FaRtaL Chpt 39

==From a Ristar to a Lady - Chapter 39 -==
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===A awkward situation===
Haynes Palatial Manor, Inman
Milligan PDZ, Woodbine Operational Area
4th October, 3061
2200 hours (1800 hrs on local 28 hr cycle)
Kentares. A world that shall live in infamy forever. During the First Succession War, a sniper attached to the Seventh Crucis Lancers killed Coordinator Minoru Kurita while the DCMS was advancing rapidly towards New Avalon. In response, his successor, the psychotic Jinjiro Kurita, ordered the deaths of all the people on the planet. The DCMS soldiers did their best to carry out his orders, but the sheer magnitude of the massacre left even them shaken and questioning their own honor. Many of the DCMS troopers committed suicide, unable to accept the brutality of their actions.
Ninety percent of the planetary population, over fifty-two million people, were killed. The enraged AFFS counterattacked frantically, finally managing to push the Draconis Combine back to the prewar border.
Even two centuries later, the word Kentares still evoked anger in the Draconis March, and shame in the Draconis Combine. The Federated Suns designated the first Friday of every October as Kentares Day, a national day of mourning to honor citizens killed by foreign invaders.
Anastasia could understand some of it. If civilians were complicit in attacks on military personnel, then they were no longer exempt from violence, and they and those around them were all fair game. In fact, the Smoke Jaguar SOP for such incidents in the Occupation Zone was usually to raze the population centre closest to or responsible for such attacks, no questions asked, based on the simple logic of ‘no man, no problem’. From that perspective, the DCMS was justified in putting down resistance from the civilians.
But a uniformed military sniper in a single location? And then to extrapolate it to the entire planet, including the innocent civilians?
Ever since she learned about Kentares in greater detail, Anastasia could not help the niggling doubt in her mind from growing - was the Smoke Jaguar SOP correct at all? Killing innocent civilians just to get at the one or two instigators… was it right?
It should have been very simple. If the defending military lost, the civilians should just fall in line and cease further resistance. If they did not, they deserved whatever they got. But she had since realized that the Inner Sphere did not adhere to clan customs, and matters were never so simple.
Before Kentares Day, she had discussed the matter with Hawise. As a Warden, Hawise was able to provide the other side of the debate.
As inheritors of the Star League, the Clans were supposed to adhere to its highest ideals. And part of it was the humane treatment of civilians and the accurate targeting of guerilla assets instead of indiscriminate slaughter, which in the long run always proved counterproductive.
Hawise went on to talk about other atrocities in history, from ancient Terra to Amos Furlough’s campaigns against the Periphery. The Nova Cats quickly realised a lighter touch was advisable when governing the occupied worlds in the Inner Sphere, and acted accordingly. The mysticism practised by the Nova Cats also enabled them to find common ground with the religious traditions in the Draconis Combine, further providing avenues for cooperation and rapprochement.
The Smoke Jaguars, bred only for war, could not even conceive of alternatives to what they were already doing. In the end, the atrocities they had committed doomed them when the reconstituted Star League singled them out for Annihilation.
These thoughts plagued Anastasia throughout the day, from the memorial mass in the morning, to the solemn gathering at the Kalinski estate for its staff and their families. At each gathering, the names of individuals that can be traced back to that community who perished due to foreign invasion were displayed.
In the late afternoon, Count Haynes had also invited the aristocracy to his palatial manor for another gathering, along with some announcements on the renovation of the manor’s defences. Anastasia found herself slowly making her way through the ballroom, meeting and greeting other nobles as Venice had taught her. It still felt unnatural to her, but she felt somewhat more prepared compared to the birthday party for Virgil Codina.
Her father, Baron Kalinski, said he was not feeling well, so Anastasia had to be present to represent their House.
Anastasia glanced around the ballroom. By the way, where is Venice? I hope nothing bad has happened to her. She had not heard from Venice since Venice had told her she was going to meet Renard. I told her to contact me if she was struggling or if she needed any help.
The aristocrats of the Trivet milled about, many purposefully dropping by a booth to drop donations. There was a fire outbreak in the northern part of Innerman City just a few days ago, and it was quickly decided that the event would also serve as a fundraiser to gather aid for the victims. With so many nobles, each of them donating even a small amount should raise quite a substantial sum.
