A.N. Edited
Chapter 10
Nina Zenik was taking a walk around the streets of Ryevost.
The Heartrender was on her way back to Os Alta to inform her General about a crucial discovery that she didn't feel safe writing on a letter and have it posted. It was safer to have a face to face conversation. For which, she travelled all the way from Novo-Kribrisk.
After that exhausting journey on a skiff, through the Shadow Fold, a bit of rest was mandatory. Hence why Nina checked herself into an inn here, in Ryevost. In spite of the exhaustion her body was feeling, her eyes refused to close down for the second night in a row. Nina understood, one cannot just snore right after travelling through that accursed living nightmare and seeing the equally terrifying creatures that resides inside it. That explains why she spent last night either staring at the ceiling or tossing and turning on the bed.
But what about tonight? Why was her mind still restless?
Soon she concluded that her heart and soul were jointly eager to be home. It wanted to reach the Little Palace as soon as possible. It's been over a year and half since she had last been home, seen her friends, her sister. Annika must have grown up so much!
Not wanting to waste another night just staring at the ceiling, Nina left her bed and the room to familiarize herself with the neighbourhood. And while doing so, the Heartrender noticed someone awfully familiar at a distance. Resulting her perfectly shaped brows to crunch in puzzlement.
Annika stood in the middle of a dark alleyway with a map in hand, trying to navigate her way. The fact that she was lost was boldly written on her face.
Nina blinked few times and rubbed her eyes just to make sure she was seeing things correctly.
To her utter horror, she was unfortunately.
But it made no sense! Annika is supposed to be in the Little Palace. So what was she doing here on the streets of Ryevost, in the middle of the night without her Kefta…? Could she have run away?
Lost in her train of thoughts Nina initially failed to notice the rouge man making his way over to her sister.
Looking up from the map Annika froze. Instead of trying to defend herself someway, she just stood there like a statue and watched the man closing in.
Nina rolled her eyes disapprovingly. Words wouldn't be enough to describe her disappointment. She really didn't expect Annika to be a damsel in distress. Well… turns out the latter didn't only inherit their mother's jaw dropping glamorous look but also picked up some of the disgusting traits of that woman.
The sound of Annika's increasing heartbeat caught her sister's attention. Instantly putting aside her personal feelings for their mother, Nina made her hands touch, all set to stop the man's heart before he could lay a finger on her baby sister.
Unbeknownst to the sisters a figure appeared behind Annika.
Just when he was close enough to touch, the man halted. The wicked grin from his lips disappeared.
Annika swallowed whilst Nina furrowed her brows wondering why he suddenly stopped.
Then, placing a hand over his chest he bowed; before fleeing from the scene. Leaving both sisters baffled.
— what was that?!
Nina turned and her jaw dropped in shock.
General Kirigan stood behind Annika, wearing a look that was far more dangerous than the eerie night itself. His expression, darker than the colour of his Kefta.
Finally sensing the presence behind, Annika turned. The map slipped from her fingers and landed on the muddy ground.
"Moi Soverennyi!" His title left the younger Zenik's lips in a barely audible whisper. The gravity of the situation finally hit her. No matter how disgraceful it sounds, truth is— if he wasn't here, she would have been raped.
Without thinking any further, she ran into the said man's arms and buried her face into his chest. Her hands clasped the fabric of his black Kefta so tightly that it turned her knuckles white.
The menacing look vanished from Kirigan's face. The shock remained for a moment before his features ultimately softened.
Truth be told, he was furious after learning that she disobeyed him and left to roam the streets this late at night. He began his search with the intention to unleash his fury on her. Give her a scolding so harsh that she would think twice before doing something so reckless. But right after she faced him with those tear-filled frightened eyes, his heart changed like the seasons. Alternately, he enfolded her in his arms and stroked her hair.
Both closed their eyes basking in the others warmth.
"I'm so-sorry."
"Sshhh... you're forgiven."
Meanwhile, Nina felt dread building up in the pit of her stomach. Her eyes becoming frightened. Questions after question overwhelming her already confused state of mind.
Not able to watch the intimate scene anymore, she swirled back on her feet and rushed back to the inn.
Perhaps it's best they don't meet now. She might as well just send letters to the General and wait here until further instruction.
However, Nina missed how the Darkling opened his eyes and his unreadable gaze settled on the secluded spot she was occupying just a moment ago.
Nina took a generous bite of the short-bread cookie and chewed it in absent mind while staring at the ceiling, in worry. A companion she brought back, that certainly wouldn't leave till she reaches the bottom of it.
Quite ironic how fate made her do the very thing she was planning to avoid.
Usually Nina wouldn't care. But circumstances here were different. It's her own sister for goodness sake.
In all honesty, what did she just witness?
Annika on the streets of Ryevost, alone —makes no sense. Question is how did she even get there? Someone with her level of skills would never be able to pass through the palace security.
Getting targeted by a random stranger — makes absolute sense. From the age of eleven, her looks have started to bring in unwanted attention. What was so sickening about it was the fact that these attention mostly came from men were not just double her age, but belonged to the age group of their father. Their father was an old pervert, who, using his wealth and influence married their mother at the age of fifteen, when he was already running sixty-five.
General Kirigan coming to her rescue — To some extent the scenario makes sense and to some extent it doesn't. He wouldn't just standby and watch a Grisha get harmed. But he didn't get involved in such little matters either. Any random soldier could have scared the man away. Above all, if Annika knew how to fight, she wouldn't even be in this situation in the first place.
