Chapter 23

Two thousand years ago, chaos began to brew within the Flora's surviving fleet as the last refugees of the galaxy flew towards Peruva. The ark vessels were massive and symmetrical in shape, their angular halls more than capable of transporting what little remained of the living. With nowhere else to run, all the survivors could do was pray and hope Peruvia was safe from the parasite.

"Dammit Azenath, why!?" Corian muttered as he fell to his knees just inches from the sealed gates of the ark. "Why?"

Thanks to the sacrifice of the Thara, most of the refugee's fleet had been able to evade the tide of death. But as Corian stared out into space, he could feel nothing but weariness and regret. There was no time to celebrate or revel in the hard-fought victory, with the many years of battle against the parasite having finally taken their toll.

"Is there a point to this you freak?" The young man growled, staring up at the ceiling as he began to imagine every comrade he had lost. "Or is it just a game to you?"

Much of the Flora's ark vessel was dull and empty, its clean chromatic surfaces containing mostly large hallways and blue terminal screens for navigation. There was nowhere for the refugees to sit or relax, as many of them still crowded into the ship and away from the entrance. They were all terrified the plague would pursue them.

"Are you alright mister?" A faint voice called out to Corian from behind.

The young knight turned to see a small girl, her tattooed hands struggling to hold on to the steel railings as she drew closer. She was a member of the winged Zana species, humanoid fairies with a petite and calm demeanor. According to the history Corian had learned from the Flora, the girl's peaceful race had lived in isolation on their planet for ages. But like so many other races, they were eventually enslaved by the Thara empire, before later falling victim to the black plague.

"Yeah, just catching my breath," Corian lied, bringing himself to his feet as he reached for his abandoned sword.

"We observed your strength in those dire moments," the Zana girl bowed, her blonde hair covering her eyes as her transparent wings began to flutter. "Thank you."

"Don't worry about me little girl, go find your people. It won't be long till we reach Peruvia," the knight muttered, his voice still obscured by the bloodstained armor that enveloped his body.

Many of the refugees had already left the gates behind, having climbed several sets of stairs in order to reach the main hall where they could at the very least observe the stars through an open observation deck. But for reasons Corian could not understand, the little girl had left the rest of her family, slipping her way through all the others in the silver hall just so she could see the knight.

"What is that place?" The Zana girl asked, her bright purple eyes glowing from behind her hair. "Everything happened so fast, we aren't even sure where we're headed."

"It's a retreat of sorts, designed by the Flora to house all endangered species in case of an extinction event. Like a backup file, if that makes any sense."

"A reservation then? How estudious of them," the girl smiled sarcastically. "Somewhat unexpected as well, given the efforts the Flora made to protect us."

"Well when you put it like that," Corian laughed, surprised by the girl's intelligence. "Didn't know you Zana were so sassy."

"Well, it wasn't my idea. We Zana are what you humans call a hivemind, and many of us feel the Flora has taken inadequate measures against the plague."

"You know they messed up when even the pacifist species has a complaint."

Corian then took the hand of the little girl and began to lead her towards the main hall. For just a brief moment, he felt calm and relaxed, as if there was finally some payoff to all his hard work. But even the slightest vision of peace would be shattered as he finished climbing the stairs.

"What is that?!" The Zana girl gasped, staring at a large black crystal that floated silently above the main hall. "It just...appeared! None of us saw it before!"

"Oh no," Corian muttered to himself, trying his hardest not to panic. "It's them."

Suddenly, several alarms set off within the ark, turning every blue monitor into a crimson red as the refugees began to panic. The ear-shattering noise was a warning designed for one thing and one thing only. The black plague had arrived.

"Everyone run to the back of the ship! Now!" Corian screamed, pulling the little girl along as he ran into the hall. "It's a herald!"

"How did they get here? Answer us!" The Zana girl shivered with fright. "Did we not escape them?"

"That thing isn't supposed to be here. Use what little time we have before that cocoon opens," Corian grimaced. "After you get everyone out of this chamber, seal all the doors."

"You've fought it before? Can you beat it?"

"Does it matter?" the knight replied calmly as he gently pushed the girl through a nearby door. "Run while you still can."

As if on queue, the strange black crystal began to crack and shutter, its surface beaming with a sinister purple glow. By the time the doors had begun to close, several of the refugees were still clambering to escape. There were no more warriors to protect them, nor any heroic Thara to distract the enemy. All that stood between thousands and annihilation was the young knight Corian.

"Come with us!" The girl reached out to Corian. "We do not believe you must throw your life away!"

"This is why I exist," the man replied solemnly. "It's all I know. Good luck."

An ear-piercing shriek then enveloped the room as the last door shut, the large crystal having shattered to reveal a hulking figure.

"Oh, but why run away little creatures?" The herald spoke in both the tone of a man and woman simultaneously, stretching its large scaly black arms into the air. "Why run from death? I assure you, she is marvelous to behold."

A large double-sided axe emerged from the creature's arms, its edges shaped like wings as it brandished the weapon gleefully. Corian knew from the monster's appearance which herald he would have to face, staring into all four eyeballs that lined the creature's blank face. But even as the strange entity drew closer, the knight stood unphased, ignoring the horrific size of the enemy before him.

"Amcara," Corian muttered as he tried desperately to gain the herald's attention. "The hell are you doing here?"

"Oh, I can't just let Oracil have all the fun," the creature laughed, flexing its broad shoulder muscles as it stared at the remaining refugees who failed to leave the chamber in time. "Just look at all these lost souls in need of Her Majesty."

"No one wants your skank goddess man, lady, or whatever you are. When will you ever understand that?!"

The herald then turned to face Corian directly, its black scaly body shuttering with excitement as its sharp eyes began to glow, revealing the lack of features around its face.

"Harsh words coming from a Flora slave," the herald hissed, its voice coming from seemingly nowhere. "Tell me, little human. Where are your masters? The only reason your kind still exists is because they played with a petri dish. And now, they've left you behind for their newest toy."

"Isera is stronger than you know. She's not a toy," Corian glared. "I don't care what you or the Flora think."

"Ohh, so you do have a mind of your own. What a shame it is then, that you believe she's a hero."

The herald then stretched out its long arms, extending them to abnormal lengths as it snatched one of the more human-looking refugees off the ground. And before Corian could even say a word, the body of the humanoid was transformed into a bloody pulp, smashed in the palms of the herald. All that was left of the creature was a sad pool of red liquid stuck to the floor, causing the rest of the refugees to panic.

"No!" Corian screamed, lunging towards the creature and stabbing it in the chest with his blade.

"Such pain! How wonderful!" Amcara cheered, casually removing the blade from its flesh before tossing Corian aside like a doll. "Give me more!"

The herald then slammed its axe into the ground, causing a portal to appear beneath its stubby feet as a swarm of blackened hands emerged from the abyss. The parasite was already beginning to spread. Left with no other choice, Corian flung himself back into the fray.

"Why fight so hard?" The herald asked as it observed the knight cleave its minions in half with his shield, their blood coating his armor. "What point is there?"

"I could ask you the same thing asshole," Corian replied with a haughty tone, barely avoiding a swing from the herald's axe moments later.

