So, you approach me in my court. Very well, I will allow your curiosity within reason.
I am Mizuki, Empress of the waves and commander of the River Guard. The currents have brought us to this Island for a purpose yet unclear to me, but the wisdom of the waves has never led me astray. Despite this world not being my own, my title and my oath stand fast.
Now then, if your business is of import, speak. If not, begone from here.
In character posting: #imperialdecree
In character tea time: #teawiththeempress
Reblogs: #royalresponse
Answered asks: #theempressanswers
OOC posting: ))post
SHIP TAG: #MoonBound
Relationship Status: heart stolen by @the-oathbound-champion , no return address
)) Note: While I will not write NSFW content, both muse and mun for Mizuki and Eugene (my irl husband) are adults. A married couple in love will not act like just friends. If you're uncomfortable with certain levels of spice, maybe read something else! XD ❤️
)) If you like my writing, you can find my other blogs linked below!
@long-live-evie
@slayer-charlotte
@goddess-of-elysium
@sugar-bear-syd
@io-splinter-agent
@shades-of-myst
@ladycat-holloway
@vengeful-visitor-fn
@corascana-stormborn
DO NOT STEAL ANY OF MY WRITING OR DRAWINGS TO USE FOR AI OR AI TRAINING.
OOC Rules, Headcanons, etc.
Rules:
1. Absolutely NO NSFW Asks or Comments. I will not respond, and I will block you if I feel I need to.
2. I would appreciate hard language being kept to a minimum where possible. Empress Mizuki does not appreciate a lack of decorum.
3. I am taking this quite seriously, I will be acting as I believe Empress Mizuki would (within the obvious confines of a text-based format).
4. I am an adult. I'm making this clear now; if you are a minor, I don't mind conversation, but I will end conversations that deviate from a solid PG rating.
5. "God Mode" (attempts to one shot kill an RP character without explicit consent and confirmation from the RP character owner) will result in a warning and further insistence will result in a block. Do not disrupt the fun we are having by acting like you can just end someone else's day.
6. I respect your headcanons, so please respect mine.
Headcanons:
Empress Mizuki is royalty born and raised. Her oath to the River Guard and her people does not weigh on her as a burden, but as a responsibility that she will uphold with pride, though the weight of the responsibility is hardly negligible.
She may come off as cold to approach, but she does not view anyone as "lesser", and she will treat all who work up the nerve to speak to her with equality. However, she does not suffer fools, and if you attempt to flirt with her, on your own head be the consequences.
She agreed to work with the Syndicates to aid the Island in combating the threats surrounding the appearance of Mega City, and since kept to herself with her personal detachment of the River Guard until the 2024 Fortnitemares.
Her deepest regret is that her brother Takeshi deserted the Guard to join the Fox Clan. She views this both as him abandoning his post and his duty to pursue irresponsibility, and also as her own personal failure as a sister. Their father, the Emperor, died of grief shortly afterwards, and Mizuki blames Takeshi for this. She ascended the throne at a very young age out of necessity. Mentions of Takeshi or the Fox Clan run the risk of hostility.
Since coming here she has formed strong allied friendships with King Midas, Megalo Don, Guernsey and his suppressed identity Joey, and Commander John Jones. She defends these fiercely. Furthermore, she has formally adopted as her son the young rōnin Kendo, who has renounced all ties to his former clan and family.
When she and the Ageless Champion first met, they clashed bitterly and despised each other. Since then, long conversations and circumstances have formed understanding, and the Ageless swore himself to her service as her Champion. Now that arrangement has become something more, and she has lost the battle for her heart, now held by her beloved Champion, though she thought he was too deeply scarred to return it. She was proven very wrong just before the turn of the year, and she and Eugene pledged their hearts and souls to one another under the stars of a beautiful Winterfest night.
She had befriended Catrina and her son Carver, but they chose to stay on the Remix Island while she moved forward. Catrina gifted her three bags of seeds, one pumpkin, one marigold, and one lotus. She grows a marigold and a pumpkin in her friends' memories. The lotus are being kept for the place she decides to make her permanent home.
Interestingly, despite Oninoshima being part of her old home, she did not plant the lotus seeds.
**Darker themes ahead: CW for death, PTSD, hallucinations, memory issues.**
Her brother Takeshi, now known as Stray, holds a deep grudge against Mizuki for the death of their uncle, who he is unaware attempted to murder Mizuki for the throne. Stray has pursued Mizuki in a quest for vengeance, and they clashed for the third time on Oninoshima. The battle resulted in Stray gravely injured, and Mizuki dying shortly thereafter in her Champion's arms.
Contrary to everyone's expectations, the Zero Point reconstructed and respawned her where she had died, but not before dragging her scattered consciousness through the thousands of other versions of her life that exist across the Omniverse all at once. She now suffers from confusion, sometimes unable to tell which memories are her own, and occasionally suffering hallucinations of those thousands of memories, with nightmares to boot, all while coming to terms with what might be her worst nightmare: immortality.
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Hmm. I had never considered that my similarities to him could very much be a positive, as much as they are a negative...
I had thought he would know what to expect, having slain so many of his alternates... but it is perhaps for that reason that he has no basis of understanding.
*It is in Geno's nature to strike swiftly and completely, leaving them no moment with which to strike back. Without any meaningful interaction, he would never truly grasp how he acted from without...*
*He returned to the present, however, when Mizuki touched his cheek. Taking her hand, he kissed it reverently.*
My Empress, it does not matter what shall be our path into the future. You shall not walk it alone, for I will stay by your side. I could no sooner abandon you than I could remove a limb from my body.
My love, you could never deny that you and he are the same flesh. You share so many traits, like your pride, your temper, your desire to explore and to know, and the ease with which you bear authority. But you, beloved, have tempered them with moderation and humility, content with what you have, while he has become a glutton, consuming all and wanting more.
These traits are nothing to be ashamed of simply for sharing their core with him. Indeed, I confess, they are what make me love you.
[As he kissed her hand then, she pulled Eugene up and caught his lips in hers for a moment. Just a small reminder. I know you. I love you.]
And I will stay by yours, no matter the cost.
[They released each other after a few seconds, and she moved instead to shut the curtains entirely, despising the feeling of being watched that had been crawling up her spine since Geno left. That done, and the feeling lifting a bit, she started pouring a bit of tea to relax them both.
Strange, that their greatest enemy had just made a brazen show of invading her territory, and yet not ten minutes later they were both here, in love and drinking tea... A surreal situation indeed...]
Tell me... Do you know why he gave you such favor, and why we were included? Did he feel generous enough to say?
*Eugene shook his head at first, before pausing, an inquisitive look on his face.*
... Not directly. Yet, he made several references to my being of his blood, and "made in his image."
*Merely saying the words felt bitter on his tongue. Geno may have been immortal, yet he was still a man. To make such a god-like claim... it made him despise the man even more.*
If I were to put forth an idea... it would seem as though he believes myself and Odette to be more important than the common man, due to being created from his very genetic code. If he sees us as a part of himself, well... he is a very particular man about his own being. It irked him when I made light of his imperfect appearance, though he hid it well.
To a man such as that, to scar us in any way would be akin to removing a limb. Or perhaps more accurately, to chipping a nail. An imperfection he could not abide.
*He scoffed.*
Though with our similarities, his proposal to rule beneath him alongside Odette seems particularly laughable. Invulnerable though he may be, I personally would not take the constant unrest of potential betrayal in my "perfect" kingdom.
*Eugene did laugh, then. It felt like a relief.*
Why, of all the things! He even presumed that it was you who I had taken as MY consort! He would never even imagine the truth of our relationship! Imagine, perhaps, if learning the accurate picture sent him into a state of shock! T'would be a fantastic strategy indeed!
The Order is his daughter... Perhaps to him you are a son, though I despise the idea. He takes pride in what he has made of himself, and I suppose you are included.
Still, how bizarre that he would think so little of us, yet promise our safety to you.
[Arrogance. No doubt Geno considered the River Guard a passing fascination for his snapshot. An interest he could afford to indulge until mortality ended Eugene's amusement. The unmitigated arrogance...]
No matter. If he truly stays his hand for your sake, I shall take the respite gladly... and when his hand inevitably falls, we shall have had the time to ensure he impales it upon us.
[As Mizuki set the teapot aside and selected their favorite leaves, she paused at Eugene's words.]
Hold now... "his imperfect appearance"?
[She glanced at Eugene. The picture of perfect celestial beauty. Geno's exact image at the time of his creation.]
Has something... damaged him?
[The prospect of Geno's cultivated beauty being marred, alongside the self-absorbed assumption that his snapshot must be the superior rank in their relationship, that made Mizuki laugh heartily with Eugene, leaning back in her chair as laughter made their hearts light. Oh, she could almost picture the shock on his face as he learned the truth!
A thought... Mizuki calmed suddenly, an idea spinning to life in her mind. The concept crystallized into full potential, and she bolted upright in her seat, eyes distant as a thousand possible outcomes stretched out before her.
"Next time we play, I encourage you to take every advantage you can get. You will need it."
Her hand strayed to cover her mouth as she considered. In his hubris, Geno may have ceded her an advantage in this new game...
Focus snapping back to the present, she turned to Eugene, still resting in his amusement, and caught his hand between hers, capturing his attention instantly.]
Eugene, my love... I have a potential plan for how we move forward from here under his eye, but it is a dangerous gamble, and I need for you to hear me out and speak plainly of any flaw. But I must make absolutely clear that I have no intention of giving this madman what he desires, no matter what this idea may seem. Do you trust me?
Yes. His face, while perfectly symmetrical as my own, has several scars upon it. His hair, also, is beginning to grey, and has white streaks throughout...
My suspicion would be that, whatever the means with which he brought himself back to life, they were not completely successful in restoring his appearance.
*Odd that he had not yet rectified that... but perhaps he simply lacked the time or resources.*
*At her question, Eugene leapt to his feet, eyes clear.*
My Empress, I trust you with my soul, my life and all I am. Whatever your plan, I shall hear it out with an open mind.
[And with his appearance so deviated, Geno could not easily fool their allies again.
Mizuki stood with Eugene, the weight of the Empress falling over her again. She was playing with fire here, but it was her duty to explore the possibility...]
He believes you to be the higher authority in our arrangement, assumes that the River Guard belong to you not as your people, but as tools belong to a craftsman, or toys to a child. That you have ownership over us. Over me.
[She masked the disgust that welled at the thought carefully.]
His favor is likely contingent on that assumption. To discover that you are my subordinate may invoke his wrath, as his nature would reject the idea of servitude.
[The Empress set her fans aside, taking Eugene's hands in hers again.]
What I have built is no army, but a refuge. The River Guard is a sanctuary for those in need. You know this better than any. As deeply as we despise Geno, and as much as we may research how to destroy him, we are not the driving force opposing him, and therefore we must endure on the sidelines.
I refuse to bow to Geno. I will die a thousand deaths before I ever consider it. But attacking him is not the only way to oppose him. Perhaps we can take this favor he has given you, and bide our time until we can strangle him with it.
... Perhaps if he sees you in exactly the manner he expects to see you, this favor will continue to be our shield...
*Eugene was following her logic... but at the last sentence, he visibly recoiled.*
Mizuki, were I not aware of how carefully you choose your words, I would think you mad!
To accept rule of any kind would be to...
*To do... what? Leave his mind open to Geno's possession? Geno was here, already, in a form superior to his in every way, except (quiet snicker) beauty.*
*He would have no need to take over Eugene's body. Especially since he seemed to find him, for whatever reason, fascinating. Besides, another version of himself, potentially vying for control, would be the exact opposite of what Geno would want.*
... I am no longer certain what the effect on my mind would be. With Geno here, it seems unlikely that he would like competition from himself...
*The benefits would be amazing for the River Guard. By giving Geno what he wanted to see, the man would likely ignore those that were not him. And that was something Eugene would gladly live with if it meant their safety.*
But... share your crown? Are you certain? You have ruled long and well all these years. It would pain me to see any loss of respect for you for no longer being the sole power behind the River Guard...
[A rueful smile played at her lips for an instant.]
Not in this sense, at least.
You know what I am gambling with in this... I cannot imagine he would be so careless as to create a rival, not when he erased entire realities to ensure there was never another Geno.
[The Empress sighed, her gaze falling to the floor. Her mind lost itself in a hundred thousand memories of lonely rule, and the weight of it all showed in her shoulders.]
Long, well, and alone... I never spoke of it to you, but with you I have often wished that I could share the crown, because you are the only one to whom I would entrust my people... and in my eyes it is your due honor, which I have only withheld for your safety.
What good is respect when I alone am no longer shield enough for them? The one who should be deterred cares not, and steps onto my territory in broad daylight with complete disregard for me and my people. There is no respect to be lost from my enemy, and if I lose favor with my allies for elevating you, then their fickle allegiance was never of any value.
... Those who will oppose Geno blatantly require shelter and support. For them, the River Guard must stand, and for the River Guard to stand, we require an adequate shield that even Geno respects.
The River Guard needs you, Eugene... But I will not ask more of you than you are able. Forgive me, my love, for putting the burden of this choice on you...
[Her voice trailed off, her eyes closed. She had hoped to make this offer when they were finally safe... a victory they could celebrate together, not a weight to shoulder...]
*Eugene thought back to his own time as ruler of the Oathbound. The loneliness, the paranoia knowing that any around him might only be there to seek power for themselves. He had had few friends. And many that he had had betrayed him in the end.*
*Like Stellan...*
... I know well the feeling.
*He sat beside her, eyes at the same level.*
... You know, of course, that it would pain me greatly to cast any doubt upon your honor. I am quite certain there would be those who would wonder if you had been manipulated into such a decision... or worse, that it revealed yourself as siding with Geno to give me such an honor.
But if you are certain that I would be able to act as a shield for those we both love... and a true and equal partner for you... the there is no answer in my heart but to accept.
*He stared into the middle distance, a slight breeze playing at his hair.*
I had never loved the crown overmuch. Even when I bore it, the sword, the call of exploration, they tugged at my heart.
But there is no greater call than the one which bids you to defend the weak with yourself. And if we shall do so together, truly as one...
And if any would think so little of me and my strength of will as to assume I would be so taken in and used, then they are worth less than naught to me, for clearly they never respected me at the first!!
If elevating you to your rightful position causes them to waver, then so be it. Let us expose and be rid of them before we find too late that we rely on them.
[The Empress scoffed, crossing her arms with a haughty expression. She had known many such people, those who were so weak-willed or close-minded that they could not accept the obvious benefit of certain choices she made, simply because they disliked the people or methods involved or were too cowardly to take the risk, and thought less of her for stepping up.
Until it proved beneficial, of course, and then they liked to pretend they had always supported her. Or they dug their heels in further and alienated themselves, becoming what they swore they opposed. As if recorded history would forget their spineless inaction! Such people were easy to predict and use to her own benefit.
Weakness like that needed to be rooted out before it was incorporated into the chain that would eventually bind Geno.
Turning her attention back to her lover, the Empress' expression softened again, and she cupped his face gently in her hands, brushing that ever-rebellious lock of hair away from his eyes.]
You loved the Oathbound, my sun, and you love the River Guard. I have seen it from the beginning, in every way that you have respected and adopted our culture and people. My Guard are deeply fond of you. As much as you were Oathbound, I think you are also River Guard now. You belong to and with us. I could not ask for a more fitting partner on the throne.
[She smiled, stroking his cheek.]
And I would never dream of restraining you from the exploration you adore, just as I gave Kendo the title of Prince to give him freedom to render aid with authority. I feel we share the same opinion of the crown itself, though honor and duty drive us to bear it. Whatever you wish to do with your time, beloved, it is yours...
Be my equal, beloved. As entertaining as our little games have been, it is your right, and an honor I have been loathe to withhold. Be our Champion, and my Emperor, at my side, as one.
I have one more thing to... perhaps not warn you of, but make clear.
*His eyes hardened into the eyes of a man long since used to rule-- though not unkind, and softened behind with the love for the woman he now spoke to.*
If you grant me this... if for the first time across time, the empires of the Oathbound and the River Guard are truly united as one... we shall be as true equals, and I shall act as such. I know there shall be times where we disagree, as any two humans must. But just as often as I yield to your decisions, so shall I stand firm in my own.
We would have to reconcile that, our different manners of rule. I would be no tyrant-- I was not one to the Oathbound, who I loved. How much more to the River Guard, who I love and know?-- but if I am granted authority, I shall use it as I see fit, tempered by good council and our two hearts and minds as one.
I shall not be your Champion, simply carrying out your orders. I shall be your Emperor, as you shall be my Empress. Indeed, you have been such for the entire time I have known you, and I know the pride that must come with that position, and is healthy to do so. Would you bear this?
*He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.*
I do not wish to compromise our relationship with each other over this. That is the heart of my concern.
[As Eugene's air shifted, so did the Empress' to match him. Equally experienced, equally serious.
This was the man she had seen on the battlements of the Citadel. The bearing of an Emperor, not mere nobility. It was as she suspected. A nature such as this, the instinct and natural authority, was not something that could be wholly undone and left behind. It had simply been restrained out of respect for her, and for the sake of the Island.]
It is true, I am unused to sharing equal authority. You know my circumstances, what I have endured for their sake, and what I have shielded them from by remaining solitary.
However, that does not mean I am unwilling to share it with one who is worthy. I have always been aware that, should I ever find one that I loved and trusted enough to wed and share the crown with, that I would have to change how I approach ruling the River Guard. I would have to learn to collaborate with my partner, rather than hold the sole voice of authority.
I expect nothing less of you. Certainly with your years on the throne, you are as unused to sharing authority as I. But I trust that we understand one another, and love our family and people, well enough to find a balance.
[Her eyes softened, and she tilted her head slightly.]
Did you not suggest to me once that I reevaluate what traditions and practices truly benefitted my people in this place? I think perhaps you should do the same. If you accept, then what follows is a true mingling of the Oathbound and the River Guard. We should arrange an understanding of how such a thing ought to be governed together before you take the throne, for the sake of stability. Let us bring together the best of both our Empires, and bring forward a better River Guard for it.
Perhaps it can be as you say... we may be the hosts of those fleeing from the wrath of Geno, to make a place and a people that is neither Oathbound nor River Guard, but the best portions of both, strengthened by those who join us.
*Hands in hers, he stood facing her.*
Then let me be the shield to defend us and the sword to strike where our foes may be. You shall be the silken drapery pf elegance and majesty, hiding the unbending steel that shall be the backbone of those we protect. Together, we would be stronger than apart.
*He smiled, a spark of hope flaring behind his eyes.*
Perhaps, one day... strong enough to even bring the unbeatable to his knees.
[Eugene's words set a fire in Mizuki's heart, and the warmth showed in the smile that now spread on her face. Raising his hands to her lips, she kissed the callouses her own hands would never know.]
My legacy, my people, my heart... all are in your hands, sunlight of my life. For good or ill, for all time. Your name shall be beside mine in the annals of our history, whoever yet may read them.
And whatever may befall... know that this and every moment with you that I may keep... every single one is worth the risk we are taking. To have had this time at all is more than I dreamed, more than I deserve...
[Their games had been amusing indeed, playing at forbidden love, stealing kisses and intimate moments when the Guard turned their backs. Amusing and endearing, and she would not have traded it for the world.
But now? The prospect of having him stand openly beside her, in his full glory, beautiful, honored, and hers? The thought sent prickling heat racing through her skin. The Omniverse could look on and envy, and he would still belong to her alone. They would know his name only ever entwined with hers, and vice versa.
Eugene and Mizuki. Her Emperor, his Empress.
The rushing thrill of the idea fanned the flame in her heart, and Mizuki pulled Eugene down and kissed him full this time, savoring this intimacy in defiance of the one who mocked it. He couldn't take this moment from them. Eugene was hers.
Several minutes passed before they paused to breathe, and neither registered consciously that they were no longer standing. All they knew was the other in their arms, and the shared gaze in which they both drowned. His breath was hot on her lips as she ran her fingers back through his hair.]
Tomorrow I will commune with Ryujin on your behalf... My Emperor must be known to our patron.... though I now realize I know not what surname you bear for me to take in his presence... if you desire me to...
*Eugene leaned into the kiss, his chest warming at the sheer heat Mizuki gave off. He would never describe her as dispassionate, especially after having spent so much time this close to her, but he had certainly never felt her act like this. It was thrilling, to say the least.*
*As she pulled back and asked her question, blushing like a maid being asked for her first dance, he suddenly paused.*
*His... surname?*
I... do not recall ever possessing one...
*When he had been the Emperor of the Oathbound, he was the Champion, or the Ageless Champion, or the Emperor. Eugene was technically not a name he was ever called, though it was one shared with close confidants. And in the years after, he had gone by simply Eugene of the Oathbound, then the River Guard.*
Perhaps, if it is allowed, may I take yours instead? I do not know it--
*He chuckled slightly.*
-- which is amusing, in consideration of what I do know of you.
[No surname?! No tie to a family?! Was he denied even the most basic human right to be connected to the history of his family?! Even if his progenitor was a madman, that did not mean the family who had come before were anything to be ashamed of!
Was this insult the fault of Geno or the Oathbound culture? A white-hot flash of rage pierced Mizuki, and she closed her eyes, leaning her forehead against Eugene's and letting the anger roll off in a breath.
He was right. It was rather silly of them. Laughing with him into another kiss, she brushed her fingers through the threads of his hair that lay across the sheets.]
Then take mine, my sunlight. If your family will not claim you, then mine shall, with pride.
[She trailed her lips over his cheek.]
Ryuukawa. Gifted to the imperial family by our patron generations ago. From tomorrow onwards, you shall be Ryuukawa.
