Chapter 9
After two days of continues journey, the General with his troop finally arrived at the destination— the southern border.
Once they arrived, naturally everyone fell into their usual routine. The General was occupied in meetings. Ivan and Fedyor watching over and training the Corporalki. Zoya, Polina and Pavel doing the same with the Etherealki.
Everyone had a track to follow, except for Annika. She was the lost puppy on the unknown street with no sense of direction. She didn't know where to fit it. Like the rest she didn't have to train others nor were there any errands to run for the General. Therefore with no clear direction of what to do, Annika spent the first two days in her tent doing nothing other than sleeping, eating and reading the old books that were left there by the previous occupant.
Afterwards it was decided that she would shadow Fedyor. Even then, the first couple of days were spent with the Heartrender showing her around and introducing her to people.
The scenario would have been different if it was the Northern border. In comparison, the southern border is far more peaceful. Nothing quite happens here other than the occasional abduction of Grishas and children; and on some occasions the Shu mercenaries invading into the Ravkan territory to attack to bordering habitat.
Luckily, this time around it was peaceful with no concerning incidents taking place recently. Then again this is how it always is whenever the Grisha leader is here.
Annika yawned as she stumbled wearily out of her tent rubbing sleep out of her eyes and made her way to Fedyor.
The Heartrender just returned to camp and was getting off of his horse.
"You're up so soon?" He couldn't help but crack a smile.
"I had no choice, Polina was yelling at someone right outside my tent." Annika complained. "Anyway what are we doing today?—"
"Ah sir Fedyor, I see you're back at the camp and who might this lovely young lady be?" A Heartrender suddenly popped up in front of them with a beaming smile on his face. He was young, at least ten years younger than Fedyor and had bright blue eyes with a mop of dirty blonde hair.
"Ah Mikhail!" Fedyor greeted the newcomer with a matching smile. "Let me introduce you the new Healer of our unit, Annika Zenik." He pointed at the mentioned female, who in turn sent the newcomer a polite smile.
"Please to meet you."
"Oh no the pleasure is totally mine Annika. And if it isn't very inappropriate may I admit something..." He timidly took permission before telling her, "Me and my friend think you are very beautiful."
"Tell me something I don't know." She smiled flirtatiously.
Mikhail may have melted under her smile and showed Annika where his tent is, but the female Tidemaker that was standing not too far away from the trio scowled. Finding the Healer's attitude not only arrogant but also extremely rude. Not to mention, the boy flirting with her is someone her best friend is eyeing.
The Tidemaker didn't waste time lingering there much longer. She hurried back to her friends and fellow solders to share the juicy gossip she just acquired— Mikhail trying his luck with the General's Healer.
Soon there were plenty of others talking about the aforementioned Healer. While most were discussing her appearance and age, others raised questions on General's integrity for choosing such an inexperienced person to join his unit.
"So where is the girl, the Healer, that everyone is talking about. I hear she quite the looker. Have you seen her?" Asked Boris, a Heartrender who is quite popular amongst the ladies here. Taking a sip of Kvas directly from the bottle.
"Yes, Boris." Answered his friend, Sergei, another Heartrender.
"What was she like?"
"Well… she has no hips, no ass, no breasts. But that face… those big purple eyes… saints! They make up for everything lacking."
The brief and to the point description got Boris more excited. Sergei is a prideful fellow, who hardly complements women. So if this is how he's describing, that means the girl's got to be pretty. Besides who needs breasts and hips when there's a pretty readily available.
"Did you talk to her?"
"I was planning to, and would have, but she was with Fedyor."
"At least tell me you learned her name."
"Of course, it's Annika."
"Annika." Boris repeated the name, tasting the sound of it in his voice.
Hearing the familiar name Polina's ears perked up. She was about to take a bite of an apple but paused, catching the attention of her twin and Zoya. She didn't mean to pry, but curiosity got the best of her. Making her look back to check out the two boys who were talking about Annika.
"Oh look the skinny rat has already become a topic of discussion!" The female Inferni scoffed. Taking a big bite out of her apple in frustration.
When no one paid attention to her remarks. Polina spoke again, this time directly addressing the Squaller.
"How do you stay so calm…? That rat is stealing everything you have. If I were in your position I would have burned her face to crips."
Zoya stopped eating. Her gaze stilled on the first burning between them.
Encouraged by the reaction she received the Inferni continued. "In your case you may blow her away with the wind."
Closing her eyes Zoya took a deep breath. All hunger and appetite suddenly gone. Seeing no point in just sitting here and forcing herself to eat, she gave her portion to Ivan and left.
Ivan continued to eat, least bothered by whatever drama these ladies were cooking up. But Pavel cast his sister a look; a look that showed how disappointed and frustrated he was with her.
Feeling his burning gaze on her Polina turned.
"What?"
"What satisfaction do you get from this?"
"What do mean?"
"Cut the act. You live and breathe to stir up drama. I can see you thriving on this. Otherwise how do you explain suddenly becoming best friends with the Squaller, whom you couldn't stand all your life."
Having said that Pavel also followed in Zoya's footsteps. Ignoring his sister's call to at least finish his food.
Polina's eyes briefly met Ivan's only to find him staring at her with an impassive face before she turned her face away, with a scowl.
