The Reincarnations of Veldanava

Raphaels' Witching Hour

Raphael didn't appreciate Damrada's visit. He came without any announcement, which she perceived as disrespectful to her precious time.

She lived according to her strict schedule, and everyone familiar with her knew she must not be disturbed during the wee hours.

The time after midnight and before dawn was when she was at her most productive. And if anyone came and ruined her rhythms, she would reign terrors upon them.

Even that emperor, who was always at her throat, knew not to antagonize her.

Back in the past, she mostly spent the wee hours perfecting her inventions. Her priority had changed, though, as she had made a friend.

Raphael had never been the one to engage in serious relationships. She used to think of it as a waste of time.

Outside of her late mistress, there weren't any bonds worth forming. She used to think along those lines. However, things had changed. She had changed.

She had met with Ciel, and they had made a meaningful bond. It was refreshing to know that someone who matched her intellect existed.

It was truly special for her, as Ciel was the first person to be her equal. Never before had she seen anyone as her equal; it used to be superior or inferior.

She would have been engrossed in a discussion with Ciel if Damrada didn't decide to show up. He was on thin ice, if it wasn't clear enough.

'I hung my call with Ciel for this. It better be worthwhile.'

Damrada had been her long-time ally, so she wasn't as offended by his disruption as much. If the one who intruded her sacred hours was that emperor or the angel he kept close, she would've given them hell right now.

"What brought you to me, Damrada? I told you to remain in the west, did I not? Going against my commands and interrupting my intimate time, you are asking for trouble, are you not?"

"I won't dare. I know better than them."

Raphael was the Chief of Staff. Although the emperor didn't like her on a personal level, he still acknowledged her usefulness.

It was her who suggested sending Damrada to the west. The emperor saw it as a strategic move, but his and her perspective was never aligned.

On the other hand, Raphael and Damrada had a truly aligned goal. Their motivations might differ, but was that really important?

"There is an interesting situation brewing in the west, one that I believe you need to hear."

Damrada took a seat. Even if there was no doubt in their partnership, he couldn't help but be nervous.

Maybe it was because she had the face of the princess, or perhaps because he knew deeply what she was really capable of. Really, it was a mix of both.

"Stop messing around. I do not have time to waste on your nonsense. Tell me the substance of your report."

She hated this man's insouciance. It always laughed in the face of her seriousness.

"You're no fun. Not living up to the legacy of that appearance at all." He shook his head.

"Are you here to annoy me?"

Damrada knew it was dangerous. Raphael wasn't like Lucia despite their one-to-one look.

"It's about this."

He reached into his coat and brought out a newspaper.

Raphael could see Veldanava's face on the front page.