Cheers erupted from the large crowd of people lining the sides of the Median street. The Parade marking the official beginning of the festival of life had begun and was in full swing while two Hell Jumpers looked on, watching with interest at the wide array of costumes.

Treven had to give the Medians credit, even without all the fancy technology his people used, the Medians were still putting on one heck of a show. Even if it was almost all created by hand.

Masked people walked by as he watched, dressed up to look like "Guardians", as they called the Sentinels, while others seemed to be historical figures and people of significance. Carmela laughed next to him and pointed down the road a little ways at people on stilts dressed up in comical costumes walked their way. "I've always wanted to try those things!" She said excitedly, waving at a Chimera on a pair walked by.

"Ugh... dangit... I can't see..." the Hell Jumpers heard a small voice saying behind them. "What about this way Karin..." they heard another say. "No, its blocked. This sucks! I really wanted to see the Daughter..."

Carmela and Treven looked behind them to see two young kids; a girl Dog Chimera and a human boy, off to the left of them a little ways. Being ignored by the other spectators as they tried to jump up and down, trying in vain to catch a glimpse of the procession.

The ODSTs looked at each other, both thinking the exact same thing and grinned. "Might as well." Treven said, reading his sister-in-arms mind.

"Hey guys." Carmela said, walking up to them, placing her hands on her knees and bending down to their level and smiling.

The two youngsters looked around at them, a bit surprised, their eyes widening with recognition. "I know you, we've heard about you! You're the foreigners everybody's been talking about." The Chimera girl said, smiling excitedly as the boy nodded enthusiastically in agreement. "Especially the other orphans."

"Is that right?" Asked Carmela, looking a little surprised herself now.

"Yeah! Lady Miyuki always comes down to visit the Orphanage, and she always tells us stories about you guys!" The Dog Girl said excitedly, looking up at Carmela with adoration.

"Are you really from the stars?" Asked the boy excitedly, tugging curiously at Trevens armor, eliciting a smile form the Hell Jumper.

"Yup. Sure am." He said, showing his gear off to the fascinated children.

"That's so cool!" They both said at the same time, nearly bouncing now as Carmela and Treven laughed, grinning at each other.

"What's your name?"

"I'm Karin and this is Wolvson." Said the Chimera, smiling up at Carmela.

"Karin? That's a very pretty name." Carmela said, smiling at her. "This lanky guy here is Treven and I'm Carmela. Are you guys trying to watch the parade?" The female ODST asked curiously, glancing at the main street where the event was still passing by.

"Yeah... but we can't see and nobody will let us through..." the girl said, frowning and looking at the wall of people blocking their view sadly.

"Well I think I can fix that." Carmela said, smiling mischievously. Before the girl could respond, the ODST had snatched her up, the Chimera crying out happily in surprise as Carmela set her on her shoulders, carful to balance her and hold her legs for support.

"Up ya' go!" Treven said, laughing with the boy as he set him on his shoulders as well.

"How's that? Better?" He asked, looking up at the young Median.

"Wow! This is awesome!" He said excitedly, putting his hands on top of Trevens head to steady himself on the ODST's shoulders.

"I can see everything now! Thanks!" The young Chimera agreed, nodding her head and laughing happily.

The ODSTs laughed, enjoying themselves and their good deed for the day.

The four of them turned back to watch the Parade as more Medians walked by, holding up decorations on large giant sticks, some of which were people with large comical faces, dressed in an odd assortment of clothing.

Treven was a bit surprised when he saw a few floats, pulled by "Yuts", the domesticated farm animals they had encountered before. The floats were of far off kingdoms and places, more than a few depicting Forerunner structures, with more people dressed as "Guardians" waved from them, tossing out free bread and colored sweets. Wolvson managed to catch a few and passed them to Karin.

They were having a pretty good time watching the proceedings, with Carmela and Treven asking the young Medians a few questions here and there, just to explain what was what. Which Karin seemed more than happy to do. The Chimera girl had a few questions for Carmela as well, mostly about her hair, how she kept it so silky and smooth, and how her skin was so soft.

The Hell Jumper had kicked Treven when he'd explained that Carmela was a witch, making the two orphans laugh. Treven managed a chuckle past his bruised shin.

One of the last floats was the most interesting to Treven, and seemed to be quite significant to the people of Spherite.

On it was a man and a woman with a large disc shaped object behind them.

"Oh look!" Karin said excitedly. "It's the daughter!"

"Who?" Asked Treven curiously.

"The daughter is chosen by the Seneshai of the Mother, to represent the Goddess of life. She's an embodiment of the Holy Mother and is supposed to be one of the most beautiful women on all of Spherite!" The Dog Chimera said excitedly.

"The man next to her is the embodiment of her husband, the teacher. He's called the Son and he's chosen the same way she is." Wolvson explained, waving to the float as it approached.

"I'm going to be the daughter someday." Karin stated matter-of-factly, holding her head up high and smiling.

Treven watched the float approach interestedly. The "Daughter" was dressed in a long flowing gown, surrounded by flowers. She was a young woman that looked to be about 20-something, her hair was done up in a bun and she wore a small eloquent head dress. She was smiling happily and waving at the very large crowd of people from all over Spherite that had come to see the event, whom were waving back and cheering, some even bowing.

The "Daughter" had her arm around the waist of the man standing next to her that portrayed the Mothers husband, the "teacher" or the "Son", who was dressed in ornate armor with a long flowing cape and a rather large sword.

The two Orphans cheered and waved enthusiastically as the float approached the four of them.

The Hell Jumpers, in their odd, literally other worldly, armor weren't hard to miss in the crowd and stood out quite a bit to many people. The "Daughter" and "Son" weren't the first to notice them and be a bit shocked by their appearance, nor would they be the last.

However, as the two of them stared at the ODSTs, a little shocked, it did excite the two youngsters on their heads quite a bit and the "Daughter" even waved and smiled at the young girl Chimera atop Carmela's head.

Treven watched as they passed by, giving a wave as they did, but frowning in thought. Treven had had numerous long classes and briefings about the Forerunners, their culture and technology for this mission. All of which he'd found fascinating.

As a result of this however, he couldn't help but wonder if the people of Spherite's stories, holy texts and legends had quite a bit of truth to them. It was very possible...

He was drawn from his thoughts as he noticed the hooded figures that trailed behind the float, heads bowed and dressed in dark blue robes.

"Who are those guys?" Carmela asked, voicing his thoughts.

"They're the Seneshai of the Mother." Answered Karin, looking down at the ODST.

"They live high in the mountain temples." Wolvson explained, waving at them as they followed the "daughter".

Treven watched them pass by thoughtfully, wondering if he could somehow get a chance to talk to these "Seneshai." However as he watched them pass his eyes locked instead on a hooded figure across the street, staring right at him.

His ODST combat senses kicked in, and years of the most intense discipline and training imaginable told him that something was wrong. He couldn't see the eyes under the hood, just the mouth as the figure stared directly at him.

