IMPORTANT NOTE! PLEASE READ FIRST!
I made some edits to the previous chapter. In the previous chapter, the chief told Siegfried to not use his real name. This line is scrapped. I won't spoil why because it's for plot reasons. This change does not dramatically change the narrative. It's just a little continuity error I noticed as I was editing.
…
This will be a fairly light-hearted chapter to contrast the darkness and violence of the previous ones.
As always, hope you enjoy it…
Chapter 14
Back in Kokoto…
"I had it you know!"
"Says the man who was this close to becoming Deviljho dinner. All because you tried to punch it in the face," Eris said, pressing her index finger and thumb together.
"I was testing something alright! When I saw what you did that to the Rathalos back then I was- "
The nearby villagers shook their heads as they watched the two hunters enter the village. Trailing behind them on a cart was the lifeless corpse of their most recent kill, a Deviljho that had emerged in the forests in the wake of the Rathalos' death.
A villager hauling a piece of wood on his shoulder shook his head. "Those two are at it again?"
"Don't even bother…" replied a woman with a basket slung over her arm. "They're always like that."
"Then why stick around if they hate each other so much?"
"Idiot, can't you see? It's extremely obvious. You can see it on both their faces."
"What is?"
The woman's eyebrow twitched, and she stifled the urge to slog the man. "You're still as dense as you were back when we were younger Nicolas…"
Siegfried and Eris continued to argue with one another until they arrived at the quest board and desk.
"One Deviljho. Dead." Eris proudly declared, placing the quest paper on Doris's desk.
Doris smiled, albeit at Eris. "Excellent. Your payment will be transferred to both your bank accounts in due time."
As the two left, Siegfried spared a fleeting glance at Doris, who refused to even look at him. He sighed and quickly caught up to Eris.
"You're going to the smithy?"
"Yeah. I need to strengthen my armor." Eris tapped the plating on her torso. "As of now, it shatters way too easily."
"Ah, then I'm coming with you. There's something I need from the smithy as well."
Arriving at the smithy, the two were greeted by a similarly dressed pair of men. Business had dropped significantly with the Rathalos around but now with it dead, the two men quickly set up their shop once more and are extremely grateful towards the two. Now dozens of hunters came to the smithy, filling their pockets with money once again.
Their feat has effectively brought back the life within the village. But what the two were most grateful for, was the fact that their heroic actions had completely dispelled their "criminal" record. To their surprise, it had been Becky who contacted the Guild, informing them of their deed and telling them to erase the criminal records of Siegfried and Eris.
"This is the first and only time I'll be thanking you two for what you did. Mark my words, however, if you do anything stupid, I'll be personally handling you two." Becky said, pointing her finger at the two of them.
"She sounds exactly like a certain Guild Knight don't you think?" Siegfried whispered to Eris as they watched the red-haired woman walk away.
"Took the words right out of my mouth."
Until now, the hunter couldn't help but feel as if there were a pair of eyes watching them from afar.
"Ah, our saviors!" exclaimed one of the men, the one in charge of the equipment crafting. Siegfried and Eris cringed slightly at their titles. Yup, they still couldn't get used to it.
"I would like to strengthen my armor please."
"Right! You got the armor spheres needed?" He nodded approvingly when Eris opened a bag full of the precious blue material. The man turned to Siegfried and smiled. "And I assume you came here to check on your new armor?"
"Yes, I did."
"Splendid! Both of you follow me."
The man led them to the back of the smithy building and through a door, where the gear crafting was done. The sounds of gears turning and the clanking of hammers against metal filled their ears. The place felt mildly humid, much to Eris's discomfort.
"Ughh, I despise the heat…" Eris mumbled, taking off her coat.
Siegfried grinned smugly. "What's this? The Ice Queen can't handle a little heat?"
She retorted with a glare. "Shut it."
"Mr. Siegfried. Your armor is this way. As for you miss…" The man snapped his fingers and a moment later, a boy who looked to be in his teens stepped up.
The man placed his hand on the boy's shoulder. "This is the assistant blacksmith Duncan. He'll be helping you strengthen your gear."
"At your service," the boy greeted, bowing courteously.
"He may be young, but he's a talented blacksmith. He'll get the job done."
…
Siegfried followed the man into another closed room. The moment he entered the room, the hunter was speechless.
"Well? What do you think?"
Propped up in the middle of the room on a modified bust was the very armor set he requested but seeing it in the flesh was still enough to surprise him.
The set bore a striking resemblance to his current set of Rathalos gear, but there were a few key differences. The coloring was subtle, but it was a darker shade of red compared to the regular set. The shoulder pads and gauntlets were lined with numerous black spikes, akin to the real thing. However, the very first thing one would notice if they were to take a closer look was the black cape made from the creature's wing membrane attached to the back of the torso. It added an aesthetic appeal to the armor and was short enough that it wouldn't pose any problem during hunts. It was practicality and fashion, all in one.
What's more, the armor almost felt like it radiated power. The hunter could feel it, even from where he stood.
Siegfried could only mutter out one sentence. "It's fucking beautiful…"
The man laughed. "Indeed. You know, the blacksmith may have been the one who crafted the armor, but it was that boy who actually designed this set. You should thank him later once he finishes upgrading your wife's armor."
"She's not my wife-"
"Yet?"
Siegfried shot a glare at the man, who laughed.
