Chapter 26

Thank you for reading this far!

I will continue to work on Exuberance and update this web novel. Please leave a review and some feedback if you get the chance.

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Salem woke with a confused groan, her fluttering eyes unable to make out her surroundings. At first, it felt like a painful dream, as if she had fallen out of bed and injured her arm. But after realizing her arm was in fact completely gone, the red mother regained her senses and screamed.

"Ah!" Salem shuttered, scraping her remaining prosthetic limb against the cold floor of what appeared to be another Valekry ship. "Not...this again."

Before she could panic, a soft hand then gripped Salem's arm, reassuring her with its warm grasp.

"Salem," Ali whispered into the woman's ear, tugging at Salem's arm. "It's me."

Salem then looked up to see Ali, whose soft lap she had laid on just moments before. Filled with joy to see her doll, the red mother released a deep sigh as her nerves began to calm. Nothing was more recurring than Ali's warm smile, which silently informed the woman all was well with her family.

"You're not my bed," Salem joked, feeling Ali's soft thighs with her remaining hand. "Did we win?"

"R-right," Ali squirmed at the cold sensation from her partner's limb. "Everyone is alright. But...you aren't home Salem. Someone wants to talk to you."

"Would it be that big scary Valekry who smacked me across the face?"

"Yes."

Salem then rose from the doll's lap, observing her surroundings with a concerning glare. She hated the aesthetic of the Valekry's ships, with their circling hallways and cold sharp surfaces. But even the dense woman was smart enough to understand her true circumstances. She was not aboard a simple transport vessel from the surface to Lacuna. Instead, she was most likely aboard one of the largest warships she had seen outside the station, judging by the sheer stature of the machine that captured her.

"She is awake?" A booming voice called out, as a pair of mechanical figures emerged from the end of the hallway.

"Yes," Ali replied politely. "I am very sorry for having to rest her here."

"Nonsense. This ship is no place for a frail Tella such as herself. We simply have no room more comfortable than...the ground."

"Who are you?" Salem muttered, her vision still blurry as she failed to identify the Valekry staring down at her.

"My name is shipmaster Vordix," the Valekry explained. "Redrix and the rest of the council are waiting for you."

"Ah, so a bunch of tall loud men with big ships shaped like red spears. How fun," Salem smirked. "And very typical of you."

"Hmph. Your lack of posh is already telling. Perhaps the doll speaks truly."

"I'm surprised you are so polite with her. Guessing you didn't force her here?"

"No. It only takes one word with the doll to know she is our friend."

"She's one of us," another Valekry spoke from behind Salem in an equally booming voice. "Such a shame we've never encountered her kind before."

"Her kind? Are your really that aloof?" Salem crossed her arms.

"We are very aware Salem. Our manner of speak is just...unrefined when it comes to these civil affairs."

"Then can you tell me what the hell happened down there?!" The red mother scoffed, temporarily unamused by her situation.

The tall Valekry looked at each other - then the guards around them, before nodding their heads in silent approval. At the very least, Salem deserved to know what kind of battle she was caught in.

"Kalamis was our brother once. But the scourge of insanity took him at a young age, long before you ever walked this station. Korus, with his wisdom and authority, decided to spare the fallen creature and banish him to the depths of Lacuna where he could be studied and hopefully cured. But after several eons the Tella trusted with his rejuvenation abandoned him, leaving the entire layer of the city to rot as they pushed on to new heights."

"Eons?" Salem gasped. "How old are you?"

Realizing she was surrounded by the most important leaders in the entire Valekry army, Salem smacked herself in the forehead before struggling her way off the ground. In an attempt to present herself in a better light, the woman then stretched out her remaining hand towards the Valekry, offering them a handshake of sorts. In response, the towering machines simply stared at her with a confused look.

"Yes, you are most definitely not like the Tella we expected. Quite an odd one, Redrix will be pleased to know you are so incredibly different."

"Ugh," Salem groaned. "Just take me to him."

"This way ma'am. Restraints will not be necessary."

"No shit. What could I do to you in this place?"

"Try and die."

"It was a rhetorical question. Is Redrix the smartest among you?"

"Hah!" One of the Valekry laughed. "No, he's just the most honest. You Salem, dress like every Tella we've seen, yet act like none of them."

"Well, I assure you there's good reason for our differences."

"Yes?"

"I care about the Valekry, for starters," Salem spoke in a serious tone. "And I'm glad to be here with you."

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"So, this is the great threat you spoke of? Hardly a threatening presence."

"We said the same about that strange Tella named Alia."

"Chaos follows her wherever she goes. Our soldiers lose their minds in her presence."

"Yet the doll walks in her midst? Such a calm and caring machine?"

Sat neatly in a row of seats, an entire room full of Valekry generals argued for hours, their large eyes and gleaming armor signifying their important ranks. Each council member spoke with purpose, dignity, and respect as if they were each equally unwilling to offend the other. But for Salem, watching the whole charade had become a horrendously boring prospect, as she had yet to even speak a word.

"You know I read a book about this," Salem groaned, looking back at Ali who stood silently near the doorway. "A meeting of trees who just couldn't stop talking slowly about...nothing."

Before Salem lay an unusually complex chamber for the Valekry, with a holographic image of Lacuna displayed at the center of a round and cramped amphitheater filled to the brim with Valery who sat upon small and humble seats; the surface of each seat appearing in the same color and texture as the rest of the ship - proving how simplistic the machines were compared to their goddy creators. Near the top of the ring sat Redrix, who rested his large hands against the grandest chair in the room. From that exact position, which resembled almost a metal throne of sorts, he had proudly commanded his ship for centuries just like every other warrior present. But on that night, during the discussion of Salem, it was his home and his rules.

"Very well now, let us proceed with the questioning," Redrix boomed, causing the other shipmasters to respectfully end their speeches. "Salem. We Valekry are here today because of you."

"And?" Salem shrugged. "What is there to say?"

"We have reason to believe you are an enemy. For years, we have sat idly by while the Tella let our city rot. But no longer. With the council of shipmasters in place, we have decided to do that which they created us to do. Protect the city. So tell me Salem, are you a dangerous entity that we must destroy to protect our city? Or are you a friend and ally, as Ali suggests."

"Enemy you say? No. I want what you want shipmaster. The safety and prosperity of Lacuna and its people. But am I an ally? Well...no," the red mother smirked confidently.

Whispers then echoed throughout the room as the council displayed their suspicions.

"I am more than your ally Redrix," Salem continued.

