina, but I cannot allow you to die just now or fall victim to her plan.” Xelloss spoke in a harsh tone, his amethyst eyes open now. “Her sword, Dulgofa is in fact a lesser demon that can cast the Raugnut Rushavna and fuse with the host, making them a nearly indestructible mindless half demon.”

Lina gasped at that. “… The curse that only Mazoku can cast?” She knew exactly what that meant. It was the curse that turned humans into a giant chunk of flesh. The flesh then gains immortality, but it undergoes infinite pain and torture as snakes spawn from the flesh and eat it. If that was used on her, her powers would fuse into a horrible creature…

“You understand now why I cannot allow her to get near you.” Xelloss murmured. “But at the same time I am slightly limited to either focusing my powers to protecting you or attacking her.”

“Then protect me while I do the attacking!” Lina smirked. “Elmekia Lance!” she charged a bright light into her hand, then lifted it up high to fire the lance of light towards Sherra.

“What a weak attack.” The Mazoku hissed, striking the lance with her sword and cutting it in half. “Dulgofa won’t be destroyed by such a simple strike.” She lifted her other arm, several sparks of black light shot towards them.

Xelloss quickly lifted his black staff, the sparks were absorbed into the red gem, which started to glow.

“Bram Blazer!” Lina cast quickly right after, shooting several shockwaves of blue light.

Sherra shifted planes a few times to avoid each shockwave, but was suddenly stopped several mini black cones struck her in the last place she shifted to. “Damn you Xelloss!” she hissed.

Xelloss merely smirked. “I can still split a part of my body to send a few small attacks your way.” He swung his staff sideways, and the spinning cones tried to drill into her back.

Lina though while this was going on, was muttering the power amplification spell. “Lords of the Darkness of the Four Worlds... On thy bonds I do swear, grant me all the power that you possess!” The Demon’s Blood Talismans were glowing. She was muttering the spell low enough as to not alarm the general of Dynast as to just what she was doing.

And as planned Sherra didn’t hear her as she swung her sword to destroy the awls attacking her. “Protecting a human of all things! I suppose the rumors of your taint are true then, I’m surprised Lord Zelas is allowing such treason!”

“Darkness beyond twilight, Crimson beyond blood that flows…”

“Now, now… Lord Beast Master’s goals happen to circle around this girl living, so I am very much still obeying orders.” Xelloss smirked, waving his finger in his usual gesture. “And besides even if you were to accuse me of such, I happen to have a little loophole around it.”

“Buried in the stream of time is where your power grows…”

Sherra raised an eyebrow. “And just what might that be?”

“I pledge myself to conquer all the foes who stand…”

Xelloss placed his finger against his lips. “That is a secret!”

“Before the mighty gift bestowed in my unworthy hands…”

“You bastard!” she hissed.

“Let the fools who stand before me be destroyed…”

“Now Lina-chan, why don’t you give her a taste of Lord Ruby Eye’s power?” Xelloss cried, removing his cloak around the human he had been shielding.

At that cue, Lina raised her voice up high and revealed the power charging into her hands. “By the power you and I possess... DRAGON SLAVE!” and with that she released the massive chaotic energy into the unexpecting Sherra who’s eyes went wide from the sudden attack.

Had they been inside the real building, it would had been destroyed from this attack. But due to it being merely projection it just changed it’s appearance to a more astral type. Sherra stood before them, but her left shoulder and half of her left leg was completely gone, leaving jagged black edges and a space like substance were the wounds were. Black droplets covered the floor and she was glaring at both of them.

“You… Only managed to wound me because you caught me off guard… I’ll have to retreat for now to recover…” she hissed, lifting her sword to point at them. “You won’t be so lucky next time… And next we meet, I WILL have the answer to the meaning of my name!” with that, she faded from the area.

“… That will only stall her for a day or so.” Xelloss spoke after a moment, looking down at her. “Are you injured at all, Miss Lina?”

Lina shook her head. “No… Just what the hell is that mantle of yours made out of? I mean I know I’ve heard of Mazoku’s corporeal form includes all their clothing, just…” she rubbed the back of her neck. “I can’t believe this physical body of yours isn’t real sometimes. It feels much too solid to be a magical construction.” She poked him in the shoulder to press her point.

Xelloss just laughed at that. “Those that know how can mimic humans the best, even down to internal organs so they can blend in well… It just takes practice.”

“And a thousand years is plenty of time to explore that isn’t it?” she crossed her arms with a chuckle.

He shrugged. “It comes in handy with Lord Beast Master’s tasks.”

“I suppose….” Lina then narrowed her eyes darkly. “I do have one more question…”

Xelloss tilted his head to the side. “Yes?”

And suddenly he was in another vicious headlock by the sorceress. “Where the HELL do you get the gull to go and call ME Lina-chan?!?”

“O-oh come on Lina, you’re not mad at me over a silly little thing like that are you?” the priest chuckled over her useless attempt to choke him. “I…” he fell silent as his eyes opened once more.

“Of course I am you fruitcake! I still haven’t paid you back for earlier!!” Lina snarled. “And what in the world did you mean by I’m your Soul Touch?!”

“WHAT?!?” the sudden surprised sound from very familiar voices caused Lina to look up. They were no longer inside the pocket dimension, they were back in front of Gourry, Zelgadis, Amelia and Sylphiel who were just staring at them.

“Unnnnn Xelloss what just happened?” Lina asked, blinking twice as she released him.

“It appears the amplified Dragon Slave broke a hole into the dimension so it slowly collapsed.” The violet haired Mazoku shrugged his shoulders. “I didn’t notice it at first until we were suddenly back here.”

“Oh.” Was her only response. That explained why he fell silent he must had noticed them shifting planes which she didn’t see while taking her frustration out on him, explains everyone’s sudden shock coming in on that… and hearing what she just said.

Xelloss stood up and smiled softly. “I suppose we should continue our conversation elsewhere then, as I assume you’ll want to catch your friends up on the situation. Besides the fact I must report to Lord Beast Master about our interruption. I shall return soon.” He kissed his forefinger and suddenly pressed it against Lina’s lips… And teleported out of sight just before she could strike him with Fireball.

“HE SAID WHAT?!?”

There was a vast amount of opinions that came from Lina’s friends as she explained what had happened, and everything Xelloss revealed to her.

“It can’t be possible! Cepheid could never…” Sylphiel fainted.

“This is exactly why you need to repent your ways Miss Lina! I always said you live a very corrupted life!” Amelia declared.

“… This presents a problem, but I have a feeling Xelloss isn’t telling us everything.” Zelgadis folded his arms across his chest.

“… So who exactly is this Cepheid guy again?” Gourry’s response of course made everyone smack their heads against the table, except Sylphiel who was just barely recovering and pulling herself back up to her chair. “Because after all Lina’s afraid of her sister, and if this guys scares her sister then he must be really bad news.”

“Yeah… Well the thing is this is pretty serious if already Dynast sent out his general to make me an offer.” Lina sighed, waved her hand carelessly. “Deep Sea will be next, besides the fact that Sherra will most likely tell Dynast that I rejected her.”

“And what about Mr. Xelloss?” Amelia shivered. “Do we have to worry about Zelas ordering him against us?”

“Not yet, like I said he’s yet to come back to tell me his direct offer.” Lina explained with a smirk.

“You’re not thinking of taking it are you?” Sylphiel gasped.

“Of course not!” Lina hissed. “I would never just outright sell myself to the monster race so easily! Think about it though…” she raised a single finger. “Xelloss’s orders are to protect me until I make a final decision on his and Zelas’s offers. I already declined the one offer before knowing this… But now that I do, all I have to do is NOT decide on Xelloss’s offer and he has to protect me, right?”

Zelgadis snickered at that. “Leave it to the master manipulator to come up with that solution. But I think it serves that blasted Mazoku right, make him useful for once!”

“It’s not nice to use people, Miss Lina.” Amelia scowled.

“Hey if I don’t, we might end up having to fight Xelloss, and have you guys already forgotten how that went last time?” Lina argued. “I’d much rather keep the guy on our side, it might just be the difference between if we survive through this or not.”

“Though, what were you two arguing about when you came back here?” Gourry asked. “Something about you’re his Soul Munch?”

“SOUL TOUCH JELLYFISH BRAINS!” Lina smacked him on the head.

The blonde rubbed the sore spot on his head. “Ok… But what is that?”

“I’ve never heard of such a thing.” Sylphiel shrugged.

Amelia shook her head. “Neither have I.”

“I recall Rezo mentioning it once, something about how Mazoku find humans that are useful to them I believe he said.” Zelgadis looked thoughtful. “He never looked into it or spoke much beyond that, said it wouldn’t help to research it further.”

“… There’s a bit more to it than that.” Lina finally spoke with a sigh, her arms folded across her chest.

“HUH!?” all eyes were on her as the four looked utterly confused.

“Remember back when I went to see that sorcery doctor and told you guys about how I read part of that Clair Bible Manuscript?” Lina explained, looking up at the group. “I recall seeing a small pass regarding something called the Soul Touch, I kinda ignored it at the time as I was more focused on reading about the Ragna Blade… But I do remember what I did read about it.”

“S-so what is it Miss Lina?” Sylphiel asked.

“Well…” Lina’s eyes strayed away, rubbing her cheek with her finger. “… If I recall, it said that the Soul Touch has to do with how Mazoku find…” she exhaled before finishing. “… Their mates.”

“WWWWWWWWHHHHHHHHHHAAAAAAAATTTTTTT?!?”

“Hey I’m just as shocked as you guys are!” Lina waved her arms frantically. “Why do you think I was screaming at that fruitcake Mazoku?”

“B-b-but I thought monsters can’t love!” Amelia gasped.

“Yeah I mean didn’t Xelloss get all ill that time we praised life?” Gourry rubbed his head.

Lina raised her eyebrow, she was surprised he remembered that. “Um, about that…”

“He was faking it, wasn’t he?” Zelgadis grumbled in a low tone.

“Not exactly, just it only makes him feel uncomfortable.” Lina explained, going on to repeat what Xelloss had told her. “I think it means if there’s enough negative energy around it can balance out.”

“But Miss Lina, does that mean this monster is going to ask you to…?” Sylphiel was shaking slightly.

Lina pursed her lips together. “I don’t know. Like I said that’s all I had read about it, in a way… It makes sense.” She sighed. “He’s saved my ass how many times now? I always thought he acted a bit odd for a Mazoku, I mean even a little over a year ago when he fought us did it ever occur to you guys he ONLY struck at all of you and not once at me? Even when he stole the Dark Star Weapon all he did was knock me out, he could have killed all of us long ago and never did.”

“So… Xelloss has a crush on Lina?” Gourry asked, obviously not figuring this out as usual. “Is that why he kissed her when he left?”

Lina’s face flushed red. “H-he only kissed my cheek! And it’s not like it was the first time he had done that!!!”

“He kissed your cheek again?” Amelia blinked twice. “Like the time with the doll tower?”

Lina’s eyes widened, that’s right he had done that earlier just before Sherra attacked so they hadn’t seen it! “I errr… Well I made sure I gave him a piece of my mind for it and for that other harassment he’s gonna get it when he returns!” she growled. “… He caught me off guard and then suddenly told me I was his Soul Touch, we were attacked before I could ask him about it.”

“Lina you do know he’s probably just trying to trick you.” Zelgadis narrowed his eyes.

“Trick or not, I can’t ignore the situation with Luna.” Lina shot a glare at him. “That and I want to know more about this Soul Touch thing and exactly how it works… All I read was it’s a connection between Mazoku and other beings, as they find a mate that is useful to them.” Her eyes lowered, straying to the side. “… And if we can use it to our advantage to make Xelloss actually help us.”

“Miss Lina!” Amelia stood suddenly. “You’re not actually talking about stringing Mr. Xelloss along and use his feelings for you against him are you?!?”

The crimson haired sorceress blinked. “Ehh…? Amelia he’s a monster for crying out loud! He freaking uses us everytime we see him!”

“It’s not nice to play with someone’s feelings! Even a monster’s!” Amelia glared straight at her.

There was suddenly a clapping noise heard. “Well said Miss Amelia!”

“Xelloss…” Zelgadis grit his teeth.

Which the priest did appear suddenly, sitting in the chair Amelia had abandoned with a smirk on his face. “I see you’ve been talking about me while I was away. So quick to reveal everything Miss Lina?”

“Hey you’re the one with the secrets, you told me so I’m keeping them up to speed.” Lina shrugged her shoulders, then eyed him suspiciously. “That was one hell of a quick report.”

“Lord Beast Master feels I should remain by your side in the event more messengers arrive.” Xelloss stood for a moment. “Now, I believe we had a discussion to finish?”

“Oh hell no Xelloss, we are NOT going into another pocket dimension.” Lina waved her hand. “You can explain right here and now.”

The priest sighed. “I’m afraid that goes against my orders, perhaps in another room then?” he pointed his staff towards the upstairs area of the inn they were at.

“Fine. We’ll go to the room Amelia and I were staying in.” Lina announced, walking up the stairs. She made sure to wink at the group as she allowed Xelloss to move ahead of her.

The group knew what that meant… Well outside of Sylphiel of course. As soon as Xelloss and Lina were out of sight they all stood.

“Aren’t we going to wait here for them?” Sylphiel asked, rubbing her head.

“We found out last night the walls are rather thin in the room, Lina’s snoring could be heard all night.” Zelgadis groaned.

“And I could hear Mr. Gourry’s snoring in the other room.” Amelia sighed. “I mentioned it to Miss Lina earlier, that’s what she was signaling us for so we can listen in if we go into the neighboring room.”

“Come on guys let’s go!” Gourry cried, as they rushed up the stairs.

Lina plopped herself down on the bed as she waited for Xelloss to close the door and sit across from her. There was a strange awkward silence for a few moments.

Lina coughed finally, looking up at him. “So anyway Xelloss…”

“You’re curious about the Soul Touch, aren’t you?” he suddenly asked with a chuckle. “I’m not surprised.”

“You eavesdropped.” She growled.

“Only a few moments before I showed myself to be honest.” The priest shrugged his shoulders. “But I’m not surprised, I expected you knew something about after having touched the Clair Bible yourself.”

“But I don’t know all the workings of it.” Lina said, looking at him more serious now. “How can a monster…”

“Love? Well our definition of it would be different than yours, Miss Lina.” Xelloss explained, laying his staff on the bed. “We cannot love exactly like humans can, that’s why it’s easier to just say we can’t. Because we are pure astral beings, we don’t exactly get…” he seemed to be searching for the right word. “Aroused like humans do. If we are attracted to another being it goes on a more intellectual level and capability. The Soul Touch helps us find a mate that can help us with that balance.”

“Like I thought, you guys need enough chaos and negative energy from a mate to be able to stand being around them so much. Everyone has negative emotions sometimes, so if there's enough balance even a full Mazoku can handle it.” Lina rested her hand on her chin. “But it’s also for the benefit of your race isn’t it?”

“Exactly.” Xelloss snapped his fingers. “As to us Mazoku nothing is higher priority than our goal. A mate that can help us further achieve such is of course allowed.”

“… Just how deep does this connection go anyway?” she pressed.

“It can go anywhere from between a simple crush, a one night stand, a lover to a true connection which binds that person to their soul, the very essence of a Soul Mate.” Xelloss explained, slowly opening his violet eyes. “But, once the object fulfills everything that the bond became to aid the Mazoku and is no longer useful, the attraction can vanish.”

Lina shivered, she paused for a moment to take this in. “… And just how strong is… Our…?”

Xelloss chuckled softly at her hesitation. “Oh do not worry Lina…” his amethyst orbs pouring into her crimson. “Ours is a very deep bond at that, and I highly doubt you could ever not be useful to me.”

Lina took a sharp gasp from that, she really had expected him to tell her they had a simple connection. She wasn’t the only one shocked, in the next room Amelia, Zelgadis, Gourry and Sylphiel all gasped at this.

Xelloss smirked at her reaction, slowly closing his eyes. “I’ve been sworn to keep my Soul Touch with you a secret all this time, my mistress has always feared you’d exploit it. I would have offered this to you a few years ago but I was forbidden.”

Lina narrowed her eyes. “There’s more?”

“Oh and like you’d take the pledge with a simple promise of being your eternal lover?” Xelloss laughed in a mocking tone, waving his forefinger. “I’ve known you for a long time now Miss Lina, you obviously cannot be swayed for such a small price.”

Her mouth twitched to a slight grin. “You’ve been paying attention.”

“Well to start off, should you take the pledge with me I have other means of compensating you....” Xelloss smirked slightly. “Such as personal modifications I know you would love to have, along with a good amount of my own power added to yours from myself.”

Lina blinked rapidly at that, her hopes rising at his words. “… Just what kind of modifications are we speaking of?” obviously her eyes strayed down at the one part of her body that always taunted her…

Xelloss rubbed his hand over his chin. “Well while I think your body is perfectly fine the way it is, I could make some alterations to those areas you consider too small including your height and…”

“… My breasts?” Lina gulped, she was obviously thinking it was too good to be true.

The Mazoku shrugged. “Whatever way you’d like… That and I was thinking if we go through this trouble of saving your sister I might be able to convince her to forgive you for a little incident involving a bathing Luna projected image you sold to some boys…”

“What the hell is this fruitcake talking about?” Zelgadis mumbled.

“HOW DO YOU KNOW ABOUT THAT?!?” Lina gasped in shock and covered her mouth.

“That is a secret.” Xelloss waved his forefinger.

Amelia sweatdropped. “Wow… Is that why Miss Lina is afraid of her sister?”

“Would explain it, no girl would like their modesty destroyed that way.” Zelgadis shrugged.

“Knowing Lina I’m sorta not surprised she’d do that for money…” Gourry rubbed his cheek.

Lina though shifted in her seat. Everything she was being promised was well too good to be true… “But what do you get out of this Xelloss? Me?”

“You could say that.” Xelloss mused. “I’ve had my eyes on you for a good long while now. Make the pledge with me, and become my mate for life and I will deliver everything I have offered… Perhaps even some more.”

“… Did Xelloss just ask Lina to marry him?” Gourry asked after a moment.

Zelgadis facepalmed. “Gourry, have you been paying ANY attention to this?!?”

“And you mean it by Zelas can’t use me for her games… Or you for that matter?” Lina still looked unsure.

“Hmmm, would it be better if I added I would never harm your friends while I’m at it?” Xelloss patted his fist into his other hand. “As long as they don’t pose a threat to my mistress, she would not mind. That is sort of like the arrangement I have with your sister.”

“My sister?” Lina blinked.

“Yes, her and Lord Beast Master have a sort of ‘Don’t attack me and I won’t attack you’ agreement.” Xelloss shrugged. “I could easily apply this to your group of friends. In fact you could even accompany me on a few missions if you’d like, usually mistress is constantly sending me to find and destroy manuscripts of the Clair Bible, you know so humans don’t get their hands on it.”

Zelgadis’s ears perked up at that. “What?!?”

Lina closed one eye and looked at him suspiciously. “… Would I be able to read them first?”

“I wouldn’t see why not if you’re pledged to me, you wouldn’t be considered a threat being on our side.” Xelloss chuckled. “So how about?”

“This is bad… He’s appealing to everything Miss Lina would possibly take…” Sylphiel shivered. “What if she takes it?”

“M-Miss Lina wouldn’t join the monsters… Would she?” Amelia didn’t sound so sure.

Lina closed her eyes and lowered her head for a moment. “… Xelloss, do I have to decide right away? You said something about having to protect me until I give my answer, does that mean you need me to answer immediately after your offer?”

Xelloss twisted his mouth for a moment as he thought about this. If he pressed her now, odds are she’d say no and he’d never get her. Best to let her think she has the upper hand, but not too long. “… I will give you one week. Miss Luna is on her way to Seyruun and if my calculations are correct she’ll be there in about a week’s time. I plan to confront her there and see if we can assist in the situation with the Flare Lord at that time. By then I would need your answer before continuing with my task.”

A week huh? Well that might be long enough to get the other Mazoku Lords off her back. Lina smirked. “That’ll work. Girl has to explore her options you know?”

“Just know Lina, I cannot protect you if the Monster Lords themselves come.” Xelloss warned, opening a single eye. “Going against them would be pure suicide, you saw how well I faired against Gaav and he had been bounded to a human form.”

“No, but you can protect me from ones like Sherra.” Lina pointed out.

Xelloss smirked, he had a feeling she’d do this. Oh well, this gave him a week to try to… Seduce her. “But, I have my own condition for this prolonging, Miss Lina.”

Lina glared at him slightly. “… And that is?”

“Now that you know about my Soul Touch, I’m allowed to give you a… Preview of what to expect should you take the pledge?” Xelloss grinned, rising to his feet and strolling over to sit next to her.

Lina shifted a bit, trying to back away from him. “I… I don’t know about that…” he silenced her with a finger over her lips.

“I’m Mazoku Miss Lina, never forget that. While I shall wait for you to choose me willingly, that doesn’t mean I won’t do anything to get what I want.” Xelloss opened his eyes again and looked seductively into her crimson orbs.

She felt the blood rushing to her cheek from his closeness. Quickly she shoved her hands against his chest in a futile effort to push him away. Her heart was pounding by this point as he was leaning closer to her, she should have attacked him with a spell but her eyes were caught up in the spell within his. For some reason she found herself unable to speak through the finger on her lips, was he using a spell? Or was she just that taken off guard?

Wrapping an arm around her back, Xelloss closed the distance between them and inched his face closer until their noses were touching. His other hand grabbed her wrists to stop her shoves, his gloved fingers rubbing her hands gently and placed them onto her lap. They stared for a moment, foreheads touching, then he suddenly kissed her nose playfully and pulled away, removing his finger off her lips and releasing her.

Several minutes went by in silence.

“Hey what’s going on?” Gourry whispered. “They stopped talking.”

“Is Miss Lina ok?” Sylphiel looked worried.

It took another moment for Lina to regain her composure. “… WHAT THE HELL WAS THAT?!?” she suddenly growled, wrapping her hands tightly around Xelloss’s throat, threatening to rip his head off. Her face was beet red, and when she tired of ringing his neck, she kicked him into the floor.

Xelloss chuckled and rubbed his head as he stood up. “My, my, Miss Lina is this how you’re always going to treat me when I show you some affection?”

“AFFECTION MY ASS! YOU’RE JUST PLAYING ME YOU MAZOKU BASTARD!!” Lina stood, pointing an accusing finger at him.

Xelloss smirked and grabbed her wrist, pulling her forward in a swift motion that she lost her footing. But he grabbed her before she crashed, wrapping his arms around her waist and holding her close. “See? Even lust and affection can have negative reactions to them. You asked how a Mazoku can handle the positive feelings of love, there are negative ones too like just now.” He smiled his usual grin, tilting his head to the side.

“Asshole.” Lina hissed, growling as her face was painted scarlet.

Xelloss smiled at her. “Ahhh Lina you know just how to flatter me, for that I’ll give you a little parting gift as actually I must cut this short after all Lord Beast Master wishes to see me.”

Lina though by this point had enough of his damn game. “Just go already Xelloss and screw the gif-“ she was cut off by his lips meeting hers.

Lina’s mind had gone numb by this point with her crimson eyes wide. Xelloss, the Mazoku that slaughtered hundreds of dragons and was one of the most powerful monsters in existence that could easily end her life was kissing her. And that part that shocked her the most was she didn’t hate it as much as her mind told her she should have. Her arms were still by her sides, and her face completely red.

Xelloss though seemed to be enjoying her confused emotions, as she could feel him smirking through the kiss as he held her close. Making sure she was standing up straight, he removed one arm around her to grab one of her hands and rub gently, then she felt him place something into the palm of her hand. Then he moved his hand up to slowly caress her cheek as his lips were still locked with hers.

Finally, her senses kicked in when he seemed to be trying to force her mouth open, and she did the only thing she could think of to do: She bit his bottom lip, lifted her knee to kick him and yank her head back as a white light charged in her hand. “ASTRAL BREAK!” she hurled the charged light into him, she must had caught him off guard because it blasted him to the ground.

“Huh? Is Miss Lina attacking him?” Amelia asked as the group was still listening in the other room.

“Or is she defending herself from that monster?” Zelgadis hissed. “Maybe we need to-“ he was cut off as they heard Lina’s sudden massive amount of swearing.

“YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE HOW DARE YOU STEAL A PURE INNOCENT GIRL’S FIRST KISS?!?”

EVERYONE sweatdropped at that, listening to the barrage of spells being thrown at Xelloss that it was shaking the building.

Gourry was the first to speak after a moment. “… Who’s the innocent girl Lina’s so mad about Xelloss kissing?”

Sylphiel rubbed her head and for some reason perked up a little. “Miss Lina I guess never kissed you Gourry dear?”

“Why would she do that?” the blonde asked, clearly clueless.

That made her blush slightly. “Well… I just assumed that you two were…”

“Gourry, isn’t it obvious what happened?” Zelgadis cut in. “Xelloss kissed her, and Lina’s pissed off because that fruitcake is now her first kiss.”

“… I guess Sylphiel’s CPR doesn’t count does it?” Amelia brought up. “I guess I can say I’m not surprised Miss Lina never was kissed before and is so anger that a monster of all things took a moment that should had been romantic and full of passion!”

Zelgadis sweatdropped at that. “… More like she was worried she’s gonna get a disease from that Mazoku… Can’t say he doesn’t deserve the beating he’s getting right now.”

By this point Lina had Xelloss in a vicious headlock on the floor, cursing him like mad.

The priest let out a sigh. “Miss Lina, are you sure you want to destroy much more of the room? And I’m sure the only reason your friends aren’t rushing in due to all the noise is because they’ve been listening in the neighboring room this whole time.”

“Wait… You knew they were going to listen in?” Lina glared darkly at him.

“Of course, you think mere walls hide my sight? I mean one check on the Astral Plane and I could tell-“ Xelloss was cut off by Lina’s arms even tighter around his throat. He chuckled slightly. “After I told mistress that you’d inform your friends she said it was alright since Dynast sent out his general faster than she thought. She ordered me though not to tell them directly, that’s why I had to make the situation that I was mostly telling you. Also, my hearing is much higher than yours, any louder and it would be like as if they were in the room anyway.”

“… Ok that does it, now I am going to kill that fruitcake.” Zelgadis hissed.

“Anyhow Miss Lina can you release me for a moment to explain what I gave you?” Xelloss chuckled softly.

Lina twisted her mouth for a moment, then decided to release him. “Fine, what is this?” she opened up her palm, finally looking to see he had placed a ring in her hand before. It was a deep amethyst gem set inside a black band.

“The gem has a few magical properties to it to hold the band together, which the band is made from a piece of my Astral Body.” Xelloss explained, tapping his finger on the amethyst jewel. “All you have to do is focus on it, and you can summon me to your side. This way you can call for me no matter where either of us are.”

“Why would I want to call for your ass?” Lina growled sharply.

He chuckled and waved a finger. “Now, now, Lina… Sherra has already attacked you once, and while I shall be traveling with you there are times I must leave like now to report to Lord Beast Master. This way if you are attacked you can summon me back here right away for your protection.”

The crimson haired sorceress’s brow furrowed. “… Or as you’re hoping, to call me when I’m ready to take the pledge?”

“Exactly!” Xelloss smirked, taking the ring between his fingers and grabbing her left hand, slowly pulling her glove off.

“… It’s not going to turn my finger black or something is it?” Lina looked at him with a slight glare.

The Mazoku chuckled and shook his head. “You can remove it whenever you wish, I just ask that you hold onto it until you make your decision. It’s just the spell works best when in direct contact with you.” He then slowly slid the ring onto her third finger.

Lina’s hand twitched at that, and her face flushed again. Did Mazoku know what that meant to humans? Or did Xelloss know this and was using it to embarrass her again? Several questions filled her mind that she wasn’t paying attention as his gloved hand was rubbing her knuckles gently as he knelt down before her and lightly kissed the back of her hand. Which that just sent her mind in a whole other direction and she quickly pulled her hand away from him while snatching her glove back. “K-knock it off already Xelloss!”

He didn’t get up just yet, just smirked at her with one violet eye open. “Do I make you nervous, Lina-chan?” he asked.

“DIDN’T YOU LEARN FROM CALLING ME THAT LAST TIME JACKASS?!?” Lina snarled, her talismans glowing. “DISLASH!” a yellow shockwave pierced through Xelloss, knocking him onto his back.

“Ooowwwww Miss Lina if this is how you react all the time it’s no wonder such actions seem so foreign to you.” Xelloss groaned as he rubbed his head.

“I don’t like to be taken advantage of by a Mazoku like you bastard! Give me back my innocence of my first kiss!!” Lina snarled, stomping the ground as she was growling something else under her breath.

“Awww Lina my dear I’m hurt, was it that bad?” he grinned sheepishly.

The blood was rushing to Lina’s brain by this point, and she cursed herself for not being able to control her blush as she finished what she was growling. “JUST DIE YOU MONSTER! DRAGON SLAVE!!!!” she released the spell at that moment to catch him without giving enough time for him to escape.

Xelloss gulped, that’s what she was muttering to herself, she was chanting the spell. “Oh dear.” He gulped as he was blasted out of the inn into the air… As the inn itself was destroyed, the roof collapsing on everyone.

“Miss Lina you really could have killed all of us back there!” Amelia hadn’t stopped since they got out of town. “No wonder Cepheid thinks you are a bad example!”

“… Amelia you act like it’s the first time we’ve had to pull ourselves from a pile of rubble after one of Lina’s Dragon Slaves…” Zelgadis groaned.

“Miss Lina that was a rather cruel way to thank someone that saved your life from what I understand…” Sylphiel added. “It seems like he’s actually rather fond of you.”

“So Lina what exactly did Xelloss do to tick you off so badly?” Gourry asked.

“WILL YOU ALL SHUT UP?!?” Lina snapped, turning to glare at the group following her as they were walking through the forest. She had been walking ahead of them the whole time, and hadn’t spoken a word. She had hidden her face with good reason: She STILL hadn’t gotten the massive blush to fade from her face.

Sylphiel blinked twice. “… Miss Lina, do you like Mr. Xelloss?”

“WHERE THE HELL DO YOU GET THAT IDEA?!?” Lina snapped, balling her first. “If I ever see that asshole again I’m going to Ragna Blade his ass back to Wolfpack Island! How dare he!” she stomped her foot. “Making such a mockery of my first kiss I want to kill him!”

“So you told him no on the pledge offer?” Zelgadis crossed his arms.

“…. No.” Lina turned her head, growling slightly. “B-but I already told you guys why. This way that asshole has to help us when the other lords send their lackeys to attack until we can find a way to save Luna. He said she’ll arrive in one week.”

“And he gave you something to help summon him, what was it?” Sylphiel asked, as while they had been listening, neither Lina or Xelloss directly said what the object was outside it had a band and a gem, and Lina had remarked about it turning her finger black.

Which Lina’s hand instinctively wrapped around her left hand, even though her glove easily concealed the ring. “… J-just a stone with the ability to summon him that’s all…” her blush was growing again.

“Well where is it?” Gourry asked, tilting his head to the side.

Lina sighed and removed the glove, showing the amethyst gem glowing in the sunlight wrapped around her third finger. “… The fruitcake said having it in direct contact with my skin makes the spell work better when he put it on…” she mumbled.

Sylphiel gasped. “It’s beautiful. But why did he put it there? Do Mazoku know that…?”

Gourry just looked confused. “It’s a ring, of course it goes on her finger where else would Xelloss put it?”

Zelgadis facepalmed. “Gourry, that finger is usually used for engagement and wedding rings.”

“I knew it! I knew my positive influences had an effect on Mr. Xelloss!” Amelia cheered, grabbing Lina’s hand. “See how the power of love and justice has done it’s wonders! Mr. Xelloss is experiencing the true joy of falling in love with Miss Lina!”

Lina’s eyes widen and her face burning an even deeper shade of red as she rudely yanked her hand away. “I-it’s just because of the Soul Touch Amelia, don’t buy too much into it.” She growled, turning away from them as she put her glove back on. “He’s only attracted to me because the Soul Touch bonds him to someone useful to him. Once I’m no longer useful he’ll turn on us.”

“But he only said can vanish, not will.” Amelia pointed out. “And that the Soul Touch only helps them find the mates.”

“Amelia, you aren’t seriously believing that Mazoku are you?” Zelgadis growled. “He’s a monster there’s no way he can love like that.”

“Well… Why not?” Gourry spoke up.

Lina sweatdropped and turned around. “Gourry, this conversation is too serious for your jellyfish brains. Give it a rest.”

Gourry suddenly had a strange scowl on his face. “Dragons can hate and commit murders too just the same as monsters like Filia’s kind murdered Valgaav’s dragons right? So why can’t monsters have some feelings too but just don’t like to let it know because it’s a weakness?”

Lina blinked a few times at that. Of everyone she never expected Gourry to be the voice of reason. “… I… I guess that makes sense… I just… I don’t want to take that for granted. And besides it’s not like I’ve ever thought of him that way….”

“Still not a good enough reason to make a pledge if you ask me.” Zelgadis said. “Even though the opportunity to look at the Clair Bible I would admit is a good addition he offered you, you’d still be selling your soul to the Mazoku.”

“I don’t see why you shouldn’t take it Lina.” The blonde added with a chuckle. “Xelloss seems like a good enough guy he could take great care of you. And if this Super Touch thing makes him care about you plus you get other benefits like finally being able to not so much look like a kid though…” he twisted his mouth. “I… I guess you wouldn’t need me as your protector anymore would you?”

Lina felt like her heart sank at that moment. She really, really couldn’t believe such careless words were coming out of that idiot’s mouth. “OH YOU DON’T UNDERSTAND ANYTHING YOU IDIOT!!! FIREBALL!!!!!!!!” she hurled two Fireballs as Gourry and took off with a quick Raywing.

She didn’t stop until she was well away from everyone, landing on the ground and slamming her fists down. A few stray tears floated down her cheeks. “Dammit Gourry… I once risked the whole world to save you and now you tell me to go be with someone else?”

“Mr. Gourry does have a knack for saying the wrong thing very often, does he not?”

Lina scowled at the familiar voice. “Get lost Xelloss, I am NOT in the mood for more of your sexual harassment.”

A gloved hand brushed against her cheek softly. “I told you that I’d be traveling with you, Lord Beast Master just wanted to… Scold me for earlier.”

Lina lifted her head and turned to see he was bent down next to her with his staff laying on the ground. There was a small gash over his right shoulder, a black void could be seen where the damage was. “What happened to you?”

“Apparently I misinterpreted her orders, she merely meant she didn’t mind your friends knowing about the situation with your sister and the pledge…” Xelloss chuckled, his finger slowly rubbing her cheek. “… She was cross with me for allowing them to know about my Soul Touch.”

For some reason a ping of guilt hit her, after all she had signaled her friends to listen in the conversation and that got him into trouble. “… So that was punishment?”

“I’ve been through worse, it’s only lingering because I’m also recovering from your Dragon Slave.” He merely shrugged, helping her to her feet. “Like when I sold you the talismans… Oh boy was she angry that I did that, considering I operated without direct orders.”

“Xelloss… Why am I your Soul Touch?” Lina sighed, looking up at him.

The Mazoku paused for a moment, opening a single eye. “I was wondering when this question was going to come up… Hmmm…” he tapped a finger to his lips. “I guess the best answer is because should our relationship come to a final confrontation we could possibly kill each other, if you didn’t kill me first.”

“… Huh?” she just looked at him dumbfounded.

“I was created to serve Miss Lina, I could never spend an eternity with someone that wasn’t either my equal or above.” Xelloss explained, moving his hand to cup her chin. “I happen to highly respect you, and unlike most humans you see the bigger picture. Why do you think I allow all those beating you give me?” he chuckled softly.

Lina pursed her lips. “I suppose that’s true, if you really wanted to get away you could easily faze out or overpower me.”

“I am more a follower than a leader, where as you are better at being a leader with others to follow.” Xelloss moved his other hand to wrap slowly around her waist, pulling her a bit closer. “With the pledge I am merely asking to walk beside you, I will never hold it above you, you have my word. My other reason for my attraction you might say is the massive amount of negative energy you radiate.”

“Are you calling me moody?” Lina scowled, she didn’t fight his arm but didn’t seem amused at his actions.

“Oh and throwing Dragon Slaves at people when you’re aggravated is considered normal?” Xelloss teased, opening both eyes. “Let’s put it this way, someone like Miss Amelia makes me nauseated to be around for too long due to her constantly radiating positive emotions.”

“Alright I’ll concede to that, Amelia radiates enough there’s times she makes ME feel ill.” Lina chuckled sheepishly. “So that’s why your Soul Touch tells you I’m a good mate for you?”

“Oh the Soul Touch only helps us identify the mate Lina, so the connection is there.” Xelloss chuckled, leaning his head closer. “My true attraction to you grew as I spent time with you, but I won’t lie that it didn’t assist in my earlier affections towards you.”

Lina blushed slightly at the thought of the day they met, when he kissed his finger and pressed it to her lips. It always made her wonder why he did that, even somewhat referring her as a friend when they barely knew each other. “… Xelloss… Are you seriously trying to tell me you’re in love with me?” she asked half heartedly.

His amethyst orbs were staring deep into her crimson eyes. “… If I were? I know you have… Feeling for Mr. Gourry but I assure you, his affection towards you is like as if he were your big brother. I won’t deny it, he does care for you, but not in the way you would hope.”

Lina cursed under her breath. How did he know her thoughts were on Gourry? Did he see her lose her temper at the blonde? “Gourry’s a jellyfish brained idiot, why the hell would I feel that way about him?”

“You no longer have the Sword of Light as an excuse, Miss Lina.” Xelloss chuckled, lifting her chin a little. “He isn’t quite the same as a protector without a powerful sword and you’ve been trying to find a meaningful replacement for him… I think you’ve just grown attached to him, after all why else did you react the way you did when Lord Hellmaster…”

Lina though cut him off. “You have a really screwed up way of telling a girl you love her you know, talking about her feelings for another man? You AND Gourry are fruitcakes.” She snarled.

“I was merely pointing out the difference.” Xelloss grinned, his face now was inches from hers and he blew a puff of air into her face. “Would you rather I let you in another fashion?”

Lina’s face flushed once more and her body shook slightly. “X-Xelloss what did I warn you about harassment?!?” she growled, quickly trying to push her hands against his chest once more.

Xelloss’s eyes were still on hers as he seemed to ponder that. “Mmmm… Worth it.” With his hand still cupped around her chin, he closed the distance between them and forced his lips against hers. But this one didn’t last as long, he slowly pulled away grinning at her. “See? Now was that so terrible?”

Lina though was glaring daggers at him. “If you weren’t already injured I’d Dragon Slave your ass again… That and I need to recover my energy from using all the spells against Sherra and you earlier.”

“Actually I can help you there, as you’re helping me.” Xelloss chuckled, removing his hand from her chin and pointing to where his wound had been. “Your emotions helped that heal obviously.” He said before she could ask. “And as for you, didn’t you notice that it was rather quick you were able to attack me with that barrage of spells?”

Lina narrowed her eyes. “Your point being?”

“Example seems to serve best here, just focus on your energy level at the current moment where it’s at.” Xelloss smirked while closing his eyes. Before she could speak his lips were against hers once more, this time harder. His free hand was placed behind her head to hold her close as he deepened the kiss ever so slightly.

Lina was getting aggravated by this point, and summoned an Elemika Lance to her hands, pushing the spell into his chest to make him release her. “YOU REALLY DON’T LEARN, DO YOU FRUITCAKE?!?” she snarled, wiping her lips.

Xelloss chuckled softly, rubbing the back of his head. “I suppose I got a little carried away there, but didn’t you notice something Lina-c… Err Miss Lina?” he barely remembered to correct himself in time.

The crimson haired sorceress seemed confused at first, but looked down at her hands with her brow furrowed. “… Why do I feel like I just ate at least a half course meal?” of course to Lina Inverse, a half course was enough to feed 10 people…

“This was one of the bonus effects about being a Soul Touch that I didn’t get into since you’re human.” Xelloss chuckled. “Because I am a pure astral being, when we are say… Intimate in our physical form our Astral Body mimics our actions to our Soul Touch’s Astral Body, which what happens is our Astral Bodies radiate energy during such actions much like humans radiate pheromones. Now human’s Astral Bodies are tiny compared to ours, so your Astral Body takes in this energy I expel while doing such actions, and that gives you energy twice as powerful than food.”

Lina’s eyes went as wide as dinner plates from this. “… W-wait… You’re saying all you have to do is… Is…”

“Make out with you for 10 minutes and you’d be as fully energized as if you ate 20 meals, yes.” Xelloss chuckled, waving a finger and opening a single eye. “Though that was just a kiss Lina, imagine what other such actions provide energy wise.”

Lina’s face turned a new shade of scarlet now, trying to push the thought out of her mind. “… You know you just keep throwing more and more benefits of this at me, are you that desperate for me to accept your pledge?”

Xelloss chuckled at that, winking at her. “That is a secret, Lina-chan.” …. Which that just got him another well deserved beating.

“Miss Lina!!!” Amelia shouted into the air. “Where did you go?!”

“… I still don’t get why Lina took off like that.” Gourry was rubbing his head.

Zelgadis sweatdropped. “Really Gourry, if I have to spell it out for you…”

“Miss Lina did seem terribly upset.” Sylphiel added. “We really should find her quickly.”

That’s when suddenly they heard a massive explosion within the trees ahead.

“20 gold says that’s Lina.” Zelgadis shrugged as they were running in that direction.

As they were getting closer, Lina’s loud screaming could be heard. “FIREBALL! FLARE ARROW! ICICLE LANCE! DILL BRAND! MONO VOLT! DARK CLAW! ELMEKIA LANCE!”

Zelgadis chuckled. “I may even pity the poor sap she’s taking her anger out on.”

“We better hurry then!” Amelia cried, as they raced towards the series of blasts exploding into the air.

Which when they got there found a large ditch full of smoke from the massive amount of spells… And a burnt up Xelloss inside it, with Lina just a few steps away still fuming.

“And you should get even more than that for all this shit you put be through today!!!” she growled.

“… I take it back, there’s no way I can pity that asshole.” Zelgadis smirked.

“Hey whoa, Lina what did he do?” Gourry asked with wide eyes.