A small smile formed on Annika's lips as she watched the baby goat on her lap happily eat the leaves she was feeding him.
It has been a while since they arrived and so far nothing in terms of action— no kidnapping or attacks on the nearby villages. For which Annika was glad. In fact she's been praying for the remainder of their stay to pass this way.
In addition it gave her ample time to get to know most of the Second Army stationed here and make new friends. Amongst whom were— a kind Heartrender by the name Boris, his intellectual friend Sergei and the chatterbox annoying Mikhail. Maria, Sara and Katya the Healers. Abram, Vlad, George, Aisha, Sofia, Nino and Alex— the Tidemakers, the Squallers and Infernis. But her most favourite friend happens to be the baby goat that she met by chance, who, ever since refuses to leave her alone.
"HEALER!"
At first Annika didn't bother. Assuming the call was for the Healers on duty and she wasn't one.
"HEALER!!"
Alarmed by the call when it came again a moment later, Annika put the goat down and headed towards the scene. With the clueless goat following her.
"HEALER!!"
She heard the call again and increased her pace. The urgency in the voice told her it was a case of emergency.
"HEALER!!!"
"I'm here! I'm here!" Annika skidded into the scene.
There she found Zoya, Pavel and few others whose names she couldn't remember at the moment crowding over a figure on the ground.
Closing in she noticed the figure belonged to a middle aged woman, dressed in old dirty smelly clothes. The woman was barely conscious. Her entire body was covered with stains, blood and deep cut wounds that were badly infected. Some parts of the body are starting to rot. Which explains the smell emanating off of the body.
In her experience, Annika has never seen anything like this. In reality she isn't even supposed to. To treat someone in this severe condition requires extremely high skill and experience. A young student like her has neither of those. Yet here she was, with all eyes looking down at her expecting her to pull of someone magic and make miracle happen.
Also it was her bad luck that it in that moment there wasn't a single Corporalnik around. Not one single figure in red Kefta that could guide her. She was on her own.
From the whispers amongst the crowd Annika picked up some crucial information about the woman. She is a Tidemaker named Dominika, who was sent to Shu Han on priority mission by the General six years ago.
Just like Nina.
That realization stirred up fear inside the Healer. It was the kind of fear which soon transformed into determination. Annika decided to save the woman by hook or by crook. Someday her sister may suffer the same fate. And she must to be prepared, just in case if that unfortunate time ever arrives.
"The infection seems to have spread quite far, it's rotting the flesh. I will need help." She informed, then looking over at Pavel made the request. "Can you please fetch the General. Hurry!"
He was about to do that but Zoya grabbed onto his wrist, stopping him. Her glaring eyes stabbing the Healer.
"What is the General going to do? He isn't a Healer. You are."
Zoya's words made Annika go rigid, with fearful anticipation. She took a quick glance around. Only to find everyone's stare was curious, more than willing to judge and jump to conclusion without listening to both side of the tale. She cursed the Squaller in mind for taking out personal vendetta at such a time. However it was a sensitive matter, so she thought it was best to approach cautiously.
"Zoya I'm aware he isn't a Healer. But he is an amplifier, he can help me." Annika tried to reason.
Unfortunately, Zoya had no qualms when it came to glaring, taunting and throwing snide remarks at the young Healer.
"General Kirigan isn't your personal amplifier."
"No! Of course not!"
"Then do your job by using your own abilities."
"You know very well what I'm capable off. I don't know—"
"The General thinks you're quite capable. Unless you convinced him in some other way…"
Jealousy is an emotion that has the ability to bring out a person's real ugly side. Similarly, blinded by it Zoya was slipping away from her rational side. Failing to see the critical situation they were in. A person's life is at stake but all that mattered to her was setting scores with the Healer.
"Zoya if I make one mistake the woman will die."
"Then figure something out Healer!" She seethed.
Annika grew more nervous than she already was, and under pressure accepted defeat.
"I'll do what I can."
It was like walking into a battlefield without a shield or armour. The risk was high, disaster inevitable. But it was a chance she had to take, for Dominika.
The next few moments passed in blur. Annika felt an uneasy feeling forming a cyclone at the pit of her stomach as she worked on healing the woman. She did everything in her power to suppress it and focus on her hand.
Unfortunately it wasn't long until she succumbed.
The crowd watched with horrifyingly wide eyes, shining with never before seen shock as they witnessed the Healer vomit all over her patient and pass out.
The last thing Annika heard was Zoya screaming, moment before the world around her was consumed into total darkness.
"GET A HEALER FOR THE HEALER!"
When Annika regained her consciousness later in the evening, the news was broken down to her.
Dominika didn't make it. Unfortunately.
Fedyor was the one to do the task. Trying his best to highlight the fact that it wasn't her fault. Which it wasn't, it truly wasn't. The wounds were complex, going beyond Annika's normal capacity. However, there was a chance, Dominika could have survived. If only Zoya didn't act on jealousy and behave in such shallow manner.
So in simple math, it was Zoya's fault.
Still, she couldn't find it in herself to blame the Squaller when the General summoned her for questioning. Instead took the entire blame over her shoulder.
To everyone's surprise the General scolded her. Shouting at her in loud voice. Even then, Annika didn't falter. She flinched and shed silent tears but not a word left her mouth blaming Zoya.
