The Watchmaker

“Hansel! Hansel! Dammit, Hansel! Get off your ass!”

He was dreaming. Beautiful, sunny beaches, pristine and clear waters, a beautiful green forest behind him; a perfect tropical paradise. And – best yet – it was all for him. No annoying coworkers to deal with, no frustrating paper work, no nothing. Just warm, sandy beaches, sunny skies, and amazing water for as far as the eye could see. Could go for a beer... and a hot, half-naked girl, but hey, you can't win it all, even in your dreams.

Wait... yeah you can. Just uh--

THUNK!

“GAH!?”

Blue eyes snapping open, the dazed man leered towards the face gazing back at him; the one belonging to a blonde woman of equal age to his. Well... not exactly the beautiful half-naked chick he was banking on, but she'll do.

“Heh heh... hey, Gretel,” said the grumbling man as he arose from his desk, “When'd you get here?”

“Sleeping on the job like this. Tch! I should tell Chief Johann what you've been doing! Maybe he'll dock your pay for all the time you waste!”

“Wh-what!? Dock my pay! H-hey, Gretel! Don't do anything hasty!” he replied whilst shooting up.

All around him he heard the chuckles and groans of fellow men and women, all of them being dressed in the same uniform as he was. And what uniforms were they? Police uniforms. Oh, apologies, they were Polizei uniforms. Green hats, lime green shirts, tan pants; the whole deal. Sure, some were more casual then others, some were even wearing jackets during these later months, but all were ready to serve the people under their charge.

That is, if anything in Schonheit happened that required them.

It's not uncommon for the people of this elegant city to wonder why they even need a police station, let alone police officers since there were rarely any problems. Large though the city may be, their biggest problems was typically that of drunkards brawling. A night-long stay in the jail cell is always enough, and they go back to being model citizens the next day. With how law-abiding the people of Schonheit are, it's no wonder why the old prison was ultimately closed down.

Still, they had jobs to do, as Gretel was poised to remind her partner.

“Now get up! C'mon, c'mon!” she said as she forced Hansel out of his chair and onto his feet.

“Alright, alright, I'm coming!” Hansel groaned back, still frustrated that his sleep had been cut short, “You're making it seem as if the Faust earl is calling us! Jeeze!”

“Hey! Don't invoke the Master's name to me,” Gretel replied, “We weren't sent through police academy just for your lazy ass to sleep all day! Not get go--”

THUMP!!!

In unison, everyone's gazed snapped onto the front doors of the precinct, their eyes befalling one of their many secretaries. Her name was Ingrid. She was small, had this little squeaking voice, black hair that was always done into pigtails, and these glasses so large, they'd make your grandma blush. However, she was dutiful to her job, and almost nothing ever shook her, no matter how gruesome certain details on the job may be.

Right now she looked absolutely horrified.

Her face was pale, her eyes wide while pupils were small, hair was frazzled and frenzied, her shirt wasn't even tucked in, and she was gasping like she had run a mile. To see her in such a state was an immediate cause for concern from her fellow officers, with Gretel in particular walking out to meet her.

“I-Ingrid...?” the blonde said, “Is... something the matter...?”

The secretary looked back, swallowing her spit when she answered with,

“Master Faust is coming...”

Once more the building grew silent, almost as if they were suddenly trapped in the polar icecaps. No one said a word; no breathing, no coughing, no nothing, just complete and utter silence. Gretel eventually turned, her mouth agape and eyes wide as she locked her gaze squarely on Hansel. He looked back, confused why she was staring so hard at him... that is, until she spoke.

“YOU!!! This is your fault; you invoked Master Faust's name!”

“WHAT!? YOU CAN'T BLAME THIS ON ME!!!” he replied, his face frantic while everyone – and I do mean everyone – in the department scrambled to their stations.

They couldn't look anything less than professional, less their department lose all funding and credibility. Yes, the Faust estate is that powerful. Hell, they were pretty much footing the bill when it came to the police's shiny cars, weapons, station, even their vacation pays came straight from the pocket of the infinitely wealthy Faust family! So unless they wanted to gain the ire of the Faust earl, they knew they needed to get in line. And quickly too.

If he was half as terrifying as the previous earl... oh... they didn't even want to think about it!

But... who was the current earl? Everyone wondered that as they got into position, for no one here had actually met him. They remembered the announcement from the estate's Head-Housemaid that the Faust family had a new earl, but that's that, and that occurred... one... two... no, three months ago now! And while they had heard that the current earl had visited Schonheit multiple times since his arrival, no officer had the chance to see him.

“Do you even know who the current earl is?” Hansel asked as Gretel sat beside him, garnering a sharp glare from her, “Like... I didn't even know the previous earl had a son! What was his name again? Klaus? Wasn't he single?”

“Won't you shut up!?” his partner snapped, “If the new earl really is Master Klaus' son, he'll fucking have us gutted for even looking at him wrong!” she then cut towards the door, “Now eyes focus... you better not mess this up for us.”

“Hrgh... why is this my fault...?”

Nevertheless, Hansel did quiet down, and so too did everyone else, with the entire police department sitting at their desks and awaiting the earl's arrival. Even through their stone walls, they could hear the rumble of a car as it pulled up. Doors opened and closed, each one making more and more sweat pour from their brows. Through the windows they noticed shadows: two tall, two shorter. Said shadows approached the entrance of the precinct, with the police hearing the doors to their halls open up. And once they did...

CLICK! CLICK! CLICK! CLICK! CLICK!

The powerful sound of heels against their pristine floors sounded out. And boy, did hearing them trigger jolts of fear through the bodies of everyone within. The tension only grew the closer and louder those footsteps became, leading up to the doors opening to the main office of their department.

THUMP!!!

Teal eyes. Yes, Hansel's blue eyes met teal eyes. Teal eyes that belonged to a woman who had a solid foot of height on him. Her hair was long and indigo, her physique athletic and powerful, her face sharp and totalitarian. She reminded him of every hot teacher fantasy he's ever had... so... why did looking at her make him quiver with fear?

There was another woman at her side, one of similar height, though not as tall, and nor was her build as athletic. But, damn, were her green eyes just as strong, and her blonde hair just as long. In opposition to the indigo-haired woman who was dressed like a strong businesswoman, the blonde wore a tight red dress, like an aristocrat turned servant.

Truth be told, either one could have been mistaken for earl of the Faust estate. They both had this... 'better-than-you' aura to them, that could make all but the most ignorant mind bend to their wills. But there was only one earl of the Faust estate, and wasn't he a man? Master Sebastian Faust, the Head-Housemaid called him, right?

Well...

There was another person with them. A young woman; brunette, oval glasses, a green longcoat over a white turtleneck. Her studious appearance would match well with Ingrid's... but, no, no, focus! Focus! This girl couldn't be the Faust earl either! And... there were four shadows, weren't there? So... where is he?

“Guten Morgen, Schonheit Police Department,” said the indigo-haired woman, her tone serious and powerful, “You are all now in the presence of Master Sebastian Milieus von Faust. I recommend you all act on your best behavior.”

For – who is essentially – a civilian to make such bold demands of the police, would typically be enough to get one laughed at and mocked. But when this woman spoke... oh yes, they knew better. There was this tone she had, this power; they weren't speaking to just some random anybody, no, they were speaking to one of the Faust estate's servants. If maids could be more powerful than queens, well, look no further than the women who service the Earl of Faust.

But what of the earl? Well, with her commands spoke, she and the other women finally stepped aside, revealing him. A young man; younger than... well... probably everyone in the department at the moment. His hair was blonde, though with a reddish-brown tint to it that gave it a somewhat orange hue. He wasn't the most powerful person, being a foot or so shorter than Hansel himself. His features were so clear, round and smooth, especially those eyes. Beautiful, cute, brown eyes. He lacked power, he lacked gumption, but he stood so strong. Wearing a black long coat that looked finer than any clothing they've ever seen, he walked towards the police with a cane in hand, further elevating his superior status. And when he looked at them, he smiled, exuding this cute, boyish charm that lulled everyone into a sense of security.

Was he really the Earl of Faust? This... kid?

“Guten Morgen, everyone,” said Sebastian, his accent being... American, to say the least, “My apologies to come in unannounced at such an early time. We called ahead, but we were already on our way, so we probably didn't give you much time to prepare. Oh! And apologies again for Emiline's forcefulness. We had quite the harrowing night not too long ago, so my maids and I are still a bit on edge,” he then began looking around, scanning the faces of everyone inside, “May I ask... who is in charge at the moment? Your chief or kommissar?”