The Marines hand drifted towards his pistol, not touching it but hovering over it. He couldn't use it, not with so many civilians around; he'd risk hitting one of them. His movements didn't go unnoticed by Carmela however and she followed his gaze.

The minute her eyes met the strangers he turned and all but vanished into the mob of cheering people watching the parade.

"What was that..." Treven wondered aloud, frowning worriedly now, drawing a curious look from the young boy still on his shoulders who hadn't noticed a thing.

The cloaked figure turned down a dark alley, away from the crowds of people. His footsteps echoed softly off of the walls as he made his way silently towards a less populated area of town.

The tan cloak he wore was long and covered most of his body. It was tattered and dirty, showing signs of hard travel and rough use.

Seeming to have reached his destination, the figure stepped out into a small marketplace, filled with few people and walked towards a cart behind a deserted stall.

Checking the contents, the hooded man took out a small object and placed in his ear and began to speak to a small rectangular shaped metal box. As he spoke, seemingly to himself, he lifted the cloth covering another part of the cart, revealing a very large long rifle.

Spherite's Star was just past midday and had begun its long slow descent back down the sky. The Festival was progressing wonderfully, with only a few small hic-ups here and there.

The Gates to the City of Arringstone were bustling with people and activity. Much more so than usual. The City Guards were keeping vigilant, watching everyone that passed through closely and pulling aside the more suspicious people to talk with them.

Security was tight, but everyone knew why. The Traxins were the forefront of everyone's mind, even if they didn't voice it. It was common knowledge that Media was quickly becoming the last bastion, the only thing standing in their way from conquering the entire region.

Although they were celebrating the Festival of Life, war was on everyone's mind.

As the sun slowly came down from its peak the blue sky of Spherite, two men stood on the battlements overlooking the city gates and watching the proceedings.

Airon sighed and closed his eyes. "How many made it back?" He asked hollowly.

"Three, just barely... Their wounds were grave and they endured a lot just to bring us this information." Garit answered. "Our Medicae are with them now... they'll survive."

The Median Prince growled, the Chimera side of him coming out. "Shit. Fucking shit... so that's it then. With the eastern Kingdoms scattered, we're the only ones left..."

"The eastern kingdoms were always scattered, fighting with each other and squabbling over their little kingdoms of dirt. They surrendered without a fight, just rolled over and let them march right in." The Guard Captain said scathingly.

"These people here... they have no idea... some of them won't have homes to go back to..." Airon said, his hands balling into fists.

Garit sighed. "You sound more like her everyday..." he clapped the young Prince on the shoulder. "Don't worry; I've already got our armies gathering on the borders. Our main force is still to the south, waiting in reserve."

Airon felt sick and his head hurt, perhaps some of his feelings showed as the Guard Captain looked at him with concern. "Are you alright my Lord?" He asked worriedly.

"Garit... what am I supposed to do?" He asked, sounded almost defeated. "I'm no leader, I've fought before but just little skirmishes and bar fights. I don't know how to command armies or lead troops into battle."

He looked down at the city gates and all the people gathered, smiling happily. "Up until a year ago I was just a nobody... just a wandering adventurer, until I met Miyuki. Now everybody is looking to me to stop this madness, to save an entire Kingdom from the Traxin Empire…"

Garit watched him silently, not saying anything for almost a minute. For a second Airon thought he was going to yell at him, but when he spoke, his voice was... understanding.

"And so what would you rather do? Run away? Hide? Surrender?"

"No, of course not! I..."

"Airon, there isn't a single man who has commanded men in battle who hasn't been terrified of fucking up and getting them all killed. I know you're afraid, you think you can't do this and that it's all too much."

"These people, all of Media, they believe in you because they know you can do this. They know that you will not let the Traxins win. Don't let that intimidate you, let it drive you, push you to do better. All of these people, their fates rest on your shoulders. Don't let that bring you down. Use it to your advantage. These people are counting on you, and I know you will not let them down. There is greatness in you, everyone can see it, even Ellis and his men. Even Miyuki." Garit shook him. "We're going to win this, I promise you. You can do this Airon, you just need to believe in yourself. You do that, and the war is already won."

Airon sighed, closing his eyes and grinned. "You're right... you're always right Garit."

"Just remember everything I've taught you and you'll be magnificent. A shining example that even a mutt like you can ascend to greatness." The Median Commander said.

They stood and watched the crowds below as they enjoyed the festival and the Median Capital city, neither saying a word. The sound of footsteps behind them however alerted them and they turned to see two Hell Jumpers ascending the steps behind them.

"Hey you two, how's it going?" Asked Steele as they walked over to the two of them, leaning on the stone wall of the battlements to look down at the mass of people below.

"We're... it's going good." Said Airon, grinning a bit more confidently. "Are you enjoying the festival?" He asked the Marines, who nodded enthusiastically. "Hell yes, this is awesome! There's so much to see and do and the people..." Steele began, but she was silenced by Captain Ellis.

"Later 2nd Lieutenant, Report." The ODST commander ordered, making the Marine jump a bit. "Yes sir." She said, apologetically, Captain Ellis was mentoring her on how to be a better combat officer. Something she was grateful for, even if he was harsh. She knew that she needed to be on the ball while they were on Spherite. As accommodating as the Medians were, the Traxins would not be.

Pulling out a data pad she walked over to Garit and Airon, showing them a layout of the city. "Captain Ellis and I just completed our tour of the city defenses and gates. No irregular activity reported and no people thought to be Traxin spies have been reported." She said, highlighting Arringstone's defenses and city gates.

She then zoomed back out, before zooming back in on several different spots inside the city. "The rest of our men, including the Spartan, are patrolling inside the city and keeping a close watch for any suspicious activity." The 2nd Lieutenant zoomed in on Treven and Carmela's location along the parade route.

"Treven and Carmela spotted a suspicious hooded figure watching them from across the street for a whole minute, but were unable to pursue. They've dismissed it as a fascinated local, but reported it all the same." Steele reported as Garit nodded.

"I'll have some of my men do a sweep of that area just in case." He said, waving over one of the men assigned to guard Airon. He quickly ordered a guard squad sent to search the area in question for any suspicious people or activity.

"Speaking of," continued the Marine. "506 reported that some of your men are bringing a man your way. Apparently he knew Myra and tried to force her to come with him." She almost asked, curious as to what had actually transpired. The Spartan hadn't been very clear.

"Wow. I'll bet that went over well." Laughed Airon, shaking his head. "Surprisingly, nobody died. So that's good. Otherwise 506 reports nothing out of the ordinary." The Marine finished, stepping back beside Captain Ellis who nodded approvingly.

"I'll have to go meet with the guardsmen who are bringing him to me, should be entertaining. I can't imagine anyone other than a mad man trying to take Myra anywhere with the Spartan around. I think this is a tale I need to hear first hand." Garit said with an evil smile as he turned to look down at the main city street behind them, watching the crowds of people happily walk by below him as they entered the city, looking to see if he could spot the aforementioned guards.