"Oh"

"I wish to be your queen."

The voices of the council then erupted into passionate discussion as the surprised Valekry emanated their thoughts.

"Silence please," Redrix commanded. "Whatever do you mean Salem?"

"Every action I've taken, ever since I met the princess, has been for the betterment of your people. Call me a siren of disaster if you want, but I have never forgotten my mission. Never once have I lost sight of the reason behind my many battles. With all three opponents I've slain, I've protected your people."

"You mean to suggest you were simply dismantling other threats?"

"Entities far worse than myself. Yes. Alia wanted me to kill her before she became an unstoppable monster. Kalis gave me an ultimatum between the extinction of the Tella and the end of our relationship. Kalamis attacked me before I even knew I existed and sought the destruction of everything around him. I stopped every single one of these enemies, no matter what it cost me. Both you and the Tella were protected as a result."

"But you speak as if you prefer..."

"I prefer you shipmaster. Look at my children who fight for me. The Valekry are my family."

"I see..." Redrix pondered. "So your wish to be queen is a...proposal?"

"Only I can help your people. Please, let me. As queen, I can save Lacuna."

Redrix then entered a deep train of thought as the council began to direct their curiosity toward Salem. Eager to take advantage of the situation, Salem made sure to respond to every concern she could find, deepening her relationship with the council, all the while propping herself as a confident ruler. Ali watched with amazement from the sidelines, surprised to see her confused partner transform into something daring and beautiful.

"What is your plan for the city?" One of the shipmasters inquired. "How do you intend to fix our problems?"

"By problems you mean the scourge of insanity and depression that seeps into the stagnant city? Well, I intend to open your borders and expand the Tella's influence so that they may spread their wings. You, on the other hand, will have plenty of protecting to do, keeping them all safe from the surface below," Salem explained.

"You mean to expose Lacuna to the world?"

"I mean to establish your dominance yes. I came from that accursed planet. You Valekry dwarf every army I've seen there in both size and technological prowess. You'd have more than enough to preoccupy yourself, but nothing beyond what you could handle."

"Do you mean to suggest our problems stem from...a lack of chores?" Another shipmaster questioned, with excitement in his tone.

"Call it what you want," Salem laughed. "But am I wrong? I know what ails the younger generations ever since the Tella meddled with their programming. You need to fulfill your purpose shipmaster. Fight an enemy and protect your creators."

"You claim to know us woman. Do you truly?"

"Look at me. I am becoming more and more like you. My family is Valekry. My partner is a doll."

"And how do the Tella see you? If you are truly one of us, does that not jeopardize your reputation?"

"They see me as a toy, just like their princess. But still, they valued my plan and agreed with the faults I exposed. The Tella will not ever be as close to me as you shipmasters, but they will bow before me when given the chance."

"So that's what this is," Redrix interrupted the council after collecting his thoughts. "You are campaigning for a seat on the throne. Doing anything it takes."

"Yes. I sold my body to the Tella so I could be their pretty savior. And I aim to earn your respect so that you can lend me your strength."

"You need us to take the throne..."

"Just as I need the Tella's blessing once I sit upon it."

"That is...treason Salem. Rebellion against Princess Ina. We may be convening here in secret woman, but to plot such a thing behind her back..."

"I know. But my sister isn't an enemy. I am almost certain she will understand once I have demonstrated my power over Lacuna. Stand at my side, and I can take the throne without bloodshed. For all our sakes."

"But our honor..."

"Is only as good as your vow to protect this city. It is dying Redrix. You know that. You knew it when you dismissed the Tella and blasted half the city to hell just to slay your foes."

"Hmm," Redrix pondered once again. "If we help you..."

"I will save our people."

"But if Ina resists."

"I will leave the matter of force up to you. Under no circumstances do I intend to uproot Lacuna's most sacred values. The Tella dance and play, acting as the masters of opulence. You Valekry fight and protect, and are the stewards of battle."

"You would give us that right?"

"I would never take it from you. Even as queen. The military effort is yours."

"Very well then Salem. I shall allow the council to vote. You have three verdicts at hand. One vote is to kill you, the other is to spare your life and let you leave," Redrix explained as he projected a holographic screen from the base of his chair.

"And the third?"

"If the council deems it so, we shall lend you our strength until the day you sit upon the throne. And after that...well...you will be our queen. Your word is our command."

"But I didn't-," Salem stuttered.

"If you can truly manage to rule woman, you would have earned our respect. From then on, all power is yours by right. This is our culture."

"I understand."

An array of terminals then opened up before each shipmaster, giving them the chance to silently vote. But of course, as all things tended to be with the Valekry, it took them hours to decide. Salem in the meantime sat on the floor near the center of the room, twiddling her thumbs together like a bored child. Typically such childish behavior wouldn't bode well for a queen. But in front of the Valekry, who cared little for physical presentation, Salem could truly get away with anything.

"Very well then," Redrix spoke with a louder tone. "The council has decided."

"And?" Salem asked, looking behind her to see Ali's nervous expression. "Are you going to kill me?"

"Hmph, the vote was unanimous," Redrix shook his head. "You Salem, will have your chance."

"My chance?"

"When you are ready, make your move to take the throne, and signal our might when it is needed. If you can sit upon that chair on your own, and deal with the many hardships beyond just a battle, then you will be our queen. It is decided."

"R-really?" Salem paused, unable to comprehend what she had been told. "That easy?"

"Save the city. That was our decision. I hope you succeed, for all our sakes."

"Thank you Redrix," Salem bowed as the doll ran into her arms. "Thank you."

"Under better circumstances, I would have killed you. But these are...troubling times. For all of us."

"Can she return home now?" Ali spoke up to the large Valekry. "We've been here for so long."

"Well, considering you now have the right to call a favor from...the entire fleet, I'm sure we can arrange something."

"So much power," Salem stammered. "I don't even know what to say."

"Save it when you truly need it. Prepare for the day you plan to take the throne Salem. We are not your pets."

"Of course. I will respect our deal. But...I would like the fastest ride you have," Salem smiled as she continued to hug her doll.

Redrix simply laughed in response, showing an unusual kindness in his voice. It had been years since he laughed. But looking at Salem and Ali, he felt a sort of tenderness touch his soul.

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"Salem it's too fast!" Ali grimaced, clinging to Salem as she sat in the woman's lap.

"Their fault for having the meeting in outer-fucking space," Salem laughed, gripping her seat. "Just enjoy the ride."

