#operator sariel

[kalims-pessimist-bestie]

Take a Break

Jin x Royal Scientist!OC

CW: none, just some sickening sweet fluff

Word Count: 1583

Part of the Ikemen Library Valentine’s Gift Exchange

A gift for @olivermorningstar

Thank you @ikemenlibrary for hosting :) 

–

Valentine’s day wasn’t something Oliver really cared about. When working in the palace, everyday is just another work day. He was appreciated among the rest of the staff, receiving little tokens of appreciation while he continued to work in his lab. Sometimes he’d hear a distant “Happy Valentine’s Day!” from down the hallways, and a face would briefly cross his mind before resuming his work. He had work to do. There has been a small outbreak of sickness in the townships closest to the palace, and Sariel entrusted the task of creating a cure to him. It wasn’t an illness that was fatal by any means, but the people were suffering regardless. 

Jin, on the other hand, couldn’t stop thinking about what he could do to impress the good-natured scientist. Despite the casanova of Rhodolite’s 7 princes, he was at a loss for what he could do to make this day special. Everyday since he started working as the Royal Scientist, Jin would find an excuse to stop by the research labs, letting Oliver ramble on about the newest information and how close he is to finding a cure. He knows it’s been harder recently though. Oliver’s rants have gone from excitement and anticipation to confusion and frustration. This illness appears harder to cure than he previously anticipated. Jin believed in him. No one else in all of Rhodolite could whip up antidotes and cures quite like Oliver, and he wanted him to know that. That’s when the idea hit him.

Oliver banged his fist on the desk, frustration consuming him entirely. This shouldn’t be so hard to solve. He knows he’s cured harder illnesses than this. Why was this one giving him so much trouble? The scientist was so focused that he didn’t hear the door to the labs creek open, the 1st prince walking in and taking a seat on the counter near him. 

“Any new updates, kid?” Jin asked, fully expecting Oliver to vent out his anger. Instead though, Oliver looked over at him, tears of anguish threatening to spill over. 

“I can’t let Rhodolite down. The people need me but I don’t know what to do,” his fists hitting the desk again, his cup of pencils rattling slightly. “I’ve visited with infected patients, taken samples of saliva, blood, and grosser bodily fluids. I’ve spent days doing everything I can in my power to figure out what kills this illness, just to come back with nothing!” The tears finally fell, dotting his cheeks. Jin walked over and crouched down next to him, his hands gently swiping away the sadness on his face. 

“Let’s take a break, Oliver,” Jin’s face in a gentle smile. He handed him a lollipop, one of the many Jin keeps with him. 

“I can’t afford a break right now!” Oliver let out a frustrated sigh. “Sariel gave me a task and I need to complete it.”

“When does this task need to be completed by?” Jin asked knowingly.

“Well,” Oliver thought for a moment. “There isn’t necessarily a due date for this, but there are people that need my help! I can’t go and take a break.”

“So there’s no due date but you’d rather work yourself half to death than rest for let’s say, an hour?” The look on Oliver’s face told Jin everything he needed to know. He knew Jin was right. He knew he wouldn’t get anything done in this state. Jin gestured forward with the candy one more time before Oliver finally took it. 

“Thank you for checking on me.” The gentle smile Oliver gave was enough to send butterflies through Jin’s whole body. Now it was time for Operation: Break Time.

-

The rose garden was empty except for Jin, Oliver, and the mountain of sweets in front of them. The smell of the garden mixed sweetly with the smell from the pastries, made by Yves. 

“I don’t remember the last time I had the opportunity to indulge like this!” Oliver’s eyes sparkled at the food, scouring around for which to choose first. Jin was already half finished with his first one.

“You looked like you needed some sugar and sunshine, kid.” Jin patted his head affectionately. His hand fell to the side of his face, gently stroking his cheek with his thumb.  “Now tell me what’s stunting your progress with your task.”

With a mouth-full of pastry, Oliver rambled on about how the side effects were similar to food poisoning, but it’s unnatural for food poisoning to affect such a large population. 

“So it’s not contagious, but it’s widespread. I’ve made an antidote that works temporarily, but results don’t last much longer than a few hours. I can’t pinpoint it.” The dejected feeling of failure was part of the scientific process, but he’s never been stunted on progress for this long. The mountain of pastries shrank before them until there was nothing but a few crumbs remaining. 

“Let’s go take a walk around the town. Maybe you’ll find some useful information out there.” Jin offered his hand. There were more reasons why he wanted to take him into town, but this was the easiest way to justify it to Oliver.

-

Oliver felt like something had to have been set up here. The town was livelier than usual, but maybe it was just Valentine’s Day. He looked up at the prince that escorted him around the town. Music playing from nearby musicians drifted through the streets and the townspeople looked happy. Jin looked at Oliver’s hand, pushing himself to grab hold of it before he heard a child complaining to his mother about a painful stomach ache. It also caught Oliver’s attention and he ran over to them. 

“Hi, my name is Oliver. I’m the royal scientist in charge of finding a cure to the stomach bug going around town right now.” After introducing himself, he reached into his bag and brought out a bag containing an orange, powdery substance. “Jin, can you please fetch me a cup of water? It’s a water-soluble antidote that should help.” The child’s mother looked fondly at Oliver and thanked him for his help. Jin returned with the water and handed it to Oliver. He began to pour the powder into the water before he noticed the water had speckles of something in it. 

“What’s wrong? Should I go and retrieve a different water?”

“Jin, where is this water sourced from?” The gears turned in Oliver’s head. He had a lead.

“The well that was recently put in town. It’s made it easier for the townspeople to get their water supplies.” A crease formed between Jin’s eyebrows. He knew Oliver had an idea and was ready to help in any way he could.

“The well has been such a big help to our town,” the woman mentioned. “Not only is there fresh water nearby, but people say that it grants wishes.

“Wishes?” Oliver and Jin said at the same time.

“You throw a coin into the well and they say any of your dreams can come true.”

“THAT’S IT!” Oliver began to run to the nearby well and sure enough, there was a pile of coins resting at the bottom. He pulled up a bucket of water from the well to inspect and the water had speckles of stuff in it too.

“Do you think?..” Jin began to trail off, looking at Oliver.

“I most definitely do. I think the older coins have begun corroding at the bottom of the well, releasing a toxin into the water.” Oliver turned to the lady and her child who followed them to the well. “Please use a different source of water for the time being. Mix this powder in with the different water and have him rest for a few hours. He’ll be better in no time.”

-

Back in the lab, Oliver ran tests on the tainted water, as well as the effects of the antidote on it. Jin sat nearby, watching in awe as he consumed another lollipop. 

“I think this is it!” Oliver penciled in some last pieces of information before closing his notebook. His eyes sparkled as he looked over at Jin, his face filled with relief. Jin could hear his heart beating in his ears. This might be why he liked the scientist to begin with. That look on his face indicating a job well done was Jin’s only kryptonite. 

“I didn’t doubt for a second that you would figure it out,” Jin placed a hand on Oliver’s head, roughing up his hair for a moment. He looked up at the 1st prince. Their eyes met briefly before they both turned their gazes away. Then a quick thought jumped into Oliver’s mind.

“Jin?” the young scientist asked.

“What is it?”

“I think I can take a proper break now.” He beamed up at Jin, who was already way ahead of him. 

–

The rose gardens were always the most peaceful at night. The stars in Rhodolite always twinkled brightly, and nothing in the world was quite as calming. The two of them sat on a blanket, discussing various things that Oliver might have missed while engrossed in his research.

“Most of all, kid, I missed getting to hang out with you.” A genuine smile graced his face as he finally reached over to hold Oliver’s hand. The blush creeping onto his cheeks was evident, but they paid it no mind. They were too lost in the stars they saw in each other's eyes.

"Happy Valentine's Day."

[queen-dahlia]

𝐆𝐢𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐭 𝐯𝐨𝐧 𝐎𝐛𝐬𝐢𝐝𝐢𝐚𝐧

𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝟭𝟮

Since they used the エスポワール (espoir; French term of hope) instead of 望み, I'll just go along with the "espoir"

Note: Translation is not 100% accurate. Expect grammatical errors.

// : alternate translation | ⫘⫘ : flashback

The Blood-Stained Rose Day is an essential part of the relationship between Obsidian and Rhodolite.

Now I know two things.

At that time, Prince Chevalier left more than 1,000 prisoners of war held by Obsidian to die,

And the fact that the Emperor, not Prince Gilbert, was leading the invasion.

It's still too early to feel like I know the Blood-Stained Rose Day with just this information.

⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘

Emma: "I don't know about the Blood-Stained Rose Day, so I don't have the right to say anything."

⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘

(Because I really think that's true.)

If we really wanted to communicate, we had to know first.

The full story of the Blood-Stained Rose Day.

══════════════════

Sariel: "—His Majesty the King at that time sent seven princes to the battlefield on the Blood Stained Rose Day."

I handed the documents to Sariel in preparation to help with the White Rose Festival.

At that time, when I asked him about the day of the "Blood-Stained Rose Day,"

He was concerned about Prince Gilbert's presence, but quietly began to explain what was going on at that time.

Sariel: "He himself remained at the court, and if the invasion reached the capital, he would take his head to negotiate with the other kingdoms."   //   "He intended to remain in the court and negotiate with that country with his head if the invasion reached the royal capital."

Sariel: "The king was very much to blame."

Sariel: "The invasion of Obsidian was truly a bolt from the blue…"

Sariel: "If only he had behaved better when he was shown friendliness, the war could have been avoided…"

Sariel: "He seemed to think that he was the one who caused the Blood-Stained Rose Day."

(By the way…)

⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘

Yves: "Perhaps, Obsidian has made a lot of unfavorable negotiations under the guise of "friendship."

Yves: "His Majesty the King has brushed it all off, so the Obsidians have finally announced that they are breaking off diplomatic relations."

Yves: "The two countries were once again in a state of tension, and the day of the Bloodstained Rose Day ten years ago proved to be the deciding factor."

⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘

(… His Majesty the King must have suffered.)

Sariel: "By the way, does Prince Gilbert know the reason for the invasion?"

Gilbert: "Of course I know. "Obsidian border guards have been attacked by Rhodolite soldiers."

Gilbert: "This is a declaration of war against our country. In order to protect the territory, we will launch an attack." Wasn't it?"

Sariel: "On the surface, yes. So we fact-checked it, and it later turned out to be false…"

Gilbert: "That's funny. I thought our country did a fact check and found it wasn't false."

Sariel: "… It's all in the saying."   //   "… What you say wins."

Gilbert: "Hehe, any reason is fine. Our Emperor just likes the battlefield."

Gilbert: "There is no noble cause, no higher purpose. Don't ask for such things in a country of deceit and corruption."

Sariel: "… Yes, and so it was."

Sariel: "You can see how foolish it is to try to understand Obsidian."

Emma: ". . . . . ."

══════════════════

Nokto: "—I don't have much to say about the Blood-Stained Rose Day."

The foreign faction is not as energetic about the White Rose Festival as the domestic faction, though.

Since the day's ceremony would be attended by distinguished guests from other countries, they seemed to be busy preparing for the event.

When I asked them while handing them the documents from the internal affairs group, Nokto and Clavis, who were in the office, answered me.

Nokto: "I was just taking operational command on behalf of King Highness, who was on the front lines."

(I think Nokto's complexion changed as soon as I broached the subject... I wonder what else happened.)

Nokto: "Clavis knows more than I do, don't you?"

Clavis: "No, I told you about 1,000 prisoners before, didn't I? That's the majority."

Gilbert: "Wow, that's all you talk about."

Gilbert: "What about the story of how you went into a prisoner of war camp alone and risked your life to save several people?"

Emma: "Did that really happen?"

(Why didn't he tell me?)

Clavis: "Haha, Lord Gilbert is so mean. A true hero does not flaunt his achievements."

Gilbert: "Sorry, sorry. Was it something you wanted to hide?"

Clavis: "Ah, it would be a problem if Emma fell in love with me after hearing about how cool and brave I am, now would I?"

(… Are you trying to deceive me?)

I couldn't read the true intentions behind Clavis' shady smile.

Nokto: "Aside from talking about your bravery."

Clavis: "... Just letting it aside."

Nokto: "At that time, there was something that King Highness was strangely concerned about."

Clavis: "Oh, come to think of it, Lord Gilbert probably knows."

Gilbert: "What?"

Nokto: "I heard that the Obsidian Supreme Commander was leading the army in the invasion ten years ago…"

Clavis: "We waited and waited, but no sign of the Emperor appeared on the battlefield?"

Emma: "If he were in command, wouldn't it be natural for him to stay in the camp?"

(Because His Majesty the King of Rhodolite has also apparently been holed up in his court.)

Nokto: "Normally, yes. But we're dealing with a blood-crazed, mad emperor."

Nokto: "He's the type of guy who loves combat and would rather ride into battle himself than stay in a camp and command his men."

Gilbert: "Ahaha, you know our emperor well, don't you?"

Clavis: "His Majesty the Emperor's notoriety is as widely known as yours."

Clavis: "So? Where was His Majesty the Emperor then?"

Gilbert: "Oh no, he was right there on the battlefield."

Gilbert: "Just a little bit..."