He didn't see them, but he did however notice something far more important that had just passed through the city gates. "Well, that will have to wait. Likandros just walked through the gates." He said, looking over at the ODSTs.

"Hah, that was quicker than I expected. Thought we'd have to at least wait till the evening before discussing the Intel." Said Ellis, walking over and immediately spotting the large bear Chimera in the crowd, surrounded by men dressed in a very similar fashion to him.

"That was the general consensus, yes." Garit answered, pausing before turning away from the group and making for the stairs. "Let's go get the information you need. The sooner the better."

Airon understood his meaning. As soon as they were done they could focus completely on the defense and protection of the city. The Median Prince braced himself for the inevitable bone crushing bear hug he would receive from his old friend.

Cheers and applause erupted from the stands and balconies like a tsunami of noise as the final blow was delivered to a human Median, sending him to the ground in a heap as he coughed up blood.

The spectators yelled and whistled as the Lizard Chimera flexed his arms, showing off as the latest contestant was loaded onto a stretcher and hurried out of the Arringstone arena.

Gioconda, the reigning champion from the Argona rivers, walked back to the corner of the fighting ring and observed as the women running the score board put his name up as the winner of the round. It was shaping up to be a good competition, one of the best most people could remember having seen in a while.

The fighting ring was a slightly raised platform in the center of a dusty square. Surrounding it on all four sides in the shape of a square where two levels, with the fighting pits having been dug underneath them creating a basement level where they could rest, practice and receive medical care.

The two spectator levels were absolutely packed with people and didn't have any seats, but had slightly raised levels were those in the back could still see the fight. The two floors were absolutely packed with Humans and Chimera from all over Spherite, some of whom had come specifically to watch the tournament.

One fourth of the first level was dedicated to the tournament score boards and the betting tables, were people could bet on the outcome of either a fight or the tournament as a whole.

It was truly one of the events of the festival that many people looked forward too. Anyone could enter and anyone could fight.

Up in the 1st level spectator stands, two Chimera stood talking to three strange foreigners dressed in even stranger armor. They had been discussing the upcoming fight with enthusiasm and interest.

"And you're sure he'll win?" Asked a Chimera, looking skeptically at Aldo who was standing next to Brown, munching on a piece of buttered bread and watching the arena thoughtfully.

"Positive. Don't care how good this 'Gioconda' guy is, there's no way he can beat our boy." Said Brown confidently, with a large grin on his face.

The Chimera had overheard the Marines talking and had inquired on who would be the best bet for the next fight. He'd introduced himself as Dath and was an odd foreigner himself from a few Kingdoms over. The guy looked to Aldo like he'd never been in a confrontational situation is the entirety of his life.

"Long as he follows everything I've taught him he'll win." Gunny added, coming up behind them and passing Aldo and Brown a beer. "Boy is so stubborn there's a good chance he'll get cocky and get his shit pushed in."

"It starting!" Said Brown a bit excitedly, taking a swig of his beer and leaning over the railing and looking down into the arena.

"And now Ladies and Gentlemen, the Arena is very proud to bring you a special fight unlike any you have ever seen before!" The crowd cheered excitedly as the announcer paused for dramatic effect.

"On one hand, we have the reigning Argona Champion! Gioconda!" The cheers from the crowd grew louder as the Chimera walked out from the fighter's level and into the arena, his arms raised in a triumphant pose. He nodded to the crowd and stepped into a corner of the raised fighting ring.

"And now, the Medians are proud to present a foreigner from far distant lands to the north. The mysterious man known only as Seth!"

The Medians cheered loudly for the Hell Jumper who walked out into the arena with just a pair of black pants. He waved back to the spectators, grinning enthusiastically and winking at a few of the girls. Many had their attention focused on the tribal drawings on his body, namely a large flaming skull tattooed on his forearm. It seems even on distant worlds, girls always love the bad boy look.

As the ODST took his corner a tall skinny man stepped onto the raised ring, observing the two fighters, who were sizing one and other up, before addressing them loudly enough for all the spectators to hear as well.

"You both know the rules." He said firmly. "No bone breaking, eye gouging or use of any objects. Apart from that, anything goes. First one to give in or lose consciousness is the loser." They both nodded in acknowledgment and waited for the referee to clear the ring.

Seth and Gioconda stepped up to each other and shook hands, nodding respectfully as they acknowledged each other as fellow warriors.

The referee on the side of the ring raised his hands to the sky and repeated the prayer said before each festival fight. "Mother, hear us! You gave us life! And now we fight to keep it!" He yelled loudly.

The Chimera and ODST stepped back from each other and fell into their separate fighting stances, each one vastly different from the others.

"Fight!" yelled the referee.

The two circled each other slowly as the crowd watched their every move. It was quite unusual, as most simply charged at one and other and began swinging away, but this was different. They both looked calm and collected as their gaze never left the others.

"Tell me again why he's doing this?" Asked Aldo, from the sidelines, where they were jammed in with the other spectators, as he took another long tug on his beer while the Marines watched the fight along with the rest of the arena.

"Because Gunny said he could fight worth shit. So Seth, desperate for Gunnys approval and fatherly love, went and volunteered to fight the tournament champion." Answered Brown, laughing.

"I was gone for literally five minutes. Fuck, no wonder the Captain doesn't like to leave us alone for too long..." Aldo said, shaking his head and smiling.

Gunny didn't say anything, just grinned and watched as Gioconda struck first, taking a few precise swings at the Hell Jumper, which were easily blocked. Seth countered with a punch to the gut followed by a swift blow to the throat, the latter of which being blocked as the two warriors began their fight in earnest now.

The Chimera scored a few hits on the Marine, one even to the side of his head, but ODSTs were fierce hand-to-hand fighters and he shrugged them off as he dished out just as many hits.

Block, counter, block, counter, the fight went on as Gunny watched from the side, his keen eyes noting the Marines every move and every error, however minor. Jamal had been training the younger Marine in fighting a lot recently, their thoughts the same on that it would most assuredly come in handy during their stay on Spherite.

He chuckled darkly and nodded in approval as the new Corporal landed a perfect hit to the Lizards kidneys, sending him reeling a few steps back before only just managing to block Seth's next round of hits.

The crowd was ohh-ing and ahh-ing at every big hit that was landed, every clever move and sometimes dirty trick. They were almost evenly matched, but even the Argona citizens present could see that the strange foreigner was steadily gaining the upper hand against their champion.

"Come on Seth, fuck his shit up!" Yelled Brown, raising his glass high and receiving some odd looks from their fellow spectators around them.

"Wow! You weren't kidding, he's amazing! I wish I could fight like that." Commented Dath from beside Aldo, who laughed. "Told you you'd get your money didn't I?" He said, clapping Dath on the back.

