The sky above shimmered with cerulean vibrancy, dotted by lively sparrows perched atop leafy branches that swayed gently in the breeze. The day promised ideal weather for strolls or visits to favorite shops and restaurants. However, Kim had alternative plans brewing within his chiseled features. As Nia trailed obligingly behind her dear friend, Kim, the rhythmic clopping of hooves echoed through the air, heralding their approach to the waiting carriage. Kim paused and turned, his piercing gaze meeting Nia's twinkling golden orbs. Without a word, he removed his top hat and gallantly offered his gloved hand.
"Ladies first," he intoned smoothly, the warmth of his smile both captivating and soothing.
Blushing prettily, Nia accepted his gracious gesture, her slender fingers intertwining briefly with his as he assisted her into the opulent interior of the vehicle. He followed suit, claiming the opposing bench with a thud of his weight. As the carriage lurched into motion, Nia settled back against plush velvet cushions, curiosity piqued by the somber expression masking Kim's handsome countenance.
"Though, Kimmy..." Nia's musical voice drifted through the stifling silence. "Where exactly are we headed?"
Her brow furrowed in genuine puzzlement as she studied the enigmatic man opposite, noting the way his jaw clenched imperceptibly and his gaze slid away from hers toward the passing scenery outside.
"To pay a visit to someone I wouldn't dare call a friend, even if I was pressed to do so." Kim's reply hung heavy with unspoken grievances, his deep timbre tinged with barely suppressed ire. "Royald Vargar, the younger son of Duke Vargar."
Nia's slender brows arched in acknowledgment, though her tone remained light and teasing. "Oh. That Royald fellow... Sometimes I wonder why something about him sets your usually stoic nature ablaze quite so readily."
A muscle ticked in Kim's clenched jaw, but his reply emerged measured and even.
"Let's just say he annoys me completely, even just by mentioning his name."
As the rolling hills blurred past the windows, punctuated only by the occasional copse of trees, the pair settled into a comfortable silence. Though bound by the ties of youthful camaraderie, a flicker of unease skittered through Nia's mind at the thought of encountering Marquess Vargar again.
His affable demeanor masked layers of cunning beneath; whispers circulated among nobility detailing shady dealings, hinting at the Marquess Vargar seeking personal gain in even the most harmless transactions between other nobles. And yet, beneath Kim's gruff yet calm exterior simmered a palpable anger, one rooted deeply in bitter past confrontations with the charming aristocrat.
"So, what do you plan to accomplish today?" Nia probed cautiously, her tone aiming for neutral despite her racing pulse at the impending meeting ahead.
Kim turned back toward her, shadows playing upon the angular planes of his visage in the flickering candlelight cast from above.
The tension in the air thickened as memories resurfaced, the faces of victims etched in Nia's mind like gruesome daguerreotypes. She shifted uncomfortably, her dainty slippers scraping softly against the luxuriously carpeted floorboards. "I still don't understand how this benefits us, negotiating with that...that monster," she whispered heatedly, struggling to maintain composure.
"You'll see once our terms are met." Kim's steely resolve bordered on obsession, a glint of purpose igniting his sapphire eyes. He stared resolutely out the carriage window, lost in contemplation. They were approaching Vargar Manor now, an imposing edifice shrouded in secrets and suspicion.
Just then, they arrive at the grand manor of Marquess Vargar. The carriage stops, and Kim comes out of the carriage first, holding out a hand to Nia, who takes it happily and gets down from the carriage. The two smile at each other and soon face the manor, where butlers and guards are waiting to escort them to the marquess himself.
Kim stepped into the grand hall of Vargar Manor with a calculating stride, each footfall echoing across polished marble floors. This ostentatious display of wealth belied the corruption seething just beneath the surface, where deceit and self-interest wove intricate tapestries.
Before him stood Marquess Royald Vargar, beaming in delight at this unexpected conjunction of former foes. Kim eyed him coolly, his rugged features set in an impassive mask.
"My lord Marquess, your indulgence will surely not falter over matters of utmost gravity. The scourge of Abria demands swift action, lest innocent blood flow anew like the lifeblood of those already fallen prey."
