(AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES:Hi again people yes another update and chapter of this awesome TB fan fiction. Again I want to say my thanks for all the awesome reviews good an and to those whom have messages about the story. I appreciate your comment keep them in long with me saying a 'HUGE' T HA N K Y O Uto all readers whom favourite and altered this story and me with it. Again I am very grateful that I am almost speechless. Some more action coming at the bottom of this chapter so read and enjoy So without more further or do I bring you chapter four .
DISCLAIMER:All rights to Trinity Blood was created and © by late Yoshida Sunao, the anime directed by Tomohiro Hirata and produced by the studio GONZO, as well as a manga drawn by Yoshida Sunao's friend Kiyo Kyoujou. All © rights revered by their respective owners. I own nothing except © to this story, it's plot and it's OC's that will eventually show within later chapters.
Special thanks to one of my editors and co-partners in helping finally get this story off the ground and back burner dragonwriter24cmf check her own TB stories on which are awesome. Additional thanks to my second co-partner for also participating in helping with this story KinReynard check out her own TB story 'Devil His Due' whom I'm her beta for when possible. When one of my co-partners/editors are unable to continue the other will take over both are involved with this fan fiction as time goes on with it's updates. Currently right now dragonwriter24cmf is helping with the current chapters and drafts for the stories plot and outline.
Warning:This fan fiction is rated (M) AKA Lemon. This story is ABSOULTLY NOT suitable for children or teens below the age of 16 [So if you're under the age limit turn back now, come back when you old enough to read this. I'd rather not get flamed nor sued by parents whom are just looking for trouble in places their underage children should not be looking nor reading for that matter. This story contains strong explicit adult themes and sexual ones such slight foreplay - as in hand sex, one-sided yuri, bisexuality, Attempted Rape, Explicit Sex or anything else mild to hard core kinky for that matter!, references to violence, and strong coarse language. If this disturbs you, do not read any further.
Notice:Trinity Blood War Continuum takes place one month after the events from the anime's finale episode 24 along with some elements, characters and things that will be used and taken from both manga's Rage Against the Moons (RAM), Reborn on the Mars (ROM). In adttion to some spoilers from stories untold notes left by Yoshida Sunao which he intended to finish off the manga series supposedly. Basically 50/50 will be used on both the anime and manga to those whom are more familiar with manga then others will see this implants as the story develops. Trinity Blood is set in a post-apocalyptic world where the Roman Catholic Church/the Vatican is portrayed as a military and spiritual power. The series also strongly implies major and controversial changes in the Church of present reality, such as women being bishops, cardinals as well as romantic relationships and marriages between members of the clergy. If this disturbs you of form or shapeof or on imagination then do not read this story.
Trinity Blood: War Continuum - Chapter Four: Undercover Queen
There was a moment of silence at her remark. Vanessa looked at her brother's expression. "Wait. This guy is someone you know? Your Majesty?"
Virgil sighed. "You recall the priest who was killed in the attack over three months ago?"
"I remember. But if he was killed…" Vanessa trailed off. "An imposter? Or did he fake it?"
"I'm not certain." Virgil sighed. "I never met the man, and of course I was preoccupied at the time of his death. I don't know the exact conditions…nor do I know the man himself." He sighed. "I suppose he might have entered the grounds. When we visited you, I saw records of an interesting entry, but I couldn't trace it. It did not, however use any of the codes I was aware that Father Abel Nightroad had access to." He turned. "I am sorry I did not inform you, Your Majesty…however…"
"No. I understand. Father Nightroad…" She hesitated, unsure how to explain his condition. "He was…Lady Caterina told me it was something like a coma. She sent Father Tres, another member of the AX with something to help him heal. I saw him revive, but since then..." She trailed off. "I had no idea where he was."
"Of course. That was why you asked the Cardinal for information." Virgil nodded. "I had wondered. However, I felt it would be rude to pry into your personal affairs."
"Thank you." Esther paused. "We need to contact the Vatican and the Empire and inform them of what has happened, and what we know about Dietrich. But first…" Her eyes went back to Virgil, to the red stain spread across the sleeve of his coat. She stepped forward and lifted one hand to brush lightly across his shoulder. "We need to tend to your injury. Virgil shifted uncomfortably under her touch. "As I've assured you, it's only a scratch, Majesty. I promise you, I will be fine."
"Don't be stubborn Virgil." Vanessa stepped forward and looked at his arm. "Assassins that carry knives usually coat them with something. It would be stupid if you let your pride get you killed." Virgil sighed. "I would rather not leave Her Majesty at this time. My place is at her side." Mary sighed. "Honestly. I understand your concern, Count of Manchester, but you really should be sensible about these things." She saw the look of resolution on Virgil's face. "Very well. If you're really that concerned…" She turned to Esther and bowed. "Your Majesty, I happen to be well trained in first aid. Would you object if I attended to the Count of Manchester's wounds here?"