It soon proved to be rather difficult for the knight to fend off the emerging infected while also facing the herald's assault, and yet, somehow he held on with nothing but spite and determination keeping him alive. Even without his blade, he would use his bare hands to rip and tear at the fleshy abominations that rose from the nearby portal, all while keeping his focus on the primary objective. Corian had to buy time for the refugees to reach Peruvia.

"Oh but I have purpose little slave," the herald laughed one last time as a pair of flowery wings sprouted from its back, levitating the monster above Corian as it prepared to attack. "Now say goodbye."

But just as all hope seemed lost, a flash of light suddenly flooded the chamber from the glass dome as the ship began to shake and groan. Something catastrophic had occurred, and according to the ship's blaring alarms, the event was lightyears away. Corian took a moment to peer at the nearest information terminal only to stop in his tracks.

"What?!" the knight gasped, looking over at the equally surprised herald above him. "Isera, what have you done?!"

The ark's feminine computer then spoke to the rest of the ship, informing everyone of the disaster, "Incoming god wave from the galaxy center, prepare for impact in T-minus ten," the AI spoke with a foreboding and monotone voice, before repeating its message in several different languages.

"Impossible," the herald lamented, raising its arms over its face for protection.

"God wave impact in T minus five," the computer repeated as the ark shook uncontrollably.

A wave of visible energy then appeared beyond the horizon of space, signaling the oncoming cataclysm. All Corian could do was stand and wait for the destructive event, praying to the stars that his ship would survive. After all that he had sacrificed, it would be truly cruel if those fleeing to Peruvia would be shot down just mere minutes from their destination.

"Brace for impact," the ark's AI bellowed one last time before everything went dark.

___________________________________

"Can we just...take a break?" Salem panted as she struggled to hold her blade. "I'm tired."

"Salem, we've barely been at it for five minutes. Surely you must understand that some improvement to your stamina is required," Korus explained calmly as he stood across from the red mother in the open garden, his back turned to the cozy mansion nearby.

"I know it's just-."

"Ina has faced similar problems in the past; it's not a rare challenge for a fair maiden to encounter."

"Wait, she did?" Salem's interest peaked, brushing aside her hair before standing up straight. "I find that a little hard to believe."

"Well, it is true," the silver knight provided a thumbs up in the red mother's direction. "I assure you."

"And you're not just saying that to make me feel better? Ina seems so...composed."

"Your prosthetics should give you an edge, actually-."

"And that makes me feel worse."

Both Salem and Korus chuckled for a moment before silently regaining their focus. Ever since she had begun slowly constructing her new ambitious plans, the red mother had taken an interest in martial training. Never again would she rely purely upon the strength of that flower she did not fully understand, especially not after what happened with Kalis. Salem would rather die than lose control again.

"Stabilize your footing; use those metal heels to launch yourself off that which you cannot absorb. Like this," Korus motioned with his angular feet, gliding around Salem after deflecting an almost pitiful swing. "Do you see? I do not even need for your attack to be...substantial."

But when Salem attempted to do the same, she slipped off her left heel, causing the other to slide across the floor, creating a mess of sparks.

"Ow!" Salem grimaced as she landed on her bottom, having thoroughly defeated herself. "It's not easy!"

"I agree."

"It's these...stupid limbs. I keep them only as a reminder of what I've done."

"No...not those," Korus explained as respectfully as he could. "It's..well."

"What?!" Salem placed a hand on her hip before taking a knee. "Are you saying I'm mentally deranged?"

"Of course not, it's your attire."

"Excuse me?" The red mother blushed out of what seemed to be an embarrassment as if she had never considered the mere possibility of her inappropriate habits catching up to her.

"It's...not exactly suited for combat."

"Oh, and Ina wears a full plate of armor?!"

"It's...not quite the same," Korus pointed awkwardly towards Salem's v-shape leather minidress. "You are considerably more top-heavy."

"Hey!"

"And bottom heavy."

"Okay, okay! I get it!" Salem pouted before taking a seat out of frustration. "I'm just not cut out for this."

"I do not believe that to be true."

"Don't compare me to Ina. I'm not like her."

"On the contrary," Korus sighed as he took a knee next to Salem.

"Spare me. She's so smart and sophisticated. Delicate in all the right ways," the red mother lamented as she poked at the laced strings of her undergarments exposed through her low-cut skirt. "And then there's me. A one-trick clumsy whore."

"And yet you've created several fine children. You bested Kalis. And you've made it this far."

"The flower did. Not me."

"I do not think you truly believe that," Korus patted the red mother on the shoulder. "Ina has said similar things in the past."

"Really?"

"As I've said. You share much in common. May I ask why you dress like that?"

"Well," Salem paused, looking for an excuse as to why she so frequently exposed herself.

"Insecurity."

"Huh?"

"Is that it?"

"How did-."

"Ina said the same. Her fashion is...different and marginally more decent, but the same habits are there. You both seem uncomfortable in your own bodies. You put your beauty on display to cover it up. Surely, a flawless woman with a desirable appearance wouldn't hate herself?"

"I see," Salem nodded. "She told you all that?"

"I pieced it together."

"Uh uh," Salem smirked as she stared at Korus with squinted eyes. "Lady's man."

"Oh, I wouldn't-."

But before Korus could even begin to explain himself, Salem picked herself off the ground with renewed confidence.

"Let's go again," Salem giggled. "I'll talk to Ina about it later."

"About what?" Korus stammered.

"Oh...you know. Shared experiences."

___________________________________

Later that evening, Salem lay exhausted in bed after having finished her time with both Ina and Korus. Never before had the red mother pushed herself so hard in pursuit of her goals. And as per usual Ali had made sure to tuck Salem into bed and even clean up several of the wine glasses the women left behind. But unbeknownst to both the doll and the red mother, a small squishy figure was observing from the shadows.

"Look at that stupid whore, all shit-faced drunk with her wine. What would she even do without Ali?" Bear-bear frowned as she silently waddled closer to Salem's bed. "I can't believe you're allowed to sleep in her bed. It's a disgrace."

Standing firm in the living room, Ali appeared preoccupied with Sorrow, leaving Bear-Bear more than enough time to spy on Salem. Suffice it to say the plushy was not amused. From her perspective, the red mother was a total waste of space.

"Why did she place her faith in you?" Bear-Bear asked herself, thinking back to her genius friend Alia. "It can't be just the red flower. I don't care how potent it is; she's not her father. Where's the disciplined badass behavior? Where's the ruthless strategist? All I see is some lost, pretty girl looking for handouts. Certainly not someone who could even hope to take *her* on."

The plush then reached out to Salem with her fluffy paw, intent on smacking the woman in the chest to disturb her sleep. But right before the deed could be done, a slight creaking noise could be heard from behind. Bear-Bear checked behind her only to find nothing in sight.

"What the?" Bear-Bear gasped as if expecting something to jump out at her from the nearby wooden closest. "I swear..."

Silence then filled the room as Alia's old friend sat in an uncomfortable stupor. She knew something the others did not and was unwilling to speak a word. From her perspective, some secrets were better kept hidden.

In the meantime, two bright pink eyes stared at Bear-Bear from the shadows, their sharp pupils filled with anticipation.

"Yeah, I don't think so," Bear-Bear squinted her beady eyes before hurriedly fleeing the room. "Not today."

______________________________________

"You are..like me?"