“Apologies, Master Faust,” said Gretel, taking lead over everyone else, “Chief Johann and Kommissar Goethe are both out at the moment. I'm Hauptmann Gretel; I'll help with anything you need, Master Faust.”

Ugh... leave it to Gretel to start slinging around that 'Hauptmann' rank of hers. Would have had Hansel rolling his eyes... if he wasn't too scared solid to do so.

“Ah, Frau Hauptmann Gretel. Lovely,” Sebastian said with a smile as he approached her at her desk, “I know it's probably not right of me to ask this – I am just a civilian beneath you all – but could you help me with something? I'm... looking for information.”

He spoke so civilly, so kind, his young looks more than capable of calming everyone down... but they didn't. He may look cute, he may even act cute, but he is still the Faust earl, someone everyone listens to. It may be seen as old-fashion to some of the younger generations living in Schonheit, but not to the police. They knew they were beneath the Faust family. Sebastian claimed he was under their protection, but let's face it; the police only protect the common people of Schonheit, for the maids protect their Master.

“Yes, of course, Master Faust,” said Gretel as she nodded in his direction, “I'd love to help you in any way. How can the police be of use to you?”

“Marvelous,” Sebastian said as he looked around, only for his eyes to return to her, “I need all the information you have on a man named Zeit Henlein.”

“Zei... Henlein...?” Gretel repeated, “All... of the information?”

“Yes. Where he lived, where he worked, his date of birth, where he was born; anything and everything you have on a man named Zeit Henlein, I wish to know...” he smiled at her, his hand reaching out, “Could you get that for me, please?”

Gretel tensed up as her mind rushed with thoughts about a man named 'Zeit Henlein'. It sounded strange; who names their child 'Zeit'? However, as she looked down towards Sebastian's face, his smile unflinching and unfettered, the policewoman knew she could not deny him any longer. Not made any better by the near sinister gaze she was getting from the teal-eyed woman. It had the Hauptmann swallowing her spit in trepidation.

“Yes, Master Faust, right away,” Gretel said as she pulled back, her eyes cutting towards-- “Ingrid, please, could you give Master Faust all the information we have on a man named Zeit Henlein?”

“Yes, ma'am,” replied the secretary as she rushed over towards her computer.

The sound of her tapping away echoed throughout the police department, with Sebastian standing there... waiting. Hansel himself scanned the young earl, sizing him up. Why was he using that cane; had he injured himself recently? Look, some may call him lazy, and yeah, he may even be so, but Hansel is still a police officer; he knows how to investigate things. So why was the Faust earl looking for a man named Zeit, and with injuries no less?

Hmmm...

His curiosities were brimming... but then the teal-eyed woman – Emiline – matched his gaze. And when his blue eyes met her dominant gaze, he felt his blood turning cold. It was chilling, almost to the point that he felt genuine pain, but he could not scream out, could not speak, could not do anything! He just sat there, staring at her, completely frozen solid... until Ingrid spoke, breaking Emiline's gaze as she stared at the secretary.

“Alright, I've found it,” she said whilst turning her computer around so that the monitor could face Sebastian, “Zeit Walter Henlein, born July 7^th, 1927 here in Schonheit at Elza-Faust-Krankenhaus; the residential hospital here in our city.”

As Ingrid spoke however, Sebastian did not look at her, but instead stared at her computer screen. And there on said screen was the assailant he saw that night; the man with the black hair, pale flesh, and blue eyes. But of course, this photo seemed to be taken sometime in the 1940s or 50s, being black and white, and with such heavy grain to it. Didn't matter; the photo could have been inverted and upside down, and Sebastian would still be able to recognize this man's face. You don't forget the face of the person who tries to kill you.

“I see...” Sebastian muttered before bringing his gaze back towards Ingrid, “Did he have any family?”

“From what our files say, he did. No wives as far as I can tell, no siblings either, but he did have a son, and grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. From what our files say, his son and his grandson were both named after him; Zeit the second, and Zeit the third respectfully. Unfortunately, we don't have information on them; they seemed to have been born elsewhere.”

“I see... ah! Does this file have Zeit's death on it anywhere?”

“It doesn't seem to say. Zeit was reported missing sometime during the late 50s. He is presumed dead.”

“Hmm... unfortunate,” Sebastian muttered, his eyes closing in a thoughtful manner, “Well... if I may, could you please print these files off for me? I'd like my Librarian, Faline, to go over it.”

“Right away, Master Faust.”

The tension remained thick, even as Ingrid printed off the files pertaining to this long since dead man. Why the Earl of Faust was looking for such a person was anyone's guess, but none of the officers had the galls to ask him about it. Even Hansel – for as thickheaded as he could be – remained silent amid the young earl, especially when he was getting random glares from his two servants.

What felt like an eternity was probably only a few seconds, though the loud churning of the printer echoed through the relative silence of the police department. Everyone remained stiff and fearful, save for Sebastian and his maids, the former of which continued appearing casual with his kind smile. Just waiting... waiting... waiting... until the files were finally delivered to him in a nice manila folder.

“Danke...” Sebastian said as he clenched the file close, “And apologies once again for my sudden appearance. Promise, I won't make a habit of this.”

As he turned to face the door, he handed the folder to his Librarian, who immediately began searching through the information inside for everything pertaining to Zeit. All the while, the Schonheit Police Department watched as the young earl and his servants exited their building, slipping through the doors once again.

And a collective sigh of relief filled the air.

“Holy shit...” Hansel muttered, feeling as if a weight had been pulled from off his shoulders, “That's... the current earl of the Faust estate?”

“He's... so small...” Gretel commented, “I thought he would have been as tall as his father... and... his name's Sebastian...? That's not a German name.”

“With an accent like his? I'm not surprised,” her partner added on, “He's... American, no doubt. Guess his dad had that lovely, German accent. Made all the girls swoon...”

Hansel's words were jokey, but his tone wasn't. Instead the policeman appeared pensive, his eyes leering up towards the ceiling in a thoughtful manner. It's clear he wanted to say something, particularly in regards to this Zeit fellow and why Sebastian wanted to learn about him... but he declined to say anything.

“C'mon, let's get going; we've got work to do,” Gretel said whilst tapping his shoulder.

…

“Did you get the information?” asked Larsine as Sebastian and her sisters returned, garnering a sideways glance from Emiline.

“Of course we did. The police know better than to go against Master Sebastian's authority,” the Marshal claimed, though the young earl himself was a bit on edge still.

“I can't believe they allowed me to do so at all,” he stated, “Just walking inside and making demands of the police like that... huh... if you tried that where I came form, they'd probably laugh and then arrest you. Or at the very least, there would be a lot of paperwork involved.”

“You handled it perfectly nonetheless, Master,” Igrene stated as she placed her hands on his shoulders whilst ushering him towards his car, “You weren't scared or jittery or anything. Fufufufu! I wouldn't be surprise if you charmed more than a few of them with your cute looks.”

“Igreeeneeee...” he grumbled, a blush adorning his cheeks before his eyes slid over towards his Librarian, “Faline, what do the files say about Zeit? Do you know where he lives?”

“I do...” she answered as they got into his car. Larsine was driving, Emiline road passenger with her, while Sebastian was sandwiched in the back between Igrene and Faline, “According to these files, Zeit lived on Gruberstr. 7, 2198 Schonheit before his 'vanishing' in the 1950s. However...”

“'However'...?” Sebastian repeated, “What's wrong?”

“Gruberstr no longer exists,” Faline answered, “It was once a collection of apartment complexes, but during the 1960s, it was all torn down and replaced with businesses and rec centers. Everyone who lived in the apartments were given newer homes in another apartment complex... but by the time that happened, Zeit would have already gone 'missing'.”

“But we know that's not true,” Igrene stated, “He didn't go missing, and I have no doubt that the 'family' he's had were all just him, masking his immortality by claiming to be his own sons and grandsons,” she shook her head, “To think he's been lurking here in Schonheit for all these years. Right under our noses.”

“He's probably attempted to get in contact with earls before, but to no avail... disgusting,” Emiline added as she crossed her arms, visibly twitching from the anger she had towards him, “If he wasn't already dead, I would kill him myself.”

“Girls, please, focus,” Sebastian said, “Zeit and Oden are already dead; further damning them will help no one. Now then...” he returned his gaze to Faline, “Is there anything else we know about him? He's had to live somewhere for all these years.”

“Yesss... let's see...” she muttered, her eyes scanning the paper over again, “Ah! Here! He's maintained a watchmaking business since – going by this file – the late 1800s. It's called 'Kronos Watches', and its located on Schlusselstr. 9, 3884 Schonheit.”

