Author's notes: Heyy, this is TR! Thank you so much everyone for giving this fanfic a chance (so many favs and follows omg)! I forgot to put an author's notes in the prologue oops... This is my first fanfic so I hope that I can live up to everyone's expectations and give you guys a good adventure. I would like to apologise beforehand because my English might be inadequate and updates will be slow from henceforth since I'm in my last year of school. Nonetheless, once again I thank you all for reading this fic! Please feel free to review or give constructive comments, they are very welcomed :). Enjoyyyy
To DeliriousM1nd: Thank you so much for your review, it is such a big encouragement! Yes, I do agree that I ended the Prologue slightly too soon and revealing too little haha oops... Her name will be in this chapter and a continuation of the prologue will be revealed in a flashback some time later so stay tuned :) hopefully that answers your question!
Chapter 1
Third Pov
The sun is blaring and merciless at high peak noon, scorching the earth and small thriving town of Cervo. There is nothing much glorious or glamorous here, just a humble small patch of land for cottages of the residents and a simple market with only three or four trade shops for fashionable items. Right behind the town is the vast plantation of potatoes and tomatoes, staple of the natives. Hardly any children live in this peaceful suburb, perhaps only a handful are the grandchildren of the elders and older aged folks that live there.
It has been two weeks since Olivia had arrived here. After about a week of travelling north, she was unlucky enough to be met with consecutive obstacles that prevented her from smoothly reaching her destination. First, it was the harsh weather that made it difficult to move efficiently out in the open on horseback. Second, it was meeting a bunch of bandits who robbed her of her valuables when she was sickened by the storms. She barely made it into Cervo on her bare feet in the early hours of a morning. Tired and malnourished, her goals will have to wait as she collapsed against one of the cottage walls.
Lady Luck seemed to be smiling down on her then as the cottage belonged to a kind old lady with wrinkly cheeks, crescent eyes and an almost toothless smile. Nonetheless, the old lady was caring enough to take her in temporarily. Since then, Olivia has been staying with the old lady, whose name she found out later was Nanna and who she so fondly call 'Granny'. During the day, she helped out at Nanna's trade shop, where she sold small trinkets and beautiful accessories. Olivia loved them dearly, even though they were not precious jewels or gem stones, in her eyes they were so magical and enchanting.
Sometimes, she would help to babysit the children who attends the church for school. That only happened twice so far though, not that she planned to stay any longer than these two weeks. The townspeople have been very nice and welcoming to her, providing her with provisions for her travel in exchange for small favours and chores. Now that her stock is looking promising, she has decided that tomorrow shall be the day she continue on her mission.
"Granny! Let me take over the stall now, you can go back and rest." Olivia greeted Nanna as she came sprinting down the streets, smiling fondly at the sight of the old lady hunched over her small stool.
"Oh Olivia dear! Have you finished packing? Did you bring enough warm clothes?" Nanna chortled airily while she heaved herself up with the help of her walking cane.
"Yes, thanks to you and the kind townsfolk. I think I have enough to last quite some time." Olivia helped Nanna over across the road towards the next street back in the direction of the cottages.
Just then, a rather extravagant carriage led by two chestnut stallions came speeding round the corner. The galloping steps thundered agitatedly against the stone pathway as the horseman flicked the whip towards the horses while shouting urgently. Olivia's eyes widened in panic. It was coming towards her and Nanna, who were currently crossing the road. Nanna has her back towards the oncoming danger but with Olivia beside her, it was more than enough to evade. With a firm grip on the old lady's waist and arms, Olivia twisted her out of the way by pivoting about the balls of her feet onto the pavement on the opposite end of the street. The carriage brushed past them, merely missing them by a hair's breadth and a thin film of wind.
"Granny! Are you alright?" Olivia panted in worry as her eyebrows furrowed.
"Oh my, oh my! Yes, dear, I am fine. What happened?" Nanna waved a flimsy palm in Olivia's face to calm the panicking teen, before turning to face the direction the carriage went.
