For creating the avatar, I used pictures fromย www.freepik.com
My main blog is @shatcey
Ideas for storiesย (which I may or may not use)
And since I need to read it from time to time... a pep talk.
Recommend to start with: Our story. Prologue
Hi, lovelies. Welcome to my little corner.
This blog is solely for the stories I write with the characters from ๐๏ธIkeVil, ๐นIkePri, ๐ฏIkeSen Eien, ๐ฆIkeVamp. Some are just silly, some more emotional. I only write when I have an idea or jokes in mind, so they always have some theme that I explore. Because I've been doing this for quite some time, some of the stories can be combined into collections. Not necessarily, but they're meant to be read in a specific order. I quite often use jokes from previous stories or somehow refer back to them, but I usually explain that at the end of the story.
I invite you to dive into my little bit crazy but still fun fantasies...
United Ikemen World
OCs introduction: Schatzi Irina
I don't exclude the possibility that there will be more of them, but for now, I can barely keep up with just two.
Irina's daily life with the Crown
Schatzi's troubles keeping several lovers
AU with Irina
Friends' OCs
No specifiedย OC
And finally... Totally different.
๐ฉน๐๐คUntil the world ends and beyond (currently working on) Alternative Victor's legend first virsion
I've added symbols next to each story so you know what it's about:
๐ฏย Many characters.ย It could be a story with all the guys from one game, or just more than 5 characters (not necessarily from the same game). This kind of story is mostly dialogue with a lot of jokes, but it might also contain hurt or fluff, as well.
๐ Only lovers in the story.ย Schatzi has several lovers... although it's complicated. I also have an alternative polyamorous story in mind (three people), but I haven't finished it yet. So it might be more than just two people.
๐๏ธ Another POV. The story from a non-OC/MC POV. Might be from his POV or from a side character (like the maid from one of my stories).
๐ Fluff.ย Cute, sweet, tender moments. Something that makes us smile.
๐ฉน Hurt.ย Mostly emotional. Something that makes us cry.
๐ฆ Humor. Something that makes you laugh, hopefully to tears. This is supposed to be tears... not sweat.
๐ฅ Anger.ย I don't use this often, but... still. This is when the OC is very angry at someone, usually not for long.
๐ฅ Suggestive. ย I don't write smut, but some scenes might be considered that way, since properly crafted sentences can ignite the imagination. I don't write this often, but sometimes... it's interesting to explore.
๐ค Philosophy.ย This might be a discussion, sharing a life philosophy, or diving into some philosophical subject. I don't write them often, and I don't dive too deep. But these themes usually make the stories feel heavier.
This scene suddenly came to mind, and of course I dropped everything else and wrote it. Nothing new... Roger and his poitions... but it's rather cute. Irina is crazy about Alfons no matter what.
From the 3rd person POV.
Irina/Roger/Alfons/Victor
Around 1360 words.
Irina: You promised!
Roger: I donโt remember that.
Roger still couldn't believe he had made that mistake. He had been distracted for a few seconds and nodded to some of her requests. It was only when she started demanding he give it to her that he realised his mistake. But he couldn't take it back โ she simply wouldn't let him. So the only thing he could come up with was to deny it had ever happened. Very childish, he admitted, butโฆ he was dealing with a child in the first place.ย
Irina: Hey, not fairโฆย
Roger desperately tried to run away from the furious girl, but she stubbornly continued following him. They already made a few runs around the castle and caught the attention of every inhabitant. But no one said a word, no one even tried to interfere. It had become the normโฆย
Roger: I said, I don't remember. Maybe you saw it in a dream.ย
Irina: How could youโฆ
The girl was on the verge of tears, which made Roger feel a slight pang of guilt. Butโฆ the moment was gone and he turned away.ย
Roger: Go find someone else to entertain you.
Irina: I will use the โVictorโ card.
Roger: Really, now?
Irina: You're bullying me. He said if someone bullies me, I should tell him about it.
Roger looked pointedly at the girl and crossed his arms.
Roger: Do it. I donโt care.
Irina's eyes widened in shock. She was dubious for a moment. He wasn't afraid? Noโฆ he was bluffing. So she screamed at the top of her voice:ย
Irina: VICTOR! ROGER IS BULLYING ME!!!
Roger grimaced and covered his ears. The girl was extremely loud. He had siblings, but neither of them was as noisy as this one. He should have expected that, since she was the same when she got olderโฆ but it still was an unpleasant surprise.ย
Alfons: Well, well, well, wellโฆ you don't learn at all, do you?ย
Roger: Take her awayโฆ
Alfons: Why should I?
Roger: Sheโs yourโฆ
Roger stopped and looked at the little girl, who mentally sent curses in his direction. At other times he would have been fascinated by how easy it was to read her, but not now. He had a lot of work to do and sheโฆ just wouldn't let him.ย
Alfons: What was it? What did you want to say?
One unlucky day, Irina had accidentally drunk one of Roger's experimental potions andโฆ turned into an eight-year-old girl with no memory of her grown-up self. They had decided not to talk to her about her adult self, since it could be too shocking for such a young girl. They had all agreed on that. It was a week ago, but it felt like years. This girl was simply insufferable. And for some reason she always managed to annoy Roger the mostโฆ Alfons once said it was karma.ย
Alfons smiled like a Cheshire cat, extremely pleased to see how much Roger was struggling.ย
Roger: Could you just, for one day,ย pretend that you are a normal human being?ย
Irina: Donโt insult him!
Oh, no, not againโฆ She was not just insufferable, nosy and loudโฆ she was fiercely protective of Alfons. It was really odd how her personality hadn't changed one bit, but she still didn't remember anything.ย
Roger sighed and entered his laboratory. There was no way she would let him go, so he might at least try to do something. As if on cue, Victor flew into the laboratory and worriedly rushed to the little girl.ย
Victor: Irinaโฆ are you hurt? Did someone bite you? Orโฆ scratch? Did you fall and bleed? Donโt tell me one of them dropped you...
Alfons: Itโs just Rogerโฆ again.
Victor sighed, relieved. That wasn't as bad as he had imagined.ย
Victor: What happened this time?
Irina: He promised to give me a potionโฆ and now he says he never did.
Alfons: What potion?
Irina looked away sheepishly. That didnโt look like her at all. Alfons grew extremely curious. What could it be?...
Roger: You donโt want to tell them what it was?
Roger was obviously challenging her. She angrily looked at him and huffed. She wouldn't back downโฆ unlike someone.ย
Irina: A love potion.ย
A very odd sound, like a barely contained chuckle, was the answer. Irina looked at Victor, her eyes sadโฆ betrayed. She hadn't expected Victor of all people to laugh at her. Alfons crouched down beside her, looking her in the eyes.ย
Alfons: Why do you need a love potion?
Irina: Iโฆ
Her cheeks were burning, but she refused to turn away.
Irina: Iโฆ I want you to love me.
Alfons' eyes widened in shock. As if he didn't already love her. But she didn't remember that.ย
Irina: You are always so busyโฆ donโt talk to me, donโt even look at meโฆย
She had tried everything. She followed him around, asked him questions, tugged him by the sleeve. He only joked and always managed to somehow slip away. She could get anyone's attentionโฆ even Jude talked to her and even read her a book once. It was a very strange book, she hadn't understood a word, but he had at least tried. But Alfonsโฆ for some reason avoided her like the plague. And the more he avoided her, the more she wanted to spend time with him.ย
Alfons: But you have so many big brothers aroundโฆย
Irina: I donโt care. I want you to love me.ย
Alfons' heart clenched painfully. The intensity of her gaze, the power of her feelingsโฆ was the sameโฆ overwhelming to the point he could barely breatheโฆ He wanted to be with her all the time, but he had no idea how to deal with this little version of her. What would she like to do? What would be normal to do? With any other child, he never had such a problem, but with Irinaโฆ he was at a loss.
Victor and Roger exchanged glances. They felt extremely uncomfortable, as if they had witnessed something they shouldn't have.ย
Alfons: You are only eight.
Irina: Butโฆ I'll grow up. And if someone doesn't give me a potion before thatโฆย
She turned her burning gaze to Roger. The hint was so clear that Alfons barely held back his laugh. She turned her serious eyes on Alfons again, and took his hand.
Irina: I will make you fall in love with meโฆ I will never stop until I do.
That sounded like a declaration of war. Alfons knew all too well how stubborn she was, and knew how serious she was about promises. Happiness filled his whole body. Even without memories, even starting over againโฆ she still wanted to be with himโฆ and would continue to fight for it until she succeeded. She was still his feisty kitten.ย
Alfons: Roger, make this damn potion already.ย
Roger: Love potion?ย
Alfons looked at Roger as if he were an idiot.
Alfons: Noโฆ the other one.
Roger: Itโs not that easyโฆย
Alfons: What do you need? I will help.
Victor: Me tooโฆ All of the Crown will help if necessary.ย
Irina looked from one man to another in utter shock. What were they talking about? Why wouldn't they explain anything to her? She was about to start asking questions, but suddenly Alfons lifted her into his arms. He intended to sit her on the sofa, but she wrapped her arms and legs around him like a little monkey, giggling in delight. Alfons just laughed.ย
Alfons: And how am I supposed to help Roger if you cling to me like that?ย
Irina: You said yourselfโฆ there are a lot of big brothers. You didnโt pay me attention for too longโฆ You have to make up for it.
William dressed her up like a doll, Victor braided and decorated her hair, Liam and Ellis brought toys and played with her. Elbert spoon-fed her and gave her any sweets she wanted. Harrison read fairy tales to her before bed. Jude and Roger answered all her questions. But it still wasn't what she wanted. What an insufferable little girl! Alfons smiled happily.
Alfons: Oh, poor me.
Victor and Roger exchanged glances and smiled. These two would never change.
Irina is not Kate. Her work at the Crown is completely different; you can get a glimpseย of what she is doing in the prologue and a few chapters of the main route I've already posted. If you haven't read it, the beginning of the story might confuse you.
After preparing the new mission and giving all the details to Willy for finishing the organisation, I ran to the garden. For the last few months, it had become my daily routine. Who could have thought I would start growing somethingโฆ This idea struck me in the middle of winter after hearing Alfons's certain words. I spent a week searching on my own, but had to give up and consult with Vivi. He found it in a few minutes. Exactly what I was looking for. I still have so much to learnโฆ
Approaching my personal part of the garden, I mumbled.
Irina: Hi, beautiful, how are you today?
Lovingly touching the large leaves and vibrant coloured bunches of flowers, I smiled nostalgically, recalling them being still cute and little. Probably the same thing parents feel about their children. Proud but slightly sad, sinceโฆ they have all grown up now and don't require my help anymore. I took out the basket I had brought with me and lightly shook every bunch to get the ripened seeds. I couldn't stop marvelling at how it never seemed to stop producing themโฆ truly a magical plant.
My gaze fell to the soil and I noticed pretty big weeds. I didn't see the point in getting rid of them โ they wouldn't be able to become a problem now, so I left them be. Victor would nag me about it for sure. Butโฆ as he already knew, it wouldn't affect me in the slightest.
I turned around and met a very annoyed thunderstorm gaze.
Irina: Ally!
Alfons: You're here againโฆ
I lost count of how many times he had tried to accuse me of something by saying that.
Irina: Of course I am. We are responsible for what we sow.
He sighed theatrically, while taking the basket from my hands. It wasn't that heavy, but he still didn't like me to carry anythingโฆ so cute. He looked at the tall plants with barely restrained disdain. I bit my lip to keep from laughing. So that's what it was.
Irina: No way! Are you jealous of plants?
He turned to me, wideโeyed.
Alfons: What a silly thought! Some stupid plant looks at me smugly since you spend ย more time with them than with meโฆ I'm absolutely delighted.
I couldn't help but laugh. Smugโlooking plant? His imagination has no bounds indeed.
Irina: Don't exaggerate. I don't spend that much time with themโฆ at least not anymoreโฆ
I recalled how worried I was when the first sprouts didn't come out. Poor Victor had to calm me down several times each day. How I constantly checked if the soil was good and light enough. How I fought with weeds so the little sprouts would become stronger and bigger. I really spent too much time with them in the beginningโฆ How could I not? They were so little and fragileโฆ
Alfons: Oh well, it can't be helped. I'm destined to be forgotten anywayโฆ one day or anotherโฆ
These wordsโฆ He said it again. It stung me every time I heard it. The tone of his voice was playful, so I had to play along so as not to worry him.ย
Irina: Your jealousy is adorable.
I reached out to playfully poke him in the cheek, but he grabbed my hand halfway. He stared at me with mixed offence and disbelief, like a kid who didn't get a present he was sure he'd get.
Alfons: Don't you want to tell me something?
He was pouting. He was obviously pouting. And I totally understood why. It was already closing in on evening, but I still hadn't said a word about his birthday. I hadn't done that on purpose. We woke up at different times, and were quite busy until that exact moment. Should I congratulate him now orโฆ do exactly as he expected from me? Hard decisionโฆ
Irina: Iโฆ don't think so. Do I?
He sighed overdramatically once more and pulled me toward the castle, away from the drizzling rain. I smiled. How cruel of me. Maybe I should be scared of his revengeโฆ Oh, well, let's deal with that when the time comes.
At the entrance, Elbert and Roger greeted us.
Roger: Happy birthday.
Elbert: Happy birthday, Al.
Alfons: Thank you. At least someone didn't forget.
He sounded so bitter about it. I couldn't help but laugh merrily.
Roger: Did we miss the joke?
Irina: I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
I brushed away the tears.
Irina: I am just absolutely in love with him.
At my passionate confession, Alfons just mumbled.
Alfons: I'll never get used to itโฆ
Roger snorted.
Roger: These two are as crazy as ever.
Elbert, who had helped me with the preparations, knew I most definitely hadn't forgotten. He carefully observed Alfons.
Elbert: Did something happen?
Alfons: Nothing. Nothing at all.
And he added very quietly, so only I could catch it.
Alfons: And that's the problem.
I smirked and shook my head in response to Elbert's silent question. No, not yet. He just nodded and turned towards the exit.
Alfons: Where are you going?
Elbert: On a mission.
Alfons: What? You two are going on a mission?
Irina: Ellis will be with them. You have nothing to worry about.
Alfons: Who said I'm worried?
Irina: Me.
Roger laughed, interrupting Alfons' new tirade, and walked away, leaving my dear beloved pouting even more. Using his momentary distraction, I started dragging him to our room. As soon as we entered, I stepped aside so as not to block his view and looked at him nervously. For a moment, he was speechless. And thenโฆ
Alfons: You really love this damn plant more than me.
I giggled. The vividโred bouquets of flowers were literally everywhere โ on the shelves, bedside table, windowsill and even the floor. I probably overdid it after all. Shouldn't have asked Elbert's opinionโฆ
Irina: I guess it's time for introductions.
Alfons: No need. I saw you growing them from seeds.
Irina: Butโฆ you never asked what they areโฆ
Alfons: Who cares about flowers?
Irina: Says the guy who took his surname from one of them.
Alfons: It was fitting.
Irina: These are fitting too!
We glared at each other, too stubborn to turn away. Finally I sighed and simply explained.
Irina: They're called amaranth. From Greek โ "unfading" or "immortal". This is my present for you.
Alfons: Do you think it will make me immortal?
I sighed heavily.
Irina: You can be surprisingly stupid sometimes.
Alfons: Then what?
I opened my mouth, but he suddenly interrupted me.
Alfons: Wait a minuteโฆ you grew these flowersโฆ for me?
I nodded, happy that he had figured it out. Alfons turned to the crimson bouquets for a long moment, looking genuinely stunned. Then suddenlyโฆ he turned back to me. His smile returned and his eyes shone with mischief.
Alfons: You spent half a year fussing over these damn thingsโฆ worrying and cryingโฆ
Irina: I didn't cry.
Alfons: Oh, come on, let me imagine the exaggerated scale of your efforts.
I chuckled quite happily to see him in a good mood again.
Irina: Okayโฆ it's your day. Imagine all you like.
He beamed radiantly, which made him look like an extremely happy child. The smile was so infectious that my lips curved on their own.
Alfons: So... You barely slept like a vampire, digging into the ground like a worm, gnawing out other sprouts like a birdโฆ all of that just for me?
Irina: Too many comparisons, but yes.
He shook his head in disbelief.
Alfons: You're a fool.