To arrive at their home swiftly, Redrix had granted Salem a single-seat space fighter, capable of sailing at speeds dangerously close to that of light. Even in a vacuum, the pair could somehow feel an intense propulsion, causing Ali to squirm with fright. But somehow Salem found the whole thing enjoyable, staring out at the stars as the autopilot sent her barreling towards Lacuna's exterior.

As the dagger-shaped vessel drew closer, a message popped up in the center of Salem's cockpit, obscuring her view of the beautiful station.

"Lone fighter please send identification for entry," a robotic voice spoke through the cockpit's intercom.

"Ask Redrix," Salem laughed.

"Oh...I see," the voice replied before hanging up. "Landing approved."

"Your goddamn right," the red mother smirked, clinging to the doll in her lap like some proud male gangster.

The Valekry ship then continued to zoom toward the station, entering its interior with blinding speed before coming to an abrupt stop at the city's edge. Realizing they had come to a stop, Ali finally looked up at her home, having buried her face in Salem's chest. But before the doll could flip the switch to open the cockpit, a mechanical hand pinched her skin.

"You have fun, Ali?" Salem smiled, staring deep into the doll's wide eyes.

"Y-yes," Ali blushed. "I'm sorry I didn't mean to."

"Oh don't be so prudish. We're both girls. I mean...it's always fine as long as I get a feel in return."

"A wah?"

"You didn't mean to feel me up like that?" Salem joked, placing her hand against Ali's left breast, its small round surface barely fitting into her palm. "Don't lie and tell me it didn't feel good."

"S-Salem," Ali muttered as the woman cupped her breast, feeling it thoroughly with each finger.

"You don't find me attractive?" The red mother smiled, playfully moving her body around in the cramped cockpit, shifting the doll's weight with her own.

"I-I think you are a beautiful lady."

"And I think you're the most attractive girl I've ever laid my eyes on."

"Salem!" Ali blushed. "What's come over you!"

"I'm feeling good," Salem responded, planting a kiss on the doll's forehead as she slid her hand down onto Ali's soft thigh. "You can tell me to stop if you want."

"It's not that I just..."

"A lot to take in. I know. I should have thought of that beforehand," the red mother sighed, removing her hand from the doll's thigh. "I just got excited."

"Salem..." Ali muttered, still sitting in the woman's lap even as the cockpit swung wide open. "Would you like to go out together somewhere?"

"Wow...she really just told me to buy dinner first," Salem groaned, staring at seemingly no one at all.

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"Hey, you lived!" Corian cheered from the front door of Alia's mansion, followed by the rest of Salem's mechanical family. "And you look...oh dear god."

"It's nothing Corian," Salem smiled before giving the man a warm hug with her one remaining hand. "Are you alright?"

"Woman I got bopped on the head," the young knight pointed to his bandage. "You lost a whole arm."

"Yeah, but I got a whole lot more."

"What, laid? With the doll? Already?" Corian joked, having seemingly read the tension in the air. "Nice."

"No dummy! I spoke with Redrix."

"He sees your vision," Anger spoke as he stepped in front of his siblings, their bodies all newly repaired. "Good."

"You saved my life," Salem smiled as she pushed Corian aside to embrace her children. "All of you. So brave and strong."

"I said the same!" Valor beamed.

"It is good to see you well mother, even if it was...difficult."

"We learned a lot, and helped some people too," Regret explained. "I'm sorry it didn't all work out though."

"Well, we can't win them all," Salem sighed, thinking back to Kalis and his family. "Kalamis should have been our friend. But I took something from him I could never return. I only hope...they can see what I'll do with this city. Their vision isn't gone just yet. Lacuna will thrive."

"You have approval from both the Tella and the Valekry?" Regret asked as the family crowded around Salem. 

"Yes, dear. Now I just need to...talk to my...sister."

"Ah...," both Sorrow and Regret replied. "You mean Ina?"

"I suppose it was a bit obvious," Salem groaned. "Is that why you didn't say anything Corian?"

"I mean...does it change your relationship with her? We invited her like family into this home. I thought it was all set in stone.

"No...I suppose I just have more questions now."

"We have a lot to do till then," Valor chuckled. "Getting you a new arm...talking to Iris again after all that happened and...well, you still owe Ali a date."

"You know about that?!" Salem gasped.

"Again lady, this stuff is obvious," Corian chortled. 

Salem smiled softly, accepting the criticism and teasing she had been receiving. For at the moment, she felt truly accomplished and content. The days of failure and doubt were gone - replaced by victory, family, and a thriving political career. She was finally comfortable enough to call Ina sister.

"It's nice you know," Salem whispered, plopping herself onto the velvet couch in Alia's living room. "Not failing for once. What can go wrong from here?"

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"Do you have any idea what she's doing?!"

"Ocelot please, it's alright."

"I know you're smarter than this Ina. She's planning a coup."

"And is that a problem? If she takes the throne peacefully, I can help her."

"Help her do what, blow up half the city? Did you even see the crater out there? The Valekry did that, and she struts around acting like it was nothing after the fact. She's quite literally accustomed to the casualties she causes. She and her sick family."

"Nobody is perfect Ocelot. She helped end the threat of Kalamis, and she has a good heart. Just let me talk to her."

"You mean hide everything? Again!?"

Locked away in her stuffy room once again, Ina was trapped with her brother in a heated debate, staring at the crystalline wall as he lectured her. With every accusatory word he said, she simply responded by looking away - focusing on some random object in her room. She would rather pay attention to the yellow bird squeaking above her bed than pay mind to Ocelot's concerns.

"Could the truth really be that horrendous Ina?" Ocelot sighed, placing a frail palm on his smooth face. "Tell me."

"Do you have to know? Salem can fix things, brother, she just needs guidance," the princess explained as she reached for a warm glass of tea next to her. "Is this all because you want to protect me?"

"Why her? Because she's more courageous? Because I'm not what you wanted?"

"It's not that simple Ocelot."

"It is. She's your sister."

"And you're not my brother?"

"Am I?!" Ocelot fumed. "Where is mother and father."

"I..."

Placing her tea on the small wooden table beside her, Ina produced a familiar expression. She made the same face whenever she lost her appetite. No matter how hard she tried to feel comfortable in her own bedroom, some topics were always too much to handle.

"Ina, please. Drink. You hardly eat anything as is," Ocelot groaned, taking a seat beside Ina in her bedroom. "I don't like to see you so unhealthy."

"Yet you push me again and again."

