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Seto scoffs a little bit, but nods. "You think it should probably be on a bigger scale rather than a local TV?"
"you all could handle that. Im only just a regional leader"
Seto looks over at Otto, raising an eyebrow in confusion.
Otto sighs. "Me and you can make a statement seto. Fischer can handle the local stuff"
He nods. "Sounds good to me." Seto looks over at Anika, grabbing her hand as she's still starring off. He kisses her head, then sighs again.
"Well I guess we are done here. We can enact these plans at a later date." A staffer opens the door and directs Seto and Anika out. Otto shakes Setos hand and hugs Anika.
Eir wakes up in pain, her ribs still healing. She can hear someone talking in the hallway. Looking at the clock, it reads 0239, not even 3 yet. She sighs, trying to go back to sleep. Minutes feel like hours, looking back, the clock now reads 0241, and the talking continues. Painfully, she gets up, slipping on a shirt over the wraps compressing her ribs in place. Opening the door, she sees Yuri on the phone
"I know, I miss you too, but we both know I can't just go over there because you want me to sti-" he notices Eir "Hold on, gimme a second" Yuri moves the phone from his ear, instinctively lowering the volume as he does it. "Eir, you're up late"
"Early, it's past 0-Hundred"
Yuri seems taken aback "Already....f*cking time zones"
"So who are you talking to?"
"Oh, just my girlfriend, nothing big, she's just a bit needy."
"Uh-huh" Eir doesn't seem to really care "Well, would you mind moving away from my room so I can try and sleep, some of us know how time works"
Yuri rolls his eyes "Of course princess, anything for you" Eir closes her door and lies back down, hearing Yuri's footsteps grow fainter as he walks down the stairs.
"It's just not fair, he knows about us, he just wants to spite me because of it" Ivan says, pouting
"Now now, your uncle is a bit stubborn, and I don't expect the atmosphere of DeltaSource to be any more accepting of us anytime soon either" Yuri says, his voice quieter than earlier. "We're lucky he lets us see each other."
Ivan sighs
"Admit it Ivan, you know I'm right"
"..Yeah, fine, you win"
"tsk, was it that hard to admit? I know you like being in control of everything, and you certainly are when we're together, but sometimes you have to let go and let life do its thing"
"I know" Ivan sounds defeated
"There there, I hate it when my little prince sounds upset. When I get back you can do whatever you want, just how you like it, ok?"
"Just don't do anything stupid, promise me that"
"Alright, I'll keep myself in check, orders from the highest command"
Ivan can feel Yuri's smirk through the phone "You're hopeless"
"Aww, I can't even be fixed by you?"
Ivan chuckles "I might be your only hope then"
"Alright, I have to get some sleep, love you"
"Just be safe please, I really mean it"
alive chat
The battle has ended, the living are counting the dead and it is bad on all sides. A week has passed as we retrun to this seen
--
Lion sits alone in a recnetly converted chapel, looking at the body of her mother. Light hines infrom several windows onto the floor. The door to thesmall hall is heard opeing, follwoed bya heavy slam and footsteps. A voice then speaks out from behind, in a femeanine
V: "Oh, I'm s-sorry I did- didn't know anyone els-e was in here"
L: "I-it-it's fine, sit or do whatever, it doesn't matter anymore"
an akward silnce emerges as the voice is heard sitting in one of the chairs behind Lion. Minietes pass in silince both figures it there in sileince untill
V: "I take it she was someone imporant to you?"
L: "You, have no id-idea"
Lion's words are parsed with tears that she seemingly can't control. The voice stands up and lion sees an arm come into view. Lion spins around reaching for where her sword should be and seesthe figure is an old freind, Aura. The two reach for an embrase knowing what will happen next in there homeland
---
In the town hall that was to hold the meeting Isis sits at the front of a long table, clearly stresed under current conditions, avisodors and allies sit at the table talk is frantic and nather side really seems to have anypoint in discuessingwith each other after the events eariler this week. Zeta and Odin stand gaurd both to stone faced and full of fear to talk to each other. Quetz is overlooking a tack of papers laid out in front of him ingorieng the meeting entrily much to the ire of the whole crowd.
---
In a cell in a nearby prison Lyra sits chainedwhille a werid figrue wacthes over her. His fetures long and distorted. The figure speaks
X: "You know, if you tell me the info, i'd let you go"
L: "no- n-n-no! I- CXR-091!"
As the that last cryptic phrase leaves her mouh she limps over going uncoiunoius. X promtly leaves. A smile showing on there oddly distorted face. He taps his neck twice and the distrotion ends, shwoing him for what he truly is, Former Grand Warlord of the Grand Warlord Impierum, Jack Sarith
J: "This is Oppertive X of the Makastan Underground Army, location of target has been confirmed. Patching though the info now"
He taps his neck agian seemingly ending the call with whoever was on the other end, before schulking off into the world around
---
Makastan Miltary Hostptal, The Eckheart Center. Doctors and surguns are working around the clock to keep Rose in a stable conditons. Her wounds are deep and simply arn't healing right leaveing her in a bad state. She's been stablazied for now but that seems like it can change at anymoment. The cheif medical officer of the center is on call with Hoszt about the situion, despratly trying to apease the all powerful's running emotions
Doc: "I, know Mr presdent, but we're at our wits end here, the wounds, its a mirclehe even made it here from the combat zone still alive! You surly can-"
H: "I DONT CARE HOW GRIMM THE SITUION IS! YOU HAVE YOUR ORDER NOW FIX HER!"