Royald chuckled low in his throat, amused by Kim's dramatic flourish. "You wound me, my dear Earl, implying my loyalty falters in times of crisis. Tell me, what manner of salvation do you propose to bestow upon Abria? Or might there be another reason driving your sudden zeal for justice?"
He sauntered closer, a languid grace underscoring his predatory intent. Even amidst the refined decorum of the manor, his malevolent aura clung like a dark stain. The faint scent of brandy and smoke clung to his expensive doublet, a tangible reminder of the dissolute lifestyle he led. Kim held his ground, refusing to be cowed by Vargar's aggressive posturing.
"Your cynicism is misplaced, Marquess. I seek no reward nor favor from your esteemed House."
"This proposition concerns the lives of countless innocents," Kim continued gravely, his gaze boring into Vargar's like steel shards. "The Night of Luscinia offers an unparalleled opportunity to ensnare Ostroxius Hargar. All you need to provide is the requisite environment for our trap to unfold."
Vargar cocked his head, an impish smirk playing on his full lips. "And what exactly does this entail, hmm? Surely your methods require far more than mere festive ambiance?"
"The details are secondary to securing cooperation," Kim retorted, his patience wearing thin. "Time grows short, and lives hang in the balance. Shall we proceed with negotiations or waste further moments exchanging barbs while Ostroxius is still out on the streets?"
Royald leaned back against a nearby wall of his office, steepling his fingers as he regarded Kim with an unsettling intensity. "Very well, let us lay our cards upon the table, shall we? What terms would you have me offer in exchange for this fleeting alliance?"
As he spoke, his eyes darted sideways, briefly locking with Nia's gold orbs. A fleeting glimmer of amusement sparked within their depths, sending a shiver coursing down her spine. The Marquess had long been rumored to covet her rare beauty for nefarious purposes, fueling Nia's growing unease about staying in the Marquess' room any longer.
"I ask only for access to Vargar Manor on the eleventh of September, under the guise of celebrating Luscinia's ill-fated birthnight," Kim stated flatly, ignoring the frisson of discomfort rippling through the room.
A beat passed, charged with weighted anticipation, as Vargar digested the terms laid before him. Then, with a practiced charm returning to color his tones, he smiled affably.
"A modest request indeed, my discerning friend." The Marquess chuckles as he grabs his glass from the table in front of him and takes a sip of his wine.
"Though its fulfillment comes with certain... expectations attached," Vargar interjected smoothly, his glance drifting back to Nia with suggestive undertones. "But fear not, for I am ever obliging when it serves a greater good."
A strained silence fell, heavy with unspoken implications. Outside, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the manor in a deepening twilight that matched the somber mood within. Nia found herself acutely aware of Kim's protective stance, his presence a tangible bulwark against the looming threats that lurked in the darkness beyond Vargar's lavish facade.
"We accept your proposal, Marquess," Kim declared finally, his voice brokering no argument. "Agree to our conditions, and together we shall usher in a new era for Abria – free from the terror of Ostroxius Hargar's tyranny and to finally serve justice to his victims."
An unsettling pause lingered after Kim's announcement, as if the air itself hesitated, suspended between the past and the uncertain future. At last, Royald bowed graciously, a practiced gesture masking the true dynamics of nobility at play. "An auspicious accord then, Earl Kim. Our mutual goals align most pleasantly. Expect Vargar Manor to serve as your haven come the festivities."
With a final sweep of his arm, inviting exit, he turned toward the door. As they prepared to take leave, Nia sensed a lingering pressure, born perhaps from unresolved suspicions about her host's motives or an instinctual wariness triggered by Royald's unnerving proximity. Whispers of dark rumors always seemed to cling to him like shadows, yet proof remained elusive, woven deep within the labyrinthine undercurrents of Abrian politics.
Once Royald departed, the weight of uncertainty lifted momentarily from Nia's slender shoulders. She turned to Kim, searching his handsome features for reassurance amid the swirling fog of uneasy alliances and veiled machinations.