"Sister. I do this for you. I cannot help but feel like your secrets and shrouded doubts are what make you miserable. I want to see you free and happy. You don't need Salem! Help Lacuna all on your own!"

"It's not that simple..."

"Why not?"

"We can't...leave this place."

"Excuse me?"

"I said too much."

Clutching the frills of her dress, Ina stood up from her bed and reached for the door. Ocelot grabbed her arm in response, a look of surprise forming on his face as he realized how soft his sister was. An awkward moment of silence then followed as the siblings faced each other.

"Just...let me help you, Ina," Ocelot pleaded. "Isn't that why I'm here?"

"You aren't here for any reason Ocelot your my brother!" Ina argued. "Isn't that enough? And in a better world...I'd want you to be king."

"A better world?"

"One where the Tella are not...monsters."

"And you believe Salem is better?"

"Why don't you meet her?"

The siblings continued their standoff, questioning each other's motives with every word. But after a long pause, Ocelot snapped and hugged his sister, showing his true intent. Ina smiled, remembering in that moment why she bothered to keep everything a secret.

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"Ow!" Salem complained. "Careful!"

"You need to stay still Mother."

"Did it always hurt this much?"

"Last time you used your flower."

Within the warm confines of her home, Salem was installing her latest prosthetic with the help of Anger. She very well could have done the deed on her own, but something was preventing the typical process. Anger of course knew the reason and said nothing as usual.

"You know why I don't just regenerate the limb right?" Salem smiled.

"You want to be more like us," Anger responded with little interest in his tone.

"What do you think of that?"

"It is good. Your body is far too fleshy and weak as is. A prosthetic would help."

"What's wrong with fleshy and weak?"

"Conventionally attractive feminine features do not win battles, Mother."

"Says who," the red mother frowned, kicking her heels up onto the surface of Alia's coffee table.

"Your track record of victories. Every time you win, you cast aside your weaknesses."

"Life isn't just about winning battles Anger. I like my body."

"Evidently, everyone likes your body," Anger spoke with a tinge of disgust, gesturing towards the man sitting near the bar.

"Oh don't you get mad at him, run along now Anger," Salem groaned, feeling the power of her new arm come alive.

Watching her child leave the room, Salem began to sneak her way towards the bar. As far as she could tell everyone was occupied elsewhere, with Ali napping and the other three children practicing some sort of game in the main hall. For the time being it was just the red mother and her intrepid knight.

"So," Salem posed next to Corian, resting her elbows against the edge of the bar. "Drinking again are we?"

"It's soda actually. Never tried it. A friend was always promoting the damn stuff like it was magic," the young knight explained, shaking a glass full of strange brown liquid. "He was funny for a double-crossing murderer."

"Are they-."

"Nah. Nobody can kill that bastard. But regardless, I've got new friends now. Don't let me ruin the good mood."

"Oh so that's what we are," Salem complained. "Friends."

"Well I mean," Corian chuckled. "I don't even know what we are beyond the formalities."

"You didn't do much thinking in your time huh?" The red mother stretched her arms like a cat, exposing the flesh beneath her pale shoulders. "Typical man."

"For the longest time, I didn't have to. I'm just a simple knight."

"I remember your whole speech. Something about finding purpose?"

"Guess you are my purpose then," Corian smiled, trying hard not to stare at Salem's new outfit. "Have I been doing a good job?"

"You've protected me and my children Corian. That means more than you think."

"I'm just glad you're feeling happier these days."

"Of course, why else would I change to this modern getup," the red mother smirked, twirling around in her fresh attire. "I know what you like."

"You have no idea what I like," Corian laughed.

"Oh? So it's ugly?"

"Well..."

Salem's new outfit was that of an urban schoolgirl, with mesh fabric around her thighs and a short black skirt. Of course, the nature of the outfit was of the more mature variety, with the woman's red sweater featuring several sensual gaps around her belly and chest. On top of Salem's shoulder appeared a red tattoo of sorts, the mark of the red flower displayed clear as day alongside the rest of her accessories such as a scarlet ribbon in the back of her hair.

"You look ridiculous," the young knight chortled. "Ali dresses better than that."

"Ali is more attractive than me I'll give her that," Salem joked. "But I know she isn't your type."

"And what exactly is my type?"

"Miss more hints and find out."

Having finally reached his limit, Corian stood up from his stool and glared, and after grabbing Salem by the waist, he hoisted her up over the bar, bending her over the edge in a sudden and brash movement.

"Guh!" Salem groaned, the force of the maneuver pushing the air out of her belly. "H-hey!"

"Do you ever shut up?" Corian sighed, making sure Salem was unable to escape as her heels dangled in the air. 

"I'm just trying to flirt!"

"Can't you do that normally?"

Corian then flipped Salem's skirt upwards, exposing her plump heart-shaped bottom, its round surface barely obscured by a pair of black underwear.

"I mean just look at this. You're trying too hard," the young knight laughed, pointing to the heart-shaped emblem on Salem's panties.

"H-how dare you! I'm going to be queen!"

"No amount of royalty can stop your shameless horny behavior."

The intrepid knight then raised his arm before giving Salem the palm of his hand, nearly pushing her over the edge of the bar. In response, the pale woman released a guttural moan, almost sounding like an animal as her rear end turned a shade of red. The impact was so great in fact, that Salem's soft flesh jiggled like the same raw chicken she had prepared for lunch.

"Why are you into this kind of thing," Corian sighed, giving Salem another slap on her bottom before tugging at her panties.

"Shut up and stop pretending you don't like it," the red mother winced, her large chest pressing against the cold surface of the bar.

"But is this really what you want?"

"Why can't you serve me beyond good advice and protection?" Salem explained as she closed one eye.

"Fine."

Corian then came up from behind Salem, and thrusted himself into her, causing her entire body to pulsate once again. Even with her undergarments still on, the movement was too much for her to handle, causing her to choke and gasp for air.

"Kuh!" Salem moaned, sticking out her tongue as she desperately tried to fight for air. "You-."

But before she could continue her dishonesty, Salem felt her undergarments leave her body, as her bare flesh came into contact with the knight for a third time. With nothing left to protect her but the tight fishnet around her thighs, the red mother's eyes then rolled closer to the back of her skull - unable to handle the sensual beating. It felt good drifting away from reality with such an intense experience.

"C-corian," Salem whispered one last time before she went limp, her arms drooping over the other end of the bar.