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Hmm. I had never considered that my similarities to him could very much be a positive, as much as they are a negative...
I had thought he would know what to expect, having slain so many of his alternates... but it is perhaps for that reason that he has no basis of understanding.
*It is in Geno's nature to strike swiftly and completely, leaving them no moment with which to strike back. Without any meaningful interaction, he would never truly grasp how he acted from without...*
*He returned to the present, however, when Mizuki touched his cheek. Taking her hand, he kissed it reverently.*
My Empress, it does not matter what shall be our path into the future. You shall not walk it alone, for I will stay by your side. I could no sooner abandon you than I could remove a limb from my body.
My love, you could never deny that you and he are the same flesh. You share so many traits, like your pride, your temper, your desire to explore and to know, and the ease with which you bear authority. But you, beloved, have tempered them with moderation and humility, content with what you have, while he has become a glutton, consuming all and wanting more.
These traits are nothing to be ashamed of simply for sharing their core with him. Indeed, I confess, they are what make me love you.
[As he kissed her hand then, she pulled Eugene up and caught his lips in hers for a moment. Just a small reminder. I know you. I love you.]
And I will stay by yours, no matter the cost.
[They released each other after a few seconds, and she moved instead to shut the curtains entirely, despising the feeling of being watched that had been crawling up her spine since Geno left. That done, and the feeling lifting a bit, she started pouring a bit of tea to relax them both.
Strange, that their greatest enemy had just made a brazen show of invading her territory, and yet not ten minutes later they were both here, in love and drinking tea... A surreal situation indeed...]
Tell me... Do you know why he gave you such favor, and why we were included? Did he feel generous enough to say?
*Eugene shook his head at first, before pausing, an inquisitive look on his face.*
... Not directly. Yet, he made several references to my being of his blood, and "made in his image."
*Merely saying the words felt bitter on his tongue. Geno may have been immortal, yet he was still a man. To make such a god-like claim... it made him despise the man even more.*
If I were to put forth an idea... it would seem as though he believes myself and Odette to be more important than the common man, due to being created from his very genetic code. If he sees us as a part of himself, well... he is a very particular man about his own being. It irked him when I made light of his imperfect appearance, though he hid it well.
To a man such as that, to scar us in any way would be akin to removing a limb. Or perhaps more accurately, to chipping a nail. An imperfection he could not abide.
*He scoffed.*
Though with our similarities, his proposal to rule beneath him alongside Odette seems particularly laughable. Invulnerable though he may be, I personally would not take the constant unrest of potential betrayal in my "perfect" kingdom.
*Eugene did laugh, then. It felt like a relief.*
Why, of all the things! He even presumed that it was you who I had taken as MY consort! He would never even imagine the truth of our relationship! Imagine, perhaps, if learning the accurate picture sent him into a state of shock! T'would be a fantastic strategy indeed!
The Order is his daughter... Perhaps to him you are a son, though I despise the idea. He takes pride in what he has made of himself, and I suppose you are included.
Still, how bizarre that he would think so little of us, yet promise our safety to you.
[Arrogance. No doubt Geno considered the River Guard a passing fascination for his snapshot. An interest he could afford to indulge until mortality ended Eugene's amusement. The unmitigated arrogance...]
No matter. If he truly stays his hand for your sake, I shall take the respite gladly... and when his hand inevitably falls, we shall have had the time to ensure he impales it upon us.
[As Mizuki set the teapot aside and selected their favorite leaves, she paused at Eugene's words.]
Hold now... "his imperfect appearance"?
[She glanced at Eugene. The picture of perfect celestial beauty. Geno's exact image at the time of his creation.]
Has something... damaged him?
[The prospect of Geno's cultivated beauty being marred, alongside the self-absorbed assumption that his snapshot must be the superior rank in their relationship, that made Mizuki laugh heartily with Eugene, leaning back in her chair as laughter made their hearts light. Oh, she could almost picture the shock on his face as he learned the truth!
A thought... Mizuki calmed suddenly, an idea spinning to life in her mind. The concept crystallized into full potential, and she bolted upright in her seat, eyes distant as a thousand possible outcomes stretched out before her.
"Next time we play, I encourage you to take every advantage you can get. You will need it."
Her hand strayed to cover her mouth as she considered. In his hubris, Geno may have ceded her an advantage in this new game...
Focus snapping back to the present, she turned to Eugene, still resting in his amusement, and caught his hand between hers, capturing his attention instantly.]
Eugene, my love... I have a potential plan for how we move forward from here under his eye, but it is a dangerous gamble, and I need for you to hear me out and speak plainly of any flaw. But I must make absolutely clear that I have no intention of giving this madman what he desires, no matter what this idea may seem. Do you trust me?
Yes. His face, while perfectly symmetrical as my own, has several scars upon it. His hair, also, is beginning to grey, and has white streaks throughout...
My suspicion would be that, whatever the means with which he brought himself back to life, they were not completely successful in restoring his appearance.
*Odd that he had not yet rectified that... but perhaps he simply lacked the time or resources.*
*At her question, Eugene leapt to his feet, eyes clear.*
My Empress, I trust you with my soul, my life and all I am. Whatever your plan, I shall hear it out with an open mind.
[And with his appearance so deviated, Geno could not easily fool their allies again.
Mizuki stood with Eugene, the weight of the Empress falling over her again. She was playing with fire here, but it was her duty to explore the possibility...]
He believes you to be the higher authority in our arrangement, assumes that the River Guard belong to you not as your people, but as tools belong to a craftsman, or toys to a child. That you have ownership over us. Over me.
[She masked the disgust that welled at the thought carefully.]
His favor is likely contingent on that assumption. To discover that you are my subordinate may invoke his wrath, as his nature would reject the idea of servitude.
[The Empress set her fans aside, taking Eugene's hands in hers again.]
What I have built is no army, but a refuge. The River Guard is a sanctuary for those in need. You know this better than any. As deeply as we despise Geno, and as much as we may research how to destroy him, we are not the driving force opposing him, and therefore we must endure on the sidelines.
I refuse to bow to Geno. I will die a thousand deaths before I ever consider it. But attacking him is not the only way to oppose him. Perhaps we can take this favor he has given you, and bide our time until we can strangle him with it.
... Perhaps if he sees you in exactly the manner he expects to see you, this favor will continue to be our shield...
*Eugene was following her logic... but at the last sentence, he visibly recoiled.*
Mizuki, were I not aware of how carefully you choose your words, I would think you mad!
To accept rule of any kind would be to...
*To do... what? Leave his mind open to Geno's possession? Geno was here, already, in a form superior to his in every way, except (quiet snicker) beauty.*
*He would have no need to take over Eugene's body. Especially since he seemed to find him, for whatever reason, fascinating. Besides, another version of himself, potentially vying for control, would be the exact opposite of what Geno would want.*
... I am no longer certain what the effect on my mind would be. With Geno here, it seems unlikely that he would like competition from himself...
*The benefits would be amazing for the River Guard. By giving Geno what he wanted to see, the man would likely ignore those that were not him. And that was something Eugene would gladly live with if it meant their safety.*
But... share your crown? Are you certain? You have ruled long and well all these years. It would pain me to see any loss of respect for you for no longer being the sole power behind the River Guard...
[A rueful smile played at her lips for an instant.]
Not in this sense, at least.
You know what I am gambling with in this... I cannot imagine he would be so careless as to create a rival, not when he erased entire realities to ensure there was never another Geno.
[The Empress sighed, her gaze falling to the floor. Her mind lost itself in a hundred thousand memories of lonely rule, and the weight of it all showed in her shoulders.]
Long, well, and alone... I never spoke of it to you, but with you I have often wished that I could share the crown, because you are the only one to whom I would entrust my people... and in my eyes it is your due honor, which I have only withheld for your safety.
What good is respect when I alone am no longer shield enough for them? The one who should be deterred cares not, and steps onto my territory in broad daylight with complete disregard for me and my people. There is no respect to be lost from my enemy, and if I lose favor with my allies for elevating you, then their fickle allegiance was never of any value.
... Those who will oppose Geno blatantly require shelter and support. For them, the River Guard must stand, and for the River Guard to stand, we require an adequate shield that even Geno respects.
The River Guard needs you, Eugene... But I will not ask more of you than you are able. Forgive me, my love, for putting the burden of this choice on you...
[Her voice trailed off, her eyes closed. She had hoped to make this offer when they were finally safe... a victory they could celebrate together, not a weight to shoulder...]
*Eugene thought back to his own time as ruler of the Oathbound. The loneliness, the paranoia knowing that any around him might only be there to seek power for themselves. He had had few friends. And many that he had had betrayed him in the end.*
*Like Stellan...*
... I know well the feeling.
*He sat beside her, eyes at the same level.*
... You know, of course, that it would pain me greatly to cast any doubt upon your honor. I am quite certain there would be those who would wonder if you had been manipulated into such a decision... or worse, that it revealed yourself as siding with Geno to give me such an honor.
But if you are certain that I would be able to act as a shield for those we both love... and a true and equal partner for you... the there is no answer in my heart but to accept.
*He stared into the middle distance, a slight breeze playing at his hair.*
I had never loved the crown overmuch. Even when I bore it, the sword, the call of exploration, they tugged at my heart.
But there is no greater call than the one which bids you to defend the weak with yourself. And if we shall do so together, truly as one...
And if any would think so little of me and my strength of will as to assume I would be so taken in and used, then they are worth less than naught to me, for clearly they never respected me at the first!!
If elevating you to your rightful position causes them to waver, then so be it. Let us expose and be rid of them before we find too late that we rely on them.
[The Empress scoffed, crossing her arms with a haughty expression. She had known many such people, those who were so weak-willed or close-minded that they could not accept the obvious benefit of certain choices she made, simply because they disliked the people or methods involved or were too cowardly to take the risk, and thought less of her for stepping up.
Until it proved beneficial, of course, and then they liked to pretend they had always supported her. Or they dug their heels in further and alienated themselves, becoming what they swore they opposed. As if recorded history would forget their spineless inaction! Such people were easy to predict and use to her own benefit.
Weakness like that needed to be rooted out before it was incorporated into the chain that would eventually bind Geno.
Turning her attention back to her lover, the Empress' expression softened again, and she cupped his face gently in her hands, brushing that ever-rebellious lock of hair away from his eyes.]
You loved the Oathbound, my sun, and you love the River Guard. I have seen it from the beginning, in every way that you have respected and adopted our culture and people. My Guard are deeply fond of you. As much as you were Oathbound, I think you are also River Guard now. You belong to and with us. I could not ask for a more fitting partner on the throne.
[She smiled, stroking his cheek.]
And I would never dream of restraining you from the exploration you adore, just as I gave Kendo the title of Prince to give him freedom to render aid with authority. I feel we share the same opinion of the crown itself, though honor and duty drive us to bear it. Whatever you wish to do with your time, beloved, it is yours...
Be my equal, beloved. As entertaining as our little games have been, it is your right, and an honor I have been loathe to withhold. Be our Champion, and my Emperor, at my side, as one.
I have one more thing to... perhaps not warn you of, but make clear.
*His eyes hardened into the eyes of a man long since used to rule-- though not unkind, and softened behind with the love for the woman he now spoke to.*
If you grant me this... if for the first time across time, the empires of the Oathbound and the River Guard are truly united as one... we shall be as true equals, and I shall act as such. I know there shall be times where we disagree, as any two humans must. But just as often as I yield to your decisions, so shall I stand firm in my own.
We would have to reconcile that, our different manners of rule. I would be no tyrant-- I was not one to the Oathbound, who I loved. How much more to the River Guard, who I love and know?-- but if I am granted authority, I shall use it as I see fit, tempered by good council and our two hearts and minds as one.
I shall not be your Champion, simply carrying out your orders. I shall be your Emperor, as you shall be my Empress. Indeed, you have been such for the entire time I have known you, and I know the pride that must come with that position, and is healthy to do so. Would you bear this?
*He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.*
I do not wish to compromise our relationship with each other over this. That is the heart of my concern.
[As Eugene's air shifted, so did the Empress' to match him. Equally experienced, equally serious.
This was the man she had seen on the battlements of the Citadel. The bearing of an Emperor, not mere nobility. It was as she suspected. A nature such as this, the instinct and natural authority, was not something that could be wholly undone and left behind. It had simply been restrained out of respect for her, and for the sake of the Island.]
It is true, I am unused to sharing equal authority. You know my circumstances, what I have endured for their sake, and what I have shielded them from by remaining solitary.
However, that does not mean I am unwilling to share it with one who is worthy. I have always been aware that, should I ever find one that I loved and trusted enough to wed and share the crown with, that I would have to change how I approach ruling the River Guard. I would have to learn to collaborate with my partner, rather than hold the sole voice of authority.
I expect nothing less of you. Certainly with your years on the throne, you are as unused to sharing authority as I. But I trust that we understand one another, and love our family and people, well enough to find a balance.
[Her eyes softened, and she tilted her head slightly.]
Did you not suggest to me once that I reevaluate what traditions and practices truly benefitted my people in this place? I think perhaps you should do the same. If you accept, then what follows is a true mingling of the Oathbound and the River Guard. We should arrange an understanding of how such a thing ought to be governed together before you take the throne, for the sake of stability. Let us bring together the best of both our Empires, and bring forward a better River Guard for it.
Perhaps it can be as you say... we may be the hosts of those fleeing from the wrath of Geno, to make a place and a people that is neither Oathbound nor River Guard, but the best portions of both, strengthened by those who join us.
*Hands in hers, he stood facing her.*
Then let me be the shield to defend us and the sword to strike where our foes may be. You shall be the silken drapery pf elegance and majesty, hiding the unbending steel that shall be the backbone of those we protect. Together, we would be stronger than apart.
*He smiled, a spark of hope flaring behind his eyes.*
Perhaps, one day... strong enough to even bring the unbeatable to his knees.
[Eugene's words set a fire in Mizuki's heart, and the warmth showed in the smile that now spread on her face. Raising his hands to her lips, she kissed the callouses her own hands would never know.]
My legacy, my people, my heart... all are in your hands, sunlight of my life. For good or ill, for all time. Your name shall be beside mine in the annals of our history, whoever yet may read them.
And whatever may befall... know that this and every moment with you that I may keep... every single one is worth the risk we are taking. To have had this time at all is more than I dreamed, more than I deserve...
[Their games had been amusing indeed, playing at forbidden love, stealing kisses and intimate moments when the Guard turned their backs. Amusing and endearing, and she would not have traded it for the world.
But now? The prospect of having him stand openly beside her, in his full glory, beautiful, honored, and hers? The thought sent prickling heat racing through her skin. The Omniverse could look on and envy, and he would still belong to her alone. They would know his name only ever entwined with hers, and vice versa.
Eugene and Mizuki. Her Emperor, his Empress.
The rushing thrill of the idea fanned the flame in her heart, and Mizuki pulled Eugene down and kissed him full this time, savoring this intimacy in defiance of the one who mocked it. He couldn't take this moment from them. Eugene was hers.
Several minutes passed before they paused to breathe, and neither registered consciously that they were no longer standing. All they knew was the other in their arms, and the shared gaze in which they both drowned. His breath was hot on her lips as she ran her fingers back through his hair.]
Tomorrow I will commune with Ryujin on your behalf... My Emperor must be known to our patron.... though I now realize I know not what surname you bear for me to take in his presence... if you desire me to...
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Hmm. I had never considered that my similarities to him could very much be a positive, as much as they are a negative...
I had thought he would know what to expect, having slain so many of his alternates... but it is perhaps for that reason that he has no basis of understanding.
*It is in Geno's nature to strike swiftly and completely, leaving them no moment with which to strike back. Without any meaningful interaction, he would never truly grasp how he acted from without...*
*He returned to the present, however, when Mizuki touched his cheek. Taking her hand, he kissed it reverently.*
My Empress, it does not matter what shall be our path into the future. You shall not walk it alone, for I will stay by your side. I could no sooner abandon you than I could remove a limb from my body.
My love, you could never deny that you and he are the same flesh. You share so many traits, like your pride, your temper, your desire to explore and to know, and the ease with which you bear authority. But you, beloved, have tempered them with moderation and humility, content with what you have, while he has become a glutton, consuming all and wanting more.
These traits are nothing to be ashamed of simply for sharing their core with him. Indeed, I confess, they are what make me love you.
[As he kissed her hand then, she pulled Eugene up and caught his lips in hers for a moment. Just a small reminder. I know you. I love you.]
And I will stay by yours, no matter the cost.
[They released each other after a few seconds, and she moved instead to shut the curtains entirely, despising the feeling of being watched that had been crawling up her spine since Geno left. That done, and the feeling lifting a bit, she started pouring a bit of tea to relax them both.
Strange, that their greatest enemy had just made a brazen show of invading her territory, and yet not ten minutes later they were both here, in love and drinking tea... A surreal situation indeed...]
Tell me... Do you know why he gave you such favor, and why we were included? Did he feel generous enough to say?
*Eugene shook his head at first, before pausing, an inquisitive look on his face.*
... Not directly. Yet, he made several references to my being of his blood, and "made in his image."
*Merely saying the words felt bitter on his tongue. Geno may have been immortal, yet he was still a man. To make such a god-like claim... it made him despise the man even more.*
If I were to put forth an idea... it would seem as though he believes myself and Odette to be more important than the common man, due to being created from his very genetic code. If he sees us as a part of himself, well... he is a very particular man about his own being. It irked him when I made light of his imperfect appearance, though he hid it well.
To a man such as that, to scar us in any way would be akin to removing a limb. Or perhaps more accurately, to chipping a nail. An imperfection he could not abide.
*He scoffed.*
Though with our similarities, his proposal to rule beneath him alongside Odette seems particularly laughable. Invulnerable though he may be, I personally would not take the constant unrest of potential betrayal in my "perfect" kingdom.
*Eugene did laugh, then. It felt like a relief.*
Why, of all the things! He even presumed that it was you who I had taken as MY consort! He would never even imagine the truth of our relationship! Imagine, perhaps, if learning the accurate picture sent him into a state of shock! T'would be a fantastic strategy indeed!
The Order is his daughter... Perhaps to him you are a son, though I despise the idea. He takes pride in what he has made of himself, and I suppose you are included.
Still, how bizarre that he would think so little of us, yet promise our safety to you.
[Arrogance. No doubt Geno considered the River Guard a passing fascination for his snapshot. An interest he could afford to indulge until mortality ended Eugene's amusement. The unmitigated arrogance...]
No matter. If he truly stays his hand for your sake, I shall take the respite gladly... and when his hand inevitably falls, we shall have had the time to ensure he impales it upon us.
[As Mizuki set the teapot aside and selected their favorite leaves, she paused at Eugene's words.]
Hold now... "his imperfect appearance"?
[She glanced at Eugene. The picture of perfect celestial beauty. Geno's exact image at the time of his creation.]
Has something... damaged him?
[The prospect of Geno's cultivated beauty being marred, alongside the self-absorbed assumption that his snapshot must be the superior rank in their relationship, that made Mizuki laugh heartily with Eugene, leaning back in her chair as laughter made their hearts light. Oh, she could almost picture the shock on his face as he learned the truth!
A thought... Mizuki calmed suddenly, an idea spinning to life in her mind. The concept crystallized into full potential, and she bolted upright in her seat, eyes distant as a thousand possible outcomes stretched out before her.
"Next time we play, I encourage you to take every advantage you can get. You will need it."
Her hand strayed to cover her mouth as she considered. In his hubris, Geno may have ceded her an advantage in this new game...
Focus snapping back to the present, she turned to Eugene, still resting in his amusement, and caught his hand between hers, capturing his attention instantly.]
Eugene, my love... I have a potential plan for how we move forward from here under his eye, but it is a dangerous gamble, and I need for you to hear me out and speak plainly of any flaw. But I must make absolutely clear that I have no intention of giving this madman what he desires, no matter what this idea may seem. Do you trust me?
Yes. His face, while perfectly symmetrical as my own, has several scars upon it. His hair, also, is beginning to grey, and has white streaks throughout...
My suspicion would be that, whatever the means with which he brought himself back to life, they were not completely successful in restoring his appearance.
*Odd that he had not yet rectified that... but perhaps he simply lacked the time or resources.*
*At her question, Eugene leapt to his feet, eyes clear.*
My Empress, I trust you with my soul, my life and all I am. Whatever your plan, I shall hear it out with an open mind.
[And with his appearance so deviated, Geno could not easily fool their allies again.
Mizuki stood with Eugene, the weight of the Empress falling over her again. She was playing with fire here, but it was her duty to explore the possibility...]
He believes you to be the higher authority in our arrangement, assumes that the River Guard belong to you not as your people, but as tools belong to a craftsman, or toys to a child. That you have ownership over us. Over me.
[She masked the disgust that welled at the thought carefully.]
His favor is likely contingent on that assumption. To discover that you are my subordinate may invoke his wrath, as his nature would reject the idea of servitude.
[The Empress set her fans aside, taking Eugene's hands in hers again.]
What I have built is no army, but a refuge. The River Guard is a sanctuary for those in need. You know this better than any. As deeply as we despise Geno, and as much as we may research how to destroy him, we are not the driving force opposing him, and therefore we must endure on the sidelines.
I refuse to bow to Geno. I will die a thousand deaths before I ever consider it. But attacking him is not the only way to oppose him. Perhaps we can take this favor he has given you, and bide our time until we can strangle him with it.
... Perhaps if he sees you in exactly the manner he expects to see you, this favor will continue to be our shield...
*Eugene was following her logic... but at the last sentence, he visibly recoiled.*
Mizuki, were I not aware of how carefully you choose your words, I would think you mad!
To accept rule of any kind would be to...