"Well, in some ways, yes," Ali smiled, picking Bear-Bear off the floor after the plush mysteriously appeared behind her.

In the living room just next to Salem sat two female machines, chatting and laughing together like sisters. Never in her life had Ali dealt with a creature such as Sorrow, yet in her heart, she felt warm and free. Sorrow, on the other hand, was just glad to have a friend to talk to.

"But then...are we really girls?" The young Valekry inquired, flexing her sharp nails as she sat closer to Ali on the floor.

"If that is what we are created to be," Ali replied with a nod as she continued to sow a blanket of sorts, no doubt intended for Salem. "We fulfill that role."

"But what truly makes us female? You, of course, have everything a normal girl would."

"Well, not everything," the doll shrugged, thinking back to the adult novels she had read.

"Long hair, soft skin, a humanoid shape, and even the capacity to consume food. You are nearly a perfect replication," Sorrow beamed with excitement, towering over Ali as she observed her work.

"What are you getting at Sorrow?"

"I'm not sure I was designed to be a girl like you. So, I am confused. My chassis is nearly identical to my brethren. And my mind, while still inexperienced, was forged for combat."

"But...how do you feel inside? Are you really only focused on battle?"

"Well, no, I suppose not," Sorrow replied, looking down at the plush in Ali's hands with noticeable enthusiasm. "I think...I like cute things. Like this little bear."

"Oh?" Ali giggled, squeezing the plushie's nose with her soft hands. "You like Bear-Bear? She's my best friend, and she really is the cutest."

"Yes...cute. I understand that word, and I like it. I like pretty things too, such as you. Do these traits count as feminine?"

"I suppose they do Sorrow. If we follow traditions here in Lacuna."

"But I'm not cute or pretty. Can I really call myself a girl?" Sorrow gazed downwards with disappointment, taking brief moments to examine Ali's frilly dress and tender figure. "I'm not like you."

"Oh, Sorrow, you don't need to be like me to act as a girl. If that's what Salem wanted for you, then there's no question what you really are."

"My mother made me like this? But then...do we...even have a choice?"

"I...," Ali stammered.

"Do we machines get to choose our identity? Unlike organics, we are not bound by a prescribed design."

"Sorrow..."

Ali took a deep breath before placing a soft hand on the machine's shoulder. She herself had thought deeply about the quandaries of flesh and machine. In fact, on many occasions, Ali felt extreme doubt as to what her identity truly meant. She recalled her talks with Salem and the strange advice Alia had given her at birth.

"If you feel uncertain about your identity, I'm sure Salem would be fine with a change. Unlike me, your design is more...free," the doll explained, using all the wisdom she could muster. "The answer to your question is that we machines are... inconsistent. I believe some of us, like you, can choose. You are Valekry, first and foremost. Gender is irrelevant to your line of noble warriors. But me? I'm a doll designed to serve and please. I am inherently feminine."

"I see," Sorrow squinted, the plates around her ocular lens shifting as a result. "But...that's not fair!"

"Ahh," Ali shrugged. "I don't know what to say."

"How come you don't get to choose Ali? I may be Valekry, yes, the others have told me as much, but what makes you a slave to your design? Why can't you just...be a part of something greater?"

"Life isn't always fair Sorrow. A doll like me isn't part of a complex army, nor do I have any connections to an honorable creed. I can't fight, or wield weapons like a master. I don't have your powerful body. I'm just a doll."

"Hmph," Sorrow lamented as she looked out the window towards Lacuna. "So then we both feel dissatisfied with our design."

Ali tried her best not to lose composure, fully intent on cheering up the young Valekry. But no matter how hard she tried, she knew Sorrow was speaking the truth. Both feminine machines had reasons to doubt themselves. Looking down at the living room's rough carpet, the doll squinted her eyes in silent frustration as she attempted to push the conversation forward.

"So then, what will you be? Man? Woman? Or perhaps neither?" Ali inquired with a fake smile. "A Valekry should be able to choose what kind of knight they will be. Just look at your brother Valor."

"I know what I'll be," the blue machine replied confidently.

"Really?" Ali beamed with real excitement. "So soon?"

"Yes, I'm positive. You won't have to be alone anymore."

"Wuh?"

"I'm a girl Ali. Decided from birth, just like you. And while I may not have a pretty body and long silky hair, I do have a heart. And I feel that mine is that of a woman's. Together, we can be satisfied with who we are."

"But Sorrow-."

"You think you don't matter Ali, that's why you say there's no choice. Being a girl is just...some kind of duty to you. But I believe there's more to it in some way. So it's settled. I'll be a girl with you. Your sister," Sorrow exclaimed as she turned to face Ali with pride, her demeanor eerily similar to Valor's.

"My sister?!" Ali giggled, staring into the Valekry's eye. "I...never considered it."

"I apologize, is it an inappropriate gesture?"

"No-no, I just...didn't think a Valekry and a doll could-."

"Salem said we are a family. All of us. Why should race matter, when both of us are feminine machines?"

"You remind me of your brother, you know that?" Ali smiled.

"I hope that continues to be a good thing."

As if to intervene in the sister's bonding, the bell on the mansion's front door suddenly rang. At first, Ali assumed it had to be Ina and hurried over to the door, leaving Sorrow behind. But after opening the door, a look of confusion came across the doll's face. It was not Ina or anyone she knew at the entrance.

"H-hello?" Ali's eyes widened as her voice shrank.

"Who are you," Sorrow interjected, placing herself in front of the doll as her protective instincts kicked in. "Speak."

"Well hello hello!" A cheery Tella spoke, her glasses shimmering in the light as she waved enthusiastically at the pair. "I take it this is Salem's home?"

"What do you know of her?" Sorrow's suspicion continued as several of her mechanical brothers approached from behind, each of them equally on edge.

"Well, she's kind of hard to miss these days. Something of a celebrity, actually."

"So then why are you here," Anger growled as he stood next to Sorrow.

"Why, all I want to do is see the star. Maybe even get an interview in!" The Tella girl cheered, taking a slight bow as she pulled at the frills of her short blue skirt. "My name is Renny, lead journalist for the Glamstone. A pleasure to meet you!"

From what Salem's family could ascertain, Renny was a typically enthusiastic Tella, sporting a flashy cocktail dress alongside the glowing pair of silver glasses that rested upon her pale nose. But unlike so many other Tella, her hair had been dyed black, giving her a more down-to-earth appearance. Even the girl's dark blue eyes gave off a less threatening demeanor as the shape of her iris had been altered to seem less narrow and imposing.

"I get why you'd want to visit, but...your timing is strange. How come only now the Tella are interested in Salem?" Valor added from the back of the group, staring intently at the young Tella. "Seems odd."

"Well, to be frank, we were all terrified of her for the longest time. I mean, she's amazing, don't get me wrong. But a hot evil queen type like her isn't exactly safe material, so we kept our distance," the Tella explained as she fiddled with the silver bracelets on her sleeveless arms. "We aren't that dumb, you know."

"So what changed?"

"Your intent became clear when you fought on our behalf in the city. I don't claim to know the full story behind your battles, but at this point, with you having taken out two of the most freakish people in the city, we believe it's safe to assume you are on the Tella's side. Am I correct? Is it not safe for me to be here?"