His change of facial expression — it was the action that contributed to arousing most confusion. His cold ruthless face, hardened jaw, black eyes with dangerous glint in them, all disappeared the second Annika turned. Replacing them with softer appearance, lips curved up to a smile and eyes gazing at her gently. The change was so drastic and noticeable, that it made him almost look like a different person. Not the Darkling everyone knew him as.
Then, Annika pouncing into the General's arms — doesn't make sense. Even if it was due to immense gratitude or to seek comfort in the fear of the moment. Whichever way it is looked into, the points don't add up. Annika is too arrogant to touch people she isn't familiar with. But here she was, clutching onto the man as if her life depends on it. Back when Nina was at the Little Palace, these two weren't familiar. So how did that change over a span of a year?
Lastly, the General returning her hug — the part that makes absolutely no sense! In fact it is quite out of character for him. Although in his defence, no one was on the street aside from the two of them. Which makes matter even worse!
Nina clutched her forehead tightly for a second, then ran the same hand though her now open hair and let out an exasperated sigh.
To be able dive into such tender actions so casually, what kind of connection have they built? Are they…
An ugly feeling spread through her stomach and up her chest. Making the older Zenik shake her head vigorously. Disgusted at the mere thought.
Impossible! Annika's too young to be sleeping with General. Plus, that's not how he acts with the person he's getting naked with.
Entire Little Palace knew about him and Zoya. Even then, not even once has he shown any form of affection towards Squaller. He may have had given her special treatment but not on the same level as Ivan and Fedyor. The only clue that hinted towards their involvement was the amount of time Zoya would spend inside the war-room with him alone. With the addition of the Squaller's boasting later on.
But his interactions with Annika seemed different on a whole new level. His action happen to represent direct symbol of affection.
Odd!
Nina shuddered, feeling fear and revulsion coiling inside her.
Suddenly, her usual big appetite was gone and she put the cookie back down on the plate, sitting on the bedside table.
The street they were walking through was dark and eerily quiet. Given the time of the night it was unquestionably normal.
For Kirigan, it was his preferred setting. He finds it quite peaceful. Although as a child he was afraid of the darkness, but now, after spending hundreds of years in this world, fighting countless battle, watching so many close friends fall, he has learned to live with the darkness and to some extent embrace it as well. After all, the darkness is what he represents; it is who he is.
Unfortunately for the person beside him the situation was different. She wasn't fond of the dark nights. Her preferred time was the day. That beside the point, the near dangerous experience she was about to have, left her completely shaken up.
A smirk curled up his lips as he observed the younger female— she was scooting closer. Whether it for comfort or protection he wasn't sure. Perhaps it was both. And he didn't mind either way.
"May I hold your hand?" The request came sooner than he had anticipated.
He offered her his arm that she grabbed tightly, using both her hands.
From time to time Annika would look back to check if someone was following them. At first Kirigan simply let her be, being considerate of her current state of mind. But interfered when she did that for the seventh time.
He stopped and looked back despite knowing no one was behind them.
"No one is following us, nor would anyone dare as long as you're with me." He assured, cupping a portion of her face with his free hand.
"I know..." she trailed off glancing down at her feet. "But still, for my peace of mind I just want to make sure."
Placing a finger under her chin he gently titled her face up. "You're in the presence of the Darkling. Isn't that enough?"
She gazed directly into his eyes. Set of lilac clashing with his obsidian ones when the following left her lips.
"Maybe if you were the Black Heretic, I would have felt more at ease."
The world around him stopped. His blood ran cold. He didn't know if she was joking or just said it in fluke or she was plain taunting him. Irregardless, it strike a nerve.
Snatching his arm out of her grasp he used the same hand to clasp her face. Putting more pressure around her mouth to make her feel the pain she indirectly inflicted upon him.
"Don't..." he warned in a hauntingly low voice. His eyes suddenly filled with anger. "don't ever say such things."
Her eyes widened, horror shining in them as she noticed the cloud of shadows forming behind him. It brought back memories of their very first interaction in the war-room. And before she could fathom, tears were already rolling out of her eyes.
"S-sorry sir." She pleaded. "I'm so sorry."
Moving past her face her hot tear reached his hand. In spite of being covered in glove it's warmth still managed to penetrate through the leather and reach him. Immediately he retracted his hand. The impact left her pale face red. He took couple steps back and turned around to compose himself.
In turn allowing heavy silence to take over.
After passing a few long agonizing minutes he finally turned, grabbed her by the hand and tugged her along.
As they reached their campsite, which in this case was the abandoned house they have occupied for the night, an Oprichnik came running towards them.
"Report from the Shu border, sir!"
Noticing the approaching guard Kirigan quickly let go off Annika's hand. Predicting what had taken place, and not wanting to discuss them in front of Annika, he sent her back to her room before asking the guard for the details.
"Send out a search party and fetch Miss Zenik for me. There's something I must must discuss with her." Ordered the General, after receiving full report.
The Oprichnik looked at the General dumbfounded before following the path Annika had walked. Not understanding why the General was asking for Miss Zenik, after he had just sent her away.
Understanding the guard's confusion Kirigan rolled his eyes.
"I meant the older one."
He knocked on the door and waited.
Upon receiving no response even when minutes passed, he knocked again, with the addition of calling her out this time.
