Chapter 35 - The Briefing

I had a dumbfounded expression on my face while I fervently analyzed the situation. -’ What does he mean? Why ...? ‘ I looked around, confirming the pair of drawn likelihoods bolted together to the board. -’ There can be no mistake, they wanted to use me to get to the academy… ‘ I confirmed while accounting for Master’s worn out appearance. -’...but the assassination failed or was significantly deterred as I was not there to serve for a free entry ticket...and that’s why the security in the city is so tight! ‘ I concluded the thesis.

My doubtful gaze passed over Oliver’s wry smile and Master’s impassive look. -’ Then why the amused expression?! ‘ I kept asking myself while trying to shake off uneasiness caused by the contrast between easygoing reaction and earlier official tone.

-” Aren’t you going to sack me? “ I asked in an anxious voice, expressing my deeply rooted fear of abandonment.

They looked at each other, with blank expression on their faces, making me embarrassingly aware that I had spoken out of character. -” If I understand your question correctly… “ Master started slowly, almost soothingly. -” ...you think I am going to cut the ties between us? “

Speechless, I nodded, abruptly noticing my embarrassing sitting position. My cheeks grew hot as I hastily rose to my feet, trying to salvage what little dignity I had left.

-” Also, you think yourself responsible for Oswald’s state? “ Oliver added questioningly, making me realize that I had not known Master’s name.

Both of them gave me inquisitive looks and I barely stopped myself from taking a step back, due to the uncertainty that their stares evoked. Regardless, my expression must have been plenty telling as Master Oswald suddenly let out an amused sigh and his lips curved in a slight smile. -” Hmph, and I think there’s more to the story. “

-” Yes, it seems that our conceited apprentice… “ Oliver started slowly, but then made an  abrupt pause to correct himself and continue in a teasing tone. -” ...or rather a Princess indeed! Had come to bear the responsibility for fate of the whole city!  “ He finished with an extremely formal, ridiculing bow in my direction. -” Your Highness! “ Even Master seemed amused by the spectacle. I was so humiliated that I didn’t know how to react, I just stood there, beet red, and with perplexed expression on my face.

-” Jokes aside… “ Master Oswald suddenly took on a serious tone, somehow making me feel a tiny bit better. -” ...I was going to say that the situation in the city is tense and that you have chosen a time to run off rather... unfortunately. Do you know what’s the most important quality of the assassin’s weapon? “

His abrupt question caught me off guard, but it was so...so cliche that I replied instantly. -” Reliable. I mean, no matter what the weapon must be reliable. “

-” Exactly. “ Master affirmed in chastising, but light, tone. -” Next time, inform me before you are going to run off somewhere. “

-” I will. “ I whispered insistently, trying to restore some of my dignity and confidence.

Master’s stark gaze softened, same as his voice. -” Also, don’t think too hard about this event, just learn from it. I tend not to rely on an untested weapon, hence anything that happened is not your fault. “

He made a weighty pause to accentuate his statement, though it only served to strengthen my conviction that they were trying to manipulate me, still I didn’t mind it at all.

-” Which brings us back to the situation at hand. “ Abruptly, Master spoke again, his voice serious and heavy. -” The city is in turmoil, more than that, we are at war. “

I swallowed, suddenly pressured by the weighty statement.

-” Though most of people know naught of it. “ Oliver interjected casually, taking on a sagacious tone. -” Lets start from the beginning. Do you know who Velore Evenwater is? “

-” No, I do not. “ I responded, urged by Oliver’s scrutinizing gaze.

-” She’s former Bishop of the Church of Light, promoted Cardinal three years ago.. “ Oliver continued evenly, while unfolding a map of the city, and surrounding lands, on the desk. -” ...and directly responsible for this. “ He said and pointed to numerous areas on the map, marked with chalk. -” Those… “ His finger pointed out wide swatches of marked land. -” ...are Church controlled farmlands, leased from aristocracy by offering higher payouts compared to regular tax. “

-” Did she have some sort of agricultural technology, to increase the yield, or does she work peasants harder? “ I quickly came up with a theory, causing expressions of surprise to appear on Oswald’s and Oliver’s faces. -” How does she keep people from rebelling or leaving in the latter case? Or is the faith that strong? “

-” Actually, all of your guesses are mostly correct. “ Oliver affirmed in uncertain voice. -” Church called a Blessing of Light onto the lands, which caused sunny weather that you keep seeing recently, though it does not cause droughts... usually. “ He straightened and gave me an inquisitive stare, as if to test whether my earlier guess was a fluke.

