The Bond - 21. Chapter 21

I really hope he doesn’t take this the wrong way, Luca thought while making his way towards Adrian’s quarters. He had just taken his leave from the kitchens and Alfie, explaining to the head of staff that he would be around a bit longer. Everyone had seemed to react well to that, which gave Luca confidence. I don’t want power like the rest of the people here do… but I have to admit it feels good to be needed. He approached Adrian Fray’s door, and hesitated. Well, needed for the right reasons. Is there really all that much difference between prostitution and getting married for the sake of alliance? He thought back on Carl and Alexandre, deciding that yes, there could be a difference. Of course, that’s only when there are actual feelings involved…

Adrian’s door sprung open, catching Luca off guard. The prince stopped in his tracks, and broke out in smile at seeing his betrothed. “Luca! Hello.”

“Oh, uh, hello.” The silence grew awkward after a couple of seconds, and Adrian raised an eyebrow.

“Did you… want to talk?”

“Ah. Yes. I… yes, I did want to talk to you. Sorry, I haven’t really thought out what I was going to say… I want to articulate this in the right way.” Adrian’s face went downtrodden at that, and Luca almost felt relieved that the prince had most likely guessed already.

“You’re going to stay longer.” It was less of a question, more of a statement.

“Yes, I am. But I don’t want you to think it’s because I’m no longer interested in wedding you. Or that I don’t find you attractive, or anything like that. I know I might have given you that impression, but I really do think you’re a great guy.” That much was true, and Luca was glad to see that it did seem to lift Adrian’s spirits a little.

“No, no worries. I understand. And… as far as attraction goes, I know you’ll need time, after your past. I don’t want you to think I require… well, anything. I want you to feel comfortable.” Luca knew this already, given Adrian’s willingness to comply with their relationship being almost platonic up until now.

“Thanks. I just need to stay and help. And you’re welcome to stay too, of course. I know you can’t sail back to the Illjard without a spouse, and I definitely don’t want that for you. But war is coming, and I’m going to be here for it.”

“So will I.” Adrian spoke plainly, as if the matter was of no consequence at all. This surprised Luca a bit, but he supposed that it was what the Illjardi prince wanted to do.

And I’m sure he’s used to getting his way. After thinking that, Luca felt guilty, knowing that Adrian probably never took things for granted. He’s just determined.

“Okay… you know it will be dangerous, right? I mean, of course you do, that’s why you wanted us to leave earlier. But I’ve been in Nabius for a while now… these people have bloodlust like no other. The risk is going to be huge. Are you sure you don’t want to choose someone else?” Adrian almost looked hurt at that, leading Luca to feel even guiltier.

“Of course I don’t want to choose another. I know the risks, and I’ve actually just been talking to my closest advisor about it. I like you, and he seemed to be all for staying through this war. If you win, I’ll have cemented a relationship with the Di Coteau’s for years to come, and I’ll get to keep you. If you lose… well, I’d prefer not to think about that, but I’m hoping we could ferry you out before any enemies come this far north. Either way, I’ll prove my loyalties to you and the Illjardi tradition of taking a spouse from the mainland.”

“That makes sense,” Luca nodded. “But know that you may not be able to get by just as an observer. Even I have killed before, as you know.”
“Yes, I know.”

“Adrian. I killed a sex trafficker by stabbing him repeatedly while I watched him beat a twelve year old boy to death.” Luca said that more even-toned than he thought he could, surprised that there was no tremble in his voice. Poor Jack. This finally caused Adrian to stop with the charade of confidence, and hang his head for a moment.

“I see. I’m sorry for that. I know it’s going to be hard, but I really don’t want someone else. I like you, Luca. And I’d like to stick through this with you, even if it means that horrible things are coming. You’ve survived them before, and there’s no reason you shouldn’t have someone at your side to help you through them again.” Luca sighed at that, and felt bad that his first feeling was that Adrian couldn’t handle things the way he could.