…
As Eris sat on the bench while waiting for her armor, a thought came to her. That's odd… "Say, where is the blacksmith anyway?"
Duncan briefly looked up from his work. "Master is not feeling well today so he entrusted me with the shop in the meantime." Suddenly, his expression turned sullen. "It's weird, right? Seeing a human blacksmith when Wyverians are usually the ones doing this…"
"I never said anything."
The boy blushed before he continued on with his work. "Oh. My mistake."
Odd response. But it does pique my curiosity.
"…Is being a human blacksmith really that bad? I mean, there's not much difference in what you do right?"
Duncan spoke as he began the armor infusing process, "Yes. The process is basically the same. However…" He grew quiet.
"What's wrong? Speak up, boy."
"Don't call me that! I'm turning fifteen this year so I'm no longer a kid!" He quickly closed his mouth in regret. "I…I'm sorry for- "
"It's alright. I'm used to it." Thanks to that incredibly stubborn man… "But you're still a child to me, whether you like it or not so get used it."
Duncan frowned at her but didn't dare argue with the woman before proceeding with the finishing touches to his work. "I just don't like getting called a child. It's …frustrating you know."
"I see."
Sometime later, he had finally finished. Eris sleepily opened her eyes and stood up from her bench upon hearing the boy's voice call out to her. She grabbed the pieces of her armor and immediately began outfitting herself behind a large panel.
"Hey, what were you about to say again before? About the whole human blacksmith thing?" Eris asked the teen.
"Oh." Duncan finished putting away the equipment and sat on one of the empty desks. He hesitated for a moment before letting out a sigh. "Being a blacksmith…it's not something humans usually do. We lack the muscles of the Wyverians or heat resistant bodies of the Troverians. As a result, work done by a human blacksmith doesn't usually turn out that good, which gave us a bad rep." He explained as he rubbed the back of his neck. "Everyone expects humans to either become hunters or work as traders. It's stupid really."
"So why work as one then? Why do you choose to work as a blacksmith?"
"That's because it's my passion!" Duncan pumped his fists. "I loved making things ever since I was little. I knew that becoming a human blacksmith would be difficult, and I almost gave up at one point. And then master, seeing my potential took me in as his apprentice. Thanks to my master, I finally can get the chance to prove that humans can become blacksmiths!"
Eris chuckled as she placed her helmet on her head and stepped out of the dressing area. "An admirable dream." She approached Duncan, bent down, and instinctively reached out to ruffle his hair affectionately. "I wish you the best of luck on that."
The boy's face flushed red and he averted his eyes away from the beautiful woman in front of him. No, it was definitely not because her…assets were this close to him. She smells nice… He mentally cursed his teenage hormones.
Just then, he froze and stared at something behind Eris. The woman gave him a confused look, releasing her hands from his hair. "What is it?" She turned around…only to find the man from before and a newly armored Siegfried grinning before her.
Her eyebrows furrowed. "…How long?"
"Not long." Siegfried was the one to answer. He had a rather irritating grin on his face. "Hmm, perhaps you're not as cold as I thought you were."
A tick appeared on her forehead as the flustered woman suddenly stepped forward and punched her partner in the gut. The hunter doubled over, clutching his stomach in response.
"Shit what was that for?!"
"For being a smug jerk in front of me that's what!"
"So, you two are married," snickered the man. Duncan stifled a laugh.
The two shouted in unison. "No! We are not!"
…
After paying them for their services, the two hunters made their way towards the inn, eager to get some much-needed rest. Along the way, they bickered with one another for the umpteenth time, though it mostly consisted of Eris claiming his new armor wasn't as good as his previous set (she refused to admit that his new armor actually made him look cool) and Siegfried retorting back that she should change her armor into something better (he hoped she wouldn't take his words seriously).
The passing villagers and hunters stared at the bickering duo with mixtures of amusement, exasperation, and confusion. Though it only took Eris shooting them her signature ice-cold glare for them to rapidly turn away and carry on with their business.
Just as the two were about to enter the inn, a high-pitched voice calling out to them stopped them in their tracks. "Wait!"
They turned to the source of the voice and to their surprise, a Felyne Courier came running towards them, stumbling constantly before finally tripping and falling face-first onto the ground in front of them, sending papers flying everywhere.
"Oh nooo! The papers! Nyaaah!"
Siegfried and Eris watched with a hint of amusement as the poor Felyne attempted to grab the papers.
"This is bad! I need to- "
"Is there something you need?"
Siegfried's gruff voice startled the Felyne, eliciting a cute squeak from the little creature. "Y-Yes. I came here to deliver a message to…" The Felyne cleared her throat and spoke, "Eris of the Havencroft family? This is you right meowster?" The Felyne looked expectantly at Eris.
Thankfully, she answered quickly. "That's me. What's the message?"
"Ah here." The courier handed her the letter, which she began to read immediately. "It was supposed to be delivered to you a couple of days ago but there were some complications." The Felyne waited as the huntress continued to read the letter, her expression slowly morphing into that of confusion.
"…I'm invited to a ball?" Eris scratched her forehead, trying to figure out why.
"Yep! It's happening in three days, so you have some time to prepare."
Siegfried shrugged. "Figures. Sometimes I forgot that you used to be a noble." He angled the paper to get a better view, much to the huntresses' discomfort at how closely pressed their bodies were. "It says it is taking place at…Excuse me? That's so far away!"
