Chapter 2
She ran through the hallway in full speed. Eyes desperately searching for a corner to hide in.
Finally when her vision detected a corner, she wasted no time, just dived in to seek shelter. A sigh of relief leaving her lips after realizing that Zoya hadn't noticed her. It means she could patiently wait here till the Squaller passed.
Recently she's been tactfully avoiding situations where she'd have to be alone with Zoya. Like now for example. Hence why even the sight of the Suli from far led the young Grisha to turn on her heels and run back the way she was coming from.
It's the best solution she could come up with in order to avoid the elephant in the room; the question: "What happened?"
A simple question that came with a complicated answer.
Zoya already received a small briefing of the interrogation. The warning, the threat and yet, she hungered for more. The fact that Annika came out in tears, gave birth to an unease inside which constantly nagged at the back of her head.
Annika understood and respected her concern but that doesn't not mean she was compelled to tell Zoya everything, when she herself did not even want to think about the matter, let alone discuss it with anyone. Besides, what's there to discuss? What could she possibly say— the General tried to open my Kefta. What evidence is there to back up her claim? Say, everyone believes her claim. Then what? What could they even do? All Grishas in Ravka serve the Darkling. No one would dare stand up against him, the leader who has been looking after them for so many years. In the end she will end up as his enemy, whom he'll just get rid off in no time.
So, for the sake of her survival Annika made it her goal to forget about the unfortunate incident, reminding herself it was just another nightmare. But to her utter dismay, Zoya wouldn't stop. Every time they were alone the latter would bring up the uncomfortable topic.
"Saints! Why are you hiding in the corner like a thief?"
Annika jumped, snapping back to reality. Right away she put a finger to her lips and signalled Genya to lower her voice while silently praying Zoya wouldn't notice.
"Come out this instant!" The red head hissed in a low voice, pulling out the younger Grisha.
The Healer looked back to check where the Squaller was. Thankfully, she was gone.
"What's with the frightened face?" Genya spoke bringing the other's attention back on her.
"It's nothing." Annika tried to deny but her face fell and Genya was quick to detect it. The smile left her face leaving a frown on its place.
Wordlessly the Tailor pulled the Healer to the courtyard and walked them to the water fountain at the centre.
"What's wrong?" Genya asked, a look concern gracing her face. And when Annika gave no reply she charged getting straight to the point. "You've been avoiding Zoya, why is that?"
Still no words left Annika's mouth. She simply continued to watch the water pouring out of the fountain. With eyes that were trying to seek help and parted lips that only had sighs passing through. It was a moment when silence spoke. It narrated everything that her voice couldn't.
"Did he…?" Do something to you? Genya trailed off, unable to finish the question.
Annika responded with a simple, "No."
There was a small pause before she spoke again. "But he threatened to destroy my face or… gift me to the King if something of that sort is to ever repeat."
Finally a small smile returned to Genya's face.
"What a relief! Zoya was worried for nothing."
"Zoya complained to you?" Annika shot the Tailor a side-eyed glance. Surprised, that the Squaller was confiding in her. After all it was common knowledge throughout the Little Palace, that Zoya didn't favour Genya, instead looked down on her. The only thing common in them was, they're both Nina's friend.
"She did express her concern, to Fedyor, and I overheard while passing." The Tailor admitted, catching some of the loose strands of the Healer's hair that was floating with the breeze. "The state in which you came out of his room, the tears you had pouring out of your eyes at that moment, really scared her."
Annika closed her eyes, sinking the uneasy feeling of stomach churning. She wanted to share, talk about the trauma, her newfound fear of the darkness and how much she wished Nina was here. But held herself back knowing all too well that it was the best option for now.
"Annika," Genya began, circling an arm around the other's shoulder and pulling her relatively closer, "those threats are actually blessing in comparison to the thoughts that's been occupying Zoya's mind. Take this from someone who experiences…" Genya couldn't finish the sentence and looked down, her free hand clenching into tight fist.
"At least the Kings days are numbered." She muttered in a barely audible voice, making sure only Annika hears her. "But his aren't."
"I know." Annika agreed, opening her eyes only to blankly stare at the Grand Palace that lay ahead.
For the rest of their time there the two girls stood in silence, holding each other, just basking in under the soft sunlight of the beautiful bright day.
Unbeknownst to them, a lone dark figure was watching them through one of the windows of the Little Palace.
Next evening after class Annika decided to pay Viktor a quick visit. It was a routinely visit that took place every other evening before she retired for the night.