Doc: "Th-that doesnt seem possible sir! She-"
H: "YOU HAVE YOUR ORDERS, he breaths in , I needn't remind you what happens to failures. Find a way"
The call sundely ends the doctor looks uterly horrified. He scours of the documents on his laptop before one article cacthes his eye. He sighs whne he sees where it was published though, but an idea coems to his mind as he writes up a procucure report and marks it to be sent to the Makastan Head of Forgin affairs.
---
Osiris sits in his cell, dark and alone simple there being alone and seemingly happy as can be. That is untill a knock happens at the door. And a gurd speaks
G: "HEY THERE "EMBLAZENED" SON, YOUR DAD WANTS A CHAT!"
Osiris smriks at the notion knowing the next step
The DBIS Conference room is quiet, a meeting had just been dismissed, but a few stay behind. The DBIS Director, Aleksandre Petrenko still sits at the head of the table, looking at some files. His nephew Ivan sits silently in his own seat, as an old man in a white lab coat silently stands, looking at the Director.
"So Doctor, tell me, what is your plan to be rid of the Xavi issue we find ourselves in?"
"It's quite simple actually, his psychic powers, while noticeable are simply too weak at this young of an age, and since he of course is still as young as he is, should the Emperor stumble upon him, he might ask one too many questions and find out, which wouldn't be good for anyone. I simply propose we expose him to the same process we used for cloning."
"And how far are you proposing we go?"
"Oh, not far, less than 10 years, perhaps 8."
"Mm-hmm, and if your theory is correct this will also bolster his psychic abilities and potentially make him usable as an operative?"
"Yes, with the right false memories, he would be loyal, and feerless."
The director nods in agreement "You have my blessing, go, see that it's done"
The doctor bows slightly before walking out, leaving Ivan alone with his uncle.
"Well, what do you want? Out with it."
"It's about Yuri, I-"
"You're f*ggot friend is fine, he was sent for a reason, and he'll be back provided you keep producing the results I want to see in the Emperor's foreign policy, is that clear?"
Ivan says nothing.
RP cont. soon
Prime Minister Ivan Novak of Kresimir approached the grand entrance of the stately DeltaSource palace with a sense of dread. He was no stranger to political events, but he was certainly unfamiliar with the level of ceremony and extravagance that awaited him. The palace was a stately affair, adorned with grand columns, gilded statues, and exotic plants from around the world. As he ascended the steps, he could feel the eyes of the guards watching him. He paused at the top of the stairs, taking a deep breath before entering the building. As he stepped through the ornate double doors, he was greeted with a chorus of cheers and applause. The room was full of people dressed in finely tailored suits and lavish gowns, all of them raising their glasses in a toast to the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister smiled and nodded to the crowd, taking in the unexpected welcome. He could feel the electricity in the air as he glanced around the room, taking note of the powerful figures in attendance. The Emperor sits further in, but stands when he sees him. He walks towards the Prime minister.
"I speak on behalf of all Deltans when I say it is an honor to have you here tonight Prime Minister. Our nations have had our quarrels but I truly believe that is in the past now"
"Agreed your majesty, when I was elected into office I ran on the policy that we would become a peaceful, and safer nation, and that starts will having a good relationship with one's neighbors."
"That it does, that it does, please, have yourself and your delegates make yourselves at home, I have to leave for a brief moment, but when I return we will get down to business."
Prime Minister Novak nods, and lets out a sigh of relief once the emperor is out of earshot. The rest of the Kresimirian delegation shares his sentiment.
It doesn't take long before two DBIS agents approach them and usher them into a conference room.
At the head of the table sits the Emperor, and behind him Adrian stands as imposing as ever. To his left sits Ivan and his right an advisor. A few other governors and military generals sit at the table as well. The Emperor motions for the Kresimirian deligation to take their seats. As they sit, the Emperor speaks
"I'm sure you're all aware of why we are here, Kresimir and DeltaSource have had many skirmishes in the past, but this is our chance to make amends and forge a relationship that can be beneficial to both countries. Let us start with discussing the tariffs and quotas of certain goods."
The Emperor and the Kresimirian delegates discussed trade deals for a while, but eventually their conversation shifted to military relations between DeltaSource and Kresimir. The Emperor proposed placing a Deltan Military base in Kresimir, which would serve as an outpost for military operations in the region. Prime Minister Novak objected vehemently, pointing out that it could be seen as an aggressive move from DeltaSource and spark tensions between the two nations. Ivan put forward his own counter-argument, noting that having a strong military presence in the area would be beneficial for both nations by providing greater security against external threats such as piracy or terrorism. Despite Ivan's argument, however, the Prime Minister remained unconvinced and refused to accept the proposal of a Deltan military base in Kresimir.
The Emperor raises his hand to signal a halt in conversation
"Clearly we have a difference in opinion, let's not let this sour our relationship." The Deltan governors nod their heads in agreement.
"I agree, perhaps it is best we call it a night and reconvene tomorrow"
"Agreed"
The whole table rises as the Prime Mininister makes his way back down to the bar area, wanting to take his mind off the conversation.
Ivan notices Prime Minister Novak, and turns to the woman on his right. She laughs and sets her empty glass down, waiving for the bartender. He fills another glass for her before moving to serve the Prime Minister. The woman got up, and walked over to the Prime Minister. The way she walked exuded confidence, she knew what she wanted, and what she was doing. Sitting down next to him as he finished his drink, she ordered him another.