Gilbert: ". . . . . ."

Emma: "… Wait, what?"

Gilbert: "Oh, you want to know? Confidential military information."

Emma: "No…!"

(You mean there was something you couldn't tell me?)

Both Clavis and Nokto have smiles on their faces, but their gazes are sharp.

Nokto: "It's a shame, because I thought it would solve a long-standing mystery."

Clavis: "Absolutely. If it's the end of the story, you can tell me something."

Gilbert: "Oh no, the Rhodolite is not the end of the story, is it?"

Gilbert: "Even now, the Blood-Stained Rose Day continues beneath the surface."

Gilbert: "You, who are in the foreign faction, must be particularly aware of this."

Clavis & Nokto : ". . . . . ."

Gilbert: "His Majesty the Emperor of Obsidian has not given up on Rhodolite."

Gilbert: "Isn't that a pity?"

Emma: ". . . . . ."

══════════════════

Licht: "—I stood on the front lines, where the fighting was the most intense. I killed many enemies."

When I returned to the domestic faction's office, Yves and Licht were waiting for me with sweets and tea.

While Yves and Licht pulled back a little at Prince Gilbert, who stuffed his mouth with sweets without hesitation,

It tells me about those days when the sweet scent was disproportionate.

Yves: "Licht almost died there. He fought recklessly…"

Licht: "But I couldn't die."

Yves: "... Licht."

(Not "didn't die" but "couldn't die"…?)

My heart is stirred at the sight of Licht, who lowered his eyes.

Gilbert: "What about you?"

Yves: "... Me?"

Gilbert: "Yes. What were you doing on the battlefield?"

Yves: "I'm…"

Gilbert: "The only prince who returned to the castle spotless and in clean clothes."

Yves: ". . . . . ."

Gilbert: "I've heard that rumor before, but is it true?"

Yves: "… I was useless on the battlefield."

Gilbert: "Heh, that's amazing. Even though you are in Rhodolite, you proudly sided with Obsidian."

Yves: ". . . . . ."

Gilbert: "Even I wouldn't be sorry to do that."

Gilbert: "I'm surprised Rhodolite even forgave you with that attitude."

Gilbert: "If it were me, I might shoot that traitor to death."

Emma: "Please stop!"

Licht: "Stop."

Licht's voice overlaps with mine as if to dispel the malice wrapped in thorns.

(Yves is kind, and probably couldn't hurt anyone.)

Perhaps it is a hesitation because Yves has Rhodolite and Obsidian blood in his veins.

Gilbert: "Aren't you both kind?"

Licht: "… In the first place, it would have been better if you guys hadn't invaded."

Gilbert: "Ahaha, that's true, too."

Even though Prince Gilbert smiled briskly, the atmosphere of the place remained stagnant.

Licht: "Some villages have been destroyed because of you."

Gilbert: "Oh, is it the Espoir Village?"

Emma: "Espoir…?"

Yves: "It's a small village facing the border. At that time, the domestic faction was divided into several squads under Leon's command."

Yves: "I stayed in the rear, but Licht and Leon were on the front lines, and Jin…"

Licht: "He headed for Espoir Village, which suffered the most damage from the invasion."

Licht: "It's been restored now, but the situation at the time was dire."

Licht: "All the buildings collapsed, the roses were stained with the blood of the inhabitants, and fire was rising everywhere…"

Licht: "By the time Jin arrived, it was too late for anything."

Emma: ". . . . . ."

Gilbert: "Didn't I tell you before? Bloody-Stained Rose Day wasn't a war, it was a massacre."

Gilbert: "A thousand people in a prisoner of war camp is a lot, but the invasion of the village of Espoir is about the same…"

Gilbert: "No, it was worse than that."

Yves: "… You're talking like it's someone else's problem."

Gilbert: "No way. I'm involved in this, too. I'm not going to make excuses."

Gilbert: "It's only natural that you hate me. It wouldn't be strange if I got killed."

Emma: ". . . . . ."

Yves: "Emma. Do you remember the bureaucrat who stood up first when you brought Prince Gilbert to our regular meeting?"

Emma: "Yes. I felt like he hated Obsidian more than anyone else."

Licht: "Naturally."

Yves: "His hometown is Espoir Village."

(Oh…)

⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘

Bureaucrat: "… I just can't stand it."

Bureaucrat: "I can't help... but think of my wife's face."

⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘⫘

I was lost for words.

Licht: "No matter what you say, I don't think he can forgive Obsidian."

Yves: "He doesn't hate you. He just can't stand the country of Obsidian."

Licht: "… That country has done just that."

Gilbert: "Fufu… I have nothing to say."

Licht: "… Laugh it up."

Gilbert: "Even if you mourn and make a solemn face, nothing will change, right?"

Emma: ". . . . . ."

══════════════════

Luke: "Emma, what's wrong with you looking so glum?"

Emma: "Luke…"

When I left the office of the domestic faction after helping out for the festival, I bumped into Luke.

Emma: "It's unusual to be at the castle at this hour."

(Luke skips his official duties so often that I don't usually see him…)

Luke: "… I was called out for a while."

Emma: "By whom—"

Luke: "But that's not the point... Gilbert, what the hell are you doing?"

Luke grabbed my hand and pulled me away from Gilbert.

Gilbert: "Ahaha, I'm falsely accused."

Gilbert: "The little rabbit is asking around about the Blood-Stained Rose Day."

Luke: "… Huh?"

Gilbert: "She wants to know what happened back then."

(Wah…!)

He casually grabs my other hand and pulls me away from Luke.

A cold hand held my shoulder, and my body stiffened.

(The stares of passersby hurt...)

Gilbert: "Next, you're going to go talk to the eldest brother, aren't you?"

Gilbert: "Luke, are you coming with us?"

Luke: "… Of course. I'll have to keep an eye on you to make sure you don't do anything to Emma."

Gilbert: "You don't trust me."

Emma: "Are you sure? Someone just called you earlier…"

Luke: "I'll be fine. You just worry about yourself."

Luke: "… You could just shake off his hand, couldn't you?"

Gilbert: "Heh...?"

(Eh, that smile is scary…)

I shook off Prince Gilbert's hand, trying not to be defeated by his threatening smile.

Gilbert: "But we're friends."

Emma: "Doing something like this in public is malicious, isn't it?"   //   "It's malicious to do this in public, okay?"

Gilbert: "Then, is it okay if we're not in public?"

Emma: "No… It's not okay."

Gilbert: "Why?"

(Why...)

Emma: "… When someone of the opposite sex is hugging me on the shoulder, it makes me nervous."

Gilbert: ". . . . . ."

Gilbert: "Pfft... haha."

Emma: "Don't laugh!"

Gilbert: "Impossible. Miss Bunny is a first-timer."

Emma: "Wow, my bad…"

(I was too honest just because Prince Gilbert hates lies. …I'm ashamed.)

Luke: "… You—"

Luke laughed in amazement, but Prince Gilbert only laughed to fool him.

══════════════════

Julius: "Ah, Prince Jin has gone to town."

At the training grounds we visited in search of Jin, Julius, a soldier from the domestic faction, was kind enough to tell me.

(I guess the timing wasn't right.)

Emma: "Thank you very much. Then I will wait for his return—"

Gilbert: "Where did he go?"

(Prince Gilbert…?)

Julius: "I heard it was a private outing."

Julius: "If you really need to see him, I suggest you go over there."

Heading to the table placed in the corner of the training grounds, Julius picked up a piece of paper and a quill.

It was drawn instantly, like a map.

Luke: "This is suburban."

Julius: "Whenever Prince Jin disappears, he is usually there."

Emma: "You know a lot."

Julius: "Because of my profession, I always want to know where they are."

(… There are times when there is an emergency. It's difficult.)

Gilbert: "Thank you."

Julius: "No, I'm glad I could help."

(Huh…)

I don't feel any thorns from Julius, who hands over the map to Prince Gilbert.

This is despite the fact that all the soldiers on the training grounds right now are nervous.

(Is he good at hiding his true feelings, or is he not involved in Blood-Stained Rose Day?)

(I guess there are some people like this.)

══════════════════

Every time the wind blows, the trees in the forest make a gentle rustling sound of leaves.

The place exists quietly deep in the suburban forest,

It's like I shouldn't step in on my own... It's like unreservedly revealing Jin's secret…

It was that kind of thing.

Jin: "You guys…"

Surrounded by honey-colored roses, Jin stood up from his knees on the ground.

Two large stones were lined side by side with a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

(Those are tombstones… right?)

Emma: "My apologies. For interrupting you in your personal time…"

Jin: "No, I don't mind, but I didn't expect Lord Gilbert to be here."

Gilbert: "Was that something that shouldn't have been seen?"

Jin: "I can't say I feel good about it."

Gilbert: "Hehe... that's a bad thing."

(It doesn't look bad at all…)

Luke: "Hey, those are graves, right?"

Jin: "Yes."

Gilbert: "Whose grave?"

Jin: "… You have no modesty, do you?"

Jin returns his gaze to the tombstone as the sun shines through the trees at twilight.

His profile was filled with immeasurable melancholy.

Jin: "They are victims of your country."

Emma: "… Victims of Blood-Stained Rose Day?"

Only a quiet nod is returned.

(… This country has too many scars from 10 years ago.)

My hands, which I unknowingly clenched, hurt.

Emma: "As I recall, you went to the Espoir Village, where the invasion was the worst."

Luke: ". . . . . ."

Jin: "Did someone tell you?"

Emma: "It was Yves and Licht."

Emma: "… I've been asking around about the Blood-Stained Rose Day."

Jin: "You're so serious, aren't you?"

Jin smiled wryly and arranged the ribbons of the bouquet that had been disturbed by the wind.

Jin: "Unfortunately, there's not much I can tell you."

Jin: "Because by the time we arrived, the Obsidians had already taken over."

Jin: "There were more that we didn't protect than those that we did."

Emma: ". . . . . ."

(I am sure that the ones who rest in these graves... are the regrets of Jin.)   //   (The person sleeping in these graves must be Jin's regret.)

Emma: "But I heard that the village was rebuilt. The Rhodolite got it back, didn't it?"

Jin: "No… It might be a bit misleading to say that we got it back."

Jin: "They abandoned the village and retreated before we could engage them in a full-scale battle."

Emma: "What... why?"

Jin: "I don't know. The guy next to you probably knows more than I do."

When I looked up at Prince Gilbert, I could not see his expression due to the backlight of the setting sun.

Jin: "If we had continued to march from our base in the village, the Obsidians would have had the upper hand."

Gilbert: "I wasn't in command at that time. How could I possibly know what the plan was?"

Gilbert: "I just thought... Maybe they met a scary beast on the way and had to retreat?"

Gilbert: "They're idiots who can't even abide by military rules…"

Gilbert: "If something unexpected happens, you can't be surprised if they tuck their tails and run, can you?"

Emma: "… Were they not following military rules?"

Gilbert: "You know, Little Rabbit. Normally in war, you don't attack civilians."

Gilbert: "Naturally, military regulations clearly state that attacks on civilians are absolutely prohibited."

Jin: "I'd never heard of it. I didn't know Obsidian had such conscientious military rules."

Jin: "It would have been better if you could have protected them."

Gilbert: "I'm sorry, okay? I'm not proud of it, but there's a lot of incompetence among our commanders."

Gilbert: "I could have protected them if I was on the battlefield, but His Majesty the Emperor is too lax about that."

Jin: "It's not a problem that can be forgiven by saying, 'I couldn't do it'."

Gilbert: "That's right."

When Prince Gilbert smiles, Jin makes a sullen face.

The tension in the air was so heavy that my breathing unconsciously became shallow.

(It's not the kind of atmosphere where you can say, "Let's compromise.")

The wounds of 10 years ago are so deep that Jin, who is friendly to everyone, expresses so much hostility.

Jin: "… Emma, I'm sorry."

Jin: "Your idea of coming to terms with Lord Gilbert for the sake of "lasting peace" is not a mistake."

Jin: "But as long as there's Blood-Stained Rose Day, I don't think I'll ever get along with Obsidian."

Jin: "Because, for lack of a better word, they're a bunch of bastards."

Gilbert: "Ahaha, that's terrible."

(… I have nothing to say.)

(The more I learn about the Blood-Stained Rose Day, the more the words fade from my mind.) **

Gilbert: "Luke, you said your eldest brother was the kindest in Rhodolite, is that true?"

Luke: ". . . . . ."

Jin: "Luke, what's wrong?"

Luke: ". . . . . ."

Emma: "… Luke?"

Luke: "… Hmm, ahー…"

Luke: "Did you call me?"

With a face somewhat awakened from a dream, Luke mutters absentmindedly.

Gilbert: "Yeah, I called you."

Jin: "You're looking a little pale, aren't you?"

(Indeed…)

Luke: "… It just looks that way because of the sunset."

Luke: "But if you're done with your business, let's go back home."

Emma: "Whoa, Luke!"

Luke pulls me by the hand and starts to walk away, looking languid as usual.

I felt a faint sense of discomfort, but I couldn't grasp it.

(My head and heart are full of it right now.)

Turning around, Prince Gilbert also walks leisurely.