As usual she bounced through the corridor, galloping like a pony. Much like her excitement, the grin on her face could hardly be contained. Nearing her destination the Healer paused in front of a long window and conducted a quick check on her appearance through the reflection mirrored on the glass.
Her face was in right order so nothing needed to done, except for the hair which was tied atop the head, fastened with a hair pin. Annika took out the pin and put it inside the Kefta's pocket, allowing her midnight dark mane to cascade down her back. Then, smoothing down the red Kefta adorning her figure she knocked on the wooden door briefly before opening it and walking into one of the most shocking scene ever— Viktor happily chatting away with the Inferni that set him on fire.
"Annika!" The boys exclaimed in union, a genuine smile gracing both their lips.
The mentioned female on the other hand didn't respond to their acknowledgment, her mind still processing what it was seeing. But once the shock subsided, rage returned, prompting the Healer to charge at the Inferni.
"What are you doing here?!"
Without even giving him the chance to explain she approached the Grisha in blue Kefta in quick long strides, grabbed him by the arm and pulled him off of the chair he was sitting.
"Annika! Calm down!" Viktor defended. "Dimitri came to apologize."
"Has he apologized already?" She asked.
The Alkemi nodded, yes.
"Good! In that case I'll spare him some dignity while I throw him out." She declared dragging Dimitri towards the door. The latter following her with a smirking face.
When Annika opened the door, all colour and emotions drained from her face only for horror to take over.
The General stood on the other side with a raised hand, signalling he was about to knock. But the door was opened right before his fist could make contact with the wood.
"Moi Soverennyi!" Dimitri was the first to acknowledge the General and gave Annika a quick nudge on the waist to do the same.
Looking down, refusing to meet the General's gaze, the Healer swallowed the small lump in her throat before muttering softly, "M-Moi Soverennyi."
Kirigan stared at them for some time. With gaze switching between the boy and the girl, but mostly lingering on the girl's grasp on the boy's arm.
Understanding that they were blocking the General's path the Grisha in blue Kefta took few steps back bringing the one in red Kefta along with him.
As figures from the door moved revealing the new guest; Viktor, who was sprawled on the bed, attempted to sit up in order to pay his respect to their leader.
"Moi Soverennyi!"
But the General stopped him with a raised hand.
"No need for such formalities, I simply came to check on your progress, Viktor." He reassured nearing the Alkemi's bed.
"I'm recovering quite well, sir." Viktor responded giving the older man a short bow of appreciation. "And absolutely cannot wait to return to the workshop."
Impressed by the Materialki's dedication, a smile formed on the Darkling's thin lips. But that only lasted until he turned towards the other two that stood awkwardly in the corner. The set of thick brows crunched as his eyes landed on their currently entwined hands and his gazed further narrowed noticing how tightly the two had their hands clasped together. Last time he checked such wasn't the case.
"And you two, what are you both doing here?" With his arms elegantly crossed across his chest, he demanded. An eyebrow arched and a skeptical look thrown at them.
Annika bit the inside of her mouth. The intensity of the Darkling's heated stare cooking an uneasy feeling inside her. Without realizing she tightened her grasp on the Inferni's hand. Earning a curious look from him.
The scene was an accurate portrayal of —Desperate time calls for desperate measures.
Annika initially grabbed Dimitri's arms to throw him out but what a cruel humour of nature, just before she could carry out the act, the General showed up. And now she's left with no option but to grasp onto him, the boy she despises the most, like her life depends on it.
"We came to pay him a visit." Dimitri replied to the General's question.
"He is speaking the truth sir." And Viktor vouched.
But the older male ignored the Alekmi, keeping his attention on the other two, the Healer and the Inferni. His eyes burning holes within them.
"You came to pay him a visit...? How ironic." The Shadow Summoner words towards the Inferni filtered into taunt. Neither did he bother to suppress the dark chuckle.
"What about you, Miss Zenik?" His head tilted in her direction. An settling look storming in his eyes as he watched her for the umpteenth time since entering this room.
In spite of being nervous and her defence crumbling. Annika was forced to meet his gaze this time. "It's a part of my daily routine to visit Viktor. He is my friend, sir."
"Friend huh?! …I see you've made quite a lot of that here." The Darkling scoffed. His lips broke into a twisted smile, parting as if he would chuckle but nothing of that sort came out.
Annika tried not to glare, but it was easier said than done. The man was coming after her simply because in his mind he held her responsible for that fight.
"Anyway, it's already too late at night. You two must retreat now." He dismissed them.