"You look tense"
"You have no idea"
Over the course of the night, she whispered secrets in his ear and laughed at all of his jokes. As more drinks were had, He became more open. As the night reached its climax, She wrapped her arms around his waist, leading him out of the bar. Taking him into the elevator, she held onto him as he ran his hand through her hair.
"You know, i can make this a very special evening for you" She smiles as he pulls her closer. He feels her warmth against his chest, nothing else seems to matter to him but this woman now. The door to the Prime Minister's room opens, revealing a luxurious suite with an expansive terrace overlooking the city below. The Prime Minister gently guided her further into the suite. He paused to brush a lock of hair from her eyes before leaning in and capturing her lips with his own. His arms slipped around her waist as they began to sway in slow circles across the room, stopping only to remove pieces of clothing until eventually their embrace was all that remained between them.
The next morning, the Prime Minister woke up with a raging headache. Nothing else in his life seemed to ever compare to the pain he was in now. He couldn't even register that he was alone now, no one else was in the room. Not even a sign, or a loose sock to indicate that anyone else had been in the room with him last night. As he made his way to the conference room, he noticed how quiet the halls of the palace were, a stark contrast to the night before. Entering, he sees only Ivan and another DBIS agent sitting at the table. His entourage and the Deltan delegation are completely absent.
"Please, take a seat Prime Minister"
Prime Minister Novak does as told, but looks at the other agent. The agent is quite youthful, though his feminine looks are quite a stark contrast from the usual DBIS agent, one might even mistake him as female.
"So Prime Minister, I hear you had a wonderful night. Have you reconsidered our proposition for placing a Deltan military base in Kresimirian territory?"
"I've made my stance clear, no foreign militaries will exist within Kresimir"
"Perhaps I can convince you otherwise"
"How many ti-"
Ivan turns on a tv, images display of the Prime Minister engaging in intercourse with the DBIS agent sitting next to Ivan. Ivan continues to show several of these photos, before eventually ending on a video.
"I- How, that's not even possible, you edited these. I was with a woman."
The agent next to Ivan speaks up "Did she perhaps look like this?" His face magically becomes that of the woman from last night, his hair darkens and grows, his entire body changing to match the Prime Minister's lover.
"So you did all this to black mail me..... Well, being a homosexual isn't illegal in Kresimir."
Ivan speaks now "No, it isn't, however, it's not the most popular with your people, and what would your wife say if she saw this? Especially when you said, and I quote, 'better than my wife'?"
The Prime Minister looks at the two DBIS agents in disgust, Ivan's smug face, and the face of the woman last night before it returns to the face of yet another smug DBIS agent. He sighs, knowing he has no choice but to cooperate.
"Now, when you get to the conference room with the Emperor and all your little friends, you'll tell them that you went to the palace doctor because you were feeling under the weather, and then you can agree to our military proposals, understood?"
Prime Minister Novak nods, too ashamed to speak. He failed.
For reference, the other DBIS agent's name is Abram Gusev, and he gets a name because he connects to another character who will be making more appearances (he has 1 rn, but is going to be made important)
Osiris keeps to himself in the cell. Hours pass before a gaurd comes by opens the door and drags him out. Osiris sits there refuseing to walk and as such is dragged into an itrogation room. Glass separtes the figure on the other side. Osiris is tossed into the chair, his hands cuffed toghter. The once proud noble presdent now is looks as if he been through hell, however dispite his injuries he keeps up his smile. On the other side of the glass is a robot, one with treads and a skinny body, with a screen showing a view to dark wood framed room in whcith sits Presadent Hoszt Enstin. Next to the robot stands Lilith of presdent's gaurd. Hoszt put on a freindly, almost fatherly face, and begins to speak
H: "SON! Welcome home! We've been awaiting you-
O: Cut it, what's it you want?
H: Can a father not want a chat with his beloved only son?
O: Not when that father is a monster who threw away any semblance of humanity that they once had!
H: Pericles, dear please! I don't know what has come over you is it that, thing yo-
O: DONT CALL HER A THING AND DONT CALL ME THAT SICK NAME YOU MONSTER!
Lilith seemingly stirs at that moment barly moving as they speak
L: Target acquired, permission to-
H: Denied, it seems your brother still can't get a grip of his emotions under proper control. Now back to the topic at hand son. I'll make my demands simple. Give up. If you want those, misfits, to live give up your temper tamptrume.
O: And if I refuse?
H: sighs, Would be unfornate, but if you fail to come back to where you belong, then I will make sure to destory anything you have ever loved or will love. Fair trade it sounds like to me.
O: A flase threat, you're in a corner, you've shown you hand and have nothing left
H: Au contraire, Pericles I do have somthing to back it up, Lilith dearist could you fetch the princess
L: Understood.
Litlth touchs the wall and mutters something before Victora falls out seemingly unchanged from the battle still in a state of shock. Lilith then shoves her back into the wall
O: N-n-no WHAT HAVE YOU-
H: Queit, I'll send you back to your room now to think about what's happening here.
The Gaurd that brought Osiris in drags him back and locks him in his cell. The smile he wore so confedntly has now faded, but he mubles something to himself
O: I hope this plan works
Eir sits silently in her seat on the chopper. As they approach their destination Yuri stands up.
"Alright, listen up, mission is simple. Land on train, plant charges, blame Hoszt. Keep comms to a minimal, I don't want them catching radio traffic. Get in, get out, kill whoever tries to stop you. I'll provide back-up as needed."
The other soldiers in the chopper nod and shout enthusiastically.
"Alright, you're dropping in 5, get those uniforms crisp, clean, and ready for the camera, MCSB needs to look good."