Lina turned to scowl at the group. “None of your god damn business!”

“I-it appears Miss Lina still has… Adverse reactions to affection.” Xelloss spoke slowly, groaning as he sat up. His cloak was rather tattered and several gashes on his body were visible that were slowly closing up.

“Adverse? She could have killed you if you were human!” Amelia cried. “Miss Lina is that anyway to treat someone who has feelings about you?”

“Affection? Is that what you god damn call your sexual harassment?” Lina snarled, ignoring the princess’s words.

“It was just a few kisses dear Lina…” Xelloss chuckled with a sadistic grin. “If you want REAL harassment…”

That caused a fuse to snap in Lina’s brain. “OH JUST DIE ALREADY!!! DRA-“ she suddenly stopped, looked down at her hands and gasped. “Oh no.” then she was cut off by a laughter.

“My how the mighty have fallen, you really should be ashamed, Xelloss-san.” There was a blue flash of light, and a female Mazoku appeared before them with deep blue eyes. She had long, cyan hair that was curled around her ears, the rest was in a braid. Ontop her head was a deep blue hat with a symbol on top and some lace that went down her back in a light blue color, her outfit was a fancy priest outfit consisting of blue and white colors, the same symbol on outfit. “The Greater Beast’s General Priest allowing himself to be the punching bag of a human? What does Zelas-sama think of this?”

“Who is that?” Amelia gasped.

“Huraker, Lord Beast Master knows very well the details of my relations with Miss Lina, I’d mind you to keep out of it.” Xelloss chuckled, rising to his feet. “I must say I was expecting Riksfalto, but you were sent instead?”

“Dolphin-sama felt I would be the better choice for the message, Riksfalto-san tends to be rather blunt and Lina-san here might take her poorly.” The female priest, Huraker, giggled slightly. “And I’ve heard of such relations… You really should learn to keep that Soul Touch of yours under control, Xelloss-san.”

“Dolphin? As in Deep Sea Dolphin?” Lina swallowed hard.

Sylphiel gasped. “Then that means she’s…”

Huraker looked at the group and blinked several times, then slapped her fist into her hand. “Oh my! How rude of me, I didn’t introduce myself did I?” she took a bow. “I am Huraker, priest of Deep Sea Dolphin-sama.”

“Oh shit.” Lina cursed under her breath, looking down at her talismans with a feared face. “Not now… Not now…”

Xelloss noticed the wave of fear radiating from her, as he strolled over to her side. “So I’m pretty sure I have an idea what brings you here, Miss Huraker.”

“From the looks of things, Lina-san here didn’t take Zelas-sama’s offer or Dynast-sama’s I am to assume?” Huraker asked with a smile.

“Miss Lina is not going to join the monsters!” Amelia cried. “Don’t even think about it!”

“Amelia!” Lina snapped suddenly, her face softened right after. “… Just let her talk.”

Xelloss eyed her suspiciously as he hovered just behind her. He suspected something was wrong, as Lina’s emotions were betraying the look on her face. She was worried, and afraid for some reason. But she didn’t show this when Sherra showed up…

Huraker smiled. “And here I’ve heard rumors you’re a hot tempered sorceress that attacks first and asks questions later.” She giggled. “I merely am here to offer you to join the Mazoku, due to the situation with Cepheid… If not, Dolphin-sama is prepared to offer you a pledge to help protect you from the Flare Lord.”

“And my sister?” Lina narrowed her eyes.

“Dolphin-sama cannot guarantee her safety, it might be… Necessary to destroy her to stop the Flare Lord from manifestation.” Huraker smiled. “Not that we won’t try, but all options are being looked over.”

“And that’s it?” Lina chuckled. “You Mazoku all offer the same simple things.” She shook her head. “I’ll have to decline. At least Zelas offered to try to save Luna’s life.”

Huraker pursed her lips for a moment, but then reverted to a smile. “Well I cannot say I’m surprised, I saw how Sherra-san looked after her encounter with you. Well then, I guess that will be all.”

“You’re leaving?” Zelgadis blinked rapidly.

“I have only been ordered to give the offer to Lina-san.” Huraker shrugged, starting to walk away. “Hostility I will not take unless I have been ordered. For now, I report back to Dolphin-sama…” she then grinned mischievously as she turned back towards them. “I cannot say the same for the next time we meet though, good luck with your offer Xelloss-san, you are the only one left undecided.”

Xelloss’s face hardened. “Give word to Lord Deep Sea that I will not be leaving Miss Lina’s side until her decision is made… And perhaps even after that.”

Huraker chuckled darkly, turning her back to him. “This is why most foolish Mazoku that have a Soul Touch of that caliper are better recycled. Good day, Xelloss-san.” With that she fazed away.

Sylphiel let out a sigh of relief. “Oh dear, I was sure she was going to attack us.”

“Miss Lina is that why you let her talk? You knew she wasn’t going to be of danger?” Amelia asked.

“… Well… Sherra only attacked us because her lord couldn’t see us.” Lina rubbed her cheek. “I… I kinda hoped her orders would only be to make the offer.”

“That or maybe she didn’t want to fight all of us.” Gourry pointed out.

“Or rather fight Xelloss, since he’s such a high rank.” Lina said, waving her hand carelessly. “Nevermind that though, from that tone she’ll be back… Probably with orders to kill.”

Xelloss nodded quietly, closing his eyes. “She didn’t want to challenge us all at once, and she obviously doesn’t want to while I’m here… But she will be back, and try to get Miss Lina to accept by force… We were lucky her orders weren’t told what to do if denied.”

“Is that why you gave her a warning you’ll be around?” Zelgadis asked.

“Actually I am merely stating the truth, Mr. Zelgadis.” Xelloss chuckled, waving a finger. “I am to remain by Miss Lina’s side and protect her, and even if she denies the pledge… I won’t allow the object of my Soul Touch die so easily.” He ran his fingers under Lina’s chin, which she quickly smacked away.

“Don’t you need to report this?” she growled icily.

“In a hurry to get rid of me, Lina-chan?” he teased.

“I TOLD YOU NOT TO CALL ME THAT!!” Lina growled, aiming to punch him.

But this time the priest caught her punch, pulling her close. “… Now that’s odd, why aren’t you firing a spell at me? I thought something was up with how you were acting…”

“S-shut up Xelloss!” Lina snapped. “I-I’m just tired from using all those spells on you before!”

“I doubt that.” Xelloss chuckled, grabbing her other arm before she could try to hit him again. “You even were about to hit me with a spell and stopped just before Huraker showed up… Why?”

“I don’t have to answer you, fruitcake!” the crimson haired sorceress snarled.

“Mr. Xelloss it’s not nice to tease!” Amelia scolded.

“Let her go already Xelloss, we’ve all had enough of your games.” Zelgadis hissed.

“My, my, if Miss Lina wanted to get away, don’t you think she’d fire a spell at me?” Xelloss chuckled.

“Well that’s true, why don’t you use your magic Lina?” Gourry tilted his head to the side.

Lina’s face flushed red. “… Damn you… Damn you Xelloss how did you…?”

“Because normally you would have challenged Huraker just like how you did with Sherra.” Xelloss chuckled, pulling her close up against him. “I’m guessing it started just as you were about to attack me and she showed up?”

“Shut up you ass!” Lina snapped, then suddenly he forced her into a kiss. She violently thrashed, trying to free her arms but failed completely.

“O-oh my.” Sylphiel blushed and turned away.

“Something tells me Lina doesn’t like that…” Gourry replied, walking closer. “… But then why isn’t she… Oh.” He smacked his hand into his other.

Xelloss chuckled and broke the kiss, looking up at the blonde. “I see Mr. Gourry of all people actually figured it out as well, Miss Lina can’t use her magic right now.”

“Bastard. Mazoku piece of shit…” Lina hissed, venom dripping at her words.

“Can’t use her magic…? Oh.” Zelgadis swallowed hard.

Sylphiel and Amelia’s faces turned red.

“That time of the month can be rather bothersome in timing, hmmm Lina-chan?” Xelloss chuckled, kissing the sorceress’s cheek and releasing her arms.

Which was a big mistake, as she pulled him into a headlock. “HOW THE HELL DOES A MAZOKU KNOW ABOUT THAT?!?”

“B-because I studied about humans over the years?” Xelloss sweatdropped, groaning as her arms tightened around his throat. “A-and it was the only thing that made sense, if you couldn’t use your powers you would be worried Lord Dolphin’s Priest would attack us and you’d be defenseless.”

Lina snarled as she released him, kicking him several times before she stomped her foot to the ground. “I blame it happening now because of all this shit you’ve put me through today!!! Now I can’t use my magic for two or three days when I need it most!”

“Don’t worry my dearest Lina, I’ll protect you.” Xelloss chuckled, as he was suddenly behind her with his arms wrapped around her waist. “After I report to Lord Beast Master, don’t worry I’ll be back shortly.” He pecked a kiss on her lips.

“JUST FUCKING GO AWAY ALREADY!!!” Lina gave him an all mighty kick into the air, which he fazed out mid flight.

“…. Somehow I get the feeling their relationship is more dangerous than the situation with Cepheid…” Zelgadis groaned, holding his head.

“Well, the road to love is a bumpy one at that!” Amelia giggled. “They do fight like a married couple already.”

“That stupid idiot Xelloss!” Lina snarled as she was stuffing her face. The group had stopped at a restaurant when they got to town. “Once I get my powers back I’m going to beat him into submission!” She hissed as she gulped down her drink.

“Until then we better stick close to you.” Zelgadis said.

“Don’t worry Lina, I’m always your protector.” Gourry smiled.

“But Gourry dear, how can you do that without the Sword of Light?” Sylphiel brought up. “It’s rather hard to handle monsters after all…”

“Mr. Gourry will handle protecting Miss Lina while we attack the monsters, simple as that!” Amelia declared. “Justice shall always prevail in a dire time of need!”

Lina sweatdropped. “Amelia, even with my powers we’re pretty much dead if the Dark Lords send their minions again. Did you forget how powerful both Gaav and Phibrizzo were?”

“That’s why you pushed to make Xelloss help us, you knew this was coming didn’t you?” Zelgadis asked, crossing his arms.

Lina sighed and lowered her head. “… Yeah, just it’s a bit early. That’s why when Xelloss revealed he’s ordered to protect me I just knew I had to find a way to make use of that.” She smirked. “I have a whole week until I have to decide, so that’s plenty of time for my powers to come back. Two or three days at the most and they should be back just about full force.”

“Speaking of which Miss Lina, what are you going to do?” Sylphiel asked.

The crimson haired sorceress arched her eyebrow. “Huh?”

“When time is up, when you have to make the decision.” Sylphiel pressed.

“I unn…” Lina turned her head away, scratching her nose. “… I don’t know yet.”

“Are you sure you’re not considering the pledge?” Zelgadis raised his eyebrow. “Because you don’t sound so convincing to me that you won’t take it.”

“Oh come on guys you know me better than that!” Lina snapped, slamming her fist on the table. “If anything I’d only consider it as a last resort…”

“Huh?” Sylphiel perked up at that. “Are you thinking that…?”

Lina’s eyes widened when she realized she said that out loud. “… Well, if I’m going to be facing my sister I might have to if either Cepheid or the lords try to kill me… Besides you guys a pledge can be broken you know.”

Zelgadis rubbed his chin. “That’s true, if you wait to take it last minute, your powers are back and after you use the pledge to save Luna… You could destroy the Pledge Stone and it would be undone.”

“Exactly! So… If I play along with Xelloss and use him, we might just survive this and save Luna.” Lina winked.

Amelia frowned. “Isn’t that stringing Mr. Xelloss along?”

“Amelia, as his Soul Touch he wants me to live anyway, and besides…” Lina’s brow furrowed. “He actually told me how to destroy the pledge, outright admitted it like as if he expects that… He’s just that willing to save my life. So really, I think he’d allow me to use him like this.”

“Does that mean you’re going to take it Lina?” Gourry tilted his head.

“I-I didn’t say that! I just said worse possible scenario dammit!” Lina snapped, tossing her empty plate at his head. “… That does it, I’m going to find the inn and go to sleep.” She stomped out of the room.

“Oh Miss Lina wait!” Sylphiel dashed after her.

“What now Sylphiel?” Lina cocked her eyebrow.

“Shouldn’t somebody stay by your side? I mean it’s dangerous without your powers.” Sylphiel said, looking worried.

“That’s right.” Gourry said from behind. “Where do you think you’re going without your protection?”

Lina blushed slightly at that… But then shook it off quickly. “Fine you guys, let’s just go already.”

As soon as they got one room for the girls and one for the guys to share, Lina immediately plopped down on the bed and seemed to pass out. Gourry and Sylphiel stayed in the room for the time being until Amelia and Zelgadis would be joining them shortly, just to make sure two people would protect Lina at a time.

Lina tossed a bit in her sleep, her dreams replaying the events of the day… And flashbacks to her stolen first kiss… It enraged her and yet at the same time she was exploring why didn’t she cream that Mazoku the minute he got that close to her…?

“Gourry dear, what are you going to do if Miss Lina does take the pledge like you’re thinking?” a muffled voice brought Lina out of her dream state… She recognized the voices and remained still.

Gourry and Sylphiel were sitting in chairs against a table in the room, they were both facing towards the bed Lina was laying in with the covers pulled up over her head.

“I don’t know, I told Lina before that being her protector kinda gave me a purpose in life so that I…” Gourry’s voice sounded a bit sad. “… I thought I’d be doing it the rest of my life really.”

“Gourry… Do you… Love Miss Lina?”

Sylphiel’s question made Lina jump for a moment, but she tried to stay still. Her heart was starting to beat just a tad too fast.

“Of course I do.” Gourry replied way too quickly and cheerful. “I love you too Sylphiel, and Amelia, and Zelgadis, and even Xelloss!”

Lina’s eyes shot wide and she felt something wet forming in her eyes as words Xelloss said before ran across her mind… He was right, Gourry didn’t feel for her much beyond a strong friendship, maybe a brotherly love and that’s all… Maybe his brain capacity didn’t go that high….

Sylphiel rubbed her cheek. “But if being her guardian means so much to you, why were you telling Miss Lina to take the pledge?”

Gourry blinked twice, then rubbed his head. “… Well, I was thinking if Xelloss is going to take care of Lina she doesn’t really need me anymore granted but…” he smiled softly. “I could tell from back when we met Xelloss he liked her, even though he was a monster. I just knew he never really meant her any harm.”

Lina gasped silently at that. That was right, Gourry did say he figured out Xelloss was a monster all along and just never said it because he thought it was obvious… Though she was wondering how the jellyfish brains actually remembered that…

“I mean after all with him sometimes is the only times I see Lina really act like a girl, she usually doesn’t.” Gourry continued with a laugh. “She blushes and acts a bit nervous at times, and he’s the only one that ever got close enough to kiss her that she didn’t blow away before they had the chance. I think they’d make a great couple and I just… I just know she’ll be alright with him. So if I have to let her go, I guess she’s grown up now.” The tone of his voice was like a proud guardian or brother, followed by the soft expression in his eyes. “She’s not that little kid anymore I met on the way to Atlas City…”

Lina shut her eyes as the tears started flowing… Damn Xelloss, why did he have to be right?

“Gourry dear…” Sylphiel smiled slightly. “… If… If you do would you…. I’m still in the process of rebuilding Sairaag, and I’ll be needing to travel to other places for help and support so I was wondering if…”

Gourry smiled at her. “You want me to help you out?”

Sylphiel nodded. “I mean, if you really won’t be Miss Lina’s guardian when this is all over perhaps… You could be mine and after we’re done come… L-live with me in Sairaag as we rebuild?”

Lina froze in place, why didn’t she see this coming? She knew Sylphiel always had a huge crush on Gourry.

“Well… If Lina really doesn’t need me anymore…” Gourry stared out the window for a moment at the night sky, then turned to the shrine maiden with a smile, reaching out his hand to place ontop of hers. “… I’d be honored.”

Neither one of them heard Lina break down into a river of tears and choke back on her sobs under the covers.

Lina groaned as she awoke in the middle of the night. She apparently had cried herself back to sleep as she felt the wet cloth of the pillow against her face. She slowly sat up, seeing out the window it was still night time. Checking the time, she noted it was about 4am in the morning. Looking to her right, she saw Sylphiel and Amelia each in the remaining beds, sound asleep. She let out a sigh and looked down at her outfit, she had collapsed on the bed and not even bothered to change clothes. The only things she took off had been her shoulder armor and cloak.

Slipping out of the bed, she decided to walk outside the inn, taking in the night air. A few drops fell onto her face as it was raining. She let out a heavy sigh, as the rain covered the tears that weld up in her eyes again. She covered her face into her hands and sobbed loudly and heavily as there was no one to see her now, letting her heartbreak hit her fully, though thanking her lucky star she never was stupid enough to confess her feelings for Gourry… The moron, he would have ruined the moment completely.

But something stopped her train of thought as a pair of arms snaked around her from behind, and a gentle voice of concern at her ear. “Miss Lina, what are you doing out here? It’s raining and you’ll get sick at this rate, and you shouldn’t be alone!”

Lina gasped at the voice, turning her head to see the pair of amethyst eyes scowling at her. “Xelloss…” she breathed. “… What are you doing here?”

Xelloss looked at her, his face full of confusion. “I told you I am to remain by your side, I apologize it took so long to come back, mistress had a lot to discuss with me as you turned down the remaining lord’s offer.”

Lina quickly turned her head away from him, choking back a sob. “Just leave me alone.”

Xelloss rubbed his thumb against her eye, drying her tears. “… You’ve been crying. What happened?” he hadn’t closed his eyes, though they were narrowed as he turned her head to face him.

“Who cares? Just enjoy your damn meal asshole.” Lina spat. Oh how she wished she had her powers to blow him the hell away!

Xelloss sighed, his fingers brushing her wet locks of hair away from her face. “I do not wish to revel in your sorrow, as appealing as it might be to my Mazoku nature…” There was something odd on his expression, almost like remorse over her being upset. “Tell me what’s bothering you.”

“You were right, ok?” Lina snapped, glaring at him. “Gourry doesn’t think of me as anything more than a kid he was protecting… He and Sylphiel are…” she choked on her sob.

Xelloss closed his eyes with a sigh, pressing his lips against her forehead. “I apologize, I merely was speaking the truth. Come, let’s get you out of this rain.” His other arm still tightly around her waist, he teleported away holding her.

They arrived in a small room where the walls looked like the inside of a cave, there were several trinkets on the shelves, a large bookshelf with several books on it, and a bed in the corner with violet sheets.

“W-where are we?” Lina asked after a moment.

“My chambers.” Xelloss answered. “I didn’t think you wanted your friends to see you like this.”

“You mean we’re on Wolfpack Island?” Lina gasped.

“Yes, though I mostly use this room to keep things I’ve collected over the years.” Xelloss shrugged, walking over to the bed and sitting her down. “I should have something in here for you to change into…” he turned and opened up a black chest in the room.

“Excuse me?” Lina blushed slightly.

“Miss Lina, I know how fragile humans are. You need to get out of those wet clothes.” Xelloss sighed, rummaging through some cloth.

“I’M NOT GETTING NAKED WITH YOU HERE PERVERT!!!” Lina snarled, grabbing the nearest thing on the table and tossing it at his head.

Xelloss chuckled softly at her reaction, shaking his head. “I didn’t mean it that way, Lina. Besides, you really want to get into it I’ve already seen you in your most natural state.”

An anger vain popped on Lina’s forehead, she lunged at him, taking him into a headlock. “THE FUCK DOES THAT MEAN FRUITCAKE?? YOU’VE BEEN PEEPING ON ME?!”

“N-no you misunderstand…” Xelloss groaned, squirming a bit. “Lina, you should know how the Astral Plane works, how everything looks more on there, and how a human would look…”

Lina blinked, her eyes went wide with realization as her arms loosened. “… Oh…. Ok I guess that is true… Clothes wouldn’t exactly show up on the astral side, would it...?”

“Exactly, which you’re just as lovely on either side.” Xelloss smiled, then kissed her cheek.

Lina’s face turned bright red as she released him, stumbling back against the bed, still sitting on the floor. She started into space for a few moments until she felt something fall into her lap. It was Xelloss’s cloak.

“You feel a little cold, why don’t you put that on for right now?” Xelloss offered, going back to pulling out some items from the trunk.

Lina blinked, looking at him, then the mantle… Then slowly wrapped it around herself.

“Ah, here we go.” Xelloss said after a moment, placing on the bed a pair of violet pajamas. He rubbed his cheek looking at her for a moment, then lifted her up back onto the bed. “… I’ll wait outside for you to change.” He smiled, pressing his lips against her hair and slowly walking out of the room.

Lina felt her cheeks flush as she held the cloak tightly around herself. She quickly shook her head. “What’s the matter with you? It’s Xelloss! XELLOSS!” she snarled to herself. But then her eyes strayed to the door… He was being awfully strange, and worried about her. For the longest time Lina never thought of Xelloss in any sort of romantic way, when she thought he was human… Well, she assumed he was a priest after all. She did think he was cute and kind of a waste so that thought never crossed her mind otherwise… And when she found out he was Mazoku… “… Oh damn that fruity Mazoku! Why does he have to keep confusing me so much?!” she quickly changed out of her damp clothes into the pajamas, surprised they fit her quite well. “Alright Xelloss, I’m done.” She called out.

Xelloss smiled and walked back into the room, resting his staff on the table. He picked up the wet clothes and draped them over the chest, leaving his mantle next to her clothes. “They suit you well, Miss Lina.” He smiled gently at her.

“W-whatever…” Lina snapped, sitting cross-legged on the bed. “X-Xelloss… Can I ask you something? And no, ‘That is a secret’ crap.” She hissed low.

The priest ran a hand through his hair. “… Well, I suppose it depends on the question. I cannot answer something my mistress forbids me to answer.”

Lina rolled her eyes. “Fine, if you can’t just tell me you can’t answer it…. How many Soul Touches have you had?”

Xelloss chuckled softly at that, opening his violet eyes. “Why Miss Lina, are you perhaps jealous of your predecessors?”

“SHUT UP AND ANSWER THE QUESTION ASSHOLE!” the crimson haired sorceress growled.

“Counting this one?” he asked.

“Of course stupid!” she was losing her patience by this point….

Xelloss smirked and held up his index finger. “One.”

Lina just looked at him dumbfounded. “… WHAT?! B-but you’ve been around for…”

“Over 1014 years? Yes I know.” Xelloss chuckled, waving his finger. “While I always found humans amusing and all, I’ve never had a Soul Touch with one. But some Mazoku go their whole lives without Soul Touches, others go through thousands.” He tapped his finger to his chin. “I guess you could say no human or other creature could measure up to my expectations?”

“So you’re freaking picky?” Lina raised her eyebrow.

He smirked. “Or maybe I was waiting for the most beautiful sorcery genius to be born into this world.”

Lina’s entire face turned red when he had just used her own title for herself now.

Xelloss walked over and finished turning down the bed, pulling her into his arms. “I believe though you still need some rest, Lina-ch… Err Miss Lina.”

She raised her eyebrow at that, surprised he stopped himself. “And just what do you think you’re doing Xelloss? I warned you about sexual harassment.”

“One, you don’t have your powers now so there’s no point in threatening me, Lina.” Xelloss flashed her a wicked grin, which her face was starting to turn deadly so he raised a hand. “But I have no intention. I just think you’ll be warmer this way.” To prove his point, he pulled her close to him and lay back on the bed, pulling the covers up to her shoulders. “This will very much do for me now.”

“Yeah, because on the Astral Plane you’re probably groping me.” Lina joked.

“Miss Lina, on the Astral Plane I don’t have arms.” Xelloss laughed into her ear. “I’d merely look like you’re encased in a tornado.”

“But Xelloss… Mazoku don’t sleep, why are you…?” Lina looked up at him, her eyes filled with curiosity.

“Would you believe me if I told you I wanted to?” his amethyst orbs were staring deep into her crimson eyes, as his hand was rubbing her back. “I shall try to stay until you fall asleep, or until Lord Beast Master calls me.”

Lina felt her blush increasing again. “… X-Xelloss… Thank you for…”

Xelloss placed a finger over her lips. “No need, as a Mazoku I’m not really built for comfort. But your rage about me did get your sorrow to calm down.” He slowly removed the finger, closing his eyes and smiling at her.

Lina just glared at him for a moment, why did that idiot have to say that? He actually did comfort her a bit, and did he HAVE to remind her how upset she just was? She let out a sigh, and decided the hell with it, she lightly pressed her lips against his.

That made the Mazoku’s eyes flare open, his hand that wasn’t on her back moving up to caress the back of her head, as he moved his lips to kiss her back.

But Lina did break off the kiss abruptly, leaning her burning cheek against his chest. “… Tell anyone I did that, and I’m going Ragna Blade your ass.”

Xelloss smirked, looking down at her and running his fingers gently through her hair. “…. It’s a secret, then.”

Lina groaned softly as she was pulled out of sleep by a howling sound. She turned over and felt a piece of paper bump against her cheek. Fluttering her eyes open, as she sat up to see Xelloss wasn’t there, and apparently had left a note. She took a moment to rub her eyes into focus before reading it.

Miss Lina,
I apologize if you awake before my return, but Lord Beast Master has sent me off on an errand. Please try to remain in my quarters until I return to take you back. If you sense at all you might be in danger, use your ring to call me.
Xelloss

She raised an eyebrow at the note. So she was supposed to just stay here until that fruitcake decided to return? Her eyes fluttered to the ring still snug on her left hand. Why would she be in danger unless… Oh, perhaps Zelas’s underlings aren’t accustom to humans being around. That would explain the howling that woke her, perhaps they caught up her scent.

“Well I’m not going to just sit here, stupid idiot…” Lina grumbled to herself, slowly changing back into her clothes. When she finished she ran her hand through her hair, brushing her fingers against her lips as she was having a small flashback of last night. “… What the hell was I thinking? Kissing that damn Mazoku! Arrrrggghh I probably just gave him more ammunition!” she stomped her foot in frustration. Her face flushed slightly. But then she heard that howling again. “That does it, I’m not staying here.” She growled and stomped out of the room.

The corridors of Wolfpack Island was like walking inside a cave. In fact she suspected that she was inside some sort of cave… The only problem was she had no idea where she was going. It was rather dark too, luckily she was able to cast a tiny lighting spell, forming the small orb of light into her hand. “Well at least that worked…” she sighed.

Eventually she found her way into a much larger room, one with a large stone chair in the center. “… What the hell?” she raised her eyebrow at that. Slowly, she stepped into the room and noticed something sitting on the chair, a piece of paper with ancient writing on it that was from the Clair Bible. Her eyes flew open as she figured out what it was about – The Soul Touch.

It merely confirmed everything Xelloss had told her, including the part about how a weaker Soul Touch can break when the object is no longer useful… Unless the Mazoku is a mixed creature like a half demon, because with a human part to them the Soul Touch becomes part of their soul. But then her thoughts went back to what she asked Xelloss, he claimed his Soul Touch with her was the stronger kind, which this text labeled a ‘True bond’ the kind that some refer to as Soul Mates. That is why the mate they choose must be compatible on a different level than humans, more based on their astral energy and usefulness.

“Hmmm… Guess that does make sense considering Mazoku are pure astral beings…” Lina absentmindedly thought out loud. But her thoughts were still on the possibility of the Soul Touch breaking… Did this mean there could be a point the connection Xelloss has with her could break too? Lina decided to read on, blinking as she reached the final passage. “Low ranking Mazoku cannot have full on Soul Touches due to their nature… The hell does that mean?”

A booming voice answered her. “Basically it tries to say as astral beings, we Mazoku are asexual by nature as we do not require a mate like you humans tend to, as we reproduce by taking a piece off our Astral Body to create. But that doesn’t mean we of the higher ranks don’t like the idea of a useful companion… Considering when we take human forms we can experience quite a few human characteristics, the lower ranks cannot create an effective human form so they do not suffer our ‘side effect’ of this…”

Lina froze and her blood turned into ice in her veins. Very slowly, she turned around to see someone had appeared in the chair she had taken the page from. It was a tan, elegant looking woman with long silver hair wearing a white dress. Her golden silted eyes staring right at her as she took a drag from her cigarette.

“While the Soul Touch can be quite useful to us at times, it can be a rather bothersome thing because it can cause some Mazoku to go mad.” The woman shrugged, leaning back in her chair. “Because it can often cause them to start acting… Human, you might say. It’s the side effect of those able to create a near ‘perfect’ corporeal form in that of a human. That is why only high ranking Mazoku are subjected to the full on Soul Touch, the low ranks only receive the identifying part which often helps them find humans that are perfect for making pledges with.” She waved her hand carelessly. “I’ve often found my Xelloss’s Soul Touch with you quite bothersome.”

Lina bit her lip for a moment, narrowing her eyes as she finally spoke. “Greater Beast Zelas Metallium, at last we meet.” She smirked slightly. “Somehow I get the feeling I didn’t find my way here by accident, did I?”

Zelas twitched her mouth into a grin. “Xelloss was quite apprehensive about having to leave you, but he is always loyal no matter how much he dislikes a task. I figured if my wolves were loud enough you’d awake and become curious.”

“But why are you showing me this?” Lina asked, holding up the paper… Which suddenly burst into flames and vanished! “Ack!”

“Because the Soul Touch is one of our most guarded secrets in the monster realm…” the Greater Beast crossed her legs and leaned back in her chair. “I did not expect you to believe it completely merely by what my little pup told you. That and it explains some other minor details he may have skipped.”

Lina raised her eyebrow. “You said before his Soul Touch has been bothersome… Why?”

“First, it was the only secret he ever kept directly from me. I didn’t discover it until that incident with Phibrizzo and Gaav where he nearly got himself destroyed…” Zelas twisted her mouth into a frown.

The red headed sorceress tilted her head to the side. “But… Didn’t you order him to follow Phibrizzo’s orders, and those were to protect me until I cast the Giga Slave for him?”

Zelas shook her head. “You take me for a fool? He was only ordered to watch you, guide you towards the Clair Bible but that is all. The only other order I gave him was to seek out and destroy that traitor Seigram!”

“Seigram?” Lina’s eyes went wide. “… Wait, are you saying that he was one of your followers?” thinking about it, that made sense to her. Xelloss did show a rather strong distastefulness to Seigram, and that Mazoku was in fact afraid of Xelloss at one point…

“Was, but he betrayed me and went running to Gaav.” Zelas explained, taking in another puff from her cigarette. “That was why when Phibrizzo mentioned he was going to flush out Gaav and kill him, I allowed him to borrow Xelloss because I knew that meant he could track down Seigram and be rid of him. Xelloss was to return to me immediately after dealing with that traitor.”

Now Lina was processing that time even more. Xelloss did leave them not long after she killed Seigram, but he was attacked by Gaav just before he could leave… And they didn’t see him again until after she cast the Giga Slave… But Phibrizzo said he was out of action merely because of his wounds… Was Phibrizzo lying to them about that?

“But, Xelloss went and got himself nearly destroyed by Gaav… Even stuck around for a bit when I was summoning him.” Zelas huffed. “It was then I figured out he had experienced a Soul Touch with you, since he never had one before he was inexperienced as to why he was so found of you.”

“… So, you were the reason he took off suddenly like that?” Lina asked. And here she thought he merely just ran away on them…

“Hellmaster was already there, I knew you were important to his plan so he would not let you die.” Beast Master shrugged her shoulders. “So I ordered Xelloss to remain here to heal, and told Phibrizzo he could not have him back due to his injuries… Even though Xelloss begged me to return, he knew you’d cast the Giga Slave to rescue your friends, but as I told him going against Hellmaster would have been suicide, even for myself. He held the strongest amount of power of all 5 of us lords.”

“So that’s why Xelloss was only able to watch?” Lina asked.

“He snuck off when I thought he was healing.” Zelas rolled her eyes. “His Soul Touch sensed you in danger, another side effect of it. We can sense when our strongest Soul Touch is in a life threatening situation or near death, due to the connection it makes with our Astral Body.”

“You mean for the ones that are true bonds?” Lina asked, her thoughts going back to what she had just read moments ago.

“Correct. I worried he was going to go and do something stupid when mother took you over.” Zelas chuckled. “But it worked out in the end.”

Lina took a moment to think about that… She did recall both Amelia and Sylphiel mentioned Xelloss had a rather… Painfully serious look on his face when he practically told them she was dead. Could that had been his remorse over losing her? But that’s when something else clicked in her brain. “… Wait, worked out? I thought you monsters want the destruction of the world? Hellmaster failed!”

“Phibrizzo went insane towards the end, and I for one do not follow what most consider… Normal for us Mazoku.” Zelas winked, wagging her finger in a fashion that was similar to Xelloss. “Chaos is enjoyable, the road to destruction is a feast to us and filled with fun… But once we get there, we have nothing. I wish to prolong the process as the world would be rather… Boring if we ended it so soon, don’t you think? That is why I dispatched Xelloss during Darkstar’s incident, or did you not wonder why neither Dynast or Dolphin’s servants showed up even though you were past the Mazoku barrier within the Demon Sea?”

Lina’s eyebrows creased at that. “… Wait, so you’re telling me you’re putting off the ultimate goal of the Mazoku just because you don’t want to be bored? Is this why you’re willing to help me save Luna? Not just because of Cepheid?”

“Exactly, while destroying your sister might or might not speed up the process of the Flare Lord returning… It could also have an adverse affect Dynast and Dolphin are hoping on…” the Greater Beast’s face hardened. “Which would be an explosion of Chaos Fusion Magic should they cause the rift, in turn destroying this world and returning it to chaos…” she tossed her cigarette to the side. “I am not ready to end this world just yet, so I wish to prolong the enjoyment further… And if we can take down the god’s power while we’re at it, well that’s just a bonus.” She flashed a grin.

“So because Xelloss’s Soul Touch with me is so bothersome sometimes with any plans you might have, is that why you had him keep it a secret?” Lina asked with her arms crossed.

“Actually the main reason was I wasn’t sure if I like the idea of my little boy dating just yet.” Zelas replied with a wicked grin. “What is it you humans call it? Overprotective mother-in-law checking out her son’s girlfriend? I mean after all I did put a lot into making him that he really is my only child…”

Lina sweatdropped at that. “He’s over a thousand years old!”

The Greater Beast just shrugged. “Doesn’t mean I can’t look out for my son the first time he shows interest in a girl? You’re his first Soul Touch after all.” She winked.

A faint blush covered Lina’s nose. “Y-yeah he mentioned that…” She was starting to see where Xelloss got his fruity behavior…

“That reminds me, another little thing I’d like to ask you…” Zelas tapped her forefinger to her cheek. “… What is it about my Xelloss’s offer that appeals to you so?”

Lina pursed her lips and her ruby eyes strayed away for a moment. “… Well, his offer still gives me decent control of my life. You monsters should understand the urge for free will, going by the way Xelloss spouts it.” She sighed. “I’m not stupid, I knew he’d want something out of the pledge and saving Luna… I just never expected something like the Soul Touch. But I don’t want to become a Mazoku either, I want to stay a human. Sure, living forever sounds actually fun and all, but I still want to be me.”

Zelas raised her eyebrow at that. “You think it will change you, if you took one of the offers to become Mazoku?”

“Look what happened to Valgaav, he went insane when he was turned into a monster…” Lina brought up, her eyes now on the floor. “I’d rather not find out the hard way.”

“Hmmm…” Zelas ran her hand under her chin. “I have to give my son better credit, he does seem to know your mind quite well. He told me you’d turn down both offers, which is why he pressed me once more about finally allowing him to let you know about his Soul Touch and make his offer.”

“That and… While I’m always prepared for Xelloss to betray me because he is Mazoku… He’s saved me several times over that I thought was rather off for his nature.” Lina brought up with a shrug. “And finding out that wasn’t even your orders… I guess it makes up for a lot of the crap he has pulled. You could say I consider him a friend that I just worry he’ll backstab me any moment, and even then it’s not quite a backstab as he doesn’t outright lie and say he’s on my side. Even when he has betrayed me, it was either false or by orders, which things worked out in the end.” She ran her fingers through her hair. “I should know better by now, but I guess I kinda trust that fruitcake… A little.” She chuckled.

“How nice of you to say such things about me, Miss Lina.” A quiet voice sent a chill up the sorceress’s spine.

Lina’s eyes widened and she quickly jerked her head around, seeing Xelloss approach them right that moment. Oh damn, just how much of that did he hear?

“Ah Xelloss, you’re back sooner than I thought.” Zelas mused with a wolfish grin that gave away she was lying. “Did you find any information of use in the library of the church of the Aqua Lord?”

“Sadly no Mistress, nothing we already did not know.” Xelloss shrugged his shoulders. “A few dragons tried to stop me on the way out, until they figured out who it was they were dealing with.” He chuckled darkly. “They decided against their actions soon after… But there was something of interest in the area.” He paused for a moment. “Huraker and Riksfalto had just been there themselves prior to my arrival… Apparently Huraker has been posing as a priest of the church for a little while now.”

Lina took in a sharp gasp. “She could do that? Couldn’t the dragons tell she was a Mazoku?”

“That’s why she left, before she was smart enough to stay away from the dragons and only mingle with the humans.” Xelloss explained. “But they caught her nosing into some research involving the Knights of Cepheid, and Chaos Fusion.”

Zelas’s face took a darker look now. “… It is as I thought then, Dolphin and Dynast wish to utilize the situation for… Our goal.” There was a hint of distaste as she spoke the last two words. Lina would had questioned it had the Greater Beast not explained herself earlier… About her true intentions towards that goal.

“Lord Beast Master, your words almost sound like… Treason.” A bellowed laugh echoed in the room.

“Who dares to enter my chambers without my permission?” Zelas hissed.

Xelloss opened his eyes and quickly teleported in front of Lina, wrapping an arm around her waist and ushering her behind him. “Stay close to me.” He murmured.

She could only nod in response, after all her powers weren’t back yet. She was going to have to rely on them to protect her… Talk about irony, a Mazoku Lord and her priest/general willing to protect Lina Inverse, one who assisted in the death of 2 of the lords and destroyer of many of the monster race.

There was a flash of light on the ground, as a green haired female Mazoku appeared before them. She had a pink scar over her right eye, and blue markings on her left cheek. She had a dark blue suit with white armor shoulder pieces, the suit was in two pieces, her stomach was left exposed. “Seems Huraker wasn’t kidding when she said the Beast Priest has gone off his rocker due to his Soul Touch… But I didn’t know such a thing affected the creator too.” Her cyan eyes staring straight at Lina, she smirked. “Now see, nothin' pisses me off more than things that are more trouble than they're worth. I'm not a big fan of lies, secrets, or anything along those lines, either.”

“My, my, Riksfalto… Are you often this rude when you make an entrance?” Xelloss raised his eyebrow. “At least Huraker didn’t approached Miss Lina with such… Hostile attitude.”

“She’s trouble if you’re willing to go to this length to protect her.” Riksfalto glared. “Lord Dolphin will be very interested to hear about this, I wondered why you were poking your nose into our business at the church of the Aqua Lord… So I followed you back here.”

Xelloss waved his finger. “And here you hate lies, Huraker was lying very much herself in that situation.”

“What Huraker does under Lord Dolphin’s orders doesn’t concern me, I can’t be as crafty as she is.” Riksfalto retorted, crossing her arms. “But you, Xelloss, have been a disgrace to the Mazoku since the day Lord Beast Master created you.”

Zelas placed a hand on her hip. “That doesn’t change the fact you’re in my domain, Riksfalto. How about I return you to Dolphin in pieces?” she grinned.

“I thought you’d say that… So I brought backup. Norst, Dee & Grau are dealing with your little underlings at the moment.” Riksfalto grinned. “They’ll be here about… Now.” There were several blasting noises, and smoke coming as one of walls of the cave collapsed.

“Dynast’s minions are here too?” Xelloss’s grip tightened around Lina, who was blinking.

“Wait… Is that why you were laughing before when I made that crack about Dynast’s priest? There really IS a Grau?” she asked, eyes wide.

Xelloss opened one eye at her and smirked slightly. “Yes, actually see Dynast has two priests and two generals… Making that crack about Sherra’s name unease her as you were unintentionally hinting she was the weaker and original general, when she views herself as the superior one.”

“Xelloss…” Zelas spoke, narrowing her eyes as her body began to glow. “Get her out of here. She cannot assist in her condition, and will be their main target.” She smirked slightly. “I can handle these ingrates myself.” With that, her body exploded into black light that slowly formed into a large, anthropomorphic black wolf with wings.

Lina gasped and clutched her hand on Xelloss’s cloak as she saw the Greater Beast take her true form. She smirked slightly. “Impressive, lot better than a giant cone.” She joked. “Not at all what I expected.”

Xelloss scowled at her for a moment for making fun of his form, then wrapped his other arm around her. “Understood, Lord Beast Master.” Which then he vanished with Lina.

Lina was barely aware what was going on as Xelloss had pulled her onto the Astral Plane, but he didn’t linger there for long as something seemed to go wrong, he materialized back onto the physical plane, still holding her close to him as a low hiss escaped his throat. She looked around to see they were still inside the caves of Wolfpack Island.

“What is it?” she finally managed to ask, pressing her hand against his chest. Looking at his face, she could see the twisted expression answered her – he had been attacked the moment they entered the Astral Plane. Meaning the Mazoku knew Zelas would order him to get her out of there, and they walked right into a trap. “Xelloss are you alright?” she cried.

With a low chuckle, Xelloss opened a single eye and smiled at her. “It’s just a small wound, I’ll recover.” He then opened his other eye and glared ahead. “… But we’re not alone.”

Just ahead of them appeared a Mazoku male with black hair that had a single streak of white in the center. His thick eyebrows creased over his small, silted red eyes. He wore an orange armored robe over his black outfit with an armor chest plate. “Hrpmh, you’re as powerful as they say you are, Trickster priest. No wonder you caused so much trouble for the Lord Demon Dragon King.” Drawn in his right hand was a long, silver blade.

Next to him appeared a Mazoku that took the form of an elderly man, with long white hair and beard, his thick long white eyebrows covered his closed eyes. “And with a Soul Touch with the woman responsible for Chaos Dragon’s death... My, no wonder the Greater Beast tried to keep this information from us.” He had an orange and red priest robe, holding a brown wooden staff.