Taking it as their queue to leave, the Shadow Summoner's youthful lookalike turned to the door and tugged the Healer with him. Leaving the recovering Alkemi alone with their leader.
And the two retreating figures were completely unaware of their leader's gaze lingering on one of them until the last bit of sight.
He had been standing by the window for far too long. Zoya observed while arranging the papers on his desk. She was almost done with the task he had assigned her. Whereas, he hasn't even moved an inch from his spot.
What is he so eagerly watching?
The question made her heart give out an uneasy thump. But the curiosity made her strode over to him. She had to know what has caught his attention this deep to keep him frozen on the spot for so long.
Without even looking he noticed her presence beside him. But didn't bother acknowledging. If she needed something, she could always ask.
Zoya stood beside him wordlessly for a while before finally asking, "What are you watching?"
"The scenery." The response left him smoothly, like it was well rehearsed. Interestingly he didn't even bother hide that he was lying.
Zoya followed his gaze and it landed on…
Her heart skipped a beat.
As expected.
Annika, in conversation with Pavel, the Inferni twin.
Scenery my foot!
Offended, the Squaller glared at him. Wondering whether the Darkling really took her for a fool? She bit the inside of her mouth and fisted her hands to control her rising temper. The urge to summon the wind and blow away his room seemed quite tempting at the moment.
They say— once an accident, twice a coincidence, three times a pattern.
Ironically, it was the third time Zoya caught him stalking Annika from afar. A girl that's young enough to be his daughter.
First time was when he abruptly showed up on the training ground announcing he was there to watch a good fight. However, his gaze would often wonder in search of certain someone. At first Zoya didn't understand whom he was looking for. But when Annika sneaked out of the training ground (something she often did) and soon after he exited as well. For someone who came with the intent to watch a good fight, suddenly left in the midst of an intense one. It was that moment when it all became clear as water to the Squaller. Second time she found him on the balcony; leaning on the railing he watched with an irritated face as Annika and Dimitri argued like cats and dogs.
And the third time was now!
Her suspicion now changed to confirmation.
But what Zoya couldn't understand was why?! Why was General Kirigan closely observing Annika all of a sudden? The man doesn't care about anyone who doesn't fit his purpose and Annika surely didn't fit the criteria. She maybe training to be a Healer but she sucks at her job and has zero interest in anything to do with the war or be a useful member of the Second Army. Nothing matters to her beyond her vanity. She is probably the only person who has successfully till now avoided taking combat training in fear of getting her skin ruined with scars and bruises.
It would have been understandable if it was Nina, without a doubt she's one of the best Heartrender around; not Annika! The latter's completely useless. The only asset she has is a face to die for. But outer beauty isn't something their General fancied, it was absolutely valueless to him.
So why is he watching Annika?
The question refused to leave her mind. Zoya tried to think of plenty of reasons for the Darkling's sudden curiosity towards this particular teen but none of it made any sense. As a result it left her frustrated and irritated.
Few days later:
Zoya walked into the General's quarter to deliver him the latest report from the Southern border and to her utmost surprise she found the man inside his bedroom, standing before his dresser, examining himself in the mirror.
Even though she found the sight quite odd, but brushed it off and simply assumed he was just getting ready for bed; after all it was quite late at night. So instead of wasting any further time she thought to hurriedly give him the briefing of the report.
"A fire broke out in one of the First Army tents in the middle of the night…" The Squaller read out the important portions. "No casualties been reported yet, but several has been injured, amongst which three are Grishas— a Tidemaker, a Squaller and a Healer. All three are expected to recover soon."
The Darkling only hummed a response, his mind preoccupied with other thoughts. In a shallow way, at this moment his only priority was to look sharp and proper.
Zoya narrowed her eyes when his hands moved to comb his hair, right after it fixed the beard.
Is he getting ready? Where is he going? Her curiosity grew, and she couldn't help but wonder where he was heading at this odd hour, dressed in his sleeping robe.
Putting the papers down on his bed she closed the gap between them. Their eyes meeting through the mirror.
"Let me do it." Zoya offered.
He handed her the comb and watched through the mirror as she smoothed out the hair at the nape of his neck.
"Where are you going so late?" She casually asked, initiating a conversation.
"Nowhere."
"Then why—"
A knock on the door interrupted them.
The Squaller furrowed her brows wondering who dare disturb the General so late at night. But the man in question had an entirely different expression on his face. A small smirk quirked up the end of his lips as he gave the permission to enter and quickly walked to the adjoining war-room, with Zoya trailing behind.