I suddenly remembered the village that I had visited on my way back from the adventure. -’ Peasants that were tending fields at a time seemed really busy, though not with the harvest. ‘ I gave Oliver a nod and continued his speech. -” It probably means that the crops grow faster, droughts strike randomly at fields outside Church’s protection and additional workforce is gathered to water fields manually, which is actually not a bad thing. All of this makes Church gain influence and money. Isn’t that right? Why aristocrats aren’t reacting? “

Upon hearing my conclusions, Master looked at me approvingly. -” Well done, apprentice. “ He praised. -” They buy out arable land from lower aristocracy, or, if it fails, a suspiciously convenient drought strikes the crops. Meanwhile, they entice Counts and other high ranked landowners with bribes and favorable dealings if they let Church lease or manage the grounds. “

-” Add to that adventurers, who got lured under their banner, and Order of the Paladins,... “ Oliver suddenly interjected and continued the explanation. -” ...which started boasting a considerable military might, and you likely can imagine where all of this leads to. In short, the Church had gained significant influence in the region, so much in fact, that their actions could be considered a takeover. “

-” What about Governor, why he isn’t taking action? “ I asked though I already predicted the answer.

-” The city is ruled by a duke Arthur Vane-Asquith. “ Oliver clarified. -” He failed to grasp Church’s movements in time and now two out of six Counts are already in Church's pocket, meanwhile the other two are interested only in getting the best possible result out of the whole affair, therefore he has his hands full. “ Oliver’s expression turned solemn as he continued. -” Not to mention that he got outwitted and allowed Church to assist in policing the city. “ He stated thoughtfully and grew silent.

-” I assume there’s more to that decree? “ I asked to urge Oliver to continue.

-” Yes, quite a lot actually. “ He affirmed absentmindedly, as if thinking how much he could share with me, then he continued in a quick, deadpan voice. -” We don’t yet know the whole range of Church's influence, but their scope of operations is unprecedented. They initially struck at criminal related guilds, surely a ploy to garner support, but didn’t stop at that. They soon broadened the scope and now almost everyone’s a target - thieves, merchants, smugglers, alchemists, other temples and even some aristocrats. All done under the guise of bringing order to the city, that is in turmoil due to their very influence...  “

Oliver slowly fell silent and I found myself looking at their blank faces. After a long and expectant pause, I asked uncertainly. -” ...So... which side are we on? “

-” None whatsoever. “ Oliver responded smugly, I could almost see sparks of self satisfaction twinkling in his eyes. -” ...that’s why everyone’s out to get us. “

-” ...or pay us. “ I appended and watched a big smile appear on Oliver’s face.

-” Exactly. “ Master suddenly took over the conversation, speaking in a resolute, dignified tone. -” Therefore I need to know if you can, and will, return to the Academy? “ He finished by giving me a stern look.

-’ Right, reliable, I get it! ‘ I thought to myself.  -’ What should I do? ‘ I wondered while looking at Sylthfran’s picture, he seemed less striking and much more common looking than what I remembered. I almost shook my head while wondering whether I felt alright with him being an assassination target. To my surprise, I realized that I felt nothing, no attachment whatsoever, despite the striking effect that our meeting had on me.

After deeming that a suitable amount of time had passed, I responded with conviction. -” I will return to the academy, and won’t disappoint you again! “

-” Very well. “ Master stated casually. -” Also, regarding the book, I believe it’s called Melvar’s Will. You can control it, right? “ His pose seemed relaxed but his gaze was deadly serious, expecting a straight answer.