"We...are not your enemies," Valor finished before heading off in the direction of Salem. "For now."

"Great! So I was right!" Renny smiled. "So then, can I see her?"

"We'll ask Salem what she wants," Ali said, doing her best to force a faint smile as she looked down to see a camera device in the girl's hands. I understand she can be...alluring."

Renny's eyes then began to focus on Ali, a look of sheer delight enveloping her face. It was truly difficult for the eager Tella to resist brandishing her camera at that moment. From her point of view, Ali was an unexpected attraction equal in beauty to Salem.

"Oh, and who are you, might I ask?" Renny smiled as she continued to fidget with the small silver tablet in her hands, its forward lens primed for use. "We've seen so little of Alia's project."

"I," Ali stammered, looking over to Sorrow, who seemed to nod in silent approval. "I'd better go."

The doll then suddenly turned to leave, leaving Renny rather dissatisfied. Someone had to help wake up Salem after all. But as Ali walked further away from the door, she could feel a set of eyes glued to her back. It was a sensation the doll didn't quite understand, having one admire her in such an indecent way.

"Oh, just you wait, little cutie," Renny muttered, lowering her gaze to observe the doll's bare legs beneath her soft silky skirt. I'll get my shot of you."

"Wait here," Sorrow spoke as she placed herself mere inches from the Tella. "Salem will make her decision."

"Since when did the Valekry have girls in their ranks?" Renny scoffed, realizing the blue machine was equipped with a unique voice module. "Is this Ina's newest toy?"

"I may be new, yes, but I know enough about this world to understand the need to protect others. Hurt my family, and I will tear you in half," Sorrow growled in response.

"Good," Anger intervened with an unusually positive tone. "You learn fast."

_______________________________

"What do you mean there's a Tella at the door?" Salem groaned as she barely crawled out of bed. "What do they want?"

"It's hard to say," Valor sighed. "Please, just tell us what to do."

"I didn't know you had so many friends, Mother," Regret added as he tip-toed into the room with a shy expression, his bright orange eye squinting with anticipation. "Will we always have visitors?"

"O,h Regret, you sweet innocent thing. No, I don't have many friends. This is unexpected for me. Please, stick with Valor as I speak to the lady," Salem whispered softly. "Understood? Take your sister Sorrow with you too."

"So you will approach this woman?" Valor shook his head as he turned to lead Regret out of the room.

"I've got to get to know the Tella eventually. This is their call to me, and I have to answer," the red mother shrugged in response as she put on a loose red slip, its surface soft and transparent. "Now, let me hobble my way there."

"Anger won't be happy about this; he'll ask you many questions."

"Oh, I know he will. What could I possibly have to gain by fraternizing with these people?" Salem sighed. "Well, Valor, we can't sit around and live off Alia's mansion and Ina's good favor forever. If we want power and the independence to do what we please, we need friends. And I think I know enough about politics to discern the value of a bunch of rich, bored ladies."

"Very well," Valor nodded. "But be careful with yourself, mother."

Salem evidently did not care for her own indecent exposure as she reached for the doorknob, still dressed in her nightgown. In response, Valor looked on with slight disapproval in his eye but remained silent. He was wise enough to understand when his mother had made up her mind. Regret, on the other hand, was completely clueless when it came to the concept of a woman's body and stared at Salem with innocent approval. From what he could tell, everything was right with the world.

"Good luck, mother," Regret beamed.

"Thank you, Regret. I will need it."

As Salem strutted away confidently, Valor made sure to lead Regret down the opposite hallway, his singular eye squinting with suspicion.

"Stay here for a moment, brother; I must find our friend Ali," Valor ordered.

"But Mother said we have to find Sorrow."

"I will lead her to you. Please just stay here and protect each other. I will be back as soon as possible with our less capable friend."

"Ali is not capable?"

"Physically, she is not. I mean no insult by that,t mind you, we Valekry are simply more qualified for self-defense."

After having hurried his way towards the front door, Valor was alarmed to see Ali gone.

"Where is the doll?" Valor whispered to Sorrow after having brushed past Salem. "We must leave together to the back of the mansion."

"I'm not sure brother, she said she was heading off to do something. I apologize for not tracking her more diligently," Sorrow replied as she felt Valor's hand gently guide her away from the door.

"It's not your fault, sister. For now, reconvene with your brother near Salem's bedroom. I will search for Ali."

"Do you think there will be an attack of some sort?"

"Just do as he says," Anger hissed from behind as he continued to analyze the figure standing at the door. "Never trust these people."

"Finding trust where there is none is exactly what I intend to do; now, please, let us dispense with all the suspicion," Salem smiled as she strutted past Anger, her red eyes set on the woman before her. "And who might you be?"

The Tella waiting at the door then jumped to attention, her face filled with genuine excitement. She once again twirled around for a brief moment before giving Salem a respectful bow. In a way, the Tella was already treating the stranger like a master.

"Hello, Miss. My name is Renny, and I am a journalist for Glamstone. It is a supreme pleasure to meet you!"

Before Salem could properly respond, the energetic girl suddenly zipped her way through the front entrance, raising the woman's left hand up to her mouth before planting a kiss on the prosthetic hand.

"I uhh," Salem stammered, motioning towards Anger to keep calm with her free hand. "It's nice to meet you too, Renny."

"We've been waiting a long time to meet you," Renny beamed, gently releasing Salem's hand from her grip.

"Who? The Tella?"

"Well, more specifically, the Lotasi."

"Never heard of it," Salem frowned, crossing her arms with a visible amount of sass.

"That's the point. We tend to be discreet till we make our move," Renny chuckled, pushing up her glasses as she began to observe Salem more carefully. "Luckily for you, we come as friends."

"Why? Because you think I'm pretty?" Salem scoffed. "Eyes up here, by the way."

"Because you've risked your life for this city. Typically we just ignore or kill intruders that try and interfere with our plans. But you, Salem, are different," the Tella girl explained with a haughty tone. "Oh, and you're the one dressing like that, missy."

"Well excuse me?!" Salem blushed, turning her back to the girl. "Have you come here to insult me?"

"Quite the opposite."

Renny then swiftly unveiled her camera, which was in the shape of a typical silver tablet, before snapping a quick picture of Salem's backside.

"What the!" Salem gasped. "You-!"

"Those are my intentions, miss," Renny laughed. "A simple photo shoot. I am a journalist, after all."

Once again the red mother had to raise her hand to keep her children at bay as a confused look appeared on her face. But after a bit of thought, Salem came to a confident conclusion. It wasn't long then before Renny was welcomed into the house with open arms.

"I see," Salem smiled as she pushed Renny into the main living room. "What is your plan?"

"We wish to introduce you to the Tella public at large. You know, spread the word! A newcomer has landed. She looks just like us in some ways, yet one cannot deny she's oh so much more alluring!"

"That's your headline?" Salem squinted her eyes at the overly excited girl. "You want me to be your model?"

"What do we get out of it," Anger hissed from behind, his large frame appearing to be the last Valekry present in the room.

"Exposure! Or, more accurately, a shipload of royalties. Once the Tella people see you up close, they'll just be enamored. Think of what you can do with that fame."

"I'd rather just meet your Lotasi friends," Salem shrugged. "I've already had my fair sure of camgirl stints."