*To do... what? Leave his mind open to Geno's possession? Geno was here, already, in a form superior to his in every way, except (quiet snicker) beauty.*
*He would have no need to take over Eugene's body. Especially since he seemed to find him, for whatever reason, fascinating. Besides, another version of himself, potentially vying for control, would be the exact opposite of what Geno would want.*
... I am no longer certain what the effect on my mind would be. With Geno here, it seems unlikely that he would like competition from himself...
*The benefits would be amazing for the River Guard. By giving Geno what he wanted to see, the man would likely ignore those that were not him. And that was something Eugene would gladly live with if it meant their safety.*
But... share your crown? Are you certain? You have ruled long and well all these years. It would pain me to see any loss of respect for you for no longer being the sole power behind the River Guard...
[A rueful smile played at her lips for an instant.]
Not in this sense, at least.
You know what I am gambling with in this... I cannot imagine he would be so careless as to create a rival, not when he erased entire realities to ensure there was never another Geno.
[The Empress sighed, her gaze falling to the floor. Her mind lost itself in a hundred thousand memories of lonely rule, and the weight of it all showed in her shoulders.]
Long, well, and alone... I never spoke of it to you, but with you I have often wished that I could share the crown, because you are the only one to whom I would entrust my people... and in my eyes it is your due honor, which I have only withheld for your safety.
What good is respect when I alone am no longer shield enough for them? The one who should be deterred cares not, and steps onto my territory in broad daylight with complete disregard for me and my people. There is no respect to be lost from my enemy, and if I lose favor with my allies for elevating you, then their fickle allegiance was never of any value.
... Those who will oppose Geno blatantly require shelter and support. For them, the River Guard must stand, and for the River Guard to stand, we require an adequate shield that even Geno respects.
The River Guard needs you, Eugene... But I will not ask more of you than you are able. Forgive me, my love, for putting the burden of this choice on you...
[Her voice trailed off, her eyes closed. She had hoped to make this offer when they were finally safe... a victory they could celebrate together, not a weight to shoulder...]
*Eugene thought back to his own time as ruler of the Oathbound. The loneliness, the paranoia knowing that any around him might only be there to seek power for themselves. He had had few friends. And many that he had had betrayed him in the end.*
*Like Stellan...*
... I know well the feeling.
*He sat beside her, eyes at the same level.*
... You know, of course, that it would pain me greatly to cast any doubt upon your honor. I am quite certain there would be those who would wonder if you had been manipulated into such a decision... or worse, that it revealed yourself as siding with Geno to give me such an honor.
But if you are certain that I would be able to act as a shield for those we both love... and a true and equal partner for you... the there is no answer in my heart but to accept.
*He stared into the middle distance, a slight breeze playing at his hair.*
I had never loved the crown overmuch. Even when I bore it, the sword, the call of exploration, they tugged at my heart.
But there is no greater call than the one which bids you to defend the weak with yourself. And if we shall do so together, truly as one...
And if any would think so little of me and my strength of will as to assume I would be so taken in and used, then they are worth less than naught to me, for clearly they never respected me at the first!!
If elevating you to your rightful position causes them to waver, then so be it. Let us expose and be rid of them before we find too late that we rely on them.
[The Empress scoffed, crossing her arms with a haughty expression. She had known many such people, those who were so weak-willed or close-minded that they could not accept the obvious benefit of certain choices she made, simply because they disliked the people or methods involved or were too cowardly to take the risk, and thought less of her for stepping up.
Until it proved beneficial, of course, and then they liked to pretend they had always supported her. Or they dug their heels in further and alienated themselves, becoming what they swore they opposed. As if recorded history would forget their spineless inaction! Such people were easy to predict and use to her own benefit.
Weakness like that needed to be rooted out before it was incorporated into the chain that would eventually bind Geno.
Turning her attention back to her lover, the Empress' expression softened again, and she cupped his face gently in her hands, brushing that ever-rebellious lock of hair away from his eyes.]
You loved the Oathbound, my sun, and you love the River Guard. I have seen it from the beginning, in every way that you have respected and adopted our culture and people. My Guard are deeply fond of you. As much as you were Oathbound, I think you are also River Guard now. You belong to and with us. I could not ask for a more fitting partner on the throne.
[She smiled, stroking his cheek.]
And I would never dream of restraining you from the exploration you adore, just as I gave Kendo the title of Prince to give him freedom to render aid with authority. I feel we share the same opinion of the crown itself, though honor and duty drive us to bear it. Whatever you wish to do with your time, beloved, it is yours...
Be my equal, beloved. As entertaining as our little games have been, it is your right, and an honor I have been loathe to withhold. Be our Champion, and my Emperor, at my side, as one.
I have one more thing to... perhaps not warn you of, but make clear.
*His eyes hardened into the eyes of a man long since used to rule-- though not unkind, and softened behind with the love for the woman he now spoke to.*
If you grant me this... if for the first time across time, the empires of the Oathbound and the River Guard are truly united as one... we shall be as true equals, and I shall act as such. I know there shall be times where we disagree, as any two humans must. But just as often as I yield to your decisions, so shall I stand firm in my own.
We would have to reconcile that, our different manners of rule. I would be no tyrant-- I was not one to the Oathbound, who I loved. How much more to the River Guard, who I love and know?-- but if I am granted authority, I shall use it as I see fit, tempered by good council and our two hearts and minds as one.
I shall not be your Champion, simply carrying out your orders. I shall be your Emperor, as you shall be my Empress. Indeed, you have been such for the entire time I have known you, and I know the pride that must come with that position, and is healthy to do so. Would you bear this?
*He closed his eyes and took a deep breath.*
I do not wish to compromise our relationship with each other over this. That is the heart of my concern.
[As Eugene's air shifted, so did the Empress' to match him. Equally experienced, equally serious.
This was the man she had seen on the battlements of the Citadel. The bearing of an Emperor, not mere nobility. It was as she suspected. A nature such as this, the instinct and natural authority, was not something that could be wholly undone and left behind. It had simply been restrained out of respect for her, and for the sake of the Island.]
It is true, I am unused to sharing equal authority. You know my circumstances, what I have endured for their sake, and what I have shielded them from by remaining solitary.
However, that does not mean I am unwilling to share it with one who is worthy. I have always been aware that, should I ever find one that I loved and trusted enough to wed and share the crown with, that I would have to change how I approach ruling the River Guard. I would have to learn to collaborate with my partner, rather than hold the sole voice of authority.
I expect nothing less of you. Certainly with your years on the throne, you are as unused to sharing authority as I. But I trust that we understand one another, and love our family and people, well enough to find a balance.
[Her eyes softened, and she tilted her head slightly.]
Did you not suggest to me once that I reevaluate what traditions and practices truly benefitted my people in this place? I think perhaps you should do the same. If you accept, then what follows is a true mingling of the Oathbound and the River Guard. We should arrange an understanding of how such a thing ought to be governed together before you take the throne, for the sake of stability. Let us bring together the best of both our Empires, and bring forward a better River Guard for it.
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Hmm. I had never considered that my similarities to him could very much be a positive, as much as they are a negative...
I had thought he would know what to expect, having slain so many of his alternates... but it is perhaps for that reason that he has no basis of understanding.
*It is in Geno's nature to strike swiftly and completely, leaving them no moment with which to strike back. Without any meaningful interaction, he would never truly grasp how he acted from without...*
*He returned to the present, however, when Mizuki touched his cheek. Taking her hand, he kissed it reverently.*
My Empress, it does not matter what shall be our path into the future. You shall not walk it alone, for I will stay by your side. I could no sooner abandon you than I could remove a limb from my body.
My love, you could never deny that you and he are the same flesh. You share so many traits, like your pride, your temper, your desire to explore and to know, and the ease with which you bear authority. But you, beloved, have tempered them with moderation and humility, content with what you have, while he has become a glutton, consuming all and wanting more.
These traits are nothing to be ashamed of simply for sharing their core with him. Indeed, I confess, they are what make me love you.
[As he kissed her hand then, she pulled Eugene up and caught his lips in hers for a moment. Just a small reminder. I know you. I love you.]
And I will stay by yours, no matter the cost.
[They released each other after a few seconds, and she moved instead to shut the curtains entirely, despising the feeling of being watched that had been crawling up her spine since Geno left. That done, and the feeling lifting a bit, she started pouring a bit of tea to relax them both.
Strange, that their greatest enemy had just made a brazen show of invading her territory, and yet not ten minutes later they were both here, in love and drinking tea... A surreal situation indeed...]
Tell me... Do you know why he gave you such favor, and why we were included? Did he feel generous enough to say?
*Eugene shook his head at first, before pausing, an inquisitive look on his face.*
... Not directly. Yet, he made several references to my being of his blood, and "made in his image."
*Merely saying the words felt bitter on his tongue. Geno may have been immortal, yet he was still a man. To make such a god-like claim... it made him despise the man even more.*
If I were to put forth an idea... it would seem as though he believes myself and Odette to be more important than the common man, due to being created from his very genetic code. If he sees us as a part of himself, well... he is a very particular man about his own being. It irked him when I made light of his imperfect appearance, though he hid it well.
To a man such as that, to scar us in any way would be akin to removing a limb. Or perhaps more accurately, to chipping a nail. An imperfection he could not abide.
*He scoffed.*
Though with our similarities, his proposal to rule beneath him alongside Odette seems particularly laughable. Invulnerable though he may be, I personally would not take the constant unrest of potential betrayal in my "perfect" kingdom.
*Eugene did laugh, then. It felt like a relief.*
Why, of all the things! He even presumed that it was you who I had taken as MY consort! He would never even imagine the truth of our relationship! Imagine, perhaps, if learning the accurate picture sent him into a state of shock! T'would be a fantastic strategy indeed!
The Order is his daughter... Perhaps to him you are a son, though I despise the idea. He takes pride in what he has made of himself, and I suppose you are included.
Still, how bizarre that he would think so little of us, yet promise our safety to you.
[Arrogance. No doubt Geno considered the River Guard a passing fascination for his snapshot. An interest he could afford to indulge until mortality ended Eugene's amusement. The unmitigated arrogance...]
No matter. If he truly stays his hand for your sake, I shall take the respite gladly... and when his hand inevitably falls, we shall have had the time to ensure he impales it upon us.
[As Mizuki set the teapot aside and selected their favorite leaves, she paused at Eugene's words.]
Hold now... "his imperfect appearance"?
[She glanced at Eugene. The picture of perfect celestial beauty. Geno's exact image at the time of his creation.]
Has something... damaged him?
[The prospect of Geno's cultivated beauty being marred, alongside the self-absorbed assumption that his snapshot must be the superior rank in their relationship, that made Mizuki laugh heartily with Eugene, leaning back in her chair as laughter made their hearts light. Oh, she could almost picture the shock on his face as he learned the truth!
A thought... Mizuki calmed suddenly, an idea spinning to life in her mind. The concept crystallized into full potential, and she bolted upright in her seat, eyes distant as a thousand possible outcomes stretched out before her.
"Next time we play, I encourage you to take every advantage you can get. You will need it."
Her hand strayed to cover her mouth as she considered. In his hubris, Geno may have ceded her an advantage in this new game...
Focus snapping back to the present, she turned to Eugene, still resting in his amusement, and caught his hand between hers, capturing his attention instantly.]
Eugene, my love... I have a potential plan for how we move forward from here under his eye, but it is a dangerous gamble, and I need for you to hear me out and speak plainly of any flaw. But I must make absolutely clear that I have no intention of giving this madman what he desires, no matter what this idea may seem. Do you trust me?
Yes. His face, while perfectly symmetrical as my own, has several scars upon it. His hair, also, is beginning to grey, and has white streaks throughout...
My suspicion would be that, whatever the means with which he brought himself back to life, they were not completely successful in restoring his appearance.
*Odd that he had not yet rectified that... but perhaps he simply lacked the time or resources.*
*At her question, Eugene leapt to his feet, eyes clear.*
My Empress, I trust you with my soul, my life and all I am. Whatever your plan, I shall hear it out with an open mind.
[And with his appearance so deviated, Geno could not easily fool their allies again.
Mizuki stood with Eugene, the weight of the Empress falling over her again. She was playing with fire here, but it was her duty to explore the possibility...]
He believes you to be the higher authority in our arrangement, assumes that the River Guard belong to you not as your people, but as tools belong to a craftsman, or toys to a child. That you have ownership over us. Over me.
[She masked the disgust that welled at the thought carefully.]
His favor is likely contingent on that assumption. To discover that you are my subordinate may invoke his wrath, as his nature would reject the idea of servitude.
[The Empress set her fans aside, taking Eugene's hands in hers again.]
What I have built is no army, but a refuge. The River Guard is a sanctuary for those in need. You know this better than any. As deeply as we despise Geno, and as much as we may research how to destroy him, we are not the driving force opposing him, and therefore we must endure on the sidelines.
I refuse to bow to Geno. I will die a thousand deaths before I ever consider it. But attacking him is not the only way to oppose him. Perhaps we can take this favor he has given you, and bide our time until we can strangle him with it.
... Perhaps if he sees you in exactly the manner he expects to see you, this favor will continue to be our shield...
*Eugene was following her logic... but at the last sentence, he visibly recoiled.*
Mizuki, were I not aware of how carefully you choose your words, I would think you mad!
To accept rule of any kind would be to...
*To do... what? Leave his mind open to Geno's possession? Geno was here, already, in a form superior to his in every way, except (quiet snicker) beauty.*
*He would have no need to take over Eugene's body. Especially since he seemed to find him, for whatever reason, fascinating. Besides, another version of himself, potentially vying for control, would be the exact opposite of what Geno would want.*
... I am no longer certain what the effect on my mind would be. With Geno here, it seems unlikely that he would like competition from himself...
*The benefits would be amazing for the River Guard. By giving Geno what he wanted to see, the man would likely ignore those that were not him. And that was something Eugene would gladly live with if it meant their safety.*
But... share your crown? Are you certain? You have ruled long and well all these years. It would pain me to see any loss of respect for you for no longer being the sole power behind the River Guard...
[A rueful smile played at her lips for an instant.]
Not in this sense, at least.
You know what I am gambling with in this... I cannot imagine he would be so careless as to create a rival, not when he erased entire realities to ensure there was never another Geno.
[The Empress sighed, her gaze falling to the floor. Her mind lost itself in a hundred thousand memories of lonely rule, and the weight of it all showed in her shoulders.]
Long, well, and alone... I never spoke of it to you, but with you I have often wished that I could share the crown, because you are the only one to whom I would entrust my people... and in my eyes it is your due honor, which I have only withheld for your safety.
What good is respect when I alone am no longer shield enough for them? The one who should be deterred cares not, and steps onto my territory in broad daylight with complete disregard for me and my people. There is no respect to be lost from my enemy, and if I lose favor with my allies for elevating you, then their fickle allegiance was never of any value.
... Those who will oppose Geno blatantly require shelter and support. For them, the River Guard must stand, and for the River Guard to stand, we require an adequate shield that even Geno respects.
The River Guard needs you, Eugene... But I will not ask more of you than you are able. Forgive me, my love, for putting the burden of this choice on you...
[Her voice trailed off, her eyes closed. She had hoped to make this offer when they were finally safe... a victory they could celebrate together, not a weight to shoulder...]
*Eugene thought back to his own time as ruler of the Oathbound. The loneliness, the paranoia knowing that any around him might only be there to seek power for themselves. He had had few friends. And many that he had had betrayed him in the end.*
*Like Stellan...*
... I know well the feeling.
*He sat beside her, eyes at the same level.*
... You know, of course, that it would pain me greatly to cast any doubt upon your honor. I am quite certain there would be those who would wonder if you had been manipulated into such a decision... or worse, that it revealed yourself as siding with Geno to give me such an honor.
But if you are certain that I would be able to act as a shield for those we both love... and a true and equal partner for you... the there is no answer in my heart but to accept.
*He stared into the middle distance, a slight breeze playing at his hair.*
I had never loved the crown overmuch. Even when I bore it, the sword, the call of exploration, they tugged at my heart.
But there is no greater call than the one which bids you to defend the weak with yourself. And if we shall do so together, truly as one...
And if any would think so little of me and my strength of will as to assume I would be so taken in and used, then they are worth less than naught to me, for clearly they never respected me at the first!!
If elevating you to your rightful position causes them to waver, then so be it. Let us expose and be rid of them before we find too late that we rely on them.
[The Empress scoffed, crossing her arms with a haughty expression. She had known many such people, those who were so weak-willed or close-minded that they could not accept the obvious benefit of certain choices she made, simply because they disliked the people or methods involved or were too cowardly to take the risk, and thought less of her for stepping up.
Until it proved beneficial, of course, and then they liked to pretend they had always supported her. Or they dug their heels in further and alienated themselves, becoming what they swore they opposed. As if recorded history would forget their spineless inaction! Such people were easy to predict and use to her own benefit.
Weakness like that needed to be rooted out before it was incorporated into the chain that would eventually bind Geno.
Turning her attention back to her lover, the Empress' expression softened again, and she cupped his face gently in her hands, brushing that ever-rebellious lock of hair away from his eyes.]
You loved the Oathbound, my sun, and you love the River Guard. I have seen it from the beginning, in every way that you have respected and adopted our culture and people. My Guard are deeply fond of you. As much as you were Oathbound, I think you are also River Guard now. You belong to and with us. I could not ask for a more fitting partner on the throne.
[She smiled, stroking his cheek.]
And I would never dream of restraining you from the exploration you adore, just as I gave Kendo the title of Prince to give him freedom to render aid with authority. I feel we share the same opinion of the crown itself, though honor and duty drive us to bear it. Whatever you wish to do with your time, beloved, it is yours...
Be my equal, beloved. As entertaining as our little games have been, it is your right, and an honor I have been loathe to withhold. Be our Champion, and my Emperor, at my side, as one.
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Hmm. I had never considered that my similarities to him could very much be a positive, as much as they are a negative...
I had thought he would know what to expect, having slain so many of his alternates... but it is perhaps for that reason that he has no basis of understanding.
*It is in Geno's nature to strike swiftly and completely, leaving them no moment with which to strike back. Without any meaningful interaction, he would never truly grasp how he acted from without...*
*He returned to the present, however, when Mizuki touched his cheek. Taking her hand, he kissed it reverently.*
My Empress, it does not matter what shall be our path into the future. You shall not walk it alone, for I will stay by your side. I could no sooner abandon you than I could remove a limb from my body.
My love, you could never deny that you and he are the same flesh. You share so many traits, like your pride, your temper, your desire to explore and to know, and the ease with which you bear authority. But you, beloved, have tempered them with moderation and humility, content with what you have, while he has become a glutton, consuming all and wanting more.
These traits are nothing to be ashamed of simply for sharing their core with him. Indeed, I confess, they are what make me love you.
[As he kissed her hand then, she pulled Eugene up and caught his lips in hers for a moment. Just a small reminder. I know you. I love you.]
And I will stay by yours, no matter the cost.
[They released each other after a few seconds, and she moved instead to shut the curtains entirely, despising the feeling of being watched that had been crawling up her spine since Geno left. That done, and the feeling lifting a bit, she started pouring a bit of tea to relax them both.
Strange, that their greatest enemy had just made a brazen show of invading her territory, and yet not ten minutes later they were both here, in love and drinking tea... A surreal situation indeed...]
Tell me... Do you know why he gave you such favor, and why we were included? Did he feel generous enough to say?
*Eugene shook his head at first, before pausing, an inquisitive look on his face.*
... Not directly. Yet, he made several references to my being of his blood, and "made in his image."
*Merely saying the words felt bitter on his tongue. Geno may have been immortal, yet he was still a man. To make such a god-like claim... it made him despise the man even more.*
If I were to put forth an idea... it would seem as though he believes myself and Odette to be more important than the common man, due to being created from his very genetic code. If he sees us as a part of himself, well... he is a very particular man about his own being. It irked him when I made light of his imperfect appearance, though he hid it well.
To a man such as that, to scar us in any way would be akin to removing a limb. Or perhaps more accurately, to chipping a nail. An imperfection he could not abide.
*He scoffed.*
Though with our similarities, his proposal to rule beneath him alongside Odette seems particularly laughable. Invulnerable though he may be, I personally would not take the constant unrest of potential betrayal in my "perfect" kingdom.
*Eugene did laugh, then. It felt like a relief.*
Why, of all the things! He even presumed that it was you who I had taken as MY consort! He would never even imagine the truth of our relationship! Imagine, perhaps, if learning the accurate picture sent him into a state of shock! T'would be a fantastic strategy indeed!
The Order is his daughter... Perhaps to him you are a son, though I despise the idea. He takes pride in what he has made of himself, and I suppose you are included.
Still, how bizarre that he would think so little of us, yet promise our safety to you.
[Arrogance. No doubt Geno considered the River Guard a passing fascination for his snapshot. An interest he could afford to indulge until mortality ended Eugene's amusement. The unmitigated arrogance...]
No matter. If he truly stays his hand for your sake, I shall take the respite gladly... and when his hand inevitably falls, we shall have had the time to ensure he impales it upon us.
[As Mizuki set the teapot aside and selected their favorite leaves, she paused at Eugene's words.]
Hold now... "his imperfect appearance"?
[She glanced at Eugene. The picture of perfect celestial beauty. Geno's exact image at the time of his creation.]
Has something... damaged him?
[The prospect of Geno's cultivated beauty being marred, alongside the self-absorbed assumption that his snapshot must be the superior rank in their relationship, that made Mizuki laugh heartily with Eugene, leaning back in her chair as laughter made their hearts light. Oh, she could almost picture the shock on his face as he learned the truth!
