From a Ristar to a Lady

[The Wobbly Guy]

Rwabdogo’s Valley, Hoard
Kerensky Cluster, Clan Space
17th January, 3053
1500 hours

Star Commander Avryl cursed as her light autocannons’ shells raked ineffectively over the thick hide of the Phoenix Hawk IIC, followed by a flight of LRMs that narrowly missed the assault mech. It would take forever for her weapons to shave enough armour off, even while the enemy Star of mostly heavy and assault mechs was eagerly beating down the other half of the Binary she belonged to.

Her light mechs were still trudging desperately through the pools, streams, and muddy ground that had formed in the wake of the flash flood the Nova Cats had unleashed upon the floor of the formerly dry valley. Avryl had no idea how the Nova Cats did it, except that they did, and changing the conditions within the Circle of Equals was not exactly prohibited by the laws of the Clans.

The Smoke Jaguars could only blame themselves for not foreseeing this possibility. Heads from the Watch were going to roll for this.

The batchall had been straightforward. Star Captain Tikern would lead a second-line Smoke Jaguar Binary of medium and light mechs against the Nova Cats in a Trial of Possession to contest several warehouses containing supplies, supplies that their clan desperately needed to rebuild after the horrendous losses on Luthien and Tukayyid.

For this Trial, the Nova Cat officer, a Star Commander named Hawise, underbid with her makeshift Nova of five mechs and a star of elementals, apparently all she had available. To even call it a Nova was laughable, since her second-line battlemechs could not transport battlearmor, unlike omnimechs. Furthermore, Avryl read from her codex that this Star Commander Hawise had failed in her two previous bids for a Bloodname, and was also a participant in the lost battles of Luthien and Tukayyid.

In other words, Hawise was simply a loser, a defective product of the clan eugenic breeding system and on her way to irrelevance.

Avryl only realised she had been overly dismissive of Hawise after the Nova Cats sprang surprise after surprise on the Smoke Jaguars. They had lured her light Star to check out readings that she thought were the elementals, only to find mere elemental-shaped lumps of metal with the bare minimum of circuitry to fool their sensors. Meanwhile, the real elementals entered the field via some crazy glider-like things that enabled them to drop right on top of Tikern’s Command Star, while Hawise’s star of mechs smashed in at the same time, throwing zellbrigen out of the airlock.

Then to slow down Avryl’s light but fast mechs, the Nova Cats flooded the valley with water from somewhere, neatly taking advantage of the fact that none of her mechs had jump jets and relied on pure ground speed, which was partly why their Binary was assigned to this target in the first place! Enabling the Nova Cats to defeat the Smoke Jaguars in detail.

Tikern’s Hunchback IIC exploded spectacularly, both torsos blowing up as its ammunition stores were hit by the seemingly endless barrages from the Nova Cats. Vret’s Clint IIC was pummelled into a twisted wreck by two heavy mechs. Karia’s Glass Spider fell to the ground, missing a head after the elementals decapitated it.

All the while, Avryl fired at the Nova Cats, trying to draw their attention while advancing slowly across the flooded terrain, peppering their flanks with autocannon and LRM fire from her Great Wyrm, but they resolutely ignored her. Her light Star was finally getting into range, but it was too little, too late.

Huyten’s Howler was the only other mech with any long range weapons, and it was also launching LRMs ineffectively at their opponents. Her Commando IIC, Snow Fox, and Locust IIC were just stuck trying to get into range, wading through the water and muddy ground.

Olina’s Corvis went down next, followed soon after by Buono’s Thresher. Both mechwarriors ejected, so they should survive, but it was small comfort to Avryl, who realised she now faced an entire heavy star of Nova Cats, of which any three mechs outweighed her entire Star. The Nova Cats might be damaged, but more than capable of fending her off.

The Trial, for all intents and purposes, was lost. Avryl gritted her teeth, and prepared for a final charge to the death, when her comms suddenly beeped, indicating a message from Star Commander Hawise. She punched a button, and Star Commander Hawise appeared on her HUD.

“Star Commander Avryl, this Trial is over. I offer you hegira.” There was no smugness or gloating in Hawise’s tone, just a statement of facts. “Any further battle would be simply a waste of resources, resources both our clans will need in the dark days ahead.”

Avryl tried to summon up some bravado, glaring at the image of the Nova Cat. “Are you afraid we will defeat you? Are the Nova Cats so afraid of the Jaguars that they would offer hegira than suffer more damage?”

“Neg. Should you really wish to die, we can certainly oblige you, quiaff?” replied Hawise with some sarcasm.

Avryl stayed silent.

“Seems like you do not wish to die after all.” Hawise barked harsh laughter over the channel. “You are young, you will get more chances at glory. But only if you are alive, quiaff?”

“Aff.” Avryl nodded reluctantly. “I accept your offer of hegira.” It was galling, but Hawise was right.

“Bargained well and done.” The enemy Warhammer IIC raised its tube-like arms in a salute. “You may recover your mechs and your dead,” Avryl raised an eyebrow, that was beyond generous. “I was instructed to do so by my superiors, no need to credit me for it.”

The Nova Cat mechs began withdrawing from the field of battle, while Avryl called down her dropship for pickup and to recover the fallen mechs and warriors. Still feeling stung by the defeat, Avryl could not help but declare to Hawise, “I shall meet you again one day, and I will avenge this defeat.”

“Who knows, under what circumstances?” replied Hawise cryptically. “Until we meet again, Star Commander.”

 
Kalinski Estate, Inman,
Milligan PDZ, Woodbine Operational Area,
24th July, 3061
0700 hours (1100 hrs on local 28 hr cycle)

“These rich Spheroid nobles are really something,” whistled Hawise in envy as her family was escorted through the corridors of the Kalinski mansion. “Crechies, follow the nice lady and do not run about.”

The maid, who introduced herself as Luisa, turned around and beamed at the two children. “Your kids are so cute!”

A few days ago, a letter arrived at the hostel where the clan expatriates were camped out, inviting Hawise and her family to Lady Kalinska’s estate for a small celebratory meal as thanks for her assistance in the incident at the hoverbike race.

It was truly extravagant. A hoverlimo came to pick them up from the hostel, and her children were excitedly jumping all over the interior furnishings until Hawise strapped them in to force them to sit relatively still.

The maid Luisa greeted them when they reached the mansion, and her entire family was struck dumb by the sheer opulence of the entire place.

They were dressed in their finest clothes, but those were the only slightly more upscale civilian attire that they owned. Hawise could not help but still feel out of place. Even during the initial clan invasion, Operation Revival, she did not have a chance to visit any of the holdings owned by Inner Sphere nobles.

The unit she had been assigned to, the 274th Battle Cluster, was included in the final bid for Luthien, but was so heavily damaged by the end of the battle that its survivors were cannibalised by other units to bring them up to strength for Tukayyid. Hawise had been one of those survivors of Luthien, and then transferred to Beta Galaxy for that climatic battle. She often quipped, to anybody who asked, that she was one of those few clan warriors who lost but survived every battle in the Inner Sphere.

When they reached the dining hall, Lady Anastasia Kalinska greeted them with a graceful curtsy that Hawise did not think she could achieve even with years of practice.

Anastasia smiled gently, “My esteemed guests, welcome to the Kalinski mansion. I am so glad to meet you all. I am Anastasia Kalinska, heir to the Kalinski barony.”

“Uh, greetings, I am Hawise, chief tech.” She pointed to Winston. “My husband Winston, he is a scientist. And these two kits are Ava and Paul, my children.”

Somewhat to her surprise, the lady shook Winston’s hand, and actually crouched down to greet her children, treating them like adults. Ava looked absolutely enchanted, and returned the lady’s curtsey with a clumsy one of her own, while little Paul simply looked awestruck while she shook his tiny hand.

“I humbly apologise for the buffet spread,” explained Lady Kalinska. “This was arranged on rather short notice, so we were not able to procure some of Inman’s signature dishes. But I trust there is enough variety to satisfy you, since I was not sure what your preferred dishes were?”

There is need for an apology? Hawise stared at the food on the table in front of them, laden with labelled delicacies and dishes that, frankly speaking, she could not have eaten even when she was a fully fledged warrior of the clans. Since arriving on Delacambre, they had access to a bit more variety, of course, but nowhere on this level. The nobles really lived differently from the rest.

“There are both cold and hot desserts available from the kitchen when you wish for them. Just ask the servants,” Lady Kalinska informed them. “I recommend the chocolate sorbet ice cream. It’s one of my guilty pleasures.”

Hawise grinned, “Thank you for the tip. We will keep it in mind.” She picked up a plate and started taking food from the table, Winston following suit. The maid Luisa followed her kids around, asking them what they liked and piling their choices onto two cute-looking plastic plates on her tray.

After taking her own food, Lady Kalinska sat down next to her and said, “Chief Tech Hawise, I’d like to thank you again for your assistance the other day. If you hadn’t been riding behind me, Lady Seydoux could have been hurt really badly.”

Hawise shrugged. She had heard rumours about the politics of the incident, that the runaway hoverbike was originally meant for Lady Kalinska and to humiliate her. “I am just glad we were in a position to help.” She stared at Lady Kalinska. “I do not know why, but have we met before?”

Lady Kalinska actually flinched a bit. “Maybe I remind you of somebody. I’ve never even left the Trivet in my whole life. Have you come to Inman previously?”

Hawise chewed on a piece of rare steak speculatively, thinking hard even while enjoying the morsel as it almost melted in her mouth. “Neg, never even set foot on Inman until a few weeks ago, And I think I would have remembered meeting a noble.” And now you’re talking like a Spheroid, when during that rescue, you sounded like a proper warrior of the clans. You even mentioned the Ice Hellions! And why do I get the feeling you will deny it if I asked? What are you hiding, young lady?

Hawise had done a bit of research on Anastasia Kalinska, and some of the information she found was shocking. A love affair with the Count’s heir, rumored suicide attempt, almost kidnapped during a bandit raid on Altoona. Scandals seemed to follow her around, painting the picture of a wanton, spoiled noblewoman who had little regard for anything.

But Hawise had seen for herself that Anastasia was a brave and decisive woman, well-mannered and kind. Completely at odds with what the rumours said. So who was the real Anastasia Kalinska?

Lady Kalinska asked, “How did you come to Delacambre? I mean, I know Viscount Rason invited you, but not the details.”

“Oh, that.” Hawise paused. She bit off a piece of fried scallop, savouring the crispiness before swallowing it. She idly wondered what a scallop was, since that was the name of the dish printed on a label next to it.

Then she returned to the topic of the conversation and explained, “After the Smoke Jaguars were driven out of the occupation zone, us civilian castes were left behind. The vengeful Kuritans would probably have put us into concentration camps, so Anastasius Focht and Victor Steiner-Davion called for members of the liberating forces who were also nobles to offer us places in their landholdings. We were grouped together mostly by our enclaves, but where each enclave went was determined by a lottery.”

She grinned. “Just so happened that Viscount Rason got us from Schuyler.”

“If I may ask, how was life in the clans? How did you become a chief tech?”

“Oh, I did not start out as a chief tech.” She observed Lady Kalinska carefully. “I was actually a mechwarrior.”

“Oh, how unexpected!” Anastasia gasped, but her gasp of surprise was so immediate and fake that Hawise could pick up on it. Hmmm… she already knew I was a mechwarrior. And she wanted me to think otherwise. She could have asked the other clanners, it is not exactly a secret. So why pretend at all?

It just did not make sense to Hawise. She continued to talk. “Aff, I was a mechwarrior of the Nova Cats. I tested down from the warrior caste, and was reassigned to be an engine technician, specialising in fuel cell and ICE engines. I supposed I was good at it, which was how I became a chief tech.”

To add to her suspicions, while other Spheroids would have asked about what ‘tested down’ meant, Lady Kalinska did not. “The Nova Cats? Then how did you end up with the Smoke Jaguars?”

“My family and some others were taken as isorla from a Smoke Jaguar raid in the Occupation Zone. The Nova Cats were already shifting significant numbers of their civilians to the Inner Sphere, and I was a part of that.” That elicited a small gasp from Anastasia. Well, that was not commonly known outside the Nova Cats.

Anastasia asked, “Do you ever think of becoming a mechwarrior again?”

Hawise replied wistfully, “To have a mech under my controls again? That would be nice.” She smiled ruefully. “After the Smoke Jaguars took us, I was actually interviewed by one of their officers to assess my suitability to test back in.”

“So why not?”

Hawise held up three fingers and ticked them off, “First, by clan standards I am already solahma.” One finger came down. “Next, I am a Warden. Still am, in fact.” The second finger. “And finally, I was pregnant with Paul.” The last finger came down, and she beamed at the sight of her youngest devouring the pasta on his plate.

“Oh.” Lady Kalinska actually looked somewhat ill when the word ‘pregnant’ was used, which was another interesting data point. It was the usual reaction of most canister-born trueborns, but Lady Kalinska herself was a freeborn of the Inner Sphere, and a woman on top of it. Few other Spheroid women she had encountered so far had ever expressed such obvious revulsion at the idea of pregnancy, Lady Kalinska was one of the few.