In addition, the two tombstones behind it could not see the future.

(I thought about it when I heard about the "Blood-Stained Rose Day" for this whole day.)

Emma: "Prince Gilbert…"

Gilbert: "What?"

Emma: "Why does Rhodolite have to be trampled?"

(Why…)

(… Just why.)

Prince Gilbert smiles refreshingly as usual.

Gilbert: "I can't give you a good enough reason."

[lorei-writes]

I've said so before but I think chev isn't very cooperative and dislikes explaining himself because there's just too much to explain. As in, since he sees 'so far into the future' once he clarified on all the points on why this is a bad idea, the person can just decide not to go through with what they were about to do. So nothing of he was explaining would ever happen.

And this for every possible situation.

Sariel: I should greet the guest now :)

Chevalier: ....

Sariel: on second thought I've changed my mind

Thoughts?

Hmm... I think it's one possible explanation, but personally, I lean towards a slightly different / related one: there are multiple reasons for why it is pointless to even attempt to explain things.

Off the top of my head:

#1: Foresight operates on probability, not certainty.

In other words, it is likely not uncommon for multiple outcomes to be of high enough probability to be considered. At the same time, not all of said possible outcomes will become the reality.

Talk too much and too often about things that will remain in the realm of probability, and you'll be written off as a worrywart. This is likely to happen even if you pinpoint the most likely scenario while merely outlining the other options of high probability.

#2: Even if you explain things, people generally don't want to listen.

It may be the most obvious thing in the existence of the world. There may be only one outcome with extremely high possibility. You can explain in detail why something is a bad idea.

It still doesn't mean anybody will listen to you.

People generally want to be right about things, so if you start from the position of "I know better than you, do as I say", you're not setting yourself up for success. And if personal feelings are involved? Ha. Good luck. Sometimes nothing can stop people from going their own way, and often, they won't even remember you've warned them.

#3: Even if they do listen, it does not always mean that's a good outcome for you.

I wouldn't say it is something that happens very often, but, if somebody was really enamoured with some idea and you've talked them out of it? They may start feeling resentment towards you. (Something along the lines of: The chances of failure might have been 99.9%, but I could have been that 0.1% and now I will never find out, to simplify things).

Being able to logically comprehend something does not mean feelings sync automatically.

#4: ASSUMPTIONS <- likely of least concern to Chevalier

If you are good at something and are willing to use it for the benefit of others, you are likely to be swarmed by people who assume you're just going to drop everything and help them, right there and then.

Another possible assumption is: why should anybody feel compelled to even tell you things? You can deduce them, you're smart! Except now collecting data to deduce things from is substantially harder.

Or another thing may happen: people will not tell you anything, because you were right, and now they're either ashamed of themselves, or are superstitious enough to think telling you about things will make them become the reality.

#5: "I've done as I was told and nothing happened, so clearly, there was no risk to begin with."

Pretty self-explanatory. (Interestingly enough, this logical lapse often appears among anti-vaxxers.)

--

So, if you ask me? It's just less of a headache to stay quiet. His direct subordinates will have to do what he orders them to, no explanations necessary. And other people? Even if he goes through all the trouble of explaining things, it may end up being just a waste of his time. Chevalier chooses the safest route, he's unlikely to opt for something that uncertain.

[tanmono]

GILBERT VON OBSIDIAN MAIN ROUTE....

CHAPTER TWELVE.

translations are not 100% accurate. expect mistakes.

minors and ageless blogs dni.

The bloodstained rose day is an essential part of the relationship between Obsidian and Rhodolite.

Now I know two things.

At that time, Prince Chevalier let more than 1000 prisoners who were captured by Obsidian to die.

And the Emperor was in charge of the invasion, not Prince Gilbert.

It's still too early to think about the bloodstained rose day with this information alone.

━━FLASHBACK━━

Emma: And I guess I am not qualified to say anything if I don't know much about the bloodstained rose day.

━━FLASHBACK ENDS━━

(Because I really think that's true.)

If we really wanted to communicate, we had to know first.

The whole picture of the bloodstained rose day.

Sariel: At that time, His Majesty sent the seven princes to the battlefield on the bloodstained rose day.

Handing over the documents to Sariel to help with preparations for the White Rose Festival.

While I ventured to ask him about the bloodstained rose day.

Concerned about the presence of Prince Gilbert, he quietly began to spin out what was going on at that time.

Sariel: He, himself remained at the court, and if the invasion reached the capital, he would take his lead to negotiate with the other kingdoms.

Sariel: The king was very much to blame.

Sariel: The invasion of Obsidian was truly a bolt from the blue…..

Sariel: If he had done better when he showed friendliness, we could have avoided the war….

Sariel: He seemed to think that he was the one who caused the bloodstained rose day.

(Speaking of which.......)

━━FLASHBACK━━

Yves: Perhaps Obsidian used "friendship" as a shield to bring up a lot of unfavorable negotiations.

Yves: His Majesty has brushed all of that away, and the Obsidians have finally announced the severance of diplomatic relations.

Yves: The two countries were once again in a state of tension, and the bloodstained rose day that occurred ten years ago proved decisive.

━━FLASHBACK ENDS━━

(......The King must have suffered.)

Sariel: By the way, does Prince Gilbert know the reason for the invasion?

Gilbert: Of course I know. The Rhodolite soldiers attacked the Obsidian border guards.

Gilbert: This is a declaration of war against our country. We will launch an attack to defend our territory.

Sariel: Ostensibly, that's right. When I checked the facts, it turned out to be false later…..

Gilbert: That's funny. I thought our country did a fact check and found it wasn't false.

Sariel: So, he fights to win.

Gilbert: Hehe, any reason is fine. Our emperor just likes the battlefield.

Gilbert: There is no noble cause or noble purpose. You shouldn’t seek such things in a country of deception and corruption.

Sariel:….Yes, that’s right.

Sariel: It just goes to show you how foolish it is to try to understand Obsidian.

Emma:…….

Nokto: I don't have much to say about bloodstained rose day.

The foreign faction is not as energetic about the White rose festival as the domestic policy faction.

Since the day's ceremony would be attended by distinguished guests from other countries, they seemed to be busy preparing for the event.

When I asked while handing over the documents from the domestic political faction, Prince Nokto and Prince Clavis, who were in the office, answered.

Nokto: I was just taking operational command on behalf of the King highness who was on the front lines.

(I think Nokto’s complexion changed as soon as I started talking to him...I wonder if there was something else going on.)

Nokto: You know more than I do, don't you?

Clavis: No, I talked about the 1000 prisoners before, didn't I? That's the majority.

Gilbert: Wow, that's all you talk about.

Gilbert: How about the story where you got into the prisoner's detention facility by yourself and risked your life to rescue several people?

Emma: Did that really happen?

(Why didn't he tell me?)

Clavis: Haha, Lord Gilbert is so mean. A true gentleman doesn't reveal his achievements.

Gilbert: Sorry, sorry. Was it something you intended to hide?

Clavis: Yeah, I wouldn't want Emma to fall in love with me when she hears about my cool bravery, would I?

(.....Are you trying to fool me?)

I could not read the true meaning behind Prince Clavis's shady smile.

Nokto: Aside from talking about your bravery.

Clavis:…..Leaving it at the side.

Nokto: You know, there was something about that day that had struck me as odd at the time.

Clavis: Oh, come to think of it...Lord Gilbert would know.

Gilbert: What is it?

Nokto: I was told that the invasion of 10 years ago was a military graduate of Obsidian's supreme commander….

Clavis: We waited and waited, but no sign of the Emperor appeared on the battlefield.

Emma: If he was a general, wouldn't it be natural for him to retreat to his camp?

(It looks like the King of Rhodolite was also holed up in his court.)

Nokto: Normally, yes. But we're dealing with a blood-crazed, insane emperor.

Nokto: He's the type of guy who loves combat and would rather ride into battle himself than stay in a camp and command his men.

Gilbert: Haha, you know the emperor well, don't you?

Clavis: Your notoriety is just as widely known as the Emperor's.

Clavis: So? Where was the Emperor then?

Gilbert: Oh no, he was right on the battlefield.

Gilbert: Just a little bit…..

Gilbert:…….

Emma:……Wait, what?

Gilbert: You want to know more? It’s Military secrets.

Emma: No….!

(You mean there was something you couldn't say?)

Both Prince Clavis and Prince Nokto have smiles on their faces, but there is a sharpness in their eyes.

Nokto: It's a shame, because I thought it would solve a long-standing mystery.

Clavis: Absolutely. If there’s the end of the story, you can tell me.

Gilbert: No way, Rhodolite is not the end of the story, is it?

Gilbert: Even now, the bloodstained rose day continues under the surface.

Gilbert: You, who are in the foreign factors, should be particularly realizing it.

Clavis and Nokto:…….

Gilbert: The Emperor of Obsidian has not given up on Rhodolite.

Gilbert: Pity, isn’t it?

Emma:…….

Licht: I stood on the battle line that was the most intense and killed many enemies.

When I returned to the office of the internal affairs faction, Yves and Prince Licht prepared sweets and tea and were waiting for me.

While Yves and Prince Licht were a little taken back from Prince Gilbert who stuffed his mouth with sweets without hesitation.

It tells us something about those days that is disproportionate to the sweet aroma.

Yves: Licht almost died there. He fought recklessly…..

Licht: But I couldn’t die.

Yves:…Licht.

(It's not "I didn't die" but "I couldn't die"…?)

My eyes are downcast and my heart is trembling.

Gilbert: What about you?

Yves:…..Me?

Gilbert: Yes. What were you doing on the battlefield?

Yves: I…

Gilbert: "The only prince who came back to the castle dressed beautifully."

Yves:…….

Gilbert: I’ve heard this rumor before, was it true?

Yves:….I was useless on the battlefield anyway.

Gilbert: Wow, that's great. You're at Rhodolite and you're proudly taking Obsidian's side.

Yves:……

Gilbert: You’re not sorry even sorry for that.

Gilbert: I'm surprised Rhodolite forgave you for being so split down the middle.

Gilbert: I'd probably shoot a traitor like that.

Emma and Licht: Please stop! / stop.

Prince Licht’s voice overlaps with mine as if to pay off the malice wrapped in thorns.

(Because Yves is kind... maybe he couldn't hurt him.)

Perhaps it is hesitation because Yves has Rhodolite and Obsidian blood in his veins.

Gilbert: Aren't you two sweet?

Licht:......I wish you had never invaded in the first place.

Gilbert: Haha, I see what you mean.

Even though Prince Gilbert smiled briskly, the atmosphere of the place remained stagnant.

Nokoto: Some villages have been destroyed because of you.

Gilbert: Oh, was it Espoir Village?

Emma: Espoir….?

Yves: It was a small village on the border. At the time, the domestic faction was divided into several detachments under Leon's command.

Yves: I stayed in the rear, but Licht and Leon were on the front lines, and Jin...

Licht: We headed for the Espoir village, which was the hardest hit by the invasion.

Licht: The situation back then was dire.

Licht: All the buildings collapsed, the roses were stained with the blood of the inhabitants, and fires were raging everywhere...

Licht: By the time Jin arrived, it was apparently too late for anything…

Emma:…….

Gilbert: Didn’t I tell you before? The bloodstained rose day was not a war, it was a massacre.

Gilbert: There were about 1000 people in the prisoner of war detention facility, but the invasion of Espoir village is about the same.......

Gilbert: No, it was much worse than that.

Licht:..You talk like it's someone else's problem.

Gilbert: No way, I'm involved in this. I don't mean to make excuses.

Gilbert: You people have every right to hate me. You could have killed me at any time.

Emma:……..

Yves: Emma, do you remember the bureaucrat who was the first to leave his seat when you brought Prince Gilbert to our regular meeting?

Emma: Yes.….I felt like he hated Obsidian more than anyone else.

Licht: Naturally.

Yves:....His hometown is from the Espoir village.

(Ah….)

━━FLASHBACK━━

Bureaucrat:….I can’t stand it.

Bureaucrat: No matter what...my wife's face comes to mind.

━━FLASHBACK ENDS━━

I was lost for words.

Licht: No matter what you say, I don't think I can forgive Obsidian. // No matter what you say, I don't think he can forgive Obsidian.

Yves: It's not that he hates you. But he can't stand the country of Obsidian.

Licht:.....That country has done just like that.

Gilbert: Hehe…I have nothing to say.

Licht:…Laugh it up.

Gilbert: Even if you mourn and make a solemn face, nothing will change, right?

Emma:……

Luke: Emma, what's wrong with your gloomy face?

Emma: Prince Luke….

When the help of the festival was over and I left the office of the domestic politics faction, I bumped into Luke.

Emma: It's unusual to be in the castle at this hour.

(Luke skips his official duties so often that I don't usually see him...)

Luke: Hmm..... I was called out for a while.

Emma: By whom—

Luke: But that's not the point, Gilbert, what the hell are you doing?

Luke grabs my hand and pulls me away from Prince Gilbert.

Gilbert: Haha, looks like I was falsely accused.

Gilbert: You know, little rabbit has been asking around about the bloodstained rose day.

Luke:….What?

Gilbert: She wants to know what happened back then.

(Woah….!)