"No not at all. It's fine…just as long as he's taken care of." Esther felt a little shaky. Now that the adrenalin was wearing off, she could still see the knife flashing down at her. The blood on her advisor's arm testified to how close she had come to being killed. "Thank you." Mary strode over to a small cabinet, where she kept various supplies, including a small first aid kit. She turned back, took a look at Esther's face and stopped. "Lady Vanessa, if you could perhaps get Her Majesty a seat, and something light to drink. Esther managed a shaky smile, and settled back into her desk chair. "It's all right. I'm really fine, just a bit shaken." Mary smiled. "That's to be expected." She set the medical kit on the desk, removed a small bottle of disinfectant and some bandages, then turned to Virgil. "All right. Remove your jacket please."
Virgil shifted again. "This really is rather improper…"
"Well you were the one who insisted on it." Vanessa leaned casually against the door, ensuring there would be no interruptions. "Either do what Colonel Spencer asks, or go to the Palace infirmary. Or…" she examined one hand. "I can take care of it." She grinned, a faint light of almost predatory amusement in her eyes. Esther felt herself twitch. That grin made her think that there was a memory there that she didn't want to know about. Virgil sighed, but he stripped off the long jacket he wore without further protest. Beneath it, there was a large scarlet stain on the sleeve, at least the size of Esther's hand and still gleaming wetly. Mary examined the wound the looked back at Virgil. "I can't work through your shirt."
Virgil stiffened. "I will not embarrass myself by appearing so undressed in front of her majesty." His other hand came around, and casually ripped the sleeve from the shoulder. He carefully peeled it off his arm, exposing a four inch long gash running across his bicep. "The sleeve was ruined anyway." Mary grinned. "Ever proper and correct." She reached out and dabbed a linen strip over the bloody wound, then lifted it to her nose and sniffed. "It smells clean, but you and Vanessa would be able to tell better than I can." She held the cloth out to the woman standing by the door.
Vanessa took the bloodstained cloth and sniffed it. "It's fine. Everything's normal, unless you count that silver nitrate in his system." She made a face. "You got lucky, Virgil." Virgil sighed. "Would you rather I had not protected Her Majesty?"
"No. I'd rather you were sensible about your injuries." Mary soaked another wad of linen in disinfectant. The sharp smell if alcohol and medical chemicals hit Esther's nose. "Hold still." She pressed the cloth against the wound and began to clean away the blood. Esther heard the air hiss between her advisor's teeth as the anti-septic stung in the gash, but his face looked utterly impassive. Had she not learned to read his expressions over the past few months, she'd have never noticed the slight tightening of his jaw. A cold feeling hit her stomach as she watched Mary clean the wound and wrap a white bandage around it. It had been so close. So close. And next time, there was no assurance it would not be worse.
Virgil waited until Mary bound the wound, then carefully removed his jacket from the back of the chair and slung it back around his shoulders. He looked once at the blood-stained sleeve of his coat and sighed, then turned and bowed to Esther. "Your Majesty, I believe you wished to speak to the Vatican and the Empire, did you not?" Esther shook herself out of her daze with a snap. Now was no time to be lost in concerns. "Yes. If you would please." Though the original long distance transmitter had been in Mary's office, she'd had one set up in her own for the peace talks. It was much easier for everyone. Virgil stepped forward, flipped a switch on the console, and typed in a command. His hand stopped, hovering over the keyboard. "Would you prefer I contact the Vatican or the Empire first? Or did you wish to speak to both of them?" Esther considered. "It would be best if we could speak with both of them. However, if either of them is unavailable, then it's all right."
"As Your Majesty wishes. I am transmitting our signal now." He touched a few more buttons, then straightened. "It will likely take them a few minutes to reply." Esther nodded, then turned to Vanessa. "That man…the one who might be Father Nightroad. Can you tell me anything more about him?" She clenched her hands in her lap. Vanessa sighed. "Nothing. He's been around the lower living areas. He bought some basic food and supplies, paid with standard Albion currency. But no one's seen him actually living anywhere. One of my men tried to follow him, but he vanished into the sealed areas."
"Sealed areas?" Esther looked at Virgil. "Yes. There are places that even those with full access to the Ghetto can't go." Virgil sighed. "You recall the place I led you, where I told you we could go no further?" She did remember. "Yes of course. You said it was a place you weren't permitted to take me."