Eir adjusts the patches on her uniform and does a quick one over before donning her gas mask. No sooner had she finished than the chopper doors slid back, they were a few feet above the train.
"MOVE MOVE MOVE!"
Eir jumped onto the train, rolling to break her fall. Gun ready, she moved up. A few Makastan Republic soldiers heard the commotion and opened the top hatch on the car. Immediately they were shot, and Yuri's men jumped in, cleaning out the car. Eir continued up, her goal was the front. Reaching her goal, she opened the hatch and dropped in, quickly killing the two guards and began planting C4 along the walls and floor. Her radio cackles
"This is Celestial to MCSB 11, you're going to have company here, over."
"MSCB 11 to Celestial, acknowledged, out."
She drew her knife, reading herself for combat, but she wasn't prepared for who was going to be behind the door. Opening, it revealed a man, his dark skin contrasting with his white body armor.
"Sam?"
The man lifts an eyebrow "I'm sorry, and you are?" His weapon lowers slightly, but he quickly fixes his aim.
Eir removes her mask "Sam, it's me, Eir"
Sam lowers his weapon entirely now. "Holy sh!t, I....wait...no, f*cking Ronin"
Eir holds her hands out, and drops her knife to show no weapons. "No, I've been deprogrammed, it's really me again, Ronin's got nothing to do with this."
"Then what's the MSCB uniform."
"Uh...it's a long-" she's cut off by her radio
"Celestial to MCSB 11, drop this guy and finish the mission"
"I'm super sorry Sam." Eir sends electricity arcing towards Sam as she draws another knife from the sheath on her leg. Rushing forward, she stabs Sam in the leg, and keeps him paralyzed with her powers.
"I'm really sorry, I'll explain it all soon, I promise."
Turning back to the front, Eir places the last few charges.
"MCSB 11 to Celestial, mission done, over."
"Celestial to MCSB 11, copy that, drop your pistol and return to the roof for extract. Out"
Eir pulls her pistol out of its holster and tosses it aside. Picking up Sam, she climbs to the train roof and manages to get both of them into the helicopter.
Yuri looks furious. "What the f*ck are you doing with this guy? Toss him out, we don't need him"
Eir shakes her head "Trust me, please, he'll be worth it. I'll kill him myself if he isn't."
Yuri looks like he's about to protest, but doesn't say anything. "I'm holding you to that."
The train reaches its destination, a large military base in the heart of the Makastan Republic. As it slows down to a halt, it explodes in a fiery ball of glory, killing over 30 soldiers and wounding even more.
-----------------------
"In other news, the Makastan Civil war continues as the MCSB has conducted a terror attack on the Makastan Republic. Neither side of the conflict wishes to speak to the press on this matter, but the Makastan Republic doubled down on its vow to quote 'Liberate the Makastan people and Galria at large from Tyranny' end quote. Several weapons were salvaged from the wreckage, including a handgun stamped with the MCSB seal. There seems to be no doubt in the people's minds that the MCSB is behind it as pictures have surfaced of a blonde MCSB agent utilizing electricity." Two pictures of Eir appear on screen before it's paused.
"Where did you get this?"
"Powerian news sir, who authorized this attack if you didn't?"
"It wasn't us, and that's the problem. Eir has been missing for over a month and now all of a sudden she pops up to blow up a train, it doesn't make sense. Who else have you shown this to?"
"Just you sir."
"Keep it that way, and scrub all evidence of Eir, I don't want anyone else to figure out until i can fix this, especially not Hoszt. I'm already on thin ice with him, I'm not looking to become one of his dogs."
Sam sits, bound, gagged, and blindfolded. How long its been since his capture is beyond him. If he had to guess, he'd say its been about two hours, but time feels so much longer when your fully conscious, paralyzed, and contemplating the revelation that your girlfriend isn't a communist puppet anymore. Hearing the door creak open, he looks up to face the noise instinctively. he hears a chuckle
"Looking up won't help you see"
A man's voice, he heard it on the helicopter, sounds like the commanding officer of that mission, the one that wanted to kill him and be done with it. He hears a shuffle, and then footsteps. He can sense someone next to him. His blindfold is removed suddenly, the light of the room blinding him, as his eyes adjust, he can feel the restraints around his hands loosen. Eir, it was Eir who loosened them.
"Hey Sam...." Eir looks sheepishly at him "Sorry about...all this. Yuri didn't even want this, took a decent bit of bargaining to convince him to keep you around."
Sam looks over at the other man in the room, his face smug as he leans against the doorway. He wears a simple outfit, but his scarf gives away his real loyalties, the emblem of the Deltan Empire proudly displayed upon it.
Sam looks back at Eir "I take it he's Yuri?"
Eir nods, "Yeah, that's Yuri." She sighs "I know, neither of us are fans of the Emperor, but, Yuri's only been helpful to us, he got me deprogrammed, I'm no longer Ronin's bitch. You have to hear me out on this, ok?"
Sam takes a deep breath, his mind racing with a mix of fear, confusion, and a glimmer of hope. Eir's words resonate with him, even though the truth she presents is difficult to accept. He knows he needs to hear her out, to understand the full extent of what has happened and why.
With a nod, he urges Eir to continue. "Alright," he says, his voice filled with apprehension. "I'm listening."
Eir lowers her gaze momentarily before meeting Sam's eyes again. "Sam, there's so much you don't know," she begins, her voice trembling. "It's not just the MCSB and Ronin who we have to worry about anymore, it's Osiris and his republic."
"You've gotta be-"
Eir puts a finger to his mouth to stop him "Please, just listen."