In his language it was akin to a confession. He liked it, he really liked it. His words still hung in the air, but he had already started kissing me โ softly, tenderlyโฆ as if I were a fragile flower, slowly pushing me towards the bed.
A few hours laterโฆ
I was lying next to him in his embrace, feeling languid but thoroughly loved. He started drawing circles on my forearm. I giggled; it was soft but still ticklish. He instantly stopped, pulling me closer. I lifted my head and looked into his eyes.
Irina: I wanted you to see these flowers all the timeโฆ as a reminder, sinceโฆ you obviously need it.
Alfons looked at me for a long time before sighing, giving up.
Alfons: And what is that supposed to mean?
Irina: No matter how much time passes, no matter how hard it's going to be, I'll always be with you.
Alfons: You are obsessed with meโฆ I'm aware.
Mimicking his sarcastic tone I answered.
Irina: โIโm destined to be forgotten."
Alfons: Itโs just a sillyย joke.
I intently looked him in the eyes.
Irina: I know when you're joking. Itโs not one of them.
He looked at me with a strangely cornered expression.
Irina: What is it?ย
He turned away, refusing to answer. I lay on him so he couldnโt hide his face from me.
Alfons: Youโre heavy.
Irina: You didnโt complain a bit earlier.
Alfons: What a shameless woman!
He seemed playful as usual but still looked corneredโฆ scaredโฆ Whatโs going on? Did I misunderstand his words somehow? Did I choose the wrong present? I continued to stare at him, demanding the answer, and he just had nothing else to do but to spill it out.
Alfons: Itโs almost three years.
Irina: Three years?
Alfons: Since we met. Doesn't this mean that the power of our love must dry up around this time?..
I froze for a moment, then let out a long breath and dropped heavily onto his chest. I barely held back my tears of relief.
Irina: I was really worried for a moment.
Alfons: I think I already hear a tick-tock of a countdownโฆ
His exasperated tone and sad expression were too much and I couldnโt help but laugh lightly.
Irina: Youโre so sillyโฆย
I slowly rolled down from him to the bed. Although I wouldnโt mind staying closer, he could barely breathe, and I didn't like that. Alfons instantly let out a sad sigh. Was he upset?
Alfons: I'm just accepting the cruel truth. Isn't that what people should do, by your logic?ย ย
Irina: Do you really think Iโll just nod and agree with that nonsense?
He stayed quiet for a moment, then said thoughtfully.
Alfons: That indeed doesnโ t sound like you at all.
Irina: Because I wonโt. I wonโt stop loving youโฆ ever. And you?
He turned to me with a confused expression.
Alfons: What me?
Irina: Will you stop loving me on our third anniversary?ย
Alfons's eyes widened in absolutely fake shock.ย
Alfons: Do you still naively believe Iโm capable of โloveโ?
I chuckled. As usual, he would rather joke than be serious.
Irina: Rightโฆ So itโs only up to me then. In that caseโฆย
I hugged him by the waist.
Irina: Youโre stuck with me.
The smile that spread across his face was genuine, relieved. I felt the tension finally leave his body.
Alfons: Oh, poor me.
Irina: Yes, poor youโฆ you're stuck with me till the end with no way out.
Finally, he hugged me too, kissed me in the temple and murmured.
Alfons: You really are crazyโฆย
The room was filled with the faint scent of grass, blending with Alfons' perfume... flowers in morning dew. I smiled at the image.
Irina: These flowers really are fitting.ย ย
Alfons: How immortal might be fitting?
I shook my head.ย
Irina: Unfading, unchanging.
Alfons: There is nothing like that.
Irina: Oh, really? How about my loveโฆ Our love?
He held my gaze for a long time before hugging me tighter. There was still a bit of uncertainty in his gaze, butโฆ I hope in time I will be able to dissolve it too. If necessary I will plant these damn flowers for the rest of my lifeโฆ but Iโll make him believe that there are things that never change, there are people who will always be with him.ย
I hugged his face with both hands and nuzzled his nose with mine.
Irina: Happy birthday, my unfading love.
A soft smile blossomed on his face, and I couldn't help but smile back.
I used the line "We are responsible for what we sow." I see it as a nice reference toย The Little Prince, but since this story was written much later than the Villainsย take place, I couldn't add the correction from Alfons: "We are responsible for those we have tamed." But even without it, the similarity is too obvious to miss.
About 3 years. I started playing the game around the time Alfons' route came out on the JP server. Soโฆ we really have a third anniversary in November. And Ally, as a person accustomed to seeing everything in a gloomy light, was preparing for the worst in advance. It's funny that Irina was also very pessimistic at the beginning of their route. But over time, she changed her perspectiveโฆ I blame Harrison for this.
The amaranth is originally from South and Central America. It was first spread to Europe as an ornamental flower, and later to Asia as a cultivated crop. It has small seeds (pseudocereals) that indeed resemble cereals. It is known for very rich seed production and keeps blooming until the first frost. It is massโgrown for this reason in the southern parts of the East even now. The seeds are called by different names, though:ย rajgiraย orย ramdanaย in India, andย alegrรญaย when popped and mixed with honey in Mexico.
There are many varieties of amaranth. Some are cultivated for their soft leaves, some for seeds, some for flowers, and some even for animal feed. So finding a variety that gives everything is pretty hard. ย In my idea, I grow amaranth for both flowers and seeds. Since the seeds are edible, it's a winโwin โ I don't like to waste anything, and Alfons is pretty much a glutton. So I will cook something for himโฆ but later, since amaranth produces seeds until frost.
Elbert explained how to dry flowers, and we came to the conclusion that it would take too much time, so we settled on fresh bouquets. But he has already started drying flowers for the winter. It's really sweet of him, really.
And I'm very grateful to Victor, who showed endless support during my first attempt to grow something. He helped me find the plant based on its meaning, freed up a place for my experiment in the garden, and answered a million of my questions. He even cleared the soil of weeds when I wasn't looking โ though I nagged him about adding more work for himself. And he kept my secret from literally everyone. Although William most likely guessed โ he knows the flower language for sure.
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end)
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I spent the whole day in the castle library. I had not realised how vast it was. It was laid out like a maze, where without help or a map no-one would be able to find anything. And this is not to mention the height of the shelvesโฆ they were at least ten feet high. What if I need something on the top shelf? Is there a ladder somewhere? But luckily a very polite voice calmed me down. The librarian โ Wilfred, as he introduced himself โ would bring me books.ย I just needed to tell him the topic.ย
I thought for a moment. There were three clues in the letter. Lord Goring, I mean Sir. The castle. And James the first - the first king of both Scotland and England. I intended to look at the latter. The castle I would check last. We know that there is a spy inside already and it is probably connected to the same culprit,ย butโฆ itโs too obvious. So I donโt think this is what the culprit pointed out.
Wilfred was at first surprised by my questions, but instantly brightened and began talking enthusiastically, and in no time had brought me several piles of old books. Either he doesnโt see many people here or the subject itself interests himโฆ I do not even want to suspect the librarian. Iโm not that paranoid. Butโฆ I should check him, just in case.
Digging through the tomes of history, journals and a great deal of old correspondence that had been neatly assembled by someone in chronological orderโฆ I looked at the librarian, who had not paid me any mind for quite some time. Does he really like that part of history that much?
I had learned a bit from Thomas, but it was fragments, and hereโฆ a lot and a lot of information. I need to write it down so I wonโt miss anything.
It took me the whole day to finish browsing all the books. I had spent a lot of time in libraries before, but not the whole day. And although I was happy that I had managed to do it in one go, part of me felt too exhausted and wished I hadn't pushed that hard. Maybe I should have at least drunk some water or taken breaks. My eyes stung and I had a slight headache. Maybe from the dust orโฆ just too much information at once. I turned to my scribbles to combine everything I had found.ย
After the death of the childless Queen Elizabeth the First, the closest relative turned out to be Scottish king Jamesโฆ the Sixth, but he somehow became the First in British history. These kings are so odd.
He was a rather peculiar fellow. Not stupid, but his ideas were too fanciful. And he pushed too hard. As a result he sowed the seeds of chaos in the country, which reached its peak during his sonโs reign. And thanks to my new friendโฆ I turned once again to the librarian, who was calmly reading some bookโฆ I discovered a few very interesting letters.
BUTโฆ if the culprit didnโt hint that our dear queen Victoria, although being related to that fellow, has something in common with him. Which is ridiculous. Her reign only improved the lives of the people, slowly but steadily. And I donโt remember ever hearing any bad word about her on the streets. Soโฆ all this investigation was a total waste of time.ย
Irina: Damn!
Wilfred: Hush!
I turned to the librarian, who had been absolutely absorbed in the book a moment ago, and met a disapproving gaze. We were alone in this huge library, and I was not that loud. Oh, well, itโs his territoryโฆ
Irina: Iโm sorry.
***
I slowly walked down the hall, considering my next step. There were three leads. And if it was not the king James โ and it was clearly not him โ then only two were left. Victor sent Liam and Roger to check Lord Goring. So only the palace was left. I didnโt like that option. It looked too obvious. And because of that I considered it less probable. Againโฆ do not imagine problems where there are none. It could be that simpleโฆ at least sometimes.ย
Alfons: Isnโt that our lovely Miss Irina? We met for the second time in a dayโฆ Maybe itโs fate?ย
A playful voice brought me back to reality. Why him? No, really, why? Why is my luck so wretched? I turned to another direction intending to leave him behind, but he continued following me.
Alfons: You look so lovely in that dress. You do not change it because you are aware of the effect, are you?ย
Indeed, just to please youโฆ How did you guess? I will not answer, though. I will not react to him at all. Nobody would try to interact with a person who was obviously not interested. How wrong I wasโฆ
Alfons: Oh, your pouting lips are lovely too. Are you asking for a kiss? Such a wicked womanโฆย
I stopped in my tracks. How dare he??? I turned my eyes to him, full of rage. He looked amused. Did he really like to make me angry that much? And who was wicked here?ย
Irina: You have nothing else to do?
Alfons: You said you do not like meโฆ I consider it my duty to change your mind.ย
Irina: Donโt bother. You cannot be liked by everyone. I know that better than anyone.
I wished I had not said the last part. The memories ofย mocking voices, the open insults, the screams and whispers of hatredโฆ I had been through all of them. He did not need to know that. It was none of anyoneโs business. I continued walking, not even caring where, just away from him.
Alfons: Butโฆ I like youโฆ and I want you to like me too.
The tone of his voice was rather sad. I turned to him again and was met with the same annoyingly amused gaze. Was he playing with me? I took a long breath, calmed myself, and finally looked where my legs had brought me. I returned to the entrance. He would not force me to run from the building. The only way to silence him was to find more people. My stomach reminded me of itself with a loud rumble. Wonderful. Just in time.
Alfons: Oh, you poor thing, have you not eaten all day again? Shall we go together?
He took me by the hand and dragged me somewhere. Since he didnโt lead me outside, I didnโt struggle. Very well, dear sir, what is on your mind?ย
He brought me to the familiar dining room. The room was empty. Why was that? It was about dinner time. Williamโs voice saying that not all were early birds ran through my head. Perhaps they had different schedules? Some ate early, some laterโฆ and they never gathered together at the same table? That was rather sadโฆ it made them mere strangers who lived under the same roof.
The same as it was in the guildโฆ I remembered my first years in the guild, where I was no-one and had no voice whatsoever. Living with the same kids lying like logs in bed wasnโt that bad, especially on cold nights. Butโฆ we didnโt know each other, didnโt want to know each other. We could never meet again after all. Children were often caught by the police or disposed of as uselessโฆ so almost every night there were new faces. I did not want the same kind of interactions here. Yes, we all had separate rooms and the food was much better than I had ever eaten, butโฆ if we were together, we had to be closerโฆ And what could bring people closer than sharing a meal? I nodded.
Alfons: I wonderโฆ
I looked at him questioningly, and at the same moment, as if by some miracle, people began to enter the dining room. The Crown members filed in one after another, talking and bickering, followed by maids carrying food. The commotion was so sudden that I was frozen for a moment.ย
Roger: Where is the meat? Iโm hungry.
Ellis: Are you not planning to stay with us for a bit?
Roger: I have work to finish.
Alfons: Do you really believe you ever finish?
Roger made a face as he swallowed a bitter pill.
Roger: Could you not rub salt in the woundโฆย
Alfons: Cannot help itโฆ Iโm always telling the truth.
Still quite overwhelmed by everything, I sat at the table and was instantly noticed.
Roger: Oh, miss. How have you been?ย
Elbert: I havenโt seen you the whole dayโฆ
Alfons: She is too busy to take time for us.ย
Irina: Donโt pretend you know something about me.
Everyone instantly fell silent.ย
Roger: Does she talk only to him now?
Harrison: You talk non-stop, so she couldnโt add anything.
Jude: Never stopped anyone beforeโฆ
Liam: Maybe she's just shy?
Jude: Utter nonsense. She were pretty brave a few days ago.
Irina: You weren't as talkative back then.
Jude smirked.
Liam: She just needs time to get used to us. Right, Rin-Rin?
Harrison: Rin-Rin?
Liam: I think itโs cute and suits her so well. And she liked it tooโฆ Right?
I smiled at energetic Liam.
Irina: Yes, itโs cute.
Victor: Iโm enviousโฆ
The sudden voice seemed to surprise everyone in the room.
Liam: Victor! You came!
Irina: You made it.
Victor: Of course. Someone was too persistentโฆย
I let out a sigh. At least one thing turned out well today.
Harrison: She did what?
Irina: Liam wanted to see Victor more often at dinnerโฆ so I asked him to.
Victor: You call that asking?ย
Irina: Maybeโฆ I was too determined to make Lim-Limโs dream come true.
The silence that followed my words was rather unnerving. I looked around.
Irina: What?
Elbert: You just gave him a nickname? As easily as breathing.
Alfons: Real talentโฆ
Ellis: And it is also cuteโฆย
Harrison: They now sound like twins.
Liam and I exchanged glances. He beamed at me.
Liam: I would love to.
I couldnโt help but smile in return.
Irina: I donโt mind, either.ย
William: We didnโt compare her to Liam, Vic.
Victor: Indeed. Butโฆ with her energy itโs not surprising.
I blinked slowly at them. What are they talking about? Since the day had started rather early, my brain began to shut down and despite all my efforts my eyes started blinking slower and slowerโฆ
Alfons: Oh, sheโs like a cute drowsy kitten.
Irina: I am not!
His words gave me energy I was lacking and I finally was fully awake again. I hated to admit how much I appreciated him.ย
I focused my attention on Roger and was about to ask about the mission, but Victor spoke first.ย
Victor: What did you discover?
Liam: Itโs such a nice placeโฆ Can we go there together next time?
William: Liamโฆ a bit more information would be nice.
Liam: Ohโฆย
Roger: Lord Goring is a very serious man who takes excellent care of his land. There is no problem whatsoever.
Liam: He does not leave his territoryโฆ for years. He looks busy but seems quite content with his fate.ย
Roger: He's as far from a criminal as anyone can beโฆ
Victor: Everyone hides somethingโฆ there is no one without secrets.
Harrison: Says the one who has too many of them.ย
Victor smiled but didnโt reply.
Roger: His daughter is having an affair with a man of lower class. Sir Goring is not aware of it yet, however.ย
Liam: And she wants to elope, but her beloved has other plans. She didnโt stop talking to her maid about that. Butโฆ she didn't say what those plans might be.ย
Irina: How can you be so sure about it?
Roger: I have a good hearing.
Irina: Well, so do I, butโฆ
Alfons: He hears up 100 yards away.ย
I looked at Roger terrified. How many people can be in the perimeter. And he will hear them all at once?
Irina: That must be exhaustingโฆ
Roger: Youโre the first person who sees it that wayโฆ
Alfons: Yes, yes, poor Roger.
Roger: You never leave the opportunity to mock me.
Alfons smiled happily. What an odd relationship. The more I think about it, the more odd Alfons look. He feeds Elbert with a spoon, snarks with Roger, likes to comment and joke about everythingโฆ butโฆ he seems to be not part of the conversation, just an observer.ย I wonder why...
Victor: Soโฆ it might be this lover of young miss Goring.
Alfons: Itโs easy to checkโฆ We have William.
Everyone turned to William. He just smiled.