Gunny however growled. "He's sloppy. He's not watching his footing or keeping the form I taught him." He said, as Aldo and Brown glanced at each other. Neither of them dared to say anything though...

Instead they turned to watch as the crowd cheered, Seth having narrowly blocked a haymaker, only to follow up with a series of devastating blows to the Chimera's kidneys yet again, sending him staggering backwards. "Come on boy, finish him!" Growled Gunny loudly.

The ODST caught his opponents arm and yanked him back towards him, were he hit him in the head so hard that the crack was heard around the arena, to many "ohh's". Seth's dark grin could be seen by all as he landed three massive hits in Gioconda's chest, which he weakly attempted to block.

Those rooting for the Hell Jumper cheered loudly, roaring their approval as Seth pulled back and put one more massive punch into his opponents head. Gioconda fell to the deck of the ring and stayed down.

Seth stood and let out a victory cry, his hands in the air as the arena cheered and clapped, a few even whistling, his fellow Marines among them.

"Are you not entertained? Are you not entertained!?" He asked the spectators, a huge grin on his face as the crowd cheered louder. Gunny groaned as Aldo face palmed. "Idiot." They both said at the same time as Brown laughed behind them.

((A/N Be honest, you knew it was coming lol))

Gioconda was behind him trying to get up as two medicae jogged up into the ring. Seth turned and offered his hand, which the Lizard Chimera accepted gratefully. They shook hands once more before the attendants ushered him off the ring so that they could treat him properly.

An hour later found the four Marines outside of the arena, listening to the crowds reactions to another fight now taking place. The afternoon sun was sinking ever lower into the blue skies of Spherite as they began to walk away from the Arena, Seth stuffing a few more pieces of paper into a pocket that had girls' addresses written on them.

"Showboating idiot." Gunny said, slapping Seth upside the head.

"Ow. What? They wanted a show so I gave them a show." Seth said, rubbing the back of his head as Brown chuckled behind him.

"You showed your ass is what you did. Holding back and letting him land a few hits on you... I saw you, there were five different times were you could've taken him out." Gunny growled, refusing to give the Marine the approval he sought.

Seth sighed. "Well, at least I won 500 gold. Beers are on me tonight boys." He said, nudging Brown who laughed and high five him back. "Sounds fucking good to me! Now if you'd pass one of those girls addresses to me, my night would be complete." He said, grinning.

Aldo pushed Seth jokingly on his other side as they turned a corner and made their way down the crowded festival streets, ignoring the vendors trying to call them over to their stalls. "Don't listen to Gunny man, you did great. Crowd loved it. And I bet he'll be pissing blood for a few days after all those kidney shots." He said, grinning.

Gunny slapped Seth upside the head again. "Ow! What was that for?" He asked, frowning at Gunny who chuckled. "That one was for Aldo. Enough dicking around, we can drink but we got fucking work to do, so get your shit together. The Captain has asked us to patrol sector of the city where the guards have reported a bit of fighting." He said, putting on his helmet and pulling up a map of the city as the others did the same, Seth having just finished strapping his chest plate back into place.

Brown was using his Marine standard issue helmet, the ODST armor he was to recieve still being calibrated at the Albatross, but he made due with his own HUD.

"Sector Charlie-2. It's just down the street, a block, left turn and two blocks further." He said, checking the pistol he was carrying with him. His fire team followed suit, checking their own pistols, each on the size of a small cannon and enough to take down a Sangaheili.

The fell into a loose patrol formation and made their way through the throngs of people to the patrol area, Gunny briefing them as they walked.

"Not expecting any trouble up here, Captain just wants to make double sure that there's nothing out of the ordinary." The Hell Jumpers spoke over their radios as they walked. "Don't draw your weapon unless you have to, civilian casualties are unacceptable. Don't get complacent and keep an eye out for anything out of the ordinary. I know these Traxin faggots are going to make their move at this festival."

"What makes you say that Gunny?" Asked Aldo, waving at a few Medians that they knew as they passed by.

The Gunnery Sergeant looked back at him. "It's what I would do."

The Marines made their way down the street and into the sector they were asked to patrol.

"Lot more Median Guards around here. What's supposed to be here?" Asked Brown looking around and watching a group of City Guards lounging on a stack of creates, talking to each other.

"Not sure, haven't been to this part of the city." Seth answered, walking casually, but keeping his eyes on the rooftops at the same time. One advantage of a mirrored visor, nobody care see where you're looking. He liked that, offered a bit of an element of surprise and subtlety, whichever the occasion called for.

About 15 meters down the street they could see a large booth with a line of people waiting to talk to a Median Soldier inside a tent, a large warehouse behind him.

"Ah. I see. Recruiting center." Gunny said, nodding as he recognized the area for what it was.

"Guess that's why Captain wanted us to make a sweep through here. Recruiting station would make a good place to attack, even if it was just something as small as somebody running up and stabbing the recruiter or an applicant." Brown said, nodding in understanding.

"Let's talk to one of the recruiters, see if there's been anything going on that hasn't reached Garit yet." Gunny said, gesturing towards the tent.

As they drew nearer to the booth, the afternoon sun shining off of their helmets, they saw just how long the line was to talk to the recruiter. "Shit, lots of people enlisting huh?" Seth noted, frowning slightly.

"Everybody knows that a war is coming, the Traxins have destroyed many lives. A lot of people want payback and Media is the only Kingdom standing up to them." Said a female voice from behind them and to their right.

They turned to see who had spoken, only to find a Doe Chimera dressed in Median armor staring back at them with a smile.

"I know you..." said Aldo, scrutinizing the Chimera and wracking his brain to try and remember.

"And I remember you. You and your Captain saved me from the Traxin patrol in the mountains." She said smiling at Aldo, whose eyes went wide. "Holy shit." He said, somewhat shocked. "Yeah, I'm glad to see you made it to safety. Did the others make it with you?"

"Yup! They're living here in Arringstone! We'd heard the stories that soldiers like the ones who'd rescued us were here, but we hadn't seen any one like you or your group until now."

"That's great!" Aldo said, truly happy for her and the other women. "Listen, about what happened back there. I'm sorry we had to leave you guys. We had a mission to complete and..." the ODST began, but the Doe waved it off. "It's fine. Don't worry about it. We made it here just fine."

Aldo turned to Gunny, Seth and Brown who had been watching patiently from off to the side. "She's one of the refugees we rescued from the Traxin patrol, while we were looking for 506." He explained. "And before we ran into you." He said, gesturing to Brown.

"I'm sorry ya' had to deal with Aldo here, who apparently has no manners," said Seth as he stepped forward and offered her his forearm. "I'm Seth." He told her as he removed his helmet and smiled, seemingly to introduce himself politely. His squad mates immediately saw through the gesture.

"Serena." The Chimera said, smiling at him and shaking his forearm. "Damn, now that's a beautiful name for a beautiful girl. So, you're in the Median Army?"

