"Mono/Dialogue"
'Inner thoughts'
Narration
[Message/communication apparatus]
Date: 28th May 1082
Location: Section 7’s High-Class Residential Area, Kawalerielki, Kazimierz
POV: Narrator
“Are you serious about this? Won’t you attract even more attention this way?”
“Too late really.”
A Pythian lady sighed wearily but her face can be described as resigned amusement. The Kuranta lady across her sported a conflicted expression instead, her proposition will surely be beneficial. It will only cost her more on a personal level, just how far can her obsession goes really?
“I realized it far, far too late… Rather than hide it away and just get busted anyway, might as well just go and capitalize on it.”
“Truly you aren’t that brazen, something of this scale would require… wait… don’t tell me!?”
“Yeah, I already made my own arrangement…”
The situation had grown cold. This is the first time she actively defy a contract without a substantial level of warning or signs.
“… You promised us not to get involved, was it not?” The Kuranta’ gaze turned into a questioning glare.
“I will not get involved from the get go, I’ll act as contingency.”
“…What are you implying? Or… are you finally have enough of being everyone else call girl?” The Kuranta playfully mocked her speaking partner, it is a serious breach of contract if she proceed… deep down she is thrilled however.
“Call girl? You think you can afford me? Heh, I had enough being a convenient bitch to satisfy someone’s need. I had been introspecting about the future a lot too, besides… I’ll rethink again about being a freelancing merc.”
“Tell me why I should concede with this… bombastic improvisation of yours?”
The Pythian pulled a cigarette and… she hummed a lovely rhyme for a brief moment… then said cigarette is now lit, but there are no trace of heat being felt. To say that her counterpart is shocked would be an understatement…
Not long after, blood trickle down from her left eye, but instead of pain… there is nothing but focus and indifference for anything unrelated.
“I don’t care about your little game of chess, I’m just giving you a head’s up… besides, you can have a say in this too… won’t your lovely stallion love this proposition of mine?”
“…”
“So?”
“… Hah…Fine, but I must stress a point that you are under our supervision. I will veto any movement without our interest in mind regarding the upcoming situation, then you mu-”
“Deal and I’ll throw a favor to sweeten up our contract rearrangement.”
“Haaah… Can you stop cutting me off?”
“No. You want a dog? I’ll even be your pet for now. I just want in…”
“I’ll speak personally… your obsession is clouding you.”
“I know, but I have my reasons. Nonsensical those might be, still quite reasonable in my book.”
“You’re foolish…” She just shake her head with exasperation and amusement…
“Yeah I am, anything else?”
“I’ll send you a document soon and… do enjoy staying in the middle of crossfire…”
“My favorite pastime.”
Date: June 1082
Location: [REDACTED], Kazimierz
POV: Nelka
“As expected of opportunists… they are really gullible… Hah… I’m running out of toys and tools to use, Nyx is right about how power can corrupt you… and the appeal is so intoxicating.” I can only sigh in amused resignation. Truthfully speaking, I’m in the middle of bailing out several falsely accused knights who can be useful to our cause.
“Sheridan Skoci, Alrdret Ostiec, Janiezki Yuri, Oleg Karpov, Imran Lux, Rigell Annelise, Kara Cormac, Albarid Zafina, Frank Solis, Jane Harlington, and several others who needs more verifications, cross-examination test, and so on so forth… god, I have too much work…”
I stood up from my chair and head towards a cabinet filled with sensitive documents. It used blood and fingerprint for access, the blood must be fresh else the cabinet will enter a lockdown sequence for a whole week… silly me tested it way back then and got into trouble for it, getting used with new stuffs can be challenging.
Nyx’s intelligence gathering training was probably the best thing ever… I need to get used with the blood but now I understand the appeal of it, but nowhere near my dear teacher own fascination…up to an unhealthy level, actually. She ought to get examined by a therapist.
I pulled out several documents from my collaborators and willing informants it pertained the mentioned knights and knightess awaiting their trial sentence. Honestly this game of cat and mouse would irritate Nyx and prompt her to just flip the table… not me though.
‘Sheridan Skoci, 28 years old Liberi, former Columbian citizen and due to his ongoing trial has been suspended from Arbor KC. Skilled with hammer, and noted to be quite bright. But the false accusation about being sexually deviant has marred his reputation’
Then the next document…
‘Aldret Ostiec, 19 years old Feline, from the Eastern Kazimierzian Nobles combined army. Second in line as heir to his house and also noted to be a rebellious but reasonable knight, a decent lancer. He is accused of money laundering and several incriminating notes about organizing underground market.’
Next is…
‘Janiezki Yuri, 47 Years old Ursus, a decorated knight from the 72’s counteroffensive. Credited with organizing QRF (Quick Reaction Force) to relieve the pressure during Karakova’s encirclement and freeing 4 companies of Knights and Squires. Accused of deliberately allowing a contraband factory to flourish in his land. Skilled with explosive and helm of leadership.’
Then…
‘Oleg Karpov and Imran Lux, 51 years old Ursus and 29 Years old Savra respectively. The former had actually retired from active duty, but choose to reenlist during 72’s war. While the latter is an accomplished former Sargonian retinue who is now residing and a part of Felixius KC. Both are accused of colluding and treason against the National Council. Oleg is an accomplished crossbowman and Imran is an adaptable fighter.’