-” I am not sure that the control is the best word, but it cannot influence me or act without my approval. “ I decided to answer honestly as his casual tone somehow made me question the causality of the inquiry. -” It is mainly due to a mage called Velar and me being an adventurer. Thanks to his magic and my status the book has no sway over me. “ I explained further due to their worriedly furrowed brows.

Stolen story; please report.

-” Do you know who that Velar person is? “ Master continued casually.

-” Truth be told, I know nothing apart from the fact that he was a powerful mage. “ I decided to stick to the facts, somehow I had a bad feeling when I looked at a bit too casual expression on their faces. -” I met him during my adventure, when I was in a very bad spot. For my assistance, with his teleportation ritual, he promised to help me. “

-” And the book? “ Oliver asked in an even voice.

-” It was meant to power the ritual, but the mage couldn’t access its mana and his pursuers were getting close. “ I said quickly, trying to portray the facts as simply as I could. -” We struck a deal. He would help me and in return he would access the book’s power through me. Also, he promised to cast a spell that would safeguard me from its influence. “ I took a deep breath  to stave off a sudden nervousness. -” Later, I found out that there were some loopholes in that protection, though me being an adventurer saved me. “ I appended.

-” That certainly was Velar Mirthbane. “ Master spoke thoughtfully and upon seeing my questioning expression, he added. -” He’s a wanted man that the Academy tracked for the past few years, there’s a considerable price on his head… “ He made a move as if to look for something on the desk, probably some wanted poster, but dropped the idea midway. -” Anyway, he's certainly powerful and versed in the dark arts, as well as a nephew to the Headmaster. “

My eyes widened in surprise upon hearing that the mage and Headmistress Aliyah were related.

-” Actually, I am relieved. “ Master Oswald suddenly announced. -” He might be a wanted man, but he is a man of his word, therefore I think the matter is settled. “

Surprising announcement made me shiver. I knew that they must have investigated the book when I was sleeping, but the realization that they were likely going to kill me if my answers were unsatisfying chilled me to the core.

-” Why do they chase him in the first place? “ I asked to break my anxiety and because I was curious. -” For practicing dark magic? “

-” Actually, Princess… “ Oliver suddenly spoke out with a wry smile on his face. -” ...what you call a dark magic is by no means forbidden, that particular word is reserved only for unsanctioned spells and magics threatening the population in general, like demon summoning. “  He took a deep breath. -” As to the answer to your question, Velar Vanderbilt, as he was called before trial, was scheming with Count Eric Egerton to assassinate previous Governor and to replace Aliyah as a Headmaster. When the treason got exposed, he went into hiding. “ Oliver made a noncommittal gesture in the air with his left hand. -” To save face Vanderbilts disinherited him, claiming that he dabbled in forbidden arts... “

-” We have gone off topic. “ Master interjected in a chastising voice. -” I don’t have time for your historic trivia's, Oliver. Back to the point, do you have any pressing questions left, apprentice? “

I swallowed, scared by Master’s stern expression, but it didn’t stop me from voicing my doubts. -” Why do you want to kill Sylthfran? I mean, what are the reasons, there must be more to it than a simple assassination request? “ I spoke quickly, to make sure that I get my point across. -’ Hopefully he won’t diss me… ‘ I thought as I clenched my hands to calm myself down.

-” Is there anything else you need to know? “ Master responded with a casual question. I sighed inwardly, abandoning the notion of getting my question answered.

Disheartened, I shook my head as an answer, but Master furrowed his brows dangerously. -” Nothing else, Master Oswald. “ Admonished, I quickly responded in an officially manner, and also curtsied, to make up for my lax attitude. -’ My act has gotten sloppy… ‘ I criticized myself silently.

-” Very well, briefing you on the details will be for the best. “ Master said thoughtfully, addressing no one in particular. -” We have had quite a lot of dealings with the Church… “ He started slowly in a soft tone, but his words were heavy.

I let out a quiet sigh of relief upon hearing it, having him explain things to me was no doubt a sign of acceptance. -’ Though pressuring me to state all of the questions first was somewhat petty… ‘ I quickly banished rebellious thought.