Serena blushed a bit at Seth's compliment, but seemed to brush it off. "Yup! I enlisted last week, I'm still in training technically, but I'm no stranger to a blade and know what I'm doing. So they sent me here to help out with some of the newer recruits."

"Is the Army ready for war with the Traxins?" Asked Aldo curiously. He'd been at all the briefings, but the grunts and foot soldiers knew the situation better than anyone else because they were the ones living in it.

The Doe Chimera grinned and cracked her knuckles. "Oh we're ready alright. More and more people are enlisting every day, even from neighboring Kingdoms. They may be good, but they stick to one doctrine of tactics and nothing else, so they're predictable." She said, grinning and running her hand along the hilt of the sword strapped to her waist. "And now that Captain Garit has been given command of all our forces, I'm going to be able to pay those shit lickers back tenfold."

"Fuck yeah, that's what I like to here. We'll be there helping out as much as we can too, I'll make sure to leave a couple left standing for you." Seth said, grinning and nudging her.

"Oh really?" She laughed. "That sure of yourself are you?"

"Very." Seth answered, winking. "Maybe I could show you a thing or two over a few drinks."

The Hell Jumper received a smack across the back of the head. "Put your fucking cock back in your pants Corporal, you're on a patrol. Flirt on your own mother fucking time." A voice growled behind him.

The Doe laughed along with Aldo and Brown while Seth feigned a hurt look. "But Gunny, look at her. She's so damn cute, especially with that armor on. Come on, I see you checking her out." He received another smack.

"That she may be, but I'm sure that she doesn't want an insubordinate shit like you teaching her anything." He said stepping forward. "Now if you'd stop thinking with your dick, you'd realize that we can ask her what we want to know, I kick your ass and then you can do whatever you want."

"Ah. That's right." Brown said, turning back to Serena. "We got asked to patrol around here and check shit out. Anything strange or odd going on? Shifty people that look out of place or acting weirdly?"

The Median soldier stood and thought for a second. "No, not particularly. We've had a few odd people pass by, but they didn't pay us any mind. I actually think they were using us to hide from people, debt collectors most likely."

"Nobody starting any fights or stray Traxins wandering around?" Asked Aldo, making double sure.

"Well there's the Traxin Legion that's been camping out across the street, giving us the stink eye all day and trying to throw rotten vegetables at us..." Serena said sarcastically, looking at him and trying to tell whether or not he was serious. "No, of course there aren't any Traxins." She said as Brown and Seth laughed.

"Yeah Aldo, come on man." Brown said as Seth tried to fist bump Serena, only for her to look back at him in confusion.

Gunny sighed and smacked all three of them on the back of the head. "Idiots." He growled and Serena laughed. "Thank you for your time ma'am, sorry you had to deal with these three." He said and the Doe Chimera smiled, nodding.

"New orders. Aldo, with me, we're heading to check on the West gate. Brown and Seth I want you to go check the East gate. Now." Ordered the Gunnery Sergeant. "Aye Gunny." They all replied in unison.

Seth however hung back, Brown waiting on him to finish flirting. "So, how about those drinks later?" He asked, winking and showing her the large bag of gold he'd won in the tournament.

She giggled and stepped a bit closer to him. "I can't I'm on duty right now." She said, leaning in a bit closer. "But I get off duty in three hours... and it just so happens there's a nice Tavern just down the block that rents rooms by the hour..."

The Hell Jumper grinned, chuckling. "Is that right? Well, that sounds like a place I should check out."

She kissed his cheek and let her hand drift across his armors groin protection. "Don't keep me waiting." Without another word, the Chimera turned on her heel and marched off back to the recruiter's tent.

Grinning smugly, the Helljumper turned and walked over to Brown who had been watching from a distance. "How the hell do you do that?" The Marine asked incredulously. "Teach me master."

The Tavern "Guardians Respite" was absolutely bursting with people and Chimera from all walks of life, the afternoon sun shining in through its windows and illuminating the almost chaotic scene within its walls. Groups of people were everywhere, talking, laughing and joking with one another.

The first day of the Festival of Life was turning out to be a resounding success and many were looking forward to the nights festivities with a rumored "special event" that was supposed to take place at some point. Nobody could say for sure what it was, but rumors were flying back and forth between people like a plague. Everything from an execution of Traxon prisoners, to an appearance of the Mothers Guardians.

Just inside the entrance to the tavern stood Captain Garit, talking to two of his men. He nodded, satisfied with their report and watched as a barmaid walked up to him and the group of people he was with. "Right this way ma' lords." She said smiling, curtsying meekly before gesturing them to follow her.

Garit, Airon, Likandros, Kandul, Ellis and Steele followed the Feline Chimera through the sea of people and up the stairs to the second floor of the tavern.

"Not too shabby a place ya' got here mutt." Commented Likandros as he took in second floor of the Tavern, which was just as beautifully decorated with only slightly less people. "Might need to take it over, make this place the official Völsung embassy here in this shit heap you call a Country."

"Says the man literally living under a rock." Garit fired back with a grin. "Can't let you do that, we don't let cowards stay in our city." Airon also said, grinning as he shoved Likandros a bit.

The bar maid led the group across the second story to a VIP room overlooking the town square, which had been built for just such an occasion as this. Some festival goers apparently thought they could use it as their own private hangout, which were promptly chased out by Likandros, as the pair of Median guards Garit had brought with them posted up outside the room.

"So! Let's skip all the formal bullshit and get right to the point shall we? What can this old Bear do for you?" Asked Likandros, after all those present sat down and ordered their drinks from the overly polite barmaid.

Airon sighed and looked over at Captain Ellis who produced a map, the one that had several key locations highlighted and circled on its parchment. The Hell Jumper handed it to the Bear Chimera, who took it and examined it. "We're looking for something. A particular structure that we believe to be... ah, very important." Ellis said, somewhat lamely as he tried to skip all the technical bullshit.

"We believe it to be somewhere in this area, a very specific structure. Should be quite large with a big tower, maybe a couple smaller structures that feed power to it around it." Steele added, watching him carefully.

The Völsung Chieftain read the map, frowning a bit. His subordinate, Kandul, leaned over and whispered something in his ear, causing him to snort and shake his head.

"Why is this place you're looking for so important?" He asked skeptically, looking at Captain Ellis now and scrutinizing him. "It's preventing us from sending messages and talking to our friends, our allies." He answered, hoping he wouldn't have to explain further. "The structure is designed to do that."

Likandros observed him for a few seconds, before chuckling and pushing the map back over to him.

"Sure, why not. Yeah, I know the place you're looking for, seen it myself. It's in the Makous Mountains, towards the top." He grinned. "Now, you're wondering why I'm telling you this. Well I'll tell you that too. That place is home to The Howling. Nasty group of Barbarians that have been giving me trouble for a few years now."

The ODST Commander listened to him, frowning a bit. "So if you want to talk to your friends or comrades or whatever, you'll have to go through them to do it." He finished, still grinning and accepting his drink from the barmaid who had just returned while Airon and Garit looked at each other with concern.