"Indeed. That place is protected, by safeguards even I can't penetrate. I believe it was once a lab, so old it pre-dates Armageddon. But what is inside, and why it was sealed…I have never discovered." He turned his head. "You're sure that's where this man went?"Vanessa sighed. "Honestly, no. That's where my man thought he went. But…this guy is a ghost. And he's only been seen perhaps a handful of times. And one of my men mentioned that if he hadn't been seen in the deserted areas, no one would have noticed him. I've had a couple others who said that even looking for the man, they barely saw him in the crowd." Esther felt her stomach clench. She remembered that ability well. Abel had been capable of walking up right behind a Methuselah on full alert without raising suspicion if he chose. Though he was often a loud, vibrant individual, he could and had also been silent as a cat when needed, and even his odd appearance wouldn't mark him out. She opened her mouth to ask another question, but a light on the communications console blinked. Virgil moved to her side. "It appears that both the Vatican and the Empire are replying, Your Majesty. Shall I put them both on?"
"Yes, of course." Esther straightened her back, and smoothed her dress into a less rumpled condition. Virgil waited a moment for her to compose herself, then pressed the button. Two faces sprang into being above her desk. Esther smiled. "Good evening, Lady Caterina, Your Majesty. I'm sorry to trouble you so late." The image of the Empress laughed. "Well, it's not really that late for us, you know. However, I got the impression that it was something important."
"Indeed. Your message did seem a little rushed when I received it." Caterina frowned slightly. "I take it something has happened."
"Yes. A man, one of my guards, tried to kill me this evening. However, what concerns me is that I believe he was acting under the influence of another." Caterina frowned. Esther briefly relayed the story, including her realization about Dietrich. "I thought you ought to be warned immediately."
"Indeed. An enemy who can take control of our most loyal soldiers with a simple touch. This is a most troublesome development." Caterina's frown had deepened. "However, I thought Dietrich von Lohengrin had perished in the attack over four months ago."
"So did I." Esther smiled ruefully. "I apologize. I didn't check things as thoroughly as I should have. However, it appears he was taken before we returned to retrieve Father Abel's body. I don't know how he could have survived, but…"
"It doesn't matter." The Empress spoke up. 'The fact that he is alive and working is most troubling, but it's good to know. Thank you for telling us, Esther."
"Yes. I'll alert the guards, and warn my brothers to watch for anyone behaving unusually." Caterina sighed. "This is going to be a headache. After all, he could be controlling anyone he had contact with…this really is most irritating."
"Well, at least we are warned." The Empress sighed. "I'm sorry you were attacked though, Esther. I must say, I'm relieved you came to no harm."
"Yes, thank you." Esther took a deep breath. "If I may, there's one other matter I'd like to ask you about." She paused, then spoke softly. "It's been reported by the Captain of my Underground Guards that Father Abel may have been seen in Albion, even in the Underground Facilities of Londinium. I was wondering if either of you knew anything about that." Caterina blinked. "In Albion? Interesting." She sighed. "I'm afraid I can't tell you anything about it, myself. Unfortunately, I've had no contact with him." She sighed. "I've had Father Tres looking for him, but that's all I can say."
The Empress shook her head slightly. "I can't tell you any more than that either. He...Abel might have reasons for being in Albion, and even perhaps the Underground. But I can't tell you where he is, or what his intentions are." Esther bit her lip to stop tears of frustration. She had a feeling that both women knew more than they were telling her, but she didn't know how to ask. She took a breath, to calm herself, then spoke again. "Your Majesty, you once mentioned to me that a young noble of your court might be with Father Abel. Is it possible that I could contact him? Or Father Tres, Lady Caterina?" She looked down at her hands. "I know…this probably seems dreadfully silly of me but…there was something I needed to say to him."
"Esther." The gentleness in the Empress's voice caused her to look up. "I can guess how you feel but…you really shouldn't go looking for him right now. Right now, your greatest concern has to be your welfare and that of your kingdom." She smiled, a small rueful smile. "Believe me, I understand your frustration, and I'm sure Lady Caterina does too. But right now…it's best to leave this alone. If he doesn't want to be found…then he probably has a very good reason."
"She's right." Caterina sighed. "It's one of the hardest things I learned about him. When he doesn't want to be disturbed, Abel is harder to deal with than a wisp of smoke. And right now, it appears he doesn't want to be found. It's best to leave him alone until he sorts things out. He'll turn up eventually." Esther nodded. "I see. Thank you very much. I apologize for troubling you."
"It's all right. I really do understand your frustration." The slender veiled form of the Empress shifted, and then turned back. "Well, I'm afraid I have business to attend to, and it's getting late for both of you. Esther, you should probably go rest."
"Indeed. I have one or two minor matters to take care of, but I assure you, I intend to seek my own rest fairly soon." Caterina bowed her head. "I wish you both a good evening."
"Yes." Esther inclined her head to both women. "Good evening." And both images blinked out. Esther sat for a moment, then looked up as a gentle hand touched her shoulder. Virgil was looking down at her, his face impassive, but his eyes full of concern. "Your Majesty, I believe that the Duchess of Milan and her Imperial Majesty are correct. You should get some rest."
"Yes." Esther managed a wan smile. "I do still feel a bit shaken, I suppose." Mary nodded kindly. "A good night's sleep will help. Rest assured Majesty, we'll take every precaution to see that nothing disturbs you."