Her actions earned her Pavel's respect. For someone so young and spoiled, the girl showed immense maturity in that crucial moment. Which is why he didn't hesitate to open his mouth when his turn arrived to be questioned. He described the situation to their leader in vivid details and threw his fellow Squaller off of the cliff in the process.
Lastly Zoya was summoned. Her duration in the tent was the shortest. No yelling was heard from inside the tent like it had been during Annika's time. Still, she left his tent in tears, a bigger crying mess than the former.
People waiting outside the tent had no idea what had taken place.
Until next evening when Polina being the first to notice, followed by plenty of others...
…Zoya Nazyalensky inviting an Otkazat'sya soldier to her tent.
Wrapping the Kefta over her frilly nightgown, Annika left her tent hours before dawn and took shelter under a large tree.
She was exhausted. Mentally and emotionally drained, yet she couldn't bring herself to fall asleep. Dominika's dying face flashed in front of her, every time she closed her eyes.
She watched the sunrise. Eyes heavy with the burden of guilt, mind drawing in sorrow.
At the break of dawn the baby goat found her. The cute little thing climbed onto her lap and sat down on it like it was his own property. Despite wanting to be left alone, Annika made an exception and started petting it, absently.
Soon they were joined by Boris. The Heartrender sat down beside her and started to rant about how it was so cruel of the General to scream at her like that and what not. She understood he was trying to comfort her, but she didn't want to be comforted.
So much for being alone. Annika sighed tiredly.
Just as she was coming to terms with tolerating Boris, another presence joined them.
Too tired to check who the approaching party was, Annika started to make few guesses. And was damn sure it would be someone from that list of options.
"Leave us."
Understanding the instruction was meant for him Boris turned to Annika, as if to seek her approval before complying to the Squaller's demand. Once the Healer nodded her head, the Heartrender took it as his queue to leave. But not without casting a wary glance at the two women he was leaving behind.
"Enjoy all the attention while it lasts. Because it won't stay forever. It's only a matter of time before he finds someone interesting. And then, he will no longer seek the company of a Healer."
Annika faced Zoya, frustrated and pitying her simultaneously. Nothing can be more painful than not having your feelings returned by the person you desire. Despite having so many desiring her Annika also belongs to that end of the spectrum. How ironic!
"If he stops seeking my company does it mean I will no longer have to wear that white Kefta? No longer have to wake up early in the morning to make his tea, clean his desk, run him a bath, make his bed? …If so, then I can't wait for that time to arrive."
"Let's hope for your sake this is the mindset you have when that time arrives." Zoya scoffed and walked back the way she came.
Annika sighed again, this time in relief.
Honestly, the speed at which Zoya was approaching she thought the Squaller was coming to murder her. Turns out she only came to warn. Which by the way wasn't necessary at all.
As the minutes progressed she detected another presence nearing. Alarmed the goat left the comfort of her lap and ran away. That pretty much summed up who was coming.
Annika braced herself. The last time they met, he unleashed his fury upon her, who knows what will happen this time.
He was not surprised when she made no effort to acknowledge his presence or even turn to look at him. Instead kept her focus on the sky above. He could see her from the side angle and detect those dead eyes, willing to rather stare at the sky than himself.
He took further steps forward, only to stop when he was at arm's length.
"Annika?" Then called her, in a voice barely above whisper but against the quietness of dawn, he was sure she heard him.
"Why didn't you tell me? Why did I have to learn the truth from Pavel?"
She did not answer.
He sat down beside her, so close that their arm's were brushing. His gaze now following her and watching the sky.
"Just one word... just one word from your mouth and I would have stopped."
His hand tried to reach for her, but she removed it before he could grasp it. He half expected such action, while the other half thought she would make an exception— which she didn't.
"I want you to know Annika…" he paused a moment to chap his drying lips and prepare himself for what he was about to say, "...that I-I am truly sorry."
There it was, the red flag. Initial signs of something being amiss— General Kirigan doesn't apologize. Whether it be his mistake or someone else's. But here he was, doing the anomaly.
But alas! Annika was too distracted by her own misery to notice it.
"Why are you apologizing?" She asked, finally breaking her silence. But still refused to look at him.
He observed from the corner of his eyes and was greatly disappointed by it.
"Don't apologize. There is no need for you to, when you did nothing wrong! I deserved to be scolded."
Those words spoken were what she genuinely meant.
"Besides," Then added on a lighter note. "if I wanted to, I surely would have put the blame on someone else. I'm pretty good at that."
"I think I have learnt that much about you by now." He smiled softly. Fondly remembering the time when she dramatically pounced into his arms and hugged him tightly just to complain about how Baghra crushed her spirit
"But still, I should have asked you to explain your side."
"There was nothing for me to explain other than— I failed to treat the woman, threw up on her and passed out. Causing her to…" She gulped uneasily. Still internally processing what has occurred. "… die."
He immediately faced the guilt stricken girl, ready to give her all the comfort she needed.
"Please excuse me sir, I have to go."
She stood up unexpectedly, denying him the opportunity.
Kirigan opened his mouth to protest but Annika walked away before he could say anything. Her action implying their conversation was over.