“That said,” Hawise decided to probe a bit, “How is it you understood all the clan terms I was using? Test down, isorla, solahma, warden… these are not things generally known in the Inner Sphere.”

Lady Kalinska’s poker face was terrible. She paled, then quickly stammered, “Uhm… there… there were, I mean, we… we have some books on the Clans, and I tried to prepare for this meeting by reading them, which was why I had some knowledge of the terms you used.” She smiled, obviously hoping the explanation would satisfy Hawise.

It did not, not in the least. Hawise felt even more suspicious now. After this meal, I will talk to her privately. For some reason, the pack of tarot cards in her card holder felt heavier than usual. Hawise thought about her dreams the previous night, and her morning card reading.

Her vision was of a smoke jaguar trapped within a sapphire gem, snarling fiercely. When her family arrived at the mansion, she saw the adorning banners showing a hand holding a sapphire in its palm. Luisa had told her it was the heraldry of House Kalinski.

There was a connection, Hawise was sure of it. And her cards… the card shown that morning was Justice, reversed.

A higher power was at work, beyond the laws of nature and rationality.

 

“I’m so full,” declared little Ava as she hugged Anastasia. “And the food was so yummy! Thank you, pretty lady!”

“Ava, behave yourself!” chided Hawise.

Despite herself, Anastasia could not help but laugh a bit. “It’s all right. I’m glad you enjoyed the food.” She noted the kids seemed a bit drowsy. “The children may be getting tired.”

“Uh-oh, food coma is kicking in.” Winston observed. “They are going to need a nap soon.”

“No problem,” Anastasia gestured to Luisa. “As my guests, we have prepared rooms for you to rest. Maybe the kids can watch some shows, play some toys, and then nap?” She turned to Hawise. “I would like to talk to the Chief Tech privately.”

“Sure,” Hawise agreed. “Go ahead with the crechies, Winston. I have some things I want to discuss with Lady Kalinska myself.”

With Luisa’s aid, Winston trooped off with the children. Anastasia was glad she had consulted Luisa and the other maids on what she could do for a guest family, and hence they were well-prepared. There were even some toys the maids had dug out of the storage rooms, in case the children wanted to play a bit while she talked with Hawise.

Anastasia still was not sure herself why she had wanted so much to talk to the former Nova Cat. Was it nostalgia? A yearning for a simpler time when she was just a mechwarrior in the clans? To be reminded of the mechwarrior she once had been, and maybe could be once more?

They sat down in the tea room, while a maid prepared blue mellow in the teapot, along with a small pot of lime juice to add to the tea for taste and the colour change. As she stirred her own tea, Anastasia felt a bit lost, wondering how she should start the conversation.

After the maid left, Hawise spoke first. “Lady Kalinska, thanks so much for hosting my family today. I’ve never felt so pampered.”

“It’s the least I could do.” Anastasia smiled sincerely.

“But there is something else, right?” asked Hawise. “How much do you know about the Nova Cats?”

That they are a bunch of superstitious mystics so dependent on their visions that they lose sight of reality? Anastasia bit back the automatic insult the Smoke Jaguars had against the Nova Cats, and said instead, “Oh, I don’t know much, the books I read only talked about the general features of the clans.”

“The Nova Cats believed in using visions to guide our decisions. As for myself, I never had much luck with visions for many years, so I used this instead.” Hawise placed a weathered but elaborately patterned leather card holder on the table. She unbuttoned the flap, pulling it off the velcro to reveal a set of laminated cards with strange drawings. “Tarot cards.”

“Tarot cards?” echoed Anastasia.

“It is an ancient tradition. A bit of a fraud in the beginning, admittedly.” Hawise started to shuffle the cards, her hands moving with practised ease. “But belief, even false belief, can evolve. When people start believing in something, they can make it real.”

At Anastasia’s sceptical frown, she added, “Think about the Star League, both versions. It existed only because people believed it existed. There is power in belief. Even the Goliath Scorpions and their necrosia, the Coyotes and their rituals, the Cloud Cobras and their Ways.”

“A bunch of Warden nonsense,” blurted Anastasia, then she realised her mistake.

Hawise smirked, “And I thought you knew nothing of each of the clans?”

Anastasia stayed silent.

Hawise held out the stack of cards. “Cut it. If you do not mind.”

She did so, taking roughly half the deck while Hawise turned her own deck the other way, then riffled the two halves together.

“I will now continue to shuffle until you tell me to stop.”

Anastasia waited for two beats, then said, “Stop.”

Hawise stopped shuffling, and dealt the top three cards in order in front of Anastasia.

“The cards are usually used as a tool for reflection, but on occasion they can predict the past, present, and or the future. Turn them over.”

Anastasia opened the cards as instructed. She read the titles. The Fool, Death, and Judgement.

“All upright, major cards,” Hawise murmured. Her eyes shot up to meet Anastasia’s, a knowing look on her face. Her eyes gleamed, as though she had discovered a great truth.

“I think these cards tell a story. Do you wish to hear it?”

Anastasia stiffened, then forced herself to relax and act unconcerned, just curious. She could not possibly know, could she? “Sure, why not?”

Hawise tapped the Fool card with a finger. “Once, there was this person. Naive, ignorant, but with the potential to grow, to be greater.”

Her finger moved to the next card. “Death. A great change occurred. Could be death for real, who knows?” Her eyes stayed on Anastasia.

Tap. Judgement. “Reincarnation. A new life. The person lives a new life, but is also changed. New perspectives are gained. What happens next?” She smiled at Anastasia. “That is up to you, quiaff?”

“Why does it have to concern me?”

“I get it, it is hard to believe.” Hawise was clearly probing, testing her, “You do not believe this, quineg?”

“No, I don’t.” It took every bit of her willpower not to say ‘neg’.

“Well, I can tell you there was one time when the cards came in handy… it was my last battle on Hoard, defending a cache of parts from some Smoke Jaguars.” Anastasia stiffened, but Hawise went on.

“They told me a fool led the Jaguars, so I had confidence in bidding quite a bit under, while relying on my traps to even the odds.” She grinned. “And his subordinate was just as much of a fool for not realising mech sensors could be tricked.”

Anastasia tried to suppress her anger, and forced out a slight laugh. “I’m sorry, I have no idea what you’re talking about?”

“No? Star Commander Avryl of the Smoke Jaguars was too eager for glory in her very first battle, so she led her Star to abandon the rest of her Binary in an attempt to win glory by killing my elementals first. Too bad the readings were just decoys. And the flooding of the valley, glider deployment of my elemental Star…”

Anastasia finally snapped, scowling as she slammed one fist on the table, rattling the tea cups. “The Watch intel was poor, how were we supposed to know the valley could be flooded! Any warrior would have done the same!” The loss still rankled even after so long.

Anastasia’s eyes grew wide as she realised what she just said. She closed her eyes for an instant, before opening them to glare at Hawise in defiance, daring her to state the truth outright.

“Your eyes may be new, but the glare is not.” Hawise smirked. “There are more things in Heaven and Earth, Horatio, than are dreamt of in your philosophy.”

“I know that quote,” grumbled Anastasia, “Hamlet, Shakespeare. I was forced to read it as part of being a lady.”

Hawise laughed. “All right, all right! I will stop teasing you.”

“So what are you going to do about this?” asked Anastasia, her tone suspicious.

“Absolutely nothing.” Hawise shrugged. “You think anybody would believe me? They would lock me up in a mental institution.”

Anastasia breathed in relief. “You are the first to discover my secret. How you figured it out…” she stared at the cards, “I cannot quite believe it myself.”

“That’s because these cards appeared to me before. The Fool card on the day of the battle on Hoard, the Death card on the same day as Avryl Shower’s death on Garstedt, and the Judgement card on the same day you, Anastasia Kalinska, woke up from your coma. I very rarely have major cards turn up, so I had been pondering the significance of these cards since then.” Hawise paused, then added, “And, I had a vision which helped to lead me to this conclusion.”

Anastasia said acidly, “Forgive me if I still cannot bring myself to have any belief in your visions and your cards.”

“Are they any less believable than you waking up in a new body?” asked Hawise rhetorically.

Anastasia had no answer to that.

“What happened to the original Anastasia Kalinska then?” asked Hawise.

“I still get these… echoes… for lack of a better word,” replied Anastasia. “I can sense her feelings when they are very strong, for example when confronting Richelle Aubert.”

“That surat who sabotaged the hoverbike?”

“Aff. Anastasia hated and feared her. On a few occasions, she would also take over our body for short spurts. So I do not think she is dead, just dormant.”

“Very interesting…” Hawise mused. “The Cloud Cobras would have a field day debating philosophy of the soul if they knew of your… condition. Any idea how this happened?”

“None at all. Why I have been given this second reprieve at life, I have no idea.”

“The Powers do as they will.” Hawise murmured. “We are but pawns in their grand design.”

Anastasia grimaced. “I refuse to believe that. Our fates are ours to shape, not at their whims.”

“Maybe, maybe.” Hawise conceded. “But this really makes you think about what possibilities are out there, quiaff?”

They sat in companionable silence for a while.

Anastasia broke the silence, her decision made. “I have a proposition for you.”

“Hmmm?” Hawise looked intrigued.

“The barony on Altoona I am going to inherit… the household infantry garrison is in bad shape. They’re slightly better now in terms of their morale, discipline, and equipment, but they still lack the proper training. I intend to train them up for combined arms operations, and that is where I need your help.”

“My help? What can I help with?”

“You were stationed with a garrison cluster for a time, right? And I remember vaguely from your records that you worked with battle armour, conventional infantry, and combat vehicles in garrison. You’re probably one of the few people in the entire Trivet who knows how to meld different combat arms into a coherent whole.” Of course, Finn knew it too, but she could not ask him.

“That is high praise, but if what you’re saying is true, then all you have is infantry. I do not see the ‘combined’ part of it.”

“I have two light mechs. Well, one real battlemech, a Valkyrie, and one modified industrial mech somewhat close to being a battlemech.” Anastasia clenched her fists. “I know they’re not much, but you’ll be a mechwarrior again. A mech is better than none, quiaff?”

“Aff, that is true.” Hawise conceded. “Then what?”

Anastasia explained, “You will be my household’s Weapons Master, in charge of the military defences and training, and the position is currently empty. On paper you answer to me, of course, but in reality we’ll probably work together on decisions. In addition to the company of motorised infantry and my two mechs, my father the Baron has released sufficient funds for me to purchase two heavy tracked APCs, second hand, to extend the range of the infantry. Altogether, they should be a potent force to deter any potential attack.”

Hawise raised an eyebrow, interested now. “Your offer is tempting. But I am still solahma…”

Anastasia scoffed. “Right here, right now, nobody cares about that. For any number of reasons, you’re my best choice. Your family will come along, of course, and your children will be raised within the household.”

“Will that be a problem? I mean…”

Anastasia smiled, “The household at Altoona actually has a fair number of children belonging to the staff with a dedicated childcare centre… I mean creche. There are tutors provided for them, though from what I see, the standard seems quite rudimentary. In fact,” she mused, “I might bring in better tutors from outside the Trivet. Like what Finn did with the Smoke Jaguar civilians, just on a smaller scale.”

“I admit, I am very tempted, but I need to discuss it with Winston.” Hawise answered. “We are an equal partnership.”

Anastasia sighed. “How did you do… all this? Just stepping down from being a mechwarrior so easily? Having a family?”

“It actually was not difficult,” Hawise shrugged her shoulders, “Truthfully, my Star Colonel wanted me to stay on after the Trial on Hoard sufficed to requalify me. But I had been a mechwarrior for almost fifteen years, with not much to show for it except scars, broken bones, and the memories of too many fallen comrades and lost battles. There is more to life than being a mechwarrior, and I wanted to see it, experience it, for myself.” She smiled wistfully. “Now, I would not give up my family for anything.”

Anastasia frowned, “Not for anything? Not even a Bloodname?”

“Not for even the Rosse Bloodname.” Hawise asserted resolutely. “We crippled ourselves, Av… Lady Kalinska. Lost a vital part of our humanity. Most of us thought the lesser of ourselves every step of the way when we failed to match up to what our culture demanded of us. Not good enough, not strong enough. Blah blah blah.” She stared at Anastasia. “And where did it bring the clans? The ilKhan’s death at Radstadt was only the beginning. It led to Luthien, then Tukayyid. All the way to the Great Refusal. So many could not let go, to change.”

Hawise tapped her deck of tarot cards. “Say what you want about my cards, or the visions of the Nova Cats. They are a reminder that change is inevitable, that we must adapt to it.” Her eyes met Anastasia’s squarely. “If we do not change, then that would be the true tragedy.”

Anastasia admitted. “I will be honest with you. I do not intend to just stay like… well, this for the rest of my life.”

“Then you also recognise the need for change. Even if there are many worse fates than being a spoiled aristocrat,” Hawise commented. “But it is hard to overcome our upbringing.”