Still no response!
And there wouldn't be one, he figured. Leaving him with two choices to pick from. First: leave her alone for the night. Give her space and approach her in the morning, when she would be in much clear head space. Second: he could just walk in and try to sort it out now.
Rationally thinking he chose the first option and turned around, ready to walk away. But after going only six steps he stopped. Suddenly realizing the seriousness of the situation. He didn't lose his temper for nothing! She's becoming too comfortable mentioning that name so casually. All it takes is one slip-up to ruin years worth of hard work. And it was something he couldn't afford at any cost.
Determined, he turned around and retreated.
He opened the door carefully and peeked, just to make sure she was at least decent. Last thing he needed now is to walk in on a scene that would only put them in an awkward position.
Much to his relief she was decent. Laying down with her legs dangling off the edge of the bed. Staring blankly at the ceiling as silent tears rolled down the corner of her eyes.
His lips parted to seek her permission for entry but closed it off realizing how pointless it was. Just to let her know of his presence, he entered clearing his throat and closed the door behind him.
"I understand it's was not fair to scold you at such a time, however, you have to understand that all actions come with consequences." He began to slowly march towards the bed. "I wouldn't have panicked if it was anyone else, this area is quite safe." And stopped as he reached the edge of the bed. "But you, are a whole other matter."
Annika scoffed, narrowing her eyes at the ceiling. "Am I?"
"Yes, you are." He replied firmly, crossing his arms across the chest in a fashion that made him look no less regal a king; even with the absence of his Kefta.
Somehow the topic got diverted elsewhere. He came to warn her about not uttering his disgraced ancestor's name so casually; and here they were, bickering about something different.
"Need I remind you that you have no knowledge of self defence."
"Hence why you were warned not to take me out of the Little Palace; several times by several individuals." She taunted.
"Pardon me for thinking you deserved a fair chance to prove all those individuals wrong." He smiled icily. Thinking those words would get under her nerves.
It didn't though, unfortunately.
"I do not care to prove anyone anything. My only regret is not being able to save Dominika…" Her voice came out heavy with guilt. "Since then, my motivation to be a Healer is slowly diminishing. So if you think by keeping me close and luring me about amplifiers you can mold me into one of your asset for the Second Army, you're wrong."
"I don't recall promising you an amplifier." A small smirk curled the Darkling's lips.
"You haven't yet, doesn't mean you wouldn't in the future." She quipped.
"Only the ones that truly deserve, get an amplifier. And you, my dear, don't even make it the list."
Frustrated, Annika closed her eyes and took a deep breath.
"Sir, the point is I don't care to be an important soldier in the Second Army. Or any army for the matter. I just don't want to be a soldier. I don't want to fight…"Reopening her eyes she glared at the Shadow Summoner. Hoping somehow someway it would help him understand her point of view. "...It isn't me!"
Sighing he sat down on the edge of the bed, beside her. Resting his hands back as he followed her gaze to the ceiling.
"I also do not want to fight, Annika. Believe me, I am tired of it. However, I also cannot not do anything. I have to change the world, where Grishas would no longer be persecuted for just existing and be experimented on or eaten. It is my responsibility to provide my Grishas with a place where they would have same right as those Otkazat'sya. It is the only way I can atone for my forefather's mistake."
"You don't have to atone for anything, sir. You didn't create the fold. It is unfair to blame you for your ancestor's mistake. And as I previously mentioned, how do we know under what circumstances the Black Heretic actually created the fold...?"
Tearing his gaze away from the ceiling Kirigan looked at her. His eyes shining with various emotions shining in them. But Annika didn't look. Therefore she missed the way he was looking at her with great interest.
"If the burden of being the leader of the Second Army is coming at the cost of your own happiness, then leave, everything and runaway. Go somewhere far away and have a fresh start. Fall in love, get married, have children... live the rest of your life happily." She suggested.
He chuckled. Somewhat amused and somewhat touched.
"It isn't as simple as you make it sound, child. I cannot just abandon my Grisha, they need me. Without me they will have no one to turn to." He paused to exhale the breath he didn't even know he was holding.
"You wouldn't understand, nor do I expect you to. Anyway... tell me, if not a soldier, what is it that you truly want to be?"
"How does it matter to you?" She pouted.
"Because…" He laid down, copying her style. "because you matter to me."
Annika whipped her head, eyes wide and gaze questioning.
Last time he slipped words like this, he quickly had them corrected. This time though he didn't bother. Boldly left it open for interpretation.
They both stared at each other. The room fell completely silent and neither made a move to change that. It was as if they were content with simply watching each other.
"Tell me, if not a soldier then what is it that you wish to be?" He pressed. Interest seemingly increasing, if that was even possible.
Her hand reached out and cupped his face. The soft skin of her palm felt scratches from the course hair of his beard.
Kirigan sucked in a sharp breath. His body becoming rigid. It was impossible to ignore the way her simple touch was making him feel. He wanted to move away, he knew he should have. But… he leaned into her touch involuntarily.
"Please don't laugh at me for what I'm about to say."
"I would not and you know that already."
"I want to get married and have children."
His eyes shot open, that closed down during some point. But she paid no heed to that detail and continued to share her idea.
"If that isn't possible, my next option would be become someone's paramour. A man belonging to someone else desiring me… the idea alone makes it sound so exciting."
"How old are you again?" He asked playfully.