Thus he was left behind, feeling guilty and lonely
To repent herself Annika came up with a new strategy. She dedicated the remainder of her stay into healing others. Everyone! And when needed purposely injuring individuals just so she could heal them.
As days progressed Annika had less and less to do. She could hardly find anyone to use her gift on. So most of her time was spent roaming around exploring the surrounding and occasionally disturbed others. Until one afternoon when she suddenly stumbled upon an injured first army soldiers, outside the medics tent. The boy was groaning in pain, while waiting for his turn to be checked.
"Are you in pain?" Her eyes glistened as she approached him. Excited to have someone to treat, finally.
"No, these are tears of joy." Came his sarcastic reply, even as he winced in pain due to the slightest movement.
"I can help you. I'm a healer."
"I can tell from your fancy coat. And as you can see I'm already outside the medics tent. So no thanks! I don't need you to work your Grisha magic on me."
Her joyous smile dropped at his over the top rude response. She pondered if all First Army soldiers were so ungrateful. No, definitely not. She came across many of them in the last couple weeks and they were really nice. This particular one seemed to have some personal issues with Grishas, she concluded before deciding to put him in place.
"First off it's a Kefta, not a coat. And we don't practice magic, it's science, small science. Second—I don't think your turn is coming anytime soon…"
The boy squeezed his brows, wondering what the Grisha bending before him was referring to. Only to hear sound of moans coming from inside the tent.
He let out a frustrated sigh. No wonder it was taking so long.
"I'd rather wait than take your help." He mumbled.
"Very well then, enjoyed your pain." With that said Annika made a small motion with her fingers and increased his pain. Doubling it's dose.
"HEY!" He screamed as she was walking away. "WHAT DID YOU DO YOU FREAK?"
Annika stopped, turning dramatically, her long mane moving with the wind. The fact that she took offence to his remark showing on her face. Freak? No one ever called her something so dreadful.
"I got the impression you like pain, so I doubled it. You're welcome." She replied, rolling those pretty eyes.
"Undo what you did just now!"
"Nope."
"DO IT!"
"Nope." She turned around, ready to walk away once more. But halted as he his tone softened.
"Please…"
"If you request nicely I might reconsider."
"I'm already begging aren't I…?" Just to please her he begged again. Besides it was his only option available. Considering the loud moan coming out of the tent, there is no guarantee when the medic will see him.
"Please make it stop. Please… please…"
Smirking victoriously Annika retracted her steps.
"Your wound is badly infected. It may burn a little." She warned as she bent over him and started to move her hand in circular motion. However, to keep him distracted from the discomfort she began a conversation.
"What's your position in the First Army?"
"I'm a tracker from the 36th unit."
"And what were you tracking that landed your in this mess?"
"A group of children that were abducted from the area earlier this month. One amongst them is the granddaughter of a senior members of the military. "
"Hmmm…"
Too occupied into her work Annika failed to notice how the First Army boy was scrutinizing her.
"You're too young to be placed on the field." He observed.
"I know…" she couldn't agree more.
"Then how-come you're here? Did the Black General make a mistake?"
"The Black General...?" Annika raised a brow, highly amused by the nickname.
"That's what most First Army folks call him." He clarified. Shooting a look to the Healer that stated her wanted his answer now.
Shrugging her shoulders Annika began.
"To answer your question— my best guess is General Kirigan was probably high on some substance when he made the decision. Some members of his unit tried to knock some sense into him, but… it clearly didn't work. As you can see I'm here on flesh. And… I'm done." Standing up she declared, proudly pointed towards the finish results.
"That was fast." He said disappointed.
"I'm good at my job." She smirked. "Anyway it was lovely chatting with you, Mr Tracker from the 36th unit. Take care of yourself."
Bidding him farewell she was about to walk away when the boy suddenly spoke up, introducing himself.
"I'm Malyen Oretsev but my friends call me Mal."
"I'm Annika." She said without pausing her steps.
"Thank you Annika… I hope to see you around." He added suggestively. Usually he isn't this nice to Grisha but this particular girl somehow managed to make him a little soft.
She turned and flashed him a smile. A smile that could be interpreted in so many ways.
"Goodbye Mr. tracker."
He stood there watching her, till her Kefta clad figure completely disappeared from his line of vision.
And then,
"Mal…?"
Hearing the familiar voice he looked over his shoulder and found his best friend approaching.
"Alina."
"Raisa told me you injured yourself. Did you see the medic?"
"No need to see the medics, a Healer healed me."
"A Healer!" Alina exclaimed in disbelief. It was common knowledge that Healers were only reserved for the Second Army and Royal family. The first army getting treated by them was unheard of.
"Yeah a Healer." He confirmed.
"But I thought they were only saved for the Second Army."
"This one is probably a wayward one." He said smiling.
Then leaning his weight on his half-Shu friend's shoulder the two walked back to their designated area.
Days passed with Annika avoiding everyone and going around doing her own thing.
Kirigan has been keeping a close eye on her from afar, ever since receiving multiple reports and complaints from other Grishas who claimed to have seen the younger Zenik roaming outside the Medics tents extending her services to the First Army without permission from her superior.
At the beginning he didn't concern himself too much about the matter. But when increasing number of people came forward with complaints he started to observe and with his own eyes witnessed what she was doing. Still took no action. Rather chose to turn a blind eye.
