Ink: Living Life as Serena Gleis

LXIV: Recruitment

"Things were definitely not going according to plan," I sighed, addressing Varka and Maurice as we convened urgently. The topic at hand: the troubling incidents involving Azrael and Zion. With Zion already aware of my continued existence, dismissing his perception as a hallucination was out of the question—it was clear we needed a tactful approach.

I glanced over at Azrael, visibly disturbed in his sleep. What could have triggered such a sudden change in him? Maurice's insights into Azrael's tumultuous past reminded us of the potential risks his volatile nature posed, especially to Clye and others. Helping Azrael regain control now emerged as our top priority; both he and I shared a common aversion to seeing him become a threat.

"I take full responsibility for this. Whatever the punishment may be, I'll gladly accept it." Maurice bowed before me, his gesture tugging at my heart. I quickly motioned for him to rise and take a seat opposite me. "There's no time to assign blame, Mau. Let's focus on finding a solution," I reassured him with a smile. I knew Maurice well—his sense of justice and accountability would lead him to shoulder undue guilt over what had transpired.

"What's our next move?" Varka asked, settling into the chair beside Maurice. Truth be told, I didn't have a clear answer. We were left with no choice but to disclose the truth to Zion, though I couldn't trust him for the life of me to keep that information to himself. 

"We're left with two options: silence him permanently or detain him here," I sighed heavily. Each path presented its own set of challenges for Clye. Keeping Zion here could embroil him in future conflicts, while eliminating him would undoubtedly provoke retaliation from Gleis. We can't afford to be tangled in a war between the Duchy in the empire. 

I could sense the conflict etched on Varka's face. He had already sacrificed so much to protect Zion, yet now he grappled with what was the best course of action for the greater good, not just for himself but for our people. His inner struggle resonated deeply with me.

"Varka, if you can promise me that no Gleis will trespass our borders, I will consider allowing Zion to stay here," I offered earnestly, knowing this decision carried immense weight. Maurice would carry a heavy burden of guilt if Zion paid with his life for his misstep.

Varka deliberated in silence, weighing the gravity of my proposition. While I wasn't fully informed of his ties with Gleis, this was my final stance. "That seems to be the most prudent path. Thank you for trusting me, Duchess," he finally replied, his eyes reflecting resolve amidst uncertainty.

"But there's more, Varka. In exchange, I request that you train select Clyians in offensive magic," I continued firmly, anticipating potential threats looming on the horizon. Varka met my gaze with a mixture of understanding and concern. "Are you certain about this, Duchess?" he questioned, voicing his apprehension about compromising Clyian heritage, a path that had already altered Guinevere and himself.

"I am aware of the implications. It won't be mandatory—only for those who volunteer," I reassured him, earning a thoughtful nod in return. "I'll leave you to it," I concluded, rising from my seat and exiting the room, passing Arthur and Felipe stationed outside the door. "Arthur, meet me at the training grounds. Tell Elizor to gather all Clyians of age as well." I commanded, he did not utter a word but obediently followed. We haven't had an chance to reconcile nor I plan to. As much as I wanted to strengthen our bonds once again, I couldn't. 

I made my way to my chamber to change into attire suitable for the outdoors. Protecting Clye was paramount, but I knew I couldn't do it alone. I wouldn't repeat Guinevere's mistakes. Securing my sword on my belt, I stepped out and headed towards the training grounds, hoping everyone had gathered there already. It didn't take long to reach my destination; as expected, everyone had assembled on the training grounds.