Which is exactly why I don't want to attend, but…Seeing that this is a meeting between most of the noble family names, I guess I have no choice but to attend to represent my family name. Eris sighed. "Alright. I'll go."
"You're going?"
"Well yeah. I have to represent my family name, otherwise, it would bring great shame to me and my father."
"I see. Good luck with that then." But just as he turned to leave and go inside the inn, a hand shot out and grabbed him by the back collar of his armor.
"Where do you think you're going?" Eris demanded, frowning.
"Back to our room? What else?"
"The letter says that I may bring companions to the ball. Seeing that you're my partner, you have no choice but to go with me."
"I don't think it works that way Eris."
Eris resisted the urge to punch him, but she remained firm and composed. "Look, I think it will be a great experience. This way, you can finally learn how to be a proper gentleman."
"Hardy har har…Very funny. That's still a resounding no."
"You sure?"
"Woman, I ain't changing my mind that easily. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'll be in our room."
"…I see. Then it can't be helped." She rolled the paper and inserted it into her pouch. "If you're looking for me, I'll be by the market." The huntress turned around and left, walking off towards the market.
The Felyne Courier may not have been human but even she could see the way Eris's shoulders drooped and her expression changed to something akin to hurt. Feeling pity for the human, the Felyne decided to help her.
"Psst! Meowster!" The Felyne quickly caught up to Siegfried whose hand was around the doorknob to the inn and spoke in a whisper. "Hey, I really think Meowster should accompany her."
"But why?"
Alright! Time to flex my skill in the art of the bullshitting! "Picture this. So, your spouse- "
"She's not my spouse."
"-attends the ball without you. She is dressed in perhaps the most stunning dress anyone has ever seen. Men flock to her left and right. She's disappointed that you can't come but otherwise, doesn't make a big deal out of it. And then she sees him. A handsome, kind, and a courteous guy whose face radiates with- "
"Get to the point dammit."
"Just imagine this guy, sweeping her off her feet and charming her. She may rebuff him at first but then she is quickly reminded that she is lonely. Why? Because her partner didn't come with her. So, she thinks to herself, 'One dance won't harm anyone.' But what happens next you ask? She falls for him."
"That sounds highly unrealistic."
The Felyne let out an exasperated meow. "Work with me here Meowster. As I was saying, she falls for him. Why? It's simply because he made her feel special, one-of-a-kind. Like a queen. She finds more within this man than her own partner." The Felyne finished, grinning.
"That's it? I fail to see the point of that elaborate story."
Either he is that dense or in denial. Probably the latter. "Think it through." And with that, the Felyne courier left, leaving Siegfried to his own thoughts.
"Pfft! That woman doesn't sound anything like Eris!" Siegfried knew very well that the huntress would never do that. She knew she was beautiful, and even then, she would still reject the advances of every man that approached her. There was simply no way she would just accept a stranger's offer to dance and fall for him so quickly…Unless?
Wait, could it happen?
Siegfried was aware that the huntress might feel alone without him at the ball but the thought of her eventually accepting a dance from a stranger? It was…possible. No, there's no way. That can't happen…right?
He quickly shifted his thoughts. An image of Eris holding the hand of the stranger as he led her to the dance floor appeared. He thought of the stranger placing his hands on her slim but fit waist and her own hands on his shoulders. He thought of how they would sway and dance to the music, how the crowd would stop and turn their attention to the two. Most of all, he imagined the look on Eris's face, how her neutral expression would betray the joy and relief she felt when someone reached out to her.
He felt himself clenching his fists.
The image shifted to that of a balcony under the starry night. The dance was over, and the stranger had persuaded her to go to the balcony with him. Siegfried thought of how she and the man would both lean against the balcony, their bodies close but not close enough. He saw the man actually attempt to move closer to her, close enough that all the man had to do was reach out his hand to touch her. They were chatting, a pretty smile forming on Eris's face as she laughed at something the man had said.
The thought of it brought forth a feeling within him, familiar yet unfamiliar at the same time.
Somehow, he saw the man lean closer to her. His face was now just inches away from her and for some reason, she didn't back away. Their eyes gazed at one another before they both leaned in, closing their eyes and-
He heard a loud snap. Looking down, he noticed his hand now holding the detached knob, pulled off its latch.
Oh, for crying out loud! He couldn't believe it. All it took was one meddling cat to mess up his entire perspective. Stupid Felyne… The hunter faced the other direction and quickly headed towards the market. He'd have to apologize to the innkeeper later on.
He spotted Eris talking to the shopkeeper of a fruit stall. The hunter saw the way the shopkeeper looked at Eris and that familiar feeling erupted within him like a volcano ready to burst.
"Eris!"
The huntress turned her head towards Siegfried, who appeared to be flustered. His voice had also caught the attention of some villagers, who eyed the two with curiosity.
Dammit, I've attracted a crowd when I really don't want people to hear this! He cursed his own recklessness but nonetheless he steeled himself and continued to speak.
"I…take back what I said earlier."
The silver-haired woman blinked for a second before registering what he said and frowning. "And?" She looked understandably annoyed.
God, I can't believe I'm doing this. If my past self sees me, he would never stop laughing… "I…I would be…" He stepped closer, rubbing the back of his neck. "I would be honored to be your d-d-date for the ball… if you don't mind."