Xelloss grit his teeth. “Rashatt… Raltaak… I must admit I thought you both were… Dead.” He smirked mockingly. “I thought Lord Hellmaster took care of you both when we were on the trail of Gaav, as you didn’t appear when he confronted Miss Lina himself.”

Lina’s eyes went wide with fear. These were leftover followers of Gaav? Dammit was every single Mazoku that had something to do with Chaos Dragon going to hunt her down at some point?

“We were, busy you might say.” Raltaak spoke first. “Lord Gaav was looking into another piece of Lord Ruby Eye you might say, by the time we returned from our mission Hellmaster had disposed of him.”

“Because of his partly bound to human form we were not destroyed with him as you may have suspected.” Rashatt narrowed his eyes.

“I suppose that would explain it, most priests and generals of the lords cannot survive once their master has perished.” Xelloss shrugged his shoulders, his arms tightening around Lina. “But who then, do you serve now?”

“Oh that’s simple, with the one that holds the power of Chaos Dragon.” Raltaak waved his hand carelessly. “Beast Master wasn’t the only one to harvest a destroyed lord’s power after all.”

Lina shivered against her Mazoku protector. Someone was able to recover Gaav’s powers even after Phibrizzo killed him? But wait… Did he say Zelas had a destroyed lord’s power too? … But that would mean…

“Lord Beast Master hasn’t been able to properly arrange for the Hellmaster’s power to be of use yet… He after all, was destroyed by The Mother, so his powers are still unstable.” Xelloss explained, his hardened expression not letting up just yet. “She was hoping to harvest his powers and create a new subordinate out of the piece from his Astral Body.”

Lina looked up at the priest with wide eyes. “W-whoa wait a second! You’re telling me that despite those lords being dead their powers are still in this world?!?”

Xelloss looked down at her, closing his eyes and putting his cheerful mask on. “Well, my Mistress felt it would be a terrible waste of power for all that to retreat to the Sea of Chaos. My best guess is Lord Dynast felt the same about Chaos Dragon…” he looked up at the Mazoku before them. “… Or am I wrong and it’s Lord Dolphin who dispatched you?”

“Observant as ever, Xelloss.” Raltaak chuckled. “Lord Dynast easily took us in as his newer underlings, as he already had too many generals and priests to accommodate for us.”

“So he sent his other minions to distract Lord Beast Master, while you two get your revenge on Miss Lina and myself?” Xelloss opened his eyes once more, smirking slightly. “I’m afraid that will be his undoing.”

“The girl we’re supposed to bring back alive if we can… We’ll see about that.” Rashatt vanished from sight, appearing behind him just as his blade was about to make contact with Xelloss’s back.

“My, how terribly rude.” Xelloss chuckled, quickly launching himself into the air to dodge, still clutching Lina close to his person. “Miss Lina, please be sure to hold on.”

The crimson haired sorceress didn’t need to be told, her hands were tightly gripping to his cloak… Which suddenly she felt was wrapped around her as he placed her down a few feet away from the other Mazoku. “Xelloss?” she looked up, seeing he had discarded the cloak from himself to place it on her.

“Keep that around you no matter what, it’s a part of me so it should be able to protect you from their attacks.” Xelloss said, a hard edge to his voice as he took his staff into both his hands, blocking Rashatt’s sword.

Lina blinked as his words, remembering just last night when she had this cloak around her… It didn’t occur to her before that it was part of his body when he gave it to her to… Wait a second that means! “Xelloss… Kick their asses so I can beat yours later.” She snarled.

Xelloss chuckled softly at that, taking in her sudden anger. “Why thank you, Lina-chan. That’s just the extra boost I needed.” With that his staff glowed, several black sparks flew off it and charged through the sword that made contact with his staff and zapped Rashatt into a wall.

An anger vain popped on Lina’s forehead. “I TOLD YOU NOT TO CALL ME THAT!” she hissed.

Smirking and waving his index finger, Xelloss turned and swung his staff in line, several mini black cones appeared and shot out at Rashatt, pinning him to the wall. He stepped forward, charging a ball of energy into his hand. “Any last words, former general?”

“You forgot about me, Xelloss.” Raltaak swung his staff, an explosion rocking the cave’s floor under the General Priest.

Xelloss had just sensed the attack in time, hovering inches above the ground with a barrier around himself. “Very well then, if you wish for your end as well that can be arranged. I’d much rather not have to resort to violence, but you two give me no choice.” He vanished from sight, and that’s when a rainstorm of the mini black tornadoes appeared like mad, impaling both Mazoku to the wall and hammering them.

Lina shivered slightly from watching this fight, damn was she glad when Xelloss fought with her and her friends he was only being slightly serious. She knew she wouldn’t stand a chance against him had he ever attacked her as relentlessly as this! Though her train of thought was stopped as she looked up, the earlier explosion had disturbed the cave slightly, and pieces of the jagged ceiling was starting to giveaway!

“Oh crap!” Lina cried, quickly rolling away as several rock spears came down and nearly impaled her. While grated Xelloss’s cloak was part of his Astral Body, she didn’t want to test if it would protect her against those heavy rocks squishing her. But that’s when she noticed during her roll she must had lost her grip on the cloak, it was slightly under some of the rubble of rocks now. She knew she had to grab it and get it back on fast, it would only take a moment…

But a moment was all Raltaak needed. Taking it all the pain from the merciless awl storm hammering him, he brought his staff down with a glow. A black swirl shot out and formed a ring of black fire around Lina, magic charging within the circle ready to explode…

When suddenly she felt her feet lifted out from under her as the explosion shook the cave violently. She had shut her eyes, trying with all her might to cast a barrier spell but still no use… When she noticed she didn’t take any pain, and felt her head pressed against a familiar yellow shirt as she opened her ruby eyes. “Xelloss!” she cried, looking up to see the priest smile at her.

“You didn’t think I forgot about you, did you dear Lina?” he chuckled slightly, but then she noticed rough edges around his right shoulder… He was slightly hurt taking that explosion for her, apparently a part of the blast got him before he got his barrier up, which was currently around them.

Raltaak and Rashatt though took this chance to break free from the black cones that imprisoned them on the wall, joining their staff and sword together but nothing seemed to happen as the two vanished… At least to Lina’s eyes.

“AAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!!!!!” Xelloss whaled out and fell to his knees, still holding Lina he hissed with one eye open.

“Oh no, an Astral Attack!” Lina gasped, her hand clutching at his shirt. She was already cursing herself, had he not been distracted with rescuing her, he wouldn’t have taken his eyes off those two and they might not had gotten away.

“M-Miss Lina… May I borrow the Demons Blood Talismans?” Xelloss asked, straining to get back to his feet.

Lina nodded and frantically pulled the amulets off her wrists and belt, her last one that normally was over her cape she pulled out of her pocket. “Just remember I want them back, fruitcake.” She teased, trying to make light of the moment but inside was panicking… If he need those then he must had just been hurt pretty badly. It made her wonder if by chance he actually might had been wounded a bit from his earlier mission and just choose not to tell her and Zelas, that or expelled too much destroying whatever dragons tried to stop them.

“Of course.” Xelloss chuckled, quickly placing them on. “Lords of the Darkness and the Four Worlds, grant me all the power that you possess!” the talismans started glowing brightly.

Lina looked at him confused for a moment, the only time she ever saw him use this spell was when he used the Blast Bomb, but wouldn’t he have to put her down for that? No instead his grip around her was extremely tight, and his amethyst orbs were scanning the area, possibly both here and the Astral Plane.

“There you are.” Xelloss grinned sadistically, his eyes glowing as his whole body was radiating a dark violet aura.

Lina shivered feeling the intense power radiating from him, then gasped when she saw the Mazoku fazing in just steps before them… And two large black cones impaled through their chests!

Her eyes widened, he was using the talisman’s power to enhance his own ability to probably repair whatever damage those two did to his Astral Form. She watched as their bodies wrecked agony as Xelloss just laughed maniacally and several more of the larger cones pierced through the Mazoku’s bodies and exploded!

Lina shut her eyes and felt something cover her before the smoke and rock dust hit her, when she opened her eyes she saw that Xelloss was holding his cloak over her head. When he lowered it, she saw nothing but dark mist, signaling the Mazoku were in fact destroyed.

“Phew… You know you actually scared me for a bit there Xelloss.” Lina whipped a bit of sweat off her forehead. “I thought for a bit there you were going to get over your head and they were going to actually do some major damage to you…”

There was no reply from Xelloss, and just before Lina could ask she felt him fall to his knees, just barely holding her close to him, his body shaking slightly.

“X-XELLOSS?!?” Lina cried, her eyes wide with panic as she placed her hands on his face, lifting his head a bit to see the strain in his amethyst orbs, which he slowly closed to hide them. “Are you alright?” she asked, alarm in her voice.

He groaned for a moment, it took a moment for him to respond. “I…. I will be fine in a moment, Lina-chan.”

“You god damn fruitcake… You could have gotten yourself killed you’re so careless.” Lina snarled, her hands tightening around his head. “No wonder your damn Mistress worries about your Soul Touch with me if it makes you do shit like this… What can I do to help you?”

He chuckled. “Why don’t you give me that promised beating now if you wish to help?”

Lina rolled her eyes at that, of course negative emotions would help heal him. “You dolt.” She wrapped her arm around his neck, like as if she was just about to pull him into a headlock… When suddenly she kissed him.

“THE NEXT TIME YOU DO SOMETHING STUPID LIKE THAT I’M GOING TO KILL YOU MYSELF!!!” Lina Inverse snarled as she tightened the headlock on the Mazoku Priest in her arms. She had caught him completely off guard with that kiss, so he actually didn’t expect it anymore when she suddenly did so…

“I-I’m s-sorry Miss Lina!” Xelloss cried, his voice wavering a bit as she was shaking his head.

“And I still need to beat your ass for calling me Lina-chan twice you prick!” she snarled.

“Well by all means I already offered you to.” Xelloss chuckled softly as she continued her useless effort to strangle him.

Lina hissed and released him, dropping his head to the floor. “Oh what’s the damn point? It’s no good if you enjoy it you ass.” She snarled, crossing her arms. “And give me back my talismans!”

“Awww you mean you weren’t doing it to show your affection for me, Lina-chan?” Xelloss looked up at her with a mischievous grin as he removed the talismans, plopping them into her hand. “After all I just saved you.”

“You’re the reason I needed saving in the first place you jackass!” Lina stood up and pulled her leg back after she put the talismans back on. “You brought me here after all!” she let her leg forward with a quick motion to kick him, but he fazed out. “Ahhh!” she cried, losing her balance due to this and falling backwards when suddenly a pair of arms caught her.

Xelloss smirked, his arms wrapped around her waist as he pressed his lips to her forehead. “Leave it to you Miss Lina to be able to help me recover so well so quickly.”

Lina growled and struggled in his embrace to get her footing back. “I warned you before to knock that off idiot!”

“But Liiinnaaa, you took me by such surprise thanking me with a lovely kiss and all.” Xelloss teased, his devilish grin and amethyst eyes barring down at her, sending a shiver down her spine.

“T-that was to mess with you like you always do to me fruitcake!” she snapped, her face flushing red as she finally was able to stand straight back up. “B-besides after what I read in that Clair Bible Manuscript actions like that not only give me energy like you told me, they can energize you as well right?”

“Mmm I must say it did strike me by surprise.” Xelloss chuckled, his lips lingering on her hair, his arms tightening around her waist to pull her back against him. Nuzzling his nose into her hair, he slowly moved his head to her shoulder, blowing a puff of air into her ear. “And yes dear Lina, just being this close to you is enough for my Soul Touch to help restore my energy. I’m willing to bet if we continued your magic would probably come back faster.” He chuckled, pressing his lips gently to her ear. “While I feed off your lovely emotions.”

Lina took in a sharp gasp, clenching her fists and shutting her eyes. While a part of her was screaming to break free, another part actually was curious if his theory was true. In a way she did want her damn powers back as soon as possible. But her rational mind won out slightly. “Screw you, Xelloss.” She hissed.

“Are you offering?” the Mazoku teased, which made her blush even more furiously as she punched him in the face.

“Let me go right now you bastard!” Lina hissed, trying so hard to break free from his iron lock around her waist. All she managed to do was turn herself to where she was facing him, though.

“Hmmm perhaps we should test my theory, dear Lina?” Xelloss gave her a predatory grin, his amethyst eyes still not closed as they were looking straight into hers. Slowly he was inching her towards one of the walls of the caves.

“Xelloss I god damn swear when my powers are back…” Lina snarled, glaring deadly at him.

“All the more reason I shouldn’t pass this up, as I told you Miss Lina, I am giving you a preview what to expect should you choose the pledge.” Xelloss snickered, then pressed her back firmly against the rocky wall, lifting her just a bit so she was at eye level with him.

“And I warned no more god damn sexual harassment you Mazoku shithead!!!” Lina snarled, kicking at his legs and punching his chest.

Xelloss bellowed a laugh. “And I told you I haven’t BEGUN to harass you in that manner, my lovely Lina.” And before she could retort back his lips were hard against hers.

Lina growled into the kiss, still thrashing in his grasp for a few moments before remembering that did no damn good. So she tried something else, she bit his lip hard, even more than the first time he kissed her. In fact this time she drew a bit of his black blood that covered her lips. She would have jerked her head back but she couldn’t being pinned against this cavern’s wall.

She felt a ping of relief as Xelloss slowly pulled back to examine her Mazoku blood stained lips, and that devilish grin on his face got wider if that was possible. “Now you’re getting into it.” He whispered huskily, and she could see her bite on his lips was already healed. Just as she opened her mouth as she was going to growl at him, he was kissing her again. She felt his tongue licking up the droplets of blood, then he pushed his probing tongue inside her already open mouth, exploring inside.

‘Dammit.’ She mentally cursed. He baited her into that one because he knew she’d retort. She knew there was no way to fight him off without her magic, so she decided the hell with it, if he’s going to force her like this she might as well test his god damn stupid theory, and screw with him some more while she’s at it.

Which is what she did, suddenly without warning she darted her tongue to meet his, and began to kiss him back for the first time. She was right about messing with him though, it got him to pause for a moment, amethyst orbs wide and looking at her in surprise. She just glared at him in response for a moment, then closed her eyes and decided to take control of this kiss while he was bewildered.

So Lina pushed through his tongue and entered hers into his mouth shyly, she basically mimicked Xelloss’s actions he had done being as inexperienced as she was. Strangely enough though she was becoming aware of her heart pounding and her cheeks burning slightly, was it because this didn’t quite feel as bad as she thought when she beat him off before he had the chance to go further with a kiss? Her train of thought was stopped when she felt his tongue try to wrap around hers, she quickly withdrew hers back into her mouth and clamped her lips shut.

She heard him chuckle at that as his lips withdrew from hers, but still lingered there for a moment as he lightly pressed them back for a short moment, this kiss was short but tender in its own way as he slowly moved his lips down to her chin before breaking off completely. “You’re a quick study, dear Lina.” He purred against her throat.

Lina opened her eyes only half way, her head was spinning and she was gasping for air. As she panted heavily she wanted so badly to wipe that damn smile off that fruity Mazoku’s face as he looked so amused at her. Ugh, how she wanted so badly to zap him off with a Digger Volt right now…

And that’s when suddenly an electric blast blew Xelloss off her, landing on the ground in surprise. She herself landed on her feet, he hadn’t been holding her up that high after all.

“Ah, so it did work.” The Mazoku chuckled, rubbing his head.

Lina blinked rapidly, looking at her hand. Her powers were back? “Fireball!” she cried, swinging her hand forward… And nothing. “The hell?”

“Well, it probably only gave you enough for a temporary boost, Miss Lina.” Xelloss shrugged, rising back to his feet and picking up his staff. “But perhaps by tomorrow for sure your powers should return. After all that wasn’t a full power spell you hit me with, just caught me by surprise.”

Lina just huffed, crossing her arms over her chest. “Is that why you accosted me you ass?” she hissed.

“My, dear Lina I’m hurt. You didn’t feel my affection for you in that kiss?” Xelloss asked with a wolfish grin. “I sure felt your gratitude in it…”

Lina’s face turned scarlet. “I DIDN’T FEEL ANYTHING YOU GOD DAMN PRICK!!!” she tackled him to the ground onto his stomach, wrapping her arms around him into another choke hold. “You EVER do that again and so help me I’ll…”

There was a sudden explosion that interrupted them, causing the cavern to shake even more violently than before. Xelloss quickly teleported them away before some more of the ceiling rocks crashed on them, appearing just outside the island holding Lina in his arms. His one arm was tight around her back, the other holding her legs just below her knees.

“Eh? Damn we’re up high! Xelloss, what are you doing?” Lina looked up at the Mazoku holding her with a confused expression.

“Just making sure there aren’t any more traps set up, by the sound of that explosion Lord Beast Master is finishing up.” Xelloss explained, his eyes were closed once more.

“Should we go check on her?” the crimson haired sorceress asked.

“My first priority is your life, Miss Lina. My Mistress ordered me to get you to safety and that I shall.” Xelloss smiled at her, brushing his cheek against her forehead, making her blush once again. “Besides, while you mean well she would take it as an insult for our concern. She is a powerful lord after all, a few priests and generals cannot take her down so easily.”

Lina rolled her eyes. “You monsters and your pride.” She shook her head. “Just get me back already, I’ve been held by you long enough this morning you’re gonna god damn suffocate me!” she smacked her palm against his chest.

Xelloss chuckled at that. “Going to? My, well we can’t have that can we? I always do everything thoroughly.” He pressed his lips once more against hers in a light kiss as he teleported with her to the Astral Plane for their trip.

“We’re never going to find Miss Lina at this rate.” Amelia whimpered as the group had been searching for hours since they awoke and Lina was missing.

“Odds are since that bastard Xelloss hasn’t shown his face she’s with him.” Zelgadis hissed with his arms crossed, they had spent all day searching the town and were standing just towards the exit to the road.

“But doesn’t that mean she’s ok?” Gourry rubbed his head. “I mean he’s powerful enough to protect her and all, plus he does love her right because of that Sue Touch?”

“Soul Touch, Gourry dear.” Sylphiel corrected him.

“I still don’t trust that piece of shit.” Zelgadis growled. “Who says he’s not just trying to get Lina to take the pledge so she joins the damned Mazoku? He’s up to something I just know it!”

Amelia frowned. “Mr. Zelgadis you really shouldn’t be so suspicious all the time. I know you’re angry at him for burning the Clair Bible manuscript that time, but even Rezo admitted it’s impossible to change you back with knowledge from there… So Mr. Xelloss really didn’t lie to you when he said the information he destroyed wasn’t of use to you.” She pointed out.

“I still don’t trust that jerk, just leave it at that.” Zelgadis grumbled.

“Well you shouldn’t trust me, Mr. Zelgadis. I am Mazoku after all, I assure you haven’t forgotten?” a familiar chuckle whirled in the air. In a matter of seconds Xelloss appeared before them, still holding Lina in his arms. “Forgive me for stealing away Miss Lina but there were some matters we needed to attend to.”

“Lina!” Gourry cried. “See she is fine Zel.”

“Miss Lina where did you go?” Sylphiel asked.

“We’ve been all worried sick about you!” Amelia cried.

Lina didn’t answer… Instead she punched Xelloss in the face and quickly stumbled to get onto her feet, immediately pulling the Mazoku into another headlock. “I wasn’t finished you fruitcake!” she snarled, turning to Zelgadis. “Hey Zel, cast an Astral Vine on your sword and give it to me now!”

Zelgadis actually looked like he was about to draw his sword and listen, as Amelia grabbed his arm, turning towards Lina. “Miss Lina, what happened? Why are you attacking Mr. Xelloss… Again?”

“Like that’s new Amelia? She’s always beating up Xelloss.” Gourry chuckled.

“Miss Lina, just what have you and that monster been doing all this time?” Sylphiel asked, tilting her head to the side.

Xelloss chuckled. “Oh Lina’s just a little angry at me for a few certain actions and apparently doesn’t like me taking Mr. Gourry’s role as protector, especially when I get wounded.”

Lina’s face flushed red. “Shut up now you shithead if you know what’s good for you.” She snarled.

Xelloss gave her a smirk as he looked up at her, amethyst eyes open. “Oh you mean our little secret? I haven’t forgotten Lina-chan.” He winked.

“SHUT THE HELL UP AND STOP CALLING ME THAT ASSHOLE!!!” Lina growled and released him, giving him a kick to the ground. “I am not your god damn Lina-chan, your ‘dear Lina’ or any of those other fucking pet names you came up with! Until I decide to take the pledge you will knock it off with these liberties you keep taking!!!” her face was entirely red by now, stomping her foot on the ground and pointing her finger at him. She didn’t seem to register completely what she said until she saw the wolfish grin on the Mazoku’s face, then her eyes widened with a gasp when she saw her friends looking at her dumbstruck. “I-IF! I meant IF I take the pledge!”

“Just what exactly happened you bastard? What did you do to piss Lina off so badly and unnerve her like this?” Zelgadis shot an accusing glare at the priest.

“That is a secret.” Xelloss smirked, waving his finger and teleporting away as the chimera shot a Dynast Breath at him. He reappeared behind Lina. “Well I’m quite sure you’ll be perfectly safe in their hands for now as I return to report the damage control to Lord Beast Master. She will be most interested about Gaav’s minions, remember to call for me if needed, my Lina.” He pecked a kiss on her cheek before disappearing.

If it was at all possible, Lina’s face turned a deeper shade of scarlet as she turned to hit the damn Mazoku before he vanished, but failed. “COME BACK HERE YOU PIECE OF SHIT I SAID I WASN’T DONE WITH YOU!” she stomped the ground twice. She fumed for a few moments before remembering her friends happened to be watching her. She slowly turned around, a sweatdrop appearing on her head. “Errr… H-hi guys… Sorry about vanishing and all.” She waved a hand carelessly.

“Well, I thought it was obvious if you’re with one of us everything is ok right?” Gourry asked.

“Since when is Xelloss one of us?” Zelgadis hissed.

“We were all worried sick about you Miss Lina, now why did you take off with Mr. Xelloss?” Amelia asked, hands on her hips.

Lina sighed, rolling her eyes. “It’s a long story… Well see…” she blushed and rubbed her cheek, she REALLY didn’t want to tell any of them the real reason Xelloss took her to Wolfpack Island… Especially Gourry. “Xelloss’s Mistress wanted to speak to me about the Soul Touch, explain a few other things about it and… Ask me why I turned down all the lord’s offers and stuff. Also she explained to me why Dynast and Dolphin want to kill me if I don’t join the Mazoku. Just as soon as Xelloss was going to bring me back, we were attacked by Dolphin’s General and Dynast’s other general and his two priests.”

“Oh my how did you get away?” Sylphiel gasped.

“And what did Xelloss mean by followers of Gaav?” Amelia asked.

“Zelas took them on and ordered Xelloss to get me out of there, sadly he only got so far because it was a trap, they expected Zelas to order him to get me away and they attacked him from the Astral Plane.” Lina sighed, recalling the battle and rubbed her arm. “It was Gaav’s general and his priest. Apparently they were away on another assignment when the Demon Dragon King attacked us. They were working with Dynast and used this chance to try to get back at Xelloss for messing with Gaav’s plans and assisting in getting him killed by Hellmaster. Of course without my magic I…”

“… You couldn’t help him.” Sylphiel shivered. “You had to just watch.”

“Oh man that had to be bad, to rely on Xelloss of all people.” Zelgadis rolled his eyes.

“Well isn’t Xelloss pretty powerful though?” Gourry rubbed his head.

“Well he did get his butt kicked by Gaav before.” Amelia brought up.

Lina chuckled, recalling how Amelia drove that through Xelloss before. “Actually the truth is, while Zelas spoke to me she sent Xelloss out to learn some things that could assist in helping Luna and he was attacked, so he was already kind of weakened.” She sighed. “… That and those guys tried really bad to target me, without my powers I couldn’t defend myself and…”

Sylphiel’s eyes widened. “You mean he got hurt protecting you?”

Lina’s blush grew a bit more. “… Yeah, he did.”

“Well that’s not the first time he did that.” Gourry chuckled. “The last hit he took for Lina nearly killed him, only left his head.”

For some reason recalling that scene made Lina flinch… She did recall the shock she felt when he did that…

“Oh my I just knew it! Mr. Xelloss’s Soul Touch is the blissful feelings of true love for Miss Lina!” Amelia declared, stars in her eyes. “At this rate you can convince him to leave his evil ways just to be with you Miss Lina, it’s so romantic! The Soul Touch is just destiny’s way to show you are a couple meant to be as you make it through this challenge!”

Lina sweatdropped heavily at that. “Amelia… He’s a freaking monster, nothing’s going to change that no matter how much of the Mazoku version of love he feels for me.”

Amelia didn’t seem to hear Lina completely, because she was squealing. “You mean he’s already told you his feeling even more then we heard?! Plus he introduced you to his mother that means the relationship is serious! Oh Miss Lina however will your heart decide though?” she blinked, looking at Gourry. “Aren’t you concerned though, Mr. Gourry?”

The blonde swordsman rubbed his head. “Huh? About what Amelia?”

Amelia pursed her lips, pointing an accusing finger at him. “It’s your fault for being so dumb that Mr. Xelloss is sweeping Miss Lina off her feet and will easily take her away from you! If you were man enough you’d fight for her!” she suddenly got starry eyed again. “Oh yes that would be such the epic battle, two lovers fighting for their treasure? Oh my but Mr. Gourry doesn’t have the Sword of Light so he’d probably stand no chance against a monster…”

“Wait… Why am I fighting Xelloss?” Gourry looked completely confused, running a hand through his hair.

Lina was glaring daggers at the princess as Zelgadis held his head and shook it, Sylphiel was looking nervous though from this conversation.

“Amelia… What is this crap you’re saying about Xelloss sweeping me off my feet?” Lina growled, a deadly look in her eyes.

Amelia shivered for a moment. “W-well look how you just made it sound like you’re going to take the pledge eventually…”

“That is true, even Xelloss picked that up.” Zelgadis pointed out. “Care to explain that one, Lina?”

“I TOLD YOU IDIOTS THAT IS A LAST DITCH EFFORT IN THE EVENT I GET KILLED DAMMIT!!” Lina snarled. “NOW STOP READING FURTHER INTO IT ALREADY!!!!” Oooohhh if only she had her powers she’d blow them all away for the accusing looks she was getting… From everyone but Gourry who was still utterly clueless. She stomped her foot, hissing and starting to walk towards the road. “I don’t want to hear another word about this AT ALL, got it? Otherwise once my powers come back I’ll be sure to make you ALL SORRY FOR IT.” Venom was dripping off her words.

Not another word was spoken to Lina the rest of the day, everyone was too afraid her temper was at it’s peak. She quickly ate her dinner and retired to bed immediately when they got to the inn, not speaking to either Amelia or Sylphiel who were in the neighboring beds.

The crimson haired sorceress found herself tossing in the middle of night, she had woken up and couldn’t go back to sleep… Her mind on everything that had happened and oddly enough… On that fruitcake priest Xelloss. While she could ignore her friends and argue with them all she wished, she knew she couldn’t ignore his actions within the past 24 hours, nor what all she learned from Zelas… She opened her eyes and stared at the ceiling.

Was all that really enough to consider taking the pledge? Granted it really gave better chance of surviving and the other lords just might stop coming after her, not seeing her as a treat if she’s pledged to a Mazoku. Plus both Xelloss and Zelas gave logical reasons they wish to help her in saving Luna… That didn’t count her own feelings. As much as she kept cursing verbally… Mentally a part of her couldn’t deny the fact she was somewhat attracted to the fruity Mazoku. He was an enigma, a puzzling one at that, count in his thousand years of knowledge she could possibly learn all kinds of things from him. She was quite sure life wouldn’t be boring with Xelloss, even an eternal life. Fun seemed to drive Xelloss, just like it did her. They were alike in more ways than she would like to admit. If he was human, she had to admit to herself she wouldn’t hesitate as much… Even though a part of her would always hesitate, as she did with Gourry because letting someone in meant they had the power to hurt you, and Lina Inverse does not show weakness.

She sighed to herself, it was tempting, everything in Xelloss’s offer… The extra benefits he threw in made it sound perfect… Too perfect. But were all these reasons enough to justify taking the pledge? And would she stick with it, or use that fruitcake until they save Luna and break the pledge stone, freeing herself in the process? But would that be a mistake, and Xelloss would take hostile action? … No, if he was going to do that, he wouldn’t have given her the hint she needed if she did want to break the pledge. No, it was obvious – Xelloss WANTED her to choose him. Must be that damn Mazoku pride of theirs. “Stupid fruitcake…” she mumbled to herself. She closed her eyes and shook her head, turning over once again on the bed.

Lina’s eyebrow furrowed as the bed felt oddly lumpy on her right side, maybe she messed up the covers in her sleep and they bunched together. She felt too tired to disentangle them, but as she pressed closer she felt a warm pair of arms wrap around her back, and lips pressed against hers.

Lina’s crimson eyes shot wide open, looking to see a familiar pair of amethyst eyes staring right at her. The moonlight from the window barely illuminated them, but she’d know them anywhere. “XELLOSS!” she growled, breaking the kiss immediately. “What the hell are you-“ she was silenced by his gloved hand over her mouth. He was laying beside her, his other arm still wrapped around her and had pulled her even closer.

“Now, now Miss Lina. Do you really wish to wake the princess and the priestess?” Xelloss spoke in a soft whisper, closing his eyes with a wide grin on his face. “This would be quite the situation for you to explain.” He chuckled.

“Bastard.” Lina growled, muffled by his hand over her mouth.

“My, is this how you greet everyone you call for?” Xelloss teased, slowly removing his hand.

“What the fuck are you talking about Xelloss?” Lina snapped, though making sure she kept her voice low. She would have punched the damn Mazoku, but his arms were so tight around her that her arms were crushed up against his chest, with no room to move them. That didn’t stop her from trying though.

“Oh? You mean you didn’t…” The Mazoku raised an eyebrow at her emotions, shaking his head with a smirk. “Hmm, whatever would cause you to think about me so much it would activate your ring?”

Lina’s eyes widened when she realized what that meant. Her considering the pledge and thinking so deeply about Xelloss must had activated its magic accidentally, summoning him to her side! She mentally cursed herself, and taking note she better figure out exactly how that damn ring worked and to take it off at night from now on! “I was probably having a nightmare and you were in it, fruitcake.” She hissed.

“Do nightmares usually make you feel so confused, relieved, amused and other such emotions? By reading that you seemed awfully deep in thought for a dream.” Xelloss smirked at her. “That and I thought humans slept with their eyes closed.”

“HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN HERE YOU ASS?” Lina snarled a bit too loudly, she froze when she saw Amelia turn over… But she still seemed asleep.

“Not for long to be honest, but when I first arrived I was on the Astral Plane of course.” Xelloss chuckled softly. “I felt your ring reach out to me so I came right away, it wasn’t a distress call so I was a bit confused as to why you were summoning me. Now I see you must had activated its power by accident, merely by thinking of me. I guess it’s good at setting off from human emotions.”

“Maybe it’s just freaking defective and you should take it back!” Lina snapped.

“Returning my gift so soon? Lina dear you really know how to ruin the moment don’t you?” Xelloss teased in a light tone. “And here I thought females liked romance and gifts, yet you reject my affections so many times.”

“There’s a difference between romance and sexual harassment, you fucking monster.” Lina hissed, glaring daggers at him. “Like accosting an innocent girl in her bed!”

“This is accosting?” Xelloss raised an eyebrow. “I thought humans referred to this as cuddling. Perhaps I was mistaken…” There was that wolfish grin again… And suddenly in a fluid motion he had Lina pinned down on the bed, his body pressed against hers but she felt no body weight. Well, this from was a projection technically after all, he could easily modify its weight too. “I thought THIS was accosting on a bed.” He snickered, kissing her deeply.

Lina’s eyes went wide and she thrashed on the bed, trying very hard to kick at him. One of his legs wrapped around hers to keep it down, while the other he caught with his hand and ran his gloved hand slowly over her calf. All she was wearing after all was a simple pair of pink pajamas, and his actions had reminded her that she wasn’t wearing her bra either. That made her face flush red, after all she didn’t need much support so she always took it off at night for comfort reasons. Right now though she was utterly cursing herself for it. Luckily her arms were in front of her chest still, but if she were to move them…

Xelloss opened one eye, looking at her curiously as he obviously had expected her to hit him as moving his one arm loosened his grip on her. So he rubbed her leg gently and moved his other hand to caress her side, slowly moving his lips off hers but not breaking contact with her skin. He made a trail of kisses down her throat until he stopped just between her neck and shoulder, sucking softly on her delicate skin.

“Ahhh!” Lina gasped, taking in a much needed breath of air when his lips parted from hers. She slightly growled, without thinking moved her hand to yank at his hair. “If you bite me I swear I’m gonna…”

Xelloss stopped his actions to pull back, both eyes staring at her with a predatory look. “But Miss Lina, you’ve already tasted my blood as you’ve bitten me twice now.”

“Only the second time drew blood dammit.” Lina snarled, hitting his chin with the palm of her other hand in attempt to smack him away. “Besides the fact it doesn’t cause you pain like it would for me, you actually enjoy it you ass.”

“Hmmm, I see your point.” Xelloss shrugged, grabbing both her arms with one hand and pushing them up to rest up around her head, his other arm now had a tight grip on her hip as he leaned close, his chest pressing against hers. “That and you can’t easily use healing magic with your powers the way they are right now, so I won’t do that this time.” He smirked.

“Let me go you ass!” Lina snarled, thrashing in his grip.

“But Lina-chan, I was merely demonstrating what I thought would be doing such you accused me of doing.” Xelloss grinned wide, amethyst orbs looking straight at her. “Or are you saying you were mistaken before?” he whispered in a seductive tone, resting his head between her breasts while not taking his gaze off her.

“G-get off me already!” Lina stammered her face completely red by now. She was cursing her blush for giving away how warm she was growing from his closeness. She felt nervous just from those eyes alone of his staring at her like this, but not being able to break free was just making it worse.

“Mmmm but you clearly seem to like it, I can taste your arousal.” Xelloss grinned like a little kid. “I’d do similar in my corporeal form for you, but somehow I don’t think you’re ready for that yet.” He chuckled. “But that doesn’t mean we can’t have a little fun.” He purred, releasing her leg and moving his hand up to his mouth, pulling the glove off his hand with his teeth.

Lina gasped, crimson eyes wide. She’d never seen him remove his gloves before, her gaze on the long, slender fingers he had was quite intense. She felt another blush creep up as she realized she was marveling over an image that Mazoku clearly gave himself, it wasn’t like he needed to do that, he just did it for her reaction.

Slowly, he ran his fingers across her lips and down her neck, until he reached the first button on her pajamas and undid it. Taking the second button between his fingers he opened that one too, moving the fabric of her pajama shirt to expose her shoulder, where he started kissing gently then sliding his tongue across her skin. He then planted several light kisses on the exposed skin of her collarbone.

Lina groaned, shutting her eyes as her breathing and heartbeat were increasing. “S-stop it you god damn jerk!” she hissed, balling her fist into his hair, once again doing her useless tugging to get him to knock it off as she did in fact feel her arousal growing from what this asshole was doing to her.

“Very well.” Xelloss mused as his nose was brushing against the skin between her breasts, just above the button of her clothes was. He pulled his head back and smirked at her.

“Huh?” Lina asked in a strangled voice, trying to get her heavy breathing under control. Her eyes were wide in complete shock. “T-the HELL?! Are you still freaking playing me you shithead?!?” she snapped.

Xelloss raised his eyebrow. “You said to stop so I did, as I explained to you before as a Mazoku I don’t react the same way you do to such actions. As an asexual being I can start and stop whenever I please, because merely being this close to you is all I need, not that I wouldn’t greatly enjoy if we took it further.” He smirked, playfully kissing the tip of her nose. “But your lovely body does seem to react to me doesn’t it?”

Blood rushed to Lina’s cheeks as she growled and pressed both her hands to his chest. “You… You… You…” she stammered, an Elmekia Lance fired off her hands, blowing the Mazoku off the bed into the floor. She blinked twice, looking at her hands. “Huh…. That was stronger than the last spell.” She frowned though. “But my magic still isn’t back.”

Xelloss chuckled and stood back up after a moment, raising his ungloved hand and waving his finger. “As I explained before Lina my lovely, the stronger the intimate actions, the more power you get. The power just isn’t lasting very long due to your magic not back yet, so you expel it immediately in one spell.”

“Oh really?” Lina mumbled, turning to make sure Amelia and Sylphiel were still asleep. “… I still should beat the hell out of you for the damn harassment and jumping into my bed.” She grumbled, buttoning her shirt back up. “But you’d just enjoy that you freaking fruitcake.”

“Awww what’s the matter Lina-chan, already tired of blowing your steam out on me? Or are you starting to get used to it and just won’t admit it?” Xelloss teased with one eye open.

“OH NOW YOU’RE ASKING FOR IT YOU PRICK!” Lina pounced, wresting him down in a headlock. She had him laying face down on the floor, she was sitting right on his back as she had her arms tight around his throat.

“Ahhhh now that’s more like it.” Xelloss laughed at her reaction. “You’re so giving with these midnight snacks Miss Lina.”

“SHUT UP AND GET OUT OF HERE ALREADY.” Lina snarled, releasing his head and motioning to get up.

But that’s when she felt Xelloss’s arms grab hers, and with a quick faze through the Astral Plane he was able to switch to laying face up, pulling her down before she could react and locking lips with hers.

Though Lina didn’t react at first, he caught her off guard once again so it took her a moment to pull herself out of the kiss, glaring at him. “Do you WANT me to fire another spell at you bastard? Because unlike my beatings those can actually hurt if I cast the right ones.” She hissed.

“And as I brought up the other time Lina dearest, it’s worth it.” Xelloss winked at her.

“Didn’t I warn you about the fucking pet names?” she growled.

“Oh you’ll have to get used to them after the pledge dear Lina, as I’ll have plenty more.” Xelloss grinned wide.

“WHO THE HELL SAYS I’M TAKING IT YOU JERK I STILL HAVE TIME TO DECIDE ON THAT!!!” Lina snarled, barely able to keep her voice under control.

“But you said when you take the pledge earlier…” Xelloss pointed out with a smug expression on his face.

“I SAID IF MORON.” Lina snapped, then realized her voice level and checked on the girls again.

“Only after you corrected yourself.” The priest waved his finger. “Oh and I wouldn’t worry about them, I knew you’d do this so I cast a Sleeping Spell on them.”

“You WHAT?!?” the crimson haired sorceress shouted. “You lied to me you ass!”

“Now, now Miss Lina…” Xelloss wagged his finger. “I only asked if you really wanted to wake them, not tell you that you could with your shouting. So actually I did not lie to you.”

“Smartass Mazoku…” Lina grit her teeth. “Now are you done yet and will you go away so I can get some sleep?”

Xelloss gave her his usual cheerful expression. “No goodnight kiss?”

“You’ve been stealing kisses all day and night you freaking-“ Lina suddenly cut herself off, smirking slightly. “You know what, fine. If it’ll get rid of you quicker, so be it.” She leaned forward just slightly, seeing the confused look at his face from her response just before mashing her lips against his.

The Mazoku replied eagerly of course, kissing her back and opening his mouth welcomingly as she pushed her tongue inside.

Xelloss opened a single eye to examine her, her eyes were closed as she pressed against him. He released her arms, one hand he rubbed her back while the other tangled into her flaming red locks of hair. Her now free hands were roaming for a change. She ran her fingers on his shoulder down to his side with one hand, the other hand she touched his cheek in a soft caress, her fingers dancing down his neck and stopping at his shoulder.

Lina slowly broke the kiss, but then she moved her head down to kiss several times at his neck, the final time she started nibbling at the spot she had kissed.

“L-Lina…” Xelloss groaned, arching his neck to give her better access. He seemed taken by surprised she was taking such action as she bit harder at his throat, making his arms around her loosen.

But suddenly she pulled back with a wicked grin. “Dynast Brass!” she quickly cast as she placed a hand on the ground, forming a pentagram of lightening which she immediately scrambled to her feet just before it zapped the Mazoku with the energy.

Xelloss sat up, rubbing his head and blew out a puff of smoke. “D-didn’t see that one coming… I applaud you Miss Lina for catching me off guard.” He chuckled.

“Now get before my powers fully come back and I give you more where that came from!” Lina threatened, rolling her sleeves up.

“I suppose we’ve had enough fun for one night then, I shall see you in the morning.” Xelloss blew her a kiss and vanished.

Lina growled and grabbed her pillow, tossing it out of frustration where the monster had just been. “God damn that fruitcake!” she hissed, before picking the pillow back up and laying back on the bed. While granted she was just using him to get the extra energy to blast him with that spell by kissing him… She didn’t quite mean to take the kiss THAT far. Though the darkness of the room mostly hid it, her cheeks were still burning bright red. ‘… If I didn’t know better, I’d swear I’m actually falling for that nutcase Mazoku…’

His kisses were sending her soaring as he left a trail from her lips to her abdomen, tasting ever inch of her flesh. Brushing the locks of her hair with his fingers, he held her body closer as she felt it was on fire. Her breathing was heavily and panting with lust, moaning his name several times over. She hazily opened her eyes to look into the pair of seductive amethyst orbs gazing back at her.

**********************

Lina Inverse startled awoke in shock, her ruby eyes wide. What the hell kind of dream was that? Was she seriously having an erotic dream with… with… WITH XELLOSS?!? Her mind couldn’t comprehend how the hell that happened. She sat up, shaking her head rapidly and taking note her body was dripping with sweat. No, no, no she was not thinking about last night and how that fruity Mazoku tried to seduce her… A faint blush appeared over her cheeks thinking about it, though as she absentmindedly fluttered her fingers across her lips.

She couldn’t deny the fact her damn body responded so to his actions though, maybe that was why she was having such a weird dream. It couldn’t be because she actually liked it…

“Reminiscing, Miss Lina?”

Lina’s eyes widened and she jerked her head to the left, seeing that god damn purple haired priest floating above ground with his legs crossed and arms behind his head, smirking at her. “WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING HERE!?” she snapped.

“I said I’d see you in the morning, remember?” Xelloss chuckled.