You’ve been a prince all your life in a place where those in power don’t have to kill their way to it… I hope you can back up your brave words. Beautiful but naiive.

He placed his hand on Adrian’s white cheek and brushed aside a strand of shining pale hair that hung there. “Okay.”

***

Jared Coyne set the letter that he had just read down, sighing and rubbing his temples. My lovely cousin and her grand schemes. He had to admit that Marion had a talent for dramatics and turning tables on people, but they typically had not involved him up until this point. She took down the regime that was occupying her lands single handedly by debilitating her husband, but has to risk another noble lineage to get revenge?

Jared let out a groan, knowing that – despite it being risky, foolhardy, and probably far from solid – his cousin’s plan actually did make some degree of sense. Infiltrating an army and getting on the side of Nabius; that, I can do. Killing General Di Coteau while he’s not looking; that, I can also probably do. And if all goes well and I survive and am able to claim killing a Nabian general myself, the Coyne legacy will shine on stronger and harder than ever. That may give my people more hope in the resistance against Nabius than they’ve had in a long time. But Marion knows what the Hallowed Order wants. And the death of a General that’s fighting for peace… is this the way we should go?

He looked to his desk, upon which lie another letter, bearing the emblem of the Hallowed Order. The instructions that had gone out to all members were another set of instructions to attempt assassination, but this time on a different Di Coteau. But I doubt anyone could get to the Di Coteau Demon, even from behind. Jared had heard stories about how General Ysabel fought, seemingly with vision around her 360 degrees and an incredible ability to sense danger, even when there should be no cause for concern. All of the Clarion family seemed to have a knack for surviving, despite being some of the most contentious people in the history of the continent.

But that’s what they do, the affected ones… Ysabel, certainly, and probably her brother Yago as well. He’d heard that Alexandre Di Coteau was a great fighter as well, and wondered if they all shared the same secret. Is it the entire family? Surely, it can’t be… who knows.

But the instructions were clear. Help to rid the world of this insidious evil, to restore peace and balance across the nations. But isn’t the General trying to restore balance by ending a war as it is? He’s fighting his own country to spare another. And meanwhile, Ironia has seen more prosperity than it has in years due to Nabian withdrawal from the front line. I understand the need to destroy evil… but Marion’s request is for Alex to die, and I don’t know if that’s the best course of action. Ysabel, I have no problem with killing. Will they be together in the fight at Orr’s estate?

Jared thought this could be an opportunity, and made his decision. I’ve got two missions here, and two heads to remove. If they’re both going to be in the same place, I may as well be there too. As for whether removing the young general is the right call, I’ll have time to think on that. But I may as well tell Marion now so she doesn’t have a fit: I’ll try my best. I’ll do it.

***

Jezebel found herself in a good mood for once, prowling about the numerous halls of her Aunt’s estate to the south. This seat of generalship was located in a beautiful region of Nabius, where swamps and rivers gave way to lush forests that led towards the mountains. Though it was on average warmer than the north, the area was prone to calm, consistent weather with clear skies. The day was beautiful just like normal, and things seemed to be looking up for the young Nabian noblewoman.

All of my ducks in a row… first the war, now the residence with Ysabel, and soon a generalship of my own. Jezebel was most excited at the allure of a new position, now that it was practically guaranteed to fall her way. A civil war always meant the death of at least one general, and she would be the most understandable choice. Certainly there were other capable nobles in Nabius, but this was a Di Coteau war. I am a Di Coteau.

Besides the fact of war on the horizon, Ysabel Clarion had just returned to her seat of power, and her niece. They had bid cordial greetings, and Jezebel welcomed her back graciously. I’m sure she’ll be annoyed that I killed that bumbling assistant of hers… but that should be nothing more than a passing grievance. This much was true; Ysabel Clarion wasn’t one to pay much attention to the help, save occasionally using them for some kind of gain or personal pleasure. And the meeting now… an early supper? It must be to discuss strategy after my upcoming takeover.