“Now we have this one here…”
‘Rigell Annelise, 24 years old Caprinae from, surprising, Victoria and not Leithania. She is dubbed by her fans as the Edelweiss Princeszin, much to her chagrin since she despise Leithania. Former archery champion and is now contracted with Azureblade KC, the primary support knight and also a poster child. Accused of accepting bribery, sexual favors, and seducing several Chairman…’
‘A girl with dreams… Just like me, but I’m luckier… Where was I…?’
‘Kara Cormac, 21 years old Liberi and she just got accepted into Eisenlowe KC 7 months ago… and yet she got herself entangled because stumbling into something she shouldn’t… poor girl, but she is the easiest to utilize if I succeed…’
While I’m busy reading and reaffirming the latest data of my insignificant side endeavor, my PT comes to live and with it the piece of news I has been so eager to receive.
“How is it?”
[Your package is ready, a pleasure doing business with you.]
Well pardon me if I can’t help but to grin with that piece of information. A simple string of words, but it means the world to me at this very moment. Thus I just end the transmission and put these papers for later, the grand opening of Nyx’s little show is soon to come and I’ll have the front seat.
I stood up from my chair and stretched myself a little. Those who had been lucky enough to hear Nyx’s singing prowess always said that her voice is truly a potent weapon, a weapon she sadly can’t control yet. This information is known only to people close to her and whatever happened with Silverlances that have been indebted to her too.
“Well, I’ll go home early and prepare to play with Richard, I have been working so hard I just want to get spoiled now. He would also be thrilled with the upcoming event’ leak from none other than me. Fufufufu~”
Sometime later…
Location: Section 6 High-Class Residency, Kawalerielki, Kazimierz.
I heard the door opened while preparing for dinner. The both of us can actually cook, so it kind of turned into a competition for us, a silly one but not less impressive and therapeutic during the worst of time. Taking off my apron, I head towards the door and there he is. Richard Janos, the newly appointed director from one of Knights Association department and my fiancée.
“Honey, I’m home.”
“Welcome home, dear.”
Richard kissed me of which I lovingly reciprocate, he is a rather clingy fiancée but I wouldn’t have him otherwise. I have been his fiancée for 2 years now, still waiting until the time is right, and so far things are working out just fine. I still can’t believe how far I had go, an ordinary farm girl now holding one of the most influential station within Adeptus Sprawiedliwi.
“What would you like first, dear?” I took his coat off and helping him get comfortable. The first time we’re dating, we just fumbled here and there and it was honestly cute now that I look back into it.
“Hmm… How about later instead? Honestly I just want to have some peace and quiet with you, aside from a certain form of relaxation of course.”
“Ohoh~ how naughty, but that can wait…”
‘Getting into the mood will take time after all.’ A feisty voice quietly rang in my mind, Richard is on the lead so far and I’m more than thrilled to catch up.
“Yeah, oh also how was your day?”
“So, so. I do have something interesting that will pique your interest however.”
“Really? Do tell then.”
“Nu-uh~ we still have dinner to go through, a man mustn’t be so impatient~.”
“Sure thing, and say… you’re rather frisky today. Something good actually happened huh?” He playfully embrace me and hold my waist with such a loving manner. He is doing something too huh? We are so alike, a match made in heaven is what Chaplain Immanuel usually say to me.
“I have no idea what you’re alluding~ care to be more specific, love? I have been inundated with too much work that my brain had gotten lazy when I’m home.”
“Well, you’re the winner now this time around, so I’ll follow through…” we then frolic some more, honestly we both need it.
Being an Interior Secretary is a daunting job. I have to monitor the organizational well-being, auditing potential defects and its ramifications, drafting papers to protect our interest while pushing in our agenda silently behind the curtain and underneath the table regarding internal affair, doing my best to smile when I just want to punch someone who leered at me, and so much more.
Richard position as the director of interclub relation office forced him to play the arbitrator when dispute or problem surfaced. He must always have a cool head when treading the line of keeping things in order without offending related parties. Richard was once returning home fuming because of how much trouble a, now defunct, KC had caused him.
Our relationship might cause some spark to fly, but truthfully, Knights Association itself is internally divided between Adeptus Sprawiedliwi and K.G.C.C. in terms of influence. So, we have leeway to indulge one another without causing too much scandals.
Ugh… scandals… God I hate how someone behind the curtains like me can still be targeted. I can only imagine how badly Nyx has on her plate, the local news channel and gossiping magazine had been really loud of flaunting her so called scandals.
And the person herself doesn’t give a shit, her mental fortitude against slander is robust.
But well that’s enough about the crash course of our little relationship, our workplace idea of keeping things stable, and or other things that are still related somehow…
“Come on then~ you must be starving, I made some authentic Wladirosan cuisine along with my family stew, a secret recipe you’re still unable to replicate.”
“Really? But say, what is the dessert this time around?”
I playfully left his embrace while letting him see my luscious tongue licking my lips. I heard an audible gulp, hehe… Oh my dear Richard… you’re so easy to tempt, but I would be offended if you weren’t tempted~.
“Well, I have prepared a really exquisite and expensive meal, a truly special homemade dessert only for my dear husband-to-be… me.” He suddenly swept me off my feet and goes straight to the dining room.