"Fourteen sir. But I don't think age matters. My mother was married off by the age of fifteen. And someone I know in the Little Palace was about to be married at the age of nine." She intentionally refrained from naming the person, Zoya.
Kirigan didn't know how to react. Deeply regretting making the promise not to laugh. And was forced to bite the inside of his mouth to prevent anything close to laughter from escaping him. This was by far the most absurd wish he had ever heard.
"I understand this is not what you expect from us." She spoke out, reading his face. "But it's not necessary that everyone has to be a soldier, is it? You can make an exception. Like you already have, for your Fabrikators."
He touched her hand that was resting on his face and gave it a little squeeze. Hoping she would understand his point.
"Fabrikators are different. Whereas you belong to the order of the Corporalki. If I make exception for one then I will have to make exception for ten, soon it will be hundred and the number will continue to rise. I lead an army, there are rules that must be followed in order to maintain balance."
"In that case I have another idea… may I?" She offered sheepishly.
"Go on…" He said bracing himself.
"Why don't you sell me to a brothel."
His eyes turned so wide that it looked like they would pop out of it's socket any moment.
"Make sure you see a Healer once we reach. I think you sustained some serious head injury."
She continued, not bothering with his snide remark.
"I heard from various people that in Ketterdam, girls with good features go for a very high price. Think about it sir, you maybe able to use that money for the betterment of Grisha." She further encouraged.
He opened his mouth and closed it off due to not finding appropriate words. Although he never said it out loud, but ever since they began interacting, he always thought this pretty faced girl was a little crazy. Turns out it's not a little, she is fully mad.
"Help me understand. Do you hate the idea of fighting for your country and your people so much that you'd rather have yourself be sold at a brothel?"
Leaving his face her hand moved to his hair, absently playing with the locks that fell over his forehead. Causing his eyes to close down once more and body to shiver.
"I don't hate my country or my kind! It's just that after this experience," She was referring to their trip in the Southern border. "I have fully realized that I am not meant to fight wars. I belong somewhere else and that isn't the battlefield."
Shaking his head, he let out an exasperated sigh. Deep down he wanted to cry while another part of him wanted to laugh. When in reality the only emotion he should be feeling right now was outrage. Strange, how he became furious when she cracked a silly joke. And here he was undecided on whether to laugh or cry when she is downright refusing to do her job.
"Would you mind explaining your fascination about him, the Black Heretic." He queried after a long silence.
But received no response; only silence.
He looked, only to find out she had dosed off.
He smiled. No wonder the ministration stopped. After carefully removing her hand off of his head and placing it back on her side, he resumed watching her. And in doing so leaned closer, without having much of realization. Fingers daringly reaching out to push back the thick lock of hair that fell in front of the face, curtaining it from him.
The hair was already out of the face, albeit his fingers remained. His touch— delicate. Enjoying the feel of her soft smooth skin. Even when asleep she looked so breathtakingly beautiful. How those lips managed to hold onto that adorable pout was beyond his brain's capacity to understand.
At this point in time he was willing to take pretty much anything he could get from her— a look, a touch, a kiss.
He swallowed hard.
Okay that was asking for too much.
Still, his fingers slid down and the thumb gently pressed over the bottom lip. He couldn't help but wonder how would it feel to kiss her, those soft and fluffy looking lips.
Suddenly, an overwhelming sensation drove him to the point of discomfort, making him retract his hand right away.
However, the eyes refused! It refused to move because it did not know where else to look other than her.
.
.
.
It was breaking of dawn when Kirigan began waking up. His eyes barely opened, face nuzzled the chest it was resting over. He wasn't sure where he was, but he quite liked it. It felt and smelled nice, smooth and sweet.
A groan reached his ear but he didn't pay much attention until it changed to a whine. Only then his eyes fully opened and he finally realized where exactly he was— her arms!
Quickly he shot up and jumped off the bed, getting as far away from her as possible. His face filled with panic and only panic. Running a hand through his hair Kirigan tried figuring out how he ended up there in the first place. But couldn't dwell on the thought for much longer as Annika was also waking up because of the direct sunlight hitting her face.
Then without sparing a second thought he exited her room like a thief. Looking left and right multiple times making sure no guard sees him even by mistake.
If only he knew then that the did was indeed done.
Nina woke up to the sound of loud banging on the door.
At first she tried to ignore it by putting a pillow over her head. Thinking whoever it was would become tired and eventually leave. Sadly she was wrong. It only got worse, making it clear whoever the devil was, had no intention of leaving without audience.
Cursing, the Heartrender sat up. Rubbing sleep out of her eyes she left the bed, heading for the door. And soon as she opened the door, the Heartrender felt her own heart slowing down. She definitely wasn't expecting to find a pair of Oprichniki outside her door.
"What is the matter?" Nina demanded.
"You are to come with us, the General is expecting you." Answered one of the guards.
So he figured I was there last night. Great!
Nina would be lying if she said the idea to flee these men didn't Cross her mind. But it was pointless fighting the General's guards. She maybe able take down these folks easily, that doesn't mean she can outrun the Darkling. Above all, her baby sister is with him. Any wrong move would most certainly put a direct impact on Annika. So keeping her sister's safety in mind Nina decided to comply.
"Very well then, lead the way." Said Nina, in a voice that was flirty, while flashing the guards a gaze that made them feel important.
"We're here."