The horseman jumped off after halting the horses, descending with a mix of guilt and annoyance written all over his face. He seemed to be in a rather tight spot and his dilemma of whether to lower his pride to apologise and get on with his journey or to start lecturing the two about awareness of one's surroundings and shunning responsibility. Both options seem equally time consuming and risky as the passengers (probably his superiors) getting involved due to the commotion would be inevitable. His face bore the look of wanting to just get back on and ignore the two, but even that was proving to be tough with the way Olivia was glaring expectantly at him.
A few seconds passed in steely silence, the tension so thick one could slice it with a blade. Olivia subtly let go of Nanna, turning fully to face the flustered horseman. He must have been digging his own grave upon seeing the look Olivia gave him. Her eyes were just their normal size and her other facial features were soft. The only difference was the guaranteed killing intent that radiated from her dirty grey orbs. The look of not just a fighter, but a promising killer.
An assassin. His quivering increased and a chill ran down his spine as understanding flickered in his eyes.
Just then, the ebony door to the expensive carriage opened, slightly breaking the murderous eye contact that emitted from Olivia to the poor man. Stepping out with utmost elegance and grace was a woman with long hair that ripples like gentle waves and shines golden under the sun. Her dress was silk with ruffles along the hem lines and exquisite gradient dye from faded pink to coral. Complicated ribbons tightened the whole masterpiece in place just in front of her torso as her hands rested daintily on her chest.
With just one look, anyone will be able to tell this woman must be associated with the upper class of society and yet unlike most others, she gave off a noble yet demure and humble aura about her. This was by far the simplest dress worn by the rich Olivia has ever seen and it did pique her curiosity towards the blonde lady. After all, Olivia never knew there existed people capable of not flaunting their status and wealth in that day and age. However, this could all be just a show. It is still much too early to determine anything.
The blonde lady tilted her gaze laced with confusion and gentleness from Olivia and Nanna over to the horseman, "Jack, what is the meaning of this?" Her voice was soft and impartial, unlike the accusatory or dismissive tone Olivia had anticipated was going to be directed at them from any wealthy personnel.
Jack trembled, stuttering, "Lady Elena! T-these two villagers suddenly sprang out onto the road while the carriage was speeding through and it was close that we narrowly missed them. I a-apologise for the sudden caught up and delay, M-Milady. Are you a-alright from that? Do we need to call a doctor?"
Olivia rolled her eyes indignantly at how Jack turned the tables on them and was about to bite back a retort before Nanna clutched her arm comfortingly and shook her head slowly. Stepping in front of Olivia, Nanna gave a deep bow with much difficulty towards Lady Elena.
"Your Ladyship, please pardon us villagers for not watching out for our surroundings and causing you so much trouble. We just mend a small souvenir shop in this lowly place and I am afraid we are unable to compensate you well. Please have mercy and overlook our mistake. I sincerely thank you from the bottom of my heart." Nanna croaked out, her voice sounded nervous.
Judging from the way she said that, Olivia could tell that this sort of incident happened rather often and it mostly ended up with the one with less power in the wrong. Frowning, Olivia stared at Lady Elena and Jack. It was not like she could interfere and defy them so openly; the wrath of aristocrats could endanger the people of the village. However that does not mean she would just let Nanna take the beating down if the lady was to choose to believe the horseman and show no sympathy.
"Please rise, Grandma, your back is not fit for such deep bows so please take care."
What? Did the lady just said that?
Olivia and Nanna blinked in surprise as the lady came forth to help Nanna. While they were still caught up in their daze, Lady Elena began again, "Don't put all the blame on yourself, Grandma. I know you are not the one fully at fault. Jack has always been hasty in the way he does things, please don't blame him. You are not hurt, are you Grandma?"
The genuine look of concern and endearing words rendered Olivia speechless, though Nanna was able to react more quickly. Beaming a near toothless smile, Nanna replied, "Not at all, Your Ladyship. Thank you for being so caring and forgiving to us villagers."