“It is not just that. The traitor who killed Avryl Showers on Garstedt… he is still alive, and here on Inman.” Anastasia revealed, her gaze cold and hard. “Pence Lamongue was abtakha from the Burrocks, and I have reason to believe he was one of those working with the Dark Caste. He changed his name, so now he’s Spencer Larouche, a transplanted noble working for the ruling family here.”

“You want revenge.”

“Aff. The two light mechs I have are no match for his upgraded Banshee. I am trying to gain allies and opportunities, to work towards my vengeance.”

Hawise looked puzzled, “Why not tell Viscount Rason?”

Anastasia shook her head slowly. “Neg, why would he believe me? More importantly, there is no honour in manipulating my fiance for that, when honour dictates I get my revenge myself.”

“A Trial of Grievance. Or something close to it.” Hawise surmised correctly.

“Aff. I’ll need a heavy mech at least to match his Banshee. And the right conditions that would allow me to fight him… I am still not sure how to achieve all that, but having you on board could only help.”

Hawise stayed silent for a while, before speaking. “I will keep what was revealed here confidential, of course. As for my decision… Give me about a week to consider. We are not leaving Inman any time soon anyway.”

Anastasia shook hands with Hawise. “Bargained well and done.”
---------------------------
Ana finally gets an ally in the know.

[Wrangler]

That's a twist. I do find it amazing someone could accept that someone was reborn in someone else body, and maybe co-inhabiting it!

[The Wobbly Guy]

De Gaulle Opera Theater, Innerman City, Inman
Milligan PDZ, Woodbine Operational Area,
30th July, 3061
1200 hours (2000 hrs on local 28 hr cycle)

“Seriously, what is this nonsense?” Anastasia almost shouted in annoyance.

“Ana!” Venice chided. “Shhh, quiet!”

“Come on, this is ridiculous.” Anastasia slouched into her seat, fuming. “This guy should be confessing his love right now!”

On Venice’s other side, Selina Seydoux was largely succeeding in holding in her laughter at Anastasia’s scathing live commentary. Since the Day of Honour, she had quickly recovered from the fright of that day, helped along by the mental resilience of youth and the support of her friends. She had also thawed towards Anastasia, and now hung out quite frequently with the other two ladies, and they were often joined by the other ladies who were at the tea party, members of what Anastasia internally had categorised as ‘Venice’s Clique’.

Anastasia continued to rant, “Why doesn’t he summon up the courage to say how he feels? He’s just hiding and watching her! What is wrong with him?”

“Ana, pipe down!”

The performers on stage were moving around, the female lead singing while the male lead peaked out from behind a curtain, but in a manner obvious to the audience.

“When is he going to stop hiding how he really feels about her? And why is he peeping at her from behind? So creepy!”

“Pffft!” Selina could not hold it in anymore, and burst into audible giggles.

“Lady Seydoux, not you too!” Venice lamented. She quickly turned to Anastasia. “Ana, this is a performance of one of the most famous and popular operas ever.”

“Urrgh, I seriously can’t stand it. Even shopping for jewellery would be less painful than this.”

“You really hate it that much,” Venice coaxed her gently. “At least try to focus on the plot, the story is reaching its climax soon.”

“Urgh…” Anastasia groaned, trying to clamp down her irritation. She should have thought twice before joining Venice for the opera. But she had never been to one, so no harm trying it, quiaff?

It was some inane love story about an unfortunate man who fell in love with a female noble, set against the Davion Civil War, before even the Star League was formed. Judging by the packed house and that many in the audience had already seen it before, according to Venice, it was very popular.

Anastasia just could not understand exactly why it was popular. If this was the sort of pap served up to Spheroids, it was a miracle they were not more addle-headed than they already are!

Both leads were on stage now, singing their hearts out, the female main character still oblivious to the male character’s feelings, while the male character bemoaned his fate, to fall in love with the woman he had grown up with, who just viewed him as a sibling instead of a romantic partner.

The man tried to embrace his love, but she soon pulled away because she did not understand his feelings. As she turned away, he drew his gun to shoot her in the back, crying that he wished their embrace had lasted forever.

Incensed, Anastasia could not stand it anymore, “You dirty st…”

“Ana!” The rest of her clan epithet was thankfully cut off by Venice’s desperately stretched hand grabbing her mouth.

After the show was over, Anastasia was still fuming, pacing the hallway as the ladies stood around chatting with one another.

Venice sighed. “Was it really so bad you had to start cursing in the midst of the performance?”

“It was absolutely trash,” Anastasia griped, “If this is how operas are, I’m never watching one ever again.”

“But Ana!”

“Oh no no no!” A man’s voice called out to them. “Not all operas are like this one!”

That voice… The ladies turned to see Raymond Haynes strut up to them.

“There’re operas about lots of different stuff. There are the traditional Italian ones, of course. Then the more contemporary ones after humanity’s exodus from Terra, like the one you just watched. Their plots can be very diverse!”

Venice, polite as ever, curtseyed to him, quickly followed by the other ladies as they took her lead. “What brings you here, my lord?”

“Ahh, I snuck out of the palace in secret to watch the opera, of course! Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to focus on it since listening to Lady Kalinska’s running commentary was too entertaining!”

That annoyed Anastasia, and she glared at him in response.

“You seem to be in a bad mood. Perhaps because the ending was so tragic?” Raymond smirked, “I can empathise. I also tend to feel a bit out of sorts after seeing a tragedy. But there’s nothing wrong with occasionally using sadness as a form of entertainment, don’t you think?”

He continued, “Couldn’t such a heartrending love-hate relationship also be seen as a beautiful tragedy?”

Anastasia clenched her fists, trying to clamp down on her anger. “I don’t know… can tragedy ever be considered beautiful?” These Spheroids were so addled by their weird notions that they could not even think properly!

“Pardon?” Raymond blinked.

“It’s the story of a pathetic man who chose to murder a woman who’s too good for him because he felt inadequate in comparison to his romantic rival.” She ground out. “It’s not a tragedy caused by one’s family or by duty to one’s country, but rather a tragedy of his own making.”

A chill ran through the gathered nobles at Anastasia’s assertion.

“Well, you’re not wrong,” conceded Raymond. “But my lady, don’t you think that man also had his reasons? One often tends to become a coward with things they hold dear.”

“What?” Anastasia was getting really annoyed with these Spheroids and their twisted logic. She recognised her own upbringing in the Clans as being very different, since people of the Clans tended to be direct in their affections, and the very idea of being cowards with things they treasure was alien to their culture. That said… “So you think he was justified in killing someone that dear to him?”

“Death…” Raymond tried to explain, “...is the most powerful expression of resentment. Both in fiction and real life.”

“Meanwhile,” Anastasia countered firmly, “that poor woman was deprived of her life and her future simply because he wanted to express his resentment. How does that even make sense?”

“Oh…” Raymond blinked. “When you look at it that way, he did create the tragedy himself. I’ve never thought of it like that before. Interesting… this was a very enlightening conversation.”

“Goodness, I’ve never considered it from that angle either,” said Venice, deep in thought. “Come to think of it, Luskin Redford spoke about something similar in one of his poems.”

Raymond’s eyes lit up. “Are you referring to his new book? The one you purchased at the bookstore the other day?”

“Yes, that’s right.”

The conversation thankfully veered away from the opera to discussion of literature Raymond and Venice both enjoyed.

Anastasia still could not let go of the torrid emotions flooding her though. It was just an opera, but the story of a man who loved a woman yet was not able to confess his love, and then he had the temerity to resent and then kill her for his own failings? That was all kinds of messed up.

And of course, the reason why it resonated with her was the manner of the woman’s death - shot in the back. Just like the last moments of Avryl Showers.

Sigh… I am exhausted from all this thinking and reminiscing. All I want to do is go home and rest. She could feel a throbbing headache coming on.

“Ana!” Somebody called out.

She turned and was surprised to see Finn walking up to her. For once, he was not dressed in the dress uniform of the military, but rather a nondescript jacket.

“There you are,” he smiled at her.

“What’s this?” She felt a twinge of suspicion. “Have you been stalking me?”

“Woah!” He held up both hands, “Didn’t you message me a few days ago that you would be attending the opera with Lady Codina?”

“Oh…” Aff, she did. But then again, how did he know which opera she would be watching? There were a number of other shows at the same time… She failed to notice the looks of amusement on Raymond and Venice’s faces.

“Ahem,” Finn harumphed to get her attention. “If you don’t mind, my lady, would you like to stroll for a bit with me?” He extended a hand to her.

“Huh?” Anastasia did not quite understand what he was implying.

“Oh goodness me!” Raymond exclaimed. “It seems I’ve been interrupting this lovely couple’s precious time together.” Finn flinched a bit. “Lady Codina, I think it’d be best for us to make ourselves scarce.”

“Oh my,” Venice replied, almost in sync with Raymond, “You’re quite right. I feel terrible about nearly disrupting Viscount Rason’s plans!”

“Rest assured, my lady,” Raymond grinned, “Viscount Rason is not so narrow minded as that.”

Venice smiled back, almost as sincerely. “Indeed, his actions are simply a sign of the sheer depth of his affections. I know that all too well.”

Raymond offered Venice his hand, “Given the late hour, please allow me to walk you to your vehicle.”

Anastasia was puzzled at their behaviour. What is with these two? She did not notice Finn’s frown at how they were subtly making fun of him.

 

Venice and Raymond walked down the hallway leading to the vehicle pickup point.

Venice thought, I thought he’d engage me in conversation about all kinds of things along the way, but he’s being surprisingly quiet…

“Lady Kalinska has sure changed a lot, hasn’t she?” Raymond finally broke the silence, offering her a smile.

“Pardon?” She looked up at him.

“I was wondering if anything significant might have happened to cause such a drastic change in her.”

Venice replied, “Well, consider just how much she has suffered. Even her life had been threatened on more than one occasion. After all that, is it so surprising that she should change so much?”

She offered him a sly grin, “And as I’m sure you know, the rumours, her position, and everything else about Lady Kalinska is now changing.”

“Ahhh, I see. In that case, of course she’s bound to change, isn’t that so?” The lens of Raymond’s spectacles glinted sinister with moonlight. “By the way, I’m curious as to why a person who’s stayed on the sidelines up to this point is now trying to get close to Lady Kalinska. Perhaps you’re trying to win the favour of the future Viscountess Rason?”

Venice paused, gathering her thoughts before replying. “Speaking of which… I’m also rather curious. Why are you so interested in Lady Kalinska, Sir Haynes?” She turned to him with a bright smile, “Oh! Is it possible that you…”

Raymond startled, “My lady, please don’t misunderstand! I’d rather give up on love entirely than go after Vscount Rason’s fiancee. As you know, he’s very possessive and scary!”

“Of course.” Venice beamed. “Please forgive me, my lord. It seems I’ve read too many novels recently and let my imagination get the better of me.”

He smiled at her. “Oh dear. It sounds like a thinly veiled criticism of me for having an overactive imagination.”

“My word! I would never dream of criticising you, my lord!” She maintained her smile. It was clear to her that Raymond Haynes and herself were cut from the same cloth, keeping their true intentions veiled under various guises. In her case, it was the noble lady’s mask, while for him, it was the awkward bookworm. And he has realised it as well. All the supposedly coincidental encounters were actually intentional. Does he actually have feelings for Anastasia?

“We’ve reached the vehicles, my lord.” Venice said. The waiting vehicles with their chauffeurs moved up to the pickup point, while the waiting valets smoothly opened the doors for the nobles to enter.

“That’s a shame,” Raymond remarked as he led her to her waiting vehicle. “I wish I could’ve had a chance to spend some more time with you, my lady.”

“Oh! I had no idea my lord regarded me so favourably.”

He smirked at her in response, stepping back as the valets closed the door. House Codina, a Viscount holding, was a powerful and politically neutral family that had not publicly supported Renard yet… A lady I would like to make my own.

Raymond stared at Venice’s vehicle as it drove off, plans slowly coming into shape in his mind.

 

There was a park near the opera theatre, softly illuminated by fluorescent lamps. Finn slowly led Anastasia through the park.

He asked, “You looked rather upset earlier. Did something happen?”

“Huh?” A thought occurred to Anastasia. Come to think of it, I started feeling better ever since Finn showed up… I wonder why?

She explained, “I was just upset about the plot of the show.”

He nodded. “”Agreed. The story is so idiotic. I found it a struggle to stay seated and watch it all the way through.”

She looked at him in surprise.

“My father forced me to watch it just before I went off to Kilbourne. If I recall correctly, it was the story of a pathetic man who never gathered up his courage to confess to the woman he loves and instead ends up killing her.” He looked at her. “Is it different from how I remember it?”

She shook her head. “No! You’re completely correct. Those were exactly my thoughts. It’s just… I find it detestable.”

“Is that right?”

“To me, it is merely a sordid tale of a pathetic man who, too cowardly to confront his romantic rival directly, torments the female lead instead. Did you think so too?”

“I did!” He grinned. “And I couldn’t understand how the woman could ever love a pitiful man like him. Did you think the same?”