The Heartrender vaguely heard one of the guards inform, as they brought their horses to an eventual stop. Her mind was too distracted with other matters to notice how soon they have arrived. The Second Army's temporary establishment in Ryevost wasn't too far from where her inn was located. Although Nina wished it was, as it would have given her more time to prepare. No wonder the Oprichniki was able to sniff her out in a matter of night.
Mimicking the guards she demounted the horse. Her boot-clad feet firmly pressing down on the muddy ground, leaving behind fresh trails as she followed the pair guiding her to their leader.
With her head held high Nina stepped through the door and found the Darkling standing, with his back facing her and his front facing the window. His arms elegantly crossed behind his back.
"You wanted to see me, sir?"
"Nina…" he addressed her, acknowledging her presence respectfully, despite not turning. "I received information that you were in Ryevost. Forgive my impatience but I couldn't simply wait till we reached Os Alta. Go on…" slightly looking over his shoulder "…tell me."
In order to save the information from landing on prying ears Nina decided to disclose them in a different language, Zemeni. Since Kirigan was also multi lingual it worked out smoothly.
"Nina!" Came in the overly excited voice, cutting off the Heartrender in the midst of something important.
The occupants inside the room turned only to see Annika jogging through the door and spring straight into her sister's arms.
"Nina, it's you! It really is you! I can't believe it!"
In spite of being delighted to see her sister, Nina's concern returned the moment Annika pulled back and unintentionally revealed the pendent with the Darkling's symbol hanging on her neck.
But keeping their best interest in mind Nina decided to act accordingly.
"What are you doing here?" Exclaimed Nina, carrying out the act of obliviousness to the point. She didn't want to give the Darkling the chance to be more suspicious. He already found out she is here; which indicates he has seen her or somehow sensed her presence last night.
"I work for the General now. I'm his—"
"I think for the time being it would be wise of you to be away from the west, Nina." The Darkling cut in, interrupting Annika as he came to stand beside her. Indirectly preventing her from giving further details.
"I can't risk someone blowing up your cover. For the time being head over to the South. It was under attack last night— Shu mercenaries in big numbers crossed into our side. Your presence there would be helpful."
"Of course sir. I would be on my way shortly."
"What?!" Annika turned, confused. Her eyelashes fluttering like a bird with broken wings attempting to fly. "Nina is not returning to Os Alta with us?"
Annika's tone in questioning the General caught Nina's attention. The latter woman couldn't construe whether the former was nagging or demanding an explanation from the General. Either way, where was she— a nobody getting such spunk from, to be able to be insolent in front of the most powerful man in all of Ravka?
"I'm afraid not."
She even tried to protest. "But sir—"
Only for him to put her in place instantly.
"This discussion ends right here. Am I understood?"
"Yes sir. Please pardon my rudeness."
Their eye contact broke. Annika was the one who did it and looked down. The look on her face stood somewhere between upset, annoyed and frustrated.
A frown appeared on the older Zenik's lips as she quietly observed the General and her sister interact. Something was surly off here!
Silence was filling the space between them until the General's powerful voice tore it down.
"We shall depart soon. On that account, feel free to spend an hour or two with each other." He said motioning his hand towards the door. Signalling they were free to go.
Taken aback by the man's sudden kind gesture a smile appeared on both the sisters faces.
Although it was disappointing to learn that Nina wouldn't returning to the Little Palace. Nevertheless, the fact that the General grew a heart and granted them some time together before they were separated once more, was enough for now.
The whole point of them going for breakfast was so that Nina could squeeze out some information. Much to her dismay it wasn't going according to how she had planned.
When the older one said "Give me the details." She meant the good and juicy stuff. Problem was— the little brat was only interested in jabbering about Viktor, that overly cooked Alkemi.
As much as Nina wanted to know how her baby sister's life has been faring at the Little Palace in her absence, she wasn't interested in listening about Viktor only. There were far more pressing matters in hand that needed to be discussed. For starter: Since when does she work for the General and how did she even qualify? And what was all that hugging last night? That particular part definitely needs detailed explanation.
Initially Nina decided to be generous and spared few minutes allowing Annika to get all her emotions about the Alkemi out of her system. However, Annika wasn't satisfied with just few minutes. She wanted to talk about him the entire time. Unfortunately, Nina didn't have time or the patience to put up with her sister's childishness. So she did what any sane person would do, put a stop to it.
"Remind me, were you always this annoying, or have you adapted this trait in my absence?" Said Nina, out of the blue.
Annika blinked, finding herself at a loss of words at her sister's sudden intrusion. Then her brows furrowed, as she became irritated. Couldn't Nina find a better time to interrupt? She was just about to share her epic plan of running away with Viktor.
"Were you always this rude, or have you adapted this trait recently?" Annika retaliated, mimicking her sister's tone.
"Oh look someone's got attitude!"
"Hey!" Annika protested slamming a hand on the table. "Don't try to put the blame on me. I've been trying to tell you about my life had been without you. But seems like you aren't interested at all. Perhaps you have stories to share."
"For your information, you haven't shared anything about your life. All you're doing is wasting our both of out time blabbering about a guy who has zero interest in you."
"Viktor cares about me!" Annika clenched her jaw hard. Those words felt like a bite on her skin.
"Well I certainly don't care and don't have enough time to dwell on the stories of your silly crush. If you really do want to share, then why not you start with explaining since when do you work for Kirigan? And why am I learning about this now?! You've written to me few times, how come you never mentioned it?"
