CHAPTER 89 - CONFRONTATION

Her body felt warmer and the coldness from the bathtub she experienced finally felt unknown, as if nothing happened. But she knew something happened. Something unexpected.

She opened her eyes with the sound of the door that slid open and footsteps getting closer to her. She saw a man’s broad shoulder and firm back. It was Leon. Suddenly, Luis’ words suddenly crept into her mind.

“And our parents died… Because of his father.”

Oriana’s heart suddenly ached. Her beloved parents died and she hasn't even seen their bodies since the Great Bloodshed, their house fell, their reputation was destroyed and she was treated like a pest. Everything was because of two persons; Ashriel and Leon’s father.

Anger started to cover her heart.

“You’re awake? Thank God!”

Her creased brow ironed when her eyes met Leon’s worried eyes. He quickly dashed towards her and cupped her hand and face.

“Are you alright? Feeling any hurt? Are you hungry? What do you need? Tell me, please.” He bombarded her, full of worries.

“For earth’s sake you’re sleeping for four days now.” He added and buried his face to Oriana’s palms which surprised her. “I don’t know what I’ll do if I ever lose you.” He whispered, kissing her palm and looking directly at her light blue eyes that started to gain color.

This time, Oriana doesn’t know if her heart ached for anger or because of Leon.

“Colone-”

“Ah! You’re awake! Finally!”

They both stopped and looked at Olive who entered with a box of donuts.

“Seriously? Stop killing this baby. Physically and emotionally.” Olive chuckled, tapping her twin’s back.

“How are you feeling?”

Oriana didn’t answer - for even she doesn’t know what to say, and instead she slowly got up and sat.

“Do you remember anything?”

Oriana’s eyes transferred from Olive to Leon who asked.

“About what happened? About your conversation with Lui-”

“No.” She blurted out, more aggressively than she intended. “N-No, Colonel.” She repeated, in an attempt to sound more respectful.

“Of course I do. I clearly do.” She whispered in her mind.

The twins exchanged glances.

“Are you sure?”

“Yes, Colonel. I’m a little blue now, so can I ask you to please leave me for a moment. I need to… to try remembering everything.”

“But-”

“Please, Sir.” Oriana pleaded. But her tone wasn’t pleading at all. “I need to be alone.”

Leon focused on her face for a moment before saying,

“Very well.”

Oriana looked at the huge window beside her, waiting for the twins to go out. Leon sighed deeply before Olive pulled him out of the room. Oriana suspired, fidgeting her fingers when the door suddenly opened again. She was about to oppose Leon when she saw Olive.

“Lady?”

“I know you remembered everything. Tell me now.” Olive demanded an Oriana stop. It was as if she was a different person. Her eyes narrowed.

“I told you, I don’t remember anything.”

“Lies.” Oriana was taken aback by her words. “Oriana, lying is my specialty, so you cannot fool me. Tell me what Luis said.”

Oriana’s eyes slowly widened. “What do you mean lying is your specialty?”

Olive smirked, slightly creeping Oriana out.

“Oh dear, I never thought this will be the time I’ll have an ally.” She giggled, very unlike her.

“I cannot understand you.”

“Fine. Should I guess then? Did Luis say anything about your parent’s death?”

Oriana was stunned and her mouth gaped. Suddenly, her heart beat faster. Seeing her reaction, Olive laughed.

“Bingo! Perhaps, he said something regarding our father?”

“How the heck did you know?!”

“Shh. Lower your voice, my sister.” Olive shushed, putting her index finger vertically above her lips. Oriana was alarmed when Olive sauntered towards her. She raised her hand.

“Don’t worry, I won’t harm you.”

“Get out of here.”

“Haha. Who are you to command me?”

Oriana gulped. She doesn’t have any weapons with her aside from the dextrose metal stand beside her.

“You know, I can help you.” Olive started. “My father was not at fault here. Oh, well, he was, but not as much as the Boss was.”

Oriana’s brows furrowed deeply. “What are you implying?”

“What I’m trying to say…” She slammed herself to Oriana’s bed and grabbed her cheeks. “Be my ally, Oriana. Let’s take revenge.”

“R-Revenge?”

Olive nodded. “Uh-huh. Revenge. If the Boss didn’t command my father to kill your parents then probably, we are living happily ever after by now, aren’t we? Your house will not fall, your reputation will not be destroyed, and you’re probably living your best by now.”