She pointed a finger at him in affirmation. “Exactly!”

He continued, “It isn’t a tragedy, but a retelling of the pitiful life of a spineless fool. You probably considered it a grievous waste of time.” He barked a burst of laughter.

“That’s right!” She laughed along in response.

Finn suddenly had an epiphany, and sobered up from his mirth, looking at her seriously. “Still, now that I think about it, I suppose I can understand to some extent why the man couldn’t say anything to her.”

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“Not only does confessing your love reveal what’s in your heart. But by doing so, you may also unwittingly impose your feelings on the object of your affections.” His tone was solemn. “And that can be a heavy burden for them to bear.”

She stared at him in surprise.

“Do you understand what I am saying?”

“Uh… I think you’re overthinking things, “ she frowned at him, “if you like someone, either admit your feelings to them or give up on them. And if they reject you, just try to persuade them with your charisma until they do end up returning your affections.” At least, that was how it was in the clans. “And if that doesn’t work, you’ll simply have to find somebody else.”

Her reply seemed to stun Finn, who stared wordlessly at her.

“Hmph…” Anastasia turned away from him. “I don’t understand how anyone would constantly hang around the person they care about without ever saying a word about how they feel.”

Finn looked at her wordlessly for a while, then said, “I thought you had been in love before, with Renard Haynes. So why does it seem as though you are even more inept than me when it comes to matters of the heart?”

How can he make such a rude comment with complete nonchalance? The audacity of this idiot… Flustered, Anastasia replied, “Hmmm… I’m not sure. But like you said, I understand that it’s impossible to shed your feelings so easily.” She faced him squarely. “But not confessing to the object of your affections, simply because you have a lot to lose, ultimately means you’re just afraid of the responsibility you may have to bear as a result of your words.” In the clans, if they felt somebody was attractive, they would just go straight up and ask to couple, with none of this dancing around that the Spheroids seem to be so fond of, especially with their emphasis on romance and love.

She continued, “If you’re unwilling to shoulder that responsibility, you shouldn’t linger around the person in question. Rather, better to let them go. Wouldn’t you agree?”

“Then…” Finn tensed up a bit, “what would you do if somebody you didn’t love confessed to you?”

“Huh?” She looked puzzled. “I would just tell them I didn’t feel the same way. What’s the problem?”

He pressed further. “But what if they continued to stay close to you afterwards?”

She shrugged. “Then I’d just cut them out of my life. It’d be irritating to have to keep dealing with them.”

He gulped. “You mean, as you did with Renard Haynes?”

She raised an eyebrow at him. “Yeah, I guess so. Why?”

He did not reply, deep in thought. It’s not unexpected, but she truly is the uncompromising sort. Whether it’s an engagement or a marriage, if it is something she does not desire, she clearly won’t hesitate to break it off.

“Finn?”

Should I be content with having her as my fiancee? He sighed, then said, “Ana, there’s something important I need to tell you.”

“What is it?” She looked concerned.

He gritted his teeth. “Well… you said you’d leave the investigation of the hoverbike incident to me, but… I’m sorry.”

“Nothing came out of it, right?” She said knowingly.

He clenched his fists. “Yes. Nobody was brought to account or to take responsibility for the incident.”

Anastasia let out a puff of air, “Oh, is that all you were trying to say? There’s no need to worry about that anymore.”

“Huh?”

“That was according to my father’s wishes, right?” She moved her hands up in a ‘what can you do’ gesture. “That’s probably what my father wanted. Like I said, I’m well aware that my father is a member of the faction that supports Renard, same as the Auberts. Besides, Lady Aubert has already paid the price… in a way. That’s good enough for me.”

He looked at her glumly, trying to control his distress. How much did she endure to become like this? Why would someone who pretended to be fine, even in a situation like this, attempt to take her own life?

Dammit! Finn cursed inwardly. “Lady Kalinska, if this is all too much for you to handle, we could rush our…”

Before he could complete his sentence, she cut him off. “By the way, what happened to the hoverbikes?”

He blinked, thrown off by her question. “The hoverbikes?” He quickly regained his equilibrium. “The sabotaged hoverbike has been fixed. As for the one you actually used, I got the engine replaced after you almost wrecked the old one by overboosting it. If you liked it so much, I can gift you the hoverbike…”

“Really?” her eyes sparkled with delight. “After that incident with the hoverbike showed off my skill, my father has finally agreed to let me ride on my own!”

Finn flinched from her sheer happiness, and as he stared at her lips, he was suddenly reminded of the cheesy lines from Raymond’s romance novels, describing a passionate kiss. Have I finally gone off the deep end? Get hold of yourself, Finn Rason! Confessing your feelings now is NOT an option!

Before he could react, he felt her cool hand on his forehead, bringing him back to the present.

“I’ve been calling you for a while now, but you seem out of it. Are you feeling unwell?” Her hand was on his forehead, and she had stepped up right in front of him, standing so close.

“Oh, uhm,” he quickly thought up an excuse, “I had to stay up all night yesterday because of work.”

She nodded, as though understanding what he was talking about. “Staying up all night with no sleep? Being a Viscount and commanding the Trivet’s defences is a lot of administrative work.” She withdrew her hand slowly.

He decided to take advantage of the situation. “Yeah, I’m so tired it’s hard to even stand.” He leaned down against her, resting his chin on one of her shoulders, eliciting a puzzled “Huh?” from her.

“Please excuse me for a moment.” His arms wrapped around her thin waist, and squeezed lightly. He relished the sensation, the feeling of closeness with her.

“You’re pretty weak for a mechwarrior,” she commented, drawing another flinch out of him. “I don’t think you have a fever though.”

“Uh huh.”

“All right, fine. Even warriors can get sick from time to time,” she patted him on his back, while he breathed in her scent, a mix of floral spiciness that she seemed to have made her own.

They stood there for long moments, the wind rustling through the garden, bathed in the soft glow of the lamps.

Finn finally raised his head, then tilted it to look at Anastasia.

“What is it?” she asked.

“It’s nothing.” His arms reluctantly slid away from her.

“Finn, you’re acting so strange today,” she chided him gently.

Didn’t she feel anything from the close physical contact? Does she feel anything for me at all? He wondered. I keep wanting more and more with her.

He had realised one thing. That to care for someone and give their heart to that person, but knowing those feelings were not reciprocated would make them feel lonely. If Anastasia Kalinska would love another person other than him… would he still be able to end things with her and divorce her like they had originally planned?

His heart fluttered when he looked at her. He now attached meaning to every little thing she did, and he felt incredibly jealous of everybody else she interacted with. If anybody had asked him if it was possible for him to let go of her now… he would not be able to do it.

Many people had been driven to the brink by jealousy, and there were many who made foolish and terrible mistakes, committing selfish and violent acts, in the name of love. He hoped he wouldn’t go the same way.

“Are you sure you’re fine?” She asked tentatively.

He managed a smirk. “Are you worried about me?”

She nodded, “Well, yes.”

That brought him some clarity. Not only am I fearing things that haven’t happened yet, but I’m making Ana worry. And she does worry about me!

That realisation made him chuckle slightly. “I’d like to keep strolling for a little while longer, if that’s alright with you?” He extended a hand to her.

“Do you need me or something?” She smirked. “You’re not going to collapse, are you?”

“If that should happen, I would be honoured if you’d lend me the use of your shoulder once again.”

She laughed. “Okay! But it’ll cost you. Hoverbikes might not be enough! I might ask for a mech instead!”

“Definitely not an assault, but maybe a light instead?” He joked back as she took his hand in her own. Nothing has happened yet. For now, at least.

 

Anastasia felt strangely disappointed on the way back home, though she could not exactly pinpoint why she felt that way. It started the moment she separated from Finn, and she found it really inexplicable.

It was pretty late, almost 2600 hrs on the local cycle, when most people were already at home getting ready to sleep.

She stared out the windows of the hoverlimo as it sped down the highway back to the Kalinski estate.

Her mobile phone rang, and she picked it up. Who could be calling so late?

“Hello, this is Anastasia Kalinska. Who is this?”

“Hawise here. We are all in.”

Anastasia smiled.

----------------------------
Naughty Finn! Naughty, naughty Finn! The chinese have a colloquialism for this - eating tofu (吃豆腐).

And of course, as a former officer herself, Anastasia knows all about the burdens of paperwork.

Most of this chapter was copied from the original webtoon, with slight modifications. These chapters are generally the easiest to write, adapt a bit here and there.

[The Wobbly Guy]

Codina Estate, Inman,
Milligan PDZ, Woodbine Operational Area,
2nd August, 3061
2000 hours (1600 hrs on local 28 hr cycle)

“Ah choo!” Venice sneezed daintily, the sound muffled by the handkerchief she hurriedly raised to her face. “I get like this when there are too many flowers around,” she sighed to Anastasia.

She even sounds congested, Anastasia thought as she looked over her friend in concern. Meanwhile, the Codina estate’s servants bustled around, getting everything in place for the celebratory banquet.

“But I can’t bring myself to get rid of all the flowers. It’s really quite the dilemma.” Venice patted her nose, trying to maintain the decorum of a lady.

Anastasia smiled gently at her friend, understanding the predicament somewhat. Allergies… I know the feeling. It used to be a frequent concern for me whenever I had to go outfield to places with lots of pollen, and I had to take those fexofenadine tablets to get it under control. Sigh, one of the few problems the scientists could not remove from the Showers bloodline. One of the good things about this new body is that pollen no longer affects me.

From what she found out, Inman had a very limited pharmaceutical industry, only producing the most common drugs for consumption. The more specialised drugs were produced on Delacambre, but even then fexofenadine was too low on the priority list for production.

“More importantly,” she said to Venice, “if you’re not careful, you’ll wipe your makeup off with all that sneezing.”

“Pardon?”

“Oh, because whenever you sneeze, you keep having to cover your face with a handkerchief.” Venice was staring at her intently, so Anastasia did not know what to make of her expression.

“No,” Venice finally beamed, “I understand exactly what you mean. I’m simply impressed you said something very ladylike just now.”

“Oh, really?” Anastasia laughed weakly, chagrined and wondering if she should be flattered or insulted by that remark. “By the way,” she gestured to the lavishly decorated ballroom and the busy servants in an attempt to change the subject, “you said this was all for your eldest brother’s birthday celebration? I didn’t realise there were so many things that went into organising a birthday party.”

Venice brandished a noteputer showing a long and detailed checklist scrolling across the screen, “Indeed, I invited you over here so you could see the preparations firsthand.”

“So what you’re saying is… that I need to be able to prepare something like this too?”

“Of course,” Venice chuckled, “and let’s not forget, your own birthday is coming up soon. You need to start on the preparations yourself, since you don’t have a sibling to do it for you.”

Anastasia sighed. Ughhh… Even thinking about it gives me a headache. And I thought the logistics for organising a deep raid into the Draconis Combine was bad. This is worse!

“Ana, what’s the matter?” asked Venice.

“It’s just… I feel like all I’ve been doing is playing at being a lady.” Anastasia shuffled her feet, feeling uncertain. It was times like this that drove home the point that she was simply playing a role she had been thrust into, and it still felt so unnatural to her.

“What? I don’t think that’s true at all,” countered Venice. “Think about it. You’ve been trying your best to live as a lady all this time. You went out every day to look at dresses and jewellery in order to develop your own personal style. You frequently attend tea parties and socialise with others. And not too long ago, you started expanding your cultural knowledge by reading literature and attending performances.” She grinned and added, “Even if you complain as to how you can’t stand them.”

“Oh, that.” Anastasia glimpsed a reflection of herself in a nearby glass panel, “I suppose you’re right, but…” She fingered one of the jewels on the necklace around her neck. When will I finally be able to reach Pence? She sighed.

Venice asked, “That sigh… is that because of the goals we talked about before? You said you wanted to really live as a lady of the aristocracy, but you didn’t explain why. I figured you would tell me eventually.”

“Huh? Well, I’m sorry I can’t tell you yet…” Anastasia felt very apologetic, but it was also for Venice’s own safety. Besides, if she revealed her need to seek vengeance on Pence, then it would open up the can of worms of why she had to do so.

Venice simply nodded. “I understand there must be some things you find it hard to reveal. If you ever need to, you know you can rely on me, and maybe even the other ladies too.”

They stood in comfortable silence for a while. Anastasia then asked, “Hey Venice, what does a woman need to do to have power over a man?”

“Hmmm…” pondered Venice. “Generally, she should marry a man with a higher social status than her target. A woman’s power is generally determined by the family to which she belongs. There are exceptions though, like the women who will inherit their titles. Like Richelle Aubert, or even yourself. But Richelle will be a Viscountess, while you’re only a Barony.”

Anastasia already figured as much, but it was frustrating to have it confirmed by Venice. “So no matter how talented a woman is, there’s nothing she can do to accomplish anything on her own?” Are we back to the Medieval Ages?

“Actually… how many people do you think are able to accomplish anything solely by their own power?” Venice smiled weakly. “And ultimately, that power is just power delegated to us by the consent and will of the people, based on the Six Liberties.”