Lady Elena mirrored the smile in relief, "It's good that you're not hurt at all. Please, just call me 'Elena'." Olivia stared at the two who were conversing so comfortably it is almost as if all the stereotypes about nobles she had seen from before had evaporated. The scene was absolutely precious and before she knew it, she was grinning lightly.
"You are not hurt too, are you?" Olivia snapped out of her thoughts as Lady Elena directed her question at her.
Startled at the sudden attention, Olivia raised her hands defensively and replied swiftly, "Not at all, thank you for caring, Your Ladysh-"
"Elena. Call me Elena." Lady Elena corrected her, with a grin that showed no room for arguments.
A little unused to the grace shown upon them by an aristocrat, Nanna and Olivia simply remained silent and gently dipped their heads in embarrassment.
Seeing the bashful looks, Elena chuckled before walking over to Jack, speaking softly. Jack's expression turned from aghast to anxiousness to guilt. His final look was that of a scolded puppy, as he hung his head in shame. Ironically, Olivia found the drastic changes in facial features of Jack to be very amusing.
Not long after, Elena returned to the side of Nanna and Olivia with the same gentle grin. "Grandma, looks like it's going to be evening in a couple of hours and it would be unwise to travel further. May I ask if there are any inns that I could stay for the night?"
"I'm deeply sorry but our lowly village could not afford for one and there weren't many visitors anyway. If Miss doesn't mind, I happen to have another spare room in my house?" Nanna suggested apprehensively, settling for 'Miss' instead as it was intimidating to thread so close to societal boundaries by referring to a noble by her first name.
"That would be delightful! I'll have Jack bring the carriage over to the stables and will be right with you." Elena chirped before turning to grab her luggage from the carriage, carrying it herself (another surprise to Olivia).
Olivia eyed the retreating shadow of the carriage that continued down the road. Although she and the horseman started off on the wrong foot, it was undeniable that he seemed blatantly readable and dedicated to his job. Even though she was still angry at him, she understood. Just then, a question struck her.
"Miss, where is your horseman going to sleep tonight?"
"Oh, don't worry about him. He likes to be around." Elena commented with a dismissive smile, her eyes glinting.
In that moment, Olivia's senses tingled and her wariness hit her at full force. Her muscles tensed almost unnoticeably as adrenaline seeped through her veins. This noble lady is definitely hiding something and she is definitely not simple. The horseman that appeared so straightforward suddenly seems to be shadier than she had thought. Her trained and honed senses to detect other's ulterior motives were working at full force, though it is not that effective in this case.
Something ominous is tingling at her spine, screaming at her to notice it but the frustrating thing was Olivia did not know what to look out for. Lady Elena might be more formidable than she had thought.
Unease coursed through her entire system, somehow yelling at her that she is going to get deeply entangled in whatever is about to happen. The worst thing is that Olivia could not tell whether that was a blessing or a curse. Yet.
Olivia's Pov
Granny had left with Lady Elena to head over to the cottage first while I stayed behind to pack up the stall for an early closure. Sighing, I took one last glance over the little delicate trinkets. The nagging feeling that I should be aware of Lady Elena never left me. She seemed like an amiable and endearing person with other commoners but I am fully aware that she knows more than any normal 'lady' should. Or maybe, she is even connected deeply with infamous organisations or dealings. For once in two weeks, my 'fight or flight' senses had come back in full swing, determined to swarm me over. Even so, I did not identify any hostility toward Granny or any of the other villagers from the newcomers, so it would be safe to assume so. After all, I do trust the training I so thoroughly went through.