"Everything in good time miss. What do you say? We can shoot now if you want. Your outfit is perfect!"

Ignoring the Tella for a moment, Salem turned towards Anger and began to promptly explain herself.

"You know my limits; wait outside and only come in if you detect real danger," the red mother explained in a soft tone.

"Understood," Anger whispered in response before leaving the room.

"Alright then!" Salem boomed as she turned back to face the Tella girl. "Will this living room suffice?"

"Of course!" Renny cheered as she unfolded a set of silver rings from her skirt's pockets. "Those lovely velvet couches will work perfectly for some of the poses I have in mind."

As if responding to her voice, the small rings within the girl's hand sprung to life, transforming into a series of miniature drones that buzzed around the air.

"You came prepared huh," Salem sighed, staring at Renny with a tinge of disgust as the pale girl began to frantically prepare her scene.

"Oh, these guys? They just help with lighting and different angles. I promise with my expertise, we'll be done in a jiffy."

"So what's first?"

"Ahah," Renny chuckled. "Bend over that couch for me, will you?"

______________________________________

"Ali? Where are you?" Valor called out as he wandered the dark lonely halls of Alia's mansion. "Please, the younger ones are waiting for you."

For what felt like hours, the loyal Valekry searched for the doll. No matter how closely he investigated, there was no evidence Ali had fled or been taken away. All evidence pointed towards one path.

"Are you alright Ali?" Valor sighed, placing his mechanical hand against the wooden frame of the door leading to Alia's stuffy fitting room. "I do not see why you hide here."

"You wouldn't understand," a soft voice replied from behind what appeared to be a paper-dressing screen.

Valor stared into the small room, its carpeted surface and blank walls mostly obscured by the mess of clothes that hung from all corners. Alia's taste in fashion may have long been forsaken, as evidenced by the sheer dustiness of the room, but one could not doubt her past enthusiasm. In fact, nearly every type of clothing could be seen in the fitting room, from short skirts and tight stockings to ornate dresses and fur coats.

"Is this where she decided on your apparel?" Valor asked in a gentle tone as he pointed towards a set of classical white skirts hanging close to Ali's divider. Their innocuous length was unlike anything else in the room.

"Yes, I imagine she put quite a lot of work into my design," the doll whimpered. "That's what haunts me."

"Then please tell me, Ali. How can I help?"

"It's not your fault Valor," Ali responded with an unusually frustrated tone, peering her small head out from behind the dressing screen. "It's my fault for being so...confused."

"Then perhaps you can tell me what has you so perplexed?"

"I'm not sure you would understand; I'm sorry. Poor Sorrow tried her best, bless that girl's heart. But she's too brave and innocent to even have to worry about this sort of thing."

"Ali...you're avoiding the question," Valor lamented as he drew closer to the opaque screen. "What's on your mind?"

"It's me Valor. There's the issue. Why, pray tell, did Alia fit this attire for me? If I'm just a doll, why give me attire more decent than herself? This whole conundrum has been brewing inside me since I first opened my eyes, and now with that Tella girl staring at me, it all feels even more confusing! Why am I like this?"

"Perhaps she just wanted you to feel safe, Ali."

"But how? I'm just a doll. My body doesn't require coverage, does it? Even if others see me as desirable, what is there to hide?"

"Ali," the tall Valekry released a saddened expression. "Listen-."

But before Valor could finish his thought, Ali suddenly emerged from behind the screen, her body fully revealed in front of the knight in all its beauty. Despite the several blackened gaps between her joints, the doll took on a strikingly realistic appearance, the surface of her skin seemingly soft and warm from just a glance. Valor hesitated to speak as he took some time to process the indecency of the moment. But for Ali, the act of exposure meant nothing more than revealing her true form.

"Ali!" Valor laughed nervously as he swiftly placed his hands against the dressing screen, smashing it into place between himself and the doll before even a second could pass. "Let's be more careful here."

"What's the matter?" Ali placed a delicate hand on her petite chest as she attempted to maneuver around the screen. "Do you not want to see me?"

"I think you're missing the point," the Valekry sighed as he continued to block the doll's path with his screen. "Ali, you're naked."

"And is that a problem? Aren't you too without clothes?"

"Well, I possess merely a humanoid combat chassis; technically, this is my body. You, on the other hand, are a lady."

"But aren't we both machines?"

"Ali, I-." Valor paused. "Yes."

"Then what's the matter, hm?" Ali puffed, resting her hands on her pale hips. "I fail to see your point."

"You already know the point. You are merely in denial. Is that what you want me to say?"

"Denial? I am confused Valor. Totally and utterly confused. Alia told me I was just a vessel, Salem told me I was a real woman with a sexual body to take pride in, and Sorrow told me I could choose for myself. What do I believe?"

"Believe in yourself, as childish as that sounds," Valor spoke in a serious tone. "You, Ali, are a proper lady, both beautiful and brave. Look around. That's how Alia designed you. Think back to your behavior these past couple of weeks. Think about the decisions you have made and what others have told you. It's all true, all of it. You were designed for a purpose I do not understand, just as Alia intended. But you are also a flawless image of femininity, one that needs protection and admiration from both yourself and others, just as Salem described. And most importantly of all, you've chosen the path of a lady every step of the way, as Sorrow herself said. Tell me you do not feel that truth."

"I...," Ali gasped, realizing the truth as Valor pushed aside the divider. "I don't know what to say."

"Just think about it," Valor replied as he snatched a nearby fur coat before wrapping it around the doll. "Use that brilliant little mind of yours."

Ali looked up at the machine with teary eyes, her slim body cozy and warm within her new robes. She was vulnerable and afraid in that stuffy chamber, yet, thanks to Valor, she felt safe and secure.

"Oh Valor!" Ali cried out before giving the knight a tight hug, her warm flesh pressing against his rough armor. "Thank you."

"Just doing what I can," Valor expressed his approval awkwardly, looking down at the doll whose soft chest barely came up to his stomach. "Everyone needs some encouragement in my mind, even fancy ladies like yourself."

"Fancy?" Ali giggled. "How preposterous."

"Now, now, let's get you dressed. Did you have anything in mind?"

"Well," Ali smiled nervously. "That's how I got stuck here to begin with. I started thinking about outfits and modesty. Should I go more plain or perhaps a little playful? That's where the confusion began. How does any of it matter?"

"Ali, now that you're feeling more in tune with yourself, why not make the decision now?"

"But I...have never even thought about it."

"Take your time then. When you're done, we'll reunite with the others," Valor responded as he gave Ali a thumbs up.

"Very well then," the doll chuckled, turning her gaze towards Alia's large collection of outfits.

______________________________

"Is this what you want?" Salem hissed as she continued her rather embarrassing photo shoot. "Pervert."

"Just like that, miss, show off what you got," Renny smiled, her assortment of cameras furiously at work capturing the red mother's sensual image. "Almost done."

Throughout the procedure, Salem was instructed to assume several provocative poses in her nightgown, causing her undeniable amounts of embarrassment. Even after she had come to terms with her past experience there was still a cold feeling of disappointment whenever she had to become exposed once again. But when all was said and done, Salem made sure to complete the shoot, providing detailed images of herself for all to see.