Soon as they reached the war-room the Squaller's eyes went wide.
A female Oprichnik stood at the door and behind her stood a very irritated Annika.
Suddenly the piece of the puzzles all fit together. It became clear as to why he was so eagerly fixing his appearance.
Zoya snapped her head at the Darkling with a tightened face. Her eyes shooting him a look of disgust. Unfortunately, he didn't even spare her a glance. Rather dismissed her alongside the guard.
Clenching the hands at her side to tight fist Zoya walked out of the war-room. But not before throwing a glare at the other female Grisha as she walked past her. This time Annika didn't hold back, she returned Zoya's glare with interest and without caring much about how upset the Squaller was. It's not like she came here on her own accord to ruin her night with the General. She's been forcefully woken from her sleep and dragged here because he apparently wanted an urgent audience.
"Miss Zenik," The Darkling acknowledged her after the door closed, following the Oprichnik and Zoya's exit. "…it appears as if you've been woken up from deep sleep?" He commented, almost grinning boyishly as he walked over to her in slow calculative steps, and was about to take her chin between his fingers when she suddenly took a big step backward putting as much distance between them possible.
It was an action that spoke louder than words.
His eyes partially widened. He looked at her with such intensity that it made her uncomfortable. She wanted to move further back but regrettably her back was already pressed against the door.
"Yes sir." She finally spoke and didn't deny what was done. In fact she was so sleepy that she could hardly keep her eyelids apart. "I have early morning duty at the infirmary, so I went to bed."
Somewhat offended by her words but mostly action, the General arched a brow. His face hard, devoid of all earlier emotions and the wrinkles on his forehead returned.
"Very well then, I won't take much of your time." He declared sitting down at the edge of the round table. It was done to show her he had no intention of getting physically close. "I've summoned you for a reason,"
"What reason, sir?" Annika asked. Somehow she had a strong feeling it wasn't anything as important as his guard made it seem like.
"How many eyes would you say I have?"
The fuck?!
"Huh?!" Her face baffled. Mind wondering whether the man in front of her has suffered some severe brain damage recently. After all what kind of a question was that? A part of her wanted to believe she misheard.
"How many eyes would you say I have?" He repeated. Further clarifying her ears weren't playing tricks.
This was the urgency she was awoken from her slumber for? Seriously!
"Two." She hesitantly answered.
"Wrong answer." He smiled. "It's actually four. These two," he pointed at his eyes, "and two more at the back of my head, hidden beneath the hair."
The young female watched the older male like he'd grown another head on his shoulder. Annika didn't pay quite as much attention to the ongoing war and the politics. However, this time she was worried for both Ravka and the Second Army. As she found the commander of Second Army's state of sanity questionable.
"And those hidden eyes have been assigned with one task only..."
"Which is?" She asked skeptically.
"…to watch over you."
Wow!
She blinked repeatedly for some time, batting those long dark voluminous lashes in the process. This little distraction made her oblivious to how the other occupant in the room was watching her.
"I'm needed at the Fjerden front, so I will be gone for a while. But that doesn't mean you can go back to being your old self and stir trouble around the palace during my absence. I expect you to carry on with your best behaviour." Leaning further back, pushing his weight on the palms resting behind his form he continued. "Remember my warning, one more incident and you will face the consequences beyond what your little brain is capable of imagining in the most horrid hours."
So many unnecessary words just to give a simple threat.
She had the immense urge to roll her eyes but held back out of respect. For his age, the man was surely dramatic and attention seeking.
"Understood sir." With that said she turned around and grabbed the door handle assuming he was done. But before she could twist it and open the door he called her again.
"One more thing…"
She looked over her shoulder, her bright lavender eyes locking with his black ones. And for the for first time noticed something akin to regret reflected on those midnight dark irises.
"About last time," He raised the topic awkwardly, breaking their eye contact and shifting his gaze to his feet.
Truth be told, she deserved an apology. But that doesn't mean he owed her any explanation for his action.
Yes, he did lose his composure and self restraint for a moment back then and was about to do something extremely cruel; but she didn't need to know that. Just like she didn't need to know what measures he took to make sure the King wouldn't get a whiff of her existence. She also didn't need to know about the taste their first interaction left in his mouth.
All these information wouldn't do her any good, if anything they'll further ruin his perfectly built image in her eyes.
So he proceeded, purposely keeping out all those details and putting together words that sounded most decent.
