Allure and Attraction that ends with Manipulation Chapter 3, a grisha trilogy fanfic

A.N. I was going to update chapter 4 but had to make some changes in the this chapter to keep it on synchronized with the new chapter. Meanwhile you can read this while I edit that.

Chapter 3

Annika let out an exasperated sigh.

It was most likely the fourth one in the last few minutes, while she waited before burner and watched the water on the pot coming to boiling point.

Without a doubt she hated her new job or whatever this sick joke actually represented. Although at first it served as a relief, given, she wouldn't have to step into Grand Palace. But soon after she regretted. Working for the General was worst. The kind of task the man was assigning her were obnoxious to say the least. During her first week, he made Annika stamp over twenty-five thousand blank papers. The second week was spent inside the storage, counting the number of onions and potatoes. There were about nine massive size sacks! Four filled with potatoes and the rest had onions. Thankfully, she had Dimitri by her side, so the task became easier and entertaining to say nonetheless. This is her third week working for the General. Now it's too be seen what sort of madness he has in store for her.

She filled up the empty cup with steaming hot water. Then one after another added all ingredients for the tea and just when it was all done, she cautiously looked both ways to check if any of the kitchen staff was watching. Thankfully the kitchen was empty. Aside from herself there was just one other maid, chopping the vegetables facing the other way. So Annika used this chance to spit into the tea and quickly go back stirring. At this point spitting into the General's tea has become as normal as adding the other ingredients. Oftentimes Annika wonders how General Kirigan would take if he ever finds out? He'd kill her for sure! There is no doubt in that. The question is how brutally would he do it?

Pushing those thoughts at the back of her brain Annika left the kitchen. By now her legs have gotten used to the walk from the kitchen to the war-room. The distance no longer seems as long as it initially did.

She smiled at the Oprichnik on duty and acknowledged him with a nod. Only from him to turn around and make a quick knock on the door alerting the owner inside. Upon permission the guard opened the door and gestured the Healer to enter.

Annika walked inside in straight posture and a smile as bright as the daytime. The General was already up, fully ready and in a meeting with his Heartrender pair and his Squaller. But that didn't deter him from greeting her.

"Good morning Miss Zenik."

"Morning sir, your tea." She slightly raised the cup to show him and he signalled her to bring it over.

Annika walked around the round centre table, sharing eyes contact and exchanging a smile with Fedyor. Ivan on the other hand kept his straight face and Zoya didn't even look at her.

"Here you go, sir." She handed him the cup which he accepted with the slightest smile and soft whisper of 'Thank you.'

And as she was about to leave he called her back. "Do you have class now, Miss Zenik?"

"No sir."

"In that case do you mind tidying up my desk and after that rearrange the bookshelf." He said pointing towards his desk that had papers scattered all over.

"Sure."

"Come this way, I'll show you what goes where." Placing a hand at the small of her back, he led the Healer over to his desk.

While the General was busy showing his little assistant what goes where, Fedyor leaned into his better half's ear and whispered.

"The General used to call Nina by her name. Any idea why he addresses Annika as Miss Zenik?"

"Do I look like I care?"

Fedyor only made a face at his lover's disinterested tone. He really prefers Ivan in the privacy of their chamber. He is such a different person then. This stern stoic face that is reserved for the time in General Kirigan's presence completely disappears.

The General returned to the table soon after and the meeting continued until the next hour. During which Annika took several attempts to make eye contact with Zoya. But the latter refused to meet her gaze. While rearranging the bookshelf she stood closest to Zoya. Even then, her presence wasn't acknowledged by the squaller. Ultimately leading the Healer to drop all hope.

The reaction received from people, ever since they learned she was working for the General was interesting, to say the least. With Genya, it was strange. The redhead Tailor made no comment, but the shock that took over her features the first time she saw Annika adorning the ivory Kefta and the black pendent with his symbol on the neck, clearly expressed her displeasure. She appeared scared and looked at the young girl with nothing but pity.

While Ivan had nothing to say other than glaring at her every time they crossed path. His better-half, was a whole other matter. Fedyor treated her as if she was an important member of the General's inner circle and he was delighted to have her as a part of their team. Sometimes he would even jokingly attempt to discuss war tactics with her. However this silly game was nothing a stern look from Ivan or the judging gaze of Zoya could fix.

Speaking of the Squaller, the animosity between her and Annika is still ongoing. If anything, it grew stronger after she learned of Annika's new position. At first it was Annika, who was ignoring Zoya. And now its the other way around. What Annika did at most was try and hide from her. But Zoya's approach is different. She's been blatantly ignoring the younger Grisha; shunning the latter's efforts to clear the air between them.

Even now, as the General concluded the meeting and dismissed his soldiers Annika caught the hard glare Zoya sent her before exiting the war-room.

After staying far away from the vicinity for a month, Annika once again found herself inside the Fabrikator's workshop.

Of course she was received with glares and judging eyes. Some of which were filled with wonder, thinking just how shameless was she. But just like before this time also the Healer paid them no attention. She was here for Viktor, once he's found, they'll be out of here in no time.

"Look who decided to grace us with her wonderful presence after a month long absence and ruin our peaceful work environment." Taunted the same older blonde, Leigh, the Durast, who testified against Annika to General Kirigan after the explosion incident.