Truth is— he couldn't bring himself to punish her. Especially after scolding her for something that wasn't her fault. Even though her current action is considered seriously punishable offence. Since he made all the rules concerning Grisha and Second Army, he chose to overlook it. After all she's just a young teen suddenly feeling rebellious. She will come around sooner or later.
On a more important note, it didn't matter to him what Annika did with the rest. She could ignore, avoid or stop talking to or treat everyone for all her cares; as long as everything was smooth between them.
And he naively assumed all was well between them until he started to notice the smiles he sent her way was received with empty stare. Neither would she look at him or talk, only answered in few words if something was asked.
Reality hit him like a pebble thrown on the head. He realized, like the rest he was being ignored as well.
Needless to say, that didn't sit well with him.
He grew restless. Constantly questioning why? Why was she ignoring him? He apologized already and she assured him it was alright and he has nothing to apologize for, as it wasn't his fault. So shouldn't everything be alright then? Why was she still ignoring him?
And then he remembered how ruthlessly he unleashed his wrath upon her. Once again Kirigan felt guilt consuming him. Had he not jump to conclusion listening to couple of envious bystander then she would have been right here by his side talking about the most useless-random things, give him daily dose of gossip, laugh at things that didn't make sense or just light up his dark world with her big dimpled smiles.
From that point on it became his top priority to set things right with Annika whilst every other matter took backseat.
He started with inviting her to eat with him next night. The guard sent summon her returned alone with the information that she already went to bed. Next evening he showed up at her tent with everything catering to her taste. They ate together in silence. Although he raised several topic but the conversation died down due to her lack of interest. But that didn't discourage him. Instead prompted him to come up with other strategies to break the ice. Such as: approach her at any given chance to make small talk or walk her back to her tent.
For sure his action was grabbing unwanted attention. But he chose not to be bothered by words spread by gossipers. His little Healer is someone very important to him and he wanted everyone around to keep that information in mind.
In a short time he grew quite protective of her. Eyes becoming habituated to seeking her out, while gaze followed everywhere she went. No matter where he was or with whom, from time to time his eyes would automatically set off in search of her. It has become a norm, without him realizing.
Even now, despite being engaged in a important discussion with the stationed commander of the First Army, his eyes sought after his Healer.
She was soon found, watching the mountain.
Tuning the commander's words at the back of his head Kirigan kept looking at the Healer, the little girl, his girl, quietly from a distance.
Although his heart-rate was anything but quiet. It was almost hammering against his rib cage. At a certain point he feared what if the men around him were able to hear them. That would be so embarrassing.
But he couldn't help himself— he wanted the girl.
Wanted her so much that in the recent times his mind was only plagued with her thoughts.
It has been a long time, hundreds of years perhaps, since he felt this way about someone. And after so many years of not experiencing such feelings, it felt a little strange but the good kind of strange.
She turned, their eyes met, he smiled. Instead of returning the smile she walked off to another direction. Leaving him feeling empty again. His mood darkened like the Shadows he controlled, face formed a dirty scowl. It was received by the poor First Army commander and others that were around him.
Sensing the change in Darkling's sudden temper the men around him decided to cut the meeting short and flee with their life in hand.
Turning curtly, he returned to his tent.
In dire need of a drink, he hastily poured himself a glass of Ravkan rum and finished it in one long sip. Then let out a sigh, running a hand though his hair to calm the raging headache. An important meeting was abruptly cut short because he couldn't mask his feelings.
It was starting to seem like his heartstrings were being pulled by someone else now, not himself.
His brows furrowed in worry.
If so, it could potentially become a huge problem.
Few days later:
She couldn't take her eyes off of the majestic view and continued to watch them with child like wonder in her eyes.
Annika had never seen mountains before in real life. Only in books, scrolls, maps and of course the miniature replica version on the General's map table. But seeing it on real life was a whole other experience. She could only imagine how much more exciting it would be to climb. If only her mind wasn't so depressed she would have certainly been at its peak by now.
"Care to go for a ride."
What coincidence.
Turning, she saw the General already saddled on his horse. With his hand stretched out to her, as he offered her a ride.
"Where?"
"Wherever you want."
"To the mountains." She suggested.
"Why not."
He gestured her to take his hand so he pull her up onto the horse.
On normal circumstances she wouldn't go with him. Her preferred companion would be between Fedyor or Pavel. But at this point anyone would do. Anyone that would take her out of here even if for a while.
Therefore without sparing a second thought she placed her hand over his, accepting the invitation.
.
.
.
They stood tall at the highest peak of the mountain. Basking in the sun, enjoying the silence and the breathtaking view of the nature. Only source of noise in that otherwise quiet atmosphere was coming from birds chirping somewhere in the background.
While Annika danced her head between looking up at the sky to looking down to enjoy the view from up. The Darkling simply kept staring at his current favourite sight, unblinking.
Her face.
She was his most breathtaking view... His peace... His solace... His comfort... His Happiness... His desire... His everything! Everytime he breathed, she was all he could feel inside him, ruling.
Most importantly with her beside him, he no longer felt alone.
He didn't know when, how and why it happened? And he no longer cared to find out. What matters is that it happened. Now, he is left to deal with the aftermath.