“Alright, we'll start our search there,” Sebastian stated, “If Zeit did live there, then all his secrets should be found in that building. Okay...” his eyes cut forward, looking at Larsine, “If you may, Larsine. Please, take us to Kronos Watches.”

“Right away, Master!”

The drive to Kronos Watches was a quick one, though it took them into the bungalows of Schonheit. Even here the city exuded its sense of beauty... but there was also this certain feeling of dread that permeated the air. Businesses sat all around him; some selling clothes, others trinkets, others still were like flea markets. It reminded Sebastian of similar bungalows in places like Eastgate, only it was missing random beggars, or some man of indeterminate origin trying to sell him something shady. Therefor, it should make him feel safer but... strangely, it did the exact opposite. Schonheit has been nothing short of perfect since his arrival, but this area felt like a sudden slap of realism.

Perhaps sensing his growing trepidation towards this area of the city, Igrene wrapped her arm around Sebastian's shoulder, pulling him in close. Immediately her lovely odor filled his nose, lulling him into a sense of calm while their car pulled to a halt on a sidewalk. Right out the window to their right was Kronos Watches. It was time to get to work.

Emiline departed first, her teal eyes seizing upon the storefront with looks that could kill. The building looked to have not seen any business in some weeks... probably because it had been that long since the death of their owners. Notes were plastered upon its door outside from customers who were desperate to get their antic watches and clocks fixed. Of course, no one knew that – in reality – Zeit as well as his assistant Oden were long since dead.

It took everything in Emiline's power to not immediately kick the door open... or, hell, use her mighty power to rend the entire storefront with a mere swipe of her claws. However, not only were they in public, but that may also destroy potentially sensitive information they needed. Can't risk that either... so...

As Sebastian was helped out of the car by Larsine and Igrene, Emiline opened the door to Kronos Watches, revealing a building filled to the brim with clocks and watches of all kinds and all times. While a majority of them were the old-fashion kind of clocks with gears, there were digital clocks here too as well, some vintage, some modern. Looks like Zeit didn't particularly prefer any one kind of watch to the other, so long that it did indeed tell time.

“Wow...” Sebastian said whilst entering inside, “I love how... big it all is. Heh heh...”

“I will shake this place upside down if it means getting the answers we seek,” Emiline snarled through gritted teeth, “Of that, Master, I swear.”

“Heh... I have no doubts you will, Emiline,” Sebastian said as he stepped deeper inside, his cane tapping at random objects, “Let us not muck around. Zeit strikes me as the type of man who meticulously takes care of everything he knows. He probably has a diary somewhere in here detailing what he's done for the past hundreds of years. I want that diary. I want to know everything.”

Zeit may not have been his father, but that did not change how desperate he was to locate the Watchmaker's diary. He said some curious things that night, particularly in relation to his origins and his mission: to slay Mephistopheles, who Sebastian now knew was the mother of the drachenmagd.

Jeeze... he remembered days when his main fear was trying to figure out what he wanted his career in life to be.

Behind him Igrene, Larsine and Faline entered, with the Head-Housemaid and Marshal trading one another knowing glances. Lifting her hand, the Red Serpent seemingly performed a spell that bounded the door shut, as well as covering the windows in shadows that bloated out any outside onlookers. They were alone, and free to investigate this place as thoroughly as they pleased.

Sebastian sat aside, resting upon the chair behind the main desk, while his maids all looked at one another. Just as before and usual among thee sisters, all they needed were a few glances to immediately know what to do. No hesitation.

“KURA!”

“OORRAA!”

“RRRAAA! RRAA!”

“FURRAARAH!”

Sitting there, Sebastian watched as red, indigo, purple, and brown flashes darted around the room, uprooting and upending the various stands that dotted the storefront. Clocks of all shapes and sizes were thrown haphazardly, destroying what was no doubt pricey in some cases. Even Sebastian had to lament the lost of such clocks; he truly did think they were crafted beautifully. But, no; anything belonging to the Watchmaker must be destroyed following what he did that night.

And destroyed the drachenmagd did, callously sinking into a tirade of furious slashes and tears as they destroyed, and destroyed, and destroyed! The store – much like their halls some time ago – was reduced to nothing but slash marks and destroyed objects, it's once spotless splendor gone. But it all had a point, all had a motive, all to reveal--

“Stop!”

“Glkl!?”

That...

Pulling himself away from behind the stand he sat at, Sebastian walked into the center of the room, his eyes falling on a hidden latch in the floor. His eyes locked upon it, Sebastian approached the latch and began prodding upon it with his cane. It was out of place from the rest of the ceramic floor, instead being made of bronze as oppose to clay. And though it had been revealed by a wayward slash, Sebastian still needed a little bit more to open it up. So...

“Emiline...”

“Right away, Master. OORRAAAHH!!!”

Another slash uprooted the ground beneath them, tearing apart the ceramic flooring to reveal that, yes, there was a large metal... something resting beneath their feet. Sebastian's eyes tightened upon it, his expression growing pensive. Tugging on the latch with his cane, he tried to open it up, but no, his strength wasn't good enough. He needed someone stronger. So...

“I'll handle this,” Igrene said as she grabbed upon the latch, using her superior dragon strength to pull it up and open.

Much like the laboratory beneath their feet, this secret latch pulled open a hatch which led into a hidden bunker. Sebastian stared inside, seeing a void of darkness and shadows gaze back at him. His heart rate spiked, but he retained a hard face, his cane tapping at the entrance as he called his maids to attention.

“How deep do you think it goes?” asked Sebastian, with Emiline taking lead point.

“Allow me, Master. I'll check for you,” she stated as she delved deep into the shadows.

It did not take long for a light to appear at the bottom of this bunker, with Sebastian and the others all awaiting Emiline's response. Seconds... ticking... ticking... ticking... until finally...

“You can come down. It's safe.”

Sebastian didn't hesitate, and immediately headed down the hatch and into the hidden bunker beneath Zeit's store. What did he expect the closer he got? Did he think he'd see even more clocks? He was a Watchmaker. But, no. When he descended down these stairs, when he stepped upon the bottom most floor, he saw not clocks, but...

“What the...?”

Sebastian saw... moss. He saw... grass. He saw... pinewood. Upstairs was a normal store, beneath it a hidden bunker, and inside this bunker was a tiny forest. Yeah, that's the best way the young earl could describe it; like a tiny forest. Flowers were growing on the walls, mist permeated the floor, there was a moistness in the air, and soft patch of grass growing beneath his feet.

And, yes, there were indeed clocks. Gotta keep that consistency.

Clocks laid here and there on shelves, though these were placed about with far more care and attention than some of the clocks upstairs. But more importantly, there were books resting besides these clocks, books that... well, they looked positively demonic in origin. It wasn't because of their designs and surfaces; that looked positively normal. No, these books just felt... off, as if staring at them for too long would trigger headaches. Didn't stop Sebastian from eyeing it closely however, his head cocking one way, then the other, and back again.

Multiple books, stacked side by side by side. Some were black, some were purple, some were red; all oozed this sinister miasma. And yet Sebastian reached out for one, nearly touching it, only to have Igrene's hand stop him.

“Master, please, let me,” she said, “You're too important to risk like this.”

He looked at her as he withdrew his hand, ultimately nodding in agreement. Though he didn't want to risk Igrene either, she no doubt had more experience with these sorts of things than he did. So he allowed her to grab the book, where she quickly opened it up to read its pages.

“What... does it say...?” Sebastian asked, while the Head-Housemaid's expression grew intense.

“Nothing you can read, unfortunately,” Igrene stated as she showed him the pages to it.

And, yes, Igrene was right; the pages were written in some strange dialect that Sebastian couldn't even begin to understand. Strange symbols that one could call the characters of some written language, only it matched no language Sebastian knew of. Not English, not German, not Spanish, not French, or Russian, or Indian, or Japanese, or anything! It was just strange symbols, weird patterns, a script that... well... a script that just wasn't native to any land on the face of the Earth.

But on the face of another realm? More than normal...

“What is this...?” Sebastian asked as he reached out for the book, only to pull back before he got too close.

“It's the Mordredus Grimoire,” Faline answered, “A powerful tome of spells detailing the creation and usage of various arcane magics from the land known as Mordredus.”

“The land of Mordredus...” Sebastian repeated, “That's... where Zeit is from. He said so in Heinrich's Records; I remember that...” he shook his head as his eyes narrowed in further on the book, and then the other, “He must have brought these books with him when he and Oden crossed over into our world. But the books look to be covered in dust...”