Sam begrudgingly obliges.
"I know you joined them, but their entire front is a lie, there's no good in this war at all. Neither side wants a peaceful and free Makasta. Hoszt wants to imprison us all, Osiris wants to destroy all law and order. His plan is to spread anarchy not only within the borders of Makasta but beyond, to destabilize neighboring nations and plunge the entire region into chaos. It's a power play, Sam, and we're caught in the middle of it."
Sam's mind races as Eir's words sink in.
"But why? Why would Osiris want to spread anarchy?" Sam asks, his voice laced with confusion and disbelief.
Eir takes a deep breath, her eyes filled with a mix of sadness and determination. "Osiris believes that through chaos, true freedom can emerge. He sees institutions like governments and laws as oppressive forces that stifle individuality and creativity. In his twisted ideology, anarchy is the path to enlightenment."
Sam's heart sinks as he contemplates the consequences of Osiris' grand plan. The innocent lives that will be lost, the families.
"So this is the plan? Team up with another oppressive government to stop these two?"
"No, the plan is to destroy both of the Makastan power players and let you decide how to lead" Yuri interrupts. "The only catch is a strong trade partnership with the Deltan empire."
"So your Emperor is willing to go through all this effort to destroy the current Makastan state for some trading?"
"Something like that."
Sam doesn't like it, there's gotta be something more, but what other option does he have other than to accept Yuri's offer?
Post self-deleted by DeltaSource.
As Ivan strolled towards their usual meeting spot, a little café hidden in a narrow alley, his heart was bursting with joy and love. He had been in a relationship with Yuri for three years now, meeting in secret every chance they got.
As he entered the café, his eyes eagerly searched the room until they locked onto Yuri's figure in the corner. A knowing smile was exchanged before Ivan made his way over to the table. Seeing Yuri's sharp features and mischievous gaze brought a rush of affection and longing.
They sat across from each other, their hands intertwined under the table as they exchanged excited grins. In a country where their love was forbidden, every moment together felt like stolen time, but it only made their connection stronger.
"So my prince," Yuri's voice cut through the electrified air. "After all that time in Makasta, it feels amazing to finally be able to hold you again."
Ivan couldn't help but blush at Yuri's loving words. Three years ago, he could never have imagined that their online conversations would lead to this - a clandestine life filled with passionate embraces and whispered declarations. But as he gazed into Yuri's eyes, he knew that everything they had been through was worth it for this moment of pure blissful happiness.
The waitress seemed to stop at every table except theirs. It had been a bit since they sat down, but maybe it was just an extremely busy day. Seeing his opportunity, Yuri reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. Ivan's eyes widened in surprise and anticipation. He could feel his heart pounding, threatening to burst out of his chest. The weight of the moment hung in the air, as if time had frozen just for them.
With trembling hands, Yuri opened the box, revealing a delicate silver ring adorned with intricate engravings. It glimmered under the soft glow of the café's dim lights, casting a magical aura around them. Ivan's breath caught in his throat, unable to form words.
"Will you marry me?" Yuri's voice was filled with vulnerability and unwavering devotion. The question reverberated through the depths of Ivan's soul, awakening a surge of emotions he thought could never be contained within a single moment.
Before he could respond, the waitress arrived, causing Ivan to abruptly sit up and comment "I'm sure she'll love it, you know her best".
The words slipped out of Ivan's mouth before he could stop them, a reflex born out of years of secrecy and the constant fear of being discovered. He immediately regretted his response.
Yuri closed the velvet box gently, his hands trembling ever so slightly. The magic that had filled the air moments ago dissipated like smoke, leaving behind a heaviness that weighed down on Ivan's heart. He reached out to touch Yuri's hand, to somehow convey his love and regret in that simple touch.
"I'm sorry, Yuri," Ivan whispered, his voice barely audible above the buzz of the café. "I-"
"Shh, I know, you said what you had to, it's ok."
"I wish we didn't have to hide our love," Ivan confessed, his voice barely above a whisper. "I hate that we have to pretend."
Yuri squeezes his hand "I know."
As the waitress returns with their coffee, Yuri gently releases Ivan's hand from under the table, and slowly brings it back above the table. Ivan shuffles in his seat, sitting up slightly. The waitress doesn't seem to notice their behavior, she seems preoccupied with staying awake.
Ivan couldn't help but feel a twinge of disappointment as their moment was interrupted, but he knew that they needed to be cautious. The secrecy of their relationship had become second nature to them, a dance they performed together. They had learned to suppress their affection in public, always aware of the prying eyes and the consequences that could follow.
Yuri's gaze never wavered as he searched Ivan's eyes for understanding. "I know it's not easy," he said gently. "But we have each other, and that's what matters most."
They sip their coffee in silence, sharing glances with one another. The waitress returns, finally breaking the silence, asking if they would like anything else. Ivan shakes his head, unable to form words as he tries to process the weight of the moment that just passed between them. With a polite smile, the waitress retreats to another table, leaving Yuri and Ivan alone once again. The air around them feels heavy with unspoken questions and unfulfilled desires. Ivan takes a deep breath, gathering his courage before finally speaking.
"We should go"
"What did you have in mind?"
Ivan looked out of the café window, his eyes scanning the bustling street beyond. The sun had begun its descent, casting a warm golden glow that illuminated the city in a soft, ethereal light. He couldn't help but be drawn to the beauty of the world outside, to the vibrant colors and the sounds of life intertwining in harmony.
"Let's take a walk," Ivan suggested, turning his gaze back to Yuri. "See where we end up."