In just her few words, Oriana’s heart started to ache again, slowly being swallowed by rage.

“Come, join me with my plan, Oriana. Take my hand and from now on, no one from the Quislings shall touch you.”

Her words were like honeycomb, slowly tempting Oriana. But she didn’t let her guard down easily.

“How can I trust you?”

Olive grinned. “You really are my brother’s pet. You know, we have the same motive. And I wouldn’t ask you if I’m not serious, Oriana. Why would I if there is a possibility that you’ll say this to my twin? Now, take my hand.”

Oriana hesitated. But then, with Olive’s final words, she took her hand. Revenge. For her, that’s a nice word from all the pain and hardships she experienced.

***

“Sire, the rumors spread like wildfire.” Kate reported, biting her lower lips.

“Call everyone.” Nathan commanded which Olive quickly obeyed. He looked at the clear sky behind the huge window.

“It’s been three year, Ash. I missed you.” Nathan whispered in the air.

It’s been three years since Ashriel’s diminished and many things had happened. That includes sudden rumors circulating the whole Empire about Ashriel’s death, alarming the First Rank.

Nathan did his best to rule the Two Empires like Ashriel did but he knew something was lacking. Though Nathan trained with Ashriel, for him, she was a greater leader than him. She never lacks perception or wit and she always knows what’s best for the Empires.

Nathan took a deep breath, shook his head, and laughed. “Must not let my emotions devour me. Yes, Ash. I know.” He said, looking at her photo on his phone. “Now, let’s solve this problem.”

Everyone gathered at the Meeting Hall with their own gathered versions of the story of Ashriel’s death. Even the Elders were present aside from Lady Beatrice, Lady Octavia and James who were securing the whole Thrascias.

“Her death was top secret.” Emmette started. “How come people know?”

“Some citizens were even petitioning on the internet to let Her Highness have a public appearance as proof that she is alive.” Lady Kitori butted in.

Oriana glanced at Olive who caught her eyes and Olive smirked, giving Oriana goosebumps.

“We tracked down every rumor that spreaded and deleted them.” Xieaniel uttered.

“That’s good. But it will not be erased from the people’s mind.” Nathan answered.

“What can you suggest, son?” Spencer asked.

Nathan took a deep breath before sighing. “There’s only two solutions in my mind, Father.”

The whole hall became silent, waiting for Nathan’s next words.

“Either we announce to everyone the truth-” He raised his hand when everyone was about to react.

“Which I know was not a good idea since Edom will surely attack and kill many innocents if that happens. And the second one is making up stories to conceal the matter. Just for a while until we manage to know where that bastard is and silence him.”

“That would be great!”

Everyone’s eyes transferred from Nathan to Olive who suddenly perked. Xieaniel’s brows creased a bit. He felt something odd towards his Ruby.

“We cannot deny the fact that Edom is clever. By now, the rumors probably reached his ears. And who knows what that asshole would do. BUT, by making up stories, we could conceal the matter.”

Leon frowned. “That’s what the First General is trying to say, twin. No need to repeat.”

“Tsk. I know.

“What stories can you suggest, Olive?” Asked Nathan. Olive smiled.

“How about we say that The Boss is currently under medication due to over fatigue? You know, if we say she’s on vacation, people are not fools to notice that she has not done any public appearance for three years now. Saying she’s ill is the most persuasive reason, knowing that she started to rule since she was thirteen.”

Nathan analyzed her words. Olive was right. That’s the best reason they can come up with. He nodded.

“Very well. Now then whose in favor-”

“Wait, Sire.” They stopped when Olive spoke again.

“Since we come up with that story, the citizens will surely ask for a temporary Ruler who would rule on behalf of The Boss who was recovering from her ailment.”

“What could you suggest?”

“I suggest proclaiming The First General as the Temporary Ruler publicly. The two rings The Boss gave you is enough to make them believe and follow you, Sire.”

“Yeah, I know. Now, who's in favor of Olive’s suggestion?”

The First Ranks and the Elders exchanged glances before raising their hands.

“Very well. I’ll take it into consideration then. The public announcement will be conducted tomorrow. No more grand preparations as we have more important things to do.”

“Yes, Sire!”

Emmette tapped Spencer’s shoulder that was tense the whole time.

“Oy. You’re boy’s a man now, Bud. No need to be anxious.” He whispered and laughed. Chalier also caressed Harriet’s back.