Captain Ellis however simply grinned back at the Chimera. He took a long sip from the mead he had ordered and observed Likandros thoughtfully. "Well, I'm not too worried about that. We can handle them." He said confidently.

The literal bear of a man looked a little surprised at his casual attitude towards such a daunting task. "I like you boys; you've got balls on you that's for damned sure. But trust me; these shitheads up in those mountains aren't to be fucked with lightly." Likandros said, trying to impress upon him the danger he faced. "So tell me, what makes you so sure of yourself 'Captain'?" He said, emphasising Ellis's rank sardonically.

To answer to his question, Ellis simply jabbed his thumb over at the door to the room. "Him." He said simply.

In the doorway stood Spartan-506, who had just stepped into the room having been radioed by the Captain to meet them there.

"Sweet Mother!" Likandros said in surprise. "Look at the size of him! What do you feed him?" The Chimera stood up and walked over to the Spartan a huge grin on his face. "You must be the one they were talking about, the Titan!"

Ellis smiled and took another drink from his mug of mead, admiring the taste as Likandros walked around 506, examining him. "What's your name Warrior?" He asked, seeming to have taken an instant liking to the Spartan whom, if Ellis had to guess, was probably confused right now.

"Spartan-506." He replied. "Are you Likandros?"

"I am indeed, Chieftain of the Völsung Warrior Tribe! Of which you would make a most welcomed addition too. We train hard and fight harder and at night drink as you can stomach! If you can best my men in combat that is!" The Bear Chimera laughed uproariously. "Why don't you..."

"Oh my fuck Likandros, let the man breath." Airon said laughing as Garit chuckled behind him, shaking his head. "I think it's cute, love at first sight." Lieutenant Steele said, to laughter from the table.

"Sorry Likandros, looks like he's spoken for." Kandul, the Chieftains Guard and Commander said, gesturing to the timid looking Vixen hiding behind the Spartan.

Likandros hadn't even noticed the girl behind 506 and looked taken aback for a second. "Of course he is!" The Bear boomed yet again, laughing. "A true warrior like this man has women at his beck and call!" He laughed again. "Come! Sit and drink with us Spartan!"

506 however, to Ellis and Steele, looked exceptionally confused. "Captain. Did we receive the Intel?" He asked, turning to the ODST who nodded. "Yes. Chieftain Likandros was just filling us in about some squatters holed up inside of the structure however, so we'll have to deal with them if we want access to the tower."

"Squatters sir?" The Spartan asked, obviously wanting to know exactly what kind.

"A group of shit licking Barbarians that live up in the mountains and think the world belongs to them." Likandros explained, taking down almost half of his flaggon of mead in one gulp. "Airon! You call this swill mead? You and your Spartan friend will have to come to my Mead Hall and taste the real thing!" He said, gesturing at 506, who had gotten Myra a seat next to Ellis while he stood behind her, the chair unable to support the weight of his armor.

Likandros however mistook this for chivalry, not practicality and again boomed with laughter. "See there Airon? He lets his woman have the seat while he stands! A true man!" He downed the last of his tankard, ordering another one for himself and 506.

"Can you be more specific about the region of the tower and these barbarians?" The Spartan asked, taking off his helmet and taking a sip of his mead, if only to indulge the large bear.

"Mostly pretty dense forest until about halfway up the mountain, then its gets pretty clear. The 'Howling' like to set up ambushes and traps in the forest for unwitting travelers. They set up shop in one of the larger clearings just next to the structure." Likandros said, staring thoughtfully out the window, trying to remember.

"Be careful, they know that whole area like the back of their scabbed and rotting hands. Won't hesitate to use the environment against you." He finished, chuckling at some memory.

"If you know where they are and their tactics, why haven't you killed them?" Asked Ellis, almost accusingly, but keeping his voice casual.

"They don't bother me, so why should I care. Long as they stay up there I don't give a rat's ass what they do." The Bear Chimera answered as Garit shook his head.

"Likandros, they raid trade caravans and kill innocent travelers... well maybe not so innocent if they're in your lands, but still." Airon said, frowning at the old Bear Chimera, who simply scoffed in response.

"What about the Traxins? You're going to be fighting them when the time comes right?" Asked Captain Ellis, frowning at the Chieftain.

"You bet your ass I will. Barbarians are one thing, but those so called 'men'..." He all but growled in response. "They killed my father and my uncles. I have long awaited the day that I might get revenge and thank the Mother it is now almost upon us. I will enjoy every single moment of spilling their blood upon this blade!"

The Bear Chimera stood up and pulled out a long brutal looking sword, tipsily, before Airon and Kandul stood up to stop him. "Alright there big guy, cool it down." Kandul said, amusement in his voice. "Among friends here."

"What are you an old woman?" Asked Airon, laughing. "Two tankards of mead and you're already like this? Disgraceful." He laughed along with the rest of the table, even Myra.

"Well, it's good to know that we'll have such and enthusiastic ally." Said Steele, laughing. "Yeah, just make sure he remembers who they allies are Kandul." Grinned Garit, who raised his glass to the Völsung warrior.

Things settled down a bit and the talk turned for war to the discussion of the festival and how it was proceeding, with both of the visiting Völsung inquiring about that nights "special event" that lady Miyuki had been spreading around.

The demands for information were refused however and culminated with Likandros challenging the Spartan to an arm wrestle. Which he instantly won, almost breaking the bears arm.

Most at the table were at least a little tipsy by now, the Marines and Garit keeping themselves in check as they still had to stay alert and ready.

Before long however, night was fast approaching, sooner than they expected and they each had to go their separate ways. However, Airon encouraged Likandros to attend the special event as he was quite sure he would enjoy it.

506 and Myra went off on their own again, Ellis asking the Spartan to make a quick patrol of the main gate before the big show, to which he immediately agreed. The ODST watched him go, with Lieutenant Steele next to him.

"They actually make a pretty good couple huh." Commented the Marine officer, sounding happy for the Spartan.

The Sun of Spherite was still peeking out just over the horizon, as though holding on to the edge of the world and clinging to it to keep shining just a bit longer, casting long shadows across the land in its orange glow.

With night soon approaching, the torches and lamps within Arringstone were being lit in preparation for the coming darkness and the festival activities that would follow with it.

More than a few people had heard the rumor by now about the "special event" the Medians had prepared, which was apparently supposed to take place not long after dusk just off of the city square.

Up on the second story of a shop that sold food and spices, Treven was setting up said special presentation. Namely a video projected onto the large empty stone wall across the street. The latest movie adaptation of "Les Misérables" had been selected from Gunny's personal collection of movies, as it was thought to be the easiest one to relate to for all those attending.

The ODST could hear the buzz of the festival goers from his position, all waiting to see what the Medians "special event" was. Said event was what Treven was working so god damned hard on right now to set up perfectly.