Renny, on the other hand, struggled to maintain her act, buying her ally as much time as possible without making her deception too obvious. Every now and again, she would check behind her to see if Kayi had left any evidence behind, worried sick at the idea of the crossbreed failing. But as the photo shoot neared its end, she released a sigh of relief, her confidence in the young girl having finally settled in.

"That serves you right," Kayi pouted as her invisible frame lurked behind Salem. "I'm the best."

The petite girl made sure to abuse her invisibility to its fullest, capturing images of the mansion and all its surroundings while fiddling with what she could. She had already taken a tour of most of the house, avoiding everyone she could along the way. But as her window of opportunity grew ever smaller, she became more and more ambitious.

"This isn't good enough," Kayi squinted, her jade-colored eyes glimmering with determination. "It's all so mundane. I need something more notable. This Salem lady can't possibly be as ordinary as she seems."

Kayi began analyzing her odds with great further, debating with herself as to what needed to be done. From what she knew of the Valekry, it was impossible to get too close to their optics without becoming noticeable, and as fate would have it, the tallest among them stood watch over Alia's lab. Without access to the stone castellum, Kayi did her best to tip-toe around the bedroom, only to be thwarted by the mere presence of Salem's youngest children. From there, all she had to work with was the mansion's digital mainframe which, much to her dismay, was impossible to crack remotely. She needed a diversion.

"My best bet is the castellum," Kyri whispered to herself. "If I can access the larger computers, I could break into the system. But how to distract them? It's a good thing I'm a genius."

The petite girl smirked confidently before she began fiddling with a holographic display projected from her hands, its silver interface invisible to the naked eye. With a mere flick of her wrist, she began to shut down several lights in the mansion's wooden hallways, isolating a few segments of interest before scuttling off into the shadows. It wasn't long before Salem's family took notice, as they began to investigate the anomaly without disturbing the red mother.

"Power failure?" Valor spoke calmly as he held Ali tight, the pair having just left the closet as they stepped into the darkened hallways. "How suspicious."

"What should we do?"

"Find Sorrow and Regret. I'm sure Anger can take care of himself."

Valor then led Ali down the dark hallway in a hurry, leaving the invisible girl to run past them with a deep grin.

"All too easy," Kayi chuckled. "Now all I have to do is avoid the bedroom, and I-."

But just before she could finish her thoughts, the petite girl nearly bumped into a strange figure standing near the hot springs, his masculine frame causing Kayi to panic.

"A man!" Kayi placed a hand over her mouth as her invisible frame slid across the floor. "It can't be!"

"If this is an actual power failure and not a surprise attack, I'll laugh," Corian joked to himself as he strolled past the hidden girl. "Like seriously."

"I thought they were all dead!" Kayi gasped, watching the man depart in the direction of Salem's bedroom. "Did Salem bring one up here? But that's not possible! Did he sneak in here? Is he like me?"

Thankfully, the strange man seemed preoccupied with the family's safety, leaving Kayi to tape his presence with another holographic display. Having captured all she needed for Iris to see, the petite girl then scurried off towards the castellum. But despite her mission progressing at a smooth pace, she couldn't quite get her mind off Corian.

"What if he needs my help? He could be another crossbreed like me. I-."

Kayi then slapped herself in the face before proceeding as planned. She had to stay focused if she were to succeed. That was the only way Iris would remain pleased, and above all else, she could not afford to anger her mistress.

Upon reaching the castellum, Kayi was disappointed to see Anger still standing in her way, his bulky frame placed directly in the middle of Alia's lab. As long as Salem didn't require his presence, he refused to move from the second most important position. But Kayi refused to believe such a dull machine could understand the strategic importance of the mansion's central computer. She thought back to all the stories and cartoons she had seen in her youth, where machines were strong yet wilfully stupid, easily out-maneuvered by organic ingenuity. But as she tip-toed her way to the central computer, she was horrified to see Anger shift his gaze.

"Impossible. He can't see me. Does he expect a spy?" Kayi thought to herself as she watched the towering machine begin to pace around the room. "I must be worrying myself."

Kayi then slipped behind the Valekry, accessing the rather simple-looking computer with her trusty data splicer. As far as she was concerned, the mansion's tech looked like something out of an old movie, with its grey plastic frame easily covering her body as she fiddled with her artificial display. Having never even seen such an archaic device, Kayi worked tirelessly to crack into it, hoping for some sort of explanation as to what Salem was doing and how she obtained a humanoid male.

"Not bad for an old brick," Kayi whispered to herself as she used her hands to physically open the back end of the computer. "I guess Alia knew how to pick her antiques. The old thing gets the job done, and yet, it lacks the capacity to connect remotely with my tech. Luckily for me...I'm still a genius."

"Maybe I can learn how Salem made got weird Valekry. Custom models, perhaps? She had to have saved their recipe in here," the small girl continued. "Oh, Iris is gonna love this."

"How unbearably loud," a mechanical voice boomed in Kayi's ear, causing her to audibly shriek. "Reveal yourself."

The small girl looked up in horror to see Anger, his mechanical body having crossed the room in what seemed to be an instant. With nothing but the old computer separating her from certain doom, Kayi made a break for it and ran to her left. Unfortunately for the hidden girl, a wave of energy crashed into her just as soon as she moved, removing her disguise in a sudden flash.

"There you are," Anger nodded as he stared at the exposed girl. "Like I said. Loud."

"H-how did you hear me!" Kayi fumed as she tried to search for an easier way out of the room. "My cloaking device muffles any noise I make!"

"It can't do anything for the vibrations your body emits when you interact with your surroundings."

"How could you possibly know to listen for that kind of thing!"

"I'm not stupid enough to ignore the wisdom of others," Anger replied in an unusually playful tone, holding a leather book in his left hand. "Alia figured it out."

"That so!" Kayi scoffed. "Well, if you had bothered to actually read from a sane person, you'd have learned the weaknesses of your little EMP. You see, that little trick that stripped me of my cloaking device also removed your energy shields."

Anger tilted his head with curiosity as if unable to take the girl seriously.

"And without your precious protection, you're wide open!" Kayi taunted as she pointed her interface at the Valekry. "Take one step towards me, and I'll fry your systems like an old toaster."

Yet again the Valekry had nothing to say, standing patiently as he waited for Kayi to finish.

"Oh? Don't have anything else to say? How pathetic! You stupid machines think you're all superior. But without your cheap advantages, all you can do is-."

In one swift motion, Anger chucked the book in his hands at Kayi with tremendous speed, striking the girl on the head before she could finish sputtering.

"Ah!" Kayi gasped, falling to the floor as her eyes rolled to the back of her head. "O-ow."

Such a tremendous yet simple attack had already rendered the girl brain-dead, her feeble body unable to pick itself off the ground as she began to convulse in pain. Anger merely shrugged as he stepped closer to Kayi, picking his book off the floor before dropping it on her face - rendering her fully unconscious. At that moment, all he could think of was the fragility of his opponent and how annoyed he was to even be standing there at that moment.

"How incorrigible," Anger muttered as he picked up the girl like a sack of potatoes. "Waste of good book."

________________________

"Well then, that should do it," the Tella girl provided a thumbs up as she stared at her vast album of Salem's body. "Got all the goods. I think my favorite is the stomach, nice and smooth miss. You're one of a kind."