She practically waltzed into the private dining quarters of the general, which was just off of her large office. “Jezebel,” said her aunt with a pearly smile, “Welcome. Thank you for joining me.”

“Thank you for the invite, General Clarion. As always, it is an honor. This estate has missed you in your absence.” Ysabel held her smile, cocking her head an almost imperceptible degree.

“Well. I’m sure it has. Has running an estate gone smoothly for you in the past few weeks?” It was now Jezebel’s turn to smile once again, glee bubbling up in her.

“Of course. It wasn’t anything to difficult. Business as usual.”

“Oh? Going on a rampage and killing the head of staff was business as usual?” Jezebel felt a tick of annoyance at that, but continued on.

“Oh of course. Who doesn’t go on a rampage every now and again? You’d certainly know about that.” Ysabel’s face didn’t change at all, but Jezebel knew her reply had been testing the waters. I probably shouldn’t prod. Eventually, Ysabel nodded and relaxed, raising a glass of wine.

“Indeed. I know this wasn’t the mission you wanted, but managing my lands in my absence was an important task. It keeps our hold on power strong, and shows our enemies that our family is united in all fronts. We are united, aren’t we Jezebel?”

“Absolutely.”

“Good. You’ve certainly shown me that we can rely upon you. In these… troubling times ahead, we’ll need someone that we can rely on.”

“I’m your niece and student. I’m happy to take on any responsibilities that might help my dearest cousin in his endeavor.” Jezebel was entirely insincere, but thought the words seemed convincing enough. She worried for a moment when Ysabel seemed to dwell on them for a bit longer than expected, but relaxed when the silence was broken.

“I’m glad to hear that. In fact, we do have a task for you. More than just a little responsibility to take on, at that.”

Yes, she thought. Here it is. “I’m ready for it.”

“We’d like to offer you a generalship in the new world that Alexandre is forging.”

YES. Good. About fucking time actually. I can’t say it isn’t deserved. She nodded her head gracefully, and kept her demeanor cool.

“I’d absolutely love to accept. When would you like me to leave?”

“As soon as possible, my dear.”

“I’ll make my preparations. The Orr border has been heavily patrolled as of late, but I think I should certainly be able to infiltrate the manse before war begins on that front. I’ll be there to remove the leadership at the right time. A family classic,” she said. Her voice was dripping with venomous joy, the mirth showing through in a smile on her face. Ysabel opened her mouth to say something, closed it, and let out a small laugh. She was smiling as well, but something told Jezebel that she wasn’t sharing in the same joy. More like she knows something I don’t and is laughing at me… is this bitch plotting something?

“Oh Jezebel. You won’t be taking the Orr estate.”

What…?

“You’ll be taking over Jack Du Vance’s territory, to the east. Talia is already on her way to the Orr territory’s heart to take down command internally there. In the mean time, we need you to hold the line solid.” Jezebel’s blood ran cold, and the anger went straight to her head. It took all of her willpower not to glare, but she couldn’t resist revealing herself as soon as she spoke.

“Jack… fucking… Du Vance.”

“Yes, Jezebel. Jack fucking Du Vance.” At her aunt’s calm, almost giggled response, Jezebel entirely failed to keep her face straight.

“Is this a fucking joke? First Alex gets a generalship before me, now Talia is getting one of the most powerful strongholds in the nation, and I’m getting JACK FUCKING DU VANCE’S TERRITORY?!” Ysabels face went quickly to annoyance verging on disgust, and the blade on her index finger slid forward. “This is a complete load of shit and you know it. He’s got what, ten soldiers at his command? A ghost town and a fort that’s practically falling apart?”

“I’m not sure,” said Ysabel. “I haven’t been there since he was quite a bit younger.”

“You all insult me. I work so hard and do whatever you ask, and you betray me like I’m some kind of worthless imbecile! I will not tolerate it! I want the Orr estate or nothing!”