I was absolutely certain the man had nothing to do with our case. But it was only a gut feeling, nothing more.ย
Irina: Is he also in Sussex? What do you know about him?
Liam: Nothing. Not even his name. Miss Elisabeth was very secretive about him. And we couldnโt find out about him any other wayโฆ
Victor frowned deep in thought.
Irina: I donโt have connections in Sussex, butโฆ I donโt thinkโฆ
Victor: How about you make one more trip, Irina, just to be certain?
I looked quizzically at Victor. Did he want to send me away? Test me once more? He was not even listening to what I was about to say. I understandโฆ I am new here, so it is no wonder he does not see the point in considering my opinion. Butโฆ I thought I had earned his trust already. Somehow it felt sad.ย
Alfons: What a lovely idea. She was stuck in libraries and ran through the whole city too much.ย
I looked pointedly at Alfons. How did he know? Had he followed me? Why? Had someone sent him, or was it his own initiative? He smiled and, turning to Victor, overenthusiastically added.
Alfons: I would gladlyโฆ
Victor: I fear our Miss Irina will have to manage without you, Alfons.ย
Irina: Donโt worry, Iโll be fine on my own.
Victor: Oh, no, my dear. You wonโt be alone. I think Harry and Ellis would be perfect for that job.ย
Ellis: Jude? Will you let me?
Jude: We've got a contract with 'im. An' you can't refuse, unlike me.ย
Harrison: Find the young missโs lover and determine if he had anything to do with the gun smuggling.ย
Irina: What gun smuggling?
Victor: Rightโฆ we didnโt tell you. On the fateful night you found us, the Crown condemned the gun smugglers.ย
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end)
<=Previous(4) Next(5-ALLY)=>
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end)
<=Previous(3) Next(5)=>
The morning started very early. My stomach reminded me that I hadn't eaten anything the previous day and woke me before sunrise. I doubted the maids would wake up this early, so I had to take care of myselfโฆ as usual. I climbed out of bed and put on a loose-fitting dress I found in my wardrobe. I had never seen anything like that before, but it was very comfortable.ย
Walking through the dark, empty corridors, I hoped to find some clue as to where the kitchen might be.ย
Irina: If I were a kitchenโฆ where would I be?
Victor: Here.
I got the answer instantly from an utterly unexpected person. I moved towards the voice and found a cosily lit kitchen. Victor with his hair tied back loosely, was brushing the buns with butter. The sight was so familiar that I felt a strong sense of dรฉjร vu.
Victor: Good morning. You're a surprisingly early bird.
Irina: Says the early bird.
Victor chuckled as he put the baking tray into the oven.ย
I noticed the brush and the rag near the table and, out of sheer habit, began tidying up. When Victor finished checking the oven and turned back to me, he was rather surprised.
Victor: You're quite skilled at that.
Irina: I live alone.
He looked at me sceptically.
Irina: All right, all right, I helped my Mum at the bakery.ย
Victor: Your mother has a bakery?
Irina: She worked in oneโฆ but she gave it up after marriage.ย
The memories of my mother's heavy workdays were still vivid in my mind. The work was long and exhausting. If she hadn't had me, she could have found a better place. But she had to take care of both of us. So, to somehow justify my existence, I always tried to help Mum with her work. I would clean up while she was doing something else, bring coal, and watch the fire in the oven while she worked on the dough. She called me her little Brownie, I was sure because of my hair colour. Later I learnt it was a creature from folklore who helped around the house in exchange for milk. Never was particularly fond of milk. I smiled at that memory.ย
But she was very stubborn regarding my education. She didn't let me help her on those daysโฆ she insisted that I had to learn so that I would have a better life than she had.
Victor was quiet for a while, just looking at me, and finally smiled tenderly.
Victor: You hide so muchโฆ you never know what you'll be familiar with the next moment.
Irina: Life is like thatโฆ You either teach yourself, or life will force you to learn the hard way.
Victor sighed.
Victor: I hope one dayโฆ it won't be like that.
Irina: One dayโฆ maybe.
We didn't talk about work, we didn't talk about our past, but it felt pleasant. As if I could sense his sincere concern for people. As if it were his personal mission.ย
When Victor presented me with freshly baked buns and I ate one, I finally got my answer as to who the chef was that I so desperately wanted to meet.ย
***
I changed into appropriate clothes, and Victor escorted me to his office. He hadn't planned to escort me;ย we just happened to go in the same direction.ย
On the way we met Alfons, who had just returned from somewhere. I promised myselfย not to talk to him, so I completely ignored his presence. But he obviously had a differentย opinion. Terrible man.
Alfons: Good morning, Miss Irina and Victor. What a lovely surprise.
I looked the other way with a stony expression. I don't see him, I don't hear him, I want to be anywhere but near him.ย
Victor: Alfons, you naughty boy, did you spend the whole night outside again?
Alfons: You know me so well. But... Miss Irina looks at me with such disapproval. I guess my lifestyle is not to her liking.
Irina: Youโre not to my liking.
I bit my tongue. Damnย me, I promised not to talk to him. Victor chuckled and Alfons bent down to meet my eye level.
Alfons: Why so? Tell me, Iโm ready to do anything to improve your opinion of me.
Completely ignoring his attempt at conversation, I turned to Victor.
Irina: If you intend to talk to him a while longer, I shall go on ahead.ย
Victor: How considerate of you. Donโt worryโฆ we have no secrets to discuss.ย
Does he really think this is my reasoning? Orโฆ is he mocking me? I tilted my head trying to work it out. But his expression was as unreadable as ever.
Alfons: Iโll go to sleep. Donโt overwork yourself.
The last words were directed to me. For some reason, this angered me. Why does it sound like he knows me? Yes, I do have that tendency, but how dare he be the one who knows about it? Why canโt I simply ignore him? Why does he always irritate me so?
Victor: Sleep well, Alfons.
Alfons: I most certainly will.
***
As soon as we entered Victor's office, several servants brought in the same mountain of documents I had seen the day before. I frowned, but decided to put that asideโฆ for the time being.
Irina: You wanted to see me in your officeโฆ Wellโฆ I'm here.
He chuckled.
Victor: You really have amazing talent.
Irina: Me? That depends on your definition of the words "amazing" and "talent". If "it's a terrible habit to make everyone hate you" โ then that's true.
He chuckled once more and pointed to a chair for me to sit in.
I sat and looked at him questioningly. Without saying anything, he simply put the letter on the table before me and sat across from me.
Irina: Ohโฆ I've earned that privilegeโฆ
I took the letter from the envelope and read the contents. The handwriting was extremely elegant. It took me a while to decipher the text.
"My dear friends.ย
I have rather upsetting news for you. The wicked people have caught your scent and will not let it go. So you should be prepared. Nothing good will come of meeting them. I hope you'll be able to make the most of it.ย
Sincerely yours, Lord Goring."
I put the letter down and started thinking out loud.
Irina: There are two possibilities. This letter very much looks like a warning about the Crown. Butโฆ for some reason, the delivery was late, and they didn't get the warning in time.
Victor: Orโฆ this letter is for us. And it's also a warning. Or a declaration of war.
I nodded.
Irina: There are no details, so it is equally likely.
Victor: Agreed.
I looked at the letter and the envelope from all sides. No markings. No traces of ink from another letter if it was lying on top of it.
Irina: What about the Goring family nowadays?
Victor: They are quite respectable and successful landowners in Sussex.
Irina: So they are lords?
Victor: Noโฆ they are baronets, soโฆ it should be 'Sir'.ย
Irina: Another fake?ย
Victor: Well, considering they called their house a castle, I was surprised they didn't call themselves a prince.
I smiled. At least that would be consistent.ย
Irina: You don't think any of them might be involved in some illegal business?
Victor: I don't exclude that possibility. So I would rather check. But after the address you foundโฆ I'm starting to think it's an empty trail.
Irina: Do you want me to investigate?
Victor: No. I've already sent Roger with Liam. They'll be back in the evening.
Irina: So fast?
Victor: Trainโฆ
Irina: Rightโฆ
I frowned.
Victor: Is something else on your mind?
Irina: The sender gave us three leads. Goring was one of them. And you know about the traitor in the palace. I believe you can tell me exactly who it is.
Victor: No, I can't.
Irina: You won't, or you don't know?
He smiled without answering.
Irina: Oh, keep your secrets. I'll find what I need another way.
Victor: As you say. Wellโฆ
Victor trailed off. I took the hint, but I did not like to leave things like that.ย
I stood up and took as much of the papers I could from his desk. He caught me by the wrist.
Victor: What are you doing?
Irina: I'll help.
Victor: Noโฆ it's my work.
Irina: I'll sort it into important and unimportant.
Victor: There is nothing unimportant here.
Our eyes met in a silent battle. Finally I had to give up. He really didn't have the slightest desire to let me help him. I put the papers back in their place and he instantly let go of my hand.ย
Irina: You're not alone. You can rely on others, you know.
Victor's eyes became vacant, and I wondered what he was thinking.
Irina: I know you don't trust meโฆ
Victor: It's not about trust.
Irina: Then what?
He didn't answer.
Irina: It's inefficient to put everything on one person. Especially considering how many people you haveโฆ
Victor: Inefficientโฆ
He repeated flatly, still lost in thought.
Irina: What? You're a human being. You might make mistakes because of tiredness.
I leaned closer to look him in the eyes. His eyes suddenly focused on meโฆ really beautiful, I couldn't deny that, but I had no time to enjoy the view.
Irina: Think about it. My work isโฆ
Victor: To solve security problems.
I didnโt even flinch. I see it differently.
Irina: To ensure your secrets are kept. And your actionsโฆ might ruin my work. I don't like that.
Victor: Is that all?
I straightened my back and looked down at him. He calmly met my gaze, as if my words meant nothing to him. He had no desire to even consider my advice. Very well, then. I shall come up with something else.ย
Irina: Yes, that's all. See you at dinner.
Victor: No promises.
Irina: See you there.
And I left his office to the sound of his heartfelt laughter.
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end)
<=Previous(3) Next(5)=>
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end)
<=Previous(2) Next(4)=>
William let me out of the palace and bid farewell, looking rather relieved. As if he was quite happy to be rid of me. Heโs so oddโฆ One moment he was enjoying my company, the next he wanted to be as far from me as possible. Soโฆ he doesn't like me? For some reason, the thought stung. Oh, well. I didn't plan to get attached to any of themโฆ I remembered crying Liamโฆ Victor who was buried under a mountain of documents.ย
Irina: I saidโฆ Iโm not going to get attached!!!
I muttered to myself and angrily marched to the gate. The guards took no notice of me. Rightโฆ I'm leaving. If I tried to slip in, the reaction would be completely different. At least I hopeโฆ
After finding Bobby and asking him to investigate the old man's fate, I walked slowly through the city. I had never had such leisure before. I was always runningโฆ always late for something. So I didn't even know what to do at this slow pace. It felt like I had forgotten something, and that bothered me. I thought for a moment. Rightโฆ the letter. I had stupidly declared I would find out its contents. I didn't have much hope, butโฆ I had to at least try. I turned toward the post office where I had worked until that very day.ย
Female co-worker: Irina! Whatโฆ they said you are working at the palace now.ย
I turned to the voice. It was Sally. One of my colleagues. The one who likes to know everything about everyone. She asked me more questions than everyone else combined. Not a very good sign to meet her here.
Irina: Thatโs right. Butโฆ I need to look at the registered letter book.ย
Sally: Registered book? Why?
Irina: Nothing to worry aboutโฆย
Sally: Those words only make me worry more.ย
Her eyes were as big as saucers. She was indeed terrified. Technically the registered book wasn't confidential, butโฆ it was still somehow untouchable. I should expect the postmaster to come to check on me later. She will most definitely tell him about it.ย
Irina: Sorry.
I leaned over and opened the thin book. My delivery from yesterday should be close to the endโฆ so I started from the back. Ten minutes later I slammed the book shut. Just as I thoughtโฆ I sank into a chair, listening to the usual bustle of the post office.ย
Postmaster: Irinaโฆ they just told me, youโre hereโฆ
Irina: Hello, sirโฆ
I said without even looking at him.
Postmaster: We were so happy for youโฆ sad too, but mostly happyโฆ
He stopped when he noticed my state.ย
Postmaster: Did something happen? You look troubled.ย
I shook my head and finally looked at him.
Irina: Sorry for bothering you. Iโm fine. I just needed to check something.
The postmaster looked at the registered book that my hand still rested on and turned back to me. Nobody told him about it? Thatโsโฆ strange. I wouldn't call Sally trusting, and she was most definitely never especially fond of me. I was never on good terms with anyone by nature. Well, Saty aside. Butโฆ that was her merit.
Postmaster: Did you have some problems yesterday?
Irina: Nothing I couldn't take care of.
I finally came to a decision about what to do next and, with a hurried apology, left the post office.ย
Finding Thomas was rarely easy. He did not enjoy public life and nobody really knew where he was living. But every time I had the pleasure of hearing him talk about history, it was like hypnosis. His passion was so strong that everyone who heard him could not remain indifferentโฆ If I couldn't find him, I would have only one way leftโฆ libraries. But that would take weeks. The facts were fragmented, and nobody had taken the time to put them into any sort of order. I wish there were someone who would do thatโฆ Alas, I had only Thomas whose passion had extremely personal roots. So he was an expert on only one specific episode in history. The only problem was finding him and after that I just needed to tell him โI had doubtsโโฆ And he would do everything to โchange my mind.โ I am so wicked. I smirked and ran.
***
I ran back to the palace. I knew only one way to the Crown castle, so I had no other options. I still wasn't sure the guards would let me in, but I ran anyway. My discovery was bigger than I expected. I needed to talk to Victor about it without delay.ย
To my surprise, the guards continued ignoring me, so I even thought maybe they weren't real people. But noโฆ they were breathing. I have no idea how the information about who was permitted entry was passed to themโฆ but they obviously knew I was on the list.
It was already quite late, so I decided Victor should be done by now and turned toward the Crown castle instead. Running was funโฆ especially when I wasn't running from something, but towards itโฆ It was a completely different feeling.
I hadn't had the chance to get accustomed to the place yet, so I ran through every room until I foundโฆ the parlour. The one they had brought me to the day before. Andโฆ there were several of them. Ellis, Harrison and Alfons. I frowned, noticing the latter.
Harrison: Who's chasing you?
Irina: No oneโฆ
Ellis: Are you okay? Hereโฆ drink this.
I took the glass from Ellis but stopped at the last moment and looked suspiciously at him.
Irina: What is it?
He blinked cutely.
Ellis: Lemonade.
Irina: Ah, all right then.
And I drank it without even thinking. Luckily, it was indeed lemonade. I don't tolerate alcohol well.
Alfons: What's the rush?
Irina: Oh, right. Where is Victor?
Harrison: Who cares?
Ellis: We haven't seen him all day.
Remembering the mountain of documents, I mumbled.
Irina: I'm not surprised.
Ellis: Why?
And againโฆ that absolutely adorable blink. Is he doing that on purpose?
Irina: I found some information that might be very importantโฆ
Victor: What information?
I jerked. He wasn't in the room a moment ago! I turned to him and said.
Irina: You scared me.
Victor: I didn't mean toโฆ Beg your pardon.ย
I shook my head, tapping on my still racing heart.
Irina: Is it all right to talk here? Orโฆ
Victor smiled when I trailed off, but didnโt give me the answer.
Victor: Startโฆ and we shall see.
He really thought I couldn't find anything. His self-assurance was rather troubling. All right, then. Time to prove you wrong.
Irina: First of allโฆ I should apologise.
Victor: Again?
Irina: Yes. It was very stupid of me to assume I'd be able to find out the contents of that top-secret letter.
Alfons: Sarcasm.
Irina: Sorry?
Harrison: Your tone was rather sarcastic. No one would believe you are apologising.
Ellis: I would.
I turned to him. He looked so innocent. No, reallyโฆ How could he be so cute?
Alfons: What a talented woman!
Victor: Talented?
Alfons: Look, how easy she could trick even Ellis.
Ellis: Is it hard to do?
Ellis's eyes went even wider, making him look even more adorable. I couldn't take my eyes off him. That's indeed mesmerising... Since when had I become so affected by cute men? Victor and Harrison chuckled. Shaking my head, I turned to the conversation.
Irina: Maybe. I just found something interesting andโฆ maybe Iโm too impatient to tell you about it.ย
Harrison: Just like Liam.