After dinner and subsequent… dessert…
“Brutish pervert…”
“Oh come on… I already apologized for the hi-”
“Shameless fiend…”
“… Hah… Just because you fainted first, doesn’t mean that mmpph!” I threw a pillow at him, and for the record he was cheating there! I can only endured so much if he did that! I’m too preoccupied with fatigue and faltering focus to launch a counterattack…
“You’re committing foul play…”
“Yea, yea, I’m sorry… then what do you want, my princess?” My face lit up again, damn him and his handsome face… toned, muscled body… soothing voice… Ah wait! Don’t fell on the same trap thrice!
“Hmph, just let me rest and no funny business or you can have an early appointment with a couch.”
“I’m but all too gladly, my dear lady.” He held me and let my tired body rest on his chest. The room is not by any means cold, but his warmth goes beyond any sort of comfort provided by artificial means.
We just savored the silence. It’s nice, even when we are a bit unpresentable… it takes me back somehow… how we were so awkward and practically being a pair of idiot at first. The idea that I fancy someone I had met in passing when he came to our village was truly a novel one, and no Nyx doesn’t count because I managed to learn about her for a fair amount of time.
“No matter what happened… you’re still the same outspoken, modest, and dauntless girl I met 4 years ago… teaching children by the meadow about what needs to be done and why… simple arithmetic, and even self-defense. Heh, you’re unlike women I used to fool around…”
“Yeah… honestly, I never thought that someone who ran from home can be such a big deal in the capital mobile city when future came by. You were a real piece of work back then, a snotty brat, and a somewhat shameless Casanova.”
“And I can’t be more thankful to you and no one else. Who would have known that I gained clarity after getting slapped then having my ears talked off and a lot of other things that entailed… all thanks to you, my lovely princess.”
“Well, my strength was unthinkable from someone of my stature, and my slap wasn’t what it used to be, thanks to certain someone. Life is truly unpredictable and wild, if nothing else.”
“Mm-hm, that certain someone was also your first crush too. Which I’m really relieved that now you’re mine and I’m only yours…”
“Oh, Richard…”
I just turned my head and we have a brief chaste kiss. Richard was the son of a fallen aristocrat. His disownment was because his family got entangled with political intrigue, thus his predicament was a maneuver to save him. He used to misinterpret it, before I knock some sense into him.
“I’m still having a hard time believing that day I met you again. I never thought that being my pretend girlfriend to chase off undesirable would be what it is.”
“Oh right, it has been 3 years now huh?”
“Yeah it is… say, wanna hear what my perspective about you was back then?”
“Hmm? Sure I guess, I’m still tired anyway.”
POV: Richard Janos.
“That’s it for today.” I stretched my arms and stood up from this cage, the fabled office chair, and starts filling my daily report. Work from the bottom was really exhausting, but I managed to be recognized for it. Of course, nothing is free in Kazimierz and I’m more or less a part of Adeptus Faction now.
What’s my work back then usually associated with? Well, I’m just about to get there, Nel… keep pouting like that, and you look so cute so stay that way. Where was I? Oh yes, work.
The work in Knights Association as a newly appointed manager can range from mundane clerical stuff like report making and budgeting, to something more outgoing like promoting events and what not.
I was on my way home after another, somewhat pointless now that I think about it, especially having an ass of a supervisor… don’t laugh, and please stop with the pillow-y domestic violence… Yes, yes, I love you too.
Making my way out of the building, I was in the mood to just take a long detour and perhaps visit my favorite bar. The place is always crowded, but I have membership in place thus allowing me to book a room for my own with payment in advance. I sometimes forgot about said reservation though… what do you mean that’s a scummy move? Hey! My money, my rights.
Alright continuing on…
Just when I was about to enter, I saw a kid, an infected too, seems to be scurrying around the alley. Not long after, I see several hooligans chasing him. If it were me back then, I wouldn’t care… but after my pilgrimage to Wladirosa, I changed and tried to at least let the kid get away, infected or not.
Moving along the alley, my Kuranta blood is made for this mad dash of agility and there you know what happened next right?
Yep there was a blond haired beauty, she was also chasing after them. Honestly, the whole thing seems like a cliché that comes alive and true. From there we-
You want to continue it? Oh well sure… Now, now, don’t be so apologetic for what we did back then, I love it don’t worry. It is also understandable why you want to tell me your perspective back there and honestly I see nothing wrong with having a needy lady in my arms all gung-ho of- Hey! Stop with the pillow already!
POV: Nelka Ramona
“I have been here for a month and still can’t get used with this much… um… what was the word again? Extra-something…” The words were uttered while I was walking back to my apartment in mid-class residency at section 53 but it wasn’t hard by any means, I’m already used with moving for few hours non-stop.
And I- What? You missed my less sophisticated speech? Well… we can… try it later… when we… you know… anyway!
When walking down the stairs, I managed to catch a glimpse of a kid who was being chased by a group of 5 useless human, a total waste of space and breathable air if I might add. Seeing that it would be bad for the kid to get caught, I just improvised.
Running towards the alleyway, I pulled out my gloves and pepper spray. With my transmitter also turned on, I’m now ready to tango. The chase was happening on the other alleyway, but thankfully this particular place has been mapped perfectly in my mind when I just want some peace and quiet.
With that in mind I just goes to several predicted alleyway and only then did I deliberately pass the road after the kid got passed me. Of course I bumped onto those 5 human wastes, they were… uh… Richard? Stay calm honey, stay calm… yes nothing happened to me. Yes, yes, put the phone down… those 5 are irrelevant.