-” ...I could say that they were one of our greatest patrons. “ He gave me a wry, self deprecating smile. -” Though my less than stellar appearance is a sign that our cooperation has come to an end. “ He made a weighty pause before continuing.

-” While I might be lenient in regard to ambushes done during the payment collection, which are almost a custom, I do not feel the same when the request itself is an ambush. For me such action is a debt of honor that I am fully intent on collecting… “ Master’s face and tone were impartial, but there was an agitation burning in his eyes, as if reacting to my observation he suddenly got to the point, in a direct manner. -” To do that we are going to strike at the War Mage, such action will cause a national incident that no doubt will incite a scrutiny from the King. Considering Church’s actions, and recent history, implicating them in the event should pose no problem. “

I nodded my understanding and forced myself to keep my mouth shut. -’ What about Sylthfran then? ‘ I almost gritted my teeth at the question that I couldn’t ask. -’ A really petty move indeed. ‘

As if reading my disrespectful thoughts Master suddenly responded to my unasked question. -” Whether we kill the War Mage or not remains to be seen. I refuse to risk our numbers on the request that is no longer valid… “  

-” I feel so touched… “ Master’s speech was suddenly interjected by Oliver, who did a mocking act of wiping nonexistent tears.

-” Anyway… “ Master made a stone faced expression as he ignored Oliver. -” We will chose the most viable option when the time comes. “ Master turned his attention to me. -” As to you, apprentice, you will not be taking any direct part in it. You should use that time as best you can since getting tutelage in the Academy does not come easily, or cheap. “ Master’s expression almost didn’t change, but I was quite sure there was a minuscule smile bending his lips. -” I am sure that Oliver can provide you with ample assistance, since he seems relatively unoccupied of late, therefore you might try asking him for tutelage. As for me I must excuse myself with some urgent matters. Till we meet again, apprentice. “ Master ignored Oliver’s weak protests and adjourned the meeting.

-” Thank you, Master Oswald. Goodbye. “ I said warmly, satisfied with unexpected windfall. I curtsied and left the room, together with the maids.

On the corridor I had to wait for several minutes before the door finally opened and Oliver, with uncertain smile on his face, stepped out. -” I was wondering about few things… “ I started tellingly off the bat.

-” That’s quite abrupt, Princess. “ Oliver interrupted my question with a mock act of getting surprised, which made me  puzzled. -” I would say that striking conversation with a gentleman so directly would be quite daring, but we already know that your name is Audentia. “ He made a teasing expression and, in response, I tilted my head not even trying to guess what was the purpose of his theatrical act. Seeing my noncommittal attitude he continued in more serious tone. -” If you wish to engage a gentleman into a lengthy talk it's ill advised to do it straight on the corridor, I would suggest inviting said person to the tea or on the walk before making inquiries… “

I understood what he was getting at and wanted to kick myself, again, for the lax attitude that I began exercising recently. -” There seem to be a bit of misunderstanding it seems. “ I said courtly. -” I was wondering whether you would feel inclined to join me for a tea as I have few things that I wanted to talk over. “ I gave him a prideful smile as I finished, relatively proud of the prim invitation that I extended to him.

-” Very well, I shall accept. “ Oliver said officially and took on a relaxed pose, it made me suddenly aware that I had no idea on how to provide said tea in my current circumstances. Seeing my panicked expression he gave me a small smile. -” As much as I would enjoy teasing you more for that impish smile of yours I will let you off the hook this time. If you need something, ask the maids, they are here to assist you. I hope you will avoid any blunders in the future. “ He gave sign to the maids, who started to lead the way, and escorted me to the tea room, or at least that’s the name I gave to it.  

That was a start to the regular occurrence, where we would sit and talk about the situation in the city - past and present.

[ More on it next chapter. ]

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Hey~, Mea’s here~

I wonder how you liked today’s developments, anyway it took ungodly amount of time to make(20+h) and it might be a bit short, but on the other hand it’s quite packed with content.

Cheers,

Mea

Ps1 I wasn't feeling like it, so no special this time...

Ps2 Or rather  33.5 Bonus chapter was special enough ^^

NEXT CHAPTER: Chapter 36