Alfons: Indeed.
Irina: I found the address of the sender.
Victor: Address?
Irina: There wasn't an address on the letter itself. So, I checked at the post office.
Alfons: How can the address become interesting?
Ignoring Alfonsโ teasing question, I turned to Victor.
Irina: Tell me I'm a good girl first.
Harrison laughed.ย
Harrison: Like a dog begging for a treat.
Irina: Hey! You call me a fox, keep it that way.ย
Harrison: Foxes are from the dog family.
Irina: Oh, very well thenโฆ
Victor, carefully listening to our conversation, smiled brightly.
Victor: What a good girl!
I turned to him, stunned. I actually hadn't wanted him to say it; I wanted to see how far he would goโฆ and he really would do anythingโฆ So trustingโฆ I felt genuinely sorry for him.ย
Irina:ย Itโs Goring Palace.
Victorโs smile instantly disappeared.
Victor: What?ย
Irina: Shall we continue here? Or is this secret information?
Alfons frowned, obviously thinking about it. Harrison's mouth was slightly ajar, as if he wanted to say something but stopped himself. Only Ellis was looking around and didn't understand what was so shocking about it.
Ellis: What's so surprising about this name?
Irina: It never existed.
Victor sighed and turned to me.
Victor: What else have you found out?ย
Irina: It took me some time to remember where I had heard something similar. Harrison mentioned itโฆ
Harrison: How do youโฆ?
Irina: I was there. I'm not surprised you don't remember. People rarely notice me.
Alfons: You met Harrison before? Where?
Irina: I was at a debate some time ago, and Harrison was there as well. It was fun how he openly made fun of everyone, but they seemed not to notice it. I could barely hide my laughter. Butโฆ that's not the point. He mentioned Goring House.
Harrison nodded.
Ellis: What's the difference?
Victor: The first building on the site of the current palace was Goring House. It didn't exist long and burned in a fire.
Irina: Yesโฆ But the name of George Goring, the head of the family, is frequently associated with the royal family. There was even a rumourโฆ of very close friendship with James the first.
Victor: Rumours.
Irina: Of course. But by a very odd coincidenceโฆ the family very quickly lost its power at court after the death of James the firstโฆ
Harrison: What are you hinting at?
Irina: There are different ways of reading that information.
Harrison: Like what?
Irina: ย Like to complicate the trail. Should we see it as a pointer to the palace itself? As if the sender is from the palace. Orโฆ to historyโฆ to James the first or to Lord Goring himself? Why would they even bother to leave that trailโฆ It's as if they're playing a game with usโฆ
Ellis: You're really smart.
Irina: Well, thank you. I won't deny that.
Alfons: I can compliment you too. Such a good, hard-working woman deserves all the praise.
The tone of his voice was so full of insincerity that I didn't bother to even react. I turned to Victor who for some reason froze. He was so lost in his own thoughts that he did not even acknowledge the conversation.
Harrison: Why did they even leave the address?
Irina: To make sure the letter will be delivered.
Harrison: But why to leave any information behind?
Victor blinked, shaking himself from his thoughts.
Victor: They didn't expect us to check at the post office.ย
Irina: They paid one shilling to leave that trail.
Victor: And?
Irina: Oh, rich peopleโฆ
Alfons chuckled. Why is he the only one who gets my jokes? Not fair.
Harrison: They just think they're too smart.
Irina: Probablyโฆย
Victor: Thank you, dear. It wasโฆ interesting information. You surprised me.
Irina: It's not much. Only more questions aroseโฆ I still haven't found out the content of the letter itself.
Victor: Come to my office tomorrow.
He put his hand on my shoulder and turned to leave. But suddenly he turned back and smiled.
Victor: You are a really good girl.
I laughed. He would probably remind me of that for quite some time. After Victor left, Harrison looked at me.
Harrison: You know a lot about historyโฆ
Irina: Not reallyโฆ I just happen to have a friend who was happy to help.
Harrison: That's a lie.
I smiled without answering.
Alfons: What a mysterious woman. I would love to find out what she is hidingโฆ
The idea of him, of all people, finding out something about me seemed rather terrifying. And to make sure this would never happen, I swore to myself NEVER to interact with him again.
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end)
<=Previous(2) Next(4)=>
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end)
<=Previous(1) Next(3)=>
William led me outside the castle to the gardens. After some time I noticed Liam, who was running happily in our direction.
Liam: Rin-Rin.
I looked at him in total shock. Didn't he give me another nickname yesterday? Is he going to give me new nicknames every day?
Irina: Where has "Na-na" disappeared?
Liam: You don't like it?
He looked genuinely terrified at the idea, and my heart stung painfully.
Irina: No, no, I like itโฆ It's veryโฆ in your style.
Liam smiled happily.
Liam: Where are you going?
William: To Victor.
Liam: Ohโฆ say hello from me. I hope he will have dinner with us more oftenโฆ I like it when all of us gather together. Just like a familyโฆ
William smiled but said nothing. Liam beamed at me once more and ran off to the coach with a bounce. What was he doing in the gardens, then? One thing at a time, girl: first Victorโฆ then my own problemsโฆ and thenโฆ I would think about what to do next.
William: You're rather good with children.
Is he implying that Liam is a child? I wouldn't call him thatโฆ I mean, maybe I still see him as a child, but that's just me.
Irina: Itโs not about it. I'm just terrified of the idea of seeing him cry.
William: Only him?
[Flashback]
Ten years prior.
Young Irina had just gone out for a night's mission. The darkness had harshly replaced the daylight. The streets were rather empty, which was good. Her target that night was not a person, but a whole mansion. So, the fewer people, the better. She altered her course to the goal and suddenly heard crying. She stopped and thought for a moment. She had nothing to do with that. She had work to do. Sheโฆ Damn it!
Turning into the narrow dark alley, she noticed a figure curled up into a ball. He was bloodyโฆ his clothes were torn. He had either fallen from a roof or someone had beaten him for quite some time. Her first instinct was to come closer and calm him down. Butโฆ she heard his tiny voice.
Pink-haired boy: Why can't I die?
A chill ran down her spineย
Pink-haired boy: I only cause problems. Why can't I just die?
She slowly backed away but couldn't take her eyes off the crying figure. The feeling was too overwhelming. She instantly remembered herself thinking the same thing, countless times. If she had never been born, if she could just die... her mother would not have to work so hard... If she just didn't existโฆ It was so familiar. She stopped a kid who was running by.
Irina: Bring a doctor here. I'll give you five pence if you bring the best one you know.
The boy's eyes lit up. It was an easy task and a good reward. He looked Irina over to check if she could pay him that much and nodded. Smart kid.
Irina stayed near the entrance to make sure the lad wouldn't run away before the doctor looked at him. The doctor was an elderly man, with a sharp tongue but laughing eyes. She had seen him only this once, and she remembered him very well. He looked like a good man. She paid the doctor in advance and pointed at the lad.
She stayed still in the distance and heard what they were talking about. His name was Liam. He lived with his uncle and aunt. He had fallen from the roofโฆ He answered every question the doctor asked him, like a very good lad. The doctor patched the boy up and left the alley. Then he stood next to Irina and looked at her seriously.
Doctor: Who are you to him?
Irina: Sister.
The words came out on their own. She didn't even think about it. The doctor smiled at her reply but didn't comment.
Doctor: It's not the first timeโฆ and it won't be the last.
Irina nodded and looked at the still-curled figure.
Doctor: I got the address of his guardians. I'll tell them about it.
Irina: What will they do?
He shrugged.
Doctor: He needs constant observation. Without thatโฆ
The end of his thought hung in the air, but Irina understood and just nodded. He would try until he succeeded. The doctor left, and she leaned against the building. She couldn't let that happen. Not to him. Why? She had never felt so connected to anyone beforeโฆ
[Flashbacked ends]
I brushed away my tears and shook my head. I think I met him two or three more times after that. And every time I paid a doctorโฆ and every single they said the same thing. He needs constant observation. And at some point, he really disappeared. I feared that I had lost him. And I was quite happy when I recognised him the previous night. My brother is still alive. I hadn't overlooked him.
I shook my head, focusing on the present.
Irina: Where next?
William hummed but didn't push further. We went through the garden and turned into the thick woods. I felt slightly uneasy.
Irina: Why are we going into the woods?
William: Do you think I'm a bad wolf, my little Red Riding Hood?
I looked at him questioningly.
William: Rightโฆ you don't know fairy tales.
He sighed sadly, as if the joke was so good but the audience didn't understand it.
William: Victor is the Queen's aide. So he's in the palace.
Irina: Are you saying we're near the palace?
William: You didn't realise?
I shook my head. How was I supposed to know if they had brought me here in theย coach during the night? I knew it was west, butโฆ not where exactlyโฆ
***
Victor: Irina, Williamโฆ come in. What brings you here?
Irina: First of all, I wanted to apologise for yesterday.
Victor's eyes widened. At that moment he reminded me of Liam far too much.
Irina: I fell asleep during our conversation, and you had to carry me to bed.
Victor: Oh, thisโฆ Don't worry, my dear, it was a pleasure. I'll gladly carry you all the time.
The picture of Victor carrying me everywhere appeared vividly before my eyes.
Irina: You are so ridiculously frivolousโฆ I don't know whether to laugh or cry.
William: Why cry?
Irina: You will only add more work for me with that.
William: You're too serious.
Irina: And you're not serious enough.
Victor: Oh, you're doing that again. I feel left out of your little world.
Irina: Anywayโฆ it was very unprofessional of me.
Victor: Now, nowโฆ the day was long, and you told us you were tired several timesโฆ
Irina: You're the leader of a secret organisation. You should be harsher.
William: Don't be fooled. Victor is harsh, but you only notice it when it's too late.
Irina: What does that even mean?
William: You'll seeโฆ at some point.
I frowned, rather confused by this vague premonition.
Victor: If that's all you wanted to sayโฆ
He trailed off, not finishing the sentence, looking troubled. I noticed the pile of papers on his desk. Rightโฆ he has a lot of work.
Irina: There is one more thingโฆ Iโฆ have some unfinished businessโฆ Could you give me some money?
Victor: Of course.
He took out a small leather purse and placed it on the table before me. I picked it up, weighing its contents in my palm. It would be more than enough.ย
Irina: Rather embarrassing. It's like robbing a child.ย
Victor: You're not robbing me. You're taking advance payment for your work.
Irina: Youโre too trustingโฆ
Victor: Will's friend will never betray trust.
Irina: I'm notโฆ
I met William's amused gaze which seemed to ask, "Are you sure?" Damn it. I am his friend. And I will never betray anyone for sure.ย
Irina: Well, maybe I amโฆ
Victor: Well, thenโฆ
He trailed again. He really doesn't know how to say "Go away, I'm busy?" Or is he just too polite to say it?
Irina: Where should I start? Do you have a specific assignment for me?
Victor thought for a moment, and then his usual smile appeared on his face.
Victor: Nothing comes to mind at the moment. You can finish your "unfinished business" and thenโฆ maybe something will surface.
He does have something on his mind, but he decided to let me doโฆ what? Is he testing me? Does he want to see what I'm capable of before giving me real work? Interesting. This man intrigues me more and more. Just like thenโฆ My train of thought was interruptedโฆ
William: Let's go, Irina. Victor has a lot of work to finishโฆ
I nodded and followed William. At the last moment before leaving the room, I turned backโฆ Victor was already absorbed in his papers. Does he really need to work on it alone?
The door closed, and I sighed heavily. I don't like that. And suddenly I remembered. I pushed the door open again, ignoring William's irritated voice.ย
William: Irinaโฆ
Victor lifted his eyes to me in silent question.
Irina: Liam asked me to say hello.
Victor's smile was so tenderโฆ I believe he doesn't hear that often.
Irina: And he hopes to see you more often at dinner.
Victor: Thank you. I'll try.
He lowered his eyes.
Irina: You don't have toโฆ
William: Irina, let's go.
William closed the door in front of my nose.
Irina: I don't like it.
William: Neither do I. But this is what he wants.
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end)
<=Previous(1) Next(3)=>
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end) Next(2)=>
The story begins the day after the prologue.
I had a dream. I don't remember the last time I had one. I never even realised I didnโt have dreams until that moment. In this dream, I was running through the slums as I used to. But I wasn't alone this time. I felt like I could trust him with my life. I felt like I would die if something happened to him. I never felt that way in real life. Not once since I was forced to live alone.ย
I stretched still half-asleep, gradually surfacing. The afterglow of the dream slowly left my memory, leaving me with the foreign feeling of security. I turned to the side. At my movement the bed under me slightly creaked. Since when had my bed become so soft and springy?ย I shook my head. I was probably just imagining things. It felt so nice to just lie in bed, but I had no time for that. I hadโฆย
William: Did you sleep well?
The voice of the man made me jump. Whatโs going on? William laughed at my reaction.
William: You never fail to amuse me.ย
Irina: What are you doing here?
William: It's my room.
I looked around, and indeed it was William's room. The light that entered through the huge window was very bright. How long had I been sleeping? William was sitting behind a desk, reading some documents while I was shamelessly lying in his bed. I checked my clothes. At least I was clothed.ย
William: You fell asleep on the sofa.
Irina: And you couldn't think of anything better than to carry me to your bed?ย
My voice rose to a shrill. I mentally reminded myself to stay calm.
William: It wasn't me. It was Victor.
Irina: That's even worseโฆ
How could I let that happen? My new chief carried me to the bed. What could be more unprofessional? What was he thinking of me now? I should go talk to him immediately. I sprang out of bed, adjusting ย my dress, and instantly stopped. A few hooks of my corset have been undone. My cheeks felt extremely hot. I looked at William once again, feeling anger boiling inside me. He smirked, instantly figuring out what I was thinking.
William: It would be uncomfortable to sleep otherwiseโฆ
Irina: How could you!!!
He laughed again at my righteous anger. But it was impossible to deny his logic. Adjusting my dress, I rushed to the door, but stopped with my hand on the handle. I don't know where to go. I shruggedย irritably and turned to William again.ย
Irina: Could you show me around?
William tapped the edge of the documents on the table a couple of times to align them, and then placed them on the table. In one smooth movement he stood up gracefully.
William: With pleasure.
He came closer and opened the door for me. I exhaled, calming myself, as if before the jump into the pitch blackness. And said, with pointed politeness.ย
Irina: Thank you.
The first day didn't start very well, but I intended to fix it.
We walked through the seemingly endless hall, while William told me about this castle. All the maids in the castle were deaf for the sake of security. Not bad, but they were not stupid and even without hearing, they could put two and two together. I sighed, reminding myself. Not everyone is like you, Irinaโฆ
We started to descend the stairs to the ground floor. Rightโฆ I remember the stairs.
Irina: Where are you leading me?
William: To the dining room. You must be hungry. Itโs almost lunch time.
Irina: What?
I did not just fall asleep during the conversation, I let myself sleep half of the day. If I were Victor I would break our previous agreement instantly. Butโฆ considering what I saw yesterdayโฆ he would most likely close his eyes to it. So lenientโฆ I should be happy about it, but I felt only annoyance.
William: Since itโs pretty lateโฆ we wonโt see our early birds. Butโฆ some might be there.
Irina: Who?
William: Alfons and Elbert.ย
I groaned.
Irina: That man againโฆ
William: You still don't like him?
Irina: How could I change my mind about him in one night?
William: Rightโฆ it wasnโt that kind of night.
Irina: I doubt even THAT kind of night could change anything.
William laughed and opened the door for me. The first thing I saw was Alfons spoon-feeding Elbert. I stopped in the doorway utterly shocked. Thatโs certainly not something I would expect to ever see.
William: Come inโฆ donโt be shy.
Irina: Iโm notโฆ
There was no point in explaining. I entered the room and sat in the seat furthest away from Alfons. William smirked at me and sat next to me. The maids instantly began to lay the table with more and more plates. The delicacies, the entremets and dessertsโฆย I had seen them before, but never had the chance to try them. But I was the only one who intended to eatโฆ soโฆ
Irina: I donโt need that muchโฆ
I tried to stop the maids, but it was no use. They did not stop until they had laid out everything. To be honest, I was terrified. I wouldn't be able to eat that much, and I disliked the idea of food going to waste. I knew all too well how hard people work for the food that ends up on our tables.