“GET THE HELL OUT OF HERE YOU ASS!” Lina tossed her pillow at him.

“Unnnn Miss Lina must you scream?” Amelia groaned, sitting up and rubbing her eyes.

Xelloss smirked, leaving in close to Lina’s ear after he caught the pillow. “By the way, whatever your lovely dream was about, it made a wonderful breakfast.” He teased, kissing her cheek and vanishing.

Lina’s face turned a bright shade of red and she stumbled back on the bed.

“Miss Lina, what’s going on?” Sylphiel yawned as she sat up.

“I thought I just heard Mr. Xelloss’s voice.” Amelia looked around. “Miss Lina?”

Finally Lina came to her senses. “I’M GONNA KILL THAT MAZOKU!!!!” And with one powerful Fireball, she destroyed the inn.

Several hours later they were on the road again, still on their way to Seyruun.

“How much longer until we get there?” Gourry asked, as the group had been somewhat silent for a while.

“I’d say we should arrive by nightfall.” Xelloss was walking in the front of the group. He insisted that he knew the quickest way there, and it would be best for him to be up front to protect Lina in the event of another monster attack. “My Mistress said we should get Miss Lina there immediately, Riksfalto happened to had gotten away from her even though she destroyed Dynast’s followers. She’s quite sure though they’ll retaliate at any time and it’ll be best if we have all the mages and guards at the palace to assist in guarding Lina until her powers are fully back.”

“Well I was able to use a Fireball this morning, that’s a good sign.” Lina spoke up, she was in the back of the group with Amelia. “They should be back to full power by the evening I hope.”

“That spell though did have some assistance, Lina dear.” Xelloss waved his finger, which made the crimson haired sorceress scowl at him.

“Shut up and lead the way, fruitcake.” she hissed.

“And remember I’m keeping my eye on you.” Zelgadis warned.

“Gourry dear, why does Mr. Zelgadis hate Mr. Xelloss so much?” Sylphiel asked.

“Well ummm…” the blonde sweatdropped, clearly having forgotten.

“I think I can explain Miss Sylphiel, Mr. Zelgadis feels ill towards me because of the fact I am a monster and I happened to had destroyed some important papers he had acquired because I had been ordered to.” Xelloss shrugged his shoulders as they walked. “That and he doesn’t like the secrets I must keep.”

“That’s not all you bastard.” Zelgadis snarled, and went on to tell Sylphiel about their past experiences with the Mazoku priest.

Amelia held back a bit to give some distance between her and Lina and the rest of the group. She turned to the crimson haired sorceress at her side. “Miss Lina, I’m sorry about yesterday if I angered you.”

Lina blinked at her, crossing her arms behind her head. “… Forget about it, Amelia. I just was a little frustrated over that idiot.” She glared at the Mazoku’s back ahead of her. “There are just times I can’t figure him out and it drives me crazy.”

“But Miss Lina, if you’re considering the pledge and you do take it… Doesn’t that mean he’ll…” Amelia blushed, her eyes straying away.

Lina turned her head to hide her blush. “Make me his mate you mean, right? Well actually I think he wants me to chose to make that step, Xelloss is more a guy that follows orders than gives them. And granted I’m sure he’d be loyal as hell to me, that Soul Touch thing is so strong it made him try to defy his Mistress at one point according to what Zelas told me.” She shook her head. “… I just don’t know if I’m ready though for that kind of thing. I still say it’s freaking harassment the way he keeps stealing kisses.”

“But Miss Lina, don’t you love Mr. Gourry?” Amelia brought up.

That made Lina’s blood turn to ice. Amelia always knew about her crush on Gourry, and this was why she blew up so badly before. She lowered her head, checking to make sure the blonde wasn’t listening. “Love’s too strong of a word… He doesn’t feel that way about me anyway, Amelia. He loves me, but like family. Just look at him and Sylphiel.” She nudged her head.

The princess did look, seeing Sylphiel walking extremely close to Gourry, they were smiling at each other as they walked, talking with Zelgadis and Xelloss… Or rather after a while watching as Zelgadis was throwing spells at Xelloss and he was dodging.

“He likes her… I mean REALLY likes Sylphiel but was staying with me out of loyalty because he promised to be my protector.” Lina sighed, shaking her head. “Unfortunately he’s too thick headed to figure it out Sylphiel has the hots for him. I heard her offer him to come… Live with her, and he accepted as long as he knows Xelloss will take care of me.”

Amelia let out a sharp gasp. “Oh my! How did you find that out?”

Lina sweatdropped, not wanting to explain that one she decided to use the trait that worked for that damn Mazoku. “That is a secret.” She chuckled softly after she said it, a bit of pink appearing on her cheeks as she felt strangely amused saying that, she didn’t know why.

The princess raised her eyebrow. “You know, I always thought Mr. Xelloss must like you. I mean why else would he help a bunch of humans like us sometimes?” she smiled softly, raising her fist. “It’s justice’s way of making a match from heaven! You met Mr. Gourry to learn what it’s like to fall for someone, so that you’d know what it is when your true love comes along! After all everything started once you met Mr. Gourry right? It must be fate then!”

Lina rubbed her head, feeling her sweatdrop increase in size. “A-Amelia come on I maybe can l-like Xelloss but I…”

“So you DO like him!” Amelia cried, taking the sorceress’s hands in hers. “See the magic of the Soul Touch is working its way slowly! Once you rescue your sister in an epic battle I’m sure Mr. Xelloss will fully declare his love for you and change his evil ways!”

Lina just looked at her dumbstruck. God dammit, how did that crazy princess get her to admit that? Well ok like is an alright word, she liked her friends so it didn’t mean she felt strongly about Xelloss…

While she was thinking though, Amelia had been prattling on. “… I’m sure there’s plenty of places to choose from Miss Lina… Miss Lina?”

“Huh? What Amelia?” Lina blinked, snapping to. “Choose for what?”

“Where to go on your first date with Xelloss!” Amelia declared. “Once we get to Seyruun Mr. Xelloss has to protect you anyway, so why not make it a romantic evening out?”

Lina quickly tried to hide the blush that was creeping up. “D-date?” she stammered.

“You still have a few more days to consider the pledge, why not ask Mr. Xelloss out?” Amelia cried, getting all lovey dovey in her eyes. “You could go dancing, a romantic dinner for two, then go for a stroll in the moonlight and kiss tenderly under the stars!”

Lina rubbed her temple. “Amelia, you’re going to make Xelloss ill with all that positive emotion you’re radiating…” she then looked ahead, seeing the chimera still firing spells at the Mazoku. “… That is if Zelgadis isn’t radiating enough hate to counter it.” She chuckled, then blinked when she saw the priest suddenly freeze in midair.

Xelloss was floating completely still in the air, his amethyst eyes open with a sudden scowl on his face. “Lina move!” he cried, fazing out.

Lina knew better than to question the Mazoku, she quickly cast a weak Valis Wall and began to move as the ground exploded where she was just standing a moment before. She tumbled over to the side, having just barely cast the barrier in time. Xelloss appeared over her immediately after and lifted her to her feet. “Are you alright?” he cried, which she nodded.

“Tsk, tsk. This won’t do at all.” A voice chuckled as two shapes began to form from the Astral Plane.

“Huraker! Riksfalto!” Lina gasped, eyes wide.

“Don’t forget about me.” Another voice came from behind her. Sherra emerged a moment after her voice, drawing her sword. “You will pay for the loss of Lord Dynast’s numbers.”

“Oh my, are they all…?” Sylphiel gasped.

“Yep, all Mazoku…” Zelgadis gripped his sword.

“Well the more the merrier right?” Gourry asked, drawing his sword.

Amelia placed her hands on her hips. “You monsters will never get Miss Lina! In the name of justice you shall be punished!”

Riksfalto sweatdropped. “… Is this girl for real?”

“I believe you three are a tad outnumbered here, you know.” Xelloss stated with a smug smirk, holding up his staff.

“Wait, shouldn’t he be gone?” Sherra scowled. “Lord Dynast must be at Wolfpack Island by now.”

“Huh?” Lina blinked. “What the hell are you talking about?”

“Looks like Lord Dynast-sama’s brilliant plan failed.” Huraker chuckled softly. “He counted too much on Zelas-sama summoning her pet to protect her.”

Xelloss’s eyes shot wide, gripping his staff angrily. “… What does that mean, Huraker?”

“Do not insult Lord Dynast Huraker, we maybe working together for this alliance, but that won’t stop me from protecting my lord’s name.” Sherra hissed, pointing her sword at the priest, before turning to Xelloss. “Simple, Lord Dynast is paying the Greater Beast a little visit for destroying his priests and other general, a bit of payback you might say.”

“Xelloss! That means that Zelas is…” Lina gasped, grabbing at the general priest’s cloak.

Xelloss shook his head, giving her his usual smile. “Lord Beast Master can handle herself, as I told you before Lina-chan, your life is my first priority.”

“Oh dear LoN I think I’m going to be ill.” Riksfalto grimaced. “The rumors about your taint really is true, trickster.”

“Rumors can stretch tales and sometimes be truthful.” Xelloss shrugged. “After all, are the rumors about your lord’s insanity true?” he joked.

“Why don’t you ask me yourself?” A shrilled voice echoed in the area, as the lake near them suddenly looked like a whirlpool form… When a geyser shot up and a Mazoku appeared from inside.

Xelloss’s body stiffened as he immediately held Lina close to him, his eyes wide and seemed with a bit of fear. Lina knew exactly what that meant, and who this Mazoku was…

“Greetings.” Spoke the female Mazoku as she stepped onto the land, leaving a few puddles of water as she walked. She had a doll-like pale face with cyan eyes, her hair was a dark blue color and extremely long. Blue beads were in her hair that matched some in the light blue dress she was wearing and matched the color of the bracelets on her wrists. She had a golden plate over her chest filled with blue beads that looked almost like water droplets. The skirt of her dress almost looked like it was water itself, as it flowed with reflection similar to water, appearing damp. “I am Deep Sea Dolphin."

Lina’s whole body was frozen, her eyes wide with fear as she fell to her knees. Deep Sea Dolphin, one of the five high ranking Mazoku under the Demon Lord Shabranigdo was standing before them. And she knew very well what for, this high rank wanted her… Dead probably.

“Xelloss…” her voice broke for a moment, she was barely aware that her knees hadn’t quite hit the ground hard, Xelloss was supporting her by holding her by her shoulders. “Get out of here. You said yourself that you can’t…”

A small smile cracked on the priest’s face. “Why my dear Lina-chan, are you really telling me to disobey a direct order from my Mistress? I’m supposed to protect you after all.”

Lina turned her head up to look at him with a scowl for calling her that, seeing that his eyes were open and looking down at her. “Xelloss she could kill you easily, just one swipe at your Astral Form and…”

“Yes, after all her power is very near to Lord Beast Master’s.” Xelloss looked up Deep Sea, scowling slightly. “Though it is unusual for her to leave her quarters…” he then turned towards her, his trademark smile on his face with his eyes closed. “But I told you before, I will not allow the object of my Soul Touch die so easily. If we must go to the Sea of Chaos together then so be it.”

She just gave him a baffled look. “… You are insane. You are not going to get yourself killed for me!”

“Then don’t die.” He merely replied. “Because I refuse to go another thousand years without you.”

Lina’s cheeks burned red from his words that struck a chord in her heart. Did he seriously just say that…? “X-Xelloss…” she felt herself unconsciously leaning her head closer to him, their lips just inches apart…

“Are you always this rude when someone that deserves respect like Lord Dolphin graces you with her presence?” Riksfalto barked, balancing her sword on her shoulder.

“And are you always so rude to interrupt a conversation, Miss Riksfalto?” Xelloss scowled, helping Lina back up to her feet.

“Now, now, there’s no need for this.” Dolphin finally spoke up, waving a hand carelessly. “I merely am here to speak with Lina Inverse.”

“With all respect, Lord Deep Sea…” Xelloss wrapped a protective arm around Lina, pulling her back against him. “Miss Lina already turned down the offer you sent Huraker with, so I don’t think there’s anything to discuss.”

Dolphin narrowed her eyes. “I fear my message wasn’t delivered properly, so I came to give such myself.” She tapped a finger on her chin with a smirk. “I wondered why Zelas kept your Soul Touch hidden for a while, I see why. But that didn’t stop the rumors about it, and I see they are true. After all she’d hate to lose her precious general priest she put so much power into making…”

“I have not given reason for betrayal of any kind, Lord Deep Sea.” Xelloss lowered his head, his grip tightening around Lina. “Even with the fact that she is my Soul Touch, I am merely following orders, the threat of Cepheid affects us all.” He then looked up at her with a rather creepy smirk with his amethyst orbs open. “And since my Soul Touch with her is a strong one at that, she has yet to prove extremely useful to me, thus why my Mistress ordered for me to protect her.”

Lina merely looked at him. Betrayal? Is that why the other generals and priests were starting to target him too? Or was it because Riksfalto reported back with her impression on Zelas? She couldn’t tell why though, but she knew he wasn’t telling everything to Deep Sea. Yeah she was his Soul Touch and was ordered to protect her because Zelas knew she’s going to be useful, but she was pretty sure his Mistress would tell him to abandon the mission if he was about to be killed, and that’s the part he left out. The fact that because she is his Soul Touch, and that he has such a fondness for her that he would risk even going up against someone like Dolphin. For some reason that made her mentally chuckle, he really was showing her the Mazoku equivalent of love to the best of his abilities.

She smiled slightly, her eyes lost in thought as she focused on Xelloss’s face once again. It would be so like him to use his orders as a way to protect the one thing in this world he’s ever wanted. That predatory look he often gave her, his teasing and enjoying her beating of him… She finally was piecing it together, he did want to love her to the best of his ability and has been trying to show her this the whole time. And if that was only the start, what further would he take it if she finally did what she wanted, and choose him? Well, she didn’t know why exactly but in that moment she knew the choice was going to make, after playing through the events of the past two days. Should they survive this, she might just actually take the pledge with this fruity Mazoku, because life obviously would not be boring with him around… And in her own way, she liked him. And Lina Inverse only liked very few people.

“Lina-san, I believe Dolphin-sama wants an answer.” Huraker spoke up, breaking her line of thought.

“Huh?” Lina snapped to, looking around. Oh damn how long did she zone out with her thoughts? “I unn…”

“I’m afraid Miss Lina is very exhausted due to the past few days, could you repeat the question, Lord Deep Sea?” Xelloss asked, smiling down at the crimson haired sorceress.

“I was merely saying that if you do not wish to join us or make a pledge, you do know that you are in fact a threat to us? The fact that you are possibly tainting Zelas even is a problem.” Dolphin grinned. “I came here first because you do know that Dynast is rather angry at you and her?”

“What the hell is this crap about?” Zelgadis growled.

“Hey it’s not my fault Zelas got pissed you guys broke in and started attacking.” Lina growled.

“But it is because of you how many Mazoku of high rank are destroyed. Yet you’ve gotten some on your side as body guards with no promise to join them.” Huraker brought up.

“It is a disgrace for Mazoku to be used by humans.” Sherra added, pointing her sword at Lina. “How can we be sure you will not side with Cepheid for your sister’s life? You’re already assisting in lowering our numbers.”

“But Cepheid is threatening Miss Lina’s life!” Amelia cried. “Why would she turn against those who gave her warning?”

“Humans can sway either side easily.” Riksfalto shrugged with her arms crossed. “You creatures have no loyalty.”

“And no matter what Lina Inverse’s decision is Xelloss, once Lord Dynast is through with Zelas he has ordered me to personally deal with you!” Sherra declared.

“How lovely…” Xelloss replied with heavy sarcasm.

“Unnn I’m confused, are we fighting or discussing?” Gourry rubbed his head.

Sylphiel sweatdropped. “Gourry dear, haven’t you been following all this?”

“Well I heard all of it… But I’m confused.” The blonde chuckled.

“Why am I not surprised?” Zelgadis groaned.

“So I’m asking one more time Miss Lina, will you assist us with the threat of Cepheid and join the Mazoku?” Deep Sea Dolphin asked. “I will allow your group to discuss it for a few moments, but I will require an answer.”

Lina nodded, gathering the group a few miles away from the Mazoku still standing before them.

“Miss Lina what are you going to do?” Amelia asked.

“Xelloss… They’re ready to fight aren’t they?” Lina hissed extremely low to the priest still holding her close.

“I’m afraid so… My best guess is they’re hoping you’ll either take the pledge to survive or cast the Giga Slave in effort to destroy them.” Xelloss replied. “… Since that would solve the whole problem with Cepheid anyway if the world is destroyed.” He scowled slightly.

“You’re supposed to be happy about that fact, you know.” She teased lightly.

Xelloss opened one eye and raised his eyebrow. “I thought Lord Beast Master explained that to you, chaos is far more enjoyable. That and I can’t guarantee in the next life I’d come across you again so easily, why would I want to give you up now when you haven’t even given me your choice yet?” he smirked slightly.

“You really are a fruitcake, you know.” Zelgadis glared slightly at him.

Lina blushed at the Mazoku’s words, turning her head away. “… Umm Xelloss, when this is over I’ll tell you my answer.” She pursed her lips together when she saw Amelia beaming at that.

That made him look at her curiously. “Oh really? Are you trying to tempt me to survive?” he chuckled.

“Yeah, like you said to me, don’t get killed.” She grumbled. “Actually, what I want you to do is go to Wolfpack Island...”

Xelloss glared at her slightly, opening the other eye. “I already told you I’m not-“

Lina cut him off. “And get Zelas. She’s the only one that can help us with Deep Sea Dolphin without me casting the Giga Slave. My powers are not fully back I couldn’t even cast it if I wanted to. But I might be able to distract her long enough if we keep this argument going a little longer… And I might be able to use the Ragna Blade once.” She looked directly into his amethyst eyes. “I’m not asking you to run away, I’m asking you to help save me. If you god damn want tell Zelas I’ll owe her one for this, just I know if we don’t get her help we could all end up dead.”

“But it might take a while to get her here if Dynast is still attacking.” Xelloss replied, running his fingers lightly on her chin.

“We’ll be fine without you.” Zelgadis hissed.

“I wasn’t talking to you, chimera.” Xelloss looked at him with a scowl on his face.

“Well it makes sense for me for Xelloss to get reinforcements.” Gourry shrugged.

“But are we all enough to keep her protected until then?” Sylphiel asked.

“Of course we are! Justice will see to that!” Amelia cried, lifting her fist into the air. “Mr. Xelloss will make it back just in time to save the day!”

Lina sweatdropped at that, shaking her head. “Xelloss, I always have your damn ring if we really get into trouble right? That thing can summon you to my side right away. Just make sure you get back here quickly with Zelas.”

Xelloss rubbed his thumb on her chin, his eyes not closing for once as he looked into her ruby eyes. “Very well then, if anything happens to you though I will be very cross with your friends.” He looked up at the group, a menacing scowl on his face. “So you better protect her in my place, or else…”

“Like we need incentive from you, asshole.” Zelgadis growled.

“Oh Mr. Xelloss is just trying to tell us we won’t forgive anyone for allowing the love of his life to have harm caused upon her!” Amelia swooned. “Don’t worry with the help of justice your love will overcome this threat and be allowed to bloom fully!”

Xelloss started looking ill with a sweatdrop as his eyes closed. “Miss Amelia, could you try not to weaken me? I’m going to need all the strength I can get.”

“I can cancel that out.” Lina grumbled, taking her hand to turn his head towards her. “Just feed off the rage YOU’RE gonna get if you don’t get your butt back here quickly and in one piece. You’re still my useful item number four remember?”

Xelloss pouted a bit at that, his fingers still lingering on her chin. “Awww still number four? I was hoping I’d moved up a bit on the list.”

“Shut up you idiot and get going!” she snapped, swatting her hand against his cheek.

“Very well then, but first for good luck.” Xelloss lifted her chin a bit and leaned down to press his lips against hers softly.

Lina rolled her eyes slightly, she for once saw that coming with the past events. So she decided it was her turn to surprise him. She immediately threw her arms around him, kissing him back with as much force as she could handle. This action made him open his eyes and wrap his arms around her back, pulling her closer.

Zelgadis just looked dumbstruck, Gourry just smiled, Amelia squealed, and Sylphiel looked utterly confused.

Lina of course was the first to break off the kiss, panting slightly for air. “A-alright that’s enough for a power boost you pervert.” She hissed slightly. “They’re watching you know.”

“Mmmm let them, their emotions are quite interesting.” Xelloss chuckled softly, his lips still lingering over hers. “You never fail to surprise me, Lina-chan.”

“Get out of here before I blow that energy you just gave me into kicking your ass for calling me that again.” Lina snarled.

“Very well then.” Xelloss mused, kissing her once more before he vanished.

“Hey you made a decision, Lina Inverse?” Deep Sea Dolphin spoke, tapping her forefinger on her cheek.

“In a rush, aren’t you?” Lina raised her eyebrow, crossing her arms. “This is a life changing decision you know.”

“Dolphin-sama, should we worry about where Xelloss-san went?” Huraker asked.

The Mazoku Lord shook her head. “Zelas probably finally called him to her side. I wouldn’t worry.”

Lina grit her teeth, she wasn’t sure how to stall them long enough, but she had one idea. “… Hey Sherra, got that answer for me yet on your name?” her expression changed to a smug smirk.

Sherra hissed slightly at her. “Unfortunately I did not have the chance due to circumstances. But that won’t matter soon enough.”

“In other words, you were too chicken to ask him.” Lina pressed, her grin widening.

“I AM NOT!” Sherra snapped, swinging her sword in the air.

“Yeah sure, that’s why you took the team that’s away from your lord so you don’t accidentally ask him.” The crimson haired sorceress continued, snickering softly. “Afraid he’ll get mad and destroy his remaining general? Guess he could start over or maybe that’s what he’s doing?”

“What the hell are you talking about?” Riksfalto raised her eyebrow.

“Well he sent both his priests and his general with you against Zelas, and that was almost pure suicide.” Lina shrugged her shoulders.

“Lord Dynast did not know The Greater Beast would side with a human!” Sherra snapped.

“Lina… Shouldn’t you worry about angering her?” Zelgadis warned.

“She’s a hot head, trust me.” Lina murmured.

“Hrpmh, no wonder Xelloss has a Soul Touch with you.” Dolphin spoke up. “Trying mind games like he does? Not something I’d expect from a human… To fight a Mazoku by making them question their existence.”

Lina cursed under her breath, she hoped Dolphin wouldn’t catch on so fast. “I’m just pointing out the questions she should be asking.”

Dolphin chuckled and turned to Sherra. “Why don’t you go check on Dynast then? Your task was to deal with Xelloss anyway.”

“But Lord Dolphin…” Sherra’s mouth twisted a bit, but bowed. “Very well.” She then pointed her sword at Lina. “You I will deal with later. And this time I promise I will have an answer for you when we next meet.” She then vanished in blue smoke.

“It worked Miss Lina, you got her to leave!” Amelia cheered quietly.

“But there’s still three of them.” Sylphiel looked uneasy. “Can we really take them all on?”

“Why not? Lina’s beaten worse.” Gourry shrugged.

“Sylphiel, you can still cast Dragon Slave right?” Lina asked suddenly.

“Y-yes why?” the priestess asked.

“Start casting it now.” The crimson haired sorceress whispered low, she then lifted her head. “Then I guess you probably already know my answer, Deep Sea Dolphin.”

“Yes, I believe I do…” Dolphin’s eyes narrowed. She tilted her head a bit, Riksfalto and Huraker stepped forward.

“Well then, I guess there’s only one thing to do.” Lina shrugged her shoulders, then suddenly fired an Elemia Lance and dashed to the right. “Now Sylphiel! Move guys take your positions!”

“By the power you and I possess… DRAGON SLAVE!” Sylphiel finished the incantation out loud, firing the massive spell at the 3 Mazoku.

But Riksfalto had her sword drawn and it absorbed most of the damage, as did a barrier Huraker had thrown up, they both opened their mouths letting out a loud shout. Dolphin just watched with an amused face.

“This isn’t good, they took on a Dragon Slave head on and they don’t even looked damaged…” Lina muttered to herself. “I was only able to damage Sherra so badly with one because I caught her off guard and Xelloss weakened her a bit.”

“Astral Vine.” Zelgadis quickly cast on his blade, reaching out and casting the same on Gourry’s sword as they dashed to the left. “You’re going to need that to fight them without the Sword of Light.”

“Thanks Zel.” Gourry smiled as they moved.

Amelia dashed over with Lina and stopped to fire off a ray of light. “Fehlzareid!”

Riksfalto appeared before the blast and cut it in half with her sword. “That’s all you’ve got? I don’t even have to use my special moves.” Her fist glowed as she pulled back to punch her.

“AMELIA!” Zelgadis rushed forward and immediately got between the Mazoku’s hand and the princess’s face. As he was punched in the back it was like an explosion went off, Amelia crashed to the ground with the chimera ontop of her, crimson fluid spilled out over his back.

“MR. ZELGADIS!” Amelia cried in horror, immediately casting a Resurrection spell.

“Zel…” Lina breathed, then glared at the Mazoku before her. “You’ll pay for that. Lords of Darkness of the Four Worlds, on thy bonds I swear, grant me all the power that you possess!” her Demon’s Blood Talismans started glowing.

Riksfalto smirked, twirling her sword in her hand. “Let’s see the great power that took on the Demon Dragon King and Hellmaster.”

Huraker smiled. “I’ll take care of the smaller fry.” She opened her mouth and a spiral of energy shot out at Sylphiel!

“Sylphiel look out!” Lina cried.

“F-flare Arrow!” Sylphiel tried to cast… But the arrows came out like small objects, that were simply destroyed.

“Sylphiel!” Gourry tried to slash at the blast while grabbing Sylphiel, but he was still hit as his shoulder armor was blown right off.

“Gourry!” Lina cried, her eyes wide as she was trying to concentrate on her next spell. “Damn you… Lord of the dreams that terrify... Oh sword of the cold dark void... Free yourself now from heaven's bonds... Become one with my body, one with my power, and let us walk the path of destruction together... Power that can smash even the souls of the gods! RAGNA BLADE!” she cried out as the black sword of pure energy appeared in her hands. She had to make this count, she had to strike both of them at once. She let out a loud cry as she leapt into the air, striking down with all her might.

Both Riksfalto and Huraker tried to counter the blade with an attack, but that’s when another spell hit them from the side.

“RA TILT!” Amelia had healed Zelgadis enough for them to combine the spell together.

“You pitiful twisted creaters, not of this world... by the Light of Purity I possess, I bid thee, begone to the nexus of our two worlds! MEGIDO FLARE!” Sylphiel quickly cast after she had finished healing Gourry’s shoulder.

Riksfalto and Huraker were caught up in the barrage of spells, white flames now surrounded them both within an explosion. Lina barely used a Raywing to pull herself away as there was a massive explosion. But what worried her was that Deep Sea hadn’t moved an inch.

“D-did we get them?” Gourry asked after a moment.

“I must admit, Lina Inverse you are what I expected.” Deep Sea Dolphin finally spoke, stepping forward. As the smoke was clearing two figures still stood before her. Riksfalto and Huraker were there, each looking heavily damaged but still alive just barely. Riksfalto had a huge hole in her chest and both her arms were gone, Huraker’s stomach was just about destroyed and her left arm, along with her right leg and most of her hair.

Lina gasped and fell to her knees, coughing up a bit of blood. Her magic was getting far too spent, it wasn’t fully back and the Ragna Blade had used up all the boost Xelloss gave her. “N-no…” If only she had been at full power, maybe they could had destroyed them!

“Not bad for mere humans.” Riksfalto chuckled, trying to straighten herself out.

“None the less… The time for games are over, aren’t they Dolphin-sama?” Huraker asked.

Deep Sea suddenly had a wicked smile on her face. “Yes, they are.” She extended her arms out. Suddenly geysers shot up from the ground, each one encasing one of Lina’s friends like a prison tube.

“No!” Lina gasped, looking around her seeing them trapped inside the water.

“Now Lina Inverse…” Dolphin chuckled, stepping closer. “Will you reconsider and take the pledge… Or your friends will suffocate within the water in a matter of moments.”

Lina’s mind was in a state of panic, she placed her hand ontop of the ring on her finger, trying to concentrate. ‘Xelloss… Where are you?’ she tried to stand up but she fell back down. “Dammit… You’ll just kill them anyway I know it. I’m not going to let you get your way…”

Dolphin pursed her lips with a sigh. “… I see you won’t listen to reason… So I must take further action.”

“Killing them one at the time won’t sway me either.” Lina snapped. “If you kill one you’ll easily kill them all.”

“Oh who said I was going to finish them so quickly? They’ll die soon enough anyway…” Dolphin laughed… Then reached her hands forward… Through her own minions.

“L-Lord Dolphin!” Riksfalto cried.

“Deep Sea-sama!” Huraker gasped.

The two Mazoku let out a strangled cry as they were eradicated, their remains exploding into pure energy that was absorbed into their creator’s body.

Lina’s ruby eyes went wide with shock. “… Y-you just…”

“It is required a sacrifice for this spell… For if you refuse to join I have to take drastic actions.” Dolphin smirked, extending her hands out. “… My special curse just for you, Lina Inverse.” With that the spell exploded, impaling the crimson haired sorceress. That’s when everything went dark.

“That will be quite enough, Dolphin.”

It seemed like the whole world exploded as Dolphin was blasted away from Lina, the geysers exploded releasing everyone as they all gasped for air when they crashed to the ground.

“W-what happened?” Amelia gasped when she looked up, seeing an orange haired woman stand before them. “Who are you?”

“Oh yes that’s correct you all did not meet me before.” Zelas chuckled, placing her hand on her hip. Her current appearance was a green vest over a yellow and orange shirt, with tight black pants. “I am the Greater Beast, Zelas Metallium.”

“W-what happened to Miss Lina?” Sylphiel gasped.

“Lina!” Gourry cried, as he saw the shaking body of Lina Inverse was falling backwards.

That’s when a familiar pair of arms grabbed her, holding her up. She very slowly strained to open her eyes. “A-about time… You got your ass here… Xelloss.” Crimson fluid dripped down her mouth. Several wounds had appeared on her body, each bleeding badly. She felt all her strength draining away rapidly, and her body felt like it was under attack, like as if she was being beaten to death by an unseen foe.

“Don’t talk.” Xelloss spoke in a hardened tone, pulling her close as his amethyst eyes were open. “It took us a while to shake Dynast off our trail, especially when Sherra showed up.” He narrowed his eyes. “I felt your call though and tried to rush as quickly as possible… We were nearly too late.”

Zelas nodded. “… She still got that curse through though, she’ll just die more slowly this way. You’re going to have to work fast, pup.”

“What? What did she do to her?” Zelgadis growled. “Can’t we heal her?”

“Not with this curse, it is a variation of the Raugnut Rushavna, but instead of turning the human turning them into a hunk of flesh, it eats away at their magic and slowly drains their life force while attacking their body from the inside. It can be created by sacrificing a life force and putting its power into a curse, I imagine Dolphin killed one of her creations for the energy.” Zelas explained. “In a matter of hours it will drain Lina Inverse dry and kill her, healing magic has no effect on such a curse, in fact speeds up its process.”

Amelia let out a strangled gasp. “T-then how can we save her?”

“X-Xelloss…” Lina groaned, her hand gripping his arm as she could barely speak, the others couldn’t even hear her. “T-the p-pledge….”

Xelloss just nodded quietly, pressing his lips against her forehead. “Just hold on a little longer.”

“Zelas…” Dolphin hissed as she approached her. “How dare you interfere with my affairs?”

“When you interfered with my little boy’s Soul Touch.” Zelas smirked, snapping her fingers.

Dolphin let out a scream in pain as obviously she was struck on the Astral Plane.

“Using that curse obviously drained you, which is why you’d be a fool to challenge me now.” Zelas said with a twisted grin. “I’ll let you live for now, only because I don’t have time to kill you slowly and I need to recharge from the lesson I gave Dynast. Xelloss.” She turned to her general priest. “Transport them to Wolfpack Island now.”

“Understood, Lord Beast Master.” Xelloss bowed his head. “Get around me all of you.” He hissed.

Zelas chuckled softly, narrowing her eyes. “Oh and Dolphin, be glad I’m ordering my servant away now. Because he would be FAR much less merciless than I would be if given the chance, because I think even at your current level he could take you on.” She snapped her fingers once more and vanished, just as Xelloss teleported with the group.

“Damn you Zelas…” Dolphin hissed, vanishing herself into a pool of water. “You WILL pay for this.”

They arrived on Wolfpack Island in Zelas’s throne room, Xelloss was holding Lina with a scowl on his face as she twisted in agony.

“So this is Wolfpack Island?” Zelgadis asked as he looked around.

“Unnn… Xelloss…” Lina groaned, squirming a bit as her head was pressed against his chest. She then coughed once more, shivering at the sight of her own blood staining her glove.

“Oh my Miss Lina!” Sylphiel gasped. “She’s looking worse.”

“You said magic can’t work but can’t you do something?” Gourry asked, his voice filled with panic.

“Mr. Xelloss you can’t let Miss Lina die!” Amelia cried, tears in her eyes.

“I have no intention to.” Xelloss replied rather coldly. “Mistress?”

Zelas nodded, waving her hand. “Go on to your quarters pup, I’ll entertain our guests until you’re finished.”

“Thank you, Lord Beast Master.” Xelloss bowed his head, then slowly started the leave the room.

“Xelloss…” Gourry and the others looked ready to follow.

“You all are to remain here, if that wasn’t clear.” Zelas spoke up.

“We’re not just going to stand around here!” Zelgadis hissed.

“Oh? So are you all planning on making a pledge with me too?” Xelloss turned to face them, his eyebrow raised. “Because I cannot guarantee your safety if you’re around, this curse might have a nasty backlash when I perform the pledge.”

Lina’s eyes widened when she looked up at him, she let out another coughing fit before she could voice a protest.

Sylphiel took a sharp breath. “Y-you mean you’re going to…?”

Amelia gasped. “Of course, the pledge would save Miss Lina’s life!”

Zelgadis grit his teeth. “… I hate to admit it, but it might be the only way to say her…”

“Xelloss… Do it please, we don’t want to lose her.” Gourry said.

Xelloss nodded. “I’m not saving her for your reasons mind you, but my own.” He smiled softly, then strolled away towards his quarters. He placed her down on the bed, her blood already spreading across the sheets like it had all over his yellow shirt and cloak, her blood had also stained his gloves.

“X-Xelloss…” Lina twisted again in pain as the curse continued to attack her, slowly forcing her heavy eyelids open to look at him. She felt her mortality cursing upon her every breath she took.

Xelloss smiled at her as he closed his eyes, waving his staff which the red jewel glowed. "Now Miss Lina, this will only take me a moment. It is a good thing we discussed everything ahead of time, I fear you would not have enough life left in you to state all your terms..." a violet gem appeared in his hand. “Even though I had hoped to have heard your answer under… Better circumstances.”

She glared at him through her extremely weak eyes, her vision blurring every second. "... Just... Shut the hell up... And get on with it." she coughed, a bit more of the red liquid escaped from her mouth. While she had already made the resolve to take the pledge before being this close to death, that didn’t mean she still didn’t have her worries. That and in a way she was glad about these circumstances, this way the damn fruitcake couldn’t hold it over her head that she really chose it completely against her will, if she didn’t take it now she’d die. Well that would save a lot of explaining to her friends who she knew would all rather see her live right now.

Xelloss waved his forefinger, leaning his head close as he placed the finger upon her lips. "I will not allow L-sama to claim your soul, Lina-chan." his Mazoku eyes slowly opening, piercing through her as death was creeping closer. "... For it belongs to me." Placing the violet jewel into the palm of her hand, he connected his lips with hers.

That’s when several sparks of black magic exploded through Lina’s body. The curse was fighting through Xelloss’s magic as she let out a cry of pain through the kiss. Xelloss backed up a bit and held a hand behind her head. “I just need you to say the words dear Lina, and I can do the rest.”

Lina nodded, once more forcing her eyes to open from the darkness that was swallowing her. The gem in her hand slowly glowing. “… I pledge myself to you, Xelloss Metallium.”

Lina felt like she was on fire, her entire skin felt like it had exploded. Had she died? She nearly felt like it. The darkness had swallowed her up and she felt alone. But that’s when she felt a strange light ahead of her, reaching out into the unknown she touched a violet orb and her body was bathed in black and purple waves… And a strange, soft melody buzzing in her ear.

“Secretly, nature conveys an important message. Someday shalalala lal…”

And that’s when she finally opened her ruby eyes in and took in a sharp gasp, springing up. The heavily voice singing the melody had stopped.

“You’re finally awake.” A familiar voice mused by her side.

Lina turned her head to see Xelloss was sitting beside her on the bed, his hand holding hers. There were several questions on her tongue, but before she could ask them he leaned forward and pressed his lips into her hair. She could see her shoulder armor, belt, boots and cape laying on the desk in the room, she was still inside his quarters on Wolfpack Island.

“You’ve been out for two days.” He spoke softly, kissing down to her temple on her right side. “Your friends are safe in Seyruun, after about a day Lord Beast Master grew tired of entertaining them and took them there.”

“Two days?” Lina gasped, finally finding her voice, though a bit raspy.

“Well, while the pledge gives you immortality, your body needed to heal from the damage of Deep Sea Dolphin’s curse.” Xelloss explained, he gathered her hair to her other shoulder to expose her neck as he kissed her cheek. “So even if you are injured while you will not die, it will be painful and it take a bit for the magic to recover you. I’d say you should still rest here for another day before we move you.”

“Where’s the Pledge Stone?” Lina gasped, squirming a bit from his closeness.

“Right here.” Xelloss chuckled, his fingers over the small gem attached to the collar of her shirt. While normally it was a green gem there, he had replaced it with the same violet jewel he had placed in her hand at the time of the pledge. “I thought it would be best if you kept it on hand.” He then kissed the base of her throat.

“K-knock that off already!” Lina snapped, smacking him in the head and trying to shift her position on the bed to move away from him. “I just about nearly died you ass!” While she had made the resolve about the pledge, she was still nervous about the whole… Mating process of the Soul Touch.

Xelloss looked up at her with a twisted frown. “I don’t even get a thank you for saving your life? And did you forget the terms to our pledge already?”

Lina’s face turned beet red as she looked away. “Y-yeah but… You haven’t given me everything on the list yet you know.” Her hand absentmindedly ran across her chest. “A-and I’m not just ready for that yet.”

Xelloss chuckled at her reaction, his hand squeezing hers and his other hand ran his fingers across her jaw. “I was waiting for you to wake up, Lina dearest. I’d rather you decide how your alterations look.”

Lina blushed a bit deeper from that. “Well what are you waiting for you fruitcake? I made the damn pledge with you so get on with it.” She snapped.

“Well if you wish to rush things then…” Xelloss opened his amethyst eyes with a wide grin, his gloved hand reached inside her shirt and slowly traced up her spine.

Lina’s eyes shot wide open and she pressed her hands together against his chest. “BLAST WAVE!” Light exploded from her hands and blew Xelloss into the wall. “THE FUCK DO YOU THINK YOU’RE DOING?!?”

Xelloss pursed his lips together, rubbing his head. “Aww Lina-chan can’t we have a little fun with it?” he chuckled.

“YOU’RE THE ONLY ONE HAVING FUN WITH IT YOU ASSHAT!” Lina snarled, charging a large Fireball in her hands.

Xelloss chuckled and teleported behind her, grabbing her arms and seeming to absorb her Fireball spell. “Of course there has to be something in this pledge for me, remember Lina?” he grinned wide, forcing her down on the bed and raising her arms above her head. “Or did you forget that you’re mine now?” he whispered huskily, his hair brushing her cheeks.

“Just because I’m pledged to you now doesn’t mean I’m yours bastard.” Lina hissed, struggling in his grip. “If you even think about defiling my body by force I….”

“Don’t worry Lina dearest, unlike most Mazoku I find sexual lust more alluring then sorrow and rage over rape.” Xelloss said, his amethyst orbs had a piercing gaze to them. “As an asexual being, I can easily wait until you are ready.”

“You’re going to be waiting a long time asshole.” Lina snarled.

“We have all eternity Miss Lina.” Xelloss reminded her with a smug smirk, crushing his lips against hers.

Lina struggled for a few moments, then decided she really was still too weak to fit and gave in, opening her mouth to allow his probing tongue inside. Leaving one hand to hold her arms up, his other hand wandered down to the edge of her shirt and slowly worked inside, this time running his fingers up her side. Lina squirmed a bit from his touch, letting out a strangled moan was muffled within the kiss.

When he stopped and placed his hand on her chest just above her breasts she stiffened, but then felt a strange, warm glow. The next thing she knew was that she felt his chest rubbing against her bust.

Xelloss slowly broke the kiss, sucking on her lower lip for a moment before pulling off completely and closing his eyes, a wide smile on his face. “I hope they are to your liking.” He slowly pulled his hand out from under her shirt and released her hands.

Lina took a sharp breath and tilted her head down, looking at her now larger chest. Her not so little round buds were just a size larger than Amelia’s, and but not too snug in her shirt. Xelloss must have altered her shirt size too with the spell. “Wow…” she murmured, reaching down to cup her new breasts through the shirt, blushing a bit.

“Oh that’s not the only thing I altered, Lina-chan.” Xelloss chuckled, and immediately they were on their feet and that’s when she noticed the difference. Their faces were nearly level with each other now, she was only a few inches shorter than him.

“Well at least you got something right.” Lina smirked slightly at him.

“Ah, does that mean I get that thank you now?” Xelloss leaned his face in closer with a wide grin.

Lina narrowed her eyes. “Suuurreee…” and suddenly she pulled him into a vicious headlock. “WHAT TOOK YOU SO DAMN LONG TO GET YOUR ASS THERE?!? A few minutes later and I would have been dead you god damn unless Mazoku!”

Xelloss sweatdropped, looking up at her. “S-sorry, but need I remind you that you were the one that sent me away?”

“To get help you idiot!” Lina snapped, tightening her grip.

“Well I tried to get back as soon as possible, it wasn’t easy with Dynast attacking.” Xelloss rubbed his cheek. “You think I like that idea that I almost lost you?”

“Oh shut up you idiot, stop acting like your Soul Touch is much more than finding some useful human.” Lina growled, releasing him and sitting back down on the bed with her arms crossed.