“Watch it you wench!”
“Damn it! You made us lost him!”
“O-oh… pardon me good sirs… I wasn’t looking.”
One of them suddenly shoved me against the wall and another one is pointing his knife at me. The other 3 is back on chasing the poor kid. Honestly the situation wasn’t that scary sinc- Wait, Richard! Put the gun down! Believe me, I’m fine! … Goodness me, that old temper of yours seems to have some remnant buried deep inside of you.
Alright listen, the best way to dispose them is not with a bullet, too merciful. First you drown them, second cut a tiny laceration, then douse it with salt, and third you mus- uh… ahem, not important.
Back to my little recounting of the incident…
“You’re gonna pay for causing us trouble, bitch!”
“Hey, this one pretty… hehehe, she can compensate with those nice curves of hers.”
“Hmm… a good idea, be-” of course I kicked him in the groin area and while the other did stabbed me… I wore an armor underneath, completely nullifying fatal injury. Sorry, old habit die hard. You know I went through the siege of Wladirosa after all.
While the stabber was flummoxed about why I’m fine, I pulled my pepper spray to immobilize and immediately kicked him too. Seeing that they’re on the ground, I knocked them out but not before taking photos out of them to then post it anonymously. The police is kinda useless, so I’ll just let the people judge them~…
I was merciless? Why thank you!
With that I chased after the other 3 but that is when I met you too, well more like you found me if we go by chronological order wise.
From there things had gone into a blur, how I played the maiden who got harassed, which was true, and how you act like a real big shot to chase the remnants out. You looked dashing back then, and yes I still remember how we just spend the rest of the evening being so touchy feely… I slapped you? Why yes of course, I have no regrets for that since you’re being too brazen.
End of Flashback
“I’m really lucky you know, to have a loving and caring fiancée… not many people can have that in this blasted city…” Richard mood turned a tad somber, but I understand. Trust is such rare commodity here, a blessing and curse for the society as a whole.
Oh yeah I almost forgot…
“Dear, you remember about what I said earlier, before dinner I mean?”
“… You mean about something interesting in mind?”
“That’s the one, you see…”
I then narrate a whole project that Nyx is about to undertake, then lo and behold. His expression turn into a predatory one, he can use it to sway more members towards his internal faction.
“You think I can play a role here?”
“That’s exactly what I have in mind~”
“Then sign me the hell up, it is a prime opportunity… but first!”
“Kyaah!” Let’s just say we have some more fun and then Richard being kicked out of the bedroom after all was said and done… I’m not going to forgive him so easily for that preemptive strike of his…
Date: August 1082
Location: Underground Section 21, Kawalerielki, Kazimierz
POV: Narrator
“Damn it! That blasted monster in serpent skin is not responding to our parlay, she is still a wild card. Just what the hell is she doing a wench for the K.G.C.C.!? Wasn’t she the Nearl’s family guard dog!? We paid a lot for faulty intel!”
“But we can’t delay it any longer! Rumors abound of someone that had tipped multiple factions of our existence! A lot of our collaborators are expecting results now too, we must push onward regardless…”
“Cursed it all… why is it so hard to revive our glory? This nation is rotten to the core, and the Adeptus had also gone soft… so why did everything suddenly goes haywire!?”
“Too many things are suddenly happening all at once, what’s even more worrisome is how the National Council act more unified this time around… just how many people are pulling the strings? How many gambits are piling up? Are we really hopeless?”
“Whatever, we can still pull it off if we concentrate our asset.”
“But how?”
“We can try to use the lower section tunnels, or instead how about using some extra muscle to create distraction?”
Their deliberations continues on for more, unaware that someone is recording all that happened with expedited excellence. Regardless of their ‘noble’ intention, the world won’t wait and it is anything but merciful…
Date: November 1082
Location: [REDACTED], Kazimierz
POV: Nelka Ramona
“How is everything?”
“All accounted for, and awaiting for your command.”
“Good, what about the backup assets? We will need every possibilities covered.”
“It is now 75% of expected, we are an hour behind schedule for possibility of confrontation between factions.”
“Divert team 4 and 6 to help with it, we cannot waste more time. We cannot pass up on this chance.”
“How is the city going?”
“The city is still in the dark, the National Council had prepared several cover stories according to our sleeper agents.”
“How long until it regained normal condition?”
“An hour and a half, give or take.”
“I see, keep up with the plan. Lady Grand Knight is handling the topside as best as she can, we cannot afford to make a mistake.”
“Acknowledged.”
“Lastly, what about the packages?”
“Secured and contained, the next phase now depend on her”
“… Very well, return to your post.”
This place is abuzz with activities, but before I can instruct more command, one of my subordinates had reported the thing we had been waiting for.
“Ma’am! The Grey Serpent is on stage! I repeat! She is on stage!”
“Wonderful, we can start moving out on our projected plan, get team 10 on the line! It will rain…”
[END OF CHAPTER]
Author’s Note:
Yo there, this is me, myself, and I, the author whose mental well-being is being ground into smithereens…
I kind of always wanted to make .5 chapters after some time now. That's why, consider this one as a bonus,
So yeah that’s all…
Update as usual… if I’m not being struck by stroke due to my sanity being eaten by my thesis…
Ciao
"Mono/Dialogue"
'Inner thoughts'
Narration
[Message/communication apparatus]
Date: 28th May 1082
Location: Section 7’s High-Class Residential Area, Kawalerielki, Kazimierz
POV: Narrator
“Are you serious about this? Won’t you attract even more attention this way?”
