Paradox Princess: Book 1, Corrution

Chapter Ten: Assault

Aušra and her royal knights were now in an armory within the castle, selecting equipment for the raid on the nuclear plant in Takahama. Aušra had replaced her red robe and gold sash with full body armor identical to the Black Hawks, with the exception of a mask for head protection.

Everyone was ready to depart. All they waited for now was the word from the Black Hawk to clarify that the nuclear plant was secure. Lord Zen and Fredrick Wolfgang were in full body uniforms like Aušra was; several dozen vampires and werewolves were behind them both all standing at attention. Aušra then jumped on top of a box that was a full meter tall and faced everyone present.

"As you all know, we are going to going into the heart of the enemy base," Aušra announced to everyone. "I cannot promise that we will all make it out alive. Anyone who is not prepared to lose their lives has my permission to leave!"

No one moved. All of their attention was on Aušra.

"Any minute now we'll receive confirmation to go through the portal," Aušra said out loud. "I thank you all for you loyalty, and I expect you all to do your best! I have faith that you shall make this mission successful. I believe in you all!"

Mass cheering followed this, and Aušra jumped down from the box and back onto the floor.

"That's Lady Aušra for you!" Kirzaki hooted happily as the cheering simmered.

"We have dedicated our lives to you, her majesty," Lord Zen said bowing to Aušra on one knee. "We are ready to sacrifice our lives for your sake."

The vampires behind him did the same, and Fredrick and the werewolves bowed to Aušra as well.

"I couldn't agree more," Fredrick said with a smile. "We are honored by your faith in us."

Aušra beamed at them.

"Try to stay live for my sake," Aušra said with a smirk. "I wish for you all to return home with me alive and well."

"Yes, her majesty!" Everyone in the room announced simultaneously.

The satellite phone's ringtone on Aušra's wrist went off. She pressed a button on it.

"This is Black Hawk fourteen speaking," a voice said from the phone. "We have the plant secure, we are ready for your arrival Queen Aušra."

"Well done," Aušra said in satisfaction. "Anything else you wish to report?"

"One of the royal knights has been spotted heading towards the power plant," the Black Hawk said over the phone. "Is this a part of a new plan?"

Aušra's eyes widened in surprise, and several royal knights looked shocked. Lord Zen's eyes held fury.

"No, he has disobeyed a direct order," Aušra said quickly recovering from the shock.

"Shall we seize him?" The Black Hawk asked.

"No, stay in your positions, I'll take care of him," Aušra said as her eyes narrowed. "I'll be there shortly, have three choppers ready by the portal!"

Aušra ended the call with a press of a button on her wrist. Lord Zen got on his face, as he bowed as low as he could get.

"I'm so sorry, I've let you down!" he said in anguish. "I'll accept any punishment you'll give for leaving the portal unguarded!"

"Rise, Lord Zen," Aušra said with a smile. "I don't blame you; it's not your fault. Now we must act quickly, everyone follow me!"

"This will be interesting," Teszuly whispered.