He casually grabs my other hand and pulls me away from Luke.

A cold hand held my shoulder, and my body stiffened.

(The stares of passersby are painful...)

Gilbert: Are you going to the oldest brother next?

Gilbert: Luke, would you like to follow us?

Luke:….That's right. I'll have to keep an eye on you to see if you do anything weird to Emma.

Gilbert: You don't trust me.

Emma: Is it okay? Someone called you just now...

Luke: I'll be fine. You just worry about yourself.

Luke:.....You can just shake his hand off, can’t you? // You can just swat his hand away, can’t you?

Gilbert: Heeh…?

(Eh, his smile is scary...)

I shook off Prince Gilbert's hand, trying not to be defeated by his threatening smile.

Gilbert: But we’re friends.

Emma: Doing this kind of thing in public is malicious, isn't it?

Gilbert: So it's okay if we're not in public?

Emma: No.....it will do no good.

Gilbert: Why?

(Why? Because….)

Emma: When someone of the opposite sex hugs me on the shoulder, it makes me nervous.

Gilbert:…….

Gilbert:…..Haha.

Emma: Don't laugh!

Gilbert: Impossible. Little Miss Rabbit is a first-timer.

Emma: Wow, that was bad…..

(I was too honest just because Prince Gilbert hates lies... I'm ashamed.)

Luke:….You—

Luke laughed in amusement, but Prince Gilbert only laughed and fooled him.

Julius: Ah, Prince Jin has gone to town.

At the training grounds I visited in search of Jin. Julius, a soldier of the domestic policy faction, kindly told me.

(I guess the timing wasn't right.)

Emma: Thank you very much. Then, I will wait for his retu——

Gilbert: Where did he go?

(Prince Gilbert…..?)

Julius: We're told it's a private outing.......

Julius: If you really want to see him, you can head over there.

Facing the table placed in the corner of the training ground, Julius picked up a piece of paper and a quill.

It was drawn instantly, like a map.

Luke: This is suburban.

Julius: Whenever Prince Jin wanders off, he is usually there.

Emma: You know a lot.

Julius: This is due to my profession.

Gilbert: Thank you.

Julius: No, I'm glad I could be of service.

(Huh…..)

I don't feel any thorns from Julius handing the map to Prince Gilbert.

Despite the fact that all the soldiers in the training grounds are now nervous.

(Is he good at hiding his true feelings, or was he not related to the bloodstained rose day?)

(I guess some people are like this.)

Every time the wind blows, the trees in the forest make a gentle rustling sound of leaves.

This place exists quietly in the depths of a suburban forest.

I feel like I shouldn't step in on my own...as if it’s like unreservedly revealing Jin's secret...

Jin: You guys….

Surrounded by honey-colored roses, Jin, who was kneeling on the ground, stands up.

Beside there were two large stones nestled together, accompanied by a beautiful bouquet of flowers.

(Those are tombstones... right?)

Emma: My apologies. For interrupting you at a personal time…..

Jin: No, I don't mind, but......I didn't expect Lord Gilbert to come too.

Gilbert: Huh, was that a bad thing to see?

Jin: I can't say I feel good about it.

Gilbert: Hehe…so it’s the opposite then.

Luke: Oh, that's a grave.

Jin: Yeah.

Gilbert: Whose grave?

Jin:...You're not so modest, are you?

Jin returns his gaze to the gravestone, catching the sunlight through the trees at twilight.

His profile was filled with an immeasurable amount of importance.

Jin: I am a victim of our country.

Emma: A victim of bloodstained rose day?

Only a quiet nod is returned.

(…..This country has too many claw marks from a decade ago.)

My hand that clenched unknowingly hurts.

Emma: I believe that Prince Jin went to the Espoir village, where the invasion was the worst.

Luke:……

Jin: Did someone tell you?

Emma: From Prince Yves and Prince Licht.

Emma:…..I was asking around about the bloodstained rose day.

Jin: You’re serious about this, huh…

Jin chuckles and adjusts the ribbon on the bouquet, which has been disrupted by the wind.

Jin: Unfortunately, there's not much I can tell you.

Jin: Obsidian already had it when we arrived.

Jin: There was more that we didn't protect than we did.

Emma:…….

(I'm sure the person resting in this grave is......Jin's regret.)

Emma: However, I heard that the village has been restored. Rhodolite took it back, right?

Jin: No...if you say we got it back, there may be a misunderstanding.

Jin: They abandoned the village and retreated before we could engage them in a full-scale battle.

Emma: Eh…..why?

Jin: I don't know. That guy next to you probably knows more than I do.

When I looked up at Prince Gilbert, I could not see his expression due to the backlight of the setting sun.

Jin: If we had continued to march from the village, the Obsidians would have been able to take advantage of us.

Gilbert: I wasn't in command at the time. Therefore, how could I know the intention of the operation?

Gilbert: But, well... didn’t you meet a scary beast on the way and withdraw?

Gilbert: Because they are idiots who can't even follow military regulations....

Gilbert: If something unexpected happens, you might as well tuck tail and run, right?

Emma:….Did you follow the military regulations?

Gilbert: You know, little rabbit. A normal war doesn't attack civilians.

Gilbert: Naturally, the military code clearly states that any attack on civilians is forbidden.

Jin: It's the first time I've heard of it. To think that Obsidian had such conscientious military rules.

Jin: It would have been nice if you could have protected them.

Gilbert: I'm sorry, okay? I'm not proud of it, but there's a lot of incompetence among my commanders.

Gilbert: I could’ve protected them when I'm on the battlefield, but the Emperor is a bit lax on that front.

Jin: It's not a problem that can be forgiven with "I couldn't do it".

Gilbert: That’s right.

Jin makes a sullen face at Prince Gilbert, who smiles broadly.

The tension in the air was so heavy that my breathing unconsciously became shallow.

(It's not a place where one can say, "Let's compromise.")

The wounds of 10 years ago are so deep that Jin, who is friendly to everyone, expresses hostility to this extent.

Jin:…..Emma, I’m sorry.

Jin: You're not wrong in thinking that you're going to compromise with Prince Gilbert for the sake of "everlasting peace."

Jin: However, as long as there was the bloodstained rose day, I don't think I can get along with Obsidian.

Jin: Because, for lack of a better word, they're a bunch of bastards.

Gilbert: Haha, that's awful.

(….I have nothing to say.)

(The more I learned about the bloodstained rose day........the less words that are lacking within me.)

Gilbert: Luke, you said your oldest brother is the nicest guy at Rhodolite, is that true?

Luke:…..

Jin: Luke, what's wrong?

Luke:……

Emma:…..Prince Luke?

Luke: ...Hmm, ah—

Luke: Did you call me?

Luke's face looks like he's just woken up from a dream.

Gilbert: Yeah, I did.

Jin: You're looking a little pale, aren't you?

(Surely...)

Luke:….It only looks that way because of the setting sun.

Luke: But if we’re done here, let's get out of here.

Emma: Woah, Prince Luke!?

Luke pulls me by the hand and starts to walk away, looking languid as usual.

I felt a faint sense of discomfort, but I couldn't grasp it.

(My head and heart are full of it right now.)

Turning around, Prince Gilbert also walks leisurely.

Two more tombstones behind showed no future beyond this point.

(I’ve heard the behind story of the bloodstained rose day today.)

Emma: Prince Gilbert….

Gilbert: Yes?

Emma: Why does Rhodolite have to be trampled?

(Why….)

(….Just why.)

Prince Gilbert smiles briskly as usual.

Gilbert: I can't give you a good enough reason.

 ▸       [  previous / next ]

[dialogue-queered]

Extract 1: The identity of the commander of Israel’s Unit 8200 is a closely guarded secret. He occupies one of the most sensitive roles in the military, leading one of the world’s most powerful surveillance agencies, comparableto the US National Security Agency.

Yet after spending more than two decades operating in the shadows, the Guardian can reveal how the controversial spy chief – whose name is Yossi Sariel – has left his identity exposed online.

Extract 2: Sariel is the secret author of The Human Machine Team, a book in which he offers a radical vision for how artificial intelligence can transform the relationship between military personnel and machines.

Published in 2021 using a pen name composed of his initials, Brigadier General YS, it provides a blueprint for the advanced AI-powered systems that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been pioneering during the six-month war in Gaza.

Extract 3: Unit 8200, once revered within Israel and beyond for intelligence capabilities that rivalled those of the UK’s GCHQ, is thought to have built a vast surveillance apparatus to closely monitor the Palestinian territories.

However, it has been criticised over its failure to foresee and prevent Hamas’s deadly 7 October assault last year on southern Israel, in which Palestinian militants killed nearly 1,200 Israelis and kidnapped about 240 people.

Since the Hamas-led attacks, there have been accusations that Unit 8200’s “technological hubris” came at the expense of more conventional intelligence-gathering techniques.

In its war in Gaza, the IDF appears to have fully embraced Sariel’s vision of the future [known as human-machine teaming] , in which military technology represents a new frontier where AI is being used to fulfil increasingly complex tasks on the battlefield.

Extract 4: Over the last six months, the IDF has deployed multiple AI-powered decision support systems that have been rapidly developed and refined by Unit 8200 under Sariel’s leadership.

They include the Gospel and Lavender, two target recommendation systems that have been revealed in reports by the Israeli-Palestinian publication +972 magazine, its Hebrew-language outlet Local Call and the Guardian.

The IDF says its AI systems are intended to assist human intelligence officers, who are required to verify that military suspects are legitimate targets under international law.

Extract 5: [Sariel's research] ... provides a template for how to construct an effective targets machine drawing on “big data” that a human brain could not process. “The machine needs enough data regarding the battlefield, the population, visual information, cellular data, social media connections, pictures, cellphone contacts,” he writes. “The more data and the more varied it is, the better.”

Extract 6: Sariel’s critics ... believe Unit 8200’s prioritisation of “addictive and exciting” technology over more old-fashioned intelligence methods had led to the [7 October 2023] disaster. One veteran official told the newspaper the unit under Sariel had “followed the new intelligence bubble”.

For his part, Sariel is quoted as telling colleagues that 7 October will “haunt him” until his last day. “I accept responsibility for what happened in the most profound sense of the word,” he said. “We were defeated. I was defeated.”

[syneilesis]

Yves's ambition of running a cafe makes me think of a modern setting coffee shop AU.

Like, Yves owns the cafe and he also bakes the pastries.

Jin, Nokto, Leon, and Luke are baristas. Leon charms the customers into becoming regulars. Jin and Nokto flirt with them at every opportunity, much to Yves's scandalized horror (the customers love the flirting, though, and it's why they come back to the cafe frequently, apart from the heavenly pastries). Jin is also assigned with the task of monitoring Luke in case he eats every pastry with honey.

Licht doesn't want to be a barista, so he hangs out in the kitchen while Yves bakes, taste-testing and all. Whenever there's some trouble outside that may disrupt the cafe operations, Licht is sent out to take care of it.

Much as Chevalier's pretty face would attract new customers, his intimidating aura would probably deter a lot of them. Either way he's not interested in baking or making coffee or talking to people. He does, however, donate the books he's already read ("I've already read those books, Showoff; do whatever you want with them."), so Yves designed the coffee shop to be a library cafe. Sometimes, whenever there's legal trouble or a similar situation, it's Chevalier who steps in and settles them.

Clavis is banned from the cafe, to no one's surprise. There was that incident way back when they were starting the business that involved an unwanted renovation ("Clavis, oh my god, why is there suddenly a waterslide inside this building?!") and creatively experimental recipes ("Clavis, for the love of god, no more exploding croissants!"). For everybody's sake Chevalier had to intervene, so he had Clavis scope out competition and other information-gathering/market-research-related tasks. He does sometimes sneak in the cafe and leave some surprises, to keep everyone on their toes.

Of course, Sariel is their accountant who rules with an iron fist.

Emma and Rio are cafe regulars. Emma loves everything Yves bakes. Rio always ushers Emma to their favorite spot beside the impressive bookshelves and does the ordering himself. This way he can cut off those flirty baristas who've been eyeing Emma ever since they first stepped in the cafe, months ago. The one with the silver hair and foxy smile is on cashier duty today, so Rio engages him in a minute-long stare-off before he finally grits out their orders.

The customer behind him clicks their tongue.

"I'll serve your order on your table when they're ready," Foxy Smile says with a smug smirk.

"No thank you," Rio replies, trying to keep his own smile on his face.

A few minutes later, Rio goes to their table with a tray of their order and finds Emma reading one of the books in the shelves.

"They have such a good selection of books, Rio!" Emma says, and Rio's smile looks more natural now. "There's a name on the first page of this book. C. Michel. I wonder who could it be. I'd like to talk to them about this book!"

For some unfathomable reason, Rio has a bad feeling about that. So he distracts Emma with the food and says, "Here you go, Emma. They've added new variations. Let's try these croissants first."