"Thank you. But please…" Esther reached out one hand, placed it gently over the torn spot of Virgil's coat, and then looked up at them. "Please, take care of yourselves as well." Mary grinned. "I intend to."
"As do I." Virgil bowed. "You are the first and foremost in our care, Majesty however, I can assure you that I have no intention of being taken off guard a second time." He extended his hand. "If you will allow us to escort you to your rooms…"
"Yes, thank you." Esther allowed herself to be conducted to bed without any further protest but her thoughts were spinning. As she dropped into an uneasy slumber, her last vision was of Mary, standing watchfully beside the door. Esther woke the next morning, aware that it was far later than she usually awoke, and aware too that Mary was gone. She sighed, looking at the clock. She should have been in morning Council hours ago. Doubtless, Mary and Virgil had conferred and decided to let her rest, then found a plausible excuse to offer the rest of the nobles. She pushed her hair back out of her eyes, and said a quiet prayer of thanks for the gift of such helpful advisors. Even with the extra rest, she felt tired. Her dreams had been plagued with nightmare images of Virgil, and Vanessa and Mary, stabbed by assassin's blades. Or worse, of seeing them come after her, their hands brandishing weapons while their eyes begged her for forgiveness. She knew well what it felt like, to be bound by Dietrich's strings, forced to do things she would rather not do.
She shivered, remembering how he had once forced her to shoot Father Nightroad multiple times. She was aware, having seen those strings at work, that it might be necessary to kill anyone who was bound by them. The thought of killing one of her advisors, then burning the body to ash so it couldn't be used, made her sick. She shivered, remembering those dreams, remembering what else she'd seen in the long night. She had dreamed of Father Nightroad several times. Sometimes, it had been his gentle smile, his warm kindness. More often though, she had dreamed of his death, and of seeing him lying in the coffin, surrounded by roses. Or of the many times she'd seen him in battle, wounded and torn.
A light knock on the door startled her, and then Mary entered. The Colonel stopped and bowed. "Forgive the intrusion, Majesty, but I thought I should look in on you."
"It's all right." Esther stretched carefully. "I should have been awake a long time ago. Mary bowed again. "Virgil and I thought perhaps some additional rest would be beneficial for you."
"I really do appreciate it. However, it really is time I stopped lazing about." Esther offered her advisor a smile. "I really don't want to get behind on my paperwork, and I suspect that the Court would like verification that I'm all right."
"Of course, Your Majesty." Mary bowed again. "I'll send your maids in. When you're ready, I'll be happy to escort you to the dining parlor. I believe Virgil may have arranged to set up lunch in there, in hopes that you would join us."
"It sounds wonderful. I'll be right with you." Mary exited the room, and a moment later, one of Esther's serving girls came in, carrying a clean dress for her to wear. Esther dressed quickly, allowing the maid to arrange her hair and button the back of the dress. She still wasn't used to having personal servants, but the passing months had enabled her to come to an understanding with her maids. The young woman stood behind her respectfully as she shrugged into the garment, then stepped forward to do the awkward fastenings and smooth the folds of the dress. A quick application of a brush to her hair, with some clips to make it a little more manageable, and Esther was ready. Mary was waiting just outside the door to Esther's suite. As they walked the short corridor to the main dining parlor, Esther spoke softly. "I was wondering…what is the condition of the assassin from last night?"
Mary frowned. "He hasn't regained consciousness. I suspect, given that he is a Methuselah, he's more likely to wake this evening. Out of consideration for your theory, we've bound his injuries. However, we won't know his condition, and whether or not he's still being controlled until he wakes. Therefore, we've taken the precaution of binding him tightly, in one of the lower cells with silver bars."
"I see. Well, that makes sense." Esther sighed. "Thank you for telling me." They entered the dining hall. Virgil was standing beside her chair at the head of the table. He looked impeccable, as always, and if she hadn't seen it happen, she'd never have guessed he was injured. At the sight of her he bowed, then gestured to the chair. "Good morning, Your Majesty. If you would care to have a seat…"
"Thank you." Esther moved to the chair and settled herself into it. "Please, be seated." She gestured, then waited until her two main advisors had seated themselves on either side. "Lord Walsh, how is your arm?"
"It is mending, Majesty." He inclined his head. "I believe it will be fully healed within a day or two."
"That's good." Esther smiled. "You know, you really don't have to be so formal, Lord Walsh. You did save my life, after all. Besides, you're also one of my closest advisors. It's all right to relax." A slight smile touched the corner of his mouth. "I appreciate your offer, Majesty, however I'm afraid I simply never developed the habit."
"Well, at least use my name sometimes. It feels so strange, being called majesty all the time." She smiled at him. "As you wish." He inclined his head, then made a slight nod towards the food on her plate. "Is your breakfast acceptable…Lady Esther?"