“He may have remembered all the spells, and with no further need for these books, he stowed them down here in order to hide them,” Igrene stated.

“If so then... why is this all here? This... grass?” Sebastian asked whilst facing her.

“The air is thick with unnatural energies. Not too dissimilar to Rodeline's plants,” Igrene explained, “Zeit may have failed a spell of his, creating this... biome in here. Though, I am ultimately not sure. There could be any number of reasons for this.”

Sebastian nodded in agreement, his eyes once more looking at the bevy of books the Watchmaker had on his shelves. Whatever reasoning behind this small area ultimately didn't matter; Sebastian just wanted to know why Zeit was so hell-bent on killing him and his maids. What did he plan on doing with Projekt Gottheit? Yes, while the answer may ultimately be a very simple case of wanting to go back home to their home, did he still intend on slaying Mephistopheles as well? Just... what was Zeit's gambit that he waited centuries to pull it all off?

Whatever the case may be, there was another reason for Sebastian to be here. Zeit and Oden were dead, which means that – sooner or later – someone was going to notice them having gone missing. The police would investigate their places of work and homes, and no doubt discover all these arcane artifacts here. Sebastian could not risk such a thing happening, even in a restrained capacity.

“Collect everything,” the young earl ordered as he straightened himself up, “I want it all back at the estate. Books, watches, charms; if it looks unique, pick it up, and take it back with us.”

“Yes, Master,” his maids said in unison.

He smiled at them, though he couldn't help but to feel bad. All he was doing was standing idly by while his maids merely obeyed his commands, collecting the wide array of oddities within this grassy bunker.

Following the attack on their estate, the drachenmagd had practically bounced back in relatively no time flat, their bodies flawless once more. Sebastian meanwhile still felt a tad bit fragile, as evident by the fact that he still needed his cane. And while his maids all made it known that they didn't think any less of him for his injuries, and only wanted him to take his time and heal, he still felt awful about it.

But alas, there wasn't much he could do aside from ponder and hope that he'd get the information he sought... whatever that information may be.

“Igrene,” Sebastian called as he watched them work, “You and Katherine seemed... familiar with Zeit, no?”

“Well... not exactly,” said the Head-Housemaid, “We are all aware of Zeit the Watchmaker, and his assistant Oden, but that is it. Hundreds of years ago, he attempted to slay our Mother.”

“Mephistopheles, right?”

Igrene stopped, looking at her Master where a beaming smile appeared on her lips.

“Yes, our mother, Mephistopheles. He mislead Master Heinrich, using Projekt Gottheit in an attempt to slay our mother for reasons I do not know. We were all so very young when it occurred. Still, I remember his face, even after all this time. Dragons... do not forget those who wrong them so easily.”

“Hmm... well, here's to hoping dragons collect diaries,” Sebastian said with a reassuring smile, “Perhaps through Zeit, we can learn why he wanted to slay Mephistopheles in the first place. Hmm...”

“Yes well... let us for now focus on finding out any reasons as to why he tried to have you killed,” Igrene stated in an affirmative manner, “His reasons for wanting our mother dead matters not; she is no longer with us, Master. But you are, and your safety is of the utmost importance to us. Let us hope he had no contingency plans for failure. We must keep you safe at all times.”

“Yes, yes... I know,” Sebastian said whilst flashing her a beaming smile of his own, “I'm so happy I have the greatest servants in the world to look after me!”

His reassuring words could be seen as childish to some and annoying to others. To his drachenmagd of course, it was this perfect combination of cute fluff and endearment. When he praised them, they truly felt that praise. It only drove them to work harder in return. But... that's probably obvious by now.

“Alright, let's make this quick. I'm sure we all want to be back in time for lunch!”

…

“Umuuuu... are you okay, Master?”

“Haaaah... I've been better...”

The warm waters of a tub... Sebastian was more than used to it. The soft, kind, gentle hands of a woman while also being in a tub? Yeah, he was used to that too. Only, the person the hands belonged to was a tad bit out of the ordinary. It was normal for Selene to slavishly hog his body to herself while he was in a tub, but it wasn't normal for Rodeline to be the perpetrator. Something else not normal for his baths? The distinct and bitter odor of medicine.

Sebastian sat down to his neck in the warm waters of this tub, feeling it rejuvenate his body. Despite it having occurred a week or so ago now, the signs of Zeit's attack still marred his body here and there. Some light bruising on his chest and legs, not to mention his back. They weren't so numerous or so large that they were noticeable, but to the trained eye of a physician, they were glaring. Fortunately, he had the most skilled nurse in all of history to help soothe his aching body.

“Emiline spoke highly of how you handled the police station this morning, Master,” Rodeline said as the sound of her wringing out a rag echoed out.

“Really? Was it that impressive?” Sebastian replied with a shrug of his shoulders, “Igrene even said I handled it perfectly but... hmm... I'm still not used to bossing around others. But...” he chuckled softly, “It felt nice to have people actually listen to me for a change, even the police. I've gotten so used to being overlooked over the years, I never realized what having power is like.”

“Umu! Now you're sounding like a proper Faust earl,” Rodeline said with a giggle, “But remember; having power and knowing how to use power are two different things, Master. Anyone can gain power, but not everyone knows how to use it. Nevertheless, know we drachenmagd will always be at your side, no matter what.”

“Heh... thanks, Rodeline...”

“Now then, are you ready, Master?”

Looking over, Sebastian's eyes befell the soft curvature of Rodeline's pink bathrobe as it clung to her hips and butt. She was bending over near a table, collecting either what appeared to be soaps or medicine... so... medicinal soaps? Is that a thing? Sebastian had never asked, but he remembered how it felt against his body.

Grabbing the rag she was ringing out earlier, Rodeline dabbed it into the medicinal soaps resting before her in a bowl, getting it covered in bitter-smelling suds. And yet, the odor was not strong enough to make his nose curl as it once did. Then again, he had probably just gotten nose-blind to it, due to all the injuries he amassed and the constant need to visit Rodeline's office because of it.

“Lean back, Master,” the Nurse Maid said sweetly as she turned to face him, the young earl smiling back in her direction.

The soft edges of her pink bathrobe clung sultrily to her body, defining her many curves, from her butt, to her hips, up to her chest and neck. Unlike Selene, the Pink Dragon's bathrobe was tied tighter to not flaunt as much cleavage. However – and like her sister – it didn't do much, for quite a good glimpse of her bountiful breasts were seen regardless. Or... maybe that's the point? Who said Rodeline wasn't allowed to be as lustful as Selene?

She sauntered over towards Sebastian, her tail slithering upon the ground as she readied that soapy rag in one hand, and the bowl of medicinal soaps in the other. Resting said bowl beside his bathtub, Rodeline leaned over, attracting the gaze of her Master as she gently applied the rag to his body.

Seriously, what does it say of a man who has seen so much breasts, he's no longer as afflicted by them. Oh... actually, that's a lie, because--

“Honestly, Master! Umu! Already!” Rodeline said in a lightly scolding manner as she noticed his growing affection beneath the waters of the tub.

“Heh heh... apologies,” Sebastian said with a soft smile, “It's just that... well, usually when Selene does this with me, she has her hands all over me by now. Guess I'm... just used to it.”

“Umu! I warned Selene to be light with you following the attack; we don't want you over extending yourself so soon,” Rodeline claimed as her rag came down, giving his body a cold, chilling touch.

“Aahhhaaahh... hoooohh...”

It did not take long for the medicine to turn warm, and soon after that, start to burn as well. Grunting softly, the young earl reclined further into his tub as his eyes closed, allowing Rodeline to apply more and more pressure with her stroking clothe. Her touch was just as gentle and soothing as her voice was, applying pressure when needed, and further working the soaps into his body. She paid extra attention to his sore spots, massaging the slight swelling to help quell whatever pain his body may still be feeling. It worked too, for from his lips came blissful sighs of pleasure.

“So cute...” Rodeline commented as her hand came over to rest along his neck and head like a cushion, “Just relax into my touch, Master~”

He nodded, his teeth biting into his bottom lip to stifle more groans, while her hand applied more and more pressure to his chest. She stroked him like a sculptor perfects their statue, and truly in her eyes, Sebastian was a work of art. Her pink eyes read his every reaction to her touches, while her lips spread out more and more into a soft smile. Amid his panting, Sebastian looked back at Rodeline, meeting her gaze and blushing in response.

“You... you don't have to look at me so hard...” he murmured, causing her to giggle.