“Too late really.”
A Pythian lady sighed wearily but her face can be described as resigned amusement. The Kuranta lady across her sported a conflicted expression instead, her proposition will surely be beneficial. It will only cost her more on a personal level, just how far can her obsession goes really?
“I realized it far, far too late… Rather than hide it away and just get busted anyway, might as well just go and capitalize on it.”
“Truly you aren’t that brazen, something of this scale would require… wait… don’t tell me!?”
“Yeah, I already made my own arrangement…”
The situation had grown cold. This is the first time she actively defy a contract without a substantial level of warning or signs.
“… You promised us not to get involved, was it not?” The Kuranta’ gaze turned into a questioning glare.
“I will not get involved from the get go, I’ll act as contingency.”
“…What are you implying? Or… are you finally have enough of being everyone else call girl?” The Kuranta playfully mocked her speaking partner, it is a serious breach of contract if she proceed… deep down she is thrilled however.
“Call girl? You think you can afford me? Heh, I had enough being a convenient bitch to satisfy someone’s need. I had been introspecting about the future a lot too, besides… I’ll rethink again about being a freelancing merc.”
“Tell me why I should concede with this… bombastic improvisation of yours?”
The Pythian pulled a cigarette and… she hummed a lovely rhyme for a brief moment… then said cigarette is now lit, but there are no trace of heat being felt. To say that her counterpart is shocked would be an understatement…
Not long after, blood trickle down from her left eye, but instead of pain… there is nothing but focus and indifference for anything unrelated.
“I don’t care about your little game of chess, I’m just giving you a head’s up… besides, you can have a say in this too… won’t your lovely stallion love this proposition of mine?”
“…”
“So?”
“… Hah…Fine, but I must stress a point that you are under our supervision. I will veto any movement without our interest in mind regarding the upcoming situation, then you mu-”
“Deal and I’ll throw a favor to sweeten up our contract rearrangement.”
“Haaah… Can you stop cutting me off?”
“No. You want a dog? I’ll even be your pet for now. I just want in…”
“I’ll speak personally… your obsession is clouding you.”
“I know, but I have my reasons. Nonsensical those might be, still quite reasonable in my book.”
“You’re foolish…” She just shake her head with exasperation and amusement…
“Yeah I am, anything else?”
“I’ll send you a document soon and… do enjoy staying in the middle of crossfire…”
“My favorite pastime.”
Date: June 1082
Location: [REDACTED], Kazimierz
POV: Nelka
“As expected of opportunists… they are really gullible… Hah… I’m running out of toys and tools to use, Nyx is right about how power can corrupt you… and the appeal is so intoxicating.” I can only sigh in amused resignation. Truthfully speaking, I’m in the middle of bailing out several falsely accused knights who can be useful to our cause.
“Sheridan Skoci, Alrdret Ostiec, Janiezki Yuri, Oleg Karpov, Imran Lux, Rigell Annelise, Kara Cormac, Albarid Zafina, Frank Solis, Jane Harlington, and several others who needs more verifications, cross-examination test, and so on so forth… god, I have too much work…”
I stood up from my chair and head towards a cabinet filled with sensitive documents. It used blood and fingerprint for access, the blood must be fresh else the cabinet will enter a lockdown sequence for a whole week… silly me tested it way back then and got into trouble for it, getting used with new stuffs can be challenging.
Nyx’s intelligence gathering training was probably the best thing ever… I need to get used with the blood but now I understand the appeal of it, but nowhere near my dear teacher own fascination…up to an unhealthy level, actually. She ought to get examined by a therapist.
I pulled out several documents from my collaborators and willing informants it pertained the mentioned knights and knightess awaiting their trial sentence. Honestly this game of cat and mouse would irritate Nyx and prompt her to just flip the table… not me though.
‘Sheridan Skoci, 28 years old Liberi, former Columbian citizen and due to his ongoing trial has been suspended from Arbor KC. Skilled with hammer, and noted to be quite bright. But the false accusation about being sexually deviant has marred his reputation’
Then the next document…
‘Aldret Ostiec, 19 years old Feline, from the Eastern Kazimierzian Nobles combined army. Second in line as heir to his house and also noted to be a rebellious but reasonable knight, a decent lancer. He is accused of money laundering and several incriminating notes about organizing underground market.’
Next is…
‘Janiezki Yuri, 47 Years old Ursus, a decorated knight from the 72’s counteroffensive. Credited with organizing QRF (Quick Reaction Force) to relieve the pressure during Karakova’s encirclement and freeing 4 companies of Knights and Squires. Accused of deliberately allowing a contraband factory to flourish in his land. Skilled with explosive and helm of leadership.’
Then…
‘Oleg Karpov and Imran Lux, 51 years old Ursus and 29 Years old Savra respectively. The former had actually retired from active duty, but choose to reenlist during 72’s war. While the latter is an accomplished former Sargonian retinue who is now residing and a part of Felixius KC. Both are accused of colluding and treason against the National Council. Oleg is an accomplished crossbowman and Imran is an adaptable fighter.’