Giving her a fake polite smile Annika decided to cut to the chase. "Good morning, I'm here to see Viktor."

"He's busy and doesn't have time for your silly games. So come back later." Snapped Leigh, her gaze turning into a full fledged glare after it landed on a specific spot.

Annika followed her gaze only to discover the Durast was eyeing the pendant hanging around her neck. That's when her brain presented the new idea.

"The General wants an audience with him." Annika declared, keeping her face steady and eyes serious.

"And he sent you?" Leigh made sure her voice came out sounding as condescending as possible.

But that wasn't enough to make the Corporalki back down. Her tone also changed as she lightly traced her fingered over the black eclipse pendant.

"Are you blind? Do you not see this? I work for him now."

"Of course you do!" The Durast scoffed. Her voice suddenly went from being sarcastic to bitter as she muttered the rest. "While others suffer the consequences of your actions, you get to wear a new Kefta and make his tea. How lovely!"

"What does that suppose to mean?!" Annika raised a defiant brow catching onto the back handed comment.

"Wait here, I'll go fetch Viktor from the Laboratory."

With that said the blonde vanished through the door. Didn't bother explain why she made the back handed comment.

The Grishas in purple and red Kefta rushed through the hallways of the Little Palace. The Alkemi behind creased his brows confused, wondering why the Healer was leading him towards a different direction.

"Annika, where are you taking me? Isn't the General's quarter in that direction?" He pointed a finger but the girl in question didn't even bother to look.

She simply said, "just follow me." And increased her pace.

"Why are we going towards the stable? Annika! Did the General really want to see me?" By the time he finished, she had already pulled them inside the stable and signalled the stable boy Dima to leave. The latter did as he was instructed, and closed the door on his way out.

The Alkemi put two and two together and let out a frustrated sigh pinching the bridge of his nose.

"The General didn't want to see me, did he?You lied!"

"I needed to talk to you." She admitted and defended herself in one statement.

"About what so important that it couldn't wait until I was done?!" He snapped.

Surprised, Annika found herself speechless momentarily. She simply stared at him in shock. Her mind still registering whether he actually snapped at her or was it her mind playing tricks.

"Viktor…"

"Why did you lie?"

"I just wanted to spend some time with you…alone and outside of the workshop. Away from the prying eyes of the other Fabrikators." She took a big step towards him, closing the gap between them as much as possible and took hold of his hands, lacing their fingers together.

"Also, I wanted to apologize for my action that day." She was referring to the day she caused an explosion and almost blew up the Fabrikators Workshop.

If Viktor was angry before, he was furious now. His nerves frayed by her half-ass meaningless apology. First, she completely ruined the project he has been working on for over a year just out of petty jealousy. Now, apologizing a month later. Even this wouldn't have happened if he didn't give her the cold shoulder. On top of that she lied using the General's name to pull him out of work; which only highlights how apologetic she truly feels about her previous action.

In spite of his rising temper Viktor knew it would be in his best interest not to rile up Annika. She's not only a Corporalki, but also someone who is immensely popular. Whereas he is a simple Alkemi, who was attacked and almost burned down by her jealous admirer not too long ago for simply being her friend. He can't even dare imagine what those arrogant bastards would do to him, if he upset her.

"You don't have to apologize for that, the General is giving you your due." He said, forcing himself to smile. "I should go. David is waiting for me."

"But Viktor—"

"I'll see you later." He softly caressed the top of her head and left. Leaving the girl with a deep frown and an utterly confused state of mind.

It wasn't easy for Viktor to give Annika the cold shoulder. She was after all a very close friend of his. A friendship that begun when she was still a baby. However, the situation was vastly different back then. She was more innocent and these admirers were not in the picture. Therefore it was easier and less complicated being her friend. But now, with increasing number of boys wanting her, being near her has become risky. And Viktor wanted to avoid all these unnecessary hassle. Hence why he had decided, he would slowly put a distance between himself and Annika.

End of the day, that is the best option for all.

Kirigan pulled at the reins of his horse to bring it to a slow stop. He dismounted and tied the stallion to the nearest tree, then ventured deeper into the forest, towards his usual destination— the fountain.

Often he'd visit this place. The peace and tranquillity here helped him think clearly while also plan out the next war strategy.

Interestingly he had also brought some great potential targets here; to show them a glimpse of his difficult childhood and in return gain their sympathy and earn their trust. The last person he brought here was an Inferni named Zora; whom he thought he could mould into a close substitute of a Sun Summoner. She had the potential, she really did! But unfortunately her infatuation got out of hand and she became too wrapped up in the idea of a future with him. And that resulted in her immediate downfall.

His boots clacked against the blanket of dried leaves as he strode through the forest. His regal black uniform topped with the black Kefta made him look more like the king, than the actual King occupying the throne. Kirigan continued walking until the sound of something dropping into the water reached his ear. A look of surprise overtook his features eventually which turned into one resembling alarm. After all, this isn't a place where people usually venture to, so who was here and why?

Careful, not to alert the other party of his presence, he proceeded by completely muting his footsteps.