[icharchivist]

that's fair i hadn't really thought about it like that. i still don't like it but i have heard Lucio seems like he is gradually becoming more conflicted about his position so i am tentatively interested to see where things go with him even though he gets on my nerves (maybe i will change my mind on him eventually who knows--)

Aah glad if it gave you a new perspective!

obviously no need to change how you feel about him either, i still think that like just "his way to behave with Sandalphon makes me uncomfortable" is a perfectly fair comment to make. I see an explanation to why i find it compelling, but it doesn't have to change the idea that it can be uncomfortable to sit though

But yeah, Lucio is genuinely growing more conflicted. I think like, after Bahamut basically put him on mute, he probably doubled down on his devotion because he was left completely alone at the time, and no matter what he did, he couldn't get Bahamut's attention back, so i feel like, suddenly taking a swing in the other direction is something that would come with a lot of personal emotional work. The more Lucio is going to be conflicted about his position the more he has to face that the desperate devotion he's really worked hard on for thousands of years actually caused him more harm than good, and i think it's a delicate balance to walk in a sense.

I think that like.... characters who don't have good social basis (bc isolation in this case), and have to unravel extremely deeply fucked up dynamics inside themselves, will never truly do it fully gracefully. Lucio puts on the air of being in control a lot, but he's lost, and as a result, he's not exactly making the right choices because he's still figuring out what next step he should take, since for once he's operating without someone's control over him.

What i mean by that is that, therefore, it's typically the type of characters who, while attempting to finding themselves and walk away from what they've always known, without having the basis to properly behave around people, who therefore ends up hurting a lot of people as they're trying to figure themselves out.

And i think another way to see Lucio's figuring out process is messy is that when Sariel started to talk about freeing Belial, Lucio did actually come to threaten him about keeping those threats outside of the skyrealms... but the moment he saw Sariel's devotion, this desperate need to understand why someone who has been absent from his life and left him to suffer for a while, would still care for him, he probably saw enough of himself that he couldn't begrudge Sariel after that, and it's why he concludes the Maydays thinking he can't in good conscience free Belial, but he can't stop Sariel from seeking answers either, because Lucio wishes for answers as well as to why he's been abandonned yaknow?

and to me it really shows that Lucio doesn't have a strong moral basis to what he's doing anymore. Bahamut made him doubt so much and now everything is on shaky grounds and he's taking steps forward in the complete dark. His morals are stuff he has to question everytime he moves forward. and as he concludes in the reverie, he needs to learn to not think as a Divine Person, but as someone of the Skies, and the people of the Skies end up winning not in spite of their weaknesses, but thanks to them, because they actually make mistakes, learn from them, discover what other choices they have from them.

So Lucio is basically in a situation where.... pretty much, he's allowing himself to test out free will for the first time, and he's so new at it that everything is new, and therefore, he will hurt people on this way because everything is so new to him.

And "he hurts people" is a totally valid reason to be cold toward him, when he ends up insensitive and hurting others. So it's not like you have to change your mindset either and all. Just that, personally, i think him hurting people comes with the fact he has to accept that not working through a plan someone else planned for him will eventually lead him to walk into situations he was never prepared for and therefore do things all wrong, and at least Lucio is constantly learning now that he's decided to walk this path, and is always ready to put things back into perspective.

So it's really interesting to me.

[lorei-wrote]

Ikemen Prince - One Shots

* - stories with this symbol by the title have had their trigger warning lists updated in co-operation with readers via this survey. The previous works may lack certain trigger warnings. 

Platonic

General

Romantic / Character Studies

Chevalier Michel

Clavis Lelouch

Gilbert von Obsidian

Leon Dompteur

Rio Ortiz

Sariel Noir

Silvio Ricci

Supporting Characters

[elsjobproject]

Welcome to the Elsword Jobs Project!

A project dedicated to recording every job change quest (aside from default job quests, you can find those on the elwiki). 

Please read our about! This is still a work in progress.

Navigation is under the cut 

All Italicized are done. Those that need edits will not be italicized.

Elsword

Knight Emperor (1, 2, 3)

Rune Master (1, 2, 3)

Immortal (1, 2, 3)

Genesis (1, 2, 3)

Aisha

Aether Sage (1, 2, 3)

Oz Sorcerer (1, 2, 3)

Metamorphy (1, 2, 3)

Lord Azoth (1, 2, 3)

Rena 

Anemos (1, 2, 3)

Daybreaker (1, 2, 3)

Twilight (1, 2, 3)

Prophetess (1, 2, 3)

Raven

Furious Blade (1, 2, 3)

Rage Hearts (1, 2, 3)

Nova Imperator (1, 2, 3)

Revenant (1, 2, 3)

Eve

Code: Ultimate (1, 2, 3)

Code: Esencia (1, 2, 3)

Code: Sariel (1, 2, 3)

Code: Antithese (1, 2, 3)

Chung

Comet Crusader (1, 2, 3)

Fatal Phantom (1, 2, 3)

Centurion (1, 2, 3)

Dius Aer (1, 2, 3)

Ara

Apsara (1, 2, 3)

Devi (1, 2, 3)

Shakti (1, 2, 3)

Surya (1, 2, 3)

Elesis

Empire Sword  (1, 2, 3)

Flame Lord (1, 2, 3)

Bloody Queen (1, 2, 3)

Adrestia (1, 2, 3)

Add

Doom Bringer (1, 2, 3)

Dominator (1, 2, 3)

Mad Paradox (1, 2, 3)

Overmind (1, 2, 3)

Lu/Ciel

Catastrophe (1, 2, 3)

Innocent (1, 2, 3)

Diangelion (1, 2, 3)

Demersio (1, 2, 3)

Rose

Tempest Burster (1, 2, 3)

Black Massacre (1, 2, 3)

Minerva (1, 2, 3)

Prime Operator (1, 2, 3)

Ain

Richter (1, 2, 3)

Bluhen (1, 2, 3)

Herrscher (1, 2, 3)

Opferung (1, 2, 3)

Laby

Eternity Winner (1, 2, 3)

Radiant Soul (1, 2, 3)

Nisha Labyrinth (1, 2, 3)

Twins Picaro (1, 2, 3)

Noah

Liberator (1, 2, 3)

Celestia (1, 2, 3)

Nyx Pieta (1, 2, 3)

Morpheus (1, 2, 3)

[jhavelikes]

The identity of the commander of Israel’s Unit 8200 is a closely guarded secret. He occupies one of the most sensitive roles in the military, leading one of the world’s most powerful surveillance agencies, comparable to the US National Security Agency. Yet after spending more than two decades operating in the shadows, the Guardian can reveal how the controversial spy chief – whose name is Yossi Sariel – has left his identity exposed online. The embarrassing security lapse is linked to a book he published on Amazon, which left a digital trail to a private Google account created in his name, along with his unique ID and links to the account’s maps and calendar profiles. The Guardian has confirmed with multiple sources that Sariel is the secret author of The Human Machine Team, a book in which he offers a radical vision for how artificial intelligence can transform the relationship between military personnel and machines. Published in 2021 using a pen name composed of his initials, Brigadier General YS, it provides a blueprint for the advanced AI-powered systems that the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have been pioneering during the six-month war in Gaza.

Top Israeli spy chief exposes his true identity in online security lapse | Israel | The Guardian

[rogue-trader-samuel-drakon]

Passangers/Hires on

Archonis and Sariel

They boarded the ship a while back. Many believe Archonis is here to guard someone because they are destined for something special, but he has refused to say who it is. Others say he has become one of the Custodes who act as the eyes and ears of the Emperor and has chosen to make this ship his base of operations. No one knows. What they do know is he usually waits for some kind of danger to appear before striking it down instantly. And never far behind is his closest companion, Sariel. A Sister of Silence who always has his back against any threats, be they psyker or otherwise.

Liel-Toor

Most were apprehensive about letting an Eldar on board. Let alone a Farseer. But she has shown herself to be very useful. Often times granting visions to aid the crew with dangers yet to come. They just wish she wasn't so vague and cryptic all the time. She seems to enjoy their frustrations, which annoys them more. But she, her Gyrinx Nightseeker, and many of her people who came with her on board have been of great aid.

Aethash and Antyn

These siblings are the Prince and Princess of Aeldari Corsairs and have had dealings with the Drakon family many times in the past. And so, they feel it is only right to treat Samuel like family, regardless if they view him as a primitive or not. Besides, his family has always been good partners for them. So how could they not? Especially since they come across a lot of nice loot with all the trouble they get into on board.

Vior Or'es

A member of the earth caste who had escaped the rule of the ethereals. She is now scared and on the run. She was happy that Samuel had allowed her and other Tau, Kroot, and a few Vesper who had come along with her late parents on board his ship. She has eagerly been helping with engineering. It had been a... chore getting used to working with such low-grade tech. But she has been able to manage. She is very young, even by Tau standards, and often sees the Captain as a father figure. She had also built up quite a bit of muscle training with an ork named Gaz and has taken to using a sword, a unique thing for a tau.

Gaz 'Eadkrakka

An ork mercenary who was kicked out of his warband with only his pet Squig Chompy and his Gretchin sidekick Bitz, along with a few Boyz loyal to him, and decided to be a hire on with whoever offered him the best fights. He had definitely enjoyed his stay on the Celestial Dragon since the Captain can't seem to stay out of trouble. So he has been having a blast.

Dra'vak Nar

A sergeant of the Salamanders, he has offered to act as security aboard the ship and has been of great help. Him and his brothers have gotten to know the crew bit by bit. Eventually, they stopped seeing him as a space marine and more like a part of the crew, actually.

Inquisitor Czevelle Rathgun

Even for an Inquisitor, she can be quite secretive and manipulating. The only reason she hasn't had Samuel and his crew killed for the xenos he had on board his ship is due to the fact she finds him interesting. She has on multiple occasions tried to make him a permanent member of her retinue. But he has declined each time. And each time has only made her more determined. She often walks along the ship with her retinue, acting as if she owned the ship, because if she had her way, she would own not only it, but it's captain as well.

Reikul, Wrythe, Madwen, Selaina, Leona and Zabyn

Known as the daughters of death, they serve as the bodyguards of the inquisitor. They hardly ever leave her side unless absolutely necessary. They don't say much unless spoken to directly. And usually only when it is the inquisitor herself. But they are always ready to kill at a moments notice. Each hailing from different assassin temples, each is trained to kill differently than the last.

Sister Palatine Katheryan Celestita

A proud Sister of Battle, she and many of her sisters ride aboard the Celestial Dragon, as they believe it is the will of the Emperor that they must. They have seen no end of battle since coming aboard, and so she is affirmed in her belief it is part of His plan.

Sergeant Caleb, Brokk, Bron and Emil

An Imperial Guard Sergeant, and his squad consisting of, an Ogryn, a Ratling, and a Squat that managed to remain in the Imperium, had been transfered aboard the Celestial Dragon to guard it, as many assets of the Militarum are often placed on it for transport. They had basically become unofficial members of the crew and had been a decent amount of help aboard.

[andrejverity]

Physical safety when introducing new technology in disaster response

Over the past months, I would like to think that the humanitarian sector has noticed the challenges of having introduced new or emerging technology into a response. From organizations having to scrub their social media and reports in response to Afghanistan, to the ICRC cyber attack, to the ongoing war in Ukraine, our use of technology has raised the “responsible use” and “digital safety” questions. How can we deliver aid when the internet becomes a weapon of war? How can we keep the humanitarian sector safe from digital threats? How do we operate when there are cyber attacks on national infrastructure, we become targets of a disinformation campaign or fall under a digital surveillance program?

Under this umbrella, I was joined by three researchers - Kristen Pearn, Sarah A Jabbar & Sariel Lei - who compiled two reports. One focused on the physical safety of humanitarian responders in volatile situations (e.g. war) and the other focused on the physical safety of children when introducing new Edtech in displacement situations. Each paper explores their respective focus and makes concrete suggestions and future considerations.

Mitigating physical risk posed by technology - To responders in volatile situations

Mitigating physical risk posed by (education) technology - To children in displacement situations

There is no question that technology has the ability to revolutionize our sector’s work. But, to be responsible, we cannot simply roll out new technology for the sake of its possible benefits. Rather, we must pause and ensure that the digital safety and security of our colleagues and those we serve is built in. In today’s era, their lives are on the line. 

So, when kicking off or managing a humanitarian technology project, perhaps the best phrase to keep in the back of one’s mind should be: “Maximize your chance of success by minimizing your chance of failure.”  Human life may very well be at stake.

Be safe,

Andrej

[elrios-trash]

ESPC : A Mini Guide to Increase Combat Power (CP)

Last Update of the Table : Ain (Bigott) path release at KR server

Disclaimer: I am not forcing you to do ESPC since it's hella expensive if you don't like to farming xD

First of all, ESPC book costs 50m ED/500 Epic Points per character to unlock. You might want to spare your story quest ED and EP to buy it once you reach level 99 in Elysion.

Suggestion: Don't buy Synergy Ticket for 20m for a week on NPC Ariel if you're not looking for Combat Power to enter specific dungeons or raids or for farming 24/7. You might need it once there is event look alike "Punch Event".

I recommend to work on ESPC when you're about to reach 1 million combat power or 160 ERP level. So that you can use your 100 ERP points to ED/IDR drop and the rest with All Skill Damage, MP Costs, Skill Cooldown, or any stats depends the character of your choice. Don't worry! Once you reach 99, you can reset 1 ERP table with free reset scroll.