“Is there a problem with that?” Rodeline asked as her fingers came over to tickle his ear, “I thought you would have gotten used to the intense gazes my sisters and I give you from time to time. We so truly do love marveling at the sight of you.”

“Haaah... yeah... I know... mmmm...”

“Umu! Umu!”

Her hand started slowing up now, traveling down his chest and towards his stomach. The scrubbing antics of her rag caused the entire tub to grow foamy and white, but Rodeline's intense gaze was more than strong enough to pierce it. She could see his body beneath as clear as day, as well as the ever growing sign of his erotic affections. Well... naturally...

“Hnnghh...”

She wrapped her hand and clothe around his cock, squeezing him tight, but not too tight. He tensed up and leaned against her, letting out another moan. She was already stroking him off, causing blood to further pump through his burgeoning manhood.

“Rodeline...!” he groaned, though she shook her head.

“Bare with it, Master,” she whispered into his ear, her lips even pursing to kiss and lick along it, “Mmmfff... you taste so good...”

“Rodeline, I--”

“Shhhhh... just a bit more,” she whispered as she continued stroking his member off, “Let me take your mind off of things, umu! Hmmmm... oh! Now that you have Zeit's personal affects, what do you plan on doing with them? Faline said he had quite a few books from Mordredus with him.”

“You... aaaaahhhnn... you know of it too...?” he replied, quivering under her superior touch.

“Of course I do, umu!” she replied, casual in her sensual assault on his body, “But of course, I've never been there...” she closed her eyes as she continued stroking off his cock, “They say Mordredus is at the center of a realm known only as Daemonium.”

“Dae... moni... um...? Nmnngh!?”

“Shhh... don't worry your cute little head over it. Such a place is far, far, far from you, Master.”

“Aaaahhhnn...”

Even if he wanted to ask her more about it, Rodeline's stroking hand made it all but impossible for him to even think. His mind was overcome with pleasure as her soapy clothe easily took control over his member, drawing nothing but pleasure from the young earl. Her other hand continued stroking his face, before traveling down towards his chest. Replacing her hand was her breasts, which came to rest along the back of his head like a comfortable set of pillows.

“You didn't answer my question, Master,” Rodeline whispered into his ear, “What do you plan on doing with Zeit's property?”

“I-I! Rrrghh...! I'm not sure yet,” he answered as he shook in her grasp, “There's so much books... a-and I can't read them! So... I don't know... what to do yet...! Mmmfff! But I want to learn! If Zeit was out there... then who else might... aaahh! Might want to do... s-something similar!? Oooohhh!” he looked her in the eyes, “That night... you were all suffering, and there was nothing I could do about it. I don't want to feel that powerless ever again.”

Rodeline stopped, her expression shifting into one of concern... yet also pride. It would be so easy for Sebastian to merely rely on his maids to do everything, especially against forces of such... alien origins. But Sebastian wasn't going to stand idly by and do nothing. Much like with the rabid wolf, he wanted to protect his maids as much as they protected him, even if he didn't have to.

“I'm so proud of you, Master,” Rodeline whispered, her slightest of praise enough to elevate his being, “With dedication like that, nothing will ever stop you. However...” her expression grew strong, “Please do try and watch yourself. Mordredus was an awful place, filled with sinister people with evil ideals. Whatever lies within Zeit's books may be enough to twist one's own spirit. Do be sure to not be tricked by any lies he may tell.”

“Lies...? No...” he shook his head, “For what he did, he's unforgettable. But that does not mean his knowledge must go to waste. I'm just... curious, is all,” he smiled, “But don't worry, Rodeline. I promise, I'll keep my wits about me.”

“Good! And know that I have the utmost of faith in you! Now then...” she cocked her head, “Are your ready for me, Master?”

“Aah... yes... I am...”

“Umu! Perfektion!”

“Of course! Heh heh! I may not be able to workout as vigorously as I used to, but I promise I'll do my best.”

“Oh... I know, Master. I know.”

Moving over, she kissed his cheek, before fully pulling away from him. His eyes watched as she stood up from his side, grabbing the tightly-tied sash of her robe and undoing it. It fell loose form her body, and she further pealed it away, unveiling her flawless, beautiful form. She looked over her shoulder towards him, shooting her Master a flirty wink, while her naked form came closer and closer.

Skkkkssshh...

“Oh my! Umu! The waters are really hot!”

“Really? Heh... I'm so used to bathing with Selene, that... it doesn't bother me much...” Sebastian said before moving in, his nose sticking up to her body as he took a heavy whiff of her cinnamon scent, “Snnniiiffff... hmmmm.... aaaaah... you smell wonderful, Rodeline.”

“Oh Master...” she replied, her hands falling on his face to shift his gaze up with her own.

No hesitation; she moved in, capturing his lips with her own. As expected, her serpentine tongue was quick to swirl around his own, drawing him in deeper and deeper into the kiss. Not as hungry as Selene's, though certainly strong in its own right. Sebastian fought back himself, kissing desperately against Rodeline as his young body pressed into her more mature one.

The sound of their lips meeting echoed off the walls of his opulent bathroom, rumbling into Sebastian's ears. He clung to her as he did so, the burning aches and pains of his sore body being drowned out. No, he could only focus on Rodeline, how she felt, how she smelled, how she tasted. A groan even left him as he nudged into her, resting her upon his lap as his throbbing member twitched.

“Mmmff... ffuaaah... haaah... are you okay, Master? I do not wish to push you.”

“I'm fine... promise... I wont push myself too hard. I know my limits.”

“Mmmm... okay... give me your hands.”

Sebastian nodded as he did as he was told; offering his hands to Rodeline. Smiling at him, the Pink Dragon took his hands into her own; locking their fingers together in a loving hold and embrace. Her pink tail slithering over as well, she rested it upon Sebastian's chest, hoping to further relax him.

Though, one has to ask themselves, is this a sound or even medically advised way to check one's body? Through sex? Or was Rodeline merely having her time with her Master, something she honestly rarely gets the chance to do. Unlike, say, Selene, or Carmeline, or Emiline, or Mylene, whom he's known to sleep with more often. Considering what may happen to his maids if he doesn't fuck them every now and then... yeah...

A Master's duty is never done.

But of course, Sebastian didn't mind, for he loved indulging in the vices of his maids. The intimacy of feeling their bodies against his always brought him pleasure, no matter how brief it may be. The warmth of the tub, Rodeline's weight on his waist, their interlocking hands; ah, perfektion indeed.

She trapped him in the pink glow of her eyes, her lips in a reassuring smile though no words left her. Slowly moving down, coiling her tail around his length to angle it up with her pussy. He could already feel the heat of her womanhood, even through the warm waters of his bathtub. It was only getting closer and closer and closer, drawing him into her boy with one audible--

Plap!

And...

Splutter...

“Nhoooooohh... aahhh...”

Sebastian tensed up, his length traveling along the tract within Rodeline's body. His Nurse Maid's form was always so snugly and warm, drawing him in until he could no longer move. She sat on his pelvis, straddling his waist while her hands remained tightly tied to his. He squeezed back while his back flattened more against the rim of his bathtub, bracing himself.

“I'll start off slow... if you feel any discomfort, don't hesitate to tell me,” said Rodeline, treating this like the kinky health checkup it was.

Sebastian nodded back, his brown eyes drinking in the image of body as she started riding him. Up... down... up... down... the waters of the tub streaked down her lovely body, covering her in a warm, shimmering glow. The way the steam drifted off the curves of her breasts and hard nipples drew his eyes in like magnets, watching while his chest started heaving up and down. The excitement imbued him with energy, but he knew how to pace himself. Just let Rodeline do everything... his turn would come later.

“Haaaah... it's big,” Rodeline stated in a curious manner, “I was worried your time healing would have inhibited your penis' ability to perform. I'm glad to note that this is not the case.”

“Nnngh... is that really a good thing for my health, or a good thing for you?” Sebastian asked in cheeky, teasing manner.

“Umu! Of course it's a good thing for you, Master! Your health is what matters most to me!” Rodeline exclaimed, though her pink eyes gave him a lustful stare, “However... I'd be remiss if I claimed I did not enjoy your return of vitality. Umu... I'm sure this is a feeling shared between me and my sisters.”

“Especially Selene...” he remarked.

“Especially Emiline!” Rodeline added.

The two laughed along with one another, said laughter making her cunt give a tight squeeze on his length. Even though it was slight – and just a twitch nonetheless – it garnered a groan from Sebastian, who leaned back once more against his tub. Saying nothing, Rodeline gave a soft nod and squeezed his hands.