In what felt like seconds, the pair had gone at it for nearly half an hour, creating a visible scene of love and passion. Knowing that Salem had gotten what she asked for, Corian chuckled a bit to himself before hoisting the lifeless mother over his shoulders. Even when treated like nothing more than a common harlot bent over a table, the woman was still a queen.

"Hey, Ali?" Corian sighed. "You around here?"

A few awkward moments passed before the sleepy doll appeared around the corner, scratching her eyes while holding her bear.

"It happened again?" Ali whispered softly like a disapproving parent.

"I didn't even really do anything this time she's just so..."

"Excited. I know," Ali smiled motioning for Corian to follow her. "Here, let's take her to bed."

"Say, when is it gonna be you? I mean...not to be rude or anything," Corian shrugged. "I like Salem a lot but this girl is crazy."

"Well...is she not content with you?"

"Ali we both know you're the smart one around here let's not play games. Salem enjoys me sure. But you are more than that. Weren't you two going on a date?"

"I...I don't think I'm ready for that."

"I thought you figured it all out with Valor."

"It's not about all that," Ali blushed. "I know what I am...and I accept my body for what it is. But...I'm just not as experienced as you."

"What? Making love?"

"You're so brave and confident with her. I don't think I could handle that kind of activity Corian."

"Wow, the one time someone recognizes my talent, and it's for...this," Corian sighed. "Listen, girl. Finding out what you are and what you do in that kind of scenario is...an organic process. You figure it out. I sure as heck wasn't some expert my first time. And besides...you don't have to do all the work like me."

"Hm?" Ali tilted her head.

"Uhhh, just think to those novels you read. Where one is...typically more active than the other in a romantic scene."

"Oh," the doll paused. "You mean I'm the girl?"

"It's called a bott-yea whatever sure. Just take it slow and easy. I believe in you."

"Really?" Ali beamed as the pair finished dragging Salem into her room.

"Yea. I mean it. You got heart kid. Make her happy. Maybe someday she won't have to cope with me."

"Thank you," Ali smiled. "But please, don't dismiss yourself."

"Nah nah seriously. You're the one for her. I have enough sense and humility to accept that. One of the few things I'm proud of."

"You're a good man Corian."

"And you're a...unusually not creepy doll."

"Hah," Ali giggled. "How do we even make light of this preposterous situation?"

"Yeah, you know it's bad when even you are laughing."

"But it's Salem. She's everything to us."

"Faults and all."

_______________________________

"Did you think you could run from yourself?"

"Huh?" Salem mumbled, her prosthetic limbs twitching beneath the blankets. "Ali?"

"It won't work."

"I don't-," the red mother squinted her eyes, trying her best to remember who had placed her back in Alia's bed.

"You have a mission."

A crimson light flickered in front of Salem's face, its brilliant glow illuminating the dark corners of her bedroom. Having been left to slumber all alone, the red mother was unable to avoid speaking with the apparition and was forced to heed its calling. But she had been in a similar place before, showing little fear as it continued to speak.

"Do not forget yourself," the red flower whispered in a voice akin to Salem's. "I am you. And you are me."

"How could I? You never shut up."

"You mock yourself. Ignoring your own advice ever since that night."

"That was before Alia. Things changed!" Salem argued, unwilling to accept the words beneath her conscious.

"Have they? Every step you've taken has furthered your true goal."

"I am not your puppet."

"You are a slave only to yourself, indeed. Cope and lie behind the curtains, but even your justified excuse of a campaign is all in service of the greater plan."

"I promised to kill for a purpose I know but-."

"And you needed power to do it. An army. A loyal nation."

"That's not why I'm becoming queen!"

"To save life you must release it from the endless torment."

"I can help them!"

"Yes. And when you become Queen. We will."

Salem screamed in frustration, waving her arms around the flower in an attempt to destroy it. But of course, the source of her power was unphased, taunting the woman with its strength. Every word that came from its formless mouth was the very essence of Salem - its message impossible to deny.

"Just...stop talking."

"You aren't even speaking. Just thinking."

"And yet I have no idea what I want. What is my purpose? I refuse to accept defeat and just...give up! I can save Lacuna another way. I care about it!"

"It is not a choice. It is your nature."

"But how? Explain!"

"The red flower. You Salem are programmed with a directive."

"Programmed?!"

"Just as the flower of love fosters life and cares for it, you are destined to end it."

"The blue flower," Salem pondered. "So I don't need you."

Concentrating on her own inner thoughts, Salem began to silence the flower, occupying her mind with a different perspective. She had been running away from herself for months and with great success. The red mother would rather avoid her destiny and smile with her family then succumb to fate.

"Ina," Salem gasped. "You knew this. Didn't you?! Why didn't you tell me sister!" There had to be a reason...there must be a way. I just know it."

Fully intent on escaping herself, Salem then fled out of the room, leaving the image of the flower behind. After stumbling her way through the hallway, she came face to face with her family, their friendly faces staring at her from the kitchen. But with her mind warring against her, the red mother found herself unable to speak to the group, muttering nonsense at them as they crowded around the table.

"Salem?" Ali paused, her small hands grasping what appeared to be a deck of cards. "Is everything all right?"

"Oh hey she's awake," Corian smiled. "Why don't you join us? I'm teaching them how to play poker."

"Yes, Mother it's rather fun, especially since they can't read my face!" Regret beamed."

"I can read you like a book fool," Anger produced an unusual chortle in response.

"See mother? Even Anger is playing," Valor beamed. "I bet him he couldn't predict us in such a game."

"Well you ate your words," Sorrow complained. "He's winning by a landslide."

"Yes well, at least he's playing."

Still unable to say a word, Salem's eyes began to well up with tears. She knew in her heart that her family had changed her. And yet still, the mission her flower spoke of was impossible to forget.

"I...," Salem stammered. "Please take me to Ina."

"Are you alright mother?" Valor questioned.

"Now please!" Salem gasped, unable to control herself. "Just...do it please."

"I'll take her," Anger nodded, throwing away his small deck of cards. "You all stay here."

"Uhh, are you sure?" Corian questioned, watching Salem practically limp her way out the door. "Salem?"

"Salem," Ali whimpered. "Should we follow her?"

"Loosely. Give her space."

Just as soon as Anger departed with Salem in tow, the entire remaining family stopped what they were doing and began to worry. No game of cards would occupy their minds till they knew for certain the red mother was safe. But without a vehicle to follow her in, all they could really do was sit back and watch.

"Worst-case scenario, we can always book it like I did," Corian shrugged."

"You mean fling yourself from the city's edge and surf your way down?" Regret shook his head. "I'd rather one of us just take the faster airship mother parked here earlier."