"I didn't think it was important. Besides don't we all work for General Kirigan one way or another?"
That was an unexpectedly smart reply. Nina was impressed.
"Not everyone gets the opportunity to work with him closely. Only a handful of extraordinarily talented and lucky individuals get selected." Nina countered taking a small bite of her waffle. "What my brain can't process is how did you of all people make it to that rank?"
"You're underestimating me."
"Oh trust me, I know you very well. The only use he would have of you—"
"Actually I am serving punishment." Admitted Annika, taking a small sip of fruit juice she ordered.
"Punishment…? For what?"
Heaving a heavy sigh Annika began explaining everything from the very beginning. Starting with how Dimitri fought with Viktor and burned him. Taking advantage of the situation, some snakes, Polina being one of them tattle on her to the General. Although at first the General let her go with a warning. But the second time around, when she accidentally blew up the Fabrikators workshop, General wasn't so kind. He put her into a white Kefta and turned her into his maid.
Nina listened carefully taking in every detail while paying extra attention to her heartbeat. They remained steady all throughout. The whole scenario made sense up until one point— the duration. Why has the supposed punishment stretched out for so long? A week or two at most would have been enough to teach Annika a good lesson. But it has been over six months now. So what is he actually upto?
"Then what are you doing here, if you are just a simple errand girl, as you claim to be…?"
"He picked me as the Healer for this particular trip."
Hearing that Nina raised a brow. Getting selected for a trip with the General is a very big deal. And no student except for Zoya, had such privilege; ever. Not even Nina herself received such honour.
"Did you even graduate?"
"No! Of course not!"
"Then why did he pick you?"
"Nobody knows. People tried explaining to him, but he refused to listen. And because of his stubbornness I had to sit for my exams a week early. Who knows whether I'll ever pass this year."
Could it be just the tip of the iceberg?
What are the chances there's a lot more that cannot be seen from the surface?
Nina frowned at the possibility. Usually the older Zenik took pride in being right. This time however, she didn't want to be right.
"And how would you explain what happened last night?"
"What happened last night?!" Annika repeated the question. After all, a lot indeed happened last night. She just needed to know which part was Nina exactly referring to.
"I saw you two…" Nina struggled to find the right word. "…embracing."
"Oh that!" Annika exclaimed. Her tone suddenly turned so casual that it felt as if they were talking about something as mundane as Ravka's weather. "Didn't you stick around to see what happened afterwards? How he scolded me and followed by lectured me later at night."
The Heartrender was about to take a bite of her waffle when she suddenly caught the off beat. That was it, a lie tactfully thrown in a sea of truth. But in which exact part Annika lied Nina couldn't tell.
Here is thing, Annika's personality varies from time to time depending on her mood. At times she's like the water. Clear, transparent, easy to see inside. Then there are times when she takes the form of an ice. At first glance seems transparent and easy to look into, but upon close inspection turns out such isn't the case. There are times when she pretends to be a moron. Then there are times when she actually becomes one. Annika isn't a talented liar. However she believes in her lies so strongly that when they are delivered her heart tends to get confused and often mistaken them for truth. Hence why it is really difficult to detect when she's exactly telling the truth or lying.
But only because they grew up together, and Nina practically was the person that raised Annika, gave the Heartrender an upper hand on such circumstances. She knew how to dissect the little one. And she decided to apply the same formula here, as she was determined to get to the bottom of this.
"So the General scolded you? Why?"
"Yes... because I said something I shouldn't have."
Truth.
"And lectured you again later at night?"
"He visited me in my room…"
Truth.
"Then?"
"…we talked."
Truth.
"Afterwards?"
"He left."
Lie.
If he didn't leave, then what happened?
Nina's eyes narrowed.She could feel the bile rise up in her throat.
"Has he been tumbling you?"
"Nina!" Annika exclaimed embarrassed, looking around frantically just to make sure no one has heard her sister. "What are you saying, so disgusting! He is like a father to me."
Truth.
Relief returned to the older sister's face.
Their current topic ended there with a new one beginning. They didn't have much time in hand and who knows when they would meet next. So why waste them? Besides, the most Nina can do now is warn. The rest is up to Annika. She must learn to make her own decisions, in order if to survive in their war ridden nation.
Baghra was inside her hut, sitting before the fireplace with a half-full mug of tea in one hand and an iron rod on the other, with which she was aimlessly poking the fire to ignite the heat. As it was dropping below her preferred temperature.
It was usual routine for her most evenings. And tonight with nothing more to do, her plan was to head to bed soon as the tea finished.
Litttle did she know, tonight would be spent sleepless.
She heard the sound of her door opening and a figure entering. But remained unbothered, thinking it was one of her usual spies. That only changed the moment she heard the newcomer speak.
"Madam…"
The old woman's head snapped back, fully alarmed. She wasn't expecting this particular female Oprichnik.
"What are you doing here, aren't you supposed to be with the General?" Demanded Baghra, wondering how and why is she back before the actual due date.
"Madam, the General has returned." Informed the Oprichnik, closing the door behind her. Then strode over to where the owner of the hut remained seated. Their distance needed to be closed as much as possible. For what she was about to reveal happens to be quite scandalous.
"Just him, the Healer and a handful of us guards. The rest remained back at the camp."