The concerning conclusion he reached the other day in his tent was now completely forgotten somewhere deep in his mind. He couldn't focus on anything other than the girl beside him.
"Why did you bring me here?"
The words cut short his train of thought. His lips turned up in his most charming smile. Glad to have the silence broken. What made him happier was that the initiative came from her.
"I wanted to spend some alone time with you." To his surprise, he admitted.
The words caught Annika's attention but she didn't react. Instead she asked again rearrange her words.
"What I meant was— why did you choose me as the Healer, knowing, I'm just a student with limited experience and no exceptional abilities?"
She turned to him. Eyes demanding an explanation as she charged putting her manners aside.
"Why me sir? Why put a burden on me that I'm not capable of carrying?"
Tears that gathered around her eyes threatening to fall, started to pour out in drops after drops.
Immediately his smile fell, heart sinking into dark abyss, brain clouded by his own shadows.
The sight of her crying face leaves him nearly breathless. He couldn't resist reaching out and grabbing her small face between his large palms.
He desperately wanted to tell her that it's okay. Losing people, friends, watching people die, having them die by your hands these are all a part of growing up inside a war stricken country.
But didn't. He refrained himself, worrying that the wording maybe too insensitive for the time.
Instead he pleaded her not to cry as his thumb gently wiped away her tears.
"Don't cry, please don't cry Annika."
When that failed, without thinking he brought her into his arms and caged her securely in them.
"It's wasn't your fault. That Tidemaker, she was gone past the stage of recovery. There was nothing you could have done to revive her." He consoled, resting his chin over her head. His one hand running through her locks, the other holding her by the waist tightly.
Regardless of coming with good intention his words had the opposite effect. He wanted to uplift her sprit but in lieu made her cry harder. She sobbed into his chest like a baby and he couldn't do anything other than helplessly listen.
"You're wrong! You're wrong Moi Soverennyi!"
Another loud sob escaped her.
"She could have been saved. If only... I had you beside me."
Inhaling sharply he closed his eyes. His hold on her waist tightening.
She is suffering because he wasn't by her side.
Heaviness settled in his heart. Making his entire body feel dismantled. He would never know how the victims of his Cut felt. But if he were to guess, he would think the pain was eerily similar to what he was currently feeling.
Ironic how it took him years of practice and a life and death situation to first master the skill. Whereas she inflicted the same on him with just her words.
Swallowing thickly, he pulled her even closer. Almost moulding their bodies together.
From now on I will always be by your side. You have my word, Annika. He vowed.
And overwhelmed by his running loose emotion he ended up kissing her, at the top of her head.
The kiss was so deep, so intense that Annika's eyes shot open. Confused, she pulled back. Few strands of her hair stuck to his beard.
"Sir?!" She blinked several times, dumbfounded.
"I…" He ran out of words and combed a hand through his hair nervously. Thinking of a perfect excuse to explain what he just did moments ago.
Moment later, letting out a shaky breath and running a tongue over his drying lips, he re-attempted.
"Annika, I am—"
"Moi Soverennyi!"
Kirigan released a sigh of relief. The timing couldn't be anymore perfect. Never in his life was he this happy to be interrupted.
Turning, he saw Ivan appear on a galloping horse. The expression on his face suggesting the matter is urgent.
"What is it?"
"We have a person in custody, claiming to be the Sun Summoner." His second in command declared.
While Kirigan remained considerably calm, behind him his Healer gasped. It was a gasp that elicited from emotions mixture of shock and excitement.
.
.
.
Inside the Darkling's tent:
All curious eyes watched the two boys presented before the General. One amongst them is the supposed legendary Sun Summoner— Ravka's hope, it's saviour.
"So which one of you can summon light?"
The Darkling's cold voice cut through the fabric of silence.
"He." Replied the taller boy pointing a finger towards the lanky one standing beside him and introduced. "His name is Ivor."
"And you are?"
"I'm Ivanov, sir. The only one to have witnessed the great Sun Summoner's power."
"How are you two connected?"
"We're brothers." Spoke up the supposed Sun Summoner. Bringing the Darkling's attention back on him. "Now can we talk business. I have some conditions before I start serving under you."
"Let's hear." The Darkling responded with an amused face. But inside he was furious. No one dares speak to him so boldly.
"I heard families of the Grisha children are paid monthly allowance."
"You heard it right."
"I have a different condition, I want all the money given at once to my brother and I. And allow me to spend one last night with him before I'm taken away from the only life I've known."
"That's absurd! You can't bargain like that. This isn't a fish market." Hissed Zoya haughtily.
But brushing away her words like it was nothing of importance the Darkling spoke up.
"I accept all your terms and conditions. Now," a smirk appeared on his lips "show me what you can do, Sun Summoner."
As expected colour drained from the Sun Summoner's face. Everyone present in the tent including Annika could see panic settling on his features. That is when his brother jumped in to rescue.
"It only happened once. I hurt him and everything surrounding us was engulfed in light."
"Very well then, in that case we do a small test." The Darkling suggested walking towards the duo taking off his ring from his finger and placing it back on his thumb.
"What test? What's happening?" Both brothers started to panic.
"It's just a little formality."
Ivan was signalled to hold the boy. And not only he held the boy, but also extended one of his arms, removing the sleeve.