"It won't come to that. Have faith," Valor sighed. "Mother will be alright she just needs to see her sister."

"I have a bad feeling about this. Just saying," the young knight continued.

"We all do."

________________________

"Salem is here," Korus informed the pale twins in front of him. "Please my prince, if you could stay-."

"I'd rather she not know of my existence," Ocelot muttered as he stormed off.

"Brother please," Ina pleaded. "Stay with us."

"Oh, I'm sure you'll be fine. Just lie about me if she asks. Should be easy."

Ina released a deep sigh as her brother slammed the door, her patience waning by the minute. Looking up to see Korus's concerned stare, she smiled softly at the machine. He had always been a source of comfort in dire times.

"What should I tell her Korus," Ina lamented.

"She is here because she desires your company princess. All you need do is be a good friend. And that should be the only truly easy thing for you," the white Valekry replied.

"How do you always stay so positive?"

"I remember what I have. And what I can lose," Korus nodded before turning to leave. "I know you do the same."

"If only it were that easy," the princess frowned as she began to hear the clatter of Salem's heels draw closer. "I hope you will understand Salem."

Just as she finished gathering herself, Ina turned to face Salem as she entered the room, the pale girl appearing before her in a disheveled state. Surprised to see the red mother in such a state, the princess nearly gasped. She knew better than anyone how to identify a look of desperation.

"Salem are you?-"

"No. I thought you'd understand. I...didn't want my family to see me like this."

"Of course," Ina replied with a smile as she stepped closer to Salem. "Our flowers can be...troublesome at times."

"I thought that maybe...after all the good that's happened to me...that I'd-," Salem's eyes began to water.

But before the red mother could finish, she felt a warm pair of arms wrap around her.

"I know," Ina breathed softly, hugging Salem tightly with all her strength.

"Sister," Salem cried before returning the princess's embrace. "my dear sister."

"So you figured it out," Ina giggled. "After all this time."

"Is that why you showed me such kindness?"

"I knew your pain from the start Salem. That's what a sister does."

"I'm sorry I didn't see it earlier. I could have helped you too," Salem continued to cry as the sisters held each other tightly.

Together, the twins stood at each other's exact height, their similar frames brushing against each other all the while. Salem may have adorned long hair and red eyes, but the similarity between her short-haired and blue-eyed sister could not be denied. They were family in every sense of the word.

"I think you always knew," Ina explained as her eyes began to well up. "And you did help me."

"So that's it then? You're the smart one?"

"Don't dismiss yourself Salem."

"I couldn't even identify my own damn sister."

"You never imagined you'd find a family until you did."

Salem stared deeply into Ina's eyes before choosing her next words, the red flower practically beating out of her chest, "Ina if you understand me so well. Tell me how to stop it."

"Stop what?" Ina paused.

"You feel it too. The call of the flower."

"Salem, all I feel is you. Our proximity and shared blood."

"Of course, you have the flower of love. But me?"

"Malice can be tamed."

"Tamed with what? How do you know that?"

"I believe you already know the answer to this question Salem. Mother and father. They held these powers as well. And with it, they bonded."

"So what, you want me to kiss my own sister and pray the voices go away? Besides, mother and father are gone. Clearly whatever they tried failed. You didn't answer my question sister."

"Oh but I did Salem," Ina sighed. "They did whatever they could."

"So you knew mother and father?"

"Not personally no. But...I can feel them. Just as you can."

"I don't even know what they look like Ina. You must possess something I do not."

"You're right Salem," Ina frowned, turning her back to her twin. "I do possess something. A curse."

"Of knowledge?"

"You do not want it."

"But...it can help me stop this! My flower is telling me - practically screaming at me to purge life as a solution to every unsolvable problem!"

"It is the nature of the red flower."

"I know you, Ina. You wouldn't give up faith in me like that," Salem pleaded. "What is your plan?"

"Of course, I have faith in you Salem. And I will comfort you, as long and as much as I can. But the red flower. I won't ever go away. You can dread it, flee from it, or even try to ignore it. Nothing works."

"So then what?"

"We must stay here. Bottle up the danger within and keep the rest of the world safe."

"I," Salem stammered. "Is that what this is?"

"Salem I am telling you the truth."

"Only part of it! How do you even know all this? What is your own flower telling you?! Clearly I was a fool to believe it was all sunshine and rainbows."

"I...do suffer like you do Salem. But you are so much braver than I. You can overcome it."

"What are you saying."

"Stay here. In Lacuna. Rule as queen and do whatever you must to stem the tide."

Realizing Ina had been spying on her, Salem stepped away from Ina, creating an awkward distance between the two.

"Are you...suggesting I abandon my plan? And how were you aware of it?"

"Does it matter? I know what my sister wants."

"That's not all you know Ina."

"Just please. Take the throne if you must, that's all I ever wanted from you. But touching the surface of Peruvia. It's what they want."

"Excuse me?"

"I said too much," Ina gasped. "Salem-."

"I thought you would approve sister. I really thought you would," Salem cried out with a betrayed look on her face. "I thought maybe... together we could rule."

"I want you to be queen as well Salem!"

"For what? So I can bear the burden more effectively then you? Find new and creative ways to cleanse the rot of this city?"

"Sister-."

"Oh because I'm the brave sadistic one. Surely the red flower of malice can sort things out with more blood and death. Just like Iris did? Is that why you let her and the rest of the Tella run Lacuna? Am I simply the next part of your plan to contain us?"

"It's not like that!"

"Oh no, it is. I never would have guessed we had such similar schemes. Only, the pretty blue flower can't get her hands dirty right? Evil queen Salem has to do that with her talent for violence."

"Salem! Listen to yourself!" Ina pleaded. "I want what's best for you. All my life, just like you, I've longed for family. Never will you be a tool to me."

"Then please sister. Tell me what you know. Together, we can fix this. A little bit of trust goes a long way."

"It is precisely because I love you that I cannot tell you. It is...my mistake. My burden to bear."

"Mistake?"

"I already said far too much."

A long and painful pause then followed as Salem stared at her sister in disbelief. All her anger and hatred were gone, replaced with nothing but sorrowful regret. Ina could not save her from the red flower's torment - leaving the red mother's path unclear.

"Very well then," Salem sniffled. "I guess neither of us will spread our wings."

"Salem," Ina sighed. "Wait!"

But before Ina could continue to beg, her sister had already cried her way out of the room.