"I wanted to teach you a lesson. I suppose… it was taken it too far, for which I truly am sorry." He said reluctantly, hands gripping the edge of the tables so tightly that his knuckles turned white.
Now that was certainly unexpected.
While Annika appreciated his apology, doesn't mean she wanted to dwell on the memory and have a prolonged conversation on that uncomfortable topic. She wanted to leave. Being in his presence suddenly become even more uncomfortable than before.
"Do you have nothing to say?" He asked, breaking the silence that followed after his apology. Curious as to why she kept her lips sealed.
"No." She swallowed the lumps in her throat.
"Alright then, good night Anni— Miss Zenik." He quickly corrected.
"Good night sir."
She gave him a short bow and left his room not noticing the strange gleam in his eyes.
The next few days came down hard on Annika. Making her feel suffocated behind the walls of the Little Palace. No matter where she went, an eerie fleeing of being watched always haunted her.
Often she felt him coming after her, following her every trail. His presence undoubtedly one of a predator. And for the first time she truly appreciated and was glad to have Dimitri close by. No matter how annoying his presence maybe, currently it served as some form of safety assurance.
However, the good news was her suffering soon met it's end. Well temporarily at least.
The Darkling left for Kribirsk a week later.
Relief shined in her eyes as she watched them depart, standing behind the corner window of the Library.
The General was the last to climb into the carriage. Ivan and Fedyor were already saddled on the horses in front of the carriage whereas Zoya and the Inferni twins were on the ones behind the carriage.
Once the carriage left the main gate Annika finally exhaled the breath she was holding up until now; but wasn't exactly aware off.
"Do not worry, he will be back soon." Spoke a voice, so close to her ear that she had to clasp her teeth and clench her fist to stop a shiver from running down her spine.
"Why would I worry? When I'm actually relieved." She scoffed only to realize seconds later that she actually said that to the Apparat.
"I'm sorry—"
"Oh! You are so ungrateful." A sly smile tugging the corner of his lips. "Here I thought you'd be worshipping the path he walked, especially after what he did for you."
Her suspicion rose at the way the Apparat spoke, but she tried not to show. Instead a calm expression was forced onto her face, hiding the panic and apprehension currently coursing through her body.
"What did he do for me?" She managed to ask.
"Let's just say General Kirigan is the reason you're standing here and not serving at the Grand Palace. And I wouldn't dare imagine if someone with your appearance entered the Palace what the King would do."
"I'm afraid I don't understand." She narrowed her gaze at the creepy priest who had a smirk intact on his lips. Whatever the Darkling had done for her, it would surely come at a cost. He isn't a man who'd just do something from the goodness of his heart. Otherwise Genya wouldn't be in the position she's in today.
"You see, General Kirigan lied to the King. He named another girl when the King expressed his desire to meet the person for whom such fight took place. Of course, it would have been impossible without my help." The priest boasted.
Annika swallowed thickly. The more she learned the uncomfortable she felt.
"And what made you help him?"
"Well, he made an offer I simply couldn't refuse." Said the Apparat.
"Which is…?" Annika arched an eyebrow.
A wicked smile formed on the lips of the fraud disguised as priest.
"My dear, that isn't an information for your ears. It's between him and me. What you can do in the meantime is figure out how to show your gratitude once he returns. Otherwise, he may not be too kind next time."
With that said he exited the library, casting one last glance at the frightened young Grisha.
The next few days were a perfect combination of peaceful and blissful. All thanks to the Darkling's absence. It was times like these that made Annika wonder how great would be if the General never returned.
Oh how her ears itched for the somber news: Ravka is finally united, but our beloved and respected General Kirigan has fallen.
She could visualize how Ivan or Fedyor would deliver the news. Ivan would probably be able to keep his stoic face but his other half would surely breakdown.
Laying on the bed, lost in deep thought, wordlessly watching the ceiling Annika Zenik almost forgot what day it was today. Then, suddenly like an alarm bell it rang into her head— Viktor returns to work today!
That was enough to get her to leave the bed.
She stood before the mirror and examined herself for one last time, making sure everything was in right order. Her Kefta perfectly tight-fit. Face— flawless. Hair— let down with big bouncy waves shaping the bottom. She even leaned forward to check if her lashes appeared properly curled. When everything seem to fit the box, the Healer left her room and headed for the kitchen to pick up the special order she placed yesterday.
.
.
.
Annika showed up at the Fabrikators workshop with basket full of pastries for Viktor. It was the Alkemi's first day back at work after almost a month long period of recuperating. So, Annika went to welcome him with his favourite treats.