Anastasia blinked. The Six Liberties were something unique to the Federated Suns, and even today, the basis for the Federated Commonwealth: the rights to personal liberty, to own property, to own weapons, to expect fair treatment, to privacy, and to participate in planetary government.

“But of course, with enough force, it’s possible to wield power over others by the most primitive method of all… violence. I’ve heard it said that the battlemech is the modern expression of that ancient latin phrase - ultima ratio regum - the last argument of kings.” She sighed. “But that avenue is closed to us.”

Anastasia thought there were some holes in Venice’s logic, since she was a qualified mechwarrior herself, even if nobody else other than Hawise knew it.

“Oh!” Venice’s eyes lit up in intrigued interest, “Could it be that you’re trying to seek revenge on Renard Haynes?”

“What?” Anastasia flinched. “No! I don’t want to have anything to do with him anymore!”

“Do you truly have no feelings left for Baron Haynes?” Venice grinned.

“I told you,” grimaced Anastasia in disgust, “I feel absolutely nothing for him at all.”

“Then I’m curious… exactly who is it that you wish to wield power over?” Venice gasped. “Don’t tell me… Viscount Rason?”

“What are you talking about?” Anastasia startled again. “It’s not like that!” This is not some engagement revenge drama or anything like that! Absolutely not!

“Then,” Venice said slowly, “isn’t Viscount Rason exactly the kind of person you need?”

“What do you mean?”

“What I mean is…” Venice explained carefully, “Ana, just how many other nobles in the Trivet do you think are comparable to Viscount Rason?”

“Oh.” Anastasia nodded in understanding. She is right, but… to accept my fate as a mere lady, to accept that the only thing I can do is to study and be a good wife for Finn… I knew all this already, but still… how disheartening. It was sheer anathema to her own upbringing as a clan mechwarrior, but her choices felt so limited.

“So if I marry Finn, will he do what I ask of him?”

Venice smiled, “Of course he would! It’s what his wife wants.”

His… wife? For some reason, that title really struck Anastasia for the first time. She knew Finn was not a bad person, as honourable as Spheroids go. He would listen to her and try to honour her wishes. If she asked him to kill Pence, he would probably try to do so, even if she could not explain her reasons for why she wanted Pence dead

But true honour demanded that she obtain her vengeance by her own hands, not through a proxy.

If I told him that I was Avryl… would he believe me? What kind of expression would I see on his face? How would he react? And if he found out I had deceived him all this time, will we face off again on the battlefield, like we used to? For some reason, that last thought was so distressing she did not want to think about it anymore.

“Come to think of it,” Venice’s voice interrupted her thoughts, “you said Viscount Rason would also be attending today’s event, didn’t you?”

“Yes…?” Anastasia had sent a message to check with him the day before, and he had confirmed his attendance then.

“Oh dear,” Venice winced, looking worried. “This is bad.”

“What do you mean?”

“Well, Sir Spencer Larouche is also expected to attend.”

Anastasia frowned despite herself. Pence is coming here?

“Things between the two of you must be a bit awkward after what happened at that tea party. I’ll set up a private lounge you can escape to after you’ve said your greetings. I’ll get Viscount Rason to do the same when he arrives.”

“I’m sorry,” Anastasia sighed, “You expressly invited me so that I could observe how to properly host an event like this, but now…”

Venice smiled, “There’s nothing to be sorry about. Rather, I want you to take notice of how your social standing has changed since what happened on the Day of Honour.” Her smile widened. “That’s more than enough for me.”

“Huh?” Anastasia blinked in confusion.

 

“Lady Kalinska, how lovely to see you.”

“Oh my! Those jewels you’re wearing suit you so well.”

“You’re an absolute vision today.”

“I’m so glad about having the opportunity to talk more with you. I’ve regretted the fact that we hadn’t really been able to before.”

“Indeed, I must confess, we did find it a bit difficult at first to approach you, Lady Kalinska.”

Why are all these ladies suddenly acting so friendly? Unexpectedly the centre of attention, Anastasia tried to respond as graciously as she could remember to each lady who greeted her, engaging in inane small talk, returning their compliments by praising their clothes, their hairstyles, their perfumes, her mind scrambling to recall all the little details that Venice had told her before about each lady. This is exhausting! Is this what Venice meant? I do not hate it exactly, but… this is really tough!

Engaging so many ladies in small talk, one after the other, Anastasia could literally feel her old self wilting away, in a situation Avryl was never suited for. It is difficult to keep giving the correct responses with so many eyes on me!

“Lady Kalinska,” Selina interjected gently, “while it’s good to socialise, let’s say hello to Sir Codina first? At this rate, you won’t even get to see the man of the hour before the party’s over.”

“Oh, you’re right. Please excuse me, ladies.” Grateful for the reprieve, Anastasia allowed Selina to pull her away from the thing of ladies. She whispered, “Thank you for saving me, Lady Seydoux.”

Selina whispered back, “Greetings may be basic etiquette, but it’s also important to know how to extract yourself from a conversation gracefully. Didn’t you know that?”

“Hehe,” Anastasia giggled weakly, “I’ll keep that in mind. Thank you.” She was glad Selina Seydoux was now firmly in her corner. Many good things had come out of Richelle’s botched sabotage attempt.

“It looks like the Viscount is almost finished giving his greetings. Come on, Lady Kalinska!” urged Selina.

Anastasia looked up to see Viscount Drake greeting Sir Virgil Codina, Venice’s eldest brother. The Viscount said, “I have no doubt that House Codina will blossom into a magnificent flower garden of the Federated Commonwealth. May God’s glory and honour always be with you and your family.”

His greetings given, the Viscount started to turn away for the next person in line. “If you’ll excuse me…” And then he simply walked past her as though she was invisible.

Hmm… even though I am his niece, he did not bother taking the time to greet me, since my father is not with me. It was as though she did not exist in his eyes at all.

An unpleasant sensation swept through her, similar to how the original Anastasia had felt about Richelle. A warning of sorts?

She walked towards Virgil Codina, but in her mind she was trying to communicate with Anastasia. You know, Anastasia, since you would not answer me, all I can do is make my best guesses based on your feelings. But as long as I am in your body, if I have to keep going through things like this…

She curtseyed gracefully to Sir Virgil. I will no longer be simply swept away by your feelings.

Then Anastasia smiled brightly, “Happy birthday, Sir Virgil Codina.”

“Thank you.” Sir Virgil was pleasant enough in his looks, blond like the rest of his siblings, and looked significantly more mature than his younger brother Vince. From what Venice told her, Virgil was a senior official in the local department of home affairs, and influential within the government. Anastasia could sense the slightest tinge of danger rolling off him. This man could be dangerous, but he has no reason to be hostile. Let us not give him one.

He continued smoothly, “This is the first time I’ve ever had the pleasure of receiving birthday greetings from you, Lady Kalinska.”

Anastasia replied just as smoothly, “Oh my, I will be sure to deliver them every year from now on.”

“Really?” He grinned. “I’m already looking forward to it. It seems you are all everybody’s talking about these days.”

“Is that so?” She tried to look innocent and demure.

“Of course. I’ve also heard about what happened at the Day of Honour. I’m just sorry I wasn’t there to see your daring rescue.”

Anastasia laughed weakly in response. So a woman in danger is just entertainment to you? I have no idea what anybody at this party is thinking. Do they have screws loose or something?

All this was far more tiring than mech combat. She really felt mentally drained. She curtseyed to him again, “Then, I shall take my leave and go find your sister.”

He smiled, “Certainly. I suppose I should attend to my other guests. Thank you for your birthday wishes.”

Anastasia felt a bit better, since she had successfully navigated the party and given her greetings to the birthday celebrant. She thought she should head to the private lounge reserved for her before she ran into Pence.

Exchanging soft greetings and small talk with ladies she encountered on the way, she spotted Venice, who was standing near a corner. There was a figure next to Venice, mostly hidden behind the wall. Wait… I recognise that unsettling silhouette! Raymond Haynes again? What is he doing here? I feel like I see him more often than Finn these days…

But if Raymond Haynes was here, then presumably… She turned around, hoping to catch a glimpse of Finn’s red hair. The two men often appeared together. Despite Finn’s protests and constant griping about Raymond, she was sure they were friends despite it all.

So why is Finn not here yet? He usually tends to show up on time, or he would even be early if he felt it necessary. He is always around when I needed him… Wait a minute, why am I… still standing around, waiting for him? When did I get so used to having him around? The realisation was disconcerting.

She heard approaching footsteps behind her, and she spun around with a smile, “Finn, what took you so long…”

Her voice trailed off when she saw a glaring Pence Lamongue.

“My lady,” he sneered, “So pleasant to see you again.”

She stepped back from him. “How can I help you, Sir Larouche?”

He glowered at her for a moment, before he schooled his features into a neutral expression. “There’s something I would like to speak to you about. The last time we met, we had quite the disagreement. I thought you might feel uncomfortable seeing me again, so I wanted to put your mind to ease.”

She raised an eyebrow, surprised. “Are you sure? Even though I insulted you in such a manner?”

“Yes, I am certain. I have nothing to gain with this misunderstanding, and your…” he paused for a while, as though searching for the correct word, “...newfound popularity may yet affect me. So I simply wish to make this issue go away.”

Anastasia understood. Venice and Madame Iris had drummed into her the cardinal of high society - never make any enemies, not to display one’s true emotions, but hide them deep down, and always arm oneself with a smile.

“How kind and forgiving of you, my lord,” she replied with a smile. But we both know this is a load of surat shit. But appearances have to be maintained, so I will play along for now.

“Kind? Not at all.” He returned her smile. “It is simply because you weren’t entirely wrong. So, shall we put that unpleasantness behind us?”

“Yes, of course.” She tried not to tense up too much. Pence, easy for you to say all this. She needed to leave. “I think I’d be going then. My friend is waiting for me.”

Pence stepped towards her. “But I’d like it very much if we could talk a bit longer.” He took another step. “You see, I’d like us to become a lot closer.” He leaned forward into her personal space.

Anastasia stepped back, trying not to glare at him.

“Are you sure you’re not still avoiding me?” He taunted her.

She felt trapped. Why is he so pushy? How do I extract myself from this situation? Stravag, this must be his way of taking revenge on me!

“Long time no see, Lady Kalinska!” Raymond suddenly called out as he walked up to them. “Oh, Sir Larouche is here too!”

“Greetings, my lord,” said Pence to Raymond.

Raymond winked surreptitiously at Anastasia. She tried not to snort. What’s with that wink? Did he come here on purpose? Although his arrival did help her extricate herself from Pence’s looming presence.

Raymond remarked, “In the past, you don’t usually come to events like this. But now you seem to be attending quite a few these days.”

“I could say the same for you, my lord.” Pence smiled, though the smile did not reach his eyes. “There are many rumours abound…it is rather fortunate for you that Baron Haynes has been confined to the manor, is it not?”

“I simply wish to see in real life the scenes depicted in the books I’ve read.” Raymond shrugged. “And today, I’m here because I received an invitation from Lady Codina, of course.” Venice seemed to appear out of nowhere to stand next to him.

Raymond’s spectacles seemed to gleam with sinister intent. “Come to think of it, we were all gathered together in this estate not too long ago.” He smirked. “If only Viscount Rason was here as well…”

“I apologise for interrupting this pleasant conversation,” said Venice, “but Ana, didn’t you say you were feeling quite tired? Why don’t you go rest in the lounge?”

Raymond nodded. “That sounds good. Since Viscount Rason isn’t here, let me escort you there in his stead.”

“Huh?” Anastasia smiled blankly for a moment, before she understood their intent. “Oh, sure!”

In the private lounge, Anastasia could finally relax a smidgen, since it was so quiet that she could not even hear the music from the party. Thanks to Venice, I was able to escape from Pence… but what is Raymond still doing here?

She had thought he would have returned to the party immediately after escorting her, but he stood by the door, as though waiting for something.

Anastasia decided to take the initiative. “Is there something you would like to say to me, my lord? Because it certainly seems that way.”

He smiled. “Lady Kalinska… I never made a move without having solid evidence.” He stepped away from the door towards her. “I want you to know that. But even in the absence of hard evidence, there are times at which one becomes quite certain of something.” He sat down on a nearby chair. “Like right now.”

She looked at him warily. His demeanour had changed, just like before. Instead of the vapid bookworm he usually portrayed to the world, this was definitely closer to his true self, the scheming planner who hid his own martial skills.

“It can sometimes pay off to go with your instincts.” He stared at her.

“Your instincts?”

“Honestly, I still don’t have a solid lead on this. But it’s hard to get over the feeling that you don’t belong here.”

She stiffened a bit. Does he suspect the truth? It was already a shock to have Hawise guessing her real identity, but Hawise had supernatural aid, plus she had actually met Avryl before. For Raymond to guess… it should have been impossible.

“I’ve watched you ever since you started dating my brother. However, the Lady Kalinska I knew then was completely different from who you are today.” His stare narrowed in focus. “That’s when I first became suspicious.”