And then she began riding again.

The soft impacts of their bodies beneath the waters of the tub, the water itself shifting and swaying, the moaning pants they both let out, it was all so hypnotic. Yet Sebastian's eyes remained trained on Rodeline, her sensual face, her lips in a soft smile, her pink eyes glowing... glowing... glowing...

“Rodeliinneeee...” Sebastian groaned, though his Nurse Maid shook her head.

“No, no, Master, not yet,” she said lightly, “You've lasted much longer than this before.

Her reassuring words did the trick, reminding him of just how 'resilient' he once was. While his body may still be weak, he could muster up the strength necessary to at least make Rodeline happy. The last thing he wanted to do was disappoint his maids, as he ever did.

“See? Umu! I knew you had could perform still,” Rodeline remarked as she began gyrating her hips, “I'll pick up the pace now, okay?”

“O... okay...”

The two nodded, with Rodeline continuing her gyrating. Her hips swiveled and turned around, her pussy clinching down around his dick to hold it hostage. At the same time, her body began increasing in speed, with her breasts bouncing in a magnetizing manner. So magnetizing that it was enough to draw Sebastian's eyes down. Not that Rodeline minded in the least bit.

“Umu... you're so cute, Master...” she whispered, though her heavenly voice seemed to fall on entranced ears.

Her drive once again doubled, the once gentle swaying waters now splashing audibly around them. Some even leaked over the edge, staining the ceramic tiles of his bathroom. Once more she heard Sebastian grunt, his desires once more overflowing. His hips started moving, driving his length deeper into her body while his eyes remained locked on her tits.

Yes, there it was! That hunger! That desire! That need! But those are only feelings; action is something else entirely! And while Sebastian's heart may be in the right place, she was not yet sure if his body was.

Hmmm... more through testing will be needed.

Rodeline shuddered, emitting more of her delicious cinnamon scent to overwhelm and over stimulate her Masters sense of smell. She then moved in, pressing her bare breasts up against his face to smother him in her touch. The Nurse Maid even broke the hold of their hands so that she could hug him close, smothering him even deeper into her bosom. Sebastian – overpowered by the pleasure and the feeling of her body – wrapped his arms around her waist and hips, his hands clinching to palm her plush posterior.

Such a large... lovely... rump... heh heh!

“Aaaa! Nomph!”

Wild and hungry, Sebastian latched his mouth upon Rodeline's tit, sucking hard on it. He knew her body, knew that if he drew harder and harder, he'd eventually--

“Nhoooh...!”

Yeah, that.

Sweet, lovely, delicious milk. Mmmmm! It poured on his tongue, coaxing slurred moans from Sebastian's lips as he continued tasting her body. Nursing from her tit, drinking it down; it felt reinvigorating. Curious how Rodeline was the only drachenmagd who lactated; he'd honestly argue it should be Selene. But, no, the motherly Nurse Maid was more than befitting of such a unique blessing.

Or... no, he's the one being 'blessed' right now.

“Keep sucking, Master,” Rodeline whispered as she stroked his head, “Quench your thirst, umu!”

Once again, did her words even reach his ears? Or was he too far gone to listen to her? No... not exactly. Her soothing, motherly tone warmed his body, his once wild antics slowing. He continued his thrusts into her sweltering body, but not to the rabid speed he typically gave. Pace himself, pace himself; he needed to keep telling himself that.

“Mmmff... okay... Rodeline,” Sebastian said as he pulled his milk-stained lips from her lactating tits, “I think... I'm ready now.”

“Umu! Okay, Master! Just... don't overdo yourself.”

He nodded, though said nothing as she slowly arose from the tub. Her body turning around with such mesmerizing movements, he watched the beauty of her form until his eyes met her back. Flawless and smooth, broken only by her perfect pink wings. Rodeline leaned over his bathtub's edge, her tail coiling around her hips like a makeshift belt, while her round, pliable, bountiful butt stared him directly in his face.

Rising up, Sebastian lined his eyes towards her puckering anus... then further down below towards her pink folds. The cinnamon odor was stronger now, the taste hanging on his lips. He'd love nothing more than to get on his knees and service her pussy, but he knew if he did that, he probably wouldn't have enough energy in him to 'perform' as it were. So... guess it was time to actually get on with said 'performance'.

Rodeline was smiling at him, assured that her Master would do a good job even in his current state. And Sebastian himself was poised to prove it, gripping his cock by the base and giving it a few ready flicks. His other hand rested upon Rodeline's smooth, curved ass, rubbing it gently as his length began pushing in... slowly... slowly... slowly...

“Nhhhmmmoooommm... so biiig... mmmm...” the Pink Dragon claimed, while Sebastian bit his bottom lip tight.

She squeezed his length, holding it tight as he pushed in all the way to the hilt. Her round ass pressed against his flat pelvis, and he gasped softly once it finally happened. He felt his eyes quiver, nearly rolling back as well, only for him to intensify his gaze. No, not yet.

Pat! Pat! Pat! Pat! Pat! Pat! Pat!

“Nhyyooooohhh... oh...!”

Rodeline's moans filled his ears, drawing Sebastian deeper into the pit of sex. Foolishly, it made him think he could get away with thrusting a bit harder. The sounds of their bodies meeting echoed out louder, the water splashed about harder, the moans increasing in speed and sound as well. Sebastian even gripped Rodeline tighter, his body hunching over as he slammed away, harder, harder, and harder!

PAT! PAT! PAT! PAT! PAT! PAT! PAT!

To see such a lovely ass ripple and quake from his thrusts; a hypnotic sight that he could only dream about... if he didn't see it so often. Whether it be Selene's ass, Rodeline's ass, Mylene's ass or Nadine's ass; a round buttocks that claps is a lovely ass indeed. Some of Sebastian's thrusts were enough to jerk her lower body up a bit, sending a force through her entire form that not only made that butt bounce or her hair jiggle, but also had her tits swaying as well. And ever time he did, ooooh, the way her pussy clenched on his dick was equaled only by her fellow drachenmagd.

The sweet odor of cinnamon had beaten down the smell of bitter medicines, which further bloated out Sebastian's mind. No, he wasn't injured; he was just as strong as he'd always been! Just as strong... and just as hungry. That hunger so mighty, making his hips jerk back and forth with such speed that his cock was a gyrating piston. He struck all of Rodeline's sweet spots, heightening her moans as her eyes closed.

She leaned in over the tub's edge, her lips letting out a broken stream of German praise as her Master blessed her body. The love, the desire, the erotic need; all taking form in that hot cock of his that slammed in deeper and deeper and deeper. Sebastian felt it himself; the rising explosion within his cock and balls. Should he hold himself back? Should he rut her even harder? Should he grab her by the hair and pull back? Should he spank her ass? Should he do all of these things? He didn't know!

Ultimately... it didn't matter...

“Ahc?!”

Splash!

“Huh!? Master!?”

Okay... that was... stupid of him...

“Ooohhh...”

A pain jolted through him, sapping him of his strength and making him lose his footing. In turn, he fell back on his bottom, groaning whilst sinking down to his neck in the waters. Haah... boy... that actually hurt a bit. Kinda... silly and childish of him too; what was he thinking going full throttle like that? Even if it felt good... pain and all...

Turning around, Rodeline's pink eyes met Sebastian's, her lips in a curl as giggles left her. Sebastian parted his lips, ready to apologize for his poor showing, but his Nurse Maid quieted him down as her hand rested on his cheek. Moving her head in, she pursed her lips, pressing them to Sebastian's in a soft kiss. He kissed her back, the slower speed and taste of her body helping to take his mind away from the pain he was feeling.

“Mmmff... mmmm... mmm...” Pop! “Haaah... umu...”

“Rodeline...” Sebastian groaned, “Haaah.”

“Don't worry about pushing yourself, Master. You're a strong and resilient young man,” the Nurse Maid praised as she began pushing him up the tub's edge, “I know you'll rebound from your injuries, so don't try to push yourself too hard until then,” she nodded while her hand stroked along her chest in a flaunting manner, “Now then, allow your Nurse Maid to relieve the tension in your body.”

“Haaah... relieve the... tension?” Sebastian repeated, eyebrow raised.

But Rodeline did not explain what she meant, instead giggling more in a mischievous manner that wouldn't look out of place on Mylene. Before the young earl could even ask her what she was planning, the Nurse Maid began moving down, speaking through the movements of her body. Oh, he knew what was coming, causing him to stiffen up as she descended down further and further.

Glunk...