Given what has happened, walking into the Fabrikators workshop without being looked at with judging eye and sour face was impossible. But Annika has prior experience in getting all kinds of odd stare. So she was used to it by now and knows how to overlook. Therefore like a thick skinned animal she ignored the stares of all the Durasts and Alkemis currently present in there and strode in like her father owned the place.
"Good morning Viktor." She put the basket down in front of the already engrossed in work Alkemi and ran her fingers through his dark curly locks.
"Morning." He turned, flashing her a smile and asked examining the basket. "What is it?"
"See for yourself." She removed the cover revealing the different types of pastries.
"Oh they look delicious! Too bad my hands are dirty I can't try them now."
"I could help you. My hands are clean." Annika jumped in to take the chance. One of her hand was already in the basket digging out the best piece.
"Here, open your mouth say ah!" She held the custard pastry before his mouth and encouraged him to take bite.
Viktor took a small bite and looked around to see many pairs of eyes now settled on them. Uneasily he told Annika to put them back, and assured her will eat them later. She happily put the basket aside and suggested they go somewhere else. To which, he brushed off lightly. He just returned to work, taking off now was out of the question.
However, the rejection didn't sit well with her. Although her face didn't show but she was fuming inside. This was not what she had expected when she came in here.
Oblivious to her state of mind Viktor continued to work. He even asked her to watch over while he accompanied David to fetch more materials.
And that was when the Corporalki decided to strike. She looked down at the table— there were two different containers of liquid and a small bowl of powder. One on the right containing clear liquid and the one on the left had thick red jelly like substance.
Without even sparing a second thought, dancing in the rage of her mind, little Miss Zenik picked up the container with clear liquid and the bowl with the powder and emptied them into the container containing red substance. Then she just sat there pretending like nothing ever happened until the sound of something bubbling caught her attention. She snapped her head at the only full container and to her utter horror— the substance inside was now bubbling!
Nervously she looked ahead trying her best to act clueless. But too late! One of the older blonde lady was already glaring at her.
"Please do tell Viktor I'll be back later." She told the glaring woman and quickly fled the scene like anyone with brain should do.
.
.
.
Annika just stepped out of the workshop and was about to run when the sound of an explosion shook up the eastern corner of the Little Palace. She attempted to run in hopes of getting as far away from the scene as possible. Unfortunately luck wasn't in her favour, especially after what she had done. She bumped into a figure right when she took a turn and as fate would have it, looking up she met with the glaring eyes of the Darkling's favourite Heartrender.
Her eyes widened like she was seeing ghost. What was Ivan doing here? Wasn't he with the General at the Fjerdan border? If he's here now that means…
"Shit!" Suddenly the air around felt unbreathable.
Unsure whether it was Ivan's doing or she was just having a panic attack, but regardless she decided to run. Sadly Ivan was quick to act. His fingers twitched and her heart slowed down making her land on the knees.
The Heartrender then grabbed her by the arm. His grip horrendously tight, fingers digging in almost piercing the fabric of her Kefta. Annika felt her body being forcefully pulled up from the ground and even before she knew it, once again she found herself inside the war-room standing before the tired and utterly exhausted General. Proving he just returned at the most phenomenal time.
Great!
"…and just after Viktor followed David inside the laboratory, this one," The woman in purple Kefta pointed a finger towards Annika "started tampering with the chemicals."
David raised a hand to interrupt his fellow Durast and spoke once given the floor.
"I wouldn't put the entire blame on her. My brother was being a brat. She brought him pastries, the least he could do was show some gratitude."
"Please don't take her side David. You and I both know the cost of her damage."
The Darkling was slumped on the armchair behind his dark wooden desk, tightly clutching his aching head with one hand, while listening to the two Durast arguing. At one point he exchanged a glance with his Heartrender as if to silently ask, what the hell is going on?
"Leigh you're being heartless." The male Durast muttered in a mellow voice. "For once try and put yourself in the poor innocent girl's shoes."
"She isn't a poor innocent girl!" Snarled Leigh, then accused. "This little one here, has most young men wrapped around her little finger. And now, she's trying to lure your brother into her trap as well."
"That's not true!" Annika protested. "Viktor is my best friend."
"So you're saying you saw Miss Zenik tamper with Viktor's work, correct?" The Darkling powerful voice cut through and silenced the rest.
A moment of eerie silence passed after the commander of the Second Army spoke. During which the four Grisha standing before him shared a glance amongst each other.