He continued, “Also, you suddenly began showing hostility to Spencer Larouche, even though, according to my investigations, there hadn’t been any prior contact between the two of you. Plus…” He smiled, “You recently hired a former clan warrior to be your household Weapons Master. Furthermore, there was that book about the clans in the bookstore.”

“So what is it you’re trying to say, my lord?”

“The clans. All this is somehow related to the clans and Spencer Larouche.”

She tried to stay relaxed. There was no way Raymond could have found out. Besides, if he had, he would be more specific. The hoverbike event, or the fact that she discovered he was a mechwarrior. There was simply nothing to really tie her to the clans, and even her animosity to Pence could be explained by his almost kidnapping of her on Altoona.

“You better not lie to me.” Raymond stared at her intently. “You admire the clan way of life and seek to incorporate them into your own holdings, isn’t it?”

What? She tried to keep her surprise off her face. “Uhm…” Well, he was somewhat on the right track, but his conclusion was wrong. Stop nodding like that, all self-satisfied, because you’re wrong! Oh well, if you really want to think that, I am not going to say otherwise!

“By the way, my investigation showed that your father has been diverting large amounts of money to Kilbourne. Any idea why?”

She shook her head.

“That made me wonder what he was planning. And to be honest, I’m not sure how he even got his hands on that kind of money.”

She stared at Raymond, feeling wholly out of her depth. All these were why she hated politics  and preferred to focus on battle. But like it or not, she was mired in it now.

“And…” he smiled craftily, “you admired Avryl Showers greatly, didn’t you? That’s why you were so interested in the clans. And also because she was your fiance’s rival, and could-have-been love interest. A pair of star-crossed lovers, how romantic.”

Whaaaat?!? Screamed Anastasia internally. Finn was actually interested in Avryl? Seriously? Or was it just Raymond’s way of fishing for additional information?

“So that’s why you learned things like piloting a mech and identifying mechwarriors, because you wanted to be like her.” He concluded with a smirk.

She replied, her face expressionless, “My lord, I really have no idea what you’re talking about. It would make more sense for you to ask my father about what those funds are being used for, not me.”

Raymond chuckled. “Just as I expected.”

“Pardon me?”

“If I’m asking you to come clean, I guess it’s only fair that I do the same.”

Anastasia tensed in anticipation. Could this be it?

“To put it very simply, I want to claim the Countship for myself.” He clenched his right fist in front of her, finally revealing outright his ambitions. “The Trivet will not prosper under Renard. You should know that.”

He continued, “I heard that after you nearly died, you lost your memories for a while before regaining them. You must have had a lot of regrets about how you had lived your life, and about your relationship with my brother, which was why you’ve gone through such a drastic change in personality.”

He looked so smug and self-satisfied that Anastasia felt like shoving her fist through his face and correcting all his misconceptions. Stop looking so pleased with yourself. It is almost comical how wrong you are about all of this. I will also need to crack down on any potential leaks in information once I get home. Hawise should be able to help me there.

Apparently, her newly appointed Weapons Master had decided that the security around the Kalinski estate was lacking, and was putting the security force through a brutal training regimen to toughen them up. Anastasia saw them in the morning doing a ‘Fun Run’ right after breakfast, and some of the guards were looking quite green around the gills.

“Why are you telling me all of this, my lord?”

“I trust, Lady Kalinska, that you won’t repeat this to anybody. And because,” his smirk disappeared and his tone became deadly serious, “in order to claim the Countship, I’ll need your help.”

Anastasia was perplexed. “My help? What can I…”

He cut in, “If you can do that for me, I will grant you whatever you ask as long as it is within my power to do so.”

A Trial of Grievance in a Circle of Equals against Pence, in equally matched mechs! That thought appeared in her mind, but another part advised caution.

She was pensive as she asked, “How can I help?

He answered, “My mother’s House is relatively powerless compared to the Drakes or Auberts who support Renard. I only have the support of minor nobles and some of the businesses in the Trivet.”

“I see.” She understood the strategic situation. “So you’re at a disadvantage.”

He smirked, “Don’t underestimate the power of words though. Katrina Steiner-Davion proved that, didn’t she?” He then conceded, “However, there is some truth in what you’ve said. I’m indeed at a disadvantage. Which is why I need the support of the next most powerful noble family in the Trivet.”

Criteria flitted through Anastasia’s mind as Raymond listed them. “A family with an outstanding reputation, wealthy, strong military power.”

She knew exactly which family he was referring to.

“I need the support of House Rason.” He placed his hands on the table and leaned forward. “I’d like you to persuade Finn. That’s how you can help me. Because Finn values you dearer than anybody else.”

She tried not to dwell on the implications of his words. “But why House Rason?”

“The late Viscount Rason supported me. Because he unofficially backed my claim, I was able and willing to take part in this political battle.” He sighed. “I’m sure you know this already, but Finn and I are friends. We grew up together as mechwarrior apprentices, learning the art of war from his father.”

Anastasia felt even more confused. “Then why not just ask him yourself for his support?”

“I know him very well. That’s why I also know how much he detests all this political manoeuvring. This is the one thing I would not be able to persuade him on.”

She countered, “Do you truly think I am capable of achieving something that even you cannot, my lord?”

“You’ll have to,” he nodded, “after all, you’re his fiancee. Make it so that his heart completely belongs to you…” he extended a hand, “...then bring him into this fight.” He closed his hand into a fist.

“And what if I decided I don’t want to help you?”

Raymond chuckled, “It’s not difficult to conduct a detailed audit of House Kalinski’s finances. All those irregularities would need to be justified to my father, Renard, and Viscounts Drake and Aubert. How do you think those greedy nobles will react?”

He waved a hand dismissively. “I’m well aware that such threats do not work on individuals such as yourself. You’re the type of person who has to make these kinds of decisions on your own. From this moment on, I won’t do a thing. Feel free to speak to your father about this if you wish. Of course, if Baron Kalinski were to take any action against me, I would retaliate.”

He is essentially saying I can’t tell my father about this… such a cunning freebirth. She glared at his smug visage.

Raymond was serious again. “You know well as I do, that Renard is in no way fit to inherit the Countship. I simply ask that you observe how I proceed. Judge for yourself, and make your decision. You can give me your answer then.”

I hold the key that will determine the winner of this fight. The realisation was chilling to Anastasia. And it had nothing to do with her skill in a mech, or her abilities in war. It was simply because of her position as Finn’s fiancee. In my current position, all I can do is sit here quietly and talk. That was completely at odds with her own upbringing as a clan mechwarrior.

She tried to protest, “But the struggle for the Countship has yet to begin. What exactly are you asking me to see?”

“No,” he refuted her firmly. “The struggle has already begun. Because of you, in fact.”

She looked at him in surprise.

“After my brother was confined and temporarily relieved of his duties, Viscounts Drake and Aubert began to be a lot more conscious of my father and his decisions. Can you believe that all of this happened as a result of your actions?”

“It’s not because of anything that I did, but because he tried to attack me.” She grimaced. “Anyway, I will give this matter some thought.”

“I recommend you not take too long to come to a decision. Time is finite, after all.”

“But I don’t have to give you an answer today, so I won’t.” She sighed. “I need some time to quietly organise my thoughts. Excuse me, my lord, but I think I’d like to be alone now.”

He smiled amicably. “I look forward to a favourable answer from you.”

[The Wobbly Guy]

After Raymond left, Anastasia looked out the window at the darkening skies. Does it really have to be this way? No matter what happens, there is no way for me to distance myself from Finn while in the body of a lady. Everybody keeps telling me to use Finn.

She felt sad. The reason why Finn always seemed guarded must be because this is the environment he grew up in. Because of his status and power, everybody was constantly trying to take advantage of him. The way he acts…it is all from experience. In contrast, the Finn she saw on the frontlines of Operation Bulldog seemed more carefree, less burdened.

Being a powerful noble was not always a good thing, she surmised. She slumped forward, putting her face into her hands. Things were becoming too complicated for her to deal with.

Yes, she still had her skills as a mechwarrior. But she needed a better mech and the right conditions to force Pence into battle. If only she had those, then she would have been able to exact her revenge on Pence without worrying about anything else.

This is unbearable… nothing seems clear to me anymore. What is it I really want to do? The more I think about it, the more confused I become… She tried to focus. But one thing still remains the same… my revenge against Pence, everything I do must be directed towards achieving that.

There were several knocks against the door of the private lounge. She thought it could be Venice, but if so, she would have just entered the room without dithering.

“Come in,” said Anastasia.

“I’m sorry for being late,” said Finn as he opened the door and entered the lounge.

Despite herself, she felt a bit cross with him. “Why are you so late?”

“What, were you waiting for me?”

She replied sullenly, “Yeah, a little bit.”

“Really?” He chuckled, then he took a closer look at her. “Hmmm… did something happen? You seem a bit out of sorts.”

She flinched. How could he tell? “Oh, no, it’s nothing.”

He looked dubious. “Are you sure?”

Her heartbeat sounded very loud in her chest. I was that obvious? She patted the seat next to her, trying to change the subject of the conversation. “By the way, are you going to keep standing there like that?”

Finn frowned. “I just came by to see you. I need to leave again shortly.”

“You’re leaving so quickly? What’s going on?”

“Clifton’s Rangers on Abbeville got solid intel on some pirate locations in the Periphery, but they need somebody to cover for them while they go pirate-hunting, so AFFC command is scraping up whatever is within the region. I have to take our QRF and get there as soon as I can.”

“Pirates?” Anastasia was startled. “That’s serious business! Then you should have headed straight there instead of coming here first! Why did you even come here?”

“To see you, of course.” He leaned forward, one hand brushing across the top of one of her forearms. If I said I’d come but then never showed up, you would’ve been left waiting for me.” He gently squeezed her hand.

She protested, “I wasn’t particularly waiting for…”

“Plus, I don’t think I’ll be able to see you for a while. And I’ll miss your birthday.”

“Oh.” If he is going to the near Periphery, it’ll take some time, about two months, maybe more. And depending on how fast the pirates can be cleared out, he could be away for even longer. And when is Anastasia’s birthday exactly? It seems like everybody knows except me!

Finn looked sad as Raymond’s words echoed in her head. I’d like you to persuade Finn. Make it so that his heart completely belongs to you… then bring him into this fight.

Even though he’s in a hurry, he came all the way here to tell me this in case I was waiting for him. And I am supposed to manipulate him to get my revenge? One fist clenched in anger. That would be a complete betrayal of his trust.

Yes, Finn could have just sent a text message, but she had since learned that these messages often did not convey sufficient sincerity. And she thought Finn had another reason to see her in person… her mind refused to let her finish that line of thought.

“Ana, are you sure there’s nothing the matter?”

She gritted her teeth. “Finn, there’s something I need to tell you.”

After explaining what she could of Raymond’s offer to her, Finn said, “So what you’re saying is, Raymond said I’d side with him in the fight for the Countship, if you asked me to?”

She nodded. “Yes.”

“All right, but why are you telling me all this?”

“Because I don’t want to betray your trust.” She declared adamantly. “If you found out I was asked to do something like this behind your back, then I…” she suddenly realised she could not finish her sentence. What am I even trying to say right now?

“You thought I’d be disappointed in you?” He smiled, as though he knew he was right on target.

She frantically replied, one hand springing up as if to refute him. “No, I just didn’t want you to misunderstand!”

“Misunderstand? How?”

Her hand faltered. “Uhm… If I’d chosen to keep quiet about it, you wouldn’t ever be able to trust me again, even if I treated you with sincerity.” She knew she was rambling, but she could not help it. “The idea that the person closest to you might be using you… it’s horrid!”

“Anyway…” she shouted, “I really detest that kind of dishonourable behaviour!”

He just grinned in response. “Yes, I understand what you mean.”

She mentally cringed. Argh! What am I even saying right now?

He continued, “I understand you’re saying all this because you’re being considerate of me.”

“Yes, exactly! Because I’m your fiancee!”

“Of course,” he nodded, “I know you’re not the type of person to make rash decisions. But I have no intention of being involved in any political struggle, whether it’s for the Countship of the Trivet or the Federated Commonwealth… regardless of who asks or how they ask.”

She shrugged. “I know.”

“You know? Is that it?”

“What do you mean?”

“Didn’t what I just said bother you at all? I’m effectively saying that I would refuse even if you asked.”

She tilted her head in confusion. “I’d be asking you to risk your House and your life for me. Why would I be upset about you rejecting such a preposterous request?” Besides, the Way of the Clans, the Honour Road, practically mandated that she should also put her own life on the line in such matters, and to be honest in her dealings. Asking Finn to fight on her behalf was simply wrong.

His eyes were fond as he said, “Well, I always knew you were made of sterner stuff. So what did Raymond offer in exchange for your cooperation?”

She started. “Huh?”

He clarified. “The offer he made you? Raymond wouldn’t make an ask like that without offering something in return.”

“Oh…” My revenge on Pence… But how can I tell him that?