Could... the drachenmagd breathe underwater? He knew Nadine could... or at the very least she could hold her breath for a very long time. Maybe Rodeline could do the same... and the rest of her sisters for the matter.

“MMMFFF!?”

Okay, thoughts about pointless stuff over!

Beneath the hot waters of his bathtub, he felt Rodeline's mouth descend over his cock, capturing it in her heated maw. Her heavy coating of spit easily replaced the liquids of the tub, and her writhing tongue didn't stand idly by either. Much like all of her sisters, Rodeline couldn't wait to coil her tongue around his length, fully holding it hostage. She knew all the spots of maximum pleasure on his dick, like... this little spot right on his glands, or this other spot right on the shaft, or maybe even this one, pulsing vein that ran the full gamut of his cock.

Health was Rodeline's focus in life, so knowing her Master's weaknesses was very, very important to her. Abusing said weaknesses too... umu! Oh, she adored doing that!

The waters of his tub swayed as her head bobbed up and down his penis, increasing in speed and power. Feeling her lips smack against his pelvis before she pulled back, Sebastian's toes curled and shameless moan left his lips, his hips even jerking forward a bit. Already his vigor was returning despite injuring himself... or maybe he really couldn't handle his own primal urges.

The draw, the suck, the powerful pull; Rodeline made sure to hog her Master all to herself whilst abusing him with her tight mouth and lips. He could no longer withstand it, but it's not like Rodeline was occupied with testing his resolve anymore anyway. No, no; the Nurse Maid wanted her Master's seed, wanted all of it.

And she'll take it!

“Skrrrkgh!?”

Oh yeah, Rodeline did that thing again; the skill only she had. Her tongue being the lithest of all the drachenmagd, she guided it into Sebastian's urethra, making her Master tense up. His teeth chattered, his toes and hands curled in, and his body lurched up, all as this hard to describe feeling roared through his body. Like a tickling sensation... mixed with orgasmic pleasure.

Orgasmic... pleasure...

“Aaahahhhaaaah!”

Glub! Glub! Glub!

Bubbles popped from the surface of the tub, but Sebastian was too busy looking up at the ceiling... as well as filling his maid's mouth with his virulent seed. His hand came over, resting upon Rodeline's head as she remained tied to his dick, sucking his cum through his dick like a straw to a shake. A sliver of drool started hanging from her Master's lips, the overwhelming rush of pleasure reducing his mind to mush.

Haaaah.... oh... so good...

Glub! Glurk! Blub!

Slowly Rodeline arose, her lips sealed, her eyes closed, and water having completely drenched her form. He was used to Selene having water streaking along her body since he bathed and washed with her often. Even the images of Emiline, Carmeline and Nadine with water cascading down their form was one he was used to. But Rodeline? This... this was new, yet no less amazing.

The way her body glowed, how her water now so wet and straight clung to her form, particularly her face. Her pink hair was typically opened so he could get an unobstructed view of her expressions, but now said hair had fallen over, like curtains covering a window. Rodeline brushed her hair back however, her cheeks a bit plump thanks to all the pooling seed hanging on her teeth and tongue.

And then she smiled...

Gulp...

And then she swallowed.

“Haah... healthy force upon ejaculation... mmfff.... hefty weight... large size and quantity... warm feeling... delicious taste. Umu! I'm happy to note your orgasms are still strong and healthy, Master.”

“Yeaah... uuurrghhh... that... heh... that doesn't sound weird at all,” Sebastian said sarcastically, garnering a giggle from his maid.

“Now that your 'checkup' is over, let's get you out of the tub. I'm sure Faline has finished deciphering the Watchmaker's words,” she stood up from the tub fully, stepping out as her eyes fell on the towels in the distance, “I will collect a towel and your clothes for you as well, Master.”

“Heeey... I know I'm weak, but I'm not that weak,” he stated in a mock insulted manner whilst rising from the tub, “I don't need you to get my clothes for me, Rodeline. And I can dress myself, regardless of what Selene might argue.”

“Umu! I know, Master! And apologies if I belittled you in any way,” Rodeline replied with a warm smile, “I just don't want you overextending yourself, or getting excited for that manner. Why don't you sit back and relax so that your stress does not build.”

Well... he had her when it came to him getting excited again, considering what they just did in the tub. Though he was also sure she was just using that as an excuse herself to continue babying him. But of course, Sebastian did not scold her for it... probably because he kind of liked it when Rodeline babied him.

But, right, focus.

Once given a towel, Sebastian began drying himself off while Rodeline left the room to prepare for him some clothes. When he was dry, the young earl put on one of his bathrobes, his eyes focusing on the door. But as he did so, Rodeline's words from earlier about Zeit filled his head.

They say Mordredus is at the center of a realm known only as Daemonium.

Yeah... that...

Look, Sebastian's no linguist despite knowing both English, German, and a little Spanish... but doesn't 'daemonium' sound eerily similar to 'demon'. Were Zeit and Oden demons then? Yes, they weren't from Earth, but he wouldn't have called them demons either. But with their strange, wondrous abilities and sinister motives, perhaps calling them demons was... correct.

But... they were dragons, right? Drakes to be exact, but dragons nonetheless. And if they were dragons then... was it possible that...?

They are demons, you fool! Aackhh!? E-e-eternally bound to eviscerate your s-s-soul when your death comes!

Those were Zeit's last words to him before his execution by Katherine's hands. Was it a warning, or more lies spread by the Black Drake? Tch... was Sebastin even entertaining this with thought? It made him sick to his stomach! No, Zeit was nothing more than a liar; a monster born from a land of monsters, one whose home was even named after a great traitor in myth and history. Even if the Watchmaker himself was indeed a demon, that did not mean his Maids were.

Though Sebastian continued to wonder just where exactly his maids came from. Heinrich's Records had yet to say... though he admits he hadn't been reading it as heavily following the attack on his estate. He should really catch up, get to the bottom of things. But first, his mind was focused on what Zeit had in his hidden bunker. So Sebastian stepped through the doors of his bathroom, entering his bedroom where,

“Good evening, Master.”

His eyes met the white eyes of,

“Katherine.”

She stood beside Rodeline, her eyes no longer bound by leather, and instead by those glasses which was now the norm for her. The image of the ghastly White Dragon who stalks his halls was now nothing more than a distant memory.

“If you came dearest sister to have your own turn with Master Sebastian, then I am afraid you are too late,” Rodeline said in a surprisingly snarky manner, a mirthful smile on her lips, “Though it will no doubt please you to know that the Master is incredibly healthy. However, you'll just have to wait until later to check.”

“That is not why I'm here,” Katherine replied as she walked to Sebastian's side, her arm wrapping around his shoulders to pull him in, “Though I dare say...” she then looked at her Master, smiling at him as she gazed upon his robed appearance, “I prefer the Master like this. I enjoy his cute yet flat body. It's nice.”

“You girls do know I'm right here, right?” Sebastian replied, though that didn't stop the Housekeeper from palming his chest, “Haah... Katherine...” he raised an eyebrow, “If you aren't here to check up on me too... then why are you here?”

“Faline has finished translating Zeit's books for you to read. She has placed them upon your desk. I've merely come to bring you there,” she explained.

“Wow... Faline did it that fast? She's really dedicated,” he replied with a cross of his arms, before nodding in an affirmative manner, “Good... I can't wait to learn everything about Zeit. Dead though he may be... I never want to experience another night like that again,” he looked down at himself, then over towards Rodeline who held a pair of folded clothes in her arms, “Though... I suppose I should change first...”

A few moments later and Sebastian had changed into more comfortable lounge wear. These were made of cotton, and probably since they were given to him by Rodeline, they were pink in color. You know, in certain countries, pink is seen as a manly color!... Though... not from any countries Sebastian's been to.

Side by side, Katherine and her Master made way for his private study. Rodeline had broken away from the two in order to return to her nursing office, meaning the halls were left silent. At times like these – when he's walking alongside Katherine – Sebastian couldn't help but to think about his old nightly meetings with her. Of course, now things were different; she was far more sociable, which he greatly preferred to before. Though he had to wonder why she was like that in the first place. But before he could ask...

“Have you given up your quest for your father's diary?” Katherine asked, taking Sebastian off guard.

“Wh... what?”

“Have you already given up your quest for your father's diary,” the White Dragon repeated as she turned to face him, “It is okay if you do. It's not in my place to tell you want to do.”

“I still want to find my father's diary, Katherine. It's just that... with what happened with Zeit and everything... I... I haven't had the chance to focus on it. Besides... I don't know where the Dragon Key is.”