"That's better. And yes, breakfast is fine. Thank you." Esther smiled, then turned her attention to her plate. Despite the long night, she had a good appetite. She finished to find both of the others waiting for her. "What's on the schedule for today?"
"There is nothing in particular. However, in regards to last night's incident, we are taking measures. Vanessa has recalled all her personnel, and will be speaking with them, to see if she can find any evidence of others who may have been taken in. Colonel Spencer will be doing the same with the guards here at the palace, particularly any whom she intends to rotate into your personal guard. In the meantime, I will stay with you."
"I see. Well then, I suppose I should attend to my paperwork." Esther sighed, then hesitated. "About the man Vanessa mentioned…has there been any more news?"
"No, I'm afraid not." Virgil sighed. "I've even gone down to look at the cameras myself, to see if he'd been spotted on one of them. Whoever it is, they are extremely careful."
"I see. Still…I'd like to speak to him. Is it possible for you to escort me down there? I'd like to see for myself." Virgil rose. His face was still, and stern. He looked at her for a moment, then bowed. "If you make it a direct order, Majesty, then I cannot refuse you. However, I would ask you not to do this, please. Both Cardinal Sforza and her Imperial Majesty have hinted that it would be unwise to seek this man. I do not know their reasons, but I believe their concern was sincere."
"He's right." Mary rose from her seat on the other side. "Besides, even with Vanessa's best intentions, we can't provide adequate security down in the lower areas of the Ghetto. They're a warren. When you add in the possibility that any one of the guards assigned to you might have been tainted by this man, Dietrich, that makes it even more perilous. I'm afraid I must join the Count of Manchester in asking you not to consider such an action at this time." Esther stared at them. Both of them looked calm, but she had heard real tension in Mary's voice, and anxiety in Virgil's. She nodded. "I understand. I won't ask you then." Virgil straightened. "Thank you, Majesty."
She spent the rest of the day working on her papers, granting various requests, looking over documents. The Council had produced a few requests about land taxes and so forth. Virgil worked beside her, patiently explaining all the things she didn't understand, listening as she spoke her way through her thoughts, and offering his advice. For the most part, it was a fairly relaxed exchange, but once or twice, she caught the shadow of concern in his eyes. It was just going to evening when Mary knocked on the door. "Your Majesty…the assassin has awakened."
"I see. And his condition?"
"He seems very confused." She made a disgruntled noise. "He's fairly upset at being confined, and he swears he remembers nothing. I'm almost inclined to believe him. It's my recommendation that we leave him there for a while. We might make him a bit more comfortable, but I don't believe we should release him yet."
"I agree. Dietrich…Dietrich is very good at waiting. Please…take care of him and make sure he's adequately provided for, but keep him under guard for now."
"As you wish." Mary considered her. "I apologize if I seem forward, majesty, but I recommend you retire early tonight as well. You still look a bit worn out."
"Thank you. Actually, I was just thinking the same thing." Esther yawned. "With all the excitement, I'm afraid I didn't sleep all that well." The next few days passed in her usual routine. Esther attended her duties, took care of the business of the kingdom, and handled various matters that came up. There were no more assassination attempts, but her nerves wouldn't settle. Her dreams were plagued with visions of Abel, his expression set in the state of terrible, solitary despair she'd seen in him once or twice. Worse still were dreams of her advisors, attacked or attacking her while Dietrich stood in the background and gloated. The third day, she went to see the prisoner, with Colonel Spencer and a fully armed guard at her side. The man was conscious, but he seemed confused. When she appeared at the door to the cell, he dragged himself to his knees, then bowed his head, apologizing profusely. Esther came away from the encounter troubled. That night she dreamed of Virgil, bound in the dark cell, apologizing as the man had, with shame and grief written on his usually calm face. She woke, sick and shaking, one hand pressed to her mouth.
It was too much. She knew there'd been no attacks, but as the days stretched on, she couldn't rid herself of the nagging fears that held her. That next time, the wounds would be greater than a simple scratch on the arm. Or that, next time, it wouldn't be some simple guard that attacked her, but one of the people whose advice and presence she was coming to treasure. She would be forced to kill them, or cause them shame by locking them away. She feared, even if she tried to spare their lives, that it would make no difference. Virgil and Mary were both prepared to risk themselves for her, and she had no doubt that they would die if they thought they'd betrayed her. A week after the attack, Virgil met her for breakfast. He held a chair for her, but before he settled into his own seat, he stopped. "Majesty, are you well? You look a little pale."
"Oh, I'm fine." She forced a smile onto her face. "I simply didn't sleep well last night. I think I was just a little tense for some reason." His face said he didn't quite believe her, but he nodded. "I see. Well, I pray you sleep better this evening." He sat down. "Your Majesty, concerning the man you asked me about…I believe I have news." Esther felt her heart stutter. "Yes?"