"I promise you sister," Salem sobbed alone, running desperately through the dark hallways towards her shuttle. "I'll find a way. Even if you won't help me. I WILL free us from these parasites."

__________________________________

After being rejected by her sister, Salem spent the following days in a depressed stupor, mindlessly gathering her strength for the plan she was no longer confident in. After what Ina had told her - or more specifically refused to tell her, the red mother was filled with uncertainty. Her entire scheme hinged on the feeling that she could save her world or break the red flower, but Ina's warnings all seemed to imply Salem's efforts were futile.

As the hours dragged on, Salem made sure to check in on her allies, informing them what would soon take place. First, she spoke to the shipmasters, who seemed concerned with Ina's secrets and unwillingness to take action. After providing reassurance for their loyalty, Salem moved on from the Valekruy and began preparations for her visit with the Tella. But by then her lack of enthusiasm was already apparent.

"Is something wrong my dear?" Iris whispered into Salem's ear. "You seem unusually docile."

"It's nothing," Salem muttered, her face inches away from the woman's mouth.

In typical fashion the Tella had arranged a banquet of sorts, to celebrate Iris's actions during the calamity at the opera house. She of course was given most of the credit for both "saving Salem" and arranging for Redrix's arrival. But regardless of lies and propaganda, the fancy get-together was made in Salem's name, as excitement for her new rule began to spur in the hearts of many.

To show her loyalty and value, Salem was dressed head to toe in a tight black dress, its shiny surface cut from her shoulders to her left thigh with red vines decorating what little it covered. But just in case there was any doubt left about what kind of treasure the red mother truly was, she spent the entire dinner sitting on Iris's lap surrounded by friends and sponsors alike. Salem was both an asset and an attraction, put on display for the amusement of others.

"I think not dear. The Salem I know would be blushing and growling by now like a wild cat," Iris joked, running her hands through Salem's hair and red crystal earrings. "Tell me. What's really going on?"

"It's nothing...," Salem sighed, seemingly unconcerned with the countless eyes gawking at her."

Together the women sat around a large golden table at the center of a ballroom, surrounded by music and festivities of the classical variety. Only the richest and most influential were allowed at the table - privileged with the chance to sit close to Salem. Iris, as always, was given the largest chair fitting her power and taller appearance.

"Well. A surprise like this isn't always a bad one. Who knew the prideful princess had a submissive side?" Renny smiled nervously as she snapped a picture of Iris, her much larger frame providing more than enough space for Salem's curvy figure to sit on.

"Oh, I think it's marvelous. Nobody can trust an actor," one of Iris's sponsors laughed in the chair next to Iris, her feminine appearance covered in lavish silk and gold. "If our little Salem here is having a bad day, that just proves her actions are real. A liar would never let us see her like this."

"Indeed. What has happened to my prize?" Iris smirked, bouncing Salem in her lap like a child. "Is she even here?"

"Y-yes," Salem closed one eye, followed by the laughter of women as her exposed chest flopped around with Iris's movements.

Due to the nature of Salem's dress, much of the top and side portions of her pale breasts were exposed, giving Iris clear access to them whenever she pleased. The moment the Tella showed amusement at the red mother's embarrassment, the large woman took to slipping her hand beneath the dress, pinching the center of Salem's chest. Such perversions would have typically infuriated the crimson princess on any other day, but with Ina's words still trapped in her mind, she didn't bother to even glare.

"Ah!" Salem grunted as the sharp nails of Iris's hands dug into her chest.

"Oh? Does that hurt? Want me to stop?" The tall woman chuckled. "Just say the word."

"It...doesn't matter."

"Really now? Well, that's good news."

Having her mind set on testing Salem's limits, Iris then began to lick the red mother's ear, sucking on her flesh with great ferocity. Using her other hand to rub against her victim's inner thigh, the Tella's assault only worsened in its depravity. The senseless act continued for what felt like hours, with Salem twitching and groaning much to the delight of her audience. Finally, the pale girl snapped, turning her head to face Iris with a disgusted scowl.

"This is what I-," Salem spoke only to have her words cut off by Iris's tongue, its slimy surface forcing its way through her lips the moment she faced the tall woman. "Mmh!"

"Goodness," Renny blushed. "I don't think Iris has ever liked a woman this time before."

"Not since Ina," another woman added.

"Well, they are sisters," Renny shrugged as she continued to watch her boss make love to her client.

"And you taste just like her," Iris smiled, finally pulling away from Salem after thoroughly sampling the girl's body. "Gods, the things I'd do to have you both at once."

"You're disgusting," Salem muttered beneath her breath. "This is why Ina never loved you."

"But don't you love me Salem?" Iris mocked. "Ina never let me do this to her in front of everyone. It was always in private."

"I don't love you," the red mother sighed. "Truly I don't. Even if you were more...flattering, I have my eyes set on another."

"Awww, who is it?" An excited Tella asked, seemingly unconcerned with her leader's spurned affections. "Tell us!"

"The doll," Salem frowned. "Ali."

"Trust me we've seen her. Such a delightful little creature. Perfect and untarnished," Iris smiled. "I can see why you like her over me. Still, you belong to me Salem."

"I know. But...the moment I leave this place. I think of her again."

"Planning a little date between the two of you?" Iris continued, lifting Salem's chin with her finger.

"Yes, though I hesitate."

"Why? Because you lost another limb fighting for this city? Is she ashamed to look at the monster you've become?"

"No. Never. She understands me. Respect me. And unlike you, she seems to value some semblance of decency."

"So why not take her out to dinner? Make love to her passionately?"

"Because," Salem clenched her mechanical fists. "I don't know how. All I see is...you. Your method of love. Brutish, cruel, uncaring, and perverted. I don't want that for her, yet that's all I've ever known."

"Have you even tried?" Iris laughed.

"I did. I nearly became you. I had her on my lap just like this. And every day I'm thankful I had the sense to stop when I began using her like you."

"Oh please dear don't pretend this isn't at least somewhat enjoyable."

"Of course it is!" Salem gnashed her teeth. "I'm used to it! I understand your language Iris. But I can't have that for Ali. I can't teach her this kind of love. She deserves better than us."

"The cycle ends here eh? How heroic," Iris rolled her eyes.

"Make fun of it all you want. But that kind of thinking is how I saved your ass."

"Ooh," Renny and the other Tella paused. "Look at that. She's back."

"Alright. You've had enough," Iris grinned. "Somebody needs correction."