After ensuring that the jewels are being stored away carefully into my rucksack, I picked up the little wooden stool set by the drain with a heave and headed towards Granny's cottage. Just as I round the corner of an alley, a familiar figure darted through on the far end onto the other side, silent and flitting as a shadow. A single blink could have resulted in not even seeing that movement at all. If I were just any normal passer-by, I would have passed it off as my own hallucination. However, I knew better. That nimbleness and speed were obviously not something people of Cervo can achieve. Those were obtained through rigorous trainings. Moreover, as far as I observe this past fortnight, this village is rather peaceful and down-to-earth. No one should ever have the need to utilise such profound actions.
My curiosity got the better of me as I inched towards where the figure left off. It sure is strange. Since the silhouette obviously belongs to none of the locals here, who could it be? Judging from how hurriedly it was moving, one would think that person has a guilty conscious. Right then, a thought flashed across my mind and my eyes widened in realisation.
That horseman.
Immediately, my pupils dilated as slight panic tingled along my spine. Granny could be in danger! Without a second to waste, my feet pelted against the carelessly paved road and kept sprinting until the familiar cottage was in sight. I calmly evened out my silent pants as I tightened my grip on the wooden stool and strolled nonchalantly inside through the door.
Honestly, I have no idea what to expect but I know better to keep the tension in my shoulders in case anything undesirable happens. Yet the sight that greeted me was like a serene tea party held in a fairytale. Granny had brought out the classic white ceramic glasses (easily the most expensive item in the household) that sat on the highest counter and the aroma of fresh juice wafted through the air. Lady Elena sat on the old faded couch without any sense of distaste and sipped the drink elegantly. On Granny's face was a look that was beyond pleased and honoured as she noticed my entrance.
"Oh, Olivia dear! Come join us." Granny chirped like an excited child at the appearance of her best friend. I kept the raise of my eyebrows and skeptical look towards the aristocratic lady at a minimum as I approached them. Lady Elena, continued with her drink while giving me a pleasant smile. Setting down the stool I had in my hand, I sat down on it slowly. My mind whirled with a thousand thoughts. Even for someone with such a status, it is impossible to be so kind and accepting towards the ways of the folks here. The hospitality seems mutual on the lady's side but I am positive there has to be some conspiracy. After all, from my own experience, the more prominent and powerful people are, the more likely to have quite a number of tricks up their sleeves.
I took my share of juice, carefully handling Granny's precious glasses. Just as I was about to quench my thirst, Lady Elena spoke up, "I've realised I haven't even asked for your name, how rude of me. You seem pretty close to Nanna, are you her granddaughter?" Her eyes radiated genuine interest and utmost politeness that I was taken aback for just a second. I guess it is common courtesy to personally ask about one's particulars before making any references even if one has already heard of them.
Lowering my drink, I mirrored an expression that rivalled her kindness and enthusiasm, answering, "My name is Olivia, Miss. I am just an orphan from the South who has just come of age, so I'm heading up the North to find a place to settle independently."
Upon hearing my explanation, Lady Elena regarded me with an empathetic look, "Oh my, I'm so sorry dear."
No, don't be. My mind subconsciously countered as I bit down on my tongue to ensure that those words did not accidentally slip out of my tongue. I tried my best to muster a pained smile, as if I was brushing off the fact that my past had bothered me. Yet, deep inside I do know that it was not true.
Silence soon ensued, as if a taboo conversation had been started. Out of my peripheral vision, I could make out the guilty look the noble lady was wearing. Her lips were pursed in concentration, perhaps in thought of how to correct the atmosphere.
Just then, Granny intervened in a lighthearted laugh, "Olivia here is a really strong girl. She met with many troubles like robbers on her way and even collapsed in our village due to fatigue but she still made it. I took her in for two weeks and she'll be setting off tomorrow on her journey again."
I nodded in excitement, playing along with Granny's words. This is a good chance to steer the conversation away from my origins.
"I see. Where are you headed to in the North, if I might ask you Olivia?" Lady Elena asked politely and carefully.
"Well, the village of Acio. I've heard from the headmaster at my Orphanage that I was sent there wrapped in fabric only found in that region. So I thought maybe it would be nice to live in the area of where I came from, even though the chance of finding a kin is very low after so many years have passed," the words slipped out of my mouth with so much ease that I had to restrict myself from making it sound too rehearsed.