Xelloss raised an eyebrow as he turned to her. “… Is that what all this hesitation is about? You still don’t believe a Mazoku can love, is that it?”

“It’s not that…” Lina admitted, turning her head away. “I know that you’re… Feeling something for me now, but that doesn’t mean it can’t break one day. I know how it works.”

Xelloss chuckled at that, taking a seat next to her on the bed and placing a hand on her knee. “Don’t humans fall out of love too?”

Lina blinked twice and looked at him, confusion in her eyes. “Well… Yeah…”

“So it isn’t that much different.” The priest shrugged, reaching out a hand to cup her chin. “And the Soul Touch may break but that just stops their connection, I highly doubt it would affect my interest in you. In fact…” he tilted his head to the side. “As long as you’re pledged to me now wouldn’t that make you eternally useful?”

“I suppose…” Lina gnawed on her lower lip, placing her hands into her lap and balling them into fists. “Just don’t expect me to fall into your arms like some cheesy movie you ass. I’m still pissed at you for all the shit you’ve done over the years.”

“You wouldn’t be my Lina if you were that easy.” Xelloss snickered, leaning close. “Your fiery temper and strength allures me, in time I’m sure you’ll learn to love me.” Slowly he opened one eye, smirking at her. “But that does mean I’m not holding back anymore in my ways of getting you used to it.” He closed the distance between then as his lips met hers.

Lina leaned back a bit, but Xelloss’s arms snaked around her suddenly to stop her escape. She glared at him for a moment, before closing her eyes and deciding to take the energy she’d get from it. Which these simple actions she did notice was recharging her rather quickly. That and well she figured she did in a way owe him a little bit, after all she’d be dead right now if it wasn’t for him. So she could let him have his way… For now.

While she tried to just stay there and not move, she felt Xelloss grab her legs one at a time, wrapping them around his waist. He then took her arms and placed them around his neck, before pulling her closer into a tight hug. She shrugged, tightening her arms around his neck, hell it could feel like she’s trying to headlock him she reasoned.

Feeling she needed air, Xelloss slowly broke the kiss and licked at her lips. Lina panted a bit, and without even thinking her tongue reached out to touch his that still lingered on her lips. Her cheeks burned when she realized what she was doing and froze after pulling her tongue back into her motuh.

“Ooohhh Lina-chan your emotions are just too priceless.” Xelloss purred, brushing his lips against hers gently. “One moment you want to give into your lust and the next you want to kill me, I can’t decide which one I like the taste of more.”

“Keep it up you smug bastard and I swear this time I’ll use the Ragna Blade…” Lina hissed through her teeth. “And you are NOT going to do this crap in public or else.”

“Mmmm what might you be offering to do?” Xelloss grinned, opening both eyes now. He ran his hand gently up and down her back.

“Just shut up you prick.” Lina snapped, laying her head against his chest. But that’s when she was starting to hear that melody again. Her eyes snapped open and looked up to the priest holding her. “… Xelloss, were you singing when I was asleep before?”

Xelloss blinked his open eyes for a moment, smiling down at her. “You heard that, hmm? Just a little something that came to mind once.”

“It just didn’t sound like the kind of song you’d sing.” Lina chuckled softly.

“Oh really? You must have not heard the last lines then, considering you’re the inspiration for the song.” Xelloss chuckled, smoothing a bit of her hair behind her chin as he leaned close, humming the melody into her ear as he sung the words.

“I want to whisper privately to you the secret that I have hidden... I will always stay with you and look after you from behind.”

Lina groaned as she was slowly pulled out of sleep, turning over and froze as she felt fingers brushing through her hair. She let out a sigh, knowing exactly who it was as she opened her eyes to see her cheek was pressed against a yellow shirt. “… You’re still here this time.” She mumbled.

“Lord Beast Master told me to form the pledge and hasn’t given me any other orders.” Xelloss chuckled, tangling his gloved hand in the flaming locks of her hair. He was laying on his back on the bed just under her, his other arm was wrapped around her back. He didn’t have his cloak on though. “Of course I haven’t reported back to her yet that it is complete, I had asked to remain with you until you recovered.”

Lina blinked for a moment, then looked up at him. “You mean those two days I was out you were just sitting there with me the whole time?” she felt her cheeks flush as for some reason that made her heart skip a beat.

“Yes actually, she checked in on me so did your friends on the first day, after that she came to tell me where she sent them and allowed for me to stay for your recovery.” Xelloss smiled down at her, pressing his lips against her forehead. “I convinced her it was best for me to stay as I was adding the extra magic to you while you were unconscious anyway, better to do it a little at a time after all, but you’ll find your spells will be a bit stronger now, though require more energy.”

“Which I’m sure you’ll be more than happy to help give me…” Lina replied sarcastically, arching her eyebrow. “I suppose I can concede to… Kissing for now.” She turned her head away to hide her blush. “But don’t think you can just do it all the time you prick, test my patience and I will blow your ass up with a Dragon Slave or worse.”

“Which I will gladly take your rage Lina my sweet.” Xelloss chuckled, placing butterfly kisses on her face.

“Will you knock it off already with the damn pet names?” she hissed, turning back to glare at him.

“But I told you when I started that was just a preview Lina-chan.” The Mazoku priest grinned wide at her. “Besides, you told me before only to knock it off until you take the pledge.”

Lina’s face turned another shade of red, he was right she did say that. “F-fine but only when we’re alone then got it? Otherwise I will beat the hell out of in public for saying it.”

“And once again, I told you that I enjoy your beating Lina dearest.” Xelloss’s grin just kept getting wider.

“GOD DAMMIT CAN’T I WIN WITH ANY OF THIS YOU ASS?!?” Lina snarled.

“That’s what happens when you make a deal with a Mazoku.” He chuckled softly, rubbing her head. “But in return I will honor your request to wait for the full mating process.” He opened his eyes slowly to gaze into her ruby orbs. “After all I believe humans take virtue extremely seriously and all.”

“What the fuck would you know about virtue you fruitcake?” Lina raised her eyebrow with a snare.

A devilish grin came across Xelloss’s face. “I know how to take it.”

Lina’s eyes went wide, her jaw agape as the most violent blush ever filled her face. She was completely speechless.

Xelloss chuckled softly, closing his eyes and smirking at her. “Ahhhh Lina my dear I just love your reactions, they taste so sweet everytime. Do not worry, I’d much rather wait for you to give it to me than take. Because your frustration over deciding is luscious.” He then kissed her lips deeply.

“P-perverted Mazoku…” she grumbled after a moment when their lips parted.

His mouth twitched to a wider smirk. “Ooohhh you want to see how kinky I can be Lina dearest? We could give those new knockers of yours a test run.”

“NO!” Lina roared, charging an Elemika Flame into her hands and blasting him off her, sending him crashing through the wall! “… Wow…” she blinked, looking at her hands. “I didn’t notice before how much easier it is to cast a spell it seems.”

“I did say I’d give you a power boost after all.” Xelloss chuckled, teleporting back into the room. “It just took a while to settle in.”

“Just how much power did you give me?” Lina asked with a sly smile.

“That’s a secret.” Xelloss chuckled, pressing his finger against his lips.

She rolled her eyes. “Saw that coming.” She crossed her arms and moved to grab her boots and shoulder armor.

“Allow me.” Xelloss smirked, placing his hand over hers as she reached out. She eyed him suspiciously, but sat back down on the bed with her legs crossed.

Xelloss bent down and caressed his hand slowly on the back of her leg from behind her knee down to the heel of her bare foot. He looked up at her seductively as he opened his eyes, slowly sliding the boot on.

Lina’s face flushed red once again as he took her other foot into his hand, his gloved fingers gently intertwining with her toes for a moment, then he pressed his lips to the top of her foot, making her take a sharp breath.

“W-will you c-cut that out?!?” Lina snapped, kicking him with her other leg.

Xelloss just smiled at her, placing the boot on. “Awww I would think you’d be the type that would love the thought of a powerful monster kneeling before you and kissing your feet.”

Lina’s blush deepened at the thought of that, she really did kind of like the idea of being worshipped after all. She smacked her fist against his head. “I-I don’t like that you’re teasing me you ass.”

Giving her his usual closed eye smirk, he waved his forefinger. “Isn’t that what foreplay is all about? I know some things about how human mating works. While I haven’t had a mate of my own before you, one does get curious after a thousand years of existence.”

“I’m not sleeping with you anytime soon so don’t call me your mate you piece of shit.” Lina hissed, venom dripping at her words.

The priest wagged his finger again. “Technically you have slept with me several times Lina-chan, just with your clothes on.”

“YOU KNOW WHAT THE FUCK I MEANT SO KNOCK IT OFF YOU SMUG BASTARD!” Lina hissed, throwing a Fireball into his face. She then stood up and glared. “Now quit screwing around and let’s get going, you said Luna should be arriving the day after tomorrow.”

Xelloss shrugged, as suddenly his cloak and staff appeared. “Alright then, I should mention to Lord Beast Master we are leaving then.” He suddenly fazed out.

Lina sighed as she got her shoulder armor and cape on. She was trying really hard to shake the redness from her face. How long was she going to be able to hold off that fruitcake? Though a lot of things he said did cement in, but that left her even wondering to herself just how did she feel about this situation? Sure she was forced into it last minute but a part of her did choose it just before. Did that mean she really did have feelings for that damn Mazoku?

Also she was mentally slapping herself, she practically gave him permission to do those embarrassing nicknames and other crap… Oh well at least whenever he did she had the extra power now to blow his ass to hell and back to try to make him stop. Though was surprised her most was how he was willing to wait for… Completing the whole mating process thing. Maybe because Mazoku don’t require sex for their Soul Touch to be considered their mate? That or the freaking idiot really did just want her to give herself to him completely, not just the pledge. After all she couldn’t get over that look she saw on his face when Dolphin had cursed her. That harden scowl over her being hurt… If monsters can really care, she would swear that he was really angry that she had been nearly killed. Maybe it was because he considered her his possession, and that’s why he was ticked off she reasoned. She shook her head trying to shake off the thought.

“Ready to go, Miss Lina?” Xelloss’s voice startled her as he appeared suddenly from behind.

“D-don’t do that you idiot!” Lina snapped, clubbing him in the head with her fist. “I’m still jumpy obviously!”

Xelloss rubbed his head with a chuckle. “Understandable. Lord Beast Master says I should probably hang around you for a while to make sure you adjust to the change from the pledge anyway, besides the fact the Knight of Cepheid arriving soon.”

“So what exactly are your orders regarding my sister?” Lina raised her eyebrow.

The priest opened a single eye. “That-“

“Is not a secret.” She interrupted him. “I’m pledge to you now asshole, the least you could do is let me in on the mission.”

Xelloss just laughed and shook his head. “I was going to say that I already told you really. My orders are to see what we can do regarding assisting Miss Luna in rejecting Cepheid from her body. That and to see how close he is from taking her over. Hopefully with some combined magic we can stop the Flare Lord before then.”

“Alright, let’s just get to Seyruun already.” Lina sighed.

“Very well.” Xelloss wrapped his arm around her, pulling her close as he pressed his lips hard against hers. Then suddenly the world was spinning all around her. It only seemed like a matter of moments until he broke off, but when he did they were no longer on Wolfpack Island, but inside the castle of Seyruun!

“MISS LINA!” Amelia’s voice could be heard as she came running over. “You’re alright!”

“Took you long enough to bring her here you moron.” Zelgadis hissed.

Xelloss chuckled. “She only recovered just recently, I couldn’t move her so quickly after all.”

Lina turned to face her friends with a smile until she saw them all gasp in shock at her new appearance. That’s when a faint blush came across her face. “What? You guys all knew I would get some alterations with the pledge…”

“Miss Lina… You…” Sylphiel just looked at her wide eyed.

“Hey, nice job Xelloss now she actually looks like a woman instead of a kid!” Gourry chuckled.

Lina hissed and threw a Fireball at Gourry for that remark.

Amelia just gasped and walked closer, looking up at her now. “Wow…. Miss Lina you look so different.”

“Really?” Lina chuckled, rubbing the back of her neck. “I mean it was just a few alterations…”

“It’s the beauty of a woman in love!” Amelia cheered. “Justice prevailed and you faced death and came back, all while realizing your true feelings so the pledge now allows you to be with your eternal soul mate! It’s fate’s way of allowing it and your dreams come true as you always dreaded your appearance, but see you found true love without such assets so you’re rewarded with them now!”

Lina’s face turned bright red, she started waving her hands frantically. “AMELIA!!! I was DYING REMEMBER? I had to take the pledge or else I’d be dead right now! Stop saying such crazy things about me!”

“Yeah, Lina would know better than to fall for a fruitcake like Xelloss.” Zelgadis grumbled.

“I’m pleased to see I have your support, Miss Amelia.” Xelloss replied in an amused tone, obviously trying not to look too ill from her positive emotions.

“No matter what the hell your boss said to us, I still don’t trust you.” Zelgadis growled. “You do anything to Lina and you’ll be sorry. Just because she’s pledge to you don’t think I’d just let it slide.”

“Now, now Mr. Zelgadis, if you even tried to break the pledge you do know Deep Sea Dolphin’s curse would just take back over and kill Miss Lina, don’t you know?” Xelloss asked, shrugging his shoulders. “So really I’d think you all wouldn’t want to break that, as I’m the only reason she’s still alive.”

“We are grateful, Mr. Xelloss.” Sylphiel said.

“Yeah, I mean after all that water demon lady nearly drowned all of us.” Gourry replied. “And your mom seems like a nice lady, she even let us pet her wolves.”

Xelloss sweatdropped, turning to Sylphiel. “… He pet… The wolves? …. And he still has his limbs?” he muttered under his breath.

Lina raised an eyebrow at that, Xelloss’s look obviously gave away that Gourry was too dense as usual to figure out whatever he did was dangerous. Guess he’s lucky the wolves didn’t take his arm off her something… That or maybe they tried and Gourry was too stupid to notice some overgrown dogs gnawing at his skin.

“They tried to bite Mr. Zelgadis and broke their teeth.” Amelia piped up after a moment. “Miss Zelas said he must have smelled good to them.” Well that explained why Gourry wasn’t ripped to pieces.

“Oh is that why your anger is higher than normal? Didn’t like being their chewtoy?” Xelloss chuckled. “Sadly they are my Mistress’s pets they’ve even taken a bite at me a few times in the past, I haven’t the faintest idea why she keeps them as she has no need for guard dogs.”

“Why would she when you’re plenty?” Zelgadis grumbled.

Before Xelloss could answer, a booming voice entered the room. “Ah! Lina Inverse good to see you’re alright!” Philionel el di Saillune walked into the room with a wide smile, then turned to Xelloss and tilted his head. “Haven’t I seen you before?”

“Yes, we met a few years ago.” Xelloss chuckled. “I was the one that was looking after you when you had been rescued from being a hostage.”

“Hey Phil, sorry if Amelia worried you about me.” Lina rubbed her head. “Just some things happened.”

Phil blinked for a moment when he looked at her. “My, you sure changed in a year. I guess sometimes young women just go through growths like that. Little Amelia shot up quickly too.” He pat her back. “But glad to see you finally made it.”

“Yeah about that, we’re pretty sure the shrine will be a target the day over tomorrow.” Lina brought up. “Xelloss here helped us track who’s been doing this and there’s some strong clues that they’ll be here.”

“Well we’ll have to prepare then.” Phil lifted his fist into the air. “Justice will prevail with all our assistance!”

Lina sweatdropped. “Yeeeaahhh sure. So hey, why not have a party banquet for my recovery?” she clasped her hands together.

“Yeah! With lots of food!” Gourry cried. “We can celebrate Lina and Xelloss getting engaged!”

“HUH?!?” Lina cried, grabbing the blonde by the collar of his shirt. “WHO THE FUCK SAID I’M ENGAGED TO THAT FRUITCAKE?”

“Well, isn’t that why we met his mom? I mean she said you’re pledged to him so that’s like a wife right?” Gourry tilted his head to the side.

“YOU GOD DAMN JELLYFISH BRAINS!!!” Lina snarled, blasting Gourry into the air with an Explosion Array.

“Oh my Gourry dear!” Sylphiel cried as she rushed outside to find where he’d land.

Amelia sweatdropped. “I’m sure we can put something together, right daddy?”

“Of course Amelia my dear little girl!” Phil cried. “You said Lina was recovering from a fatal illness, we need to celebrate her recovery!”

“Ummm… I was cursed, not sick.” Lina growled, rubbing her head. She then turned to Xelloss. “And you seem awfully quiet all of a sudden.”

“I was just slightly amused at Mr. Gourry’s misunderstanding of the pledge.” The purple haired priest replied with a chuckle, taking her left hand and lifting it to his lips, his fingers rubbing at the ring hidden under her glove she still wore. “After all some refer to marriage as the human version of the pledge, and I’d gladly pledge myself to you, Lina Inverse.”

Lina blushed brightly at that, quickly yanking her hand away. “Knock it off idiot, I said not to do that crap in public.”

“Well, it’ll take a while to get things in order, so why don’t you and Mr. Xelloss take some time around Seyruun?” Amelia suggested. “It’ll be a perfect outing for you both!”

Xelloss smirked at that. “Excellent idea, Miss Amelia. After all, isn’t that how human mating works? I believe you refer to it as dating correct?”

Zelgadis suddenly got a disturbed look on his face, while Amelia had a strange victory/adoring face on, while Phil was just confused.

Lina glared daggers at the Mazoku, he must had heard that conversation she had with Amelia. “Fine, but you’re buying me lunch bastard.” She grabbed him by the cloak and started dragging him out of the castle.

“Are you going to eat that?” Lina asked as they were sitting at an outside café, pointing her fork at Xelloss’s plate.

He pushed it towards her. “I had a feeling you’d want more.” He chuckled, taking a sip of his tea.

Lina devoured the food quickly, a pile of about 50 plates next to her as she pat her stomach. “Ahhh that hit the spot.” She then looked thoughtful. “You don’t actually need to eat, yet I always see you drinking tea or eating sweets.”

“While I don’t need to, I’ve grown a fondness for the flavor of certain things while in this form.” Xelloss shrugged, placing his cup down. “It doesn’t do anything for me of course, just for entertainment.”

“So in other words you can taste and experience some human things like that.” Lina raised her eyebrow.

“I can make my corporal form as close to real as a human body, it can function exactly like one for blending in with them during my missions.” Xelloss replied, waving his forefinger. “I figured out how over the years, at first I couldn’t have senses like taste when I’d eat food it wouldn’t have any flavor. It’s more convincing if I show an interest in what I consume. After a while I found sweets have the best taste to them.”

“Hrpmh, while we’re here then we should probably get some ice cream, I recall you grinning like a cat when you ate it last time.” Lina chuckled, shaking her head.

“Oh yes, best I’ve had in centuries.” Xelloss smirked. “Where else would like to go, Lina-chan?”

“Stop calling me that already.” She snapped, glaring at him. “I would like to check out any spell books I can read here, need to do some research.”

The Mazoku raised an eyebrow. “On what in particular?”

“Well I’ve been thinking, the easiest way to help Luna is to get Cepheid out of her. There must be some sort of way we can remove his hold.” Lina stretched out her arms as she stood up. “Might need your help if the texts are too old for me to read. Because I was thinking of looking into texts written by Lei Magnus, I’ve heard some are here but they’re over a thousand years old obviously and you were around back then so odds are you’d know the language.”

“So now I’m your translator?” he sweatdropped.

“You’re my useful item number 4 after all.” Lina winked.

Xelloss pursed his lips. “Seriously dear Lina? I didn’t move up at all?” he pouted and crossed his arms.

“Oh fine, you did save my life so… You’re promoted to useful item 3 1/4.” Lina laughed with a grin on her face.

“Joy… I’d hate to ask who I’m sharing number 3 title with.” Xelloss mumbled under his breath.

“Hey…” Lina blinked, looking at a poster on a nearby wall, raising an eyebrow. “Xel, look at this.”

“Huh? Is the Chimera around?” Xelloss opened his eyes, jolting his head around.

“I said Xel, not Zel.” Lina scowled at him. “If you can call me damn pet names I can give you a nickname too fruitcake… Or would you rather I start calling you Namagomi?”

Xelloss’s eye twitched at being called raw garbage as he usually did. “N-no Lina dear, I just was surprised by it. I’d rather you’d not start picking up that distasteful dragon’s poor manners.”

“I haven’t seen Filia in like 2 years, would be rather late for me to pick up stuff off her.” Lina scoffed. “Besides she’s probably been busy being a mother to Val now.”

Xelloss chuckled low for a moment. “… You could say that... For now that is.”

She raised her eyebrow. “What are you mumbling about?”

“Oh nothing, I suppose then you didn’t know Val hatched?” the priest smiled, closing his eyes now.

“You mean you saw her? What the hell would you be doing there?” Lina asked, crossing her arms. “I’d think Filia would toss her mace at you if you got within 50 feet of her place.”

“Oh she wasn’t happy to see me say the least, I merely was there on a mission.” Xelloss chuckled. “Mistress asked me to look into his hatching, to see if any of Gaav remained from him being reborn but no, he’s fully reborn as an Ancient Dragon.”

“And I’m sure she swore you out for dropping in like that.” Lina snickered. “Would have liked to see that. She always was one of the few that could get under your skin.”

He twisted his mouth. “Her uptightness just gets to me sometimes, the only time I find her amusing is when she is angry and that stuck up attitude slides. Like when she turns into a dragon and vents out frustration, that tends to be amusing.” He grinned.

“Funny though she never was a Soul Touch, she could have been your type since you like girls that destroy things when angry.” Lina mused.

“For one, it would have been a huge taboo if I had a Soul Touch with a Dragon… I’d probably be killed for it.” Xelloss frowned, rubbing his temple. “But I guess if you must look at it another way, I already had my Soul Touch with you, even though Mazoku can have multiple ones. While you two are similar with your short temper, I enjoy your outbursts as me and you don’t have that… Righteousness that insufferable dragon has. You justify your actions by your own means, you don’t allow anything to influence how you go about your life. That dragon was so blinded by her people and followed their ways for how long without question, until it was thrown into her face how they really are.” He snickered slightly, opening one eye is a rather creepy smile. “Her emotions though were quite the fill when she learned the truth, I found it quite ironic how she thought so low of us Mazoku and yet her people were no damn better.”

“Oh yeah that’s right, she also insulted Zelas, didn’t she?” Lina said, trying to ignore the rather sadistic smile on his face while remembering. “That probably pissed you off from the start calling her a decrepit Dark Lord.”

Xelloss pursed his lips for a moment. “… Well actually… I was more displeased how for a Golden Dragon she was so stupid as to confuse my Mistress with another lord, one who takes the form of a male of all of them.”

Lina blinked, tilting her head to the side. “Eh?”

“Do you remember what she said?” he asked, closing his eyes once more.

“Xelloss, hate to break it to you but humans can’t remember ever single detail of stuff.” Lina snapped. “Especially since I don’t pay attention when people are freaking annoying me!”

“Alright, alright, point taken.” Xelloss waved a hand carelessly. “She said I served a decrepit Dark Lord who lived in the ice and mountains in the north…” his fist balled as he recalled the argument. “At the time you would not have known, but you’ve been to Wolfpack Island now.”

“Yeah, it’s a beach and… Oooohhh…” Lina rubbed her head. “She confused Dynast with Zelas, THAT’S what ticked you off so bad. Ok I’ve met Sherra, and if Dynast is anything like her I can see why you’d be pissed she insulted your creator like that.” She then smirked. “She had it totally wrong, more like drunken cancer woman in a remote island surrounded by puppies.”

Xelloss sweatdropped. “Mazoku can’t get drunk or human illnesses, Miss Lina. And just ask your friends, the wolves are a lot bigger than mere puppies.”

Lina decided to change the subject, pointing to the poster. “Anyway, take a look what this contest is about.”

Xelloss turned his head to the paper on the wall, tilting his head. “An illusion contest? And the prize is the Seyruun’s library of texts by Lei Magnus.”

“The sorcery guild probably can’t read some of these texts, so they’re giving them away as a prize instead but…” Lina grinned, turning to the priest. “If we get them, I’m sure you can translate them for us.”

“Are you saying I should enter the contest, Lina-chan?” he winked at her. “I don’t need an illusion spell for what they’re calling for, yet make it appear like one just the same.”

“Eh? There’s a theme for the illusion? I didn’t read that.” Lina blinked, reading the rest of the poster… And turned pale. “Best male under an illusion spell while dressed as a female that shows how convincing the illusion is?!?”

A devilish grin came across Xelloss’s face. “I could do something VERY CONVINCING for that.”

“Oh HELL NO.” Lina snapped. “I remember what you looked like when you dressed as a female before, odds are you just altered your form didn’t you?”

“That’s a secret.” He mused, winking at her.

“We’ll just dress up Gourry and Zelgadis again, they both look cute as females and with an illusion spell, we’ll be sure to win.” Lina chuckled, shrugging her shoulders. “No need for you to cheat.”

Xelloss smirked and ran his fingers under her chin. “Is that the only reason? Or do you just not want everyone there to be looking at me?” he teased as he slowly revealed those deep amethyst orbs that sent her head spinning again.

“Quit giving yourself more credit than you deserve you ass.” She hissed after a moment. “I just don’t want you to embarrass me anymore than you already do.”

“Awww but it might be fun Lina-chan.” The purple haired Mazoku leaned his head closer, his fingers still lingering on her chin.

Lina glared at him, trying to suppress the blush creeping up due to his closeness. “Shut up and stop calling me that already.”

“Perhaps you should give me a reason to.” He whispered huskily, pressing his lips against her forehead.

“Fine, you asked for it jackass.” Lina snapped, grabbing his head with both her hands and mashing her lips hard against his.

Xelloss’s eyes went wide from her reaction, once again baffled by her sudden willing kiss. But it was short lived as he suddenly felt her hands pressed against his chest, and he was blown right off her with a Bram Blazer. He crashed into a nearby building.

“That’ll teach you, smugass bastard!” Lina snarled, stomping her foot. But then a booming voice made her freeze in place.

“WHO DARES DISTURB MY MEAL? YOU WILL RUE THE DAY YOU MESSED WITH ME! HO HO HO HO HO!”

“… It…. It can’t be…” Lina’s voice broke, her eyes wide with shock.

A tall woman walked out from the building Xelloss had crashed into, she was in an extremely skimpy outfit that her large breasts bounced with each step. She had long, dark purple hair that looked almost black. She annoyingly laughed as she stepped out into the light. “So who is the fool that has chosen to challenge me, Naga the Great White Serpent!”

“Apologies Miss Naga, though I must say you seem to be doing well.” Xelloss chuckled as he stood up.

Naga glared slightly at him. “You could have told me what that jar really was you know, I still haven’t forgiven you for hiding all the details when you paid me to search for it!”

Xelloss shrugged his shoulders. “You said details weren’t necessary, just payment. Besides my boss prefers me to never reveal more than needed. But I did assist you in getting back to your own body did I not?”

“My memories returned to me when I got back to my body, and I remembered everything that happened during that time too. You didn’t do anything!” Naga snapped.

“WAIT A SECOND YOU TWO KNOW EACH OTHER?!?” Lina cried, interrupting them.

“Who’s this? She looks a lot like my famous rival, but much different.” Naga rubbed her chin. “After all she was short, no bust, and hot tempered second rate.”

“I’LL SHOW YOU SECOND RATE AND NO BUST YOU BITCH! YOU HAVEN’T CHANGED ONE DAMN BIT!” Lina snarled, hurling a series of Flare Arrows at her.

“Freeze Arrow!” Naga cried, firing a few of the ice arrows to counter. But there wasn’t enough as Lina’s super charged arrows made it through and caught Naga on fire! “AAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!”

Xelloss sweatdropped. “Now Lina dear, is that anyway to treat an old friend of yours?”

Lina ignored his question. “How the hell do you know Naga of all people? I mean I haven’t even seen her myself in like 5 years.”

The priest raised an eyebrow. “I thought that was rather obvious by our conversation, after all how else did I know who she was when she with your group a little more than a year ago in that suit of armor?”

“Huh? Naga was never with my…” that’s when it hit Lina. “… Did you just say suit of armor?”

“Oh? And here after Naga spoke so much of you I thought you two would have recognized each other, I thought it was rather odd she was going by a different name.” Xelloss chuckled.

“SO SHE WAS NAMA?!?” the crimson haired sorceress cried.

“Yes, I had commissioned her to search for the Hellmaster’s Jar after Mr. Zuuma took it. She was all too eager to chase after an assassin after all.” Xelloss shrugged. “We had bumped into each other here in Seyruun not long after the incident with Zanaffar.”

Naga leapt up and stormed over. “IT IS YOU LINA INVERSE!”

Lina narrowed her eyes. “Yeah it is… By the way… WHAT THE HELL WAS THE BIG IDEA TELLING ME THAT STUPID LIE ABOUT THE PRINCE OF SEYRUUN?!? YOU COULD HAVE TOLD ME HE WAS AN OLD MAN AND A PACIFIST LUNATIC!!!”

“Oh, suppose that slipped my mind.” Naga shrugged, sticking her tongue out. “Your fault for falling for it.”

Lina growled as her talismans were glowing. “SHADOW SNAP!” she pulled out her dagger and threw it at Naga’s shadow, it struck into the ground dead on.

“Oh dear…” Xelloss sweatdropped.

“Xelloss… Get over here now.” Lina snarled in a menacing tone.

“Y-yes Lina-chan?” Xelloss leaned over to her, when suddenly she grabbed him by his cloak and kissed him deeply. She wrapped her arms tightly around his back and pushed against him.

Naga blinked several times. “H-HUH?! You mean Lina Inverse finally took in a man? He must be rich then! I had no idea a priest like you was raking in that much dough!” her eyes turned into dollar signs.

Lina suddenly pulled out of the kiss, and Xelloss didn’t move at all, just staring where she had been standing as she moved forward and held her hands into the air. “Darkness beyond twilight... Crimson beyond blood that flows.. Buried in the stream of time is where your power flows.. I pledge myself to conquer.. All the foes who stand.. Before the mighty power bestowed in my unworthy hands... Let the fools who stand before me be destroyed... By the power you and I possess... DRAGON SLAVE!” The power charged within her hands three times faster… She threw the massive spell at Naga!

Naga while hearing the chant was struggling to hurry and get a Lightball cast to remove her shadow as she barely got out of the way of the primary blast of the spell! She leapt into a nearby fountain as the Dragon Slave continued to blow through the city… Which destroyed the fountain too and blasted her into the air. “I’LL GET YOU FOR THIS LINA INVERSE!!!”

Lina blinked, looking at her hands after she finished the spell. “Huh. I don’t even feel as drained as I normally do casting a powerful spell. I guess that boost I get from you is useful fruitcake.” She paused for a moment, noticing the priest hadn’t replied as she turned to see he was still exactly where she left him, his eyes still open and starting forward. “… What did I do, break your brain?” she placed a hand on her hip. “Should have been obvious why I kissed you both times, idiot. Just to get the power boost.” She walked closer. “… Hey, are you listening to me?” she raised her eyebrow. Could monsters go into shock? She moved her head in front of his, trying to study his expression but he was as still as a statue. She found herself lost again just staring into his amethyst orbs.

….. And then his mouth was suddenly against hers, his arms tight around her as he pulled her tightly against him, pushing as much into the kiss as possible. It was several moments before his lips parted from hers, smirking softly as his gaze was rather seductive.

“Bastard.” Lina hissed. “You did that on purpose so I’d lower my guard.”

“Just returning the favor, Lina dearest.” Xelloss purred, his lips lingering on the edge of her jaw.

“W-well knock it off I’m recharged already!” Lina snapped, pushing her palm against his face to try and push him away.

The Mazoku’s eyes still hadn’t closed, grinning at her. “For now, only because people are going to start wondering who caused the destruction, shall we continue our date elsewhere?” he chuckled, and before she could protest he wrapped his cloak around her and they vanished.

Xelloss appeared ontop of the castle of Seyruun, his arms still wrapped around Lina.

“Where the hell are we now?” she asked, looking around.

“Oh just a place I’ve come to before that had a good view, the castle does make a great look out.” Xelloss chuckled. “After all human outing can involve sightseeing I believe?”

“Wouldn’t know idiot, I never bothered with dating.” Lina rolled her eyes, then her face flushed red. “N-not that I’m admitting this is a date!”

“Awww now Lina dearest, isn’t it rather late to be trying to convince yourself that?” Xelloss chuckled into her ear. “After all we’re spending the day together, and the whole process of human mating starts with this dating ritual right?” he pressed his lips to the back of her ear.

“WILL YOU STOP CALLING IT HUMAN MATING ALREADY YOU FRUITCAKE?” Lina snapped, trying to jerk her head away. “And knock it off being so weird like that! You’re god damn asexual so act like it already!”

“If I wasn’t asexual Lina-chan, we wouldn’t but just standing here on the roof.” He whispered huskily into her ear, gently nibbling on her earlobe. “Just because I am doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy doing such actions, especially with the emotions it sparks out of you.”

“S-stop it already you ass.” Lina squirmed, trying to pull out of his embrace as he turned her to face him. “And stop calling me that!” she raised a hand to summon a Fireball.

Xelloss grabbed her wrist before she could cast the spell and brought it up to his lips where he kissed the back of her hand gently. His other hand cupped her chin, lifting her head a bit. “Now, now hasn’t there already been enough violence in this date for today?”

“Stop calling it a date already.” She snapped. “We’re just out for a stroll and that’s it.”

“And it’s already a beautiful sunset, is it not?” Xelloss said softly, opening his eyes halfway. His hand released her wrist and wrapped around her back, pulling her close against him.

Lina turned her head to see the sun setting, had time gone by that quickly? “We should probably head back then, might as well see what they put together for this celebration.”

The Mazoku turned her head back towards him, his fingers still on her chin. “We technically we are already back, just above them.” He chuckled. “But shall we try one simple human gesture?”

Lina’s face flushed red. “No weird shit, you jackass. And no god damn sexual harassment or I swear…”

He silenced her with his finger on her lips. “You already conceded to this Miss Lina. Just I’ve heard humans have some interest with performing such action at a sunset.”

It took a moment to click in her head what he was talking about as he removed the finger, brushing his hand into her hair. “Oh… Alright, I guess. But you do anything more than a kiss and I’m sending you down to the ground floor of the castle the hard way.” She gave him a menacing glare.

Xelloss chuckled at that, taking a lock of her hair into his hand and pressing his lips against it. “Mmmm don’t tempt me, Lina dearest. The meal alone might just be worth it.” He opened his eyes just a bit more, his amethyst orbs giving a lustful look that pierced right through her.

A jolt went through her body from his actions, her cheeks were flushed and her hands trembling a bit. “J-Jackass…” she growled. “Just hurry up and get this over with.”

“It’s no fun if we rush things, Lina my sweet.” Xelloss purred against the line of her jaw, just before claiming her lips with a passionate kiss.

She stiffened at first from embarrassment, but slowly relaxed into it and let out a gentle moan as he parted her lips with his tongue. His arm that was wrapped around her back was slowly rubbing at her spine, while his other hand was weaving her hair between his fingers, moving to caress her cheek softly.

And that’s when to his surprise Lina lifted her arms to wrap around his neck, pulling herself closer. This time though while he was surprised he was mentally preparing himself. This probably meant a spell was coming soon to blow him away, but he decided fine if he’s going to be blasted to hell, he might as well earn it thoroughly.

So he lowered his hand just a bit more to cup her rear, his hand on her cheek slowly moved down. He long, elegant gloved fingers stroked down her neck and moved behind her head, taking a fistful of hair into his hand as he pushed harder into the kiss. His tongue tasted every inch inside her mouth until he wrapped it around her own, surprised she didn’t resist.

Opening his amethyst the rest of the way now, he took note she had closed her own eyes, her face painted completely red with her blush. He took this moment to read into her emotions, which there was a bit of suppressed anger, embarrassment, and a bit of lust due to his actions… But there was a ping of a positive emotions emitting from her, but he couldn’t identify it very easily. Of course with Lina Inverse, she was such a whirlwind of emotions it was hard to read her at times. One minute he swore she wanted him dead yet the next he was almost convinced she liked him.

He snapped to when he heard her making a discomfort noise which sounded like she needed air, so he reluctantly broke the kiss, allowing her to gasp for a breath. She opened her eyes hazily, and he couldn’t help but smirk at the spaced out expression she had.

Of course he knew that wasn’t going to last long, as she seemed to come to her senses and scowled at him. “Get your hand off my ass, you fruitcake!” she snapped, placing both hands on his chest and blowing him off of her with a Astral Break.

“Gaaahh!!” Xelloss was blasted into the air, but he regained himself quickly as he was expecting her this time to do that, she wouldn’t catch him off guard that many times in one day. He chuckled and rubbed the back of his head. “Guess I got a taaddd carried away, apologies Lina-ch…. Errr I mean Miss Lina.” Yeah, best not to press his luck. “But I must say the sunset makes your blush even more alluring.”

Lina quickly turned her head to the side. “… I’m not blushing, that’s my anger making my blood boil you Mazoku bastard.”

He chuckled and teleported behind her, poking his finger against her cheek. “Nope, looks like a blush to me.”

“SHUT UP!” Lina snapped, pulling him into a headlock. But the roof was rather narrow and she lost her footing… Which sent them tumbling off and falling towards the ground!

Of course Xelloss was able to react quickly, scooping Lina into his arms and fazing out, appearing safely back on the ground holding her close. “I suppose that was one way of getting back down.” He chuckled, pressing his lips against her forehead.

“Alright already you had your damn fun, now put me down!” Lina snapped, smacking her palm against his chest.

The priest chuckled and placed her down, releasing her. “It was quite an amusing first date, was it not?”

“For a god damn monster like you maybe.” Lina snapped, crossing her arms. “I still should make you pay for that god damn sexual harassment you keep doing!”

He chuckled, looking at her with one eye open. “Oh Lina-chan, you’re just so adorable when you’re angry.”

She just stood there with a massive blush on her face, her ruby eyes wide. “W-what?”

Grinning wide, he kissed her cheek. “See? You are blushing.” He whispered into her ear.

“I-I AM NOT!” Lina shouted as she backed up quickly, stumbling backwards. He caught her just before she fell on her back.

Once again opening both eyes, he just smirked at her with she was lost in the depths of those beautiful amethyst orbs. Taking advantage of that, he leaned in and kissed her once again as he slowly pulled her back up to her feet. Slowly he released her as he broke the kiss, smiling at her.

Lina backed up a bit, trying to control herself as she glare. “God dammit how is it you’re such a fucking smugass bastard?!?” her eyes then narrowed. “And if you say that’s a secret I’m going to freaking kill you right now!”

Xelloss pursed his lips into a frown from that, tilting his head to the side and tapping his forefinger to his cheek. Closing both eyes into his trademark grin, he waved his forefinger. “… Because I’m fabulous?” he shrugged, as if the phrase just came to him randomly to mess with her.

Lina though did NOT look amused, as her head lowered and she growled, her hand twitching as she began to chat. “Lord of the dreams that terrify... Oh sword of the cold dark void...”

Xelloss shivered and backed up a bit, raising his arm defensively. “Ummmm… Errr... I think I hear Lord Beast Master calling! I will return later Miss Lina!” which then he quickly made his retreat, teleporting away.

“GET BACK HERE YOU FUCKING ASSHOLE!!!” Lina shouted, and her magic exploded from her rage.

“What’s taking so damn long?” Lina snapped, her arms crossed as they were inside the building hosting the illusion contest. She had been in a terrible mood all morning.

“I’m sure they’re just preparing, Miss Lina.” Amelia sighed. “I just wish I knew what Ms. Sylphiel was going to do to Mr. Gourry and Mr. Zelgadis.”

“She seemed FAR too enthusiastic to do this if you ask me.” The crimson haired sorceress ran her hand through her hair. “Oh well, saves me the trouble since Phil insisted I fix the castle all freaking night. And he even called all the celebration party because of it! How dare he!”

“Miss Lina, your spell destroyed a third of the castle!” Amelia cried. “We’re lucky daddy didn’t explode from that and make you leave! Not the mention I heard you blew up the fountain in town! That was a treasure you know.”

“It’s all that fruitcake’s fault and yours for giving that idiot the suggestion to take me out like that.” Lina snapped, whipping her head around. “… Which where is that bastard anyway? He should have freaking been back by now!”

The princess tilted her head to the side. “But Miss Lina, I thought you didn’t want Mr. Xelloss to arrive for the contest? Though I don’t see why you don’t want him to compete.”

Lina sweatdropped. “Because that monster would have far too much fun with it Amelia, believe me. All while annoying everyone to get a freaking meal.”

“Is that all that’s bothering you Miss Lina? Or did something else happen with Mr. Xelloss to anger you?” Amelia asked, tapping her finger to her cheek. “Because you seem rather… Unnerved.”

Lina groaned, holding her head. “Well, the truth is I ran into somebody I haven’t seen for… A long time. She considers herself my rival, and she has a knack for grating my nerves worse than Martina.”

“Oh who is she?” Amelia asked. “Would be interesting to meet someone from your past.”

“Actually you already met her, she was the soul inside Nama.” The crimson haired sorceress sighed. “Her real name is-“

“HO HO HO HO To think we’d run into each other here, Lina Inverse!” Naga bellowed as she walked up behind her. “I told you I’d make you pay and I will! I will crush you in this competition and prove my greatness!”

Lina snarled as she spun around. “… I should have amplified that Dragon Slave some more, it obviously didn’t hurt you enough.”

“I won’t be defeated so easily, I’ve been hit by your spells so many times in the past.” Naga chuckled.

“You don’t have a body made of armor anymore Naga, it will hurt more!” Lina snapped. “And what the hell are you doing here?”

“Why I happened to see you here and decided to enter of course! Ho ho ho ho it won’t hurt to test my illusion skills!” Naga smirked, placing a hand on her hip. “Be prepared to be crushed under my heel!”

“I pity the idiot you suckered into this.” Lina rolled her eyes, turning to Amelia who had just turned around. “Anyway, Amelia this is the one I was telling you about Na-“

“SISTER!!!” Amelia cut her off with a wide smile, rushing towards the dark haired woman.