“Now we have this one here…”
‘Rigell Annelise, 24 years old Caprinae from, surprising, Victoria and not Leithania. She is dubbed by her fans as the Edelweiss Princeszin, much to her chagrin since she despise Leithania. Former archery champion and is now contracted with Azureblade KC, the primary support knight and also a poster child. Accused of accepting bribery, sexual favors, and seducing several Chairman…’
‘A girl with dreams… Just like me, but I’m luckier… Where was I…?’
‘Kara Cormac, 21 years old Liberi and she just got accepted into Eisenlowe KC 7 months ago… and yet she got herself entangled because stumbling into something she shouldn’t… poor girl, but she is the easiest to utilize if I succeed…’
While I’m busy reading and reaffirming the latest data of my insignificant side endeavor, my PT comes to live and with it the piece of news I has been so eager to receive.
“How is it?”
[Your package is ready, a pleasure doing business with you.]
Well pardon me if I can’t help but to grin with that piece of information. A simple string of words, but it means the world to me at this very moment. Thus I just end the transmission and put these papers for later, the grand opening of Nyx’s little show is soon to come and I’ll have the front seat.
I stood up from my chair and stretched myself a little. Those who had been lucky enough to hear Nyx’s singing prowess always said that her voice is truly a potent weapon, a weapon she sadly can’t control yet. This information is known only to people close to her and whatever happened with Silverlances that have been indebted to her too.
“Well, I’ll go home early and prepare to play with Richard, I have been working so hard I just want to get spoiled now. He would also be thrilled with the upcoming event’ leak from none other than me. Fufufufu~”
Sometime later…
Location: Section 6 High-Class Residency, Kawalerielki, Kazimierz.
I heard the door opened while preparing for dinner. The both of us can actually cook, so it kind of turned into a competition for us, a silly one but not less impressive and therapeutic during the worst of time. Taking off my apron, I head towards the door and there he is. Richard Janos, the newly appointed director from one of Knights Association department and my fiancée.
“Honey, I’m home.”
“Welcome home, dear.”
Richard kissed me of which I lovingly reciprocate, he is a rather clingy fiancée but I wouldn’t have him otherwise. I have been his fiancée for 2 years now, still waiting until the time is right, and so far things are working out just fine. I still can’t believe how far I had go, an ordinary farm girl now holding one of the most influential station within Adeptus Sprawiedliwi.
“What would you like first, dear?” I took his coat off and helping him get comfortable. The first time we’re dating, we just fumbled here and there and it was honestly cute now that I look back into it.
“Hmm… How about later instead? Honestly I just want to have some peace and quiet with you, aside from a certain form of relaxation of course.”
“Ohoh~ how naughty, but that can wait…”
‘Getting into the mood will take time after all.’ A feisty voice quietly rang in my mind, Richard is on the lead so far and I’m more than thrilled to catch up.
“Yeah, oh also how was your day?”
“So, so. I do have something interesting that will pique your interest however.”
“Really? Do tell then.”
“Nu-uh~ we still have dinner to go through, a man mustn’t be so impatient~.”
“Sure thing, and say… you’re rather frisky today. Something good actually happened huh?” He playfully embrace me and hold my waist with such a loving manner. He is doing something too huh? We are so alike, a match made in heaven is what Chaplain Immanuel usually say to me.
“I have no idea what you’re alluding~ care to be more specific, love? I have been inundated with too much work that my brain had gotten lazy when I’m home.”
“Well, you’re the winner now this time around, so I’ll follow through…” we then frolic some more, honestly we both need it.
Being an Interior Secretary is a daunting job. I have to monitor the organizational well-being, auditing potential defects and its ramifications, drafting papers to protect our interest while pushing in our agenda silently behind the curtain and underneath the table regarding internal affair, doing my best to smile when I just want to punch someone who leered at me, and so much more.
Richard position as the director of interclub relation office forced him to play the arbitrator when dispute or problem surfaced. He must always have a cool head when treading the line of keeping things in order without offending related parties. Richard was once returning home fuming because of how much trouble a, now defunct, KC had caused him.
Our relationship might cause some spark to fly, but truthfully, Knights Association itself is internally divided between Adeptus Sprawiedliwi and K.G.C.C. in terms of influence. So, we have leeway to indulge one another without causing too much scandals.
Ugh… scandals… God I hate how someone behind the curtains like me can still be targeted. I can only imagine how badly Nyx has on her plate, the local news channel and gossiping magazine had been really loud of flaunting her so called scandals.
And the person herself doesn’t give a shit, her mental fortitude against slander is robust.
But well that’s enough about the crash course of our little relationship, our workplace idea of keeping things stable, and or other things that are still related somehow…
“Come on then~ you must be starving, I made some authentic Wladirosan cuisine along with my family stew, a secret recipe you’re still unable to replicate.”
“Really? But say, what is the dessert this time around?”
I playfully left his embrace while letting him see my luscious tongue licking my lips. I heard an audible gulp, hehe… Oh my dear Richard… you’re so easy to tempt, but I would be offended if you weren’t tempted~.
“Well, I have prepared a really exquisite and expensive meal, a truly special homemade dessert only for my dear husband-to-be… me.” He suddenly swept me off my feet and goes straight to the dining room.