"That went rather smoothly, didn't it?" she ventured, her tone tentative.
Kim approached, his broad frame encircling hers, offering a comforting embrace as familiar as their shared past. "Rest easy, Nini. The pact that has struck tonight bears no likeness to the agreement you harbored fears about. Only my word stands as a rock-solid guarantee for your protection – just as it did decades ago when we first pledged to watch each other's backs when we were young."
Reminded of that childhood vow, Nia felt the tension dissipate, replaced by warmth kindling in her chest. She believed implicitly in her childhood friend's steadfast dedication, knowing it had endured untold trials since their carefree youth. Stepping back, she brushed off her skirts, a new sense of determination taking root.
Together, the duo navigated the moonlit courtyard, the crunch of gravel beneath their boots serving as punctuation to their hushed discussion. Under the canopy of the night sky, stars twinkling like scattered diamonds, Nia glanced sidelong at Kim. His blue eyes, shining like a polished diamond, etched sharply by the silver glow of the white flamed candles, radiated quiet strength and unwavering resolve.
"Now that we've secured Vargar's assistance, our focus must turn solely to preparing for Hargar's capture," Kim said, his voice carrying the calm authority of a seasoned strategist. "We'll move swiftly, coordinating efforts across key strongholds to cut off any potential escape routes."
As they reached the waiting carriage, Nia climbed inside, settling into the plush velvet seat opposite Kim. The rhythmic clip-clop of horses' hooves signaled their departure, carrying them toward relative safety as Kim took Nia back home to her parents, but Kim had something else in mind before taking his beloved friend home. Hours later, the silhouette of Darkhaven City materialized in the distance, a patchwork quilt of buildings stretching towards the heavens under starless skies.
As the carriage slowed, pulling up before a prestigious storefront, Nia arched a brow in surprise. "The Whispered Needle? Isn't this where nobles shop for the prettiest gowns?"
"That it is," Kim confirmed, handing down his assistance to alight beside her. The gleaming doors swung open to reveal an opulent interior with bustling seamstresses and compelling displays of exquisite silks and laces.
"This way, Nini," Kim guided her toward the private chambers reserved for elite clients, his presence commanding attention without effort.
The lead designer greeted them within, bowing humbly. "Earl Kim, it is an honor to work with you again. What enchantment shall we weave for your grace this evening?"
"Tonight, I wish to spoil my lovely companion utterly," Kim announced, a hint of smug satisfaction coloring his rich tones. "Surprise us with something extraordinary—a gown worthy of royalty's praise and whispers of envy."
Nia's cheeks flared with soft pink hues at these words, caught between delight and embarrassment. A gracious smile graced the lead designer's features. "Of course, sir! For such a cherished client, I present two bespoke creations tailored to your esteemed guest—options designed to mesmerize and awe, each piece imbued with an essence befitting um… her ladyship."
Stepping aside, she unveiled the magnificent ensembles - one shimmering midnight black embroidered with glittering silver thread depicting mystical night-blooming flowers, the second an ethereal white silk masterpiece adorned with iridescent feathers arranged to resemble wings, exuding a captivating aura reminiscent of moonlight dancing across the sky.
Intrigued by the unique options presented, Kim nodded approvingly, already envisioning Nia ensconced within one of the splendid masterpieces. But as a wave of creativity washed over him, inspiration struck – an idea bold enough to steal the show and surpass the usual dazzles of glitter and ribbon-tied garments. Turning to the lead designer, he flashed a radiant grin.
"How about... we create something entirely original, inspired by my precious friend herself? A creation that not only complements her fiery locks and luminous golden eyes but embodies their essence altogether. I'd like if the color complements her natural beauty," Kim suggests, his fingers running through a soft fabric of a dandelion yellow hue, his sky-blue eyes glimmering.
At this suggestion, gasps fluttered throughout the chamber, and excitement kindled behind the artisan's hazel gaze, fueled by the challenge implicit in transforming a new dress to match their muse to make a new creation of a dress.
"A concept fraught with innovation!" the designer exclaimed, his hands clasping together with infectious enthusiasm. "Very well, let us conjure this vision forth! Shall I deliver it to your doorstep once it is finished, my lord?"