Lina just stood there, completely dumbstruck. “WHAT?!?!?!?!”

“Gracia I’m so glad you’ve come home after all these years!” Amelia cried, hugging Naga tightly.

“Who would have guessed you were keeping company with my rival little sister? At least I know you were taken care of.” Naga chuckled.

“HOLD ON A SECOND HERE!” Lina suddenly shouted, pointing a finger at the sisters, her eyes wide with shock.”Y-you… You two are…?”

Naga huffed, turning her head. “I prefer to keep my royal status a secret, people act all weird around me, you know? When they really should be bowing before me not because I’m a princess, but because I am the most beautiful sorceress in the world! Ho ho ho ho ho!”

“…. Somehow, finding out those two are related explains a lot…” Lina mumbled to herself.

“Miss Lina, you were saying before something about Gracia?” Amelia tilted her head to the side. “And sister you said something about Miss Lina being your rival?”

“We met a long time ago, back when I first left home.” Lina sighed, crossing her arms behind her head. “But she was the one inside Nama.”

“Oh that’s why you were so familiar!” Amelia cried. “… But why didn’t you remember me sister?”

“Sadly that jar thing messed around with my memories…” Naga crossed her arms over her chest. “Everything came back when I returned.”

“And as for being my rival, that’s self proclaimed.” Lina waved a hand carelessly.

“NOW WAIT HERE LINA INVERSE! I AM YOUR FIRST AND FOREMOST RIVAL!” Naga snapped.

“Naga, that was back when I was 14 and still pretty novice with the more complicated spells.” The crimson haired sorceress shrugged. “You probably couldn’t hold a toe to me now. Or need I remind you how easily I blew you away before?”

“That was just by surprise! I’ll take you on any day and prove my worth! Ho ho ho ho!” Naga smirked as she bellowed a laugh.

“Gracia, I really wouldn’t do that with Miss Lina she’s much more powerful than even last year!” Amelia gasped. “She’s pledged to…” Lina quickly covered her mouth to shut her up.

“Pledged?” Naga raised an eyebrow. “You made some contract with somebody Lina? Is that where you got the magical alterations so that you finally grew a little?”

“A LITTLE?!?” an anger vain popped on Lina’s forehead. “I’ll have you know my new bust is a lot bigger than yours now Naga! I just don’t flaunt it around like you do! I see you still dress like a streetwalking slut!”

“HOW DARE YOU!” Naga snapped, stomping her foot.

“Miss Lina…” Amelia spoke up with a sad sigh. “… That outfit belonged to our mother.”

Lina’s ruby eyes went wide. “… What?”

But the sound of the crowd cut her off, several of the first males were coming out in their illusion outfits. Most of them quite hideously done at that. “The contest is beginning now, please everyone cheer as loud as you can for your favorites.” Said a woman in a pink dress that was the announcer with a microphone in hand.

“Miss Lina!” Sylphiel rushed over to her. “The contest is starting now, just wait until you see dear Gourry and Mr. Zelgadis.” She was blushing slightly.

Lina raised her eyebrow. “You seem awful proud… Well as long as we win the damn contest I don’t care.”

Sylphiel then turned to Naga. “Who are you?”

“This is my big sister Gracia!” Amelia cried.

“Ho ho ho ho! While I am Princess Gracia, I prefer to go by the name Naga the Great White Serpent!” Naga cried, laughing loudly.

“I’ll explain later, Sylphiel…” Lina sighed, turning to the stage to watch as the men came out… And suddenly the blood drained from her face from the next male that walked out. “I-is that?!?”

The blonde that walked out stood tall with his hair tied up in pigtails that ran down the front, with bright blue flowers in his hair. His red dress snug around his wide torso but with the illusion spell it gave him enough curves to pass as a female, just with a more muscular body. There was purple trim along with white ruffles, a yellow sash around his waist with white feathers. Attached to the back of the dress was pink fluffy material. He was wearing white gloves with a fan in one hand, the other on his hip, and he wore purple shoes along with pantyhose. Around his neck was a golden necklace.

“Oh Gourry dear you look so wonderful!” Sylphiel squealed, hearts over her head as she was blushing madly even with tears in her eyes of joy.

“Wow Mr. Gourry you look great!” Amelia cheered, while all the other females in the audience just stared wide eyed.

“Ho ho ho ho.” Naga laughed slightly. “He does make an interesting girl, but won’t beat my illusion spell.”

Lina didn’t respond, her hair had turned white and her jaw agape. “…”

But that’s when the coward’s cries picked up, giving wolf whistles and cheering loudly. Lina snapped to, looking to see which male contestant they were making a big deal over. Her jaw hit the floor then as she saw her chimera friend walk out.

Zelgadis was wearing a navy blue jacket and his arms were wrapped up like a mummy. There were red wristbands on under iron shackles with broken chains. Around his throat was a red dog collar with a broken chain. A yellow ribbon was tied into his hair. He was wearing red high heeled shoes and shackles with chains around his ankles as well. Suddenly, he took off the jacket and that’s what started the very loud cheering. He had a black bra over a very tiny purple top that exposed his stomach, and was wearing a red bottom half of a bikini. A purple garter belt was holding up his black stockings. If it hadn’t been for the illusion spell it would had been obvious he was male, but instead it gave him the perfect curves to work with this outfit.

Naga rubbed her chin. “Mmmm that was your work too? Nicely done he looks yummy. What do you think sis?”

Amelia just stood there with her eyes wide, her hands flew up to her cheeks which had turned scarlet. She was completely silent. She had a mixed look on her face between horrified and embarrassed.

“Thank you Miss Naga.” Sylphiel blushed, rubbing the back of her neck. “Mr. Zelgadis though did help with it. He was quite eager to win once he found out what the prize is, he hopes it might have a clue to his cure. What about you Miss Lina, what do you- Oh my!”

Lina had hit the floor hard when Zelgadis had taken his jacket off, a single foot was high in the air.

Naga just laughed. “I see while you have a more adult body, your mind is still that naïve little girl, ho ho ho ho!” she held her hand against her mouth as she laughed. “Just wait until you see MY masterpiece!”

Lina slowly regained herself as she sat up. “Oh?” she looked up on the stage…. And fainted dead away.

“Miss Lina, what-“ Sylphiel gasped, then looked up…. And joined her on the floor.

Zelgadis and Gourry just stood dumbstruck, their jaws hitting the floor.

Amelia though he snapped out of her trance, and her face took on a whole new horrified look. “DADDY?!?”

Phil had walked out in an identical outfit as Nagas, just altered a bit for his size. The illusion spell though wasn’t very convincing, the most was that the bikini top was filled with rather large breasts, and his jet black hair went all the way down his back. His crown still on his head, he proceeded to make a pose. “In the path of justice no one stands between my daughter and her happiness! A joyous occasion has occurred as my dear daughter Gracia has finally come home!”

Amelia slowly turned her head. “… How did you talk him into it?”

Naga shrugged her shoulders. “I had a few extra of mom’s outfits, and begged him to do it after I found out Lina was entering your male friends from him. I thought at first Lina was the one doing the illusion spells so I couldn’t standby and not compete against my rival. I arrived this morning but you had already left the castle sis, he told me I could find you here and from there I asked him to allow me to enter if he’ll be my model.”

Slowly Lina sat back up, holding a hand over her eyes. “… My eyes… That image is forever burned into my memory….”

The coward was going insane by this point, it was hard to tell though which of the three was winning.

“And now for our final entry.” The woman standing on the stage announced.

Suddenly a cheerful female voice echoed in the building in a beautiful melody… One Lina found very familiar. “After running up a gentle slope, you should rest for a while and sit on the hill. Even the birds that sing while flying through the expansive sky... Look, even they rest their wings and sleep.”

That’s when a tall, very slender and VERY female looking person came out in nothing more than a string red bikini with tiny hearts that barely covered the nipples on the very large breasts. He was wearing red boots, and purple hair tied up into tiny pigtails with hearts.

Amelia, Sylphiel AND Naga just stood speechless, their eyes wide with shock. Gourry and Zelgadis both just stood there staring, and at the same time looking slightly irritated.

Phil just rubbed his head. “Wow that boy sure is talented, isn’t he?”

“XELLOSS!” Lina cried, a fuse snapped in her brain as she felt blood drip from her nose seeing this. It took all her strength not to faint dead away seeing this.

Xelloss just smirked at her, his eyes closed and still dancing like a fool onto the stage, and still singing. “Let's walk unhurriedly and patiently. Let ourselves be guided by ‘flashes’ or chance happenings. Everyone shalalala lala!”

And right then the whole audience was singing “Shalalala lala.” With him!

Xelloss smirked, waving his finger. “And continue our respective journeys under the same sun, for the sake of the happiness and chance meetings for us that tomorrow holds.”

Lina pushed her way to the front of the stage, glaring at all the girls practically drooling over him. She shot a menacing glare up at him. “YOU JACKASS WHAT DO YOU THINK YOU’RE DOING?!?”

Xelloss grinned wide at her, bending over and brushing his fingers lightly under her chin. “Whether you're sad or you're happy, your falling tears are very beautiful...”

She blushed madly from his touch, swatting his hand away. He had already sung this song to her before, when she made the pledge with him. He had explained then he came up with it about her years ago, just that was the first time he had sung it to her. And now he was singing it to her in front of everyone!

He chuckled as she knocked his hand away, so instead he waved his hand and a spell lifted her onto the stage. “If you accept your true feelings and are honest to your own heart, you will no longer have anything to worry about.”

“Let me go you fruitcake!” Lina snapped, but she couldn’t break his spell. It held her in place perfectly still.

“Both the stars that fall mysteriously and the cold wind...” Xelloss continued, brushing his fingers lightly on her cheek. “Secretly, nature conveys an important message.” He turned to the audience, who seemed under his spell as the women started singing “Someday shalalala lala.” Again, as if on cue.

That’s when Xelloss wrapped one arm around Lina, pulling her close and releasing his spell. “I want to whisper privately to you the secret that I have hidden... I will always stay with you and look after you from behind.” And as he finished, he crushed his lips against hers. That sparked a wide reaction from the coward of people, all cheering.

Lina though was just too shocked and embarrassed from everything to even fight the Mazoku’s kiss. Once he broke it though she glared once again at him. “This is EXACTLY why I didn’t want you to enter, you fucking fruitcake!”

“Awww but Lina-chan, I’d say we have this contest won wouldn’t you?” Xelloss snickered.

“YOU GOD DAMN BASTARD!” Zelgadis finally had regained himself and snarled. “You cheated didn’t you! I know it!”

“Technically I have no gender, Mr. Zelgadis. So it’s not really cheating for me.” Xelloss replied with a grin.

“Yeah… that makes sense but…” Lina snarled, and suddenly pulled him into a headlock. “WHY THE FUCK DO YOU HAVE BIGGER BOOBS THAN ME YOU JACKASS?”

“Why am I not surprised that’s all you’re pissed at him about?” the chimera sighed.

“Oh now come Lina dearest, I only did it to win the contest and I can alter yours at any time too.” Xelloss snickered, then suddenly kissed her cheek while she was tightening the headlock.

“EH?!?” that took her by surprise, her face flushed red and she let go of him, frozen in her blush.

That’s when the announcer girl walked up to them. “Well sir the results are in, you’re our winner!” she handed Xelloss a pile of papers.

“Thank you miss.” Xelloss smirked, standing back up and flipping through the pages.

“So what’s in there?” Naga jumped onto the stage.

“Yeah what did we go through dressing up like this again for anyway?” Gourry asked.

“Oh but Gourry dear, you looked so cuuute!” Sylphiel squealed, which actually made the blonde blush.

“Let’s see them you prick.” Zelgadis hissed.

Xelloss didn’t answer at first, he just read a few lines…. And suddenly started laughing. “Sure, Mr. Zelgadis, have a look.” He tossed the pages to the chimera.

“Hey what are you doing?!?” Lina snapped, jumping up and grabbing a few pages. “These are from Lei Magnus you fruitcake! It could be some very important…” she glanced at the pages. “… THE HELL IS THIS SHIT?”

“They’re texts from Lei Magnus alright… Just from his childhood so most of it is children’s drawings!” Xelloss laughed loudly, rubbing the back of his head. “Oh dear, I suppose they wanted to clean them out of the library as they are rather useless aren’t they?”

“DADDY WHY DIDN’T YOU TELL US?!?” Amelia and Naga snapped.

Phil rubbed his temple. “Well neither of you asked, I just thought you wanted to enter the contest for pure sportsmanship. Especially you Gracia when you said you wanted to compete against Miss Lina.”

Zelgadis turned pale. “… You mean… I went through all that… For this?” he suddenly fainted dead away.

Gourry just looked confused. “Wait… Does this mean we did this for nothing?!?”

“XELLOSS….” Lina looked ready to kill by this point, snarling as she was chanting under her breath.

“N-now Lina-chan… I had no idea what they were I swear!” Xelloss cried, taking a few steps back. “I just thought you’d want to win so…”

“YOU JUST EMBARASSED THE SHIT OUT OF ME FOR NOTHING AND THINK YOU CAN GET AWAY WITH IT? DRRRRRRRAAAAAAAGGGGGGGOOOOOOONNN SSSLLLAAAAVVVEEE!!!” Lina shouted, firing the massive spell right at the Mazoku and blowing him into the air, destroying the whole building of course in the process.

“AMELIA I SWEAR I’M GOING TO KILL YOU.” Lina Inverse snarled, looking at the mirror before her. She was in a very tight dark purple dress that was extremely snug around her new sized breasts, coming to a v neck shape. The sleeves of the dress were very small, exposing quite a bit of her shoulders. The skirt of the dress was rather form fitting, and she had violet high heeled shoes on. Her back was left bare, and she had matching violet gloves on. Her hair currently was up in a ponytail.

“Oh Miss Lina you look wonderful!” Amelia cheered in her pink dress. She had a silver necklace on and her golden tiara, along with pink boots. Attached to two red shoulder pieces was a light purple cape.

“Wow Miss Amelia these dresses you picked out are just lovely!” Sylphiel squealed, she was in a light blue dress that was more loose fitting, and with long sleeves. The skirt came to a bell shape, and she had blue shoes to match. Around her neck was a sparkling silver chained necklace with a blue gem.

“ARE YOU EVEN LISTENING TO ME?!” Lina snapped. “I look terrible in this! And this dress is just way too tight!”

“Miss Lina, you’ll see how perfectly well you look in that dress when we get to the main hall.” Amelia sighed. “I’m sure Mr. Xelloss will just love it!”

“That’s why you picked this color, isn’t it?” the crimson haired sorceress growled. “For that damn fruitcake! After what he did this afternoon!!”

“But didn’t he say that he didn’t know?” Sylphiel rubbed her head. “He was just trying to make sure you won.”

“He embarrassed me in front of everyone! I want to blow his ass away for it!” Lina snapped.

“That really was a lovely song he was singing I must say.” Sylphiel smiled.

Amelia giggled. “And it did seem very fitting for him.”

Lina’s face flushed red. “… That’s because the idiot made it up himself. Said he came up with it a few years back.”

“And it’s about you?” the princess pressed.

“Yeah…” the sorceress rolled her eyes.

“That’s so sweet!” Sylphiel squealed.

“Whatever, let’s just get to this banquet I’m starving!” Lina snapped, heading for the doors, which came flying open.

“HOO HOO HOO HOO HOO!” Naga stepped out with a two piece outfit. The top was more like a bikini than a dress, and the skirt was incredibly short. She was wearing a gold tiara like Amelia’s on her head. “Well at least that new body of yours makes you look more like a woman in that dress, Lina Inverse. I remember before how much you’d look like a little child.”

“Shut up, Naga.” Lina growled, moving past her.

“You may have defeated me in the contest, but I will still be the victories one in our rivalry!” Naga declared.

“Whatever…” the crimson haired sorceress stormed off into the main hall, where several people had gathered for the party. She spotted Gourry and Zelgadis right away, each dressed in tuxedos. Gourry’s was light blue with a red tie, where as Zelgadis had a dark grey tux on with a green tie.

“Wow Lina, you look great!” Gourry beamed, Zelgadis nodded in agreement.

“Thanks I guess, Amelia picked out the dress.” Lina blushed slightly, turning her head away.

That’s when Phil came out in his formal attire, making an announcement. “My friends I want this day remembered as a joyous one as my darling daughter Gracia has finally returned home!”

Naga just laughed. “Hoo hoo hoo, father it’s just for now. I plan on returning to my travels soon after.”

“But Gracia…” Amelia looked at her worried.

“I actually wish to make my own announcement… I am renouncing my place as next in line after you father, I’d much rather live my life of adventure.” Naga smirked, placing a hand on her hip. “Amelia may take my place. I have a mission, and I will not abandon it even for royal duties.”

“Oh dear daughter…” Phil looked like he was crying tears of joy. “Your mother would be so proud! Following the path of justice on your travels to bring hope to the people rather than just one kingdom! A true princess you are!”

Lina sweatdropped heavily. “…. More like chaos she’s spreading…”

“Which makes it far more enjoyable.” A shrill voice came from behind her.

The sorceress spun around to see Xelloss standing in a purple tux that matched the color of her dress. The jacket had been unbuttoned to reveal a lavender vest over a white shirt and a blue tie. He had a glass of red wine in his lavender gloved hand.

“You have a lot of gull showing your face so soon after earlier, fruitcake.” Lina hissed.

The Mazoku smirked, opening a single violet eye. “And miss my chance to see you dressed like this? Though it appears to be missing something.” He moved his hands around her neck, and suddenly she felt something bump against her collarbone.

Lina lifted the object, seeing it was a golden locket in the shape of a heart. She looked at him suspiciously, and before she could ask a loud booming voice caught the attention of everyone in the room.

“Let us all give our support to Gracia then! Let us eat, dance and celebrate!” Phil cried, and that’s when the servants brought out the food.

“FOOD!” Lina and Gourry rushed to the table and started stuffing their faces. Naga joined in right after them.

Amelia sweatdropped. “I’m glad I talked daddy into setting up multiple tables of food…”

“Yeah but how long will it last?” Zelgadis groaned.

“Knowing Lina-chan and Mr. Gourry, not long.” Xelloss chuckled.

“Get out of here bastard, I don’t want to see your face after earlier.” The chimera snapped.

“My, my. Still insisting I cheated are you?” Xelloss pursed his lips. “It’s not my fault you went to such extent for nothing you know. It was Lina who had seen the contest flyer not I, so it’s not like I tricked you into it.”

“Just shut up.” Zelgadis hissed, grabbing one of the wine glasses and gulping it down, going onto the next.

“You know wine should be savored, not devoured.” The priest pressed.

“Shut up idiot. None of your damn business what I do.” Zelgadis snarled.

“Mr. Zelgadis, why don’t we dance?” Amelia asked with a cheerful smile.

“Umm… Ok I guess…” the chimera blushed slightly, placing down his fourth empty glass after a bit.

Xelloss chuckled, shaking his head. He was fairly certain tonight might be rather fun once the alcohol hit everybody. He watched as Lina. Naga and Gourry were emptying several ales in minutes. This went on for about an hour or two…

“S-sir Gourry….” Sylphiel slyly walked up to the swordsman after having a glass or so. “W-would you… Well… Care to… Dance?”

Gourry tilted his head to the side, then smiled. “Sure thing Sylphiel.” He took her hand and went onto the dance floor.

Naga had passed out on the floor after a while, several ales all around her.

Lina was still drinking the last couple of ales around her, finishing the food on the fifth and final table now. She eyed Gourry and Sylphiel for a moment, then growled slightly. While she had decided to try and get over her crush on the swordsman, it still bothered her just a little.

“Care to dance, Lina dearest?” Xelloss asked as he grabbed her hand suddenly.

“I’m still pissed off at you, fruitcake.” Lina snapped, turning to glare at him. Her face was flushed red, like she was starting to get a little tipsy.

“Just a dance, or is it you don’t think you can handle it due to your alcohol level?” he asked with a smug smirk.

“I am not drunk yet!” she retorted, then turned her head. “… It’s just I can’t dance.”

“Then allow me to lead you.” Xelloss said, pulling her closer and wrapping his free arm around her, leading into a waltz. “Because I have much experience.”

“How the hell does a monster learn how the dance?” Lina raised her eyebrow, trying to follow his lead.

He shrugged, twirling her for a moment then pulling her up against him. “500 years ago dancing was considered common knowledge. I learned to blend in with my missions after all.”

“Hrmph, well with all that experience, you should be able to make me look good then.” Lina said with a smirk.

The Mazoku chuckled softly. “You don’t need me for that, Lina-chan. You’re already the more alluring human I’ve ever met, that dress just adds to your beauty.” He leaned in close and pressed his lips to her throat.

Her face flushed red. “D-didn’t I warn you about doing some of that crap in front of everyone?!”

“For one thing, everyone is getting too exhausted or tipsy to care, Lina my dear.” Xelloss chuckled, turning them to look at Amelia and Zelgadis, who were dancing but not paying a darn bit attention to anyone. Gourry had passed out on the floor, Sylphiel ontop of him. Phil was asleep in his chair, and most of the rest of the guests had left. “That is why I didn’t make advances earlier, I knew you’d react poorly.”

“Who says I’m not still going to?” Lina snapped, stomping down on his foot.

“Oh Lina you just know how to flatter a Mazoku so well.” Xelloss chuckled, placing butterfly kisses on her shoulder and neck. He pulled his head back to gaze at her seductively as he leaned forward, lowering her just inches above the floor.

“Drop me and I’ll smack you asshole.” She snapped.

His eyebrows creased. “Now whyever would I do that?”

“Who knows with you, I can never predict your fruitcake attitude.” She shrugged.

“That’s because if there’s one thing you should know about me, Miss Lina….” Xelloss spoke with a quiet tone, leaning his head closer. “… It’s that I plan to hold your interest for all eternity, so you’ll always have to keep on guessing.” He then kissed her as he slowly lifted her back up to their standing position, resuming the dance.

Lina’s face flushed red again. “… Well I suppose there’s plenty to still learn about you, you’ve been around for over a thousand years after all.”

“And we have every moment of forever to catch you up.” He mused, kissing her cheek.

They continued dancing for a while, Xelloss eventually lead Lina out towards the balcony.
The crimson haired sorceress looked dizzy as she placed her hands on the railing.

“Are you alright, Lina-chan?” Xelloss tilted his head to the side, standing behind her.

“I’m fwine.” She replied, groaning a bit.

He chuckled softly, wrapping his arm around her waist. “I think you may need to retire Lina dear, it appears you are drunk after all.”

“I dun wanna.” The red head slowly turned to face him, her eyelids looking heavy and her eyes rather hazy.

“No need to be stubborn about it, everyone else is already passed out or back in their rooms.” The Mazoku chuckled.

“Noooo, I wean I wanna stay with yooouuu…” she halfway mumbled.

Xelloss blinked twice, looking down at her with wide open amethyst eyes. “L-Lina?” his voice halfway broke, as the next thing he understood she was trying to push him towards the stone wall of the castle. He backed up a bit, allowing her to do so as his back pressed up against the wall.

“Ah vant yoouuss…” Lina said in a garbled groan, her lips seeking out his.

Xelloss of course responded eagerly, his hand caressing her cheek as she deepened the kiss. He was taken aback by her forwardness, but he figured it might be the drink lowering her stubbornness and shyness. His other hand rubbed her side.

But that’s when Lina started doing something unexpected, her fingers moved to unbutton his collar and pull off his tie, flicking a few more buttons open on his shirt as she broke the kiss, moving down to kissing fervently at his exposed neck, suckling on his flesh.

“Oh Lina.” He gasped, his hand moving to rub her head, twisting his fingers into the fiery locks of her hair. Oh how he had been wanting her to be so willing like this already, though a part of him was trying to convince himself it was just because she was drunk… But hey if her subconscious wanted him, he sure the hell wasn’t going to protest.

“Call me Lina-chhaannnn…” she said, brushing her tongue against his chest.

That suddenly made Xelloss stiffen, he moved his head to look at her. “… What did you say, Miss Lina?”

“Xellooosss…” Lina moaned, looking up at him, her ruby eyes filled with lust. “I luv yooouuu… Taakkeee meeess…” she pressed herself closer to him, but not the way an innocent virgin like her would do… No this was more like a seduction.

That’s when Xelloss narrowed his eyes, taking Lina’s head into his hands and studying her expression. His Mazoku eyes went into a dark, menacing glare. “… You’re not Lina.”

Xelloss quickly made a check to the Astral Plane, how could he have not noticed a Mazoku nearby? Though he didn’t find any traces of such, he quickly returned to the physical plane this time back into his usual priest outfit, and Lina latched her arms around him again.

“Wheres yoouu go?” she asked, tugging on his arm. “Yoousss post to keep wem arm.”

The priest sighed, while this was Lina standing beside him, his trip to the Astral Plane confirmed that along with his Soul Touch so someone dressed as her couldn’t fool him that easily, she was obviously possessed or under a spell. Must have been a timed spell since his eyes hadn’t left her all night. Or…

“Of course.” He mentally smacked himself. If it was a more mild spell, it wouldn’t have broken her control until she was drunk enough to be vulnerable to such. And she did start to act funny the moment the alcohol really hit her. But that just questioned when it was placed on her, unless… It was on something she was wearing. He eyed her dress for a moment. It was the only new thing on her besides the locket he gave her, and since the princess picked out the dress just before the event, someone could have cursed it. “Lina, we need to get that dress off you.”

Lina looked up at him with a mischievous grin. “Ooohhh revdy to go twhere huh?” she nuzzled into his arm with a giggle. “No ween two ruuush.”

Xelloss smiled at her, running his gloved fingers through her hair. “You’re right, that’s why we’re stopping this game now…” he lowered his head. “… You can come out wherever you’re hiding… Sherra.”

The blue haired Mazoku appeared before him with a smirk, crossing her arms. “Guess I didn’t cover my tracks fast enough when you made that quick search of the Astral Plane… I didn’t expect you to figure it out so quickly.”

Xelloss lifted his head, amethyst orbs scowling at her. “Remove whatever curse or spell you put on Lina now. She’s pledged to me and there’s nothing more you can do about it.”

“Yes, I must say I’m not surprised she’s alive.” Sherra waved a hand carelessly. “I merely was sent here to confirm that. But while I was here I just saw an opportunity I couldn’t resist, which was playing around with your little Soul Touch here while I tried to find your Pledge Stone… Sadly I couldn’t find it.”

Xelloss smirked, that was his Lina. He knew she wouldn’t just leave it around someplace easy to find, she knew how important that stone was. After all, it meant her life if it was destroyed.

“Though I must say I’m curious… Why don’t you take advantage of my spell?” Sherra asked, raising her eyebrow while placing a hand on her hip. “It makes her so willing, and that’s what you want isn’t it?”

“While it’s true I want her willing, it’s only if she chooses so.” Xelloss chuckled, shaking his head. “Without her temper and personality she is not my Soul Touch, just some cheap whore. You made the mistake of having her FAR too willing, asking even for me to call her a nickname she despises. That’s not my Lina.” He waved his forefinger. “I refuse to take her by force because it’s unnecessary, she will succumb to me on her own terms so she has no scapegoat. She can take her rage out on me all she wants, but will never be able to deny the fact she choose me. I’m still rather angry at Lord Deep Sea for stealing my chance to win that with her choice about The Pledge, judging by her emotions I nearly had her choose on her own.” He shrugged his shoulders. “Sadly she will not admit this, as we were hurried into it as she had to take it or face death. So she uses that as her excuse. So that is why I want her to choose me when it comes to being a mate.”

Sherra’s eyebrows creased. “You really are insane, trickster priest. I swear Lord Dynast is right, your Soul Touch has tainted you.”

“Why are you still here, Sherra?” Xelloss asked, trying to ignore Lina still snuggling his arm and pushing closer to him. “You’ve confirmed what you needed to… And you couldn’t possibly be foolish enough to challenge me. Lina is immortal now so you can’t threaten her life.”

“Quite true, but see I happened to run into someone on the way here…” the blue haired Mazoku said with a wide grin. “She didn’t believe me when I mentioned you were with her little sister… And seeing her under this spell will cause a VERY interesting reaction. Nice knowing you, Xelloss.” She suddenly vanished.

Xelloss’s amethyst eyes went wide, she couldn’t possibly mean… “Lina! Pull yourself together now!” he quickly tried to get a decent grip on her to get this damn dress off. If his theory was right, the curse was on the dress.

“Wut’s ith all the funny twalk?” Lina groaned, still trying to hug him tightly.

Xelloss sighed, he wasn’t going to have a choice here. Gladly everyone in the main hall was passed out as he moved her back inside, and accidentally ripped the right shoulder of the dress when a blade enchanted with Astral Vine found its way to his throat.

“Move and you die.” The voice warned.

“My, my… Miss Luna. Imagine that we’d meet again so soon?” Xelloss chuckled, having no need to turn around.

“Just what do you think you’re doing with my little sister, Xelloss?” the Knight of Cepheid hissed.

“You seem to misunderstand the situation, she’s under a spell or have you not noticed she isn’t even paying attention to you being here?” Xelloss sighed, trying to push Lina’s arms off him gently. “Care to assist me?”

“I seem to recall warning you to keep her out of this.” Luna snarled.

“And I told you my Mistress was going to assign me a mission involving her.” The Mazoku shrugged.

Luna pressed the blade against his neck. “Give me one good reason not to end your existence now.”

“Because killing me would only kill her too?” he responded.

Luna smirked. “… Quite true, so in that case…” she suddenly flicked the sword behind her, and a howl came out as Sherra appeared.

“H-how? Damn you!” Sherra snapped, holding her injured shoulder.

Luna flipped her hair with a chuckle. “Do you take me for a fool? I knew you were trying to lure me here to distract me just to attack. I just went along with it so you’d lower your guard.”

“Hrpmh. Well played, knight.” Sherra hissed, trying to escape back to the Astral Plane.

“That won’t work, you think I came here alone?” Luna smirked, waving her hand as a light spell went off.

Xelloss raised an eyebrow, but then his eyes went wide as he heard a familiar voice.

“Anaku soro'mu nazak'u sakriim... Chaotic Disintegrate!”

Bright yellow lights spun in a circle around Sherra, zapping her with its energy as she tried to pull out her sword to deflect the attack, making Dulgofa take most of the damage.

“That spell… Nice to see you’ve finally been of use, stupid dragon.” Xelloss replied with a smug grin.

A blonde woman in a pink and white priestess outfit stepped out from the side, a long orange tail with a pink bow attached sticking out from under the dress placed her hands on her hips and sneered. “Hello to you too, Namagomi.”

The Mazoku’s eye twitched a bit. “I see old habits don’t die, do they Filia?”

It was indeed Filia Ul Copt, she had altered her priestess outfit a bit over the years. She still had a pointed white hat but with a gold and black orb on the tip. Lining of pink and gold were on the outfit, along with large blue orbs now tied into the hat just in front of her ears.

“Xelloss, I believe a little Magical Fusion would be of use here?” Luna mused, extending her hand out.

“I couldn’t agree more.” Xelloss smirked, reaching out his hand next to hers as they channeled their respective powers, fusing them together and shot it out towards Sherra.

Sherra gasped, plunging her sword into the ground. “Dulgofa... Don’t fail me now.” She said before the attack merged with the Chaotic Disintegrate, causing a massive explosion.

“Did we get her?” Filia cried, the blast whipping her hair around.

“No…” Xelloss narrowed his eyes. “The sword… Dulgofa took the blast for her. She escape to the Astral Plane, I sense it.” He watched as the smoke cleared a larger crater in the floor now. “But it weakened her for now.”

“Ummmm… What’s going on…?” Lina groaned, her arms loosening.

“Lina-chan, are you ok?” Xelloss blinked and looked down at her.

“WHAT THE HELL HAVE I TOLD YOU ABOUT CALLING ME THAT?!?” Lina snapped, firing an Elemika Flame into his face and blowing him off her. “AND WHAT THE HECK ARE YOU DOING SO CLOSE TO ME? WHAT’S GOING ON HERE?”

Xelloss just chuckled on the ground, rubbing his face. “That’s the Lina I love. Glad to have you back.”

Lina raised her eyebrow, her cheeks stained pink. “The hell are you blabbering about now fruitcake?”

Filia sweatdropped. “Perhaps the Magical Fusion being so close to her dispelled whatever Sherra charmed her dress with.”

Lina spun around. “Filia? When did you get here?”

“She came with me.” Luna answered, standing right behind her now.

Lina’s eyes went wide, she slowly turned around. “H-hi…. L-Luna…” she turned pale white… And suddenly fainted!

Xelloss teleported over and caught her in time before she hit the ground. “Somehow I knew she’d do that.”

Luna just chuckled. “I see pledging to a monster hasn’t changed that fact… What that girl said was true, isn’t it? She is pledged to you.” Her bangs hid her eyes from view. “As if she wasn’t in enough trouble…”

"THIS IS ALL YOUR FAULT YOU DAMN NAMAGOMI!" Filia snarled. "You tricked Miss Lina into this! How dare you?!?"

"Filia... Did it ever occur to you that Mazoku cannot just take souls? A pledge must be willingly you know." Xelloss shrugged his shoulders with a sweatdrop on his head.

"That's why I say it's trickery you piece of filth!" the Golden Dragon snapped, balling her fists. "How dare you try to use a Soul Touch as an excuse?"

"Funny... I don't recall rubbing into your face how yours with Valgaav made you so hesitant." Xelloss waved his forefinger. "I knew very well you were trying to hide it, say does it work for when they're reborn as well? I must wonder what will happen when he becomes an adult and his mommy kisses him in a strange fashion."

"I DON'T LOOK AT HIM THAT WAY RIGHT NOW AND YOU KNOW IT YOU BLASTED NAMAGOMI HOW DARE YOU!!!" Filia drew her mace and looked ready to kill him, but he vanished before she could. "COME BACK HERE XELLOSS!!!"

Lina groaned as she awoke, feeling like she had been hit by Deep Sea’s curse again almost. She had a horrible hangover that was certain, she felt it had affected her dreams too because she was certain she saw Luna… Though almost everything about the party last night was a blur as her eyes fluttered open… Then went wide. “XELLOSS WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING IN MY BED?!?” she shouted.

An innocent smirk came across the Mazoku’s face, he was laying next to her under the covers. “Oh, you mean you don't remember? Perhaps last night wore you out to much…” he said with a devilish grin.

Lina’s face turned pale as her jaw dropped and hung open. “WHAT?!? YOU ASSHOLE WHAT DID YOU DO TO ME WHILE I WAS DRUNK?!”

Xelloss chuckled, loving the rage building up inside her. “I didn't do anything you objected to…” he said in a singsong.

That made her face flush crimson. “I DON’T REMEMBER A THING YOU PRICK WHAT HAPPENED?!?” she looked down at herself, seeing she was in her pajamas and the necklace he gave her last night around her neck.

He laughed for a moment, and then opened a single eye. “Your dress was enchanted by Sherra, it made you act all lustful after me as a distraction as she tried to steal the Pledge Stone. But luckily I discovered her plan before then. After which your sister arrived with Filia, and you fainted.” He explained.

Lina’s eyebrow creased, if that was a lie she could easily check with… Wait… “LUNA IS HERE?! I DIDN’T DREAM THAT?!?” she cried, eyes wide.

“Oh so you do remember part of last night.” Xelloss chuckled, opening both eyes. “What all do you remember?”

Her eyes strayed to the right for a moment. “… I remember dancing and then I was feeling really weird all of a sudden… Most of it is hazy and I think I remember suddenly having no control of my body as I…” her blush grew suddenly. “… Wait… You said that spell made me act…”

He smiled. “It’s alright Miss Lina, I stopped you before you did anything you’d punish me now for. I just knew it wasn’t you with the way you were acting.”

That just made her blush more. “… B-but… Why did you stop me?” The memory was faint, but she somewhat recalled it. Most of the rest of the details were gone though.

“Ahhh you must had not heard what I told Sherra then.” Xelloss smiled, looking deep into her ruby eyes as he lifted a gloved finger to run across her jaw. “While that spell made you willing it was not the willingly I wanted from you. As I said I’d much rather the victory of winning your choice of me, not because of some spell. Having you like that, you weren’t my Lina. I’d rather wait a hundred years for you to make the decision than to only get it by that means, as only the weak would resort to that.”

“You monsters are your damn pride… And don’t talk so possessive of me.” Lina scoffed. “And it just might be a hundred years fruitcake before I allow you to get all smug ass on me over that… Especially with what you just made me think right now!”

He waved his forefinger. “Now, now Lina-chan… It’s not my fault you jumped to that conclusion.” He teased.

“Oh shut up you idiot and stop calling me that!” Lina snapped, smacking his chest with her open palm. “What else happened after I passed out?”

“Filia got angry at me as normal, and I took you here where later Miss Luna changed you.” Xelloss shrugged.

Lina sighed in relief. “Oh good, then you weren’t the one that changed me…” she felt rather uneasy thinking that if he saw her naked…

“Awww what’s wrong Lina dearest? I told you before nudity has no effect on me after all, it doesn’t matter.” Xelloss replied with a smug grin.

“It’s called modesty fruitcake.” She snapped, then blinked twice as she ran her hand across her forehead, then looked a bit closer at him as her eyes were coming into focus. “… Are you wearing my headband?” she had just noticed the black cloth under the bangs of his violet hair, it was easy to miss at first from the wrong angle.

“Oh well I thought it wouldn’t hurt to try it on while you were asleep, since you reacted poorly the last time I snuck into bed with you.” He laughed.

“Why the hell would you want to wear my headband you freaking fruitcake?!” Lina snapped.

“Hmmm, well…” He winked at her. “That is a secret of course.”

“YOU JACKASS!” Lina snapped, tossing a Fireball at him which he teleported away and appeared behind her, wrapping his arms around her waist.

“You know I'm just messing with you Miss Lina.” The Mazoku laughed, holding her close and nuzzling his head into her shoulder. “Besides won't you damage your headband if you do that?”

“Just give it back already!” the sorceress snapped.

Xelloss looked thoughtful for a moment, then turned her to face him. “I will, but on one condition.”

“It’s my headband so no conditions you fruitcake!” Lina growled.

He pursed his lips. “Just one little thing?”

She rolled her eyes. “Fine, what?”

“Kiss me.”

Lina just stared at him for a few moments. “… What?”

Xelloss smiled, both eyes closed now into his usual trademark smirk. “I’ll give it right back if you kiss me.”

She raised her eyebrow. “What the hell you babbling about now? You keep kissing me all the time fruitcake!”

He chuckled, his expression extremely smug. “Oh but that's exactly it. I'm always kissing you, I want you to kiss me willingly… And for once not as a trick just to get energy to blow me away.”

“It's not willing if it's blackmail you ass!” she shouted, her face turning red.

Xelloss’s brow furrowed as he tilted his head to the side. “Is it really such a terrible request? Just a simple kiss I swear nothing more.”

“You make it more than that and I swear…” Lina hissed slightly, her cheeks stained pink. “And you will NOT make a habit out of this!”

He looked surprised that she gave in. “I will behave this time, you have my word.”

“Alright then.” She sighed, closing her eyes and connecting her lips with his.

The purple haired Mazoku for once didn’t move, he didn’t react he just let her kiss him lightly and withdraw just as quickly while he tied her headband back onto her head. Of course then he opened one eye with a smirk. “See, it wasn’t so bad now was it?”

Lina huffed slightly, the bridge of her nose a deep red. “… I guess it’s not too bad when you behave.”

He gave her an innocent look. “Eh? … Perhaps I should behave more often if it means you’ll do that more.” He tapped his finger against his chin.

“Don’t get ahead of yourself, I’m probably just making myself get used to your damn harassment.” She snapped, narrowing her eyes.

A devilish grin appeared on Xelloss’s face as he opened his other eye, running his fingers on her cheek. “Really now? Perhaps I should work on that some more to get you used to the even more enjoyable actions.”

“Keep pushing it fruitcake and I will Ragna Blade you…” Lina snarled. “Also long as I keep it low level and don’t score a direct hit it won’t kill you, just HURT you a lot.”

He closed his eyes with a sweatdrop. “Oh Miss Lina, you’d have to be careful with such. You kill me, and you’ll die as well as the pledge would be broken…” he then looked thoughtful. “That reminds me, where did you hide the Pledge Stone that Sherra didn’t find it? I remember it being on your normal shirt before…”

“You really think I’d leave that hanging around in the castle?” Lina shook her head with a groan, turning her head and pointing at the clip holding her ponytail together. “I attached it to here so it’d be on me.” The violet jewel was indeed snug inside the hairclip. She took out the clip and slide the stone into her hand. “Good thing I did too, I thought nobody would see it there.”

“Hmm, I suppose that works. May I suggest another place then for it?” Xelloss asked, tilting his head to the side as his hand slowly caressed her neck. He lifted the locket between his fingers that still hung around her neck. “I had made this during the time I was awaiting you to wake after the pledge. Just was finding the right time to give it to you. There’s a small place here we can affix the pledge stone on the front.”

“You know with everything that went on I didn’t even take a good look at this.” Lina said, looking down at the golden locket. It was in the shape of a heart, with the letters LINA inscribed just above a place that looked to be able to hold the jewel. She slid it in, and it seemed to lock into place. “Works I suppose. What’s in here anyway?”

Xelloss smiled and opened the locket, once then a familiar melody filled the air. The crimson haired sorceress opened her ruby eyes wide at him as she just knew that song. Looking inside there was a small picture of them together, where the hell did he get that?

Just then Xelloss leaned closer to her, humming with the melody from the locket to remind her of the words of the song. “I want to whisper privately to you the secret that I have hidden...” He then planted a light kiss on her earlobe.

Lina quickly scooted back a bit on the bed, blushing as her hand went to cover her ear from embarrassment. “Y-you damn fruitcake!” she quickly closed the locket.

He chuckled from her reaction. “I enchanted the locket to play that melody.”

“Hrmph.” Lina growled. “Just get lost already Xelloss… I imagine Luna’s already got a mountain of questions.”

“Oh don’t worry, your friends are busy explaining that.” The Mazoku Priest shrugged. “Of course Filia hasn’t been taking it well, she thinks I’ve used some sort of spell to force you to take the pledge.”

“Gah, leave this to me then.” Lina scrambled out of the bed and gathered her clothes. “You go report to your Mistress or something, I mean after all you should tell her about Luna’s arrival and Sherra’s attempt right?”