"I asked you something Leigh." His voice sounded calm, but it was the dangerous calm that lingers before the storm.
"Yes, General."
"Were you aware of the outcome of her action? Did you know that it would cause an explosion?"
"Yes sir." She admitted, looking down shamefully.
"Then why didn't you do anything, Leigh?" He looked at the woman with hard cold gaze.
The female Durast froze. Actually all four froze, including Annika. Although she didn't have much idea of the extent of damage she caused. But the way the blonde lady was going off, it was evident that the damage was pretty severe. However, what made no sense was why did the General suddenly turn the table?!
"You could have told her, interrupted her, scolded her. There were plenty of options to prevent this mishap. Yet, you chose to watch like a bystander! Care to explain why you did nothing?"
"Sir…" She trailed off absolutely defenceless.
"This child didn't exactly know what she was doing. But you did! And because you did nothing to stop her, you're at fault as well."
Confused and terrified the lady Durast shared a glance with Ivan. But what could Ivan do? He was on the same boat as her. The General's sudden change in tone was a twist none of them saw coming.
The order was given to have the workshop relocated to a different space temporarily and the two Durast were dismissed. With them gone the General looked the other way, finishing the Kvas in his glass in a long sip.
"What to be done with her, General?" Ivan spoke, as if to remind him a crucial part of the problem has remained unsolved.
"Yes her…"
The Darkling straighten up before rising to his feet. Still not looking at the two remaining.
"Take her to the seamstress and get her measured for a new Kefta."
At the given order, Ivan was already dragging her through the door when the man inside spoke up once more.
"Oh Ivan, the colour of the Kefta will be... white."
"Like Genya's?" The Heartrender double checked.
"…Yes." The Darkling confirmed.
Annika turned to the General. Her vision blurred with hot tears.
"I'm sorry, so sorry. Moi Soverennyi I'm giving you my word it will never happen again. Give me one last chance, please!" She begged him so desperately that it sounded like he was the rope she was clutching onto for life.
"Moi Soverennnyi please…" She called out to him again like he was her only ray of hope.
But alas! All her pleas fell into deaf ear. The man only watched with vacant eyes as his second in command dragged the young female away like she was a ragged doll.
The young Grisha could hardly close her eyes. She tried to get some sleep, but failed miserably. The entire time she tossed and turned on the bed, changed sides and direction, hung her head outside the edge but nothing worked. No ounce of sleep touched her eyes.
Finally, giving up on the idea of decent night's sleep she abandoned the bed, walked to the window and sat down on the window sill hugging her legs.
The worst that could have happened has already happened. There's no turning back now. Soon her life would change. She will become the a servant at the Grand Palace and probably, no definitely the King's new bed-warmer at night.
Wait a minute!
Her eyes widened as an idea suddenly popped up in her head.
Just because she's being given away to the royal family doesn't mean she has met her end. This is an opportunity presented on a golden plate. If utilized well this could ascend her to the highest peak on social hierarchy in all of Ravka. And in order to achieve that all she has to do is smartly seduce that useless Crown Prince, Vasily; to the point where he will be completely wrapped up around her finger— marry her and give her a prestigious position.
Then, by using her new position she could ultimately deal with General Kirigan.
.
.
.
Sharp at dawn a maid walked in with a garment bag carrying her new Kefta.
Her long fingers lightly traced the fabric before slipping it on. It was exactly like Genya's—ivory with Gold detailed embroidery.
"Please allow me." The timid maid offered to help.
Normally Annika would have sent her away but today she didn't. Sitting in front of her dresser she absently watched the maid braid her hair. She was asked if she'd prefer to put her hair down but Annika purposely chose not to, because most perverts here have the habit of surfing their fingers into her hair and right now she wasn't in the mood deal with such nuisance.
.
.
.
The walk to the war-room was slow and agonizing. Not too different from the first time. But after she had worn the new Kefta, surprisingly she felt less afraid. It's as if an invisible form of courage came with it for free.
The door to the war-room was left slightly ajar. A sign indicating the General was waiting for her. Despite having the door open Annika still knocked and waited for permission from inside before entering.
"Good morning Miss Zenik," He greeted her with a surprisingly pleasant smile. "Please come in."
Annika walked in, her footsteps making the slightest noise possible. She was taken aback to find the owner of the room still in his sleeping robes.
He definitely wouldn't walk into the Grand Palace like that, right?
"Morning, Moi soverennyi." She greeted back, keeping her voice steady and didn't give in to an emotional waver.