When everyone finally left, Oriana made sure the room was safe before confronting Olive.

“This is all your doing, I suppose?”

Olive smirked. “You’re sharp, eh? No need to ask if you already know the answer, dear sister.”

“But why? That’s not safe-”

“Don’t you like it? This is revenge for your beloved parents. So just seal your mouth and follow.” She whispered before leaving Oriana befuddled.

Following Nathan’s command, the public proclamation was done abruptly and though people wanted to ask more questions, their mouths were zipped. Standing in the balcony of the palace, Nathan shone like Ashriel.

“From now on, anyone who releases false and defiling statements regarding Her Highness will be punished. No mercy will be shown to everyone who opposes.”

With his final statement, the ceremony ended, leaving the people in total shock.

“For a moment I thought Zillian was the one speaking.” Said Natsuki. “I always thought you’re the merciful one, Bud.” He chuckled. “Congratulations.”

“Don’t congratulate me yet, Bud. Say that after we win the war.”

“Oh well, I may not have the chance. We don’t know the time. Let me say it in advance.”

“Stop jinxing.”

“I’m not jinxing. I’m stating the truth, Bud. Let’s learn from what happened to Zi.”

Hearing the truth from Natsuki’s mouth, Nathan sighed deeply.

“Yeah… From what happened to her- ugh!” He groaned when he felt a sudden strong force hitting his back.

“Seriously? Zillian will not be happy to see that sulky face, for earth’s sake cheer up!”

“Eh?! You’re the one who brought her up!” He retorted and they both laughed with a tiny tear escaping their eyes.

***

After the proclamation, the social media was filled with nothing but congratulatory messages and greetings for the newly proclaimed Ruler. Nathan silenced his phone when messages flooded his notifications.

But that’s not what pissed him. Remembering the promise he made to Ashriel, he clenched his fist. A few days more and he will be married to someone he never loved.

As soon as he entered Ashriel’s office, he loosened his buttons and removed all the heavy things covering his body. But then his eyes became sharp and his body became alert. He took his gun and pointed it at the person standing not far from him, looking at the sky behind the huge window.

“Identify yourself.”

The person glanced at Nathan calmly and seeing her black eyes, Nathan froze. It was as if his whole body was struck with Ice Queen’s scepter, and his eyes almost popped out. He knew those eyes. Suddenly, tears started to form at the corner of his eyes. He knew he was not hallucinating.

“A-Ash?” He managed to say and hurriedly walked towards the woman but stopped when she raised her hand, motioning him to stop.

“That’s absurd. Young Master was already dead three years ago.” With Siel’s words, Nathan broke. It was as if his tiny light was killed.

“Pardon my intrusion, Sire.”

Nathan’s face stiffened. But then he remembered her words. Young Master.

“Identify yourself.” Nathan commanded for the second time, pointing his gun to her. “Or else-”

“No need for violence, Sire. My name is Siel. As to my identity, I’m afraid I was ordered by the Young Master not to reveal it to anyone. Therefore, I will not, Sire.” Answered Siel, maintaining her posture.

“Who do you mean by Young Master?” He asked, though he had a hunch who it might be.

“Her Highness Zillian. The Ruler before you, Your Excellency.”

Nathan’s brows furrowed, successfully managing his shock.

“I grew up with her and I am confident I never saw you.”

Siel nodded. “Yes, Your Excellency. For I am Young Master’s shadow. The Late Ruler Meredith commanded me not to reveal myself to anyone unless the Young Master said so. You may not know me but I know you, Sire. The heir of the House Carsein.”

Siel ambled towards Nathan and bowed with her one knee on the ground and her hand on her chest like she always does with Ashriel.

“Expect my loyalty towards you, Your Excellency.”

“Before you say that, prove yourself. Why would I trust you?”

Siel smiled. He knew Nathan is not easily persuaded.

“The mere fact that I am standing in front of you, Sire, inside Young Master’s office is proof that I am someone she trusted. This place is only for those who have access.”

Nathan focused on Siel’s eyes that are like Ashriel’s. For a moment, he felt something in his heart he couldn’t explain. He was longing for Ashriel’s presence but he knew it was impossible. He suspired.

“Then the Cadre must meet you. It’s not fair that you’re the only one who knows us.”

“Very well, Sire.”