“Very well,” said Ysabel coolly, “Alexandre’s whore friend can have the generalship.” At that, Jezebel stood up, flinging her chair, wine, and plate to the floor where the latter broke.

“I WILL FUCKING KILL THAT LITTLE SLUT AND RUIN ALEX’S PLANS TO – “

“ENOUGH,” spoke Ysabel and with a flash moved towards Jezebel across the table. Her claws were embedded into the wood, and her nose was just a hair’s width away from Jezebel’s. For a moment, Jezebel forgot her anger and let fear take its place.

How the hell did she move so quickly?

“If you ever threaten undermining this family again, I will end you myself,” Ysabel practically spat.

Jezebel stuttered, “M-my father would never allow that.”

“I’d dump your body at his feet, girl.” Ysabel’s gaze was even, and Jezebel recovered herself. Anger rose up in her again, this time significantly less hot. She let out the breath she had been holding, and released the tension in her muscles. Ysabel clearly noticed this, and sat back, removing her clawed hand from the table and splintering wood in the process.

“Now,” said her aunt, “you will take the Du Vance territory or get nothing out of this war. General Du Vance may not boast the most impressive army or lands but he does control the only mining that doesn’t lie in the opposition’s hands. His claim is important, and this is the will of my son – who is also a general, by the way, and claims command over you.” Jezebel ran a hand over her head, smoothing back her hair. She returned her face to neutral pleasantness, sat back down. From there, General Clarion continued. “I’ll be on a day trip tomorrow gathering soldiers from a nearby tribe in the provinces. Marcus, my advisor, has recommended we visit his home village. He expects a new batch of warriors to be ready for purchase from his elders, and feels that they would serve to make our cause a bit more robust. I will send half of the clansmen I buy to the Du Vance estate, trusting that it will be yours by the time they get there. Agreed?” Jezebel let out one final pouty exhalation and stood up to give her reply.

“Fine. If that’s what you all wish.” She turned to go, and walked directly over the shattered wine glass on the floor, crunching shards of glass into smaller pieces. “Thanks for the meal,” she called over her shoulder.

Fucking bitch. I should have done her in instead of her husband.

***

Adrian Fray walked through one of numerous courtyards at the Di Coteau estate, taking in the many fountains, statues, and floral arrangements it contained. He breathed in deeply, and felt calm.

Not good, I guess, he thought, but calm. I don’t think he’s averse to being with me me… but what if… no, he thought, shaking his head. I can’t afford to be thinking these thoughts. Luca is a kind soul and dedicated friend. His fierce loyalty towards those he respects will make him an excellent leader and liaison to my people. He sighed. And that’s why he has to stay. Adrian knew that this would likely happen, but couldn’t help feeling mild disappointment that his fiancé wouldn’t be able to tour the Illjard when it wasn’t entirely frozen. There was also some pressure from his closest advisor to hurry up and present Luca to the island nation, but Adrian wrote that off as overzealousness. Maybe he’s right, but if I have to be married to someone he might as well be worth it.

“Prince Adrian,” a voice called out. The prince looked upwards, surprised to see Alexandre Di Coteau walking towards him. The polish on his charcoal-gray armor glinted in the sun, and thin rivulets of sweat ran down his temples.

He must be training, Adrian thought. Shame to waste such a beautiful day fighting, but I guess that’s their way of life.

“General Di Coteau! What a nice surprise to see you.” Adrian smiled, but his smile was not returned. The prince knew that Alex was friendly, but he also knew that he was still a Nabian. It would take some getting used to, not receiving friendly gestures back. Alex did a respectful nod, which Adrian wondered about. Is that a Nabian thing, or is it from his time in Tomacia with Prince Cathcart?

“It’s good to see you as well. I trust you’re enjoying the weather here today? Somewhat nicer than the typical in the Illjard, I presume.”

“Yes,” Adrian agreed, “it is. Though it is a bit warm at times. Not that I’m complaining.”
“Indeed.”