The huntress blinked twice before her mind registered what he had just said. A light blush crept onto her cheeks. Eris felt both extremely embarrassed and uncomfortable at the sizable crowd that gathered around them. Would it kill to get some privacy people? "Yes…I would like that," she answered quietly, hoping she wouldn't explode from embarrassment.
Silence. Neither side spoke.
That is until a woman in the crowd squealed. "Well! It's about damn time!"
Almost immediately, women of varying ages surrounded the two, firing off question after question.
"When is the ball?"
Siegfried gulped. "Uh, in three days- "
"Do you have your clothes ready?"
Eris shifted uncomfortably. "It's back at home- "
"Do you know how to dance?"
"How do you want your makeup?"
"What color do you want your suit?"
"I don't get it."
"Nicolas you idiot!" shouted out all the women at the same time.
The first woman ushered the crowd away. "Ladies, ladies let's give them space everyone!" She then faced them. "First things first…Do you both have your suit and dress ready?"
"No…" both of them answered.
"Then that would be a problem."
"I have a solution for that!" Everyone turned towards the voice. It was a middle-aged woman. "I'm the owner of Kokoto's finest clothing business and I guarantee I can get you both clothes in a span of three days. However, there is a problem." She tapped a finger against her palm. "Lots of the fancy clothing worn by nobility are partly made with monster materials. In this case, fancy dresses are often made with parts coming from Bnahabra."
The first woman nodded. "You're both hunters so it should be an easy task for you."
"And don't worry about going out without permission," the middle-aged woman added. "I'll post it as a quest so that the Guild can approve it."
Siegfried stepped back, surprised at their kind actions. "This is…You're willing to do that for us?"
Another village woman grinned. "Of course! You both are the heroes of this village. It's only fair that we the villagers repay you back for risking your lives for us."
Puzzled but otherwise grateful, the two hunters could only nod their heads in response.
Edmond patiently waited for that person as he sat on a bench near the town walls. The former Guild Knight scratched his head and brushed aside the bangs of his now shortened hair.
"Will she even show up?" He adjusted his fake glasses and leaned back against the bench. The person he was waiting for should be back from her trip to the New World. Though, that didn't guarantee she would even come to Dundorma.
I hope she doesn't recognize me through this…or anyone for that matter.
Due to his wanted status, Edmond was forced to make a change to his appearance for this occasion. He had cut his hair and styled it differently as well as donning fake glasses that didn't even have any lenses on them. Jason had also lent him some of his old spare clothing, which much to his chagrin, was tight enough that his prominent muscles would be seen through the clothing. As much as Edmond didn't want to attract any more unwanted attention, he had no choice.
"Do you honestly think this is the appropriate clothing for the situation?!"
Jason chuckled. "I think it's perfect! Everyone would be too busy paying attention to your muscles to notice your face!"
"…Very funny."
This was why Edmond attempted to look as inconspicuous as possible even as passing women (and men) glanced at him, giving him looks of envy and admiration with an occasional giggle from passing young women.
Ughh, how long has it been? He was beginning to get impatient. Edmond was a man of discipline and he hated it when things don't happen accordingly.
Luckily for him, he didn't have to wait any longer anymore.
"It's her!"
"Move out of the way!"
She's here? He stood up from the bench and waited on the side as the distinct sound of clanking boots got closer. He leaned forward to get a better look and saw her. His former classmate and now esteemed commander of the Border Watch.
Huh, now that I think about it, Catherine looks absolutely gorgeous in that armor of hers…
The former Guild Knight couldn't help but stare in awe at the armored woman currently marching towards the town gates. She walked with her head held up high and sported a hardened expression on her face as her cape fluttered behind her back. Her presence exuded a commanding aura that Edmond thought was sure to intimidate anyone except hunters and Guild Knights such as himself. Following her, was her own squad of armored soldiers who were personally trained by Catherine herself.
When she and her squad got closer, Edmond quickly snapped out from his trance and stood straight, trying his best not to catch her attention. Please don't recognize me, please… His eyes followed her shapely figure as she passed by him and through the town gates. For a second, however, their gazes met before both swiftly averted their eyes and looked away.
Shit, that was close…Did she recognize me? Edmond shook his head. No, there's no time to think about that. He exhaled in relief and waited for Catherine and her squad to fully enter the town before straightening his collar and making his way towards the gate.
…
"Come again?"
"I said, I would like to join the Border Watch."
The guards looked at each other before narrowing their eyes at Edmond. The former Guild Knight plastered on his most confident look yet. Deep down, however, the man was nervous. He feared them not allowing him or worse, somehow recognizing him. His plan to "join" the Border Watch in order to meet Catherine relied solely on whether or not he put up a convincing act.
"You're oddly muscular…Why is that?" The guard's question prompted Edmond to gulp, an act that fortunately for him, they didn't notice.
"Oh, that's…I did a lot of fieldwork for the longest time. Its only natural that when you work on a farm for your entire life, you'll eventually grow muscles."
"…Still, that amount of muscle from doing fieldwork seems almost unnatural. Almost as if you're a hun- "
Edmond quickly interrupted, "I know how to fight. I can assure you that I can be very useful to the Watch."