"Trev! You good to go or what?" Called Carmela from the doorway behind him as the Helljumper toyed relentlessly with the holographic projector that sat in front of him on a wooden table.

"Do you want to come over here and do this?" He yelled behind him, slightly annoyed. "Didn't think so, so shut the fuck up and let me work my god damned magic!"

Treven heard the footsteps behind him and prepared himself for a possible sneak attack from his fellow ODST, the ones that Carmela was famous for using on him whenever he'd pissed her off for some reason or another.

To his great surprise however he instead felt her arms snake around him and her hot breath on his neck. "Now is that anyway to talk to a girl?" She asked, pushing her breasts against his back on purpose and a hand hovering just above his waistline.

Treven groaned. He could smell the alcohol on her breath and knew exactly what was going on. "Carm, we've had this talk before." He sighed, trying to convince not only her, but also himself. After all it wasn't the first time she'd came onto him while drunk. However they'd both agreed that they couldn't do any of that shit as it would just cause too many problems for the squad.

But damned if she wasn't the best he'd ever had. It was always so goddamned frustrating to tell her no when she was practically raping him.

"Come on Carm, let me work." He gave her a gentle shove away from him and leaned in to examine the finishing touches on the projector, making sure that it wouldn't fritz out mid video and that people wouldn't have to sit through those god damned advertisements.

He gasped however as he felt her hand slip down his pants and grab his manhood, surprising the hell out of him at her sudden rashness. "You should know better Trev. Helljumpers never quit and they always finish the mission." She whispered tipsily in his ear, giving him a not so gentle squeeze before getting up and walking back down stairs.

The ODST sighed and cursed. He'd have to really watch out for her tonight...

Treven finished his work with the projector, having just gone through the movie previews and setting it up to play when they were ready. Just as he did Steele radioed up to him. "You good to go up there Treven?" The Lieutenant asked and he could hear the sound of a large group of people in the background.

"Yes ma'am, we're ready to rock." He replied, getting ready to turn on the main projector.

"Excellent job Helljumper, everything is ready down here. Go ahead and start it up." She said and Treven could hear the smile in her voice.

He chuckled and got ready to head out the door, planning to watch the movie with the rest of his squad. "And 3, 2, 1." He said to himself before pressing the play button and turning on the projector which shot out onto the wall across the street. The Marine grinned as he heard the crowd below "ohh" in surprise before going silent.

Making for the door, he left his things behind just in case he needed to use them in the unfortunate event that something stopped working, broke or caught fire. Before he could reach it however, Carmela stepped back inside and pulled him into a kiss, ambushing him.

Outside, the gathered people of Spherite watched in amazement as words began to form on the wall, surrounded by what looked like water with shaped upon the surface.

"1815. France, Earth. Twenty six years after the start of the French Revolution, a King is once again on the throne of France. The people suffer under his rule, starvation, disease and corruption are commonplace."

The camera surfaces the water and shows an old crippled warship being dragged into port in the middle of a storm by what looks to be more than a hundred men in an enormous chain gang.

As the scene progressed the singing began, just as though it was a play. This was why the Marines had chosen this movie, because it was technically in the form of a play and would be much easier for the people of Spherite to accept and watch. But it had been Miyuki who'd asked if they could play a movie at the festival, going on and on about what fun it would be for everyone to enjoy it.

Many people seemed entranced by the display and movie as it progressed and showed Valjean's struggle to create a life for himself. And many more could relate when it showed the lives of the people and what they endured just to get by. Although only a handful of the Medians could relate, as Media under the rule of Miyuki and Airon was a very desirable place to live.

Ellis watched the crowd's reactions more than the movie itself, especially curious about what they might be.

Dante too, who sat with Myra's head resting on his shoulder, was watching the crowd with interest. However when the story came to Fantine's struggle Myra seemed to become particularly disheartened and even cried at her singing of "I dreamed a Dream", burying her head into the Spartan.

Miyuki and Airon themselves, along with many other leaders present, seemed to pay special attention to the revolutionaries, most with interest and respect, while a handful of particularly snobbish people viewed them with contempt and spite.

The entire audience was enraptured with the movie and seemed to be having an amazing time, with more and more showing up to watch as word spread, packing into every possible space including houses and shops.

At Cosette's death there were very few dries eyes in the audience, many weeping softly as the young girl died in the arms of her would-be lover. At the end of the movie the deaths of the revolutionaries was met with many somber and saddened expressions, as was the death of Jean Valjean.

However, the scene at the end showing how the fires of revolution had spread was met with many cheers and much applause.

"That went well." Ellis said, nodding in approval, arms crossed and talking to Gunny who was next to him, pretending not to notice the small tear he was wiping from his eye. The Captain laughed to himself, he knew about his oldest friends secret love for romances, but never judged him. They were friends after all and had fought together for so long that they knew each other's secrets and dreams better than anyone else.

"Remind me to thank Treven for doing such a good job setting all this shit up." Jamal said, nodding.

"I wouldn't right now. I saw Carmela heading up there at the beginning, she looked a little tipsy." The Captain said, sighing and glancing up at the window where he knew they were.

"Wow. Ambushed the poor bastard huh? Thought they'd decided to not do that?" Gunny said, taken aback.

"They did." He answered, shaking his head.

His friend laughed, also shaking his head. "And Seth is off with a Median soldier he met earlier. This is turning into a fucking love cruise."

"Long as they keep their shit together and we're all still able to do our jobs." He said, not really caring as much as he knew he should. "Come on. Let's go get another patrol in with Garit before heading back to the ship. I'm sure he'll have his men patrolling all night keeping everything safe, especially with all the drunks out and about."

"Might as well. Nobody for me to yell at right now anyways." The old Marine laughed darkly.

The large crowd of people was dispersing as everyone went their separate ways for the night, most heading back to the Inns or Taverns where they had rented rooms. Some, like Likandros and his kin, stayed up drinking late into the night at the bar of their respective Inns.

Most of the Marines did the same, with Brown, Steele and Aldo trying some of the more exotic drinks as they talked and laughed loudly.

Airon and Miyuki retired back to the Castle for the night, escorted by Dante and Myra who accompanied them back up the sloping hill, before retiring to their respective rooms.

((A/N A very special thanks to Kat, who helped write for Myra))

Myra's claws raked down Dante's back yet again. She moaned loudly as they made love, her hips moving of their own accord into his, as he growled. Her mind was filled with a white fog as he hit the deepest parts of her again and again.

She could feel him pulsing, throbbing as he brought them closer to the edge and she dug her hands into the back of his head, desperately ! onto him as he fought to unite them once more. "I love you... I love you..." she said over and over, desperate to tell him in between her cries.

Dante bit down on her neck in her weakest spot and she screamed in pure pleasure, her body clamping down on his and milking him for the gift she so desperately wanted. They reached their climax together. Her body writhed and spasmed as he claimed her mouth in a searing kiss and she felt him growling deeply in pleasure as he released his very essence deep within her body.