"Yes, please do. And I need it finished as soon as possible, preferably a day before the Night of Luscinia..." Kim says, turning his gaze back to the head designer. "And I'll pay 20,000 azures once the dress is finished..."
The head designer's eyes widened, and his smile became wider at the mention of the amount that the young earl would pay. "Of course! I'll make sure the dress for your friend will make her the fairest on the eve! You will not regret choosing The Whispered Needle to make you the most beautiful dresses!" The designer bows in glee and respect.
"That is all I need to hear. Now, shall we, Nini?" Kim smiled, offering an arm to Nia, which she gladly took, although she was still baffled and embarrassed at her friend's decision.
"Kimmy, I don't need a dress that extravagant. We're supposed to catch Ostroxius... Not dress so dashingly..." Nia mumbled in embarrassment, her cheeks were glowing pink as she looked away from Kim.
"Don't worry, Nini, just this once…" he smiles as he takes Nia's hands, holding them in a reassuring and gentle hold. "Even just this once, I want you to be the star in my eyes on that night."
"Oh, you big flirt," Nia mumbled, looking away, embarrassed, yet her hands were still on Kim's arm as they walked.
Kim's thumb delicately stroked the sensitive skin on Nia's wrist where it gripped his arm, warmth suffusing the gentle touch as his eyes crinkled with an affectionate smile. "Failing to see individuals for who they truly are beneath shallow labels," his fingertips trailing higher to sweep her knuckles, "simply because it suits convenience."
"Precisely," Nia whispered with solemn conviction, studying her lap, "people form biases quicker than they could forge true connections. I'm honestly glad you didn't change after being raised as a noble, Kimmy..."
Glancing upward, her dandelion depths sought refuge in the reassurance found in those mesmerizing sky-blue orbs of his eyes. "But then there are friendships like ours…" An effortless intertwining of lives sculpted over the years by countless laughter-filled moments shared alongside unspoken understandings.
"Indeed. Now, let's get you home to your father before he gives me another lecture about bringing you home late." Kim smiles as he takes Nia's hand and leads her back to the carriage outside the shop, where it is waiting. He lets her go in first, guiding her inside as she climbs the stairs of the carriage before he climbs in himself and sits across from her.
The ride home is peaceful. The rhythmic clop of hooves fills the gentle breeze of the summer air. As the city starts to become more sparse, the forest around it thickens. The carriage rocks gently as the cobblestone road transitions to gravel, and the rhythmic trot of the horse slows slightly. Kim sits across from Nia silently for a moment, a small smile on his face as he observes her admiring the starry night sky from the carriage window.
"The dress looks good on you Nini." He comments after a moment. "You'll be the talk of the party at the anniversary."
His eyes look her over for a moment before he continues, "You'll have every young man trying to ask you to dance."
Nia's face flushes again, and a bashful smile forms on her face as she looks away from his gaze. "I don't think you'll let me dance with other men." She teases lightly, still avoiding eye contact. Kim chuckles, looking at her, fondness in his eyes as he smiles.
"You're right. I probably won't. But as much as I want to dance with you. We have a mission to capture Ostroxius and end his terror over the women, especially prostitutes." Kim says as he reaches for his cane. It was black with golden intricate designs, a blue sapphire embedded at the top, his hand almost handling it gently as if it were a fragile flower.
Nia rolls her eyes playfully at his dramatic statement, a small smirk on her face.
"You're such a dramatic man, you know that?" She shakes her head lightly and looks out the window for a moment. Her gaze drifts back to the cane, noticing the intricate design and the blue sapphire. "Still carrying that cane?"
Kim chuckles softly at her comment before replying, "Ah, Nini… Still judging me for it, I see." He taps the cane gently on the carriage floor in a playful manner.
"I happen to like this cane. It's practical as well as fashionable." He says with a smirk. "And… it was a gift from my godmother after all."
Nia smirks in return. "Oh, please. You only use it because you think it makes you look sophisticated." She leans back in her seat, crossing her arms as she looks at him with amusement in her eyes.