“Remember... Igrene has it,” Katherine stated, drawing his eyes towards her, “I have no doubt my sister has hidden it. She fears what you may learn within their pages.”

“I don't get it... why would she be afraid of what my father will say? His words are his words. Whatever he says about me, or my mother, or anything... it does not reflect poorly on you all...” he looked at Katherine, smiling at her, “I love you girls, and nothing will change that.”

Katherine smiled as she came to a stop, making him do likewise. He was confused at first, only to realize that, yes, they had arrived at his study. Opening the door, Sebastian saw that on his desk were a few books he had never seen before; the translated books belonging to Zeit. He nodded, ready to read them, though a question came to mind upon remember Rodeline's words from earlier.

“Katherine... do you remember where you come from?” Sebastian asked before heading through the doors into his study.

“Hmm... no,” she replied in a straightforward manner.

“Huh? O-oh... okay then... hmm...” he shook his head, “Apologies for asking.”

“It was a long, long, long time ago,” Katherine continued to explain, “My memories of the world are like that of my sisters – vague and filled with shadows save for the red moon. Its name is lost to me. When we lived there, we were not yet the cognizant beings we are now. We were far, far more... ignorant, to be blunt. If I may be honest with you, Master... I share Mylene's feelings; Earth is my home, not the realm we come from.”

“Ahh... I see... well...” he smiled at her, beaming, “Thank you for the conversation, Katherine. Promise, I will find my father's diary. I must. Even now I feel as if its clinging at me. I need to locate my father's diary,” he turned to face his desk in the distance, “For my own sake...”

Katherine nodded, then stood idly by while Sebastian entered into his private study. Resting beside one another were many books; copies of Zeit's books written instead by Faline. When the young earl flipped open their covers, he saw a disclaimer written by his Librarian, claiming these were copies made by her. Did she need to be so... legal with her wording? She acted as if someone was going to sue upon finding out these were not the original.

Ah... no, no, no... focus Sebastian, focus.

The books were right here before them, and one of them was clearly labeled as being Zeit's memoirs. Not the exact same as a dairy, but it would more than do. Let's see what the Watchmaker was doing, eh?

These are the accounts of Zeit Henlein, as re-written and translated by Faline, Librarian of the Faust Estate.

Yes, yes. So far, so good. Now what?

Living among humans has taken a tole upon my psyche. With each passing day, I find my care for them and their world to be waning. Our original mission was simple: assassinate the echidna Mephistopheles by order of King Draygon himself. Thus he sent his two finest assassins; Oden and myself. We left our homes for Mephistopheles' lair, casting beyond the boundaries of our realm to perform our duties. We'd walk in, kill her, and walk out. Clean, quick, efficient.

However, our arrival was protracted; her ill retinue already being born. When we arrived, we saw she had already borne her clutch; eleven eggs, each pulsating with life. To my horror, they seemed close to hatching; a batch that would no doubt spell doom for my people, and many, many others. We could not risk it.

But Mephistopheles was more powerful than we thought, or perhaps, she saw our arrival already coming. Amid our battle, she had us cast beyond the boundaries of our dimension, sending us funneling through space. In her desperation to protect herself and her unborn youth, she thought that by merely sending us tumbling through existence, she'd end her assailants forever.

But she was wrong.

Oden and I arrived in a land ignorant to magic. A land that though it had been besieged by angels and demons before, remained indifferent to beings of our caliber. A land where scientific knowledge reigned supreme, for the populace was too stupid or too foolish to make use of magical might. A land known as Earth.

And it was in this land some hundreds of years later, we met a fool with a desire to gain more knowledge than would be necessary for him. A fool whose name was Heinrich Georg Faust.

By the time Heinrich was a young man, Oden and I had already amassed a grand wealth upon Earth. Our superior knowledge about the arcane arts having opened more than just a few doors. However, we lacked the ability to use the mortal's technologies for our own being, for they were not so much more advanced than we were in Mordredus.

That all changed when Oden met Heinrich in Leipzig University. He was a brilliant young man, perhaps more so than any of his peers, yet his desires to meet God had left him with very, very few allies in this secular world. I cared not for meeting gods myself, but Oden noted that Heinrich's plans could work if given enough time and money. His 'Projekt Gottheit' as he called it, would allow him to reach beyond the realms of existence, and perhaps even return us home. But I didn't want to go back home, not until I performed my duties; assassinate Mephistopheles.

So I bequeathed upon Heinrich a mere penance of my wealth, blessing him with the ability to create his 'project'. I gave him workers, I gave him the materials, and most importantly, I gave him time. He remained ignorant however of our true motives, even as Oden and I mucked with his equations and theories. A few twists here, a few turn there, and before we knew it, we had our perfect gateway to Mephistopheles' lair.

I remembered the night we performed our 'scientific ritual'. The pillars that jutted to the skies, the thunder, the lightning, the rain; everything. And it all finally came to an end when the gateway appeared. Heinrich spoke into it, and the energies that be knocked him back, silencing him.

Oden and I stepped for the portal, but something stepped back out. A beast, a dragon. Taller than any wild dragon I had ever seen, and just as great. But above all, it was majestic. A wicked creature adorned in silver-white scales that would protect her from all by the strongest of weapons. Knives, nor magics could hope to bring harm to this being, who entered Earth through the gateway created by Heinrich's resolve.

And then it proceeded to kill everyone.

What the?

Sebastian pulled away, relaying all he had heard. A majestic white dragon with a body that looks to be impervious? Sounds a little bit more than just familiar, doesn't it? Closing his eyes, all he could imagine was Katherine when she descended in her true dragon form. A beautiful sight but...

Not only did this white dragon match Katherine, Zeit's words also matched Heinrich's own. The day Projekt Gottheit was finally activated. When Heinrich was knocked unconscious, he re-awoke some time later to see that of his fellow helpers had been killed, torn to shreds as he said by beasts! And now Sebastian was reading this as it played out from Zeit's point of view.

Did... did Katherine kill everyone?

When we lived there, we were not yet the cognizant beings we are now. We were far, far more... ignorant, to be blunt.

Yes. That's what Katherine just said to him, isn't it? They weren't cognizant, making them no better than beasts. Besides, who is to say that the white dragon in these pages and the White Dragon who is his Housekeeper are even the same dragons?

Okay, even Sebastian realized he was trying to convince himself of something that wasn't true.

I had a duty to fulfill, a mission I could not fail. So with the white dragon preoccupied with its mindless slaughter, Oden and I pushed on for the gateway over Heinrich's unconscious body. My partner was concerned for his friend and the others, but I cared not. Foolish mortals are nothing more than that; mortals. Their lives meant nothing to me.

Our focus was unwavering. Mephistopheles must be destroyed!

Sebastian's eyes quivered, unsure of how he should take this information being relayed to him. Mephistopheles, Zeit and Oden using Heinrich, the white dragon; all of it was coming too fast. And yet his heart raced, faster and faster, fearful of whatever it is he was learning. Just...

Just where did the drachenmagd come from?

Eeeaaaarrr!

“Masterrrrr~!”

He brought his gaze up... and any sense of dread he felt was instantly washed away. Standing at his doorway was Mylene, holding a silver platter in hand that carried with it a pitcher of water and cups for him. As typical of the Green Serpent, she sauntered her way towards him on sprightly feet, grinning from cheek to cheek as she did so.

“Dinner will be ready soon, Master,” said the Parlor Maid as she poured him a cup of water, “I came to give you water as a pick me up following your checkup with Rodeline...” she then looked down at the books he was reading, “Oh! That's the books that jackass Watchmaker owned, right? I hope he's saying flattering things about us...”

“Weeellll... uh... wait, you haven't read them yet?” Sebastian asked, to which Mylene shook her head.

“No, not me. Only Igrene, Faline, and Katherine have read them so far,” the Parlor Maid explained, “Though even if I was given the chance, I doubt I'd do so. Between the two of us, Master, I'm not as much a bookworm as those three are.”

“Hmm...”

He looked back down to the pages before him, appearing quizzical and in disbelief. On one hand, this book was telling him the origins of his maids. But on the other hand, it was from the point of view of a man who tried to kill them all. Sebastian wasn't sure if he even wanted to keep reading it, let alone if he believed anything in these pages.

But he was here, and this was information, even if it was untrustworthy. But he had something else, did he not? Another book from which he could read that would help shed some light on Zeit's words. That book being Heinrich's Records. With these two in hand, Sebastian would hopefully be able to piece together the origins of his maids.

And he'd do so soon... but until then...

“Are you ready to go, Master?”

“Yes, let's go.”