Baghra found it slightly odd, but her mind reasoned not to put too much thought into it. He left some soldiers back at the camp, so what? It's isn't like he sent them to the Ice-Court to stand trail. What was actually unusual was this spy coming to inform her about it. Baghra has trained the girl better. The latter knows not to bother her with matter so trivial. What are the chances there is more she has to share…?
"There has been an attack soon after the General departed. We received news after reaching Ryevost."
Baghra took a sharp breath. It's a war ridden country, attacks could take place anywhere at any time. It's wrong to expect the General to be available at all times. Besides the second army is capable of taking care of themselves and others. Her son maybe many things, but careless isn't one of them.
"You may leave."
The guard remained, despite being dismissed. Hinting the older woman that there were more she had to spill.
"What is it?" Baghra sighed tiredly, like a frustrated mother bracing herself to hear all the complaints about her child.
"He spent the night with her, in Ryevost."
Not wanting to hear any further details about it, Baghra decided to dismiss her spy.
"Leave." She said to the Oprichnik in a flat tone and reminded, just as the latter reached the door.
"Make sure that this conversation does not leave this cave, Natalia."
Something akin to understanding flashed within the aforementioned guard's face. Nodding her head in understanding, she left.
Annika quietly followed the Oprichnik leading her to the General's quarter.
It was still dark outside. She noticed looking out of the windows they were passing. That explains why the halls of the Little Palace were quiet. It was too early for anyone to be up. Including the General, especially after taking into account the long journey they had been on for the past couple days.
What's the matter?
Why does he want an audience now, at this time?
These were the questions the Grisha had asked the Oprichnik. But the latter's answer was no help, nor was her impassive face.
The doors to the war-room was left ajar.
Annika didn't bother to knock, she simply walked in. And the first thought to cross her mind the moment she stepped inside was,
Something is off.
Usually the General always greeted her first. On days when he didn't voice them out, he welcomed her with a smile. But tonight she was welcomed by pin drop silence. On top that, the room was left dark, exceptionally dark. No candle or lanterns were even dimly lit. At first glance it seemed like his shadows were engulfing the surrounding but upon closer look it became clear that such wasn't the case.
"Sir?" She called, but her call wasn't answered.
Unable to make out where exactly he was, Annika gulped, feeling nervous.
Blindly she walked towards the lantern and turned it up, increasing brightness of the room.
Then turned and detected Kirigan. Standing behind the large strategy table. In his sleeping robes, arms folded across the chest, absently looking at one of the open scrolls. An open bottle of whiskey on side with an almost empty chalice beside it.
He looked uncharacteristically lost. Like he was just physically there, whilst his mind was left elsewhere.
"Sir…?" She called again and this time captured his attention. He looked at her and in favour of explaining himself motioned a hand, asking her to come closer.
She made her way over to him with great haste.
"I was told you wanted to see me."
"Yes, I did…" He said, sighing heavily.
Her frown deepened noticing how he was avoiding her gaze. Acting odd and uneasy. As if he was bracing himself to deliver some terrible news. And that realization made her shoulders tense. She visibly became nervous and failed to stop all the negative thoughts from entering her mind one after another.
Did something happen to Nina?The question kept repeating in her mind. Simultaneously, she also shook her head forcefully, to throw away these thoughts, as such thoughts weren't beneficial. However his silence wasn't helping at all.
What Annika wasn't aware of, was the turmoil in his mind. Which resulted after their night in Ryevost. Heck! She didn't even know that he spent the night sleeping in her arms. It was a slip that should have never happened. But it did! He let it happen. Just like he is letting a lot of things happen recently, and every single one of them involves her. Now it's only a matter of time before it all goes south.
It is a risk he cannot afford to take.
Hence why he must do the right thing now. Before it's too late. Which is— to set the bird free.
"Is my sister alright? Is she hurt? … Dead?" Not knowing when he would speak, Annika decided to go ahead first.
For a moment Kirigan looked at her as if she were a misbehaving child. "Do not always think so negative. I'm sure Nina is quite alright. Possibly just few hours away from reaching her destination."
"Oh! I see." Relief returned to her face, bringing a smile as its companion.
"I called you for another reason." He revealed. "I have decided to end your punishment, effective immediately."
Annika froze. Processing the information that was just dropped on her like a bullet from a rifle. Soon after, her expression changed. Lips broadly grinning, lilac eyes further brighting up as it poured into his obsidian ones.
On the contrary he looked strange. His emotions were a combination of sad and upset. But he was also setting her free from his slavery. Therefore the former factors didn't matter. Annika didn't care about his emotional turbulence. It was none of her business. She'd be free from now. No more working for him. That's all that matters.
"So… I no longer work for you." She wanted to double check, just to make sure they were on the same page and she didn't misinterpret his words.
He nodded his head, softly mouthing correct.
"Which means I will no longer have wake up early in the morning to make your tea, clean up your mess in here," she pointed a thumb back at the clutter on the table. "...run you a bath and make your bed!"
He nodded, no. Confirming.
"Thank you sir. Thank you so very much." She smiled. A smile so bright that it blinded him.
"So... am I good to go now?"
He didn't know what to say, he just watched her quietly before ultimately muttering yes.
In joy she sprinted towards the exit. It was when she finally reached the door, her hand already closing around the handle, that Annika just stopped.
And so did Kirigan's heart for a moment.
"Oh I almost forgot…" quickly taking the pendant off of her neck, the Healer rushed back. Deep down he already knew she was coming for him.