“Oh my. It seems you were also invited to this event.” Richelle Aubert greeted her with a nasty smirk. “You seem to be in good health, Lady Kalinska.”
Anastasia looked over Richelle, wondering if she should engage, then decided, why not? She allowed the other woman to approach her.
“Seeing as how you’re all by yourself, I guess Lady Codina is not in attendance this evening. What a shame.” Richelle shrugged a shoulder. “Well, perhaps that’s for the best, since things between you and her must be rather awkward now.”
Anastasia narrowed her eyes. This must mean that she knows that Venice is to marry Renard. Does she really think this will break our friendship once they are married? Neg, our friendship won’t be affected by something so trivial. Besides, Venice doesn’t even want to marry that piece of dezgra dung!
“Really? I didn’t expect to see you here at the memorial gathering at all, Lady Aubert.”
“Of course I had to make an appearance. This is an important event on the calendar.” Now that was a subtle dig at Anastasia’s father, who did not turn up.
Anastasia replied, “I’m not surprised that you were invited, but that you decided to show up.” That did give pause to Richelle. “How long has it been since you stopped attending social events after what took place at the Day of Honour? I guess more than two months, hasn’t it?” Anastasia beamed, all smiles and fake sincerity. “I heard the Count himself told you to take some time for self-reflection and keep your head down for a while. Has enough time elapsed for that? Maybe you should take more time for yourself.”
Richelle was obviously flustered, smiling though her eyes were fuming. “It’s been more than two months, long enough. Besides, Baron Haynes himself granted me permission to attend today’s event. And if he’s allowing it, by extension Count Haynes has allowed it too. Finally, it’s to commemorate Kentares Day. It would be remiss of us as nobles to ignore it, right?”
Wow, she’s begun to openly leverage Renard’s authority to act however she wishes. She even cornered me on purpose to pick a fight with me. “Hmmm… I’m not talking about permission… Never mind, let’s just drop it.” Anastasia adopted a dismissive tone, as though the matter was beneath her concern in the first place.
Richelle did not let it just slide though. “Did you know that Baron Haynes was supposed to be here?”
Anastasia flinched slightly, but she knew Richelle had seen her reaction. She tried to maintain her composure. That piece of filth is making an appearance? Is he no longer in confinement? She supposed she should not be surprised, almost all the nobles of the Trivet would be attending, and since it was held at the palatial manor, it would be easy enough for him to just pop in, barely skirting the constraints of the confinement even if it was in effect.
A voice cut in. “Unfortunately, my ladies, my brother will not be attending today’s event.” They looked up to see Raymond Haynes approach them.
“Greetings, my lord,” they chorused. Anastasia marvelled at how she was now able to anticipate the timing such that she was able to greet him in sync with Richelle even if they were at odds with each other.
Raymond appeared a bit different today, his buffoonish air somewhat in abeyance. He looked more serious than usual.
“How disappointing,” remarked Richelle. “So Baron Haynes won’t be here tonight? Did something happen?”
Raymond nodded. “Well, you see… my father is quite vexed with him.”
“The Count is?”
He looked at Anastasia, who shot back a look of sheer disgust, as though conveying to him the thought - How come you’re here then? He realised what her expression was trying to say to him.
“Lady Kalinska, I have something to ask you.”
“Huh? What for?”
He turned to Richelle, “Would you excuse us for a moment?”
Richelle flushed, while Anastasia tried to mask her surprise. What is going on? Has he finally decided to stop masking that rotten personality of his?
Richelle’s flush soon gave way to a glare of barely suppressed anger. She turned away without a word, flouncing off into the ballroom.
Whoa… Raymond may only be a second son. But still, she should not be so openly hostile to him. And it was also obvious that Richelle had quite the temper too.
“Anyway…” Raymond started to speak, but seemed hesitant.
“My lord, what is it?” She tried to maintain an even tone, not letting her personal dislike of him colour their interaction. I do not need him as an enemy. “What is it you wish to ask me?”
Maybe Raymond wanted her answer concerning what they discussed last time. Knowing his personality, the fact that he was hesitating like this must mean-
“Is Lady Codina not attending today’s memorial event?”
Anastasia blinked in surprise. “Huh?” What is going on? Why is he looking for Venice?
“The last I knew, she said she would be attending. But I haven’t seen her arrive yet, I’ve been waiting for her,” answered Anastasia. “Is there a reason you’re looking for her?”