"I believe…that if he was indeed in the Ghetto, he has left it." He consulted a small pad at his elbow. "Last night, I recorded an odd code being used again. It was used to open a door, which leads to some ruins on the outskirts of Londinium. The door was accessed from the inside control panel, and that code was not reused. Nor was any similar incident recorded." Esther stared down at her plate. "I see. He left." She looked back at her advisor. "Do you know where he might have gone?"
"I'm afraid not, Majesty. That particular door is on the outskirts of Londinium, but it is not even close to any of the houses we considered for renovation. I'm afraid he'll be impossible to track."
"Well, I suppose that's it then." Esther smiled sadly. "I was hoping to get a chance to speak with him." Virgil nodded. "I apologize, majesty, that I could not help you in that regard."
"It's all right. After all, Lady Caterina and the Empress did both say it was better to leave him alone." She smiled up at him. She finished her breakfast, then went on to the business of the day, but it was difficult to keep her mind on her work. She kept thinking of other things.
He's left the Ghetto. Lord Walsh said he was probably in Londinium's outskirts. It's a lot of ground to cover, but…. She considered her advisor. I wonder if his arm is still bothering him. It's been a week, and Methuselah usually heal faster than humans, but Lord Walsh…he takes that silver nitrate solution. He said it was all right, but it might affect his healing. She looked out the window, thoughtfully. The Father…Father Nightroad might be out there right now.
The thoughts continued to plague her that night. She couldn't get rid of them, even though she tried. The next morning, Mary joined her at breakfast. As she settled into her seat, Esther spotted a small bruise on the Colonel's jaw. "Colonel Spencer, did something happen?" Mary gave her a wry smile. "It's nothing too serious. We heard rumors that there was a dangerous group, planning an attack on the Palace, and went to investigate. However, it seems they were aware of our approach. There was a brief fight, and I regret to say that a few of them escaped. But it's nothing serious." Nothing serious. Her advisor had been out fighting in the streets in the middle of the night to protect her, and it was nothing serious. Esther bit her lip.
Every moment I'm here, these people are in danger protecting me. They're watching out for me. But Dietrich…Dietrich could have touched anyone, and we'd never know until it was too late. They could get killed. I don't want that. And even if I'm the Queen, they know so much more about what this country needs..
"Your Majesty?" Mary's soft question disturbed her thoughts. Esther looked up and forced a smile. "I'm sorry. I'm afraid I got lost in thought for a moment there. But I'm glad nothing too bad has happened. Please, take care of yourself."
"Of course, Majesty." Mary inclined her head. Esther returned her attention to her food, but her mind was racing elsewhere. She couldn't go on like this, worrying every second of the day about her advisors, or Father Nightroad, she had to do something. She had to find a way to get them out of danger. Two nights later, Esther sat at her desk, working. A glance at the clock told her it was far later than she usually worked. Both of her advisors were standing together, watching her. As she looked up, Mary stepped forward. "It's late, majesty. Perhaps you should consider retiring for the night." Esther smiled sheepishly at them. "I know but I wanted to finish these reports. Besides, I haven't been sleeping all that well lately, and I thought if I could work a little longer, it would be better than taking medications."
"I see." Virgil considered, then turned to the Colonel. "Colonel Spencer, I need to attend to my duties in the Ghetto. Do you object to watching over Her Majesty until she is ready to retire?"
"Not at all. With your permission Majesty." Mary turned back to Esther.
"Of course. Actually, the company is welcome." Esther smiled. "Then I will take my leave of you." Virgil bowed, then exited the room. Esther worked for a few more minutes, mindful of the woman settled in the chair nearby. Then she began to flip through the files on her desk. Mary noticed her agitation after a few minutes. The older woman rose and stepped up to the desk. "Is something wrong, Majesty?"
"I can't seem to find some of the reports from this morning's Council meeting. I meant to go over them for discussion tomorrow, but they aren't here." Esther ruffled through the papers a few more times, then stood. "I suppose I'll have to go see if the secretary has any copies." Mary stiffened. "Majesty, I don't think it's wise for you to go wandering the Palace at this hour." She considered. "If you are not too bothered, I can go and retrieve the documents you wish. It will take no more than ten minutes. I know precisely where the Council Secretary keeps everything." She looked at the young queen. "If you will take care to lock the door behind me, I will instruct the guards to permit no one to enter, save myself. I trust you have your weapons?" Esther nodded. "Of course. If it's not too much trouble, I really would appreciate this. "I'll only be gone a moment, Majesty." Mary bowed. She walked out, and Esther heard the heavy door latch click. She walked over and closed the other latch. Mary had the keys to both latches, and the office was connected to Esther's rooms. But the locked door would give her a bit of time.