Yuri nodded, a gentle smile gracing his lips. The air outside was cold, freezing on their lips. As they walked through the city, they end up in further corners, out of the public eye. Ivan slips his arm under Yuri's and leans into him. Yuri smiles and tightens his grip. Eventually, they make their way to Yuri's car. Opening the door for Ivan, Yuri gets in shortly afterwards. Driving back to Ivan's house, Ivan reaches to the radio and swaps through a few stations before turning it off again.
"Nothing you like huh?"
Ivan shakes his head. "Listen.. back at the cafe"
"Hey, it's fine, I get it, we both need to be careful"
"No...it's not that."
"Well, what is it then?"
"I wanted to say yes"
Yuri smiles and pulls over.
"What are you-"
Yuri pulls out the ring and gently grabs Ivan's hand, slipping it on his finger
"I believe this belongs to you then, my little prince" he leans in and kisses Ivan, who begins to blush before returning the gesture. Yuri pulls back onto the road and finishes the drive to Ivan's house. After they get into the house, Ivan grabs Yuri and pulls him against himself.
"Hold me."
As they kiss, Ivan backs up into a wall. Seeing his chance, he wraps his legs around Yuri, forcing the bigger man to hold him up. Yuri slips one hand down below Ivan's waist, carefully removing his pants. Ivan loosens his legs, letting them slide off onto the floor. As they continue, Ivan undoes Yuri's belt, his pants soon follow. The night goes goes on, and their clothes litter Ivan's normally clean house.
Ivan sighs and lies flat on Yuri, his face just below Yuri's head. "We need to clean up"
"Yeah...you made a mess of those sheets." Yuri chuckles.
"It was your idea" Ivan punches Yuri jokingly, the blow barely even making a sound "And you wonder why I take the reigns as your little prince."
9 Years Ago
Sebastian "Mr Marvel" Marvelo sat at his desk. For almost 50 years he had worked diligently to build his company. What started as a small animation studio had blossomed into a successful entertainment giant. In a month, his company would celebrate its 50th anniversary, and yet Sebastian couldn't care less. Over the past few months, he has been tied in so many lawsuits. Children disappearing left and right at his amusement park, his investors shunning him, and public opinion at an all time low. His phone rang, it was his lawyer. Taking a long drag of his cigar, he answered it.
"Heyy! Is this my favorite client, the Marvel himself?"
"Johnny, please....spare me the upbeat attitude, what's the news?"
"Geez, idn't know the great mind of Mr Marvel was such a debbie downer."
"Please."
"Alright, alright. Listen, it's not looking good for us, we're looking at having to shut down the park, several million in legal damages, a full federal investigation, and that's not to mention the individual lawsuits from parents we'll have to settle. But hey, that's nothing you can't bounce back from! Remember, I was there when you lost the rights to your first animated film because of corporate loopholes. If you can bounce back from that, you can bounce back from anything! Hell, you bought that company out just to put that film in your hands again. Once this blows over, we'll share a nice drink together, just like old times."
"Yeah...just like old times...except I wasn't indirectly responsible for the kidnapping, and possible deaths of 15 children."
"17, but hey, it's not your fault some sickos are using your parks and characters for it. The feds will find them, bring them to justice, and you'll be off with a slap on the wrist, there's nothing they can charge you with that'll land you in prison. Worst you'll get is another fine for negligence or something minor like that."
"I'm not made of money..."
"That's right, Mr. Marvel's made of hope, laughter, and joy. I can feel your frown all the way from here, and let me say it isn't you. Cheer up, I got this."
"If you say so."
"Please, have I ever lost a case with you?"
"No, you haven't."
"Exactly, I'll work my legal miracles, you make a miracle for those children, make that 50th anniversary one to be remembered! I got a meeting in a few so I gotta let you go now, I'll call you if I get any more news, k?"
"Yeah, ok."
He set down his phone, and took another long drag of his cigar. Maybe Johnny was right, maybe it would blow over. He glanced at the walls of his office, covered in several art pieces he made himself, all his characters painstakingly drawn by hand so many years ago. He smiled to himself for a moment. His desk phone lights up, its his secretary. He pressed the answer button
"Yeah, what's up"
"I have two police officers here to see you, they won't tell me why, but they said they wanted to tell you something"
"Send them up."
"All right"
A few moments later, a knock at his door. "Come in"
The two officers entered the room
"Mr Marvelo?"
He nodded, gesturing to his desk's name card before standing up "How can I help you gentlemen tonight?"
"Well sir, we're here to inform you about your wife. She's.....she was involved in a terrible motor accident. She didn't make it, nothing the paramedics could have done for her. It was a quick death, she didn't feel any pain. I'm sorry I have to deliver this news. We're doing everything in our power to ensure justice is served, you have my word. If there's anything we can do for you, please, let us know."
Nothing but pain could be see on Sebastian's face. In a few short weeks, the world had taken everything from him, he had thought his wife would be the one constant, the one to keep him going through this dark time, but apparently whatever cruel divines were in charge of Galria had decided he hadn't lost enough.
"Mr Marvelo, if you would like, I have-"
"Thank you, but, please, I just need time."
The officer nodded "Of course. Please, don't hesitate to give us a call, or ask for resources, this is a terrible tragedy and we'd hate for you to suffer alone."
Sebastian nodded "Thank you."