How To Start :

1. Prioritize your main character's type--if you already decide it! These questions might help:

Is it magical or physical?

Are they mainly use Bravery skills or Strength skills?

Do they need more speed, jump speed, and action speed?

Do they need defensive power instead of combat power?

Are you doing PvP or not?

Are you looking for skills cooldown?

Are you looking for potions cooldown and bonus recovery effect, since your character seems chug a lot of mana?

2. Time to decide what character you gonna do for your ESPC (not synergy). If you want a better percentage, do Master Class quests too (I know, it's tiring but really worth for xD)

In general you will need these characters:

Physical Attack % : Code Esencia, Code Sariel, and Nisha Labyrinth.

Magical Attack % : Code Ultimate, Code Sariel, and Radiant Soul.

Polarize % : Code Antithese

Bravery Skill Damage Increase : Immortal and Prime Operator.

Strength Skill Damage Increase : Rune Master and Minerva.

Boss Damage % : Herrscher

Awakening Duration % : Fatal Phantom and Adrestia

Awakening Charge Speed : Comet Crusader and Richter

Ignore Defense Magical % : Celestia

Ignore Defense Physical % : Nyx Pieta

Critical Damage % : Liberator

Maximize % : Innocent

Critical % : Catastrophe

Adaptation % : Demersio

All Skill Damage % : Prophetess

MP Cost Decrease % : Twins Picaro

The rest paths, is up to your character's stats. If you need more awakening time, go Fatal Phantom. If you need more awakening charge speed, go Richter and Comet Crusader. And so on.

3. I am doing PvP too!

Then you should unlock Anemos, Daybreaker, all Raven's, Empire Sword, Flame Lord, Bloody Queen, and Eternity Winner ESPC book.

4. I need to increase defense!

You should make Apsara, Devi, Centurion, Bigott, and Diangelion! Note: Centurion need party to levelling with.

5. My Chara have skill cooldown issue!

For tenacity (usually skills that make buff to party/self buff) go for Doombringer. Strength with Dominator, bravery skills cooldown with Mad Paradox and Master Class skills cooldown with Overmind.

6. I want to fix my pot!

Go Bluhen to increase your pot effect. Example : 50% recover MP -> 60-70%

And go for Lord Azoth for cooldown pot. Example : 30 scd -> 27 scd.

7. My main skill(s) are affected by action speed!

Then go make Twilight and Dius Aer for increasing your action speed/casting skill speed~

Hope it helps! I will update if more 4th paths release later ^^

═══════════════════ஜ۩۞۩ஜ═══════════════════

4th Path ESPC effects update:

Genesis, Magical (Elsword) : Hyperactive Skill Damage Increase %

Code Antithese, Physical (Eve) : Polarize %

Lord Azoth, Physical (Aisha) : Potion Cooldown -%

Revenant, Physical (Raven) : Additional Damage Increase %

Surya, Magical (Ara) : EXP Increase %

Demersio, Magical (Lu/Ciel) : Adaptation Increase +1%

Prophetess, Magical (Rena) : All Skill Damage Increase +1%

Twins Picaro, Magical (Laby) : MP Cost Decrease

Overmind, Physical (Add) : Master Class Skill Cooldown Decrease

Adrestia, Magical (Elesis) : Awakening Duration Increase

Dius Aer, Physical (Chung) : Action Speed Increase

Bigott, Physical (Ain) : Damage from Boss Monster Decrease

???, Magical (Noah) :

[wedreamedlove]

Hey! Can you rank the ml on L& who are the strongest physically or their special powers?

oh no, i've actually thought about this a lot but it's hard to say because the full extent of their powers still isn't shown. a lot of it comes down to range haha.

physically i think it goes:

Osborn

Sariel

Jesse

Evan

Charlie

Osborn has the best physique, no contest, and has been murdering people for years in his bounty hunter missions.

Sariel has been described as being slender and thin (beyond the general descriptions attractive men get) so i actually think he’s physically weaker than the rest of the men, but he’s also been a general who fought in wars so that automatically puts him up there through sheer skill and experience. he’s only below Osborn because he doesn’t do that currently.

Jesse has to keep himself really fit for his theatre actor job and his exorcism powers also seem to take physical strength to use. plus, can’t forget how he jumped through the skylight that one time in his personal route.

Evan and Charlie don’t seem to be physical fighters, however the blood clan throws their 12 year old children into forests for survival tests and Evan’s back is covered in whip/claw marks so he must have gone through physical hell, even if he doesn’t use any of that nowadays.

Charlie gets placed last because of everything mentioned above and because, canonically, he has a hard time keeping his weight down lmao. i’m sure he knows some self-defense though, given that he’s the heir of novaten.

when powers come into play though:

Sariel

Charlie

Jesse

Osborn

Evan

Sariel is a kitsune (japanese fox) and has been shown to have many abilities. he can make vine cages, tree root cages, transform things into other things, and heal other people. at this point i’m just waiting for him to show the classic fox illusion and fox fire lmao. he’s number one because of the versatility of his abilities combined with the scary implications of regeneration being able to heal people or save an entire race.

that being said Charlie’s vacuum ability is terrifying because it operates on hard science, meaning i can imagine a ton of ways to wreck someone with this lmao. you can suffocate someone, pancake someone with air pressure, using the same air pressure trick you can create shockwaves to rupture eardrums or literally blast someone away, etc. he would be Osborn’s worst nightmare because fire can’t burn without oxygen and we’ve already seen Charlie put out fire with his talent haha.

Jesse comes next because he also has extremely versatile abilities. his fight with his cousin showed what they could do, which was like everything from teleportation, to transforming things, to summoning elements, etc. but he’s 3rd because he doesn’t have the spirit clan inhuman senses.

already said how Osborn’s flames are countered by Charlie’s talent but i also think Sariel and Jesse can counter them too. at most, Osborn can only burn Sariel’s plants but Sariel has other things going for him so i’m afraid flames are pretty useless here.

Evan... it depends on how close he needs to be to use mind control. Osborn can break this because he has blood clan blood though. anyway, a lot of blood clan abilities seem to just be illusionary and done through eye contact, so if no one makes eye contact or attacks from a distance then there’s nothing Evan can do?

[cheri-cheri]

[L&N] Ch 11 - With Sin (Part 2)

🍒 Warning: Contains detailed spoilers 🍒

✧ Note: My focus is on Charlie x MC, so certain plot points and interactions with other love interests will be glossed over

✧ Part 1: here

Everyone can tell that Sariel is in a bad mood, and MC’s colleagues gossip about what could have left him in such a state

One of them mentions that he witnessed Sariel talking to an “unfamiliar man” and they looked like they were about to fight LOL

For some strange reason, none of MC’s colleagues know about the fire that broke out in The First Hospital in Ch 10. The incident wasn’t reported anywhere 👀

Cue Jesse plot

Something to note is that Yang Yang gets kidnapped and the kidnapper hints that there will be a fire at an art gallery

More Jesse plot

While MC is feeling sad due to Jesse plot reasons and waits for news, she receives a call...

Charlie: You picked up quickly. Looks like my fiancée misses me too.

MC: Charlie? Why are you the one calling?

Charlie: Of course it’s me. Aside from me, whose calls would you pick up this quickly?

MC: What are you saying? I’m waiting for really important information.

Charlie: I understand. That’s why I called you one minute before I left work. You must find it a great pity that we didn’t have breakfast together this morning. But it’s okay, I’ve already made a reservation at the best restaurant in Guangqi City. I’ll pick you up soon.

MC: I’m being serious-

???: What do you think about this painting?

An unfamiliar voice drifts from the other end of the line. Despite the slight distance, I’m able to capture the word “painting”.

The message I received in the morning flashes across my mind, and my heart clenches.

MC: Charlie, who’s talking to you?

Charlie: Hm? The founder of Z Museum.

MC: Z Museum? Didn’t you go to work today?

Charlie: I did an overnight shift yesterday, so I’m on leave this afternoon. I happened to receive an invitation, so I came here to select decorations for our new home. It’s a shame that this art gallery is too small. Fiancée, do you have a favourite painter aside from me?

Art gallery. My heart throbs.

Could it be that coincidental? No way...

It’s better to err on the side of caution. I should get Charlie to leave first!

MC: Listen to me. You need to get out of there immediately.

Charlie: You don’t like this art gallery? Let’s go to another one then.

MC: This isn’t about whether I like it or not. Get out of there, and get others to do the same!

I glance at the clock on the wall. At this moment, there’s only one tick of the second hand before 6pm! I roar at Charlie, telling him to leave quickly.

Charlie: Fiancée, what’s wrong? I-

There’s a pause on the other end of the line. Shortly after, shrill cries and the sound of burning flames drift to my ears over the phone.

“Click”. The clock shows that it’s currently 6pm.

MC panics and rushes over to the art gallery

She spots Charlie, and finds it fortunate that he isn’t visibly injured

He’s currently going around and tending to those who are injured while waiting for the ambulance to arrive

When he finally notices her, he doesn’t ask what she’s doing here, etc. He simply asks whether she’s hurt, and then continues with what he’s doing

Notable line: In his clear purple eyes, there’s confidence, gentleness, and a large amount of gratitude.

When the ambulance arrives, they discover, to their horror, that there’s a badly burnt girl

They board the ambulance, and MC realises that his left wrist has been bandaged carelessly, and there’s blood oozing out of it

Charlie liaises with Doctor He to prepare the hospital for emergency treatment

Given the urgency of the situation and his belief that life takes priority, Charlie insists on skipping hospital protocol e.g. getting consent from the family of the girl before doing the operation

MC decides to stay and wait in the hospital

The operation seems to go smoothly

The girl is out of danger, and all that’s left to do is the stitching

Director Sun manages to persuade Charlie to leave the stitching to someone else and attend to his own wounds

When the doors of the operating room open, I’m at a slight loss, not knowing how to react. After a pause, I shoot up to my feet.

Before I can say anything, I feel a weight on my left shoulder. A fluffy head leans against it.

MC: Charlie, did the operation go successfully?

He doesn’t reply immediately, and simply nods like a large dog playing coy, nuzzling the crook of my neck.

Charlie: Dr Chen took over for the stitching and it’d be over soon. I didn’t pay any attention to you earlier. Are you angry?

Smelling the comforting scent of disinfectant, I find myself smiling, my heart filled with tenderness.

MC: Mm, I’m angry.

Charlie: How many kisses will suffice to coax you?

MC: Charlie!

The perpetrator on my shoulder chuckles. Warm breaths tickle the crook of my neck.

Charlie: Fine fine fine, I won’t continue. How could there be a fiancée on earth who’s this difficult to coax?

MC: If you bandage your own wounds properly, I won’t be angry.

Charlie: I’ve tended to it earlier.

He releases me and lifts his head. Raising his wrist, he waves it in front of me proudly.

Charlie: Do you know what this is called?

MC: What?

Charlie: This is called the united heart of a husband and wife - our hearts beat in unison.

MC: ...

Since he’s exceptionally happy despite his fatigue, I decide not to hold it against him.

MC: Were you hurt anywhere else in the art gallery earlier?

Charlie: Speaking of which, you’re truly my lucky star, fiancée.

MC: Huh?

Charlie: If you didn’t insist on me leaving, I’d definitely have continued walking deeper. I would have sustained something more serious than a hand injury.

Recalling the situation back then, I can’t help but feel slight post-traumatic fear.

MC: I’m not a “lucky star”. I just happened to know certain things...

Where should I start? Yang Yang, the kidnapper, the burning... I attempt to organise my words to make things clearer. At this moment, the doors of the operating room are pushed open once again.

The first thing that appears from between the doors is a cart covered with a white cloth.

Charlie instantly stiffens.

A nurse stands next to the cart, her face filled with regret. Seeing us, she lowers her gaze.

Nurse: Dr Zha, the patient suddenly went into shock, and Director Sun has declared her dead.

Dead? But didn’t Charlie just say that the operation went smoothly, and all that was left was the stitching?!

Before I can react, Charlie has already run over. This time, I don’t remain in my spot, but follow after him.

Charlie: What happened?!

He stops the cart that’s about to head to the mortuary, his expression livid as he looks at Director Sun.

Director Sun: It’s deeply regretful that the patient suddenly went into shock. During the emergency treatment, she experienced myocardial depression, DIC, and multiple organ dysfunction. The emergency treatment was ineffective.

Charlie: But she was clearly-

Director Sun: The patient’s condition was unstable during the duration of shock. Dr Zha, you already did your best. Xiao Chen, notify the police that the surgery is over.

Dr Chen: The police? Not the family?

Director Sun: The police at the site have already verified the patient’s identity. Her name is Tianzhen, and she’s an orphan. The police will handle the rest. I have a meeting to attend, so I’ll leave now.

Director Sun walks past Charlie. He lifts his hand, as though wanting to give Charlie a pat on the shoulder. However, he ends up letting his hand fall, and walks away.

I have no idea how to describe Charlie’s current expression. His expression has become extremely dim, as though coated with a layer of dust.

Tinges of deep grief flash across his eyes. Amid the deep grief, there’s disbelief and an unwillingness to accept things as they are. He simply stands in place, unmoving, as though his soul has been snatched away.

This expression makes me think that he’s on the verge of crying.