A thought... Mizuki calmed suddenly, an idea spinning to life in her mind. The concept crystallized into full potential, and she bolted upright in her seat, eyes distant as a thousand possible outcomes stretched out before her.
"Next time we play, I encourage you to take every advantage you can get. You will need it."
Her hand strayed to cover her mouth as she considered. In his hubris, Geno may have ceded her an advantage in this new game...
Focus snapping back to the present, she turned to Eugene, still resting in his amusement, and caught his hand between hers, capturing his attention instantly.]
Eugene, my love... I have a potential plan for how we move forward from here under his eye, but it is a dangerous gamble, and I need for you to hear me out and speak plainly of any flaw. But I must make absolutely clear that I have no intention of giving this madman what he desires, no matter what this idea may seem. Do you trust me?
Yes. His face, while perfectly symmetrical as my own, has several scars upon it. His hair, also, is beginning to grey, and has white streaks throughout...
My suspicion would be that, whatever the means with which he brought himself back to life, they were not completely successful in restoring his appearance.
*Odd that he had not yet rectified that... but perhaps he simply lacked the time or resources.*
*At her question, Eugene leapt to his feet, eyes clear.*
My Empress, I trust you with my soul, my life and all I am. Whatever your plan, I shall hear it out with an open mind.
[And with his appearance so deviated, Geno could not easily fool their allies again.
Mizuki stood with Eugene, the weight of the Empress falling over her again. She was playing with fire here, but it was her duty to explore the possibility...]
He believes you to be the higher authority in our arrangement, assumes that the River Guard belong to you not as your people, but as tools belong to a craftsman, or toys to a child. That you have ownership over us. Over me.
[She masked the disgust that welled at the thought carefully.]
His favor is likely contingent on that assumption. To discover that you are my subordinate may invoke his wrath, as his nature would reject the idea of servitude.
[The Empress set her fans aside, taking Eugene's hands in hers again.]
What I have built is no army, but a refuge. The River Guard is a sanctuary for those in need. You know this better than any. As deeply as we despise Geno, and as much as we may research how to destroy him, we are not the driving force opposing him, and therefore we must endure on the sidelines.
I refuse to bow to Geno. I will die a thousand deaths before I ever consider it. But attacking him is not the only way to oppose him. Perhaps we can take this favor he has given you, and bide our time until we can strangle him with it.
... Perhaps if he sees you in exactly the manner he expects to see you, this favor will continue to be our shield...
*Eugene was following her logic... but at the last sentence, he visibly recoiled.*
Mizuki, were I not aware of how carefully you choose your words, I would think you mad!
To accept rule of any kind would be to...
*To do... what? Leave his mind open to Geno's possession? Geno was here, already, in a form superior to his in every way, except (quiet snicker) beauty.*
*He would have no need to take over Eugene's body. Especially since he seemed to find him, for whatever reason, fascinating. Besides, another version of himself, potentially vying for control, would be the exact opposite of what Geno would want.*
... I am no longer certain what the effect on my mind would be. With Geno here, it seems unlikely that he would like competition from himself...
*The benefits would be amazing for the River Guard. By giving Geno what he wanted to see, the man would likely ignore those that were not him. And that was something Eugene would gladly live with if it meant their safety.*
But... share your crown? Are you certain? You have ruled long and well all these years. It would pain me to see any loss of respect for you for no longer being the sole power behind the River Guard...
[A rueful smile played at her lips for an instant.]
Not in this sense, at least.
You know what I am gambling with in this... I cannot imagine he would be so careless as to create a rival, not when he erased entire realities to ensure there was never another Geno.
[The Empress sighed, her gaze falling to the floor. Her mind lost itself in a hundred thousand memories of lonely rule, and the weight of it all showed in her shoulders.]
Long, well, and alone... I never spoke of it to you, but with you I have often wished that I could share the crown, because you are the only one to whom I would entrust my people... and in my eyes it is your due honor, which I have only withheld for your safety.
What good is respect when I alone am no longer shield enough for them? The one who should be deterred cares not, and steps onto my territory in broad daylight with complete disregard for me and my people. There is no respect to be lost from my enemy, and if I lose favor with my allies for elevating you, then their fickle allegiance was never of any value.
... Those who will oppose Geno blatantly require shelter and support. For them, the River Guard must stand, and for the River Guard to stand, we require an adequate shield that even Geno respects.
The River Guard needs you, Eugene... But I will not ask more of you than you are able. Forgive me, my love, for putting the burden of this choice on you...
[Her voice trailed off, her eyes closed. She had hoped to make this offer when they were finally safe... a victory they could celebrate together, not a weight to shoulder...]
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Hmm. I had never considered that my similarities to him could very much be a positive, as much as they are a negative...
I had thought he would know what to expect, having slain so many of his alternates... but it is perhaps for that reason that he has no basis of understanding.
*It is in Geno's nature to strike swiftly and completely, leaving them no moment with which to strike back. Without any meaningful interaction, he would never truly grasp how he acted from without...*
*He returned to the present, however, when Mizuki touched his cheek. Taking her hand, he kissed it reverently.*
My Empress, it does not matter what shall be our path into the future. You shall not walk it alone, for I will stay by your side. I could no sooner abandon you than I could remove a limb from my body.
My love, you could never deny that you and he are the same flesh. You share so many traits, like your pride, your temper, your desire to explore and to know, and the ease with which you bear authority. But you, beloved, have tempered them with moderation and humility, content with what you have, while he has become a glutton, consuming all and wanting more.
These traits are nothing to be ashamed of simply for sharing their core with him. Indeed, I confess, they are what make me love you.
[As he kissed her hand then, she pulled Eugene up and caught his lips in hers for a moment. Just a small reminder. I know you. I love you.]
And I will stay by yours, no matter the cost.
[They released each other after a few seconds, and she moved instead to shut the curtains entirely, despising the feeling of being watched that had been crawling up her spine since Geno left. That done, and the feeling lifting a bit, she started pouring a bit of tea to relax them both.
Strange, that their greatest enemy had just made a brazen show of invading her territory, and yet not ten minutes later they were both here, in love and drinking tea... A surreal situation indeed...]
Tell me... Do you know why he gave you such favor, and why we were included? Did he feel generous enough to say?
*Eugene shook his head at first, before pausing, an inquisitive look on his face.*
... Not directly. Yet, he made several references to my being of his blood, and "made in his image."
*Merely saying the words felt bitter on his tongue. Geno may have been immortal, yet he was still a man. To make such a god-like claim... it made him despise the man even more.*
If I were to put forth an idea... it would seem as though he believes myself and Odette to be more important than the common man, due to being created from his very genetic code. If he sees us as a part of himself, well... he is a very particular man about his own being. It irked him when I made light of his imperfect appearance, though he hid it well.
To a man such as that, to scar us in any way would be akin to removing a limb. Or perhaps more accurately, to chipping a nail. An imperfection he could not abide.
*He scoffed.*
Though with our similarities, his proposal to rule beneath him alongside Odette seems particularly laughable. Invulnerable though he may be, I personally would not take the constant unrest of potential betrayal in my "perfect" kingdom.
*Eugene did laugh, then. It felt like a relief.*
Why, of all the things! He even presumed that it was you who I had taken as MY consort! He would never even imagine the truth of our relationship! Imagine, perhaps, if learning the accurate picture sent him into a state of shock! T'would be a fantastic strategy indeed!
The Order is his daughter... Perhaps to him you are a son, though I despise the idea. He takes pride in what he has made of himself, and I suppose you are included.
Still, how bizarre that he would think so little of us, yet promise our safety to you.
[Arrogance. No doubt Geno considered the River Guard a passing fascination for his snapshot. An interest he could afford to indulge until mortality ended Eugene's amusement. The unmitigated arrogance...]
No matter. If he truly stays his hand for your sake, I shall take the respite gladly... and when his hand inevitably falls, we shall have had the time to ensure he impales it upon us.
[As Mizuki set the teapot aside and selected their favorite leaves, she paused at Eugene's words.]
Hold now... "his imperfect appearance"?
[She glanced at Eugene. The picture of perfect celestial beauty. Geno's exact image at the time of his creation.]
Has something... damaged him?
[The prospect of Geno's cultivated beauty being marred, alongside the self-absorbed assumption that his snapshot must be the superior rank in their relationship, that made Mizuki laugh heartily with Eugene, leaning back in her chair as laughter made their hearts light. Oh, she could almost picture the shock on his face as he learned the truth!
A thought... Mizuki calmed suddenly, an idea spinning to life in her mind. The concept crystallized into full potential, and she bolted upright in her seat, eyes distant as a thousand possible outcomes stretched out before her.
"Next time we play, I encourage you to take every advantage you can get. You will need it."
Her hand strayed to cover her mouth as she considered. In his hubris, Geno may have ceded her an advantage in this new game...
Focus snapping back to the present, she turned to Eugene, still resting in his amusement, and caught his hand between hers, capturing his attention instantly.]
Eugene, my love... I have a potential plan for how we move forward from here under his eye, but it is a dangerous gamble, and I need for you to hear me out and speak plainly of any flaw. But I must make absolutely clear that I have no intention of giving this madman what he desires, no matter what this idea may seem. Do you trust me?
Yes. His face, while perfectly symmetrical as my own, has several scars upon it. His hair, also, is beginning to grey, and has white streaks throughout...
My suspicion would be that, whatever the means with which he brought himself back to life, they were not completely successful in restoring his appearance.
*Odd that he had not yet rectified that... but perhaps he simply lacked the time or resources.*
*At her question, Eugene leapt to his feet, eyes clear.*
My Empress, I trust you with my soul, my life and all I am. Whatever your plan, I shall hear it out with an open mind.
[And with his appearance so deviated, Geno could not easily fool their allies again.
Mizuki stood with Eugene, the weight of the Empress falling over her again. She was playing with fire here, but it was her duty to explore the possibility...]
He believes you to be the higher authority in our arrangement, assumes that the River Guard belong to you not as your people, but as tools belong to a craftsman, or toys to a child. That you have ownership over us. Over me.
[She masked the disgust that welled at the thought carefully.]
His favor is likely contingent on that assumption. To discover that you are my subordinate may invoke his wrath, as his nature would reject the idea of servitude.
[The Empress set her fans aside, taking Eugene's hands in hers again.]
What I have built is no army, but a refuge. The River Guard is a sanctuary for those in need. You know this better than any. As deeply as we despise Geno, and as much as we may research how to destroy him, we are not the driving force opposing him, and therefore we must endure on the sidelines.
I refuse to bow to Geno. I will die a thousand deaths before I ever consider it. But attacking him is not the only way to oppose him. Perhaps we can take this favor he has given you, and bide our time until we can strangle him with it.
... Perhaps if he sees you in exactly the manner he expects to see you, this favor will continue to be our shield...
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Hmm. I had never considered that my similarities to him could very much be a positive, as much as they are a negative...
I had thought he would know what to expect, having slain so many of his alternates... but it is perhaps for that reason that he has no basis of understanding.
*It is in Geno's nature to strike swiftly and completely, leaving them no moment with which to strike back. Without any meaningful interaction, he would never truly grasp how he acted from without...*
*He returned to the present, however, when Mizuki touched his cheek. Taking her hand, he kissed it reverently.*
My Empress, it does not matter what shall be our path into the future. You shall not walk it alone, for I will stay by your side. I could no sooner abandon you than I could remove a limb from my body.
My love, you could never deny that you and he are the same flesh. You share so many traits, like your pride, your temper, your desire to explore and to know, and the ease with which you bear authority. But you, beloved, have tempered them with moderation and humility, content with what you have, while he has become a glutton, consuming all and wanting more.
These traits are nothing to be ashamed of simply for sharing their core with him. Indeed, I confess, they are what make me love you.
[As he kissed her hand then, she pulled Eugene up and caught his lips in hers for a moment. Just a small reminder. I know you. I love you.]
And I will stay by yours, no matter the cost.
[They released each other after a few seconds, and she moved instead to shut the curtains entirely, despising the feeling of being watched that had been crawling up her spine since Geno left. That done, and the feeling lifting a bit, she started pouring a bit of tea to relax them both.
Strange, that their greatest enemy had just made a brazen show of invading her territory, and yet not ten minutes later they were both here, in love and drinking tea... A surreal situation indeed...]
Tell me... Do you know why he gave you such favor, and why we were included? Did he feel generous enough to say?
*Eugene shook his head at first, before pausing, an inquisitive look on his face.*
... Not directly. Yet, he made several references to my being of his blood, and "made in his image."
*Merely saying the words felt bitter on his tongue. Geno may have been immortal, yet he was still a man. To make such a god-like claim... it made him despise the man even more.*
If I were to put forth an idea... it would seem as though he believes myself and Odette to be more important than the common man, due to being created from his very genetic code. If he sees us as a part of himself, well... he is a very particular man about his own being. It irked him when I made light of his imperfect appearance, though he hid it well.
To a man such as that, to scar us in any way would be akin to removing a limb. Or perhaps more accurately, to chipping a nail. An imperfection he could not abide.
*He scoffed.*
Though with our similarities, his proposal to rule beneath him alongside Odette seems particularly laughable. Invulnerable though he may be, I personally would not take the constant unrest of potential betrayal in my "perfect" kingdom.
*Eugene did laugh, then. It felt like a relief.*
Why, of all the things! He even presumed that it was you who I had taken as MY consort! He would never even imagine the truth of our relationship! Imagine, perhaps, if learning the accurate picture sent him into a state of shock! T'would be a fantastic strategy indeed!
The Order is his daughter... Perhaps to him you are a son, though I despise the idea. He takes pride in what he has made of himself, and I suppose you are included.
Still, how bizarre that he would think so little of us, yet promise our safety to you.
[Arrogance. No doubt Geno considered the River Guard a passing fascination for his snapshot. An interest he could afford to indulge until mortality ended Eugene's amusement. The unmitigated arrogance...]
No matter. If he truly stays his hand for your sake, I shall take the respite gladly... and when his hand inevitably falls, we shall have had the time to ensure he impales it upon us.
[As Mizuki set the teapot aside and selected their favorite leaves, she paused at Eugene's words.]
Hold now... "his imperfect appearance"?
[She glanced at Eugene. The picture of perfect celestial beauty. Geno's exact image at the time of his creation.]
Has something... damaged him?
[The prospect of Geno's cultivated beauty being marred, alongside the self-absorbed assumption that his snapshot must be the superior rank in their relationship, that made Mizuki laugh heartily with Eugene, leaning back in her chair as laughter made their hearts light. Oh, she could almost picture the shock on his face as he learned the truth!
A thought... Mizuki calmed suddenly, an idea spinning to life in her mind. The concept crystallized into full potential, and she bolted upright in her seat, eyes distant as a thousand possible outcomes stretched out before her.
"Next time we play, I encourage you to take every advantage you can get. You will need it."
Her hand strayed to cover her mouth as she considered. In his hubris, Geno may have ceded her an advantage in this new game...
Focus snapping back to the present, she turned to Eugene, still resting in his amusement, and caught his hand between hers, capturing his attention instantly.]
Eugene, my love... I have a potential plan for how we move forward from here under his eye, but it is a dangerous gamble, and I need for you to hear me out and speak plainly of any flaw. But I must make absolutely clear that I have no intention of giving this madman what he desires, no matter what this idea may seem. Do you trust me?
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Hmm. I had never considered that my similarities to him could very much be a positive, as much as they are a negative...
I had thought he would know what to expect, having slain so many of his alternates... but it is perhaps for that reason that he has no basis of understanding.
*It is in Geno's nature to strike swiftly and completely, leaving them no moment with which to strike back. Without any meaningful interaction, he would never truly grasp how he acted from without...*
*He returned to the present, however, when Mizuki touched his cheek. Taking her hand, he kissed it reverently.*
My Empress, it does not matter what shall be our path into the future. You shall not walk it alone, for I will stay by your side. I could no sooner abandon you than I could remove a limb from my body.
My love, you could never deny that you and he are the same flesh. You share so many traits, like your pride, your temper, your desire to explore and to know, and the ease with which you bear authority. But you, beloved, have tempered them with moderation and humility, content with what you have, while he has become a glutton, consuming all and wanting more.
These traits are nothing to be ashamed of simply for sharing their core with him. Indeed, I confess, they are what make me love you.
[As he kissed her hand then, she pulled Eugene up and caught his lips in hers for a moment. Just a small reminder. I know you. I love you.]
And I will stay by yours, no matter the cost.
[They released each other after a few seconds, and she moved instead to shut the curtains entirely, despising the feeling of being watched that had been crawling up her spine since Geno left. That done, and the feeling lifting a bit, she started pouring a bit of tea to relax them both.
Strange, that their greatest enemy had just made a brazen show of invading her territory, and yet not ten minutes later they were both here, in love and drinking tea... A surreal situation indeed...]
Tell me... Do you know why he gave you such favor, and why we were included? Did he feel generous enough to say?
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
He certainly seemed to believe that I would join him of my own accord, in time.
*He scoffed.*
The arrogance of that man... he truly thinks that I shall eventually see the world as he does.
*He smirked to himself.*
That being said, he has made several fatal errors. He is unaware, for example, that you are no longer entirely mortal yourself... and what he is unaware of can harm him, can it not?
*If Geno thought he could rob Eugene of his humanity by the eventual removal of Mizuki, he had another thing coming.*
So he forgets that you, being created of his very self, are every fibre as stubborn and proud as he.
[That same pride burned in her own chest as the Empress reached up and caressed her beloved's cheek, letting her fingers thread into his hair. Her thumb brushed the upturned corner of his smirking lips.]
Then he shall be sorely disappointed. We compromised once. Never again. I know you will not betray our people, nor will I betray you.
[That one moment of weakness that had led to sparring turned wrong was far behind them now. Compromise was no longer on the table.
Strategy, however, that was another thing entirely.
At the mention of her apparent immortality, the Empress smiled, eyes darkening slightly.]
If all that I have suffered was meant to make me yet another eternal thorn in his side, then so be it, I shall suffer it again if I must and return again and again if it means his desires are never fulfilled. Just tell me that if such a future is our doom, that you will be by my side to face it.
Not heard, unfortunately, the distance was too great. But the moment Geno had brazenly stepped unmasked on her grounds to intercept Eugene within sight of the central lake, the Empress had heard of it from the caverns below. It had taken all her dedicated strength not to rush up and strike him then for his insolence, but that would have been pointless, and likely ended in her death. Again.
Instead she had waited, torn between fear and fury, watching. Watching the two circle each other at bladepoint, speaking words she could neither hear nor read on their lips. When Eugene broke away, resuming his patrol, and Geno vanished as he had arrived, she waited again, allowing Eugene the rest of his rounds to think. Clearly the danger was not imminent. She had patience, and she trusted Eugene.
Once her lover had returned and disappeared into their bedroom, the Empress left the caverns, restraining herself from running so as not to alert the Guard, and headed to meet him there. Eugene seemed deep in thought as she entered behind him, so in this quiet, private space, she slipped her arms around his waist, silently thanking the gods that she was still allowed to do so.]
... I saw him, my love. He did not come to harm you?...
No. And that puzzles me to no end.
*Eugene raised his head to look at her eye to eye.*
He wished for me to join him. And despite every barb, every threat, and every insult to his person and honor I hurled at him, he remained ever calm and entreating.
*Eugene scoffed in disbelief.*
He even stated that he would raise no hand against you or the guard, provided that you did not attack first. He spoke of you all... of you, my love... in such a demeaning manner, yet because I value you --and despite his own mockery of that fact-- he actually offered safety. From his person, at least.
*He stared at his hands.*
Ever since I came to understand who I am, I have lived with the knowledge that my life would be forfeit were Geno to ever appear. And yet, now, he has appeared, and he acts in a way I find absolutely unexpected in light of his heinous deeds...
[The Empress' voice dripped with derision thick enough to cut with a blade as she pulled away from Eugene just long enough to check outside the window.]
With the eventual condition, of course, that we become subservient to him, complicit in his cruelties, yes? Even if he did not say so aloud, such an alteration is inevitable with men who believe they should rule above all. He could never leave us alone forever.
[As she turned back to Eugene, the Empress saw his expression as he stared at his hands, and her disgust washed away instantly, replaced by relief touched with sadness. Reaching out, she took his hands in hers, raising them to her lips and laying a soft kiss on the back and palm.]
And yet he has left you not only alive, but with what may be called the closest thing to favor he has to offer. As obscene as such a thing is... I am still thankful that you remain with me, my love.
[Geno could lay whatever insult he wished on her name, she did not care. Who she was, he did not have the right to define for her, so his comments meant nothing. As long as he left her love alive and in her arms.]
*A carefully enclosed letter washes onto the shore, opening it, it reveals the following message:*
"To her Imperial Majesty of The River Guard,
My name is Richard Slade, but more commonly known as Lieutenant Ripp Slade of the Reality Warriors. Deepest apologies if this letter finds You at the wrong time, but unfortunately we must request support from You and Your Guard.
As our ally, I assume you are aware of the air of high tension there has been on the team following the poor results of the last mission and the coma of Commander Jones. It turns out we have been deceived and betrayed by a man known as Geno, as he disguised himself as The Visitor to get as close as possible to the Commander with the intention of taking his life. And he has attempted to do so today.
The Commander's wellbeing is currently unknown to me or my beloved, Vengeance Jones, as Geno's plan to attack Jones also included the destabilization of our only medical professional, Julien Jones, who finds himself with a badly broken spine and requires help as soon as possible.
Me and my beloved are watching Julien Jones as the rest of the teams moves to save the Commander from any damage Geno has tried to inflict, and our medical knowledge is poor and our hands unprepared, therefore this is why I am writing this letter to You.
I sincerely hope You can reach to us soon.