“Is it something I can grant?”

“If I tell you what it is, will you make it happen?”

“If it is within my power, of course.”

She smiled, “That makes me happy.”

“So, what is it?”

“Huh?” She tried to act dumb.

He pressed. “I need to know what it is if I’m to help you. So?”

She glanced right, then left, then at him again, smiling all the while.

He grinned. “Smiling in lieu of answering a question… did Lady Codina teach you that?”

She spun away from him. “Well, sort of. Why? Is it strange?”

“Well, no…”

“Besides, you did the exact same thing. You showed up late and simply flashed a smile by way of apology.”

His eyes widened. “What?”

Anastasia seized on her momentary advantage. “Hmmph! You’re also taking advantage of your good looks and flashing a smile to get yourself out of trouble. Also, what is that face you’re making?”

Finn smirked. “Okay, okay! I won’t pry any further into Raymond’s offer or your wish. Still, I should actually say thank you for ensuring that I keep my faith in you, instead of just flashing a smile.” He reached out with a hand to lightly caress her head.

Before Anastasia knew it, he had drawn her into his arms in an embrace.

“Thank you for telling me. I’m sorry you had to go through that.” Finn’s voice was low and calm. “I can always tell that bastard to stop pestering you, but if I did, he might make your life even more difficult, so I won’t do anything about it now.” He squeezed her gently.

“I know, I can take care of myself.” She could not move, and for some reason, her own body did not seem like it wanted to move either.

“Even so, tell me if he threatens you again. I’ll do what I can to end it.” He sighed. “I can’t believe I have to leave after all this… my feet don’t seem to want to move.”

Anastasia blinked in confusion. What is going on? We are not in a romantic relationship or anything, and since nobody else is here, there is no need for him to play the part of the doting fiance. So why is he making such a big deal about this? Is he hugging me to reassure himself just before a combat deployment?

“Take care of yourself and come back safely.” Her hands patted his back while he was still hugging her. “Don’t die pathetically at the hands of pirates, you hear me?” Yes, Finn was an idiot, but he was still more than a match for ramshackle pirates from the Periphery, right?

“It was definitely worth coming here to see you.” He chuckled and released her. “I’ll try to send HPG messages to you, so that you’re not waiting all by your lonesome. And since I won’t be around then, happy birthday in advance.” He leaned down and kissed her lightly on her forehead.

Anastasia found herself blushing from head to toe.

Leopard Dropship Jurano
3rd August, 3061
0400 hours

They were outbound from Inman to the zenith jump point at a strained 1.5 Gees, to make up for the time lost when Viscount Rason delayed their departure so that he could visit his fiance.

Eric groaned as he stretched his body behind the desk he was using to do paperwork, while his boss was still energetically checking over the logistics for their jaunt to Abbeville.

As he cleared his own administrative tasks, Finn thought about his conversation with his fiancee.

It wasn’t that he didn’t expect Raymond to approach him. He knew just how much Raymond desired the Countship, but Raymond was more persistent than even he had anticipated. Nobles were often only spurred into action when they stood to gain or lose something. Friends, lovers, even their own family…

Since using and taking advantage of one another was always a given, even love and affection between nobles was never without shrewd calculation, and often resembled transactional exchanges instead of genuine love.

I suspected a day like this would come, but I am happy to see that I chose the right person. To think that Anastasia would come clean and tell me everything, especially since I doubt Raymond would lie to her, and he would have undoubtedly made her a tempting offer. And yet, Anastasia still chose to stand with Finn and House Rason. Of course, if it was all part of her plan to seduce Finn, that would be incredibly crafty of her.

Even if Lady Kalinska had approached him with ulterior motives, he would have been happy to do whatever she asked of him, with two exceptions - getting involved in the struggle for the Countship of the Trivet or the dynastic struggle for rule of the Federated Commonwealth. Those were the two exceptions…

Finn knew that desperately wanting something was one of the biggest weaknesses a person could ever have. Just as Raymond’s desperation for the Countship had rendered himself his own weakness, Anastasia was Finn’s biggest weakness.

He smiled grimly as he continued ploughing through his paperwork, while Eric wondered why his boss seemed so happy even as they laboured under the strain of 1.5 Gees acceleration.


Haynes Palatial Manor
4th August, 3061
2000 hours (0800 hrs on local 28 hr cycle)

Renard stood before his father in the Count’s office, wondering what had happened.

Strange. He glanced at his father. For the longest time, my father wouldn’t even grant me an audience. What could he possibly want with me all of a sudden?

“My lord…?”

Count Haynes looked at his son. He had not accomplished much during his rule of the Trivet, spending most of his time enjoying the power and wealth his position brought him. Yet even his time was coming to an end. His health was ailing, the doctors recommended that he step down soon and retire from the Countship in order to reduce the stress on himself.

“Have you reflected on your actions?” he asked Renard, his tone grim.

“Yes, my lord!” Renard grinned, realising this was his chance to regain his position and power. “I am sorry for what I did! While confined to the manor, I had the opportunity to reflect on all my past shortcomings. I now have a clear understanding of what you’d criticised about me, my lord.”

“Oh?” Count Haynes arched an eyebrow. “And what might that be?”

Renard tried to look contrite. “I failed to realise that I need to be perfect. A ruler must be perfect.” He looked at his father with conviction. “He must eliminate all who may one day stand in his way.”

“I see.” The Count nodded. “If that is the answer you’ve found, then I suppose that too may be the correct answer. Renard, as of today, the confinement order placed on you is lifted. You are now free to resume your work.”

Renard beamed with joy. “Thank you, my lord!”

“And one more thing.” Count Haynes’ eyes turned shrewd. “What do you think of your brother?”

Renard froze. “What do you mean, what do I think of my brother?”

“It is exactly as I said. I never had a chance to hear your thoughts on Raymond.”

“He’s a disgrace.” Renard just barely stopped himself from sneering. “He whiles his days away reading books. He’s a coward who can’t even look me in the eye.”

“Is that so? Hmm…”

“Why do you ask, my lord?”

Count Haynes explained, “You said but a moment ago that you must eliminate all who may one day stand in your way. In that case, wouldn’t you need to eliminate Raymond as well?”

Renard flinched a bit. “He’s not even worth killing. Even if I keep him alive, he won’t be able to do anything to me. As he poses no threat to me, alive or dead, there is no need for me to go to the trouble of killing him.” Renard gulped. Is this the answer Father wants to hear? Everybody knew that Father framed and murdered his own brother in order to ascend to the Countship… but killing his own son is an entirely different matter.

“Still, you are far too cold and unfeeling towards your one and only brother.” Count Haynes stated. “I am deeply concerned about your lack of affection for your own blood relations.”

Those words jolted Renard into attention. Dammit! Is he trying to trick me or something? What exactly does this old man want from me? And isn’t he being hypocritical? Cold and uncaring? Lack of affection? Hell, he practically destroyed his own brother to become Count!

“I… I don’t really mean that, Father. My brother and I have grown up together since childhood! How could I ever raise a weapon at him? Earlier, I was simply being rational and describing how he would need to be dealt with as a member of House Haynes. I do love him like a brother.” He raised his hands, as if imploring the Count to believe him.

“I see…”

Did he buy that? Renard tried to keep his breathing calm.

“One more thing, Renard,” said the Count, “You have received a proposal of marriage.” He pushed an envelope across his desk to Renard.

“What?” Renard blinked in surprise. Marriage? Which House could have sent the proposal? If it’s from a small insignificant family, I’ll refuse. But if it’s with a daughter of a powerful noble House, I’ll take her as my wife and keep a few mistresses on the side! He took the envelope and opened it, then read the letter inside. His eyes widened in surprise.

Renard looked up at the Count. “This marriage proposal… is this real?”

“Yes, it is. You are, of course, free to refuse it.”

Renard immediately replied, “How could I possibly refuse? An offer from this family is more than I deserve!”

The Count nodded. “As it has not yet been officially announced, you are to stay silent on the subject for the time being.”

Renard grinned. “Yes, my lord. As you command!”

--------------------------

Next few chapters are mostly political stuff, following the same trajectory as the original webcomic it was based on.

Since this is a long chapter, I might also take a break next week, whew. It's been a tough few weeks so far.

[The Wobbly Guy]

Kalinski Estate, Inman,
Milligan PDZ, Woodbine Operational Area,
28th August, 3061
0900 hours (1300 hrs on local 28 hr cycle)

“Stretch your arm out, my lady!” Lusia instructed.

“Like this?” Anastasia did as she was told.

“Yes, this is perfect!” Lusia held up different fabrics and ornaments, holding them up against Anastasia’s arm.

“Just as I thought!” the maid chirped, full of enthusiasm, “Rather than adding lace to the sleeves, we should keep the design simple and pair the dress with a ruby bracelet instead!”

“If you say so.” Anastasia suppressed a sigh. No matter how many times she had gone through fitting sessions, she still could not get completely used to it.

Seeming to sense her mistress’s mood, Luisa said, “Let’s take a break, my lady. I’ll prepare some tea for you while you rest.”

“Alright then.” Anastasia agreed. Before leaving the dressing room, she did take a good look at the unfinished dress she was going to wear on Kentares Day on the 4th of October.

Anastasia’s 21st birthday on the 13th of August had come and gone. She had opted for a small and intimate party involving just her immediate household and her closest friends, especially those from Venice’s clique. She found herself inexplicably missing Finn, but he had apparently made arrangements because a beautiful bouquet of roses with inlaid chocolates was delivered to her, much to the envy of the other ladies.

Surprisingly, Raymond Haynes did not turn up, which relieved her greatly.

She had been a bit worried about the optics of keeping the party small, but thankfully Venice had come to her rescue by spreading rumours that she had not been feeling too well due to her sudden forced separation from Viscount Rason, which prompted a flurry of sympathetic well-wishes from the rest of the ladies. Anastasia did not really like this solution or what it implied, but since it got her off the hook, she guessed she could not complain too much about it.

She made up for the small scale by organising games for the ladies she did invite, instead of just the usual tea and chatter. They played cards and charades. There was also a video gamebox that Hawise had brought from Delacambre for her children, but Anastasia borrowed it for the ladies’ entertainment.

It even included a mechwarrior simulator that could be played on several screens at once, and Anastasia had to intentionally hold back on her skills while Hawise grinned knowingly from the sidelines. The ladies squealed and cheered with glee as they struggled with the control keypads while playing the once verboten games, safe in the Kalinski estate where there would not be anybody to snitch on them for their unladylike activities, since Anastasia and Hawise had impressed upon the staff the need to safeguard the privacy of the ladies.

The event had gone off so well that the ladies were eager to visit her estate again for such activities. This indicated to Anastasia that despite all the efforts to tamp down on the ambitions of the women of the Trivet, there was still a yearning to break free from the confines of the social strata imposed upon them.

Then there was the Assumption Day festivities on 15th August, which started with a service Mass, then followed by processions, street fairs, dances, capped off by a grand feast to end the day. Anastasia initially felt sad that Finn was not able to attend, and then angry at herself for even feeling sad in the first place.

A few days ago, they also received the invitation to visit the Haynes palatial manor for the observance ceremony for Kentares Day, which included unveiling some of the new additions to the military might of the Trivet. Anastasia wondered what these additions were. Virtually every aristocrat on Inman would be attending. Her father had declined to attend, citing his exhaustion and need to rest, so she had decided to bring Hawise along in his place, since two pairs of eyes would be far better than just her one.

Hence her servants’ insistence on a new gown, despite her own protests that she did not need a new one. But while she could command them in almost everything else, Luisa and the other maids were adamant that she had to be dressed as fashionably and lavishly as possible. Anything less would reflect poorly on the household and on them. Anastasia had finally given in reluctantly.

Come to think of it, I have not heard from Finn yet, thought Anastasia, seated at her table while Luisa poured tea for her. He said he would send messages, I should have received at least one by now? She found herself fuming for seemingly no reason.

No, maybe she was just being selfish. He could be in a situation that made it difficult to send any messages out. Besides, there were not a lot of HPG stations near the Periphery, so perhaps there was no way for him to send any messages at all.

A thought occurred to her, causing her to freeze with her teacup on the saucer. What if something terrible has happened to him?

“You’re thinking about Viscount Rason now, aren’t you?” Luisa blurted brightly, causing Anastasia to start a bit, tea spilling out of her cup onto the saucer.

“N… no I wasn’t!” Anastasia denied vehemently.

“Oh, come on,” teased Luisa, “did you really think you could hide it from me?” The maid went on reassuringly, “It’s only been three weeks since he left. I’m sure he’ll write to you as soon as things have settled down where he is.”

“I told you I’m not thinking about him!” Anastasia lied unconvincingly.

Luisa chuckled knowingly, “I’m sure Viscount Rason misses you terribly too. Why don’t you think of things you can do together once he gets back?”

“Luisa,” Anastasia decided to distract her maid, “shouldn’t you be checking on the dresses?”

“Oops! My lady, I’ll be back in just a moment!” Luisa dashed off, leaving Anastasia to sigh in relief at the reprieve from her maid’s teasing.