"So then, are we done?" Salem frowned.

"One last thing," Renny smirked as she brought out a long strip of yellow tape.

"Wait, what?" The red mother's eyes widened as the journalist snuck up behind her with tape in hand. "Kuh!"

"Hold still miss, just gotta get a quick number," the Tella girl continued her measurements as she wrapped the yellow fabric around Salem's large pale breasts, squishing their soft surface in the process. "It's important."

"Ack, you!" Salem coughed as she did her best to hold still. "Hands off!"

"It'll be over soon, I promise," Renny assured the distraught woman as she lowered her tape to record Salem's round bottom. "If we're going to give you tailored outfits in the future, we need to account for your largest areas of mass."

"Excuse me? That's what this is about!"

"Who wouldn't want free glamor miss? Just let me finish with your waist."

"I never agreed to this!" Salem huffed as she felt the Tella's hands run along her exposed navel. "It better be worth it!"

"We're done now calm down. And I promise it will."

Relinquishing her hold over Salem, Renny stepped away with a nervous smile. She knew it was time to leave before what little favor she held with the red mother was lost forever. And as the young Tella drew closer to the door, she could feel a hateful gaze piercing her back.

"You better return with your little council Renny. You can't keep me away forever," Salem growled as she raised her hands to cover her chest. "We both know that's the only reason I let you in."

"I know. Your potential is not lost on us, Salem."

Renny then gave one last smirk before closing the door behind her, leaving Salem to revel in her words.

"Potential? First Ina, and now the Tella. What aren't they telling me? It can't be just my power," Salem grimaced as she opened her left palm to reveal the red flower levitating in the air, its crimson surface pulsating with violent energy. "I will get to the bottom of this."

Turning herself away from the door, Salem's eyes became drawn to a silver bracelet that had been left behind on the living room couch. Realizing it was a communication device, the red mother hissed and stormed off. She wasn't yet ready to speak to more Tella. All she wanted was to take a good long shower and reminisce on her fonder memories, particularly those she had gained with Ina. But as she rounded the corner to reach her bedroom, she found Anger standing before her, his arms wrapped around a small girl with unusually colored skin.

"Who is this?" Salem raised an eyebrow. "You got yourself a girlfriend, Anger?"

"I found her," Anger said calmly, gesturing towards the motionless girl with his free hand. "She was on your property."

"And?"

"It is up to you to learn the rest."

"I see," the red mother sighed, lacking the energy to become enraged at the idea of an intruder. "Was anyone hurt?"

"No."

"I'm glad I have you watching over us. Take her to the Castellum, and tell the others to stay clear."

"I am glad you see it that way." Anger nodded as he turned to leave.

"Whatever do you mean?"

"This is an affair that we can handle alone. Some things are better that way."

"Perhaps," Salem shrugged. "But if the Tella truly have the audacity to send a spy to my home, maybe it's a good thing if the others don't watch what comes next."

"Good."

_______________________________________

Back in Iris's aquatic residence, Renny spoke of Salem for as long as she could muster words, much to the delight of her baroness.

"So she's on board?" Iris smiled.

"Begrudgingly interested is more like it."

"I'll take what I can get."

"There's one more thing ma'am. An unrelated yet still concerning matter."

Iris looked out the glass window of her aquarium with suspicion, trying her best not to yell at Renny for spoiling the mood. Despite her pride and lust for power, the leader of the Tella council was not entirely ignorant when it came to present events. In fact, she was almost certain as to what her secretary would say next.

"It's Redrix. He's finalized the authenticity of his own council and has issued a rather demanding accord," Renny reported nervously.

"And who gave him the right to do that?!" Iris frowned.

"Well, he did. With the threat of violence"

"The Valekry are just machines; they shouldn't have any politics of their own!"

"You're preaching to the choir ma'am. But Redrix has made himself clear. Any and all danger that arises from this point on, will be met promptly with overwhelming force, even if it's related to Salem."

"So he's flexing his muscles is that it? Showing off his big fleet of robot pals."

"Ma'am, he has influence over half of Lacuna's defensive measures. A direct conflict with him would be impossible to win conventionally."

"So it's come to this. The Valekry are finally rising up against us, no thanks to that coward Ina. All the more reason we need Salem."

"What do you mean? Surely we can't test Redrix with her," Renny chuckled. "All we have right now is a photoshoot for the public."

"He can boast all he wants, but that woman has a connection to the Valekry. Look at her children. If anyone can reign them in, it's her," Iris released a sinister smile as she began analyzing the set of photos Renny had delivered prior to their discussion. "I mean...look at her. Just perfect."

"Ma'am with all due respect I do not believe she can quell Redrix's concerns. They run deep."

"You mean the rising tide of afflicted Valekry? We need Salem for that too you idiot."

"Redrix doesn't see it that way. If his brother Kalamis emerges with an army of frenzied machines, he'll glass half the city before he lets Salem take over."

"What a fool. He simply cannot understand her potential. Salem is the Tella princess we should have always dealt with, not Ina."

"Then we should continue our communications with her, let the Tella people know they have a chance."

"Very well then," Iris sighed. "Keep up the pressure. Try and get her out of that house. In the mean time, I'll start to plan my own introduction."

________________________________

"I think you broke her." Salem frowned as Anger placed the unconscious girl onto a wooden table, her petite frame convulsing as her face pressed against the cold surface. "What did you hit her with again?"

"A book." Anger explained. "I was analyzing Alia's textbooks for useful data."

"Did it help?"

"In more ways than one. Yes."

"I see," Salem nodded in approval, bending over to give the girl a closer look. "She doesn't seem to be like most Tella. Kind of strange looking, really."

"She's just as feeble," Anger pointed towards the girl's pained expression, her eyelids shifting to reveal her pupils reaching towards the back of her head. "I trust you can handle this."

"No stay. I may need you to break something."

"I find that unlikely. I have already searched her for dangerous weaponry. It is nothing you cannot handle. Kalis was nearly a thousand times more dangerous."

"Well...she is sort of cute," the red mother smiled, staring at the twitching girl as she arched her back. "Maybe I'll be a bit nicer to this one.

"No comment."

"Oh, come on. Look at her. She's like Ali if she were promiscuous."

"Stay focused."

"You're right. Ali is far prettier."

Kayi then released a sharp moan as her lungs began to work properly again, her shrill voice revealing a muffled sound. Salem's raised an eyebrow in response, curious to see what her captive had to say. For all the times she herself had been in a similar predicament, it was satisfying to watch over someone else's humiliating recovery.

"Aack." Kayi gritted her teeth as her consciousness returned. "My head."

"Rise and shine, little cutie."

"Huh!" The small girl gasped as she crawled into an upright position. "Where am I?!"

Kayi wasted no time leaping off the table, sprinting away from her captives as her frame became enveloped in a reflective sheen of energy. Salem and Anger stood their ground, watching curiously as the girl scampered off.

"Umm." Salem blinked.

"I see." Anger commented before picking another book off the shelf. "How amusing."

The Valekry then tossed the book with greater speed and somehow less effort, striking the girl on the back of her waist and causing her to stumble to the floor. Such an impact rendered her back stricken by pain as she began to writhe on the floor in a rather pathetic manner.

"N-no," the petite girl coughed, placing a hand on her injured waist. "Impossible."