One of the guards stepped towards him, frowning. Edmond swiftly realized how comically short the guard was compared to him. He almost laughed. Perks of being trained as a hunter I suppose.
"Look, you can't just expect to join the Watch simply by asking. And there is a lot of paperwork to be done."
The other guard added, "Not to mention, you need the Commander's approval too."
Edmond cocked his head the side. "Then why not call her here now?"
At his words, the guard who had spoken first glared at the man. "Just who do you think you are smartass?"
"Yeah, why don't you just move along now and not bother us?"
"Just because you're bigger and more muscular than us does not mean you get the join the esteemed Border Watch."
"And don't even think that you'll get a chance to talk or even meet the Commander!"
A tick appeared on Edmond's forehead. I can't wait to discipline you two once I reform the Guild… He forced a smile and spoke through gritted teeth. "W-Well if you put it that way, that means I can ask the Commander herself? Surely, she'll see the potential within me."
Before Edmond could walk towards the Watch camp area, the two guards quickly intercepted him, standing before the taller man with rather angry looks on their faces.
"Hey what are you doing?!"
"I'm going to meet the Commander myself if you don't mind."
"Oh no, you don't!" To Edmond's surprise, the two men unsheathed their swords and shields right in front of him. "Back off unless you want to get shanked!"
Are you serious? Is this really the esteemed Border Watch? The former Guild Knight let out an exasperated sigh but didn't back away. "If it's a fight you want…" He reached for the two swords strapped to his waist. "Then it's a fight you'll get."
Their actions almost immediately gathered a crowd around them, watching the three men prepare to fight. In the distance, a few of the city guards could be seen running towards them, intent on breaking up the fight. But just before they arrived-
"You three, cease!"
Seemingly out of nowhere, an armored woman stepped in between the three men, eliciting surprised gasps from practically everyone in the crowd.
"C-C-Commander Catherine?!" stuttered out one of the guilty guards.
The aforementioned woman pinched the bridge of her nose and turned to the two guilty men. "What is the meaning of this? Explain to me why you both drew your weapons against a civilian?"
"H-He was being rude my lady!"
"T-That's right! H-He demanded to join the Watch and spoke rudely of you!"
To their horror, the woman stepped closer to them and stared down at them. Like Edmond, the two men were shorter than her, both in height and muscle mass. Edmond stifled a laugh. I expect no less from a former student at the Hunter's Academy.
"To start with who the hell do you think you are thinking that you both have control over who joins and who doesn't? Let me make this clear for you. I'm the one who has the authority, not you two idiots." Her fierce gaze quickly dropped towards the emblems on the two men's chest armor. She swiftly snatched and pulled the emblem off the man's chest.
"What's this? You're not even part of the Border Watch!"
Some of the people in the crowd snickered.
"Embarrassing…You're just two city guards!"
The two men trembled in fear.
"So, in case you forgot, I am the one in charge over you lot. Can you remember what happens to those who break dare to break the rules?" She grabbed one of the men's wrist in a tight hold. Slowly and painfully, she squeezed his arm, crushing the armor through sheer brute strength and causing the man to stifle a pained cry. "You know, don't you?"
Tears began to flow down the poor man's face. "Y-Yes! I know! I'm sorry! No, we're sorry!" Beside him, his fellow guard nodded fearfully, mentally blessing his own luck. "I'm sorry! I'm sorry!"
After what felt like an excruciating five minutes, though it had been only a minute, Catherine released the man's wrist as he and his colleague backed away.
"Consider yourselves lucky that I won't bother to report this to your superiors."
She sent a final glare their way and the two men scrambled off towards the barracks, eager to forget all of this ever happened.
The armored woman sighed and rubbed her temple. "Good grief…" She turned to the crowd. "Nothing to see here! You can all go back to whatever it is the hell you were doing before." When the crowd didn't move, Catherine stomped her foot and shouted loudly.
"SCRAM! GO!"
The crowd hastily dispersed, leaving Edmond alone with the Commander. An awkward and somewhat tense silence fell upon them before Catherine directed her attention at the man silently standing beside her. She pointed her finger at him. "You. Come with me."
…
After a short jaunt, they arrived at the door to her office. Edmond had been here several times before, mostly when he was asked to call Catherine over to one of their scheduled staff reports. Despite being old classmates, their respective jobs had rendered it impossible for the two to ever find proper time for each other. It was something Catherine wanted to change but was unable to.
Edmond found himself being pushed forcefully inside her office before she promptly slammed the door shut. She had also told (or more or less threatened) her colleagues to not eavesdrop.
Now alone once again, the man found himself standing right in front of her. Her eyes were downcast, and she refused to look up at him. Her hands were clenched, and she looked like she was about to say something.
"Take off your glasses."
Edmond obeyed her, albeit with confusion. He set the glasses on the table. "Lady Catherine- "
Before he could speak another word, her fist collided against his face.
"Fuch! Vhat the henk woman?!" Edmond cried out, clutching his face as blood oozed down the crevices of his fingers. It would have made a horrible sight if it weren't for the wound healing itself seconds later. "Why did you punch me?!"
Catherine gritted her teeth at him. "That was for getting yourself in all sorts of trouble this past week!" She pulled back another fist and punched him square in the stomach, causing Edmond to double over. "And that was for suddenly appearing out of nowhere without warning!"