Xelloss raised an eyebrow in suspicion… Well he could easily report and rush back and eavesdrop… Obviously there was something Lina didn’t want him to hear. “I suppose. I will return shortly then.” He smiled as he fazed out.

Lina sighed in relief, scrambling to get her clothes on. She knew she wouldn’t have long, and she had to do this before that blasted Mazoku listened in. Once she was dressed, she hurried out into the hall hoping to find Filia first when…

“Hey kiddo.” A voice chuckled behind her.

Lina froze on the spot, slowly turning around with a large sweatdrop on her head. “H-hi Luna…” she shivered, trying to resist the urge to scream. “L-long time no see…”

“You did pretty good with Darkstar, knew you were more fit for Filia’s job than I was.” The Knight of Cepheid said with a smirk. “Besides the fact I was busy with other things…” she waved a hand carelessly. “Your friends tell me though you’re deathly afraid of the mention of me these days.”

“Well I kind of figured when we next meet you’d finally give me that revenge you promised when I left home…” Lina groaned, trying to keep a good distance between them.

“Revenge?” Luna raised her eyebrow. “… Oh that? Pfft, Lina you were always such a gullible kid. Got you to do what I wanted though didn’t it?” she laughed, waving a hand carelessly. “I got over that years ago, especially with the humorous things Xelloss told me about that’s happened to you overtime. Your friends are quite interesting.”

Lina just look at her sister wide eyed and blinked twice. “HUH? B-but you…”

“Well, you obeyed like a good little sister and saved me from dealing with a hassle of an assignment… Plus I understand you’re trying to help me with my situation…” Luna shrugged her shoulders. “So I suppose I can concede to forgiveness as your payment.”

“Gee, thanks a lot sis.” Lina snapped, then her face softened. “… Do you have an ideas what we can do?”

“I’ve been trying for a while to get Cepheid to reject my body, it isn’t working.” Luna sighed, looking out the window. “The only thing we can do is wait for when he tries to take control of me again.”

“Again?” Lina gasped.

“Yeah, part of why I didn’t want to take Filia’s job was also I was having poor control on him right then.” Luna clenched her fist. “Had I not gotten him under control he might had sided with Valgaav’s purification ideals… Lately it’s getting harder, I’m sure my control on him will break and when it does…” she lifted her head, one of her violet eyes coming into view. “You might be the only one with the power to stop me sis… By calling upon the only lord that tops both him and Shabranigdo.”

“You mean… The Giga Slave?” Lina froze in place, the room was spinning now. But she fought the need to fall to her knees, narrowing her eyes. “Luna, I’ve already used that spell three times now. Who says it’ll work and if I use it when Cepheid takes control of you that means…”

“I’ve accepted my fate a long time ago, kiddo.” Luna responded, shifting her weight to her other foot. “Doesn’t mean I won’t go down without a fight, but at first I wanted you away from the situation worried you’d get pulled in. The monsters want to use you hoping you’d finish me off with the Giga Slave when Cepheid takes over my body. But you do know that means they aren’t the only threat right?”

“… You mean the dragons might retort soon as well, because they want me out of the picture so I don’t do it?” Lina asked, lowering her head. “Luna, you’re seriously asking me to kill you?”

“I’m asking you to defend yourself, pay attention to what I’m saying.” Luna snapped. “I’m not naïve, there might not be a way out of this for me alive. But at the same time, it’s during the transfusion that we might be able to separate us.”

Lina gasped as it came to her. “Wait… Of course. If I use the Ragna Blade during the transfusion it might just be powerful enough to break his hold. It is the power of the Lord of Nightmares after all.”

Luna smirked slightly. “Good, you’ve gotten smarter over the years. And since you have Xelloss with his pledge make sure he’s damn well useful and powers you up for it…”

“Yeah… I… Suppose…” Lina rubbed her cheek, which was turning pink.

“Actually, I was going to ask you about that…” Luna began, but was cut off.

“Miss Lina!” Filia rushed over and had a horrified expression on her face.

“Oh hey Filia, been a while.” Lina chuckled. “How’s Valgaav?”

The dragon priestess’s face changed to a cheerful expression. “It’s Val now, and it’s too bad you missed him hatch. He’s such an adorable child and…” she stopped suddenly. “WAIT THIS ISN’T THE TIME FOR THAT! I need to speak with you right away!”

Lina sweatdropped. “Unnn… About what?”

“THAT I NEED TO REMOVE WHATEVER SPELL THAT NAMAGOMI USED TO BRAINWASH YOU!” Filia snarled, her tail popping out.

Luna groaned. “You try convincing her, I’ve given up so has your friends that he didn’t use a spell on you.”

Lina rubbed her head. “Filia, I took the pledge myself… Xelloss didn’t use any kind of spell on me really…”

“Miss Lina you can’t possibly be thinking straight!” Filia cried, placing both her hands on her cheeks. “How could you make a pledge with THAT MONSTER OF ALL PEOPLE?!?” she growled, balling her hands into fists.

Lina sweatdropped once again. “Filia, nobody’s more upset over this than I am. But I had to take the pledge or else I would have died!”

“Yeah, your friends mentioned that.” Luna placed a hand on her hip. “Only reason I haven’t taken a swing at him yet.”

“But can’t we break the pledge and heal you then?” Filia asked.

“It’s a curse from Deep Sea Dolphin Filia! It can’t be broken so easily, the only way it can be broken is if we kill her!” Lina snapped. “Until then I have to stay pledge to that fruitcake to stay alive! If by chance we can destroy Deep Sea, I can destroy the Pledge Stone since I know where it is and be free of him just as quickly.” She crossed her arms. “Besides we need his help now with the situation with Cepheid, after that we can look into a way to fix this.”

“So… You’re using him?” Filia blinked twice, looking at her surprised.

Lina’s face flushed red, nodding with a growl. “OF COURSE I AM! YOU THINK I LIKE THAT SEXUAL HARASSMENT THAT FRUITCAKE DOES?!” she stomped her foot. “I was about to die Filia, I took the pledge to live to help save everyone! As the curse was taking me granted I didn’t like the idea of pledging to a monster, but if I died the possible last hope of us all surviving this goes too! Cepheid otherwise will remake the world and most likely kill all of us!”

Luna raised her eyebrow at her sister. “… Alright, if that’s what you want us to believe.” She muttered, too low for them to hear.

Filia sighed in relief. “Oh thank goodness. I was worried for a while there you were manipulated by that horrible monster!” she then shivered. “Or worse you actually did have feelings for that… That Namagomi! You know he’ll just use you, even though he has a Soul Touch!”

“Y-yeah… I know all the details…” Lina said, looking uneasy. “C-come on let’s get some food.” She rushed down the hallway.

“Miss Lina wait!” Filia chased after her.

Luna just stood there for a few moments, smirking slightly. “… So what do you think about that?” she spoke to the pair of amethyst eyes behind her. “Looks like the trickster priest just got himself tricked…”

“I SAID THAT’S MINE!”

“I HAD IT FIRST!”

“I DON’T GIVE A DAMN.”

The morning had begun like several others, where Lina and Gourry turned the meal table into a battle field.

“HO HO HO HO ALWAYS THE GREAT WHITE SERPANT COMES OUT ONTOP!” Naga declared as she stole the piece of meat right between them!

“GIVE THAT BACK!!!” Lina and Gourry hissed, trying to tackle Naga down.

“Can’t you three keep it down?” Zelgadis grumbled, obviously having a slight hangover.

“Oh my… And I thought it could get brutal with just Gourry dear and Miss Lina…” Sylphiel sweatdropped.

Filia sighed. “I see some things haven’t changed.”

“It’s still good to see you again, Miss Filia.” Amelia said with a smile, then turned to the Cepheid Knight. “And a great pleasure to finally meet you, Miss Luna.”

Luna just shrugged her shoulders. “I highly doubt Lina spoke that much of me.”

Xelloss just sat quietly at the table, sipping his tea. He had walked into the room without so much as a hello to anyone as he took his seat. Lina was eying him suspiciously once in a while, then returned to eating.

“So why exactly target shrines? Just seems rather random.” Zelgadis asked.

“Actually, I didn’t just start attacking them. I mostly visited them as some contain ancient spells that go back over a thousand years.” Luna explained, tilting her head to the side. “It’s just quite a few of the spells… Sort of backfired. I had hoped I’d run into one that can help with my situation.”

“That’s how Luna ran into me, one of the shrines happened to be near where I’ve taken up shop.” Filia explained. “She told me about the situation and I’ve given her as many locations as I can think of… I just didn’t happen to be nearby when this Namagomi approached her.” She jabbed her finger to Xelloss.

“Funny how your loyalties change at a whim.” He replied coolly.

“SHUT UP YOU PIECE OF FLITH!” Filia snapped. “It’s not right what’s happening to Miss Luna, and my loyalty to Cepheid died when I saw how my people – his followers – acted.”

“Then maybe you should join Lord Ruby Eye’s side.” Xelloss smirked, opening a single eye.

The dragon priestess drew her mace with a low growl. “I’d rather die than join up with the likes of you!”

“Alright you two, Filia get control of yourself before you turn into a dragon and waste all the food!” Lina snapped. “And Xelloss, cut it out. It’s too early for your damn sarcasm.”

The Mazoku closed his eyes and took another sip of his tea. “… Very well, Miss Lina.” His voice was very polite as usual, but to Lina it just sounded… Off considering how much more familiar and personal he’d been talking to her lately.

“So maybe you wanted to look at Seyruun’s shrine?” Amelia asked.

“Yes, and possibly Sairaag and Tarforashia.” Luna answered. “Tarforashia’s been cut off from the world for years, it’s possible there is something in their research that may help. And I understand you all are responsible for helping restore them.”

“W-well we helped…” Lina said, looking uneasy.

“Anyhow I have Cepheid under control for now so perhaps we should split into groups for this research project?” Luna suggested. “The other place I wanted to investigate you can help me with, kiddo.”

Lina raised her eyebrow. “Huh?”

The Cepheid Knight smirked. “Your little useful Mazoku there knows what I’m talking about.”

Xelloss opened on eye in a slight glare at her. “… And you know my Mistress forbid you to come to Wolfpack Island to look at her private library.”

“Wait… You have a library on Wolfpack?” Zelgadis rose from his chair. “Why didn’t you say so before you bastard?!?”

“Because it’s off limits to even most of the underlings, only myself and a few higher ranks are allowed to go in there.” Xelloss explained. “I know you’d love to look there for your cure but I assure you it’s not there, I had the caretaker of those spell books actually look once.”

“Why did you do that Mr. Xelloss?” Sylphiel asked.

“I thought it would be amusing if I held his cure over his head once, just to see what I could talk him into doing.” Xelloss responded with a smug grin.

“You are the lowest…” Filia growled.

“Alright, alright we get your point but…” Lina smirked suddenly. “I’m your Soul Touch and I’m also pledged to you, that means I probably would be allowed in, right?”

Xelloss pursed his lips together. “… True. You are no longer considered a major threat by my Mistress for both being pledged and owing her a favor.”

The crimson haired sorceress glared. “Wait… She’s holding me to that? You two almost didn’t get there in time!”

Xelloss waved his finger. “Ahhh but Miss Lina, she did save your friends. And you said you’d owe her if she came.”

“Dammit…” Lina bashed her fist on the table.

“Boy Lina you sure got yourself into quite the mess ho ho ho ho…” Naga laughed, which got her a plate smashed into her face.

Lina sat back with her arms crossed. “Fine then. Xelloss and I will go to Wolfpack and check out this library.” She huffed. “Amelia and Zelgadis, you two help Luna research here. Filia, you go with Gourry and Sylphiel to check out Tarforashia.” She then turned to her sister. “And Sylphiel can fill you in on anything known in Sairaag as she’s in charge of rebuilding there.”

“What about me?” Naga pouted, rubbing her head. “Where can I go?”

‘To hell maybe…?’ Lina snorted in her mind. “Who said you were part of this operation Naga?” she chose to say instead.

“If my little sister is part of it, I am too!” Naga declared.

“Fiiiine…” Lina rolled her eyes. “Go to the rebuilding site of Sairaag and see what you can find, though I’m sure Sylphiel knows everything that’s there it won’t hurt to do a double check.” She sighed, it was a waste of time but it would get that annoying woman out of her hair for a week or so… She hoped.

“Alright Miss Lina, don’t worry we’ll take great care of your sister!” Amelia cried.

Luna sweatdropped. “…. Like I need taking care of?”

Gourry then finally spoke after a moment. “… What are we looking for in these places again?”

Just about everyone in the room facefaulted.

“Here we are, Miss Lina.” Xelloss spoke as he teleported them onto Wolfpack Island, inside a large room filled with books across the walls.

“Whhhooaa this place is enormous!” Lina exclaimed, twirling around.

“Master Xelloss, whatever brings you here?” an eerie voice called from behind. It belonged to a demon in red robes, its face covered in an orange mask in the shape of a beak. It carried a blue gem staff in its hand. The rest of its outfit resembled a priest or monk, just quite colorful with a mix of red, blue and purple.

“I’ve come in need of some research on the Knight of Cepheid, would you gather all the books we’ve collected on such?” Xelloss asked.

“It will take quite some time to do such… Lord Beast Master approves of this?” the demon asked.

“Of course Bulzome, it’s part of my mission after all.” Xelloss replied. “And if Vandal gives you trouble just tell him to have a chat with me.” He opened his eyes in a menacing glare.

“A-as you wish Master Xelloss.” The demon replied, rushing to the book shelves.

Lina raised her eyebrow. “Who’s Vandal?”

“He and one other replaced Seigram after his betrayal.” Xelloss explained. “Though Vandal has been demoted to dealing with duties here in the library. See there are several copies of Clair Bible manuscripts, Dragon texts, and other such. Mistress likes to keep the less… Harmful ones on hand.” He shrugged. “She has me destroy the duplicates or anything extremely threatening.”

“I see, geez I should take a look at some of these.” Lina said, grabbing a random book and flipping through it.

“I suppose it won’t hurt, perhaps you should pick out a pile and we can take them to my quarters, Miss Lina?” Xelloss asked.

‘There he goes with just Miss Lina again… Not once has he tried to call me Lina-chan since he left…’ Lina mentally noted, she then raised her eyebrow. “Something wrong with here?”

“Well… Not all the underlings and lower rank Mazoku are fully aware of who you are.” Xelloss explained, rubbing his head. “… I just rather avoid a misunderstanding and you fall under attack in the event Mistress calls me.”

“Oh, that’s right they could tell I’m human right away and think I’m a threat.” Lina sighed. “Alright fine.” She took a large armful of books and stuffed them into his arm. “Hold these then.” She waited for him to make some smugass remark with his usual cute expression like ‘Of course my dear Lina-chan’ as he usually did or insist on another kiss but he didn’t say a word, and that just made her hiss and add more books to the pile.

The purple haired Mazoku sweatdropped. “Miss Lina, it’ll take all night to read all-“

“WILL YOU STOP CALLING ME MISS LINA ALREADY?!?” Lina suddenly snapped.

Xelloss opened his eyes for a moment, then quickly grabbed her arm and teleported them into his quarters, as her shout had alerted most of the underlings around that area.

“What are you doing?!?” Lina snapped, pulling away from him and stumbling back onto the bed.

“I’d rather not start a scene that could cause you to get injured.” Xelloss replied flatly. “While I know your headlocks won’t cause real harm the underlings wouldn’t be able to tell from the distance, they would rush in thinking you’re attacking me. You must remember my rank is only below my Mistress, they must follow my orders as well unless she overrides them.”

“Yeah fine…” Lina dusted off her arm. “What the hell is with you today?”

He raised an eyebrow, closing his eyes. “Whatever do you mean?”

“You’ve been calling me Miss Lina this whole time and remaining completely distant…” Lina scoffed. “Not sexual harassment, no pet names, you were more personable when I only just met you.”

Xelloss opened one eye. “… I thought you said you hated those things? Perhaps I’m just abiding by your wishes.”

“AND YOU PICK NOW TO DO IT?!?” she snapped.

“You only put up with it as The Pledge was merely to save your life and your friends, was it not?” Xelloss replied, opening the other eye. “Only because you need my help. Once you find a way to destroy Deep Sea…”

Lina’s ruby eyes went wide. “… You… YOU JACKASS YOU LISTENED IN DIDN’T YOU?!?”

Xelloss tried to control the wide smirk that wanted to cross his face. “… That is a secret, Miss Lina.”

A fuse snapped in her brain as she hit him with an Astral Break, then pulled him into a vicious headlock. “YOU FRUITCAKE I’LL TEACH YOU TO EAVESDROP!”

“B-but Lina you know how I am, nobody keeps a secret from me.” Xelloss chuckled lightly. “… After all, you said you’re only using me until you’re rid of the curse, I must admit the thought came across my mind you’d try to break the pledge… After all you detest my actions so much and you’re perfectly fine with killing me over it…”

“YOU REALLY ARE A MORON YOU KNOW, SOME EXPERT MAZOKU ON HUMANS IF YOU DIDN’T FIGURE OUT I WAS LYING TO THEM.” Lina snarled, letting go and kicking him while tossing a Fireball into his face. “I said all that so they wouldn’t try to kill you, you ass! That and if the dragon race figures out that killing you means killing me, Cepheid’s new threat they could be stupid enough to gang up on you.” Her cheeks flushed red. “… It’s not like I don’t think you can’t take care of yourself, I just don’t want to test that theory nor give Luna reason to turn on you too!”

Xelloss’s mouth twitched to a wide grin. “… So you do worry about me.”

“OF COURSE I DO YOU FRUITCAKE!” Lina snapped. “You saved my life! And this freaking pledge isn’t as bad as I thought, it’s been mostly benefits for me and you’re not forcing me like I thought you would for your… End of the bargain.”

“Well I wouldn’t want to do something to totally damage being your useful item 3 1/4.” Xelloss chuckled, turning to face her with a smile as he got up.

“That’s not… All…” She turned her head with a huff, crossing her arms. “You’re… Kind of… Well… Like a friend.” She mumbled, her cheeks burning crimson now.

The Mazoku brightened a bit at that, a huge grin on his face. “Well it’s good to see you’re starting to admit better your emotions, dear Lina-chan. I think it’s rather touching you didn’t want me to hear your little white lie.” He winked at her.

Lina’s eyes widened and her jaw dropped. “SO YOU WEREN’T MOPING? YOU KNEW I WAS LYING?!?”

Xelloss laughed. “How naive do you think I am, Lina dearest? I’ve been around for a long time, I know how human behavior sometimes can be. And I didn’t lie, I merely said that you had stated such. You didn’t want me to hear your lie as you were worried about my feelings, I’m touched.” He blew her a kiss. “At least you finally admitted to yourself you do care about me.”

“I’LL KILL YOU, YOU PIECE OF SHIT!!!” Lina roared, leaping into air and firing a barrage of spells at him.

“Argh! This is getting us nowhere!” Lina snapped as she lay back on the bed to rest, kicking the book she had been reading onto the floor. She had taken off her shoulder armor and cape, it was laying on the chest in the room. For some reason she was feeling incredibly tired, even though all they had been doing the past few hours was looking through books.

“I tried to warn you I didn’t think we’d find the answer so easily, Mistress has gathered a lot of books.” Xelloss sweatdropped, his cloak was laying next to hers along with his staff. “Even I in a thousand year’s time haven’t read them all.”

“You sure have collected a lot of junk here over the years.” Lina remarked, pointing to some of the items on shelves. “And some are priceless jewels I noticed…”

Xelloss smiled at her. “If you wish to take a few Lina dearest, you only need to ask. I have no real use for them, just things I’ve collected on missions overtime. I even still have all the items you sold to me for the Demon’s Blood Talismans.”

The crimson haired sorceress smirked. “Hmmm, well I suppose you are a bit more useful then I give you credit for, so I’ll promote you to Useful Item 2 and ¼.”

Xelloss faked a pout. “Still not number one yet Lina-chan? Whatever do I have to do to get there?”

Lina groaned as her stomach started growling, she also let out a yawn. “Let’s forget this for now and get me some damn food, fruitcake.”

The Mazoku smiled. “I could make you something.”

A minor flashback came to mind of the only time she had ever seen them cook. “… I’d rather pass…”

“Oh Lina my dear, you really think I’d make you eat something as hideous as that again?” Xelloss laughed, obviously picking up on what she was thinking about. “It was a recipe for slaying Golden Dragons, I only did it because of the priceless emotions I got off of you all.”

“Suppose that makes sense, considering you weren’t really affected by the spell you were just playing along.” Lina eyed him suspiciously. “So what fruitcake, are you actually trying to tell me you can cook?”

“You’ll find there are several skills I’ve picked up from missions over the last couple of centuries. When you have eternity stretched out before you, you tend to try new things once in a while.” Xelloss chuckled, reaching out his hand. “Besides you know how I have a fondness for sweets, it didn’t hurt to learn how to make them.”

The crimson haired sorceress twisted her mouth for a moment, deciding. Finally she reached out her hand and grabbed his, lifting herself up. “Fine, if you make me sick I know just how to pay you back.”

He pursed his lips. “Now why would I want to make my Soul Touch ill?”

“For your damn enjoyment?” she snapped.

Smirking, Xelloss pulled her arm forward to wrap his other arm around her back. “There are so many other ways I can accomplish that, Lina dearest.” He spoke gently, opening those amethyst eyes that sent her mind soaring for a few moments.

Lina wasn’t sure why, but she totally spaced out there. After quite some time of him being distant while faking being upset about earlier, she found herself far too often waiting, and in fact disappointed he wasn’t doing his regular actions that she normally… Protested to. While she really didn’t want to admit it to herself, she actually was missing that fruitcake’s little actions. Now that he was this close to her, she felt her cheeks flush and just started into the depths of those beautiful Mazoku eyes.

Xelloss tilted his head for a moment, leaning a bit closer. “Lina?” seeing that she was still spaced out, he decided to try the thing he’d figure would get him a Fireball in the face for sure: he kissed her.

It took several moments for Lina’s mind to snap to, but when she did it wasn’t the reaction the Mazoku had expected… Instead she kissed him back! His amethyst orbs widened, seeing she had closed her eyes and her arms shyly wrapped around his shoulders. Their lips remained locked for a few more moments before Xelloss broke contact to allow her a much needed breath of air.

Lina blushed and turned her head as she mumbled. “I swear you have a hypnosis spell in those eyes are something…” Why was she feeling so weak? She felt she could barely stand up…

The priest chuckled. “Most humans fear these kind of eyes as they are more fitting for… A monster.”

“Well they’re idiots.” She scoffed. “I find them interesting.” She blushed again when she realized she had said that out loud.

A wide grin came across his face. “Really now?” he lifted his fingers to turn her head to face him.

Lina narrowed her eyes. “Don’t push it smugass idiot. Though…” she blinked and looked to the side. “… Why am I not as hungry as I just was?”

“Ah, I imagine it must just be your energy levels being replenished.” Xelloss answered. “I suppose it figures you’re so drained, I hadn’t done much today to recharge you. After all even with the pledge I’m sure that curse still drains away at your energy, just the pledge prevents death.”

She stood there, blinking a few times trying to process what he had just said. “… Wait… So all the extra sexual harassment lately has been…”

“To keep your energy up enough to fight it?” Xelloss finished with his trademark smile. “Of course Lina my dear, as I’ve told you I don’t have to do such actions, but they are quite enjoyable. But so is your anger and it helps you fight off the curse’s effect better, until you’re ready for the step that will make it easier for you.”

Lina blushed a bit. “That’s right, you said the more intense the actions, the more energy I’ll get… I didn’t think about how the curse would still drain at me even after the pledge.” She glared then. “That doesn’t mean I forgive you for any of it, jackass.”

“Ahhh that’s the Lina-chan I know and love.” Xelloss mused, kissing his forefinger and placing it on her lips.

“Gaaahh! Stop calling me that already!” Lina snapped, her face all red. Though she felt like the room was spinning. She swayed just a bit.

Xelloss wrapped his arms tightly around her. “… Hmmm, I guess I underestimated the curse. I thought just a few hours wouldn’t bother you much, but it seems the past few days events haven’t been enough to charge you all the way… That or your body is still recovering from it.” He opened his eyes to examine her. “After all I’d never quite seen that curse Deep Sea used on you, just that Lord Beast Master said it was deadly.”

“W-well it’s not like I’m going to die, fruitcake.” Lina pointed out.

“No, but it could drain you enough that you can barely move.” He countered, his eyes softening a bit. “… Forgive me, I should not have been so careless in my own desire.”

“Huh?” she raised an eyebrow.

“It is because I wanted you to admit to the emotions you were feeling that lead to your exhaustion like this.” Xelloss explained. “You need to be at full strength if to help with the situation with the Cepheid Knight.”

“So food’s not enough, I need energy from your Astral form to help?” Lina asked.

“It is because that curse drains the Astral body.” He sighed, shaking his head. “Your soul is safe because of the pledge, but your strength and magic can still be drained by it.”

She placed a hand on his shoulder to better support herself. “In other words, I let it go too long and it can drain me to death without dying, right?”

He nodded. “Exactly.”

“So what’s the quickest way to fix this?” Lina asked, looking straight at him.

Xelloss grinned wide. “I believe you know the answer to that, my sweet Lina.” He purred, pressing his lips to her cheek.

She growled a bit as her cheek burned under his lips. Well, he was probably going to be forward soon enough anyway, and for some reason she felt ok with it… Better than his damn fake moping earlier. “… Fine, but go too far and I will make you pay.”

He smiled in response. “Stop me then when you start to dislike it. I shall stop as soon as you say so.”

Lina glare at him, tired of his smugass attitude as she kissed him forcefully, making his eyes open wide in response. Using her hand on his shoulder to pull herself closer, her other arm wrapped tightly around his back.

Xelloss took a few moments to allow her control before he removed her belt, dropping it to the floor. As he eagerly kissed her back, he slipped a hand under her shirt to caress her abdomen with his gloved hand, earning a soft moan from her. Seeing she didn’t protest, his other hand caressed her cheek and moved behind her head, locking his fingers into her hair. Slowly, the hand over her stomach started to move down, just barely touching the waistline of her pants.

He quickly checked Lina’s face to see if a death threat was about to come, but instead her eyes were closed and her cheeks flushed red. He could sense her arousal from her emotions and some frustration. Perhaps she was allowing this because in a way she did miss his little actions so this would make up for it? Well he wasn’t going to question it, as it probably wouldn’t last long, so he slipped his gloved hand into her trousers.

Lina squirmed just a bit, but then let out a yelp and broke the kiss as his fingers rubbed against her lower lips through her slightly wet panties. Her arm tightened around him as his hand gripped his shoulder tighter. When she opened her eyes she had a hazy, lust filled look that Xelloss enjoyed greatly.

“Mmmm it appears you like it when I touch you after all, Lina-chan.” He said in a seductive voice as his eyes pierced through her ruby orbs. “Maybe we should see just how wet you are?”

“Y-you… Smug Bastard…” Lina snarled as his other hand had moved down to her back, pressing her tightly against him.

“Do you want me to stop?” he offered, still having not closed those amethyst eyes that kept sending her head swirling.

Lina bit her lip, her pride wanted to scream yes, but her body was protesting terribly. “… Just shut the fuck up and kiss me again, fruitcake.” She decided to say instead.

And that he did eagerly, while at the same time slipping his gloved hand into her panties and rubbing her moist lips gently. Finding her little numb with his thumb, he pressed his thumb against it and electric shot through Lina like nothing she ever felt before, her moans echoing into his mouth. Grinning into the kiss, Xelloss poked one finger slowly into her folds.

“X-Xelloss!” Lina gasped, forcefully breaking the kiss to cry out, her knees getting slightly weak. It was obvious that was the first time anyone had ever touched her there.

Noticing this, the Mazoku slowly pulled his hand out and moved behind her, sitting on the bed with her in his lap.

Lina just looked at him with a scowl. “W-why did you s-stop?”

“You looked so adorable but you were losing your balance.” Xelloss chuckled, wrapping his arm around her waist. He licked at her earlobe while his other hand cupped one of her breasts. “And usually you stop me by now, is it possible you want mooore?” he teased, nibbling on her ear a little.

“F-fruitcake…” Lina hissed, squirming in his grasp. Her legs rubbed together and against his leg she was sitting on, but it just wasn’t the friction she needed. “D-don’t s-start something like that and s-stop…” she was extremely inexperienced and he knew it.

“All you have to do is say the word and I’ll continue.” Xelloss mused, kissing down to her neck. “Just so you admit that you do want it after all my darling Lina-chan.”

That made a fuse snap. “ELEMIKA-“ she raised her hand to cast the spell, when suddenly he vanished.

Xelloss reappeared within a second, grabbing her hands from behind. “Now, now Lina… We don’t need you spending the energy you just got so quickly. As I said all you had to do was tell me to stop and I will.”

“BUT YOU FRICKEN STOPPED BEFORE I EVEN DID TELL YOU ASSHOLE!” Lina snarled, struggling from his grip.

“In time you’ll learn that withholding pleasure leads to greater experiences.” He chuckled, kissing her cheek. “For now, I think you’ve recovered enough we should get you something to eat… Unless you’d rather I continue?”

“Fuck you, you Mazoku piece of shit.” Lina snarled.

“I take that as a no.” Xelloss laughed, summoning his mantle and placing it around her. “Wear that for now, because it’s part of me the demons and underlings will know for sure you’re with me.”

“Where are we going?” she raised an eyebrow.

“Lord Beast Master does have a kitchen here, as I told you I learned how to make some human dishes hundreds of years ago.” He explained, slowly leading her out of the room. “She herself enjoys the taste of certain cuisines.”

Lina raised her eyebrow. “Huh, I can’t imagine her cooking.”

“She doesn’t, I had to learn.” Xelloss laughed. “As her faithful servant one of my missions was discovering how to make her favorite dish.”

“And what might that be?” she asked.

“That… Is a secret.” He chuckled, waving his forefinger.

Lina smacked him in the head for that remark.

Soon after they reached the kitchen area, which was rather huge. There was a stockpile of food in the cupboards and four large refrigerators and 5 freezers.

“What the hell do you do with all this? I mean you monsters don’t have to eat!” Lina asked, completely dumbfounded.

“Well, every once in a while Mistress’s favorite dish when prepared, it takes up all this space.” Xelloss laughed. “We actually went through some of the supplies when you and your friends stayed here on Wolfpack, how do you think I brought you that food during the day you woke up from the pledge? They also ate here too on the first day.”

Lina looked thoughtful for a moment. “… Wait, there’s only one thing I can think of that could need that much space… Dragon Cuisine?” her eyes lit up for a moment.

Xelloss smirked. “The real deal that is. But alas right now we don’t have any stored, otherwise I’d offer you some.”

“Fine, you owe me it later fruitcake.” Lina said, sitting down at the table.

The priest smiled. “Of course. I’m sure there’s a few things I can give you right away in here.” He pulled out several items from the cupboards, placing some crackers, bread, cheese and other such which Lina started grabbing and devouring right away. He put on a very familiar pink apron with a yellow chicken, then went to the stove.

Lina shrugged as she kept eating whatever she could get her hands on, well if Xelloss actually could cook, would be useful… “Well if you can cook, I suppose I could move you up to Useful Item 2.7 now then.” she teased, smirking at the surprised look on his face from that. Though right now she was just trying to get her mind off earlier, after all why did she allow him to do that? She should had protested earlier…

Her thought process was stopped as a loud blast was heard not too far off. “What was that?”

Xelloss opened his eyes and glared slightly. “Stay here and keep my cloak on.” He said, vanishing suddenly.

Lina frowned, did that damn Mazoku still have to be protective of her even though she was immortal now? She figured it was merely because he didn’t want to risk it, should her pledge stone be destroyed somehow she would die. Now that many Mazoku could really overpower Xelloss that easily.

“Lina Inverse, are you alright?” A female voice mused, as a Mazoku stood behind her. She had long black hair with a red headband. Her outfit was orange and white, with red lining. On her chest was a golden plate with green gems. Her eyes were crimson like blood and she wore black boots. A purple scarf hung around her neck. She held a large red scythe in her hand.

“Who are you?” Lina shivered as she turned to face the female Mazoku, her eyes narrowed cautiously. Well, this was supposed to be one of the followers of Zelas but… She couldn’t help but feel uneasy. “Was there some sort of attack just now?”

“Oh… I am Basanda, and it was… An intruder you might say…” the Mazoku chuckled, taking a few steps closer. “Lord Beast Master sent me to make sure you are alright.”

“Basanda? Zelas?” Lina narrowed her eyes. How did Zelas know she was here? Xelloss hadn’t left her side until just now… Did she sense her? Something in her gut was warning her this wasn’t right, she clutched the mantle as she rose from her seat. Xelloss had only just told her about this Mazoku, yet she seemed surprised she didn’t know her… “Tell me Basanda… How is it Zelas knows I was right here? Xelloss and I just arrived in here…”

Basanda narrowed her eye for a moment. “I don’t follow you, after all you were in her private library…”

“One of the Underlings told you I was here with Xelloss, didn’t they?” Lina smirked slightly. “But the question is, why are you acting on your own and trying to hide it by claiming it’s by order unless…”

Basanda’s eye twitched, and suddenly the ground under Lina had exploded! “Too curious for your own good, foolish human.”

“BY THE POWER YOU AND I POSSESS! DRAGON SLAVE!!!” Lina’s voice came from under the table as she hurled the Dragon Slave dead on at the priestess, blasting her through the kitchen wall. She panted heavily with a wide grin. “You thought you were so smart sneaking in, but luckily I got an illusion spell up just before you got close to me. Or are you really this Basanda?”

“I see there’s no point in trying to deceive you, Lina Inverse.” Snarled Basanda as she stood up, her form shifting to a very familiar blue haired Mazoku.

“Sherra!” Lina cried.

“Well after all our corporal forms are very easy to alter… And since you aren’t familiar with all of Beast Master’s followers it was a perfect idea to change into one.” Sherra smirked, dusting off her shoulder. “Sadly you saw right through it, I thought for sure you would had met Basanda since the Underling I asked said you were in the library before, but was quite sure he saw you and Xelloss come here. That’s why I had to make a little distraction to get rid of… ARRGGHH!!!” she suddenly was cut off when a black staff was drove through her. “YOU!!”

Xelloss smirked from behind her. “How naive you are Sherra, that cloak around Miss Lina happens to be a part of myself. So obviously I just heard and saw everything that just happened here!”

Lina smirked, rolling up her sleeve. “Save some for me Xelloss, and hold her nice and still!” Black sparks started appearing in her hands. “Lord of the dreams that terrify... Oh sword of the cold dark void... Free yourself now from heaven's bonds... Become one with my body, one with my power, and let us walk the path of destruction together... Power that can smash even the souls of the gods! RAGNA BLADE!” the black blade of pure energy appeared in her hands as she charged forward.

Sherra gasped, but knew there was one way out of this. She placed her hands on her side and concentrated magic until it exploded, blowing a large hole enough to pull away from Xelloss’s staff holding her in place. She rolled to the side just as Lina was going to strike, which the Ragna Blade ended up striking Xelloss’s instead!

“AAAHHH!!” he hollered.

“XELLOSS NO!!” Lina cried, eyes wide as she immediately pulled the sword back with all her might. She had to stop the spell before she killed him! But her magic was spent, as she fell to the ground from exhaustion…. Everything went dark after that.

Lina groaned as she was slowly pulled out of the darkness, but she felt extremely weak. Her eyelids were heavy and seemed impossible to open, she felt elevated from the ground. Yes, two strong familiar arms were carrying her as she heard voices.

“I was careless, what if she’s…?”

“Hush, pup. She’s fine. The Pledge Stone thankfully didn’t take damage, and luckily Basanda was reporting to me when the Underling told me about his encounter with Sherra. I am disappointed that little wrench got away before I could punish her for trespassing though.”

“Thank you Mistress, I apologize for the inconvenience.”

“Just get that wound of yours healed fast and get her back up immediately. I imagine if Sherra is targeting her so much to get the Pledge Stone that must mean Cepheid’s going to manifest soon. We need her power if my plans are to work. She maybe your Soul Touch, but you need to mark her soon and quite playing around. You should have made use of Sherra’s damn spell and this wouldn’t have happened. Though actually I had hoped you were going to do that when you asked to remain by her side when she took the pledge.”

“For humans, Lord Beast Master, such information can prove troublesome in the ‘performance’ as they call it. I chose to hide that detail to allow her to choose willingly… I know that it will assist in strengthening her so the curse won’t be such a bother, but her pride gets in the way.”

“Do something about it Xelloss… I’m beginning to really worry about this taint in you with all this talk of that woman. Desire should be more limited for us, and especially not expressed over a mere human.”

“Forgive me, my lord. I request to be excused to work on… My mission, as you say.”

“Fine, but get to work fast on it. I believe she’s waking up.”

“Thank you, Mistress…” the voices ended with the sound of footsteps as Lina made another groan as she fought to find her voice, she felt wet lips press against her ear. “It’s alright Lina-chan, it’s just me, your loving fruitcake.” He chuckled.

“X-Xelloss…” she murmured weakly, slowly opening her eyes and meeting the amethyst orbs right in front of her. “You’re…”

“I’m fine, Lord Beast Master was able to seal off my astral wounds before they continued to leak severely.” He replied, pressing his lips to her head. “Luckily she arrived just after you struck me, had your magic not been so drained you could have really hurt yourself trying to retract the Ragna Blade.”

“I… I almost…” she shivered, recalling the memory.

“I won’t die so easily, especially not from one of Sherra’s tricks.” Xelloss replied sharply. “… But it did damage me pretty badly. For a moment there I was worried when you backlashed the spell it struck your Pledge Stone… Luckily the spell lost power before it could hit you. You shouldn’t have done that.”

“X-Xelloss you idiot.” Lina snapped, weakly smacking his shoulder. “I-I was trying to stop the spell so I didn’t kill you!” her voice was rather horse.

“While it is a pleasant thought that you don’t want me to die, you could have from what you did. And now from using all that your magic is completely spent due to the curse.” Xelloss replied in a serious tone, as he stepped into his room and placed her on the bed.

Lina’s cheek stained pink as she grabbed his shoulder. “… Is what you and Zelas said true? … Would that…” she seemed to have a hard time finding the words.

Xelloss let out a sigh, closing his eyes. “Well, as I told you while you’re immortal there are things that can be used to attack you without dying. Like becoming this weak for example. You’re not a Mazoku so your Astral Form is incredibly tiny compared to one, and that curse is more meant to help drain a monster of Astral Energy… That is why it is affecting you as so even with the pledge.” He sat down beside her, rubbing her hand. “The more energy you get from me or food, the more you have for it to eat away with but still be able to cast spells. And you already know how much energy you get from merely a kiss or small actions. The larger ones once you would do those, it would be like as if the curse wasn’t there because there will be plenty to go around you might say.”

Lina blushed at his explanation. “… But you knew how I wasn’t ready to take that step, so you tried to buy as much time as possible for me to adjust… But Zelas is getting impatient as I’m going to be needed at full power soon.”

Xelloss rubbed his cheek. “Yes, she wanted me to take you while you were unconscious the first day… As I explained to you for my own selfish desire I do not want you that way. Mistress says it’s the human taint getting to me.” He chuckled, opening one eye. “And seriously Lina dearest, would you have believed me if I had told you?”

She pursed her lips together. “… No, probably not. But where does this leave us now?”

“I stand by my word to you, even though my Mistress detests it.” Xelloss chuckled. “She hasn’t directly ordered me to do it tonight, only to ‘work on it’ as she said. Just allow me to follow such poorly elaborated orders as I did the night you took the pledge.”

Lina actually smiled for a moment when he said that, even though he was a damn monster he was still giving her time… Even at a risk to himself. Geez what a fruitcake. Her eyes fluttered to his side, seeing the jagged edges that had been sliced away by her Ragna Blade. He needed to recover just as much as she did, and there was one way to help them both. So she pulled on his arm to move herself to a sitting position, and before he could ask her anything she pressed her lips attentively against his.

Xelloss sat there wide eyed, looking at her surprised as he didn’t move, when her lips parted his though he let out a gasp. “Miss Lina, w-“

“Shut up.” She snapped, cutting him off as she was removing her talismans on her wrists and throwing her gloves onto the floor. She yanked the necklace off and placed it on the dresser next to the bed and even pulled off her headband to place it next to it. Before he could try to speak up again she placed her bare hands on either side of his face and kissed him again.

Xelloss just had a bewildered look on his face, both from her actions and taking in her emotions. There was a major amount of worry inside there for him, but also… A resolve that had come to her, and fear of… Losing him? It had shocked him the moment the Ragna Blade stuck his body that he felt Lina’s terror over the fact she almost could have killed him. It gave him a small peak into her pride blocked emotions for him, but some were hard to decipher. One he did identify was that she didn’t want him to die…

Lina slowly broke the kiss, though suddenly glared at him. “… We both need this to help recover, I get that but… If you are not gentle I will god damn finish that Ragna Blade on you, fruitcake.” She hissed in a slightly deadly tone.

Xelloss’s amethyst eyes were wide, it took him a moment to speak. “… L-Lina… are you saying…?”

“DON’T YOU EVEN THINK ABOUT ASKING ME TO REPEAT THAT, FRUITCAKE.” Lina snapped suddenly, her cheeks scarlet. “THIS IS AS FUCKING WILLING AS I’M GONNA GET… And….” She turned her head away. “… I… When I saw you hit with the Ragna Blade I…”

“Nearly killing me makes you want me?” Xelloss asked innocently, tilting his head.

“OH SHUT UP ALREADY YOU SMUGASS PRICK!” Lina smacked his chest with her open palm. But she blinked in surprise as he caught her hand right after, pressing his lips against the back of her hand.

“Are you sure about this, Lina-chan?” he asked in a hush whisper, his beautiful eyes giving a predatory glance. “I’m not letting you out of this one easily, you take this step and you cannot brush it off like all the other actions as harassment. My body will recover eventually and we can still try to prolong this for you if need be. The question is, do you want to?”