Anger strolled up to Kayi before pulling her back to Salem by her ponytail. Before long, she was forced back onto the table, her head reeling from the previous injury as the mother watched on with a visible smile. Kayi did her best to move away, but her tiny frame was unable to resist her captives nor maintain control over itself.

"Giving my past self a run for my money," Salem laughed, holding the girl still with her prosthetic hand. "Quit convulsing already; you're making a scene."

"She can't handle it." Anger noted. "That is why I refuse to use any proper weapon against her."

"Then do stop trying to break my captive. I remember getting slapped around back in the day, it's real rough for us little ladies."

"A-ahh!" Kayi gasped, her body finally calming itself, "T-that all you got," she wailed in a hoarse tone.

"Tell me why you're here, and you won't get another book," the red mother hissed, looming over the girl as she held her down by her tiny shoulders. "If something like that could do all this to you, imagine how much worse it'll get if you don't speak up."

"I-I can't," Kayi shook her head, opening her eyes to see Salem staring into her soul. "I won't!"

"That so?" Salem scoffed, her metallic hand grasping the girl's throat. "You seem confident for someone so helpless."

"I-if you don't release me!" Kayi did her best to seem in control, her body shivering as she began to run out of air.

"Or what?" Salem tightened her grip. "I'm curious."

"Ack!" The small girl choked, her eyes rolling to the back of her head as she tried to kick herself loose.

"Well?"

"I-I..." Kayi's words became intelligible as her tongue stuck out of her mouth, its glossy surface salivating onto Salem's hand. "Aah!"

"Oh?" Salem smiled, loosening her grip as Anger watched silently. "That it?"

Kayi heaved as her breath returned, her body rolling onto its side as her tongue dangled out of her mouth. As far as she was concerned, she had already come face to face with her own demise. And yet, even as tears welled up in her eyes, she attempted to appear resilient.

"Got nothing to say?" Salem continued, watching the girl fight for her life. "Cute."

"Y-you do your worst. I shouldn't even be here," Kayi coughed. "It's not possible."

"I think you greatly overestimate yourself, little girl. Anger here caught you with his eye closed."

"I-I am a genius hacker. I broke into your house with both my eyes closed," Kayi continued as she managed to pull herself together. "Now, if you don't release me-."

Anger then shot a glance at Salem, as if encouraging her to step it up a notch. In response, Salem used her mechanical fist to slam the girl into the table, digging her nails deep into her belly as she pounded her insides. Kayi's weightless words were soon cut short by her own squeals as she tried her best not to cry.

"Aah!" The girl cried, reaching her limit.

"That hurt?" Salem taunted as her nails nearly drew blood from the girl's belly, it's surface turning red from the hit.

"Y-yes! Stop! Please!"

"Oh, you really don't like that, huh? Sharp metal hands do it for you?"

Salem then shoved the girl off the table, motioning Anger with her spindly finger.

"NO!" Kayi begged, realizing Salem's treatment would be nothing compared to a single hit from the Valekry. "I BEG!"

"Knock her teeth out," Salem shrugged as Anger kicked the girl into position. "All of them. I think you can manage that in one hit, yes?"

"Easily," Anger nodded. "Though I doubt she will survive."

"Salem!" Kayi cried out with a different voice, desperately crawling her way towards Salem's feet. "Don't! I...I give up!"

"You submit?" Salem motioned for Anger to postpone his attack, placing her metallic heel against Kayi's face. "Prove it."

To the red mother's surprise, Kayi began to genuinely grovel at her feet, begging for her life in a way she had never seen before. It became clear to Salem that the broken girl she now faced was entirely different than the one bluffing just moments before. She wanted to live no matter the cost.

"A-anything..." Kayi mumbled, her tears enveloping her face as she began to grasp at Salem's feet. "Please."

"Oh...I..." Salem stammered, raising her foot as she watched the girl with strange curiosity. "That's better."

"You can handle it from here," Anger shook his head in disgust, stepping away from the scene as Kayi began to kiss Salem's feet. "This is your specialty."

"I-I give up, I promise," Kayi continued to ramble, worshipping Salem with seemingly no sense of dignity. "I promise."

"Prove it." Salem pointed her prosthetic legs at the girl's mouth. "If you really want to live. I don't want to see even a scrap of that ego. You vile Tella deserve death."

"I-I," Kayi hesitated as she opened her mouth, allowing the tip of Salem's heel to enter. "Augh."

"Better," the red mother hissed as she took a seat on the table, allowing the girl to follow her lead for what seemed like an eternity. "Lick it. Don't look back down, either. I want to see your eyes."

"Mmph." Kayi sputtered on her hands and knees, looking deep into Salem's gaze as if her soul was being judged.

"I remember what you cretins did to Cora. Broke her will to live. Broke my dearest Ina too. Hell, I bet I have you to blame for everything. Everything wrong about me must come from you."

But as Salem continued her rant, she noticed something strange within the girl's eyes—a sense of humility she could not detect in the rest of the Tella. It seemed her lack of pale skin was no mere coincidence. Kayi was different from the rest, causing Salem to soften her heart.

"That's a good girl," Salem sighed, removing her foot from Kayi's mouth. "Now you have a simple choice. Let me break you. Or die."

Kayi merely sniffled in response, looking up at Salem as if a blade were placed against her throat.

"You know what to do," the red mother spoke calmly, leading her captive to the couch in the corner of the room. "You've done it before."

The petite girl then crawled towards Salem before climbing onto her lap, wiping her mouth clear of saliva before fixing her hair. Without any words, she removed her jacket, revealing a thin pair of bandages that covered her tiny breasts. Kayi stared Salem in the eyes before exposing herself, allowing Salem to fully accept her submission as the red mother stared at her naked chest.

"Well then. Maybe I won't have to kill you after all," Salem smiled softly, watching with morbid delight as the girl removed her bandages. "What's your name anyway."

"Kayi," the girl muttered as she continued to stare at Salem with unbroken focus. "My name is Kayi."

"Tell me Kayi. Why are you here? I don't need all the details quite yet. Just the basics."

"To collect data on you."

"Ah. A spy. Let's see if you're telling the truth."

Salem then placed her hands against the girl's waist, raising her into the air before planting a kiss directly onto her navel.

"Ah-." Kayi blushed as her eyes widened with surprise. "Y-you."

"The trials aren't over, honey; I'm just done threatening you with death. I learned years ago there's only one way to peel off a shell.

"Iris will kill me..." The girl lamented, averting her gaze for a brief moment. "I failed her."

"I assume she's your boss?" Salem smiled. "That is indeed the shell I speak of."

"I-I'm telling the truth! I swear!" Kayi yelped as Salem moved her hands down to the girl's tight shorts. "Please!"

"We'll see," the red mother spoke in a calm and gentle tone before tugging at the girl's pants, pulling them upwards as her nails dug into her bottom.

"Kyaa!" Kayi moaned, her heart-shaped bottom exposed by the tension in her shorts. "I-I swear!"

But unbeknownst to the crossbreed, Salem had already made up her mind some time ago. Once she realized there was much in common between herself and the spy, she knew exactly what to do. A desire to maim and kill had long since transformed into a strange desire to validate herself.

"Hold still," Salem commanded.