The fountain was not empty today. There was another presence occupying his space, hoovering over it. A small figure draped in Corporalki Kefta with silver embroidery details. Even from the far off distance he recognized who the invader was. His gaze narrowed and surprise returned to his face making his muscles go stiff for a brief moment. He never expected to find her here, and yet here she was…

Annika Zenik.

Although she looked different. With that hair down, she was a sight to beheld. This time her raven mane cascaded down in big voluminous curls. As off to her usual shiny-silky-straight texture. Too bad everytime when she is around him they are fastened into a tight bun or braided.

Truth be told, in the recent days whenever she was around him, he spent more time staring at her than he'd care to admit. Although he didn't care much for looks. But she is so beautiful, that the word itself would be put to shame and become an understatement while describing her. As a result it made her an exceptional case.

He soon found out being in her presence, or more accurately, this habit of looking at her was an addiction. It made him intoxicated. Gave him the slight rush of adrenaline, the strange tickling in his stomach and the spread of heat throughout his body. Without realizing he became the moth drawn to her flame, unable to resist the temptation that would probably burn his wings in the end.

The Darkling never stalked anyone. He had people who'd do the task for him. Even on the rare occasion when he did the task himself, he maintained good length distance. But today it was the opposite. He did not know what prompted him to go so close, that he stopped only when he was less than a foot away from her. Perhaps... he wanted to be found. Perhaps... he wanted her to know he was watching her. Or perhaps...

For a while they remained like that.

Her mind was elsewhere. Even when he was standing at such close proximity, it took passing of another long moment until she actually noticed.

She absently dropped another pebble into the fountain creating a ripple effect on the water. Only then, when her reflection was ruined, she noticed his presence.

"Moi Soverennyi!" She quickly turned, acknowledging him. And realized, he stood really close. Their bodies were only few inches apart.

"What are you doing here?"

"Shouldn't I be the one asking you that, Miss Zenik? Considering you should be in class now." Smirking, he teased. While his fingers gracefully captured a lock of her hair and tucked it behind her ear.

She swallowed thickly. How did he know I skipped class?

As if reading her mind, he answered. "I make it my duty to know everyone that works for me. Besides, I already told you, I have an extra set of eyes at the back of my head that only watches you; remember?"

Creep! Holding back to urge to roll her eyes, she gave a tight lipped smile.

To further boast his knowledge on her, he even pointed out which specific class she skipped.

"Do you not like history?"

Little did he know things would take a different turn from here onwards.

"I used to. It used to my most favourite subject. But not anymore." Annika answered skeptically.

"And why is that?" He tilted his head slightly. His interest didn't surprise her.

"It's the repetitiveness that made the whole subject quite tedious."

"Ah… Is that so? Or are you looking for excuses to—"

"Doesn't Ravka have anything else to share other than the Black Heretic and his creation of the shadows fold?!" She cut him off.

The Darkling froze. His shoulders tensed. A look of confusion came upon his face. Annika could bet any amount that he didn't expect such words out of her mouth. Even the fact that she insolently cut him off didn't catch his attention.

"I beg your pardon!"

She sighed deeply, turning away from him and facing the fountain.

"As a Grisha do you not feel bothered or for the matter offended, that our history books only show one side of the story? I know, I do." She admitted.

The Darkling swore to himself that he misheard, misunderstood and misinterpreted her words. That's because no one in their right mind would shed positive light over the most hated Grisha in all of Ravka. Unless...

"Mind you sir I'm no scholar, nor do I have enough political knowledge to debate on the matter. I only know what happened between Heretic and the King based on what we've been taught during our lesson. However, the words you're about to hear are my personal opinion and belief."

He kept his face straight in spite of the turmoil going on inside him.

"The King," Annika began closing her eyes, "that selfish, coward, Otkazat'sya simply wanted to get rid off the Heretic once the Grisha served his purpose."

Her eyes reopened, reflecting the anger that wasn't initially present. Her hand tightly clutching onto the edge of the fountain.

"I cannot bring myself to believe that he was simply fearing coup and decided to put a bounty on Heretic's head. Yes, he did fear Heretic and felt threatened, but that was because he saw the Grisha's potential to be a better ruler. I have no connection or relation to Heretic, and yet I feel it in my bones that he was pushed to the wall, left with no choice. His only way out was probably to use Merzost."

There was a pause, during which she took a deep breath whilst he released the one he was holding all these time.

The brief silence met its end when Annika spoke again.

"He may have been trying to save a loved one— a lover, wife, child, mother, siblings. It could be anyone! Or perhaps it was from the pain of losing a loved one!"

It was as if the ground had opened up beneath him. The impassive mask from the Darkling's face slipped. His vacant eyes shining with many different emotions now. It felt like she just stepped into his personal space and was stripping him down to nothing. But he couldn't bring himself to be angry at her.

"We are never taught his side of the story. Instead, he is branded as the villain without proper explanation or evidence of his malicious intent."

He had never met someone who tried to look at their history differently. Not even his own mother! This child is the only one so far. Each thump of his heart was now pumping out respect, which, mixed with his blood was spreading all over his body.

"As his descendant do you not feel his pain…? His anguish…?"

The words hung between them. Heavy silence looming in.