Alfons: You worry too muchโฆ I havenโt eaten yet.
Irina: But you have the same set of dishesโฆ
William: Alfonsโ appetite is quite healthy. Iโm pretty sure he can consume everything on the table.
Irina: What a glutton!
William chuckled. Alfons smiled proudly. Is that something to be proud of?ย
I took a sip of tea and let my worry settle down. Focus, girl. You have plans and you need to ensure they come to fruition.
Irina: William, can we go to Victor after that?
William: Isn't my company enough for you?ย
Irina: Donโt start itโฆ
He laughed at my frown.
Irina: We didnโt discuss the details andโฆ I have a few questions.
William: So serious.
Irina: Since I have only a month, I should start as soon as possible.
Elbert: Alโฆ
Alfons was so focused on William and me that he started to poke the spoon at Elbert's nose.
Alfons: Sorry, Elbie.
He put away the spoon and cleaned Elbertโs face. Just like the nanny would do to a child. I shook my head. This is soโฆ bizarreโฆ
I turned all my attention to the food. It was tasty. Not the taste I was used to, too foreign to me. I could probably enjoy it once in a while butโฆ not all the time. I liked buns thoughโฆ I need to learn who the chef. Having finished as much of the exquisite cuisine as I could manage, I stood up.
Irina: Time to face itโฆ
Alfons: What?
Irina: The problems. I need to face the problems head-on, or...
Alfons: Or it will have a good view of yourโฆ rear?ย
Irina: โฆ
What? How could he add that so naturally into the conversation?
Irina: No. I wanted to say it will stab me in the back. Why rear?
Alfons: You have a nice one.
Irina: Considering the size of my dress, I'm surprised you can tell the difference.
Alfons: Professional eye.
He winked at me playfully.
Irina: Right...ย
I turned away with a huff, having no desire to talk to that man ever again.
Alfons: So you'd like me toโฆ
I glared at him and he started to laugh merrily.
Alfons: Iโm going to enjoy playing with you so much.
Irina: You may try.ย
William: You understand each other so wellโฆ
Irina: William!
I was truly shocked by that comment.
Chapter 1. Alfons POV
After Irina and William left, I smiled. She struck me as a woman of considerable strength and independence. The sort who solved every problem alone, who could handle anything. Not the kind of person I usually deal with. She was the total opposite of me, in fact. It was too tempting to tease her, just to see what lay beneath the surface. And her reactions never failed to amuse me. Every time I managed to get a glimpse of her emotions, it made me want to see more. I might find myself getting addicted to it.ย
Elbert: You're really fond of herโฆ
Alfons: Sheโฆ amuses me.
Elbert looked at the door, then turned to me.
Elbert: The more I look at herโฆ the more I see you.
Alfons: Do you accuse me of being as serious and annoyingly straightforward?
He shook his head.
Elbert: She doesn't let anyone get close, keeping everyone at arm's length. Just like youโฆ
I opened my mouth to object, but he was right. Although she seemed to be on good terms with William, I would not say she had confided in him.
Elbie nodded, as if he saw the confirmation of his words in my eyes, and picked up a spoon. He was quite capable of eating on his own, although most of the time he did not see the point in it. I suppose I had spoilt him.
Looking back at that breakfast, I must admit I felt strangely drawn to her. As if there really was something familiar about her. I just couldn't put my finger on what it was. I do not think we have met before. And if we had, she would most certainly never have agreed to a little distraction. It is not important anyway. No need to ponder it.ย
But despite everything, I somehow found myself following her later on.
Historical fact
Sometime in the 1860s, an addition to the corset became widespread: the split busk down the front. This was a pair of metal plates with hooks or round pins on one side and loops on the other, sewn into the front of the corset. If youโve ever had the pleasure of wearing a modern corset, itโs pretty much the same.ย Wiki
Before that, corsets were only laced at the back, which was very inconvenient, since a lady couldnโt do it alone and it required someoneโs help. With the busk, fastening the corset was still tricky, but it became achievable for a woman to do it by herself.
Iโm not surprised that Williamโฆ or Victorโฆ knew about it and could easily loosen Irinaโs corset. Although women at that time wore a chemiseย under the corset, it still was scandalous. Not to mentionโฆ nobody asked her consent. Wicked men indeed.
Prologue Our story (1-20) Our story (21-till end) Next(2)=>
One wise man said: if you find something funny, you won't be scared of it. And I also don't like an overly heavy mood (probably Ally's influence). Let's make it fun then.
Schatzi flew into the common room and instantly stated:
Schatzi:ย I've got some very disturbing news.
Nica, Ring, and Darius turned to her.
Nica:ย That's promising.
Schatzi:ย I'm pretty serious, you know.
Nica blinked cutely, offended by her words, which slightly distracted her. He looked extremely adorable when he wanted to. But Darius was in the same room and, as usual, annoyed by how the mood in the room changed into something annoyingly romantic.
Darius:ย I hope you have a very legit reason to barge into our home.
Nica:ย She's my wife.
Darius:ย Don't remind meโฆ
Schatzi, ignoring the usual exchange, continued.
Schatzi:ย Some person said very cruel words about Darius.
Darius:ย And?
Schatzi:ย They called him a villain.
Nica laughed.
Nica:ย Did somebody not know about it?
Schatzi:ย And people stood up to defend him. I fear we are on the verge of war.
Darius smiled happily with a dreamy expression.
Darius:ย A war because of me? And I didn't even need to do anythingโฆ
Schatzi:ย Don't tell me you're happy to hear it.
Darius:ย Of courseโฆ War means more mere humans will die โ and isn't that great news?
Schatzi:ย You can't be seriousโฆ
Nica:ย Treasure, you forgot who you're talking to?
Schatzi:ย Butโฆ we have to do something about it!
Ring:ย Maybe I should go kill the one who doesn't like Dari?
Everyone turned to Ring, who had stayed quiet until this moment.
Darius:ย Why?
Schatzi:ย William would do thatโฆ
Schatzi mumbled, but Darius heard her.
Darius:ย Really?
His eyes lit up.
Ring: Does William really kill everyone who doesn't like him?
Schatzi:ย I don't know. I was just joking. Aren't you his fan, Darius? Tell us...
Darius:ย Iโฆ wouldn't call myself a fan, but William is indeed a fascinating person.
Nica smiled and repeated softly.
Nica:ย A fanโฆ
Ring:ย Do you need a fan? I can bring you one.
Everyone looked at Ring's naive expression. Schatzi was the one who broke the silence.
Schatzi:ย Sweetheart, would you mind asking the maid to bring tea and sweets? I think I'll have to stay longer.
She looked meaningfully at Darius, having more to say to him as soon as Ring left the room.
Darius:ย Noโฆ you won't stay.
Schatzi:ย And it might take more than just a day.
Darius:ย Nica, take this woman away. I forbid her to ever come near me.
Nica:ย You're overreacting. Don't you think her presence brightens the mood?
Darius turned his disdainful gaze toward the redโhaired woman.
Darius:ย Not her presence โ but the prospect of war.
Ring:ย Do I still need to go for tea?
Schatzi:ย Of course.
Darius:ย Don't even think about it.
Schatzi and Darius glared angrily at each other. Ring turned a hopeful look toward Nica, totally at a loss as to what he was supposed to do. After a moment of consideration โ weighing whose anger was the lesser of two evils โ he added:
Nica:ย Bring the tea.
Darius:ย Hey! You can't take her side!!!
Nica:ย โฆand some fancy dessert as well.
Darius took a long exhale and stood up.
Darius: I'll deal with that. Just... when I come back, she won't be here.
Schatzi: No problem.
Darius pointedly looked at Nica and the latter just smirked. She had won Darius so easily. Nica didn't expect it would make him so proud.
"Fan" as a noun has two basic meanings. A person with a strong interest in or admiration for a celebrity, team, or form of media. And an object that moves the air. It could be an object made of folded paper or other material, or an electronic device. Soโฆ Ring took the different meaning of the word.
Schatzi is British, soโฆ tea solves every problem.
Schatzi isn't particularly stubborn and can't stay in one place for long, so her threat was merely a threat to make Darius do something. And I fear he took the bait.
Yesterday, while falling asleep, I accidentally "heard" a dialogue from the boys' merch that stands on my table. Yes, I'm that crazy.
The boys are quite worried about me and talk about it. Kuya/Alfons/Victor/Shishio Around 800 words.
Kuya: Don't you think she looks unwellโฆ
Alfons: She looks tired.
Shishio: She works too hard.
Alfons: This is who she isโฆ Stupidly stubborn with everything she does.
Victor: It's hard to be the only one who everyone reliesย on.
Alfons: She doesn't need to be so serious about it.
Shishio: But that's who she is...
Alfons frowned, since Shishio replied with his own words.
Victor: I would gladly take on part of her work.
Alfons: You're already overworked. She won't let youโฆ
Victor sighed sadly.
Shishio: I wish I could help her.
Alfons: I would give her something else to think about. She looks rather gloomyโฆ
Shishio: She even criedโฆ
Silenceโฆ Everyone looked at Kuya who didn't say anything.
Kuya: What?
Victor: Don't you want to help her?
Kuya: She took it upon herself. She'll have to deal with it.
Alfons: How cruel. What else to expect from a demon.
Kuya smirked.
Victor: No, he's caringโฆ
Shishio: He's worriedโฆ in his own way.
Kuya: Don't be ridiculous. I don't care about this little girl.
Victor: That's why you want her to learn her lesson and not take too much upon herself.
Alfons: That's not what he said.
Victor: But that's what he meant.
Kuya looked annoyed.
Kuya: You've mistaken me for someone else.
Victor: Noโฆ I believe all foxes are the same.
Shishio: Ohโฆ Kuzuha-san also pretends not to care.
Alfons: And Harryโฆ
Victor nodded. Kuya turned away.
Alfons: I see, you're just pouting.
Kuya: Why should I?
Alfons: She bought us as standees, and you're only a card. You could fall any moment, and it pisses you off.
Kuya: I'm not that petty.
Alfons: Now you sound like that blonde from the warlords game.
Shishio: Oh, there was a fox as wellโฆ
Alfons: Yes, Mitsuhide.
Victor: There was a fox in another warlords game tooโฆ
Alfons made a disgusted face.
Alfons: Tamamoโฆ
Victor: You know their names?
Alfons: It was before you... so of course you didn't know. She often talked about themโฆย
He turned to sleeping figure and added bitterly.
Alfons: She quite often gets interested in new guys... not for long though.
Kuya: Still, she has me on the main screen of the game.
Alfons: Me too.
Victor: Me too, butโฆ she doesn't play that game now.
Shishio: Sheโฆ never played my game at all.
Shishio's shoulders slumped.
Victor: It's hard to install itโฆ Don't feel bad.
Alfons: You should be happy. She never played your game, but still has you.
Shishio: Probablyโฆ
Irina turned in her sleep and sighedย sadly. Everyone looked at her worriedly.
Victor: I wish I could hug herโฆ she really needs it right now.
Alfons: Yesโฆ
Kuya: She looked at the pillow with that blonde from the feather gameโฆ
Shishio: Whatโฆ feathers?
Kuya, deep in thought, added.
Kuya:ย Insects?
Everyone exchanged glances.
Alfons: She found a new game and I didn't notice?
Victor: Ohโฆ you mean Brush? Love Brush. There are butterflies.
Alfons looked visibly relieved.
Alfons: Thank goodness. I thought I missed something.
Kuya: Anywayโฆ she looked at that pillow for quite some time.
Alfons: Itโs too expensive.
Shishio: I think she's not sure she needs him.
Alfons: This blonde? Maybe. She hasn't started his route yet. Probably scared of being disappointed.
Victor: Or falling for him.
Alfons: Hey, I'm trying to be positive.
Victor: Sorryโฆ
Long silence. Everyone looked at sleeping Irina once again.
Kuya: She'll be fine. She's stronger than you think.
Victor: We don't think she's weak.
Alfons: It's justโฆ it's hard to see her suffer and have no way to help her.
Kuya: You're all so annoying. I wish she hadn't bought me.
Long silence.
Shishio: I wonder if we'll have new neighbours in the futureโฆ
Victor: Do you want to?
Shishio: Maybeโฆ if it'll improve her mood.
Kuya: A new pin with me lifted her mood.
Alfons: You said you wished she hadn't bought you.
Kuyaโs pin: Do you mean me too? I have another opinion.
Kuyaโs card: You are too new to have a voice.
Kuyaโs pin: You're so mean.
Kuyaโs card: When will she pin you on her bag and we won't see you again, like she did with the demon boy?
Victor: I miss him... He's always hungry. Like someone I know.
Victor looked pointedly at Alfons.
Alfons: Have no idea what you're talking about.
Shishio: Anywayโฆ if a few more standeesโฆ
Kuya: Or pins...
Shishio: Yes, or pins will help, I don't mind.
Everyone just nodded, even Kuya. Suddenly Alfons became irritated.
Alfons: Just not Tamamo. He won't shut up.
Victor: How about Rikyu?
Alfons: Not him either. He has a terrible sense of humor.
Shishio: Kuzuha-san?
Alfons: Hope not, heโs such a smooth talker. Now that I think about itโฆ her taste is terrible.
Victor chuckled.
Victor: You do realise they all remind her of you?
Alfons: If so, why does she need them? Is me not enough?
He was obviously pouting. Everyone chuckled... Victor turned to the window.
Victor: Oh, the sun is coming up. Let's hope this day brings her more positivity.
Kuya: Maybe she'll just stop doing other people's jobs.
Shishio: And finish some of the projects she's working on.
Alfons: And will find what she is looking for.
Victor: You?
Alfons: Yes, me.
Kuya: So full of yourself.
Alfons: Well, thank you. Didn't expect the day would come that the grumpy old fox would compliment me.
A few comments
Kuya calls me "little girl" since in his eyes I'm a girl. He's pretty old.
I have been considering buying a pillow with Lars for a very long time. It's more than I'm ready to spend on merch, especially on a guy I'm not sure I'm that fond of. It was easy with Shishio... the standee didn't cost that much. Here... it's too much for me. And it's a pretty small pillow. You know... very hard to decide.
I bought Kuya's pin and am now waiting for a pin with the blonde from the warlord game (Ieyasu) to arrive so I can put both of them on my new backpack. Since Beel tries to run away from me too often and I could lose him the same way I lost Mitsuhide, I decided to start over. Nobody wants to sit next to Sebastian. I wonder why.
I tried to make Kuya sound indifferent and snarky. I love his very terrible comments and jokes in the game. But I think he turned out to be more... grumpy, like Ieyasu indeed.
I love all my boys (not equally), but Kuya's right. I took it upon myself; I have to make it happen somehow.
A while ago I noticed that post of @memoria-99 When princes see a ghost and the idea to write a story appeared. Butโฆ I was in a deadlock for some time. I wrote a few scenes, but I got stuck with no jokes, and I don't like forcing characters to talk... it turned out very badly. But finallyโฆ finallyโฆ I got the inspiration.
Due to that poll, 7 peopleย were wating for that story. I hope you like it.
All the princes + my OC Schatzi. Around 1550 words. Mostly jokes.
The heart-rending scream suddenly rang out and then faded.ย
Licht: I think it was Yves' voice.
Clavis: You know his screams? I was sure I was the only expert on the screams in our family.
Licht: He is usually with me when you prank himโฆ
Clavis: Rightโฆ So you are an expert on ONLY Yvesโ screamโฆ Good, goodโฆ
Nokto: Why is this so important to you?
Clavis: No reasonโฆ
Licht moved deeper into the forest.
Nokto: Where are you going?
Licht: To save Yvesโฆ
Clavis: Younger brother rushes to the rescue!ย
Licht looked pointedly at the three older brothersโฆ and continued walking without answering.
Nokto: Translation: it's because older brothers wonโt do anythingโฆ
He laughed at his own joke and followed Licht.
Jin, Chevalier, and Clavis exchanged a glance.
Clavis: How heartless of him to say thatโฆ
Jin: You mean, to think?ย
Chevalier: Thatโs true!
And Chevalier followed the twins.
Clavis: He broke my heartโฆย
Jin: Come on, Clavis. No one can hear you now.ย
On the other side of the forest. Another scream sliced the air. This time someone was screaming for help.ย
Silvio: Iโm going to kill him!
Schatzi: You mean save?
Silvio: Iโm tired of saving him, so itโs easier to just kill him.