“How are your preparations coming along?” The question was direct, but Adrian figured that most Nabians were direct too.

“They’re fine,” Alex said cordially. “There’s lots to go over, but so long as no surprises pop up, I think we have a decent chance at winning this war. And if Giovanni Nandra keeps to his word and doesn’t go into battle against his sister and therefore myself, I wont even have to address his… resignation.”

Resignation. That’s one way to put it. Adrian struggled not to scoff. “Well, that would be good. Is there anything that I can do to help?”

“Yes, as a matter of fact.” Adrian wasn’t expecting that response, but simply closed his mouth to listen. “I’d like you to stop all shipments from the Illjard to any Nabian territory that has failed to ally with me.” Now that was a surprise, and Adrian hung his mouth open.

“General Di Coteau, the Illjard has always been a neutral nation. The only wars we’ve fought were with pirates, and we certainly don’t interfere with the matters of the mainland.”

“I’m well aware, Prince. But I’m not asking you to prefer one nation to another. I’m asking for you simply to support Nabius.”
“Not all of Nabius.” Adrian was trying to sound diplomatic, but couldn’t disguise his shock.

“The part of Nabius that matters. We’re going to win this.”

“I… I respect what you’re doing, and believe in your cause, but – “

“But nothing. You either do, or don’t support me. One side will win eventually, and you’ll want to be aligned with that side. I’m asking you to strengthen your alliance with one side, the side that both of us want to win.”

“General… I’m not sure how my people will take this.”

“Prince Fray, will you even have people without my support?”

“Excuse me?”

“You want to stay in power, yes?” Adrian thought hard on that.

Of course I do, but it’s for the right reasons. If I had to give it up, I could…

“Yes, I do.”

“Are you willing to risk it to keep doing business with the southern Nabian territories? Sending some fish to the advocators of war is worth your royal name?”

“I don’t understand. How would my remaining neutral endanger my throne?” Alex finally smiled, and Adrian thought it looked a little cruel. It reminded him of the General’s mother, who always seemed like she was baring fangs rather than making pleasantries when she smiled.

“Make no mistake. I will prevent you from taking home any Nabian citizen to marry if you choose to supply my enemies. I don’t want to, as I’ve always enjoyed your correspondence and respect you as a leader. But I also don’t make empty threats, and I will ensure that your mission here fails if you don’t pick your side.” Adrian frowned deeply at that, and paused for a few long minutes to think on this proposition.

I suppose he is right… the Illjard has always sided with the three nations of the mainland equally, through multiple shifts in power. This war simply represents another change in leadership, hopefully to leaders that I like and that I have built a relationship with here. It might be a controversial move to my people, but of all the people to be aligned with, I’d rather pick Alexandre given that I at least know him. And if it helps me to keep Luca in my pocket…

“Very well. I’ll send word to cease all shipments towards unfriendly territories. I understand your position, General.” At that, Alex smiled again, this time looking genuinely friendly. He clapped a hand on Adrian’s shoulder, and looked him in the eyes.

“Thank you, Adrian. I don’t like to manipulate or threaten my friends, but I need all the help that I can get here. I promise that you wont regret throwing yourself in with me. I want the relationships between Nabius and it’s allies to be built on trust, not threat of violence. This move shows me that you trust us as well.”
“Of course I do. It might be difficult to explain to the Illjard, but I have always tried to do what is right.” Alex nodded, and turned to walk away.

Evidently, our meeting is over.

“Oh, and Prince Fray,” Alexandre called out behind him.

“Yes?”

“The other thing I want to be clear about… if you hurt Luca, I will melt your great ice castles to the ground, salt your fields, and burn every last citizen in the Illjard alive. I will drag your body through the streets, and singlehandedly end your line and nation.” Adrian gulped, fully feeling the hostility that Alexandre so calmly radiated.

“I understand.”

“Good,” said Alex, and walked away.

What a scary fucking guy.