The test was performed. The sharp edge of the ring was dug into his arm and a small cut was made. Blood dripped onto the ground, other than that nothing else happened.
Pretty quickly the situation went from exciting to volatile.
A cold smile appeared on the General's lips.
"Turns out you are not a Sun Summoner, Ivor. How disappointing. Ivan…" Turning to the Heartrender he signalled with his eyes and returned to his desk.
The aforementioned Heartrender made a swift motion with his fingers and the two bodies collapsed onto the ground with soft thudding sound.
Every Grisha inside the tent appeared unbothered. They were all behaving as if nothing has happened and occupied themselves to listening to the General giving out instructions. The only exception being Annika. Who for the longest time stood in the corner with her eyes and mouth wide open before mastering the courage to slowly make her way towards the fallen bodies.
Although it took place right in front of her eyes, a part of her remained in denial. She couldn't find it in her system to believe Ivan would just kill somebody for something so little. Or the fact that the General… the man who held her in his arms so tenderly not too long ago and consoled her, was capable of something so cruel.
Crunching down before the bodies Annika used the best of her abilities try to revive them. Only then she realized their hearts were crushed, completely.
Ivan really killed them!
No
General Kirigan asked him to kill them!
They were murdered in broad daylight.
Not a moment later yelling was heard.
Outside— everyones attention was drawn to the disarray as they hurried towards the ebony tent, wondering what's happening.
Inside— Kirigan and his crew stood stunned. Their curiosity was met with alarm as Annika came charging at Ivan. None of them thought she'd have such a meltdown.
"YOU MONSTER! HOW COULD YOU!" She grabbed the Heartrender by the collar of his Kefta.
"Hey Drama-queen stop overreacting. This is what happens to all those frauds who try to double cross us." He retaliated.
"Annika! Ivan! Calm down!"
Fedyor quickly jumped into to separate the two. But remained unsuccessful as Annika was clutching onto his partner with all her strength.
While Annika and Ivan were going at each other, Kirigan shared a look with the ones remaining by his side trying to understand what is suddenly happening. Pavel and Polina shot him a look of confusion, whereas Zoya slowly mouthed, "I told you, she isn't ready."
"…NO MATTER WHAT THEY DID, IT DOESN'T GIVE YOU THE RIGHT TO KILL THEM."
"Calm down Annika. Lower your voice."
"NO ONE DESERVES TO DIE FOR NOTHING! GET THAT TROUGH YOUR THICK SKULL BALDY!"
"I did nothing wrong. I was following the protocol."
"FUCK THE PROTOCOL!"
"Don't use that tone with me brat!" Hissed Ivan, trying to strangle her. Whatever composure he had earlier flew out of the tent the moment the younger Grisha started cursing.
"Ivan! Ivan let her go she's just a child!"
"Enough." Seeing how ugly it was turning, Kirigan intervened.
Ivan immediately stopped and retracted his hands from the girl's neck but she didn't obey. Prompting the General to march ahead and practically pull Annika off of the Heartrender.
Even then, she didn't calm down and continued to struggle. Leaving no choice for him but to take matters into hand...
Annika felt a cold hand slowly reach the nape of her neck. Against her will her body started to relax and soon everything around was devoured by the shadows.
Her eyes barely opened. Lids heavy with tiredness, ready to fall shut. Vision still blurry. Blinking couple times she focused again and found herself in an unfamiliar setting where everything was surrounded by darkness.
Panicking she shot up and looked around frantically.
"Where am I?" She asked meekly trying to rub sleep off of her eyes.
"What a relief, you finally woke up."
Relief retuned to her face recognizing the voice.
"Moi Soverennyi."
Turning, she found him seated behind his makeshift desk. Going over some letters, which he put down soon as he noticed she was awakening.
Only then, the familiar black surrounding made sense. Annika felt silly for not recognizing where she was earlier.
She attempted to get down from the bed and just as those small feet touched the floor, sudden dizziness made her lose footing. Fortunately the Shadow Summoner caught her on time and placed her back on the bed.
"Thank you sir." She muttered softly, smoothing out her Kefta only to notice she was wearing her nightgown.
Nightgown?
Panic surged through her once more, this time making her eyes go wide and face furiously flaming.
"Who changed my clothes?"
"I—"
"WHAT?!" She almost screamed.
"—asked Polina to do it."
Her cheeks went from pink to red. All thanks to the embarrassment she was facing because of jumping into conclusions without thinking.
"What happened to me?" She asked after a moment of awkward silence.
He took one of her hand and began to play with her fingers, without meeting her eyes.
"You suddenly collapsed and slept for three consecutive days."
"Three days!" Her brows furrowed and eyes squinted as she shot him a look of disbelief.
He nodded affirmative.
It put her in deep thought as her mind tried to work out what could have taken place to cause her to pass out for three days straight.
He caressed her face to get her attention, his dark eyes watching her profoundly.
"I'm glad you're alright. We were all quite worried about you."
Not knowing what to say she simply nodded her head acknowledging his concern.
"Now, don't stress yourself too much. Your body is still weak, take rest." With that advice, he was getting up to leave when she caught him by the sleeve of his Kefta.
"Where is he?"
"He who?"
The question was unexpected but he pulled off the act of obliviousness smoothly.
"That boy, the Sun Summoner."