Best Regards,
Lt. Richard "Ripp" Slade."
[The Empress knew little of "Lt. Ripp Slade", but that didn't matter much. The spirits had reported the situation that had unfolded in Jones' room, and that the Innovation was already racing to fix what had been done to the Commander.
Geno had made his move, and left disaster in his wake.
She had only waited to see if her aid was required. Eugene needed to stay out of sight still, so he and Kendo were stationed to remain at Golden Grove unless summoned directly, but the Empress called on a selection of her people to accompany her now. Caspian would be ideal, but he was still occupied with Joey, so she would make do.
It was only minutes after the letter was received that the Empress and two of her Guard stepped from the river that cut through Sanctuary and entered the massive compound. The two Guard were left with Jones and the Innovation, just in case, and she herself headed to the medbay.
She found the Lieutenant waiting just within the door, giving him a nod in quick greeting as she stepped inside.]
Lieutenant Richard Slade, I presume? I recall you from Oninoshima. Your letter was finely written.
*He exchanged the nod, a deeper one given the importance of the woman infront of him, gesturing her to come inside the medbay*
In the flesh! It's a pleasure to meet you, Vengeance only says good things about you. Oh and the letter? It's not much, just penmanship one needed to have when talking to the OXR generals, I'm glad it turned useful once again!
Unfortunately I suppose I must cut the small talk-
*He accompanied the Empress towards the bed they had placed Triage on, gesturing to the medic who was being carefully watched by a seemingly withdrawn Vengeance, who looked over the Empress and smiled weakly, waving with his hand*
We decided to wait for you to come here, none of us here has expertise in fixing broken bones and it felt like the better choice to not make it harder for you.
[A rather ordinary soldier, by the look of him. Possibly the closest to "normal" this place had to offer, alongside Miss Holloway.
Good. Vengeance had found someone who was unlikely to harm him. And speaking of Vengeance, the Empress caught the small wave, and gave her friend a little smile in return. He didn't look well at all, but like he needed a week of sleep.
Not as dire as Triage by any means. The smile on her lips died at the sight of the medic, and she quietly approached his bedside, lightly touching his wrist, her voice as soft as her touch.]
... Today I may repay your consistent aid to me, my friend. Tell me your condition, if possible. What do you feel?
*Thankfully Triage hadn't passed out again, helped by Vengeance's presence as he kept him distracted from the pain by simply talking. But Triage could tell just by looking at Venge's face that the talk was mainly helping him from falling asleep on the spot, which made Triage wonder if giving him that medicine was a good idea given the situation. But it was either that or Vengeance's psyche collapsing once more. They had no choice.
Turning his head slowly towards the Empress, he smiled at her, not caring to mask the clear pain he was feeling.*
Can't say I haven't felt better. My back hurts horribly and I'm unable to move almost anything. I can only lay down like this...
I think Geno hit me with enough force to break something in the thoracic area...right in the middle of my back, if you will. Haven't done anything for it yet. I've passed out from the pain after he hit me and I've only just woke up...
[The Empress closed her eyes, guilt piercing through her heart. If she had not been silent... could this have been avoided?
... Regret would do nothing for her friend. Geno had taken his legs. Only swift treatment could save them now.
Kneeling beside the medic, she first addressed Slade.]
Lieutenant. Take your beloved, tend to him. This task now lies with me.
[A broken back. Traditional as her people may have been, her world had been well advanced in medicine and technology. The relationship between them had been neatly balanced, and as a warrior Empress, she had learned medicine as well as combat. Certainly she did not have the exhaustive knowledge required of a true practitioner... but Triage and Caspian were the only ones here who did.
Thankfully, she had enough. At least to help this.
The fact that he was smiling, though, even when clearly being in severe pain... Even Eugene was not capable of that, and despite herself the Empress found a smile tugging at her own lips.]
You may be the bravest of us all, Julien Jones, to smile at me so in your position.
[She pressed his hand.]
Tell me now, where you keep the necessary tools for vertebroplasty. Our methods likely differ from yours somewhat, but I know them to be no less effective.
*He watched as Vengeance's tired expression was betrayed by one of slight panic as he looked at Ripp, who was ready to take his hand and escort him outside. He knew Venge hated to be taken away, but Triage knew him too well to not expect the larger man to freak out at any procedure the Empress was going to do. Not to mention Vengeance was practically useless in the medical field, as he was barely able to perform first aid at best. And even then he needed to be guided through the process.*
I'll be fine. I promise. You trust the Empress, right?
*Seeing Vengeance nod made Triage slowly move an arm towards his thigh, patting softly*
Then go rest up, you can come see me when everything's done.
*Once Vengeance and Ripp had left, he turned back to the Empress.*
The needles are on their designated drawer over that set of drawers next to my desk, the bone cement is stored in that small fridge over there in the corner. Gloves and other tools you may need are all stored around in cabinets. Do make yourself home to look for everything you need.
I do not require artificial gloves. I assure you, my arts will be far more effective.
[The Empress laid aside the clear armor that protected her hands, instead sheathing them in a thin coating of water.]
This is how we cleansed wounds on the battlefield in my home. Contamination is immediately washed away, and I am allowed to feel exactly what I am doing.
[She stepped away for a moment, changing her overdress and armor for a white medbay robe she found in the cabinets, then acquired the tools and cement. After a moment of consideration, she locked the door. Just in case. Interruptions could lead to mistakes.
Finally, the Empress returned to Triage, helping him get into position, face down, so she could access the fracture. A massive bruise spread across his lower back, causing her to frown.]
He will pay for this...
[Enough of that. She had work to do. Every second risked further damage.]
Well, my friend, it is long since these skills were required of me. Would you like a total anesthetic? Or would you prefer a local one, and a way to watch? I know some doctors like to observe, and though I find it morbid, I can entertain you.
I think I can take a local one. More to save me the hustle of waiting for the total one to wear off. I know most of my patients hate that part, but sometimes it's the only option for them.
*Triage smiled at the Empress' remark*
Yeah. It can be a little weird to let your patient be awake during procedures, but don't worry, I always trust another medically skilled person. Especially when they look like they know exactly what they're doing.
[The Empress scoffed lightly, shaking her head fondly with a smile.]
Suit yourself. I should have expected you to be no exception from the standard medical eccentricities.
Coming from a martial world as I do, you might expect that I have encountered many similar injuries, and you would be correct. At the same time that I practiced blacksmithing, I was also studying some general medicine. I have not the skill of the dedicated healers, but I at least wished to be competent should the need arise. This was, unfortunately, not an uncommon injury.
[Setting a mirror in position so he could watch her work, she deftly sterilized the area and applied a local anesthetic. Collecting a bowl of clean water, she dipped her hands, then reached into his bloodstream, examining the extent of the damage as the anesthetic worked.
Extreme bruising, fracture of the vertebrae, and nerve damage in the spine. Bad - actually very bad - but not hopeless. He would need a long recovery time, but perhaps the healing springs under her home could expedite it safely.
Triage was taking this very well, though he must know what lay ahead for him. The Empress sighed as she prepared the cement.]
I feel responsible for this... It may be irrational of me to feel so, but I do. I knew he was here, but the security of my people bound my hands... He knew I was aware of him.
[Revealing himself had freed her from their mutual silence... but that would do little good now.]
It sound like you have taken a great portion of your life to learn new skills! Is it something required to be seen worthy of the crown in your world? Or is it a necessity that came from your desire to be a guiding light for your people as much as possible?
*He frowned as the Empress revealed she knew Geno was among them. Not because he was disappointed she hadn't said anything (since apparently Geno had plans to make her pay in the event she did), but because she now felt guilty Triage was in the situation he was in, and it hurt him to know someone who had nothing to do with what Geno had against him felt responsible*
Please, do not feel responsible for anything Geno has done to me. You didn't know he was planning to give Jones the final blow. And neither that I was one of the obstacles Geno saw necessary to destabilize. Nobody here would have known! Who we thought was "The Visitor" this whole time was acting extremely weird lately, but nothing of him looked or sounded like Geno.
Plus, you wanted to protect your people. In the end, speaking or not, it was either my spine and Jones or your people on the line. And knowing Jones, I think he would have accepted sacrificing himself if it meant buying time for the River Guard to prepare for a defense. I also think I didn't get attacked for nothing in the end. My presence was clearly an obstacle for his plans. I somehow managed to give the others time to find him out before he could do anything irreversible.
[Eyes softening over the mask, the Empress monitored the response of Triage's body as she inserted the needle carrying the cement.]
You have guessed some of it. My culture is based on the constant strife towards the improvement of the self. To be Empress, the expectation is to embody that principal. To be learned, travelled, refined, wise, powerful, adept, and strong all at once, in as many fields as possible.
[Her tone became amused.]
Of course, another reason is pure boredom. When one surpasses sixty years of age, learning new things is the only way to keep life interesting.
[She sighed, her demeanor once again somber.]
And unfortunately that is where you are incorrect, my friend. In his arrogance, he did not even see fit to disguise his voice. I recognized him at the meeting after the fall of the Foundation. He and I have been locked in stalemate ever since. He could not attack me without revealing himself, and I could not reveal him without bringing his wrath down on my people.
Besides... I have something that he wants.
[She removed the needle, tension and anger making her set it down a little more sharply than intended. The Empress took a moment to breathe. Letting anger affect her now would bring Triage harm.
After a few breaths and a little relaxing of her shoulders, she began again, moving the water in his bloodstream to ensure the cement was in place and well bonded to the bone. Then she began to aid the nerve damage. Full healing would take time, but she could set it in the right direction.]
If I had not been silent, could I have found a scenario where no one was hurt? Unlikely... But regret is a cruel beast.
Huh! That does make sense, if you must be the image of your people then you must be it in every way possible.
*Triage's eyes widened as the Empress mentioned her age like she had just stated the most obvious fact about her.*
Sixty!? Forgive me if I sound rude or inappropriate...but I would've never guessed! You look much younger! At least...At least half of your actual age! How do you manage to keep your body so young-looking?
*Triage shrugged, if one could even call the weird, weak movement of his shoulders that.*
I suppose that would've been a tell-tale sign if one did know how Geno sounded like. Unfortunately I have only ever heard of him, even if I have been there the whole time he has been plaguing the other islands. But what caused this targetting on your people? What is it that you have that he wants?
*Triage shook his head*
With a man like Geno? At least one person would end up hurt after stumbling upon him. Though we can't cry on spilled milk, so we must move forward, even if he tries to stop us from doing so...
[Laughing softly, the Empress moved from the damaged nerves to the broken blood vessels contributing to the bruising.]
The blessing of Ryujin and my connection to the water. My people are given long life, and age slowly due to being able to maintain our bodies more directly. Daily meditation involves cycling the water in our bodies to fully refresh every cell.
And actually, I am nearing seventy.
[Hmm, it might be an interesting experience for him, actually. Closing her eyes, the Empress placed one hand in the bowl of clean water and began cycling it through her and into him. As expected - and was the case for most outside the River Guard - Triage was slightly dehydrated, and she could feel his body respond with relief.
With a satisfied smile, she finished the minor cleanup and broke the connection. The bruise was already a lot clearer.
The topic of Geno and what he wanted, though... that put her on guard. Not that she didn't trust Triage, but what he didn't know, Geno couldn't extract...
... But if he knew, and didn't know to keep it secret, that was also dangerous.]
... I am protecting someone from him. Are you aware of the people who shelter with me?
*He had no idea what she had done to his body, but he clearly felt better than before, like he was given water without having to drink...an interesting experience. He sighed contentedly before noticing the worry in the Empress' eyes after his question was registered.
Ah, he knew that look. The look of someone who's trying so hard to protect a dear one from the hands of another. He had learned to master the act of hiding that look to protect Vengeance back in the Helios days, and even back in Oninoshima when Sleuth had come back to have his revenge. She clearly didn't wish to share too much information that Geno could find, and even if Triage was pretty good at keeping secrets, this one was too delicate to hold.*
Please. Don't find yourself forced to answer fully. What you said is enough. I don't wish to make this more difficult for you. I know the risks of speaking up about someone you're protecting.
[He was trying to reassure her. While it was appreciated as a caring effort, it did not assuage her worry that something may slip, as she still did not know exactly what he might be aware of.
Another thought occurred to her... if they were to utilize the healing springs, Triage would encounter Eugene or conversation about him in Golden Grove. He would find out anyway.
Taking a chair and moving to sit just to the side of Triage's head so he could keep it comfortably turned, the Empress discarded the white robe and mask, washing the water from her hands before taking her seat. Silence settled between them, until she spoke in a quiet voice.]
Below my current home is a spring of water imbued with a healing magic. I had thought to bring you there to aid your recovery... but in staying with my people, you would encounter the one I seek to protect. If you do not know who this person is right now, you would learn very quickly.
Perhaps it would be best for you to know... enough, at least, so that you will be aware of what exactly must not be revealed. Though I fear it is... only a matter of time, even with our best efforts.
[She looked down at her hands, fingers playing with her hidden ring.]
Geno is relentless, and this Island is so small...
*She was right. Him being there would have made him stumble upon the person she wanted to protect, aware or not of who they were. And perhaps knowing before-hand was better than accidentally saying something wrong out loud. And the remark about it being only a matter of time anyways tore at his heart personally. So many times he had tried to reassure a crying Vengeance that no one was gonna come for him...only for them to come again, and again, like a sick game. And if mere Society sympathizers were able of playing such game...who knew what Geno's bare minimum was.
Triage sighed. He felt guilty to have brought up such question. But there was no turning back now. All he could do now was to play their game.*
If you think it's best for me to know, I will learn and keep quiet like you and your people do. It's the bare minimum outside of medical assistance I can do for the River Guard.
I would not burden you with this at all, had I the choice, but as I think on it, I realize that the time for choice is already past. Geno is unveiled and making his moves both in the open and the shadows. We, as allies and friends, must understand one another if we are to be effective.
Furthermore, you and Caspian are our only real medical experts. You must heal as quickly as possible, and that requires the springs, and that necessitates contact with the one I am protecting.
As you can see... ignorance, even well-intentioned, at this point could lead to disaster.
[She fell silent again, praying that this was the right choice. When the Empress spoke again, her voice was heavy and quiet, her eyes on the floor.]
The one I protect is my Champion, Eugene. Formerly Champion-Emperor of the Oathbound Empire... now merely my most precious retainer, and... the deathless snapshot of Geno himself.
He escaped Geno's intended use for him, and has hidden with my people for... a year and a half now. In that time... he has also become my beloved.
Geno wants to find him. Gods only know why... but he knows that Eugene is connected to me in some way. He must not find Eugene, for as long as we can possibly hide him.
*Triage nodded in understanding. He had seen Eugene before, but never actually spoke to the man, so there was no way for him to understand he and Geno were snapshot and original. It was good to know he had escaped Geno's grasp, yet sadly it was to be expected Geno wouldn't let him get away with that easily. The man had managed to make himself a better life, yet his origins kept eating back at him, in the form of the man who apparently only saw him as something with an intended use.
But at least he wasn't alone now.*
It's a good thing that you are protecting your beloved, just like he has been protecting you. But it is sad to know now he's not able to live as peacefully as he has been doing this year...
I wish I could do more, I really do! But unfortunately all I can do is keep quiet and wish him the best, even if that only buys him time, he'll have time to prepare if the worst comes to happen..
If he ever wishes to not show up when I'm around, I will not take it as an insult in the slightest. This is a man protecting himself afterall, hiding is the least he can do, even if it's from a friendly face.
Your silence as to his whereabouts and your understanding for his difficult position are all we could ever desire from you, my friend. It is best that you know this, so that you know for certain that he is opposed to Geno, perhaps even more than the rest of us.
He will not hide from you, but Eugene is reserved, even from those he loves. That is simply his nature. But he deeply values his allies and his friends, and his family above all. You will see what I mean.
With a little grace, and the aid of our friends... perhaps we can help reclaim the peace he deserves.
[She sighed softly, feeling a little weight lift from her. They had one more ally that understood... In this closing cage Geno wrapped around Eugene, such allies were beyond precious.
Now the cloud of worry left her features, and she leaned back to check the rapidly clearing bruise.]
Our home is open to you when you are ready, my friend. I could transfer you as soon as tonight, should you wish.
And your time could be better spent in my library.
[The Empress smiled, standing from her chair.]
It is settled, then. You will be relocated for monitoring and treatment at my home. If Geno has done one good deed today, it is giving me the freedom to aid my friends and allies as I will.
Rest now. I will make rounds through Sanctuary, learn what I may, aid who I can, then return. Stay where you are, perhaps try to get some sleep. You will need all the rest you can get.
[She headed to the door, pausing before leaving.]
I will send the Lieutenant and Vengeance to keep you company in the meantime.
*A carefully enclosed letter washes onto the shore, opening it, it reveals the following message:*
"To her Imperial Majesty of The River Guard,
My name is Richard Slade, but more commonly known as Lieutenant Ripp Slade of the Reality Warriors. Deepest apologies if this letter finds You at the wrong time, but unfortunately we must request support from You and Your Guard.
As our ally, I assume you are aware of the air of high tension there has been on the team following the poor results of the last mission and the coma of Commander Jones. It turns out we have been deceived and betrayed by a man known as Geno, as he disguised himself as The Visitor to get as close as possible to the Commander with the intention of taking his life. And he has attempted to do so today.
The Commander's wellbeing is currently unknown to me or my beloved, Vengeance Jones, as Geno's plan to attack Jones also included the destabilization of our only medical professional, Julien Jones, who finds himself with a badly broken spine and requires help as soon as possible.
Me and my beloved are watching Julien Jones as the rest of the teams moves to save the Commander from any damage Geno has tried to inflict, and our medical knowledge is poor and our hands unprepared, therefore this is why I am writing this letter to You.
I sincerely hope You can reach to us soon.
Best Regards,
Lt. Richard "Ripp" Slade."
[The Empress knew little of "Lt. Ripp Slade", but that didn't matter much. The spirits had reported the situation that had unfolded in Jones' room, and that the Innovation was already racing to fix what had been done to the Commander.
Geno had made his move, and left disaster in his wake.
She had only waited to see if her aid was required. Eugene needed to stay out of sight still, so he and Kendo were stationed to remain at Golden Grove unless summoned directly, but the Empress called on a selection of her people to accompany her now. Caspian would be ideal, but he was still occupied with Joey, so she would make do.
It was only minutes after the letter was received that the Empress and two of her Guard stepped from the river that cut through Sanctuary and entered the massive compound. The two Guard were left with Jones and the Innovation, just in case, and she herself headed to the medbay.
She found the Lieutenant waiting just within the door, giving him a nod in quick greeting as she stepped inside.]
Lieutenant Richard Slade, I presume? I recall you from Oninoshima. Your letter was finely written.
*He exchanged the nod, a deeper one given the importance of the woman infront of him, gesturing her to come inside the medbay*
In the flesh! It's a pleasure to meet you, Vengeance only says good things about you. Oh and the letter? It's not much, just penmanship one needed to have when talking to the OXR generals, I'm glad it turned useful once again!
Unfortunately I suppose I must cut the small talk-
*He accompanied the Empress towards the bed they had placed Triage on, gesturing to the medic who was being carefully watched by a seemingly withdrawn Vengeance, who looked over the Empress and smiled weakly, waving with his hand*
We decided to wait for you to come here, none of us here has expertise in fixing broken bones and it felt like the better choice to not make it harder for you.
[A rather ordinary soldier, by the look of him. Possibly the closest to "normal" this place had to offer, alongside Miss Holloway.
Good. Vengeance had found someone who was unlikely to harm him. And speaking of Vengeance, the Empress caught the small wave, and gave her friend a little smile in return. He didn't look well at all, but like he needed a week of sleep.
Not as dire as Triage by any means. The smile on her lips died at the sight of the medic, and she quietly approached his bedside, lightly touching his wrist, her voice as soft as her touch.]
... Today I may repay your consistent aid to me, my friend. Tell me your condition, if possible. What do you feel?
*Thankfully Triage hadn't passed out again, helped by Vengeance's presence as he kept him distracted from the pain by simply talking. But Triage could tell just by looking at Venge's face that the talk was mainly helping him from falling asleep on the spot, which made Triage wonder if giving him that medicine was a good idea given the situation. But it was either that or Vengeance's psyche collapsing once more. They had no choice.
Turning his head slowly towards the Empress, he smiled at her, not caring to mask the clear pain he was feeling.*
Can't say I haven't felt better. My back hurts horribly and I'm unable to move almost anything. I can only lay down like this...
I think Geno hit me with enough force to break something in the thoracic area...right in the middle of my back, if you will. Haven't done anything for it yet. I've passed out from the pain after he hit me and I've only just woke up...
[The Empress closed her eyes, guilt piercing through her heart. If she had not been silent... could this have been avoided?
... Regret would do nothing for her friend. Geno had taken his legs. Only swift treatment could save them now.
Kneeling beside the medic, she first addressed Slade.]
Lieutenant. Take your beloved, tend to him. This task now lies with me.
[A broken back. Traditional as her people may have been, her world had been well advanced in medicine and technology. The relationship between them had been neatly balanced, and as a warrior Empress, she had learned medicine as well as combat. Certainly she did not have the exhaustive knowledge required of a true practitioner... but Triage and Caspian were the only ones here who did.
Thankfully, she had enough. At least to help this.
The fact that he was smiling, though, even when clearly being in severe pain... Even Eugene was not capable of that, and despite herself the Empress found a smile tugging at her own lips.]
You may be the bravest of us all, Julien Jones, to smile at me so in your position.
[She pressed his hand.]
Tell me now, where you keep the necessary tools for vertebroplasty. Our methods likely differ from yours somewhat, but I know them to be no less effective.