The Darkling stood before the round centre table which was filled with mountain of blank papers. She found it quite odd but didn't feel the need to point out. After all it was his room, his table, he could keep whatever he wanted. It was none of her business. This small moment of distraction prevented her from noticing the General walk over to his desk to retrieve something.
"Please turn."
Snapping out of her chain of thought she blinked and then faced him. It took her a moment to register he was speaking to her.
"Miss Zenik…" He made a circling motion with his fingers signalling her to turn around.
She listened and moment later a black pendant with his symbol was placed around her neck. It sat over her chest proudly, a stark contrast against her white Kefta.
"Why am I wearing your symbol?" She asked examining the pendant.
"So that the rest do not confuse your role with Genya's."
She looked over her shoulder, shooting him her most confused look up until now. "I won't be sent to the Grand Palace?"
His brows drew close detecting subtle hint of disappointment in her voice.
"You sound eager to step into that hellhole." He simply stated, amused by the look on her face.
Just when I found a solution you decided to throw something else at me.
"No, no that's not what—"
"In any case, unlike Genya, you work for me." He clarified.
She noticed him pick up something akin to a seal.
"Is this my punishment then?"
"Yes."
"And for how long is this punishment?" She asked eyeing the stacks of empty papers on the table.
"As long as I see fit." He replied taking her hand in his and placing the seal on it. "Now start! I need you to stamp all these papers by the end of the evening."
"Are you insane!" She exclaimed. Totally forgetting the difference in their status. "There's about thousands of papers here."
"Ten thousand actually." He corrected, grinning wickedly.
Her jaw dropped as she wondered whether he has lost his mind or was he just pure evil. Well, the amusement in his eyes made her lean towards the latter option.
"There's no way it will finish by the evening. It'll at least take the entire night."
His grin further widened.
"In that case you're stuck for the entire night, then." He stated, mimicking the way she said 'entire night'.
Annika looked at him in disdain, already coming to despise that smile by now. It has only been few minutes since she started and she was already getting irritated by everything.
Grudgingly she started her task. With the only motivation in mind— the sooner she completes the sooner he'll let her go.
However…
"Oh Miss Zenik, before you start…" He interrupted. "… do you know how to make tea?"
"No sir." She responded without pausing. He may have time to waste, she didn't. After all she had ten thousand papers to stamp before evening.
A large hand grabbed hold of the smaller one and forced the task to stop. She looked at him to ask what did he want. He in turn let go of her hand and asked.
"Do you know where the kitchen is?"
"Yes sir."
"Then go into the kitchen and learn."
The look on her face transformed into one of disbelief. Judging by the look on his face she couldn't tell whether he was serious or joking. And at a time like this it could be quite frustrating. Her mouth parted to say something but she returned to her senses in time and closed it off. Thinking it was probably for the best if she kept her emotions under control, she just started her punishment. It would be foolish to give him the opportunity to make things worse.
So she complied and left for the kitchen.
Upon return she found him already dressed in his signature black uniform minus the Kefta and settled behind his desk going over some papers. Her eyes cast a quick glance at the steaming hot liquid inside the white ceramic cup before she strode over to him.
"Your tea Moi Soverennyi."
"Keep it here." Without looking he tapped on the empty spot to his right hand side. She did as he instructed and returned to her work.
"You're a fast learner Miss Zenik, must I add I'm quite impressed."
"Thank you, General. I'm glad you liked it." A small smile made it to her lips at his complement.
Although she missed him take the first sip, she definitely didn't miss watching him take the second sip. And was forced to bite the inside of her mouth to hide the excitement that was threatening to overflow.
They say taste of victory is indeed quite delicious. Annika would have never known the fact to be true if the General wouldn't have asked her to make his tea.
She watched him take another sip, a long one this time.
"Miss Zenik, it's settled then, from tomorrow you will make my morning tea." Was he ordering her or requesting, she couldn't quite put the finger. But the look he gave her suggested it was a bit of both.
"With pleasure sir." She responded, returning his stare with the most innocent and childish smile she could master before turning back to resume her work. Only then, the shape of her so innocent smile changed into a twisted one.
It was her first time making tea and in order to not mess it up Annika followed the maid's instruction word by word. The General preferred his tea black but with flavour. As per instruction she added extra tea leaves for darker colour, three tablespoon full sugar, a squirt of lemon juice, small slices of ginger and pint of cinnamon. And just when no one was looking Annika added another ingredient in generous amount to make the tea even more special… her spit!
A.N: Thank you for reading.