"What Sun Summoner?" His brow creased.
"The boy who claimed himself to be the Sun Summoner. He came with his brother, the only person to have witnessed his power."
"I'm afraid I don't understand what you're talking about." He stated shrugging his shoulders.
"What do you mean you don't understand what I'm talking about? They were standing right over there," She pointed at the accurate spot, "as you interrogated them. Why are you denying?"
He blinked. Now that was unexpected.
Her accusation took him off guard.
For a second there, he slipped. A storm of fear overtaking his handsome face. Luckily the impassive mask returned fast. Like it had never left in the first place. Soon as that happened, he leaped down to action— first it was his palm that touched her forehead, followed by his own forehead landing over her.
"What are you doing?" Annika tried to push him away but he kept a firm hold on her, already predicting her move.
"Checking," He replied smirking "whether your fever is rising again."
"What nonsense! Grishas don't get sick."
Pulling back he corrected her.
"They usually don't get sick. However it can happen on occasions when they push their limit by abandoning themselves of food and rest. Like you did, these past days." He said the last part giving her sharp nose a little pinch.
"So you're saying I got sick and imagined everything." She crossed her arms across her chest.
"It can happen. After all, high fever causes hallucination."
"Then I must have also hallucinated you taking me to the mountain." She sarcastically spat.
"I did take you to the mountain. You showed first showed signs of feeling unwell over there and collapsed soon after."
She looked him in the eyes, her gaze was both assessing and inquiring, searching for traces of lies. She even tried listening to his heartbeat— nothing!
It only added to her confusion. How can half of it be true and rest be her imagination? Some pieces of the puzzle were definitely missing. Problem was— as she tried to think deeper, her head started hurt beyond certain point.
"It doesn't make any sense. It can't all be my imagination. I'm not that creative minded. What are the chan—"
"Shhh!" He silenced her with a finger on the lips and gently pushed her back down on the bed.
She gulped nervously noticing he has leaned with her. One hand resting over her head, knitting the fingers into her hair. While the other was rested beside her, balancing his weight.
"You've said enough, now rest. I'm not taking anymore chances with your health. Someone will shortly bring you some food and you are only allowed to return to your tent after you fully finish your meal. Is that understood?"
She nodded.
"Good girl."
"Um... Moi Soverennyi...?" She trailed off hesitating.
"What is it?"
"I..." she looked away fearing the outcome if her request. "... I want to go home."
Silence.
There was absolutely silence.
In favour of explaining herself she looked back at him a moment later and reached out with her hand, stroking his jaw hesitantly with her fingertips.
His eyes closed down at the unexpected sensation.
She hoped he would understand her reasoning. She truly hoped so...
Something akin to understanding flashed within his eyes flashed when he reopened them. But nothing was said verbally.
He sent a soft smile her way after standing up in one graceful move and left the tent.
Whether he actually understood or not remained unknown.
After hearing couple of horrifying screams Zoya Nazyalensky frantically barged out of her tent and walked into a scene that could be easily described as total chaos.
Some were running around, some fighting to save themselves and others.
Shu mercenaries, in big number attacked the village at the wee hours of the night. Something that doesn't occur often and especially never when the Darkling is around.
What made them so bold suddenly? Zoya could only wonder while blasting off the two that were coming her way baring sharp knives.
She scanned the area to search for the one cladded in black Kefta but he was nowhere near in sight. In his stead she found Ivan in the distance, taking down fives rouges single handedly.
She rushed over his side and for some time the two fought side by side like team.
"What is happening?!" She asked, only after the last attacker in their vicinity fell. Even pointed out. "No one dares raid when he's around."
"Perhaps they realized he's not here." Ivan said crushing the heart of the two men that were heading towards them. Although he made it sound like it was no big deal but there was a hint of disappointment lacing in his voice.
Initially Zoya froze. Then clenched her fist. Feeling the ground beneath her opening up and swallowing her entirely.
The frown spread from his face to her. As a million different thoughts rose in her head, each more unpleasant than the previous one. The bile from her stomach reached all the way up to her throat making her taste bitterness, and only bitterness.
"Where is he?"
She wasn't sure if she even wanted to know.
Clenching his jaws in frustration, Ivan answered.
"Left for Os Alta... this evening."
The Squaller's face changed, becoming visibly angry as she started to glare at everything that was in line of her sight.
They were under attack and he was gone. Prioritizing that useless piece of shit while leaving them, his best soldiers to fend for themselves.
Outrageous!
What else could she do in such circumstances other than be enraged?
A.N: Thank you for reading. Hope you enjoyed.
Reply to Julie: I don't think they care if Annika learns or not. It's at a point where they just don't like Annika period. Of course they have their reasoning:
Zoya— because of the General.
Ivan— their personalities don't click. Therefore he finds her bratty and annoying.
Polina— (as you stated she one of those who can stir up drama from nothing, by simply running her mouth.) she one of those who doesn't like people who tends to go above her. If you noticed in this chapter it's pointed out by her brother that previously she went on bad mouthing Zoya, despising her for being the General's favourite. And now she acts as if they're best friends.
On a side note— at one point Annika will be forced to grow up and the reason behind that would be either one from the mother or son. Or perhaps both.
Reply to guest: Thank you, your kind words are much appreciated.