She looked at him anticipating a response. But he just stood there, speechless. Lips remaining tightly sealed all throughout. He could have answered but he chose not to, on purpose. As he didn't want to open his mouth and risk his emotions slipping away. However, she gave him time and patiently waited.

"Do you not feel he was wronged, Moi Soverennyi?"

He did! She didn't even have the slightest idea of what he felt.

Annika waited a long time until it became clear he had nothing to say. Her face contoured in disappointment and she looked away.

This time he took the initiative to break the ice and bring an end to this silence.

He grabbed her by the shoulder and turned her to face him again. His other hand tightly cupping her face after tilting it slightly upward.

"Do you have any idea of what you are saying? Or the consequences we shall face if someone were to hear this conversation?" He reminded. "With you I will be executed as well."

"We far from the Palace grounds Moi Soverennyi. Nobody is here beside you and me. So who will overhear and tattle to the King?" She countered, pulling out of his hold and taking couple of steps back till her back was against a tree.

He quietly observed how much distance she put between them before letting out a deep heavy sigh. "Don't let yourself get radicalized. It's pointless sympathizing for a wicked person." He told her, sitting at the edge of the fountain.

"You're calling your ancestor wicked." She politely reminded.

Smirking, he asked back. "Are you going to argue that he wasn't?"

"Well..." she thought for a moment. "The history books only highlight his greed for power and have mentioned him as a wicked person multiple times. However, I'm sure he was nowhere near as wicked as you are." She quipped, crossing her arms across her chest.

Suddenly the tone of their conversation changed direction. It turned lighter and less serious.

A smile graced the Darkling's lips as he asked, arching a brow.

"Oh how so?"

"Moi Soverennnyi! Think of all the obnoxious tasks you have assigned me ever since I started working for you. Stamping on mountains of papers everyday for an entire week to counting sacks after sacks of potatoes and onions in the storage. I've lost count of how many times I've had to rearrange your bookshelf for no apparent reason. You've also made fix your closet, fold your clothes, make your bed. And let's not forget yesterday— you made me play the harp for the entire day. Didn't let me off until my fingers started to bleed."

"Come here." He ordered. And she followed reluctantly.

When she was within close proximity he took her hand to examine her supposedly wounded fingers.

"They seem fine to me."

"They're fine now! After I healed them!" Irritated, she glared before blinking slowly. Her long thick eyelashes framing her prepossessing eyes so perfectly that a shiver ran down his spine.

"I spared you few minutes to heal your fingers, didn't I?" He was quick to defend himself.

"Oh that was so kind of you." She retorted pulling her hand out of his grasp. "Anyway, why are you here, sir?"

"Would you believe me if I told you this place comforts me." His signature tale automatically began.

"How so?" She eyed him curiously but he did not meet her gaze. Instead looked over his shoulder and watched her reflection on the water.

"When I was a boy I used to run away and hide here. Once I realized I'm the descendant of the most hated Grisha in Ravka, I'd come here, throw a coin. Make a wish in the fountain. Same wish over and over again… that I could be anyone else."

To be completely honest he didn't even know why he was telling her this story. It's not like he needed to gain her trust. Actually she was of no use to him. Yet, the words wouldn't stop coming out of his mouth.

"Even to this day I bring a coin every time I come here… see." He pulled out a coin from his pocket to show her. Then pressing a kiss on it tossed it into the fountain.

"Um… how many times did you make that wish?" Annika asked closing in on the fountain and bending forward to see if those coins could be seen.

"I've lost count."

"That means there's a fortune down there." She muttered to herself before facing him. "How about we make a deal."

"I'm listening." He leaned closer. His arm now brushing against her.

"Why don't you pay me the same amount you paid the fountain and I'll grant your wish."

"And how would you possibly do that?"

She gave him a toothy grin. "I'm sure I'll come up with some sort of scheme by the time you pay me."

His also grinned. Trying his best to match her. Following the smile came an awkward silence. During which Annika also turned and sat against the edge of the fountain just like him. The silence was broken few minutes later when she finally decided to bid him farewell.

"Anyway, you enjoy your time here, sir. I have to go, my next lesson is about to begin."

"I have my horse, come with me." He offered, walking towards the direction his horse, assuming she was following, only to realize few steps later that she wasn't.

"I prefer to walk Moi Soverennyi."

"Horse will be faster." He pointed out.

She smiled. "What gives you the idea I don't have time in hand?"

He threw her a look. But she didn't stick around to see.

The next few days had gone by without much fuss. For Kirigan, he had some spare time in hand which he mostly spent indoors, in meeting with his close unit or with the king and his advisors, discussing new strategies and war tactics. Otherwise the rest of his time especially the evenings and nights were dedicated to thinking.

It was mostly her thought that would invade his mind at every chance.

Sighing, he leaned back, resting against the massive dark chair that quite resembled the colour of his Kefta. His eyes settled on the flickering candle sitting on his desk.

In order to get some work done he grabbed the letter opener, and picked the first envelope to touch his hand. But got distracted even before he could open the envelope.

He had seen her multiple times post their encounter at the fountain. Including this morning when she came in to drop off his tea. But there was hardly any interaction. These days she didn't stick around much, due to her class. Therefore the lack of interaction left him hungry for more.