Esther looked at the door a moment, then turned and raced into the bathroom. There she hurried to remove the dress she was wearing. She reached under the sink, retrieving the clothing she had placed there this afternoon, while getting ready for her afternoon meetings. The bundle contained a pair of black leggings, meant to go below a knee length skirt, dark boots, and a dark shirt. Long sleeves went over her arms, along with fingerless gloves, and she'd obtained a dark cloak to wear to hide her hair. Quickly Esther slipped into the new outfit, replaced her weapons on her person, and settled the cloak over her shoulder. A quick peek into the office showed Mary hadn't returned. Esther stepped out into the room. She stood looking at the desk for a moment, then bit her lip and removed a folded piece of paper from her uniform. It was a letter to both of her advisors, when they returned.
I'm sorry. Please forgive me, for doing what I felt I had to do. I know…you would ask me not to do this. I know of the responsibilities I bear as the Queen but I feel a heavier weight now, that forces me to leave. I cannot stay here. Every moment I am here, I place the both of you in danger. Anyone could be in Dietrich's hand. Worse, he could touch one of you. I fear that any moment, someone else will be employed as a pawn, and that this time, the encounter will not end in a simple wound. I do not wish to risk you. Both of you know so much more than I, and your lives have become so precious to me…I am sorry.
I will go and seek Father Nightroad, and any companions he may have. I know they will be able to protect me, even from Dietrich's manipulations. I know perhaps I hurt you, saying this, but all I can ask is that you forgive me…please. Until I return, when the threat is lifted, I am formally placing you as my joint stewards. Please, take care of this realm and the fragile Alliance we have formed. I pray that I will be able to return to you soon. Once more, I apologize for placing you in this position. Please understand this is what I felt I had to do.
*Queen Esther Blanchett*
Esther bit her lip. She didn't like leaving them like this, but it was the only way. She set the paper on the table, then returned to the bathroom and shut the door. It was the work of a moment to unlatch the window on the far side, and Esther slipped up onto the sill. Just as she did, she heard the latch click on the other side of the door, and knew Mary had returned. Quickly she dropped out of the window into the grounds below. Twenty minutes later, she scaled a tree on the far side of the grounds and leapt onto the wall. She gauged the distance to the ground, then leapt. A second later, she was on the ground and sprinting into the light fog clouding Londinium's streets. Dawn found Esther wandering the Londinium streets with the rest of her citizens. Her clothing, the functional but respectable attire she'd worn out of the Palace, didn't stand out much. Better still, it was a damp drizzly sort of day, which meant retaining her cloak made perfect sense.
Esther smiled underneath the shadow, munching on the light snack she'd brought with her. She spared a brief thought for Virgil and Mary. She knew they'd be worried frantic, especially Virgil, to whom the late queen had given the final task of finding her and caring for her. She sighed and shook the thoughts from her mind. There was no going back. Not for now. Around noon, Esther stopped at a small café for lunch. She was pleased when no one commented on her appearance, or recognized her as Albion's queen. Hopefully, her disguise would protect her in other areas as well. But she had other things to think about.
The last sign of Father Nightroad indicated he was going to the Londinium outskirts, near the edge of town. That's also where Mary said that violent gang was located, the one that threatened my life. Since they targeted me, it's possible they were Rosenkreutz, or Fleur du Mal associates. Either way it looks as if my best bet is to move toward the edge of the city. I should probably avoid the areas around the Ghetto safe-houses though. Someone there would likely recognize me.
Esther finished her food, then moved to the counter. "Excuse me, I'm afraid I'm fairly new around here, and I don't know my way around yet. Do you know where I could find a map?" She was surprised when the shopkeeper handed her one off the shelf, but he only smiled. "It's not unusual to get lost people up in this district. New servants, tourists, and nobles out for a lark…they all come through. It's standard policy to have maps on hand. If you lose that one, just stop by anyplace and pick up a new one." Esther nodded. 'Thank you." She spent the next two days and evenings wandering around the city. Londinium was huge, almost as large as Rome, and certainly as complicated. Had it not been for the Vatican at the center of the holy city, Esther suspected that Londinium would have been it's equal. She walked along, stopping to rest and eat when she needed to. Sandwich shops and the like supplied simple cheap meals, and she could sit under a tree and doze whenever she felt like it.
The evening of her fourth night found her approaching the older sections of the city. Here, the buildings weren't as well maintained. Signs of age and wear showed through, and the streets were less clean. Esther studied the area, looking up at the deepening sunset sky. She knew it would be sensible to go find a place to rest, to retreat to the safer areas and wait for dawn. But night was when Methuselah stirred, as did the worst of the criminals of the underworld. If she wanted information on who was targeting her and why, there was no better time. Besides, if Abel was still around it was probable that he'd be out in the evening too. She'd seen no sign of the silver-haired priest, and though she'd asked hesitantly in several places for someone matching his description, she'd yet to find anything. She sighed.