The officers left
Sebastian sank into his chair. What was the point? Why was he still here? What gods had he angered, which deity was responsible. Surely, this wasn't just chance. What point did he have in going on? His wife, his dutiful partner of the past half-century was gone, his company was in shambles, and his name in the mud. He closed his eyes, no, there wasn't a point. He reached in his drawer, and pulled out a revolver, a gift from many years ago, he used it for inspiration for some cowboy inspired animations. He still had a few rounds from his time using it. He had been so dedicated to making it seem as real as possible through his art that he had to feel the recoil himself. He loaded a single round into the chamber and cocked the hammer. Putting it under his head, he breathed out one last time before pulling the trigger.
BANG
The officers had hardly made it to the elevator when they heard the gunshot. They looked at each other before running back to Sebastian's office. The door was still unlocked. When they opened it, they were greeted to his body, slumped over his desk, small pieces of his brain littering the now bloodstained carpet.
"9 years ago Sebastian Marvelo took his own life, cementing his name in the eyes of the public as the one responsible for the disappearance of 19 children and 5 of his own employees, but was he really that monster? His lawyer released the transcript of their last phone call, as well as the recording. I'll leave a link to it on the main page so you can listen to it in its entirety, but I wanna draw attention to these lines.
'...except I wasn't indirectly responsible for the kidnapping, and possible deaths of 15 children.'
'17, but hey, it's not your fault some sickos are using your parks and characters for it.'
Marvelo himself lost count, and his lawyer definitively gives 17 as the final number. Children 18 and 19 went missing about an hour after that phone call, however Mr. Marvelo had already committed suicide about 15 minutes prior to their kidnapping. The math doesn't add up, if he really was responsible, wouldn't the kidnappings end at his death? His wife's death pushed him over the edge he was standing on, not guilt, or he could have cancelled whatever order there was to stop children 18 and 19 from being captured. Now, that's not a problem if, say, the [Insert Powerian CIA equivlent] needed bodies for an experiment. We already know that 30 years prior several agents were in some deep sh!t for human experimentation, and the methods they used then line up with the way the children seemingly vanished 9 years ago, albeit slightly more sophisticated. No trace, and no federal investigation could uncover them, hell, the names for some of them were never publicly revealed! If they have nothing to do with it, why hide the names? Why keep the documents classified? We have nothing beyond what Marvelo Studios released before they were torn apart and sold to various competitors."
Cody paused the podcast and looked at the headline
"Popular Conspiracy Theorist Zane Greenman missing"
He'd vanished shortly after he made the podcast episode of the Marvelo Missing Children, right after he promised to investigate. Was it true the [Insert Powerian CIA Equivalent] had something to hide? He allegedly went to the ruins of the park but never came back. It was only about an hour away from Cody's house, and his parents had left on a cruise while he chose to stay behind. His sister was out with her boyfriend, so he was all alone for the day.
"F*ck it" he grabbed the car keys and made his way outside, he was going to check it out for himself, even if it meant only driving by it.
The RoM vice presdent, Voilet Samusia more commonly known as agent Isis, sits at a podium whille a priest reads off the names of those killed in the attack
P:"-John Vergil, Maxwell Zecherman, and Hanna Zecherman. Lest we forget these names of the fallen. Amen"
She sighs quietly at the end of the speech and walks over to take to the stand herself
V: "My fellow Makastans it is sad to say that it is rare in these times that we address such actions. these horrid attacks on our civvlians carried out by that monster in Deeka. That beast whicth we call 'Hoszt'. However I say no more! With out a doubt these are truly some of the darkest days in the repbulic's history. With the attack on Molhola just recently, the impresement of president Pericles, and the attacks on our allies leaders! No more I say! Hoszt will be made to pay for these actions and he WILL be brought to JUSTICE!"
The crowd cheers as Voielt glances over at the priest who gives a small nod of apporval before she heads off stage
-----
a fey days after this speech a short press confreince is held confriming the attacking for the Hoszten side of the nation and confirming it was there action. afterwards Hoszt starts a private call with several heads of MCSB: Luna, cheif director of the MCSB program, Ryia, MCSB-000's leader, and Firebrand, the Aceops leader
H: WHAT THE EVERLASTING HELL WAS THAT? I DONT 'RECALL' SIGNING OFF ON THIS MISSION DO WE HAVE A ROUGE AGENT OR WHAT! I DEMAND AWENSERS!
Hoszt's outburst shoocks the group who are used to his normal calm and calculacteing demonour. Luna "speaks" first with her signs
L: All teams are accounted for with all leaders in the doployment zone locating any rouge elements
R: all hidden hope agents in the area have also come in wih the same responce
H: then SOMEONE is clearly lieing, I want a FULL inspection of EACH team of the days of and before the inncadent. I needn't mention the risk posed by having someone, "diffreint" in our ranks now shall I?
F: I'll start my investgation soon enough assumign the others here wish to help
H: Good, get this whle situiton delt with and find this traitor!
On a small outpost near the Communist/Republic border, a few men played cards.
"You're f*cking cheating" one of the men concedes, throwing his hand down and resigning.
"No, I don't think he is, I think you're just bad" another retorts "I see your 50, and I'll raise you 80"
"Really confident huh? Let's see the cards."
The second soldier reveals his hand, the 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 of Spades.
"Full Flush"
The third soldier nodes "Nice, nice, unfortunately" he sets down his own cards, 10, Jack, Queen, King and Ace of Hearts "Royal Flush"
Second soldiers shakes his head "F*ck you"
The third soldier collects his winning and begins shuffling the deck "Round 5?" but he's barely able to get the words out before their radio sparks to life
"All Soldiers to their stations! FPCON Delta, I repeat, FPCON Delta! Non-essential personnel, seek shelter. We are under attack!"