Her thoughts refused to leave his mind.

It's not like he didn't try. Oh he did! He did everything he could. Including calling upon Zoya and have her ruin his perfectly made bed. The intensity of their intimacy left them both beyond exhausted. Even then, his mind refused to rest.

"…He may have been trying to save a loved one… Or perhaps it was from the pain of losing a loved one!"

Their last conversation was etched into his soul. Replaying in his mind again and again.

What she said and the way she said made a difference. It lit up his dark world, gave him hope, showed him dreams.

"We are never taught his side of the story. Instead, he is branded as the villain without proper explanation or evidence of his malicious intent."

While the rest simply jumped to conclusions, knowing it was the safer option. This little girl bravely made some valid point. Asked questions that none dared to ask.

"Do you not feel he was wronged, Moi Soverennyi?"

A warm feeling washed over his heart. His eyes closed to savour the feeling. Once those eyes reopened, he had the urge to see her. Of course the logically functioning part of his brain reminded him of the inappropriate hour and advised he waited till morning. However the intensity of the feeling reverberating from his heart into his body tactfully silenced the questioning brain.

But how could he summon her so late at night? With what excuse?

That question however was automatically answered when his gaze travelled to the letter-opener he was absently playing with all these time. And a victorious smirk made its way onto his lips.

Meanwhile…

"Genya… let's runaway. All four of us." Annika made the suggestion, lying next to the aforementioned female. Who in turn chuckled and shot the black haired girl a 'have you lost your mind' look.

Recently Genya has been spending her nights at the Little Palace. She has been granted time off, as the King found a new toy now. And since then Annika has been dedicating her evenings in keeping the Tailor company.

As much as Genya was relieved, she couldn't bring herself to celebrate her temporary freedom. As she knew it was coming at the cost of another innocent girl's tears. However, the person who was supposed to be in that unfortunate placement was currently living the life of bliss.

"And go where?"

"I don't know, the west perhaps. We can rent a small house with two bedroom. You and David could take the bigger one and Viktor and I will have the smaller one." She made it sound like she had the entire plan sorted out.

Initially Genya rolled her eyes, still asked sarcastically just to humour herself. "How are we going to pay for the house?"

Too lost in her own train of thought, the younger Grisha couldn't catch the other's sarcasm. So she mused.

"Hmmm… You and I could work at a bar and the boys could do something within their line of talent."

"You make it sound so simple." Genya couldn't stop herself from rolling her eyes, yet again! Plus she was slightly surprised by how detached Annika was from reality.

"It is simple. It is doable. We just have to believe in ourselves."

Even without realizing Genya's gaze turned envious when it fell upon the black pendant proudly sitting on the young Healer's chest. His symbol! The Healer may have to wear a servant's Kefta, like her. But this pendant made a world of difference. This small accessory set her apart, made her untouchable. Acting as a layer of protection.

Some people were born with a favourable luck and Annika was definitely one of them.

"You still don't even know if Viktor feels the same way about you. And from what I've learned through the gossipers that he hasn't even spoken to you since the incident at the workshop. To be honest, I don't know if that's a sign… that he prioritizes his work over his friendship with you."

Hearing this Annika stilled but made no comment, just simply continued to watch the ceiling. Genya understood she hit a sore spot but didn't regret her words. Annika is in dire need of reality check. Her imaginations have started to cross the boundaries. It's okay to have feelings for someone but planning a future without the slightest knowledge of how the other person feels is complete madness.

Frankly, Genya often wonders what makes Annika so crazy for Viktor. He is an average looking guy. Whereas Annika is known for her glamorous appearance with many young men at her disposal. She has plenty of options to choose from, yet she is chasing the only person who probably sees her platonically. Although Genya never had it in her heart to blurt it out but she dropped enough hints about the possible negative outcome.

Like now, for example.

After a long awkward pause the younger Grisha opened her mouth. "The same could be said for you, you don't know if David would return your feelings."

Genya closed her eyes briefly and smiled a solemn smile. Those words hurt, but she has learned to come to terms with reality. Hence why the reply left her lips seamlessly.

"At least I'm not dreaming like you are. I'm well in touch with my reality. My feelings are mine to deal with. David doesn't have to return them. Nor do I ever hope for him to."

"But Genya you can't possibly live the rest of your life like this."

"Sweetheart we don't decide our fate here. General Kirigan does! He decided mine, he decided yours and he decided Oksana's."

Annika's brows creased.

"Which Oksana and what did he do to her?" She asked because there were three Oksanas here. A Healer, a Tidemaker and an Alkemi.

Genya cursed, realizing her mistake. She wasn't supposed to slip the last part but rage got a hold of her emotions.

"Please don't talk about it elsewhere. It's the Alkemi. The advisors already informed the King why the fight broke out and General Kirigan was unable to turn the story around. So he switched the girl when the King ordered to see her."

A deafening silence fell between them. The truth hit Annika like an arrow in the chest. She finally understood what the Apparat was hinting at and why most Fabrikators looked at her with disdain these days. Everything inside her went numb. An emotion akin to guilt seeped through her.