She blushed deeply and pulled her hand away, fumbling her fingers on the latch of his cloak that was still on her. Slowly she slipped it off her shoulders and lay on the bed beneath her. She looked up at him with a slight scowl. “… It’s about time I repaid you for saving my life, fruitcake. I… I did mean what I said before that I.... Well… You’re important.” Of course she was still very hesitant to open up her feelings completely for him, but maybe she could show him instead. She though instead decided to smirk at him, going with a tease to not destroy her pride completely. “You should be honored, the great Sorcery Genius Lina Inverse is giving you the highest honor in the world.”

Xelloss chuckled, taking a lock of her hair into his gloved hand and running it across his nostril. “Mmmm yes, the honor of being your first. I’m flattered Lina. Are you sure you’re ok with a Mazoku taking that role?”

“I’m already pledged to you, idiot. If that bothered me I wouldn’t have let you get away with all that sexual harassment.” Lina scoffed, kicking off her boots.

Xelloss grinned, moving his hand to cup her chin. “Hmmm does that mean there were times you did enjoy it, my dear Lina?”

Lina’s blush increased, she squirmed a bit as those gorgeous eyes made it hard for her to think straight. “… M-maybe…” she shivered a bit.

He smirked, rubbing his fingers on her chin for a moment before moving down to her collar, undoing the single gem button to open her shirt as he lifted the yellow band off her chest that helped hold it together. But before he could go further her hands suddenly reached out, tugging on the untucked parts of his yellow shirt.

“You first.” She snapped, yanking on the fabric with a growl of frustration. “How the hell does this come out?”

Xelloss laughed for a moment at her efforts. “Lina dearest, have you already forgotten what I’ve told you before?” he couldn’t help the amusement he got from looking at her flustered and frustrated face and emotions. “My clothes are part of my being, so they are controlled by my will. After all you very much don’t see skin under that missing part of the shirt now do you?”

Lina pursed her lips together, looking at the black jagged edges of his wound. “… I guess not… But can you take them off? Because I’ll be damned if my first time is going to be with you dressed fruitcake. The least you could do is make this as close to a human experience as possible.”

“Oh of course, though I can make myself look any build you wish.” He mused, kissing her forehead.

She blushed at that, smacking him in the head with a Fireball. “Just pick a look and take off the damn shirt already you jerk and stop teasing me!”

“Awww what is it Lina my sweet are you curious?” Xelloss snickered, untucking the rest of his shirt while pulling off his gloves.

“Keep it up jackass and I just might change my mind about this…” Lina snarled, glaring daggers at him.

“Well I’d much rather you change your mind now, I wouldn’t want you having regrets later.” The Mazoku shrugged, pulling his shoes and socks off.

“… Alright do you REALLY have to do all that? I thought you freaking can just will your clothes away?!?” Lina snapped, her emotions radiating her nervousness and frustration.

Xelloss laughed at her reaction. “I thought you wanted me to make this as close to a human experience Lina dear, doesn’t that entitle a little strip tease?”

That made her blush furiously. “DIGGER-“ she was cut off as he suddenly kissed her hard. While she was getting incredibly pissed off at his smugness, she couldn’t help but melt slightly into the kiss as she closed her eyes. Oh well, she could always make him pay later.

As Xelloss slowly broke the kiss she slowly fluttered her eyes back open to see he had pulled off his shirt, having tossed it to the side next to where she was currently sitting on his cloak on the bed. She blushed though as she looked over the small, toned muscles of the form he took, though he was small build she found she actually liked that look on him. Though it made it look like he really wore too baggy of a shirt, his wound wasn’t so visible now, he probably used up whatever energy he got from both her anger and actions moments ago to fix that.

Lina slowly reached her hand out, caressing his chest lightly until his hand rested on hers, his eyes hadn’t closed the whole time and were on her. “Your turn now, isn’t it?” he asked seductively, smirking as the red returned to her cheeks.

She looked down at her opened shirt but still couldn’t seem to get the courage to remove it, before she knew it though Xelloss’s lips were at her ear. “Still self conscious even after the alterations Lina-chan? I’ll tell you that even before the pledge your beauty is enchanting, enough to drive this Mazoku mad anyway.” He chuckled, reaching his hands out to smooth her hair behind her shoulders and slowly eased her shirt off and let it fall to the floor. All that covered her chest now was a yellow bra.

As Lina’s arms instinctively moved to wrap around her chest, Xelloss decided to move his hands down to the waistband of her pants and remove those next, his hand gently rubbing her thigh, calf and ankle as he eased her garment off. He leaned down and pressed his lips on her inner thigh, causing her to squeak a small moan in response. He could smell her arousal building with each moment, not that she’d admit it, but it was enjoyable to know her body craved him at least.

Deciding the opportunity was too good to pass up, Xelloss closed his eyes and grinned at her as he traced a circle around her navel with his fingers. “Still sure about this Lina-chan? We’re almost to the point of no return you know.” He might be pressing it, but was better to find out now rather than a Dragon Slave to the face by morning with her claiming that he tricked her. That and he almost thought he was imagining things as she hadn’t snapped at him too much for calling her Lina-chan several times in a row.

Lina though narrowed her eyes darkly. “Ask me that one more time, fruitcake and I’ll give you my answer as I blow you damn smugass off…”

Xelloss chuckled at that, teasingly tugging on the edge of her panties as he lowered her down over his mantle. “Very well then, shall I finish what we started earlier?” he then slowly slipped them off.

Lina blushed, turning her head away. It was so damn unfair how much her body betrayed her mind, she knew she was extremely moist between her legs and the pressure was building at a rapid rate. To the point her pride was being overridden by her physical need. Her heart was hammering in her chest and her breathing rapid. She found herself only able to nod, far too embarrassed to say the words.

The Mazoku smirked and spread her lower lips with his fingers, but as she awaited his fingers to enter her again she was taken by surprised as she felt his tongue circle her cilt, which made her squeak a loud moan that she clasped her hand over her mouth to suppress.

“Now, now Lina my dear.” Xelloss purred, his lips brushing against her little numb. “I want to hear you.”

She fought the urge to hit him with a spell due to her embarrassment as she lowered her hand, placing it on his head instead, ruffling his purple hair. “J-just get on with it fruitcake I’m going to explode from this teasing!” she growled.

“As you wish.” He mused, diving his tongue inside her womanhood. As he tasted every inch of her tiny opening she cried out and squirmed on the bed, tickling his senses a bit as she was squirming ontop his cloak so he felt her every movement from both above and below. She’d tense up every few moments, and just when she felt she was about to come over the edge… He stopped and pulled away, licking his lips and enjoying the half drunken expression on her face.

Which didn’t last long as anger flared up, he wasn’t sure which was more delicious: Her current lust for him or her sexual frustration as he withheld pleasure, they tasted even better than her rage when he irritated her or her anger over his ‘sexual harassment’ but Lina was like his own personal buffet. There were so many sides to her emotions and she’d change them so quickly constantly. Oh he sure the hell wasn’t going to bore with this woman he mused, her reactions to things offend baffled him and she was full of surprises. He was still waiting for her to back out of this last minute, as he never expected her to become this willing so quickly. Well, humans were unpredictable like that.

“W-WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU DOING YOU FUCKING FRUITCAKE?!?” Lina snarled, snapping him off his train of thought.

She was just too damn adorable for words. Xelloss smirked and waved his forefinger. “I believed it was about time we got to the main part. That easily prepared you perfectly.”

Lina was just about to ask him what the hell he was babbling about, when she noticed he wasn’t wearing his pants anymore. When the hell did he get those off? Well, maybe he just willed them off. Curious, she looked to see what exactly he had given himself, though she didn’t have much to compare with. Sure she had accidentally seen Gourry naked once or twice but she was always too embarrassed to really look. Of course like the rest of his body, Xelloss obviously chose the size of his manhood too for this form. That made a thought cross her mind. “… Does that thing work like… A human’s does? I… I mean if I…” her face was beet red, and stumbling over her words too much.

Xelloss smiled, opening a single eye and cupping her chin. “It will do its job, Mazoku don’t feel pleasure exactly the same way you do. See for me it doesn’t matter where as long as you touch me if you wish to know. I don’t have those pleasure buttons like you do. And after all my clothes are part of my body so it’s not like you, who has to shed them for better pleasure.”

Lina’s ruby eyes went wide when his words hit her. “… Wait a second, is that why you always have that goofy grin on your face especially lately with my headlocks?”

He couldn’t help the smug grin on his face. “That is a secret.”

The crimson haired sorceress smacked his shoulder with a Fireball. “For someone that just recently had his gut opened by the sword of the Lord of Nightmares you’re still annoyingly fucking smug!”

“Perhaps I’m just musing over my prize.” Xelloss took advantage of her hands no longer across her cast as she had used the Fireball, to pull off her bra and expose her breasts. Pressing his thumbs against her perky nipples, he rubbing them in sync in a slow, teasing pace. Smirking at the blush that appeared on her face, he kissed her passionately before she could find her voice again. By the time his lips parted hers, she was left breathless once again.

Xelloss opened both eyes to observe her as he spread her legs with his knee, watching for any sign of her changing her mind to stop this. All he could sense was her nervousness and how much her body craved more. Smirking slightly, he knew it was time as he entered her, claiming her mouth as she cried out from the extreme pain. She tensed up completely as he stretched her for the first time. He didn’t move again just yet, allowing her to adjust as he took in her pain with a slight frown. Her pain just didn’t taste the same as her rage, he often found it too sour for his preference. He did feel concern for her at the same time as she was in pain… Wait, a monster showing concern for a human? He shook his head. Perhaps his Mistress was right and the Soul Touch was tainting him into some human emotions. Oh well, if he had to deal with being an out of sync Mazoku it was worth it to have his Lina.

A fist smashing into his shoulder enchanted with Visfarank which snapped him back into focus. He grunted in a bit of pain from the spell, lolling his head. “Yes, Lina-chan?”

“… I just thought I’d return some of the pain, fruitcake.” Lina hissed, her body still tense. “B-but… It’s starting to go away now.”

Taking that as her signal to continue, Xelloss began moving against her in a slow, steady rhythm to start her out with. A shudder wracked Lina’s body as one of her legs instinctively wrapped around him, her arms moving around his neck as she dug her nails into his back. She really didn’t have to worry about scratching him after all, even if she break the skin of his corporeal form he’d probably enjoy it.

Lina cried out as she convulsed when he drove harder into her, her hips ground against his as she felt the rapture grow inside her. His eyes hadn’t left hers the whole time, though she had difficulty keeping her own open. With her cheeks flushed and her erotic state of euphoria, Xelloss mused he hadn’t seen anything more that could describe beauty in his thousand years of existence.

The fire in Lina’s abdomen grew larger, just as Xelloss drove himself to the hilt and her muscles clenched, gripping him as hard as her fingers tightened around his back. He took one rosy nipple then into his mouth and sucked on her luscious skin, earning another cry of pleasure from her.

When he felt her spasm ripple, he claimed her mouth once more in a deep kiss, intertwining his tongue with hers as she could still taste a small amount of her fluids in his mouth. She moaned loudly into his mouth as she experienced her first climax. Deciding to humor her as she wanted this experience to be as close to human as possible, he quickly made an alteration to his corporeal form to release a substance that would feel similar to a human male emptying inside her.

Completely spent, Lina lay back on the bed, her body slick with sweat and her breathing ragged. She couldn’t even find the words to describe the feelings she experienced at that moment, she instead she smiled coyly at him. “Wasn’t as bad as I thought it would be with a fruitcake Mazoku…” she teased, panting heavily. “Maybe we can add this as another point for your Useful Item ranking…”

Xelloss chuckled, kissing her forehead. “I’m glad you’re pleased, Lina-chan.” He wrapped his arms around her as he pulled out of her gently and lay beside her, holding her close as she drifted off to dreamland.

Lina slowly fluttered her eyes open, groaning as her body ached slightly. Everything seemed like a blur, how much was a dream and how much was real? But a voice brought her to reality immediately.

“Awake, my sleeping princess?”

Lina’s ruby orbs shot open at where she was. She was laying across Xelloss’s bare chest on his bed ontop of the violet sheets and his cloak. Her cheeks stained pink as she looked for the first thing to cover herself up with as she slowly sat up. Her clothes weren’t on the floor where she recalled before, so she grabbed the nearest thing that was still on the bed, his yellow shirt.

“Aww what’s wrong Lina-chan? Having regrets over last night?” Xelloss chuckled and he ran his hand over her bare leg as he sat up, holding her in his lap. He had his black pants on but that was all, obviously he sensed her embarrassment. But that wasn’t all, he was also wearing her headband again!

Lina’s face was a deep red as she glared at him, lifting her hand over her chest. She still couldn’t quite get over what happened. She really just had her first time with… Xelloss. Fruity Mazoku Xelloss and… It was more amazing then she’d ever admit. “No… I just don’t like that I can’t find my clothes you smug ass bastard! And why the hell are you wearing my headband?”

“Well you’re wearing my shirt, and I’m not complaining.” The Mazoku replied, his grin going up to his ears as he rubbed her back, holding her close.

She shot him a menacing glare, the yellow fabric was rather baggy on her as she had to roll up the sleeves and smacked her open palm on his chest. “That’s because it’s part of you so it’s almost like you’re groping me jerk.”

“So maybe I want something of you on me too.” He replied in a light tone, his hand caressing her back as he held her close. His lips pressed lightly against her neck, which just set her skin on fire all over again.

Lina squirmed a bit, trying to disentangle their legs. “For the last time, where the hell did you hide my clothes?”

Xelloss opened one amethyst eye as he waved his finger. “That’s a secret.” Which earned him a breakfast of offensive spells and Lina’s delectable rage.

“I do happen to like you, fruitcake.”

Xelloss shot his head up, it was the first Lina had spoken to him in hours as they were in library, still going over the books as they sat at a table. Ever since this morning with him playing that game of hiding her clothes, once he had given them back she had ignored him all day. He tried teasing, talking about anything, trying to steal a kiss, and she’d just grumble or fire a spell at him. He couldn’t help the wide grin that crossed his face as he watched her hide her head with the book she was holding as he opened his amethyst orbs. “I thought last night’s activities equal a bit more than ‘like’ Lina-chan?”

“Don’t call me that….” Lina snapped, glaring at him slightly as she lowered her book, showing the blush that appeared on her cheeks. “… At least… Not in public.” She had left her shoulder armor and cape back in his room.

“This is hardly public, Lina dearest.” Xelloss chuckled, shaking his head. “Very few Mazoku are even in here right now.”

“So this is Lina Inverse hmm?” a female voice mused from behind.

Lina spun her head around, she recognized the form as Basanda, as Sherra had taken that look just yesterday in hopes of fooling her. “… And you’re the real Basanda this time?”

“I heard about that little mishap yesterday.” The female Mazoku crossed her arms in a scoff. “When I see little Sherra next my scythe has an appointment with her.” She grinned sadistically.

Lina shivered. “Yeah… Though I want a piece of her too for the crap she caused.”

“Well, Lord Beast Master has dispatched me to find her, I can’t make any promises there will be any left.” Basanda smirked slightly.

The crimson haired sorceress shrugged. “Well, as long I know you made it hurt, that’ll suit me…” she rubbed her cheek. “… Not that you’d give a damn what I want.”

“Oh on the contrary, you are the Beast Priest’s mate, a pledged human and one our Mistress has need for, so among us you are considered a priority.” Basanda mused, though there was a strange edge to her voice.

Lina raised her eyebrow at that, but then noticed a scowl that hadn’t left Xelloss’s face the whole time Basanda had approached them. She shrugged it off for a moment. “Alright, nice to keep in mind.”

“I’ll be on my way then.” The female Mazoku chuckled, smirking at Xelloss. “Lord Beast Master wishes for an update on your mission by the way, by that strong smell on her I can tell you’ve accomplished the job.”

“HUH?!?” Lina’s eyes went wide with a violent blush.

“I will be sure to report to her shortly, though don’t you have a mission to get to?” Xelloss finally spoke in a flat tone.

“Yes, I will be on my way then.” Basanda smirked again, then vanished.

“WHAT THE HELL WAS SHE TALKING ABOUT FRUITCAKE?!?” Lina snapped suddenly.

“Our senses in corporeal form are much higher than a human’s, Lina dear.” Xelloss shrugged. “She can easily smell out what… Actives your body has just been through.”

Lina’s face turned scarlet like a fuse blew in her brain. “WAIT SO ALL YOU DAMN MAZOKU HERE KNOW THAT WE….”

“Mated?” Xelloss chuckled slightly, waving his forefinger. “Well that was hardly going to be a secret here, Lina-chan. Though it’s not like we have to let your friends know…”

“I’LL KILL YOU! I AM NEVER DOING THAT AGAIN YOU GOT IT?” Lina snarled, hurling a Digger Volt at him which he just disappeared before it hit. “Where the hell did that fruitcake…” she hissed, standing from her chair and looking around.

Then suddenly she felt his lips at her ear, his voice in a seductive whisper that made her body shiver. “Are you sure about that?” he ran his gloved finger down the back of her neck.

Lina hissed and suddenly pulled him into a vicious headlock. “THE HELL ARE YOU DOING?!?”

Xelloss just laughed at her reaction. “I see what I told you hasn’t changed your mind how you react.”

A massive blush came across her face as she recalled when he told her last night, her arms immediately released him. “… G-god damn perverted Mazoku…” she hissed.

“Ooohh I can be far worse than that, kinky too.” Xelloss snickered, opening one single eye. “Just say the word and I’ll show you.”

“No way fruitcake.” Lina snapped, standing back up. “I’m not in the mood for your damn games.”

The Mazoku smirked and joined her in standing, his hand stroking her hair. “Oh? Perhaps I should get you in the mood.”

“W-what the hell does that mean?” she glared at him. “I just told you I-“ she stopped short when he slipped her headband off and tied it on his own head! “WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!?”

“Oh just a little game I believe you humans refer to as tag.” Xelloss smirked, kissing her forehead. “You’re it.” He suddenly teleported out of the room!

Lina blinked twice as she took in what happened, then growled. “GET BACK HERE YOU ASS!” she stormed out after him, though had no idea where to look.

Xelloss just laughed as appeared in the hallway, but was cut off by a voice behind him.

“Having fun with your plaything, pup?”

Xelloss’s eyes shot open as he spun around and knelt, bowing his head. “Mistress… Forgive me, I meant to report back sooner.”

The current form of Beast Master Zelas was a long haired blonde with a form fitting white dress, smoking her cigarette as normal. “So judging by her energy your mission was successful I see.” She mused. “As always you try your best not to disappoint. But it will take more than one session to power her enough for my plans of extracting the Flare Lord.”

“… You think it’s going to be that soon?” Xelloss stiffened. He had hoped his time wouldn’t run out too quickly, after all there was no telling if the plan would be successful or not. He was worried about Lina possibly…

“Possibly pup, I believe Dynast and Dolphin are unsure as much as we are about it.” Zelas placed a hand on her hip. “Though I’m beginning to worry about you with this overly concern you keep showing for your mate... In all your centuries you’ve never shown such fascination in anything so much for a prolonged period.”

Xelloss lowered his head, his bangs hiding his eyes. He knew he had to watch his words carefully with his Mistress, after all she had shown much distaste in his interest in Lina Inverse for quite a while now. She must have sensed how he’d been acting lately, how his behavior was beginning to really become off from his nature. She always was one for looking for a way to abolish the Soul Touch, and glad he never had one for over a thousand years. She always claimed most Mazoku lost too many good servants that way. “I am merely trying to maximize her uses, after all we cannot allow something to happen to her before so?”

“Yes, her uses in more ways than one.” Zelas smirked, taking a drag from her cigarette. “Should this mission be successful I suppose I can allow you to keep her, The Pledge will keep her in line…”

“Thank you for your generosity, Lord Beast Master.” Xelloss bowed his head once more. “I assure you I will make sure you do not regret granting me so.”

“Do that, my Xelloss.” She replied, placing a hand on his head. “Now go on and play with your little Soul Touch, I will summon you when needed.” She narrowed her eyes as she lifting his head. “Just make sure you have her charged up enough for when it’s time to face Cepheid.”

“Thank you Mistress.” Xelloss bowed his head once more, immediately leaving the cave. He was quite sure he sensed Lina here on the beach of Wolfpack Island…

“DISLASH!” a shockwave shot through his body, knocking him over as he dropped his staff. He felt someone pounce onto his back, wrapping arms around his head into a headlock.

Chuckling, he didn’t even struggle to get up. “I guess you caught me, Lina-chan.”

“GIVE ME BACK MY HEADBAND YOU MAZOKU PIECE OF SHIT.” Lina snarled, releasing the headlock and snatching her headband off his head and tying it back onto her own.

Xelloss laughed under her. “I pity any Underlings that got in the way of your destructive path of finding me.”

Lina smacked his head with a Fireball. “Jackass. I got freaking lost in there trying to find you. How am I supposed to find my useful item 4 when you freaking disappear?”

The priest blinked and turned his head to look at her. “Back down to 4? I thought I’d be 1¼ by now.”

“After the shit of hiding my clothes? You have to work your way back up to 2¼ fruitcake.” Lina snarled. “Especially after making me chase after you with your damn game of tag!”

“Hmmm seeing as you caught me, I suppose then it’s my turn now?” Xelloss asked with a devilish grin when he suddenly rolled over, pinning her down onto the sand. “Or perhaps I’ve caught you already?” he teased.

“Fehlzareid!” a ray of light blasted the priest right off her, she quickly rose to her feet. “GARK RUHAAD.” She began the next spell right away, the strong wind keeping him from immediately coming back as she took off running for the cave’s entrance. She began the next spell right away, the strong wind keeping him from immediately coming back as she took off running for the cave’s entrance.

That’s when a shower of black magical awls suddenly came at her, she tried to block them but as there were too many she suddenly found her back pinned to the cavern’s outer wall. “Damn you Xelloss!” she hissed. “This isn’t fair!” The way she was pinned her arms were stretched out away from her body and her legs spread about halfway.

“They are a part of me, so really it is.” The Mazoku snickered, walking up to her. “That and there’s a human saying that goes ‘All goes fair in love and war’ I believe.” He took a few strains of her hair and lifted them to his lips. “No matter what the game is, you will always be the prize, Miss Lina.”

She narrowed her eyes at him. “Isn’t that a tad too formal to use now that…” her cheeks stained pink as she looked away.

“Ahh, is that why you didn’t Dragon Slave me for calling you Lina-chan several times last night?” Xelloss chuckled, gathering her hair up and moving it over one of her shoulders, exposing one side of her throat that he brushed his gloved fingers against.

“J-just don’t call me that in public like I said fruitcake.” Lina grumbled, cursing herself as her pulse was beating away rapidly in her neck.

“Or if I do expect you to attack me?” Xelloss chuckled, brushing his lips slightly against her neck. “Mmm don’t tempt me Lina dearest, such is foreplay to a Mazoku.” He sucked a bit on her delicate skin.

“You’re god damn insane.” She hissed, struggling to free herself as she grew warm just from his closeness.

“My Mistress agrees with you.” Xelloss laughed, his hand on her firm breast that slowly descended down to caress her stomach through her shirt until he found the edge and slipped his hand in, rubbing her abdomen directly. His other hand traced her side and rested on her buttock, giving a firm squeeze. He licked up to her ear where he nibbled gently, earning a moan of pleasure out of her.

“W-what are you d-doing f-fruitcake?” Lina asked hazily, her arousal was building as a fire started in abdomen, and she bucked her hips slightly to get a little friction from the jagged rocks behind her. But it was no use she couldn’t figure out how to angle right in her trapped position, wishing so badly her legs were free just to even rub them together. “Y-you are not taking off my clothes here you bastard!” she immediately felt the need to say before he went further. Even though she had tried to convince herself she wouldn’t sleep with him again, her body was obviously craving more of last night as she was unconscious pressing her pelvis against him.

“As I said before, you are the prize so I’m just enjoying myself. And I don’t need to remove your garments to pleasure you Lina-chan.” Xelloss grinned wide, his lips then found hers in a deep kiss. He slipped his hand out from under her shirt and moved his forefinger in a circle until a tiny black cone appeared, much like the ones that had her pinned right now. It quickly burrowed its way into her pants and rubbed against her panty covered nether regions.

“Mmmm!” she moaned out into the kiss, her hips thrusting upwards to meet this object touching her swollen lips. Which the awl slowly worked its way inside her underwear and poked inside her womanhood, causing her to cry out into his mouth. Due to her inexperience it seemed Lina was going to be quite the nosy lover especially as every different way he touched her completely new to her how it felt, and Xelloss was enjoying every moment of it.

Breaking the kiss, he sucked on her lower lip for a moment as he opened his seductive eyes to gaze into her ruby orbs. “So Lina dearest, wish for me to stop yet?” he teased.

“Y-you jackass…” she snarled, her face completely red.

“I suppose that means stop then.” Xelloss chuckled, moving his forefinger which the tiny awl responded by slowly pulling out.

“NO!” she shrieked suddenly, and cursed her damn body for the lust that needed so badly to be slated. “F-finish what you started…”

A wicked grin came across his perfect features. “Oh you mean this?” he moved his finger back and forwards in the air, the little awl mimicking the movement by pushing in and out of her tiny hole in a painful slow rhythm.

Lina moaned once more, her hips bucking as she struggled again to free herself. “D-damn you Xelloss…” she hissed. She needed to release so badly, and this smugass was taking too much joy in her frustration. After all, that little awl was a part of his body that meant…

“You’re so adorable, Lina-chan.” Xelloss mused, kissing at the edge of her jaw. “You are lucky I can be satisfied with merely this, otherwise I’d rip your clothes to shreds right now and claim you.” He whispered huskily as he finger moved faster, making his awl pick up the pace. “Your emotions are so delicious and I don’t think I’ve ever seen such beauty in a thousand years.” His eyes looked straight into hers as he kissed her lips as they were parted with her moans coming out, allowing him easy access to slide his tongue inside to curl up around hers. Smirking, he snapped his fingers and created another awl that caressed her abdomen from under her shirt.

Lina’s moans picked up as the awl between her legs drove deeper into her, yet she still didn’t feel it was enough, pressing as well as she could against it. That’s when she felt the other awl tracing lines on her stomach, and several more appeared right after. Her eyes shot open at the amethyst orbs before her, before she knew it was feeling like every inch of her skin was being touched and caressed by the small pieces of his true form. When one more awl appeared and poked its tip between her buttocks, threatening to enter her backdoor she yelped and accidentally bit his tongue and her own. She shivered as she felt their blood mingle but felt him licking up her little droplets of crimson that dripped down her mouth as he broke the kiss.

That was when she felt her muscles tighten as the spasm took her over as she convulsed, experiencing her second orgasm now as she felt her fluids spill onto the awl as it slowly pulled out. She panted heavily and felt her clothes sticking to her sweat ridden body, how the hell did he get her into such ecstasy without even taking her clothes off?

The question must had been on her face as Xelloss smirked and waved his forefinger. “That is a secret, Lina dearest.” With a snap of his fingers, all the other awls that danced in the air disappeared except for one, the one with her juices still all over it as he brought it to his lips and licked. “Absolutely phenomenal.” He mused, then pressed the awl to her lips. “You should try for yourself.” He grinned, his amethyst eyes still looking at her with the same seductive look.

Lina blushed and shyly took one lick, her nose wrinkling. “… Why the hell does your awl taste like tea?”

Xelloss bellowed a laugh as he made the awl vanish. “I just wanted to show you as its part of my body I can alter my form anyway you wish, not just in looks but for your other senses too.” With a snap of his fingers, the black cones that had held her prisoner vanished.

“Freaking pervert Mazoku!” Lina snapped, smashing her palm against his chest with an Elemika Flame.

He winched, taking the spell but reached out a gloved hand to caress her cheek. “You’ll get used to it in time, Lina my sweet.” He smiled, the sun was setting in the distance and he thought the lighting gave an alluring look to her fiery locks of hair as he brought a few strains up to his cheek. “So lovely.”

Lina just felt her heart explode in that moment, this freaking Mazoku always turned her world upside down it seemed. But she had to admit to herself, and only herself, she didn’t exactly hate what he had just done… “Just because I’m your freaking… M-mate now doesn’t mean you can take me whenever you god damn want!”

Xelloss beamed when she said that. “And here I thought you weren’t going to allow me to take you at all again? After all it’s only for the power charge yes?”

Her face turned red once more as she smacked him with a Fireball. “Of course it is you dummy! I-I just mean until this crap with Luna and Cepheid is done I need to be at full power so…” she looked away, rubbing her cheek.

Xelloss grabbed her hand, pressed the back of her palm against his cheek. Oh how he had wanted this woman for several years now and here she was. Had he not been asexual he probably wouldn’t let her out of his room while making love to her all day long. Luckily as a monster he could hold himself to only acting when Lina was ready for it. After all if she really didn’t want his attention, nothing stopped her from launching her spells. A part of her must had wanted some of that too. He mused over the thought, after all Lina’s pride would make it difficult for her to admit she enjoyed it, that’s why before she had taken him aback so by admitting she liked him. “So shall we take this conversation back to the room, then?” he grinned wide, winking at her.

Lina blushed once more, quickly snatching her hand back. “… Just shut up and kiss me, you damn fruitcake.”

Lina panted as she lay spent over Xelloss’s chest, remnants of lovemaking throbbed through her body with a massive blush on her face. Seriously how the hell did he coax her into sleeping with him again? Stupid hormones… Her body freaking didn’t seem to care that it was a monster doing this to her, just that she wanted the physical pleasure he gave so badly. He didn’t seem to tire either, he had only stopped because she was breathless, running his fingers lightly up and down her back. It had happened so fast, he kissed her and teleported them back into his room, and one thing lead to another. What surprised her was how gentle he was being with her, well being a Mazoku she sort of expected him to be a tad more sadistic.

“Something on your mind, Lina-chan?” Xelloss spoke after a moment, his fingers tangling into her hair.

“… I just was wondering how a Mazoku can be so gentle during… That.” Lina spoke, trying to control the burn on her cheeks. “I mean I know I threatened you the first time…”

The priest laughed lightly. “One it is to help you adjust, but the main reason is I must still be in the habit of trying to control myself even though you’re immortal now.”

She raised her eyebrow. “What does that mean?”

“Lina dearest, when you were human I could have easily crushed your bones but merely touching them if I chose to.” Xelloss explained, opening his eyes about halfway as his other hand traced the line of her jaw. “I had to watch myself during each of my actions so my own desire as you may call it took over. It’s different for me than it is for you, I suppose you could say I can get akin to high or drunk on emotions if I take in too much of certain ones.” He shook his head. “When that happens I can risk not controlling myself enough and possibly injure you. While now I wouldn’t kill you if I did so, as I explained to you before I find sheer pain and sorrow not a very pleasant taste in emotions. Every Mazoku has their own tastes which negative emotions appeal best to them.”

“I’m pretty sure I know your type, anger and rage?” Lina asked, raising her eyebrow.

“Of course, otherwise I would have fed on Filia’s sorrow more often rather than tease her into rage.” Xelloss laughed. “Her rage was quite well actually, tied with Mr. Zelgadis’s.” he then flashed a grin. “But yours has always been the most luscious.” He wrapped his arms around her back to crush her against him.

Lina squirmed slightly. “And you can feed even on this because of frustration, right?”

“Oh yes, sexual frustration is a lovely emotion.” Xelloss chuckled, kissing her forehead. “Why do you think I prolong foreplay? After all we both get better pleasure from it then.”

Lina twisted her mouth into a frown. “I wouldn’t know fruitcake, since you’re the one stealing all my firsts.”

The Mazoku smirked at her. “Funny, I only count 1 I ‘stole’ from you, which was your first kiss. And that I started all the way back when we first met.”

Lina’s anger flared up at the mention of that, smacking him on the head. “That was just your finger on my lips fruitcake it doesn’t count!”

“Oh so kissing your cheek too didn’t count that one time?” he asked with an innocent grin.

“Gaaahhh you are impossible!” she snapped. “You’re lucky you’re a freaking power source or I wouldn’t fucking let you touch me again!”

“That’s funny Lina dearest…” Xelloss mused, brushing his fingers lightly on her cheek. “I thought I felt the sting of some positive emotions during it.”

She glared darkly at him. “Shut the hell up, idiot.” She then turned her head to hide the blush, her heart was hammering away in her chest. Granted she had nothing to compare it with, but sex with a Mazoku was pretty damn good as far as she was concerned. But if she actually admitted it, that would just feed that smugass even more to tease her with. The only good thing was from these two times in his bed and that little bit just outside the cave she felt a lot better than before, and charged with more energy than if she cleared a restaurant out of food! And here she thought he was joking that major actions would super charge her, he wasn’t kidding it was like the most amazing way to recharge herself. Granted while she loved eating a ton of food, sometimes it got rather costly and with the depletion of bandits around her currency supply had gone down increasingly. Well, Xelloss said he’d give her some of those priceless items and if he could recharge her like this from now on she’d be pretty damn well off. Maybe eternity with this fruitcake might actually be fun after all…

That’s when a low growl came from her stomach suddenly.

Xelloss chuckled. “While we have recharged you for magic, your human body does still crave nourishment now and again. Not that you could die of starvation or anything.” He smiled. “After all our agreement was for you to stay as close to human as possible yes?”

“Whatever fruitcake, you better not had been kidding before when you said you can cook.” Lina snapped. “I never did get to find out.”

“Well we should do something about that, shouldn’t we?” Xelloss smirked, brushing his lips lightly against hers. “I will meet you at the kitchen then while you dress. Please do remember to wear my cloak while walking the halls.” He planted a kiss on the crown of her head and suddenly vanished, which made her plop down onto the mattress since he was no longer under her.

Tightening the sheet around her, she slowly sat up trying to somewhat compose herself. So much had been happening in the past few days her whole life had changed. Of course there was still some lingering questions on her mind, so she decided now was going to be as good as time as any to start asking them. She quickly got dressed, deciding to leave her cape and shoulder armor as she found Xelloss’s mantle and wrapped it around herself. Funny, it felt so much just like a real cape, hard to believe it was really just a magical construction. She shrugged it off and strolled out of the room, trying to remember exactly how to get to the kitchen.

“You seem lost… Lina Inverse.”

Lina spun around to see a Mazoku floating above the ground, his legs crossed though covered by his thick black cloak. He had elfin ears and his skin was green, brown hair only hanging from his side burns, leaving his scalp bald. His eyes were crimson, his nose long and slightly pointed, his large hands each were missing a pinky. And orange trim on his cloak came around his neck, under it was his purple robes.

Cautious, the crimson haired sorceress narrowed her eyes. “… Who are you? And how do you know me?”

“I am Vandal, vassal to Lord Beast Master.” The Mazoku bowed his head a bit. “As for who you are, I heard such from Basanda. I figured you were Master Xelloss’s Mate by you wearing his cloak… And his scent.” His mouth twitched to a slight smirk.

“Right… You and Basanda are the ones Zelas made to replace Seigram?” Lina asked, crossing her arms.

Vandal raised an eyebrow at that. “Ah, you do not know the whole details? No, myself and Basanda came from… Another order you might say. We came to serve Lord Beast Master when she promised us a delightful position here.”

Lina blinked twice at that. “… Were you… An elf by chance?” the elf people were hard to come by these days, and many dragons often were mistake to be of the elves.

“You are sharp, I give you that. My original home was on Mipross Island, eons ago.” Vandal replied. “Though we barely survived an attack from a Mazoku named Joyrock once, I believe you remember don’t you, Lina Inverse?”

Lina took in a sharp gasp. It had been a very, very long time since her adventure there with Naga. “… You remember me helping Rowdy destroy him, that’s why you knew who I was. Not because of Basanda…”

“Yes… You could say that.” Vandal chuckled, running his fingers over his chin. “You were quite impressive at such a young age, I was rather curious how Master Xelloss’s Soul Touch was with a woman I had seen so long ago. That’s when I figured out you must had time traveled…”

“Yeah, I got pulled into it by Rowdy himself.” Lina sighed, her hands on her hips. “… But, I saved the village, how did you become a Mazoku?”

Vandal smirked slightly. “… That’s something I keep to myself, do you tell the true reason you took a pledge with a monster?”

Her face turned red at that. “H-hey it was to save my life, dammit! What the hell would you know about that?!?”

Vandal just laughed. “I believe he’s waiting for you.” He suddenly vanished.

Lina just stood there, blinking at where the Mazoku just was. “What the hell was that about?! … But it’s weird running into someone from then…” she rubbed her cheek. “Now that I think about it, Rowdy had the Sword of Light… Wait… Gourry said that sword was in his family for a long time… That would mean that Rowdy was..!!”

“An ancestor to the swordsman, it’s funny how many people tie into your lifetime, Lina-chan.” A familiar shrill voice came from behind. “Makes me wish I had paid a visit to Mipross Island during that time, we could have met so much sooner.” She then felt a pair of all too familiar lips at her cheek.

“… Fruitcake, you were supposed to wait for me in the kitchen.” Lina had jumped at first from the sound of his voice, then closed her eyes and growled. “Why didn’t you tell me Vandal knew me?”

“Sadly, that he chose to keep secret from myself and my Mistress, I had no idea about that until now.” Xelloss shrugged. “And I came as I sensed Vandal near you, just in case it was another attack like what happened when Sherra impersonated Basanda.”

Lina looked at his cloak still wrapped around her. “Oh yeah that’s right, this is part of you so you’d sense someone near me.”

“Exactly Lina-chan.” The priest smiled, running his fingers on her chin. “Your meal is ready by the way.”

“Well what the hell are we waiting for idiot?” Lina snapped, glaring at him. “But my threat to Dragon Slave you if it makes me ill still stands.”

Shortly after they arrived in the kitchen and Lina began to devour the large feast Xelloss had prepared. To her surprise everything was in fact editable, just minor things like spices and food temperature obviously Xelloss didn’t seem to know much about with being a Mazoku. One or two things seemed either overcooked or undercooked, made her wonder if since the monsters wouldn’t have to worry about food illness if they ate some meat raw or even burnt. She hadn’t spoke much while eating for a good while, then suddenly out of the blue spoke up after she had about half the table worth of food gone.

“Xelloss, what will you do when this… Well, this situation is over if we survive it that is?”

The priest smirked. “Why Lina-chan, are you worried I’d just leave you alone after all this? You signed an eternal contract with the pledge you know.”

“I’m not worried about that fruitcake.” Lina snapped, glaring at him. “What happens after this mission though? I mean what I’m supposed to expect you to just pop into my life randomly or what?”

Xelloss’s brow furrowed for a moment. “Well, I’m not always on missions from my Mistress, they vary how often you could say I’m extremely busy. And since you are my Soul Touch and a human pledged to me, spending my free time with you would not be forbidden.” He shrugged with a smirk. “You could probably even tag along with my missions as long as you didn’t interfere. Sometimes I’m sent on several scouting missions that take a while, information gathering and things like that. Lord Beast Master might favor you assisting me, and we could easily occupy the nights together.” He gave her a wolfish grin.

Lina stopped eating for a moment as a blush appeared on her face. “… Are you asking me to travel with you, Xelloss? I mean…” she rubbed her cheek. “As long as I get to blast away some idiots now and again, also you allow me to keep any treasure we happen to come across it doesn’t sound like a bad idea.”

He laughed for a moment, placing a hand ontop of hers. “Actually I’m asking you to come to live here with me, Lina dearest.” He opened his beautiful Mazoku eyes to look rather at her.

Lina averted her eyes as the red stained her cheeks. “… I-I’d have to give it some thought, Xelloss. For one thing I’d want a bigger room, yours won’t hold enough if I gather enough treasure.”

Xelloss laughed a bit at that. “Not everything is stored in there Lina, some is in fact in a pocket dimension I created.” He pointed to the satchel around him. “I have several just like this one filled with random trinkets I’ve gathered over the past few centuries.”

She twisted her mouth. “… I-If I did stay here, I could research in that library all I wanted to, couldn’t I?”

The Mazoku grinned at where her logic was going. “Of course. There’s even an area on the island just for practicing spells.” His devilish grin got even wider. “And always a few underlings to test such on.”

Lina shivered for a moment at the look at his face. “You really have no regard for life at all, do you?”

He held up his index finger. “That is only partly true. I have no regard for the lives of those who are of no interest or amuse me. Your friends for instance, while they have their amusing times the only regard I have for their lives is mostly tied to my affection for you.”

“So basically, you let them live by default?” Lina asked, tilting her head to the side. “… After all you could have easily killed them not long ago, when I was the only one you needed for your mission with the Hellmaster’s Jar.”

“Well, I convinced my Mistress that killing them would only make you emotionally distort and unable to perform the Giga Slave if needed.” Xelloss shrugged. “That and it was far more amusing to disable them than to just kill them. Killing is rather messy and means I can no longer use such creatures again for feeding purposes.” He grinned sadistically. “Where as if I let them burn in the fury of their defeat, it makes it so much more delicious the next time I face them.”

“You are a masochistic bastard.” Lina scoffed. “You risk each time someone actually getting pissed off at you enough that they’d find the power to kick your ass.”

“Destruction is the ultimate desire of a monster, is it not?” he shrugged his shoulders.

She rolled her eyes. “And doing this causes chaos, which you and your fucked up Mistress love. So that’s why you don’t usually kill unless you’re ordered to. You’d much rather fuck with people’s heads.”

“The mind itself is a very chaotic thing, especially human’s minds.” Xelloss snickered.

“Fruitcake.” Lina grumbled, finishing her meal. “… Though I have to say not bad, I’ve had worse. You need to learn how to season stuff and even cooking a little better though.”

“Well, it’s been about a hundred years or so since I last cooked for a human without faking that I can’t.” Xelloss chuckled slightly, rubbing the back of his head. “Lord Beast Master’s taste is far different than a human’s I’d say. Try the dessert.”

Lina shrugged and took a few bites into the cake, and her eyes went wide. She looked at him completely in shock. “… Where the hell did you learn to bake so damn good?!?” she cried. “I’ve never had a dessert like that in my life!”

“Nice to see your taste in sweets is close to my own.” Xelloss mused, as she finished he brushed his thumb against her lips to clean her mouth. “As I explained I experimented with those all over, until I learned how the best ones taste.”

“Apply this to your normal cooking and I’ll move you back up to Useful Item 2.” Lina smirked slightly.

Grinning, he bent over and pressed his forehead against hers. “I’d much rather work my way to number 1, Lina-chan.” He then pressed his lips against hers.