*He watched as Vengeance's tired expression was betrayed by one of slight panic as he looked at Ripp, who was ready to take his hand and escort him outside. He knew Venge hated to be taken away, but Triage knew him too well to not expect the larger man to freak out at any procedure the Empress was going to do. Not to mention Vengeance was practically useless in the medical field, as he was barely able to perform first aid at best. And even then he needed to be guided through the process.*
I'll be fine. I promise. You trust the Empress, right?
*Seeing Vengeance nod made Triage slowly move an arm towards his thigh, patting softly*
Then go rest up, you can come see me when everything's done.
*Once Vengeance and Ripp had left, he turned back to the Empress.*
The needles are on their designated drawer over that set of drawers next to my desk, the bone cement is stored in that small fridge over there in the corner. Gloves and other tools you may need are all stored around in cabinets. Do make yourself home to look for everything you need.
I do not require artificial gloves. I assure you, my arts will be far more effective.
[The Empress laid aside the clear armor that protected her hands, instead sheathing them in a thin coating of water.]
This is how we cleansed wounds on the battlefield in my home. Contamination is immediately washed away, and I am allowed to feel exactly what I am doing.
[She stepped away for a moment, changing her overdress and armor for a white medbay robe she found in the cabinets, then acquired the tools and cement. After a moment of consideration, she locked the door. Just in case. Interruptions could lead to mistakes.
Finally, the Empress returned to Triage, helping him get into position, face down, so she could access the fracture. A massive bruise spread across his lower back, causing her to frown.]
He will pay for this...
[Enough of that. She had work to do. Every second risked further damage.]
Well, my friend, it is long since these skills were required of me. Would you like a total anesthetic? Or would you prefer a local one, and a way to watch? I know some doctors like to observe, and though I find it morbid, I can entertain you.
I think I can take a local one. More to save me the hustle of waiting for the total one to wear off. I know most of my patients hate that part, but sometimes it's the only option for them.
*Triage smiled at the Empress' remark*
Yeah. It can be a little weird to let your patient be awake during procedures, but don't worry, I always trust another medically skilled person. Especially when they look like they know exactly what they're doing.
[The Empress scoffed lightly, shaking her head fondly with a smile.]
Suit yourself. I should have expected you to be no exception from the standard medical eccentricities.
Coming from a martial world as I do, you might expect that I have encountered many similar injuries, and you would be correct. At the same time that I practiced blacksmithing, I was also studying some general medicine. I have not the skill of the dedicated healers, but I at least wished to be competent should the need arise. This was, unfortunately, not an uncommon injury.
[Setting a mirror in position so he could watch her work, she deftly sterilized the area and applied a local anesthetic. Collecting a bowl of clean water, she dipped her hands, then reached into his bloodstream, examining the extent of the damage as the anesthetic worked.
Extreme bruising, fracture of the vertebrae, and nerve damage in the spine. Bad - actually very bad - but not hopeless. He would need a long recovery time, but perhaps the healing springs under her home could expedite it safely.
Triage was taking this very well, though he must know what lay ahead for him. The Empress sighed as she prepared the cement.]
I feel responsible for this... It may be irrational of me to feel so, but I do. I knew he was here, but the security of my people bound my hands... He knew I was aware of him.
[Revealing himself had freed her from their mutual silence... but that would do little good now.]
It sound like you have taken a great portion of your life to learn new skills! Is it something required to be seen worthy of the crown in your world? Or is it a necessity that came from your desire to be a guiding light for your people as much as possible?
*He frowned as the Empress revealed she knew Geno was among them. Not because he was disappointed she hadn't said anything (since apparently Geno had plans to make her pay in the event she did), but because she now felt guilty Triage was in the situation he was in, and it hurt him to know someone who had nothing to do with what Geno had against him felt responsible*
Please, do not feel responsible for anything Geno has done to me. You didn't know he was planning to give Jones the final blow. And neither that I was one of the obstacles Geno saw necessary to destabilize. Nobody here would have known! Who we thought was "The Visitor" this whole time was acting extremely weird lately, but nothing of him looked or sounded like Geno.
Plus, you wanted to protect your people. In the end, speaking or not, it was either my spine and Jones or your people on the line. And knowing Jones, I think he would have accepted sacrificing himself if it meant buying time for the River Guard to prepare for a defense. I also think I didn't get attacked for nothing in the end. My presence was clearly an obstacle for his plans. I somehow managed to give the others time to find him out before he could do anything irreversible.
[Eyes softening over the mask, the Empress monitored the response of Triage's body as she inserted the needle carrying the cement.]
You have guessed some of it. My culture is based on the constant strife towards the improvement of the self. To be Empress, the expectation is to embody that principal. To be learned, travelled, refined, wise, powerful, adept, and strong all at once, in as many fields as possible.
[Her tone became amused.]
Of course, another reason is pure boredom. When one surpasses sixty years of age, learning new things is the only way to keep life interesting.
[She sighed, her demeanor once again somber.]
And unfortunately that is where you are incorrect, my friend. In his arrogance, he did not even see fit to disguise his voice. I recognized him at the meeting after the fall of the Foundation. He and I have been locked in stalemate ever since. He could not attack me without revealing himself, and I could not reveal him without bringing his wrath down on my people.
Besides... I have something that he wants.
[She removed the needle, tension and anger making her set it down a little more sharply than intended. The Empress took a moment to breathe. Letting anger affect her now would bring Triage harm.
After a few breaths and a little relaxing of her shoulders, she began again, moving the water in his bloodstream to ensure the cement was in place and well bonded to the bone. Then she began to aid the nerve damage. Full healing would take time, but she could set it in the right direction.]
If I had not been silent, could I have found a scenario where no one was hurt? Unlikely... But regret is a cruel beast.
Huh! That does make sense, if you must be the image of your people then you must be it in every way possible.
*Triage's eyes widened as the Empress mentioned her age like she had just stated the most obvious fact about her.*
Sixty!? Forgive me if I sound rude or inappropriate...but I would've never guessed! You look much younger! At least...At least half of your actual age! How do you manage to keep your body so young-looking?
*Triage shrugged, if one could even call the weird, weak movement of his shoulders that.*
I suppose that would've been a tell-tale sign if one did know how Geno sounded like. Unfortunately I have only ever heard of him, even if I have been there the whole time he has been plaguing the other islands. But what caused this targetting on your people? What is it that you have that he wants?
*Triage shook his head*
With a man like Geno? At least one person would end up hurt after stumbling upon him. Though we can't cry on spilled milk, so we must move forward, even if he tries to stop us from doing so...
[Laughing softly, the Empress moved from the damaged nerves to the broken blood vessels contributing to the bruising.]
The blessing of Ryujin and my connection to the water. My people are given long life, and age slowly due to being able to maintain our bodies more directly. Daily meditation involves cycling the water in our bodies to fully refresh every cell.
And actually, I am nearing seventy.
[Hmm, it might be an interesting experience for him, actually. Closing her eyes, the Empress placed one hand in the bowl of clean water and began cycling it through her and into him. As expected - and was the case for most outside the River Guard - Triage was slightly dehydrated, and she could feel his body respond with relief.
With a satisfied smile, she finished the minor cleanup and broke the connection. The bruise was already a lot clearer.
The topic of Geno and what he wanted, though... that put her on guard. Not that she didn't trust Triage, but what he didn't know, Geno couldn't extract...
... But if he knew, and didn't know to keep it secret, that was also dangerous.]
... I am protecting someone from him. Are you aware of the people who shelter with me?
*He had no idea what she had done to his body, but he clearly felt better than before, like he was given water without having to drink...an interesting experience. He sighed contentedly before noticing the worry in the Empress' eyes after his question was registered.
Ah, he knew that look. The look of someone who's trying so hard to protect a dear one from the hands of another. He had learned to master the act of hiding that look to protect Vengeance back in the Helios days, and even back in Oninoshima when Sleuth had come back to have his revenge. She clearly didn't wish to share too much information that Geno could find, and even if Triage was pretty good at keeping secrets, this one was too delicate to hold.*
Please. Don't find yourself forced to answer fully. What you said is enough. I don't wish to make this more difficult for you. I know the risks of speaking up about someone you're protecting.
[He was trying to reassure her. While it was appreciated as a caring effort, it did not assuage her worry that something may slip, as she still did not know exactly what he might be aware of.
Another thought occurred to her... if they were to utilize the healing springs, Triage would encounter Eugene or conversation about him in Golden Grove. He would find out anyway.
Taking a chair and moving to sit just to the side of Triage's head so he could keep it comfortably turned, the Empress discarded the white robe and mask, washing the water from her hands before taking her seat. Silence settled between them, until she spoke in a quiet voice.]
Below my current home is a spring of water imbued with a healing magic. I had thought to bring you there to aid your recovery... but in staying with my people, you would encounter the one I seek to protect. If you do not know who this person is right now, you would learn very quickly.
Perhaps it would be best for you to know... enough, at least, so that you will be aware of what exactly must not be revealed. Though I fear it is... only a matter of time, even with our best efforts.
[She looked down at her hands, fingers playing with her hidden ring.]
Geno is relentless, and this Island is so small...
*She was right. Him being there would have made him stumble upon the person she wanted to protect, aware or not of who they were. And perhaps knowing before-hand was better than accidentally saying something wrong out loud. And the remark about it being only a matter of time anyways tore at his heart personally. So many times he had tried to reassure a crying Vengeance that no one was gonna come for him...only for them to come again, and again, like a sick game. And if mere Society sympathizers were able of playing such game...who knew what Geno's bare minimum was.
Triage sighed. He felt guilty to have brought up such question. But there was no turning back now. All he could do now was to play their game.*
If you think it's best for me to know, I will learn and keep quiet like you and your people do. It's the bare minimum outside of medical assistance I can do for the River Guard.
I would not burden you with this at all, had I the choice, but as I think on it, I realize that the time for choice is already past. Geno is unveiled and making his moves both in the open and the shadows. We, as allies and friends, must understand one another if we are to be effective.
Furthermore, you and Caspian are our only real medical experts. You must heal as quickly as possible, and that requires the springs, and that necessitates contact with the one I am protecting.
As you can see... ignorance, even well-intentioned, at this point could lead to disaster.
[She fell silent again, praying that this was the right choice. When the Empress spoke again, her voice was heavy and quiet, her eyes on the floor.]
The one I protect is my Champion, Eugene. Formerly Champion-Emperor of the Oathbound Empire... now merely my most precious retainer, and... the deathless snapshot of Geno himself.
He escaped Geno's intended use for him, and has hidden with my people for... a year and a half now. In that time... he has also become my beloved.
Geno wants to find him. Gods only know why... but he knows that Eugene is connected to me in some way. He must not find Eugene, for as long as we can possibly hide him.
*Triage nodded in understanding. He had seen Eugene before, but never actually spoke to the man, so there was no way for him to understand he and Geno were snapshot and original. It was good to know he had escaped Geno's grasp, yet sadly it was to be expected Geno wouldn't let him get away with that easily. The man had managed to make himself a better life, yet his origins kept eating back at him, in the form of the man who apparently only saw him as something with an intended use.
But at least he wasn't alone now.*
It's a good thing that you are protecting your beloved, just like he has been protecting you. But it is sad to know now he's not able to live as peacefully as he has been doing this year...
I wish I could do more, I really do! But unfortunately all I can do is keep quiet and wish him the best, even if that only buys him time, he'll have time to prepare if the worst comes to happen..
If he ever wishes to not show up when I'm around, I will not take it as an insult in the slightest. This is a man protecting himself afterall, hiding is the least he can do, even if it's from a friendly face.
Your silence as to his whereabouts and your understanding for his difficult position are all we could ever desire from you, my friend. It is best that you know this, so that you know for certain that he is opposed to Geno, perhaps even more than the rest of us.
He will not hide from you, but Eugene is reserved, even from those he loves. That is simply his nature. But he deeply values his allies and his friends, and his family above all. You will see what I mean.
With a little grace, and the aid of our friends... perhaps we can help reclaim the peace he deserves.
[She sighed softly, feeling a little weight lift from her. They had one more ally that understood... In this closing cage Geno wrapped around Eugene, such allies were beyond precious.
Now the cloud of worry left her features, and she leaned back to check the rapidly clearing bruise.]
Our home is open to you when you are ready, my friend. I could transfer you as soon as tonight, should you wish.
*A carefully enclosed letter washes onto the shore, opening it, it reveals the following message:*
"To her Imperial Majesty of The River Guard,
My name is Richard Slade, but more commonly known as Lieutenant Ripp Slade of the Reality Warriors. Deepest apologies if this letter finds You at the wrong time, but unfortunately we must request support from You and Your Guard.
As our ally, I assume you are aware of the air of high tension there has been on the team following the poor results of the last mission and the coma of Commander Jones. It turns out we have been deceived and betrayed by a man known as Geno, as he disguised himself as The Visitor to get as close as possible to the Commander with the intention of taking his life. And he has attempted to do so today.
The Commander's wellbeing is currently unknown to me or my beloved, Vengeance Jones, as Geno's plan to attack Jones also included the destabilization of our only medical professional, Julien Jones, who finds himself with a badly broken spine and requires help as soon as possible.
Me and my beloved are watching Julien Jones as the rest of the teams moves to save the Commander from any damage Geno has tried to inflict, and our medical knowledge is poor and our hands unprepared, therefore this is why I am writing this letter to You.
I sincerely hope You can reach to us soon.
Best Regards,
Lt. Richard "Ripp" Slade."
[The Empress knew little of "Lt. Ripp Slade", but that didn't matter much. The spirits had reported the situation that had unfolded in Jones' room, and that the Innovation was already racing to fix what had been done to the Commander.
Geno had made his move, and left disaster in his wake.
She had only waited to see if her aid was required. Eugene needed to stay out of sight still, so he and Kendo were stationed to remain at Golden Grove unless summoned directly, but the Empress called on a selection of her people to accompany her now. Caspian would be ideal, but he was still occupied with Joey, so she would make do.
It was only minutes after the letter was received that the Empress and two of her Guard stepped from the river that cut through Sanctuary and entered the massive compound. The two Guard were left with Jones and the Innovation, just in case, and she herself headed to the medbay.
She found the Lieutenant waiting just within the door, giving him a nod in quick greeting as she stepped inside.]
Lieutenant Richard Slade, I presume? I recall you from Oninoshima. Your letter was finely written.
*He exchanged the nod, a deeper one given the importance of the woman infront of him, gesturing her to come inside the medbay*
In the flesh! It's a pleasure to meet you, Vengeance only says good things about you. Oh and the letter? It's not much, just penmanship one needed to have when talking to the OXR generals, I'm glad it turned useful once again!
Unfortunately I suppose I must cut the small talk-
*He accompanied the Empress towards the bed they had placed Triage on, gesturing to the medic who was being carefully watched by a seemingly withdrawn Vengeance, who looked over the Empress and smiled weakly, waving with his hand*
We decided to wait for you to come here, none of us here has expertise in fixing broken bones and it felt like the better choice to not make it harder for you.
[A rather ordinary soldier, by the look of him. Possibly the closest to "normal" this place had to offer, alongside Miss Holloway.
Good. Vengeance had found someone who was unlikely to harm him. And speaking of Vengeance, the Empress caught the small wave, and gave her friend a little smile in return. He didn't look well at all, but like he needed a week of sleep.
Not as dire as Triage by any means. The smile on her lips died at the sight of the medic, and she quietly approached his bedside, lightly touching his wrist, her voice as soft as her touch.]
... Today I may repay your consistent aid to me, my friend. Tell me your condition, if possible. What do you feel?
*Thankfully Triage hadn't passed out again, helped by Vengeance's presence as he kept him distracted from the pain by simply talking. But Triage could tell just by looking at Venge's face that the talk was mainly helping him from falling asleep on the spot, which made Triage wonder if giving him that medicine was a good idea given the situation. But it was either that or Vengeance's psyche collapsing once more. They had no choice.
Turning his head slowly towards the Empress, he smiled at her, not caring to mask the clear pain he was feeling.*
Can't say I haven't felt better. My back hurts horribly and I'm unable to move almost anything. I can only lay down like this...
I think Geno hit me with enough force to break something in the thoracic area...right in the middle of my back, if you will. Haven't done anything for it yet. I've passed out from the pain after he hit me and I've only just woke up...
[The Empress closed her eyes, guilt piercing through her heart. If she had not been silent... could this have been avoided?
... Regret would do nothing for her friend. Geno had taken his legs. Only swift treatment could save them now.
Kneeling beside the medic, she first addressed Slade.]
Lieutenant. Take your beloved, tend to him. This task now lies with me.
[A broken back. Traditional as her people may have been, her world had been well advanced in medicine and technology. The relationship between them had been neatly balanced, and as a warrior Empress, she had learned medicine as well as combat. Certainly she did not have the exhaustive knowledge required of a true practitioner... but Triage and Caspian were the only ones here who did.
Thankfully, she had enough. At least to help this.
The fact that he was smiling, though, even when clearly being in severe pain... Even Eugene was not capable of that, and despite herself the Empress found a smile tugging at her own lips.]
You may be the bravest of us all, Julien Jones, to smile at me so in your position.
[She pressed his hand.]
Tell me now, where you keep the necessary tools for vertebroplasty. Our methods likely differ from yours somewhat, but I know them to be no less effective.
*He watched as Vengeance's tired expression was betrayed by one of slight panic as he looked at Ripp, who was ready to take his hand and escort him outside. He knew Venge hated to be taken away, but Triage knew him too well to not expect the larger man to freak out at any procedure the Empress was going to do. Not to mention Vengeance was practically useless in the medical field, as he was barely able to perform first aid at best. And even then he needed to be guided through the process.*
I'll be fine. I promise. You trust the Empress, right?
*Seeing Vengeance nod made Triage slowly move an arm towards his thigh, patting softly*
Then go rest up, you can come see me when everything's done.
*Once Vengeance and Ripp had left, he turned back to the Empress.*
The needles are on their designated drawer over that set of drawers next to my desk, the bone cement is stored in that small fridge over there in the corner. Gloves and other tools you may need are all stored around in cabinets. Do make yourself home to look for everything you need.
I do not require artificial gloves. I assure you, my arts will be far more effective.
[The Empress laid aside the clear armor that protected her hands, instead sheathing them in a thin coating of water.]
This is how we cleansed wounds on the battlefield in my home. Contamination is immediately washed away, and I am allowed to feel exactly what I am doing.
[She stepped away for a moment, changing her overdress and armor for a white medbay robe she found in the cabinets, then acquired the tools and cement. After a moment of consideration, she locked the door. Just in case. Interruptions could lead to mistakes.
Finally, the Empress returned to Triage, helping him get into position, face down, so she could access the fracture. A massive bruise spread across his lower back, causing her to frown.]
He will pay for this...
[Enough of that. She had work to do. Every second risked further damage.]
Well, my friend, it is long since these skills were required of me. Would you like a total anesthetic? Or would you prefer a local one, and a way to watch? I know some doctors like to observe, and though I find it morbid, I can entertain you.
I think I can take a local one. More to save me the hustle of waiting for the total one to wear off. I know most of my patients hate that part, but sometimes it's the only option for them.
*Triage smiled at the Empress' remark*
Yeah. It can be a little weird to let your patient be awake during procedures, but don't worry, I always trust another medically skilled person. Especially when they look like they know exactly what they're doing.
[The Empress scoffed lightly, shaking her head fondly with a smile.]
Suit yourself. I should have expected you to be no exception from the standard medical eccentricities.
Coming from a martial world as I do, you might expect that I have encountered many similar injuries, and you would be correct. At the same time that I practiced blacksmithing, I was also studying some general medicine. I have not the skill of the dedicated healers, but I at least wished to be competent should the need arise. This was, unfortunately, not an uncommon injury.
[Setting a mirror in position so he could watch her work, she deftly sterilized the area and applied a local anesthetic. Collecting a bowl of clean water, she dipped her hands, then reached into his bloodstream, examining the extent of the damage as the anesthetic worked.
Extreme bruising, fracture of the vertebrae, and nerve damage in the spine. Bad - actually very bad - but not hopeless. He would need a long recovery time, but perhaps the healing springs under her home could expedite it safely.
Triage was taking this very well, though he must know what lay ahead for him. The Empress sighed as she prepared the cement.]
I feel responsible for this... It may be irrational of me to feel so, but I do. I knew he was here, but the security of my people bound my hands... He knew I was aware of him.
[Revealing himself had freed her from their mutual silence... but that would do little good now.]
It sound like you have taken a great portion of your life to learn new skills! Is it something required to be seen worthy of the crown in your world? Or is it a necessity that came from your desire to be a guiding light for your people as much as possible?
*He frowned as the Empress revealed she knew Geno was among them. Not because he was disappointed she hadn't said anything (since apparently Geno had plans to make her pay in the event she did), but because she now felt guilty Triage was in the situation he was in, and it hurt him to know someone who had nothing to do with what Geno had against him felt responsible*
Please, do not feel responsible for anything Geno has done to me. You didn't know he was planning to give Jones the final blow. And neither that I was one of the obstacles Geno saw necessary to destabilize. Nobody here would have known! Who we thought was "The Visitor" this whole time was acting extremely weird lately, but nothing of him looked or sounded like Geno.
Plus, you wanted to protect your people. In the end, speaking or not, it was either my spine and Jones or your people on the line. And knowing Jones, I think he would have accepted sacrificing himself if it meant buying time for the River Guard to prepare for a defense. I also think I didn't get attacked for nothing in the end. My presence was clearly an obstacle for his plans. I somehow managed to give the others time to find him out before he could do anything irreversible.