"Annika, what happens…" The silence ended as Genya spoke in order to divert their mind elsewhere. She trailed off in hesitance, as she was about to ask something very sensitive. "… if Viktor doesn't feel the same way about you?" Earlier she meant it as a banter but after close observation of how sour Annika's face turned, Genya decided to ask on a serious note. She had to know.

"Genya… I don't think I can live without him." Annika admitted, her tone mellow, yet dead serious. Giving the other no chance to think she was joking.

Just like that the topic shifted and once again Oksana's suffering got buried under the piles of Annika's not so important problems.

"You can't be serious!" Exclaimed Genya.

"I've tried but—"

Annika was cut off by the unexpected knock on the door.

"Who could it be at this time?" Genya inquired craning her neck.

"Who cares! I'm not leaving the bed. I'm exhausted. If you're so interested you can open the door and see for yourself." Annika said pulling the covers over her head.

"But this is your room Annika!" Exclaimed Genya.

"So?"

They kept on debating on who should open the door. At one point out of laziness Annika made the suggestion to let it be. The person outside will get the hint and leave after getting tired. But to her utter disappointment, it didn't go as she predicted. Instead the knock seemed to become urgent. Making it impossible to ignore any longer.

Groaning, Annika rolled out of her bed and walked across the room to answer.

"What is i—?"

"The General is asking for you." Ivan cut her off abruptly. In a voice that could easily be described as cold and ruthless.

Annika froze, registering who it was and what he just said. Genya also sat up on the bed, fully erect.

"Now!" Exclaimed Annika. "Has he lost his sense of time?" She tried to appear brave but it was easier said than done.

"He's in need of a Healer."

"I'm a student, not qualified enough to tend to his injuries. Besides you and I both know, you can do a better job than—"

"He has specifically asked for you!" Ivan revealed, more like spat! Closing all rooms for arguments.

For last minute advice Annika turned to Genya who was now standing behind her wearing a worried expression. But what could the Tailor do? Other than just watch. The rule was simple— if the General calls, you go. And Genya Safin holds no power to change that.

"Come quickly! He doesn't like to wait." Ivan grabbed Annika's arm roughly and yanked her out of her room. Without even giving her chance to put on a robe over that indecent silver nightgown.

They passed countless dark and dimly lit hallways and corridors. All along Ivan held her in a tight grip, which only loosened as they reached their destination. As he let go of her hand to knock on the door.

Annika grumbled under her breath, rubbing the spot where the brute grabbed. She already knew the bruise left from his fingerprints would linger on her skin for days.

As expected Ivan entered dragging Annika like she was a ragged doll. Unlike Fedyor, Ivan wasn't a Gentleman who'd gesture the lady to go in first. Annika was already nervous and his behaviour wasn't helpful at all.

Upon entering they met with the owner of the room who stood facing the fireplace, the only source of light in the otherwise dark war-room tonight. Allowing the light of the fire to illuminate his features. Highlight every detail, including the simplest of frowns and the hopeful glint on those dark pool of ink of his eyes.

Soon after the General dismissed his second in command. The latter gave him a short bow before turning around and making his exit. Once the door closed Annika took it as her queue to move forward. She walked around the centre table and approached the awaiting General.

"I was told you needed to see a healer." She said, her eyes searching for his injuries.

He turned, a barely noticeable smile tugging the corner of his lips as he showed her his hand. Annika parted her lips in shock as she did not expect the wound to be this complicated.

"Who did this to you?" Her perfectly shaped brows creased in concentration as she further examined damage.

"It was a simple accident." Came his reply.

Annika cast him a doubtful look. Wondering how stupid did he think she was. The letter opener was stabbed into his palm so deeply that it didn't only effect the flesh and nerves but also fractured the bone it passed through. Therefore it cannot be a simple accident. It was deliberately done. But she kept those opinions to herself nonetheless. He was already in pain, no point in adding a headache as well.

"It's a complex wound. Spare me few minutes I'll fetch someone from the infirmary."

She was about to head out but he grabbed her by the elbow and stopped her.

"Why…? I already have you." A ghost of smile curled up at his lips, like he was amused by what she was about to.

She turned and he couldn't help but notice she looked different. Alluring. Her eyes captivating.

"Sir, I'm still a student. My skills aren't so sharp. Plus the wound consist of the flesh tearing, nerve damage and bone crack at the same time. I'm afraid I might leave one or the other untreated and that could lead to infecti—"

"I'm sure this is well within your capacity to fix."

"No sir, it isn't!"

"You wouldn't know unless you try." He remained persistent.

She closed her eyes and let out an exasperated sigh. Not understanding why this grown ass man was acting so childishly.

"Very well then," she finally agreed, then warned "but if something happens don't hold me accountable."

"Nothing will happen." He reassured.

Taking a deep breath she took hold of his hand and gently removed the letter-opener. Careful not to cause more damage. Then moved her hands in circular motion, fingers touching and twitching as she used the small science. The gaping wound on the surface of the skin started to close off, while the damage inside remained untouched. Annika stopped immediately, realizing what's happening.

"See…" she pointed out. "My action is causing the outer wound to close off without healing the inside. And if the inside is left untreated it will cause infection."