Azel: Your logic is impeccableโฆย
Schatzi: Sparkyโฆ
Azel: Please, donโt call me thatโฆ
Silvio: Sparky?
Azel: Yes, sir!
Schatzi and Leon exchanged glances and laughed.
Silvio: Where does โSparkyโ come from?
Schatzi: Johann calls Zelly that.
Azel: Could you not call me that? You are absolutely tastelessโฆ
Silvio: What is that supposed to mean?
Azel: I didnโt mean you, of courseโฆ Never!
Schatzi: I think itโs a rather cute nicknameโฆ Johann has a good eye.
Silvio: Donโt talk about this man, pleaseโฆ
Schatzi: Oh, my Silly is jealousโฆย
Silvio: Donโt call me that!ย
Azel: Donโt call him that!
Schatzi: So cute!
Silvio turned away, looking somehow embarrassed. Schatzi giggled, but didnโt comment on that.
Sariel: Could we focus on the problemโฆ
Leon: Yes, thank you, Sariel. As much as I enjoy the showโฆ but if both Yves and Rio are in troubleโฆ thatโs not a good sign.
They rushed to the forest as well.
In the middle of the forest
Luke: Are you sure this is the right place?
Kagari: You heard screamsโฆ
Luke: Yes.
Kagari: They came from that hut.ย
Luke frowned, looking at Kagari calculatingly.
Luke: You are not trying to lead us to the wrong trail?
Kagari: Why?
Matias: You continue to openly confront each other. Why?
Luke and Kagari looked in different directions.ย
Keith: Did something happen between you two?
Both redheads remained silent.ย
Matias: Peculiar. There's only one thing that could make Kagari that angry.
Matias and Keith exchanged looks and said at the same time, "Dorayaki." As if it were a code word, the silence was instantly broken.ย
Kagari: He ate my last dorayaki.
Luke: It was lying on the table in the empty room. How am I supposed to know itโs yours?
Matias: That cannot be the reason.ย
Keith: I doubt it as well. Kagari likes to share dorayaki.
Luke: I said something he didnโt like.
Keith: What?
Luke: A friend of mine makes honey cookies andโฆ
Kagari finished for him.
Kagari: โฆthey are much tastier.
Keith: Oh, noโฆ
Matias: That's a crime.
Luke: Youโre a Guardian of Law. You cannot seriously say that.
Matias: Thatโs a crime for Kagari. Soโฆ you have to deal with the consequences.
The heavy thud inside the cabin.ย
Matias: Now weโve missed the crime.
Keith: You sound like you wanted to witness it.
Matias: I wanted to prevent it.
Kagari just opened the door and entered, looking quite annoyed.
Inside the hut
All four of them froze in the doorway, looking at a very unexpected sight. Gilbert, in a mysteriously glowing outfit, was sitting at the table calmly eating some cookies. While both Rio and Yves were lying on the floor โ unconscious or worse. Hard to say.
Kagari: They're breathing.
Keith: Oh, goodโฆ I was worried.
Matias: What have you done to them?
Gilbert looked at the intruders as if he had only just noticed them.
Gilbert: Who?
Matias: Rio and Yves, of course.
Gilbert looked in the direction Matias was pointing and tilted his head.
Luke: You couldn't possibly say you just noticed them.
Gilbert's eyes lifted to the voice, and he smiled.
Gilbert: Oh, Lukeโฆ haven't seen you in a while.
Luke: I hope I never see you again.
Gilbert: How rude. Oh, these moody teensโฆ
Luke: I'm not a teen!
Licht's voice: Let me throughโฆ
He instantly pushed his way inside the hut.
Licht: Yves!
He rushed toward Yves and checked on him.
Kagari: He's alive.
Licht: Yes, luckily for someone.
Licht lifted his eyes, glowing with rage, to Gilbert. The latter finally finished eating and, with the lazy curiosity of a cat, looked around.
Gilbert: What are all of you doing here?
Nokto: Rescue mission.
Clavis: I thought it was "spend time with your favorite brother."
Jin: Favorite brother?
Clavis: Yes, with me.
Chevalier: You're talking nonsense.
Licht: As usual.
Chevalier entered the room, and Gilbert's red eye was instantly fixed firmly on him. He was still sitting, but for some reason he seemed more terrifying than ever. Maybe that glow did the trick.
Silvio: Why is it so dark here?
Schatzi: Come on, Sparky, go inside and lighten the room.
Azel: I'm not a torch.
Silvio: But you're glowingโฆ it might work.
Azel: If you say soโฆ
Azel entered the room. Right behind him came Silvio and Schatzi. Silvio noticed Rio on the floor, walked over, and nudged Rio's leg with his boot. Rio groaned.
Silvio: Still alive, apparently.
Leon and Sariel entered as well.
Leon: You care for him so much.
Schatzi: Yes, very muchโฆ He just doesn't know how to show it.
Silvio: I wish him death.
Schatzi: Right, rightโฆ
Sariel: This hut is surprisingly spacious, if we all can fit inside.
Luke: Hard to breathe. I'm out.
Clavis: Why do you all look at me?
Nokto: You did something with the air.
Clavis: There are seventeen peopleโฆ
Nokto: Ohโฆ rightโฆ
Clavis: Orโฆ Luke just doesn't want to be in the same room with someone.
Everyone looked at Gilbert.
Schatzi: I seeโฆ
Gilbert, who had seemed almighty a moment ago, suddenly shrank as if he wished to disappear.
Sariel: Licht, take Yves outside.
Licht: I'll take him to the castle.
Clavis: You'll carry himโฆ So reliableโฆ
Licht turned an angry glare at Clavis but didn't say anything.
Nokto: That meansโฆ
Jin: No need. We got a glimpse.
Licht carried Yves away; Silvio, constantly grumbling, did the same with Rio. Neither of them returned. Most of the boys exchanged glances and started to leave the hut.
Those who stayed were Gilbert, Schatzi (who hadn't taken her eyes off him), Clavis, Matias, Jin, and Chevalier. Jin was about to leave as well, but Chevalier stopped him.
Schatzi: What is this all about?
Gilbert: I always wondered what it would be like when I turned into an evil ghost.
Clavis: Not much difference.
Gilbert smiled as if it was a compliment.
Chevalier: It was your idea.
It wasn't even a question. All eyes turned to Jin.
Jin: Wellโฆ
Matias: You made a deal with him?
Jin: Technically speakingโฆ
Clavis: That's hilariousโฆ What did you promise him?
Jin: Cookies.
Clavis: No, really, what?
Jin: Cookies. He already ate them.
Everyone looked at the empty plate.
Clavis: What kind of cookies would tame this evil beast?
Luke's voice: I told you they're good.
Kagari's voice: They cannot be better than dorayaki.
Matias: The reasonโฆ There must be a reason for this treachery.
Jin: Don't exaggerate. It was just a friendly request.
Matias: You say you are friends with Gilbert?
Jin: According to him, we are all his friends.
Everyone's eyes turned to Gilbert again.
Matias: Not me.
Chevalier: Don't change the subject.
Jin frowned, but had nothing to do but answer.
Jin: Yves needed to face his fear.
Clavis: You mean Gilbert?
Jin: Including that. I thought it would let himโฆ grow up.
Chevalier: Initiation.
Schatzi: Youโฆ for cookiesโฆ scared your brother?
Gilbert: Yes.
Schatzi put her hands on her hips.
Matias paled instantly.
Matias: I think I should goโฆ
Jin: Me too.
They ran outside as if an evil ghost was chasing them.
Clavis: Come onโฆ the show's only just starting.
Schatzi: How many times do I have to tell you not to bully the younger one?
Clavis: Go, sis!
Schatzi: I'm not your sis!
Clavis: Don't say thatโฆ that broke my heart.
Using this opportunity, Gilbert started to slowly move toward the exitย but stopped when Schatzi's eyes fixed on him.ย
Gilbert: I won't do that again.
Clavis: He's like a puppy. I'd like to pet him.
Chevalier: He'll kill you the moment she leaves his side.
Clavis: But it would be worth itโฆ
Chevalier shook his head.
Schatzi: As soon as Yves wakes up, you'll apologize.
Gilbert: I will.
Schatzi: I'll stay to make sure you won't forget.
Gilbert: Don't treat me like a kid.
Schatzi: Don't act like a kid!
Gilbert looked at her with such sadness that she sighed wearily.
Schatzi: Why do I have to clean up your mess all the time?
Clavis: Right? If you were my sisterโฆ
Chevalier: โฆit would be even worse.
Clavis, totally ignoring Chevalier's comment, came closer to Schatzi andย scannedย her carefully.
Clavis: You look sad.
Suddenly he smiled.
Clavis: I have a cure for you!
The next moment, he made a move that no one could prevent. The bottle shattered on the floor, and the room instantly began to fill with soap bubbles.
Chevalier: Run.
It was unnecessary โ everyone had already made an emergency exit from the hut. Within minutes, the whole hut was filled with bubbles that started to seep outside through all the cracks and holes.
Silvio hugged Schatzi, leading her away from the hut, and glared at Clavis.
Silvio: What the hell was that?
Clavis: My new invention. Moodโlifting potion.
Kagari: Bubbles?
Clavis: Everyone loves bubbles.
Leon came closer and took a handful of bubbles, examining them carefully.
Leon: Is it edible?
Clavis: Good idea. I'll make improvements.
In this turmoil nobody noticed how a certain โghostโ disappeared in the forest.
Back to Shatcey's tales
And just for fun, I recolored Gilbert's outfit for the occasion. Not perfect, but for a nonโprofessional, not bad. Here's a full picture.
Looking at the new card, a scene came to mind. Alfons/Irina, around 350 words.
Irina:ย Love, what are you doing in the pond?
Alfons:ย Lyingโฆ Not only Elbert can do it.
I smiled.
Irina:ย Doing something stupid just because someone else did it before you is childishโฆ
Alfons:ย So what?
I shook my head. Okayโฆ logic doesn't work this time.
Irina:ย How is it?
Alfons:ย It's cold.
I came closer.
Irina:ย Come out of it.
Alfons:ย โฆ
Irina:ย Come onโฆ You're making me worry.
Alfons:ย I need a hand.
He was obviously up to no good. Butโฆ I couldn't refuse him.
Irina:ย Okayโฆ
I stretched out my hand to him, and he pulled me towards himself instead. So I fell into the pond as well. The chilling water instantly soaked my dress, seeping through in all places at once.
Irina:ย Oh my God, it's freezing!!!
He chuckled, quite happy with my reaction, and pulled me closer. He was warmer than the water, but not by much. His skin was already covered in goosebumps.
Irina:ย Come onโฆ let's get out of here.
Alfons:ย Isn't that romantic? You, me, and the flowers.
Irina:ย Noโฆ we both stink.
Alfons:ย Of what?
I answered the first thing that came to mind. Probably because I'd just seen one.
Irina:ย Of frogs.
Alfons laughed, totally amused, but didn't attempt to stand up.
Irina:ย Allyโฆ you'll catch a cold.
Alfons:ย I'm surprisingly resilient to sickness.
Irina:ย Okayโฆ then I'll catch a cold.
He looked down at me and sighed defeatedly. He had nothing to say to that. I do easily get sick.
Getting into the pond was much easier than getting out of it. Finally outside, drenched in smelly water, with weeds in our hair and on our clothesโฆ Alfons laughed merrily.
Irina:ย What was the real reason for that?
Alfons:ย To make you worry about me, of course.
If I didn't know him better, I might have believed him. I punched him lightly on the arm.
Irina:ย That's a lie.
Alfons:ย Who knowsโฆ
Irina:ย You're really bad at imitating Harry.
Alfons chuckled and, hugging my shaking body to warm me a bit, led me back to the Crown castle.
William's room was on the top floor of the building. I could barely keep up with the men ahead. Damnโฆ it's several hours after midnight and they seem not affected by fatigue. After two years of a normal life, I've already forgotten what itโs like to stay up all night. I'm not complaining. There must be a great view from his roomโฆ It's justโฆ that the day was waaaaay too longโฆ
William opened the door for me and let me in. The first thing I saw was a huge window.
Irina: Good heavens! I was rightโฆ the view is amazingโฆ
William chuckled behind me.
Victor: Is this the only thing you were thinking about?
Irina: No. I was thinking I'm tired. Soโฆ let's get down to business so we can all go to sleep.ย
William gestured for me to sit down, which I did. They sat down across from me. A knock at the door surprised me. Right after our arrival? Who could it beโฆ
William opened the door and took a paper from the servant. Oh, I see.
Irina: They didn't find much, right?
William turned to me and smiled. He gave the note to Victor and he read it aloud.
Victor: "Started working at the post office two years ago. Everything prior to that is unknown. Lives in a small rented room in the East End. No known family or friends. โ
Victor looked at me, and the aura of authority settled around him once more.
Victor: Who are you?
Irina: It's Irina.ย
Victor: You said you were tired. It would be easier just to tell us everything.
I smirked, leaning back. Wowโฆ what a fine fabric. And it's hugging me so nicely. If I don't concentrate on the conversation well enough, I might just fall asleep.
Irina: Ask thenโฆ I won't lie.
Victor: You mentioned a bad dayโฆ What was it?
Irina: It was, no doubt, the worst day I've ever had.
William: Even worse than your first day on the street?
The memories of that day surfaced once againโฆ I twitched and instantly corrected myself.
Irina: One of the worstโฆ
Victor: So it's trueโฆ you two knew each other.
William smiled.
William: We were kids back thenโฆ Twelve, I thinkโฆ
Irina: You were a kid. I AM older.
William: She just called me a kidโฆ can you believe it?
And he laughed merrily. Victor looked stunned as if he felt out of place.
Victor: How did you meet?
William: Simpleโฆ she stole from me.
Victor: What?
William laughed again.
Irina: He caught me red-handedโฆ I was sure he'd drag me to the policemen or demand I make it up to him somehow.
Victor: Why would you think that way?
I smiled sadly remembering my young self.
Irina: All the people I saw worked hard from dawn till dusk and never got rich. So I thought... rich people must have done something terrible to earn their wealth. I thoughtโฆ all of them are bad people. So I never felt the slightest bit ashamed to steal from them. But he surprised meโฆ
The scene from the past appeared before my eyes as if it was happening right at this moment.
[flashback]
Little William caught Little Irina by the arm.
Little Irina: Let me go!
Little William: Why?
Little Irina: Why what?
Little William: Why do you steal?
Little Irina: If I don't steal, I will die.
Little William: You don't have parents?
Little Irina frowned.
Little Irina: Mum got married and couldn't keep me.
Little William: What does that mean?
Little Irina: No rich will understand. Let me go.
He sighed irritably at her words but instantly the idea struck him.
Little William: Do you want this? Then take itโฆ
He let her go and stretched out his hand with a silver pocket watch. She cautiously looked at the boy, not trusting him one bit, but he continued calmly stretching out his hand. She snatched the watch, still expecting him to change his mind and scream for the policemen, but he was silent.
Little William: Justโฆ polish the engravings. So nothing would lead back to the original owner.
This was the first kindness she had ever seen from a stranger. And more so from a rich person. Everything she had believed was shattered by that small act of kindness. Tears blurred her vision, but she stubbornly refused to looked away.
Little William: See you.
He smiled and just continued walking as if nothing had happened.
[flashback ends]
Irina: I followed your adviceโฆ
William: Really?
I took out the pocket watch and showed it to him.
Irina: See? It's polishedโฆ
William nodded, looking proudly at me. I put the watch away.
Irina: Have you got into trouble because of it?
William: No. Father was always too busy to pay attention to trinketsโฆ
I nodded. Well, that was rich people for youโฆ For him it's just a trinket, for a commoner it would be an unimaginable treasureโฆ Wait a minuteโฆย
Irina: How do you know about my first day? I didnโt mention thatโฆ
William: People talkโฆ
Did he spy on me? Good heavens! How long did they observe me? The shock was probably apparent on my face. William chuckled.
William: Nothing like thatโฆ I just heard it from one of my friendsโฆ
Irina: Ohโฆ
Victor: Awwwโฆ I'm so enviousโฆ
I turned to look at Victor.
Victor: You met him before me.
He looked so genuinely distressed. It was absolutely adorable. I couldn't help but laugh merrily. I donโt remember the last time Iโd laughed that openly. It had been too long.ย
Irina: It was a fleeting meeting. You have nothing to be jealous of.