Every High Members and Elders were shocked with the sudden news they heard and the strange woman who suddenly showed up, revealing herself as Ashriel’s shadow. But Chalier felt uneasy. She can remember Ashriel with Siel.

Xieaniel glanced at Olive who was tense the whole time. Her thumb nail was pitiful with her every bite and even her breathing was unstable. It was as if she was having dyspnea. Xieaniel was not worried about Siel but about Olive now.

“It’s been three years since her demise. Why on earth did you only show up now?” Venice interrogated, never letting her guard down.

“Throughout the whole three years I gathered information from Seiron and Sephtis to help you. It was Young Master’s command with her highest seal.”

“I see. She really is wise.” Natsuki chuckled, trying to lift the cold atmosphere.

“There is one thing I desire to know.” Everyone’s eyes transferred to Emmette who stood from his chair. “You said you were with my Atarah during her mission. Tell us now what really happened?”

Siel looked directly at Emmette’s genuine eyes. “It was a bomb accident, Sir. As to the other details, I am not yet allowed to say.”

Emmette lowered his head in agony. Bomb accident. Such tragic death took over his beloved daughter. It broke his heart.

“I suppose, the Lady of House Norton already knew what happened.”

Olive’s eyes widened with the sudden attention she received. Everyone gazed at her in disbelief.

“Olive?”

“Y-Yes, I knew. But I wasn’t allowed to say it in detail.”

“What the hell.” Leon spat angrily. “What’s with the suppression?”

“We know Zillian. So let’s trust her.”

“Wait.” Olive interrupted. “Siel, am I right? You were with her the moment she died. Now, give us proof that you’re not the one who killed her.”

Everyone started to be alarmed. Olive smirked and so did Siel.

She took something from her inside pocket, causing Kate and Raith to draw out their guns.

“Calm down, bearers of peacock and crane rings.” The two were taken back and glanced at Nathan who signaled them to keep their guns but remain alert.

“Young Master told me to give this to you, Your Excellency. And she told me to remind you to keep your promise.”

The whole Meeting Room was aghast when Nathan drew out what Ashriel gave.

“T-The Unity Dagger of the two families.” Emmette uttered in astonishment. “How come-”

“I saw this after her coronation. It was given by the Late Ruler Meredith.” Tory bumped in.

Nathan gulped. “B-But I am not a La Elora or a Theupholis.”

“She had her reasons, Your Excellenc-”

“Daddy!”

Everyone flinched when the heavy door suddenly banged open and a young boy walked inside, crying with his jaguar stuffed animal.

“P-P-Pardon us, Your Eminence! Y-Young Eminence doesn’t want to stop crying. He wanted to see you and Young Mistress.”

“It’s okay. You can leave now.”

“Yes, Your Eminence.”

Natsuki knelt down and offered his hand, lifting his son to his hands. Mix hurriedly fixed his mini coat.

“Gil? What did Daddy say? You can’t just barge in when we're at meetings right?”

“But I want Daddy.” Gil pouted, melting everyone’s heart in the room.

“Let him be for now, Son. You did the same back then.”

With Chalier’s remarks, everyone broke to laughter and the chilly atmosphere suddenly felt warmer. Siel smiled.

“Even Venice did tha- oh! Speaking of.”

They all turned to the door for the second time when a young girl barged in with her maids following behind her. Seeing the other people present in the room, the maids stutered.

“Y-Y-Young Mistress, pardon us. Lady-” The head maid shut when Venice raised her hand.

“It’s okay. You can leave now.”

“Y-Yes, Young Mistress.”

Like what Natsuki did, Venice took her daughter to her arms and sighed deeply with a smile.

“Bri, what did Mommy tell you?”

“But I want Mommy.”

With her words, everyone broke to laughter for the second time. Bri and Gil looked at each other in confusion. Emmette tapped Venice and Natsuki’s shoulders while laughing.

“Now it’s your time to feel what we felt before.”

“No way, Dad!” The twins shouted in chorus and puffed their cheeks. But Bri and Gil went down from their parents' arms and ran to Siel who was as curious as the rest.

“Who are you?”

“Daddy! Her mask is cool! Is she a new aunt?”

“Pronounce “aunt” properly, baby. We don’t want any misunderstanding.” Natsuki laughed.

“Hi, Young Eminence and Young Mistress.” Siel greeted, kneeling with her one knee. The two suddenly smiled so big and hugged Siel which astounded everyone. For some reason, Bri and Gil felt comfortable with her.