Disclaimer: I don't own Claymore. It all belongs to its original creator

Chapter 19: Irony

Location: House of Clay's provincial Manor.

It has been 3 months since the most recent attack and the investigations surrounding the event has sort of died down. At the very least, they are now considered cleared of any suspicion and was even greatly recognized for their actions. In fact, they received a generous reward from the elders and was granted greater influence in terms of commerce. However, Miria was certain that such development only happened because of Rubel's recent activities and the old man's influence. As to how far that influence goes, Miria can only shudder at the thought. More importantly, a group of very important dignitaries have arrived in their modest dwelling and it was certainly not a pleasant surprise.

Dinner that day is particularly lively but tense. The house of clay is represented by Ilena, Dietrich, Uma and Audrey. After all, the recent events had made them particularly popular. However, the dignitaries joining the dinner included General Lux from the house of Azure and his son, Gale. Lady Tiara and Juke from the house Verda was also there. However, the biggest surprise was that the supposed comatose Darius was sitting among them! The situation was certainly suspicious. Miria and the other ghost choose to silently sit at the sideways while the discussion seems to smoothly move between the representatives. They were all keenly aware that the small city is surrounded by at least twenty strong dragonkin warriors. They are the kind that are well experienced in battle. If they were still part of the organization, then those men could easily be rank as between #6 to #10. These soldiers however have cleverly hidden themselves so as not cause panic among the human population. Raki and his companions is also there to observe.

The discussion revolved around the recent events and how it has impacted the overall atmosphere within the kingdom itself. They all agreed that it has made the citizens somewhat tense and that whispers of war are rampantly going around. Audrey tried her best to be as lively as she was during her last interaction with Prince Clive. However, it was obvious to everyone there that a part of her was extremely sad. Diana's memories continue to linger behind her mind. Fortunately, Ilena has proven herself to be crafty in these kinds of situation and the dignitaries responded well to her. After some time, Prince Darius himself finally spoke out."

"I suppose that you are all surprise by my visit." He started. "The truth is I came out of the coma just three weeks ago. Of course, the elders wanted to get as much detail from me but I really can't explain to them what happened. My family and the elders all knew that the best way for me to clear my name is to be part of the investigation itself."

"However." General Lux added. "The house of Azure refuse to let Prince Darius come into their dwelling place until a proper explanation is given. Other houses are also afraid of the prince because of previous events."

"And so… the house of Clay, who have recently become popular, is your best bet." Ilena added.

"I've seen what your house can do. Strong. Fearsome." General Lux stared straight at Uma before looking back at Ilena. "More importantly, you have the influence that can enable Darius movement without much hindrance. "

"True." Ilena took a sip of her wine and stared at its bloody red color. "And why should we trust him? After all, Raki is also a representative of the elders and his team have been investigating the fire for quite some time. They too are baffled by it. If anything, Darius could actually be guilty." Raki could literally feel his chest constricting at Ilena's statement. In a way, he has failed his mission and could only formulate various theories as to how it happened. Nevertheless, the prince was right. The best way to explain what happened is for Darius to go to the place himself.

Surprisingly, General Lux stood up and glare at Ilena. "HE IS INNOCENT!"

Dietrich spoke out as well. "The two of you must have gone a long way. But if you believe so much in him, why did you not plead your case to the House of Ceres? Certainly, you would be able to exert much influence as a general."

"Exactly." Gale suddenly added. "My father is a general of the house of Azure and it is for this reason that he cannot impose anything to the House of Ceres. Such actions would only make them furious as both house would seem to be together against them."

Silence descended into the room. Juke and Lady Tiara remained silent throughout the entire conversation. Other participants remained still in their seats as well. It stretched for quite some time before Miria finally stood from her chair and move towards Ilena. Ilena herself sighed and moved out from her position.

"Lady Ilena is the official representative of this house." Miria declared. "However, the final decision is still mine to make." She looked straight at the faces of the dignitaries as she carefully made up her thoughts. "Prince Darius, I believe you. However, if you are to stay here then you must guarantee the safety of my family. Moreover, proper compensation should be done."

The prince nodded in agreement.

"WHAT-THE-HELL-HAPPENED!" Helen screamed in exasperation. How in the world did they got into a very complicated situation?

"It can't be avoided." Deneve sighed as she sharpened her dragon sword. "The prince is determined to stay here and we can't deny the fact that we are actually strong enough to fight in a battlefield due to what happened. In a way, we are the perfect cover for the prince to move around."

"So first we have amnesiac friends and now we have to handle an amnesiac prince!? What a jolly combination!" Anastasia drily commented as she combed through her hair.

While Miria was negotiating with the dignitaries, most of the claymores are now gathered at the lower basement where the walls are sound proof even to dragon kins. Here, they can freely talk about the recent events and all were painfully aware of the irony of their situation. Unknown to them, another being was staying at a secret room within the same floor. There the old man grinned in delight. he stares at a black crystal which glows with an insidious power.

"Don't be afraid my dear children." The old man whispered into the silence of the room. "Your awakening had already come to past."

TBC

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