Edmond shakily lifted himself off the ground and held onto the nearby desk for support. "Spare me the fist will you…" Catherine simply gave a satisfied huff.
"Now with that out of the way, we can- "
BAM!
For the third time that day, Edmond recoiled back from another fist against his cheek.
"The hell was that for?!"
Catherine ignored him and seated herself on her desk. "So? What do you want with me?"
Edmond rubbed his swollen cheek. "First of all, how did you recognize me?"
She snorted sarcastically. "Oh please, I've known you since our days in the Academy. Aside from your almost recognizable face and build even with those fake glasses, I knew the moment it was you when you did that."
"Did what exactly?"
"You're doing it right now! The hair twirling thing!"
The former Guild Knight stopped and glanced slightly to his side. The fingers on his right hand idly twirled the bangs on his forehead. He quickly jerked his hand away. "Ah…"
Catherine chuckled. "You always do that whenever you're uncomfortable or have the need to say something. You'll be surprised at how observant this woman can be. Which also leads me to point out your left arm."
Edmond looked away and grasped his prosthetic left arm. "It was a price I had to pay for being so careless. Please pay no heed to it." He stiffened when Catherine scooted over to him and grasped his hand.
"How does it feel?" she asked as she absentmindedly rubbed her fingers against the palm of his prosthetic hand.
Edmond fidgeted uncomfortably. "I-It felt odd at first. But you get used to it eventually…Anyway, mind letting go?"
Catherine reluctantly released her hold on him as Edmond leaned against the edge of the desk. "To be frank, I need your help."
He was met with an indignant scowl. "Unbelievable…" Catherine shook her head as she proceeded to walk towards the door.
"Wait!" Edmond surged forward and grabbed her wrist. "I really need your help."
Catherine looked back at him, a fierce glare etched onto her face. "Really? After what you did you expect me to just help you? Grow up dammit!" She attempted to pull her hand away, but Edmond kept a tight hold on her.
"Let go!"
"No."
"I said let go!"
"Cat please!"
She flinched at the mention of her old nickname. A nickname only Edmond had the luxury to use. "Give me one good reason why I should help someone like you!"
She jerked her hand away. Catherine simply stood there, eyes glued to the ground and refusing to look at him. "Cat I- "
"Are they true? Are all the things Sir Jacob listed about you true?"
No use hiding it I suppose. "…Yes."
"I see."
She was silent for a moment before she suddenly pulled back a fist. Edmond instinctively covered his face with his arms, prepared to take a hit. He was surprised that the hit never came. But to his shock, Catherine turned around and opened the door. Once again, he rushed forward to stop her, this time grabbing her by her shoulders.
"Dammit Cat! People will die if I don't do this! Can't you understand the situation woman?!" Edmond shouted angrily, desperation lacing his voice.
Catherine abruptly turned around to face him, an equally angry scowl on her face. "Can't understand the situation? Are you fucking kidding me?" She pushed his hands off her shoulders. "You're a fucking hypocrite for telling me that crap!"
"Oh, so I'm at fault here now?!" Edmond retorted, his anger rising.
"Of course!"
Edmond couldn't believe it. What is wrong with her?! "Oh, so then tell me. Tell me what I did so wrong?"
"Figure that out yourself smartass!" For the third time that afternoon, she attempted to leave the room, only for Edmond to swiftly intercept her. He stood between her and the door, giving her an angry but pleading look.
"Whatever I did in the past or present to piss you off, I'm sorry. But there are far more pressing matters that demand our immediate attention." His expression softened as he grasped her shoulders once more. "I beg you. Please."
This time she didn't push him away. But Edmond certainly did not expect her to do that.
"Umm, Cat? What are you doing?" he asked the woman currently resting her head on his chest.
"Quiet! Just…let me have this."
Despite being a (former) elite Guild Knight, if there was one thing that left Edmond clueless, it would definitely be the concept of proper human feelings. But he wasn't stupid enough to notice her apparent disappointment. Thus, he did the only logical thing he could think of in a situation like this. Slowly and tentatively, he lifted his arms up and shakily placed them on her waist. Surely, she wouldn't mind it there, right?
"I'm sorry," he said quietly, his frustration dying down as he rested his chin on her head. He feared it would turn her away but to his relief, she didn't seem to mind.
"God damn idiot…" muttered Catherine, burying her face into his chest. "You could be the strongest, skilled, and most devoted Guild Knight there is, but it makes you blind to everything else." She clenched her fists. "You need to learn to see the bigger picture, Ed. Moving forward isn't always the answer."
Edmond tilted his head to the side. "I don't understand."
"Not surprising…" Catherine sighed, shaking her head.
"…I'm sorry." Edmond knew his words were meaningless. But he couldn't give up now. "I'm not going to ask for your forgiveness but just this once, I really need your help. I promise, after all this is done, I'll get out of your face for good if that's what you want."
She refused to look him in the eye.
"I know I've made a lot of mistakes, and I've been a terrible friend to you- "
You were never a terrible friend.
"I understand if you don't ever want to see me again- "
That's not what I meant!
"-and I'm fine with you hating me- "
I never hated you. I never could.
"At the very least, I'll know that my own foolish actions cost me, someone, I care for."
Do you care for me as a friend or something more?
Catherine desperately wanted to speak out to him, tell him right towards that handsome face of his that she didn't want any of that. But no matter how hard she tried; the words wouldn't come out.