Scrambling to their stations, the cards are left behind on the now overturned table.
Yuri sits comfortably in his seat. He wasn't looking forward to being back in Makasta, but orders are orders. At least he got to propose to Ivan before he was called back. Were those rebels in such bad discipline that they needed him again? He closes his eyes and sighs, at least it wouldn't be too long, he only had to be there about a month.
An explosion rocks the plane, and panic ensures. The overhead comes on
"This is your captain, plea-" another explosion and the plane begins hurtling to the ground. Men, Women, and Children alike panicking, Yuri himself helpless. His mind goes back to Ivan, shortly before it goes black.
"Shortly after the Vice President's announcement, the Republic of Makasta has shot down a civilian airliner. It appears there is not yet an official response as the base commander refused to speak with us on the topic. Could this be retaliation for the MCSB attack? If so, why target civilians? Can we really trust the new Makastan leaders if when they reach out in judgement, the innocent are killed as well as the guilty?"
Eir sits in the safe house, idly carving into the table with her knife. They were told that Yuri would be returning but its been an hour. Sam is almost asleep, kept awake by coffee and the occasional shock from Eir. Eir sighs, bored, but not wanting to leave and look unreliable. She turns on the TV and sees the story. Sam sits up in his chair
"No....civilians??? Why???" Eir gasps
Sam sits silent, shocked. Was this the side he had been fighting for? Was the DBIS actually not lying to them?
As they sit, the door opens, causing Eir to shoot up, until she saw the man who opened the door.
He wore a sleeveless jacket, his forearms arms were red, as if burned by the frost emanating from them. His hair was an icy white, shimmering with the crystals in it, his eyes glazed over with frost, with his face looking as cold as his arms. He looked like an ice statue, as if pushing him over would cause him to shatter into a billion pieces.
"Who are you?" Sam asks, reaching for his gun
"Your new Commander. Yuri is dead, your friends in the Republic of Makasta made sure of it."
"What do you....he was on that plane?"
"Correct."
"We gather today to honor the memory of a man we held dear to us, and one that was taken far too soon. He gave his all for his country and family. He leaves behind an indelible mark on our hearts and the history of our great nation. He-"
Ivan sat in the back of the church, his own thoughts drowning out the speech. It was days ago Yuri was holding him in his arms, keeping him warm, and safe. Days ago that they had agreed to spend the rest of their days together, only for Yuri to die away. Not even the firing party interrupted his thoughts. He didn't even notice the flag fold, nor the fact that the officer who was in charge had directly passed Yuri's family and was approaching him, only being snapped out of it as he saw the man go to one knee to present the flag. He sat it in his lap, and as Ivan looked around, all eyes were on him. The officer looked him dead in the eyes:
"On behalf of the Emperor, the DBIS, and a grateful Empire, please accept this flag as a symbol of our appreciation for your loved ones honorable and faithful service." Standing up, the officer saluted the flag, before retrieving a second, pre-folded flag to present to Yuri's mother.
Ivan stared at the flag he had received. It was for the next of kin, and yet Yuri had time to update his will to reflect his promise? Tear formed in Ivan's eyes "Yuri...why.."
His hand gently rubbed across the flag before hugging it to his chest.
Anthor press confernce in New Makasta Held by Hoszt.
H: AN ATTACK ON OUR NATION, OUR CITZENS IS, UNSPEAKABLE! WE ARE A NATION OF LAWS, THE "FREEDOM FIGHTERS" OF THE UNDERGROUND ARMY HVE SHOVE THEIR BELOVED MASK TO THE SIDE. THEY ARE MERELY ANTHOR GROUP OF TRAITORS THAT MUST BE DELT WITH. GLORY TO MAKASTA! GLORY TO OUR GREAT STATE!
The state press is clealry excited to hear this and begin to write it out for there stories as the transmission cuts out and a secerty takes over for any questions remaining
-------
Voilet is stressed ut of her mind first the attack on the train and now aparently she ordered a attack on a civvilain airliner. Quetz assures her that there is no way any loyal soilder did it but all the evedence points to it being done by the RoM. This and the consent murmerings of the plurben diplomats that they might have to end the allaince over these attack has compiled to a near breaking point. However Voilet is still the vice presdent and goes onto the stage to give the prepared statement
V: I-I come to speak to you all today about the rece-nt attack on a airline, supposdly carried out by-by She begins to tear up, our forces. I am here to infor-m you that, that, that, after a the beginigns of a investgatin we b-b-b-belive that rouge elements, extermist of the Braven Indpe-pen-pendence movemenet are respobile for this-this-this attack."
She tries to leave the stage but trips and fully breaks down into tears. Odin and Quetz come over and pick her up moveing her off stage. Qeuz quickly takes over awensering questions to the gathered press. Voilet is escorted to her office by Odin and lockes herself in. In this misery she wonders what osiris would have done and if she is making the right dession
-------
Osiris sits in his cell before a jounty knock is herd at the door, from the otherside bathed in blidning light is Hoszt who looks down at his chained son
H: You can make this end whenever you want. Just surrender to me, to your destey. It pains me as a father to see you in this state.
Osris uses every unce of his strenght to spit onto hoszt missing him enetrly but still shwoing his defeince
H: Sighs Maybe a few years in this cell will teach you some respect for your father my son. Why couldn't you have been more like your sister Lilith,-
O: Someone without emotion, nothing more than a andorid? I think I'll keep my hummanity "father"
H: its rude to disrespect your father, enjoy your stay here
Hoszt exists and slams the door behind him. Osiris mubles to himsef something
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