“I see.” Raymond seemed to accept her answer. “Then let us talk later.”
“Sorry?” For Raymond Haynes to be so perfunctory was unusual, to say the least. “Is that all?”
Then she noticed from the corner of her eye somebody approaching them. She turned to see Pence Lamongue walk up.
“I was told you had arrived, so this is where you were,” he said smoothly to Raymond with a smile. “Greetings, my lord.”
“Sir Spencer Larouche!” replied Raymond. “It’s been a while since we’ve gotten together.”
Anastasia blinked. She had not even noticed Pence Lamongue there. But anyway, it was a moot point. She was in no position to challenge him at the moment. Better to focus on building up her network of allies so that she could be in a position to do something if an opportunity arose.
“Yes, indeed.” Pence turned to Anastasia. “How are you feeling, Lady Kalinska? I was saddened to hear that Viscount Rason’s departure has caused you some distress.”
“I’m fine,” she just managed to keep her tone even and civil. “and Viscount Rason will be back soon.”
“I also noticed you hired that clanner to be your Weapons Master.” Pence said. “Isn’t she too old and over the hill?”
“Oh, Hawise is more than competent enough.” Anastasia smiled back, choosing to ignore his insult. “Would you like to meet her? She’s here today.”
“Oh, that would not be necessary,” Pence deflected smoothly. “I’m sure she has other matters to attend to. Oh, I have to greet the people over there! Pardon me, my lord, my lady.” With that, he slid away, obviously trying to avoid any possible entanglement with a clanner who might know him, no matter how tiny the possibility was.
A few minutes later, Anastasia found herself wandering along the buffet tables, sipping from a glass of wine.
“Lady Kalinska, here you are!” Selina Seydoux greeted her brightly. Then her friend frowned slightly. “Are you alright?”
“Lady Seydoux!” Anastasia smiled. “You made it. Glad to see you here.”
Selina looked worried. “You look a little flushed. You’re not getting sick, are you?”
“Oh, no. It’s just from the wine.” She held up the almost empty glass. “I’m sure my head will clear soon.” I hope so!
“I’m glad to hear that. The Count is about to begin the ceremony and his presentation. It’d be a shame if you ended up missing it because you were feeling tipsy.”
“Hahaha…” Anastasia laughed weakly. It seems Anastasia is a lightweight with alcohol. I’ve always been drinking tea or juices while in this body… this is the first time I am trying wine. To think I would be this weak to alcohol… it was only about four sips of wine!
A small murmur rose in the ballroom as Count Haynes appeared, his wife and Raymond standing beside him. Renard was conspicuously absent.
The Count announced, “My warmest welcome to you all. Thank you for attending this memorial gathering for us to remember and honour those who have suffered from the advances of our enemies.”
He paused, letting the gathered nobles to quieten down and collect their thoughts. “Today, we gather to commemorate a pivotal moment in the history of our great nation - the Kentares Massacre. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of defence and military strength in safeguarding our realm from unchecked power and the predations of foreign invaders.”
“The Kentares Massacre stands as a testament to the unwavering resolve of our armed forces and the sacrifices they make to protect our way of life. It underscores the vital role that a strong military plays in ensuring the security and stability of our domains in the face of adversity. As ruler of the Trivet, I stand before you today to honour the memory of the innocent souls slain on Kentares IV, who committed no crime except for existing on the same planet where Coordinator Minoru Kurita died.”
“Let us strive to ensure that our garrisons are well-equipped and prepared to face any threat that may arise, so that we may continue to protect and defend our worlds with honour and integrity. May the memory of the fallen of Kentares IV inspire us to stand united in our commitment to a strong and vigilant defence. Together, we shall forge a future where our military might serves as a shield against tyranny and oppression, ensuring a brighter tomorrow for all who dwell in the Trivet.”
The nobles all applauded. The Count then said, “To affirm House Haynes commitment to a stronger defence for the Trivet, I have authorised some major renovations to the manor and its defences. If you would follow me.” The Count walked off, his servants and other staff quickly guiding the nobles to follow him.
Anastasia let herself go with the flow of the crowd, pulled along on one hand by the eager and enthusiastic Selina. “C’mon, Lady Kalinska! Let’s try to move closer to the front, so we can get a better look! You shouldn’t be a wallflower the whole evening.”
“Oh alright.” Anastasia went along, somewhat bolstered by her friend’s energy.