She was Catherine Sawyer for crying out loud! The infamous Commander of the Border Watch! The woman whose incredible strength matched her equally powerful and commanding voice! Surely telling a man that he meant more to her couldn't be this difficult.
On the other hand – to Edmond's frustration – Catherine was uncharacteristically silent. He attempted to reach out to her. "Please say something." But she pushed his hand away from her shoulder.
"I can't believe this…" she mumbled, loud enough for him to hear. No regrets. If words wouldn't suffice, then her actions will. She suddenly looked up at him with an expression Edmond had never seen before.
"What are you- "
Before he knew it, she seized him by the collar of his shirt and pulled him down onto her lips. The former Guild Knight's face turned to that of shock. His arms twitched, lying limp by his sides.
Huh?!
She pulled away seconds later, both their faces flushed red from the intimate action she had suddenly initiated out of the blue.
Edmond covered his mouth with one hand, still attempting to process what she did as he took several steps back. "C-Catherine?"
"You have no idea how long I've wanted to do that."
Edmond was dumbstruck. Does she have…feelings for me? "Why did you- "
She pushed him away before he could complete his sentence. "So, what did you need me for? What is this extremely important matter that made someone like you seek out my help?" She spoke so casually as if the kiss had never happened.
The former Guild Knight blinked twice before shaking his head and regaining his composure. "R-Right." He quickly fixed his ruffled collar and plastered on a confident expression. "Are you aware of the ball happening in three days?"
Catherine snorted. "Of course. After all, I was invited."
"That makes things much easier. Well to put simply, I need you to sneak myself and two others into the ball."
Catherine coughed. "Excuse me? You want me to smuggle in uninvited guests? Do you want me to get court-martialed? And who are these other two people?"
"I'll explain later."
"Can't you go there yourself? I mean aren't you- " She smacked her forehead. "Right, I forgot you're a wanted man." She gave him a skeptical stare. "Why exactly do you want to sneak in into this ball?"
Edmond bit his lip. "…It's a long story."
Somewhere in the Verdant Hills…
Siegfried grunted as he struck down another Bnahabra off the air, causing its fragile body to break into numerous pieces. "Right, I think that's enough?"
"I suppose so," Eris answered as she too sliced an unfortunate Bnahabra to pieces.
The two hunters bent down to pick up the pieces of the destroyed Neopterons scattered on the ground, specifically the wings. They carefully placed the materials inside the large bags they brought with them, taking care not to ruin the precious parts they had worked (effortlessly) for. They took one last look around the area to make sure no other monster would ambush them before they proceeded back to the village.
As they walked side by side, Siegfried was quick to notice the rather unhappy expression on Eris's face. "Is something bothering you?"
The huntress briefly blushed at her partner's perceptiveness and waved her hand to reassure him that nothing was wrong. "Not really…"
Her partner hummed. "Let me guess. It's about the ball isn't it?"
"…You're beginning to creep me out."
"What- "
"But yes. It is about the ball. I just feel…I don't know anxious? I just have this weird feeling within telling me that attending the ball is a bad idea."
"But didn't you already attend balls like this before? I mean, you used to be a noble yourself, right? So, I assume you've done this plenty of times before."
The moment they arrived at the safe area around their camp, Siegfried shot a flare to the sky to signal for their pickup. As they waited, the two seated themselves on the grass, eyes wandering from the grazing Aptonoth nearby to the clear river running alongside the small stretch of land they were currently on.
"I did but still, I can't shake off the feeling that something is inherently wrong about this entire thing," Eris said as she closed her eyes and felt the breeze against her face. She then clapped her hands together and faced her partner. "Speaking of which, I would like to ask you something. Do you know how to dance?"
Siegfried scoffed. "Obviously."
"No, not that barbarian way of moving you call dancing. I meant the proper way to dance in a formal ball."
The hunter's expression fell. "…Yes? Of course! I mean, remember when we danced during the Bherna- "
Eris cut him off. "Oh please, I can hardly call that time a proper dance. We were merely improvising." She sighed as she pressed two fingers against the space between her eyebrows. "Once we get back, I will teach you how to dance – properly this time." Eris stepped towards him and poked his chest with her finger. "And I will not tolerate any kind of failure. Capiche?"
Siegfried could only bob his head up and down in understanding.
Back in Kokoto in the village hall…
Siegfried had begun to regret his decision.
"You're too impatient. Move steadily and go along with the rhythm."
"It's harder than it looks alright!"
Eris rolled her eyes. This was the eighth time they had attempted to do it. "For god sake even, a child would have been able to this…"
"Yeah, a noble-born child dammit!"
Nearby, a man sweated nervously at the arguing duo as he continued to play the keyboard instrument as ordered by Eris. At least I'm getting paid for this…
Eris could easily feel the trembling of his fingers on her waist as they swayed side to side to the music. I shocked that someone like him is nervous…Guess I have to do this then. She pinched his shoulder hard, eliciting a pained yelp from the man in front of her.
"Ouch! What was that for?!"
"To stimulate you of course. I'm just surprised that you're nervous about this."
"Nervous? Bullshit! I'm not nervous at all."
All he received was an incredulous look from the woman in front of him. She unclasped her other hand from his and snapped her fingers. The man playing the instrument immediately stopped playing upon hearing her signal.
