Aetherland

Chapter 6: Chrysalis Reactor (part4)

Ash straightens his suit, composing himself, the crisp fabric a small comfort in the suffocating weight of the situation. He knows what he has to do. Hegel paints him as the architect of their destruction, a monster, a convenient villain to distract from the Federation's own brutality. He needs a tightrope walk, an apology that appeases Hegel without surrendering his soul. He activates the comm unit, his finger hovering over the dial to Hegel’s office.

After back and forth calls with the chancellory, Hegel’s image materializes, his face a study in calculated amusement. “Nephew,” he purrs, the false warmth in his voice colder than any arctic wind. “Recovered from your… episode? Or does the echo of Chrysalis still haunt your dreams?”

Ash meets his gaze, the fire of his previous anger banked into cold resolve of vengeance. “Lord Chancellor,” he begins, his voice a carefully calibrated instrument. “I apologize for the… passionate nature of my previous remarks. Frustration can, at times, lead to… unfortunate expressions. I trust they are not misinterpreted as disrespect by his royal majesty.” He deliberately avoids Chrysalis, refusing to give Hegel the satisfaction of a direct confrontation about it.

Hegel’s eyebrow arches, a flicker of genuine surprise momentarily disrupting his mask. “An apology? From the savior of the Federation? How touching. Such a display of sentimentality is hardly befitting a man of your… history."  He pauses, a subtle emphasis on those last two words "Your treason ultimately served our purpose. A rather circuitous route to loyalty and family's devotion, wouldn’t you agree? Your… unique contribution… streamlines the Federation’s… ‘defense’ initiatives, shall we say, is well documented.” The word "defense" drips with sarcasm, a clear reference to the weapon's devastating use.

“Sentimentality is a luxury I can no longer afford, Lord chancellor” Ash concedes, a subtle edge entering his voice. “But not without foundation. My assessment of the situation remains unchanged. The methods employed sow the seeds of further instability. However,” he raises a hand, cutting off Hegel’s anticipated interruption, “my intent is never to undermine your authority, Lord Chancellor. My sole objective remains the stabilization of this… complex situation. I recognize the vital importance of Unity, especially during these turbulent times. Public discord, particularly within the family, weakens our collective position.” “Unity” now means suppressing the truth of Chrysalis, burying it under a mountain of propaganda to maintain control.

Hegel’s eyes narrow, dissecting his nephew. “Indeed. Such open dissent is… unbecoming. Especially given the… sensitivities of your current… assignment.” The emphasis is a clear threat, a reminder of the precariousness of Ash’s position as High Commissioner of the conquered nation.

“I concur,” Ash replies, maintaining unwavering eye contact. “I value the trust placed in me by Parliament. I am dedicated to fulfilling my duties to the best of my ability. Part of which, of course, involves… managing certain… relationships.” He carefully avoids any mention of his uncle’s specific strategies or the “mess” they have created, focusing solely on his own conduct and dedication. He knows that any misstep can be used to further destroy his soul and justify harsher measures in the occupied territories.

“However,” Ash adds, his tone firm yet respectful, “I also believe in the necessity of open communication. While discretion is undoubtedly crucial, certain matters demand thorough discussion and careful deliberation. My passion for these issues can sometimes lead to… forceful expressions.” A flicker of a smile touches his lips, a carefully calibrated gesture of conciliation. “I will endeavor to express myself with greater… diplomacy in the future.” He knows this diplomacy is now essential to his survival.

Hegel's gaze intensifies, probing. He senses the barely contained tension beneath the carefully chosen words. “Very well, Ash,” Hegel finally concedes, a hint of a smile playing on his lips. “I appreciate your… clarification. It’s reassuring to see you understand the importance of discretion and pragmatism. Especially in regards to… family matters.”