They were led along the manor’s corridors to the massive doors leading to the cavernous mech bays.
Count Haynes stopped in front of the doors and turned to speak. “In light of the clan invasion and troubles on the horizon,” probably referring to the unrest under Katrina Steiner-Davion, “I authorised the renovation of the manor’s hangers and vehicle bays. Because of some new developments over the past few years, I also spent some money to support one of our most important acquisitions.”
The doors to the mech bay opened, and the nobles stepped through to gawk in awe at the fearsome array of war machines lined up along both sides of the bay.
Most of the nobles already knew which mechs the Count had, but they quickly noticed the changes.
“That’s a new addition! I’ve never seen it before.”
“That’s… is that what I think it is?”
“No wonder he had to refurbish the mech bay, if he had to support and maintain this monster.”
Anastasia stared at the mech they were talking about, her head spinning.
Honestly, the mech did not look like much. It was distinctly humanoid, and looked quite a bit like plates of armour had been strapped onto a human body. The head assembly was a unique ‘bucket’ shape. Weapons ports sprouted all over the torso, and several barrels were mounted on the arms. The left hand held a wicked looking blade.
My Spirit Walker! Anastasia wanted to cry out, but she bit her lip. It was not hers anymore. She vaguely recalled that tea party, where Pence said that her Spirit Walker was gifted to Count Haynes. But to actually see it here, painted in the colours of House Haynes…
“A Comstar Black Knight!” A noble gasped.
“Yes, indeed!” The Count nodded. “Sir Spencer brought it here on behalf of the Archon-Princess and gifted the mech to us, in recognition of our unstinting loyalty and dedication to the Federated Commonwealth. It will serve my son Renard well as his personal mech.”
Anastasia scowled. To think her Spirit Walker would be reduced to this! But one thing struck her as odd… why did the Count tell the nobles it was a Comstar Black Knight, the BL-9-KNT variant first seen on Tukayyid? He must have known it was not the 9 variant, which mounted a hatchet, Pence or the technicians would have told him.
In any case, she was not sure if it was the wine or the shock of seeing her former mech, but she was becoming dizzy. I do not wish to see any further. This… this hurts.
She held a hand to her head. Selina looked at her with concern. “Lady Kalinska!”
“I just need a moment,” she said to Selina. She then turned to a nearby attendant. “Excuse me, could you please show me to the garden, where I might rest with some fresh air?”
“Right away my lady. Allow me to escort you out.”
“Have you grown bored of the presentation already?” Pence Lamongue smirked from the side. “Where are you going? The Count’s talk of war too sensitive for you?” He sneered, one hand reaching out for her in fake concern. “Oh my, your face is all flushed.”
She slapped his hand aside. “Nothing’s wrong. More importantly, shouldn’t you be focusing on your duties as the Count’s lapdog instead of me?”
“I already know what he’s going to say. And I also know everything about that mech.” Pence sneered again. “Go on then, Lady Kalinska. Go get your fresh air.” He gave her one last smirk before turning back to join the crowd.
Anastasia let herself be led away from the mech bay. She was soon seated on one of the benches in the manor’s gardens. Anastasia took a deep breath of the cold, refreshing air, and it did help clear her mind a bit.
Anastasia’s body is really weak to alcohol. She sighed. No more fusionaire drinking binges for me. Not that I know where to even get a fusionaire in the first place. She tried to control her breathing, get her racing heartbeat down. To think my mech would be reduced to this… a mere trophy belonging to an unworthy mechwarrior, displayed to the masses. I wonder what Finn would say if he was here.
She chastised herself. Why was she thinking of him again? She really wanted to stop being so dependent on him, yet he was still the first person who came to mind when things like this happened. She felt so confused. Even now, she was waiting to hear a message, any message, from the mechwarrior who was once her enemy.
And, I am worried about him. She raised a hand to her forehead. Is it simply because he is a reliable fiance? Is that really all there is to it? Why are my feelings for him growing stronger?
Maybe because she had resolved to live as Anastasia Kalinska, and Finn was somebody who constantly affirmed her identity as Anastasia, not Avryl. And he always appeared whenever she felt shaken and he would support her to ensure that she could remain strong and not collapse.
She closed her eyes in memory.
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*; Chapter Note : The Count's speech was written by Chatgpt, and I modified it. I really cannot stand writing political speeches.
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Chapter 39