She pushed Siegfried away and placed a hand on her hip, shaking her head in disappointment. "Ughh, I can't believe teaching you how to dance is more stamina draining than actual hunting…"
Her current dance partner frowned. "If you want to give up then- "
"No. I got you into this and I will see this through to the end." She turned towards the man waiting patiently nearby. "I want you to play the song slower this time."
The man nodded in understanding.
Eris approached Siegfried and held out her hand. "This time, we won't do it as fast as before. Make sure to pay attention to my movements and move accordingly."
Siegfried took her hand and held her slender but firm waist with his other. She placed her free hand on his shoulder and inched closer to him till their bodies nearly touched. "Just relax…" she quietly told him, hoping it would ease his nervousness.
"I-I'll try." He swallowed his saliva as the music began to play.
This time, the music played out slower yet still retained its pleasant rhythm. Siegfried exhaled slowly as he and Eris swayed their bodies to the sound. The much slower pace proved to be a tremendous help as the hunter found himself moving accordingly and not stumbling or making mistakes. It didn't help that Eris flashed him what could be the most beautiful smile he's ever seen.
"You're blushing," she pointed out with a smirk as Siegfried spun her around.
"Preposterous."
Soon, it was time to switch positions. Siegfried moved behind Eris and grasped her hand while looping his other around her shoulder to hold her other. The music shifted to a slightly faster pace as the two begun to move.
"You're getting it!"
The hunter was surprised at himself for not fucking up this time. It was always this part that he often failed to do. "This…isn't actually half bad."
"What did I tell you? Were you actually that nervous before? Odd, considering it's you we're talking about."
"It's just…I didn't want to…d-disappoint you that's all. I'm a commoner, and you're a noble after all, and there are standards to follow. I don't know what I'd do if I embarrassed you and myself in front of a live audience…" He furiously shook his head upon realizing what he had just said, his cheeks turning red from embarrassment. "But don't take this the wrong way dammit! I-I uhh- "
Eris laughed, causing him to turn even redder than his hair. "All the more reason I'm doing this for you. Expect a lot more for the next few days until the ball. Prepare yourself, Siegfried!"
Oh no… he thought, dreading what's yet to come.
The man playing the instrument smiled fondly at the two. It reminded him of the time when he and his wife had their first dance together during their own modest wedding. That had been ages ago, but he couldn't help but recall the sweet memory.
"Good luck you two," he whispered as the song soon reached its end. He couldn't help but chuckle as he watched the red-haired man dip his partner before immediately realizing his mistake, causing him to drop her onto the solid wooden floor.
He left the building a happy man with a handful of coins as the duo behind him argued for the umpteenth time.
Somewhere in Dundorma…
"I appreciate you taking your time to meet with us here."
The man sitting in front of them waved them off. "It's fine. I didn't have anything better to do anyway…" He clasped his hands together on the table. "So? What did you need from my brother and me?"
"Well…" Hanzo glanced to the right. The bespectacled man by his side nodded. "This matter concerns Hilda."
The man raised an eyebrow. "That woman huh…"
"We tried to reach out to your brother, but we haven't heard anything from him. Is he alright?" Luca asked, taking a sip from his mug of ale.
"Rowan is…how do I say this…" Romero mulled over the words to use. "Not in the best shape. I don't mean physically though. Ever since he and Hilda had that misunderstanding, well things haven't been the same now."
"I see. That bad huh?"
"Yeah. Shit makes me jealous honestly." The hunter sighed sadly. "We're twins yet he gets better luck with ladies than I do…" He shrugged. "Ah, who am I kidding? I didn't come here to talk about my own problems. So, let me guess, your leader isn't faring any better?"
"Yeah. She acts all tough but sometimes we catch her staring off into the space for periods of time for no reason at all. But this is exactly why we wanted to talk to you and your brother." Hanzo explained, quickly chugged down his own mug. "Just about a day ago, Hilda received an invitation to a formal ball that will be held not too long from now. The invitation stated that she may bring companions. Which is where your brother comes in. Of course, you may accompany your brother if you wish."
Romero's hands suddenly clenched, something the two hunters noticed. His normally cheerful and happy expression disappeared. "…A ball huh? Does that mean the nobility will attend?"
"Obviously."
Romero closed his eyes for a brief moment before signaling for a waitress to fetch him a drink. After his drink was delivered, he took a big and long gulp before setting the mug on the table.
"I refuse."
Hanzo and Luca froze. The larger man especially had not expected that answer. "But-"
Romero cut him off. "Under normal circumstances, that's what I would have said. But this is my brother we're talking about here." He quickly finished the rest of his drink in one gulp. "I love my brother, and I would do anything to make him happy. Even if it means attending a godforsaken ball just to fix his relationship with your team leader. So, my answer to your question would be yes. We'll attend." He stood up and handed a random nearby waitress some coins before promptly exiting the tavern.
"Is there a problem?" the bewildered waitress from before nervously asked the two hunters.
Hanzo shook his head. "I don't know…I really don't know."
Mixed feelings about this chapter, but I still hoped you readers enjoyed reading it. Also, for those who read my previous one shot, two names may come to mind.
Let it be clear that Catherine and Edmond from Fire and Ice are not the same as the Catherine and Edmund from Following the Fallen. To be honest, I got too lazy with names, so I reused the first two names that came to mind.
…
Please Review!