After dinner and subsequent… dessert…
“Brutish pervert…”
“Oh come on… I already apologized for the hi-”
“Shameless fiend…”
“… Hah… Just because you fainted first, doesn’t mean that mmpph!” I threw a pillow at him, and for the record he was cheating there! I can only endured so much if he did that! I’m too preoccupied with fatigue and faltering focus to launch a counterattack…
“You’re committing foul play…”
“Yea, yea, I’m sorry… then what do you want, my princess?” My face lit up again, damn him and his handsome face… toned, muscled body… soothing voice… Ah wait! Don’t fell on the same trap thrice!
“Hmph, just let me rest and no funny business or you can have an early appointment with a couch.”
“I’m but all too gladly, my dear lady.” He held me and let my tired body rest on his chest. The room is not by any means cold, but his warmth goes beyond any sort of comfort provided by artificial means.
We just savored the silence. It’s nice, even when we are a bit unpresentable… it takes me back somehow… how we were so awkward and practically being a pair of idiot at first. The idea that I fancy someone I had met in passing when he came to our village was truly a novel one, and no Nyx doesn’t count because I managed to learn about her for a fair amount of time.
“No matter what happened… you’re still the same outspoken, modest, and dauntless girl I met 4 years ago… teaching children by the meadow about what needs to be done and why… simple arithmetic, and even self-defense. Heh, you’re unlike women I used to fool around…”
“Yeah… honestly, I never thought that someone who ran from home can be such a big deal in the capital mobile city when future came by. You were a real piece of work back then, a snotty brat, and a somewhat shameless Casanova.”
“And I can’t be more thankful to you and no one else. Who would have known that I gained clarity after getting slapped then having my ears talked off and a lot of other things that entailed… all thanks to you, my lovely princess.”
“Well, my strength was unthinkable from someone of my stature, and my slap wasn’t what it used to be, thanks to certain someone. Life is truly unpredictable and wild, if nothing else.”
“Mm-hm, that certain someone was also your first crush too. Which I’m really relieved that now you’re mine and I’m only yours…”
“Oh, Richard…”
I just turned my head and we have a brief chaste kiss. Richard was the son of a fallen aristocrat. His disownment was because his family got entangled with political intrigue, thus his predicament was a maneuver to save him. He used to misinterpret it, before I knock some sense into him.
“I’m still having a hard time believing that day I met you again. I never thought that being my pretend girlfriend to chase off undesirable would be what it is.”
“Oh right, it has been 3 years now huh?”
“Yeah it is… say, wanna hear what my perspective about you was back then?”
“Hmm? Sure I guess, I’m still tired anyway.”
POV: Richard Janos.
“That’s it for today.” I stretched my arms and stood up from this cage, the fabled office chair, and starts filling my daily report. Work from the bottom was really exhausting, but I managed to be recognized for it. Of course, nothing is free in Kazimierz and I’m more or less a part of Adeptus Faction now.
What’s my work back then usually associated with? Well, I’m just about to get there, Nel… keep pouting like that, and you look so cute so stay that way. Where was I? Oh yes, work.
The work in Knights Association as a newly appointed manager can range from mundane clerical stuff like report making and budgeting, to something more outgoing like promoting events and what not.
I was on my way home after another, somewhat pointless now that I think about it, especially having an ass of a supervisor… don’t laugh, and please stop with the pillow-y domestic violence… Yes, yes, I love you too.
Making my way out of the building, I was in the mood to just take a long detour and perhaps visit my favorite bar. The place is always crowded, but I have membership in place thus allowing me to book a room for my own with payment in advance. I sometimes forgot about said reservation though… what do you mean that’s a scummy move? Hey! My money, my rights.
Alright continuing on…
Just when I was about to enter, I saw a kid, an infected too, seems to be scurrying around the alley. Not long after, I see several hooligans chasing him. If it were me back then, I wouldn’t care… but after my pilgrimage to Wladirosa, I changed and tried to at least let the kid get away, infected or not.
Moving along the alley, my Kuranta blood is made for this mad dash of agility and there you know what happened next right?
Yep there was a blond haired beauty, she was also chasing after them. Honestly, the whole thing seems like a cliché that comes alive and true. From there we-
You want to continue it? Oh well sure… Now, now, don’t be so apologetic for what we did back then, I love it don’t worry. It is also understandable why you want to tell me your perspective back there and honestly I see nothing wrong with having a needy lady in my arms all gung-ho of- Hey! Stop with the pillow already!
POV: Nelka Ramona
“I have been here for a month and still can’t get used with this much… um… what was the word again? Extra-something…” The words were uttered while I was walking back to my apartment in mid-class residency at section 53 but it wasn’t hard by any means, I’m already used with moving for few hours non-stop.
And I- What? You missed my less sophisticated speech? Well… we can… try it later… when we… you know… anyway!
When walking down the stairs, I managed to catch a glimpse of a kid who was being chased by a group of 5 useless human, a total waste of space and breathable air if I might add. Seeing that it would be bad for the kid to get caught, I just improvised.
Running towards the alleyway, I pulled out my gloves and pepper spray. With my transmitter also turned on, I’m now ready to tango. The chase was happening on the other alleyway, but thankfully this particular place has been mapped perfectly in my mind when I just want some peace and quiet.
With that in mind I just goes to several predicted alleyway and only then did I deliberately pass the road after the kid got passed me. Of course I bumped onto those 5 human wastes, they were… uh… Richard? Stay calm honey, stay calm… yes nothing happened to me. Yes, yes, put the phone down… those 5 are irrelevant.