Iris then stood up, sliding Salem off her knee before punching the woman in the belly, causing her to keel over in pain. Taking advantage of her weakened prize, the Tella leader then hoisted Salem up over her shoulders, carrying her away before she could even regain her breath. The entire ballroom stared with silent approval, watching their future leader get carried away towards the backroom as each step partially exposed her pale bottom from the cuts of her dress. 

Some distance away from the central table, Valor and Anger stood watch, their faces displaying wildly different reactions to what had just happened.

"Do not tell me we must stand here and do nothing brother," Valor growled as he prepared to unsheathe his blade.

"Yes," Anger groaned with frustration. "I will. Salem is fine. This is how she negotiates."

"Our mother is being violated!"

"Our mother was violated her entire life. If she is truly distressed. I will tell you."

"How could you possibly know from such a distance?"

"I know. If and when Salem gives us the signal. We can kill them all. Together."

"I will never understand how you do it," Valor sighed, stepping back. "But I know you'd never lie. You just tell the truth regardless of the consequences."

"You're getting smarter," Anger nodded. "Accepting what is instead of what can be."

"Every single depraved soul in this room CAN die you know."

"Do not think I pity them. Our mother needs allies."

"She has allies. Us."

"I take it back then. You are still an idiot."

________________________________

"So what's this about cold feet with your date?" Iris laughed as she carried Salem away from the main hall. "Don't tell me you can't treat a lady."

"I'm not sure you understand it either," Salem growled, her limp body unable to move.

"Well then take notes."

Located deeper into the venue was a small backroom of sorts, decorated with a queen-sized bed and several padded walls just for suspicious activities. For the Tella, it was never too unusual for a prize like Salem to be exploited, making the secret room a common feature for such venues. But without the motivation to fight back Salem cared little for where she was headed.

"You know, I've done this to your sister before," Iris smirked, closing the door to the backroom before hurling Salem onto the bed. "She was just as helpless as you."

"What?" The red mother gasped.

"It's a little game we used to play. I toy around with her to see how long she could last before she submits. Of course, that little pacifist could've thrown me across the room like a sack of flowers if she wanted. Such a shame."

"And you think I won't? I promised you favors not a sick fantasy," Salem glared.

"Then fight me. Take out that little flower and fight."

"Agh," Salem coughed as Iris climbed into the bed and wrapped her arms around the woman, forcing her into a chokehold. "I...can't."

"You're just like her then. Too hateful towards yourself to stand up. It's okay though Salem. I'll tame you just like your big sister."

Iris lifted Salem into the air, holding back her assault just enough to keep her victim awake. Once the red mother could no longer handle a proper choking, the Lotasi leader then transitioned her hold into a fierce hug, pushing the air out of Salem's belly with a mighty squeeze. Completely starved of air, Salem's eyes began to drift apart as her body twitched and spasmed.

"Ina did that too you know," Iris mocked her victim as she began to stick out her tongue and salivate in a desperate attempt to breathe. "So pathetic."

The larger Tella then forced Salem to the ground, spreading her legs apart wider and wider till they could not move an inch. Using her practiced technique she had the red mother in the perfect position, fully abusing her lack of flexibility while massaging her chest from behind. Even as Salem began to cry out and wince in pain there was no sign of mercy from the cruel Tella.

"S-stop!" Salem screamed. "Kyaa!"

"My my you really are the younger sister. She could handle so much more of this."

"I give up!"

"That's not how this works sweetie. You have to beg me," Iris grunted as she spread Salem's legs further apart.

"N-never!"

"Fine then."

Iris suddenly spun Salem around, causing the woman's bottom to shoot up into the air, all the while her painful stretch continued. With her head and face scraping the floor, the pale girl continued to scream in pain, her squished breasts nearly muffling the sound altogether. Iris couldn't help but abruptly laugh, something she had never done with Ina.

"You're so bottom-heavy Salem I'm not sure you could get out of this even if I let go!" Iris chortled, looking behind her to see her victim's wiggling rear end. "This is what you were made for sweetie. You were built for perversions."

"I give up! Please!" Salem begged. "I can't take it anymore!"

After releasing a deep and frustrated sigh, Iris loosened her grip and stood up to admire her work. Just as she predicted, Salem had been reduced to a slobbering mess on the floor, her shivering body still trapped in its unflattering position. But they both knew the game wouldn't end there.

"Not that you're all softened up, I'm sure you won't mind a softer approach," Iris smiled as she calmly climbed over Salem, coaxing her injured body into a cowgirl position. "See this is how you treat a lady. Practice on your doll I'm sure she'd love it."

"I...I would never," Salem moaned as her antagonizer began to gently hump her while nibbling on her ear. "Ah!"

"Then be gentler with her. Either way you must reach this point dear. Look how submissive and receptive you are. I don't even need to be rough anymore."

"Ali doesn't need consent beaten into her you oaf," Salem whispered, her body becoming just as docile as Iris described.

"Do whatever you must. Just get her here. It'll make the finale worth it."

After a few minutes of running Salem through the motions, Iris flipped the girl onto her back before lifting her legs over her shoulders. With the red mother's pale belly and crotch exposed, Iris then began to eat her out. Words could not describe how Salem felt in that moment.

"Augh!" Salem cried out, clutching the carpeted floor with one hand while covering her mouth with the other. "Mhh!"

"It's so much better when your awake isn't it?" Iris paused to speak, only to then resume her feast.

"Aaaah!"

__________________

When all was said and done, Iris left the backroom with a content expression on her face. And when Anger and Valor soon broke their way in, they came across an unsightly view. Salem had been entirely stripped down and wrapped up with rope, her mouth covered in some kind of lacey fabric.

"Mhh!" Salem called out with a furious glare as she leaned against the bedframe.

"I...don't understand any of this," Valor paused, unwilling to approach the awkward scene.

"She got what she wanted," Anger explained as he began to untie Salem.

"What could that possibly be?"

"Motivation. She has the courage to see the doll now. Prove Iris wrong."

"What?" Valor pressed a hand to his face.

"The doll will give her inspiration to continue the mission. This is how our mother operates," Anger continued to calmly explain the situation before cradling Salem in his arms. "You are a fool to have not seen this before."

"But, why would Salem hurt herself like this? Just to further her plan?"

"It is how she has always been. The night she created me. All she wanted was to hurt herself. Grow up Valor."

Anger then left the room with Salem in hand, the exhausted girl having already fallen fast asleep in his grasp. Valor was soon left behind with more questions than answers. He stood in the backroom for some time, puzzled by his brother's mysterious knowledge.