I want to say something. Perhaps telling him not to be sad. Perhaps telling him that he’s already done his best. Perhaps not saying anything, and simply giving him a hug.

Aside from the silence, I’m unable to say anything, nor do anything.

I can distinctly remember how I had stood in this hospital the previous time. Within the span of ten metres, I told him personally that he’s an extremely outstanding doctor.

And he did it. While being injured himself, he persevered in doing an operation. So why did this happen? Why is the ending contrary to his intentions when he already did his best?!

As the cart passes by, an incredibly faint scent of pencil fillings drifts over. Charlie’s fingers twitch, and he suddenly grabs the cart handle.

Charlie: Old He, no. Something’s not right about this.

Dr He: Everyone has done their best. I know that you’re unwilling to accept this. But when Tianzhen was sent here, she didn’t have much signs of life. Unexpected things can happen during operations. This isn’t something we can control. You need to learn how to accept this.

Charlie: Accept what? I brought her back to life earlier. All that was left was to stop the bleeding and the stitches. Nothing could have gone wrong. I left for less than half an hour. I must have overlooked a lesion... there must be a reason...

He clenches his fists tightly, muttering certain things. Dr He has no choice but to ask the doctor responsible for pushing the cart to leave. He looks at Charlie worriedly.

Charlie: There’s something wrong with her skin. That isn't the skin a child should have.

Unconcerned about being stopped, Charlie lifts the white cloth, his fingers travelling to the girl’s nape area.

Dr He: Charlie, you’ve gone mad! Do you still remember that you’re a doctor?!

Charlie: What a doctor shouldn’t do is let a patient die without an explanation.

All of a sudden, Charlie’s hand pauses. I can sense his entire body freeze in place, akin to a statue.

In the stiff silence, Dr He pries his hands away, covering the body with the white cloth once again.

Dr He: Doctors may pursue different interests, but no doctors will leave anyone in mortal danger. Go and get some rest. We’ll talk later.

I have no idea what happened. All I see is Charlie’s expression, as though he’s been roused from a dream with the realisation that it’s too late for regrets.

Charlie: That scent...

He seems to recall something. He turns around, rushing into the operating room.

Charlie discovers that the surgical waste from the operation has already been removed

They head to the on-call room, where Charlie calls Uncle Ji and tells him to intercept the hospital vehicles transporting medical waste immediately, and to test all the needles and IV fluids

Dr He overhears them from outside and lectures Charlie for always ignoring his advice

Dr He: When I asked if you wanted to work here back then, I hoped that having a change of environment could lessen your burdens, and help you to relax a little.

Dr He: Many things in life can’t be measured in black and white.

Dr He: In short, stop investigating further! Leave this matter as it is.

Charlie: Why can’t I investigate further?

Dr He: Some things are incredibly complex and involve many people. They can’t simply be touched.

Charlie: Dr He, did you discover something?

Dr He: Nope.

Charlie: But I did.

Dr He: I thought you’d understand after the previous experience. But it looks like you haven’t. Instead, you became more stubborn.

Dr He: You aren’t afraid of anything, and have unbreakable convictions.

Dr He: But have you ever thought about your mother? All she wanted was for you to have a simple and happy life!

Thud! The door is shut heavily. I feel as though I’ve made contact with a secret from Charlie’s past, but it’s still unclear.

I turn my head to him. At this moment, I see a certain emotion that can be termed “fragility” in his eyes.

I can’t be certain about what it is exactly, but it’s reminiscent of morning dew, easily shattered with a gentle touch.

Up till now, the Charlie that I’ve known has been fearless and superior to the common masses. He has never brought up any of his troubles to me. As a result, it slipped my mind that he could also be sad, afraid, and hesitant.

I take his hand, massaging the space between his index finger and thumb gently.

Charlie: Do you also think that I’m too stubborn?

MC: Charlie, have you heard about a certain bird?

Charlie: What?

MC: There’s a bird which has a really strange appearance. It has multi-coloured wings, crystals for eyes, and can sing human songs.

Charlie laughs, as though understanding something.

MC: It isn’t afraid of the cold, so it doesn’t need to fly to the south during the winter.

MC: It doesn’t eat insects, and thinks that sweet popcorn is the most delicious food.

MC: Afterwards, it discovered that not every bird is afraid of the cold, and that they can choose not to eat insects as well.

MC: It’s just that they’ve never been told that what they’re doing isn’t necessarily correct.

MC: But when it wanted to tell the other birds about this, the other birds said -

MC: “Stop saying such strange things. Birds should be like us. Your understanding is wrong.”

MC: “If you don’t fly to the south, you’ll freeze to death. The same goes for eating things that aren’t insects. Basically, you won’t end up well.”

MC: It started to doubt whether it was truly in the wrong. It started wondering if it should compromise.

MC: But when it looked at its beautiful and abundant feathers, and looked at the fragrant and sweet popcorn in front of it, it was certain that it wasn’t wrong.

MC: This isn’t stubbornness. It’s having a clear understanding of yourself.

MC: Even if it was obstructed, even if it was different from everyone else, it believed that what it did was correct.

Charlie: In this entire world, I’m guessing only its fiancée owned such a unique bird, didn’t she?

At first, I’m unable to comprehend his words. However, when I see his smiling face and his energy restored, his words suddenly dawn on me.

MC: Who’s talking about you? I’m talking about the bird.

Charlie: Who’s talking about me? I’m also talking about the bird. I’m guessing that the first correct thing it did was to find its fiancée.

MC: [blushing] ...who told you that the bird has a fiancée?

Charlie: I’m incredibly certain that it has a fiancée. Its fiancée is standing right in front of him. She’s warmer than the south, sweeter than popcorn, and also has a temper more explosive than popcorn. However, she has a pair of eyes that enables her to see beautiful things.

MC: ...how are you always able to bring everything back to yourself?

Charlie: [whistles like a bird]

MC: What did you say?

Charlie: That means - thank you.

He smiles at me. I can’t help but laugh, and feel as though a burden has finally been set down.

MC: Charlie, what do you plan to do next?

Charlie: I’ll wait for news from Uncle Ji.

I nod. Now that the tension’s gone, I feel a little hungry.

I rub my stomach subconsciously. Charlie notices this, and his brows arch.

Charlie: Fiancée, are you hungry? That shouldn’t be the case. Am I not a feast to the eyes?

MC: Are you going on about that again?

Charlie: Don’t worry. Although we can’t go to a restaurant, you’ll still have a gourmet meal today. After all, my culinary skills are comparable to a three-star Michelin chef.

He pulls open the storage cabinet proudly. As though he’s holding gold bars, he carefully takes out two... packets of cup noodles.

MC: ...?

Charlie: Even the most ordinary ingredients can become a sumptuous delicacy after passing through my hands. You won’t find such delicious food elsewhere.

MC: But these are the most common ingredients - cheese flakes, nori flakes, ham sausages, eggs...

Charlie: And this.

A small seasoning packet filled with black powder is waved in front of me before being added to the bowl. After pouring hot water, a cover is put over them before they are placed into the microwave oven.

MC: What did you add at the end?

Charlie: A little cocoa powder.

MC: Why does that sound like a taboo ingredient?!

Charlie: Would I let you eat such things? Adding cocoa powder will give it an indescribable deliciousness. Just wait and see.

MC: ...okay then, I’ll wait and see.

Just like this, we stand next to the microwave oven, chatting idly. 

The room seems to be immersed in a crystalline reflection of waves in sunlight. Time trickles by slowly, making one’s heart feel tranquil.

All of a sudden, I glance at Charlie’s elbow region - there’s a tear.

MC: That...

Charlie lifts his elbow, then shrugs with slight pity.

MC: Give me a moment.

After searching my bag, I retrieve my portable sewing kit. After passing thread through the needle, I mend the torn area in a few stitches.

MC: How’s that? Passable?

Charlie: Actually, there are many other clothes that require mending at home. Would you like to consider moving in with me right now?

MC: I’m holding a needle right now. If you continue, I might poke you.

Charlie: Petty.

After tying a knot and cutting the thread, I’m just about to coil the thread when I feel a weight on my wrist. There’s now a black bracelet on it.

The outer bracelet has been encircled with a black feather. When I move my wrist, I can also see the beautiful changing colours of the black opal underneath the light.

MC: This is...

Charlie: Reciprocity. This is a collector’s item that I came across at the art gallery. I had to beg the founder for a long time before he agreed to sell it to me.

MC: There are times when you have to beg?

Charlie: I had no other choice. It’s my fault for thinking that it should be on my fiancée’s wrist the moment I first saw it. I’m guessing that you’re currently wondering how you could simply accept such an expensive item, and what you should give this thoughtful and magnanimous man as a return gift?

MC: How did you know?!

Charlie: It isn’t expensive, just rare to find. Wear it with ease.

MC: Thanks.

Ding! A tempting fragrance drifts from the microwave oven. However, Charlie’s phone starts to ring just as we take the cup noodles out.

When I see that Uncle Ji is calling, I know that we won’t get to have this meal together.

Charlie: One of the syringes has been tested to have huge amounts of DEA serum? Okay, got it.

After hanging up, he sinks into a deep contemplation. Incredibly curious about what the DEA serum is, I search it up in secret, but am unable to find anything.

Charlie: I’ll leave for a while. You can eat first.

MC: Is there anything I can help with?

Charlie: There is.

He pushes the cup noodles towards me, smiling as he taps the bracelet on my wrist.

Charlie: After you’ve finished dinner, send yourself home safely, and remember to contact me.

MC: ...okay.

Watching as he stands up to leave, I suddenly recall how he had waved at me in the same manner before rushing in the flames.

MC: Hey, wait, Charlie!

He has already walked quite a number of steps, and turns his head towards me.

MC: No matter what you do, always be a little more careful.

Charlie: The perfect Dr Zha will never disappoint anyone.

-

I sit in the room, finishing the cup noodles by myself. In contrast to the strange taste I had anticipated, it turns out to be very delicious.

The ingredients have been mixed together. It’s messy and doesn’t have much order to it, but it has the taste of home.

I pick up a book from the table, planning to cover it over Charlie’s bowl of cup noodles. However, when I flip through it randomly, my gaze is drawn to its contents.

This isn’t a book. It’s a scrapbook. It doesn't contain the usual newspaper or magazine clippings, but photocopies of death certificates. Each death certificate has been signed by Charlie, aside from the first one.

It states: Mark Alexander, male, 38 years old. Burn area 97%. Third-degree burns 80%. 20 minutes after being admitted to the hospital, emergency treatment failed and he died.

[Note] Mark used to be a firefighter, and he appeared in Trajectory [Ten Years Ago]

It’s a report from ten years ago, and the page has turned yellow.

The most recent report has Yang Yang’s grandmother’s name written on it.

He remembers every one of them.

I can almost imagine him bending over the low dining table in this quiet room, documenting all of this.

And how he had lifted his right hand many more years ago, his gaze brilliant as he looked towards the future.

Charlie: I’m willing to use my abilities and judgment to uphold the creed of working for the benefit of the sick. And to refrain from all corrupt and harmful acts.

Charlie: I will not give harmful drugs to others, nor will I follow instructions to do so, even if it is requested.

Charlie: Regardless of the situation, whether I meet a male or female, the rich or poor.

Charlie: My only goal is to bring happiness to the sick, and be cautious not to do anything that will harm others. 

Charlie: Regardless of whether what I see and hear are related to my profession, I will be the protector of such secrets, and am willing to protect such secrets.

Charlie: If I observe these vows strictly, may God enable my life and medical skills to be used for the highest honour.

Charlie: If I violate this oath, the ghosts and gods from heaven and below may put me to death.

Just like this, my tears flow without warning. I wipe them with the back of my hand, closing the scrapbook.

By the time I leave the hospital, it’s already very late.

I send a text to Charlie, but receive no reply. He’s probably still busy.

The wind blows. This winter seems to have arrived exceptionally early, and it’s especially chilly.

Meanwhile, Charlie seems to be searching for something in Director Sun’s office

He locates a secret compartment behind the bookshelf that he has never noticed before, and finds a tiny safe box

Although Charlie installed a ward to prevent anyone from entering, Director Sun manages to come in and asks what he’s doing

The scene returns to MC

Jesse plot Jesse plot Jesse plot

Papa Zha makes his debut appearance

He doesn’t have a sprite but it’s stated that he has black hair

He’s having a meeting with Evan’s uncle in a presidential suite of the Lu Family hotel

Evan’s uncle has been purchasing medicine from Papa Zha for many years, but this is the first time they’ve met

Papa Zha will be in Guangqi City for a few days

Papa Zha addresses Charlie as “宝贝儿子”, which translates to “darling son”

NOVATEN has recently developed a drug that can enable the “vessels to be more stable”. Even if the modification fails, the bodies will vanish without a trace

Evan’s uncle notes that a portion of the vessels started to burn by themselves, and has caused some trouble

Papa Zha offers to help out if needed, because it was caused by the unstable drugs

Evan’s uncle notes that he managed to handle everything

Papa Zha acknowledges that it’s easy to deal with such things when the Spirit Tribe collaborates with humans in powerful positions

Papa Zha introduces a new drug to Evan uncle. This time, it has nothing to do with vessels - it’s a drug to control deterioration. It can also stimulate talent

Afterwards, Papa Zha asks his underling about Charlie’s “illness”

The underling: He’s still the same. His deterioration isn't obvious, but his personality has become even more extreme. He gets headaches and hallucinations.