[Eyes softening over the mask, the Empress monitored the response of Triage's body as she inserted the needle carrying the cement.]
You have guessed some of it. My culture is based on the constant strife towards the improvement of the self. To be Empress, the expectation is to embody that principal. To be learned, travelled, refined, wise, powerful, adept, and strong all at once, in as many fields as possible.
[Her tone became amused.]
Of course, another reason is pure boredom. When one surpasses sixty years of age, learning new things is the only way to keep life interesting.
[She sighed, her demeanor once again somber.]
And unfortunately that is where you are incorrect, my friend. In his arrogance, he did not even see fit to disguise his voice. I recognized him at the meeting after the fall of the Foundation. He and I have been locked in stalemate ever since. He could not attack me without revealing himself, and I could not reveal him without bringing his wrath down on my people.
Besides... I have something that he wants.
[She removed the needle, tension and anger making her set it down a little more sharply than intended. The Empress took a moment to breathe. Letting anger affect her now would bring Triage harm.
After a few breaths and a little relaxing of her shoulders, she began again, moving the water in his bloodstream to ensure the cement was in place and well bonded to the bone. Then she began to aid the nerve damage. Full healing would take time, but she could set it in the right direction.]
If I had not been silent, could I have found a scenario where no one was hurt? Unlikely... But regret is a cruel beast.
Huh! That does make sense, if you must be the image of your people then you must be it in every way possible.
*Triage's eyes widened as the Empress mentioned her age like she had just stated the most obvious fact about her.*
Sixty!? Forgive me if I sound rude or inappropriate...but I would've never guessed! You look much younger! At least...At least half of your actual age! How do you manage to keep your body so young-looking?
*Triage shrugged, if one could even call the weird, weak movement of his shoulders that.*
I suppose that would've been a tell-tale sign if one did know how Geno sounded like. Unfortunately I have only ever heard of him, even if I have been there the whole time he has been plaguing the other islands. But what caused this targetting on your people? What is it that you have that he wants?
*Triage shook his head*
With a man like Geno? At least one person would end up hurt after stumbling upon him. Though we can't cry on spilled milk, so we must move forward, even if he tries to stop us from doing so...
[Laughing softly, the Empress moved from the damaged nerves to the broken blood vessels contributing to the bruising.]
The blessing of Ryujin and my connection to the water. My people are given long life, and age slowly due to being able to maintain our bodies more directly. Daily meditation involves cycling the water in our bodies to fully refresh every cell.
And actually, I am nearing seventy.
[Hmm, it might be an interesting experience for him, actually. Closing her eyes, the Empress placed one hand in the bowl of clean water and began cycling it through her and into him. As expected - and was the case for most outside the River Guard - Triage was slightly dehydrated, and she could feel his body respond with relief.
With a satisfied smile, she finished the minor cleanup and broke the connection. The bruise was already a lot clearer.
The topic of Geno and what he wanted, though... that put her on guard. Not that she didn't trust Triage, but what he didn't know, Geno couldn't extract...
... But if he knew, and didn't know to keep it secret, that was also dangerous.]
... I am protecting someone from him. Are you aware of the people who shelter with me?
*He had no idea what she had done to his body, but he clearly felt better than before, like he was given water without having to drink...an interesting experience. He sighed contentedly before noticing the worry in the Empress' eyes after his question was registered.
Ah, he knew that look. The look of someone who's trying so hard to protect a dear one from the hands of another. He had learned to master the act of hiding that look to protect Vengeance back in the Helios days, and even back in Oninoshima when Sleuth had come back to have his revenge. She clearly didn't wish to share too much information that Geno could find, and even if Triage was pretty good at keeping secrets, this one was too delicate to hold.*
Please. Don't find yourself forced to answer fully. What you said is enough. I don't wish to make this more difficult for you. I know the risks of speaking up about someone you're protecting.
[He was trying to reassure her. While it was appreciated as a caring effort, it did not assuage her worry that something may slip, as she still did not know exactly what he might be aware of.
Another thought occurred to her... if they were to utilize the healing springs, Triage would encounter Eugene or conversation about him in Golden Grove. He would find out anyway.
Taking a chair and moving to sit just to the side of Triage's head so he could keep it comfortably turned, the Empress discarded the white robe and mask, washing the water from her hands before taking her seat. Silence settled between them, until she spoke in a quiet voice.]
Below my current home is a spring of water imbued with a healing magic. I had thought to bring you there to aid your recovery... but in staying with my people, you would encounter the one I seek to protect. If you do not know who this person is right now, you would learn very quickly.
Perhaps it would be best for you to know... enough, at least, so that you will be aware of what exactly must not be revealed. Though I fear it is... only a matter of time, even with our best efforts.
[She looked down at her hands, fingers playing with her hidden ring.]
Geno is relentless, and this Island is so small...
*She was right. Him being there would have made him stumble upon the person she wanted to protect, aware or not of who they were. And perhaps knowing before-hand was better than accidentally saying something wrong out loud. And the remark about it being only a matter of time anyways tore at his heart personally. So many times he had tried to reassure a crying Vengeance that no one was gonna come for him...only for them to come again, and again, like a sick game. And if mere Society sympathizers were able of playing such game...who knew what Geno's bare minimum was.
Triage sighed. He felt guilty to have brought up such question. But there was no turning back now. All he could do now was to play their game.*
If you think it's best for me to know, I will learn and keep quiet like you and your people do. It's the bare minimum outside of medical assistance I can do for the River Guard.
I would not burden you with this at all, had I the choice, but as I think on it, I realize that the time for choice is already past. Geno is unveiled and making his moves both in the open and the shadows. We, as allies and friends, must understand one another if we are to be effective.
Furthermore, you and Caspian are our only real medical experts. You must heal as quickly as possible, and that requires the springs, and that necessitates contact with the one I am protecting.
As you can see... ignorance, even well-intentioned, at this point could lead to disaster.
[She fell silent again, praying that this was the right choice. When the Empress spoke again, her voice was heavy and quiet, her eyes on the floor.]
The one I protect is my Champion, Eugene. Formerly Champion-Emperor of the Oathbound Empire... now merely my most precious retainer, and... the deathless snapshot of Geno himself.
He escaped Geno's intended use for him, and has hidden with my people for... a year and a half now. In that time... he has also become my beloved.
Geno wants to find him. Gods only know why... but he knows that Eugene is connected to me in some way. He must not find Eugene, for as long as we can possibly hide him.
*A carefully enclosed letter washes onto the shore, opening it, it reveals the following message:*
"To her Imperial Majesty of The River Guard,
My name is Richard Slade, but more commonly known as Lieutenant Ripp Slade of the Reality Warriors. Deepest apologies if this letter finds You at the wrong time, but unfortunately we must request support from You and Your Guard.
As our ally, I assume you are aware of the air of high tension there has been on the team following the poor results of the last mission and the coma of Commander Jones. It turns out we have been deceived and betrayed by a man known as Geno, as he disguised himself as The Visitor to get as close as possible to the Commander with the intention of taking his life. And he has attempted to do so today.
The Commander's wellbeing is currently unknown to me or my beloved, Vengeance Jones, as Geno's plan to attack Jones also included the destabilization of our only medical professional, Julien Jones, who finds himself with a badly broken spine and requires help as soon as possible.
Me and my beloved are watching Julien Jones as the rest of the teams moves to save the Commander from any damage Geno has tried to inflict, and our medical knowledge is poor and our hands unprepared, therefore this is why I am writing this letter to You.
I sincerely hope You can reach to us soon.
Best Regards,
Lt. Richard "Ripp" Slade."
[The Empress knew little of "Lt. Ripp Slade", but that didn't matter much. The spirits had reported the situation that had unfolded in Jones' room, and that the Innovation was already racing to fix what had been done to the Commander.
Geno had made his move, and left disaster in his wake.
She had only waited to see if her aid was required. Eugene needed to stay out of sight still, so he and Kendo were stationed to remain at Golden Grove unless summoned directly, but the Empress called on a selection of her people to accompany her now. Caspian would be ideal, but he was still occupied with Joey, so she would make do.
It was only minutes after the letter was received that the Empress and two of her Guard stepped from the river that cut through Sanctuary and entered the massive compound. The two Guard were left with Jones and the Innovation, just in case, and she herself headed to the medbay.
She found the Lieutenant waiting just within the door, giving him a nod in quick greeting as she stepped inside.]
Lieutenant Richard Slade, I presume? I recall you from Oninoshima. Your letter was finely written.
*He exchanged the nod, a deeper one given the importance of the woman infront of him, gesturing her to come inside the medbay*
In the flesh! It's a pleasure to meet you, Vengeance only says good things about you. Oh and the letter? It's not much, just penmanship one needed to have when talking to the OXR generals, I'm glad it turned useful once again!
Unfortunately I suppose I must cut the small talk-
*He accompanied the Empress towards the bed they had placed Triage on, gesturing to the medic who was being carefully watched by a seemingly withdrawn Vengeance, who looked over the Empress and smiled weakly, waving with his hand*
We decided to wait for you to come here, none of us here has expertise in fixing broken bones and it felt like the better choice to not make it harder for you.
[A rather ordinary soldier, by the look of him. Possibly the closest to "normal" this place had to offer, alongside Miss Holloway.
Good. Vengeance had found someone who was unlikely to harm him. And speaking of Vengeance, the Empress caught the small wave, and gave her friend a little smile in return. He didn't look well at all, but like he needed a week of sleep.
Not as dire as Triage by any means. The smile on her lips died at the sight of the medic, and she quietly approached his bedside, lightly touching his wrist, her voice as soft as her touch.]
... Today I may repay your consistent aid to me, my friend. Tell me your condition, if possible. What do you feel?
*Thankfully Triage hadn't passed out again, helped by Vengeance's presence as he kept him distracted from the pain by simply talking. But Triage could tell just by looking at Venge's face that the talk was mainly helping him from falling asleep on the spot, which made Triage wonder if giving him that medicine was a good idea given the situation. But it was either that or Vengeance's psyche collapsing once more. They had no choice.
Turning his head slowly towards the Empress, he smiled at her, not caring to mask the clear pain he was feeling.*
Can't say I haven't felt better. My back hurts horribly and I'm unable to move almost anything. I can only lay down like this...
I think Geno hit me with enough force to break something in the thoracic area...right in the middle of my back, if you will. Haven't done anything for it yet. I've passed out from the pain after he hit me and I've only just woke up...
[The Empress closed her eyes, guilt piercing through her heart. If she had not been silent... could this have been avoided?
... Regret would do nothing for her friend. Geno had taken his legs. Only swift treatment could save them now.
Kneeling beside the medic, she first addressed Slade.]
Lieutenant. Take your beloved, tend to him. This task now lies with me.
[A broken back. Traditional as her people may have been, her world had been well advanced in medicine and technology. The relationship between them had been neatly balanced, and as a warrior Empress, she had learned medicine as well as combat. Certainly she did not have the exhaustive knowledge required of a true practitioner... but Triage and Caspian were the only ones here who did.
Thankfully, she had enough. At least to help this.
The fact that he was smiling, though, even when clearly being in severe pain... Even Eugene was not capable of that, and despite herself the Empress found a smile tugging at her own lips.]
You may be the bravest of us all, Julien Jones, to smile at me so in your position.
[She pressed his hand.]
Tell me now, where you keep the necessary tools for vertebroplasty. Our methods likely differ from yours somewhat, but I know them to be no less effective.
*He watched as Vengeance's tired expression was betrayed by one of slight panic as he looked at Ripp, who was ready to take his hand and escort him outside. He knew Venge hated to be taken away, but Triage knew him too well to not expect the larger man to freak out at any procedure the Empress was going to do. Not to mention Vengeance was practically useless in the medical field, as he was barely able to perform first aid at best. And even then he needed to be guided through the process.*
I'll be fine. I promise. You trust the Empress, right?
*Seeing Vengeance nod made Triage slowly move an arm towards his thigh, patting softly*
Then go rest up, you can come see me when everything's done.
*Once Vengeance and Ripp had left, he turned back to the Empress.*
The needles are on their designated drawer over that set of drawers next to my desk, the bone cement is stored in that small fridge over there in the corner. Gloves and other tools you may need are all stored around in cabinets. Do make yourself home to look for everything you need.
I do not require artificial gloves. I assure you, my arts will be far more effective.
[The Empress laid aside the clear armor that protected her hands, instead sheathing them in a thin coating of water.]
This is how we cleansed wounds on the battlefield in my home. Contamination is immediately washed away, and I am allowed to feel exactly what I am doing.
[She stepped away for a moment, changing her overdress and armor for a white medbay robe she found in the cabinets, then acquired the tools and cement. After a moment of consideration, she locked the door. Just in case. Interruptions could lead to mistakes.
Finally, the Empress returned to Triage, helping him get into position, face down, so she could access the fracture. A massive bruise spread across his lower back, causing her to frown.]
He will pay for this...
[Enough of that. She had work to do. Every second risked further damage.]
Well, my friend, it is long since these skills were required of me. Would you like a total anesthetic? Or would you prefer a local one, and a way to watch? I know some doctors like to observe, and though I find it morbid, I can entertain you.
I think I can take a local one. More to save me the hustle of waiting for the total one to wear off. I know most of my patients hate that part, but sometimes it's the only option for them.
*Triage smiled at the Empress' remark*
Yeah. It can be a little weird to let your patient be awake during procedures, but don't worry, I always trust another medically skilled person. Especially when they look like they know exactly what they're doing.
[The Empress scoffed lightly, shaking her head fondly with a smile.]
Suit yourself. I should have expected you to be no exception from the standard medical eccentricities.
Coming from a martial world as I do, you might expect that I have encountered many similar injuries, and you would be correct. At the same time that I practiced blacksmithing, I was also studying some general medicine. I have not the skill of the dedicated healers, but I at least wished to be competent should the need arise. This was, unfortunately, not an uncommon injury.
[Setting a mirror in position so he could watch her work, she deftly sterilized the area and applied a local anesthetic. Collecting a bowl of clean water, she dipped her hands, then reached into his bloodstream, examining the extent of the damage as the anesthetic worked.
Extreme bruising, fracture of the vertebrae, and nerve damage in the spine. Bad - actually very bad - but not hopeless. He would need a long recovery time, but perhaps the healing springs under her home could expedite it safely.
Triage was taking this very well, though he must know what lay ahead for him. The Empress sighed as she prepared the cement.]
I feel responsible for this... It may be irrational of me to feel so, but I do. I knew he was here, but the security of my people bound my hands... He knew I was aware of him.
[Revealing himself had freed her from their mutual silence... but that would do little good now.]
It sound like you have taken a great portion of your life to learn new skills! Is it something required to be seen worthy of the crown in your world? Or is it a necessity that came from your desire to be a guiding light for your people as much as possible?
*He frowned as the Empress revealed she knew Geno was among them. Not because he was disappointed she hadn't said anything (since apparently Geno had plans to make her pay in the event she did), but because she now felt guilty Triage was in the situation he was in, and it hurt him to know someone who had nothing to do with what Geno had against him felt responsible*
Please, do not feel responsible for anything Geno has done to me. You didn't know he was planning to give Jones the final blow. And neither that I was one of the obstacles Geno saw necessary to destabilize. Nobody here would have known! Who we thought was "The Visitor" this whole time was acting extremely weird lately, but nothing of him looked or sounded like Geno.
Plus, you wanted to protect your people. In the end, speaking or not, it was either my spine and Jones or your people on the line. And knowing Jones, I think he would have accepted sacrificing himself if it meant buying time for the River Guard to prepare for a defense. I also think I didn't get attacked for nothing in the end. My presence was clearly an obstacle for his plans. I somehow managed to give the others time to find him out before he could do anything irreversible.
[Eyes softening over the mask, the Empress monitored the response of Triage's body as she inserted the needle carrying the cement.]
You have guessed some of it. My culture is based on the constant strife towards the improvement of the self. To be Empress, the expectation is to embody that principal. To be learned, travelled, refined, wise, powerful, adept, and strong all at once, in as many fields as possible.
[Her tone became amused.]
Of course, another reason is pure boredom. When one surpasses sixty years of age, learning new things is the only way to keep life interesting.
[She sighed, her demeanor once again somber.]
And unfortunately that is where you are incorrect, my friend. In his arrogance, he did not even see fit to disguise his voice. I recognized him at the meeting after the fall of the Foundation. He and I have been locked in stalemate ever since. He could not attack me without revealing himself, and I could not reveal him without bringing his wrath down on my people.
Besides... I have something that he wants.
[She removed the needle, tension and anger making her set it down a little more sharply than intended. The Empress took a moment to breathe. Letting anger affect her now would bring Triage harm.
After a few breaths and a little relaxing of her shoulders, she began again, moving the water in his bloodstream to ensure the cement was in place and well bonded to the bone. Then she began to aid the nerve damage. Full healing would take time, but she could set it in the right direction.]
If I had not been silent, could I have found a scenario where no one was hurt? Unlikely... But regret is a cruel beast.
Huh! That does make sense, if you must be the image of your people then you must be it in every way possible.
*Triage's eyes widened as the Empress mentioned her age like she had just stated the most obvious fact about her.*
Sixty!? Forgive me if I sound rude or inappropriate...but I would've never guessed! You look much younger! At least...At least half of your actual age! How do you manage to keep your body so young-looking?
*Triage shrugged, if one could even call the weird, weak movement of his shoulders that.*
I suppose that would've been a tell-tale sign if one did know how Geno sounded like. Unfortunately I have only ever heard of him, even if I have been there the whole time he has been plaguing the other islands. But what caused this targetting on your people? What is it that you have that he wants?
*Triage shook his head*
With a man like Geno? At least one person would end up hurt after stumbling upon him. Though we can't cry on spilled milk, so we must move forward, even if he tries to stop us from doing so...
[Laughing softly, the Empress moved from the damaged nerves to the broken blood vessels contributing to the bruising.]
The blessing of Ryujin and my connection to the water. My people are given long life, and age slowly due to being able to maintain our bodies more directly. Daily meditation involves cycling the water in our bodies to fully refresh every cell.
And actually, I am nearing seventy.
[Hmm, it might be an interesting experience for him, actually. Closing her eyes, the Empress placed one hand in the bowl of clean water and began cycling it through her and into him. As expected - and was the case for most outside the River Guard - Triage was slightly dehydrated, and she could feel his body respond with relief.
With a satisfied smile, she finished the minor cleanup and broke the connection. The bruise was already a lot clearer.
The topic of Geno and what he wanted, though... that put her on guard. Not that she didn't trust Triage, but what he didn't know, Geno couldn't extract...
... But if he knew, and didn't know to keep it secret, that was also dangerous.]
... I am protecting someone from him. Are you aware of the people who shelter with me?
*He had no idea what she had done to his body, but he clearly felt better than before, like he was given water without having to drink...an interesting experience. He sighed contentedly before noticing the worry in the Empress' eyes after his question was registered.
Ah, he knew that look. The look of someone who's trying so hard to protect a dear one from the hands of another. He had learned to master the act of hiding that look to protect Vengeance back in the Helios days, and even back in Oninoshima when Sleuth had come back to have his revenge. She clearly didn't wish to share too much information that Geno could find, and even if Triage was pretty good at keeping secrets, this one was too delicate to hold.*
Please. Don't find yourself forced to answer fully. What you said is enough. I don't wish to make this more difficult for you. I know the risks of speaking up about someone you're protecting.
[He was trying to reassure her. While it was appreciated as a caring effort, it did not assuage her worry that something may slip, as she still did not know exactly what he might be aware of.
Another thought occurred to her... if they were to utilize the healing springs, Triage would encounter Eugene or conversation about him in Golden Grove. He would find out anyway.
Taking a chair and moving to sit just to the side of Triage's head so he could keep it comfortably turned, the Empress discarded the white robe and mask, washing the water from her hands before taking her seat. Silence settled between them, until she spoke in a quiet voice.]
Below my current home is a spring of water imbued with a healing magic. I had thought to bring you there to aid your recovery... but in staying with my people, you would encounter the one I seek to protect. If you do not know who this person is right now, you would learn very quickly.
Perhaps it would be best for you to know... enough, at least, so that you will be aware of what exactly must not be revealed. Though I fear it is... only a matter of time, even with our best efforts.
[She looked down at her hands, fingers playing with her hidden ring.]
Geno is relentless, and this Island is so small...
*A carefully enclosed letter washes onto the shore, opening it, it reveals the following message:*
"To her Imperial Majesty of The River Guard,
My name is Richard Slade, but more commonly known as Lieutenant Ripp Slade of the Reality Warriors. Deepest apologies if this letter finds You at the wrong time, but unfortunately we must request support from You and Your Guard.
As our ally, I assume you are aware of the air of high tension there has been on the team following the poor results of the last mission and the coma of Commander Jones. It turns out we have been deceived and betrayed by a man known as Geno, as he disguised himself as The Visitor to get as close as possible to the Commander with the intention of taking his life. And he has attempted to do so today.
The Commander's wellbeing is currently unknown to me or my beloved, Vengeance Jones, as Geno's plan to attack Jones also included the destabilization of our only medical professional, Julien Jones, who finds himself with a badly broken spine and requires help as soon as possible.
Me and my beloved are watching Julien Jones as the rest of the teams moves to save the Commander from any damage Geno has tried to inflict, and our medical knowledge is poor and our hands unprepared, therefore this is why I am writing this letter to You.
I sincerely hope You can reach to us soon.
Best Regards,
Lt. Richard "Ripp" Slade."
[The Empress knew little of "Lt. Ripp Slade", but that didn't matter much. The spirits had reported the situation that had unfolded in Jones' room, and that the Innovation was already racing to fix what had been done to the Commander.