He didn't seem much bothered. Or at least that's what she read from the expression he was wearing.

"How about a little amplification then." He suggested.

She threw him a look of confusion, trying to assess it's meaning and he replied by quickly clasping one of her hand. Right away the Healer felt the power inside her surge. She repeated her actions. Only this time, in a matter of few seconds his hand was completely healed. Bones, nerves and flesh all went back to their original state. No sign of a sharp object being pierced through them.

And that's when the realization hit her— he was one of those rare species, a human amplifier. She had learnt about them in class but never seen one before. Nor did she ever expect to. So this, was quite the surprise.

"You're a living amplifier!" Annika exclaimed. Child like excitement brewing her eyes.

"Yes I am." He said, letting go of her hand.

"Does this mean if someone kills you and take your bones..." she trailed off leaving the awkward question unfinished.

"Yes, they will attain a lot of power. But mind you, killing me would bring severe consequences on the individual." He answered, voice containing the underlying threat.

They remained in silence for sometime. During which Annika randomly took notice of the blood staining his hand. Quickly, she ran to the bathroom and returned few minutes after with a bowl of cold water and clean cloth. Then, without even seeking permission she took his hand and proceeded to clean it. His blood was so dark that it almost appeared black. As black as the shadows he manipulate. It was unlike anything she had ever seen.

Just when she appeared most distracted his voice cut in, pulling her out of the trance.

"Did you mean what you said the other day?"

She looked up, unable catch what exactly he was referring to. Then suddenly it rang like a bell and it all came back.

"Why do you ask?" She dropped the cloth on the bowl that now sat on the round table.

Annika wasn't sure if it was just her imagination or the General was actually nervous. But it only lasted a second before his impassive face returned. Making her incline towards the former theory.

"I've never met someone who had a different opinion… about him." He admitted honestly.

"Is that why you stabbed yourself and summoned me?" A knowing smile made it to her lips. It all made sense now.

Kirigan also smiled, confirming her assumption to be true.

Yes, he wanted to talk. He wanted to know whether she truly meant and understood that depth of her words or said them on fluke. However it was a conversation he couldn't save for daytime. It was too risky. Even the walls have ears. Chances of someone eavesdropping is highly likely. Hence why he chose the late hours after midnight, when the entire Little Palace would be asleep except for the night guards on duty. Which explains why he instructed Ivan to wake the girl up if needed.

"Would you believe me if I told you I admire him… the Black Heretic."

His breath got caught between his throat. His mind reeling, one hectic thought chasing the next. And it all show up on his face.

"Why…?" He managed to ask in a voice so hoarse that it almost sounded different.

Annika noticed his change of expression but remained unfazed. She couldn't understand why he made such a face. They already had this conversation before and she made it pretty clear which side she preferred. So what's the point of this going around in circles.

"Is it wrong to admire him?" She asked, slowly going around the table in full circle. Her long fingers tracing the edge of the wooden table.

"Have you seen the shadow fold?"

"Only in pictures."

He chuckled. "Perhaps next time you should come with me when I visit the camp at Kribirsk. Maybe then you would understand why no one really admires him; myself included."

"Sir, you're opinions are based on your rough childhood."

"Rough would be understatement. It was brutal, indescribable. The King's solider looked at me like had I contributed to the creation of the fold."

"But look where that got you today, Moi Soverennyi." She stopped at spot where a small pile of papers with various reports were stacked together. "You're the unofficial king of Ravka. You may not be sitting on the throne but you're the one ruling this nation. These papers are the evidence. The King is just for show."

The Darkling finally left his spot by the fireplace and took few steps towards her. The distance between them wasn't even remotely close.

"It's not the King, that is stopping him..." she pointed towards the poster of Zlatan on the table "...from declaring liberation on the west or crossing the fold to attack us. Like everyone he doesn't fear the King, he fears the Darkling! The descendant of the Black Heretic."

He walked few more steps closer. Came around the table and stood before her. His eyes glistening with emotions. The impassive mask almost slipping off of his face.

"Moi Soverennnyi, you are who you are today because of your ancestor." He closed his eyes as if he was embracing her words.

But she didn't stay to watch him. She moved, walked past him and towards the window. Eyes focused on the dark night barely touched by the soft caress of the moonlight.

"Actually it's not just you. He made all of our existence important. Today Grishas are relevant, Grishas are needed because of what he did. Even if his intent was otherwise. Imagine if the shadow fold didn't exist, who'd have needed us, For all we know, like Shu Han and Fjerda our existence wouldn't be welcome here. We'd be killed because of who we are.

But look at us— the bunch of ungrateful fools, we curse him instead of appreciating the fact that he paved the way for our better life."

She still had her back turned to him but through the reflection on the window she saw him nearing.

Annika realized that she had never seen General Kirigan so happy before. His face was glowing to the point where one could assume him to be the Sun Summoner.

He stood so close that there was hardly any gap between his chest and her back. The two were almost touching. And the silence of the night made every little detail visible. For example— the gentle thumping of his heart on her back. The heat radiating off of his body that was trying to engulf her and melt themselves into one. And the shaky breath he just released, the heat of which almost burned the exposed skin of her shoulder.