Likely, he was already gone. It had been foolish to seek him, foolish to hope he'd remain in Londinium, or that she'd be able to find him in a city that was home to thought decided her. Though she'd been well trained, she wasn't really a match for a bunch of Methuselah. As much as she wanted to know what was going on, it was better if she waited for day before venturing deeper into a dangerous situation. She knew from her wandering that the city conditions improved within half a mile. There would be some place to rest there, and then she could make inquiries in the morning. She turned and began to make her way back to the safer environs.
"Hey, you lost?" The voice took her by surprise. She looked up. There was a man lounging against the wall, looking at her. Esther tensed. She had a bad feeling about the situation. He was bigger than she was, but he'd appeared almost out of no where. However, it would do no good for her to panic. She slipped her arm to her side and gripped her gun, though she retained a calm expression. "No. I'm not lost at all, thank you. I was just on my way home."
"On your way home, huh?" The man pushed off the wall and strolled toward her. "If you don't mind my saying, you look a little too well dressed to be from this section of town."
"I was looking for a friend of mine. He used to live in this area." The man was now fairly close, and Esther knew within a couple steps she'd have to stop, or try to brush past the man. If she stopped, she'd just look weak, and scared. She tightened her grip on the gun, and her other hand over the long knife strapped at her hip under the cloak. She took another step. "Excuse me." She didn't even have time to blink before the man's hand closed on her arm. "I don't think so." He grinned at her, a dangerous predator's smile. "I think I should help you out, little miss." He'd caught the arm with the knife. Esther didn't think, she reacted, pulling the gun out from under her cloak and firing at his chest. The man swore, dodging, and his grip on her arm released. Esther took off running. She got all of a dozen steps when he suddenly appeared in front of her. There was a scrape across one arm, and his expression was murderous. "Not so fast." He lunged.
He used haste. He's a Methuselah! Esther fired again, her stomach clenching with fear. Her other hand drew the knife, holding it flat to her arm as Mary had taught her. I have to get out of here!
The second shot didn't even graze him. Esther gasped as the gun was knocked from her hand and she stumbled backward into a wall. She had just enough presence of mind to lift her knife hand up. Her attacker cursed as it caught him across the palm. "Feisty, aren't you?" A smile crossed his face. "That's good. My men were hoping for some fun tonight. Esther knew what that meant, she lunged forward, around him, hoping to break free, but it was already too late. From the shadows, several more men appeared. Esther dodged, but one caught her arm.
She slashed wildly, but there were too many and they were stronger than she was. She felt the blade connect, but then someone caught her knife hand and wrenched it behind her, twisting her wrist to force her to drop it. By the time she could even try to fight free, two men had seized her arms, and a third had grabbed her around the shoulders, lifting her feet off the ground. Esther kicked, hoping to hit someone where it would hurt, but the men on either side of her simply extended their legs slightly in front of her, blocking her effectiveness, and the man behind her was too close. She was helpless. The man who'd first approached her watched with a smile on his face. As soon as the other men had her captured, he moved forward.
His eyes roved over the group. "Hmmm…you've managed to wound three of my men. Not bad. You're a very spirited woman." His grin got a little wider, and he shoved the hood back off her face. "Well, well. Red hair, blue eyes. Dressed as an upper class servant and wandering the Londinium outlying areas. Not very bright." He leaned forward and whispered mockingly into her ear. "Not bright at all, was it, Your Majesty?"
"I don't know what you're talking about!" Esther felt her stomach twist again. If she'd been discovered…. He laughed. "Don't play coy." The smirk returned to his face. "We've been looking for you, you know. We heard rumors that you were interested in something outside the grounds of the Palace. We put on that little show for the Colonel, hoping it would bring you out. I was considering an attack or an attempt to sneak in, but then we got the most interesting piece of news. That you'd left the Palace. We got a good description of you too, by the way, so there's no point in denying it." Esther bit her lip. There'd been no general alarm raised on her disappearance. Which meant they'd heard the news from someone inside. "Who are you people?"
The man sneered. "We're members of the Fleur du Mal. And you…" He reached out one hand and touched her jaw. Esther jerked back and spat in his face, trying to break free. The man laughed. "I have an employer who's going to be very pleased that we have you. Esther jerked at her arms, not caring if she broke something. She had to get away. She kicked out, twisting and struggling as best she could. The man's gaze shifted behind her. A second later, something slammed hard into Esther's skull. She fought the pain, but it was too great. Within a moment, she was unconscious.
(AN) AUTHOR'S NOTES:Normally I leave chapters without AUTHOR'S NOTESat the bottom of the pages as you have seen thus far until chapter 4. Yes a Cliff-hanger don't scold me!. I promise it will get more active when the updates become more and more frequent. A is said before the more updates the faster and action packed it will become. But this does leave many? in your heads as to what becomes of Esther for the rest of the story. Well I not telling would be spoiling it for most for you ^^. Take care until chapter five's arrival and strayed tuned to TBWC; TTFN smcandy