Victor: Noโฆ you can't fool me! It was something remarkableโฆ I wish I had been there tooโฆ
I smiled, looking at his pouting lips. How does he do it? One moment a harsh leader, the next - an adorably cute man.ย
William: Soโฆ you were in the thieves' guild.
I slowly nodded.
William: Why did you leave?
Irina: I hadโฆ a disagreement with the leader.
Victor: About?
Irina: About who we can and cannot steal from.
William: Was it because of me?
Irina: Don't flatter yourself!
We laughed together.
Victor: What was your position?
Irina: Only those who deserve it. People who treat others as pawns. People who think of themselves as more privilegedโฆ People who steal and abuse others.
Victor: Just like Robin Hood.
Irina: Do I look like an idiot who'd give away hard-earned money?
Victor: No?
Irina: I needed money to free myself.
William: What?ย
I exhaled.
Irina: Getting into the thieves' guild is easy. Just steal once and you're on their hook. They promise you free food and a roof over your head. You just need to keep stealingโฆ But getting out of itโฆ You need to pay a huge compensation fee.ย
Victor: I had no ideaโฆ
He looked shocked to the bone.ย
Of courseโฆ how could you? The officials never stuck their noses into the slumsโฆ so they had no idea about our rules and problems. For us, surviving was a constant race against timeโฆ with each otherโฆ with our own principlesโฆ I saw many people go mad from that pressure. Many people were bent by it and started to do literally anything. I chose the thieves' guild myself. I had to deal with the consequences as well.
Irina: I would have left them many years ago, but I couldn't do itโฆ only until two years ago. That's how long I worked for them. If I had stolen from everyone, it would have happened fasterโฆ My principles cost me a lot of timeโฆ
William frowned.
William: Fourteen years?
I nodded.
William: Why didn't you sell the watch? It cost a bitโฆ
Irina: A bit?ย
William smiled at my sarcastic tone.
Much later I saw a similar watch at a party. And the noble boasted about it. It wasn't just a sum. It was the price of a lifetime of hard labor. So he had a pointโฆ I could easily have freed myself if I'd sold itโฆ if I'd found the right fence. But by then I had already polished away the engravings, and it looked more like a commoner's watch. Although it was expensive, not that muchโฆ Andโฆ I couldnโt do it anyway.
I put my hand on my pocket.
Irina: I need it. It's a reminder so I won't forget.
William: Me?
Irina: Does your ego know no bounds?
He giggled, and this finally cleared the heavy atmosphere.
Victor: I feel like a third wheel...
Irina: Oh, come onโฆย
Victor: You have that cute little secret from childhood and I have nothing of the sort.
Irina: Iโm sure you two also have a lot of secrets on your ownโฆ
Victor and William exchanged glances and nodded.
Irina: See? I donโt feel remotely enviousโฆ
William: How sadโฆ
Irina: Why?ย
William: I thought we had a special connectionโฆ
Irina: And for that reason I should feel jealous?ย
We stared one another down, barely holding back laughter.ย
Victor: I wish we had that connectionโฆ
I turned towards the wistful tone in his voiceโฆ His eyes shone with genuine amusement. Was it a joke? I looked deeply into his eyes, feeling again that strange magnetismโฆ They really were beautiful. And there was somethingโฆ so very familiar about himโฆ
William: Oh, canโt believe you already fell for another man!
I was freed from Victorโs spell and turned to William.
Irina: I just thought how beautiful his eyes areโฆ
William: And mine?
Irina: They are creepy.
Victor: Well, at least I beat him at something.ย
We all shared a laugh. As the laughter faded, my eyes fell on the corner of the letter peeking from William's pocket. I jerked my chin towards it.
Irina: What is this letter about?
William took it out, turned it over a couple of times in his hands, then tucked it back into his pocket.ย
Irina: Oh, I seeโฆ Itโs secret information. Now youโre suddenly become serious.
William: We are always serious.
Irina: If you were, you wouldn't make such stupid mistakes.
William: Touchรฉ.ย
Victor put his eyes down as if feeling guilty.
Irina: Whatever. Iโll find out on my own.
William: I didnโt expect anything else from you.
Victor: I doubt any information would leave this roomโฆ
Irina: Weโll seeโฆ
I frowned, already deciding who out of my numerous acquaintances would be best for that job. Considering how much information already slipped outside, it wonโt be a problem to find. Butโฆ if the stream of information hasn't dried up until now, it only means one thingโฆ
Irina: You knew about your security problemsโฆ but let it beโฆ Why?
Victor exchanged glances with William.
Victor: There are people who are still neededโฆ
Irina: And you let them ruin your work?
Victor: You ask the most inconvenient questions.
Irina: Well, someone has toโฆ
William: Victor is an aide to Her Majesty the Queen.
Irina: Is that supposed to impress or scare me?
William giggled. Victor looked extremely surprised. What can I say? I've never felt either fear or reverence toward power.
Irina: Letโs pretend I'm impressed and scared. But that won't change the fact that you have a security problem.
Victor: Which you will fixโฆ
He said pointedly. Although the soft smile was frozen on his face, the eyes were more than serious. I smirked.
Irina: Since I promised โ I will.
William: Just like Judeโฆ
I mentally recalled the faces of the men I had met just todayโฆ
Irina: The fairy who left the way out but nobody believed in her kindnessโฆ
William: A perfect description.
Irina: Actually this is the first time somebody compares me with someoneโฆ Usually they say how inconvenient I am.
Victor: Maybe you are related?
I shook my head.ย
Irina: No, Iโm the only child. At leastโฆ When I last saw my mother I was the only child.
William frowned as if he recalled what I said to him back then.
Victor: Actuallyโฆ you remind me more of Alfons.
I once again remember all the men.
Irina: The man who likes to tell tales? Don't like him. Too slippery.
William laughed.
William: Youโre very good at that.
Returning to the business mode, I asked.
Irina: I'm not allowed to touch the people you still needโฆ
Victor shook his head.
Irina: You're not making this easy for meโฆ
Victor smiled apologetically. What a lovely smileโฆ
Irina: I have my old connections. Andโฆ damn if I ever turned away from my goalโฆ
William: I told you she's interestingโฆ
Victor: But you said you wanted to uncover her secrets. And you already know all of them. Not fair!!!
William laughed and I let out a long exhale. I remembered all the people I'd met today, and a strange thought surfaced: I had seen them all before, long before today. Perhaps it was I who had followed themโฆ
And now Iโm here, in the company of probably the most dangerous men in this city. The road ahead of me has never been this difficult. But I felt completely at peace, as if for the first time I believed everything would be all right. As if my luck had finally come back to meโฆ And lulled by these thoughts I drifted into peaceful sleep.
Interesting fact
I mentioned this in my comments to an exchange gifts last year. But Iโd like to remind you, just in case you missed it.
By the rules of etiquette, a man enters first into places that could be dangerous or unknown, and only after he makes sure it is safe does he invite his lady in. For that exact reason, nowadays men enter an elevator/lift first. Well, at least the few who know about it. In this scene, William let Irina come into his room first. It's a sign of showing her it's safe; it's a sign of showing her that she is a welcome guest.
Roger: Right to the point, huh? Wellโฆ we all are cursed.
Irina: Elaborate, pleaseโฆ
He sighed.
Roger: You probably have read fairy tales.
I thought very hard.
Irina: Probablyโฆ I donโt remember much about myself at a young age.
Roger: Soโฆ in every fairy tale there are villains. People who are in the way of the happy ending.
Irina: Oh... is that a thing?โฆ
Liam: Is she criticising fairy tales?
Blonde man: I think she was surprised by the idea of a happy ending.
Liam: Ohโฆย
Roger: Soโฆ based on villains from the fairy tales, the curses were created. It was the other way around, but it would be easier for you to understand.
Irina: I doubt it. Soโฆ you have curses of some villains from fairytales. Like what?
Roger: Iโm a hunter from Snow white.
Irina: โฆ
Roger: What? You look rather dubious.
Irina: Why is the hunter a villain?
Roger: He betrayed the queen.
Irina: I donโt remember the fairy tale. You'll have to remind me.
Black-haired man: Let me.ย
And without waiting for confirmation he continued.
Black-haired man: An extremely beautiful queen - our dear earl Elbert Greetia right hereโฆ
I turned to the direction he was pointing and of course it was the blonde from earlier. So heโs a greedy queen? That explains the joke in the carriageโฆ
[flashback]
Grumpy man: Did your sister fall for our greedy queen already?
Black-haired man: She wonโt be the first...
[flashback ends]
Black-haired man: โฆso she was very jealous of cute little Snow White, her stepdaughter and sent a hunter - our so-called doctor Rogerโฆ
Roger: I am a doctor! Roger Barel.
Well, his large frame made me doubt he was a doctor. Iโve seen doctorsโฆ they are frail and look like they are about to collapse from exhaustion. This guy definitely didn't look that way. But his glasses seem to be real.
Black-haired man: As you claim. Soโฆ the queen sent him to kill the poor girl and bring her heart. But he took pity on the girl and killed some pretty animal instead and brought the queen its heart.
Irina: โฆ
Black-haired man: What? You donโt believe me?
Irina: That's absurd. Soโฆ you say Elbert is the greedy queen. Roger is the hunter.ย
Elbert: Thatโs correct.
Irina: Well, the greedy queen I can see as a villain. No offense.
Elbert smiled softly, as if my apology had stirred something in him. What a cute smile. Like a shy kid. The black-haired man smirked.
Irina: But calling a hunter that is rather dubiousโฆ And since you decided to introduce them, you're also in that storyโฆ Who are you?
Roger: Heโs the mirror. By the way, his name is Alfons Sylvatica.
Irina: โฆ
Roger: You still look dubiousโฆ
Irina: How can someone in their right mind call a mirror a villain? Mirrors only reflect reality. Unlessโฆ it was a crooked mirrorโฆ
Liam: Was it crooked?ย
Calm man: I donโt think that detail was in the fairy tale.
Alfons: It was a magic mirror.
Irina: Is that supposed to change my mind?
Alfons: I thought the magic part lent it a touch of villainyโฆ No?
His gaze was full of hope. It looked especially hilarious considering what he was asking me about. But I held my face emotionless.
Irina: โฆ
Alfons: You continue looking skepticalโฆ
I turned away from that obviously fake sad expression. Liam caught my gaze and stepped ahead.
Liam: Iโm Liam Evans. My curse is Cheshire Cat from Alice in Wonderland.
Irina: Itโs becoming more and more bizarreโฆย
Calm man: Iโm Harrison Gray. The curse is the lying fox.
Irina: Is that a joke?
Harrison blinked.
Harrison: No.
I let out an exasperated sigh.ย
Irina: Are any of you actually considered villains?
Victor: Willโฆ
William: Thatโs probably me. William Rex. My curse is the queen of hearts from Alice in Wonderland.
Irina: What did this queen do in that story?
William: โOff with their heads!โ.. Doesn't that ring a bell?
I shook my head.
Irina: Sorry.
William: Well, she killed everyone who she considered wrong.
Irina: A pretty common thing.ย ย
William shrugged as if slightly disappointed by my reaction.
Curly-haired man: Iโm Ellis Twilight and this is Jude Juzza. His curse is 13th fairy and mine - briar. Both from Sleeping Beauty.
Irina: What's that story about?
Alfons: Let me.
Irina: Why you?
Alfons: I can do it better than anyone.
Synchronized "Hmm" filled the air. Very wellโฆwhy not?
Alfons: Soโฆ there was a very stupid queen and the king. They gave birth to a baby girl and invited twelve fairies so they could promise her some stupid things like a good character and a pretty singing voice.
I nodded. I entirely agree with him. These are absolutely useless things.
Alfons: But they forgot about the 13th fairy. She got angry and put a curse on the girl so she would die after touching the spindle.
Irina: She's a princessโฆ.
Alfons: Yes.
Irina: How is she supposed to touch a spindle? A princess wouldn't even go near one. Did the fairy set an impossible condition on purpose? And nobody noticed that?
Ellis: Jude, is that really true?
Jude: No. The princess was destined to prick on a spindle.
Irina: Rubbish. Destiny is created by our hands. Only the ones who are scared to take responsibility for their own actions, blame fate for it.
Jude: Quite confident for yer age.
Irina: I look younger.
Jude snorted, looking rather pleased with my answer.
Liam: Soโฆ the 13th fairy wasnโt the villain?
Jude: O' course she was. She cursed the feckin' princess.ย
Irina: They forgot about her. I would be angry as well. I donโt understand why it would be a bad thing? And what is wrong with briar? Itโs a plant! What did a plant ever do to deserve that?
Ellis opened and shut his mouth looking stunned.
Ellis: Am I not a villain?
Harrison: Donโt look so rejected. She denies any of us as villains. Well... Elbert aside.
Everyone giggled.
William: Victor, you didnโt tell her about our fate.
Victor: Rightโฆ We all have a grim fate.
Irina: Like all of us. Nothing new.
Roger: Does she take anything seriously?
Irina: Iโm pretty serious right now. Life is rubbish. I haven't seen anything else.
Roger: Ohโฆ
Jude: Ayeโฆย
Victor: Anywayโฆ like all villains in fairy tales, we are doomed to a grim fate.
Irina: Who came up with that term?ย
Victor: What term?
Irina: Grim fate?
Victor: Well, I donโt knowโฆ It's pretty common for villainsโฆ
Irina: There are no villains! There are no heroes. All people are grey, one day good one bad. And the idea of thinking otherwise is total rubbish!
Victor: You have a very peculiar way of reading fairy tales.
Irina: I havenโt read them. Now Iโm absolutely sure about it. If I had read them, I would have burned them. They peddle ridiculous logic and turn people into fools.ย
Victor looked rather pleased. Why that reaction???
Irina: Anything else? Victor?
Victor: All cursed have a cursed ability.
Irina: Now that's interestingโฆ Like what?
Liam: I can turn invisible.
Irina: Convenient.
Harrison: I can tell if a person is telling the truth or a lie.
Irina: I knew you were testing me. Now I see how. Can be quite handy, right?
Harrison smirked, approving my response.
William: People cannot disobey my commands.
Irina: Really?
William smiled.
William: Reallyโฆย
Irina: Hmmm... How scary.
William: You don't ask for the demonstration?
Irina: Maybe later...
Ellis opened his mouth, but I stopped him.
Irina: Letโs take a break for now. Too much information. I need to process this first.
Victor: If we're done with introductionsโฆ Will, can we use your room?ย
William: Of course.
No historical facts this time. I simply enjoyed writing Alfons's version of the fairy tales so much. It was short and sarcastic... perfect. And it echoes all those little jokes I slipped into the story beautifully.
Okay, I'll give you one fact, but you probably know about it. The fairy tales we know today had older versions, and they were far darker. Most of them featured death, dismemberment, rape and a fair amount of blood, to be honest. At first I was horrified at the thought of children reading such grim tales, but then I remembered that these were the 16th and 17th centuries. Life itself was far harsher back then, and children witnessed nightmares on a daily basis. So for them, those stories weren't that shocking after all.
Irina: I have bad news for you. You're in big trouble.
The silence that followed wasn't as scary as I expected. Soโฆ they didn't kill me on the spot. That's a good sign. And sudden merry laughter filled the room.
William: She's really something else.
Victor cleared his throat and asked me very politely.
Victor: Don't you think it's the other way around, my dear? You are surrounded by dangerous people in an unknown placeโฆ And you know about our secret.
I took a long breath. Time to shine like only you can, girl.
Irina: When you put it that wayโฆ maybe. But the worst you can do to me is kill. Your problem is much biggerโฆ so you need me.
Grumpy man: What the hell? She threatenin' us now?ย
Irina: It's not a threat. It's a statement of fact.ย
Man with glasses: Since when did a simple letter carrier become that brave?
Calm man: I doubt she can be called simpleโฆ
Cat-like man: What do you mean, Harry?
My eyes met the calm man's, and he asked without breaking eye contact.
Calm man: What did you do before you became a letter carrier?ย
I smiled. I know this dance. I'm sure I've danced it more often than you have, sir.ย
Irina: A lot.
His smile grew wider.
Calm man: What a fox!
Everyone laughed. Laughter is a good sign.
Blonde man: Roger, do you think she is alsoโฆ
Roger: No. The curses are unique. They cannot exist in two people at the same time.