"I'm sorry sir, if I said too much. You see... these are some opinions that I don't feel comfortable sharing with my friends. I only expressed them with you in hopes that you would understand."

"I do understand… Annika." He spoke in voice that was barely audible. Still she heard him crystal clear. It was the first time he addressed her by her first name. And she did not like the way it sounded.

She noticed his hand clench and unclench several times like he was trying to restrain himself. But from what? What was he holding back on?

Gathering the courage Annika looked him in the eyes and immediately regretted. His gaze was dark, darker than usual. With a strange gleam in them. Her blood ran cold recognizing it.

He looked like a predator studying his prey before the pounce.

She knew right away she had to get out of there, get out of there fast!

So she turned, smiling like a child. All maturity from moments prior vanished.Her facial expression made her look few years younger than her actual age— which was also only fourteen.

"It's way past my bedtime sir, so should I go...?" She asked him the same way a child ask permission from an elderly. It was a brutal reminder of her age in case he was thinking otherwise.

His heart dropped. Disappointment flashed on his face before he closed his eyes in defeat and nodded his head in agreement with her. Truth be told he didn't want her to leave, he wanted her to stay so he could listen. Her words felt like a soothing balm on his ancient bruised heart.

He stepped aside to make way for her. She slipped away without even sparing him a single glance. Thus remained oblivious to the fact that he couldn't take his eyes off of her.

"You're back!"

Relief returned to Genya's face when Annika returned without a single scratch on her body. The red-head was so worried that she spent the entire time Annika was gone pacing around the room from one end to another.

"I'm back, alive." Annika said dropping herself to the bed.

"What happened, why did he call?" Genya walked to the bed and sat down at the edge. The mattress dipping under her weight.

"Nothing really, he had a small cut and needed to see a healer."

The younger female kept her words straight and to the point in hopes that there would be no further discussion on this topic. But she was wrong. Genya wasn't done interrogating. If anything she was more curious now.

"Then why didn't he go to the infirmary or call for an actual Healer? Why call you?"

Good points she raised but Annika couldn't answer them. What would she say anyway, that she was chatting with the General about how great The Black Heretic was. Impossible!

So instead she sat up and crawled onto the other's lap to snuggle.

"Genya, what are you insinuating?"

"I'm just trying to look out for you sweetheart." The Tailor replied returning the hug and kissing the Healer's forehead. "He is a powerful man and powerful men like him are dangerous. They don't hesitate to manipulate your emotions in any shape or form as long as it fits their own gain."

"What use would I be of to him? I'm totally useless." Annika quipped, pulling back to look at Genya making the latter sigh tiredly.

"Just be careful around him! And try not to get lured by that handsome face."

"Genya!" Exclaimed Annika, looking at Genya like she was crazy. "He is too old for me. Rest assured the lines on his forehead will always prevent me from feeling any sort of attraction towards him."

"You seemed to have noticed quite a bit of details."

"Well, it can't be helped. Every time he brings his face close to intimidate me, all I see are the lines on his forehead." Annika responded matching Genya's haughty tone from earlier. "Anyway, enough about the General, let's talk about other things now."

With that once again their topic of conversation returned to the Kostyk brothers.

Unbeknownst to Annika, while she was busy cooking her future with Viktor, a certain individual in the Little Palace lay awake in bed, unable to get her thought out of his mind.

With his mind lost in deep thought Kirigan lay on his bed, staring at nothing in particular.

He preferred to keep his plans organized, his every step and procedure strategized into a harmonized tandem that would allow everyone under him to dance according to the predicted choreography.

However his interaction with the younger Zenik left him intrigued. The last two were interesting to say the least. Her admiration for the Black Heretic made her odd, brave and quite fascinating at the same time. He hadn't met someone who had such thought-process. So similar to his own, that it felt like she was a part of him. An extension of his mind and soul inside another body.

Now, different emotions were provoked in him. Especially after their last meeting a while back where she verbally admitted to admiring The Black Heretic.

Annika was telling the truth. He didn't have to be a Heartrender in order to figure that out. There was no need to listen to her heartbeat. Her gaze told him everything he needed to know. The determination, the passion shining in those beautiful lavender coloured eyes were enough. Moreover his long life and experience has given him the ability to detect the difference between truth and lie.

And now that he knew, everything around him felt strange and different.

Even though his room was extremely cold tonight, he felt warm. His bed was empty, still he didn't feel lonely. He had no reason to be happy but somehow couldn't stop the smile from forming on his lips.

All credit for it goes to her, Annika. For she made it happen. Without using the small science she brightened up his world. She is no Sun Summoner but her presence alone made his shadows perish.

One thing was for sure, going forward his relationship with young Healer would change. There were not many that understood him for who he was. So he wanted to treasure the ones he found and protect them for standing by him.

He failed to save Luda, because back then things weren't under his control, but now it's different. He has the power to prevent same fate befalling on this child. He has no ill intention toward the girl, she was still too young, hardly out of childhood. However she is a Healer with great potential who could be useful in the future. Maybe with proper guidance and training he could mould her into someone like Luda, or perhaps better than Luda.

With that thought settled at the back of his mind his eye lids closed down and soon he drifted off into a blissful slumber.

A.N. Thank you for reading.