Geno had made his move, and left disaster in his wake.
She had only waited to see if her aid was required. Eugene needed to stay out of sight still, so he and Kendo were stationed to remain at Golden Grove unless summoned directly, but the Empress called on a selection of her people to accompany her now. Caspian would be ideal, but he was still occupied with Joey, so she would make do.
It was only minutes after the letter was received that the Empress and two of her Guard stepped from the river that cut through Sanctuary and entered the massive compound. The two Guard were left with Jones and the Innovation, just in case, and she herself headed to the medbay.
She found the Lieutenant waiting just within the door, giving him a nod in quick greeting as she stepped inside.]
Lieutenant Richard Slade, I presume? I recall you from Oninoshima. Your letter was finely written.
*He exchanged the nod, a deeper one given the importance of the woman infront of him, gesturing her to come inside the medbay*
In the flesh! It's a pleasure to meet you, Vengeance only says good things about you. Oh and the letter? It's not much, just penmanship one needed to have when talking to the OXR generals, I'm glad it turned useful once again!
Unfortunately I suppose I must cut the small talk-
*He accompanied the Empress towards the bed they had placed Triage on, gesturing to the medic who was being carefully watched by a seemingly withdrawn Vengeance, who looked over the Empress and smiled weakly, waving with his hand*
We decided to wait for you to come here, none of us here has expertise in fixing broken bones and it felt like the better choice to not make it harder for you.
[A rather ordinary soldier, by the look of him. Possibly the closest to "normal" this place had to offer, alongside Miss Holloway.
Good. Vengeance had found someone who was unlikely to harm him. And speaking of Vengeance, the Empress caught the small wave, and gave her friend a little smile in return. He didn't look well at all, but like he needed a week of sleep.
Not as dire as Triage by any means. The smile on her lips died at the sight of the medic, and she quietly approached his bedside, lightly touching his wrist, her voice as soft as her touch.]
... Today I may repay your consistent aid to me, my friend. Tell me your condition, if possible. What do you feel?
*Thankfully Triage hadn't passed out again, helped by Vengeance's presence as he kept him distracted from the pain by simply talking. But Triage could tell just by looking at Venge's face that the talk was mainly helping him from falling asleep on the spot, which made Triage wonder if giving him that medicine was a good idea given the situation. But it was either that or Vengeance's psyche collapsing once more. They had no choice.
Turning his head slowly towards the Empress, he smiled at her, not caring to mask the clear pain he was feeling.*
Can't say I haven't felt better. My back hurts horribly and I'm unable to move almost anything. I can only lay down like this...
I think Geno hit me with enough force to break something in the thoracic area...right in the middle of my back, if you will. Haven't done anything for it yet. I've passed out from the pain after he hit me and I've only just woke up...
[The Empress closed her eyes, guilt piercing through her heart. If she had not been silent... could this have been avoided?
... Regret would do nothing for her friend. Geno had taken his legs. Only swift treatment could save them now.
Kneeling beside the medic, she first addressed Slade.]
Lieutenant. Take your beloved, tend to him. This task now lies with me.
[A broken back. Traditional as her people may have been, her world had been well advanced in medicine and technology. The relationship between them had been neatly balanced, and as a warrior Empress, she had learned medicine as well as combat. Certainly she did not have the exhaustive knowledge required of a true practitioner... but Triage and Caspian were the only ones here who did.
Thankfully, she had enough. At least to help this.
The fact that he was smiling, though, even when clearly being in severe pain... Even Eugene was not capable of that, and despite herself the Empress found a smile tugging at her own lips.]
You may be the bravest of us all, Julien Jones, to smile at me so in your position.
[She pressed his hand.]
Tell me now, where you keep the necessary tools for vertebroplasty. Our methods likely differ from yours somewhat, but I know them to be no less effective.
*He watched as Vengeance's tired expression was betrayed by one of slight panic as he looked at Ripp, who was ready to take his hand and escort him outside. He knew Venge hated to be taken away, but Triage knew him too well to not expect the larger man to freak out at any procedure the Empress was going to do. Not to mention Vengeance was practically useless in the medical field, as he was barely able to perform first aid at best. And even then he needed to be guided through the process.*
I'll be fine. I promise. You trust the Empress, right?
*Seeing Vengeance nod made Triage slowly move an arm towards his thigh, patting softly*
Then go rest up, you can come see me when everything's done.
*Once Vengeance and Ripp had left, he turned back to the Empress.*
The needles are on their designated drawer over that set of drawers next to my desk, the bone cement is stored in that small fridge over there in the corner. Gloves and other tools you may need are all stored around in cabinets. Do make yourself home to look for everything you need.
I do not require artificial gloves. I assure you, my arts will be far more effective.
[The Empress laid aside the clear armor that protected her hands, instead sheathing them in a thin coating of water.]
This is how we cleansed wounds on the battlefield in my home. Contamination is immediately washed away, and I am allowed to feel exactly what I am doing.
[She stepped away for a moment, changing her overdress and armor for a white medbay robe she found in the cabinets, then acquired the tools and cement. After a moment of consideration, she locked the door. Just in case. Interruptions could lead to mistakes.
Finally, the Empress returned to Triage, helping him get into position, face down, so she could access the fracture. A massive bruise spread across his lower back, causing her to frown.]
He will pay for this...
[Enough of that. She had work to do. Every second risked further damage.]
Well, my friend, it is long since these skills were required of me. Would you like a total anesthetic? Or would you prefer a local one, and a way to watch? I know some doctors like to observe, and though I find it morbid, I can entertain you.
I think I can take a local one. More to save me the hustle of waiting for the total one to wear off. I know most of my patients hate that part, but sometimes it's the only option for them.
*Triage smiled at the Empress' remark*
Yeah. It can be a little weird to let your patient be awake during procedures, but don't worry, I always trust another medically skilled person. Especially when they look like they know exactly what they're doing.
[The Empress scoffed lightly, shaking her head fondly with a smile.]
Suit yourself. I should have expected you to be no exception from the standard medical eccentricities.
Coming from a martial world as I do, you might expect that I have encountered many similar injuries, and you would be correct. At the same time that I practiced blacksmithing, I was also studying some general medicine. I have not the skill of the dedicated healers, but I at least wished to be competent should the need arise. This was, unfortunately, not an uncommon injury.
[Setting a mirror in position so he could watch her work, she deftly sterilized the area and applied a local anesthetic. Collecting a bowl of clean water, she dipped her hands, then reached into his bloodstream, examining the extent of the damage as the anesthetic worked.
Extreme bruising, fracture of the vertebrae, and nerve damage in the spine. Bad - actually very bad - but not hopeless. He would need a long recovery time, but perhaps the healing springs under her home could expedite it safely.
Triage was taking this very well, though he must know what lay ahead for him. The Empress sighed as she prepared the cement.]
I feel responsible for this... It may be irrational of me to feel so, but I do. I knew he was here, but the security of my people bound my hands... He knew I was aware of him.
[Revealing himself had freed her from their mutual silence... but that would do little good now.]
It sound like you have taken a great portion of your life to learn new skills! Is it something required to be seen worthy of the crown in your world? Or is it a necessity that came from your desire to be a guiding light for your people as much as possible?
*He frowned as the Empress revealed she knew Geno was among them. Not because he was disappointed she hadn't said anything (since apparently Geno had plans to make her pay in the event she did), but because she now felt guilty Triage was in the situation he was in, and it hurt him to know someone who had nothing to do with what Geno had against him felt responsible*
Please, do not feel responsible for anything Geno has done to me. You didn't know he was planning to give Jones the final blow. And neither that I was one of the obstacles Geno saw necessary to destabilize. Nobody here would have known! Who we thought was "The Visitor" this whole time was acting extremely weird lately, but nothing of him looked or sounded like Geno.
Plus, you wanted to protect your people. In the end, speaking or not, it was either my spine and Jones or your people on the line. And knowing Jones, I think he would have accepted sacrificing himself if it meant buying time for the River Guard to prepare for a defense. I also think I didn't get attacked for nothing in the end. My presence was clearly an obstacle for his plans. I somehow managed to give the others time to find him out before he could do anything irreversible.
[Eyes softening over the mask, the Empress monitored the response of Triage's body as she inserted the needle carrying the cement.]
You have guessed some of it. My culture is based on the constant strife towards the improvement of the self. To be Empress, the expectation is to embody that principal. To be learned, travelled, refined, wise, powerful, adept, and strong all at once, in as many fields as possible.
[Her tone became amused.]
Of course, another reason is pure boredom. When one surpasses sixty years of age, learning new things is the only way to keep life interesting.
[She sighed, her demeanor once again somber.]
And unfortunately that is where you are incorrect, my friend. In his arrogance, he did not even see fit to disguise his voice. I recognized him at the meeting after the fall of the Foundation. He and I have been locked in stalemate ever since. He could not attack me without revealing himself, and I could not reveal him without bringing his wrath down on my people.
Besides... I have something that he wants.
[She removed the needle, tension and anger making her set it down a little more sharply than intended. The Empress took a moment to breathe. Letting anger affect her now would bring Triage harm.
After a few breaths and a little relaxing of her shoulders, she began again, moving the water in his bloodstream to ensure the cement was in place and well bonded to the bone. Then she began to aid the nerve damage. Full healing would take time, but she could set it in the right direction.]
If I had not been silent, could I have found a scenario where no one was hurt? Unlikely... But regret is a cruel beast.
Huh! That does make sense, if you must be the image of your people then you must be it in every way possible.
*Triage's eyes widened as the Empress mentioned her age like she had just stated the most obvious fact about her.*
Sixty!? Forgive me if I sound rude or inappropriate...but I would've never guessed! You look much younger! At least...At least half of your actual age! How do you manage to keep your body so young-looking?
*Triage shrugged, if one could even call the weird, weak movement of his shoulders that.*
I suppose that would've been a tell-tale sign if one did know how Geno sounded like. Unfortunately I have only ever heard of him, even if I have been there the whole time he has been plaguing the other islands. But what caused this targetting on your people? What is it that you have that he wants?
*Triage shook his head*
With a man like Geno? At least one person would end up hurt after stumbling upon him. Though we can't cry on spilled milk, so we must move forward, even if he tries to stop us from doing so...
[Laughing softly, the Empress moved from the damaged nerves to the broken blood vessels contributing to the bruising.]
The blessing of Ryujin and my connection to the water. My people are given long life, and age slowly due to being able to maintain our bodies more directly. Daily meditation involves cycling the water in our bodies to fully refresh every cell.
And actually, I am nearing seventy.
[Hmm, it might be an interesting experience for him, actually. Closing her eyes, the Empress placed one hand in the bowl of clean water and began cycling it through her and into him. As expected - and was the case for most outside the River Guard - Triage was slightly dehydrated, and she could feel his body respond with relief.
With a satisfied smile, she finished the minor cleanup and broke the connection. The bruise was already a lot clearer.
The topic of Geno and what he wanted, though... that put her on guard. Not that she didn't trust Triage, but what he didn't know, Geno couldn't extract...
... But if he knew, and didn't know to keep it secret, that was also dangerous.]
... I am protecting someone from him. Are you aware of the people who shelter with me?
*A carefully enclosed letter washes onto the shore, opening it, it reveals the following message:*
"To her Imperial Majesty of The River Guard,
My name is Richard Slade, but more commonly known as Lieutenant Ripp Slade of the Reality Warriors. Deepest apologies if this letter finds You at the wrong time, but unfortunately we must request support from You and Your Guard.
As our ally, I assume you are aware of the air of high tension there has been on the team following the poor results of the last mission and the coma of Commander Jones. It turns out we have been deceived and betrayed by a man known as Geno, as he disguised himself as The Visitor to get as close as possible to the Commander with the intention of taking his life. And he has attempted to do so today.
The Commander's wellbeing is currently unknown to me or my beloved, Vengeance Jones, as Geno's plan to attack Jones also included the destabilization of our only medical professional, Julien Jones, who finds himself with a badly broken spine and requires help as soon as possible.
Me and my beloved are watching Julien Jones as the rest of the teams moves to save the Commander from any damage Geno has tried to inflict, and our medical knowledge is poor and our hands unprepared, therefore this is why I am writing this letter to You.
I sincerely hope You can reach to us soon.
Best Regards,
Lt. Richard "Ripp" Slade."
[The Empress knew little of "Lt. Ripp Slade", but that didn't matter much. The spirits had reported the situation that had unfolded in Jones' room, and that the Innovation was already racing to fix what had been done to the Commander.
Geno had made his move, and left disaster in his wake.
She had only waited to see if her aid was required. Eugene needed to stay out of sight still, so he and Kendo were stationed to remain at Golden Grove unless summoned directly, but the Empress called on a selection of her people to accompany her now. Caspian would be ideal, but he was still occupied with Joey, so she would make do.
It was only minutes after the letter was received that the Empress and two of her Guard stepped from the river that cut through Sanctuary and entered the massive compound. The two Guard were left with Jones and the Innovation, just in case, and she herself headed to the medbay.
She found the Lieutenant waiting just within the door, giving him a nod in quick greeting as she stepped inside.]
Lieutenant Richard Slade, I presume? I recall you from Oninoshima. Your letter was finely written.
*He exchanged the nod, a deeper one given the importance of the woman infront of him, gesturing her to come inside the medbay*
In the flesh! It's a pleasure to meet you, Vengeance only says good things about you. Oh and the letter? It's not much, just penmanship one needed to have when talking to the OXR generals, I'm glad it turned useful once again!
Unfortunately I suppose I must cut the small talk-
*He accompanied the Empress towards the bed they had placed Triage on, gesturing to the medic who was being carefully watched by a seemingly withdrawn Vengeance, who looked over the Empress and smiled weakly, waving with his hand*
We decided to wait for you to come here, none of us here has expertise in fixing broken bones and it felt like the better choice to not make it harder for you.
[A rather ordinary soldier, by the look of him. Possibly the closest to "normal" this place had to offer, alongside Miss Holloway.
Good. Vengeance had found someone who was unlikely to harm him. And speaking of Vengeance, the Empress caught the small wave, and gave her friend a little smile in return. He didn't look well at all, but like he needed a week of sleep.
Not as dire as Triage by any means. The smile on her lips died at the sight of the medic, and she quietly approached his bedside, lightly touching his wrist, her voice as soft as her touch.]
... Today I may repay your consistent aid to me, my friend. Tell me your condition, if possible. What do you feel?
*Thankfully Triage hadn't passed out again, helped by Vengeance's presence as he kept him distracted from the pain by simply talking. But Triage could tell just by looking at Venge's face that the talk was mainly helping him from falling asleep on the spot, which made Triage wonder if giving him that medicine was a good idea given the situation. But it was either that or Vengeance's psyche collapsing once more. They had no choice.
Turning his head slowly towards the Empress, he smiled at her, not caring to mask the clear pain he was feeling.*
Can't say I haven't felt better. My back hurts horribly and I'm unable to move almost anything. I can only lay down like this...
I think Geno hit me with enough force to break something in the thoracic area...right in the middle of my back, if you will. Haven't done anything for it yet. I've passed out from the pain after he hit me and I've only just woke up...
[The Empress closed her eyes, guilt piercing through her heart. If she had not been silent... could this have been avoided?
... Regret would do nothing for her friend. Geno had taken his legs. Only swift treatment could save them now.
Kneeling beside the medic, she first addressed Slade.]
Lieutenant. Take your beloved, tend to him. This task now lies with me.
[A broken back. Traditional as her people may have been, her world had been well advanced in medicine and technology. The relationship between them had been neatly balanced, and as a warrior Empress, she had learned medicine as well as combat. Certainly she did not have the exhaustive knowledge required of a true practitioner... but Triage and Caspian were the only ones here who did.
Thankfully, she had enough. At least to help this.
The fact that he was smiling, though, even when clearly being in severe pain... Even Eugene was not capable of that, and despite herself the Empress found a smile tugging at her own lips.]
You may be the bravest of us all, Julien Jones, to smile at me so in your position.
[She pressed his hand.]
Tell me now, where you keep the necessary tools for vertebroplasty. Our methods likely differ from yours somewhat, but I know them to be no less effective.
*He watched as Vengeance's tired expression was betrayed by one of slight panic as he looked at Ripp, who was ready to take his hand and escort him outside. He knew Venge hated to be taken away, but Triage knew him too well to not expect the larger man to freak out at any procedure the Empress was going to do. Not to mention Vengeance was practically useless in the medical field, as he was barely able to perform first aid at best. And even then he needed to be guided through the process.*
I'll be fine. I promise. You trust the Empress, right?
*Seeing Vengeance nod made Triage slowly move an arm towards his thigh, patting softly*
Then go rest up, you can come see me when everything's done.
*Once Vengeance and Ripp had left, he turned back to the Empress.*
The needles are on their designated drawer over that set of drawers next to my desk, the bone cement is stored in that small fridge over there in the corner. Gloves and other tools you may need are all stored around in cabinets. Do make yourself home to look for everything you need.
I do not require artificial gloves. I assure you, my arts will be far more effective.
[The Empress laid aside the clear armor that protected her hands, instead sheathing them in a thin coating of water.]
This is how we cleansed wounds on the battlefield in my home. Contamination is immediately washed away, and I am allowed to feel exactly what I am doing.
[She stepped away for a moment, changing her overdress and armor for a white medbay robe she found in the cabinets, then acquired the tools and cement. After a moment of consideration, she locked the door. Just in case. Interruptions could lead to mistakes.
Finally, the Empress returned to Triage, helping him get into position, face down, so she could access the fracture. A massive bruise spread across his lower back, causing her to frown.]
He will pay for this...
[Enough of that. She had work to do. Every second risked further damage.]
Well, my friend, it is long since these skills were required of me. Would you like a total anesthetic? Or would you prefer a local one, and a way to watch? I know some doctors like to observe, and though I find it morbid, I can entertain you.
I think I can take a local one. More to save me the hustle of waiting for the total one to wear off. I know most of my patients hate that part, but sometimes it's the only option for them.
*Triage smiled at the Empress' remark*
Yeah. It can be a little weird to let your patient be awake during procedures, but don't worry, I always trust another medically skilled person. Especially when they look like they know exactly what they're doing.
[The Empress scoffed lightly, shaking her head fondly with a smile.]
Suit yourself. I should have expected you to be no exception from the standard medical eccentricities.
Coming from a martial world as I do, you might expect that I have encountered many similar injuries, and you would be correct. At the same time that I practiced blacksmithing, I was also studying some general medicine. I have not the skill of the dedicated healers, but I at least wished to be competent should the need arise. This was, unfortunately, not an uncommon injury.
[Setting a mirror in position so he could watch her work, she deftly sterilized the area and applied a local anesthetic. Collecting a bowl of clean water, she dipped her hands, then reached into his bloodstream, examining the extent of the damage as the anesthetic worked.
Extreme bruising, fracture of the vertebrae, and nerve damage in the spine. Bad - actually very bad - but not hopeless. He would need a long recovery time, but perhaps the healing springs under her home could expedite it safely.
Triage was taking this very well, though he must know what lay ahead for him. The Empress sighed as she prepared the cement.]
I feel responsible for this... It may be irrational of me to feel so, but I do. I knew he was here, but the security of my people bound my hands... He knew I was aware of him.
[Revealing himself had freed her from their mutual silence... but that would do little good now.]
It sound like you have taken a great portion of your life to learn new skills! Is it something required to be seen worthy of the crown in your world? Or is it a necessity that came from your desire to be a guiding light for your people as much as possible?
*He frowned as the Empress revealed she knew Geno was among them. Not because he was disappointed she hadn't said anything (since apparently Geno had plans to make her pay in the event she did), but because she now felt guilty Triage was in the situation he was in, and it hurt him to know someone who had nothing to do with what Geno had against him felt responsible*
Please, do not feel responsible for anything Geno has done to me. You didn't know he was planning to give Jones the final blow. And neither that I was one of the obstacles Geno saw necessary to destabilize. Nobody here would have known! Who we thought was "The Visitor" this whole time was acting extremely weird lately, but nothing of him looked or sounded like Geno.
Plus, you wanted to protect your people. In the end, speaking or not, it was either my spine and Jones or your people on the line. And knowing Jones, I think he would have accepted sacrificing himself if it meant buying time for the River Guard to prepare for a defense. I also think I didn't get attacked for nothing in the end. My presence was clearly an obstacle for his plans. I somehow managed to give the others time to find him out before he could do anything irreversible.
[Eyes softening over the mask, the Empress monitored the response of Triage's body as she inserted the needle carrying the cement.]
You have guessed some of it. My culture is based on the constant strife towards the improvement of the self. To be Empress, the expectation is to embody that principal. To be learned, travelled, refined, wise, powerful, adept, and strong all at once, in as many fields as possible.
[Her tone became amused.]
Of course, another reason is pure boredom. When one surpasses sixty years of age, learning new things is the only way to keep life interesting.
[She sighed, her demeanor once again somber.]
And unfortunately that is where you are incorrect, my friend. In his arrogance, he did not even see fit to disguise his voice. I recognized him at the meeting after the fall of the Foundation. He and I have been locked in stalemate ever since. He could not attack me without revealing himself, and I could not reveal him without bringing his wrath down on my people.
Besides... I have something that he wants.
[She removed the needle, tension and anger making her set it down a little more sharply than intended. The Empress took a moment to breathe. Letting anger affect her now would bring Triage harm.
After a few breaths and a little relaxing of her shoulders, she began again, moving the water in his bloodstream to ensure the cement was in place and well bonded to the bone. Then she began to aid the nerve damage. Full healing would take time, but she could set it in the right direction.]
If I had not been silent, could I have found a scenario where no one was hurt? Unlikely... But regret is a cruel beast.