Her claws sank into Dante's back drawing his blood, clinging to him like a life raft as wave after wave of pure white hot pleasure slammed into her body while she screamed into his kiss.

Through the hazy fog that filled her mind and the fire that spread over every inch of her body, she felt her mate filling her. The Vixen clung to him, mewling softly, holding him inside her and savoring the feeling of him spreading deeper in her.

"Dante..." she mewled happily again with tears in her eyes, panting hard. She was so very happy... She had to tell him, had to let him know how much she loved him... but the words wouldn't come...

Breathing heavily he smiled and ran his hand through her fur, staring down at her with what she could only describe as true happiness. "Myra..." He moaned her name, eyes closed and his forehead against hers. Opening his eyes he looked at her. "Mine..." he said simply, grinning, before claiming her lips in another breathless kiss. She felt more tears fill her eyes at his words and she knew he was right. "Y-yours..." she said into the kiss, rocking her hips slowly.

Myra gave him soft little kisses and licking him a few times, thanking him for such a truly wonderful and precious gift.

Her Spartan held her in his powerful arms, both of them panting softly now as he turned them onto their sides while they came down from their high.

Myra tucked her arms in between their bodies and ran her hands over his chest, examining his almost impossibly tone muscles as her hero wrapped himself protectively around her, receiving a happy contented sigh from her in return.

He was amazing, always so very gentle... She loved him, so very much that it hurt whenever she was away from him for even the smallest amount of time. There was nowhere she felt safer than in his loving embrace.

He yawned, something she rarely saw him do, and decided to strike, sticking her finger in his mouth which surprised him as he closed it. He laughed softly. "Funny." He said, but took her finger and sucked on it before giving it a kiss. She smiled and lay her head back on his chest, listening to the steady beating of his heart, letting it sooth her.

The Vixen felt him lay his head atop hers, kissing it as he sighed contentedly, reaching down to gently massage her breast, eliciting a soft moan from her...

Myra loved when he caressed her; he was always so carful and loving with her, as though she were fragile. Which she enjoyed quite a lot, loving nothing more than being in his powerful and loving embrace, his body almost swallowing hers as he shielded her.

The Vixen moaned again as he now slipped his hand down between her legs, cupping her mound in his hand and rubbing it gently. Not parting the petals of her flower, but just rubbing her, kissing the top of her head as he did.

Secretly, Myra wished that she had stamina like he did, so that she could keep going. The Vulpine had no idea where he drew his seemingly limitless energy from; he'd already cum inside of her twice now. But as much as she wanted to keep going, she was very tired. They had spent all day at the festival, and had made love twice... she could already feel her eyes drooping.

Somehow, she didn't even have to say anything. Dante simply knew and stopped, chuckling as he pulled his hand away from her most precious spot and kissed her head yet again. She was thankful, as much as she adored making love to her Spartan, he was hard to keep up with. Myra still ached from when he'd bent her over the bed and... Her face turned crimson as she stopped that line of thought and she stopped herself. Now was time for sleep... not for that.

She could feel her eyes drooping, exhausted from the day's events as Dante kissed her, before pulling her deep into his protective embrace. She mewled softly again for him, still able to feel his warm seed and the wonderful 'full' sensation inside her womb. She used to despise the feeling, hated it as it meant she was defiled...

But now... now she had Dante. Her Warrior Angel. She smiled in true happiness, giving him a few soft kisses and licks. "I love you... Dante..." she said, sleepily as she fought to stay awake. The Vixen felt him squeeze her gently. "I love you too Myra." He kissed the top of her head. "So very much... I love you and... I wish we could stay just like this..." he finished, a bit awkwardly, pulling her in for one last breathless kiss for the night. She smiled as she nuzzled into his neck, he was slowly getting better at expressing his feelings, something she knew he was making a conscious effort at for her...

Myra didn't deserve him... she knew that... Not someone as wonderful and amazing as the man that now held her in his powerful arms... a small part of her expected him to find somebody better and leave her... the Vixen wouldn't blame him either...

She still couldn't believe it sometimes... that she had been blessed with him. That this man... her savior...this godlike warrior from the stars... this Spartan... loved her. Of all people, he loved her, defiled and shamed as she was. She buried her head into his neck and he held her there, kissing her ears.

She remembered when she had been captured, after running away... how she had prayed and prayed for the Holy Mother to save her... for her to send somebody, anybody to help her. Night after night she had desperately prayed a she sobbed, defiled and broken on a cold floor... More than a once she had thought of suicide. She had given up hope, thinking that the Mother had abandoned her, that she didn't care about her.

But then Dante had found her.

The Holy Mother hadn't sent just anybody, not a Knight or a Prince or some other foolish hope.

She had called down a Warrior, from Heaven itself, to save her. An invincible 'Spartan' that had saved her from that life...

Dante was everything she had hoped and prayed for... and so much more than what she could have ever dreamed... strong, powerful, brave, indestructible, caring, loving and kind...

She nuzzled into her warrior angels neck, kissing it and receiving one in return.

"Dante..."

Before she drifted off to sleep Myra silently said a prayer to the Holy Mother, as she did every night. Again she thanked her for blessing her with Dante and asked for her to keep him safe through whatever battles lay ahead of him. She also asked that she and Dante be together forever... smiling into his embrace as she did.

Then a new thought came to her as she felt Dante's seed inside of her... One that made her blush at the thought and attempt to bury her head deeper into her Spartans arms, hiding a small smile.

Myra loved Dante. She loved him with every fiber of her being and she knew he felt the same, and he proved it to her at every chance he got. He did so much for her, but she'd never been able to do anything for him... but...

Blushing furiously, she secretly told the Holy Mother, that if she would allow it...

That Myra would love nothing more than... than to have Dante's Pup... She smiled, burrowing deeper into his embrace.

Or Pups...

Myra prayed for the seeds Dante had planted inside her take root. If not these... then when the Holy Mother knew the time was right.

She wanted to be with him forever, just like this.

Dante did so very much for her. The very least she could do for him, would be to have his child. Her savior from the stars, her Spartan... Their hands entwined and she placed them atop her womb as sleep overtook her.

She dremt of small children who had Dante's hair and her eyes. They ran around her and Dante, who was wearing a set of common Median clothes, laughing and playing as she smiled and laughed with them. Dante looked on with a smile just about to dawn on his lips, eyes bright with love for her and his children.

He'd make a great father, so very strong and caring.

Myra dreamed of being with him forever. Growing old with him. Taking on his surname. Wearing his ring. Bearing his children and mothering their children to come. They say if you dream hard enough, your dreams become reality. And Myra dreamed harder than most.

Maybe one day it would happen. Myra hoped it was a day soon to come, but right now, she and Dante had to take the present on one day at a time. There was so many dangers and so many things that he and the Helljumpers needed to do.

But... maybe one day...

Next chapter, we'll be getting to the real meat and potatoes of the story :D