She stared out of the window at the reddish sky. This is an unfamiliar feeling… waiting for someone… and spending the whole day thinking about them. So strange… I have never felt this before with any of the other warriors of the clan.

She cursed softly under her breath. It was all Finn’s fault for not being able to send a message to her!

Trying to shift her thoughts away from him, she realised that Venice was also late. Her friend should have arrived by then, it was well past their agreed upon time. There were no messages on her handphone either.

It is not like Venice to be late. What is going on? How unusual of her. Anastasia took another sip of her tea.

Codina Estate

“It’s not true, is it?” Venice asked desperately. “Please, tell me it isn’t true, father.” Her voice was almost breaking. “You say I’m to be married, but that doesn’t make any sense.”

Viscount Codina’s reply was cold. “What about that doesn’t make sense to you? You are of marriageable age, and we cannot postpone your marriage any longer.”

“But you’ve never said a word about it to me before today.” She tried to reason with him. “And now, you’re simply notifying me about it? Don’t I get a say in the matter?”

He sighed, “Why are you making such a fuss over this? It’s all for the good of our family.” He pinched his forehead with his fingers. “This is a great honour for the Codina family, and you should consider it as such.”

Venice cried, “What about what I want?”

“Venice! You’re a woman who’s to be married. It won’t do for you to raise your voice like this. It appears you require further education.”

Venice turned to her mother. “Mother, please say something. I do not wish to marry Renard Haynes!”

Her mother sighed identically to her father. “Venice, my child, haven’t I always told you that you need to learn to be patient… in case you end up marrying a man who’s quick to anger?”

Venice flinched. Her hands squeezed her dress. “Don’t tell me…” her voice quavered, “This has been your plan for me all along? So…” she followed the chain of logic, “so that’s why you never stopped Vince from doing what he’s done to me since I was a child?”

She spun to an inscrutable Vince Codina, standing quietly in a corner. “Because Father allowed you to…” then she turned to Virgil, who was seated at a corner of the table, “and Father ordered you to stay out of it, and you would never go against Father’s orders!”

Virgil Codina was silent for a moment, before he sighed, “Stop acting like a child, Venice. Father only has your best interests at heart.”

“My best interests at heart? I’ve seen for myself what an odious man he is! How could you expect me to marry someone like him?” Her voice choked with frustration. “Virgil, put yourself in my shoes. Could you bring yourself to marry a man like him? Besides, he was to be…”

Virgil cut her off, “We are all duty-bound to act in our House’s best interest. If you wanted to do whatever you wanted with your life, you should have refused the protections provided by the confines of our family.” His voice was as cold as her father’s. “You know very well how all this works. It’s only thanks to our family that we only enjoy these privileges. None of us can live the way we want. Neither me, who isn’t the head of our House, nor you, my father’s only daughter.”

Virgil sighed again, but his sigh this time was filled with disappointment. “Venice, I thought you were different from Vince, but it seems you’re exactly the same.” His eyes were cold and judging. “But until the day of the wedding, you’re free to do whatever you please. That’s the best we can offer you.” He walked away with a chilling finality. Her parents and Vince followed after, leaving her alone in the cold, dark discussion room.

Venice mumbled under her breath, “The best… you can offer…” She was utterly dejected.

She didn’t know how long she stayed alone in the room, but the door creaked open. The clacking of heels on the marble floor echoed through the empty room.

 

“Venice, it’s me, I’m coming in.” Anastasia called out. “You never showed up, so I decided to come over and see for myself. I couldn’t just sit around and wait… I was worried that your brother might have hurt you like he did last time.”

“And look!” Anastasia held up a box proudly. “I bought a cake from that dessert place we’ve been wanting to visit.” She looked around. “Anyway, what’s with the gloomy atmosphere? Even your butler seemed a bit down when he showed me in…”

Venice did not turn around throughout Anastasia’s entire monologue, so Anastasia gently tapped her friend on the shoulder, trying to get some response out of her.

Venice turned around slowly, revealing a face streaked with tears, her eyes swollen. “An… Ana!”

Anastasia was shocked. “What happened? What’s going on? Who made you cry?”

Venice reached out with a trembling hand, sniffling with fear. “Ana…” Anastasia clasped her hands with her own, trying to calm her down. “You have to know that I didn’t mean for any of this to happen.”

“What? What are you talking about? Calm down and tell me what happened,” said Anastasia calmly. She was tempted to raise her own voice in alarm, but she knew that trying to stay calm herself was the better choice at the moment.

Venice continued to sniffle as she said, “It’s… what you’ve wanted for so long, Ana.” Sob. “And I’ve gone and stolen it from you.”

“Huh?” Anastasia felt confused. “Venice, calm down, I’m not angry with you, nor will I be. Tell me what happened.”

“I’m to be married to Renard Haynes!” cried Venice. “Ana, I don’t want to marry him.” The chair slid out behind her, and she collapsed into Anastasia’s arms. “I truly don’t, Anastasia.”

She continued to explain between sniffles and sobs. “My father, my brothers, even my mother… they said I should be happy about becoming the most esteemed, powerful woman in the Trivet… but what’s there to be happy about?”

She squeezed Anastasia’s hands. “I’m not happy at all!” Tears trickled down her cheeks. “Besides, you and Baron Haynes were…”

Anastasia thought that aff, it was true that it was the marriage that the real Anastasia wanted. So much so that she was even willing to sacrifice her own life to get it.

But she was not that Anastasia.

“Venice, first of all, calm down.” She handed her friend a handkerchief. “How many times do I have to tell you? I lost my memories.” There was the usual slight pang of guilt behind that lie, but she pressed on. “Even if I got my memories back, I wouldn’t care. I’m not hurt, so please stop crying.”

Venice continued to weep, so she tried to cajole her a bit. “Come on, Venice, it’s okay.”

“Ana, I don’t want to marry him.” Venice sobbed. “You see… well…”

Anastasia understood all too well. “I know. You don’t actually want to marry that… ****** either, do you?” She remembered in time to use the correct Spheroid insult, sighing internally in relief at using the correct term.

Venice started a bit, then replied, “You’re right. I… have no desire to be the wife of the future Count.” Sniffle. “I thought I could stay like this for just a little longer.” Sob. “I thought my father would at least try to arrange a marriage that would make me happy.” Sniffle. “But I know better than he does just exactly what a foul man Renard really is.”

“He did such a terrible thing to you… and was laughing in your face!” Venice bowed her head in despair. “He’s the type of person who takes pleasure in hurting and bullying those who are weaker than him!” Venice blurted out, “I don’t want to be like Janet Solway!”

It took Anastasia a moment to recall the name from her lessons on Davion history - the wife of one of the earliest Davions, a political match who was abused by her husband. It was a dirty not-so-secret known to all the nobles in the realm, but never fully divulged to outsiders. In the Trivet, she was used as a warning of sorts for wives who were unable to bear and raise children for their husbands.

“And I still can’t believe my own parents are the ones pushing me into this marriage.” Sob. “I don’t know what to do…”

Anastasia looked at Venice in understanding. It was a marriage, not just an engagement, which meant Count Haynes had already approved of it. It was also kind of expected since Venice was considered the foremost lady of her generation in the Trivet, with the right looks, family background, and bearing. Anastasia cursed the social order which expected most ladies to nurture their physical beauty and cultural refinement in order to be sold to the highest bidder, so that she might land the best possible husband and essentially become a broodmare for him.

I too was arranged to be married to Finn, she thought. Of course, when we met, I made it clear that we would eventually be divorced. But do I even have the right to refuse if Finn had insisted on us staying married? What rights do I actually have as a noble lady? Even Venice, who was brave enough to stand up to Richelle Aubert at the Day of Honour, was completely helpless in this situation.

Her friend continued to sob, “There’s no one who can help me now…” Hiccup. “No one!”

Anastasia looked on sadly. “Venice, no. You don’t have to do this if you don’t want to.” She gave her friend’s hands a gentle squeeze.

“Huh? What do you mean?”

“The best person who can help you… is you.” Venice flinched. “Venice, you are one of the smartest and most capable people I have ever met.”

“But that won’t be of any use…”

Anastasia continued, “Since it’s to be a grand affair, I’m sure there is still quite a bit of time left until the actual wedding date, right?” She kept her tone calm and determined. “Until that day comes, let’s work together to find a way to get you out of this.”

Venice stared at her, tears still streaming down her cheeks. Her eyes were still full of disbelief and fear.

Anastasis pressed on. “I know we can do it, I’ll help you anyway I can.”

“But…” Venice said weakly, “we can’t stop the wedding from happening… it would bring great shame to my family and my House.”

“Your father, your family is forcing you into this marriage. So don’t worry about their reputation. If you continue to put their interests first, you’ll never be able to come up with a way out of this!”

“But!”

Anastasia squeezed her hands again, trying to give her friend strength. “Your family chose to throw you to the wolves,” she made a mental apology to Clan Wolf. They might be cunning fleabags, but at least they still had some smidgen of honour. “You don’t owe them a thing.”

“Ana…” The tears were still trickling down, but they were starting to subside just a bit.

“If you can’t see another way out, just say you’ve fallen ill. It might hurt your family’s reputation, sure, but who cares about that? It’s still better than marrying Renard!” Anastasia stated adamantly. “You are more important than your family’s honour! Don’t ever forget that.”

It was strange to say that, when the Honour Road of the clans ingrained in her emphasised the importance of honour at each level - foremost the honour of the clan, followed by honour of the caste, unit, or Bloodhouse, then finally that of the individual. However, at least in the clans, there were always avenues available to seek recourse, Trials of Refusal or Grievance. Here in the Inner Sphere, Venice had no such recourse.

She added, “Or you could always run away!”

Venice shook her head vehemently. “Ana, that’s a dangerous suggestion!

“I’ll take care of you! You could live quietly with me on Altoona!” I could also hire a dropship and make off with my mechs and volunteers from the household guards to form a new merc unit, Venice can come along. Bringing the Valkyrie here to squash Renard would also be satisfying if I knew I had a chance.

Venice chuckled through her tears. “Ana, that almost sounds like you’re proposing to me.”

Anastasia frowned slightly and released Venice’s hands. If I were the old Avryl, I would have thought her a pathetic whiner who was not putting any real effort into extricating herself from her admittedly unfortunate circumstances. Back in the clans, I was also a woman, but I had the skill and the means to effect some change, and the clans had always been egalitarian regarding the genders anyway. I would have accused her of simply being unwilling to give up the privileges she was entitled to as a noble lady.

But she could understand what Venice was going through now. These ladies were raised almost solely with the sole intent to benefit their Houses, indoctrinated their whole lives to believe that their worth laid in securing alliances and legacies for their Houses. How could they ever be able to escape that mindset?

Just as she was trained as a mechwarrior and believed that her purpose was to restore the Star League with her clan, the purpose for these ladies of noble birth was to protect and raise the honour and prestige of their families.

“Venice, I don’t think there’s anything more I can say that will comfort you right now. But there’s no need to push yourself like that.” Anastasia knelt down in front of her friend, “I’ll be by your side, no matter what choice you make. So don’t blame yourself for any of this.” You are an incredibly confident, delicate woman, and a thoughtful, intelligent friend. You shattered my preconceived notions of what it meant to be a lady. You are so dear to me, and there is still so much I could learn from you.

The cries had subsided, and Venice had calmed down noticeably. She forced a smile through her swollen face, “All right, I promise I won’t give up. Even if nothing else works and I have to resort to feigning illness.”

“Great!” Anastasia agreed brightly. And I had better get started on the paperwork, just in case!
----------------------------------------------
Notes:
Politically, it makes more sense for Renard’s supporters to get House Codina on their side rather than have him marry somebody like Richelle, since it gets them another House on their side. But in this case, it was Viscounts Drake and Aubert doing the pressure play on House Codina, and Viscount Codina was already inclined towards putting his chips (ie Venice) on what was deemed the winning side.

Let’s see what Raymond has to say about this though. Venice, of course, will also realise she still has options.

Janet Solway was the estranged wife of James Davion (2457 - 2467), 10th in the ruling line after Simon Davion. I embellished the history a bit, but here’s what is written down in ‘House Davion’ sourcebook, which, of course, is also debatable since it was written from the perspective of a Comstar researcher, who might not be privy to all the facts, and probably had a word count to worry about as well.

Though James Davion won the High Council’s approval to inherit the Crucis March Principality, he was not what he appeared to be. James had always been unhappy in his marriage to Janet Solway, daughter of the Marquess of Glenmora, which Simon had arranged to suit his political needs. Though the match had produced a son, the child died in infancy. After that, the last tenuous thread holding the marriage together snapped. James and Janet were never divorced, but James became a husband in name only-and then only when the two were in the public eye. He began a series of secret extramarital liaisons, which he flaunted more and more openly, after his accession believing himself above the laws of either planet or federation.

It’s not too difficult to surmise that James Davion probably wasn’t the most loving of husbands.

Again, this chapter was cribbed from the original work, so the structure’s largely the same.