Curses? What are they talking about? But I didnโt have time to ask for an explanation.
Victor: What, in your opinion, is our problem?
He looked like a real leader now. Sharp gaze, a thick aura of authority. Sir, you looked cute at first, but you're not that simpleโฆ Good. I'm more used to working with those kinds of people.
Irina: Your security sucks!
The black-haired man was unlucky enough to be drinking at that exact moment and started coughing.
Blonde man: Al, are you alright?
He managed to nod, looking at me almost lovingly. What did I say? As soon as he stopped coughing, I continued, bending my fingers with every point I made.
Irina: If it was a secret missionโฆ why did you leave the door open? Not one, but two. The entrance and the room you all were in?
Grumpy man: Who was supposed to do that?
William: There was too much happeningโฆ We simply forgot.
The grumpy man shook his head.
Irina: You didn't leave anyone to secure the area and shoo away possible witnesses or warn you about them.
Roger: That's actually a good point.
Irina: Considering how many of you were in the roomโฆ and I saw only one corpseโฆ you could have left at least two of you outside.
William: Wellโฆ You came to the very endโฆ
Irina: In other wordsโฆ If I had checked other roomsโฆ I would have found more corpses, but none of you would have been there?ย
I shook my head.
Irina: That's even worseโฆ
Man with black hair: ย It's probably very shocking for you. You poor thingโฆ
Irina: Yes, very shocking how unprofessional you are!
William laughed. Some also smirked at my words. I hadn't expected my criticism would be met with such amusement. Soโฆ I pushed more.
Irina: Why did you play the piano?
William: I felt like it.
Grumpy man: He does whatever he wants.
Irina: An extremely good reason. But it would be better to refrain from it on missions.
Roger: This girl has some nervesโฆ To say that to William.
Cat-like man: Even Victor doesn't say โrefrainโ to us...
Calm man: Do you want him to?
Cat-like man: I donโt knowโฆ Maybe?
Victor: No, I cannot do that!
With each new exchange the weight of responsibility for their safety pressed on me harder. Why can't I just stay out of it? Focus, girl, donโt get attached to them. Itโs just a question of survival.ย
I turned to William.
Irina: Do you by any chance intentionally try to lure every unlucky passerby?
The man smiled.ย
William: What do you think?
Is heโฆ testing me? I frowned.
Irina: Maybe you just like to kill people who randomly learn about your secrets?
Blonde man: No, we don'tโฆ
Irina: Glad to hear that. At least one less problem.
Victor: Anything else?
Irina: If you really want to stay invisible in the night, you should consider changing outfits to grey or black. This man looks alright, but no trinkets. They might get in the way.
The black-haired man I was pointing at started coughing again, but this time he was clearly trying to mask his laughter.
Irina: Laugh all you want, but that wonโt change how flashy you all look. That attracts too much attention.
Cat-like man: What? Do we need to change clothes? For how long? I like my clothesโฆ
I wanted to laugh at the sincere distress in his voice. How dare he be that adorable? Iโm trying to maintain my composure. While everyone's attention was on the cat-like man, I hid my smile, hoping no-one would notice. But of course William noticed and smiled. Victor turned back to me.
Victor: Is that all?
Irina: No. The worst part. I heard the rumorโฆ
Curly-haired man: What?
I assumed his reaction meant he didn't hear me so I repeated slowly.
Irina: Iโฆ heardโฆ the rumor! I think it was 5 or 6 years agoโฆ at a grand party not far from the mansion we all met earlierโฆ
Victor looked at the cat-like man.
Victor: Liam?
Liam: Iโฆ might have been slightly lateโฆ
Liam?ย I looked him over. Pink hairโฆ whyย hadn't I thoughtย of it before?ย Is it really him?ย Is he really all right?ย Iย suppressed my joy.ย This was not the time.ย I need to focus on work right now.ย Turningย my head to Victor,ย I continued.
Irina: How many people know about you? The fact that there are rumors means there are far TOO many! Irresponsible!ย
Blonde man: Alโฆ
Black-haired man: Not now, Elbieโฆ
I looked at everyone in the room. My eyes lingered a bit longer on William. I still felt I should know him for some reason, and that feeling pushed me to take a step in his directionโฆ There was something dangerously attractive about himโฆ Anyway, it was already too late to back down. I had shown them my abilities, and I knew their secretโฆ I had to play this card to the end.
But deep down I knew that wasn't the real reason. I just really couldn't stay away โ I really couldn't help feeling responsibleโฆ If I did nothing right now and something happened to them, this would haunt me to no end โ especially if I somehow learned about it later.
Irina: I just can't... I can't let this slide. I have to ensure your secrets are safe. It's my responsibility!
I overdramatically put a hand on my chest and made a very weak attempt to look like a martyress. Sniggers were the reaction I was hoping for. And they didnโt disappoint me. But not as many as I hoped.
Black-haired man: Liam, does she also work in the theater?
Liam: Noโฆ At least not in the Scala.
Grumpy man: She is just mocking us! Why would we need this little rat?
I snorted. Do you think nobody called me that before? Iโve heard much worse nicknames. You are disappointing meโฆย
Curly-haired man: That's not nice, Jude!
Jude: Who gives a damn?ย
I simply nodded. Indeed, whoโฆ
Calm man: I canโt read her. She hides somethingโฆ
Blonde man: Like all of usโฆ
I turned to the blonde man and our eyes met. In the depthsย of his blue eyes was a very familiar expression. Pain. Iโve seen that a lot on the streets, but didnโt expect to see it among the nobilityโฆ
I looked at the calm man unblinkingly and said with all honesty.
Irina: We haven't known each other that long, of course I couldn't tell you much about myself. Butโฆ I will use all my knowledge and connections to your advantage. You have my word. And I always keep my word.
Jude smirked at my last remark. The calm man frowned, as if my words had surprised him, but he still couldn't bring himself to believe me.
William: Oh, I missed thatโฆ
Our eyes met and suddenlyโฆ I rememberedโฆ
Irina: I stoleโฆ (cough) strolled next to youโฆ
I looked around and everyoneโs expression didnโt seem to change. Nobody noticed my slip. Were they really that carefree? I shook my head in disbelief. On the contrary William's smile grew wider.
William: It took you a while!
And in that moment, I saw him entirely differently, the one I met a long time agoโฆ He didnโt change one bit. I was really surprised I didnโt remember him instantly. There is only one explanationโฆ
Irina: It's been a long time agoโฆ
We exchanged smiles like accomplices.
Liam: Is she Willโs friend?
Roger: Hard to sayโฆ
Victor: Will has many friendsโฆ
Calm man: Victor, you won't let that woman into the Crown without checking her, right?
Victor looked at me pointedly as if looking right to my heart. It didnโt feel heavy or scary at all. His eyes shone so beautifully and I was instantly captivated by them. But he didnโt rush with the answer. The silence dragged on and my eyelids despite my best effort started to close.
Irina: Oh, just kill me or make a decision. Iโm so tired I might collapse from exhaustion any moment.
Sniggers from all sides. As if Victor was waiting for this exact reaction, his warm smile suddenly reappeared.
Victor: I like her determination. She'll be a great help. Will the month be enough?
It could be worse. But no reason to tell him that.
Irina: Chief, you're giving me rather short notice.
Victor smirked at my teasing. Damn, I like this man.
The calm man opened his mouth to retort, but William reassured him.
William: We'll have a private talk with her, of course. But it'll be too late for introductions after that soโฆ let's introduce ourselves now.
Interesting fact
In our time, the phrase ยซI know that gameยป is widely known. It is a way of saying that the speaker recognises the ulterior motives, manipulation, or tactics of their interlocutor. However, in the Victorian age, the word "game" was strongly associated with gambling (cards, dice), sporting competitions, and hunting. Such a phrase would have been considered low or rude by high society.
In the sense we know today, a more fitting phrase would be ยซI know this danceยป.
In that age, the dance was a universal language. Every move was like a duel between partners. To say ยซI know this danceยป in the figurative sense elevated confrontation to an art.
The British often used ยซdanceยป in a figurative sense โ for instance, ยซto lead someone a merry danceยป, meaning to keep someone in a state of uncertainty.
I cannot say for sure that this exact phrase ยซI know this danceยป was used at the time in that meaning, but it fits perfectly within that logic. Soโฆ it is entirely plausible.
But maybe it wasnโt stupidity but overconfidence. If they didn't plan to keep me alive, it didn't matter where they brought me. Orโฆ they donโt see me as a threat.Which, in all honesty, made perfect sense. If my conclusions are correct. There was a rumor...
Iโd heard it only once, years ago, as if everyone who dared speak of it had been silenced. I hadn't believed it. I was still uncertain... but with every moment it felt more and more real. Should I reveal what I knew? Or play dumb? But Iโd already shown my true colors. How stupid of me... So my only option was...
Cat-like man: Do you like it that much? You're looking at it without blinkingโฆ
I turned my gaze to the man next to me. His smile was so innocently sweet, like a child's. And looking at these pretty pink eyes, I didn't even have the slightest desire to make a snide remark as usualโฆ
Irina: Yes, very beautiful.
The man's eyes shone even brighter.
Cat-like man: Right? Right? You haven't even seen the insideโฆ Come on.
He took me by the hand and dragged me inside. The curly-haired man let me go easily. Did that mean he finally believed I wouldn't run? Or... I narrowed my eyes at the cat-like man chattering nonstop ahead of me. What does it mean? Is he more dangerous than he seems?
Rooms flew past in a blur. The cat-like man dragged me along, talking so fast my brain couldnโt keep up. Finally he brought me to some sort of lounge, and I managed to stop him.
Irina: Heyโฆ don't you think you're being slightly more welcoming than you should be?
Cat-like man: Hah?
His surprised expression was even more adorable than anything I'd seen before. Can I keep him?ย What am I thinking??? He's not a pet to keep.
The rest of the men came into the room and started their routines. Someone went to the bar and poured himself a drink. Someone sat on the sofa and started to read a book. The small talk and half-hearted bickering showed how close they really were. I watched them, wistfully. I'd never had bonds like that.
The curly-haired man ran into the room with a maid in tow, and the table was instantly served with tea and refreshments. This is so surreal. I've been to many places, but neverโฆ never been this ignored. Maybe I'm just too used to being in danger, so I can never relax even in situations where I shouldn't be?.. Butโฆ aren't they supposed to be wary of me? Iโm a complete stranger in their home!
Man in red: Soโฆ Irina. Would you like to have dinner before we return to our conversation?
Irina: Now that you mention itโฆ I haven't eaten anything since a short lunchโฆ
Calm man: Yes, you didn't finish your sandwich.
Cat-like man: Seeing a corpse might ruin your appetite.
Irina: Hah? How do you know that?
Calm man: As it happens, we saw youโฆ
Cat-like man: Al observed youโฆ
Irina: What?!?
Black-haired man: I didn'tโฆ
Then he met the calm man's eyes and instantly corrected himself.
Black-haired man: Maybe I did. She's peculiar.
Man in red: Thank you, Al. I couldn't have put it more accurately.
Curly-haired man: William, are you also interested in her?
The manโฆ William was it?โฆ turned his eyes on me and smiled teasingly.
William: What do you think?
Irina: I donโt careโฆ
William: Oh, how cruelโฆ
I smirked and drank a bit of tea. It tasted heavenly. I donโt remember the last time I had the luxury to drink tea.
Cat-like man: Youโre pretty calmโฆ
I smiled pinching off a piece of the bun. It also tasted heavenly. Whoโs their chef? Iโd like to express my gratitude.ย
Irina: If you had the day I've hadโฆ you wouldn't be surprised by anything.
William: What kind of day?
I let out a long-suffering sigh.ย
Blonde man: I told you she reminds me of you.
Black-haired man: I never do that.
Everyone: Constantly.
In the middle of the common laughter another voice broke in.
Grumpy man: She's from the post officeโฆ
Calm man: Obviously. Based on her clothes.
Grumpy man: That's not what I meant!
Curly-haired man: We saw her today tooโฆ
Blonde man: We saw her tooโฆ at the shopโฆ
Irina: What? How is it possible??? Have you been spying on me the whole day?
How did I miss that? I checked, I really checked and saw no-one. Am I starting to forget how to do it? And even now when I need it the most? Wonderful.
Black-haired man: Spying is a slight exaggeration, donโt you think?
Irina: Semantics!
Our eyes locked for the first time since the carriage. But this time his nasty smile didnโt annoy me. The way he looked at me, absorbing every little detail as if I were the only thing that mattered in that very moment. I never met him before, right? But maybe I saw him? Heard of him? I was distracted from my thoughts by a not-so-subtle whisper.
Calm man: How could she know that word?...
Grumpy man: Aye, an' she used it rightโฆย
Thatโs not that easy to explainโฆย
William: What a peculiar Little Robin indeedโฆ
Our eyes met and once again I thought how familiar he looked. Have we really met before? When? Why can't I remember? Was it that long ago?
Man with glasses: Am I the only one who never saw her?
Cat-like man: Maybe you heard her?
Man with glasses: Say something.
Irina: Rude!
Sniggers were all around. The man with glasses frowned.
Man with glasses: I'm not sure.
Suddenly, a man with long hair entered. His clothes were black but several shades of blackโฆ It rippled softly with every movement. What gorgeous fabric... I wanted to touch it. And those accessories looked expensive. Focus, Irina! Look at his face. Oh... his smile was warm and welcoming. Who was this man?
William: Victor. Just in time. I brought you the Little Robin I was talking aboutโฆ
Victor: The one who impressed you?...
Victor's eyes turned to me.
Irina: Wow! These eyes are so shiningโฆ
Everyone chuckled at my reaction.
Victor: Well, thank you! It's rare indeed to meet a person who is soโฆ openโฆ
He winked at William.
Victor: Soโฆ why is she here?
William: She witnessed us carrying out the condemnationโฆ
Victor: Oh, how unfortunateโฆ
Black-haired man: I believe her day wasn't that good to begin with. She repeated "Just my luck" several times...
Cat-like man: You've been following her?
Black-haired man: Don't make me look like a stalker. We just happened toโฆ pass each other several times.
Irina: Putting aside the fact that all of you have been spying on meโฆ
Victor: What? You did?
He was genuinely surprised. What a cute expression!ย
Man with glasses: Not me.
While they laughed at the only one who supposedly didn't follow me, I finally managed to connect all the threads. The rumor about personal killers of the Queen that I heard, pretending to be a maid at a fancy party. So many nice pieces of jewellery we collected back thenโฆ
The crown symbol on the carriage which might only mean that they are under the protection of the Crown.
The huge castle somewhere in the woods that I've never seen or heard of before. And I always thought I'd collected all the information of that kindโฆ Gathering information was essential for successful operations.
And the wordsโฆ "carrying out the condemnation." This is what I stumbled upon. This is what I sawโฆ
So... The rumor was not a rumor after all...
Irina: Let me get this straightโฆ
Everyone's attention was on me once again. I'm not used to being the center of attention; I usually hide in the shadowsโฆ so I felt uncomfortable. But I cannot let myself be scared right now. I lifted my head and straightened my back.
Irina: You're some kind of government organization that carries out condemnation on people who can't be punished officially. Am I right?
I checked everyone in the roomโฆ they all looked rather shocked. All but one. The calm man looked strangely proud. I've never seen him, why would heโฆ No, stop. I didโฆ But let's not think about it for now.
I turned back to Victor.
Irina: Your silence is the confirmation I needed. I have bad news for you. You're in big trouble.
Historical Fact
Semantics.ย The word was first introduced by the French philologist Michel Brรฉal in 1883, but it became widespread only after the publication of his book in 1897. Since we are never told exactly when the events of the game take place, I decided to use this to my advantage.
In the Victorian era there was a very strong movement to educate workers.ย Penny lecturesย โ for a single penny, people could attend a lecture on scientific or cultural topics.ย Mechanics' Institutesย were created specifically to train workers; they offered libraries, evening classes and lectures.ย Debating societiesย were not simply lectures โ they gave people a chance to compete in wit and logic.
All of this was surprisingly affordable, open to nearly everyone, and held in the evenings so that working people could attend. I therefore imagined that Irina heard this term at one of those lectures and later once more at some debate. The amusing partโฆ in my own vision, at one of those debates she met one of the Crown's members long before the events of the prologue. Guess who?