Papa Zha: Increase the dosage, and pay close attention to any changes he experiences at every moment.

The scene cuts back to the hospital. By the time Charlie returns to the on-call room, it’s already past 1am

Turns out that during the incident with Dr Sun earlier, Dr He suddenly rushed over and took the blame

But Charlie sneaked in again later anyway LOL

Dr He is currently asleep in the call-room, and Charlie removes his coat and drapes it over him 🥺

Dr He ends up stirring awake

DR HE IS SO PRECIOUS but the CN community thinks he’s going to die at some point so please try not to get too attached to him HNGHGN

Dr He: Now that I’m old, it’s difficult to sleep.

Charlie: Didn't you say that you’re old but strong, and that you’d travel around the world after retiring?

Dr He: Those were words from the past. I’ll retire with ease when you stop making me worry. After all, I promised your mother...

The old man shakes his head, and doesn’t continue. Instead, he searches through the cabinet.

Dr He: You haven’t eaten yet, have you? Let me show you something good.

He grins, taking out a thermal box. Opening it up, steam drifts out and a fragrance fills the air.

Dr He: My wife wrapped these small wontons for me. They’re still warm. I’ll give you a few of them.

Charlie: Save them for yourself. I have my cup noodles which was prepared with love.

Dr He: Prepared with love, huh? It’s been cold for several hours. Don’t eat the wontons if you don’t want to.

Despite saying this, he still retrieves two bowls, splitting his meal into half.

Charlie: Did your wife come over?

Dr He: She asked my son to bring it over. Young people sleep late. My wife sleeps at 8pm every day.

Charlie: Since you’ve been working overtime these days, doesn’t she say anything about it?

Dr He: Of course she does. She started to say the usual things. For example, that she shouldn’t have married me back then, and that a doctor’s heart is always on his patients and not on the family. The only thing I can tell her is that once I retire, I’ll take her around the world. Italy, Iceland, and all the places that we weren’t able to visit when we were young.

Charlie laughs, scooping a little wonton and eating it slowly.

Dr He: When the time comes, I’ll hand my responsibilities to you.

Charlie: In the future, the patients will say that Dr Zha is more capable than the previous generation.

Dr He: Only you would say that. I heard that Alan has moved back to his country?

[Note] Alan used to be Charlie’s therapist. He appeared in Trajectory [Nine Years Ago] and [Eight Years Ago]

Charlie: Mm, his son made a fuss about coming here since he’s unable to learn kungfu in another country. In the end, he couldn’t get used to living here after returning.

Dr He: Do you still go to Alan’s place nowadays?

Charlie: Yeah, but I go there to talk to his son and teach him how to get used to a new environment.

Dr He: Not bad. You’re great at adapting, which makes you a suitable teacher in this aspect.

Charlie: With a couple more visits, I’ll be able to get a certification to be a psychiatrist.

Hearing this, Dr He chuckles. He laughs so hard that he starts to cough.

Charlie: Considering your age, can’t you eat a little more carefully? 

Dr He: If I were careful, would I have accepted you as my apprentice?

Charlie: So why did you accept me?

Dr He doesn’t speak. He simply looks at Charlie’s purple pupils, as though immersed in memories.

Dr He: Charlie, actually... aside from your eyes, your personality and hers are very similar.

Dr He: The both of you are incredibly stubborn and won’t retreat until the end.

Dr He: But certain muddy waters can’t be waded in, and some things truly can’t be touched.

Dr He: You went to Director Sun’s office again, didn’t you? I know that. Even a suspension wouldn’t deter you.

Charlie: Mm, but I didn’t find anything. There’s only ordinary medicine in that safe box.

Dr He: See? Having logic but no evidence is meaningless. Many times, doctors can only save people, and nothing else.

Charlie: Don’t you want to know the truth?

Dr He: You’re still young. You’ll understand when you’re a little older and have a family. Knowing the truth isn’t the only good thing. As compared to the truth, I’m more worried about the effects it’d bring to my family. Don’t you have an important person now? People have to help themselves.

He pats Charlie on the shoulder, then stands up wearily before walking to the door.

Charlie: Old He. What would you do if you found out that your entire life has been planned out by others, and that your birth and death aren’t up to you?

The old man is hidden in the shadows of the doorframe, and he appears much older.

Dr He: I’d feign ignorance. It’s very late, leave work soon.

Charlie: But I’m unable to feign ignorance. There’s a thorn in my heart. Each time someone dies, this thorn gets lodged a little deeper. It can no longer be removed.

All he gets in response is the sound of wind outside the window. But is the answer drifting in the wind?

-

For the first time, Charlie doesn’t drive home. He walks along the street, scanning his surroundings seriously.

He doesn’t know how many sins are hidden in this city he lives in.

After a while, he makes a phone call.

Charlie: Uncle Ji, I want you to investigate someone. The Director of the Burn Department of First Hospital - Sun Tai Zhong.

The person the other end of the line acknowledges this. After a short silence, he brings somewhat bad news.

Charlie’s father has arrived in Guangqi City and has asked to meet him.

Charlie: ...got it.

An intense headache strikes him without warning. Charlie trembles while retrieving the medicine in his pocket, swallowing them in huge gulps.

A humongous shadow envelops the top of his head. It’s as though a huge monster has opened its mouth, about to swallow him whole.

Charlie turns his head. Above the signboard behind him, black wings flutter for a moment before vanishing quickly.

Something drifts down. It might be the first snow, or feathers.

Charlie’s Post: The joys of festive consumerism has created much disorderly garbage in an orderly human society.

MC: Are you referring to that recently popular exhibition about wastage in art?

Charlie: That’s right. Does my fiancée know about it too? Why don’t we talk about it over dinner tonight?

-

Charlie’s Post: The joys of festive consumerism has created much disorderly garbage in an orderly human society.

MC: I really liked that exhibition piece featuring the outline of a tree. The artist has lots of talent.

Charlie: The simple sense of justice in the artist’s heart is a very rare sight these days.

-

Charlie’s Post: The joys of festive consumerism has created much disorderly garbage in an orderly human society.

MC: Has Dr Zha seen something recently? He’s starting to express profound opinions again.

Charlie: It doesn’t matter what I saw. What’s important is that I’ve received my fiancéee’s ‘like’ and response.

[the-shiniest-plant]

The Rescue

Fionnuala stalked through the underbrush outside Hemlock Coil, guiding her Warden Squad through hand signals to optimal positions. This raid — nay, this rescue — would be her most important operation yet.

The plan was thus:

Chaos: Four of Nuala’s squadmates, led by her dear friend Elspeth, would charge in and provide a distraction, using a direct approach at the gates, drawing a majority of the Courtiers that direction while Nuala snuck around to the back of the camp and entered there.

Infiltration: Nuala would be on her own for this one, not that she had any issue with that. She would sneak in, find her brother, convince him to come back with her — if he even listened — and leave with him the way she came in. It was risky, to be sure, but at this point, Nuala was ready to take any risk if it meant her brother’s return.

Evacuation: Two of her squadmates would lie in wait at the back entrance for her return, and following that, they would assist in a swift getaway from the camp, protecting Conleth and any other prisoners Nuala managed to free on the way out.

She hoped to the Mother Tree that all would go well, and gave the signal. Ellie led the charge as planned, subtly signaling Nuala to move when she felt that she had the distraction well in hand. Nodding her thanks, Nuala swiftly yet quietly skirted round the back way, entering in through a hole in the thorny barrier surrounding the Camp. She drew from the memories of those Sylvari who had raided the Coil before in order to gain her bearings. Thanks to this, she knew that some guards would remain behind to protect those in charge. Carefully avoiding these guarded areas and keeping to the shadows, she made her way toward the center, keeping an eye out for any sign of her dear brother.

She did her best to keep up hope, but the evidence of her brother’s presence eluded her. Not one to give up so easily, she continued her search, quietly freeing captives as she passed their cages and directing them toward the extraction point. She felt the cold presence of the Nightmare in her mind as it tried to dissuade her from the search, but her determination to at least get some information, had he moved, conquered her fear.

It was then that she saw him. Gavin, Knight of the Court and second in command to the Countess Sariel, seemingly alone. Diving from the shadows, she took him by surprise and a fierce battle ensued. She, knowing she had little time before he called for backup, swiftly maneuvered to pin the Knight down.

“Where. Is. Conleth.” She demanded, a hiss through clenched teeth. She saw his eyes widen — recognition. The Knight knew her brother’s name, perhaps he had known him personally. “Where!?” She pressed again, the blade of a sword up against his neck, a knee on his chest.

“You must be the sister.” The Knight’s reply was oddly nonchalant for someone who was only a swift movement of the arm away from being decapitated.

“You’re dodging the question. Where. Is. He?” Nuala spat, her voice dripping with venom, refusing to be denied as she pressed the blade ever so slightly firmer against Gavin’s neck.

“Well, it just so happens that Countess Sariel has called for his attentions, as much as I detest her taking my Minstrel.” The annoyance in his voice was palpable; Nuala had no choice but to surmise that he was telling the truth. Even so, what was she to do now? She didn’t believe she could engage the Countess in battle on her own — the woman had a vicious reputation and the violence to match it. Still, the Knight’s usefulness to her was fading, and to allow him to live would be a crime against the Dream.

Yet, as she raised her arm to end his miserable existence, something stopped her, held her firmly by the arm. She turned her head to behold what held it in place, and her gaze was met with a familiar face.

There, holding her back, stood Conleth, terror in his eyes, looking at her, silently, desperately pleading her to spare the Knight’s life. This, she knew, was atypical of the behavior the Court displayed. Mercy was simply not in their repertoire. Were the reports that he had Fallen to Nightmare untrue? If so, why had he stayed? For this Courtier? She couldn’t fathom it, but then it was very clear from the look on her brother’s face that Conleth cared for Gavin — as deeply, if not deeper, than Nuala cared for Conleth.

Fionnuala faltered, dropping the blade in her hand. “Conleth…” was all she could manage to stammer, her brother pulling her into a hug, a gesture she couldn’t help but return as her eyes brimmed with tears of relief. “You’re okay…!”

He nodded as he released her from the embrace, going over to Gavin to help him up. “Nuala, you can’t stay here.” her brother quietly stated, unable to meet her worried gaze.

“Well, it’s obvious you don’t belong here, either, Con. I’m taking you with me.” The Warden replied, voice firm and clearly unaccepting of protest. “…..As for you….” she continued, looking to the Knight.

“He’s coming with me.” Conleth interjected. “He’s gone Soundless, as I have.”

This surprised Fionnuala. Her brother going Soundless could’ve been expected, but a Knight of the Court!? “Really? A Knight turning his back on the Nightmare? Forgive me if I find that hard to believe.”

Gavin smiled, genuine and warm — again, completely unlike the Nightmare’s nature. “The things we do for love, hm?” he mused, before continuing. “But he’s right, we cannot tarry long, the Countess will be searching for Conleth once she realizes he’s slipped away. We need to move. Take care as you lead us, Warden, we’ll be killed if we’re caught.”

With that in mind, Fionnuala led the pair through a winding path around the camp, avoiding patrols… that is, until she heard a vicious howl, a number of Nightmare Hounds rounding the next corner, and more coming up the rear accompanied by a pair of Courtiers. Calling upon the Dream to aid in their escape, Nuala was able to draw out a blinding flash of light, shoving her brother and his beloved past the stunned hounds blocking the way toward the next turn. “I’ll hold them off, there’s an exit cloaked by some thinner thorns in the back wall! Ellie should be there by now, she’ll help you escape! Now, go!”

Conleth and Gavin managed to duck around the corner before the hounds recovered, and Nuala, alone and outnumbered, leapt into battle. Thankfully, it wasn’t long before she saw her best friend rounding the corner to assist, accompanied by the rest of her Squad. Together, they handily finished off the remaining hounds and Courtiers, fleeing out the secret exit, only to discover that Conleth and Gavin were nowhere to be seen.

“Didn’t they come find you like I asked?” Nuala questioned Elspeth, who nodded.

“They were the ones who told me where we’d find you, Nuala. They were here last I’d seen them, and I know for a fact no Courtiers were nearby to recapture them.”

“Then, where…?” Nuala trailed off, looking a bit disheartened.

“I don’t know, but I’m sure they’re safe.” Ellie consoled, leading her friend back to the Grove for some well-deserved rest.

The news came, months later, of their deaths — her brother’s corpse had been found washed up on the shores of the Drizzlewood Coast, drowned, and Gavin, likely distraught over the loss of his Beloved, had been discovered gored and torn to pieces by a herd of minotaur not too far away.

Even so, Nuala felt the bond to her pod-brother maintained as strongly as it had been when they’d last met. Surmising that they had faked their deaths to elude any and all searches the Court may have made for them, Nuala held onto her hope that she would see them again someday.

And she did, but that’s a tale for another time.

(Conleth/Sitheach belongs to @moonlit-grove)