"Here." She handed the pendant back to him.
But he prevented, holding her hand midway. While his other hand travelled to her face, tucking some strands of her hair behind her ear.
"Keep it. And if you ever feel the need, don't hesitate to use it."
"But it is your official symbol."
"And it belongs to you now, Annika." His nose flared. "It is yours."
She looked at him surprised, her gaze was both assessing and inquiring as she tried to make sense of why he would just give out something so important, so easily to someone like her who's quite irrelevant. But expressed her gratitude regardless.
"Thank you, Moi Soverennyi."
"Please…" A smile graced his lips as he said the following. "…Call me Aleksander."
"I'm sorry…?" She raised a brow, not quite catching.
"My name," He leaned close, really inappropriately close and whispered "that is my name."
Annika was confused. Unable to understand why he was making it sound like it was such a big deal, when the name itself was such a common one. There were already six Aleksanders in the Little Palace, now with him, it was seven. That aside, the name didn't even suit him.
Thinking it would be funny to mock him, she too leaned closer. With mere inches left between their faces, allowing their breath to blend.
"Change it to Vladmir," her hand reached out, stroking his beard with her fingertips. "It goes to with your face."
Not sure whether it was the excessive amount he drank or the stress plaguing his mind or the mixed signal she just gave; but altogether he felt so deprived of her already that every sense of morality left him momentarily. And that's exactly what pushed him to lean in to capture her lips for a kiss...
However he missed, by a second.
Because she stepped back.
The sound of his hammering heartbeat was the only source of noise cutting through deafening silence in the room.
Their gaze remained locked, but faces had contrasting expression. His laced with shock, whilst her remained blank. Guilt spread across his features instantly. He didn't know what to say or how to defend his action. As it was a move that was not made by him in right conscious.
"I—"
"Good night, sir." She cut him off. Snatching away his chance to explain himself and walked away. Naïvely assuming it was the end of all her problems.
When in reality, it was only getting started.
A.N: Thank you for reading. Hope you enjoyed.
Rely to guest #1: It could be Milo. Actually I wrote it as rabbit first only to realize later that a goat would be better fit. So yeah, it could be Milo.
Annika was put in a position she had never faced that too with no training. It was only natural for her to seek any kind of help. She needs time and more of those situations that will encourage her to grow up and see life for what it is. Because even now, she has different kind of mindset, she isn't mentally fit to be a soldier.
Reply to Julie: Maybe they could have just punished those frauds and let them off. But I'm sure they always took the harsh route. If you remember in the show— Mal panicked when Alina was taken to the tent, thinking what would happened when they realized Alina isn't a Grisha. Which probably means the Second Army was known to deal with frauds in similar way.
Once again I decided to add Mal now because I wanted him to be around when the situation with fraud Sun Summoner takes place. This way it connects with canon as to why he panicked when Alina gets taken to the General's tent. As for his perspective towards Grisha changing because of this small incident with Annika…? I'm not too sure (haven't thought that far yet) let's see.
It could be Milo. Actually I wrote it as rabbit first only to realize later that a goat would be better fit. So yeah, it could be Milo.
Reply to guest #2: It's to show that when people dislike you, it doesn't matter what you do, their opinion remains unchanged.
Reply to guest#3: It is silly, I agree with you 100%. However certain points are being written differently now, so that whatever happens in the future can be connected and made sense with.
Moving on: you are absolutely correct the Darkling isn't weak or foolish. But a manipulative person also knows how to bend their characters accordingly.
Now— "The idea that she pouts and he up and leaves everyone behind because she wants to go home - never would happen!"
You are absolutely correct. Now if I may say. There could be two explanations: First the Shu border is relatively safe when you compare it to the Fjerdan border. Therefore he wasn't leaving them in tigers cage. Those were his best soldiers perfectly capable of protecting themselves and others.
Second, did he really leave because Annika wanted to leave…? Of course not! It may seem that way. If you look back you'd see hints that he left because she was becoming a hindrance. Her dramatic nature was starting to cause inconvenience for him while distractions for others. It was a massive mistake on his part to bring her, when she isn't at all prepared for it. Nor does she have the willingness.
Now you may ask, why did he bring her then?
Answer is— even the Darkling makes mistakes, even if it is on rare occasions. Another thing, Annika is basically one of those extremely glamorous face, who tends to be favoured in the society because of it, especially by men. (Trust me, it's taken from real life.) Naturally, these people tend to be a little arrogant, annoying and someone that everyone cannot connect with. They are those prevailed individuals who tend to expect the world to revolve around them. (Sorry if I got carried away) And Annika getting chosen as the Healer for the team was pure partiality.
Moving onto your other point— Of course the Darkling won't just fall victim to a pouty pretty faced girl. However— as a skilled chess player I can tell you there is big difference between playing with an opponent who's weak and an opponent who doesn't even have the basic knowledge of the game. It's easy to take down a weaker opponent. But to play with someone who doesn't understand the game presents a bigger challenge for the skilled players. As this person has who idea what move to make and their wrong move tends to put the main players in difficulty. Annika is the latter kind of opponent. Annika isn't Alina. She's no saint or saviour. She's only getting dragged deeper and deeper into all this is because of her pretty face — Think about all the events that has happened so far.
But I totally understand if it isn't cup of your. Not everything is meant for everyone.
Reply to guest #4: Definitely feel your emotions. Not my favourite character as well.