“Watch it you wench!”
“Damn it! You made us lost him!”
“O-oh… pardon me good sirs… I wasn’t looking.”
One of them suddenly shoved me against the wall and another one is pointing his knife at me. The other 3 is back on chasing the poor kid. Honestly the situation wasn’t that scary sinc- Wait, Richard! Put the gun down! Believe me, I’m fine! … Goodness me, that old temper of yours seems to have some remnant buried deep inside of you.
Alright listen, the best way to dispose them is not with a bullet, too merciful. First you drown them, second cut a tiny laceration, then douse it with salt, and third you mus- uh… ahem, not important.
Back to my little recounting of the incident…
“You’re gonna pay for causing us trouble, bitch!”
“Hey, this one pretty… hehehe, she can compensate with those nice curves of hers.”
“Hmm… a good idea, be-” of course I kicked him in the groin area and while the other did stabbed me… I wore an armor underneath, completely nullifying fatal injury. Sorry, old habit die hard. You know I went through the siege of Wladirosa after all.
While the stabber was flummoxed about why I’m fine, I pulled my pepper spray to immobilize and immediately kicked him too. Seeing that they’re on the ground, I knocked them out but not before taking photos out of them to then post it anonymously. The police is kinda useless, so I’ll just let the people judge them~…
I was merciless? Why thank you!
With that I chased after the other 3 but that is when I met you too, well more like you found me if we go by chronological order wise.
From there things had gone into a blur, how I played the maiden who got harassed, which was true, and how you act like a real big shot to chase the remnants out. You looked dashing back then, and yes I still remember how we just spend the rest of the evening being so touchy feely… I slapped you? Why yes of course, I have no regrets for that since you’re being too brazen.
End of Flashback
“I’m really lucky you know, to have a loving and caring fiancée… not many people can have that in this blasted city…” Richard mood turned a tad somber, but I understand. Trust is such rare commodity here, a blessing and curse for the society as a whole.
Oh yeah I almost forgot…
“Dear, you remember about what I said earlier, before dinner I mean?”
“… You mean about something interesting in mind?”
“That’s the one, you see…”
I then narrate a whole project that Nyx is about to undertake, then lo and behold. His expression turn into a predatory one, he can use it to sway more members towards his internal faction.
“You think I can play a role here?”
“That’s exactly what I have in mind~”
“Then sign me the hell up, it is a prime opportunity… but first!”
“Kyaah!” Let’s just say we have some more fun and then Richard being kicked out of the bedroom after all was said and done… I’m not going to forgive him so easily for that preemptive strike of his…
Date: August 1082
Location: Underground Section 21, Kawalerielki, Kazimierz
POV: Narrator
“Damn it! That blasted monster in serpent skin is not responding to our parlay, she is still a wild card. Just what the hell is she doing a wench for the K.G.C.C.!? Wasn’t she the Nearl’s family guard dog!? We paid a lot for faulty intel!”
“But we can’t delay it any longer! Rumors abound of someone that had tipped multiple factions of our existence! A lot of our collaborators are expecting results now too, we must push onward regardless…”
“Cursed it all… why is it so hard to revive our glory? This nation is rotten to the core, and the Adeptus had also gone soft… so why did everything suddenly goes haywire!?”
“Too many things are suddenly happening all at once, what’s even more worrisome is how the National Council act more unified this time around… just how many people are pulling the strings? How many gambits are piling up? Are we really hopeless?”
“Whatever, we can still pull it off if we concentrate our asset.”
“But how?”
“We can try to use the lower section tunnels, or instead how about using some extra muscle to create distraction?”
Their deliberations continues on for more, unaware that someone is recording all that happened with expedited excellence. Regardless of their ‘noble’ intention, the world won’t wait and it is anything but merciful…
Date: November 1082
Location: [REDACTED], Kazimierz
POV: Nelka Ramona
“How is everything?”
“All accounted for, and awaiting for your command.”
“Good, what about the backup assets? We will need every possibilities covered.”
“It is now 75% of expected, we are an hour behind schedule for possibility of confrontation between factions.”
“Divert team 4 and 6 to help with it, we cannot waste more time. We cannot pass up on this chance.”
“How is the city going?”
“The city is still in the dark, the National Council had prepared several cover stories according to our sleeper agents.”
“How long until it regained normal condition?”
“An hour and a half, give or take.”
“I see, keep up with the plan. Lady Grand Knight is handling the topside as best as she can, we cannot afford to make a mistake.”
“Acknowledged.”
“Lastly, what about the packages?”
“Secured and contained, the next phase now depend on her”
“… Very well, return to your post.”
This place is abuzz with activities, but before I can instruct more command, one of my subordinates had reported the thing we had been waiting for.
“Ma’am! The Grey Serpent is on stage! I repeat! She is on stage!”
“Wonderful, we can start moving out on our projected plan, get team 10 on the line! It will rain…”
[END OF CHAPTER]
Author’s Note:
Yo there, this is me, myself, and I, the author whose mental well-being is being ground into smithereens…
I kind of always wanted to make .5 chapters after some time now. That's why, consider this one as a bonus,
So yeah that’s all…
Update as usual… if I’m not being struck by stroke due to my sanity being eaten by my thesis…
Ciao