"Well I always look that way." He smiles. He felt the carriage soon slow down to a stop. They were finally at the Hunter mansion. He can see Nia's father, the famous detective, Jessant Hunter, waiting at the door.
"Your father's waiting," He says and soon turns to look at Nia. Nia looks out the window of the carriage, her expression becoming somewhat less amused as she sees her father waiting for them. She takes a moment to smooth out the skirt of the dress, making sure it's still in order.
"Yes, I see that." She responds, a hint of nerves in her voice.
"Don't worry... He knows you're with me. Run along now before he gets mad." Kim teases as he opens the carriage door for her before stepping out and holding out his hand for her to take. She playfully glares at him for the teasing, but can't help a small smile as she takes his hand and climbs out of the carriage. As her feet touch the ground, her hand lingers in his for a moment. She looks up at him, her expression a blend of gratitude and nervousness.
"Thank you again for the dress," She says softly before her gaze drifts to her father, who is waiting patiently a few feet away, watching them with a scrutinising look in his eye.
"You're welcome," Kim replies softly, his hand still holding hers as he too looks over to her father. He gives her hand a gentle squeeze before reluctantly letting go and turning to face Jessant. The red-haired man gives them an expectant yet annoyed look, his arms crossed against his chest.
"Good evening, Mr. Hunter," Kim says, his tone respectful but also somewhat wary. He's familiar with the detective's reputation for being protective of his daughter. Even when they were children, Jessant has always been strict with time and overprotective of his only daughter.
"Good evening, Earl Cox. I see you've been busy. With the Ostroxius case, that is. I will update if any of my messengers have received word about his movements." Jessant replies with a nod of acknowledgement, his gaze still on his daughter.
"Of course, thank you. I appreciate your cooperation." Kim gives a bow of his head, taking off his tophat out of respect for the older man.
Jessant looks Nia up and down. "You're late." He says, a hint of disapproval in his voice.
Kim sighs internally. He'd been expecting that. "Apologies, sir. We took some time to admire a dress in better lighting. I persuaded her to accompany me to Whispered Needle. And there, we chose a dress for her to wear at the Night of Luscinia." He says, trying to smooth over the situation with a smile.
Jessant raises an eyebrow at the explanation, his eyes narrowing slightly. He seems to be studying Kim for a moment before he looks back at his daughter. "Is that true, Nia?"
Nia glances between her father and Kim, her cheeks flushing slightly. "Yes, Papa. Kim was just helping me pick out a suitable dress for the anniversary celebration." She says, her voice steady despite the nerves she feels.
"I see… Well then, off to the table and have supper. And as always, thank you for keeping my daughter safe and bringing her home, fifteen minutes late… Again…" Jessant says as his shoulders relax slightly, although his voice hardened a bit as he emphasized the time, making Kim chuckle in embarrassment.
"I apologize, Mr. Hunter. I'll make sure to check the time, starting now. I must go now. I bid you a relaxing evening and a pleasant sleep." Kim bows once more, before putting his hat back on and stepping back.
Jessant studies Kim for a moment before nodding, his expression softening slightly. "Thank you, Kim. You take care."
Nia watches as Kim bows and steps back, a mixture of relief and concern on her face. Kim steals one last glance at Nia, a silent reassurance in his gaze, before turning and heading back towards his horse.
Jessant's gaze follows him for a moment before turning back to his daughter. He takes a step closer to her, his expression serious. "So... Is there anything you'd like to tell me?"
Nia looks up at her father, her heart beating faster. She knows that look on his face. It's the look he gets when he's about to start interrogating someone.
"Like what, Father?" She replies, trying to sound nonchalant despite the nerves.
"You two seemed rather... cosy." Jessant says, his tone light but his gaze sharp.
Nia fights the urge to roll her eyes. Her father was always protective, but sometimes it was a little too much, in her opinion. "We're just friends, Father. Nothing more."
"Of course… Friends..." Jessant mumbles with a slight pout before ushering her inside. Nia suppresses a sigh as she lets herself be ushered inside.