Lady Elena's eyes widened slightly, before falling into a long thoughtful silence. I observed her in confusion and anxiety. Could it be that she had sense something?
"Miss?" I called out tentatively, feeling that tension steadily rising. The feeling of being on guard once again shot up my spine as the ominous feeling returned. Perhaps that revelation was not the wisest option. Did she detect that something was wrong?
As if snapped out of a trance, Lady Elena jolted a little, taking her palm to her chest. She flashed a comforting and apologetic smile as she said, "Oh I'm so sorry for not paying attention. It's just that, Olivia, the village you are going to has been destroyed in the mafia warfare between two famiglias." Towards the end of her sentence, her voice dropped as she whispered short condolences.
My jaw dropped slightly as I took in that fact. It was not so much that the village was destroyed and that I was saddened, but it was more of whether I had relayed my information wrongly by mistake. Moreover, the village involved with the mafia? That was the last thing to avoid so as to not arouse any suspicion. For once, I was genuinely at a loss.
Lady Elena must have interpreted my reaction the other way as she gently grasped my hand and sent me a comforting look. Granny had her hands covering her mouth as her eyes started to tear up. Since things took such a turn, it is only wise to play along, right?
I composed myself hastily as I pretended to bite back my tears. "I-I see," I stammered as best as I could. "Well, it seems like I have to find another place to go to now." I tried to sound pitiful and lost.
To my amazement, it worked beautifully. Granny came over to engulf me in her embrace as Lady Elena looked at her glass of juice in deep thought again. "Oh, you poor dear," was all Granny could mutter as she repeatedly stroked my hair. I tried to assure her that I am fine before she broke down into tears for real. The old lady is just too kind-hearted.
"Olivia, why don't you consider coming with me?" Lady Elena suddenly spoke up, her emerald eyes gazing at me earnestly. Both Granny and I halted in surprise. Not quite comprehending her intentions, I turned to Lady Elena, looking perplexed. "I could use a little female by my side as an assistant." Lady Elena continued with a cheeky smile.
Granny immediately looked relieved, as if the rain had just descended long after a drought. Her eyes glimmered with hope as she turned back to me almost instantaneously. "Yes dear! That is wonderful, I'm sure you'll be in the good hands of Miss Elena here!"
Looking at the enthusiasm and acceptance of those two, I could not help but feel warm and happy. However, I knew better than to just let my defenses slip so easily. I have definitely not forgotten the aura around this noble lady that spelt danger and I have definitely not forgotten my main motive. Keeping a worried look, I replied, "Are you sure, Miss? I do not want to impose on you."
"Oh please! You won't! I am sick of being around men all the time anyway. I'm sure your addition to the famiglia will be welcomed, after all, we would feel responsible for partially destroying your home village," Lady Elena explained, though guilt once again laced in her words towards the end.
What, did she just say?
I stared wide-eyed at her as Granny reflected my actions. This aristocratic is involved with the mafia? Wait, then that means-
"Oh don't worry, the remaining... people of that village has been moved over to another town which is also under the protection of our famiglia. Our famiglia is more like a vigilante group, really. Many villages and towns are under us. You can come with me, I've really taken a liking towards you. You seem really capable and have a lot of potential."
As the words sank in, realisation finally dawned on me.
Oh my goodness...
A million thoughts raced through my mind as I struggled to maintain a look that seemed to portray consideration for the proposal. Deep inside however, the answer has already been set in stone. Granny seemed to have relaxed and became even more pleased at the arrangement as she urged me to follow Lady Elena.
After carving a look of shy acceptance, I raised my head to look at Lady Elena and smiled genuinely. "Then if it is not too much of a bother, please let me serve you Milady."
Lady Elena grinned in delight upon hearing my reply as she chirped playfully, "It's Elena, Olivia. Welcome to the Vongola Famiglia."
