《R18+》Cigno Fanciulla | Scaramouche

● Act II | Chapter III

Cigno Fanciulla Act II: Notte di Luna
《Chapter III - Sturdy Rock》

Even the strongest of winds couldn't break down the fortitude of a sturdy rock. In contrast, the more that it endures and braves the conflicts obstructing its path - it becomes more firm in its stand, which makes it ever reliable.

The investigations ended rather quite early than expected. Complaints from the agents, however, existed and were of abundance in the scene. To them, Lady Covielle was much more of a tyrant than Sir Scaramouche. At least the Balladeer allowed for rest longer should it be required, or maybe even give into the pleas of the troop should they beg enough for it.

But with the Informant, they said it was difficult. They longed for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to drag on for a bit more. I would know, because I make sure for the mealtimes to have only the best quality and quantity of food to ensure that my men have enough energy to go on with through the day.

Besides, my time is much more precious given the situation, and I have been gracious enough to assure that sufficient meals be brought to the table - why should I allow for an accumulation of short breaks that would encourage them to look down on my authority? Moreover, if I were to be delayed or swayed by their pleas, then it would make our investigation drag on for longer which would harm our mission for Inazuma.

Breaks are rather inconvenient. They should at least be able to withstand such energy and stamina consuming activities if they had eyes set on for promotion.

"You humor me, kid! Is this the reason why you're drinking to your heart's content on my ship?" The female in front of me chuckled as she chugged down another bottle of wine.

I frown at her, scrunching up the bridge of my nose as I inhale the familiar stench of alcohol before taking sips of the sake I've been served. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that I would be sharing a couple of drinks with the Captain of the Crux - right after my mission, just to vent out my frustrations with the complaints I've heard of non-stop.

"My point is: it isn't so hard to be compliant when we're tight on time! They ought to be thankful they get to have two days off as we arrived ahead of schedule." Another sip was all it took for me to empty my wine cup.

Goodness, I could feel the light throb of my head. Just how many bottles have we downed already? Ah, even the sky has seemed to set down low for the evening -

It's already evening?

Shaking my head off lightly, I take in my surroundings as a sharp pain hits my temples upon inhaling the strong smell of alcohol that meshed in with the smell of sea - a nauseating feeling welling up at the pit of my stomach.

"Careful. No one has matched Captain Beidou's tolerance for alcohol as much as you have." A familiar voice filled with gentleness came in with the calm sea breeze.

As I look up to meet eye-to-eye with the person, I took notice of his traditional garments and the sheath of his blade that came from my home nation - yes, this man was of Inazuman blood just like me and my superior.

Helplessly sighing, I greeted him, "Does the wind carry on whispers from the mother land?"

"Unfortunately, the wind only carries on a warning for an upcoming storm. Tell me, does the frost wish to lay waste on the sea?" He fired back right at me.