Chasing Elysian

48. Apologies

R O S A N N A' S   P. O. V:

“What do we do about Natalie?” I asked again, hoping for a more reasonable answer from the duo.

“She can be useful.” Aniysa suggested, eyes momentarily flitting over Natalie's slumped figure. 

“With?” Kairos asked, curiously peering at Aniysa. And for some reason, I wasn't comfortable with his stare.

Exactly because I wasn't on the receiving end, and I somehow felt Aniysa was extremely pretty, and maybe my insecurities were whispering mind blowing stories into my mind. Except, Aniysa likes Elan. Right? But Kairos is more attractive- wait, why do I care?

“According to the federation rules,” Aniysa stated. “Attempted murder or murder in most cases leads to death. But since killing the daughter of Spades might be off the table, just turn her into a puppet. And have her live a normal, less dramatic 'life'. Or perhaps, as due punishment, serve Rosanna for the rest of her life.”

“Possible.” Kairos nodded.

'Was this legal?' I wondered.

Aniysa twirled the pen on the table, green orbs somewhat unfocused as she stared into the distance before turning her gaze to Kairos.

“The Empire's prince must be very rich. Just hire some good mental Elementalist or Puppeteer to do the business.”

“Risky.” Kairos stated.

“No other option?” I asked. The two stared at me in silence and an unknown pressure set in, forcing me to blurt out my thoughts.

“Call me soft hearted but I'm not particularly okay with any of the options. I mean, this is someone's life here. Yes, she's my enemy but ever since I cried for killing that ant, I've learned to care for all life forms. Including that of degenerates. Killing Natalie or making her a puppet is just death in a different way. Since the decision is involving me, I don't really want to kill any-”

“Relax, Patty.” Aniysa interjected, and I felt a bit embarrassed but she successfully stopped my rant. I think I somehow portrayed the mind of a greenhouse flower. This isn't Earth anymore, but knowing that didn't make it much easier for me to accept the norms casually.

“Then what do you suggest we do?” Kairos asked, an amused undertone in his words, and I was stunned for a response. I felt a bit cornered, and I didn't like it one bit. Did they understand my reason at least?

I was silent for a few seconds, biting my bottom lips distractedly as I stared at my study notes.

“I...” don't know.

But it was right at this moment I received inspiration. “A Seal!” I exclaimed.

“Seal?” Kairos and Aniysa questioned in synchrony. I was dissatisfied, but had no time to think over it or wonder why.

My explanation came out in a haste, fumbling on my words for a bit. “S-seals can work. A seal to stop her from causing harm-- or mentioning anything about this. Y'know, those ones they place on assassins to stop them from telling secrets if they're caught. Don't you think that's effective?”

“Yeah...” Aniysa nodded in consideration. “But it's easier for seals to be broken.” She added.

“Unless,” I said. “There's someone extremely proficient, and no third party have any clue concerning the seal placed on Natalie. If... If she mentions anything to a second party, or violates the rules placed, it is possible for instant death to be initiated.”